seed

"Beauty amongst the weeds"

2010-11-26T09:37:00.003+11:00

I remember, as a very small child, the torturous trips to Adelaide.
Trapped inside a small vehicle with two parents that smoked non stop.
The 5 hour journey, feeling hot, tired and grumpy.
The screaming and yelling, mainly my mother. That I still hear to this day.

Dad used his fists.

The feeling of relief, when I could see the fields of purple (depending on time of year of course). The 'purple' signaled we were almost there, it meant peace, soon, I would be out of this car, and close to a woman who loved me no matter what.

My Great Aunt was a beautiful soul, she spoke little English, but there is no language required when speaking the language of 'love'.

I have a necklace and ring that once belonged to her, I clearly remember when she gave them to me. It used to smell like her, it has been held tight and sniffed, with a beautiful warm feeling. I think over time I have inhaled all her smell, drank it with my lungs, long lost its scent, instant happiness.

For Christmas, I would like a bottle of her "scent", so when I find myself in a place that is dark and futile, nepenthe.

Childhood memories, not sure why I am being bombarded of late, also dreaming a lot about heart operations. What to do, what to do...........

There is always "beauty amongst the weeds"...........

Excitement

2010-11-23T08:45:00.002+11:00

The excitement is building.
Second bedroom has been re plastered. Photo's to come.
It was a difficult decision to plaster over the top of the original solid plaster, but a decision based on practicality and budget.
Who knows, maybe oneday, we can peel off the gyprock and take a short course on solid plaster rendering and restore to original condition......... SIGH...........

Work begins (next week) on installing solar panels and battery bank, we will be completely independent from power companies, living off the grid. Woot Woot
I have been assured that the system we have designed will run everything we need, including computer, washing machine and fridge. In fact, we will be dumping power.

Extension has been delayed, due to new planning laws, some of which are shamefully revenue raisers for council.
There are also the new fire laws and guidelines to contend with.
I understand the need for some of these new laws, but realistically, if there was a fire anywhere near here, I would leave.
Simple, there is no decision to stay and fight, what a ridiculous idea, like I could win a battle against Mother Nature.

On a different note, I had some divine yarn loveliness arrive from Swift River Farm yesterday, yet to be photographed. I thought I would try some of there over dyed colours, and I wasn't disappointed with my purchase.
A treat to me, for my birthday.

41 is schme, it came and went.
The kids took me out for breakfast, delicious, and then catered to my every whim for the rest of the day. God, I love having my birthday.
Coen had saved for months, to surprise me with tickets to Harry Potter, a little bit of an ulterior motive here me thinks. He paid for both his sisters, and had exactly the right amount for popcorn, lemonade and chocolate balls (Maltesers) for everyone. Cute.
Camilla presented me with her first Biography test for the year, as it scored 22 out of 23. I will frame it of course, it was accompanied with a beautiful note, written from the heart, thanking me for, well, everything.......We are anxiously awaiting her marks now, I keep telling her that the rest of her life is not dependent on her results, there are ways and means and different paths to take to get to where she wants to go.
Laura, sweet Laura, sent me some gorgeous flowers, and her absence was missed soulfully. Why do they have to grow up and leave ????
Mia, gave me a big sloppy kiss, because 'that's what I wanted and needed', she also drew me a picture. This will also be framed. It fills me with hope when I see her doing things that most people have no difficulty with.

Excitement is building for Christmas, Mia understands this year that Santa is coming and bringing presents.
We have been telling stories about Saint Nicholas, and learning more about Jesus and his birth.
Soon, First Advent, and an Advent Calendar to ready (ours has pockets that we fill each year).

This, in my opinion, is a really cute kid.

2010-10-29T18:49:00.002+11:00

Larraby

2010-10-01T13:30:00.002+10:00

We have had so much fun exploring our new home, there have been adventures abound.
No tv, no computer and very infrequent phone reception. BLISS

Every day saw us rise early, build a fire and breakfast on the verandah overlooking the creek and ruins.
Very early to bed, usually completely exhausted but in a good way.
Lots of knitting and reading and playing, we searched and searched for faeries. I think we may have found evidence of their existence within a "story" tree.
The "story" tree was named so, because every time we visited, it prompted Mia to ask about me, when I was a little girl.
I find it interesting that she is so curious to know about me.
I see her struggle with the notion that I was, once, little, just like her.

Mostly I make up fantastic tales.
Sometimes stories, that are relevant to some of her trials and tribulations. I watch her closely, and when she makes a connection between my stories and her life, her little face lights up. JOY

My best friend Larry, pictured below, joined us on our short break.

He has aged much in the last 2 years, it breaks my heart to think of him not being under my feet. He has been my faithful shadow for 11 years now.

