vintagerockchick

Wuthering Heights

2012-01-25T12:09:00.000-08:00

Having seen a brilliant film last week, I was looking forward to seeing Wuthering Heights today.

I have to say that as far as I'm concerned it was a complete disappointment. No criticism of the actors - but the way that the film was shot and the very limited dialogue just left me cold. In fact, if the cinema hadn't been as chilly as those wild and windy moors, I don't doubt I'd have nodded off. I'm afraid that personally I couldn't wait for Cathy to die. When I came out I heard a couple of girls asking one another if they'd cried at the end. Cried??? I was ready to let out a cheer!

Don't let me put you off though - I've just read some of the film critic reviews and they thought it was marvellous.

Oh well, each to their own.

Wuthering Heights - Kate Bush

CHASING RAINBOWS

2012-01-19T02:54:00.000-08:00

Today I'm sending out invitations to the Spectrum Exhibition (I DID mention the exhibition, didn't I?) I wondered why I'd bought these very bright envelopes a couple of years ago, and this morning it all became clear. AND I knew exactly where they were, which is a bonus.

Very Spectrum-ish.
If you'd like an invitation - let me know and I'll send or email one to you.
(Psst - It'll be worth it just for Gina's cakes)

Blondes (Have More Fun)

2012-01-18T03:51:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to the cinema to see ..

click on this link to watch a preview.

I thought it was fabulous - a really good cast - and the actress who played Monroe was phenomenal - I kept forgetting she wasn't really her. Can't recommend it highly enough!

Anyway, back to the sewing machine - I'm making needlecases for our exhibition. And now I've told you about them I'm going to HAVE to finish them.

PS I think I'm losing it. Just went to make myself a cup of coffee. When the kettle boiled I spent ages searching for the mug I wanted. Checked all the rooms in case I'd left it somewhere yesterday, had another look in the cupboard. Considered putting my wellies on and going down the garden to see if I'd left it in my studio. I've got lots of mugs - and it really didn't matter, but I wanted THAT one.

Then I remembered - it was in the microwave from where I'd put it 90 seconds earlier to warm the milk up. Oh dear.

Blondes (Have More Fun) - Rod Stewart

DOLLS

2012-01-14T11:28:00.000-08:00

I was with the Young Embroiderers today, making dolls. The original idea was to make peg dolls, but then Gina decided to go for something a bit more quirky, so we made pipe cleaner armatures, wrapped with wadding and sheeting to make the bodies.

Gina showed some examples of dolls she had made

And this is one Pam had made previously, she's got large boobs and she's supported by a bottle. That's the doll, obviously - not Pam.

Clearly, we weren't going to make anything as fancy as those in a few hours, but they were great inspiration. I must say they made my peg doll look quite pathetic - but at least she was recognisable, and obviously an excellent role model for our 8-12 year old girls.

I had to leave early today (mainly to get out of the clearing up and putting the furniture back after I decided to re-organise it this morning) but I did take pictures of the dolls that were finished. (Nip over to Gina's blog to see the rest of dolls - they were brilliant. The girls are getting more and more creative and enthusiastic with each meeting. I believe this one with the green hair and the pretty frock is called Bobby....

Not sure what this ones called but I love her furry boots and matching hair ..

And this next one is christened Wacky, or maybe even Queen Wacky. I think we've just caught her on her way to an urgent appointment at Moorfields.

And finally, this next one is Gina's. She was having a bit of a bad hair day, and in the end decided to settle for a headscarf, topped off by a bottle top crown. We thought she looked a bit Russian, kind of Ciscilla, Queen of the Saltmines.....

Personally, I think as an autobiographical doll, she was excellent!

That's me crossed off the Christmas card list then.

DOLLS - Primal Scream

Spectrum

2012-01-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

A very belated Happy and Healthy New Year!

A bit delayed I know, but I was away over Christmas, and started the New Year with some very long days at work, and then I've been stitching, stretching and framing my work for an exhibition. I belong to a textile group called Spectrum, which is a group originally formed from my City and Guilds Embroidery group, and now with a few additional members and mentored by Gina Ferrari.

