Josie-Mary

January 2012

2012-02-01T06:00:00.004Z

So that's January over with..... normally I find it hard but this year it's zipped by!

It's been a busy month for Make, Do and Mend..... getting ready for our secret mission on 7th Feb!!!

I've also been very crafty...... making new lines for spring/summer & updating my new website.

I've been working hard & on a few occasions playing hard...... never again... haha!! Plus I've been enjoying the best TV for a long time.... Call The Midwife & Birdsong!

It's been a good month & I'm looking forward to seeing what February will bring :)

Why....

2012-01-27T06:00:00.001Z

Just in case you didn't know today is Holocaust Memorial Day

This is just something I can't get my head around..... no matter how many books I read or films I watch.

Who would ever think this was a good idea???

You can find some shocking facts here

Light a candle today & spare a thought for those poor families that were torn apart :(

Back soon with a brighter post!

Jewellery

2012-01-24T18:44:00.000Z

I don't want to sound like an advert for Primark..... not unless they want to send me loads of free stuff!!!.... but when I was purchasing my bedlinen I spotted this jewellery holder

I did buy it for my new crafty area as I don't have that much jewellery but when I got home & started looking I had more then I thought!

I think it looks rather splendid on display & it makes me remember to wear it!

It was only £4 & is double sided so would be great to hang in the wardrobe or on a rail.

I had a lovely surprise yesterday..... I received an email from Sainsbury's saying they had chosen my blog to feature on their website under Beautiful Blogs!!!

I thought it was spam so didn't click on the link..... I checked it out just in case & it's true!!!

It also includes Attic 24...........I'm very chuffed!!!

So what did you think about Birdsong?

I'm not sure..... I think if I hadn't read the book I would've loved it but it lost something coming to screen.

Don't get me wrong I did enjoy it & will be watching again but if you haven't read the book then please do!

Have a good week

You're a star......

2012-01-21T19:51:00.000Z

I was delighted when I popped into Primark on Monday to buy some tights & spotted this!

How fantastic...... very CK but much, much cheaper!!! It's poly cotton which does not make me happy but hey it's red & has stars on..... what more do you need! Of course I had to buy the red & white stripy sheet to go with it!

And Teddy loves it too!!!

I even treated myself to a new lamp from Laura Ashley & a new clock

I plan to add some white pom pom trim around the shade.

I love this clock.... I saw it in CK about 6 months ago & fell in love with it. I found it on a website for £8..... I was worried it would tick..... I hate ticking clocks.... but it's silent!!

Hooray it's nearly Sunday...... which means.....BIRDSONG!!!!

Great TV

2012-01-15T19:15:00.000Z

I could hardly believe my luck when I heard one of my favourite books was being made into a BBC drama

It starts tonight for those of you that haven't heard...... I'm really looking forward to it!

Miranda Hart as Chummy should be excellent.

As if that wasn't enough I nearly burst with excitement when I saw the trailer for this last week

It starts next Sunday at 9pm...... it's been a long time coming as they couldn't decide on the script.

I'm excited but a little nervous....... you see I love this book, I've read it so many time over the last 16 years.... in fact more times then I care to mention!

I know all the little details & I'm worried they will ruin it, for a start I don't think the man playing Stephen even looks like Stephen! I've heard it's going to be quite saucy but then so is the book!

Like the stage play

They have cut the 1978 section.... I think this is a shame, one of the strongest parts of the book is when Elizabeth goes to Theipval I says she didn't know about WW1.

Neither did I...... I can't remember being taught it at school...... but it made me want to find out more & within 6 months we had visited the Mein Gate & war cemeteries.

I wait with baited breath to see if it's as good as the book....... will you be watching?

Laura Ashley Dresses

2012-01-11T18:18:00.000Z

You would never have guessed a few years ago I would be doing a fashion post!!

I'm the most unfashionable person I know & just buy what I like even if it's not cool!

But I wanted to share news about a new collection of clothes we have coming in for February.....

if you love this...

and lets face it who wouldn't.... then wait until you see the new collection.

It has a 1950's seaside theme with dresses..... like this one..... with boats on (very Cath!) & beach huts!!

I'm very lucky as I thought there would be nothing for me but since I've started the collections have been good but for 2012 it looks like they're going to get better!

I plan to try this dress on tomorrow in the hope I look stunning in it so I can get it for my uniform.

I've already tried on the culottes which looked terrible so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

If you haven't looked at LA for clothes lately take a look

Christmas Gifts

2012-01-08T20:00:00.000Z

Hello everyone...... I received some lovely gifts this Christmas but haven't got around to photography them all.

I thought I'd start with the lovely blanket my mum made me....

There is a story behind this..... every time one of the family has a baby my mum makes one of these lovely blankets. I've been asking for a while now to have one as there's no way I'll ever have a baby!!!

Little did I know she was busy making me one! It took her hours & she used every last scrap of wool..... for me this is a perfect present as it was made with love & not just brought.

She had also embroidered on it....

This is my favourite bit & it will last forever!!

This week I've been poorly with a horrible cold...... it seems everyone has had it at work for the last month & the rubbish heating/air con just makes it go around & around!!

I've also been busy playing with my new iPad app.....

It's a fab app & the best 69p I've ever spent!

You'll be seeing a lot more of these!

Teddy update:

After a stressful visit to the vets on Wednesday...... he was there for 4 hours & wouldn't calm down so they could take his blood pressure :( I had to go in & help!..... his blood pressure is 170 & a normal cat should be 120! At least we might have found the problem for his eye sight...... he's now on 2 tablets a day & we need to go back in 4 weeks. He's been told to watch his salt in take so I'm now reading the back of cat food to double check!

I also went to the RSPCA to look at another cat on Wednesday... lucky it was close because I've fallen in love!

The vet then told me that Teddy would be very unhappy if I got another cat as he loves me too much & is too old to fight for my attention.

Oh well no more cats for me at the moment..... I hope John finds a nice new home..... yes I had already named him!!!

Have a good week

2011.....

2012-01-05T19:08:00.001Z

Yes I know we're 5 days in to 2012, I've been trying to do this post for the last few days but work/life got in the way!!!

One of things I love most about blogging is looking back on past post...... it's like an online diary isn't it?

I kept a diary through out my teenage years but just suddenly stopped..... when I find them I always stop to read through.

So I'm going to do a quick round up of 2011 just to remind myself what I did (it went so quick!!!)

January
ah yes I remember Wreck this Journal...... now where is it!!!

February
Our trip to France

March
One of my favourite months of the year..... 2 weeks holiday, Cheltenham races & the sun starts to say hello!

April
The start of the Make, Do and Mend poppy appeal, the Royal wedding & the month I was told to re apply for my job!

May
VE day & spring is in the air

June
Lots of knitting & the month I was told Habitat was closing :(

July
The first vintage fair in Exeter & a 1940's event

August
My 40th birthday, my parents 50th anniversary

September
Unemployed!!! My 3rd blogging anniversary. 3 weeks off..... bliss!!!

October
Starting my new job & no time for blogging :(

November
2nd vintage fair, busy month for Josie-Mary!

December
Another Christmas......

These are my 2011 hopes & dreams that I posted on my 2010 round up..... have I done them all???

I turn 40 :( How did that happen???? I'm still 16 aren't I??? I would like to do something special but not sure what......I was thinking of a lovely holiday but I'm a rubbish traveller....hot air balloon??? Zoo keeper for the day???? Maybe a weekend in Edinburgh???? Only 8 months to sort it out!!! Nothing special done as it happened when I was losing my job...... I might regret that!

I must finish my list that I started in 2008!!!! or at least finish my blanket that I started nearly 2 years ago! NOPE!!!!

Re decorate the house..... things have been up in the air as we weren't sure if we were moving but I think we're starting put so I want to sort out all those jobs that need doing & paint the living room to make it more homely. NOPE!!!

Continue with Make, Do and Mend..... I'm hoping to set up a children's class in the summer holidays but first I need to get everything in order. Now it's getting very popular I need to get the admin side of things in place Yep! No children's class as the other group has done that but I have other things planned for this year.

Attend more craft fairs I only did 3 last year.... the vintage fairs are so good for me I don't see the point in wasting time with run of the mill craft fairs

Continue to sell on Folksy/Etsy Yep! Both stores are doing ok but an extra push wouldn't hurt. I know the road I want to go down now so it should be clearer

Complete my CV...... I'm hoping for changes this year! This made me chuckle!!!! I was talking about John Lewis but little did I know I would lose my job!! My CV is completed & I will be updating it every few months as I be looking for another job in October...... fingers crossed for JL

Sort my back out..... I'd like a full MOT as I've been ill for months now, if it's not my back it's my stomach (pain killers are playing havoc with my tummy) or a cold. I'm going to go to the doctors in the new year & demand more tests NOPE! I never did go back to the doctors, last summer I was so ill with stress that I wasn't even worried about my back...... maybe this year :)

To make it through the year with all my love ones..... my dad is going to be 70 in April & I'm starting to panic at the idea my parents will leave me at some point :( Yep we all made it! I hope the same for this year.... including Teddy

Be a better blogger.... the last few months have been so busy I haven't had time to leave comments or post as much as I would like Nope..... in fact I've been worse in 2011!!!

Visit my friend in Lincoln....... I've been wanting to do this for years! Nope..... & with the train fares going up I can't see this happening :(

In 2012 I would like to....

