Bella Blossom

Winter Stuff

2012-02-08T11:00:00.002Z

So this is what I've been doing. How about you?

Sam xxx

Merry Christmas

2011-12-21T12:33:00.002Z

Just popping in to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Thank you all for your help and support this year, it's been FAB

XXXXXXXXXXXX

The Fair

2011-11-28T10:06:00.007Z

Hello Everyone,

So I'm very happy to say that the Country Living Christmas Fair was a huge success. My feet have hardly touched the ground since and I've orders coming out of my ears!!!! There's been late nights and postal problems but everything has been dispatched and everything (accept one mug and one pin cushion) had arrived safe and sound. I want to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone who helped and supported me during that mad, mad week. Family and friends where there to offer support from childcare to stand building, tea runs to helping on the stand it's self. I couldn't have done it without you all. You know who you are and I love you all xxx

So pic's... Well here they are:

My cushion and hanger pictures were made into huge billboards and used outside the fair!!!! The top pic is of me proudly standing under them ha ha ha. The last two pic's are of the Cabin. Every year at the very front of the show, as you go in, is a beautifully decorated cabin. Items from many exhibitors are chosen and used to decorate it. This year one of my blankets and a set of Russian Dolls were selected!!!! I was and still am soooo very excited about this. It was FAB! I had lots of comments from people who had seen them in there and made it a mission to find me. Yipeee. I met hundreds of wonderful people, full of crochet love and enjoyed every minute of it. I have applied for another stand next Christmas but wont find out until Jan/Feb if I have been successful. Fingers crossed everyone.

Oh, just to let you know, the hats are a new product that I will be adding to the shop soon and the Russian Dolls are made by my very talented friend Anna. These wont be for sale on NOTHS but if you want a set, just email me bellablossom.info@googlemail.com they are £40 for a set of 3.

Well I'm off. The nursery run is calling.

Speak soon
Sam xxx

Right now.....

2011-11-03T17:35:00.007Z

Right now, I am...

:: feeling - stressed and a little worried that it wont all come together next week (the Country Living Christmas Fair)

:: enjoying - chocolate and lots of it!

:: loving - that next week I get to meet thousands of new people who have beautiful things to say about my work. (It's lovely to get some feedback)

:: appreciating - my lovely hubby for building me my very own website and taking the week off work to look after the kids and the house work... well the kids anyway!

:: remembering - that I HAVE done this before and I CAN do it again.

:: hearing - Little Miss practicing her trumpet.... She's not as good as her Dad but maybe one day...

::smiling - at the piles, bags and boxes of crocheted goodies that are all ready to be sold.

:: laughing - at my little man and the wonderful things he says. On a windy day last week - "It's lucky I've got my trousers on Mummy or the wind might blow my bum off!" ha ha ha ha ha

:: holding - a new little baby boy today. Oh wow, it was lovely.

:: marveling - at how perfect and beautiful he was.

:: knowing - it'll be a long long time until I hold one again.

:: wanting - the 18th November to come quicker... Yes I'm a Twilight fan and can't wait for Breaking Dawn!!!

:: tired - sleepless nights caused by stress are really getting to me

:: overwhelmed - by the things a working Mumma needs to do

:: pleasantly surprised - by how much I'm starting to enjoy running.

:: wondering - If I'll ever make the elusive 5k

:: grateful - for my tiny flat and my wonderful family

:: planning - homemade Christmas presents

:: digging - the allotment!

Just to let you know, the pics above are a few bits to do with the Country Living Christmas Fair in London next week. The first one is a Country Living picture that has been used to promote the fair... guess who's crocheted cushion is on the chair :o) The second one is of some beautiful Russian dolls that my very cleaver friend has made. These will be for sale at the fair. The last one is of some mistletoe Christmas cards that was a bit of a last minute thought but I'm quite pleased with the outcome.

Keep safe and warm on bonfire night people.

Sam xxx

This and That

2011-09-11T08:18:00.008+01:00

Hi Everyone,

It's been another busy month for me and my brood. It's been holidays, crochet, magazine articles... WHAT? I hear you say? Yes, I was featured in the September issue of 'Let's Knit' magazine!!!! It's so exciting. Here's a copy of the full page spread

So what do you think? Exciting yes? I think so. My little mug cosies were also pictured on the from cover yipeeeeeeeeee

In other news, we had our annual trip to the In-laws house in France. It was another lovely, relaxing two weeks full of sun, food (lots of food), wine (lots of wine), and laughter (lots of that too). I managed to fit in a bit of crocheting also. This time round I was making hats to sell on my stand at the Country Living Christmas fair.

The fair is fast approaching and as in March I feel less than ready. I still have things to finish off and things to order and organise. I'm sure it'll all come good in the end... One of my cushions features on the ticket flyer that was sent out to thousands of people. I was hoping it would also feature in the magazine but sadly no. Here's a copy of the flyer though and if you squint your eyes and look for the crocheted cushion on the chair on the right you can just make it out. It's very small BUT IT'S MINE :o)

Well, that's all my news for now. I've been crocheting like mad over the last week so my next post will be full of crochet goodness.

See you next time.
Sam x

Good News

2011-08-05T16:24:00.006+01:00

Hello everyone,

How are you all doing this week? Are you enjoying the summer hol's?

Things are quiet here. Little Miss has gone to France with her Grandparents so it's just me and the Little Man until we all head off for our annual trip. I do so love this time of year. I know the weather hasn't be good but despite the rain, I'm still dressed in T-shirts and my jumpers are tucked up snugly in the wardrobe waiting for the Autumn.

So, today I wanted to share a few things I have been making lately. Back at the end of term there was a need for Teacher Gifts. This year I decided to take inspiration from a blog we all know and love... Attic24. I slightly adapted Lucy's bird pattern and turned them into key-rings. what do you think?

They were are huge hit and so easy and quick to make. Me thinks these wont be the last little birdie's I'll be making. I've already had a request from my daughter and no doubt from most of her friends we she's back to school and showing it off...

I also made a cushion for my sister in-law's wedding present:

I made it with Rowan Pure Wool DK and I'm really pleased with how it came out. The picture quality is rubbish and really doesn't do the colours any favours but it was very pretty even if I do say so myself he he he

I've had quite a few orders through from the website this month and I'm desperately trying to make some wintery things for the Country Living Christmas Fair. I have snowflake bunting, beanie hats and mistletoe brooches to make and I'm fast running out of time. I'm going to take yarn and hooks away with me and see what I can get done in France. I have two weeks of no orders so am going to make the most of it.

I was also interviewed by Let's Knit magazine a few weeks ago. How exciting. Eeeeek. A very lovely lady called me up and asked lots of questions about Bella Blossom and about me. I'm going to be in the September issue which is out on the 12th August.... eeeeek!

