seaside siblings

A Full Moon Rising

2012-02-08T23:06:00.000+13:00

One thing that surprises me living here is how amazing the night sky is. I am embarrassed to say that when I lived in the city, I never really noticed the night sky. But here, with so little light pollution, the night sky lights up like a christmas tree. The full moon last night bathed the entire landscape in a gentle silver glow, so much so that I had to stop my car on the way home just to stare in amazement at the silver ripples stretching out to oblivion on the lake. It truly was a sight to behold.

Dreaming of Summer Rain

2012-02-07T20:46:00.000+13:00

It is hot here, real hot. The thermostat has been slowly creeping higher day after day, week after week. To the point where I almost long for a wet day because everything, everywhere you look is tinder dry. However, despite my daydreams of summer rain, I do have to say, there is something very satisfying about hanging the sheets out and having them dry in under an hour.

How is the weather at your place today? I am reading all kinds of crazy reports in the news of flooding in Australia and severe snow in Europe.

The Beginning Of A New Chapter

2012-01-25T20:50:00.002+13:00

The view from the new house.

What a week.

Packing up takes a lot of effort, especially with two pre-schoolers 'helping'. But I am pleased to say, we are in our new home. Unpacking was a lot easier than packing... thank goodness. I am so relieved we got rid of a lot more stuff recently, because what we have left, fits perfectly into our new home.

This place is the total opposite of our Christchurch house in so many ways. Our old house was an old cottage, this place is near new. But, what they both share is a certain off beat charm, a house that is not your usual square box, I love that.

It feels good to be here, in this quiet, perfect little corner of the world.

Simplicity

2012-01-13T14:44:00.000+13:00

One of my goals for this year has been to continue our journey towards living a simple life. One of our first steps in 2012 has been to further simplify our possessions.

My first realisation that we needed less 'stuff' came when we lived in Melbourne for a time, in our pre-kids life. We lived in a small (tiny!) apartment in the central city. I learnt to be very careful in what I purchased. In my mind I found it had to fit into one of two categories. It had to either have a function or it had to be beautiful. If it fitted into one of those two categories, I then had to think of where it would actually live in our apartment. If I could not think of an appropriate home for an item, I did not buy it. Simple.

Fast forward 5 years and our lives are now very different. We live in a three bedroom home, with a garden and two kids. We have more possessions, having kids will do that. You get more 'stuff' in your home but you also don't get the time to sort through it. When we left Christchurch last year, we got rid of a lot of stuff- we donated it, we sold a little and we dumped some too, although I dislike sending items to landfill if I can find another option. Now we find ourselves moving house again (I will tell you more about that another day!). So last weekend we had a garage sale, selling off a lot of items. What did not sell, we have given to charity. It feels good. To look round my house and know that packing will be easy, as everything in our home will be coming with us. They just need to be boxed up now.

I am hoping to post a series of posts this year about simple living, this being the first. If you are traveling along a similar journey at the moment, please feel free to post your own links in your comments. I always love reading others inspirational posts.

Why Hello!

2012-01-01T22:19:00.000+13:00

Some street art on the Wanaka lakefront.

Hello 2012. Welcome to my world!

2012 has been good to us so far. We welcomed in the new year camping out with a small group of friends. We woke to a scorcher of a day, into the low 30s in the southern lakes district today. We also discovered an amazing swimming hole to cool down in. So yeah, the year is kicking off to a good start.

My new years resolution this year is a continuation of a goal I have been working on for the last few years- to live with simplicity. Simplicity not just within my physical home but also in my finances and within me, in how I approach life.

I always find this time of year so exciting, filled with the anticipation of the new, like a nice new crisp book just waiting to be opened.

Wishing you all the very best for the year ahead x

2011.

2011-12-31T08:18:00.001+13:00

There have been 2 years in my life, where the course I thought I was following has been inexplicably altered though no act of my own doing. The first time was in 2000 when this happened. The second time was this year when the Christchurch earthquakes sent our lives onto yet another, different, unexpected route.

The earthquake, within a few seconds destroyed a lot of the community in which I lived. It caused grief and anguish to many who lost a lot more than I did. But on a personal level, it caused my little girl to become very reclusive, frightened and withdrawn, as her little 3 year old mind tried to come to terms with the situation she found herself in.

In amongst all this, she turned 3. We had an impromptu party and for that day, everybody smiled. It was beautiful.

Shortly after her birthday, she got her first pair of glasses, teeny tiny glasses. I never knew they made them so small.

In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, we spent serval weeks in Golden Bay, enjoying the idyllic beaches and relative normality of life there. But upon or return to Christchurch, we made a big decision. The right thing for us, for our family, was to move away. Leaving was scary. It had never been in our plans. But as it turned out, it was a good thing.

We found our selves here. Five hours from home in this beautiful alpine lake village. We found ourselves welcomed here. And slowly, we have built a new life here.

Holly started preschool. I still find myself stunned that my baby is big enough to give me a quick kiss before she rushes off to play with her friends each day. She started swimming lessons, ballet classes and had her first haircut. This girl of mine is growing up!

And this little girl? Over the course of this year, she has grown from a baby to a toddler. She talks non stop, she loves to dance, she loves to cuddle and she is mad on thomas the tank engine. She has the biggest character. She makes me laugh out loud so many times a day. And as 2011 drew to a close, this littlest girl of mine turned 2.

Sadly, in 2011, we also said goodbye to a loyal friend. Our lovely old dog Tim died. We had him for 15 years, he was a good gentle pet and we still miss him a lot.

2011, what a year eh?

Bring on 2012.

Seasons Greetings

2011-12-24T17:44:00.000+13:00

Christmas under the southern skies.

We are up in Christchurch for Christmas, to share this time with our families. Sadly, yesterday the City was hit by another two large earthquakes, a 5.8 and a 6.0. So for many here, it will not be such a merry Christmas this year. Please, hold in your thoughts this Christmas all those who are struggling and suffering. In particular, I will be taking a moment to think of the 165 families who lost a loved one in the February earthquake here. This will be a difficult time for them I am sure.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, I hope you all have a beautiful day tomorrow xxx

Summer Solstice

2011-12-21T22:08:00.000+13:00

Today, in the southern hemisphere, it is the longest day of the year- the summer solstice.

Early this morning, we went out to look for fairies. We where pretty sure they must have been out celebrating such a day. We where not disappointed. We found by the fairy house, under the rosemary bush, signs of a fairy party. The area was strewn with flowers and they had even left some of their feast behind- yummy strawberries. We didn't see any fairies sadly, we figured that they must have celebrated at dawn while we where still sleeping... maybe we might see one next year if we are very lucky.

Zoo-ing

2011-12-18T19:33:00.001+13:00

My girls are animal mad, as our poor perpetually patient cat will attest too.

In our household, a little ritual has emerged in recent months. Instead of our usual bath, book, bed rhythm, on a sunday night, once the girls are all rugged up in their PJs, we snuggle up together and spend half an hour inthralled in watching a local wildlife vets show.

So, when we knew we where coming up to Christchurch for the little ones birthday, we took the opportunity to take them to the local wildlife park. The girls had a blast, they saw all their favorites- lions, tigers, zebras and monkeys. They watched in awe as the lions play fought each other. They laughed with glee as the monkeys came right up close to greet them. We all stood in amazement when we saw the usually reclusive native kiwi bird.

It was such a fun way to spend the day and celebrate Isla's birthday, even the rain could not wash the smiles off their little faces.

Two

2011-12-15T21:58:00.000+13:00

The little one turned 2 today!

Hard to believe two whole years have passed since she entered our world. Oh how we love her. Her cheeky smile, her infectious laugh, her boisterous personality. She has bought such joy into our lives. Everyday I am grateful that I am lucky enough to call her my daughter.

Love you little one xxx

Road Tripping

2011-12-14T11:08:00.002+13:00

Road Trip- two words that can set fear into the hearts of any parent with young children.

Yesterday, we made the long drive up the spine of this beautiful country so that we can spend christmas with our families. It was a long drive, full of the stunning scenery, the kind that causes tourists to travel this route in their droves. But with a 1 year old and a 3 year old in the car, I was apprehensive about doing this drive again. But, surprisingly, my girls where really good. Playing together, reading, singing, talking, for the whole 6 hours. The littlest one has, in recent months, completely moved to using the potty and is out of nappies. So, that was another thing I was anxious about on this trip. But, again she surprised me. Telling me every hour or so "wee wees mama". We would pull over, she would do her business and we would be on our way again. Easy. In hindsight, I wonder why I worried so.