Update my website for Josie-Mary & Make, Do and Mend
I'm booked in to 2 vintage fairs this year & need to pull my finger out so I have a decent amount of stock
Re design posters & newsletters for Make, Do and Mend
Learn how to use my Mac laptop!!

I must stop doing this in 2012!!!!

Thanks for sharing my 2011 with me

Happy New Year.....

2011-12-31T16:44:00.000Z

I hope you all have a lovely evening seeing in 2012.

I'm staying in tonight as always...... working tomorrow so it will be a quiet night with a take away as a special treat.

I for one will be glad to see the back of 2011 as it's not been an easy year........ I look forward to welcoming 2012 & hope it brings better things!!!

Have fun what ever you do

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T11:38:00.000Z

Have a great day

It's nearly time......

2011-12-24T07:15:00.000Z

Thank you for all your kind comments about Teddy....... he's taking his pills (with the help of tuna!) like a good boy so hopefully his blood pressure will go down by our next visit in the new year.

So the BIG day is nearly here....... I used to love Christmas eve as a child....... The Wizard Of Oz was a must!!

What do you love about Christmas???

My favourite things:

*Christmas music

*Christmas dinner with all the trimmings plus a bottle of real coca cola!

*Closing the door on Christmas eve & spending time with OH & Teddy!

Hope you have a fun filled Christmas eve

Poor old Teddy

2011-12-20T19:38:00.000Z

After a lovely weekend off I braced myself for a busy week working, wrapping, buying etc.

Today I took Ted to the vets for his yearly check up & get some flea treatment...... little did we know what would happen next!!!

Teddy was born in 1995 so getting old......... the vet gave him a good going over & discovered he is going blind possibly due to high blood pressure. He needs to have his blood pressure taken but he was so stressed out the vet didn't want to do it. He also has a touch of arthritis in his left hip. She took some blood because she thought he had liver & kidney failure but thankfully that came back all clear.

All this for a check up!!!!

He has some blood pressure tablets which she hopes will stop the blindness & will need to go in for a whole day in the new year :(

1/2 hour of my time & £85 worse off!!!! We better make the most of this Christmas as it could be his last :(

I've been busy making gifts & will be back soon to show you..... this is my final day off before the BIG day...... so much to do!!!!

Hope you all enjoy the build up!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.....

2011-12-11T15:00:00.000Z

What do you think?

It's only me & OH so I don't go over the top but I think it look festive! Can you spot my lovely new deer hanging in the middle?...... it was an early gift from my friend :)

As you can see the cats with pudding are here again! I've had these for so long & look forward to getting them out.

Also my new curtains...... a bargain from LA at only £17.50!!!

My mantle piece is too full this year for my neon tree so it found a new home in the plant stand!

And the tree!!!

I was planning on getting a real one this year but with no car it's very difficult....... I think my retro white tree looks just as nice..... cheaper & kinder!

Looking forward to seeing your decorations

I'll be doing a Christmas giveaway over on Facebook soon ..... pop over & say hello.

Advent Calendar

2011-12-05T18:26:00.000Z

Teddy's loving his advent calendar!!!

It's the Make, Do and Mend Christmas party tomorrow night........ we're making Christingles!!!

November 2011

2011-12-02T20:50:00.000Z

November was a busy month but at least I found some time to post!

Only 1 month of 2011 left......... time to get that tree up me thinks!!!

Welcome to the 1940's!

2011-11-29T15:32:00.000Z

Back in September my parents took me to Castle Drogo for their 1940's event..... it was the first time we'd visited even though it's very close. It did not disappoint!!!

I have lost some of my photo's due to the computer change so all the outside & Dig For Victory seem to have disappeared..... but fear not I have loads of the inside of the house!!!

WARNING........ this post contains a lot of photo's!!!

We were greeted by an American solider with a wartime jeep..... now lucky mum had her stick because he gave us a lift to the house..... me in the bum seat waving to everyone! I would like to add I was in full 1940's dress...... not many people dressed up :(

The entrance fee is not cheap so be warned but even my parents agreed it was money well spent.

The beautiful dining room fire place

The detail of the chairs

The butlers kitchen...... lovely taps!

The butlers parlour...... love this fire!

Just look at that lampshade!!!

The servant would sleep here if they were on call during the night

Very modern shower...... this was not for the servants!!!

Beautiful kitchen

oh look it's Potato Pete!

Kitchen bin

The cosy air raid shelter.

In one of the bedrooms they had a large collection of make do and mend things...... well it would be rude not to take lots of photo's!!

And on to my favourite room...... this room was dedicated to their son who lost his life in WW1

He never lived here as the house build stopped during the war & it was said his parents never got over his death.....you can find out more about the history of the house here

Not a great photo's but I love this hat!

The view from the drawing room & bedrooms

In the chapel I found this

I've always wanted to go to Thiepval

The restaurant was packed & very expensive..... mum had the good sense to bring a picnic so we retired to the grounds in the beautiful autumn sunshine.

It was a lovely day out & I recommend it to everyone..... if you love Downton Abbey this is the place for you!!!

Hope they do it again next year!

Catch up soon

All The Fun Of The Fair

2011-11-23T19:39:00.001Z

Wow...... Crikey was amazing!!!

I hope you enjoyed it if you came........ with nearly 1300 visitors through the door it was my best fair to date!

Can you see me???

It was so busy I didn't get time to take any photo's :(

This was my view

Then we had the pleasure of these lovely people

ooohhh I love a good sing song & now I've learnt a new dance to go with Run Rabbit Run..... you've been warned!!!

The fair was also in aid of the Women's Land Army..... there was a lovely display of goodies.... shame you couldn't buy them but I did get some lovely Christmas cards, just wish I brought the plain cards too :(

If you'd like to find out more click here

My best seller????

My Mistletoe brooches sold like hot cakes on the day!!!

Even Teddy was getting into the vintage spirit!

He wasn't keen hence the blurred photo!!!!

My Internet is hit & miss at the moment so I can't catch up with you all over breakfast..... sorry I'll keep trying!

Have a good week

Crikey.....

2011-11-19T07:07:00.000Z

I'm off to the fair!!!

Come & say hello

Spicy Lunch

2011-11-16T07:00:00.004Z

oohhh get me doing 2 posts in one week!!!!

Since I started in Laura Ashley I find I'm hungry all the time! In Habitat a sandwich would fill me up but now I find myself wanting something hot for lunch..... maybe it's all the stairs I have to tackle.

I'm not a great lover of soup, reminds me of the 0 points soup I used to make when I was on WW..... dull & tasteless. So I brought a few Innocent veg pots, I find them really yummy & filling ,they're great when I'm going out straight from work...... I don't have time to eat before Make, Do and Mend!.... but at nearly £4 a time it ain't cheap!

Yesterday I found a recipe in the November County Living for kale, chorizo & butter bean soup, as I love all these things I gave it a go.....

I had a small bowl for lunch & it was lovely..... I'm rubbish in the kitchen but I can say this is one of the best things I've made.

I still had enough for 4 lunches...... all that for under £4! I've frozen 2 for next week, I just hope they taste as nice de frosted.

I's easy peasy if you want to give it a go

The County Living photo is better then mine!!

Enjoy!

Remembrance Sunday

2011-11-13T08:07:00.001Z

Today I shall be working but will still stopped at 11am.

I will record the service at the Cenotaph & watch it later..... it'll be the first time in years that I've had to work but I guess that's what happens when you start a new job.

Anyone going to a service or are you all watching it on TV?

Armistice Day

2011-11-11T07:25:00.000Z

'They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old

Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun, and in the morning

We will remember them'

I'm working today & Sunday..... first time in years..... so at 11am I will be dashing around to the Cathedral to remember.

I've been wearing my Make, Do and Mend Poppy with pride!

I received an email yesterday to say we had raised £1,500 with still more to come.

I'm very proud of my Make, Do ladies!

Hope you all have chance to stop & reflect at 11am .

October 2011

2011-11-04T19:35:00.000Z

October went so fast, I can't believe I've been in my new job for over a month now!

With only 2 post in October I didn't have many photo's to chose from!

It's official I'm a slack blogger!!!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T18:31:00.000Z

It's here again!!!

Hope you've all had a lovely day. I'm sat waiting for the trick or treaters!

I've had a crazy few weeks here.... working far too hard, going to Bristol to train, Make, Do and Mend and a laptop melt down!

I was so fed up with my laptop saying the same thing.... *not responding* that I went out & brought a Macbook air! I've wanted one for a long time so it was a nice treat with my redundancy money.

However I've only had it for a day & I'm not sure how it all works yet.

I would like to think things will be back to normal but I'm now working 6 days in a row, Make, Do and Mend tomorrow & a big vintage craft fair in less then 3 weeks.... I still have loads to make :(

Catch up with you soon

New job update

2011-10-16T18:48:00.000+01:00

It's been so long since I last posted..... life just gets in the way doesn't it?

I thought I'd just pop in quickly to let you know how I'm getting on.

The team are really friendly & I really enjoyed the first few days. There is so much to learn, made to measure orders, quoting for curtain fabric, home design service...... I'm not used to knowing nothing!!!

At the end of the week I was having second thoughts but last week was better.

On Saturday the store manager was off sick so I was left to run the home floor alone..... well me & the weekender (small team!!!)

I doubled the normal Saturday take & felt very much at home....... so it's all looking good!