Lastly I wanted to share something very special with you all. My lovely hubby took part in last weeks London Triathlon. Now, last November he couldn't even run for a bus let alone compete in a triathlon! Then one day he decided to run. He started slowly and using a proper running plan he slowly built his way up. He's taken part in a few different races, some 10k's and a half marathon but then he applied for the big one. A triathlon. It involved a 1 mile swim, a 40k bike ride and a 10k run. He did it all in 3 hours 32 minutes and I'm so proud of him, I feel like my heart could burst (corny but true) He has come such an amazingly long way in 8 months and long may it continue. Here are some pictures of my amazing man on his special day

So that's what I've been doing this month.... How about you?

Sam xxxx

Classes

2011-06-18T09:12:00.007+01:00

Hello All,

How are you all doing out in blogland? Hope hope you're all keeping well?

So I have some more news for you today. I have been asked by two very nice ladies at Made By Me, to run some crochet classes.... It's quite a big step for me. I have never taught before and have only been crocheting myself for 4 years but there I was sitting at my computer and up popped an email and I thought why not? I met up with the girls and we had a good natter about what they wanted and what I could teach and that was that! classes start at the end of July!!

These are a sample of the things I'll be teaching. The aim is to learn the stitches and complete a project in the 3 hours classes.

In case you have never heard about Made By Me, it is a very new company opening in Chelmsford. They run sewing, knitting and crocheting classes and aim to eventually have a tea and gift shop. At the moment the classes are running from the university but if they take off then they will open their own place. I have everything crossed for them as they are lovely people and it's a wonderful idea to get people involved in home crafts.

I have also been asked by Country Living Magazine to submit some products for photography. They will be used, along with lot's of other peoples products I'm sure, to advertise this years Christmas Fair. I have booked another stand and really hope to see some of you there?

In other news. My, not so little girl turned 8 last week and this year I did get a picture of the cake....
She loved it :o) Maybe not as much as me if you ask my husband but it was fab and loved by everyone who had some. I have to say a huge thank you to my lovely friend Carol (Bev) who made it for me. She makes wonderful cakes and can can be found here on Facebook.

Well have to go. I have 25 hairbands to crochet!!!!

See you all soon
Sam xx

It's been a while!

2011-05-31T09:25:00.001+01:00

Hi Everyone,

Are you all still there? Has it really been (gulp) almost a year since my last post? Yikes! I'm a terrible blogger, I'm sorry. Time for a new start. I can't promise I will be here weekly but maybe monthly...? I'll try I promise. I find it hard writing about my little life cos not very much happens... My day's are filled with school runs and family routine that almost never changes but I will try.

I have news about my little business venture (beware of some shameless plugs coming up!!!!) Bella Blossom products can now be purchased via the Not on the High Street website... It's very exciting and business was booming over Christmas.

I also had a stand at this years Spring Country Living Fair in London in March. It was a big step and I was very nervous about it but my family and friends have been hugely supportive and helped me no end. I even had some lovely ladies crocheting away for me to help my stock levels... The fair didn't go all that well for me but have had lots of after sales which has helped and I have signed up to do the Christmas one as I think this would be better suited to my products.

The picture quality isn't too good but here's a little peek at my stand. What do you think?

Bella Blossom also has a Facebook page so please feel free to look me up and 'Like' me :o)

I think I have added links to all my new ventures but I'm still as clueless as ever and I'm not really sure if they will work :oD

So that's what I've been doing over the last year. I promise to be back soon with recent WIP's and other news. I hope you're all well and I look forward to being back in touch with you all.

Sam xxxx

No Picture of the Birthday Cake!

2010-06-08T09:11:00.006+01:00

Morning Everyone,

How are you all getting on? Everyone survive the half term holiday? We had a fab one. It was Little Miss's 7th Birthday on the 5th so we all trotted off camping for a few days to celebrate. Now let me set the scene a little. My daughter is no ordinary little girl. She hates pink, her favourite colour is brown! She climbs trees, makes mud pies, collects football stickers and cards, watches Star Wars all the time and has a quite an extensive collection of Star Wars Lego. Her favourite TV programmes are Ray Mears, Bear Grylls (he's her favourite - She even has a teddy named after him) Mythbusters and River Cottage. River Cottage is a big family favourite in our house and last weekend they had their Spring Fair. When Little Miss was asked if she wanted a Birthday Party with all her friends or a camping trip with a visit to the fair, the choice was easy - River Cottage. So that's where we went. We left London on Thursday Morning and arrived in Lyme Regis about 5pm. Set up camp, made some dinner, tackled a bit of crochet and enjoyed our first night under the stars.

Friday was spent on the beach in the morning and Fossil hunting in Charmouth in the afternoon. The sun was shinning, the kids played in the sea and it really was a beautiful day. See what you think

I am besotted with Lyme Regis. Such a beautiful, beautiful place. I can't recommend it enough. Go there, you'll love it.

Saturday. Birthday day. River Cottage day. We we're all very excited.

We all arrived at 10.30 on the dot and parked in the designated field. The farm it's self sits at the bottom of a valley and we had to get a tractor trailer ride from the car park down the hill. I can't tell you how excited my Little Man was about this. As you can imagine, tractors are very important to my 2 year old son. I think it was his favourite part of the day ha ha ha.

We arrived to see tents set up with local people selling jam's, cheese, wine, cordials etc and as we wondered round we kept seeing people featured in the programme and getting a little star struck. This is who we saw

Pic 1) Ray the butcher and Steven the forager
Pic 2) Tim - one of the 'Three Hungry Boys'
Pic 3) Thom - also one of the 'Three Hungry Boys'
Pic 4) John Write - Wild food expert

The picture of John above was one of Little Miss's favourite moments of the day. She has a obsession with mushrooms and we bought her his mushroom book and he signed it for her. We then went out foraging with him in one of the meadows. We found brook lime, wild sorrel and pig nuts. She LOVED it.

We also met the third member of the 'Three Hungry Boys' Trevor

Now if you haven't seen the series, it was about three men who had to live for a month without buying any food. They had a VW camper van and drove round Northern Scotland and had to find or work for food. It was a brilliant series.

I stood and chatted to Trevor for a while about the series and what it was like for them all over the month. During my chat, I could see Mr D and Little Miss sniggering in the background. When I wondered back over to them, they we giggling like little children. When I asked what was going on, Little Miss burst into song...'Mummy and Trevor sitting in a tree, K I S S I N G' I was ribbed all day about being in love with Trevor! KIDS! He was quite nice though. Maybe my favourite part of the day he he he.

We had a fab lunch while watching a local band play. Little Miss had a go with a catapult, Mr D watched a demonstration on flint knapping, we looked round the farm and drank local cider and juice's and had a truly wonderful day.

That night we had a BBQ and cake (I forgot to take pictures) Little Miss's friends from the campsite all joined in too are were aloud to stay up late. They all left our tent with light up balloons and glow sticks. A fab Birthday for a fab little girl.

Sam xxxx

Lottie update

2010-05-12T14:20:00.007+01:00

Afternoon Everyone,

How are you all getting on? I, myself, have developed a yuk cold and am feeling a little grumpy but other than that, I think I'm on the mend. I have taken charge a little. Have informed the shop that I'm not available at the mo. Have decided to do a stand at the school fair next week (I still have quite a lot of things left from the flop that was my Christmas stand - not all festive I have to say ha ha ha)

I have also picked up my hook again and have been busy stash busting and working on a new little something... A new project I hear you ask? Have you finished any of the other WIP's, I also hear you ask....? Well yes I have a new project and no, nothing else is finished! Come on it is me we're talking about.... So a quick glimpse of my new WIP.....