Anyway, we've been working towards our first exhibition in February. I have to say, there has been much dithering, numerous displacement activities, and some tearing out of hair - I'm only speaking for myself you understand - the others in the group may have been completely laid back and calm about the whole thing.

BUT - it's finally all finished and ready to go. And today, I went over to Art Van Go and typed labels for our work, and collected the posters and invitations Kevin produced for us.

I'm especially looking forward to the Private View Tea Party, which is the afternoon of Saturday 11th February at Art Van Go. If you'd like to come and see our work - and join us for tea and homemade cakes (don't worry - I'll point mine out so you can avoid them!) just email me and I'll send you an invitation.

Hope to see you there.

SPECTRUM - Florence and The Machine

James

2011-12-22T07:02:00.000-08:00

Exciting news!

Whoever would have thought that I'd be spending Christmas with James Martin - who I'm guessing must be most girls' idea of near perfection - a handsome young man, comfortably off, with a lovely house in Yorkshire, several flash cars and fast motorbikes, and able to rustle up a sticky toffee pudding, or a rhubarb crumble without too much fuss.

He's probably no good at DIY, but you can't have everything.

Sadly we are only spending Christmas together on my book shelf .......

courtesy of a drawing of me, by my some-time watercolour art teacher and friend, Christine Spence, which she has very kindly made into a Christmas card for me.

and my other 'alternative' Christmas card, painted by my friend Jill, who is still one of Chris' students (as you can see, she's a miles better artist than me - which is why I've more or less given up painting and decided to stick to stitching instead)

It's so lovely to have a card that's not only handmade, but made just especially for me, so thank you girls xx

As you know, cooking isn't one of my particular accomplishments either. Consequently I bought the Christmas cake, but I HAVE marzipaned and iced it myself, and I think it looks pretty. (Blogger doesn't like the word 'marzipaned' - could it be that it's not really a verb???)

Anyway, in case I don't get to speak to you again before the festivities, I hope you all have a lovely Christmas wherever you are, and whoever you're with. And if you are spending it with your family - then treasure them xxx

James - Camera Obscura

2011-12-15T06:35:00.000-08:00

Oh dear I've not been very good at this blogging business recently. No time!
Anyway, just to catch up.
I went for a weekend with my friend Lynn, who had told another friend of hers that I collect old sewing machines. Wouldn't really describe myself as a collector, but I do have a couple. Anyway, this friend of a friend said "Oh, she might like this then" .....

It's a miniature Essex sewing machine.
And, just to prove it's miniature

Having done a bit of research on the internet, it turns out that it was made in a factory in Wanstead - which is still there, although no longer makes sewing machines. Which is a pity, because despite the very best efforts of my Dad,

who cleaned and oiled it so that it turns smoothly now, unfortunately there is no tension mechanism, so it won't work. Never mind it looks pretty, and I might contact the factory to see if they have any spares lying around!

I have recently been on a printing course at The Artnest in Hitchin (no website yet)
We did lino cuts and then printed them ....

Lots of robins, snowmen and mistletoe (and maybe the odd heart)

liberally interspersed with nibbles, mulled wine, and cake.

Finally, (and this is really for my Dad 'cos I don't think he entirely believed me. A few weeks ago I bought another attachment for my bird feeder and some little black Niger seeds (I think they come from Love-in-the-Mist, so it won't matter if they seed themselves.) None of the usual birds seemed the slightest bit interested, and I decided that I wouldn't bother with those seeds again - then one day last week I was in my kitchen and I saw a swarm(?) of Goldfinches! There were six altogether, although by the time I got my camera, some of them had flown away so there were only three left

These two were there for ages. I love my bird feeder.

Box O' Chocolates

2011-11-26T15:01:00.000-08:00

If you've been with me for a while, you may remember that in Christmas 2008 I had a box of felt chocolates made for me by my lovely sister.

