tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38665349430615326142024-03-14T08:23:58.205+00:00ThriftwoodDiary of vintage, thrifting adventuresthriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.comBlogger137125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-87832221371802915202015-02-24T08:59:00.003+00:002015-02-24T09:01:02.272+00:00The North wind doth blow ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Good morning, my lovelies! Well, it's a grey blustery Tuesday here on my little island ... but do you know, I quite like days like this nowadays. I always thought, that if I was asked, I would say that Winter was my least favourite season, but if it was forever Summer, we wouldn't be able to batten down the hatches, snuggle down and just potter about, would we?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLpuwKMeK80MK8eXzsO3gTLYaZ75kWi8lTwfCrYuyDiUg6pu7w_8BS5TyP-NCyS55oYhXPWTlO6YvvAIPI3u34qKg5vRTXCIkXRozET39rNqFKXNIRcdqxvMPAe3y8Mc-jKqsuuegki5s/s1600/10950421_919572121409968_1924922458_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLpuwKMeK80MK8eXzsO3gTLYaZ75kWi8lTwfCrYuyDiUg6pu7w_8BS5TyP-NCyS55oYhXPWTlO6YvvAIPI3u34qKg5vRTXCIkXRozET39rNqFKXNIRcdqxvMPAe3y8Mc-jKqsuuegki5s/s1600/10950421_919572121409968_1924922458_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I work from home, so am lucky that I don't have to brave the weather if I don't need to ... apart from a brisk walk with Ruby, I can put on my paint-splattered clothes, play my favourite music and just get on with it ... if the sun is shining though, it's very easy to get distracted! I bought a very dirty, forlorn dresser from a furniture warehouse for £30, brought it home with the intention of upcycling it, then selling it on ... somehow it found its way into my home ... the perfect fit for a wide alcove that I'd given up hope of ever filling ....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNGbtn6tYg6zQ5skYYQaaokMVWjrn-E64ttm5aSGO-F0Wz7NDLufKV1D0jkl04hp341jEx0PHMe3SWicb7V7-linVtr0CT79j4OkUr8BpdG9eaD-kX8w39UZq-W0wZwco-NNoYSRrqY4/s1600/10954800_434246846729988_1954804088_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNGbtn6tYg6zQ5skYYQaaokMVWjrn-E64ttm5aSGO-F0Wz7NDLufKV1D0jkl04hp341jEx0PHMe3SWicb7V7-linVtr0CT79j4OkUr8BpdG9eaD-kX8w39UZq-W0wZwco-NNoYSRrqY4/s1600/10954800_434246846729988_1954804088_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When I'm not working, I like nothing better than just faffing about, filling teacups and other containers with spring bulbs, they really make a difference to the 'feel' of a room, don't you think?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zkP3IsL5cY6vyvMwUl2667yq9oAJ7P7zyeqVO9BAyAGEShTG3A4X7fNZEu9PV9B0BcF_Jtg4kd1KCDrWWPDDqd05i3Oa0Tvxa8bJdhcNJprdschxq5FvpiN99wFMBncbbhvQ39_uQL8/s1600/10958506_500060770135331_1113804258_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zkP3IsL5cY6vyvMwUl2667yq9oAJ7P7zyeqVO9BAyAGEShTG3A4X7fNZEu9PV9B0BcF_Jtg4kd1KCDrWWPDDqd05i3Oa0Tvxa8bJdhcNJprdschxq5FvpiN99wFMBncbbhvQ39_uQL8/s1600/10958506_500060770135331_1113804258_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've rediscovered my love of crochet ... I'm still a very basic crocheter, and even though I've been doing it since I was a child my grannies never seemed right! I've joined two lovely crochet classes and after all these years I've mastered the art and started filling my home with granny squares galore ... however, some never make it to my sofa, my last two blankets were snatched up by two of my sons, so one blanket now resides in Leeds and the other in Salford!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQ178r7ikGg-a3iKFtUt2kp2usNUouJkD3ytHjfeHYyQk8jlQgFOOX0ufgYxfp1F44_13pQV5tpoUZqJVMmJKSpP3DbNEE1v9TF5c4uQYvO9s8r0Q8ULQlox7lHWX6POnN-8PBtpNksQ/s1600/10979557_1638787149677915_502418259_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQ178r7ikGg-a3iKFtUt2kp2usNUouJkD3ytHjfeHYyQk8jlQgFOOX0ufgYxfp1F44_13pQV5tpoUZqJVMmJKSpP3DbNEE1v9TF5c4uQYvO9s8r0Q8ULQlox7lHWX6POnN-8PBtpNksQ/s1600/10979557_1638787149677915_502418259_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
My son's girlfriend gave us this lovely basket for Christmas, filled with lots of amazing presents for the whole family ... it really is huge and just the thing for all those projects ... most of the things I've made are practical, like blankets and cushion covers<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZDw454uG74ZD3-9P6ps6XEGfYdA0r2VVLlrSsGxgNPjMMPDJcWPhyder3K7WMTfz7s8C7cTg4I_-p9kR8XPtYc-Vp8Jc7OdoYxT_-5qoL_9auwRbCMU7SdUCXSfKYBylpAcX3FVnJlM/s1600/10890530_1535719993346892_948287646_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZDw454uG74ZD3-9P6ps6XEGfYdA0r2VVLlrSsGxgNPjMMPDJcWPhyder3K7WMTfz7s8C7cTg4I_-p9kR8XPtYc-Vp8Jc7OdoYxT_-5qoL_9auwRbCMU7SdUCXSfKYBylpAcX3FVnJlM/s1600/10890530_1535719993346892_948287646_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
but some are just for fun!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5J7tG9m60NzX3OqAs460LsAlDl1Cawu2jblgbEo6Xy2iezAgtRbzRCJWbXpkBnthhs1tz-xSs2jjJXsLAMlsyqHu-ta9ceCTtvrxNZFkD4cUw53-d8BbDSj6synxOZTV390jqBlW9gl0/s1600/10957307_1375893756050665_1222413551_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5J7tG9m60NzX3OqAs460LsAlDl1Cawu2jblgbEo6Xy2iezAgtRbzRCJWbXpkBnthhs1tz-xSs2jjJXsLAMlsyqHu-ta9ceCTtvrxNZFkD4cUw53-d8BbDSj6synxOZTV390jqBlW9gl0/s1600/10957307_1375893756050665_1222413551_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I made this little heart wreath one wet and windy Sunday afternoon ... all credit must be given to Lucy at Attic24 blog, her tutorials are amazingly easy to follow ... if I can do it, anyone can!<br />
<br />
Our family has increased with the arrival of four new girls ... meet Nellie, Peggy, Dolly and Minnie, our lovely rescue hens! They have settled in really well, and knock on the kitchen door if their porridge is a bit slow to be delivered.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIS3SCrOsPQCdoagVZKCtupZs0KU9ZqZVNyjaZjS7CdVPJ1CI0eKkfRQ4UYIYRlZnLy1nyks6IoCPffaVSIgHsVY5GhG8hdbyHpog6wWoJLxUkCrqxAd3jFUEl8gytHQTmkQ3tIG_ZN-4/s1600/914452_846901392032868_1822207495_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIS3SCrOsPQCdoagVZKCtupZs0KU9ZqZVNyjaZjS7CdVPJ1CI0eKkfRQ4UYIYRlZnLy1nyks6IoCPffaVSIgHsVY5GhG8hdbyHpog6wWoJLxUkCrqxAd3jFUEl8gytHQTmkQ3tIG_ZN-4/s1600/914452_846901392032868_1822207495_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
They pay for their keep by giving us the most amazing, sunflower-yolked eggs every day, and I'm so glad that we decided to have hens in our lives once again. I really missed their reassuring clucking and manic running when a bag was rustled anywhere near them ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbULUh9qndEvQwTvA-ZE-BMAQsUX04_6q60kSAc-bu5dFYJg5hLSZwBsImeG7Qvq174vOMX7gMA7pN_ovbH7nLU4mII0tYYsR4YJwl4JFMKnWDXzkmrvc7DILjPgJBnBSYd4GQYRH1hWY/s1600/10914246_502497226558182_26348438_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbULUh9qndEvQwTvA-ZE-BMAQsUX04_6q60kSAc-bu5dFYJg5hLSZwBsImeG7Qvq174vOMX7gMA7pN_ovbH7nLU4mII0tYYsR4YJwl4JFMKnWDXzkmrvc7DILjPgJBnBSYd4GQYRH1hWY/s1600/10914246_502497226558182_26348438_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Dotty has been earning her keep too ... while a little too cold just yet to sit in and crochet (and when the wind is blowing, it really does feel as though you are going to take off) she has been turned into a very beautiful shop, and held a few Sunday sales ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyx7Bj9XFY-zTngp31HakGD7gW2dg45v0zUR_kmEfoSTsz6v9usyNc6PMCJavehaVCZubuMcUz1ULI9sJa3EjC6Ws9kO5EWDJRqObWnlt57X5s7wVoWwCNHDVK2yzUCz1H91cduH_GDY/s1600/10932091_1582544115316434_407536232_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyx7Bj9XFY-zTngp31HakGD7gW2dg45v0zUR_kmEfoSTsz6v9usyNc6PMCJavehaVCZubuMcUz1ULI9sJa3EjC6Ws9kO5EWDJRqObWnlt57X5s7wVoWwCNHDVK2yzUCz1H91cduH_GDY/s1600/10932091_1582544115316434_407536232_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It really won't be long until Spring blusters her way into our lives, with all her pretty colours and new beginnings ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WwjFuzJ5do73IcADxC3Fs9zBnnqTJ_A-4VsYcWp1QQnf6I6H93cvdO2jap1PtOSEH3BNw6mGOwfRJLZhFMqPLqr96tBNaJV9uMBry7d_UxiAd7D4VVLT_8LVYW_Ri2pXM3UqLqJwwWA/s1600/10932150_716092691838129_333676926_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WwjFuzJ5do73IcADxC3Fs9zBnnqTJ_A-4VsYcWp1QQnf6I6H93cvdO2jap1PtOSEH3BNw6mGOwfRJLZhFMqPLqr96tBNaJV9uMBry7d_UxiAd7D4VVLT_8LVYW_Ri2pXM3UqLqJwwWA/s1600/10932150_716092691838129_333676926_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
but until then, I'm going to enjoy a few more candlelit baths ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyk-BviOlOGd7tZYtgJWsRmYJ7s2PvGio9l2Uv19wcmIlHDqbtOg806lG1oR7Bg_TROS2w_6GYZb2zcHNJyzNlsyw7c4RxCzYwhcDDA9nyh23Q_yXaVFp-4iDzM_2knGDJDetZ7ibMTHA/s1600/10949002_528597603946933_984732989_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyk-BviOlOGd7tZYtgJWsRmYJ7s2PvGio9l2Uv19wcmIlHDqbtOg806lG1oR7Bg_TROS2w_6GYZb2zcHNJyzNlsyw7c4RxCzYwhcDDA9nyh23Q_yXaVFp-4iDzM_2knGDJDetZ7ibMTHA/s1600/10949002_528597603946933_984732989_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and snuggle up on the sofa with a new magazine and a mug of hot chocolate ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpHhc7I-7TSRkujg81SRqLs0PQXQvlTLy-WQh5iUYJsVjXyGP2xMxNr_LgqUlXbWvSuMa80i-fZwj8s4P7qgh3T9Aps7noYLdQznAOhJRvJLbzSny1k1uIWZuSzogfFrrKNGQ0ThRYOwk/s1600/928713_1520335864922817_1238146496_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpHhc7I-7TSRkujg81SRqLs0PQXQvlTLy-WQh5iUYJsVjXyGP2xMxNr_LgqUlXbWvSuMa80i-fZwj8s4P7qgh3T9Aps7noYLdQznAOhJRvJLbzSny1k1uIWZuSzogfFrrKNGQ0ThRYOwk/s1600/928713_1520335864922817_1238146496_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
amidst dimmed lighting and warmth ...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMeaD-w8cW8rSkxAFVCOYG5KSQXGfHe55tDge7lrwz10v96GF0Yx1r0NDxELb-GLue7P9QZStx5Zwl-Ly3YFlrtjDKjl-PH08hWVkyjWzbHIR9sP4Y9r_Wan7Q0qVuK44aFiRNP8z9Fc/s1600/10881844_1537237773192486_1463013121_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMeaD-w8cW8rSkxAFVCOYG5KSQXGfHe55tDge7lrwz10v96GF0Yx1r0NDxELb-GLue7P9QZStx5Zwl-Ly3YFlrtjDKjl-PH08hWVkyjWzbHIR9sP4Y9r_Wan7Q0qVuK44aFiRNP8z9Fc/s1600/10881844_1537237773192486_1463013121_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
safe in the knowledge that the best is yet to come ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk9dwjFzPmGaHEZeflvJeOek19qhahAqEnyP5cpEp-avnP8EpNqQfbGecox03m8kv2rg07zXIxw0FHHd56xFzd-tQOUT7on0v_dcMpywHFwAYbUX7OZOstm5ljKAzA2FH6KxN8V3rhZiw/s1600/10598235_1470437949873247_272520722_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk9dwjFzPmGaHEZeflvJeOek19qhahAqEnyP5cpEp-avnP8EpNqQfbGecox03m8kv2rg07zXIxw0FHHd56xFzd-tQOUT7on0v_dcMpywHFwAYbUX7OZOstm5ljKAzA2FH6KxN8V3rhZiw/s1600/10598235_1470437949873247_272520722_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Enjoy the last few weeks of winter my lovelies, don't fight it, just give in to it ... embrace it, welcome it with open arms, and most importantly, make the most of it ...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">With much love, Claire xxx</span>thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-83138385387740435902014-12-08T15:24:00.002+00:002014-12-08T15:24:40.338+00:00Absent without leave ...Hello my lovelies!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4j3pyLLe0jgnxSI5PGpcMOpN2kGo7MkXrfgJCFViYha33nQvT2q2gl7L8Asm7snWYJSxG2qxJwvDRg9YiedtvtFyxUrQekED5NVYJOGu54tnI5Jnk7Jxg-GDCBkEu6Wec6-zw9MrvnAI/s1600/10843949_805034436228912_818796461_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4j3pyLLe0jgnxSI5PGpcMOpN2kGo7MkXrfgJCFViYha33nQvT2q2gl7L8Asm7snWYJSxG2qxJwvDRg9YiedtvtFyxUrQekED5NVYJOGu54tnI5Jnk7Jxg-GDCBkEu6Wec6-zw9MrvnAI/s1600/10843949_805034436228912_818796461_s.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I've recently had several messages, comments and emails from you, my faithful followers saying that you miss me, and I'm really touched by this, and the truth is, I really miss you all too!<br />
<br />
Everything is fine, there is no underlying bad reason why I haven't been blogging, in fact a very good one ... I've just been so busy with my work there hasn't been time to pause for breath ...<br />
<br />
Hopefully, once I've wound down for Christmas I will get back on here and catch up with you all (that's if you want me to after such a long absence), but I felt some kind of explanation was necessary. I am in touch with lots of you on Instagram, a lazy substitute for writing a post, but one that I love nonetheless! Join me there if you would like to ... I'm Thriftwood114, and you'll find lots of other bloggy friends there too.<br />
<br />
Will be in touch soon, and hope you're all enjoying your Christmas preparations.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0vGD3nUEevclPdE9Lfmpw62w5jDG6UvKQDypwVs9jaPH5GRseA0UOcM297T4RNFHqJBgaqNRacpmL2V1Bytb-AP0Y3Wy9kNfKUvue0vqNLp98JX1KeboCbjWHPXrPHUVfCjMfPxMz_8/s1600/5f3c4a1242c311e2bee422000a1fc31e_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-0vGD3nUEevclPdE9Lfmpw62w5jDG6UvKQDypwVs9jaPH5GRseA0UOcM297T4RNFHqJBgaqNRacpmL2V1Bytb-AP0Y3Wy9kNfKUvue0vqNLp98JX1KeboCbjWHPXrPHUVfCjMfPxMz_8/s1600/5f3c4a1242c311e2bee422000a1fc31e_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">With love, Claire</span>thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-66762744839985131892014-09-17T14:17:00.005+01:002014-09-17T14:17:50.569+01:00Perfect DayMe and Annie Sloan are busy getting ready for the next Fair of the season ... it would be lovely to see you there! I'll be bringing a carful of vintage loveliness - authentic vintage china, kitchenalia, textiles, homeware and of course, my unique upcycled furniture.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPUhJLll14ueaxbavfbeCAmhosdAEHzygXNsj_ZBSRuCkSvXN4RGEpCB3yQoKTLEUHcW8eQtzRqzaehiDDcGhnej0SiWu8UsCsvP5gXQJ_9r1OPvvn5mkPoi_JzUku52vb-q5Jj6XWKE/s1600/10539159_772851339425224_1310859730172567055_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPUhJLll14ueaxbavfbeCAmhosdAEHzygXNsj_ZBSRuCkSvXN4RGEpCB3yQoKTLEUHcW8eQtzRqzaehiDDcGhnej0SiWu8UsCsvP5gXQJ_9r1OPvvn5mkPoi_JzUku52vb-q5Jj6XWKE/s1600/10539159_772851339425224_1310859730172567055_o.jpg" height="400" width="282" /></a></div>
<br />
Remember Becki from my Garden Sale in July? She's performing too so that will be a treat, along with the amazing pop-up tea rooms (the meringues are to die for) ... so what are you waiting for ... put it in your diary now! The Coronation Hall is a stunning venue ... it is a traditional proscenium arched theatre with elaborate frescoes and carvings. Just the place for a top-notch vintage gathering such as ours ...<br />
<br />
Have a wonderful week,<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
PS: The new header photo was captured by my second son Jacob, when he was last home. It is a view of my little island at sunset, taken from the opposite shore ... a happy reminder of a lovely weekend xxthriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-69400030981849899552014-08-31T11:12:00.000+01:002014-08-31T11:12:26.078+01:00Never forget where you've come here from ....Good morning, my lovelies! I've heard that the heatwave will be back with a vengeance next week ... just in time for the children going back to school ... It's all change here again, Harry's going back to Salford tomorrow and moving into a house before starting his second year and Millie's going back to college this week. I've hung up my childminding hat and for the first time in 24 years, my day won't revolve around the school run.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS0pM4hn4sRn615uf9h6Ool14FjBkxvI6haVHEFPidbS50EY1G5" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS0pM4hn4sRn615uf9h6Ool14FjBkxvI6haVHEFPidbS50EY1G5" /></a></div>
<br />
At the bottom of my last post I briefly mentioned an appearance I made on Noel Edmond's Multicoloured Swap Shop ... best forgotten I think, but as with all memories it produced lots more ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRtGBKONP093hdFRCyrCiUS70YdJSH4zBGG7r7z0pXDZv2xudLA" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRtGBKONP093hdFRCyrCiUS70YdJSH4zBGG7r7z0pXDZv2xudLA" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
It was November 1977, I was 16, fresh out of school and I was working at our local shipbuilding company, as a trainee shorthand-typist. In a small town like ours, Swap Shop coming to visit was a BIG event! My Dad had arranged with a friend of his that she would take my younger sister and brother along with her children ... he suggested to me that I go along too to help, as there would probably be crowds.<br />
<br />
I got in touch with my friend Anne and arranged to meet her at the football ground where it was being held. The lady collected us, I met my friend and promptly forgot about my siblings as I was carried away with the excitement of it all. <br />
<br />
I was wearing my new coat ... my pride of joy ... bought from Grattan's catalogue on the never-never ... a bright blue blanket coat, designed by the great Lee Bender from Bus Stop ... I was a real bobby dazzler in that! It was very voluminous, as you can see from the picture (I was over the moon to find an image of the very coat on Google - thank you very much) had a tie neck and then a rather fetching matching scarf. I do remember the wind used to blow up it and cause it to billow out, rather like a ship in full sail. The bell sleeves were a tad draughty too.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GQNAfCCKQowSYQBe8g7js4gEsdIChTIKI-vFbNrFllzQlqwyF1w3B-0C62Tc2q6_rUj9nYw4TucBRjOgG64Hp6N_earMzUTQ0ghW5K82HydZiNeKrySUP5hS9-WNicMfyiRss5kyV8E/s1600/coat&jumpsuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GQNAfCCKQowSYQBe8g7js4gEsdIChTIKI-vFbNrFllzQlqwyF1w3B-0C62Tc2q6_rUj9nYw4TucBRjOgG64Hp6N_earMzUTQ0ghW5K82HydZiNeKrySUP5hS9-WNicMfyiRss5kyV8E/s1600/coat&jumpsuit.jpg" height="320" width="231" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posed by models - not me haha </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lulusexploreresearch.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/6a00d8345228bf69e20115701aefa9970b-320wi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://lulusexploreresearch.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/6a00d8345228bf69e20115701aefa9970b-320wi1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I had lots of other clothes from Bus Stop as I ran the Grattan catalogue ... my friend Sharon ran Freeman's and we made sure we never paid the money in on the same week ... so we could borrow out of each others! We were paid every Thursday but never had any money left after the weekend so it came in very handy.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I'm going off on a tangent ... I met my friend and we somehow ended up on stage with Patsy Gallant (From LA to New York, remember?) after she'd done her number ... we were chatting to Cheggers and gave him a peck on the cheek (swoon!) and were getting quite dirty looks from Patsy for hogging the stage. Cheggers asked us what we were swapping and I had a David Cassidy LP and Anne a Donny Osmond one ... he asked what did we want to swap it for. I said loudly into the microphone, "I'll swap it with Kath over there, for that Diana Ross LP". Kath was loathe to swap her sophisticated LP for my teenybopper one, but wanted to be on telly so joined us on the stage. At this point Cheggers had his head in his hands as we weren't really meant to know each other, and we were on air when I was loud. In voice as well as clothes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQvs6BDPdjiltv2t1zo4F8wz3zU8eHBoZXyq-YZXTEAsmg-cStx" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQvs6BDPdjiltv2t1zo4F8wz3zU8eHBoZXyq-YZXTEAsmg-cStx" width="231" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