So what do you think? I'm making it with Rooster Almerino Aran and this one is not for sale. It's mine, mine, mine, all mine. I have 54 circles still to make and can then start joining them all up. I'm going to join them with white granny squares and join as I go. I've not done this before so will be calling on Lucy's tutorial over at Attic24 for help (would add a link to her blog but I don't know how...!) I'm very excited about this one people. I've never made a blanket this big before :o)

Anyway. this is supposed to be an Allotment update rather than a crochet ramble so here's some new pics of the plot so far..

All the beds are weeded and ready for planting. Potatoes, broad beans, peas, parsnips, radishes, carrots, turnips, pickling onions, rhubarb, artichokes, onions and garlic (planted in the autumn) are all growing well outside. The path's have had new loads of wood chip spread on them and my lovely new greenhouse is doing it's job and is bursting at the seams! My runner and french beans are more than ready to be planted out but this pesky cold spell has kept them in the warm for a bit longer. I also planted a few strawberry plants in an old wooden wine box in the greenhouse and am very hopeful for an early crop. There's little green strawberries already! I have gone a bit mad with the seed's this year.... I have quite a few spare plants which have been donated to the school gardening club and the plant stall at the school fair! I am trying to stick to a plan that I worked out in February. If it works I will have things to pick all year round, unlike this year when things went a bit quiet for a few months. If it works and you're interested, maybe I'll do a post and include all the info...

Well best be off. Oh, I just wanted to show you a pic of some purple sprouting broccoli that I picked the other day. I have put my hand in the picture to give you some idea of scale.....

I guess you could say we're picking quite a bit at the mo.... This was the 8th picking....

Have a good week all
Sam xxx

Life

2010-04-23T22:31:00.008+01:00

Hi All,
Gosh it's been a while since I lasted shared my little life with you.... Very sorry about that. It's been a bit of an odd time for me of late. Mr D has been working away for the last 3 weeks. He's been popping back in to our little family life at weekends and arriving home exhausted late at night and leaving at the crack of dawn during the week. Some days he even stayed away which I have to admit, was a struggle for me. As you may or may not know, I had PND (Post Natal Depression) after the birth of my son and although I'm now "cured" (I'm off the drugs and finished the counselling) I still struggle from time to time. Things pile up on me until I'm overwhelmed and it all comes tumbling down. I then struggle with the smallest of chores for what seems like an age before slowly getting back on my feet. My crocheting work has all but ground to a halt, my 'not on the high street' account is still not up and running and I haven't managed a single thing for the shop since the end of Jan. I'm constantly feeling guilty about that. I know I should explain all to Buzz (the owner) but I'm not really sure what to say.... "I'm sorry I've not been in touch, but I'm a wreck at the mo and I just cant manage it"...... It's not very business like of me now is it?! I just can't seem to snap myself out of the fuzz.

I've been down the allotment quite a bit, forcing myself not to sit in the flat and mope.... I've done lots of weeding, sowing, manuring and generally getting ready for this years veggies. I'll write another post about all of that during the week and include some pictures and things. The pic's I have here don't do all my hard work any justice so I'll take some more next week....!

I've also had my tattoo finished. I have 4 in total, 3 quite small and out of sight... This last one is BIG and took 5 hours to do. It is also out of sight unless I wear a bikini... haven't done that for years though ha ha ha. Why did I have it done if nobody can see it you may ask? Because I wanted too. Because it means sooo very much to me and because I think it's beautiful.

So here it is

In Japanese culture the Cherry Blossom signifies the fragility and beauty of life. How life is fleeting and symbolizes how hardships encounter in this life will not last forever. Just as our joys can be temporary, so too can our sorrows be impermanent.

On that note, I'll be off.

Take care one and all

Sam xx

WIP's

2010-03-18T11:58:00.005Z

Oh I have sooooo many of these.... 'work in progress' I have a crocheted bunny that I started when the Little Man was born... he's 2 now! I have mounds of fabric, old clothes from the kids and vintage hankies that I'm turning into a patchwork quilt (I haven't even even cut any square's yet! It's all just stuffed in a box... waiting) I have a big bowl that I'm crocheting out of organic yarn that I bought from River Cottage... I have also started to crochet a huge blanket to cover my bed.... Like I said, I have many many wip's on the go. I also have my rug that I'm knitting. I started it at Christmas and you've guesses it, it's still not finished. I thought I'd show you some pictures of my progress. Just to remind you, this is what it should look like..

and this is where I'm up to....

Ohh dear... I'm not very far along am I..? Would you believe that so far it measures 3 meters long.... It needs to measure 18 meters long......... eeeeeekkkkkk!!!!!!!!

I also have another problem with it. The pattern is from the US. As it is a padded rug, I'm supposed to pad it with 'cotton piping' which is not available in the UK. I've been padding it with toy stuffing but it's coming out very lumpy. You can see the lumps and bumps on the second photo. I'm not really sure what to do about it. Any advice? My hubby thinks I should just buy the piping from the US and have it shipped over... I'd rather find an alternative but I'm coming up trumps every time. It's starting to annoy me a little and I have stopped working on it because of it. It's a shame really as I really like it in the book and I've wanted to make it for ages. Maybe if I leave it for a while, something will come to me...

Oh well, it's not like I have nothing else to do... ha ha ha

Keep well
Sam xxx

Woohooo

2010-03-06T07:49:00.002Z

It wasn't us, it wasn't us, it wasn't us..... In case you didn't get that IT WASN'T US WOOOHOOOO.

Highs and Lows

2010-03-04T11:17:00.004Z

Hi All,

Yes, I know it's been ages, but our computer still isn't working properly and as I explained before, trying to do anything is a nightmare. We've been told that all should be well by the 5th March but we'll see....

Anyway, life for me of late, has been filled with many highs and a yesterday, a huge low. Weekend breaks have been booked. One to visit some family on their sheep farm in Somerset. One to a wedding, also in Somerset and one to the River Cottage Summer Fair in June. It'll be Little Miss's 7th birthday while we're there and when asked if she wanted a party or to go to RC, the choice was simple. She adores Hugh and is glued to the TV whenever he's on... so off we are plodding to Axminster for 'the best Birthday ever'...! Her words of course..

We also finally made the decision to move. To pack up our little family and get out of smog filled London and head to the country. We booked some viewing for Saturday in the towns we like and were all set to step out into the big wide countryside... and then yesterday a bombshell rocked our little world. Mr D has been put on the "at risk of redundancy" list..... This, as for all of us, is a huge blow. The viewing for this weekend have been cancelled. All plans are on hold while we wait for news. I'm trying not to worry. To stay positive, after all everything happens for a reason..... doesn't it? This is the third time this particular threat has dangled above her heads in the last 8 years. One was a miss, one was a hit.... what will it be this time.... Watch this space....