New beginnings....again....

2010-09-16T07:17:00.009+10:00

Soon, very soon, we are moving here.
An adventure in Waldorf education, and lessons in Steiner's teachings will be undertaken.

I really really really need one of these........

2010-08-23T06:49:00.003+10:00

This young woman pictured below

2010-05-29T16:56:00.003+10:00

turned 21 years of age on the 25th of May 2010.
Pictured with Laura is her future husband Luke.

These two amazing young people announced their engagement earlier in the year.

So it was a whirlwind trip to Queensland to attend Laura's party, and to also spend the actual day of her birth together.
We looked at bridal dresses on one day, to me it seemed every gown Laura tried on was stunning.
The lump that formed in my throat with every dress that was being tried on was becoming increasingly difficult to swallow.
How did it 'happen', how am I even old enough to have a 21 year old daughter let alone a daughter that is soon to be married ?

How did she turn out to be such an amazing, beautiful young woman ?
A young woamn who has her head screwed squarely on her shoulders.
A brave young woman who isn't frightened to say 'no', a careing, happy, healthy, well adjusted young woman who's smile is so completely infectious and an equally contagious laugh.

HOW DID I GET IT SO RIGHT ?

Ishbel # 2 Done and Dusted

2010-05-09T13:03:00.003+10:00

I'm not sure why this proved more challenging than the first one. The amount of mistakes and unravelling that took place with Ishbel # 2, would have driven a saint to drink.
The yarn is Manos del Uruguay, Silk Blend. 30% silk 70% merino.
Colour 3043 Juniper

2 and a bit skeins

Now I am planning how to make this in a doll size version.

Glutton for punishment, I am.

This little girl............

2010-03-17T15:41:00.011+11:00

Mia turned 4 on the 3rd of March.

Her special present was "Sally", made by Jenny from www.littlejennywren.blogspot.com

Sally is a beautifully made doll with exquisitely made little clothes. If you look close you can see the gorgeous little cable and bobble pattern on her jumper.

This has prompted more requests from Mia for matching clothing, as some of Sally's clothing has been made from fabrics I have used in making Mia's clothing.

I love that Mia is happy to wear whatever I make, and the majority of her wardrobe is made by myself, and most of her knitwear made by my mum.

I remember a beautiful, red corduroy pinafore with strawberries transfered on the front brace made by mum. Also a coat, not sure if it was patchworked or not but it had lots and lots of colours. Always reminds me of the story pf Joseph and his coat of many colours.

But what sticks in my memory the most was a fairisle jumper knit for me when I was 12. Obviously outgrown it now, but I remember the undyed nature of the wool and the faint lanolin smell.

# 2

2010-02-13T12:34:00.002+11:00

A glutton for punishment and an addictive personality have collided and against my better judgement, I have begun Ishbel # 2.

But by God this yarn is divine to knit, MANOS del URUGUAY 30% silk, 70% extra fine merino. Kettle Dyed, colour 3043 Juniper.

It is fluid like in its ability, as it glides from needle to needle. Surprisingly flexible, and glistens and sparkles in the sun light. The silk has a disitinctive sheen, but not overpowering the wool.

A perfect combination.

Ishbel

2010-02-05T14:34:00.003+11:00

This provided me with hours of enjoyment and frustration. A delightful pattern, beautifully written and easy to follow.

But knitting when tired, mistakes occur. When said mistakes are realised, words of such a nature that a coal miner would blush if heard, spew out of my mouth.

I have knit Ishbel for Camilla, my beautiful, precious heart, who is now settled and thoroughly enjoying her new school "Wilderness" in Adelaide as a boarder.

Ishbel was knitted using Jamieson's Double Knitting in colour Mooskit, just shy of 4 skeins used.
Quite a course yarn, 100% Pure Shetland Wool. Grown and spun on the Shetland Isles.

The fear of attempting something new is gone, the lessons learnt are many and the self satisfaction I have is great.

Next Ishbel, will be in the larger size, I'm thinking cashmere..............

Nothing but a Child

2009-12-14T09:39:00.001+11:00

Once upon a time in a far off land
Wise men saw a sign and set out across the sand
Songs of praise to sing, they travelled day and night
And precious gifts to bring, guided by the light

They chased a brand new star, ever towards the west
Across the mountains far, but when they came to rest
They scarce believed their eyes, they'd come so many miles
And this miracle they prized was nothing but a child

And nothing but a child could wash those tears away
Or guide a weary world into the light of day
And nothing but a child could help erase those miles
So once again we can all be children for a while

Now all around the world, in every little town
Every day is heard a precious little sound
And every mother kind and every father proud
Looks down in awes to find another chance allowed

And nothing but a child could wash those tears away
Or guide a weary world into the light of day
And nothing but a child could help erase those miles
So once again we can all be children for a while

Nothing but a little baby
Nothing but a child

-Steve Earle-

Third light of Advent

2009-12-13T12:12:00.002+11:00

******************************************************************

The third light of Advent is the light of beasts.