We were quickly scuttled off the stage and to this day I have never seen a recording ... it was one of the editions of the programme that was mysteriously lost at the BBC. I wonder why. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was reunited with my sister and brother who were looking daggers at me;</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>for leaving them with strangers</li>
<li>for hogging the limelight on what was actually a children's programme</li>
<li>for wearing such an ostentatious garment </li>
<li>for making a show of them</li>
</ul>
<div>
We went home and my Dad, never one to show a great deal of emotion, said "I was doing the hoovering, looked up and saw you and that daft Anne on the telly. Why weren't H & K with you?"</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was my fifteen minutes of fame ... I went out that night and everyone was pointing at me ... envious perhaps of my suave appearance on national tv ... or perhaps incredulous that I had dared wear that coat again. I'll probably never know ... </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'd love to know about your claim to fame, and hope you're having an amazing, multi-coloured weekend!<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-40924241771039469652014-08-21T16:21:00.000+01:002014-08-21T16:21:05.785+01:00Swap Shop!Hello my lovelies! Well it's blowing a gale here on my little island today ... very wintry indeed. I'm off out tonight to have tea with an old friend who now lives in Australia, and had ready a pretty summery frock, but think I'll ditch it for something more substantial!<br />
<br />
As you can see from my sidebar, I participated in <a href="http://betty-thewoodfairy.blogspot.co.uk/">Betty's</a> 'From my home to yours' summertime swap, and parcels were duly sent on Monday. Betty has contacted me to say that she has received hers, so I'm safe to post on here now!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_6xe19wEb7UcfP1odB-thCEf9VA6mK-_gUXTLXfE8CzuplH4QlBmuL4rI1GQD7BsbQTTFSHqlGo7TXarNXoeSb9amMwT4i7w_IIkSf2XyyrpQNPf5nFNFKY3GkH59hMspmaiWa5Xwcyc/s1600/10584547_668201859938379_1780844502_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_6xe19wEb7UcfP1odB-thCEf9VA6mK-_gUXTLXfE8CzuplH4QlBmuL4rI1GQD7BsbQTTFSHqlGo7TXarNXoeSb9amMwT4i7w_IIkSf2XyyrpQNPf5nFNFKY3GkH59hMspmaiWa5Xwcyc/s1600/10584547_668201859938379_1780844502_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
My parcel arrived promptly on Tuesday morning, so I made myself a cup of tea and made the short journey outside to Dotty (I do feel like I am 'away' when I go in there!), and <strike>frantically ripped at it</strike> carefully opened it to find a vast array of beautifully wrapped parcels ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33MOImJbvY_v-AZQD4Y6A54ydPZsEnIa8EiOHYmnubscqBqrF1vueXIuGTVO1ZjdXi503B9t1MX4sX-rwzx0t-PbKx0jIjRhrX6SLaU7XmnPPVwjWjiXM4RTk0Ushn8TsDrg-WW2mGOA/s1600/925598_623805687734406_1776054242_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33MOImJbvY_v-AZQD4Y6A54ydPZsEnIa8EiOHYmnubscqBqrF1vueXIuGTVO1ZjdXi503B9t1MX4sX-rwzx0t-PbKx0jIjRhrX6SLaU7XmnPPVwjWjiXM4RTk0Ushn8TsDrg-WW2mGOA/s1600/925598_623805687734406_1776054242_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Inside the first group were a packet of poppy seeds; a lovely little blackbird brooch and a bird fridge magnet ... I love poppies and this year mine were rather disappointing so now I shall shake my new packet around with gay abandon and shall once more have poppies everywhere!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbTjTIhryHNrsoiMNuoMQ3PoElTqJpZNelHFOQ8PZ-w2oxuGUnIZCCaS79GvwzZvEjiP9hIJFQ5-9a6ZmVnrhDqvYepve8yeFxmYFIUt48mWGvyJtl0IKRZReFL8EmIcJHhWTR7wMYl4/s1600/10601920_693557774033370_1739442435_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBbTjTIhryHNrsoiMNuoMQ3PoElTqJpZNelHFOQ8PZ-w2oxuGUnIZCCaS79GvwzZvEjiP9hIJFQ5-9a6ZmVnrhDqvYepve8yeFxmYFIUt48mWGvyJtl0IKRZReFL8EmIcJHhWTR7wMYl4/s1600/10601920_693557774033370_1739442435_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Then there was a lovely pair of lavender sachets ... hand-painted with beautiful pink flowers ... the smell greets me every time I open the caravan door ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvktz28hnw9HMY7oXeK3pfwMfna-BUXVnTm3VEn4AFuvLcbPB6A1wS5VpFVsfNrIKUnzlT362D6Oh7Md-1-jzDgM8iHRv_sXAlqNMPs3tvFe_k0C9oTdgOyWUvxA83oabvjt-wsbpy6s/s1600/10617192_677266615697738_11049164_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvktz28hnw9HMY7oXeK3pfwMfna-BUXVnTm3VEn4AFuvLcbPB6A1wS5VpFVsfNrIKUnzlT362D6Oh7Md-1-jzDgM8iHRv_sXAlqNMPs3tvFe_k0C9oTdgOyWUvxA83oabvjt-wsbpy6s/s1600/10617192_677266615697738_11049164_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and the main present was an absolutely gorgeous silk scarf also lovingly hand-painted by Betty in my favourite pinks. What a talented lady our Betty is! Pop over to her blog <a href="http://betty-thewoodfairy.blogspot.co.uk/">Betty-the-wood-fairy</a> to see for yourself ... she really does make the most beautiful things.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oysR1MC1BuvVuCrVTGteTR1uaCoFMmqb7D-DaTb9a05g1dt_1U67-mxqK0qrUOsyqdg58UaVdFg01SXA74oYLlgsdiEGKlygEu2KVceuCmchDrm9ZMjLLUvZ0SwxqXIFOqNdcQL-gZw/s1600/10598333_871011116260277_489578748_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oysR1MC1BuvVuCrVTGteTR1uaCoFMmqb7D-DaTb9a05g1dt_1U67-mxqK0qrUOsyqdg58UaVdFg01SXA74oYLlgsdiEGKlygEu2KVceuCmchDrm9ZMjLLUvZ0SwxqXIFOqNdcQL-gZw/s1600/10598333_871011116260277_489578748_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A close-up of the hollyhocks ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4j-x_G7mc_eSu57W2roY2lNBQkBybbCl3gs5RfsTukijEOLc7tuqMDJ-eoXCEXJ2SagS2HHlsM0d0ZLMo94Gj30VSbBb9sKIJ5WoRPIrm3Ek-j9IVdhwNlPNw8HxkGhQSLxZYwR6QCQ/s1600/10632002_1465200473735190_1935712218_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4j-x_G7mc_eSu57W2roY2lNBQkBybbCl3gs5RfsTukijEOLc7tuqMDJ-eoXCEXJ2SagS2HHlsM0d0ZLMo94Gj30VSbBb9sKIJ5WoRPIrm3Ek-j9IVdhwNlPNw8HxkGhQSLxZYwR6QCQ/s1600/10632002_1465200473735190_1935712218_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and a picture of the whole thing (sorry for the quality of the pictures ... it was rather gloomy in Dotty that day)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJXIxqVXE0EakKX-4wxiMUtdO4FcDV7Qup-kd6N4ckqSdmpjOWor6wtdXPbcY5unTcMwpVuHjRBz1kRKx_LoU_XmzrPkyBv1mkxCmP3-WMN2ygDKoajFb5r-k07v5ldDiyxtOklUBDqU/s1600/10554184_819549658066267_1762229327_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJXIxqVXE0EakKX-4wxiMUtdO4FcDV7Qup-kd6N4ckqSdmpjOWor6wtdXPbcY5unTcMwpVuHjRBz1kRKx_LoU_XmzrPkyBv1mkxCmP3-WMN2ygDKoajFb5r-k07v5ldDiyxtOklUBDqU/s1600/10554184_819549658066267_1762229327_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I was also very kindly given a cd of birdsong (when I go on Betty's blog, I never fail to be surprised when birds start chirruping away ... I forget every time!) and a lovely Birthday Book, which Millie secreted away while I wasn't looking ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQrXAXhxnnyQbx8r53GDS6iDoawzCW9HWldJAiBpUqpJEUNPgUnrlFRU3PioAPMDCoRj0xBKtny94gsDbZHgcOewZbWm3nASE5Athl0ECQFwyBbjKEAVxeNuB2JiElgkrludHlSWFMP0/s1600/10616440_361682047312713_1605017359_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFQrXAXhxnnyQbx8r53GDS6iDoawzCW9HWldJAiBpUqpJEUNPgUnrlFRU3PioAPMDCoRj0xBKtny94gsDbZHgcOewZbWm3nASE5Athl0ECQFwyBbjKEAVxeNuB2JiElgkrludHlSWFMP0/s1600/10616440_361682047312713_1605017359_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thank you so much Betty! I'm really glad you were my blog partner, and loved the woodland theme. I forgot to take any pictures of my seaside themed swap before I sent it, but I gave Betty<br />
<br />
A hand-stitched picture of the seaside<br />
A hand-stitched picture with a quote Betty chose<br />
A stick of rock<br />
Kendal Mint Cake<br />
An acorn light pull (just what a wood fairy needs)<br />
Some coloured pencils<br />
Sand castle flags<br />
Magazine with a seaside theme<br />
A starfish<br />
A cuddly toy (no, not really)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmg5bFu44xuhJ635-MDRA69hpyeFNlVMbyuQTy6wLYBTQnpy1b2Zj82Z_uvp4jl9SPcDsb77ikncFJblF90j0I4sgyLHQaoLvYi5lb1pEnfqvjvt-yykw4-dZo1JqCQzf_tjLgSTXx3rw/s1600/10597253_1529248397305290_1118891569_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmg5bFu44xuhJ635-MDRA69hpyeFNlVMbyuQTy6wLYBTQnpy1b2Zj82Z_uvp4jl9SPcDsb77ikncFJblF90j0I4sgyLHQaoLvYi5lb1pEnfqvjvt-yykw4-dZo1JqCQzf_tjLgSTXx3rw/s1600/10597253_1529248397305290_1118891569_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Talking of the seaside, Dotty is now properly ensconced in her permanent position and has her own private beach area ... complete with pebbles, deck chairs, fishing nets and those ball things that have something to do with fishing, but I'm not quite sure what.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5q8D7kGRBVgmWEIvXzIl_KuC5ByXLoi7aV_sd5XGQzGdFPPf5p0QI_ifoOsSBRvvAXnYopYqq1p85J0Qkbq9-rPyc2wYAzmosHqijucUTHpvJWU_zScLfvTI9MaL7VQCY7hbyR2SZPLM/s1600/891446_696355977122925_1080534089_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5q8D7kGRBVgmWEIvXzIl_KuC5ByXLoi7aV_sd5XGQzGdFPPf5p0QI_ifoOsSBRvvAXnYopYqq1p85J0Qkbq9-rPyc2wYAzmosHqijucUTHpvJWU_zScLfvTI9MaL7VQCY7hbyR2SZPLM/s1600/891446_696355977122925_1080534089_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been escaping whenever I can, and have even taken up crocheting again ... complete bliss! The cares of the world just seem to melt away and I relax instantly. Ruby is often to be found in there too. And Harry. And Millie. But not Steve. He just doesn't get it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjzZ4h6OKC-A7vSvsuHZuhxzw-CR1wyL6szAc89ghFRiw6loO2YHxL-Q-X7WlG09deDTtggNiXMKvdoF4foTbQ9opslCXqhhu1LSeNqEB4XoQ5SEhvla1CVvH4BId9uVwQH9qTZn5ObPk/s1600/10624122_352006531621164_1246369980_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjzZ4h6OKC-A7vSvsuHZuhxzw-CR1wyL6szAc89ghFRiw6loO2YHxL-Q-X7WlG09deDTtggNiXMKvdoF4foTbQ9opslCXqhhu1LSeNqEB4XoQ5SEhvla1CVvH4BId9uVwQH9qTZn5ObPk/s1600/10624122_352006531621164_1246369980_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'll leave you with my latest commission, a lovely Dutch Dresser which was painted green. The lady said it blended in too much with her green walls so fancied a change and chose pink instead. I must admit I was a bit dubious, but was really pleased with how it turned out. It isn't really quite so pink as it looks on the picture, it's very pale, but the green shows through really nicely and provides a great contrast. And my customer loved it, so I'm very happy.<br />
<br />
Well, I'll love you and leave you as I have to put on my glad rags, but will be in touch soon!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
PS: I once appeared on Noel Edmond's Multi-Coloured Swap Shop in the seventies ... but that's another story!<br />
<br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-90469597884104597212014-08-05T09:22:00.000+01:002014-08-05T09:33:49.516+01:00Stormy Weather ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Happy August, my lovelies ... how on earth did that happen already?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJxcp9MBsjl7LS0ls8AhcglTLlBKYOGp0YEAqb_OzMRIj6YYHqGGTiCmBa-jEBHHKmaiDuvEpaudf3Vy6WfXFWB4SKnklrYsolH5_ggE0YBpJQGogjINUDkinN9RK0ltLQGpr5p_izBw/s1600/928618_681286318629619_1839829842_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJxcp9MBsjl7LS0ls8AhcglTLlBKYOGp0YEAqb_OzMRIj6YYHqGGTiCmBa-jEBHHKmaiDuvEpaudf3Vy6WfXFWB4SKnklrYsolH5_ggE0YBpJQGogjINUDkinN9RK0ltLQGpr5p_izBw/s1600/928618_681286318629619_1839829842_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, my garden sale was an absolutely fabulous event made so by the wonderful people who dropped in ... it was a meeting place for old and new customers alike and also of course, friends and family. £130 was also raised for NW Air Ambulance, just from donations in lieu of an admittance fee, so thank you all so much.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLKD3-qJG9Vr11HRFJhdiixrw3CmiENX2Rf3WgRSQ4kZBSloJInLqVqhryZ6hwuCz8thVrO9InZpt4ef9HX8gm7QTTMVrqvWtTHmO8jSjK0x3SudAmVtYftXt1GVZTTR-AmK72nKlSVg/s1600/10584581_263640027093005_1697437146_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLKD3-qJG9Vr11HRFJhdiixrw3CmiENX2Rf3WgRSQ4kZBSloJInLqVqhryZ6hwuCz8thVrO9InZpt4ef9HX8gm7QTTMVrqvWtTHmO8jSjK0x3SudAmVtYftXt1GVZTTR-AmK72nKlSVg/s1600/10584581_263640027093005_1697437146_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Saturday dawned bright and sunny, so I got up early and started lugging furniture around ... I had several big pieces: 3 dressing tables; a Dutch Dresser and plate rack, as well as the usual smaller items of chairs, side tables, etc. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VXJ5P9zweXlQRSQQRkEx3YyIQVNMVLTSKK5dmRfntb9vF7H9ZNHQELIFz-ZOtj52qkjirBU2oM4TA6jMUqqSfDWpfOJTtPD7enZEZdvJtbDqVxr-X-3gjhyphenhyphen5lPd7BerkTtxmVJra3u4/s1600/10554004_302554006588377_1352425691_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VXJ5P9zweXlQRSQQRkEx3YyIQVNMVLTSKK5dmRfntb9vF7H9ZNHQELIFz-ZOtj52qkjirBU2oM4TA6jMUqqSfDWpfOJTtPD7enZEZdvJtbDqVxr-X-3gjhyphenhyphen5lPd7BerkTtxmVJra3u4/s1600/10554004_302554006588377_1352425691_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXSXPAKQSUhDW1U4OAecY_u8rLQWP3ni_EAXOB7lH7EcOVbOfxLZmVO6cYFkkgvDyXr-vSApu4h6oE2mYEjfZ4KJOAreSYqdW_Wrpv5MJ0ezhaEc5FExIAgYu6pYs5BbeuSJRjVpnrM8I/s1600/10547152_581168608660662_1512785589_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXSXPAKQSUhDW1U4OAecY_u8rLQWP3ni_EAXOB7lH7EcOVbOfxLZmVO6cYFkkgvDyXr-vSApu4h6oE2mYEjfZ4KJOAreSYqdW_Wrpv5MJ0ezhaEc5FExIAgYu6pYs5BbeuSJRjVpnrM8I/s1600/10547152_581168608660662_1512785589_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Once the furniture was in place I was able to do my favourite thing ... tittivate!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxz25ICBze2fsizTJZEAIMIdDhG9ZQTEo3J9wqxCb8fxrr-L07kIjGjV548x7D-Xto3BlqaPc5L0bNnfL7EB4QiYhgM5UmTQeLDNR8jdEIjf6sBCWbLVeVPSm4Qdaduopg_t5ekuAoIc/s1600/10520293_265326173665067_1271971832_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxz25ICBze2fsizTJZEAIMIdDhG9ZQTEo3J9wqxCb8fxrr-L07kIjGjV548x7D-Xto3BlqaPc5L0bNnfL7EB4QiYhgM5UmTQeLDNR8jdEIjf6sBCWbLVeVPSm4Qdaduopg_t5ekuAoIc/s1600/10520293_265326173665067_1271971832_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Even Dotty got a makeover and she was decorated with vintage teasets, old board games and annuals (anyone else remember Princess Tina?) ... there wasn't a moment in the day when there wasn't someone in there, oohing and aahing over everything and singing along to the LP's being played on Millie's vintage record player.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVdumNTY3FP6NM6PZj4KQ6M72Q_lSP48g3nKdx3eQUjjtd7RTAmrGazWgPQZgCC7ThpMPgj9scMnX5WtSzv7x-fg1ZuChuGov4MhUcBNww0cXlM47O-FewBiHgFDu8GzaXXFt9tXGGl0/s1600/10549730_342281305954596_2146769300_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVdumNTY3FP6NM6PZj4KQ6M72Q_lSP48g3nKdx3eQUjjtd7RTAmrGazWgPQZgCC7ThpMPgj9scMnX5WtSzv7x-fg1ZuChuGov4MhUcBNww0cXlM47O-FewBiHgFDu8GzaXXFt9tXGGl0/s1600/10549730_342281305954596_2146769300_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
On Sunday, it was a bit cloudy, but I got on with it and it was a bit easier as everything that had been packed away related to a certain area of the garden. At ten o'clock on the dot, I stood back and surveyed the scene ... I thought it looked even better than the day before ... I opened the gate ready for the visitors and the heavens opened! It was coming down so heavily I couldn't even attempt to bring anything in until it calmed down a bit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVguHqnOKx6amDYEpiU-3tw0eUaiZJkkmCQT1w31sxeUvH5VpVusE-6KFCJN_1vCzvQkzbH15RZUk61QgXqkiYYBWK686ylNae5Z0M1fnDtDs2rTFeXey7a0tqAbg3iwzDK8PfctxqSkE/s1600/10554168_825172350828706_1874736964_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVguHqnOKx6amDYEpiU-3tw0eUaiZJkkmCQT1w31sxeUvH5VpVusE-6KFCJN_1vCzvQkzbH15RZUk61QgXqkiYYBWK686ylNae5Z0M1fnDtDs2rTFeXey7a0tqAbg3iwzDK8PfctxqSkE/s1600/10554168_825172350828706_1874736964_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