On a lighter note, I just wanted to share this pic with you before I hop off to make some lunch. Please excuse all the mess in the background....!!!!!!

This is what happens when you have a big sister..... he he he

Sam xxx

Still slow, but we'll see how we get on.....

2010-02-15T12:38:00.004Z

Hi All

Well we're still having huge problems with our little computer here. Our speed is almost nonexistent! I've decided to try and do a little post anyway and see how I get on. Well, I've been sooooooo busy here. There's been Birthdays - Little Man turned 2 and our dogger, Presley, turned 8. There's been a Christening - my friend has 5 boys and it was the turn of the last 3... I've been commissioned to do some private work for my dear uncle (in law) who has just purchased the mother of all farm houses in France... He wants 3 crocheted cushions and 12 crocheted coasters. I made some finger puppets for the boys presents (pictures to follow) and I've made some valentines bit's for the shop (more pictures to follow)

Sorry, the picture quality is a little rubbish!

I also have some big news. I've have signed up to sell with 'Not On The High Street.Com' I'm soooo very excited about this. It's a huge step forward for me. Bringing my bit's and bob's to a much bigger audience and hopefully I can start making some money. I feel like I'm constantly paying out at the mo! So here's a sneak peak at what I've been making for them

Well, haven't I been busy? There's mug and egg and pencil cosies, bunting, children's hangers, pin cushions and a sneaky shot of a baby blanket in the middle. I have more blankets to photograph and some cushions to make and take pictures of too. Busy, busy, busy. There's just not a spear hour in the day at the mo but I love it.

Well, I'm off before this dratted machine gives up the ghost!

Toodle-loo XXX

Lack of Speed...

2010-02-08T09:29:00.002Z

Hi All,

I'm sorry I've not posted in a while. Our dratted computer, well broadband, is on the blink and trying to look at any website or even update you all on my little life is almost impossible. I hope to be back soon with big news and lot's of pictures of what I've been up to.

Till then, keep well and warm... yes the snow is coming back!!!!!!!!!!
Sam xxx

Colour

2010-01-22T13:23:00.002Z

I miss colour! It's sooooooooooo gloomy outside. To lift my spirits I've been looking for some colourful pictures to cheer me up.

How about these...

Gosh, how much do I want to see blue sky right now? It feels like it's been months!

Try to have a colourful weekend people. Don't let the gloom get you down

Sam xx

P.S. Thanks for the comments on my last post. Jac, that blog you recommended is fab and Helen, yes, one day I WILL make it happen :o)

My Dream

2010-01-12T16:27:00.006Z

Hi All,

Have you ever had a dream? Not the sort of dream you have at night or one that involves a new man/sofa/kitchen. I mean a dream that is soooo far out of reach that your heart aches when you think about it as you know it will never happen? I have one of those dreams. I think about it daily and wonder how I could make it happen. My dream involves a dramatic life change. To move from this tiny 2 bed flat in North London to a big family home in the country. I want land for a veg patch, chickens, ducks and maybe even a couple of pigs. I want an annex or outbuildings that can be made into a 2 bedroom accommodation of some sort, that I can rent out. I want people to stay and enjoy feeding my chickens and ducks and collecting their eggs. I want my life to be out of the smog and in the fresh air. I want the children to have space and freedom. I want them to be able to run in the house without worrying about the man who lives down stairs complaining. I want to be out in the mud in my wellies looking after my animals and veggies that would feed my family. This people, is my dream. This is what I want.

I regularly look on rightmove for an ideal property that could maybe come close to my vision and up until now there's been nothing..... up until just before Christmas my dream was far and distant, but then I found this.....

It's a 5 bed house, 2 and a half hours from where I live. It needs a huge amount of work and money spending on it...

I'm sorry for the extra small pictures. I got them from rightmove and I cant seem to make them any bigger!

It has outbuildings, a huge, huge garden. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (2 of the bedrooms are also en suite) and 3 kitchens (2 on the ground floor and one upstairs) I worked out that the back of the house could be sectioned off to make the 2 bed rental accommodation and that would leave the outbuildings free for the animals.... The property is vast! I think I could fit my flat in it at least 4 times!!!!

And now for the 'but'...... and it a BIG 'but'..... Money. Ahh yes people, as with everything, money, or lack of it, is the problem. We could afford the house (yay) but not the cost of making it habitable and ready for guests (boo). My hubby's job is here in London and he would have to continue working. We have no savings, no building skills, unless you count building ikea furniture, which I agree, is a skill in it's self, but not much use in the long run. The project is too big for us. The dream, is soooo close I can almost touch it. Can almost smell the smog free air, can almost taste my own free range eggs. But, no, not this time. My dream is still a dream. An unreachable, distant need and longing for something better for my family. I will of cause keep looking on rightmove and you never know....maybe one day I'll be writing a post tell you all of my move and my new home....

The Snow....

2010-01-09T15:01:00.005Z

Hi All, I hope you are keep warm and not getting too annoyed with the snow. I started writing this blog with a big rant about schools and gritted roads but have decided to delete it. Didn't want this to be a moaning post...

So I'm going to share some of my snowy pictures with you all today.

This last one I took on my way home from the shop. It was such a dismal and dark day and then there was this.... so bright and cheery I just had to take a picture.

I hope you are all safe and well during this cold, cold spell. Keep wrapped up warm with lot's of tea on hand.... Oh and maybe a biscuit or two

Sam xx

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T14:55:00.003Z

Hello All, Happy New Year. I hope you all had a fab time over the festive period? I'm sorry I haven't been around very much. My last post was a little doom and gloom but thanks to your wonderful comments, I have picked myself up and am moving on. I'm going to take Surfer Rosa's advice and spend the first year in research mode. I've found a couple of other little shops that I'm going to approach and I'm also going to get my website finished. I'm looking forward, not back.

So, Christmas. What a busy, busy time. We went to France this year. There were 15 of us all together on Christmas day and 19 for Boxing day. Here are a few pics, hope you like them

As you can see from the above picture, we didn't have a white Christmas (unless you count the frost....) The children had a fab day and could enjoy their new toys without having to be shipped off to visit various Grandparents/Aunts/Uncles. Missy Moo got her DS Lego Star Wars game that she neeeeddddeeddd more than anything. Little Man got lots of cars and books. At 22 months, Christmas doesn't really mean much to him but Missy Moo is 6 and was very much taken by the Santa thing. We had letters to Santa, almost daily. We had gifts for the big man as well as the usual Mince Pie and a glass of something warming.... The gifts were home made and consisted of shells and pebbles that she had painted and a little thank you note for all the presents she was sure she was going to get...!

I too did very well this year. With Cath Kidston PJ's and a replacement for my favourite Orla Kiely mug that I had smashed earlier in 2009. I have to say though, that my best gift's this year were from my daughter. A little heart ring and some diamond (not real) ear rings. They probably cost all of £5 for the lot but she had chosen them and paid for them with money she had saved. I'm sure they will turn my fingers and ears green given a bit of time but they are precious to me. Bless her heart.