She had seen a picture of them in a magazine, and although she asked Father Christmas for a book with instructions on how to make them, she couldn't wait for that to arrive, so she fiddled around with little bits of felt and tiny stitches, and devised her own patterns - and very beautiful the results are too.

I took them along to my (then) City and Guilds group, where they were much admired. So much so, that at Angela's request, and despite never having taught before, my sis went along to Art and Stitch and took the class.

I'm sure you'll understand then, that Linda was very much in my thoughts as I drove to the last meeting of the Young Embroiderers' for this year, where we were going to show the girls how to stitch a little box of chocolates, to maybe give as a handmade Christmas present. The girls excelled themselves -

(and THESE photos were stolen directly from Gina - but she said it was ok)

I thought that our Young Embroiderers would enjoy making them, but I was really impressed by how enthusiastic they were - and how they kept coming up with new ideas for their next chocolate, while they were still stitching the last one.

So I really hope that somehow, somewhere, Linda is aware that today, indirectly, she kept 12 little girls (and four bigger ones!) thoroughly engrossed and entertained for hours.
Thanks sis xx

Box O' Chocolates - Three Black Eyes

Peter Cushing Lives in Whitstable

2011-11-07T14:28:00.000-08:00

I've just had a lovely girl's weekend in Whitstable with a couple of friends - staying in the perfectly appointed and beautifully decorated Curlew Cottage in the centre of town, just a stone's throw from the harbour. We arrived on Thursday and spent a few hours in Canterbury (didn't have my camera, with me I'm afraid) and then spent Thursday evening talking one of our party into the idea of visiting Margate the following day (I'm guessing she thought we'd try to drag her to Dreamland!) but managed to convince her that with the new Turner Contemporary gallery, Margate was now the happening place to be. The gallery was brilliant -

and currently has Rodin's 'The Kiss' on loan

We spent a couple of hours wandering around the current exhibition -

Photographs were not allowed in the main gallery area, but we were allowed to take a couple in the foyer. I think there must be a lot of unhappy youngsters around, judging by the slogans on these T-Shirts

And we loved this 'then and now' display of photographs of the models when they were teenagers, and how they look now - it was fascinating to see how they'd changed.

When we came out of the gallery - I did wonder if the doors of these lock-ups around the harbour were painted by chance, or if they were designed to be a bit of artwork themselves.

We HAD to stop here for coffee and cake

And I insisted the girls pose here, much against their better judgement

At the end of the day, having visited - and shopped at - numerous vintage shops and second-hand bookshops, we all agreed that despite our preconceptions, Margate is well worth a visit.

On Saturday, we stayed in Whitstable. I loved it - no sign of any Tesco supermarkets (always a bonus, in my book) and absolutely NO chain stores that you get everywhere - just lots of individual, independent businesses - a fabric shop, a wool shop, lots of second hand shops, and independent clothes shops covering all budgets. Oh, I lied - there was one chain. When we had first driven along the High Street, I thought this was a cinema.

However, on closer inspection, it turned out to be a Wetherspoon pub converted from an old cinema, and named after one of Whitstable's famous residents. And what a fabulous conversion - we popped in for coffee, and it was as beautiful inside as it was outside.

I can't say I'm much of a Wetherspoons afficionado - but this is without doubt the loveliest I've ever visited. I'd definitely go there again.

We spent the rest of the day pottering, and also visited a fabulous textile exhibition at the Horsebridge Arts and Community Centre by 1IN2textiles. I came away very inspired and itching to stitch.

On Sunday, despite a slight drizzle and a chilly wind, we had a wander around the harbour, where some of the fishermens' huts have been converted into an Art and Craft market.

Obviously, you can't have a trip to the seaside without a dip in the sea, but sadly the photos of me swimming didn't come out, so you'll have to take my word for it. Would I lie to you?

To sum up - Whitstable was fab - masses of lovely shops, a thriving art scene, and loads of live music in the pubs. All that and the seaside as well! Now, if I can just win the lottery ...........