Flea Market Finds

2011-12-11T11:06:00.000+13:00

This is a slow work in progress, it is my crockery shelf. I have been collecting one piece at a time whenever I spot one in an op shop. I have plates, side plates and bowls from Crown Lynn in this beautiful duck egg blue/green colour. I picked up several more pieces in the last few weeks so my collection is finally big enough that I have been able to dispose of my boring white plates! I think that is the cool thing about thrifting for a collection, it takes a long time to get there but it is so much fun hunting them out!

Things I Am Loving

2011-12-09T14:06:00.000+13:00

This week I am loving just one thing. I am loving her last week as a one year old. Where oh where did the last 2 years go? I feel like it was just a heartbeat ago that she was this tiny baby. But oh my gosh she is so excited to be turning two. I ask her "who's birthday is it next week?" Her prompt reply "ME!".And then I ask "how old will you be?" She tries to hold just 2 of her little fingers up as she relies "TWO!"

My Creative Space

2011-12-08T12:36:00.000+13:00

I told you a few days ago about those lovely vintage sheets I found. Well, with a little bit of work, I transformed them into 2 equally lovely duvet covers for the girls beds. Whats more, I finally got round to making these vintage sheets, which I bought ages ago, into 2 fitted sheets also. So now my girls are sleeping surrounded by vintage floral loveliness! When Isla saw her new bed linen, she jumped into bed, calling out "New bed Mumma! New bed"- very heartwarming. I think she liked it!

And here is a little funny I thought I would share. On the back of the vintage sheet packet was the original care instructions-

Soak in warm sudsy water using reliable soap or detergent.

Rinse twice.

Do not allow drying sheets to flap in the wind.

Minimum ironing required.

So now you know my friends, do not let your sheets flap in the wind!

Puddles

2011-12-06T20:02:00.001+13:00

"I like puddles. Do you like puddles Mumma? For jumping in?.... It's quite fun"

Holly age 3

Flea Market Finds

2011-12-04T19:55:00.000+13:00

I always wonder when I find items in op shops that are obviously vintage, yet in near perfect condition. I wonder why didn't the previous owner use them? Where they a wedding gift that was not to their taste? Did they have so many that they just didn't use them that often? Or did they simply get forgotten, left in the back of a hallway cupboard?

Twice in recent weeks I have found 2 sets of sheets, both in tip top condition, in 2 different op shops. Which I find baffling myself. But, none the less, I am happy. Someone else's lack of interest in these items has been my gain.

These 2 sets are destined to be sewn together to make duvet covers for my girls beds.

The First Week Of Advent

2011-12-03T09:58:00.000+13:00

The first week of advent is almost over. How quickly the days seem to move at this time of year. It is nice to take time to stop and reflect.

Many people don't realise that advent traditionally starts on the 4th Sunday before Christmas, as most popular advent calendars tend to start advent on the first of December. Under the traditional advent, each week celebrates a 'kingdom' of life. This first week's kingdom is the mineral kingdom. Put simply, the earth we live upon- the dirt, the rocks, the ground under our feet.

Last advent, I wrote this post about the first week of advent. Re-reading it today, made me so sad. The reverence I paid to the rugged landscape around where we used to live. Little did I know that a few short months later, those same cliff faces that formed a ring around my community would come crashing down, instilling fear into my heart, destroying homes and ending the lives of several people. The memory of watching those cliffs fall before my eyes, will, I suspect, haunt me for the rest of my life.

So this year, we have kept our advent celebrations simple. Our favorite stones, scattered within the wooden ring on our dinner table... Sometimes simple is good.

Things I Am Loving

2011-12-02T09:36:00.000+13:00

The abundance of lovely fresh fruit and vegetables available at the moment- yum!

How it already feels like summer and we are only 2 days in!

The fun of christmas preparations with 2 preschoolers. No really, it is fun.

Watching my kids dancing in a freak hail storm this week.

Joining in with PaisleyJade again this week. More things I am loving here.

My Creative Space

2011-12-01T12:02:00.001+13:00

2 little fairy friends.

These where such a fun little knit. They really are quite tiny, standing only 2 inches tall. Both these little fairies will be finding their way into my girls stockings this christmas.

Dear Santa

2011-11-29T17:43:00.001+13:00

Dear Santa,

I have a very big christmas list but all I really want is a fairy dress and a wand.

Love Holly (age 3 and 3/4).

Oh how I love that little girl in all her sweetness.

And just quietly, it seems Santa must be very smart as he already has a fairy dress and wand, ready and waiting for the big day to arrive.

Flea Market Finds

2011-11-27T15:36:00.000+13:00

6 blue mugs.

Funny story behind these mugs. I spied them in a charity shop in a town about half an hour away from here. Only when I spotted them, it was a Sunday and the shop was closed. I went home and thought about those mugs all night. The next morning I got up and drove back to the charity shop- an hours return trip. But, I did come back the proud owner of 6 lovely blue mugs.

And how much did they cost me?

Mugs- $6.

Petrol driving to get them- hate to imagine!

How stoked I am to finally have some decent coffee mugs- priceless!

Things I Am Loving

2011-11-25T14:37:00.001+13:00

The smell of the wild thyme that is growing like mad all over central otago at the moment.

Warm days that remind me Summer is almost here.

Listening to my girls shreaks of happiness as they play on their new trampoline (even if it is well past bedtime!)

Visits from family.

A bargain find at the op shop.

Linking up with PaisleyJade for more Loving things here.

On Buying Locally

2011-11-24T15:15:00.000+13:00

There is a little shop I like to stop at. It is in the middle of nowhere, on the road which if you follow it long enough, would eventually take you to Mt Aspiring. Holly calls this little shop "the farmers shop". It operates on an honesty box, selling organic free range eggs, vegetables, herbs and seeds. The kids get a real kick out of stopping there. All of us squishing in while we choose what to buy.

It is the truest form of buying locally produced goods. You can't really get more local than the farm gate now can you?

And Just Like That.... She Grew Up

2011-11-21T12:42:00.000+13:00

I am not sure how it happened so fast, but my little one is growing up. My baby, my little tiny baby, is now a little girl. And so we hit another mile stone... the big girl bed. I knew the end of our cot days where in sight when she preferred to climb into her big sisters bed rather than her cot, much to her big sisters frustration. So we decided it was time to put up bunk beds. Oh how happy it made her, she grinned from ear to ear when she saw her big girl bed. She has taken the transition from cot to bed all in her stride. But when I sneak in at night to check on her, she looks so tiny, curled up in her big girl bed. And as I tuck her back in, prying all the books out from around her, I understand what people mean when they say "she will always be your baby".

Flea Market Finds

2011-11-20T14:27:00.000+13:00

2 lovely, warm, pink and cream coloured pure wool blankets. To keep my little girls snuggly and warm next winter. In perfect condition, $5 each from the salvation army store.

My Creative Space

2011-11-17T08:50:00.000+13:00

The last month or so, most of my crafting focus has revolved around 1 project. I am making a rag rug for my girls bedroom. It is a long, time consuming and repetitive job.

It started with a whole lot of cutting-

Followed by a whole lot of sewing the strips together-

Followed by a whole lot of plating-

Like I said, a whole lot of repetition! But it has been worth it. I am 90% finished now and I am over joyed at how it is turning out. Fingers crossed, all going to plan, I will get it finished in the next week and I will be able to show you the results of all my hard work.

Enjoying Simple Pleasures

2011-11-14T21:01:00.001+13:00

Today has been one of those lovely hot late spring days, the kind of day which fill you with anticipation of the summer to come. I made the most of the beautiful weather to enjoy an impromptu ice cream in town with my girls, followed by picking wild flowers down by the river. Simple pleasures that make for a very happy day with my girls.

Flea Market Finds

2011-11-13T18:55:00.001+13:00

I found this wee gem recently at our local recycling centre. I must admit it was one of those very rare holy grail kind of thrifting moments where you cannot quite believe your eyes. A lovely vintage horn sewing cabinet in near perfect condition, with a price tag of...... $35! I pretty much did a little happy dance there and then before promptly paying for it before they could change their minds.