Animals of farm, field, forest, air and sea.

All await the birth in the greatest and in least.

******************************************************************

Tonight we light three candles.

Advent

2009-12-06T10:09:00.003+11:00

A new book rests on our bedside table (we co - sleep), it is The Story of the Root Children by Sibylle von Olfers.

I am surprised by how much this book is being requested to be read before bedtime, there is some element in it that Mia relates to.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

"The second light of Advent is the light of plants.

Roots, stem, leaf, flower and fruit by whom we live and grow." Rudolph Steiner

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Today we are spending the day creating a new theme for our nature table, to follow on with Advent "light of plants".

With help, Mia will light the candles after dinner.

Heaven on Earth

2009-11-25T09:28:00.002+11:00

The following was taken from the introduction to Heaven on Earth, written by Sharifa Oppenheimer.

"OUR CHILDREN ARE, in the words of Kahlil Gibran, the gift of Life's longing for Itself. They

run toward Life, arms open, and Life loves Itself through their small bodies. Pressing

themselves into sand, sifting dirt, watching an inchworm measure a branch, reaching toward the

black cat, who evades, then looks at them through inscrutable green eyes.... it is their biological

imperative to reach toward Life, and we, their caregivers, must structure the way in which Life

reaches back, the way they are touched in return.

They need to be touched by grass, flowers, sunshine, birdsong. They need a pile of dirt, and

earthworms, clay for mud pies and dirt balls for target practice. They need sticks and bare feet,

tubbed toes too. They need songs, stories, paints, costumes. And games that go on without end.

These children are Life reaching out to discover Itself. What they touch must be vibrantly

alive, that in growing they mey learn to respect, to nurture, to cherish and protect. This is our

task ; it is urgent they thrive.

They are Hope itself, here, now, forever. "

Very powerful words.

Is it just me

2009-11-14T18:38:00.002+11:00

Due to the ongoing heat, 8 days straight over 35 degress with more to come.

I am finding it increasingly difficult to keep an active 3 1/2 year old content with playing inside.

I on the other hand have lost hours on Ravelry, it's a yarn lovers Utopia.

With all the recent time I have spent on Ravelry, I probably could have finished 2 jumpers.

Schme

My eldest daughter (Laura) is arriving today from Queensland.
A birthday surprise for me.

Turning 40 on Monday.
My God, where did the time go...................................

Big changes are coming, another move, a much anticipated adventure into Steiner Education and Camilla leaving for Wilderness as a boarder.
How will I cope without my 'precious heart' brown eyed girl.

Anti-nuclear antibodies

2009-10-17T09:40:00.002+11:00

Mia has been suffering from some very noticable hair loss over the last 3 weeks.

Our GP and Dermatologist ordered blood tests after nothing obvious was noted to be causing her hair loss, infection, tinea and alopecia were all ruled out.

She returned a positive on her Anti-nuclear antibodies and a positive for Lupus.

We are facing a barrage of tests in the coming weeks as she also has protein present in her urine.

I have had a week to digest this information, but still feel a little overwhelmed as I have more questions than can be given answers.

There is so much we don't know.

I love this little face

2009-10-16T11:47:00.002+11:00

Glass Shelf

2009-10-13T20:02:00.002+11:00

This glass shelf you can see above the sink, yeh, that tiny little glass shelf pictured below.
It took me an hour and a half to hang that shelf.

Only 4 screws (note to self, check where power point is on other side of wall), so the third screw I put in decides to touch, just a tickle mind you the electrical wires running behind the wall. So the result, the elcb kicks in and we lose all power. Anyway, after some damn fine electrical work and a fair bit of electrical tape, we have power restored and a spiffy glass shelf above the $20 sink.

I am still in awe of my chandelier.

The end is in site, a new spout, some plastering and finally painting.

'To blog or not to blog'

2009-08-29T09:39:00.002+10:00

Like a warp and weft thread, the question seems to weave its way in and out of many of my favourite spaces.

'To blog or not to blog'.

I am truly grateful to the many of you that have shared experiences and everyday life, it offers inspiration and has paved the way for me to open my little world to you.

I am humbled by the strength and vitality of so many women.

Even the turbulent times, that move too quickly, leaving me dazed and confused, and sometimes wounded.

They too, serve a purpose and I embrace them fully, now that I understand the way life works.