The uniform allowance is rubbish....... I only had enough to buy one tunic until November!!! I had to buy another top out of my own money as I couldn't wear the same thing everyday!

I get more money in November so hope to be able to buy the dress I have my eye on..... yes me wanting a dress, what ever next!!!!

I'll be back when I have more time & will try to catch up with you all soon

September 2011

2011-10-01T14:40:00.000+01:00

Another month has flown by & once again I only managed 2 post!

In September I lost my job after nearly 17 years but did get to spend nearly 4 weeks doing nothing..... ah bliss!

I also celebrated my 3rd blogging birthday...... made lots of rabbit slippers, took part in The Big Knit with Make, Do and Mend ..... 94 hats were made. Went to Bristol to see The Men They Couldn't Hang..... a birthday present from OH. Visited the Creative Stitches show in Exeter & saw the lovely Downton Abbey costumes. And to top it all off last weekend I visited Castle Drogo to take part in their WW2 weekend..... more about that another time.

So September was a good month & the weather has been lovely :)

Just in case you want to see more of the Downton Abby dresses.......

Beautiful but very tiny!!!!

My lovely break is nearly over as I start work on Monday with Laura Ashley.... wish me luck!!!

Another birthday......

2011-09-21T15:24:00.000+01:00

Yes I've been blogging for 3 years today...... wow.... where did the time go?

I really didn't think I would last this long & although I've been a bad blogger of late I still enjoy reading what you've been doing & thinking about how I'm going to share my exciting times with you.

I've always been into crafts but in the last 3 years I've really got going..... thanks to blogger!

I now sell my things online & at craft fairs. I've also set up Make, Do and Mend to encourage other crafty folk!

And that's where I'm off this evening

It's the Big Knit again, this will be the 3rd year I've organised it....tonight I have 33 people booked in!!!

It's all the 3's today!!!

I'm hoping this year we can hit the 100 mark :)

I will be back to share the results

Funny old week!

2011-09-11T18:06:00.000+01:00

Once again I've been away too long!

Last Sunday we closed the door of Habitat for the final time.

It was a sad day & I confess I shed a few tears

I was trying to pull myself together when a lovely couple came in with these beautiful flowers!

One of the last customers out the door wanted to make a complaint about a member of staff's customer service.... can you believe it! She wanted head office address so she could could get the member of staff removed from the store.... Good luck!

So that was it, my last few moments in the store that I've worked in for nearly 17 years.... thanks for ruining it love!!!

Monday & Tuesday we were back at it....... we had to clean the store....everything had to go!

We left about 6ish on Tuesday & after one final walk around I left the building

Once again I cried...... Then it was off to the pub!

We had our leaving party on Friday..... it feels odd at the moment like I'm on holiday & I have to keep reminding myself I won't be going back :(

I'm so thankful I have another job so I don't have to sign on..... too many forms!

Saturday morning saw me bright & early heading off to Debenhams in Exeter to sell our poppies we've been making at Make, Do and Mend. It was a long day but we raised nearly £400!!!

So that was my crazy week..... now I have 3 weeks off to relax & try to get my head around my redundancy form!

August 2011

2011-09-01T06:00:00.008+01:00

2011 is marching on & I'm feeling that summer has come to an end.

With only 2 post in August I didn't have many photo's to chose from!

It's official.... I'm old!!! On Tuesday 30th I turned 40 :(

Having taken 4 days off from work to party I now feel I should've stayed in & drunk tea..... are hangovers always this bad in your 40's?!!

Things have move very fast since my last post, we now have an end date..... Sunday 4th September will be our last trading day then we go in & clear the store & finish on Tuesday 6th September.

I can't believe that it's coming to an end..... even though we knew we were closing it's still upsetting. I hope I don't cry too much over the next 6 days :(

But the good news is...... I have another job! I start in Laura Ashley as assistant store manger for the homeware department on Monday 3rd October! This was the interview I mentioned in a previous post. I couldn't really turn it down as it would look great on my CV..... Athena, Habitat, Laura Ashley...... what's next? John Lewis? I hope so! This job is only for a year so will buy me time until they open.

I return to work tomorrow..... no doubt to find an empty shop! I have to work the last 6 days so I'll be back next week...... wish me luck!!!

Happy Anniversary

2011-08-19T20:03:00.000+01:00

Today my parents celebrated 50 years together...... 50 years! Wow that's a long time isn't it?

It's also my mum's birthday so we all headed to a local pub for a carvery....... yummy!

So after stuffing our face with roast turkey..... my favourite..... we took the children outside for a run around & some birthday cake. My nephew thought the cake was a birthday cake & asked grandma if she was really 50.... that made her day!!

The cake was very popular with the little ones!

Early night for ma & pa as they're off on holiday tomorrow in the caravan.

Soooo...... the phone call, well it didn't go well :( I thought I was going to get a large sum of cash from my pension so I called on Monday but they had made a mistake. No lump sum for me so I guess it's back to work..... oh poo.....I had so many great plans too. Anyone got £20k they want to invest? haha!!

That's my weekend over...... back to work tomorrow for 5 days...... enjoy your weekend :)

Away too long.....

2011-08-14T20:55:00.000+01:00

Well, well, well I haven't posted since August 1st..... were is August going?

One of the reasons I haven't posted is because I haven't got anything to say! The days roll in to weeks & nothing really changes..... I'm working harder & longer hours now which doesn't help!


Sweetpeas from my garden

We still have no end date which is just crazy...... 3 stores are to close Sunday 21st August, they were only given 10 days notice! We were told last week that we should all be closed by mid September but that changes every week!

On Friday I attended my 4th interview.... I'm feeling a bit fed up with it! When I get told about the pay & hours I lose interest..... get paid for 37.5 hours but work 50 hours a week, which means it's just over the minimum wage! I haven't been told the wage for the one on Friday..... you get told that in the second interview! Hours are better, only about 40. It's a 12 months temporary contract managing the home ware dept in a very small shop. I have a team of 5 people, at the moment I manage about 17 staff so not very challenging!

I guess I've had it easy for too long!

I washed my new blanket today & realised I hadn't shared it

What do you think? Lovely isn't it...... I'm a sucker for a granny square blanket even though I could make it myself I thought this was a bargain for £10!

All that work for just £10..... I feel guilty!

This week I sorted out my mini birthday party..... something to look forward to. I always book the week off but this year I have to work, I don't have enough holiday to take so could lose money..... I've got Sunday - Tuesday off which is great but I found out I need to be in on Wednesday at 8am.... that's the day after my 40th! My manager wants that day off .... I'm still working on him!!!

I need to make a very important phone call tomorrow...... it could change everything!

I'll let you know how I get on :)

Have a good week

July 2011

2011-08-01T06:00:00.005+01:00

Yep another month is over!

July brought lots of making, a 1940's steam train weekend, a vintage fair & of course lavender!!!

It was also saw Make, do and Mend going twice a month :)

So it was a busy month for me & I've just seen I only managed to post 3 times..... well that's just rubbish!

We found out this week that all Habitat stores in administration will close by the end of September..... just in case you want to shop!

They will be closing about 10 shops a week starting at the end of August..... hopefully we'll find out very soon when our last day will be so I can book the party!

Yikes...... if it's the 1st of August that means in 30 days I'll be 40..... bugger!!!!

Lavender

2011-07-29T19:56:00.000+01:00

I've been away so long.... sorry!

Last year I told you all about my lovely lavender growing in my garden

It was getting out of hand so I cut it back early this year

I have 4 plants in the front garden, this is the crop this year

Crikey....

It's all hanging up in the shed drying

Plus the 3 plants in the back garden have done really well this year ...... they're different & much easier to cut & dry..... must remmeber that for next year!

I bagged some up to sell at the vintage fair & sold out so I'm thinking of putting it in my Folksy shop.

I have more then enough to make my lavender bags!

Hope you all have a lovely weekend..... work for me!

Back soon

All the fun of the fair.....

2011-07-19T17:50:00.000+01:00

On Saturday I headed off to sell at the first Exeter Vintage & Handmade Fair

Wow what a day!!!

It was so busy..... gotta take your hat off to Shelley & Cassie who organised it, they had over 1,000 people through the door!

Some people complained it was too busy but hey better then not busy!

This was the view behind me

The only problem with being so busy was I couldn't take many photo's or spend any pennies.... in both sense!

My next door neighbours

The Southwest Lindy Hoppers went down a storm

People were dancing in the aisles.... fantastic!

My table..... couldn't get to the front to take photo's!

Can you see Mr Fox?

I put a very large price tag on because:

He took hours & hours to make
I love him!!!

You can see more/better photo's on this blog

And to top it off my friend brought me these lovely flowers :)

My best seller....

All in all it was a great day & I'm looking forward to the November one...... better get knitting!!

I have my first interview tomorrow....nervous? Moi?

I found out today that John Lewis are unlikely to recruit this side of Christmas..... boo!!

It's Make, Do and Mend tomorrow so a very busy week for me...... back soon, have a good week

Back to the 1940's

2011-07-12T16:40:00.000+01:00

Yes it's that time of year again...... on Sunday me, ma & pops headed off to the South Devon Railway's 1940's weekend. You may remember our trip from last year.

It was busier this year with lots more people dressed up. We arrived to see the brass band playing outside.

After a nice cup of tea we went to book our tickets

We picked up a wee snackett from the WI stall as our train pulled into the station.

Like last year there was a mad dash for the best seats so we ended up sitting on the train for 20mins in our private compartment. I went for a wander to see what was going on.....