On cue, my lovely friend Ruth arrived, and we swabbed everything down with old towels and wrung out the upholstery on my chair seats. The rain came periodically throughout the day, and whilst not as busy as Saturday was still a good day with more lovely people coming through the gate, and some returning for a second visit! I'm sorry I haven't taken any pictures of the customers ... it was so busy I really didn't have the time and all my photos are taken beforehand.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xAfara0efM1b38CHX_zvSU1G6DEhgjyDsemCudGPVwoAvu7WlTpFO7dP0_sKJbTq5uUQA6cwVD5sQZV-FQicoXSlI2ZB-j3WMZYVkyHDQD5Dh_eXdpyjkhJ2F4NVUrPq5cRUaR-0C7Y/s1600/10326483_1509561002588890_1632122431_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xAfara0efM1b38CHX_zvSU1G6DEhgjyDsemCudGPVwoAvu7WlTpFO7dP0_sKJbTq5uUQA6cwVD5sQZV-FQicoXSlI2ZB-j3WMZYVkyHDQD5Dh_eXdpyjkhJ2F4NVUrPq5cRUaR-0C7Y/s1600/10326483_1509561002588890_1632122431_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We also had the pleasure of the company of the amazing Miss Becki Fishwick, who serenaded the shoppers on Sunday afternoon. Such a shame we didn't have the beachgoers passing by as we had the day before ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubHL1DIBJ2KCMgoFLZP5yKOlXLPWdrA7zZS3yR1xg30BLEWun6OAaHXCjYIK20tssadLfOgWmyXpLaqg2IhCZCVUamoalKffQOnFWOFBrQnAtohjWAf45co_RRpQx2ZtcbZCBjHHiFdY/s1600/928319_258998410955809_796896091_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubHL1DIBJ2KCMgoFLZP5yKOlXLPWdrA7zZS3yR1xg30BLEWun6OAaHXCjYIK20tssadLfOgWmyXpLaqg2IhCZCVUamoalKffQOnFWOFBrQnAtohjWAf45co_RRpQx2ZtcbZCBjHHiFdY/s1600/928319_258998410955809_796896091_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">My stock is now at an all time low, so a great excuse to go treasure-hunting once more! I can actually move in the house, and when Steve returns to work next week, I'm going to give the house a bit of a Spring Clean (well better late than never!) and revamp. Last week I took it easy after all the excitement, and as Steve is off work we've just been pottering about, doing jobs that need doing, and Steve's birthday was on Friday so I made him a cake that I'd been itching to try out after seeing it on t'internet. Didn't turn out quite as imagined but it tasted delicious, which is all that matters really!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLM2i_NCJbOLni0PsfLnYhrCXV9dKNAVapYSSCTVuiPwXTARYMnrwQcyN8wyYMeNPASkvxg47KJ2lXHuykyR3NhiFn9mj7TD2AHmJpTS6mtlvB601WwBGpdvx8SxJ_ZcJjCtdXI8p55KE/s1600/430a7fd2199811e492aaf45214ca0178_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLM2i_NCJbOLni0PsfLnYhrCXV9dKNAVapYSSCTVuiPwXTARYMnrwQcyN8wyYMeNPASkvxg47KJ2lXHuykyR3NhiFn9mj7TD2AHmJpTS6mtlvB601WwBGpdvx8SxJ_ZcJjCtdXI8p55KE/s1600/430a7fd2199811e492aaf45214ca0178_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Anyway, I'll love you and leave you my lovelies, until next time! Thanks for dropping in, you're always welcome ...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love, Claire xxx</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
PS: I really need to get a wriggle on ... Betty the Wood Fairy's swap is due in soon ... will reveal all in due course xxx<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-16047563066680713462014-07-16T07:30:00.000+01:002014-07-16T07:30:20.828+01:00Everything in the garden's lovely ... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3VfPhlFj-F0RtTVvwd3nM0JreBHJZqKNEt69tEAnNAaZJm2w51nWufFzGf3gIbT5cHxe1UN3RiC_sIJH2L8Fd6tr4PYRPl4ok92SSHr3jtvRhc8H8QeZiTia_9O3I22s4wN_0MJOVqo/s1600/Vintage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3VfPhlFj-F0RtTVvwd3nM0JreBHJZqKNEt69tEAnNAaZJm2w51nWufFzGf3gIbT5cHxe1UN3RiC_sIJH2L8Fd6tr4PYRPl4ok92SSHr3jtvRhc8H8QeZiTia_9O3I22s4wN_0MJOVqo/s1600/Vintage.jpg" height="640" width="492" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span id="goog_1309673243"></span><span id="goog_1309673244"></span>Good morning my lovelies! My house looks like a furniture warehouse (this place is like Ozzie Wood's ... as my Mam used to say) ... with pieces waiting to be magically transformed for my own event. Ooh, I'm excited. but there's a lot of work to be done. I've consulted the long-term weather forecast and hopefully it's going to be a nice weekend ... sunshine would be wonderful, but as long as it's not raining it will be fine.<br />
<br />
I trial-runned this sale last year, and it was the hottest, sunniest day of the year ... this year I'm going to do the whole weekend, so need loads of stock. When I go to fairs, I'm obviously limited by how far away the venue is, and what I can fit in my car, but by doing this I can sell larger items, such as dressers, wardrobes and dressing tables, etc. (I just hope that I sell them, I dread to think where they will go, if not!)<br />
<br />
So if you've got a couple of hours free and don't live too far away, it would be absolutely wonderful to meet you!<br />
<br />
I'm trying to catch up with all your posts, by looking at ten a day ... the trouble is, more keep appearing!<br />
<br />
Well, I'll love you and leave you, as my paintbrush is calling me ... (I have a fair this weekend too), and I hope you all have a wonderful week and that the sun shines on you ...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Much love, Claire xxx</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
PS: I've spelt Dotty's name wrong on the flyer ... I can't change it as Steve had to set up pjf, or jpd's or something or other, and I daren't ask him to do it all again!thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-10213872385987694452014-07-03T10:17:00.001+01:002014-07-03T10:27:59.859+01:00Am I only dreaming? <br />
Good morning, my lovelies!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgutG-5kKG8TX_3XgISQRaoq5PP0POL6uMFan5GyX-1vEJPAmah2VUpFqBCYxy3Z9MxqHcsYfi8LSW_i9DPFHuM4BUho8uOA3v9e_GpWQwvvsCCxiOjvIh7ud8YG4006lsXIC-DpoDGdZA/s1600/10533138_698853553496194_1786341608_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgutG-5kKG8TX_3XgISQRaoq5PP0POL6uMFan5GyX-1vEJPAmah2VUpFqBCYxy3Z9MxqHcsYfi8LSW_i9DPFHuM4BUho8uOA3v9e_GpWQwvvsCCxiOjvIh7ud8YG4006lsXIC-DpoDGdZA/s1600/10533138_698853553496194_1786341608_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is where I'm writing to you from today ... and no, before you ask, I'm not on my jollydays although it does feel like it ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDdMMP6oEISJ-CCq1IvBMPlXH240QgONmwjB3TA8wwkYAhhqp0PwnlQzaBp00_tTatzS5CGojbebPYz0NAKT12vsvf1mZN61maqflioShkntVzjErujL_YlzZp5PvWOZpMjSzDlIIhIFM/s1600/10471986_257708587763898_897839251_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDdMMP6oEISJ-CCq1IvBMPlXH240QgONmwjB3TA8wwkYAhhqp0PwnlQzaBp00_tTatzS5CGojbebPYz0NAKT12vsvf1mZN61maqflioShkntVzjErujL_YlzZp5PvWOZpMjSzDlIIhIFM/s1600/10471986_257708587763898_897839251_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Come on in ... kick off your shoes, and I'll give you a tour ...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2KzAeLsaZpo3QwRPaRdtJNJWd2yARas8fEObN5IWwI68VhEnxeWoc4I8Xt9ghmrsx-XBYEqfrp6Cm_8cjuaaZZyJhJ_ct6AN80rOfwCNNhPAiua2AGKLHBinmodD5UnpTuQ89Ns-N2Q/s1600/10507967_744209042289340_697215311_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2KzAeLsaZpo3QwRPaRdtJNJWd2yARas8fEObN5IWwI68VhEnxeWoc4I8Xt9ghmrsx-XBYEqfrp6Cm_8cjuaaZZyJhJ_ct6AN80rOfwCNNhPAiua2AGKLHBinmodD5UnpTuQ89Ns-N2Q/s1600/10507967_744209042289340_697215311_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Meet Dotty ... our new family member, and already much-loved ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV12xI0kPYfZL_x6OBwN1ghK1NFAC8y2vFMXCzo8AqbeBeZEsZP2F0pRMma7wL4le54MH8A9H2W8vdg44n3zzixtVyuzUkyZl0KZBuYAPWhGTfyx2ay540MmySWoRrsv5PvedWtxq0nZM/s1600/10483452_608473069267257_1086948555_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV12xI0kPYfZL_x6OBwN1ghK1NFAC8y2vFMXCzo8AqbeBeZEsZP2F0pRMma7wL4le54MH8A9H2W8vdg44n3zzixtVyuzUkyZl0KZBuYAPWhGTfyx2ay540MmySWoRrsv5PvedWtxq0nZM/s1600/10483452_608473069267257_1086948555_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is my favourite place to sit and watch the world go by ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3WaaUlnaGa_O-CH_J-yOkE3vQY1l4g5VNg_m5y3X3hqq9OHwE8PjwfkSb_je8kj8yIi2i4vCDx25cFmzUY8vbAcon8jm3nxV7fC5HIxFMVSQc8NCb7BSKUOQIQvBrqyJaFSh4_TineE/s1600/1389435_1502630786619226_767609027_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3WaaUlnaGa_O-CH_J-yOkE3vQY1l4g5VNg_m5y3X3hqq9OHwE8PjwfkSb_je8kj8yIi2i4vCDx25cFmzUY8vbAcon8jm3nxV7fC5HIxFMVSQc8NCb7BSKUOQIQvBrqyJaFSh4_TineE/s1600/1389435_1502630786619226_767609027_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Room to relax ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvfRyoh9T3fFV2z70FwzH0sQGYz0FGM5KsUIPSnYu7ymnEHgadtyqct1iVRZaKa3hKrLnnSKlLkwGpzoQ7bmvRiDoNqrSgw16gW-ei3KvhyphenhyphenlS0fd7GdIl_sG2_5CflzB2vbLc6vkC-EJM/s1600/10488478_626409757466005_112436712_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvfRyoh9T3fFV2z70FwzH0sQGYz0FGM5KsUIPSnYu7ymnEHgadtyqct1iVRZaKa3hKrLnnSKlLkwGpzoQ7bmvRiDoNqrSgw16gW-ei3KvhyphenhyphenlS0fd7GdIl_sG2_5CflzB2vbLc6vkC-EJM/s1600/10488478_626409757466005_112436712_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Another cosy corner ..<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQx-W8pGKC9TcSSOWJdbUBU-uCn5hFHgzU6xUu-pjsWus_k4PizRX8hP_iNlp4_0_0cYS416HtlrVZgQsBPrJRdorUEvODUiz-ckdQpCtkojNDxMZDj47jasE2QfmAlGjGlnk-OxILDQ/s1600/10514096_1443083532628280_1554732235_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQx-W8pGKC9TcSSOWJdbUBU-uCn5hFHgzU6xUu-pjsWus_k4PizRX8hP_iNlp4_0_0cYS416HtlrVZgQsBPrJRdorUEvODUiz-ckdQpCtkojNDxMZDj47jasE2QfmAlGjGlnk-OxILDQ/s1600/10514096_1443083532628280_1554732235_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and Ruby, photobombing my pretty pictures! She's settled in very well, and I can often find her in here, getting away from it all ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgHjS2v6QOfY6MQJcs189EPH3TGDuWZEQtOr7Nd3RNHT3Q-6ichnWw1hY3D17MWh35YqJWKr114ZQg-1Ped4Io7KlV3gIMuxWTdInAXtfpqjYYtrbkB92oac-TBYXEkW_z09RnIe67sCM/s1600/10518168_694593567279980_1702963870_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgHjS2v6QOfY6MQJcs189EPH3TGDuWZEQtOr7Nd3RNHT3Q-6ichnWw1hY3D17MWh35YqJWKr114ZQg-1Ped4Io7KlV3gIMuxWTdInAXtfpqjYYtrbkB92oac-TBYXEkW_z09RnIe67sCM/s1600/10518168_694593567279980_1702963870_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Time to put your feet up, and enjoy the ride (although we aren't going anywhere!) ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmowIVrb1ytgoIWuvkj1fPeRM-pZDEliYC1H0zZVrQC1Ituc453dp73CnvCerquSPJd-I0B-dyylVy4ZamZkS-lz8vYxEF7lC414EzSgU2AiEMV2kFeOEfS3tSIrY5GPF-rKBRtB-4lU/s1600/10518183_1439493303004049_333853303_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmowIVrb1ytgoIWuvkj1fPeRM-pZDEliYC1H0zZVrQC1Ituc453dp73CnvCerquSPJd-I0B-dyylVy4ZamZkS-lz8vYxEF7lC414EzSgU2AiEMV2kFeOEfS3tSIrY5GPF-rKBRtB-4lU/s1600/10518183_1439493303004049_333853303_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Floral loveliness abounding ...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveXZe-pOKsm6ai8bOQznNwEyPwa7ytD54ACeVpYepvRCvLcqvelaVSrh1DVukifISvdE8o_JS4S0M4ywIJn9bn8CvRCpcS4aZwvyXugqs4kV2j947Suo3KEdBGJng5MH5ilD7PrHN-Ag/s1600/10523269_1459939247587767_75153371_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveXZe-pOKsm6ai8bOQznNwEyPwa7ytD54ACeVpYepvRCvLcqvelaVSrh1DVukifISvdE8o_JS4S0M4ywIJn9bn8CvRCpcS4aZwvyXugqs4kV2j947Suo3KEdBGJng5MH5ilD7PrHN-Ag/s1600/10523269_1459939247587767_75153371_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
My treasures all fit in so effortlessly ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUFZGwn8gExLZA0l0dsAmH15i44bYXJBj1VRM5yFGRqFUOGF21qKf7oZxH2kyRHweX0B_Ee1BtoMVymZ0tphNzBBdtfGTY8vA0LTeigTm3GtN91daX2USFAaGL0xJFSo18Qt6J7-kx5_Q/s1600/10453970_474166329386093_1816367221_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUFZGwn8gExLZA0l0dsAmH15i44bYXJBj1VRM5yFGRqFUOGF21qKf7oZxH2kyRHweX0B_Ee1BtoMVymZ0tphNzBBdtfGTY8vA0LTeigTm3GtN91daX2USFAaGL0xJFSo18Qt6J7-kx5_Q/s1600/10453970_474166329386093_1816367221_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And life really is just a bowl of cherries! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This dream of mine, to have a caravan in the garden, has been harboured for ever ... ever since I was a little girl and used to visit a family friend's caravan by the sea. A bolt hole, somewhere to think and dream, to be creative or just simply to laze about in, doing nothing. Somewhere that is home, but not in the house ... but not properly outside either. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This dream has been made a reality by a lovely lady called Gillian. She remembered that about a year ago, I had been enquiring on Facebook if anyone had an old caravan I could buy, for a project in the garden. I wasn't lucky as the replies were all too expensive, too big, or just not what I was looking for. When passing a possible candidate parked at the roadside, I would screech to a halt, leap out and look for phone numbers, but it was never to be. Until now, and I'm so, so glad that I waited! Gillian contacted me, saying she was selling her caravan and would I like to look at it. She mentioned it was green with white spots, and decorated in Cath Kidston style. All I can say is Gillian is not prone to exaggeration and I was flabbergasted when I saw Dotty for the first time, and when the door was opened I was in seventh heaven! Steve took down the measurements and we then had to come home and measure the space we had available. I knew that if she didn't fit through the gates that was the end of it ... with about 6 inches to spare on each side, Dotty was eased into position on our drive on Sunday evening. We are busy removing raised beds on the veggie plot to finally position her as we can't get through our front door with ease any more!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Everyone who comes to see Dotty says "you've been busy, when did you get her"? and can't believe that she was already like this ... she is just perfect for my taste ... I had even painted a little step stool green with white spots only last week ... and my cushions match the roller blinds! I have been introducing small items, but can't go mad as yet, as Dotty has to be moved, so I will only have to empty her again. There is loads of storage but I am determined that she doesn't become like my craft room ... too full to open the door! My craft room can now be tidied and sorted as my old Singer can now reside in Dotty ... a perfect place to sit and sew ...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqhZW8JlfpVUaEUIEydg-mF5y3dzyBOYm9lsEG5D0XMO15Fw_JrNCqYlGwbC6-LFegIu9tFr5zylnqJL5T-FdhfvHvpw9e6WpIh9gVmZZTsNuTBkKGEWXLUjHRFNXqyF369BzLtLRJjc/s1600/10488737_303166869850381_476467941_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJqhZW8JlfpVUaEUIEydg-mF5y3dzyBOYm9lsEG5D0XMO15Fw_JrNCqYlGwbC6-LFegIu9tFr5zylnqJL5T-FdhfvHvpw9e6WpIh9gVmZZTsNuTBkKGEWXLUjHRFNXqyF369BzLtLRJjc/s1600/10488737_303166869850381_476467941_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dreams can come true ... and thank you so much Gillian for making mine happen ... I know we are going to have many, many happy years with Dotty! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Love, Claire xxx</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">PS: Thank you all for your lovely greetings and comments on Tuesday! We had a wonderful day with family and friends and the sun shone, so it was just perfect ... thanks again xxx</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-79720821323694679862014-07-01T07:16:00.001+01:002014-07-01T07:16:35.156+01:00Third finger, left hand ...<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">To Steve xxx</span></div>
<br />
25 years ago today I married the kindest, most selfless man in the world. We look so young in this picture, and totally unaware of what lay ahead of us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgaId2aDSDyL5L-aMQ28X6UoaWzBffRf5T-M3Tru65OT5dQ5lYjKFAa6Au0L8_NbypKshlERnp_mjbkkB4Bpy7Z7d-7BYfK1lN1wbg85esh6wyK8leWt8TCy1ROgtEkYmMoct-3VpBqI/s1600/cb7138fee23d11e29e7122000aaa0fd8_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgaId2aDSDyL5L-aMQ28X6UoaWzBffRf5T-M3Tru65OT5dQ5lYjKFAa6Au0L8_NbypKshlERnp_mjbkkB4Bpy7Z7d-7BYfK1lN1wbg85esh6wyK8leWt8TCy1ROgtEkYmMoct-3VpBqI/s1600/cb7138fee23d11e29e7122000aaa0fd8_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Since then we've experienced life ups and downs; joy, happiness, tragedy, comedy, excitement and grief ... I wouldn't change a thing about this journey, because it's brought us to where we are today, and there is nowhere else I want to be than by his side.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99VPQsPO369XzIOby-rlRDYh-irw52Ej6N7pXMN3mWPQ5gCSX8iT5PzoD-fZ5xtVdx2JozY68M41AxrJPzEsZUN-UJJlOChMTGEgzxYHE-RQ5oyceXqQykc_T5pniD5uEo0yZce7AWJ0/s1600/1922013_609832645755781_1175294917_a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99VPQsPO369XzIOby-rlRDYh-irw52Ej6N7pXMN3mWPQ5gCSX8iT5PzoD-fZ5xtVdx2JozY68M41AxrJPzEsZUN-UJJlOChMTGEgzxYHE-RQ5oyceXqQykc_T5pniD5uEo0yZce7AWJ0/s1600/1922013_609832645755781_1175294917_a.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Tonight we will celebrate together with a meal at a local restaurant and then on Friday our children are treating us to an evening celebration at the place where we had our wedding reception all those years ago. Feeling well and truly blessed.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love, Claire</span>thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-66380363595986263902014-06-02T08:49:00.004+01:002014-06-02T08:49:49.784+01:00I need a little time ...Good morning, my lovelies! I don't seem able to get a minute these days to catch up with you all ... I've got a big fair coming up in a fortnight, so every spare moment is spent, paintbrush in hand, titivating furniture within an inch of its life, and making and creating. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcDjdz1QI6KIoBj_RJORJgRoaJsSPJGVFVu4kNsLBzAxCt2E63QjgnLJqK3I-teGObXg3j5-UkMClMYosj-s1ybvzljbGbACIMaQTGURu1Rs3mO_y4NGQlpNEl9SZ7HGJeouHxIsGfO7U/s1600/0a7016aaa92711e3a252127d34342aaf_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcDjdz1QI6KIoBj_RJORJgRoaJsSPJGVFVu4kNsLBzAxCt2E63QjgnLJqK3I-teGObXg3j5-UkMClMYosj-s1ybvzljbGbACIMaQTGURu1Rs3mO_y4NGQlpNEl9SZ7HGJeouHxIsGfO7U/s1600/0a7016aaa92711e3a252127d34342aaf_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Once that's over, Steve and I are going to the great metropolis for a few days ... alone, just us two! Never before has this happened, as we've always had a little tribe following in our wake ... at the beginning of July we celebrate our Silver Wedding, so are treating ourselves to a nice little trip to London ... we don't really want to do the typical touristy things, as we've done that with our family ... we want to explore the hidden treasures of our capital, so if any of you lovely people have any suggestions, I'd be very grateful! We will be there Friday, Saturday and most of Sunday.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5GCCmzw_6bcVVqVWWp4FdIe4_z57O5MuwSfrIPQaAwKyf9tuRxorZvCTBKX9MT_2AI9-oKsbM3_ghwDoqjYiNMjWzB6C6LoY7UHjVWIebUg1HfZ-PEPFGe2arWO5ZGDThj6gj1adRCT0/s1600/DSCF1559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5GCCmzw_6bcVVqVWWp4FdIe4_z57O5MuwSfrIPQaAwKyf9tuRxorZvCTBKX9MT_2AI9-oKsbM3_ghwDoqjYiNMjWzB6C6LoY7UHjVWIebUg1HfZ-PEPFGe2arWO5ZGDThj6gj1adRCT0/s1600/DSCF1559.JPG" height="288" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I am missing you all, and promise that as soon as the chaos that is my life at the moment, quietens down, I will be visiting you all, and leaving so many comments, that you'll wish I stayed away! Harry is now home from Uni for the summer ... yesterday was spent emptying his room on campus and bringing back 9 months of washing, and other lovely things ... a bagful of unwashed crockery, anyone?<br />