Well on that note, I'm off. I have tea waiting for me, courtesy of my lovely hubby. My next post will probably be about the rug I'm knitting. It's coming along nicely but I've not had a chance to take any pic's . Will save that for next week

Bye for now xxx

My Stall and a Huge Lack of Success

2009-12-07T12:39:00.005Z

Hello all, hope everyone in blog land is well and looking forward to Christmas? Done all of your shopping? Have you even started? No? Me neither! I know there's only 2 weeks to go but I've just been soooo busy!

So yesterday it was the Christmas fair here in my part of North London. The rain passed over and the sun shone. It was very windy but I was in a lovely warm hall so It didn't bother me one bit. This was the view from my stand

Isn't it a lovely hall?
Well, I got there nice and early after a very nervous and sleepless night. Set everything up and waited for the rush of customers.... and waited and waited and waited. It was soooo very quite all day. Those that did come were NOT in a spending mood and not keen on my stand at all. I feel very let down as I worked so hard to get lot's made in time. My friend sent me a good luck text in the morning saying "Hope it goes well today. If not, they have no taste" Bless her but I am now doubting my new career choice a little.... See what you think

What do you think? Where did I go wrong? The thing is, I know there's a market for this kind of thing because it sells at All the Fun of the Fair in London. I just had a call from the owner last week asking for more mugs and gloves because they've almost sold out! Oh I don't know. Maybe it was just the wrong place with the wrong people. :o(

So today, I'm feeling exhausted. A little fed up and let down. I'm having a poor me day as another friend would say. I'm going to eat and drink lot's of chocolate and tonight I'm going to have a hot bath and go to bed early. I'm going to get lots of sleep and feel better about everything tomorrow, for tomorrow is another day.

Sorry for the downhearted post. Next time will be cheerier, I promise

Sam xxx

My Christmas Project

2009-11-27T13:38:00.003Z

Ok, so I know I said I would show you some of my makes for my Xmas stall, but I really wanted to show you all something I'm very excited about. Have you seen this book? It's a lovely book with lots of little goodies inside that take no time at all to make. It has both knitted and crocheted bits and bobs from gloves to cup cakes, vest tops to purses. But, there is one thing I have wanted to make since I purchased this book over a year ago......

It's this.....

oooooo I love this rug. It's just sooooo colourful and delicious.

So, according to the instructions, it is made up of 35 different colours! A little expensive for me so I have chosen a select few to make mine

OK, 16!

I have decided to use Rowan Pure Wool DK as it measures up to the correct sizes as per the book and comes in an amazing array of colours.

Now I'm not much of a knitter, but even I can manage a basic knit 1, purl 1..... Can't I???? Well, we're off to France for Christmas this year which means my lovely Mother - In - Law, who an extremely competent knitter, will be on hand for any help and advice should the need arise.

The only thing I need now is some 8mm knitting needles, so I'm off to the charity shop down the road who seem to stock an enormous amount.

Take care one and all. Next time I promise to show you some of my makes for the fair.

Sam xx

The Country Living Fair

2009-11-17T10:53:00.004Z

Well last week was the Country Living Fair. On the Tuesday I spent a few hours helping to set up the stand for All the Fun of the Fair and make up knitting kits that were to be sold. It was very odd being there while everyone was setting up. There were boxes and wrapping everywhere. People were painting, wall papering, laying carpet!!!!! Stress levels were extremely high and for some, tears were being shed!!!

I'm sorry for the very poor quality photo's below. I forgot my camera and had to use my phone! I know, what sort of blogger am I!!!!

Wednesday, opening day. I spent the morning at the Dr's with the Little Man. He had a chest infection and needed antibiotics. He was happy to stay at home with Daddy so off I trundled to Islington for the opening day. I arrived about 12.30 and got to work answering questions about the knitting kits and prices. It was sooooooo busy but wonderful to be working there rather than shopping. I had such lovely lovely comments about my blankets too so I was thrilled. About 2.30 my services were no longer required so I was free to shop. I really would've liked to have stayed longer but 3 people working on one stand was far to many so off I went. I'm very grateful to Buzz for letting be there that long! After all, I have no experience of running a stall and was probably in the way anyway :o) I'm not sure how sales went yet. In an ideal world, everything was sold and I'll a good few penny's to collect. In the real world, however..... well, we'll see......

Now,with the CL Fair over, I have my own stand to worry about. Here in North London, on the 6th of December, they will closing off the High Street for a Christmas Fair. They have rides for the kids, the local football team usually have a stand and the players sign pictures and posters. Oh and of cause Santa always arrives with his Reindeer. This year they are also having a craft fair and I have a stand. My very own stand. I'm a little nervous but very very excited. Over the next few weeks, I'll keep you posted on what I've been making and I'm sure the nerves will grow and grow until I'm a gibbering wreck but I'll do my best to keep my posts coherent...

Until next time, have a lovely week
Sam xx

Goodies

2009-11-06T13:38:00.006Z

Oooooooo, look what arrived in the post for me last night.... Yes, last night! Our postie delivered these goodies at 5pm! My pictures are a bit naff because I took them last night. I couldn't wait until the morning to open them! Yes, I know I have self control issues!

Anyway, these are the goodies that I won in Lesley's (Notes From My Day's) giveaway. are you ready to see what was inside......

ok....

There was a lovely pink spotty oven mitt, a little hand made bag filled with ribbon and buttons. A real of lace ribbon, a magnetised shopping list to stick on the fridge, a fab hand made padded heart and a lovely piece of fabric, the same pattern as the heart. I am overwhelmed by the kindness of a stranger! Such a scrummy bunch of goodies to receive. Thank you.

Other news, There is 4 days left until the Country Living Fair starts. I have been working SO hard to get things made in time. I have RSI in my hand and wrist from crocheting sooooo much! I have made 5 blankets, 4 cushions, 12 mugs cosies, and 20 hair bands. I hope that's enough.... I hope that my contribution to the All the Fun of the Fair stall is worthy.

Everything is really starting to move quickly now. My new business cards have arrived, my website is almost finished and I have my lovely nephew coming over on Sunday to photograph everything I've made for the website. He is a whizz with the camera. I can't really afford to pay him much, but I'm glad that my token gesture and the promise of a roast dinner has persuaded him that it's a good idea. Can't wait to share them with you all next week. Here are some of my feeble attempts....

And so to the allotment. My last bit of news for the day. I popped over there this morning to pic a few bits. There's not really much left now. I have things that are still growing but are far from ready to be picked. My timing has been very poor this year. Well it was my first year. I still came home with 2 leeks, 2 savoy cabbages, 2 cucumbers, a handful of broad beans and 10 beetroots. Quite a good haul, I think. I know I said a few post's back that I would take some pictures of the lottie, so here you go

It's all a bit messy and needs a good weed. I'm sure that once the CL Fair is over, I'll have a bit more time to spend there.

Anyway, I'm off. Have a lovely week everyone

Sam xx

Oh I do like to be beside the seaside...