In the dining carriage two ladies dressed in black & white were serving cream teas.

We had our identity cards checked on the train by 2 policemen..... pops was in trouble as he had put his in ma's handbag & got a ticking off! They also got in trouble for not bring their gas masks...... lucky for me I had remembered mine!

We arrived in Totnes

And once again decided to stay on the train to keep our good seats.

Near the station is Totnes rare breeds farm & this fella was welcoming the visitors.

Bit blurred up close!

Back at Buckfastleigh we went up on the bridge again for a birds eye view of the campsite

Some lovely WW2 American jeeps.

Back along the platform to see the next people waiting to board.

We were just heading off when the Southwest Lindy Hoppers started dancing

We had a lovely day & once again we're looking forward to next year.

It was a welcome break from the rubbish going on at the mo :( I've been on holiday since Friday which has been lovely, I have to go in tomorrow & Thursday for 2 hours but that's it until Monday 18th..... yippee!!

It's going to be a mad rush this week to make things for the Exeter Vintage & Handmade Fair on Saturday! I also have to do some prep work for an interview I have on Wednesday 20th...... gulp!

Back soon if blogger allows me to post!!

June 2011

2011-07-01T15:43:00.000+01:00

Another month has past & what a funny one it was!

At the beginning of the month I was feeling positive about my new job & by the end I'd lost it!!!!

Thank you for all your kind comments on my last post..... at the moment I feel like Moaning Minnie, nothing seems to be going well for me :( But I'll try & remain positive & carry on!

I've applied for 4 jobs so far..... 2 of which I'm very excited about.

I'm trying desperately to find out more about John Lewis as that would be perfect for me. I'd love to leave Habitat very soon with a large pay off...... take a few months off to focus on me, Make, Do and Mend & Josie-Mary then start work in the haberdashery section in John Lewis..... now don't that sound good!!!!

If anyone knows anyone connected to John Lewis please put my name forward :)

I was off yesterday so made the most of the sun by catching the train to the coast before returning to Exeter, to Belmont park to see Billy Bragg

Excuse the poor photo! It was really sunny & hot with good music & great people.

We then headed to the pub to finish the day off...... seems to be the norm for me at the moment!

Today being the 1st of July made me think there are worse things that happen in the world....

The battle of the Somme 1st July 1916

See I'm trying to see the bright side :)

Back soon

All over!

2011-06-26T20:21:00.001+01:00

So much for not liking my new job eh???

I guess you've heard the news...... as of Friday Habitat as we know it is no more :(

It will continue to trade from 3 London stores only & online.... thankfully!

I found out from the Sky news website on Thursday after a tip off from a colleague in the warehouse & then again on breakfast news. The call came at 11.30 & by 1pm the admin guys were in stores. They're hoping for a buyer for the remaining 30 stores but to be honest it's really unlikely. By Saturday lunch time the posters had arrived in store & I had the lovely job of hanging them in the windows telling everyone we were closing down.

I've never seen so many vultures & the attitudes of the customers really shocked me..... one customer was complaining to my colleague that 20% discount was not enough considering we're closing down..... dispite the fact my colleague was nearly in tears she wouldn't stop.

I can tell you I wouldn't win any customer service awards at the moment! For nearly half my life time I've taken this nonsense but not any more.... I must confess I told one lady not to ask such stupid questions when she asked if I was upset at the store closure.... whoops!

We did have some lovely regular customers.... one couple came in to tell me I was one in a million & over the last 15 years I had given them excellent service :)

There has been some terrible negative comments online which try as I might I can't help reading.... things like all habitat staff deserve to lose their job as they're all a bunch of stuck up @*@*'s, the company is rubbish etc etc

What's that saying? If you can't say anything nice.....

Not sure how long I have..... the ironic thing is we've been so busy since the announcement we haven't had time to have meetings with the admin people. I know I will get a bonus if I stick around til the end but I'd love to walk now..... if it wasn't for my lovely team I would! I need to find out about notice period, pension, redundancy pay..... the list goes on!

Thanks for your messages on Twitter, Facebook & even by text.... it means a lot :)

I may not be around much...... I need to get my head together..... but I will leave comments when I can.

Busy, Busy.....

2011-06-20T19:00:00.000+01:00

Thanks for all your kind comments on my last post...... it's so nice to know that blogland is full of pet lovers & I'm not the only crazy one!

I just wanted to let you know I'm still here but very busy!

I'm feeling there's not enough hours in the day!

I'm now 2 weeks into my new job & I must say it's not what I thought it would be..... but hey ho I'm hoping it will get better/easier as the time goes on. Also I'm interviewing for admin assistants which should ease the pressure. At the moment we're looking for 6 staff but only interviewed 3..... so where are all the people looking for work in Exeter???

On top of my new job I'm also snowed under with Make, Do and Mend

Now call me crazy but I've decided to do Make, Do twice a month!

The room can hold about 30 people & I'm turning people away every month. Since day one people have asked for more meetings & I've always said no but needs must!

July also sees the launch of our annual membership so I've been busy contacting local craft shops for discounts.

I've also been making for the vintage fair I'm attending in July

So that's me...... I hope to be able to post about something more interesting soon!

Time goes so fast......

2011-06-12T17:16:00.000+01:00

It was a year ago today I lost my beautiful pussy cat

She was my faithful companion for nearly 20 years so you can forgive me for still missing her

And Finally The Queen.......

2011-06-06T12:51:00.000+01:00

Back in April when Royal wedding fever gripped the country I posted about this book & planned to knit my own Royal wedding.

Well as you know it took longer then I thought

I started with the Queen but she was a real labour of love. I finally finished her about 3 weeks ago....

Want to take a closer look?

She was a bit lonely so I had to knit a little corgi!

The detail is amazing but they were very fiddly to make...... I thankfully pinched buttons, beads, pearls etc from my Make, Do and Mend friends otherwise she would have cost a lot to make!

I've been asked to make & sell them but to be honest it would never be worth it..... I'm sure in man hours & material she would come out about £50!!!

Busy week ahead so best get on..... OH's birthday today & D-Day so we're going out this afternoon, something I may regret as I have Make, Do and Mend tomorrow then going to Cheltenham on Wednesday for a training day.

Have a good week

May 2011

2011-06-01T13:37:00.000+01:00

Yes ladies another month is over & we're half way through the year..... gulp!!!

Fingers crossed we now have a great summer to make up for the fact the months are speeding by.

So what's happening on the work front..... I can now confirm that I have been appointed assistant store manager as of Monday June 6th.

Thank you for all your kind emails asking about this. I was offered it weeks ago but due to legal things I couldn't tell anyone. The first meeting back in April was all wrong.... I should've been told they see me in the assistant role however I could also do the other if I wanted to..... how could they get it so wrong!!

I've thought long & hard if this is the right thing to do, I was thinking of leaving as the cash was tempting but I know it would only last a while.

I know I should be really happy as it's a step up the career ladder & more money after 6 months but it feels a bit tainted after every thing that happened.

I feel more positive about it now & looking forward to starting next week....... but first I have to find 2 admin assistants, do you know how hard it is to find decent staff in Exeter???!!!

Here's to June.....

Finished project

2011-05-30T12:42:00.001+01:00

Well another week has passed..... did you have a good one??

Back to work for me & I can't believe how fast it's gone.

As Monday was the last day of my holiday I decided to tackle a project that's been in the pipeline for a long, long time!

Remember these?

I brought them & posted about it in October 2009 ...... so it's only taken nearly 2 years to do something with them! It's on my list of jobs to do every time I'm on holiday but I never get around to it....... but I had a real urge to cross it off my list last week.

First I took them apart to clean

This took longer then I thought as the screws had been painted over!

Sanding down the steps

Some lovely red spotty oil cloth

Can you see where this is going?

Painting....

oh what a mess I made..... this was a plastic kind of craft paint that my dad brought me.... be warned you can't wash it off your hands!!! One small bit resulted in big red hands!!!

Then quickly putting it back together before the rain came...

Ta-da!

I'm very happy & the total price was under £5! :)

They live in the red sewing corner of my kitchen

A job well done I think

We had a customer event on Thursday night at work with 25% off.....

we had wine

and tapas

in fact I've been eating tapas for the last 3 days!!!

I also had Olivia's birthday this week, this was the first birthday in 7 that I didn't make her anything. So that was 2 nights out...... On Friday I attended a funeral, lovely way to spend your day off!

I worked all weekend then went out last night...... so today I'm doing nothing!

As it's raining I plan to watch movies & knit. I've been working on a rabbit toy which has worked out well so I'm hoping to make more for my Folksy shop.

So that was my week..... at least I feel I achieved something!

Hope you're all having a lovely bank holiday weekend

I'm still here......

2011-05-22T18:00:00.000+01:00

I've just noticed I haven't posted for 2 weeks!!! Blimey I think that must be a first & this is my 250th post!

I've managed to escape work for the last week, I've spent time getting my head around things & pottering around the garden

Loving my David Austin rose this year..... best it's ever been.

They don't last long so I decided to enjoy some inside too.

It's been so windy today the garden is now full of petals :(

I've also been making things for my Folksy shop

We headed off to the coast a couple of days.... although the weather wasn't great it was nice to get out & about. It normally involved going to the pub for lunch!!!

I've enjoyed catching up with all your blogs..... back to normal on Tuesday :(

Hope you've all had a lovely week

Running late.....