Studio Tunic

2009-07-13T09:50:00.003+10:00

Named the "studio tunic".

This top has been a long time in the works, laying around on my drafting table for months.

Available in sizes 2, 4, 6 and 8.

Mia is wearing a cotton print in the new version of an old favourite design of my own.

I am proud to put my name to this updated model.

Currently being made in a slate gray flannel, perfect for layering.

More yarn loveliness

2009-06-23T12:16:00.006+10:00

Habu Textiles Super Fine Merino, will be used in combination with Stainless Steel/Silk blend also from Habu.

Silver/Slate wool, from www.ourladyoftherock.com A Benedictine Monastery located in the San Juan Islands of Washington state.

Mother Hidegard is an absolute joy to speak with, to know more, there is a very informative article on Our Lady Of The Rock in Wild Fibers magazine.

www.wilfibersmagazine.com I subscribe to this beautiful publication.

And finally from Swift River Farm www.swiftriverfarm.com some gorgeous 2 ply Jumper Weight Yarn.

95 % Pure Shetland Wool

5 % Bombyx Silk

Enjoy

I did it

2009-06-23T11:56:00.003+10:00

I finally bit the bullet and attempted knitting in the round.

I have not only mastered the 'Emily Ocker's cast on', but have used 4 dpn's to begin with and am now on a circular needle.
To start off, needles were flying around everywhere, poking me here and poking me there. But I perservered, I showed those needles who were boss, just like Elizabeth Zimmerman said I would.
I have cast on the EZ Pi Shawl, and what an addictive knit it has become.

My first shawl, my first E O cast on, my first E Z pattern (love it), my first experience with dpn's, and my first knitting in the round.

Perfect, as we had all succumbed to the flu in this house, (almost all, it appears Coen has been spared).
We have had the works, vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, sneezing and endless boxes of tissues have been used.

I find, as a single parent illnesses very challenging. The first couple of days were not so bad with Mia sick first then folllowd closely behind by Camilla. But on the fourth morning I knew I was in trouble.
Having had no sleep for the previous 3 nights, nursing Mia, my defences were well and truly down.

It is in these dark moments of pain and fogginess I find myself thinking 'how are we going to get through this'.

So, here we are 10 days later, feeling a little more human than wounded animal.
Now the task is to clean the house as nothing has been done in a week.

Plenty of knitting though, in between resting on the couch in front of the fire. No sports were played over the weekend, as I declared complete rest for everyone, no matter how well you think you may feel.

Pictures Of You

2009-06-22T09:31:00.001+10:00

I dare you to watch this and not cry.

This post was prompted by "pictures".
I have just finished reading how 'M' has lost hers.
And after watching 60 minutes last night (something I normally would not do), I found myself looking at pictures of old classmates well into the late hours of the night.

The impact of looking at pictures, the emotional torrent of flooding memories.
And the drowning sensation.
Yet, in complete contrast the overwhelming joy (birth pictures)

Pictures Of You

I've been looking so long at these pictures of you
That I almost belive that they're real
I've been living so long with my pictures of you
That I almost believe the pictures are all I can feel

Remembering you, standing quiet in the rain
As I ran to your heart to be near
And we kissed as the sky fell in, holding you close
How I always held close in your fear

Remembering you, running soft through the night
You were bigger and brighter and whiter than snow
And screamed at the make believe, screamed at the sky
And you finally found all your courage to let it all go

Remembering you, fallen into my arms
Crying for the death of your heart
You were stone white, so delicate, lost in the cold
You were always so lost in the dark

Remembering you, how you used to be
Slow drowned, you were angels
So much more than everything
Hold for the last time, then slip away quietly
Open my eyes, but I never see anything

If only I'd thought of the right words
I could have held on to your heart
If only I'd thought of the right words
I wouldn't be breaking apart
All my pictures of you

Looking so long at these pictures of you
But I never hold on to your heart
Looking so long for the words to be true
But always just breaking apart
My pictures of you

There was nothing in the world that I ever wanted more
Than to feel you deep in my heart
There was nothing in the world that I ever wanted more
Than to never feel the breaking apart
My pictures of you

The Cure

Beginner

2009-06-10T10:26:00.001+10:00

I am hoping this will be the next project for me, after 2 x school scarves and Moss Rib Sweater for Camilla.

Having never attempted cables before, I am looking forward to it.

Finger Callisthenics

2009-06-10T10:16:00.004+10:00

When I first stumbled across this scarf on Ravelry, I enjoyed the complexity of the pattern (only a 2 row repeat).
Now, after finally mastering the pattern (I did mention it has ONLY a 2 row repeat), I am really enjoying this knit.
It is actually fun, once your fingers have recovered.
Definitely a slow knit, but what a refreshing change from mindless 'stocking stitch'.