2009-10-27T09:08:00.004Z

Morning one and all.

Firstly I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who left comments on my last post. You're all so kind to say such lovely things about my crochet and my lovely baby (sorry big) girl. In the last week I've gone from having 3 followers to having 7! wow! I'm very grateful.

Also, I'd like to say thank you to Lesley from Notes From My Days. I, along with Rachael from Made with Love, won her give away last week. I haven't had my prize yet, this postal strike is a nightmare, but will keep you posted. Thank you for picking me :o)

Well, to start the school holiday with a bang, we decided to take the kiddies to Southend for the day on Sunday.
Little Miss has only been to the seaside a handful of times and Little Man has never seen the sea! I feel horrible for that. When I was a child, all of my family holidays were spent by the sea but ours seem to be in rural France visiting the in-laws. I love the sea. The smell, the fresh air, the sound of the waves, collecting shells and pretty stones etc.

I would've liked to go to Brighton or somewhere like that. To have a mooch around the shops etc but we were going for the kids so Southend it was (Also, it's only an hour from here so.....) Little Miss had a fab time going on all the rides at Adventure Island and we had fish and chips for lunch, it was yummy.

The weather was a bit hit and miss. We had some sun but it was just soooooo windy!

This picture was taken from the end of the pier. I cant tell you just how windy it was! Little Man couldn't stand up! He had to go in the buggy with the rain cover over him for some protection. I had a cup of tea, that when I took the top off, it blew away.... not the top, the tea! It blew out of the cup!

Back on dry land, we wondered back to the car along the beach, picking up anything we had missed. We had a little paddle (it was freezing) and then headed home.

A fab day was had by all.

Have a lovely half term if you have kiddies. If not, have a lovely week anyway.

Sam xx

Crochet, Flowers and Cups...

2009-10-19T13:42:00.007+01:00

Hi All,

So how was your weekends? Mine was full of crochet. It's all I feel like I'm doing at the mo. It's about 3 weeks now until the Country Living Fair in London and I'm trying my very best to get as much made as possible. All my spare time is taken up crocheting and there is yarn, blankets, mugs etc everywhere. I'm sure I'm driving my family nuts! Still I have now finished 3 blankets (just started my 4th), 6 mugs and 2 cushions. I've also discovered a new band of yarn.... Yes, I know it's hard to admit that I might use something other than Rowan, but after my trip to the Knitting and Sewing Fair the other week, I just couldn't resist it. It's Rooster Almerino Aran and oh my, it's beautifully soft and scrumptious to work with. I made a blanket out of it last week... See what you think?

The colours are fab and did I mention how soft it is? I just want to stroke it all the time..... Ok I'm being a little odd now so I'm moving on.....

Flowers next, but still crochet related. How many of you have seen this book?

Most of you, I'm sure, already have this fab little book but I just got my copy last weekend. It's so lovely, so much colour on every page

So far, I've made these...

What do you think? I like this one the best....

It's so cheery on a gloomy day like today.

Oh and now on to the 'cup' part of my post. Firstly I'll set the scene. My daughter really should've been born a boy. She shuns all things girly, hates pink and couldn't careless if she was covered in mud. She has a fascination with sticks and stones, so much so, I've had to ban them from the house. At the moment, she really like 3 things...1) Star Wars, 2) Lego Star Wars and 3)Football. Saturday mornings are spent at football practice and this week she came home with this

She was soooo proud, which is nothing compared to how I felt! She got it for being the best player of the week. She was and still is the happiest little girl on the planet and to top it all off, just before I took this picture, tooth number two fell out hence the lack of a full smile.... She didn't want to show her gap! ha ha ha, bless her

Have a good week all

Sam x

2009-10-08T14:01:00.004+01:00

Hi All,

Well what a couple of weeks I've had. The kids have had horrid colds and have been feeling very sorry for themselves. Guess it's that time of the year. Autumn is here for sure. The leaves are falling and conkers are being gathered... daily!!! The heating is on and lunch most days seems to be homemade soup and crusty bread. Not that I'm complaining. I love, love, love this time of the year. It's so full of colour and that chill in the air just fills me cosy thoughts of blankets, mugs of hot chocolate and our coal fire. We haven't lit it here yet. I know from reading other people posts, there's have been lit and cosy snuggles are being enjoyed, but here in London it's not been cold enough yet.
The veggies from the lottie are dwindling now. The late summer rush of food is almost at an end, although, I do seem to have a huge amount of mini pumpkins and butternut squashes still to pick!!! My winter brassicas and Christmas spuds are in and boy oh boy you should see my sprouts! They are about the size of marbles at the mo, but should be perfect for Xmas dinner. I'll take some pic's next time I'm there.

Well, I've recently been to All the Fun of the Fair to drop in some new stock. I've been busy crocheting away making blankets and cushions to be sold via the shop on my behalf.

It's such a lovey shop. I took some pictures this time so have a look and see what you think.

They have a stand at this years Country Living Fair. It's at the Business Design Centre on the 11th - 15th November. I'm sooooo excited as this year my products will be on the stand and so will I! I'll be helping to set up on the Tuesday and working on the stand on the Wednesday, opening day :o) This is such a huge opportunity for me to see how a big craft fair runs. I can't wait. Maybe I'll see you there?

Have a fab week. I should get back to my crochet. I have a tone of stock to make and only 6 weeks to make it!

Sam xx

4 Years Ago

2009-09-17T10:07:00.007+01:00

4 years ago this was happening to me

4 years ago, these beautiful flowers were delivered

4 years ago cakes had been made.....

...tables had been set....

.....family had gathered

4 years ago, I said "I do"
I love you Mr D. Happy Anniversary xxx

Catch Up

2009-09-11T10:32:00.005+01:00

Ok, I know it's been ages since I last posted but with the school hol's and all, I haven't had much time to do anything. Still school's are back and normal day-to-day life is restored.

France was wonderful. Hot, hot, hot this year which was fab. Lovely food, lovely, weather, lovely company. We didn't really do much, just bummed around with the in-law's and did a bit of shopping. Visited a French car boot sale which was great. I got a vintage embroidered linen table cloth and some vintage hankies. I'm thinking of making a patchwork quilt to cover the sofa in the lounge maybe and think that all the different hankies will look lovely sewn together. I also got 2 pure wool blankets for 3 euros! not 3 each but 3 for both!!!!! I would show them to you but they're still in France. Couldn't fit them in my case so the in-laws are bring them over in the car on their next visit. Can't wait to get them. One of them will be used as the inner for my quilt and the other just to snuggle under. The night's are getting chilly now aren't they?

The allotment has been fab this year. We haven't had to buy any veggies since we came home from France. We've had tones of spuds, runner beans, chard, corn, pumpkins, cucumber's and carrot's and there's still sooooooo much to pick. This is my first year and I'm amazed at how much stuff we've had. Oh and it tastes sooooooooooooo yummy. I would recommend growing your own to everyone.