2011-05-09T19:34:00.001+01:00

Yesterday was VE day & I like to make a point of remembering these things but after working all day me & OH pop to the pub & stayed slightly longer then planned!

So back to VE day, only 9 days ago we saw screens like this

ooohh how I would love to have been there!

Such a happy day :)

Is it me or are the weeks just going so fast? I've tried to blog twice a week but before I know it another week has gone!

Last week was Make, Do and Mend which was another sell out...... I completed my interview for the local paper & the feature should be in the Express & Echo this Wednesday.

As I worked all this weekend I had 2 days off during the week so we popped to Dawlish for a couple of hours

We were planning on going to Teignmouth but the train was so packed by the time we got to Dawlish & when we saw loads more waiting to get on we thought we'd cut our losses & get off!

We had a wander around..... looked at the amusement arcade, blimey they still exist!..... then got the big fast train back.

Saturday was my school reunion...... very, very odd!!! I felt really old looking at everyone.... I was shocked at how old they all looked! I was told I still looked the same & was asked my secret by loads of people......
My secret?.... No kids? ......Not wearing make up? .....Good genes?
Or could it be eating rubbish, drinking much more then is good for me & smoking for years & years....... you decide!!!

Not sure how I felt about it all, at times it felt like being back at school & wanting to be liked, other times I just looked at people & thought I never liked you!

Unfortunately for me it was mainly ladies..... & very loud ladies at that..... that attended, as I hung around with all the boys at school my closest friends weren't there :(

So that's my week over....... it's been my day off today & it's gone so fast :( I really don't want to go back to work tomorrow. I will let you know what's happening when I can, I've been asked not to talk about it to anyone who's involved & as some staff read my blog I'm having to keep mum!!!!

For legal reasons I haven't been officially offered any job..... how do I feel? Not happy at the moment, thinking there should be more to life then this!!!!

No doubt it'll be another week before I manage to post again so have a good week!

April 2011

2011-05-01T16:21:00.002+01:00

Well that's another month over!!!!

With all the trouble at work I haven't had much chance to enjoy April...... a month I normally enjoy..... I've just wished the whole month away & I'm still none the wiser with my job but the ball is now in my court. Decisions, decisions....... I hate it!!!

I've had a lovely weekend.... on Thursday evening the family met to celebrate my dad's 70th birthday & on Friday I watched the wedding....

I'm very British & I've been looking forward to this day for a while. I'm no girly girl so imagine my surprise when I found myself lusting over her beautiful dress!!!
I've never dreamt of marrying ...never thought of a wedding dress but this one is lovely :)
They looked so happy together, unlike his parents on their big day..... I hope this is one royal marriage that last.

I love their carefree attitude to life..... it's about time the royals had a kick up the bum, well not Queenie because that would be so wrong!!!

Ok so I mentioned Queenie & I have to confess I still haven't finished her :(
Has anyone else tried to knit from this book?

It really easy to read but so fiddly... I've nearly finished thankfully but I have been asked if I would make some to sell....... well at this rate I'd have to sell for about £100 for the amount of hours it's taken!!!!

Did you have a street party?
I really wanted one & was very surprised to see one just behind my house..... why wasn't I invited? :( I was going to gate crash but it was full of small children, terrible modern music blasting out, no bunting..... in fact it wasn't very 1940's at all so I went to the pub instead!

It's certainly been the wrong weekend to have off, what with the large football match yesterday, the roads being closed in the city centre for the Great West Run today & of course the rain :(

I've been running in & out of the garden today, I managed to get my runner beans in but not much more. Off again on Wednesday so fingers crossed for sunshine :)

Hope you all enjoy the last day of the bank holiday weekend tomorrow..... back to work for me.
Another sell out Make, Do and Mend on Tuesday..... our local newspaper want to do a feature on the group & should be sending a photographer along :)

I hope to be better in May on the crafting front & blogging!

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T19:54:00.000+01:00

Hope you're all having a lovely sunny bank holiday :)

I've had today off so enjoyed the sun for a couple of hours..... back to work tomorrow.

I feel like I've lost my crafty mojo this week......my royal wedding book finally arrived on Tuesday & I started making the Queen...

It's been a slow process :(

Fingers crossed my mojo is just hiding in the bottom of the wool tub!

No news at work...... haven't heard anything from head office but I've been told that the decision has been made so the other person isn't going to bother filling out the paper work as they already have the job!!! I've completed my CV today & I'm all ready for the meeting on Wednesday. I've also heard that other people have had problems with getting redundancy pay..... oh it's such a worry!!!

Back soon with a finished Queen...... hopefully!!!

What a week!!!!

2011-04-17T17:24:00.000+01:00

Hello everyone.... it's a week since I last updated my blog & what a week it's been!

I'm still waiting for my royal wedding knitting book.... it better hurry as I now have less then 2 weeks before the big day!

Last Sunday I also treated myself to some new jeans...

I brought them from Freddies of Pinewood - I'd been eyeing them up for a while now so when I saw they were reduced I had to snap them up. While I was there I also brought these...

The web site tells you how to measure yourself as the sizes are very different to high street stores..... well I measured & found my correct size but I have to confess they are a little tight around the tummy area!!! They fit well on the hips & waist so maybe I've got a huge tum.... well no maybe about it!! I could send them back but I think I'll keep them, I'm sure I can loose the weight (!!) & they're perfect for Make, Do and Mend & any 1940's event I attend.

So what's happened this week...... it all started on Tuesday when I was told my job will no longer exist from June 6th :( There are 3 managers in store at the moment but going forward there will only be 2....... I've been recommended, for reasons I've yet to find out, to take a non management role. This will be a selling role in the store working on commission. But of course a large pay cut is in order. I have to wait 2 weeks until my first consultation.
So who knows what 2011 will bring!! I think this is a positive move for the company but I never thought my job would be at risk.... for those who don't know I've worked there for 16 years!!! But hey it's happening to lots of people in lots of different jobs so why should I be any different...... it also may be the best thing for me.
I have to re apply for the new positions so today despite the lovely sunshine I've been attached to my laptop trying to rustle up a CV .... no fun!!

Just when I thought Tuesday couldn't get any worse I found out my web site had been hacked & had to be removed.... it never rains but it pours!
So on Wednesday we spent the day trying to get a new site up & running as I had people wanting to buy Make, Do and Mend tickets.

My brain has been like mush this week & I haven't really felt like making or doing anything..... I just sit & think & worry & panic!!!!

I hope your week has been better then mine!

Gotta have it!!!

2011-04-10T19:43:00.001+01:00

Have you seen this???

I'm sure you have as it's been everywhere!

I've been looking at it for weeks ..... I just want to knit the corgi's....but is it worth spending £10?

On Friday I popped to Cath in Bristol & had a good look..... I can now say it's definitely worth it :)

You can buy it from The Book People for only £3.99... bargain!!!!

So now I'm waiting.... hurry up Mr Postie, I want to knit corgi's!!!

I'm looking forward to The Wedding....are you? What do you have planned?

I hope you're enjoying the beautiful weather..... unfortunately I've had to work. I've now been told my day off has changed next week so I'm working a whole week without a day off...... oh blimey I'm too old for that!!! I already have swollen feet thanks to my day out in Bristol..... standing & walking around the shop for 8 hours, rushing to the station to find my train was delayed so I had to stand on the platform..... train arrived packed so had to stand all the way home..... I think I was on my feet for over 10 hours!!!

Thank goodness for Clarks shoes!

Have a good week..... back soon

March 2011

2011-04-06T19:43:00.000+01:00

April has come so quickly this year.... don't you think?

I was really looking forward to March & my 2 weeks holiday but blink & you've missed it!

But it was a good month..... full of treats & days out.

I was lucky to have today off as it was a crazy Make, Do and Mend last night. It just gets busier every month.... which is a good thing but it's hard work!

I've spent today changing web sites, emailing people about the poppy appeal as we're making corsages to sell...... no rest for me!!

I've recovered from the fair on Sunday.... it was a long day & not as busy as I hoped but hey ho you live & learn. Here's to the next one!

It's going to be a long week for me as I go back tomorrow until next Tuesday..... then after 1 day off I have to work another 5! 1 day off in 10..... damn my retail job!!!

Hence why I've been working so hard today. I have to work in Bristol on Friday but I'm hoping a trip to Cath's will make the day bearable.

My lovely new sign..... I just had to have it!!!

Hope you're all having a great week..... I'll be back when I can.

Off to the romp.....

2011-04-03T07:17:00.000+01:00

Today I'm off to the romp!!! I will be selling my wares (!) here today

I've been busy making for the last week so I hope I have enough stock!

This is what I've been making...

Crocheted burlesque pasties complete with leatherette backing!!

Phew it's been a busy week! It's not over yet as I have a sell out Make, Do and Mend on Tuesday..... this is the first month I've had to turn people away, we have 31 people booked & have now started a waiting list!

Back soon to let you know how I got on

Meet Mr Emlyn

2011-03-31T14:23:00.001+01:00

Last Thursday I waited in for delivery of my new arm chair and here he is....ta-da!!!

You like??

I brought it from Habitat.... well I say brought it was free!!!! We have a long service award scheme in Habitat so after 15 years service in 2010 I received a lovely load of gift vouchers!

So I brought the chair & the footstool...

I also brought a new cushion....

It's called Exmouth and I really think it is Exmouth!!!