<br />
With that delightful image in your head, I'll love you and leave you, and until next time, here's some flowers for you ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1tv_5M7O1HMVIE6Q6IbLtYegKo7b8n14sIRpjcDISCTVO8nfPc4iEXY-wmwTrrDhJxMzvyOHz09dTw6xHVi6jwXSUBgVZzfbiSK3i9MefU4qip9jr0UVC7X8-1cayvSJgDfsz83vsWA/s1600/10268978_1431235070464899_1989723613_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1tv_5M7O1HMVIE6Q6IbLtYegKo7b8n14sIRpjcDISCTVO8nfPc4iEXY-wmwTrrDhJxMzvyOHz09dTw6xHVi6jwXSUBgVZzfbiSK3i9MefU4qip9jr0UVC7X8-1cayvSJgDfsz83vsWA/s1600/10268978_1431235070464899_1989723613_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love, Claire xxx</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
PS: Can't wait to find out what you've all been doing xx<br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-20650728483302849782014-05-16T08:46:00.001+01:002014-05-16T08:46:14.716+01:00You are my sunshine ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h1 class="quoteText" style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>“She turned to the sunlight</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> And shook her yellow head,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And whispered to her neighbour:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> "Winter is dead.”</i></div>
</h1>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">― </span><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/81466.A_A_Milne" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">A.A. Milne</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">, </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/3355608" style="color: #666600; text-decoration: none;">When We Were Very Young</a></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDnUKz52nHb5X7UHy2bPxnBIg0omI0bJuGZpIqtO69fFGp9x_PlEJayXQxN6D-RhsFQdJN9iHmyp0zW0-yDp2utWNO9GajxyunVT7PqYEEZuYS77lOt_6HnZezozjHR0CgD0OuDErRIV8/s1600/IMG_1585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDnUKz52nHb5X7UHy2bPxnBIg0omI0bJuGZpIqtO69fFGp9x_PlEJayXQxN6D-RhsFQdJN9iHmyp0zW0-yDp2utWNO9GajxyunVT7PqYEEZuYS77lOt_6HnZezozjHR0CgD0OuDErRIV8/s320/IMG_1585.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hope that the sun shines for you this weekend ... see you soon my lovelies!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love, Claire xxx</span></div>
thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-66367755623914283282014-05-07T08:21:00.000+01:002014-05-07T10:59:19.022+01:00Make it easy on yourself ...Good morning my lovelies!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVVkPlztqIl2LNWCMQ57gnSW5m-qPoJl16D7noPI23QHln77PT18VC7GDZ71VDJ_ilYL8Mh_aah6Z18V0IlnqauNG48sd5174CvfhyMSSnO3gMj5oKVnR5dN-FbGZD3Qd0Bo-23HUjuA/s1600/37e4d8dcb8c211e3a0b11203d828c6cf_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhVVkPlztqIl2LNWCMQ57gnSW5m-qPoJl16D7noPI23QHln77PT18VC7GDZ71VDJ_ilYL8Mh_aah6Z18V0IlnqauNG48sd5174CvfhyMSSnO3gMj5oKVnR5dN-FbGZD3Qd0Bo-23HUjuA/s1600/37e4d8dcb8c211e3a0b11203d828c6cf_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's a bit of a blustery day here on my little island, nothing on the calendar, so a stay-at-home sort of day I think ... if I've got nothing planned I don't mind this kind of day, now and again of course ... all the time would be a bit tedious. I've been moving furniture round and sprucing it up, as you know what they say "a change is as good as a rest" and I feel like I've decorated or done something really drastic as it all looks fresh and .... different.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMy6ap27dmU7Gi8893cx-nkvhxwsEPhkinP9prVFcb3Ca9aaxNFEEZderDBp5dFiX-CLTodAykAFU01No9_7XW6nQge_AC4sXxFP70elke2PWzMisSX2Tpv9Vngb67rQveR_CQFAE0Mg/s1600/10249119_688541927874036_1124024472_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMy6ap27dmU7Gi8893cx-nkvhxwsEPhkinP9prVFcb3Ca9aaxNFEEZderDBp5dFiX-CLTodAykAFU01No9_7XW6nQge_AC4sXxFP70elke2PWzMisSX2Tpv9Vngb67rQveR_CQFAE0Mg/s1600/10249119_688541927874036_1124024472_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The cupboard above was a lovely find from Freegle, (I already had the top cabinet) ... a new coat of paint, a swish of wax and some careful shabbying, and voila! ... a complete new look for ... well, nothing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgOAeoBMiXWVnpvvHgxtjxtWv5IUWb6zyCC6x_hDvv3AK3KEAh1mswt06IZ_Vmdo3Wlb2bXOk43qEFqItIo1jZWNFWWNbE5wtTY7LxSiu7gGmV5qSg1-h7N8ATucEDcOFnvSkG835qeRI/s1600/10261170_1418302778432871_857834136_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgOAeoBMiXWVnpvvHgxtjxtWv5IUWb6zyCC6x_hDvv3AK3KEAh1mswt06IZ_Vmdo3Wlb2bXOk43qEFqItIo1jZWNFWWNbE5wtTY7LxSiu7gGmV5qSg1-h7N8ATucEDcOFnvSkG835qeRI/s1600/10261170_1418302778432871_857834136_s.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been pondering about simplifying chores (to free up time to do more pleasurable activities, like pottering about with phrases and needles and reels of Sylko) and I'd like to share my top tips with you for making life just that bit easier. My husband thinks I have chronic OCD, and that may not be far from the truth, but hey, if it makes me more organised with very little effort, that can only be a good thing, can't it? I have mentioned some of these tips before, so if you've already seen them, I apologise!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYlN2o7yFIdnUTLQ-wESXygpYdCOGaHhFU2ZE3TSRmbw-6jaR4l7YoUkx7sl_lKmJlLHkVlXzcrTlco0wFhW0PsPRC2dRbTQ1ytRTuvZwZSVLN1B27oETKYpWoQRu1fhWVyn0jswJ_9GU/s1600/f5c1672cbe6b11e38ddc1234b8e36ac6_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYlN2o7yFIdnUTLQ-wESXygpYdCOGaHhFU2ZE3TSRmbw-6jaR4l7YoUkx7sl_lKmJlLHkVlXzcrTlco0wFhW0PsPRC2dRbTQ1ytRTuvZwZSVLN1B27oETKYpWoQRu1fhWVyn0jswJ_9GU/s1600/f5c1672cbe6b11e38ddc1234b8e36ac6_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Top Tips</span></b></i></div>
<ul>
<li>ALWAYS have a 1 litre spray bottle, filled with plain tap water and 2 tsps of bicarbonate of soda handy. This mixture is invaluable for cleaning your oven <a href="http://thriftwood114.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/tuesday-tip-spring-cleaning-special-au.html">as mentioned here,</a> but also works on any burnt on spills (old or new) on the hob. Just spray on and leave a few seconds. Wipe off and it will completely disappear.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJaa2clFipOEPUYiQ9OwxTACUSTGF8qgqi82YPoTVUxtxePoOFH1O0KYCSkTwHxaiMddFjInRsoTI3K_54VXLxvQZuFpUY6vrhsgPsKhTObnO5gug0QQy_N_fvPaqZqf0B7n6Y-rjIxQg/s320/024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJaa2clFipOEPUYiQ9OwxTACUSTGF8qgqi82YPoTVUxtxePoOFH1O0KYCSkTwHxaiMddFjInRsoTI3K_54VXLxvQZuFpUY6vrhsgPsKhTObnO5gug0QQy_N_fvPaqZqf0B7n6Y-rjIxQg/s320/024.JPG" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>ALWAYS have a 1 litre spray bottle, filled 2/3 with tap water, the remainder with white vinegar, and a tiny drop of washing up liquid. This concoction is marvellous for cleaning bathrooms, but gives brilliant results on windows and mirrors too ... spray on, wipe off and then polish with scrunched up newspaper ... dazzling results!</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnfsbMJ_LqHjMNxORW9L19rPyuYu4YOCVSQmovUrakRS9qLXqYWB8DNhMmnI7zZsIKalt4ovr23muatsCr4HwI7S2FI0_tgMM8V-8afyMroNm5zvh2FqVoA-V1GZi8QwBPFMlCr3asSRg/s320/86b274fa27fb11e288bf22000a9f13cb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnfsbMJ_LqHjMNxORW9L19rPyuYu4YOCVSQmovUrakRS9qLXqYWB8DNhMmnI7zZsIKalt4ovr23muatsCr4HwI7S2FI0_tgMM8V-8afyMroNm5zvh2FqVoA-V1GZi8QwBPFMlCr3asSRg/s320/86b274fa27fb11e288bf22000a9f13cb.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>When filling the dishwasher, try to put like with like as you go, ie, plates of same size, mugs, bowls, etc ... then all you need to do is pick them out in one fell swoop and put in cupboard, without having to sort through them. The same goes for cutlery ... if you put just forks in one compartment of the cutlery basket, they can just all be put straight into drawer. The same goes for knives, spoons, etc. More hygienic too ... especially if the children are helping!</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFY7rcVCCQy_4-sgV4i5hj1YPTTbBJ0H7DikwJMwj9rgz8a66vwSVyqpJXxXWufLDwKIws1GeRQJuIpiEZTrcUkN7_irx5VsspGYp21DO_EA0ptqYQQMKwosBEdMf_81KotWaiu6N9vs/s320/autumn+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFY7rcVCCQy_4-sgV4i5hj1YPTTbBJ0H7DikwJMwj9rgz8a66vwSVyqpJXxXWufLDwKIws1GeRQJuIpiEZTrcUkN7_irx5VsspGYp21DO_EA0ptqYQQMKwosBEdMf_81KotWaiu6N9vs/s320/autumn+032.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>While you're doing the 'big' shop, try to put similar items together into the shopping trolley. Place tins together (preferably at the bottom), bread, fridge stuff, frozen items, etc. Load them onto the belt in this way and then when you pack them at the other end they will be in this order. Bag them up separately, ie, tins in one bag (careful, it's heavy!), fridge stuff in another, toiletries in another, etc. When you get home the chore of putting away is a lot easier and this is were you can delegate ... bag of toiletries in the bathroom, veg in the rack, freezer stuff straight into the freezer, without having to sort through every item and making unnecessary journeys. It might sound complicated, but trust me, it will soon become second nature.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7XuvLlRbOKI5OQC5WoA6mjr7Q6MIT4lyOJCG-48bOPf9P3oI7c-V1grcRWrldFMD94gSyXpWL6snnjmup_dQgsSpFh4qiBZTMuWF_8QWmp83b-ptmF7H7tMugtQu_l8j_jReZSDZ5di8/s1600/500fb2aea9c911e3969a0ae159d857b1_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7XuvLlRbOKI5OQC5WoA6mjr7Q6MIT4lyOJCG-48bOPf9P3oI7c-V1grcRWrldFMD94gSyXpWL6snnjmup_dQgsSpFh4qiBZTMuWF_8QWmp83b-ptmF7H7tMugtQu_l8j_jReZSDZ5di8/s1600/500fb2aea9c911e3969a0ae159d857b1_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>After you've washed your bedding, keep one pillowcase aside and fold the duvet cover, remaining pillowcases and sheets and place inside the saved pillowcase. This way you always have a complete matching set to hand ... no more turning the airing cupboard upside down looking for a matching pillowcase! They stack into neat piles too ...</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTTbIH9KeB0ctv7BLJ9lPVE6eSwur0uOebC4FYhVB-kbaXiRKgd" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTTbIH9KeB0ctv7BLJ9lPVE6eSwur0uOebC4FYhVB-kbaXiRKgd" width="250" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Staying with the 'laundry' theme, when you go on holiday, take some bin bags or large carrier bags with you and sort laundry each day. This saves the mammoth task of turning 6 suitcases onto the kitchen floor and sifting through 2 weeks of smelly washing. I did this once, and vowed never again! All you need to do, when you get back, is take each bag out at a time and it's not such a big deal.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzyxp3Qb9y6B4vIPx_XUyytYYTEI6khHcPukfRutHC2G7B4Xi5181OYunmXBh9Ma5ILEgnejcXi9gyaMpg0OY0abofdZMNwEsf-IawQQ1b7oL38uPgsHDy5yw4JvNMmXJpCfzCbHt9BDg/s1600/f5c1672cbe6b11e38ddc1234b8e36ac6_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzyxp3Qb9y6B4vIPx_XUyytYYTEI6khHcPukfRutHC2G7B4Xi5181OYunmXBh9Ma5ILEgnejcXi9gyaMpg0OY0abofdZMNwEsf-IawQQ1b7oL38uPgsHDy5yw4JvNMmXJpCfzCbHt9BDg/s1600/f5c1672cbe6b11e38ddc1234b8e36ac6_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li>If you're having a 'big' celebration meal, such as Christmas Dinner, or even just a family get-together Sunday roast, about an hour before it's due to be served, place the plates and serving dishes in the dishwasher and put on a quick wash. Don't open the door until ready to serve and everything will be piping hot and saves space in your oven. Put your gravy in a teapot, much less dribblesome, and keeps warmer longer too! (And looks very pretty, especially if dressed in a vintage cosy).</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6MK-4tHbtd1V67_jYWYoVIbqh1i4gQECnMKKNHQExDS2Z6H5aysZ4S90L96vJ1FBpySkSB7nIC5IsCZtKI51WSRnyj-S59NYKvVvoycEgofrp1z-YmADFxlAVvcrKaeK-caTeJTnLRo/s1600/e8eb5a74737811e2bd9a22000a9f14ba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC6MK-4tHbtd1V67_jYWYoVIbqh1i4gQECnMKKNHQExDS2Z6H5aysZ4S90L96vJ1FBpySkSB7nIC5IsCZtKI51WSRnyj-S59NYKvVvoycEgofrp1z-YmADFxlAVvcrKaeK-caTeJTnLRo/s1600/e8eb5a74737811e2bd9a22000a9f14ba.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>If you break a glass or china object, after you've picked up the big pieces, take a piece of fresh bread and wipe over the surface ... the bread will pick up the little splinters that you may otherwise miss.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Rgx5ORMRHvUhhi4J7PybsipyGh6TbqsKKhiel5c9cYjotwxK8lIkChVjEwSFH6DR1hmBppQvCRZFXRFsUQ84wJjjWmpNkoxgssBONnqxMl1jCPTRVRqiMYt3qunbhPJTBMwApfzQCgs/s1600/e830395a1e7e11e2b55122000a1f9be7_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Rgx5ORMRHvUhhi4J7PybsipyGh6TbqsKKhiel5c9cYjotwxK8lIkChVjEwSFH6DR1hmBppQvCRZFXRFsUQ84wJjjWmpNkoxgssBONnqxMl1jCPTRVRqiMYt3qunbhPJTBMwApfzQCgs/s1600/e830395a1e7e11e2b55122000a1f9be7_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>If you drop a raw egg, rather than try to pick it up and risk spreading the mess, just give it a blast with a hairdryer ... this will cook the egg making it easy to pick up and dispose of ... or give to the dog so not wasted ...</li>
</ul>
<div>
I didn't think I'd be able to do ten, but I've racked my brains, and here's top tip number 10 ...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVCIQH81t4g3aIXCbuOr9ay7grj9naytfEhR6aS1Q6h8sy1jwsFlBNhLfPg9marC7r-5fx9pajb9BHL0cnkA77tCxtuDUjPvmGy82AEA7VFA1DNGEm9csW4XVbB9gRN8V2D2VE8uneHu0/s1600/10326433_537601529694046_987866689_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVCIQH81t4g3aIXCbuOr9ay7grj9naytfEhR6aS1Q6h8sy1jwsFlBNhLfPg9marC7r-5fx9pajb9BHL0cnkA77tCxtuDUjPvmGy82AEA7VFA1DNGEm9csW4XVbB9gRN8V2D2VE8uneHu0/s1600/10326433_537601529694046_987866689_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>If fussy visitors are coming at very short notice, say an hour, there isn't time to spring clean, so just get a carrier bag, put everything in it that's cluttering the place, plump up the cushions, tidy papers and magazines, and pick a big bunch of flowers from the garden and light candles. They'll be so taken with the welcoming ambience that they won't notice the dustballs under the sofa ...</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
After all that hard work, put your feet up, pick up your favourite magazine ... and relax with a treat. Enjoy! You deserve it ...</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4DmzNJBrzN-1dxH237vGyQsHwUcNIjfcjc9QNiddJ8LbnOec9SMTmSnuvkgSU4b4_k-pVmcApjOoeOTDvVYNI4OIX7bEfANU33qZfoZxmu7qOXEYqWHZ1vviEUyf3myBiD-h4OdEXXHY/s1600/1172658_675548305834035_128647984_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4DmzNJBrzN-1dxH237vGyQsHwUcNIjfcjc9QNiddJ8LbnOec9SMTmSnuvkgSU4b4_k-pVmcApjOoeOTDvVYNI4OIX7bEfANU33qZfoZxmu7qOXEYqWHZ1vviEUyf3myBiD-h4OdEXXHY/s1600/1172658_675548305834035_128647984_s.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hope you all have a Wonderful Wednesday ...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span></div>
</div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-VZ5pK9WxbS0%2FUHJ2kiAWJdI%2FAAAAAAAABkE%2FG2mXv1hpFzE%2Fs320%2F024.JPG&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJaa2clFipOEPUYiQ9OwxTACUSTGF8qgqi82YPoTVUxtxePoOFH1O0KYCSkTwHxaiMddFjInRsoTI3K_54VXLxvQZuFpUY6vrhsgPsKhTObnO5gug0QQy_N_fvPaqZqf0B7n6Y-rjIxQg/s320/024.JPG" -->thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-17010769899278936982014-04-25T07:57:00.000+01:002014-04-25T07:57:59.896+01:00Annabel too ...My finger has been hovering over the 'publish' button for what seems an age ... but Thriftwood is about me, how I feel, and what is happening in my life ... a journal for me to delve back into, and to remember ....<br />
<br />
The 'About Me' on my sidebar tells you that I am a mother of five wonderful children, but perhaps you may have noticed that only four of them are ever mentioned?<br />
<br />
Today is our darling girl's 18th birthday ... a bittersweet day - there will be no champagne, no pink birthday cake, no new dress or party ... there will be no excitement, no friends and family dropping in with cards and presents ... no celebrations.<br />
<br />
Our first daughter was born 18 years ago ... after a textbook pregnancy, she arrived quickly, 2 days past her due date, weighing 9lbs 2oz, with a head of dark curls and rosebud lips... perfect in every way, but she had already left us.<br />
<br />
Although with us for such a short time, she taught me so much ... we already had three gorgeous boys, and although I know that everyone thought I was hoping for a girl, I really didn't mind. I had always wanted four children, and it didn't matter one bit whether they were pink or blue. I didn't know I was having a girl, that part just wasn't important. She taught me to never take anything for granted again, she taught me for a while to be patient, the little trivialities in life just weren't important any more, and she taught me to be so thankful for what I have, as all too quickly it can disappear.<br />
<br />
The following year my beautiful second daughter Millie was born.<br />
<br />
So today, there will be no champagne, no pink birthday cake, no new dress or party ... there will be no excitement, no friends and family dropping in with cards and presents, but in my heart I will be celebrating that my precious Annabel was once a part of me ...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love, Claire xxx</span><br />