Stella

2009-06-05T14:33:00.008+10:00

Cascade Yarns 100% Undyed Peruvian Highland Wool.

This yarn is hefty and chunky, being reserved for a lap blanket for me.

I can feel the warmth of this wool whilst the skein is resting on my lap, gorgeous.

Malabrigo kettle dyed, pure merino wool.

www.malabrigoyarn.com for more color. I have in mind another scarf maybe.

I love living in a climate that allows me to wear these fibres.

Beaverslide Dry Goods www.beaverslide.com

This yarn and the available colour palette is stunning.

"Fine wool grown in Montana. The colours were inspired by the natural world here on the Rocky Mountain Front, and are unique to our company. It's processed in Maine and spun on an antique spinning mule."

I feel the word 'rustic' is overused in descriptions, but it is certainly warranted when describing this particular yarn.

Our newest member of the family.

She made her way into our home and hearts uninvited.

But she is here to stay.

Aptly named for when attacking skeins of yarn S - T - E - L - L - AAAAAAAA

Hello

2009-06-03T14:47:00.005+10:00

Habu Textiles Fiddlehead Cotton Silk, this is a very rare, traditional yarn from Niigata inNorthern Japan. It is made from mixing the fiddlehead fern cotton with silk. The result is a delicate, very soft, rustic yarn.

Habu Textiles Silk Stainless Steel 69% silk, 31% stainless steel. Originally used as an industrial yarn to create oil filters, this extra fine yarn has a core of stainless steel with silk wrapped around the core. Because of the stainless steel, there is a memory in the yarn.

Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend 30% silk, 70% merino extrafine wool, kettle dyed

Manos del Uruguay is a non profit organistaion which assembles over 400 artisans in cooperatives scattered throughout the countryside of Uruguay. The aim of the organisation is to bring economic and social opportunities to rural women.

Unfortunately, I haven't been able to capture the true colour of this yarn. (Juniper 3043).

It is the most exquisite blue.

Hello, my name is Caroline and I am a yarn addict.

Solidarity

2009-05-31T18:52:00.003+10:00

This photo was taken on one of my last day trips around my local area (in Queensland), in the last weeks before moving to Victoria.

While taking some time to compose the shot, I thought of many things.

I remember the only sounds where of the water and the occasional motorcyclist speeding by, this particular road is a favourite amongst bikers.
I know as I used to be one of them.
The people in this photo, I don't know.
But I was completely envious of their solidarity in harmony with nature.
When I look at this photo, I note that the couple are not actually touching, but they are probably close enough to feel and hear each others breathe.

It speaks of comfort and space at the same time.
I do remember wishing I had someone to share moments like these with, I still do.

I also recall feeling a little like an intruder and apologising to them for interupting their meditations.
She had an expressive, warm face with deep lines. A faint hint of a smile around her lips, her reply was "beauty is for everyone".
He had a twinkle in his eye, but remained silent.

I left feeling 'lost'.

So, here I sit at 9.15 pm Sunday evening, killing time waiting for the tiredness to kick in.
I can't go to sleep until my eyelids are dropping. Otherwise I lay in bed thinking about things like this couple or dwelling too much on loneliness.

Finished

2009-05-18T08:07:00.002+10:00

Finally, this scarf was becoming a little monotonous. Endless rows of garter stitch, create mind numbing boredom.

But, I love it.
I love its texture, colour and most importantly its warmth.

I am particularly pleased I continued with its finished length, so many times I had to stop the urge to cast off earlier.

Next on the needles will be Moss Rib Sweater using te darker colour above (Jo Sharp Silkroad DK Tweed) 85% wool, 10% silk and 5% cashmere.

Cleverly creative

2009-05-16T10:44:00.002+10:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_HXUhShhmY

If you have a couple of spare minutes, click on the above.

I would love to know how to directly link to 'you tube', can anyone help ?

2009-05-13T18:34:00.004+10:00

itouch

2009-05-01T10:40:00.002+10:00

An early Mother's Day gift.
I am completely addicted to WordFu and Solitaire. The kids and I spent most of the night downloading games, applications and music.

They are so impatient with my lack of net savvy, every question was met "sheeeesh, why don't you know this".

So I have been visiting itunes all morning and can safely say "I AM THE MASTER", just you kids wait till you get home and see what I can do.

Busy

2009-05-01T10:08:00.007+10:00

I adore how much these two love each other.

Coen ran a cross country yesterday. He finished in the top 1/3.