More lovely finds to be seen here.

My Little Lady Of The Lake

2011-11-12T22:48:00.000+13:00

I love how our days pan out here. A lazy lunch followed by an afternoon beach combing at the lake. This little girl of mine, just loves the water. She spends long periods sitting and playing quietly by the waters edge. She loves to throw pebbles into the water, taking joy in the plopping and slashing as they hit the water.

Today this little girl of mine really made me smile. There is something about preschoolers and costumes, they are like moths to a flame, and my little Holly is no exception to that. Lately, I rarely seem to see her out of costume and todays choice was a butterfly fairy. She flittered along the waters edge, testing the water and enjoying the freedom to unleash her little butterfly fairy along the empty beach.

And as usual for my little girl, we spent time collecting the prettiest of the treasures to take home.

Gotta love days like this.

I Came Back

2011-11-11T22:42:00.001+13:00

I never intended to leave this space but, well, life just got in the way.

As many of you know, my family survived the horror of the February earthquake in Christchurch. We lived through the aftermath before deciding to move hundreds of miles away to start over. To be honest, I have found this whole year a little bit mind blowing and I have been working hard to find my bearings again and establish a new life here. We are 6 months into our new beginning and I am pleased to report that things are going well. We are happy. We have made new friends. We have been welcomed. We have embraced the change. Life is good.

And now, I am looking forward to returning to this space and sharing a little bit of this goodness again.

My Creative Space

2011-07-21T22:09:00.000+12:00

I have lots of projects on the go at the moment, probably too many. I think I am the kind of person who prefers to finish one or two projects at a time. But none the less, I am enjoying all the creativity.

I bought a little bracelet kit, I was hoping Holly would be able to make it. But, it is a little too complicated for a three year old so I have been making it for her. Surprise, surprise, she picked the colours pink and red- such a little girl!

Finishing off a gift for a new baby. I love the cute little tail on this elephant.

A couple of merino tops for my girls. I had intended on them being dresses but they really are too short. I am still undecided as to if I should cut them shorter into tops or add a contrast band onto the bottom and make them dresses.

And as always, I have a project on the needles.

Light Play

2011-07-19T13:21:00.001+12:00

We have discovered a new 'hit' in our house- the light box. Both my girls can spend hours absorbed in creativity on this little box. I bought it a few weeks back, getting a great deal on a local online auction, after being inspired by a lovely blog called Play at Home Mom. Since then, we have come up with all kinds of creative variations, from coloring and tracing to playing with shells and buttons on it.

Holly in particular is a big fan of putting the buttons on it. She sits for long periods arranging the buttons in to patterns and shapes. The other thing she enjoys doing with it is pretending it is a hot stove and cooking on it.

I love watching how their little minds work, how they are able to create this whole world with just a few simple objects. Who would have thought my eclectic button collection could bring hours of joy?

My Creative Space

2011-07-14T20:47:00.003+12:00

It is getting very chilly here now as winter truly kicks into gear. So I have knitted the little one, this wool jersey to help keep her snug. It is a quick little knit with a cute tab neckline, made using this touch yarns pattern. I made a slight modification to the pattern adding extra length to the selves as I wanted them to have fold over cuffs. Really happy with the results, thinking she needs a red hat to go with her new red jersey now.

My Creative Space

2011-07-07T19:44:00.001+12:00

I started this spring butterfly a wee while ago for Holly, and I am pleased to say I finally finished it for her today. It is a unique design and perfect for a little girl, so sweet and feminine. Holly is over the moon to see it finished, she wanted to put it on straight away. Makes it so rewarding to make things when they are so well received!

On Going Home

2011-06-26T19:41:00.000+12:00

Last week was my first visit back to Christchurch following our move south a couple of months back. It was nice to be home. Nice to spend time with family and friends. Nice to see my girls playing with their cousins. Nice to be able to buy a few bits and pieces from the bigger chain stores we lack down south. It was not so nice to be around for another 5.4 quake but I was relieved my girls both slept through it.

Coming back to our new home, I am grateful for the easy life we have here. Life is so normal. My children behave normally here, they go to playgroup, pre-school, they play at the playground. All the things I used to take for granted, but never again. We are happy here.

And a little update on Holly's eyesight. While we were up in Christchurch, Holly saw the specialist. Her eyesight appears to be on the improve in the eye that was deemed blind. We will continue occlusion therapy and she will have more testing in another three months but things are looking good!

Another First

2011-06-15T20:29:00.000+12:00

I told you this little girl of mine has a lot of 'firsts' going on at the moment.

This week she had her first day at preschool. She was so excited about starting, wanting to know when her first day was going to be. The morning of the big day, she excitedly packed her new bag and was eager to get going. When we arrived, I got a quick kiss and she was off to play with her little friend whom she had spied across the room. I was meant to go back after an hour but the centre rang me to tell me she was having fun and in her words "did not want to go home yet". When I did pick her up later, she couldn't stop chattering about painting, play-dough, the slide and the animals.

Today was her second day and she still appears to be feeling the preschool love. She came home to proudly tell me she "made a little boyfriend"... gotta love 3 year olds.

Firsts

2011-06-13T22:01:00.020+12:00

This girl of mine has lots of firsts happening at the moment. The latest, her first haircut. It has taken me over 3 years to build up the mummy courage to take my baby for her first haircut, but the time finally came when her hair was just getting too knotty. We knew it was time to chop off those baby ends.

She was so excited, she was literally bouncing when we arrived at the salon. She hopped up into the seat happily but did look more than a little surprised when they popped the cape on her shoulders. She was a little gem though and sat still for the entire cut.

And now we finally have the answer to our question, will she have curly hair like her daddy, or straight hair like her mummy?.... looks like she takes after her mummy.

Rosehip Syrup

2011-06-10T11:24:00.000+12:00

Around the lake here, there are so many rosehip bushes, laid heavy with their deep red berries. So we decided to pick some for making herbal tea. My lovely new neighbor suggested trying to make some rosehip syrup... and so we did. I thought I would share with you just how we made it. It is beautiful, sweet, kind of like a fruity maple syrup. But best of all it is packed with vitamin C and my girls seem to love it.

Rosehip Syrup

Pick 350g of rosehips, break off any stalks, chop rosehips in a food processor to break them up.
Put rosehips into 500mls of boiling water, bring to the boil them remove from heat and stand for 15 minutes.
Strain mixture through a tea towel to drain off the fluid but leaving the pulp behind. Keep the fluid.
Return the pulp to the pan. Add a further 500mls of boiling water, bring to the boil again, then let stand for a further 15 minutes.
Strain the second batch through the tea towel also.
You can now discard the pulp.
Return the liquid to the heat. Add 250g of sugar and bring to the boil for a few minutes.
Pour mixture into clean jam jars to the top. Put lid on and as the syrup cools it will cause the lid to air seal itself.
Store in a cool dark place and refrigerate after opening.

Makes a delicious drink, hot of cold. A yummy topping for porridge, ice cream or any other sweet treats!

My Creative Space

2011-06-09T19:14:00.012+12:00

I finished off this little cardigan last week for Isla. It is made from the Elizabeth Zimmerman baby surprise jacket pattern. Unfortunately, it is too small for her. The pattern said for a 1 year old but Isla is too big for it at 1.5 years. So, if you know any little girls who would like this, I think it would be ideal for about a 9 month old. It is made from wool, so warm and snuggly for the cold winter months.

If your interested, just send me an email. I am going to be selling it for $25NZD +postage.

My Creative Space

2011-05-19T14:15:00.000+12:00

A belated Mother's Day gift for my Mum. A handmade cotton and fleece scarf with a vintage doily and hand covered button.

Hoping she likes it!

Goodbye Old Friend

2011-05-16T19:26:00.000+12:00

Today is a sad day. Today Tim, our loyal dog of 15 years had to be put down. We had always hoped that he would just die in his sleep and we would not have to be faced with with such decisions. But alas, that was not to be. Simon was with him when he passed, loyal to the end.

He was a crazy little dog. Always on the go at a hundred miles an hour, I don't think he ever sat still until he was 5 years old. He liked to lick and even though he wasn't meant to, he just could not keep that big tongue in his mouth. He liked to round things up, mostly our 2 cats, much to their annoyance. He had a love/hate relationship with both the vacuum cleaner and the lawnmower, barking and snapping at them.