<br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-65631659090814893542014-04-14T09:39:00.000+01:002014-04-14T16:59:31.448+01:00The Tale of the Little Red HenA heartwarming parable of triumph over adversity, a happy story with a sad ending ...<br />
<br />
Once upon a time, long long ago, the little red hen awoke in her shed, along with several thousand other birds ... it was survival of the fittest and she wasn't really the fittest, but today was her lucky day. It was mid-afternoon (it was really hard to tell as night and day weren't apparent in the shed, where lights shone brightly day in and day out) and the little red hen was plucked unceremoniously from the nesting box which she had escaped to, for a bit of peace and quiet ...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2013/11/15/article-2508173-196418FF00000578-486_634x389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2013/11/15/article-2508173-196418FF00000578-486_634x389.jpg" height="196" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you Daily Mail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The farmer took her and 2 other inmates (carried by their feet, upside down, in a most undignified manner) through the doors, where a small crowd of people were gathered, waiting anxiously. The 3 little hens, dazed and traumatised were put into a large dog cage (oh, the shame!) and placed into the back of a car, while money exchanged hands. Their new life was beginning ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ak1.picdn.net/shutterstock/videos/4893965/preview/stock-footage-tracking-shot-looking-up-at-treetops-as-they-pass-overhead-fall-colors-on-display-branches-and.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ak1.picdn.net/shutterstock/videos/4893965/preview/stock-footage-tracking-shot-looking-up-at-treetops-as-they-pass-overhead-fall-colors-on-display-branches-and.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
They were driven over bumpy roads, and from the confines of their new prison, could see rooftops, trees and blue, blue skies. Eventually they came to a stop and they were carried in the cage into a garden where their new home was awaiting them. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1zOWXar61OkO2HgVCArqv4aDu4h9FFJ0ofRYvLd4BFSUsu5OG92N8UgGf8AVqpQ6NS2A9GXQxFTFI_s1ptk99Db82HxPC3oPXY9qOcgzdxgO4WdPPqjaIPk7uk_SQE2rhJRBkqpLc6c/s1600/henhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1zOWXar61OkO2HgVCArqv4aDu4h9FFJ0ofRYvLd4BFSUsu5OG92N8UgGf8AVqpQ6NS2A9GXQxFTFI_s1ptk99Db82HxPC3oPXY9qOcgzdxgO4WdPPqjaIPk7uk_SQE2rhJRBkqpLc6c/s1600/henhouse.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The cage door was opened, and the little red hens stayed huddled in one corner for quite a long while ... then one ventured out, closely followed by the next and eventually Florence (the little red hen who this story is all about) tentatively emerged and surveyed her surroundings. She had only ever walked on hard concrete, and the feeling of warm, soft earth beneath her feet was a strange sensation. There was so much space, no jostling, no noise, except the sweet sound of birdsong coming from the trees.<br />
<br />
Florence was a very sorry sight ... she was by far the worse of the 3 birds. She was thin and scrawny, her comb flopped sadly, her behind was red and bald from being pecked by the other chickens in the shed. The colour red attracts chickens, and it wasn't long before her new housemates, Maudie (Attilla the Hen) and her sidekick, Mabel made poor Florence's life a misery by pecking the red areas and making her bleed, creating a cycle of torment. Florence was confined to a separate area of the henhouse, and gradually, with good food and fresh air, she flourished and filled out and rejoined her friends, but I'm sure you know the saying, two's company, three's a crowd ... this certainly applied in the case of this little gang.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTR222FyjEGRSKiz9YG32XH3T57EV9OstUtzIQ28AXlRWj1TQW9Y514nIKdkjSLBoDkN2ky6hpsZ-ELRJbtuvT5SCl5iBfSiyP7G-q3GS7UAnH3L0tv0L89lwAfFJO_NQrBkuQhLHqF-4/s1600/chickens+in+the+snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTR222FyjEGRSKiz9YG32XH3T57EV9OstUtzIQ28AXlRWj1TQW9Y514nIKdkjSLBoDkN2ky6hpsZ-ELRJbtuvT5SCl5iBfSiyP7G-q3GS7UAnH3L0tv0L89lwAfFJO_NQrBkuQhLHqF-4/s1600/chickens+in+the+snow.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Florence, at rear, Mabel and then Maudie, Top Hen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The rescuers were richly rewarded every day with beautiful brown eggs, the yolks the colour of sunflowers, and much tastier than those bought in supermarkets! The girls laid so many eggs, they had to be given away ... there was just no stopping them ... Except there was ... about a year after their rescue the egg supply dwindled, and more or less stopped altogether, because, Dear Reader. battery hens are regarded as machines for the first 12 to 18 months of their lives, and this constant production takes its toll.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bJ__Qm4eBeI3ggPmHkwlRVzf_J1O-7DVdabd09nGUmfzdb2kwl8FM0CTdINMeoiC4hwrRXSWsWmWjCn-i-uvLpPG8kpc1CXOt994hzzGYsYnIHQEQbJfMCCCccTCqUBnytQpmdd2KeI/s1600/e830395a1e7e11e2b55122000a1f9be7_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4bJ__Qm4eBeI3ggPmHkwlRVzf_J1O-7DVdabd09nGUmfzdb2kwl8FM0CTdINMeoiC4hwrRXSWsWmWjCn-i-uvLpPG8kpc1CXOt994hzzGYsYnIHQEQbJfMCCCccTCqUBnytQpmdd2KeI/s1600/e830395a1e7e11e2b55122000a1f9be7_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
A brand new henhouse was bought and placed in the sunny back garden, an area familiar to the girls and they moved into their new retirement home, but still liked to visit their old home on a daily basis, just to check it was still there. One day, during their checking out process, they saw to their horror that 3 shiny sleek young hussies had decided to squat in their old home ... oh the horror was unspeakable! They ran to the kitchen door, banging on it with their beaks to alert the rescuers and tell them of this terrible event ... this went on for some time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8-W2xbgWRk-86Oo-1WwczI16G-VFOime3MLzIfvFeEZhYAuvfNKyzv975EyObQpzyHMs2cUu1L1euU3ySzoHPYiUKXHLXSuM551Ci59cr1A_Rt-9S7AVg1DapMurFpn61VYAto-bR4o/s1600/a067ba0c453511e2b5c422000a1f9a53_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ8-W2xbgWRk-86Oo-1WwczI16G-VFOime3MLzIfvFeEZhYAuvfNKyzv975EyObQpzyHMs2cUu1L1euU3ySzoHPYiUKXHLXSuM551Ci59cr1A_Rt-9S7AVg1DapMurFpn61VYAto-bR4o/s1600/a067ba0c453511e2b5c422000a1f9a53_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
One sad morning, poor Maudie passed away, it was very sudden, she was Top Hen and leader of the little pack ... Mabel mourned her best friend, but Florence (who was secretly relieved) took her under her wing and they became bosom buddies, until Mabel joined Maudie, under Grandad's peony.<br />
<br />
The rescuers had to make a decision now, integrate Florence with the 'squatters' or let her live her days out quietly and probably very lonely ...<br />
<br />
Florence was having none of it, and flew onto the gate, in no-man's land, beyond which was her old home, and thought to herself "if you can't beat them, join them" ... and so she did! Well my Dear reader, the change in Florence was remarkable, as the oldest and most venerable of this Hen Party, she became Top Hen and her leadership was legendary. Always first out of the run in the morning, the others following her lead and instruction. No-one dared touch food before Florence, they had to await her permission ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrpjSQrH_a6ZHKHzBIBikj4rRPnrG-Sp0L1vFCSCq6D3EcwVZ5_Vf9g2v39ZiJbmL86PXiQHuOB6RWQX7Urw_sUvqP7vv96oeRz9gNGfRFlczot99lE8t1KaYOtkch3tA-21VMzIx0Qc/s1600/558b48c05fc311e2bfc622000a9d0dda_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrpjSQrH_a6ZHKHzBIBikj4rRPnrG-Sp0L1vFCSCq6D3EcwVZ5_Vf9g2v39ZiJbmL86PXiQHuOB6RWQX7Urw_sUvqP7vv96oeRz9gNGfRFlczot99lE8t1KaYOtkch3tA-21VMzIx0Qc/s1600/558b48c05fc311e2bfc622000a9d0dda_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
And then there were three ... Florence had outlived her 2 counterparts, and one of the flighty young birds! By now she was about six years old, which is a good age for a rescue bird, considering the hard life she had had before.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZNxhhVFS3sthZwnG9e7JaJxiuSgiEuJWDS_wnvl5j5y_-eHWorzuY8W4QuAnG6fg6eY6ZC9UbmvH9mU7dWXGNUH8xxYnkdbfaH1Tc0_sdbgy55awJFY_GX4UFvzyJg5Jg7-n5rGkKLM/s1600/c0e43cf0355f11e2830722000a1f9d75_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZNxhhVFS3sthZwnG9e7JaJxiuSgiEuJWDS_wnvl5j5y_-eHWorzuY8W4QuAnG6fg6eY6ZC9UbmvH9mU7dWXGNUH8xxYnkdbfaH1Tc0_sdbgy55awJFY_GX4UFvzyJg5Jg7-n5rGkKLM/s1600/c0e43cf0355f11e2830722000a1f9d75_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Florence went to the big henhouse in the sky on Saturday after a short illness ... I am writing this story looking out of the window at my Dad's peony, which is just beginning to bud, the final resting place of a very fine hen ... she is sadly mourned by Audrey and Marilyn, who are finding it difficult to make a decision of their own and life has lost a little bit of colour as our hen flock of two is now monochrome. I am missing my little redhead who always ran to me in her mad fashion, at the slightest rustle of a bread bag.<br />
<br />
Goodbye, sweet Florence ... Leader of Hens!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzXjk7Dly8jSzoLRIuZ-JFpTGmYT-qTEYrlwLPgIWlGvM4pH7_8274FEK-0ieOsRRTHmLwcc4IqhUhUh_vWkkcaL6ZmWPKF09GZc5bdMZK4QQDe-i3Q6xgDKCFNM4seUCT3UMvX3bmbF4/s1600/9d2abd8a810311e2bbd822000a9f15da_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzXjk7Dly8jSzoLRIuZ-JFpTGmYT-qTEYrlwLPgIWlGvM4pH7_8274FEK-0ieOsRRTHmLwcc4IqhUhUh_vWkkcaL6ZmWPKF09GZc5bdMZK4QQDe-i3Q6xgDKCFNM4seUCT3UMvX3bmbF4/s1600/9d2abd8a810311e2bbd822000a9f15da_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The moral of this story is that the underdog may one day reign supreme ...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Lots of Love, Claire xxx</span><br />
<br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-50611413568796609272014-04-09T15:12:00.000+01:002014-04-09T15:12:59.601+01:00Picture Day Hello my lovelies, hope you're all having a Wonderful Wednesday? Ever since my working hours reduced quite drastically, I don't seem to have enough hours in the day to get things done! I'm a childminder, and now I'm not as tied to the school run as much as I was, I still get up at the same time and try to get chores out of the way by 9am, then I have the day to do what I like ... if only! I'd just like to take you through my day ... in pictures.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0UYpW4bQoBpb-IOiEjOLoHD7pgALer1D6Oxs9ZA7OFcIrqflV6Dw0gFZ2Q5q2CPAKqHYt6KsVgHaWXE9qtzalRRpqOXRJrv9TX6m302ZLfa-woBx-gIe5SQ8XAhGxhLQusibDY1rQ3EI/s1600/f2340a1cbd9711e393fe0002c9926ab4_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0UYpW4bQoBpb-IOiEjOLoHD7pgALer1D6Oxs9ZA7OFcIrqflV6Dw0gFZ2Q5q2CPAKqHYt6KsVgHaWXE9qtzalRRpqOXRJrv9TX6m302ZLfa-woBx-gIe5SQ8XAhGxhLQusibDY1rQ3EI/s1600/f2340a1cbd9711e393fe0002c9926ab4_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When Steve has gone to work, and Millie to college, I make the beds, run round tidying up ... picking things up and putting them where they belong; collect washing and crockery that has been deposited around the house, and put into the corresponding machines. If I know what we're having for tea I'll prepare this or put something into the slow cooker.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9GBV2WkaDCbhM2Ajiw1sUCwnJbn-5o50yMvWJKMz5UNqeKH6iiLnSQzWv2geVgL_imhHZID4nKI37yuy5fvwOuBYq0I36fDNwNqsTKAxjx2NxnGWmbOht8XLkK2xK4cFaaL_j850-Hw/s1600/cb1258f234ae11e3b4bf22000aa80174_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9GBV2WkaDCbhM2Ajiw1sUCwnJbn-5o50yMvWJKMz5UNqeKH6iiLnSQzWv2geVgL_imhHZID4nKI37yuy5fvwOuBYq0I36fDNwNqsTKAxjx2NxnGWmbOht8XLkK2xK4cFaaL_j850-Hw/s1600/cb1258f234ae11e3b4bf22000aa80174_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The time this frees up later in the day is invaluable ... I don't have to worry about getting a meal on the table on time because it's done. If I haven't already done so, I'll have breakfast. By this time I am getting looked at ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKoKNr2F7A2gA-H9flL6uKQHUyl0uJ2XaW7Pc4cXQFFK__r9y1_RtfYUtHcpzexBMEWTttI6na0ot14VHkKEfrj2GbXDbkR1F9jdX5amAlnfT7qU7Oukx_js_D5UKq2GjAaCb1L1tJPGI/s1600/ed8042d0a87811e3b0830ebe97e3f2db_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKoKNr2F7A2gA-H9flL6uKQHUyl0uJ2XaW7Pc4cXQFFK__r9y1_RtfYUtHcpzexBMEWTttI6na0ot14VHkKEfrj2GbXDbkR1F9jdX5amAlnfT7qU7Oukx_js_D5UKq2GjAaCb1L1tJPGI/s1600/ed8042d0a87811e3b0830ebe97e3f2db_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Walkies around my little island is a treat when the sun is shining but not so great when the wind is roaring and the rain relentlessly pouring from the grey skies ... people seem much more friendlier on a sunny day too! If it's a nice day, once I get home I'll hang the washing out,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkaDUxcXsAJNHjtfdvWAnOdgJglzs4TfB8FIrpVE9aRq-WHl7oIffM7YrL_p0VpmrpuF914Rg04HGW2bjZH8s6bUsf57Ma8FYVPtXBRvQuGXtfESJEMJ4v80C-NV0_3BE6IrBS7CU_BU/s1600/500fb2aea9c911e3969a0ae159d857b1_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkaDUxcXsAJNHjtfdvWAnOdgJglzs4TfB8FIrpVE9aRq-WHl7oIffM7YrL_p0VpmrpuF914Rg04HGW2bjZH8s6bUsf57Ma8FYVPtXBRvQuGXtfESJEMJ4v80C-NV0_3BE6IrBS7CU_BU/s1600/500fb2aea9c911e3969a0ae159d857b1_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and feed the girls ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtamTSYnDrr-cgbV84BhuzX4zPh7zg43IS_Izb7sE96TjK6dbP_2H0ozHzaYq1E1xH8HyepForqyALdX_4yfIJc6SGWWbafDFI234dTBqps6s947nAz6yY74XumPVQWSGJ2FHjgIudjNE/s1600/a52e66f0801b11e2a3eb22000a1fbdaa_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtamTSYnDrr-cgbV84BhuzX4zPh7zg43IS_Izb7sE96TjK6dbP_2H0ozHzaYq1E1xH8HyepForqyALdX_4yfIJc6SGWWbafDFI234dTBqps6s947nAz6yY74XumPVQWSGJ2FHjgIudjNE/s1600/a52e66f0801b11e2a3eb22000a1fbdaa_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I do love to be at home all day ... I know this isn't for everyone, and I am lucky that I can do this ... but I do work hard, honestly!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7xNRAlUkeaUk2i52W5050C0NSW6x3x_n5nagmH_CS_AbIaAvNHFzRdymIrnKU9qGNHe5c-ks2-xjLNSGk_EmRBcjgxUvrGhmt3__AnsrikK6mpK4HMj3KqiQTgo3liTp2jbif6vr-ik/s1600/37e4d8dcb8c211e3a0b11203d828c6cf_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7xNRAlUkeaUk2i52W5050C0NSW6x3x_n5nagmH_CS_AbIaAvNHFzRdymIrnKU9qGNHe5c-ks2-xjLNSGk_EmRBcjgxUvrGhmt3__AnsrikK6mpK4HMj3KqiQTgo3liTp2jbif6vr-ik/s1600/37e4d8dcb8c211e3a0b11203d828c6cf_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is how I'd like to spend my day ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacVS82cmJRJi5jUECWnt1AOHhUD26J9X4-PQdKq7fP2fiUUHxUO7hu1opmBTQnuz6C3uLG-OaE27PY4_YjmytVa4o2btPzZogzE7ZJ2sT5Npa48jbTUN7-QeSLoVa2ruvRR80Tg8CiIo/s1600/890788a8bc0b11e3bb0412471930331e_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiacVS82cmJRJi5jUECWnt1AOHhUD26J9X4-PQdKq7fP2fiUUHxUO7hu1opmBTQnuz6C3uLG-OaE27PY4_YjmytVa4o2btPzZogzE7ZJ2sT5Npa48jbTUN7-QeSLoVa2ruvRR80Tg8CiIo/s1600/890788a8bc0b11e3bb0412471930331e_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
And this is the reality ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Uw0iAEcbZD9cH08hXgnTI_VGn6hTQGi21zhlVpGiviwuMIRjkgUj1O9KUidEE_epjhvPyxeRnPyxb2waV8DGQfw9yWQzHjL_QiRg4TPZt3JSUyihHw93KhgkwCtUwUtqZI8bbS25A-Y/s1600/2b54b5843e2311e3be4122000a1f9d51_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Uw0iAEcbZD9cH08hXgnTI_VGn6hTQGi21zhlVpGiviwuMIRjkgUj1O9KUidEE_epjhvPyxeRnPyxb2waV8DGQfw9yWQzHjL_QiRg4TPZt3JSUyihHw93KhgkwCtUwUtqZI8bbS25A-Y/s1600/2b54b5843e2311e3be4122000a1f9d51_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSemZR9cZMKOWjumWenvXn2VKpsDb_EQPtojI31GvaQd2FzbDnMqe747uez6bhWzk5i5HxMP2JczyyyjUryNK0SzHHmyUFrTlwSGTMI-v25NgrYvrR38Xr499FD5lid6X5P3uuA2qvmY/s1600/e234522a88a011e289dc22000a9f12b0_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmSemZR9cZMKOWjumWenvXn2VKpsDb_EQPtojI31GvaQd2FzbDnMqe747uez6bhWzk5i5HxMP2JczyyyjUryNK0SzHHmyUFrTlwSGTMI-v25NgrYvrR38Xr499FD5lid6X5P3uuA2qvmY/s1600/e234522a88a011e289dc22000a9f12b0_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuK0vo-DHm4hpFGZm4T7Ujh4hqcvwv1hL9jIiggpQnEALLW4d96DBrNDafust81ILM50DoOyqhO1okr8wyXpTDxEVQ6Cm3BwkKoxovBbxlxYEnvFw_hSk3U6KLqx-XpQzTV4q6Qr-WWMY/s1600/e93325ecb5bd11e3b86d0e965f0a3f99_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuK0vo-DHm4hpFGZm4T7Ujh4hqcvwv1hL9jIiggpQnEALLW4d96DBrNDafust81ILM50DoOyqhO1okr8wyXpTDxEVQ6Cm3BwkKoxovBbxlxYEnvFw_hSk3U6KLqx-XpQzTV4q6Qr-WWMY/s1600/e93325ecb5bd11e3b86d0e965f0a3f99_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Most of my day is spent cleaning the most filthy, smelly pieces of furniture and giving them a new life. I know that I can't keep everything ... but sometimes it's very hard to let go! I've just finished this little cupboard ... it was very fiddly and took a long time as it has lots of nooks and crannies ... but I got there in the end ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFr9urTkSz0BC0R9ITOoIbGKEbG1a9mkS1H2jbh4FbF_TxCYjm_RW88ZG4YLnDvMDpalFXIX7iF4cHeMzaxNj6_DO3-DWL3XGQKdBCbDNakHlBG_dIMQUXrsFecQyU9-9L9mE3jN-RyQU/s1600/55214038bfe411e3adf40002c95462e6_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFr9urTkSz0BC0R9ITOoIbGKEbG1a9mkS1H2jbh4FbF_TxCYjm_RW88ZG4YLnDvMDpalFXIX7iF4cHeMzaxNj6_DO3-DWL3XGQKdBCbDNakHlBG_dIMQUXrsFecQyU9-9L9mE3jN-RyQU/s1600/55214038bfe411e3adf40002c95462e6_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I think it will have to go though, I just don't have any spare walls left ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkJB_wXr1s1PBr3l5CFYglpkHCjtd4sd2wapQanJjEer_-faydU3Bmn5FLxsJ_MM-ZKtFoM1A19ZqnXIwtqi4gNSugNob88iCnbTyopNc2xRrQeYmNSzxgmfGifjAfy_1tYrF7ER-Gf0/s1600/57481132bfc811e3aea90002c9e136ac_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkJB_wXr1s1PBr3l5CFYglpkHCjtd4sd2wapQanJjEer_-faydU3Bmn5FLxsJ_MM-ZKtFoM1A19ZqnXIwtqi4gNSugNob88iCnbTyopNc2xRrQeYmNSzxgmfGifjAfy_1tYrF7ER-Gf0/s1600/57481132bfc811e3aea90002c9e136ac_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is another piece I've just finished ... my favourite part is waxing and distressing, it can surprise me sometimes how this simple process can really make a piece 'sing'. I love setting up my furniture at fairs and displaying my bits and pieces on them. I'd secretly love a job as a window dresser or house doctor!