At only £10 they've been selling like hot cakes!

Since Zoe's been gone Nanny has been sitting on my lap more & more but the problem is he's very heavy!!! She was skin & bones but Nanny is very tubby!

I was hoping we could share the footstool

He seems keen...... & hopefully no more dead legs!!

To get the chair in I had to tidy up big time....... I do all my crafting while sat in my chair watching TV but the mess had grown & grown!!

As you can see it's still messy but loads better then what it was! I can now find things :)

Whilst tidying up I found 6 bags of wool..... yes that's right 6 bags!!! That's on top of the very large garden trug. So if you hear me say.... 'I must get some more wool' please slap me!!!!

It's been tiring going back to work & after only 3 days of standing & walking around my back is really playing up again :(

I'm off today but have loads to do for the fair on Sunday.... I still haven't finished my list & I need to pack as I'm working tomorrow & Saturday!

Best crack on then...... back soon

A day in Looe

2011-03-27T18:53:00.000+01:00

On Friday me & OH set off to sunny Cornwall. After a 2 1/2 hour train journey that was very busy..... our public transport is so rubbish!!! ... we arrived in Looe just in time to see the sun set whilst enjoying a cold cider on the harbour front.

It's a funny little town..... our hotel was very cheap & cheerful but not the best I've ever stayed in. The toilet & shower were in a box in the corner of the bedroom..... I kid you not!!! They toilet was less then 2 foot away from the bed & the sliding door didn't close, thank goodness it had a flat roof with a bench because that's just too modern for me!!!

We headed off to see the night life but I think we must have been in the wrong area because the 2 places we went were full of nutters!!! A fisherman had died the night before so maybe everyone was letting off steam. We went back to the hotel to watch some guy sing along to a CD..... dear oh dear.... & to think I should have been in London watching The Men They Couldn't Hang!!

The view was beautiful from our bench

The fish market

As you can see the sun wasn't shining on Saturday :(

It's very hilly!!

Our plan was to get the early train back & stop off in Totnes so I could visit the vintage fair but I think I drowned my sorrows too much on Friday & felt very rough.

So it was a slow journey back but this time the trains were empty & by the time we got to the boarder the sun had his hat on again!

This bridge is amazing.... well done to OH for hanging out the window to take this!!

And the view is breath taking......but what's that???

The Union pub..... thought I'd share the Union love with you!!!

The painting on the side is great too!

We had a lovely time but I was glad to get back to my own bed & a nice cup of tea..... getting old!! And of course to see Nanny.

I think we'll be going back to Cornwall...... we had both forgotten how lovely it is :)

Back to work for me tomorrow.... boo hoo..... not happy at all!!!

I hope you all have a good week

Still here......

2011-03-24T08:36:00.000Z

Yes I'm still here..... it's been a week since my last post & I've been really bad leaving comments..... sorry everyone! I will try harder...promise!

So the count down to work has began..... I can't believe I had 14 days which has now turned in to 4 days left! I'm starting to have that back to school feeling already. I've been so lucky with the weather as it's been beautiful here in Exeter. I spent some time in the garden trying to cut back the blackberry bushes..... they've taken over!!

Have you all seen this...

Lovely t-shirts at a fantastic price!

You can find them here

I checked yesterday but couldn't work out the sizes.... if you check on the pop up size page it says the XL size is an 18 but then in the next block it says it a 16..... I'm very confused!!! Anyone know?

I brought a jumper from there years ago that's XL & it's massive!

They're selling like hot cakes, yesterday nearly everyone was in stock in XL...today only 3! Does that mean all CK fan are larger ladies??? Then why are all her clothes for little people??!!!

I wonder if they'll get more in?

I hope you all enjoyed Comic Relief on Friday..... I was out but spent Saturday watching it on catch up..... 6 hours!!!!!

What was your favourite bit?

I love the Smithy sketch....... soooo funny!!!

Today I'm waiting in for my new armchair :)

It's being delivered between 12-6pm which is a complete pain as I can't do anything in the morning so it's a wasted day :(

Hopefully I won't be the last on the route!

Enjoy the sun

Happy St Patricks Day

2011-03-17T09:26:00.000Z

Top of the morning to you all!

Well this is the 3rd St Patricks day I've spend with you my lovely blogging friends & this year we've decided not to celebrate with drink!!!

For the last few years we've been flogging a dead horse ....sat in the pub on our own watching the racing & trying to find Irish music on juke boxes. So this year we're going to stay in & watch Cheltenham :(

It will be odd but I think it's a good plan as I've been naughty for the last 2 days & gone out to watch the racing. You know how it goes.... ohhhh lets go to the pub for lunch & come home early....mmmm doesn't happen does it?

Cheltenham update: Lost every race..... rubbish!! But 2 days to go :)

One of the reasons I've been out is the fact our Internet has been really playing up this week..... typical when I've got the week off!.... I have so much work to do with Folksy & Make, Do and Mend but couldn't do anything :(

OH got it working this morning but I'm not sure how long it will last..... sorry for not leaving any comments but I will be back when things are sorted.

On Monday I treated myself to an ipad.... hooray!!!

I've been saving for a while & planned to buy the new one but I went to the Apple shop on Monday & was told if I didn't queue up at 3am on Friday 25th March I would have to wait months! Well I'm really not that bothered about it! The new ones are going to be faster, have a camera & lighter...... but the old ones now have £100 off!

I do love it & being cheaper it means I can now buy a CK case!!!

Hope you're all having a good week so far..... loving the sun, in fact I even took my cardigan off yesterday....heavens above it must be spring!!!!

Back soon

The countdown has began.....

2011-03-11T19:27:00.000Z

Only 2 more days of work before my annual 2 week holiday

Hopefully I'll have more time to visit you all & of course making things for the fair on Sunday 3rd April :)

Have a great weekend

A Vintage Week

2011-03-06T19:28:00.003Z

Today while looking back on my week I realised it's been a bit vintage!

It all started on Monday when I dashed through WHSmiths & spotted this...

As this is issue 7 I'm sure some of you would have already heard of it. I can't believe I've never seen it before (WHSmiths have only just started stocking it)..... I must say it's excellent! I've read it cover to cover & really enjoyed it..... so much so I've subscribed today :)

My favourite article.... it made me think of my Nan & all the questions I never asked when she was here :(

Make do and mend!

Jealous...moi???

On Tuesday it was more make do and mending...

I've also found out they're showing Shine On Harvey Moon on the yesterday channel

I loved this in the early 80's!

I found it while looking for Ration Book Britain....

Have you been watching? You can check out the web site here

The week was finished off by a little treat...

Prefect for the garden & it looks good on my shelves

So as you can see it's been a bit vintage in this neck of the woods!

February

2011-03-02T17:19:00.000Z

Another month has gone but looking back February was quite a crafty month!

I did really well with the Folksy listing club but think I might have a break for a bit. I really need to make quanity now for the April fair..... more about that later :)

My journal seems to have taken a back seat...... or should I say it's been buired under magazines by my chair! Must try harder this month!

Last night was Make, Do and Mend so I'm recoviering today! It was our busiest one yet with 30 people squeezed into one room.......oh my goodness!!!

Hope you're all having a good week

Unstoppable

2011-02-27T19:32:00.000Z

Hello...... Hope you've all enjoyed your half term.

Yet again another week has flown by...... it's been an odd week for me. My trip to Cardiff was very long due to the travelling. Unfortunately I didn't get do to any shopping :( I passed loads of good shops but I only had 15 mins before the meeting started. I was then told it would finish at 3pm..... yippee, I could fit in loads of shopping!!! But there's always one smart arse that asks loads of question at the end.... you know the sort of person I mean? .... I'm sat there thinking 'just shut up' but no it's one question after another & before we knew it it was nearly 5pm!!! No time to do anything before my parents collected me :(

My mum sent me this picture via email

Jane Seabrook

Great isn't it? It sums me up very well!

I do find it really hard to get going sometimes so I sit & do nothing!

Then I worry about everything I need to do & end up rushing around. I sometimes feel like I'm plate spinning...... what with a very full time job, housework, selling my makes, making things & Make, Do and Mend..... it all gets to much!

I guess that's what it's like being a women!!!! Thank goodness I don't have any children!

I do like the look of the little fella in the picture.....so cute :)

This is what I've made this week....

I better pack for Make, Do and Mend on Tuesday night.... I'm working tomorrow so I want to get organised tonight.... although I've only been home from work for a couple of hours!!

It's going to be a busy one this month as I've had 26 people confirm attendance.... gulp!! That's a lot of people.... I hope they don't all want to learn crochet!

Back soon, have a good week

Ladybird Books

2011-02-23T06:00:00.016Z

Just popping in to show you my latest edition to my ever growing Ladybird book collection....

I don't remember this one..... do you?

I always find a ladybird book when I go to Oxfam but I was giving up hope & was just about to leave when I spotted it.

Some beautiful pictures inside....

I love this one...

I've been busy making lavender bags....

It's been very rewarding using my lavender that I spent hours dying last summer!

I've added them to my Folksy shop this week.

Another spring picture to make you smile

Off to Cardiff today for a meeting...... hoping to find time to check out the charity shops as I've heard they're very good! My parents are very kindly driving me so I don't have to put up with the 3 hours each way train journey! So hopefully it won't be such a long day.

Back soon

Valentine treats......

2011-02-20T13:44:00.001Z

I'm back!!