This one is for me, Long Textured Scarf is knit with Silkroad Aran Tweed (85% wool, 10% silk, 5% cashmere) Rare Comfort Infusion Kid Mohair (80% kid mohair, 5% wool, 15% polyamide) and Rare Comfort Kid Mohair (80% kid mohair, 5% wool, 15% polyamide).

It measures 25 cm in width and will probably end up around 2.1 metres in length.

It is also the first project I have knitted for myself.

A wedding gift in the mail for Phil and Anna.

Green scarf has been knit with Jo Sharp Silkroad Aran, 85% wool 10% silk and 5% cashmere.

The pattern is "Sinfully Ribbed" obtained via Ravelry and is approx 2.1 metres in length.

I added a small fringe which has given this scarf a Doctor Who'ish look about it.

A joy to knit (love this yarn).

The steel grey coloured scarf is a revisit of a favourite pattern, using same yarn as previously used on Christmas gift.

Patons Merino Totem DK, I knit this scarf to a length of 1.8 metres, the pattern Sailors Rib Scarf.

Finally a bath that fits the void.

Just waiting on longer length rails which are holding the shower curtain in place.

A couple of coats of paint, skirting board and lighting are all that is left.

At least now we can bathe inside.

Aaargghh

2009-04-03T11:43:00.003+11:00

Wrong size bath.

This one measures 1480mm, I ordered the 1760mm.

As tempted as I am to keep the smaller sized bath, I know that after time I would begin to hate it.

It is just too small.

So we wait, another week I'm told, thing is Easter falls in the middle, so more like 2 weeks.

I love how the shower rose comes down through the ceiling.

3 days

2009-04-02T13:46:00.005+11:00

Did I say 3 days, a week later tiling is complete.

Tonight I will put up the vj panelling.

The Plumber is due to arrive first thing in the morning for the fit out.

This bathroom reno has been designed around a $20 pink cast iron pedestal basin (purchased from our local up-cycle tip shop) and a $30 chandelier (bought at a garage sale).

I think if I was ever to attempt another bathroom renovation (never say never), I would outsource for a tiler.

The cost involved with ripping up the first tiles I laid, then purchasing more to replace, would have more than covered a professionals cost.

Add to that, the sheer frustration and endless swearing, it just isn't worth the headache.

I initially told the kids we would only be bathing in the backyard for a week at most, almost 4 weeks later and I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Tonight I will savour my bath and wonder at the evening sky, but will be secretly delighting at the prospect of having a shower tomorrow night.

Remembering

2009-03-31T10:38:00.004+11:00

After carding, the (above) natural greasy fleece, looks like this (below).

Then the fun begins.

Spinning is not as easy as it looks, but it is tremendously rewarding.

I find myself thinking of many things while spinning.

How are you Mary ?

I feel the tension in my neck and shoulders dissipate.

Constantly dreaming of the beautiful items I will one day knit with this gorgeous fibre.

Spinning is also a sensory delight, the smell (reminds me of the sheep fat I used on cracked nipples when breast feeding eldest daughter), the touch is earthy and wholesome and the sight of the glistening staples after carding in the sunlight is brilliant.

I remember my mum spinning when I was little.

Tiling

2009-03-24T14:27:00.003+11:00

I saw 4 shooting stars this morning while I was in the bath, 6am.

The kids jumped in as dawn broke.

We all agree, that even when the new bathroom is finished, we will still use the old bath outside.

I have finally finished tiling the floor. The walls should be completed in 3 days.

Sheep will be next

2009-03-17T14:31:00.002+11:00

I am now the very proud owner of the Joy Single Treadle spinning wheel.

Special request, for you Grandma

2009-03-16T21:41:00.004+11:00

Persistence pays off (along with a small bribe)

My very camera shy boy.

Progress

2009-03-14T10:36:00.002+11:00

Progress is slow.

Yuk

2009-03-14T10:33:00.002+11:00

No wonder we couldn't get cold water in the kitchen.

I love my new taps.

Bathroom/Life Renovation

2009-03-13T09:38:00.002+11:00

I really have had enough of bathing in the backyard.

Hopefully, I will finish the tiling today, leaving the week-end free to hang th vj panelling.

And if all goes to plan, the plumber will arrive Monday to fit out new bathroom.

I remember when

2009-02-23T09:18:00.002+11:00

I remember when happiness showed on the outside.

Oh, the cleverness of you

2009-02-22T18:54:00.003+11:00

Old.

Alone.

Done for !

A good movie is one that still haunts you days later.

jcbsong

2009-02-02T22:37:00.003+11:00

This is one of the most incredibly cute and heartfelt songs I have heard in years.
www.jcbsong.co.uk/jcbvideo.asp

If you find yourself with a spare 3 minutes, please go and listen, watch the clip and then navigate to the artist's home page and read the history of the song.