Peter Cushing Lives in Whitstable - The Jellybottys
and in case you are doubting me - it really IS a song title.

Lady Linda

2011-10-22T15:35:00.000-07:00

Today I went to a brilliant workshop at my Embroiderers' Guild - Stitching on Plastic, with textile artist Kathleen Laurel Sage. She was an excellent and inspirational tutor, and we could barely keep up with writing notes on all the wonderful techniques she suggested. Despite being slightly wary about how tricky stitching into plastic was going to be, let alone free machine embroidery, I have to say my machine behaved beautifully and I produced lots of samples, some with paint, some with applied fabrics, and some with sequins.

There were lots more ideas I wanted to try if only we'd have had more time, but I left with a head stuffed full of ideas to pursue at home.

It was just the sort of day that usually, as soon as I'd get home, I'd make a cuppa, get comfy on the sofa, and then ring my baby sis, Linda, to tell her about everything I'd done at the workshop and promise to take the samples up to show her the next time I saw her.

Which brings me to my dreadfully sad news, and the reason why I've been away for a while.

A month ago, my dear sister, known to some of you as Patchwork Linda, died peacefully after a short and sudden illness. It has been a terrible shock to all of her family and friends, as Linda was only diagnosed as being ill three short weeks before that.

As those of you who know me are aware, we were incredibly close, having been best mates all of our lives, sharing literally hundreds of holidays, countless trips to Knitting and Stitching Shows, Quilting Exhibitions, stitchy weekends away, and so much more.

It has been, and continues to be, very difficult to motivate myself to do anything very much, but Linda made me promise to her that I wouldn't give up stitching, and that I'd carry on going to workshops. In fact to quote her "Don't use me as an excuse not to do your homework!"

She was so strong and brave, and kept her brilliant sense of humour to the end, and she will always be an inspiration to me. I know that I'll miss her forever, but I also know how very fortunate I was to have a sister, and how especially lucky I am that it was her.

In the three years since I started this blog, Linda was my most avid and enthusiastic reader.

So, Dear Linda, I hope that wherever you are now, that you've got internet access. I shall continue to blog with you in mind, so that I can share with you all the trips I take, the loud gigs and the stitchy workshops I go to, my occasional finished projects - and my culinary disasters.

With all my love forever, big Sis.xxx

Linda Margaret

7th November 1958 - 21st September 2011

Lady Linda - The Beach Boys

Been A Long Time

2011-09-19T12:39:00.000-07:00

Ooh, it's been ages, hasn't it? I had a couple of long weekends in Norfolk with my folks, and I have done a fair amount of pottering, in the garden and in my ~~shed studio~~ posh shed. I have been working in my summer sketchbook, as set by Gina. We had to choose a colour we wouldn't normally use, so being a bit of a pink/purple/orange girl - I went for blue. Just a few pages from my book...

watercolours + salt

watercolours + wax crayon or candle resists

watercolour + glitter glue

carrot prints (it probably won't come as any surprise that I didn't have a potato to hand!)

some simple stencilling (does it look like a face to you or have I just got a vivid imagination?)

a bit of everything - including glitter paint carrot prints

more wax crayon resists

and some printing using Pressprint which I really like

I've still got quite a few pages to fill - and I'm determined to fill this one, as it has to become the basis for a finished piece of work. Well, that's the plan, anyway.

I've also been busily knitting and sewing, and on Sunday having finished the jacket I've been knitting, I needed to sew it together. I was just about to start, when, on a whim, I decided to reorganise my bedroom, because the sun shines in there in the mornings, and it was a lovely day. So, although there isn't really room for a chair, I started shifting the furniture about. (God, where does all that dust come from??) It's a very small room, and at one point I found myself trapped in the corner and had to clamber over several pieces of furniture, whilst carrying the cleaner (that's a vacuum cleaner, obviously - I don't have 'staff'). Anyway, it all came good in the end, and I was able to sit in the sunshine by the window and stitch.