I hope you all had a good week & a lovely Valentine's day. We don't do Valentine's day here but I hinted on Facebook that I had seen a lovely necklace & I got it!!!

Want a closer look?

Cute isn't it?? I love Victorian cats with bows :)

The only problem is I have a neck like Mike Tyson so it's really tight, I guess it's meant to be a choker but this is silly. Any ideas how I can make it bigger?

He brought it from one of my favourite Folksy shops........

Silk Purse, Sow's Ear

Eilidh keeps tempting me with her beautiful jewellery.... I'm not a big jewellery fan but I keep finding things! I've just seen she's made earrings to match the necklace.....ooohhh I want!!!

This is my 2nd necklace.... the first can be found here .... I've also brought a stag brooch & earrings as well as a few Christmas presents.

In the garden today I spotted these....

Something to make me smile & remind us that Spring is on the way.... hooray!!!

OH update: after a stressful week OH seems to be getting better.... another hooray!!

Back soon

My holiday

2011-02-13T14:50:00.000Z

Hello, I hope your week has been a good one :)

Just to let you know I did make it to France!

I didn't decide until the last minute...... in fact the taxi came 20 mins before the train left! I hope it was a nice surprise for OH as he had already gone to the station.

I didn't feel great but after a few drinks my cold started to go..... it's the new miracle cure....cider!!!!!

We watched as the boat came in...

It's all a bit blurry!!!

As soon as the engines started I started to feel odd..... I could never go on a cruise! It's such a weird feeling but I took some travel sickness tablets then headed to our cabin.....very small!!!..... we woke to the sound of music informing us we only had an hour!!! A quick shower then out on deck to see us come in to port.

Now we did have a plan....... our friend was already in Roscoff at his parents house & he was returning on the same boat back. So the plan was he would be at the port at 8am to meet us, take us to the town for breakfast then we would drive to the house & see a bit of the country side......well that was the plan!!!!

He wasn't there so armed with just €17 we went to the cafe to wait for him.....he had spare €'s so we didn't need to get anymore. We waited & waited...... 4 coffee's & 2 croissants later & the money had all gone!!!!

At about 9.30 we decided to walk to town, it said it was 15 mins away, to find a cash point.

Have you been to Roscoff??

I guess it's just a stop off point as there is nothing & I mean nothing there!!! The market was on so we had a wander around but it was cold & the walk had been up hill, we just needed a sit down & a hot drink.....getting old!!

After finally finding a cash point we headed to a bar ...... €6.50 for a coffee & a coke!!!!

As you can see it wasn't sunny France but at least it wasn't raining! It wasn't as bad as it looks in the photo's. Our friend finally turned up at lunch time by which time we had started on the beer! Well there wasn't much else to do.........

Funny bar snacks around here.....

No I didn't try them..... I know they're suppose to be lovely but I'm sorry they look like garden snails & that's just wrong!!

Before we knew it it was time to head back to the port.... thankfully in a car.... & board the boat.

Bye bye Roscoff...... not sure I'll be back!!!!

We had a cabin again on the way back so after food & a few more drinks we settled down for an afternoon nap :)

So that was my holiday...... I did have a good time & I'm glad I went. Although I must be getting old as I was so worn out on Thursday!

Unfortunately OH has been ill since returning :(

He had a really high temperature on Thursday PM & was having problems breathing, we thought it was a chest/lung infection so called the doctors on Friday. Having told him the symptoms he was told to go to the surgery straight away, after rushing there he was then told that as he smokes there was nothing they would do.

So he's been in bed since then, unable to move, eat or sleep...... I keep checking he's still breathing but it's very laboured. If he's no better later I'll call the NHS helpline but no doubt they'll say the say thing.

For the last 3 days I've been pottering around the house, cleaning, watching TV & making things...... not all bad!!!

I've been listing daily on Folksy so this little lot should see me through when I return to work tomorrow :(

After a glorious day yesterday the rain is back so it's more TV & making for me today!

Until next time

Holiday.......

2011-02-08T12:05:00.000Z

At last it's my week off!!! It started yesterday after working the whole weekend, I had a lovely day yesterday doing nothing! Well I did clean the fridge but the rest of the day was taken up with TV & knitting..... perfect!!!

I've been really busy making things over the last week as I try to list daily on Folksy.

This is what I've made so far...

I've sold a few cherry brooches so needed to make more, these will be great for the Retro Ruby Fair I'm attending in April.

Do you want to see how my journal is coming on?

I'm trying to do at least one thing a week so it doesn't end up in a cupboard! This is something I've never done with a book before....

It took some doing, that spine was a tough one! If you count the leave this page blank that's another one to tick off!

The last thing I did.....

So now it looks like this....

It's starting to look a little dog eared now but I'm liking it :)

I'll let you know what I do next.

Today I'm suppose to be sailing to France, we leave late tonight from Plymouth & return tomorrow early evening. Just a quick break for something to do, the price was very good so we thought why not..... it'll be nice to have breakfast in France!

However when we booked it last week we forgot it was February & the weather isn't good....no wonder it was cheap!

Checking the weather yesterday it said gale force 6, now I'm rubbish on boats & rarely use them so what should I do???

I've also woken up with a start of a cold..... grrrr I was so looking forward to doing something! My head tells me to stay home, nothing worse then feeling sea sick with a bad cold & having to spend 6 hours in a french port..... :(

I'll be back later to let you know if I was brave & to show you more of my makes.

January 2011

2011-02-03T11:19:00.001Z

We're already 1 month into 2011.... how did that happen?

But that means spring is waiting around the corner.... hooray!!

January is always a tough month as it tends to be a bit miserable which isn't helped by the media telling us nearly every day this is the worse day of the year...etc...etc!

Here's a look back over my January....

We've had a few sunny days which Nanny has enjoyed.... see bottom left!

A sneak preview of the blanket I made for Kelly's baby...... she should have it now so I can share :) The flower pattern is from Rose.

I'm not working today which is great because the sun is shining!

I have lots of jobs, one being to empty the Make, Do and Mend bags from Tuesday night....wow it was a busy one & when I got home at 10pm I didn't have the energy to put everything away. I'll also be sorting out all the admin, I hate that job as it's so time consuming but hey it's only once a month.

I did see The Kings Speech..... I loved it! My sort of film, great story, great acting & no stupid special effects! Did anyone else well up at the end??? I really want to see it again which is very unlike me..... looking forward to the DVD coming out. Fingers crossed for Colin Firth on Oscar night.

Hope you're all having a great week ...... back soon as I'm on holiday next week.....yippee!!

Wreck This Journal part 2

2011-01-30T12:29:00.001Z

OK I'm not even going to say how fast January is going!

I've enjoyed being normal this week with having the weekend off :) but the time has slipped by & I haven't done everything I wanted to do however I did spend some time with OH. Sometimes I forget to do that what with work, craft fairs, Folksy, Make, Do and Mend...... it was nice to relax & do very little.

Only 1 more week at work then I have a week off....yippee!!! Really need it before I end up on Mary Portas for bad customer service...... you can only bite your lip for so long. I then have my normal 2 weeks off in March to look forward to....... I just hope the things on my list can wait that long!

On Monday I headed to the post office with this....

It arrived back to me on Wednesday but just look what happened....

After a slight panic attack I remembered what this book was about but it's still troubling me!! OH joked that I may even have to buy another one.

I plan to take it in the shower next & get that over with.

I managed to finish Kelly's blanket this week with the help of Rose & her lovely new flower crochet pattern. I won't share photo's just yet in case Kelly has time to take a peep.

I've also been finishing some knitted bears for my Folksy shop.

Bit of an odd question but does anyone do Burlesque?

I need to know how to attach Pasties..... I won't use the N word as god knows what kind of people will start following me!

My friend has been asking me for a year to make her some, I'm also doing a fair in April & I think they could sell. Please let me know your thoughts.

I may go to see The Kings Speech today....... I'm so looking forward to seeing it :)

Have a good week....over & out!

Wreck This Journal.....

2011-01-23T19:46:00.001Z

Thanks for all your comments on my last post..... it seems you're keen to give it ago. Please let me know how you get on & spread the word yourself.

So back to the point....

I saw this book on a blog months ago & added it to my Amazon wish list in the hope someone would give it to me for Christmas..... nope!

A couple of weeks ago my online buddie Lorna did a post about hers...here

She was also kind enough to give me a shout when it was back in stock @ amazon.

So it arrived on Tuesday & has been sat on the sofa ever since..... I did have a look & I must say I'm feeling nervous about it!

The reason being I'm a Virgo! I've never wrecked a book in my life..... never broken a spine on a book..... never fold down the corners of the pages..... never written in a book. I have to use the same pen in my diary & if it runs out half way through I get most upset!

How will I cope????

I thought this would do me good....... I drive everyone mad, including myself!

I'm going to let myself go.... go crazy...... rip the pages out..... draw all over it....

but take it in the shower???? ooohhh I'm not sure!!

The first thing I'm going to do is post it to myself........ just in case it gets lost!

So it's back on the sofa tapped up with reindeer tape waiting for it's trip to the post office tomorrow.

That's the easy one done...... I'll keep you update!

Have a good week

We Are What We Do.....

2011-01-19T18:19:00.066Z

Ever since I started blogging I've planned to post about this but I've never got around to it!

So as I haven't done/made much of late I thought this would be the perfect time.

I'm sure you've all heard about this fantastic group..... no??? Then read on!