When Holly was born, he was so scared of her, the first day she was home, he shook with fear. As the girls have grown so to did their bond with him. Tim discovered to his joy that both girls loved throwing sticks and balls for him, even if their throws lacked any distance, he was still a willing participant. The girls loved him. Loved to cuddle him. Loved to make him part of their games.

He will be missed.

My Creative Space- Merino Dresses

2011-05-12T13:54:00.000+12:00

Well after a long hiatus, I finally have my sewing mojo back!

I whipped up these two little merino dresses for my two little girls this week. Perfect, snuggly warm dresses as the weather cools with the approach of winter.

They were made using this Heidi and Finn pattern. Super easy pattern and even if your a novice sewer, Heidi and Finn patterns are so easy to follow.

I just love how they have turned out, thinking I may whip up a couple more.

And So We Begin Again...

2011-05-09T21:43:00.000+12:00

Here....

I stand and find myself amazed at how far and how quickly my life has changed. The course I thought I was following, suddenly and inexplicably altered. But, that is life. So now we find ourselves here, in a different corner of paradise and I know this place is going to be good for us.

For now, we are just learning to find our bearings. Orientating ourselves to this new place. Finding our feet. Mind you, it is an easy place to fall in love with.

The Winds of Change

2011-04-30T22:49:00.000+12:00

It has been a while since I have been here. Life has just been hard these last few months, so I have been focusing mostly on just living, nurturing my children and planning what the next step is from here.

I realised in the weeks following the February quake that the life I knew was gone. Initially I couldn't think to much about the future. But soon, I began to feel the gentle winds of change starting to blow. As the weeks moved forward, a new path slowly began to appear. This week, those plans will reach a climax as we pack up our lives and move 5 hours south. We are moving away from everything and everyone we know, to begin a new life.

Time for me to take a deep breath and jump into my new life... wish me luck.

Christchurch

2011-04-10T20:18:00.000+12:00

People ask me, 'Whats it like? Living in Christchurch at the moment?' The truth is, I don't even know where to begin in answering that question because the answer is too huge. But I will try.

Life as I knew it, came to a halt on February 22nd. That may sound dramatic but it is true. Everything I did, everything I knew, everywhere I went, it all changed in less than a minute. I live in the east of the city, the most badly damaged area. What the earthquake did not destroy, the rockfall finished off.

I feel many days like a boat set adrift at sea. I miss my old life, I miss things being easy. I miss being able to go to the store. I miss not having to plan where I am going to walk or drive to avoid damage. I miss not having portaloos dotted along our street. But mostly I just miss the normality of the life I had.

It is hard answering my three year old when she points at another rock, another crack or another damaged house and asks "did the earthquake do that Mummy?", my response is always "yes sweetheart". After a pause she always replies "I don't like earthquakes Mummy".

It is hard to provide the little ones with reassurance to their fears when daily we are reminded of the power of mother nature with every aftershock that hits. Even as I write this, another earthquake has rattled us. Everyone stops for a minute, breath inhaled, remembering, waiting to see if this one is going to be a big one. It is not, we exhale and try to convince our hearts to slow down and move on with life.

I have come to realize that Christchurch will not recover from this for a very long time. We are very much a city on our knees. While I hear a lot of positivity from the politicians and the media. Living here, living in it, I know the damage is just too huge. This won't be fixed this year, or next year or the year after that. It will take decades.

It makes me sad, to see this city I love, reduced to this.

Her New Glasses

2011-04-05T15:18:00.001+12:00

In amongst all the chaos that has become our lives post February 22nd, my little girl got her first pair of glasses. You may remember me telling you a wee while ago about Holly's eyesight. We went back to see the pediatric specialist who confirmed her eyesight is indeed atrocious in both eyes due to severe longsightedness, which has in turn caused the weaker eye to switch off. The new glasses is the first step in improving her eyesight.

Luckily, she has been very excited about them and has taken to wearing them easily. The first few days she walked round like a headmistress, peering over the top of her spectacles, but within a few days, she had adjusted to them and is actually very proud of her glasses.

It has changed her too, her personality. She used to be so shy and quiet. She used to stick close to me. Now she can see better, her confidence is beginning to grow. She is starting to come out of her shell, she is now happy to run far ahead of me and run fast- without falling over! She even looks different, more grown up some how. Funny that one little pair of glasses can do so much for one little girl.

My Creative Space

2011-03-24T20:32:00.000+13:00

Little flower headband

Hair tie

doll blanket

Little girl's handbag

The earthquake has had one positive- I finally learn't to crochet!

Christchurch- A Month On

2011-03-23T22:13:00.000+13:00

It has been one month since the massive earthquake which bought Christchurch to it's knees. The media has moved on to other places and other disasters. But, to be honest, little has changed in Christchurch a month on. The CBD is still closed off, many businesses in the eastern suburbs remain closed. The houses are still damaged, as is the psyche of the people whom live there. Most homes now have power and water back on. But, the water is not safe to drink and the sewers remain critically damaged with sewage being expelled into the city's rivers and oceans. Aftershocks still rattle the city on a daily basis. Many, including myself, whom fled the city in the days following the quake are slowly returning. The future, very much unknown now, plans and priorities have changed, people are living week by week. Looking any further ahead is just too hard.

The Dream Is Nearly Over

2011-03-19T11:16:00.001+13:00

As I write this, I am hundreds of miles from home. Hundreds of miles from the destruction and devastation of my home town. Nearly two weeks ago, I packed my girls into the car and drove as far north as I could, arriving in the safety and sanctuary of the beautiful Golden Bay. Here, we have been able to pretend for a little while that life is normal. We have walked along the seashore, collecting seashells, paddling and splashing in the shallows. Basking in the beautiful, warm climate. Living a simple, beautiful life.

As our two weeks here draws towards an end, I now only see glimpses of the scared little girls I traveled here with. Holly, too terrified to go on the beach or open the windows because the sound of the waves and the wind was too terrifying for her, the sound too eerily similar to the sound heard in the seconds before an earthquake. Isla, clinging to me, like a little monkey, reluctant to leave my arms, even to those whom she knew and loved. As I watch them run down the beach, cooing like seagulls, laughing and squealing, I feel sad that I have to take them back to the city which has caused so much fear in their tiny hearts.

The dream is nearly over, back to reality soon.

This Little Girl

2011-03-06T19:00:00.000+13:00

This week, this little girl learnt to run. She ran round and round the coffee table, she ran across the grass and she ran down the footpath. She tripped on the footpath and cut her sweet cherry lip. Now she is not so keen on running on the footpath but is still happy to run round the coffee table and cross the grass. Bless her, clever girl.

This week, this little girl learn't the joy of drawing with crayons and is immensely pleased with the colourful markings she can make.

This week, this little girl learnt that if she goes backwards on her tummy, she is allowed to go down the staircase herself. What joy she takes in sliding down the stairs just for the fun of it.

This week, this little girl learnt that she can shake her head to let me know she means no. No I don't want to be picked up. No I don't want a drink. No I don't want a bath. So very sure of herself is this little girl.

This week, this little girl learnt to say Nana. Much to her Nana's joy.

This week, this little girl made her Mama's heart happy a million times over, oh how I love her.

Three

2011-03-04T21:13:00.000+13:00

Today my little girl turned three. In the wake of all the destruction, we grouped together, a small gathering of friends and family to celebrate three wonderful years of having this little girl in our lives. We listened to songs, we played, we ate. Happy birthday was sung and cake was cut. She danced round the house, she chirped about how she was having a party, how she was three, how it was HER birthday. She wore her party dress and her fairy crown. She was happy, it was beautiful.

Happy birthday my sweet Holly.

Again We Shake

2011-02-23T20:31:00.000+13:00

As many of you have heard, Christchurch has again fallen to it's knees following another catastrophic earthquake. Although smaller than the September one, the devastation is far, far worse.

Before I go on, I will firstly say my family is all alive and accounted for. Sadly the same cannot be said for many families tonight and my heart goes out to them. I also want to thank all of you who have contacted me asking if we are safe and well.