I'm so excited to tell you all about my date last night with my hubby. Well, we went to a drive in movie. You know, like the ones you see in the films. It was fantastic. We had such a fun night. We watched Grease, the perfect movie don't you think? We arrived at dusk and were very excited, well I was anyway! There were people sitting on their cars and on deckchairs. Some had the top's down on their convertibles. We were in our little car, snuggled up under a blanket (crocheted of cause) with our popcorn. As the sun set everyone started flashing their lights and tooting their horns. And then it began. All the usual song's that we all know and love. People actually cheered after summer night's. It was fab. Fab, fab, fab. I've taken some picture's but they are a bit blurry. Still I wanted to share them with you anyway.

I'm sorry about my very poor photo's this week. They were mainly done on my mobile and didn't come out too great.

Anyway, enough from me for now. More next week

Have a fab weekend
Sam xx

P.S Oh I wanted to say a huge CONGRATS to Lucy over at Attic24. Well done honey xx

Off to France

2009-08-10T08:54:00.009+01:00

Hi All, this will be my last post for a while. I'm off on holiday to France. As I've mentioned before, the In-laws have moved there so we're off for a visit. Missy Moo is already there and has been since the 26th July. I'm missing her hugely, but I don't think she feels the same way... Too much to do, too much to see... :o) So, as I promised last time, here are some pictures of where we're off too...

This is the Garden. It has a very quiet road to the left and a farmers field on the right. Most years it is full of maize but we have our fingers crossed for sunflowers one year. Wouldn't it be beautiful?

This is the pool. They only put it up in the summer when all the family arrive. This is Missy Moo a few years ago.

This is the back of the house and looks out over the garden, pool and fields. It's still a work in progress and will eventually have a permanent sun shade over the entire patio.

This is the front of the house.
This is the view from the front door. The garage was a work in progress also, I believe it's all finished now though.

Here are some pictures of inside. There's the kitchen and the upstairs landing. There's still quite a lot of work being done, but now that they are living there it should speed up. Most of the main house is finished and I would post more interior pic's but they aren't very good quality. I will take more when we go over.

Well, that's where we're spending our holiday, what about you?

Have fun wherever you go,
Sam xx

Lot's of Crochet

2009-08-05T12:00:00.005+01:00

Hi All,

It's been very quiet here for the last week or so. Little Miss is in France with her Gran and Grandpa so I've just got the Little Man to keep me busy. We've spent a bit of time at the Lottie. He's been stung by a wasp twice... You think he'd learn that they don't like to be touched, stroked or picked-up , but no. He's done it twice.

I've also been working hard this week making things to sell at All the Fun of the Fair. Lot's of crochet going on here. Blankets, pencil cozies, pin cushions, baby booties have all been made to be sold to anyone who likes them. I've also been working out a pattern for some fingerless gloves... It's a little hard when you have tiny hands and wrists like me.... I need a normal size hand to measure.. What do you think?

I've run out of yarn now so can't finish one of the blankets. Need to go shopping but with our holiday to France fast approaching, it may have to wait. The small square will be a cushion cover, maybe for the children's room or maybe for the shop.... we'll see.

Little Miss is having a fab time in France. We've been chatting on Skype most nights. Little Man, being 18 months old, can't understand why his big sister is on the computer.... don't think he understands the working of a web cam... but then again neither do I..... She been having adventures with Grandpa, swimming in the pool that gets erected every summer, and having cycling lessons on the road with Gran. Well, I say "the road" it's actually a country lane that only gets one or two cars down it a day.... The house is very rural and remote. Will post some pic's next time.

Well, lunch is calling and so I had better be off. Hope you're all well and enjoying/surviving the summer hol's

Sam x

Beautiful Flowers for a Beautiful Lady

2009-07-28T08:28:00.003+01:00

Hello Everyone,

I have some sad new today. My God Mother has lost her fight to brain cancer. She was a wonderful woman and I will miss her so much. She has been part of our family for close to 30 years now and has left a huge gap that I'm not sure can ever be filled. She leaves behind a husband and 2 adopted children age 17 and 20. She will always be treasured by those who new her. Angela, I miss you.

Some Fab News

2009-07-19T12:09:00.005+01:00

It's been a mixed couple of week that has had a bit of a low but two very big highs! Firstly I'll start with the low and slowly build up to the finest bit of news I think I've ever had...

The low happened when my lovely but oh so naughty son poured a full cup of hot tea all over the laptop! It has had to be replaced at a cost that we couldn't really afford but needs must and it had to be done. After the delivery didn't arrive, and many arguments with various call centre staff, it finally came and is now up and running. All seems to be going well so far....

Now for a big-ish high... I've opened and Etsy account. If anyone would like a look, please feel free. Here's the link http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7634900&ga_search_query=samsbellablossom&ga_search_type=seller_usernames. I want to try and link it to here, but not really sure how to at the mo. Might have to get the hubby to help on that one... I haven't made any sales yet, but have had lots of viewings.

And now for the big high of the week...
The lovely owner of All the Fun of the Fair had agreed to sell my wares.... As of Friday, you can now buy Bella Blossom products in this beautiful shop in London. I can't tell you how excited I am about this. I have been on a high all weekend. A few cocktail were drunk on Friday night whilst out on a school mum's night out, I can tell you! She has taken stock of some mug's with cozies, some hangers with little crochet flowers on them, some hairbands and a few other bit's and bob's. She has also asked for some baby things, booties and hats, a blanket and some finger-less gloves, so I've quite a bit to do over the next few weeks. Here's a sneaky peek:

Have you ever been to this lovely shop? Here's the link to it www.allthefunofthefair.biz It sells yarn as well as all kinds of hand knitted and crochet things. I meant to take some picture's but I was in such whirl when I left that I totally forgot. I'll take some next time I'm there for you all to see.

Well, it's almost the summer hol's and Missy Moo is off to France for 5 weeks. She's staying with Gran and Grandpa who moved there back in April. She is sooooooooo excited about going. Don't think she's gonna miss us at all! She'll be there for 3 weeks and then we go for two weeks and then we all come home together. Eeeek. 3 weeks is such a long time, I'm going to miss her so much. We have set up skype so we can chat over the web cam every night. I know she'll be hugely loved and cared for while she's there and that she's in very good hands, but still..... 3 weeks!

I'll leave you with this photo that I took last year of Missy Moo in our friends back garden in France...

Happy summer hol's everyone

Sam x

Flower-tastic

2009-07-10T18:25:00.004+01:00

Hi All,

Where does the time go? As usual it's been a busy week. My lovely, lovely Nan has been very ill and after many Dr's visits she has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. She has started her new meds and changed her diet and is doing much better. She's 84 and still not giving in. Long may she fight, that's what I say.

I've been down the lottie as usual too, picking everything from cabbages to rhubarb, salad to potatoes. It's fab and I can't recommend growing your own enough.

There are lots of people at our site who grow beautiful flowers and I wanted to share some of them with you this week
Enjoy :o)

Aren't they beautiful?

Well, I'm gonna sign off for now. My tea and this months Country Living magazine are calling.