Back in 2007 I discovered 'We Are What We Do'....... it's all about making the world a better place.....

Be the change you wish to see in the world ~ Mahatma  Gandhi

So I bought the book....

And started completing all the actions..... some easy some not so easy! It was £5 but you can still buy it on Amazon for a bargain price of £2.73!!! Maybe people don't want to change the world.

I enjoyed the challenge so brought the next one.....

This is all about the work place & my colleagues were keen to join in.

Within a few months they hit the headlines with the launch of this bag...

Ring any bells????

Yes this bag was sold in Sainsbury's however it was reported some staff were buying them all & selling on Ebay..... on the day the went on sale you could buy this for over £100!

My dad collected my at 6am that day & drove me to every Sainsbury's in the area to get one but we no luck..... you were given a raffle ticket, 1st come 1st serve & then at 8am you could buy.... even at that time in the morning we couldn't get one!

They're limited addition & being a women because I couldn't get one I wanted it even more!!! I was lucky that I was on the forums & in contact with 'we are what we do' & managed to get one of the 2nd batch!!!! Yippee!!!!

I often wonder how many are now laying unloved in cupboards..... mine is hung in the porch for all to see but I must start using it again.

I've tried so hard to complete all the actions...... I even started to give blood but had to stop because there's not many places to give in my area :(

I keep feeding this back to them as they often email & text asking why I haven't been for so long..... I would love to start again.

At the moment I'm tracking 117 actions & have completed them nearly 2000 times - must update that!

Would you like to take the challenge??? Are you already sign up???

You don't need to buy the books now as the web site is very good & you can track your actions online......

.......and start the New Year off on a good note :)

Hope you enjoy it!!

New year plans.....

2011-01-16T19:37:00.000Z

Yikes another week has gone by & I haven't managed to make anything or blog :(

I'm still fighting with the gift I'm making for someone special!

This year seems to be speeding by already..... or is it just me wishing January away so I can have my week off!

Thanks for all your comments on my last post, it's interesting to hear you thoughts on craft parties. I have approach Exeter Phoenix & we hope to have our first booking very soon.... yippee!!!! The down side is they must produce ALL of the refreshments from the cafe bar as this is how they make their money. This is a bit of a blow as I was hoping to keep the cost down making it affordable for everyone.... meeting next week to discuss the finer details but I'm told they get asked for this sort of thing all the time so fingers crossed it'll be a success :)

So what have I been up to this week...... well not very much!!

I was off Thursday & Friday as I had to work all weekend but by the time the housework was done & I recovered from my night out on Wednesday (whoops!) it was time to go back :(

I've been spending a lot of time of Facebook as this year see our first school reunion....gulp!.... I wasn't planning on going but on Monday I was speaking to my best friend & he told me he will be going! It's been fun this week seeing all the photo's & hearing what people have been up to in the couple (!) of years since we left.

Our final school photo taken in..... 1987 :(

It's only half but it's the most important half 'cos I'm in it!!! Cor blimey I was a mardy cow..... I think it was because all my friends were in the other half. I was 15 in this picture..... can you spot me????? A clue??? I'm missing what I'm told is one of my best features.....hair!!!

Hope you've all had a good week...... back soon.... I hope!!!

1st week gone......

2011-01-09T16:56:00.000Z

Another week has flown by...... did you do anything nice???

I was off on Monday so enjoyed a day at home....doing the housework!!

Tuesday was Make, Do and Mend day....

We planned to make granny squares but the Phoenix were having loads of work done & forgot we were coming so we could only stay for 2 hours..... but we made a start

Teaching was harder then I thought!!!!

There was lots of other things being made

I was planning on taking some photo's today as it was a lovely bright sunny day.... however I messed about on FB & Twitter..... chatting to people about our school reunion...*gulp* ....& before I knew it the sun had gone!!!

I think I've missed the boat for showing my Christmas gifts but here's just one...

My friend Claire brought me this..... he's now been packed away for next year :)

Now I have a few questions for you......

How do you feel about craft parties???

I know if you're lucky enough to live in London you have a wide choice but mainly hen parties....... have you every been to one????

Would you like to go to one????

I think there's somewhere in Bath that also run day parties but I find it hard to give up a whole day...... do you? Would you prefer evenings.....maybe just 3 hours??? or is that not long enough??? What would you like to learn?

How much would you expect to pay??? Some charge up to £80 per person.... wow!!! I only charge £3 a month for Make, Do and Mend!!!

Would you expect alcohol or just tea????

I don't know about you but I find it hard to craft while drinking..... I like to keep those two separate!

I would really appreciate your feedback with this :)

Have a good week

2010

2011-01-02T13:44:00.000Z

Well another year is over & we're all a little wiser (?!)

I feel 2010 went very quick..... didn't you?

So today is Show & Tell

I thought it would be a good idea to re cap 2010 & list my hopes/dreams for 2011

January 2010

It was a snowy start to the year & Make, Do and Mend was born!


February 2010

Our first Make, Do and Mend meeting!


March 2010

April 2010

Starting to feel like spring :)


May 2010

Vintage fair followed by my own Handmade Home Fair - a crafty month!!


June 2010

The worse month of the year... heart broken after Zoe passed away :(

July 2010

My first 1940's event & the birth of Frazer (the only new addition this year)

2nd 1940's event

September 2010

My 2nd anniversary & 200th post.

Innocent Big Knit & Make, Do and Mend takes off!!!!!

October 2010

Starting to get ready for Christmas on Folksy. Meeting Cath Kidston & generally being unwell for the whole month :(

November 2010

My first sale on Folksy & Etsy :) Things start to get busy

December 2010

Ended as it started....snowy!!!

Phew so another year over & thanks to blogging I can see it wasn't wasted!

2010 has been an odd year, in one way I feel I've started to get my life on track......I've been trying to set up a craft group & fair for so long but work always gets in the way....... this year I did it! The group has been very successful which makes me very happy :)

The fair is another story but hey you live & learn..... I'm not sure I'm ready for those sort of people, it's a bit cut throat for me so I'll step back thank you very much!!!

But on a sad note it's the year I lost Zoe...... now I know some people will think it's only a cat but this was the first Christmas in 20 years with out her :( On the day it felt odd as me & OH have only spend 2 Christmases without her. We remembered how she climbed the tree when she was a kitten & was very naughty but she always got away with it because she was my baby :)

So moving on what will 2011 bring......

I turn 40 :( How did that happen???? I'm still 16 aren't I??? I would like to do something special but not sure what......I was thinking of a lovely holiday but I'm a rubbish traveller....hot air balloon??? Zoo keeper for the day???? Maybe a weekend in Edinburgh???? Only 8 months to sort it out!!!

I must finish my list that I started in 2008!!!! or at least finish my blanket that I started nearly 2 years ago!

Re decorate the house..... things have been up in the air as we weren't sure if we were moving but I think we're starting put so I want to sort out all those jobs that need doing & paint the living room to make it more homely.

Continue with Make, Do and Mend..... I'm hoping to set up a children's class in the summer holidays but first I need to get everything in order. Now it's getting very popular I need to get the admin side of things in place

Attend more craft fairs

Continue to sell on Folksy/Etsy

Complete my CV...... I'm hoping for changes this year!

Sort my back out..... I'd like a full MOT as I've been ill for months now, if it's not my back it's my stomach (pain killers are playing havoc with my tummy) or a cold. I'm going to go to the doctors in the new year & demand more tests

To make it through the year with all my love ones..... my dad is going to be 70 in April & I'm starting to panic at the idea my parents will leave me at some point :(

Be a better blogger.... the last few months have been so busy I haven't had time to leave comments or post as much as I would like

Visit my friend in Lincoln....... I've been wanting to do this for years!

You see I'm not asking for much as I know the year will go so fast, if I can achieve this I'll be happy!

What do you wish for?????

Hope you're 2011 is one to remember :)

PS I know I haven't shared my Christmas gifts with you...... last week was so busy, damn work!! I will take photo's asap as I got a lovely new record player :)

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T21:05:00.000Z

Wishing you all a very happy New Year...... here's to a cracking 2011!

My New Years resolution = to be a better blogger!!!

Join me on Sunday for the first Show & Tell of the New Year...... What are your hopes & dreams for 2011???

Have a great evening

Snowy Christmas

2010-12-24T18:17:00.000Z

My, my I've been away for a while..... sorry about that.

Last Friday saw the first of the snow for sunny Devon & it hasn't gone away. On Monday the heavens opened for 3 whole hours...wow I love snow!!!! What I don't love is ice which is what we have now :(

What big feet you have Nanny!!!

So last Sunday I thought I better make the effort to get a bit christmassy, I had a sinking cold (yet another joy of retail!!!) but I think it came out pretty well....

Only a few decorations this year as I was feeling too poorly to go to the loft but I did treat myself to a fake Christmas tree...

I don't normally like fake trees but I thought this had a real retro feel & it was such a bargain I couldn't say no!

I was working in Bristol last week & it would be rude not to pop to Cath!!

Back in November I brought this lovely biscuit tin from M&S.....

Looking forward to cracking these open on the big day!!!

It's been my day off today & with the ice being so bad we've had a lazy day in..... watching TV & playing games. I need to make the most of my 2 days off!
The scene is now set..... tree lights on, Silver Bells burning on the mantle piece & some homemade brownies.......

So my friends it's Merry Christmas from me.......

and here's to a crafty 2011!