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLr6V_Us_gAwXPnXvGwtYS8TjQwpxmSMrnNPhp_r_LeZviybwOuWXeKy5eZGMWSG9U184_h6qQZ5J8vsT8baNewS4q-QSU7EhS0nuN5zXdyynZMa0yUn0Gh9OaPxAt4AbqdTn4kuCyNn0/s1600/0d4bb746b01911e3bdba1231f19b6e09_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLr6V_Us_gAwXPnXvGwtYS8TjQwpxmSMrnNPhp_r_LeZviybwOuWXeKy5eZGMWSG9U184_h6qQZ5J8vsT8baNewS4q-QSU7EhS0nuN5zXdyynZMa0yUn0Gh9OaPxAt4AbqdTn4kuCyNn0/s1600/0d4bb746b01911e3bdba1231f19b6e09_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sometimes I have to put my paintbrush down and pick up a needle and thread instead, I have a commission to finish today for a very lovely lady who is collecting it tomorrow, so can't stay chatting too long ... If I am running out of projects I might just go for a runout to my favourite places, looking for treasures, but otherwise, I'm happy to stay at home pottering ... and if I'm very lucky, a friend will drop in for tea and cake<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5y3DPpgpoy9fFoW7YGQZAoX3G2uI_g7sacoIgGpxPPisJ8LfYd3mcAP3GH9D3o9zyiRsPFwJBqzTdznzRZAxD_uHssvHyya_BS6MQxMnIAv28dICVgAlNhcNXazRMc6HryYNZR5pyq1Q/s1600/e8eb5a74737811e2bd9a22000a9f14ba_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5y3DPpgpoy9fFoW7YGQZAoX3G2uI_g7sacoIgGpxPPisJ8LfYd3mcAP3GH9D3o9zyiRsPFwJBqzTdznzRZAxD_uHssvHyya_BS6MQxMnIAv28dICVgAlNhcNXazRMc6HryYNZR5pyq1Q/s1600/e8eb5a74737811e2bd9a22000a9f14ba_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a little lamp I upcycled last week. I'm definitely not adept at sewing, but I've worked out a way of revamping lampshades that doesn't test my abilities too much!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-Yed2Bnx97i76fh5K22yO-EX6PcXXDi5sJLpWyBZFzFNgOIy9ld3EoBxI1HiRF-CnVj_c3tw-Tfu7CmZ1cxEa65ZAZQT9BGlF5zoXY76OFoX4JwUoo62jeUAMv96MTaIPEOc3_W6UAg/s1600/9bd47bf4ba4811e3b0d8124666b39ba1_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-Yed2Bnx97i76fh5K22yO-EX6PcXXDi5sJLpWyBZFzFNgOIy9ld3EoBxI1HiRF-CnVj_c3tw-Tfu7CmZ1cxEa65ZAZQT9BGlF5zoXY76OFoX4JwUoo62jeUAMv96MTaIPEOc3_W6UAg/s1600/9bd47bf4ba4811e3b0d8124666b39ba1_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I hear the door opening ... is that the time already?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0csJAQdwvp4TIc3_F-hW5InqOjKGWdf9Qk8YZQyhOCo_r01N14Bwlu858qU-yT-o6ET4OPClOILpeM5_kkkfMYBAYeAMlscbfRXZHjKgSEZMaMBgarIKwX5J1RJb1_rElsEHCO-HoDs/s1600/5fed6354a90811e3a14612d24ed1fd89_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV0csJAQdwvp4TIc3_F-hW5InqOjKGWdf9Qk8YZQyhOCo_r01N14Bwlu858qU-yT-o6ET4OPClOILpeM5_kkkfMYBAYeAMlscbfRXZHjKgSEZMaMBgarIKwX5J1RJb1_rElsEHCO-HoDs/s1600/5fed6354a90811e3a14612d24ed1fd89_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Hopefully tea will be ready, and afterwards I'll pick up my sewing or do a bit of crochet while watching the telly (wasn't The Great British Sewing Bee fab?) and before I know it, The News is on and I'm back to where we started ... a good night's sleep and I'll be ready to do it all again tomorrow ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFnWXw1lcXTxLbaU_MBqqgO2bVLdeQGiujKcF-Q8M6lfF1d3JWH9ElvoP2jFXtGHBuymDeCuDu_5y12XY8mrhKovdkCde6lK8PZ2RyLeCeUTll_yXuP86cTpJgcMnEt01cDZJolxmD58/s1600/c8e076f0ff9c11e280ad22000a1fbe2f_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFnWXw1lcXTxLbaU_MBqqgO2bVLdeQGiujKcF-Q8M6lfF1d3JWH9ElvoP2jFXtGHBuymDeCuDu_5y12XY8mrhKovdkCde6lK8PZ2RyLeCeUTll_yXuP86cTpJgcMnEt01cDZJolxmD58/s1600/c8e076f0ff9c11e280ad22000a1fbe2f_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
N'night, sweet dreams!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-90709236310808324382014-04-01T07:57:00.000+01:002014-04-01T07:57:25.120+01:00April come she will ...A pinch and a punch, the First of the Month!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14G9CsTfCTBQptXU2A6Z0VEqdc_KHy3clGjLbphiIQvnQfgqZHKkD-kgSZE1wJOuZZc7RjQ95FYXAixZPTIrEaIjYtCFHwgXw_fSWVmadcPwOwFwBOeAMLUdxjmKdWZDV9xFNnCGgevo/s1600/66783c14b96911e38e060ea35adaf2af_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14G9CsTfCTBQptXU2A6Z0VEqdc_KHy3clGjLbphiIQvnQfgqZHKkD-kgSZE1wJOuZZc7RjQ95FYXAixZPTIrEaIjYtCFHwgXw_fSWVmadcPwOwFwBOeAMLUdxjmKdWZDV9xFNnCGgevo/s1600/66783c14b96911e38e060ea35adaf2af_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I don't really want to be pinching and punching anyone, so I'll just say "White Rabbits" ... Happy April everyone! (How on earth did that happen already?)<br />
<br />
I'll be back soon!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span>thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-47273433503963453632014-03-24T09:29:00.000+00:002014-03-24T09:29:31.572+00:00Life is good ...Happy Monday my lovelies! Isn't it great when everything's going well? I don't want to jinx anything here, but I'm in a really happy place at the moment, it could be because the sun is shining, the sky is blue, lalala ... I wish I could capture this feeling, pour it into a bottle, put a stopper in and tie with a dotty ribbon. To be opened when things aren't looking so rosy ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTHmBpZtOfw4AhfeZrCAr-V2RM__Y2DexcMXZ1B4JMVRJBQDA5RB3Lck_sEwkBaIshSv_7xGFFSl6pIY7udbyuVkmuU69crEhyWy7_jJkRRKMj1eS50-1WQO9wdnObd3PZHxmmIb_F3M/s1600/689bce3679e911e2b9c722000a9e07b7_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTHmBpZtOfw4AhfeZrCAr-V2RM__Y2DexcMXZ1B4JMVRJBQDA5RB3Lck_sEwkBaIshSv_7xGFFSl6pIY7udbyuVkmuU69crEhyWy7_jJkRRKMj1eS50-1WQO9wdnObd3PZHxmmIb_F3M/s1600/689bce3679e911e2b9c722000a9e07b7_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Last week Jacob came home for the weekend unexpectedly, but a lovely surprise and took me for lunch on the Sunday, as an early Mother's Day present, as he won't be here then. He also bought me a beautiful mossy green alpaca throw, as a late birthday present ... I didn't take any pictures this week, so am just going to fill in the gaps with pretty pictures, so you don't get bored!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6T_ynEMdCbolUePdArD-UuHe3JRQiTu1JFQ6ZgyNsB92pRMmKep3X4TC5rj2CMGM4OX0ghs1pF-fTYYtgj_uRCLsKw3bO6Ky9S1aPqGkEz-nUFWMWxXoIG_Py05mnFr2Msl0AuLIyXk/s1600/e2f1f80a2d6c11e2a2ab22000a1fb84b_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6T_ynEMdCbolUePdArD-UuHe3JRQiTu1JFQ6ZgyNsB92pRMmKep3X4TC5rj2CMGM4OX0ghs1pF-fTYYtgj_uRCLsKw3bO6Ky9S1aPqGkEz-nUFWMWxXoIG_Py05mnFr2Msl0AuLIyXk/s1600/e2f1f80a2d6c11e2a2ab22000a1fb84b_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The Vintage Fair last weekend was a great success ... always a bit of an unknown quantity, a new fair and a new venue ... I sold all 5 pieces of furniture that I took with me, so need to be very busy with my paintbrush from now on, as I have 4 rather 'big' fairs scribbled onto the calendar. Millie 'helped' me at the fair ... kept me company and looked pretty while I lugged furniture around and dealt with the customers. She is very good at fetching cups of tea and cake though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51ut1TY2R53AK6wKgCeHiNIAO7BYdE9Nxv9qoQv3mPuf11vfQn3Os96BO53CALNBDkBguRPa17AYJk9rGbPP28U4etLTDWUtpdTEbqxZskpkXSbDNiG804rKgYrKpQnRTG-Huubue5FE/s1600/de915746300a11e3bed922000ab69b68_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51ut1TY2R53AK6wKgCeHiNIAO7BYdE9Nxv9qoQv3mPuf11vfQn3Os96BO53CALNBDkBguRPa17AYJk9rGbPP28U4etLTDWUtpdTEbqxZskpkXSbDNiG804rKgYrKpQnRTG-Huubue5FE/s1600/de915746300a11e3bed922000ab69b68_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
My eldest, Oliver, has been very busy lately. He is a DJ in his spare time and he and his friend have their own recording label and are doing very well. He had a gig at London at the weekend and it went very well so I've heard!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVOtgCnC-os-y28CRgZKtneVupeaysQSl3NzzBuk7SXFrCk1Zu0-5qbvITJMev7bvxIHrkwiSxTTs8ZrLPdRO0oh-3Q-w6wRCeP4cDcBUpFxgznmz8bmHZ-zBGsNHwxuIsWB4vbKbPxM/s1600/e8eb5a74737811e2bd9a22000a9f14ba_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvVOtgCnC-os-y28CRgZKtneVupeaysQSl3NzzBuk7SXFrCk1Zu0-5qbvITJMev7bvxIHrkwiSxTTs8ZrLPdRO0oh-3Q-w6wRCeP4cDcBUpFxgznmz8bmHZ-zBGsNHwxuIsWB4vbKbPxM/s1600/e8eb5a74737811e2bd9a22000a9f14ba_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Me and Steve trundled along to Manchester to see Harry on Saturday, and let the train take the strain. Harry met us on the train at Salford and after a delicious Italian meal, he took us shopping ... I got 4 tea towels, and a couple of things for Millie, Harry got 4 carrier bagsful! We then went back to his room in Salford, changed his bed, hoovered his room and brought a big holdall of washing home with us, which he can collect when he comes home in a couple of weeks ... since when did summer break start before Easter? A grand day out though ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8skgDtauZG69HugNAMORQ-7oNy_pDQUHr9g6d0SYJDv2bb0gvaKHdIQGzvq7OdcnldVqD1uVTcO3B0hHRdIPU64mKv0Evw2uwr-6Ov9TVbUeEYr68CpOvjP7qJKURCXLwC-zN4b4PH9o/s1600/e35198f6ea4411e2931722000a1fc67c_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8skgDtauZG69HugNAMORQ-7oNy_pDQUHr9g6d0SYJDv2bb0gvaKHdIQGzvq7OdcnldVqD1uVTcO3B0hHRdIPU64mKv0Evw2uwr-6Ov9TVbUeEYr68CpOvjP7qJKURCXLwC-zN4b4PH9o/s1600/e35198f6ea4411e2931722000a1fc67c_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Today, as it's so sunny, I'm going to get my paintbrush out and start to tackle the mountain of furniture currently stacked in Harry's room (sssssh!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIjiABJJPbA0ku1lyeWiaPfrtrRJ8xCta8RC4wFnkQ_Ruw7jpuT3YcC3rHBzCDIUS6UjAUvdphJA99ykZpL_Zx8RrzSt4W-QhyphenhyphenKKjk3Kosa9p0pb32xQNgkYosCgWnHkO6OEdNxJh0zE/s1600/17eaad92b48e11e2bdcf22000a1fbe62_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIjiABJJPbA0ku1lyeWiaPfrtrRJ8xCta8RC4wFnkQ_Ruw7jpuT3YcC3rHBzCDIUS6UjAUvdphJA99ykZpL_Zx8RrzSt4W-QhyphenhyphenKKjk3Kosa9p0pb32xQNgkYosCgWnHkO6OEdNxJh0zE/s1600/17eaad92b48e11e2bdcf22000a1fbe62_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This post is a bit random, and I apologise if you're struggling with it ... the pictures bear no connection whatsoever to the words I'm churning out ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTsfJ2MrKraO34YhNpK9wrSWisM4WY8HfSt_002A8gimkO5A1QbSxWWitSQRsiXbXqMY7yXv7lF1PXc2kV1r-bL4iN2J6pI3abeteqN61VygbPQXoxkANCnGXCg_RLVlxr4E-_vsNz8A/s1600/3ef0af8a93f011e3b89e12e6bd07f1e0_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTsfJ2MrKraO34YhNpK9wrSWisM4WY8HfSt_002A8gimkO5A1QbSxWWitSQRsiXbXqMY7yXv7lF1PXc2kV1r-bL4iN2J6pI3abeteqN61VygbPQXoxkANCnGXCg_RLVlxr4E-_vsNz8A/s1600/3ef0af8a93f011e3b89e12e6bd07f1e0_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I sincerely hope that life is treating you and yours well too, and if you are going through a bad patch, that light will be seen at the end of the tunnel very soon. If I don't 'see' any of you before, have a wonderful Mother's Day, whether with your children as a mother, or with your own mothers ... and for those of you who can do no more on Mothering Sunday than place flowers by their lovely Mam's picture, I'll be thinking of you ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlzErzeSjRlfo10eangOh95iKav3HRiTRCyzQDU6XzHcTZCzbEtlDe3tr6DaphwtyCU7cud_Um_khFEsiya7NHixjMVZQX5yEIwQQquFvEdx3qFECNYSDhxQmIid8gYaQWBbQBplfVXk/s1600/d33cf366896411e288f622000a1fbc72_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlzErzeSjRlfo10eangOh95iKav3HRiTRCyzQDU6XzHcTZCzbEtlDe3tr6DaphwtyCU7cud_Um_khFEsiya7NHixjMVZQX5yEIwQQquFvEdx3qFECNYSDhxQmIid8gYaQWBbQBplfVXk/s1600/d33cf366896411e288f622000a1fbc72_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Have a wonderful week,<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span><br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-46502995395580287572014-03-11T18:13:00.000+00:002014-03-12T07:27:49.116+00:00And I know it's gonna be, a lovely day ...Hasn't the weather been just beautiful. my lovelies? I've got a smile on my face and a spring in my step, the window-cleaner's been and life is good!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qTInLdFiBAqX-TD5m-hZY7nzzdPHVB1_X-i4lUIVydCHyIJa4h4arGE3-SPGpCIECy8xyEnnvWwQT7py6zoa1PrUrYilED0LnZAB6KVfuklbOduZ4PTMkI2skpEGSMaFQAHuULPhyphenhyphenC4/s1600/5fed6354a90811e3a14612d24ed1fd89_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qTInLdFiBAqX-TD5m-hZY7nzzdPHVB1_X-i4lUIVydCHyIJa4h4arGE3-SPGpCIECy8xyEnnvWwQT7py6zoa1PrUrYilED0LnZAB6KVfuklbOduZ4PTMkI2skpEGSMaFQAHuULPhyphenhyphenC4/s1600/5fed6354a90811e3a14612d24ed1fd89_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I walked down the stairs this morning, and for the first time this year, it just felt like Spring (even though it's not official yet!) ... there was a glimpse of daffodils and the air felt warm ... I just had to record the moment.<br />
<br />
March has been very busy so far ... at the very beginning, it was my birthday and I was a very lucky girl, my family and friends know me so well, and I got loads of things that I need and use, but also some lovely things that are just luxurious and lovely to have ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhAySraOlGWaceBmH68xAnblrxZx2uWGHc3FuZFyOb8osYrFIBkRH9dezQOW-mL9CJpIVZ1HVsHtryp9Xfm8wWHZ9OF9ZTYZmYqC79zL_X6T8R-VLzS9YzxOHAjCv882R3FiokcYYHss/s1600/5bc712cca6cc11e392520ef0453e1a92_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhAySraOlGWaceBmH68xAnblrxZx2uWGHc3FuZFyOb8osYrFIBkRH9dezQOW-mL9CJpIVZ1HVsHtryp9Xfm8wWHZ9OF9ZTYZmYqC79zL_X6T8R-VLzS9YzxOHAjCv882R3FiokcYYHss/s1600/5bc712cca6cc11e392520ef0453e1a92_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
like two of the new Emma Bridgewater rose and bee mugs Aren't they just perfect? Pretty, robust and with roses on too ... what more could you want ... a bit of cake maybe?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4RW4W35jfOm3WKJmwLgbHMgjdjnYsXKBSdvmoBaPhafbo4v2MfWhkG-3VBjzoHZHiFBdKXVVOy6KzkkQ8fIQlB7CHRCz_ynfnxNn-PBKqh4tMcwfHjHfIpXsFU7h0NwkpVIR0xG-MjY/s1600/44212444a23211e3ac7012679c9beec9_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4RW4W35jfOm3WKJmwLgbHMgjdjnYsXKBSdvmoBaPhafbo4v2MfWhkG-3VBjzoHZHiFBdKXVVOy6KzkkQ8fIQlB7CHRCz_ynfnxNn-PBKqh4tMcwfHjHfIpXsFU7h0NwkpVIR0xG-MjY/s1600/44212444a23211e3ac7012679c9beec9_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, my Millie came up trumps and made me not just any birthday cake, but my childhood favourite cake! Pineapple Upside Down Cake, served with custard ... just the thing you need after a day of celebrating (hic!) with your sister and lifelong friends.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfR4ArJcFNNWc4dzX9whg-Itlyv0nlV_rEhXMZBoDtbYAzqSJNprhFAr1MbR3PibITgR7RoawHqDl5cgtuzvkQYzwIAB71J3R3sG6QnhOnvyYZOkovp3BKtfy6o22Ir4qWgiAjDFqQrRA/s1600/ed8042d0a87811e3b0830ebe97e3f2db_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfR4ArJcFNNWc4dzX9whg-Itlyv0nlV_rEhXMZBoDtbYAzqSJNprhFAr1MbR3PibITgR7RoawHqDl5cgtuzvkQYzwIAB71J3R3sG6QnhOnvyYZOkovp3BKtfy6o22Ir4qWgiAjDFqQrRA/s1600/ed8042d0a87811e3b0830ebe97e3f2db_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It was Ruby's birthday yesterday she's now 9 years old (63 apparently!) but still acts like a silly puppy ... here she is wearing her lovely new spotty birthday collar.<br />
<br />
The chickens have started tentatively laying again, after having a Gap Year (yes, really!) but think they're going to have to pull their socks up a bit ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdlQdYq7Sn3HKgEqC9s8UrQdmM8LtZlT7K7NBIQ17COTX08By5j6bkWzckwS9Bp5LfYzX0kJRxhfbRT0k8lTR2jOjP0du47IV1c7VPH-y16qde8rK1DV1VXIW2-cbXfiUmCmvyTCK_FUE/s1600/5e999ceaa82f11e3a7ca12fa1061fde7_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdlQdYq7Sn3HKgEqC9s8UrQdmM8LtZlT7K7NBIQ17COTX08By5j6bkWzckwS9Bp5LfYzX0kJRxhfbRT0k8lTR2jOjP0du47IV1c7VPH-y16qde8rK1DV1VXIW2-cbXfiUmCmvyTCK_FUE/s1600/5e999ceaa82f11e3a7ca12fa1061fde7_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
A thimble would have been more appropriate, I think!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgodLTULe6WDqgvRFG1rLDa2RqyV-AEhMnWXgFX3eaJfD1mIrePkoCeg1pF_TKobdMoAfL74VdbmMqS6WUZhvNZrmjLVOoxl_M8HSoXz7vPN0rb6J3lQ8QCBPq_Uy0gl-TVwy21dXEvd88/s1600/96f6c206a83a11e3814912fd835e96ae_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgodLTULe6WDqgvRFG1rLDa2RqyV-AEhMnWXgFX3eaJfD1mIrePkoCeg1pF_TKobdMoAfL74VdbmMqS6WUZhvNZrmjLVOoxl_M8HSoXz7vPN0rb6J3lQ8QCBPq_Uy0gl-TVwy21dXEvd88/s1600/96f6c206a83a11e3814912fd835e96ae_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
They've been enjoying the sunshine too, and digging up the beginnings of summer's blooms ... they may be banished from the back garden!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Hv2lnq0tf005tFcYVyNZhKQT16UgrWLW0Lyt5Q-g5UIslVKRFLWN6gPOKh-BC3BiA75zBnQwVjxGxxlJqjPUK8Ogv78esM05Trg2Og8KtsIalG6uTXkJYKqGlL-D5FzMli8R7MKBZnI/s1600/0a7016aaa92711e3a252127d34342aaf_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Hv2lnq0tf005tFcYVyNZhKQT16UgrWLW0Lyt5Q-g5UIslVKRFLWN6gPOKh-BC3BiA75zBnQwVjxGxxlJqjPUK8Ogv78esM05Trg2Og8KtsIalG6uTXkJYKqGlL-D5FzMli8R7MKBZnI/s1600/0a7016aaa92711e3a252127d34342aaf_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been busy upcycling furniture, and as it was such a lovely day, thought while I had it outside, it was the perfect opportunity to set up a photo shoot. I've got some fairs coming up, so it's good to let people know what sort of things you'll be turning up with.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEuOARvLIQOFa0BWU0EOFOSlhLNjy6kEQ6u0mTXrlHuKTM_gs0ZxUB44gA6xRB7Jkl0Naatx87Hfb3GUp8bezpj6pCHlMoGjvSTrs7aJm16M0lvgicLv-qKujjYpe44oq1awRSJ_hLEQ/s1600/d7178a7a9cc111e383f7128f504da20f_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEuOARvLIQOFa0BWU0EOFOSlhLNjy6kEQ6u0mTXrlHuKTM_gs0ZxUB44gA6xRB7Jkl0Naatx87Hfb3GUp8bezpj6pCHlMoGjvSTrs7aJm16M0lvgicLv-qKujjYpe44oq1awRSJ_hLEQ/s1600/d7178a7a9cc111e383f7128f504da20f_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I found this adorable tray on my travels a couple of weeks ago ... do you all remember Betsy Clark? I had forgotten all about her, and then yesterday I found a chopping board. Isn't it strange how you don't see anything for years, and then they all appear at once?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYKZKVHP_Nl8FWj6Y0NSZuVWEVDLLagihPbvcMzDwvPES_lwdR3rk_k-0hB63cbzr38B79BsC-pD_hc59oO8QDadsNXieAfAU1w-tDIpiVVU4JzWpejLBx3RCo07OTKzZPiA0zMzwTJs/s1600/689bce3679e911e2b9c722000a9e07b7_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggYKZKVHP_Nl8FWj6Y0NSZuVWEVDLLagihPbvcMzDwvPES_lwdR3rk_k-0hB63cbzr38B79BsC-pD_hc59oO8QDadsNXieAfAU1w-tDIpiVVU4JzWpejLBx3RCo07OTKzZPiA0zMzwTJs/s1600/689bce3679e911e2b9c722000a9e07b7_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I think that's enough excitement for one day, so I'll love you and leave you ...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span>thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-29446822793557263232014-03-04T08:29:00.000+00:002014-03-04T08:29:40.472+00:00I've got a little something for ya ... The Results!I got up this morning, knowing I had something very important to do ... silly me! I put the wrong date on the giveaway, but did say in a week's time and on the Tuesday ... so I dug out my old hat and put the names in ... actually I did neither of those things, I sought out a Random Number Generator on Google, and wait for it ... roll of drums, clash of cymbals ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLPMFmdSAjjCot-u8p0uoEL9O6NpOXwx3UdJnLJGcxQgJjlasRN-jfgUQu1ql0RpLH-WLRGRRHTZqGVRz1YtmuOqbbNASsoV9dz3PzA6iot3Lb4HXUU64JBV9pc4iBAhZor7CEgjQ68U/s1600/4a54463034ae11e38be122000a1fcf39_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLPMFmdSAjjCot-u8p0uoEL9O6NpOXwx3UdJnLJGcxQgJjlasRN-jfgUQu1ql0RpLH-WLRGRRHTZqGVRz1YtmuOqbbNASsoV9dz3PzA6iot3Lb4HXUU64JBV9pc4iBAhZor7CEgjQ68U/s1600/4a54463034ae11e38be122000a1fcf39_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_797097447"></span><span id="goog_797097448"></span>Just thought I'd leave you in suspense a little longer, and remind you what the prize is! One of my hand-sewn pictures, personalised to your liking, with whatever, name, phrase or song lyric you choose.<br />