I'm pleased with my knitted jacket - and I even found some buttons in my stash, courtesy of my little sister, that were just perfect for the job.

And, having sewn them on, I realised that the holes were big enough for me to thread ribbon through if I wanted to. Maybe that's a bit of an odd design feature, - or maybe I should just choose different ribbon. Anyway, the option's there, should the fancy take me.

And then all I had to do was sew some chunky rickrack round the neck of my 'sixties' style dress, that I'd also finished sewing that morning.

Who says I never finish anything?

Been A Long Time - The Black Crowes

If You Wanna

2011-08-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

Several months ago, despite it not being a work day, I set the alarm, made a cuppa, and settled myself in front of the computer. I opened four separate ticket agency sites, and continually switched from one to another, for about half an hour, until finally I got to the front of the queue - and success!

I must admit that these days, just before a gig, I begin to wonder why I bother. There's the hassle of getting there - going by train, with the possibility of a bus replacement service on the way home, or fighting my way through the traffic and finding somewhere to park, followed by a struggle to get on an overcrowded tube.

But then, as soon as I walk into the venue, I'm so glad I'm there. A mass gathering of diverse individuals, surprisingly wide range of ages, all ready for a great night of loud twangy guitars and thumping drums. And finally the band comes on stage, and the music starts. You can feel the music through the soles of your feet and vibrating in your chest, and I remember EXACTLY why I go to gigs - music is always best when it's live.

Having first seen The Vaccines on Jools Holland in November - I pre-ordered the album and it's been playing non-stop since it was released in March - so I was really looking forward to this night. It fulfilled all expectations - a brilliant gig. With short snappy songs and raw thrashy guitars, they've been compared to the Ramones, but that's definitely no bad thing. Apparently this time last year they played a pub gig to an entirely empty house in Nottingham - but on Tuesday there were 2000 people, ALL singing the words back to them, and theirs is still the biggest selling album this year.

So, the next time that someone asks me - "Do you want me to get you a ticket for ...........(insert name of suitably loud indie rock band)"
Oh, yes please - I wanna.

If You Wanna - The Vaccines

Why Does It Always Rain On Me?

2011-08-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

Soooo, I go to Australia (last year) and manage to break their longest drought in history, and set off rainstorms resulting in unprecedented floods. Then whilst down in Pevensey Bay last month, we had unseasonal rain virtually everyday. When back home, I go for a walk in the country on what is supposed to be a gloriously sunny day, only to get caught in such a downpour that even my underwear was soaked, and my camera sustained fatal water damage.

Why, then, did I imagine that France, the weekend before last, would be any different?

I had a long weekend with my cousin Sheila, and her husband Mick at their French 'country retreat', which is part of a 'Manoir' built in the 1600's.

They have the middle section - the bit that has been painstakingly repointed by Mick, who is never happier than when in the middle of a renovation/decoration project.

They have only had it for a couple of years, but have managed to do so much work to it, both inside and out, and now it's really beautiful.. I love all the copper cookware that my cousin has collected from charity shops and a well-known auction site!

I especially like the heart shaped mould on the top shelf, but then I would, wouldn't I?

And, talking of hearts, the lavender ones that I'd made and taken with me, soon found a home, hanging on the dresser.

We had a great time, in spite of the rain, visiting the nearby medieval town of Domfront,

It happened to be the weekend of their medieval themed festival - I don't think they always dress like this

When we'd had enough of the rain, we went back to the house, and picked some plums from the tree in the garden and made jam. Well, I picked the plums, my cousin made the jam. I guess she wanted it to be edible.

And some French-inspired fruit tarts ...

We visited a brilliant Vide Grenier (car boot sale, to you) on the Sunday, and bought lots of treasures, including this beautiful workbox which I picked up for 10 Euros.

Oh, and the machine behind it isn't mine, it's another example of Mick's handiwork - a Singer treadle machine, restored to it's former glory

We weren't able to fit my workbox in the car this trip, but they have promised to bring it back the next time they visit. I can't wait!