Bye for now
xxx

Crochet and Allotments

2009-07-02T19:41:00.007+01:00

Hi All, hope you're well and life round your way is lovely. I can't tell you how hot and sticky it's been here in North London. I'm melting to say the least! Not been able to get out much over the last week as the Little Man is suffering in this heat. The allotment is doing well. We've been picking stuff nearly everyday. You name it, I've picked it. It's been soooo lovely. Thought I'd post a couple of pic's of my plot for you all to see.

This is the front end including my lovely Dad who has helped sooooooo much.

This is the middle with my very grumpy hubby. Mr D hates it down the lottie... He's really not much of a gardener ha ha ha

This is the back end of my plot. The fruit cage is up the top, netted of cause, to stop those pesky birds

When I took over the plot in May 08 is was covered in brambles. They were taller than me (at 5ft4 most things are taller than me!) and stretched all the way from front to back. It's taken us a year to get where we are now and I love it. I think it's my favourite place to be at the mo.

The other thing that's been taking up my time of late is crochet. I've been busy making little cupcakes and bowls to sell on my Etsy account when I get around to setting it up! Let me know what you think?

Oh, and i wanted to show you these. A little posy of Sweet Pea's that I picked at the lottie. I wish you could smell them they're scrummy :o)

Have a lovely weekend everyone

Sam xx

Been doing lot's

2009-06-22T16:27:00.005+01:00

It's been a while since I last posted and lot's has been happening here in sunnyish North London.

Flowers are blooming

Strawberries are being picked and eaten.....

....along with a few other bits

Salads are also being picked fresh and eaten at the lottie

The cushion is finished

and on Saturday, the hubby and I took a trip into town for my birthday. We had a lovely day wandering round the shops. We went to Liberty's. It's so beautiful in side, don't you think?

Anyway, they had a 50% off sale....

So guess what I got...

oooo isn't it yummy. Not sure what I'm gonna do with it yet but I'm sure something will come to mind. We had a lovely day together, just us which was a really treat.

Anyway, back to reality. Dinner to make, bath's to run and bed time for little pickles to prepare for.

Speak soon.
Sam

2009-06-09T20:26:00.004+01:00

Postnatal Depression

Well folks, I'm getting straight to the point with this weeks post. I have been suffering with PND since I had my son 16 months ago. I was sent for counselling and put on meds by my Dr and have been making a slow but steady recovery. The last few months I've been feeling fab, my usual self so the Doc has started to reduce the meds and get me off of them. This last week has been hell! I can't concentrate, I'm irritable, I've no patience, and seem to burst into tears at the most ridiculous moments. My daughters birthday party had to be postponed due to the rain at the weekend and I was simply devastated... She didn't mind at all! It's silly, I know it's the meds, that it's "withdrawal" but I'm not liking it one bit.

So today, I decided to drag myself out. I went to the lottie where I could be outside and busy. The weather was grim...
but I weeded, picked broad beans and strawberries which we had for tea/pudding.

I tidied the shed and was overjoyed that my first sweet pea has bloomed and so had the potatoes

I came home and after the usual kids school runs, dinner, bath and bed, I sat watching my favourite film, with crochet in hand. It's going to be a cushion for the sofa inspired as always by Lucy at Attic24

It's now 8.45pm and I'm feeling better. I had a day of me time, well sort of, and am feeling calm. Content even, and long may it last.

Sam x

2009-06-03T13:25:00.006+01:00

Birthday Preparations

Well Missy Moo is 6 on Friday. Not sure how that happened... where have the last 6 years gone? We are having a BBQ on Saturday with some family and her boyfriend and his family. Yes, she has a boyfriend. They have been in love since reception class age 4 and even though he has moved schools, there love continues.... Bless them.

I have everything crossed for good weather but it's not looking likely. I live in the smallest flat in the world and really don't think we'll fit 8 adults and 6 kids in here if it rains! It could turn out to be a rather cosy event....

Well we have been working like mad to get the garden looking half decent. Still some bits to do but the roses are out and looking lovely.

I found a bargain crochet blanket at my local car boot last weekend for the kids to picnic on..

....£2! can you believe it?

And the Little Man has been practicing his smile for any photo's opportunities that may arise.....

All could be in vain if the weather doesn't hold..... fingers crossed

Sam x

A Weekend of Mixed Fortune....

2009-05-26T09:44:00.006+01:00

Well, what a weekend! It all started on Friday when some old trellis fell down and squashed my new daisies that I'd just planted. As a result, I now have a pretty vase of daisies on my Kitchen windowsill....

Early Friday evening, I wondered off to the allotment to pick some broad beans for dinner and give everything a good water. My neighbour has a beautiful poppy growing on his plot and I just had to take a pic.

Saturday, the lovely bright, stripy fabric that I ordered from www.deckchairstripes.com arrived. I covered my chair and have a little left to make a cushion or something with. Went shopping, got some fab bargains and then back to the lottie to water the greenhouse. When I arrived, I noticed that the lock on the main gate had been cut with bolt cutters.... I quickly walked up the path to my plot only to discover my tools had been stolen, sob sob sniff. I spoke to a few other people around and they too had things missing. I water the stuff in the greenhouse and miserably went home.

Sunday, a new day and what a day! The sun was out, a car boot sale was calling and off we all trotted at 8.30am! I managed to get quite a lot for the grand sum of £5.... A new lampshade, 2 very sweet little doily things (10p for both....), some fabric and a small wicker heart that I've planted up with some tiny flowers. The bargain of the day however has to be my daughters vintage bike. It was £10..... bargain! She loves it and thinks it cool.... The afternoon was spent at a BBQ with some of my old school friends. It was a lovely lovely day

Monday, the kids went to Nanny's for the day, so the other half and I went off to the garden centre and spent the day trying to organise the garden and make it look more than the children's play ground. The rain came down half way through so we didn't quite finish but we're getting there. Then, an amazing ting happened. I had a call from a fellow plot holder at the allotment. The tool's had been found. Woohooo. Guess whoever stole them thought twice and dumped them in an ally near the site. Everything that had been taken, has been returned.

What a weekend!

Sam xx

Crochet Pic's

2009-05-21T11:24:00.001+01:00

So here are a few pic's of what I've recently been making. Hope you like them

Sam x

First Post

2009-05-21T10:31:00.000+01:00

OK, my very first post.... I'm a little nervous, I have to say! What if nobody reads my posts? what if I do something wrong? what if, what if, what if....? Well I'll just get on with it. My name is Sam. I'm married to Mr D and have a 15 month boy Little Man and a 5 year old girl Missy Moo. Life for me consists of school runs, visiting my allotment, crocheting, nappy changes and various other baby duties... I live in London and dream of country life where things, I'm sure, would be nicer but I shouldn't complain. The in-laws have a lovely stone farm house in France where we quite regularly disappear off to. It's beautiful.

I love to crochet and have been very fortunate to sell a few bits to a local gift shop. It all seems to be selling well and I will post a few pics, if I can figure out how....

Well, the sun is shining, Little Man is napping and there's a pot of tea call me so I'll be off for now.

Speak soon x