<br />
Drum roll again please ...<br />
<br />
And the winner is ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1eB6uGdBgwTn5BfGHzTTSB7HzW9uJkNthgX5MD-qMWRDxuKtzywwF_K0BIMNrfDsxO05APUbZXTZ2QedsaYWxaLJZ-Pz91XL425CouHACmLJPSGFZwMGVMDOvuMPHfNVT9XKJTZQpwRo/s1600/c678fa2ca37011e38dff1209c9135191_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1eB6uGdBgwTn5BfGHzTTSB7HzW9uJkNthgX5MD-qMWRDxuKtzywwF_K0BIMNrfDsxO05APUbZXTZ2QedsaYWxaLJZ-Pz91XL425CouHACmLJPSGFZwMGVMDOvuMPHfNVT9XKJTZQpwRo/s1600/c678fa2ca37011e38dff1209c9135191_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Number 7 ... my very favourite number! (Sorry for the blurriness!) let's count down the list and that is ...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Gill from Dosie Rosie!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Please email me your address my lovely, and let me know what you'd like, and I'll get on with it for you.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm decorating my kitchen at the moment, and attempting some sewing too, so hopefully I'll be back later in the week with the outcome of both ...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Until then, I'll love you and leave you ...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span></div>
<br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-86232525282116410122014-02-25T17:38:00.000+00:002014-02-26T10:48:42.122+00:00I've got a little something for ya ...Hello my lovelies! As a gesture of thanks to all of you, for being so loyal, kind and ... well, just amazing, I'd like to give away one of my little pictures ... hand stitched with love!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4tWi-AmpxeUTWjcmT3BPmuN5hpwvSGl8RvyGWswKCG7g7DaY8jjLpKWZsroMzRzqHhqu-ZEry1J8xR4lRekzAVGAlysy6KMy8DFx-MSHjgnhVBOIbECw8oBZb_ejn94NBm2ASpZLTW4/s1600/4a54463034ae11e38be122000a1fcf39_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW4tWi-AmpxeUTWjcmT3BPmuN5hpwvSGl8RvyGWswKCG7g7DaY8jjLpKWZsroMzRzqHhqu-ZEry1J8xR4lRekzAVGAlysy6KMy8DFx-MSHjgnhVBOIbECw8oBZb_ejn94NBm2ASpZLTW4/s1600/4a54463034ae11e38be122000a1fcf39_5.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
You can choose what it says, and it doesn't have to be for you if you are the winner, you could dedicate it to someone else, the choice is all yours!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7wK7jQcy38WVEKK9GRjricVNeLJbM9qAswpzey3QM_xtdpu48EsiPKP4w4J_pc30PZ-k0ylddxT2sfD9F1hlWkVuGqilfxOAYOcrhTZ63qqD6vrFTDzHaKfwUJJf76vKDqriiFii8jA/s1600/c5cb3ca093f011e38dfc0e96a2f1168c_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7wK7jQcy38WVEKK9GRjricVNeLJbM9qAswpzey3QM_xtdpu48EsiPKP4w4J_pc30PZ-k0ylddxT2sfD9F1hlWkVuGqilfxOAYOcrhTZ63qqD6vrFTDzHaKfwUJJf76vKDqriiFii8jA/s1600/c5cb3ca093f011e38dfc0e96a2f1168c_5.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
All I ask is for you to leave a comment below, and I'll pick the winner out of a hat in a week's time on Tuesday March 5. That way, there will be plenty of time for me to make and post it to you, if you want the picture for your Mum for Mother's Day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4SB26q52n_gwhiCkZWL0yN10TX5ECakghdV_h9xgFQuq_FGzwxMP9-hLlUJrBPe_atetqgw_gIyqiQFiTD5vp7jUqv-w2UqsWlkkBeA45yx4nlsatN9-KV49yWAMxR0dy1aGlI0DwBzE/s1600/1cbfea00810a11e384d312f739c0d23a_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4SB26q52n_gwhiCkZWL0yN10TX5ECakghdV_h9xgFQuq_FGzwxMP9-hLlUJrBPe_atetqgw_gIyqiQFiTD5vp7jUqv-w2UqsWlkkBeA45yx4nlsatN9-KV49yWAMxR0dy1aGlI0DwBzE/s1600/1cbfea00810a11e384d312f739c0d23a_5.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Until then I'll love you and leave you ...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span>thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-72971696825308915182014-02-14T08:48:00.000+00:002014-02-14T08:48:13.522+00:00I'm in the mood for love ...Happy Valentine's Day, my lovelies! Hope you've been pierced by Cupid's arrow ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCo_CbNTmUOWVyhQ_nEAGN2SWGG6YL3r57eZXoFaY78XNemdOkSshVEjck5jKmdVW3CaW6tgc8F1ELf5jfPGbeDWPBGC8hXcgQquYNy6LRgOFz1TI8gB66kvAsAOU84ak2E1D3GRXM5oE/s1600/de915746300a11e3bed922000ab69b68_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCo_CbNTmUOWVyhQ_nEAGN2SWGG6YL3r57eZXoFaY78XNemdOkSshVEjck5jKmdVW3CaW6tgc8F1ELf5jfPGbeDWPBGC8hXcgQquYNy6LRgOFz1TI8gB66kvAsAOU84ak2E1D3GRXM5oE/s1600/de915746300a11e3bed922000ab69b68_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
As I think I may have already mentioned, me and Steve aren't really into the lovey doveyness of Valentine's Day ... haha, every day is Valentine's in our house, but hey, what better excuse for hearts and flowers abounding, and a Marks & Sparks meal deal?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-6zgjYr4eiJ-F05NI-Sw3R7VwCUmz_BMByySlJSZDixcT_lXZ6ggl9NE36q8qj_WoqevAY4rrCV36uXTVNNaQMTTCn-cOp6NyGl9YHnmV_kwfrEluDP82ApQeErUiL_ChmJdSVwuDxg/s1600/c5cb3ca093f011e38dfc0e96a2f1168c_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-6zgjYr4eiJ-F05NI-Sw3R7VwCUmz_BMByySlJSZDixcT_lXZ6ggl9NE36q8qj_WoqevAY4rrCV36uXTVNNaQMTTCn-cOp6NyGl9YHnmV_kwfrEluDP82ApQeErUiL_ChmJdSVwuDxg/s1600/c5cb3ca093f011e38dfc0e96a2f1168c_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
On a recent jolly to Kendal, I found some lovely old postcards in an antique shop ... ooh, the glamour!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSLWBRpHDqFLILuSot64x8hE2d64nJoi45YiCjbsTyCmkhQHBBx04DZlmMr3J_AGKBpBPmbl9oTxMAbI8zE5AXED5pulx0-aXWJ2MIgkDs7gtOcONRMX1tixbQBS9obSwluJBpo25xKU/s1600/637736f893f011e3b86e12af0b8c266e_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSLWBRpHDqFLILuSot64x8hE2d64nJoi45YiCjbsTyCmkhQHBBx04DZlmMr3J_AGKBpBPmbl9oTxMAbI8zE5AXED5pulx0-aXWJ2MIgkDs7gtOcONRMX1tixbQBS9obSwluJBpo25xKU/s1600/637736f893f011e3b86e12af0b8c266e_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sorry for the blurry image, but the little girl with evil features and scary doll is saying "There isn't a word (I've looked right frough) that says how much I'm in love wif you!"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijwIUNANRopoeCazCCY2pQOWaPTtyFJC-_dNuVmw4MmxUj8spnaz7Op73V7YbAy-SwXqAlyyHCzYgOCAfkekX8ibYsGhoOFRHn0rlP0maQ93W6LEkw4V-acEJZs5tYQUDeeu5svXn8ZGI/s1600/ec68711693f011e3bc39120ce0231231_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijwIUNANRopoeCazCCY2pQOWaPTtyFJC-_dNuVmw4MmxUj8spnaz7Op73V7YbAy-SwXqAlyyHCzYgOCAfkekX8ibYsGhoOFRHn0rlP0maQ93W6LEkw4V-acEJZs5tYQUDeeu5svXn8ZGI/s1600/ec68711693f011e3bc39120ce0231231_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This sweet little image comes from an old autograph book I found on my travels - "I ain't nobodys sweetheart yet"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt5k4p0n_oWINfhRCw2LLsjWWgw2Yqhaxt0ZU4WnmulBJKiiWFJICvYsNlfAf-QdRsOE9QwaIomFEzdnxV6TzDREwsqXTWuTa6qiC6rz2Th0_ABPe1gj4Ba7XgUNU2NyyLFyiXgkFoYqo/s1600/3ef0af8a93f011e3b89e12e6bd07f1e0_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt5k4p0n_oWINfhRCw2LLsjWWgw2Yqhaxt0ZU4WnmulBJKiiWFJICvYsNlfAf-QdRsOE9QwaIomFEzdnxV6TzDREwsqXTWuTa6qiC6rz2Th0_ABPe1gj4Ba7XgUNU2NyyLFyiXgkFoYqo/s1600/3ef0af8a93f011e3b89e12e6bd07f1e0_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Lurrrve this song!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8UvwjxuSSOWOrAuj8Emk8b8GL_M_6KXJdoVyrG3-zUfmEw_kyvQISRRf47fJgu9iWPR73qd-QDYuR98gKX0gNNllQD7OO5bNvkysZM3o7AbxicUZLtSunRHxQ_L4rGuiB9BWD26Cn0yg/s1600/0d63204693f111e390c1121497f657e7_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8UvwjxuSSOWOrAuj8Emk8b8GL_M_6KXJdoVyrG3-zUfmEw_kyvQISRRf47fJgu9iWPR73qd-QDYuR98gKX0gNNllQD7OO5bNvkysZM3o7AbxicUZLtSunRHxQ_L4rGuiB9BWD26Cn0yg/s1600/0d63204693f111e390c1121497f657e7_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
True love of the highest order - "I love you more than chocolate"!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcl5SPHRU9wyZOXxPuZSnn0d-B97oQR0dEQTT8AbKCYPqjRs-iM1JwgQPGJx0XgpewY47PzxZ40bR-D2hyphenhyphen4hYB9HS5bsA-UjPlfVZmpZvcLZ5Fgosu6vNBPzJey7Bp2b1zwbbkNyaGiwU/s1600/0c2d2d5c949611e382b00e301bf70f05_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcl5SPHRU9wyZOXxPuZSnn0d-B97oQR0dEQTT8AbKCYPqjRs-iM1JwgQPGJx0XgpewY47PzxZ40bR-D2hyphenhyphen4hYB9HS5bsA-UjPlfVZmpZvcLZ5Fgosu6vNBPzJey7Bp2b1zwbbkNyaGiwU/s1600/0c2d2d5c949611e382b00e301bf70f05_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and in the immortal words of Whitney, "Owl always love you" ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uI5bAhkSe1hXF7pKgeqrvTJMy3l4sXXhx64n7hw6R16-Wcu8LAxj-JjH05EnHsfLvWGePnTBRA1LHKvwOn_f6bUpMXjQqnc6H4LWOmpa9qnPhRztSsvvpJO7ggNhZO0SbK4_CzRob-M/s1600/d403384c85e811e3b4f8125509de5c1b_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2uI5bAhkSe1hXF7pKgeqrvTJMy3l4sXXhx64n7hw6R16-Wcu8LAxj-JjH05EnHsfLvWGePnTBRA1LHKvwOn_f6bUpMXjQqnc6H4LWOmpa9qnPhRztSsvvpJO7ggNhZO0SbK4_CzRob-M/s1600/d403384c85e811e3b4f8125509de5c1b_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope that the recipients of my customer's orders are pleased with their presents, given with much thought and love ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMXGlIWxmknU_fkWGkVPsFBIJI7j5W1LeLuoMv9gFocz0ZCN2aafKCS4mWsRfedDeGDMTiokbi6Kb9rRUJkbo5S9v9qhMNNZbHG-V_5kbazb363rVk7-S-e4ruNzpx8bjsteAQEtpTtc/s1600/079bf89e550a11e28a6522000a9f17d4_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMXGlIWxmknU_fkWGkVPsFBIJI7j5W1LeLuoMv9gFocz0ZCN2aafKCS4mWsRfedDeGDMTiokbi6Kb9rRUJkbo5S9v9qhMNNZbHG-V_5kbazb363rVk7-S-e4ruNzpx8bjsteAQEtpTtc/s1600/079bf89e550a11e28a6522000a9f17d4_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I've got a busy day ahead, going to make some 'hearty' soup ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvIanIy_yQqV0yDT7HZcm-gUPQTKO2az-AhwDu9PhGnNW73RGSObJmuSRWinWBA79yIsVQM6beIaTOCdgTfsdjwihidO1otxQZ-CAjkFI2z64YCBsq0tD-6utdj0nin51J31w3ffVYpI/s1600/IMG_2108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvIanIy_yQqV0yDT7HZcm-gUPQTKO2az-AhwDu9PhGnNW73RGSObJmuSRWinWBA79yIsVQM6beIaTOCdgTfsdjwihidO1otxQZ-CAjkFI2z64YCBsq0tD-6utdj0nin51J31w3ffVYpI/s1600/IMG_2108.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and a cake for my loved ones ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioOTg7gypfpCa4FOqjSu2_VPZ9U2gPIoS7JfFJSpHae7uAGHgNYWugNaqr2ROCOhNZHaMAnUn_X6MZpHwGjrHUtBeabamujtkYdx3GEDsDCK8J6jSZD1XTPWWfSQllKvuV8kbkp5Q9SHU/s1600/IMG_2106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioOTg7gypfpCa4FOqjSu2_VPZ9U2gPIoS7JfFJSpHae7uAGHgNYWugNaqr2ROCOhNZHaMAnUn_X6MZpHwGjrHUtBeabamujtkYdx3GEDsDCK8J6jSZD1XTPWWfSQllKvuV8kbkp5Q9SHU/s1600/IMG_2106.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
take the dog for a walk to the beach ...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRqlg3Nw9zuATo7pitnQWeaGfl0lvtYolOqf8Dez1f1j6hyFbvcdirYDpqb2kLD2NfFXqhgy06EpVHRp9sOxvCzDWUHArrKhlc8TeFlp6Mj_rbkTf7exBMUfJ-FVrLUg16vR-Czhx1E4/s1600/c57c99e894c611e38a5a0ed917c88a9a_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRqlg3Nw9zuATo7pitnQWeaGfl0lvtYolOqf8Dez1f1j6hyFbvcdirYDpqb2kLD2NfFXqhgy06EpVHRp9sOxvCzDWUHArrKhlc8TeFlp6Mj_rbkTf7exBMUfJ-FVrLUg16vR-Czhx1E4/s1600/c57c99e894c611e38a5a0ed917c88a9a_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and re-organise my cupboards! This is my latest find, I don't have a before picture but believe me, you wouldn't want it spoiling the Valentine's Day loveliness! It was grim ... <i> </i>I spent the whole day cleaning and painting it. I love it, but it is replacing a closed cupboard which was full to the ginnels of 'stuff' (<span style="font-size: x-small;">about ten years worth of Country Living magazine</span>), so if it stays I really need to downsize my belongings!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/cm/goodhousekeeping/images/ez/0213-vintage-pink-typewriter-mdn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/cm/goodhousekeeping/images/ez/0213-vintage-pink-typewriter-mdn.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Google, thank you!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And lastly, I'd just like to say a big <span style="font-size: x-large;">THANK YOU </span>to all my lovely blogging friends! It's Thriftwood's second anniversary on 17th February, and I feel that I have made true friends ... the loyalty, friendliness and support I've received has been amazing ... I love to read your kind comments and emails, and look forward to continuing our blogging journey together ...<br />
<br />
Well, I'll love you and leave you my darlings, and have a fabulous Valentine's Day!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span><br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-52408810542789791062014-02-07T08:48:00.001+00:002014-02-07T08:50:16.541+00:00Bits n pieces ...Good morning my lovelies! How are we all on this bright February morning? I'm being slightly optimistic there ... it's rather grey and dull at the moment, but it is only 8 am, there's time left to shine ... (I always was a glass half full kind of girl). Could I just take a minute to thank you all for your kind comments on Tuesday, they really mean a lot to me, you know.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnamV4SSgZXZDNWkJIX8PALf5q2dTaDd1J2icaHhYLcY1e6qVRDInDcuBbmhwe30-dsMCQ-I7nfE9OUG7F75upjXi9obclS2r0Jq_ddCB7Vuj76RXg25wIufRZ-rCpsTUdAs8-RxyB5jk/s1600/5d00ac108bda11e2859c22000a9f0a20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnamV4SSgZXZDNWkJIX8PALf5q2dTaDd1J2icaHhYLcY1e6qVRDInDcuBbmhwe30-dsMCQ-I7nfE9OUG7F75upjXi9obclS2r0Jq_ddCB7Vuj76RXg25wIufRZ-rCpsTUdAs8-RxyB5jk/s1600/5d00ac108bda11e2859c22000a9f0a20.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
We seem to be heading towards Spring if everything in the garden is to be believed ... the snowdrops started the parade, and are now being closely followed by the daffodils, hyacinths and crocuses. I'm not going to be lulled into a false sense of security though, by this display of showy blooms ... I think winter hasn't had the last word just yet!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1F5SX_yfUw4WfQ7rX2Lk672UIYStbirg8JYo1Joxd10M0eAiTPltS6wx11KYDNl_8fxFYKD44hqGmRh-ZiXEilMeCI8iQEVR5_To63oafonsfrj75J6vyQ3zkLOiAd07hD2hlIYEnoyM/s1600/4a54463034ae11e38be122000a1fcf39_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1F5SX_yfUw4WfQ7rX2Lk672UIYStbirg8JYo1Joxd10M0eAiTPltS6wx11KYDNl_8fxFYKD44hqGmRh-ZiXEilMeCI8iQEVR5_To63oafonsfrj75J6vyQ3zkLOiAd07hD2hlIYEnoyM/s1600/4a54463034ae11e38be122000a1fcf39_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've had a lot of commissions lately for my little hand-sewn pictures, especially as Valentine's Day and Mother's Day are just around the corner, and I have 3 to do this weekend. I also have a standard lamp to paint and revamp, also for a customer, so things are ticking along nicely and I've got several fairs on my calendar, so I'm going to be very busy, which is what I love! While the weather is bad, I like nothing better than to put some good music on, make a big pot of tea, and settle down either with my paintbrush or needle and thread ... the weather can do its worse, I'm in my little bubble ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_HgXC0A9SRE7O-M5p2grkMbgBUdgjrJj6yLtlxfwD8DIKwzOIwqOOocRMvyCrWGYT69JSDLpoqtaarJhouNungfmUHnjo9isZ7ndkixClBFQGUWRhTVDoTyEEbWOnMV2tR0wl_ypnnI/s1600/a60b335886c011e3900e12c05a5762ef_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_HgXC0A9SRE7O-M5p2grkMbgBUdgjrJj6yLtlxfwD8DIKwzOIwqOOocRMvyCrWGYT69JSDLpoqtaarJhouNungfmUHnjo9isZ7ndkixClBFQGUWRhTVDoTyEEbWOnMV2tR0wl_ypnnI/s1600/a60b335886c011e3900e12c05a5762ef_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Things that are making me happy this week are ... thrifty finds! My little house, above, came from Tesco ... from the Christmas clearance shelves ... it gives a lovely glow, and I don't think it should be locked away until next Christmas, do you? (<span style="font-size: x-small;">It was £2 ... shhh!</span>).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV06GcJ7mo1_yBX09MP1Ir8p6Uuv4f-2x9lfptaL2lCvFa0QFdAxYiuzLDg9ndwy1bnz_IcURhiSSXwT4eFD680LnTOobSGaAn24pfhL9MbIMTh5UaL9HnfkyDlczadJFNryIrK0Qjrqs/s1600/57889a6e873711e39bc4122b889f396a_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV06GcJ7mo1_yBX09MP1Ir8p6Uuv4f-2x9lfptaL2lCvFa0QFdAxYiuzLDg9ndwy1bnz_IcURhiSSXwT4eFD680LnTOobSGaAn24pfhL9MbIMTh5UaL9HnfkyDlczadJFNryIrK0Qjrqs/s1600/57889a6e873711e39bc4122b889f396a_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Another good find were these lovely jugs (oooh, Mrs!) which I found in a local charity shop ... they weren't cheap by my usual standards, but I'd sold a lot of pictures that week! They were £8 for the pair, but just look so lovely filled with tulips, and brighten the bleak outlook of my kitchen window.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6yFkl_-iTTOJLumljrudAvp_f7_3qLe99f74nSHtBIwsc6UtNgSuI6BkTg8atC6Stm2U7ONhCsJSmgPLDX29y9fB4tHlgUHatO319TurwM6Kb82rz_Y47x18dftiALlrQ7ljoyihRkWQ/s1600/9e455ef0757c11e3b8e912e55047faa4_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6yFkl_-iTTOJLumljrudAvp_f7_3qLe99f74nSHtBIwsc6UtNgSuI6BkTg8atC6Stm2U7ONhCsJSmgPLDX29y9fB4tHlgUHatO319TurwM6Kb82rz_Y47x18dftiALlrQ7ljoyihRkWQ/s1600/9e455ef0757c11e3b8e912e55047faa4_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Before Christmas we decorated the hall ... it was long overdue, and my niece's boyfriend came and painted everywhere a pale cream which really brightened it up. I still felt something was missing though and on a trip to Harrogate, popped into Cath's shop, and took home a sample of the Garden Birds wallpaper. I kept telling myself it was too expensive, and not thrifty at all, but I was sent a voucher and got 20% off and free delivery, which wasn't to be sniffed at! I absolutely love it because it has an old, comfortable feel to it, and looks like it's always been there ... which if you know me at all, that is exactly the look I try to achieve! Ruby likes it too ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8On5-CzB6NVQtA6TCuWNC31NGvAB2JbtRwMH6kwkadFKFD1vSFIie_5WFGYft5nSkvKIU8xpP1PAOPhzj-RimUk7UQ1gkVOTGZemYHG2uHSTAlyW0NNpKu3SM6h6rUtSuuWWaWYCoQF8/s1600/e06513408b5f11e3b2c012ee27a14388_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8On5-CzB6NVQtA6TCuWNC31NGvAB2JbtRwMH6kwkadFKFD1vSFIie_5WFGYft5nSkvKIU8xpP1PAOPhzj-RimUk7UQ1gkVOTGZemYHG2uHSTAlyW0NNpKu3SM6h6rUtSuuWWaWYCoQF8/s1600/e06513408b5f11e3b2c012ee27a14388_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