Little boys will love this and mums will adore it.

Record

2009-02-02T19:10:00.002+11:00

Our 7th straight day over 40 degrees has broken a 100 year old record.

We have forecast for Monday and Tuesday 40 degress with Wednesday and Thursday predicted to reach 41 degrees.

I made an offer on property in Tasmania.

An Awesome Book

2009-01-22T19:26:00.003+11:00

I have just completed the checkout to purchase this book by Dallas Clayton. If you haven't seen or heard about this book yet, go to http://dallasclayton.com/products/ .

I promise you will love it, being able to view the book before purchase is fantastic marketing. Once finished reading it, you will want to buy, just to keep reading it over and over again.

Life is all about creating memories with my children at the moment, and this book reinforces what is important, to me and them.

Smile

2009-01-21T16:01:00.000+11:00

I wish I may, I wish I might

2009-01-21T10:28:00.001+11:00

I really wish I lived here.

Camilla

2009-01-20T12:37:00.001+11:00

My precious darling heart.

WIP and 43oC

2009-01-20T12:30:00.002+11:00

It is currently 43 degrees outside.

Too hot to play out in the yard so we are sitting inside in air conditioned comfort.

Mia is watching "Hook" over and over again, and I am knitting The Simple Sweater.

A Jo Sharp pattern using her Desert Garden Aran Cotton in colours "clay", "dandelion" and "marina".

Business as usual

2008-12-17T09:39:00.003+11:00

_____________________________________________________________________

nepenthe n. 1. a drug or draught ( or the plant yielding it ) mentioned by ancient writers as

capable of bringing forgetfulness of sorrow or trouble.

2. anything inducing easeful forgetfulness. Also, nepenthes : banishing sorrow.

_____________________________________________________________________

"seed"

Well, life has thrown me some enormous hurdles over the last 6 months, on top of moving interstate with 3 children on my own.

I feel, finally, that we are regaining some of our rhythm.

breathe in, breathe out

The construction of ideas and design behind "seed" has been a little slower than anticipated but I will have a 'collection' of sorts to unveil in the new year.

I am very excited at the prospect of realising a dream and seeing it come full circle.

From an idea to sketches to fabric choice to a completed garment.

My clothing has been designed thoughtfully with 'simplicity' being the focus behind the "seed" label.

Being a mum would have to my most frustrating yet soul replenishing job.

It is also my absolute inspiration, married with a desire to see less tastelessness in an environment that has been imbued with immodest, noisy clothing.

Mia

2008-12-09T13:14:00.002+11:00

Sailors Rib Scarf

2008-11-19T12:55:00.004+11:00

A Christmas gift in process.

Pattern from www.katinkaknits.com via Ravelry.

Knit using gorgeous 100% Australian Merino Wool.

Words

2008-11-17T10:17:00.002+11:00

The following was taken from "periwinklebloom".

**************************************************************************************
"A bit early for resolutions but a friend of mine made a poignant comment recently regarding the many hats we wear as parents.

Her observation rang loud and true that we are rarely 'fully present'. With one toe in, an arm reached out and as ear in yet another direction I tend to overlook the lack of pause in my life.

The rhythmic breath of our everyday is too frenetic and taken for granted without care.

This is not news I am sure, but bears repeating. That we mentally multitask and exist on soundbites is not exactly living. Pragmatic, yes but nourishing, not so much.

As we enter the holiday season with a rush I'll send good energy your way to do less and be more.

A gentle remionder to be present, to engage and to notice your breath."

**************************************************************************************

Week-end just gone.

2008-10-27T09:24:00.002+11:00

New friends found at a local Garage Sale.

This was our Sunday, unrelenting heat (38 C ), blustery winds and dust storms.

It stands to reason......

2008-10-27T09:12:00.002+11:00

Small chickens lay small eggs.

For those that asked

2008-10-23T17:10:00.011+11:00

Replacing some patterned louvres with clear glass has allowed more light in.

The morning sun streams through here.

I can watch Mia on the swings when washing up.

My model on strike.

Mia has shown great reluctance in having her photo taken lately, she is tired of countless "fashion shoots".

When she sees me walking towards her with 'another' garment to try on and photograph, she runs and hides.

Isn't it funny how at this age they always hide in the same spot.

Coen asked me what my favourite colour was the other day, I told him 'I don't have one', he then pointed out that all my 'treasures' in the kitchen were green.

Hmm, so it would appear my favourite colour is green, I just don't want to upset orange and purple as I am rather fond of them too.

A collection of 'green' things.

New stove, polished floors.

Pictures of the kitchen just before we moved in, as you can see the floors are in the process of being sanded.