The French are obviously very keen on their cycling - there was a bit of a cycle rally going on the weekend we were there - we saw hundreds, maybe even thousands, of cyclists, all pedalling furiously in the pouring rain, covered in mud, and they all appeared to be in their 50s or 60s. Didn't see many fatties amongst them! Anyway, because of the cycling weekend, all of the nearby towns and villages were displaying decorated bicycles

Even the shops had bikes decorated with their goods - this was in a cake shop -

So, when we got home - it had to be done

Since I've got back, I've been a bit busy with work, but I did manage to do a little bit of baking, using a recipe my sister gave me for her prize winning scones. Apparently you had to cut them out with a two inch plain round cutter. I didn't have one, so I used the cutter I DID have

I took a 'before' and 'after' photo just in case I bu*****ed them up in the oven!
I've also managed to fit in some of my sketchbook homework, and attended a fabulous beading workshop, but that'll have to keep until next time.

Why Does It Always Rain On Me? - Travis

Country House

2011-07-31T07:55:00.000-07:00

In case you wondered - the book I slaved over on Wednesday did make it home safely with the recipient after the retirement do - and he rang me not once, but twice, the following day to say how delighted he was with it, so I'm pleased that I persevered.

I said I'd show you the last pictures of my holiday. After I left the others at Beachy Head, I went to Charleston, a lovely country house tucked away at the end of a little lane, which was the weekend retreat of the Bloomsbury Set. It was owned by Vanessa and Clive Bell, having being found for them by Vanessa's sister Virginia Woolf

I had a guided tour and the inside of the house was really unusual, in that virtually every surface was painted - walls, tabletops, doors, furniture, plates - everything was decorated with painted images and patterns. There was no photography allowed inside, so you'll have to take my word for it, or, even better, I recommend a visit if you are ever in the Sussex area.

I did take some pictures outside though

Felt a bit sorry for this poor girl - I'd have liked to have pruned the rose that was grazing her nose

And this guy clearly has something to look grumpy about

And the flowers were glorious

And as for the Bloomsbury Set - a bit of a strange arrangement. Soon after Vanessa and Clive Bell moved into Charleston, Vanessa became infatuated with artist Duncan Grant, and moved him and his male lover David Garnett into the house. Vanessa and Duncan did have an affair, (I'm surprised any of them had time for gardening) resulting in their daughter Angelica, born in 1918, although for many years Angelica believed that Clive Bell was her father.

Angelica subsequently married David Garnett, her biological father's lover, and 26 years her senior. They went on to have four daughters. Mmmm. Life get's complicated, don't it?

Must have been an interesting childhood, so I'm about to read the book 'Deceived with Kindness - A Bloomsbury Childhood' by Angelica Garnett.

Country House - BLUR

Burnt

2011-07-28T03:20:00.000-07:00

I'd intended to spend yesterday doing sketchbook-y stuff for my homework, following the mini tutorials set by Gina but ended up spending the whole day buggering about covering a 'good wishes' book for a guy who is retiring this week - I'm off into town for our team 'lunch' and drinks later. I wouldn't do it for just anybody, but I've worked with him for over ten years, and as he's off with his lovely family to live in Brighton, I thought it would be nice to make something a bit special, instead of the usual 'Farewell' card, hence I found myself volunteering to do something with the album everyone had signed.

I worked until the early hours of the morning on Tuesday, (in between watching 'Meet Joe Black' - one of my favourite films) making mock up photos (he likes to dress up in women's clothes, but assures us that it's only at fancy dress parties). On the pretext of showing a colleague how impressive the zoom is on my new camera, I'd managed to take a couple of pictures of him in the office on Tuesday, so using those and a couple of downloaded pics, including 'Dorothy' from the Wizard of Oz, I cobbled them together. It's probably simple if you are an expert at Photoshop, but I'm not, so it involved a lot of printing and reprinting to get the images the right size, then a bit of Blue Peter cutting and sticking, and then more scanning and reprinting until they looked half reasonable.