Holly and I were sitting eating lunch and Isla was napping when it hit. I grabbed Holly and put her under the door frame, ran to get Isla before running outside. As I left the house, the cliffs that surround our suburb crashed to the ground, engulfing houses, but by some miracle, narrowly avoiding the local school by meters. My neighborhood is shattered. We have no water, no power and no sewage. The streets are ripped up, sand and water has liquified to the surface. Everything we own is now broken on the floor of our house. We have liquefaction under our house and cracks in our foundations. We spent a dark, long night cuddled up with our girls in the little sleep out at the back of our property, which we reasoned was the safest place.

Tonight, after a very long drive across our devastated city, we have made it to my parents, where we will stay for the foreseeable future.

Please, keep Christchurch in your thoughts tonight and pray for a miracle with 300 people still missing.

I will update as I can but now is a very trying time and I need to attend to my girls who are so very scared.

4 Seasons

2011-02-22T09:00:00.000+13:00

Summer

Late summer and the fruit is ripe for harvest.

We now have a fridge full of plums and peaches, courtesy of our parent's fruit tree's. The girl's love it, being able to grab one whenever they feel like it. To enjoy the sweet, soft juicy centres. We have so much fruit at the moment, I don't quite know what to do with it all. So if you have any good fruit recipes, I would love to hear them.

If you have a seasonal post of your own, I would love you to link up.

Flea Market Finds

2011-02-20T19:44:00.000+13:00

I think these two have to be the cheapest finds I have ever come across thrifting. A small rimu plate and bowl. Both only measure about 15cm across, making them the perfect size for little hands. They need to be sanded back but with a coat of beeswax, I am thinking they are going to look lovely. The perfect addition to the girls play kitchen.

So how cheap were they? I paid a grand total of $1.

More flea market finds here.

Out Of The Blue

2011-02-18T12:50:00.000+13:00

Funny how a few simple words uttered by a virtual stranger can change everything.

Late last year, it was pointed out to me that one of Holly's eyes often rolls in. I am embarrassed to say I had never noticed. I guess when you spend all day everyday with someone, their idiosyncrasies go unnoticed, as you tend to see the whole person rather than the individual parts, if that makes sense?

I didn't really think it mattered too much, a lazy eye. It was a part of who she was, something she might grow out of? I thought I would mention it next time we saw our doctor. But he spotted it first, as soon as he saw her. Six days later we were sitting in a consulting room at the hospital while they preformed eye sight tests on my sweet girl. I knew it was bad, when, with her good eye covered, she could not make out the pictures until they were little more than a foot away from her. But what came next stunned me.

'Legally blind in her right eye'

How did I not know? She has spent everyday of her life with me, almost three years and I never knew my little girl could only see me with one eye.

Suddenly though I feel like my rose coloured glasses have been swiped from me and a lot of things make sense. Holly has always been cautious and shy of people, she often trips over her own feet and gets annoyed when I try to guide her out of the way of others coming towards her. Now I see these things for what they are. Not cute character traits but rather the result of her compromised eye sight.

She has a long road ahead of her, ahead of us. To try and reclaim some level of sight in her eye. The doctor spoke of further testing, patching, an operation. It all feels a bit daunting at the moment but if it means she will be able to see better, it will all be worth it in the end.

My Creative Disaster, Formally known As My Creative Space

2011-02-17T19:59:00.000+13:00

It is not very often my crafting goes bad, which is a good thing. Because, if it happened to often, I think I would be put off for life!

Last week I started knitting a little toy for a friend. Lots of fiddley little bits. As the knitting was nearly finished I thought to myself 'gosh, this would look really cool felted'. I should have stopped that line of thought then and there- hindsight is a wonderful thing. So I set too and began felting but alas it appears the wool I used was not very colourfast and quickly mottled in the hot water. Ever the optimist, I thought 'oh well I will just dye it back'. Well that did not work, as it is still very blotchy, just a much darker shade of blotchy. And, to top it all off, I now have smurf blue fingers for my efforts.

Lesson learnt.

4 Seasons

2011-02-14T22:39:00.004+13:00

Summer

Summer sun. I love it. Warm and welcoming from dawn to dusk. I love being able to wake up in the morning and not have to worry about feeling cold. I love that feeling of warmth on my skin and how it turns my shoulders a lovely golden shade.

Sometimes it really is all about the simple pleasures.

If you have a seasonal post of your own, please link up-

Simplifying

2011-02-11T21:36:00.000+13:00

For most of my adult life I have lived by the mantra 'a cluttered house is a cluttered mind'. I have always felt more at peace when my house is in order. However, since the arrival of my second daughter, just over a year ago, I simply have not had the time and the junk has slowly accumulated.

This week I decided to change all that and the de-cluttering has begun! So far this week I have cleared over 100 items from my wardrobe and half a dozen shoes, all of which are now listed on trade me. I have cleared a dozen books from the girls book box and given them to charity. I have sorted all the girls current clothes and put 2 bags worth in the charity clothing bin. I have dumped 2 bags of junk from both my bathroom and laundry cupboards.

I think I am on a roll!

4 Seasons

2011-02-08T11:52:00.000+13:00

Summer

My sister and I took the little ones blueberry picking at a local farm. Blueberries are Isla's favorite food, so she could not believe her luck that she could just grab them in abundance off the tree. It did however mean that I had to keep a close eye on my picking container as she was forever trying to carry it off.

The blueberries are so sweet at the moment, and just delicious. We have been eating so many that I think we may end up going back next week to pick more as I had been hoping to freeze some but I don't see that happening from this batch.

If you have a seasonal post, would love you to link up.

Flea Market Finds

2011-02-06T21:36:00.000+13:00

Lots of baskets this week. How excited I was to find them, all in excellent condition, ranging in size and shape- just perfect for for this little space-

Play is just so much easier for the little one's when they can find what they are looking for.

Tidying up is so much easier for me when everything has a home.

More Flea market finds here.

One small Change- Solid shampoo

2011-02-05T12:55:00.000+13:00

One small change, simple really. This month I am swapping from regular shampoo to a solid 2 in 1 shampoo/conditioner. This little bar lasts up to 100 washes. Less packaging equals less waste, and that my friends, has got to be good.

A New Cardigan

2011-02-03T21:06:00.000+13:00

This week I have been knitting a new cardigan for myself, using this pattern and knit from cleckheaton country wool. I was a tad lazy, rather than working out the maths on increasing the chest measurement from a 31 to a 36 inch bust, I have instead chosen to use double 8ply on a larger needle. This has increased my stitch count by about 1/8th, so I am hoping it will work out ok fit wise.

I am just loving how it is coming along and can't wait to get it finished. Sadly though, I cut the end of my finger and it is hurting too much when I knit tonight, so may have to leave it a day or two, which is so frustrating when I am on the home straight!

4 Seasons

2011-02-01T09:30:00.000+13:00

Summer

We have spent this morning cutting all our lavender to dry. The littlies love this task, Muma cutting, Holly bunching and the little one generally just having a blast running round with sprigs of lavender. By the end, we have quite a few good bunches. Which when dry, will I am sure, find many uses in our home. And as an added bonus, we all smell like lavender today, gotta love that.

If you have a seasonal post of your own, please link up.

Looking For Rainbows

2011-01-26T19:01:00.000+13:00

Sometimes life throws you a curve ball. Everything is ticking along nicely then suddenly it is all thrown adrift. Just that happened to us this week, with lots of decisions to be made, unexpected decisions. Decisions which sometimes make it hard to maintain a 'glass half full' outlook on life. But I am grateful for my family, their kindness and love. So while this week started badly, we are hoping to find a positive soon. Like a rainbow after a storm.

4 Seasons

2011-01-25T11:44:00.000+13:00

Summer

Summer's nature table- a sweet image of ducks swimming, and fairies frolicking. Such a happy little scene in our home, loved by my little ones.

What is happening at your place? Would love you to link up.

A Forrest For The Fairies

2011-01-20T12:08:00.000+13:00

This week I sat up painting little wooden trees green, time spent painting when I really should be in bed. Well worth it when I see their little faces in the morning as they discover their fairies frolicking in a new forest that has appeared on our nature table in the night... just like magic.

Ron Mueck

2011-01-19T21:44:00.002+13:00

A Girl by Ron Mueck

This week I made time to visit the Ron Mueck Exhibition being held at the Christchurch Art Gallery. What can I say?! it was amazing!