It took 4 days to remove the old tiles and masonite that was nailed to the floor.

I have also removed the contact from benches, for some reason I seem to prefer the red paint over orange contact.

There is still much to be done.

First born.........

2008-10-22T20:27:00.002+11:00

My beautiful first born.

Laura with her partner Luke.

What an amazing young woman, from the moment she was born she has managed to bring so much happiness to so many lives.

I am immensely proud of her, my whole being wants to burst with pride when I look at her.

I love you more.

Escape

2008-10-19T22:05:00.008+11:00

From where I sit in the morning drinking my cup of tea, it looks like these flowers are trying to escape my neighbours yard into mine.

An Australian icon.

How many times were you yelled at to "stop swinging on the clothes line" ?

Guess how much I love you.....

2008-09-21T23:07:00.005+10:00

All you need is love.

I am truly blessed.

I love the shadow in this picture.

Introducing

2008-09-18T17:46:00.002+10:00

Henny and Penny.

These gorgeous girls moved in several weeks ago now and are part of the family.

They lay the smallest eggs I have ever seen for chickens but then they are very small chickens. The breed is known as Pekin.
I'm not sure why but I seem to derive a great deal of pleasure by just sitting quietly watching these birds scratch around the yard. I find it incredibly relaxing and satisfying to see them catching bugs and insects in and around the yard and vege patches.

I am in spiral mode at the moment and am looking forward to upcoming holiday in Queensland.

Visiting with oldest daughter Laura.
I canot express in words how much I have missed her over the last 5 months.

I know she is a big girl now, working and living with boy friend, yet it only feels like yesterday when I held her in my arms for the first time.

Number one son is turning 11 in 4 sleeps, where does the time go........

All we need .....................

2008-07-26T16:26:00.002+10:00

is a couple of chickens.

You wouldn't believe how difficult it has been trying to source poultry.

On a completely different note, I have managed to purchase 5 metres of the most gorgeous fabric, 95% wool / 5 % cashmere in Silver (colour).

As soon as, (I seem to utter this an awful lot lately) I have completed my purchases for autumn/winter (fabrics) I will post pictures of new line specifically for the Northern Hemispere which will be for sale on Etsy.

Life has just been an endless hurdling event in recent months, I feel I am almost out of breath, quite literally.

We need rain, rain and rain.

Windows and happiness delivered via Australia Post

2008-07-16T13:13:00.004+10:00

I Love the front window in our new house, dirt and all.

One of the main reasons for purchasing this particular property, was the abundance of natural light and a generous sized backyard.

The chook house has been erected waiting now for the arrival of our foul friends.

Cubby house soon.

Look what came for me today.

A package from Linnet.

Every boy

2008-07-15T06:24:00.003+10:00

A little surprise for Coen when he returns from having school holidays in Queensland with his father.

I love Etsy.

Visit www.ashleyg.etsy.com to view more of her work.

Introducing Coen, my son. He is aged 10 years.

I feel so empty when they are gone, it is much too quiet.

Musing

2008-07-13T15:18:00.001+10:00

For Mia Part 2

2008-07-13T15:10:00.002+10:00

I purchased this gorgeous pillow for Mia from mummysam.

You can visit her shop at www.mummysam.etsy.com and view all of her delightful creations.

It was a very difficult decision to pick just one, but we settled on Sally's Porridge as it is Mia's favourite breakfast.

For Mia

2008-07-13T15:07:00.000+10:00

Changes

2008-06-13T11:40:00.002+10:00

A new house, a new town, a new state.

A new life.

Moving is never easy, especially for children.

I battled within, agonised, over a decision to move.

Etsy

2008-04-03T12:01:00.001+11:00

Soon, I will be opening a shop on Etsy.

seed
----

Simplistic in design and colour.

Created in small editions, handmade upon order.

An adventure

2008-03-31T16:11:00.002+11:00

Finally a cloudless Sunday, and spare time to enjoy it.

A drive, a small country town market and an adventure.

Renew.

Perhaps a prince ?

2008-03-28T18:32:00.001+11:00

Conversationalist

2008-03-24T23:21:00.001+11:00

There is much to discuss.

Pensive

2008-03-24T00:02:00.000+11:00

Inspiration

2008-03-23T23:44:00.001+11:00

Simplistic

2008-03-23T23:24:00.000+11:00

Simplistic in design and colour.

Classic yet contemporary.

black, white, natural and shades of grey.

Germinate

2008-03-20T12:15:00.000+11:00

A tiny seed of an idea.

Some seeds of doubt.

Germinate

Grow

Seed Design

2008-03-13T11:55:00.000+11:00

From little things, big things grow.