My magazines dropping through the door (bought using Tesco clubcards vouchers, naturally) are always a welcome sound ... and look what was featured inside ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Xx3Xyp0yV0suVnxcYZlwDsaISrnzHB8h0GJVDUwmFqU_9lpWk_Ei05PWlORVTGOtwygqZYhZXQHKLWvKdNBNmVv9_Iu-RQJ7uBMIve4O8JWDePLLMTdFbKl8pC07iXpwFGUUECYrQtw/s1600/3043eb088fd311e386531224b657c6a3_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Xx3Xyp0yV0suVnxcYZlwDsaISrnzHB8h0GJVDUwmFqU_9lpWk_Ei05PWlORVTGOtwygqZYhZXQHKLWvKdNBNmVv9_Iu-RQJ7uBMIve4O8JWDePLLMTdFbKl8pC07iXpwFGUUECYrQtw/s1600/3043eb088fd311e386531224b657c6a3_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
my lovely new wallpaper! I do love it very much ...<br />
<br />
What are you all up to this weekend? I do love to know, you know! I'll be catching up with you all in my teabreaks ...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Lots of love, Claire xxx</span>thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-68131043809276318682014-02-04T06:59:00.001+00:002014-02-04T06:59:55.146+00:00Scattered pictures, of the smiles we left behind ...Alive in our hearts forever ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2rgymN1wAOm3sTY37_-nxnwECGlE1uJfEWzMq4cwwS6XAtgZ98cXcH9JnPsLM2q308GIxay_5bb-WB3NFcjS12GsiPADNzHRK9IT2M8zJqKQrZyeo7sMnJAmB5LXc-F3oJHWkQXafumI/s1600/Mam+and+Janet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2rgymN1wAOm3sTY37_-nxnwECGlE1uJfEWzMq4cwwS6XAtgZ98cXcH9JnPsLM2q308GIxay_5bb-WB3NFcjS12GsiPADNzHRK9IT2M8zJqKQrZyeo7sMnJAmB5LXc-F3oJHWkQXafumI/s1600/Mam+and+Janet.jpg" height="320" width="189" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My lovely Mam</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
23 June 1932 - 4 February 1974</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Remembered with love and never forgotten ...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Love, Claire xxx</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-6883664642958456172014-01-20T08:58:00.000+00:002014-01-20T09:11:58.278+00:00Blue Monday ...Hello my lovelies, Happy Blue Monday to you! Today is supposed to be the most depressing day of the year ... it's the annual low-point ... post-Christmas, failed resolutions, financial gloominess and to top it all, grey dismal weather! I hope you're not too down-in-the-dumps ... I'm not!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTZiNdjt30gQBplBdAfavAKMlyG8UfToKum_A_An6nldXJPb2jrJA" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTZiNdjt30gQBplBdAfavAKMlyG8UfToKum_A_An6nldXJPb2jrJA" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With grateful thanks to Google!<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I quite like Mondays, because I have the house to myself after the weekend, and don't usually get dressed ** until I've cleaned the house from top to bottom. I know I'm strange, but I quite like cleaning, once I've got started, and love the feeling of having a clean house. Get some cleaning tips <a href="http://thriftwood114.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/i-am-doing-my-housework-got-no-time-to.html">here</a> ... After breakfast, I'll set to ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2FGY0E6Jy2zUDbi9kM2nJUhjdHhz4bTBphyVsEcECwwZyMSY6LrXCwgGg9arrB0rj0KS8nWj0jqM6lxGhn3Ppz3FUUcdHg0-cWDIuyF-YbA2WKgJ4Ku_G8oB4gfGJNSOcJG5D9gwGvYY/s1600/e98d83acb8a711e28a1722000a9f0a0c_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2FGY0E6Jy2zUDbi9kM2nJUhjdHhz4bTBphyVsEcECwwZyMSY6LrXCwgGg9arrB0rj0KS8nWj0jqM6lxGhn3Ppz3FUUcdHg0-cWDIuyF-YbA2WKgJ4Ku_G8oB4gfGJNSOcJG5D9gwGvYY/s1600/e98d83acb8a711e28a1722000a9f0a0c_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
January always feels like a new start for me too ... planning the vegetable plot and rearranging the garden in my mind, are both pleasant 'January Jobs'. I also have the urge to declutter and clean out cupboards in readiness for Spring and think it makes much more sense to 'Spring' clean in the dark, gloomy days of Winter than in the bright, mild days of March and April, when time could be more pleasantly spent outdoors.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwF98Iqs4b1bP2b6XP5GZrd0f-xge6DrQxzsxRimd0GYbEbKuko0H_DQEINXxsCFjOINcAsWKG0isRytK4oY7TBgWDLu4L9hp9a50RXHSI6Dpr6oEdLY20u_4v0O8o73lzhoo-uHIObIU/s1600/3abcf468ff8611e28a1922000a1fb0ef_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwF98Iqs4b1bP2b6XP5GZrd0f-xge6DrQxzsxRimd0GYbEbKuko0H_DQEINXxsCFjOINcAsWKG0isRytK4oY7TBgWDLu4L9hp9a50RXHSI6Dpr6oEdLY20u_4v0O8o73lzhoo-uHIObIU/s1600/3abcf468ff8611e28a1922000a1fb0ef_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last summer seems so long ago! x<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
January also gives me more time to make ... I'm building up a stock for upcoming fairs, and making pictures for Valentine's Day, Mother's Day ... any kind of day! (perhaps a Blue Monday one?)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmGHvER9eM87mIz-gCm38gO91fTyUAYl86vM_LoD4xYsAXh-sZ8Xuia6qoF4nvzJXDWWisdPQVRdBGYBRK09om_1wQewD2W49Ged9gbGqNsXfg9P_2um18dl63A_K4L1f981vl6qGiuc/s1600/1cbfea00810a11e384d312f739c0d23a_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmGHvER9eM87mIz-gCm38gO91fTyUAYl86vM_LoD4xYsAXh-sZ8Xuia6qoF4nvzJXDWWisdPQVRdBGYBRK09om_1wQewD2W49Ged9gbGqNsXfg9P_2um18dl63A_K4L1f981vl6qGiuc/s1600/1cbfea00810a11e384d312f739c0d23a_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This one was made for a friend <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_660099469"></span>you may have met before ...<span id="goog_660099470"></span></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR5e1FvfS9fl4X51VO5V61RiTuvjiPbYV8Z7EvUpEZ6pmVrBVkK22lkx5cfHOqG-SiYFK-o7zpzfap1-Mc91dj22Df_fGXNmpT_Kv_mVug582C0cJDUhxJacHlSMEB5E5p8vuch5azi0I/s1600/313fc8087e9211e382dc0a9ac22fc425_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR5e1FvfS9fl4X51VO5V61RiTuvjiPbYV8Z7EvUpEZ6pmVrBVkK22lkx5cfHOqG-SiYFK-o7zpzfap1-Mc91dj22Df_fGXNmpT_Kv_mVug582C0cJDUhxJacHlSMEB5E5p8vuch5azi0I/s1600/313fc8087e9211e382dc0a9ac22fc425_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Today Harry is coming home for a few days as he's just finished his exams at Uni, and is bringing his new girlfriend to meet us. I've been 'girlifying' Jacob's room for her ... I'd quite like to move in myself! It's amazing how just a few accessories can transform a room ... all I added were some lace curtains, a few floral cushions and a vase of daffodils (all of which are easily removed when Jacob comes home!) and the room is transformed from lad's pad to a cosy, feminine bedroom. This is how it looks now, but I didn't do a before ... not very aesthetically pleasing, I'm afraid!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sjdO4DhvxhdCaLhgLWl5ultiwKmJ8o0ACLUKpLB9gpz5vTOdsxdYj_1Ly4pml7WR21J2UXAx2p0HJdiGVAu0eTbgnKZ98LWXOSEpkrw4GmPKN3uTmD0tb6r5YM7_o8EN_dUjSh81kTc/s1600/ffe5f40c81ad11e38e6612704970d118_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sjdO4DhvxhdCaLhgLWl5ultiwKmJ8o0ACLUKpLB9gpz5vTOdsxdYj_1Ly4pml7WR21J2UXAx2p0HJdiGVAu0eTbgnKZ98LWXOSEpkrw4GmPKN3uTmD0tb6r5YM7_o8EN_dUjSh81kTc/s1600/ffe5f40c81ad11e38e6612704970d118_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I feel at a bit of a crossroads lately, but in an exciting sort of way ... do I take opportunities that present themselves, or do I trust in myself and build on what I have to offer? Decisions, decisions ... it's not always right to take the easy path, sometimes we need to make that leap into the unknown ... Halfway down the stairs, a bit like Ruby ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYCkYBAUj1yWfrKwzFdayV99LoSeHVu3FYzBHc-GE-Khid7SuJb1aCa6CrKB_xyhMZXBmBspWqx86kw7Ab9z_4gPZ02W6It21Ccp8wi7Snquw6XAK3Tefihz8XFXpdGy7-Y35o0D-nmI/s1600/9e455ef0757c11e3b8e912e55047faa4_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYCkYBAUj1yWfrKwzFdayV99LoSeHVu3FYzBHc-GE-Khid7SuJb1aCa6CrKB_xyhMZXBmBspWqx86kw7Ab9z_4gPZ02W6It21Ccp8wi7Snquw6XAK3Tefihz8XFXpdGy7-Y35o0D-nmI/s1600/9e455ef0757c11e3b8e912e55047faa4_5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is just a short post today, my lovelies, as I need to get my cleaning cloths out and get scrubbing ... so I'll love you and leave you, but what are you getting on with to beat the Winter blues? I'd really love to know ...<br />
<br />
Have a fabulously colourful Monday!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love Claire xxx</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">** </span>I'm not a 'naked cleaner' ... I do it in my pyjamas!thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3866534943061532614.post-24745846331555246402014-01-14T14:09:00.000+00:002014-01-15T08:55:42.575+00:00Ahhh, the sewing machine, the sewing machine ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlNajMMdjKcJcmCzqdouMQCQ2oO5zzvpkk5S8aAcCGbfIY_qEAWKOnuepq5zWfMWVslYBmCwu5OUkqJVp4JQ374Y_tddBimXtulX2BuJqWFsntSkahtuDvExJSihF4sXPR7SGWOb0Tdc/s1600/0eabb08edc9611e28b3522000a1f9867_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlNajMMdjKcJcmCzqdouMQCQ2oO5zzvpkk5S8aAcCGbfIY_qEAWKOnuepq5zWfMWVslYBmCwu5OUkqJVp4JQ374Y_tddBimXtulX2BuJqWFsntSkahtuDvExJSihF4sXPR7SGWOb0Tdc/s1600/0eabb08edc9611e28b3522000a1f9867_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Gosh it's almost two weeks since I've been here ... doesn't time fly when you're having fun? ... I have, because I've started my sewing lessons at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Lovesuzieb?fref=ts">Suzie B's</a>, and a great time is had by all. My fellow seamstresses are three delightful American ladies, one is a beginner like me, and I'm really glad about that because I thought everyone would be very experienced. The other 2 ladies have sewn lots before, so it's a nice mix.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KZsGuw2w4Y3Cq70LbV45RawBghLNbo9IOZpFRdsdJZ5Rydh7yCJkqPnQviK30YKdevMarg_GqfYq2zZ4d-q4WQmhGv4M32qqES2kPH4Yb21WLZbtHr2nHjp3qF89NKOCnUC1Yh2bSQo/s1600/69222c4477de11e3bb3f0ace75ce56cf_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KZsGuw2w4Y3Cq70LbV45RawBghLNbo9IOZpFRdsdJZ5Rydh7yCJkqPnQviK30YKdevMarg_GqfYq2zZ4d-q4WQmhGv4M32qqES2kPH4Yb21WLZbtHr2nHjp3qF89NKOCnUC1Yh2bSQo/s320/69222c4477de11e3bb3f0ace75ce56cf_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the lovely Suzie ... what she doesn't know about sewing really isn't worth knowing ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5aJJX-QR48Rd9qEptbHzDXIkg0guBOvGWgcnOws1GtSD78_50cY-73RU9b4jlvNgf-Av80dnLyqm6qIyYjqzqiFcsuvLP7rJ5HpXhTUIX9LhOz8YYfJTlLlMdFoKWedh907WJhZ5zqKg/s1600/12afa98077df11e3bab012d2d5e6e25c_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5aJJX-QR48Rd9qEptbHzDXIkg0guBOvGWgcnOws1GtSD78_50cY-73RU9b4jlvNgf-Av80dnLyqm6qIyYjqzqiFcsuvLP7rJ5HpXhTUIX9LhOz8YYfJTlLlMdFoKWedh907WJhZ5zqKg/s320/12afa98077df11e3bab012d2d5e6e25c_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Her shop is an oasis of sewing paraphernalia, mingled with vintage loveliness, intertwined with modern twists, so something for everyone, which is always good!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1mxMeW-X8PdIbS6xZ5QkhsZ4TatyR2Bd8_68_PtAnqzRpIHBzjhrsZUBdVq7ICONPNQlRVCacYKF7g5pCTqxUTRPFq1kglT__Xba6JGdjd_RvgvfDxhnGiQZEJoKoiyqHOa0aWz-52nU/s1600/1ba6b2a077de11e3abd4129eb955129a_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1mxMeW-X8PdIbS6xZ5QkhsZ4TatyR2Bd8_68_PtAnqzRpIHBzjhrsZUBdVq7ICONPNQlRVCacYKF7g5pCTqxUTRPFq1kglT__Xba6JGdjd_RvgvfDxhnGiQZEJoKoiyqHOa0aWz-52nU/s320/1ba6b2a077de11e3abd4129eb955129a_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Suzie's is the sort of place you can just pop into for a browse, or you can book a single lesson, a group workshop, or a course where you can make a different item every week or bring your own project.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_pugAFWX9FkiR2FbVlb3wyDqsFQOldRNglktOi5IdiQFclcK8xXNT1-oj4HWP-JTo2H-TErg83ZrJyeHkZiNMZ5KTS7w8LL2TO3YeJwNs3oKSmOJyh346neoIBH7dmjwZb8hWIGqxTNE/s1600/041e6a0a77df11e3bac912d2f4e88ba8_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_pugAFWX9FkiR2FbVlb3wyDqsFQOldRNglktOi5IdiQFclcK8xXNT1-oj4HWP-JTo2H-TErg83ZrJyeHkZiNMZ5KTS7w8LL2TO3YeJwNs3oKSmOJyh346neoIBH7dmjwZb8hWIGqxTNE/s320/041e6a0a77df11e3bac912d2f4e88ba8_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Bowls of threads in every colour of the rainbow ... and a fabric room that offers so much choice, I dither about for ages ... just give me the fabric, I'm no good at decision making ...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jcYI5Mv4g7HzcaRA1RloTu1VNSnuQfUSrjEuTkaEmQrBH_WbXEbfqrz7AkpKr05sls1K-tcXkGHyEvk1yJw-HCOGxXpAsJepNhQPZhAMLKY4ID__wOOxoR9duVFgAUBHO9UshnlZqu0/s1600/8dab135a77de11e39aaf1288f5591eb6_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jcYI5Mv4g7HzcaRA1RloTu1VNSnuQfUSrjEuTkaEmQrBH_WbXEbfqrz7AkpKr05sls1K-tcXkGHyEvk1yJw-HCOGxXpAsJepNhQPZhAMLKY4ID__wOOxoR9duVFgAUBHO9UshnlZqu0/s320/8dab135a77de11e39aaf1288f5591eb6_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sound advice!<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our first project was a draught excluder or a cushion ... more choices! I plumped (sorry!) for the cushion, and couldn't decide on the material ... with hindsight, I wish I'd veered from my vintage rosiness and opted for something modern, because it could have been a gift and the person in mind would have loved a retro design.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdkWx2DyEFPwLkcWipf96c_X2tPZbuoLuiFjIBZvCEIMm1FdrBlUpQZlxNJMa9XfRQbNEsndP65zIZtv2mJJdqB8XcmLETAykSFP3JozOpNnsl-SBWRfi_A114BQHUsUG8c7fjK-0u1U/s1600/be01440c77de11e3864b12d7daba2bdd_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVdkWx2DyEFPwLkcWipf96c_X2tPZbuoLuiFjIBZvCEIMm1FdrBlUpQZlxNJMa9XfRQbNEsndP65zIZtv2mJJdqB8XcmLETAykSFP3JozOpNnsl-SBWRfi_A114BQHUsUG8c7fjK-0u1U/s320/be01440c77de11e3864b12d7daba2bdd_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This is my very first, real sewing project! I have dabbled in the past, but due to my impatient, impetuous nature, I didn't prepare because I just wanted to get sewing, so the results weren't particularly pleasing. Suzie taught us how to turn at the corners, and zigzag the seams, and I couldn't believe that I had made something that looked really well made and accurate.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DK3d-sozY4FC1pCRx7hOx9Jn9Y52I4pX2UDvqxnHXvQ33K35Dlkj4WXl6sC4mj2e17B6PcQX-yj1qZQQNgPSuqLZST0fYGbkRVaBSTe3o-CatwD0xXGuxR5_39cDorFLxBjFSYT7zRE/s1600/e26dc63a77de11e3b9e91278822c469c_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DK3d-sozY4FC1pCRx7hOx9Jn9Y52I4pX2UDvqxnHXvQ33K35Dlkj4WXl6sC4mj2e17B6PcQX-yj1qZQQNgPSuqLZST0fYGbkRVaBSTe3o-CatwD0xXGuxR5_39cDorFLxBjFSYT7zRE/s320/e26dc63a77de11e3b9e91278822c469c_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is our little group (one lady was missing last week) with our plumptious cushions ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1VyhRiZu_8E8GprvkOqa5OJe7rurry_Qxkox12nSIVitMMRLs3fxa1lGwNH32swKP1Hrv9IcvDocaEvonORdCUP0ude2SGqZYnupBMq9CrAN38n25TCFrmL4UKFAgQ2zcQN32ytB4ctQ/s1600/1609831_241603472683429_231673155_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1VyhRiZu_8E8GprvkOqa5OJe7rurry_Qxkox12nSIVitMMRLs3fxa1lGwNH32swKP1Hrv9IcvDocaEvonORdCUP0ude2SGqZYnupBMq9CrAN38n25TCFrmL4UKFAgQ2zcQN32ytB4ctQ/s320/1609831_241603472683429_231673155_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
and this is today ... a tote bag was this week's project, and I already had a bag which I bought from <a href="http://hettiebrown.blogspot.co.uk/">Hettie Brown</a> a couple of years ago, which I use all the time and just love the shape and style, so Suzie prepared a template for me and this is the result. That's me on the far right, grinning like a mad thing. I've pinched this photo from Marsha ... I hope she doesn't mind, and I'll apologise for my blurry ones, they are taken on my Ipad because it's so easy, but the quality is poor.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoq9zNBo-1FS788GLj9PYHMUblAIlA9Srk0voOJ239pAnIUParZB2yIvybel_Khe-ZEsPYLh55Sgom43qCt_W9pfOinE8jroPIMz2lbU9VofUF2_Hx1pt0sn_3fi3Z_aPEvmQIzaq3Gp4/s1600/2360f19e77df11e39f3d1218d2e2d9a7_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoq9zNBo-1FS788GLj9PYHMUblAIlA9Srk0voOJ239pAnIUParZB2yIvybel_Khe-ZEsPYLh55Sgom43qCt_W9pfOinE8jroPIMz2lbU9VofUF2_Hx1pt0sn_3fi3Z_aPEvmQIzaq3Gp4/s320/2360f19e77df11e39f3d1218d2e2d9a7_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I don't know what we will be making next time ... perhaps a doll, some bunting or a rabbit maybe? Whatever it is, I know we'll have a great time ... I'm really liking this sewing lark! What have you all been making lately, I'd love to see ...<br />
<br />
See you soon,<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Love, Claire xxx</span><br />
<br />
<br />thriftwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04621095769476921131noreply@blogger.com29