What many of you may not know about me, is that a life time ago, before I was a mother, before I was a nurse and before Simon's accident, I was a modern art nut. I have a bachelors degree majoring in art of the 20th century. One thing I learn't during my years studying art, is that the best art illicit s a response from the viewer. Picasso is a good case in point, people love his work or hate it- both are emotional responses.

Now I have been to many exhibitions over the years but none have moved me so much as some of the pieces in Ron Mueck's exhibition. His work depicts in stunning reality the human form on both a massive and tiny scale. The reality of the figures and the situations in which they are presented are at times heartwarming, at times repugnant and at times heartbreaking. I found my self wanting to reach out and stroke this not so little newborns downy head, but of course I didn't as I am sure the gallery staff would have pounced on me if I had.

The exhibition is in Christchurch until the 23rd and I strongly advise you to get down and visit if you are in the city.

4 Seasons

2011-01-18T09:21:00.001+13:00

Summer

Summer in our home is all about bare bums, it is a chance for my little ones to run naked and enjoy the summer warmth on their little bodies. And boy do they love it... the freedom and joy of childhood.

The number of nappies the little one wears per day dwindles over the summer months and so too does the washing. But the sight of nappies on the washing line always makes me smile. Especially when they are strung on a line between 2 trees in the forrest.

Would love to hear about your seasonal adventures. Why not link up below.

Learning Music

2011-01-17T20:20:00.000+13:00

One of my new years resolutions this year is to learn to play music. I have never played before except a few tunes like chopsticks on the piano. I don't know how to read music but I am sure I will learn.

After reading about the wonderful influences the pentatonic harp has on small children, and how relatively easy they are to play, I decided that my instrument of choice would be this lovely little spring lyre. It is a truly beautiful thing and the sounds it makes, even when played by an amateur like myself are divine. It attracts my children like moths to a flame. The only problem I am having now is that as soon as I try to play it, little fingers want to play too... not that that is a bad thing.

I Heart You

2011-01-13T20:53:00.000+13:00

This week, this little blog of mine turned 1. When I started this blog a whole year ago, Isla was only a few weeks old and Holly was still just a one year old. I thought it would be fun to keep a little on line journal of our life while the kid's were tiny. So, I signed up for a blogger account and the rest they say is history.

It all started with this post. I think hardly anyone read it, probably only my family but I enjoyed it and so I kept on. Slowly, I began to discover other lovely blogs, blogs which inspired and motivated me in so many ways. I have made new friends along the way, I have become a better parent and a better crafter as a result of much of what I have read on your blogs. So I want to say a big thank you to each and every one of you who reads my little blog, for your kind comments, thank you.

P.S. the little heart stone is one I found on the beach this week, I am starting to get a very good eye for spotting them. One day I should share a photo of my wee collection.

4 Seasons

2011-01-11T09:53:00.000+13:00

A Kiwi Summer

A kiwi summer, I love it.

One of my favorite things about summer holidays is getting back to basics, and for us, we do that at the family batch. A batch, for those that don't know is a New Zealand term for holiday home. Except, holiday home congers up images of big flash houses, were as batches are all about keeping it simple. Think crockery from the 1970's, peggysquare blankets made by some now long dead aunt, cushions that are so old the filling has gone hard... you get the drift.

At our batch, we don't have a bath, only a shower and the little ones aren't fussed on showers anyway. Our solution- a bucket bath in the evenings on the deck. I must say I was more than a little jealous, I would not have minded sitting out there myself- warm water on a beautiful summer's evening, overlooking the south pacific ocean- bliss!

So, what have you all been up too in 2011? Would love you to link up.

One Small Change- Wholefoods

2011-01-07T20:44:00.000+13:00

One of my new years resolutions this year was to improve my family's diet. Namely, reducing the quantities of processed food we consume. I am not talking about 'junk food', we don't eat a lot of that. More the refined nature of our diet- white bread, white rice, pasta, pre-made sauces etc. Now, I am only a newbee on the wholefood scene and it is going to take me time to learn, time to find new ways of buying and cooking. But, my goal is that by the end of this year, my family will be eating a 90% wholefood diet. For those of you that don't know what I mean by the term wholefood, that is food in it's natural form or with as little processing as possible- think brown foods, legumes, fruit and vegetables.

So to get started I thought I would share with you a very yummy recipe I cooked which was a great hit with my family. It is adapted from a recipe in 'The Amrita Cookbook' produced by the Lotus Yoga Centre.

Curry Rice Loaf

Ingredients-
4 cups of cooked brown rice
1 cup of grated carrot
1 cup of brown bread crumbs
1 cup of milk
4 tablespoons of sesame oil
1 cup of chopped nuts
1 sauteed onion
1/2 cup of peanut butter
4 tablespoons of soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon of curry powder
1 tablespoon of wholemeal flour
warm water

Directions-
Mix flour and a little water to form a paste. Add all other ingredients and mix. Bake in an oiled loaf tin at 180 degrees Celsius for 1 hour. Serve with salad and homemade satay sauce- yum!

For more small changes, check out here.

What To Make Next

2011-01-06T22:15:00.000+13:00

I was lucky enough to win an amazing giveaway on a fellow kiwi blog What To Make Next. Amber is a very talented pattern designer and she was kind enough to offer up a signed copy of her Clara pattern and a skein of vintage purls yarn. I am so very excited to get going on this pattern, now we are home from holidays, I plan to get started, so watch this space for the finished article! If you have not checked out Amber's blog before, please do. Or, if you would like a copy of this pattern for yourself, you can find it on Ravelry here.

Welcome

2011-01-05T21:11:00.000+13:00

We welcomed in 2011 with some quiet time as a family spent on the foreshore watching our little homemade walnut shell candle boats bob about in a rock pool. A little brief interlude between the year that had been and the year to be. A few minutes to pause and remember, to dream and to hope.

Wishing you all a happy and safe 2011.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T22:00:00.000+13:00

Wishing You All a Very Merry Christmas.

I will be taking a couple of weeks off from my blog to enjoy the summer holidays. See you all in 2011!

Advent- Celebrating The Human Kingdom

2010-12-24T20:28:00.000+13:00

Photos courtsey of Danielle Palmer Photography

I think for me, celebrating life at this time of year is easy. I just look at the faces of my two little girls and know that life is a beautiful gift. This time of year is all about drawing together with those we love, of sharing, of loving and being loved. Of the beauty of watching the circle of life as generations come together. When communities draw together, in churches, in schools, in parks. To celebrate and to sing. Tis a time when people smile more in the street, when people give a little more to those in society that need it more. Tis a time of year when I am grateful for the wonderful life I have been blessed with.

Happy Advent.

A Handmade Christmas

2010-12-24T12:00:00.000+13:00

This year we have been focusing on a handmade Christmas for our girls. Some of the gifts I have made myself, others I have purchased from other talented crafters. I thought I would share a few with you before I wrap them and pop them under the tree tonight.

Two little dolls, for two very special girls, made with love by me-

A little knitted seahorse with a bell for my littlest girl who likes to make music she can dance and sing to-

These beautiful wooden figures are absolutely stunning, made by a true master crafter Rjabinnik-

A hand dyed play muslin by Forrest Folk-

Tiny strawberry girls and sheep by Spindlewood-

A little birds nest for my nature loving Holly-

I have found such pleasure this Christmas making and sourcing handmade gifts for my girls, gifts which I hope will give them many, many hours of happy and joyful play in the years a head.

I can't wait to see their faces in the morning when they open them- one of the joys of being a mama.

The Kindness of Strangers

2010-12-23T22:37:00.000+13:00

Today, on the cusp of christmas, I am left feeling very humbled by the kindness and generosity of women whom I have never met. How can you adequately say thank you to people who sew for your children a gift of love purely out of the kindness of their heart?

Back in September, I posted this post in the aftermath of the Christchurch earthquake. A fellow blogger Cat from Catalina's Cottage read it and felt inspired to do something to help the children of Christchurch in the aftermath of the quake. From that, a wonderful project called 'Quilts to Comfort Christchurch Kids' was born.

Cat has poured her heart and her soul into this project and her dedication payed off with a beautiful response of kindness from quilters across the globe. Each donating their time, energy and amazing talent to create quilts for these lovely little people who have been working through the very adult concept of living through a massive natural disaster.

Recently, Cat contacted me and told me she would like both my sweet girls to have one of these beautiful quilts. Today, with great excitement they opened the package, overjoyed with their contents. Both girls instantly cuddling themselves into the new quilts.

I don't know a lot about the wonderful women whom made these quilts. I know that the one above came from Helen of Hikurangi and the one below came from Ana and friends from Portugal. I know that these women are incredibly talented, just look at how beautiful these quilts are. So to Helen and Ana, what can I say? Thank you just does not seem adequate. I guess that what I can tell you is that you have made two little girls very happy. They will treasure these quilts for many years to come and as they grow I will tell them the story of how we came to own them and of the kind women who made them.

And to Cat, who has worked so hard on this whole project, THANK YOU. On behalf of all the families in Christchurch who receive one of the quilts, thank you.

And incidentally, in a small twist of fate, I noticed this on one of the quilts.. my daughters name... must have been meant to be, eh?

4 Seasons

2010-12-21T11:49:00.000+13:00

Summer Solstice

Today on this, the longest day of sunshine under the southern sky, a little bit of magic was happening at our house. We talked about it last night, how on the summer solstice, the fairies like to come out and celebrate. We talked about how maybe, just maybe,in the morning, if we look hard enough, we just might find where they had been. So early this morning we rose, quietly stepping around the garden, eyes focused for signs of fairies. It was actually our littlest, Isla who found the fairy house first, bouncing up and down and pointing with delight. Their grins was a mile wide as they got down low to examine it and to discover to their surprise that not only had the fairies been celebrating in our garden, they had even left a little thank you gift- a seashell full of our favorite summer fruits. Oh happy day.

If something special has been happening in your corner of the world, I would love you to link up.

P.S. I will be taking a few weeks off from 4 seasons posts with christmas and summer holidays here but will pick up again on the 11th of Jan :-)

Celebrating Advent- The Amimal Kingdom

2010-12-19T21:24:00.000+13:00

This past week, in our home, it has been all about celebrating the animal kingdom. Not a difficult task when you have two little animal mad girls around.

Of particular interest to my girls at the moment are bumble bees. We seem to have millions of them, many, many more than I have seen in past years. Holly adores them. She is not in the slightest bit scared of them, sticking her nose right up to them to get a better look. Every day when we pass through our front gate, we have to stop to see how many bumble bees are on our lavender bush. We discuss how bumble bees are pollinators and how they help to pollinate many of the food crops we eat.

The birds have also been playing a part in our week. We have been making sure each morning we put out some bread scraps for them, then the girls like to peak out the window and watch as the birds slowly make a appearance on our front lawn. First one, then two and soon there are many, many birds wanting their share of the bread. Sparrows, blackbirds and the odd seagull all visit our garden to share in this little feast my girls leave them. I think this is Isla's favorite part of breakfast at the moment, she literally bounces with excitement as she watches the birds appearing.

It is a lovely time of year to stop and reflect on the animals that share this earth with us. Because without them, life for us humans would be drastically different. They provide us with so much of our food. Either directly like cows, sheep and chickens or indirectly like the humble old bumble bee. They provide us transport, with protection and most of all with companionship.

Happy Advent.

Giveaway Day Winner and a Christmas Craft Market

2010-12-17T20:24:00.000+13:00

Thanks to Random.org, I am happy to announce the winner of the sew mama sew giveaway. It is comment number 224 Victoria who said 'Here in Ohio in the US we have nine inches of snow. We will definitely have a white Christmas.' Congratulations Victoria, this little packet of goodies will be winging it's way to the USA soon.

If you like these wee goodies, and would like something similar for yourself, tomorrow we will be at the Christmas Craft Market. If you are in Christchurch, why not pop down. We will be outside 'Goodbye Blue Monday' which is off a wee side alley down Poplar lane from 10am to 4pm. Hope to see you there!

And Then She Turned One...

2010-12-15T20:51:00.002+13:00

If you are looking for the sew mama sew giveaway, please click here.

Not sure how that happened. How did she turn one so quickly? It seems like only yesterday I was holding her tiny new little body in my arms, amazed that she was here. I remember smelling her sweet milky new born breath, stroking her near bald head and staring into her baby blue eyes.

How fast time flies. Today she turned one. I stare at her, amazed at how much she has grown and changed. The head, once sparse of hair is now covered in downey white hair. The baby blue eyes replaced with grey ones. She see's me watching her and a cheeky grin breaks out across her sweet face. She toddles over to me on feet that grow more and more confident at walking with each passing day. When she reaches me, she wraps her little arms around my neck, puckers her little cherry lips and kisses me several times. My heart swells with love for this sweet little girl.

Happy first birthday Isla, oh how we love you.

4 Seasons

2010-12-14T11:36:00.000+13:00

Summer

If you are looking for the sew mama sew giveaway, please click here.

I love christmas, I really do, I love every thing about it. Christmas though is a little different under the southern sky, mostly because it falls in the heart of summer. None of the traditional trimming apply- no warm fires, falling snow or turkeys here. Rather christmas is all about getting outdoors. When I think of christmas, I think of BBQs, of warm balmy days, of sitting out in the sunshine with those I love. And, I would not have it any other way- this is my christmas.

So in line with this. Yesterday, Holly and I sat out in the garden in singlets and skirts and made a wreath from our garden to hang upon our front door this festive season. And because we are doing it southern hemisphere style, we adorned it with all the beautiful summer flowers.

Now we have a little bit of summer to greet us at our door.

Whats happening in your corner of the world? Why not link up with a seasonal post?

Giveaway Day Giveaway- CLOSED

2010-12-13T10:53:00.002+13:00

It was so much fun last time, I have decided to sign up again for the sew mama sew giveaway day. What I am giving away this time is a little parcel of home made goodies. First up is a fabric covered badge, a set of fabric covered hair ties and a cotton washcloth. All come in lovely soft aqua shades- my favorite colour.

So what do you need to do to enter? Simple just leave a comment, maybe tell me where in the world you are visiting from. I love how global blogging is. (Comment to be left on blog not on Facebook please).

This giveaway is open to anyone, anywhere.

You will have until Thursday 16th December to enter and I will draw the winner on the 17th.

Good luck and happy giveaway day!

Advent- Celebrating The Nature Kingdom

2010-12-12T21:01:00.001+13:00

The second week of advent has drawn to a close. This week passed celebrated the nature kingdom, the plants that nourish us, providing us with food and oxygen. And so for us, we have spent this week learning and enjoying elements from nature.

Together, Holly and I made these clove scented oranges. Inspired by Bending Birches. Holly chose to use her favorite 'baby oranges', otherwise known as mandarins. This was such a fun, festive little project to do with my girl. So much so, that she has been asking too do it every day since. They are lovely though, they give the whole house a beautiful mulled wine kind of smell- divine.

We have done a lot of cooking this week, talking about a lot of the ingredients such as legumes and nuts. Discussing what they are and where they come from. Trying to instill in them that food does not just come from a shop but is grown in and from the earth.

Both my little girls LOVE flowers, most days we go out to collect fresh flowers to bring back to our home. Isla adores twirling them around in the air, singing sweet little tunes as she does so. Holly, is fascinated by all the different types of flowers, always asking me "whats that one?". Often the answer is "I don't know sweetheart", her response- "It is a Holly Iris flower mummy". What a sweet little girl she is.

Happy advent.

Isla Rose

2010-12-11T20:48:00.000+13:00

Today we celebrated out littlest one with a naming celebration. Mother nature was kind to us as usual, providing a beautiful hot day. Together with friends and family, we drew together. With the backdrop of the Canterbury plains behind us, we celebrated this beautiful little girl whom I am lucky enough to call my daughter.

Isla Rose.

We chose her name carefully. I find naming a child a huge responsibility and one not to be taken lightly. Isla (pronounced I-la) is a Scottish name derived from the island of Islay. Scotland is my birthplace, so, it just felt right to me to name her after a place with which I have such a strong connection. Rose, was my paternal grandmothers name. Holly took my husbands grandmothers name of Iris. We also found it beautifully appropriate that both our girls had flower names and the connotations that holds for us of nature and beauty.

A perfect name for a perfect girl.

A Little Fairy From Across the Sea's

2010-12-10T21:10:00.000+13:00

This little girl flew a long way to land at our home recently. She was made by the lovely Mama Rae from Morning Sun Rae. She has winged her way across the oceans from The Beautiful Blue Mountains of North Carolina to our home under the southern sky in New Zealand.

Isn't she just stunning? She is an adorable little creature made entirely from natural materials. We are very pleased to welcome her into our home. My girls have been very excited about her arrival and we have been telling stories of the journey she took to get here, much to Holly's delight.

If you have not checked out Morning Sun Rae before, please do. She has a beautiful blog brimming with all kinds of creativity. A truly inspiring blog.

Handmade Christmas

2010-12-09T21:22:00.001+13:00

16 days till Christmas and a lot of sewing still to be done. This one has kept me up late the last few nights but I am very pleased with how it has turned out. A little boys play-mat, inspired by this tutorial.

The Mince Pie Fiend

2010-12-08T20:06:00.001+13:00

I am related to a christmas mince pie fiend. I really am. It is my father. Although I am sure he would refer to himself as a connoisseur rather than a fiend. Mince pies are to him what drugs are to airport sniffer dogs- he can sniff them out from a mile away. So recently, when I got the opportunity to try some of the Baker's Delight christmas mince pies, I new I had the perfect person to test them out on-

Of course he did not say no, and happily sat down to consume said pies. While he was very well behaved at my house only eating one pie, which he referred to as 'very nice' (that's high praise from my Dad). I did notice that he left with said packet of pies and my mother tells me they did not last the day, so I guess the proof is in the pudding and the Baker's Delight christmas mince pies got the seal of approval from this pie fiend.

For a chance to win some of your own, why not pop over to kiwi mummy blogs.

4 Seasons

2010-12-07T08:08:00.000+13:00

Summer

If a picture paints a thousand words then this picture paints a whole book on summer for me. We have had some lovely hot days here recently. So, have been able to rediscover all those oh so very summery activities like playing under the sprinkler or splashing around in the paddling pool. Holly spent a large portion of Sunday afternoon, chilling out in her little pool until she became all wrinkly and prune like.

What seasonal things are happening in your corner of the world? Why not link up-

Crafty Mamas

2010-12-06T22:23:00.000+13:00

Recently, I was lucky enough to win this lovely Michel Miller knit fabric from crafty mamas blog. Isn't it just divine? Not sure what I am going to make with it yet but I do know that it will be something for me!

If you have not checked out crafty mamas before, you really should. They have an amazing array of fabrics and patterns in their online store- well worth bookmarking.

Advent: Celebrating the Mineral Kingdom

2010-12-05T21:01:00.000+13:00

This week, being the first week of advent, traditionally celebrates the mineral kingdom- the earth on which we live, the rocks, the dirt and the stones. In keeping with this, we have spent some time this week enjoying our mineral kingdom.

We are lucky as we live at the bottom of the cliffs, between the cliff face and the ocean. The earth looms up behind us and forms the backdrop to our life on a day to day basis. This week we took time to visit the caves that in pre european times were popular with the Maori as a kind of kitchen to bring the now extinct moa bird back to. We spent time inside the cave rock on our local beach, listening to our voices echo, looking in the rock pools but being careful not to get caught out by the incoming tide.

We finished the week with a trip to a local crystal shop to look at all the beautiful stones in all the colours under the rainbow. Before coming away with a small handful, carefully clutched in the hands of a small girl with a huge grin on her face.

Happy advent.

To Market, To Market

2010-12-02T11:20:00.002+13:00

This Saturday, I am doing my very first market (she says as she shakes in her boots!). I will be sharing a table with the lovely Nin from The Wardrobe. I have been working like furry these last few weeks to build up stock. Between us, I think we have a far bit of crafty goodness now to hopefully tempt and enchant a few of you. So if you are in Christchurch this Saturday, pop down and see us.

The Christmas Craft Market
Outside- Goodbuy Blue Monday
Poplar Lane
Saturday 4th and Saturday 18th December
10am-4pm

4 Seasons

2010-11-30T09:20:00.000+13:00

The Last Day of Spring

Fresh strawberries growing outside my door. Kind of epitomises this time of year don't you think? I did have them sitting on the deck but I have had to put them up on a low bench, as a certain little 11 month old with a strawberry addiction, kept trying to raid them before they were ripe.

What is happening in your world on this cusp of the change of season? Why not link up.

20% Off Summer Sale

2010-11-29T23:18:00.002+13:00

To celebrate the start of summer this week, I am offering 20% off all products on my website The Cloth Nappy Company until December 15. Brands include fuzzibunz, ittibitti and bambino mio. The perfect gift this christmas for any little people you know- a lovely modern cloth nappy.

Oh and we ship worldwide for a flat rate- New Zealand wide $5NZD, Australia $10NZD and Rest of world $15NZD

Advent

2010-11-28T17:21:00.001+13:00

Today is the first day of advent. Many do not realise this, as the popular advent calendars start from the 1st of December. But, traditionally, advent begins on the 4th Sunday before Christmas. The passing of each Sunday evokes a different part of the journey taken by Mary and Joseph in the nativity story. The first week celebrates the earth, as they set off on their journey through the mountains. The second celebrates nature, as they journey through the valley. The third week celebrates the animal kingdom, as they move across the bare grazing lands. And the 4th week celebrates human life, as they arrive in Bethlehem to welcome their baby.

This is a lovely symbolic time. Even if, like our family, you are not particularly religious. It is a time to celebrate the joy of the coming of christmas, of special times with family and friends, of the sharing of food, laughter and love.

This year, I have created this nativity story scene for our home. Setting out the nativity story journey with the stones to signify the mountains, the flowers to signify the valley, the sheep to signify the grazing lands and finally the stable where Jesus was born. Each evening before bed, I plan to tell a little of the nativity story to the girls. Then, move one star from the path they take and place it on the night sky behind them.

I set up the nature table last night with this little scene. This morning, Holly got up and started her day as usual, only to stop dead in her tracks when she saw our little table. A huge grin broke out across her face as she exclaimed "Whats that Mummy?!". Now she is very excited about the end of the day arriving so she can hear the story and move one of the stars into the sky.

I love that I am able to celebrate with my children in this way, to provide them some of that magic in the build up to christmas.

Happy Advent.

My first Needle felt Figure

2010-11-25T20:02:00.001+13:00

My first needle felt figure. It was honestly a lot easier than I imagined and a lot of fun too. We learnt the basics at my Steiner inspired parenting group and from there I just kind of winged it! But I am pleased with the way she has turned out. Holly thinks she is a princess and is loving her arrival in our home.

Think I have caught the needle felting bug, I have just started making an advent nativity scene to celebrate the countdown to Christmas.

Wardrobe Wednesday

2010-11-24T08:31:00.000+13:00

This is probably my last Wardrobe Wednesday installment as Claire is no longer going to be hosting this little weekly segment. I think I have pretty much showed you all most of my wardrobe anyway! I don't buy new clothes very often, in fact, I think I have only bought 2 things this year. Anyway, last week I bought these pants and I bought them new! I have to say I love them but I am a bit bummed as I washed them and hung them out and the colour faded big time across the back, so I am thinking I will have to take them back... sigh.

Pants: Ula
Top: Can't remember, has been in my wardrobe for 5+ years
Shoes: crocs
Necklace: Bought from the nelson market about circa 2004

4 Seasons

2010-11-23T08:31:00.001+13:00

Spring

There is nothing better than being able to throw off the shoes and walk around barefoot, especially for those tiny little feet that are just learning to walk. Yep, my baby is starting to walk!

What's happening in your world this season? Why not link up?

Read of the Week

2010-11-22T09:31:00.001+13:00

I have been reading 'The Urban Homestead' by Kelly Coyne and Erik Knutzen. It is an inspiring book for anyone that has dreams of living the good life within the urban setting.

We have a reasonable sized garden and I have lots of plans to build a large vegetable garden as well as get a few chickens. After seeing the photo's of Cat's garden, I am feeling more motivated than ever to get onto it.

This book is great as it lays out all the basics of setting up and caring for a garden as well as many other useful topics such as composting, chicken care and preserving.

A great read for anyone, who like me, has ambitions to be at least partly self sufficient.