Then yesterday morning I started on the cover. Now to look at it, you wouldn't think it was a whole days work, but to start with I messed about with a photo in PSP to make it kind of Andy Warhol-ish, which I was going to put onto fabric. First of all, the cheap transfer paper I'd bought from a large supermarket didn't work, (that Asda go back!) so there were 3 abortive attempts before I found some better stuff and succeeded in printing it out. I ironed it onto some cotton, but then it wouldn't stitch onto that fake leather fabric without puckering, so I tried bondaweb, but the iron was too hot and damaged the surface of the leather stuff.

Feeling slightly harrassed by now, I cut the whole thing out again, reprinted onto the decent transfer paper, transferred it onto heavier weight fabric and stitched it down successfully. I then stitched it into the cover based on the measurements I'd got.

Fortunately, I got someone to drop the book off yesterday evening, just to make sure everything was tickety boo, and it was a good job I did because it didn't fit, so I carefully unpicked it, and stitched it back together again. And now, it fits, the picture is more of less central, I've printed and stuck in a front page, and put the mock up photos into the book.

So all's well that ends well. Even the burn where my inner forearm met the hot iron has stopped stinging.

I wouldn't mind, but he'll probably get pi***d and leave it on the train anyway.

Burnt - The Futureheads

Down By The Seaside

2011-07-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

I've just had a week away with my sis and her family in exotic Eastbourne. Pevensey Bay to be precise.
Weather started a bit iffy, but that just gave us an excuse to visit every second hand/charity/sewing shop in East Sussex.
I started in Brighton and went on here

but not on here

We went to Rye - LOTS of vintage shops and cobbled streets

and I managed not to have any of these ...

Then the next day we went to Lewes, and visited the castle grounds

But probably spent more time visiting the Patchwork Dog and Basket

and these are the said "Patchwork Dogs"

At this point, I feel I should nominate my b-in-law for an OBE for outstanding patience. Never has one man been asked to wait outside so many fabric shops, in so many towns.

I was tempted to go and try this dress on

(must be the Babs Cartland influence, earlier in the year) but I managed to resist. Not sure it would look right at O2 Shepherds Bush or Brixton Academy.

The weather picked up on Friday, and we had a walk at Beachy Head.

Incidentally, I'm really pleased with my new camera, how about this for a zoom on a compact?

My sis and family sitting on a bench without the zoom ...

and then from exactly the same spot, with full zoom...

I'm really impressed! Must take care NOT to let this one get wet.

Oh, I went somewhere else afterwards, I know how boring other peoples holiday pictures can be, so I'll post those another day. OI!! Wake up!!

Down By The Seaside - Led Zeppelin

Redhead Walking

2011-07-16T03:39:00.000-07:00

I've come over a bit 'Janet Street-Porter' No I haven't started walking the Pennine Way, or had my teeth altered. I'm not about to appear on 'Have I Got News For You' and I'm not writing a newspaper column.

I've had my hair coloured.

It's very bright.

But I like it!

I know my Mum will tell me off and say it doesn't look natural. I should bl**dy hope not! I don't pay out all that money for it to look natural!

It WAS rather expensive, but I have to say it was worth the money, if only for Tom, my hairdresser, to say when I got to the salon - "Ooh, look at you, gone all skinny!" (I've lost a bit recently).

I'm having a 'not too bad for an old bird' kind of day.

Now, if I could just arrange to 'accidentally' bump into with Ray Davies/George Clooney/Johnny Depp/ or similar ......

Redhead Walking - REM

Anne Boleyn

2011-07-14T02:43:00.000-07:00

Last day of term for our Spectrum group. We don't meet again until September, and then we'll be moving to our new hall in Steeple Morden.

Gina set us a messy task for the morning - messy but not too taxing, it was a kind of grown-up 'colouring-in'.

Anyway, we got into gangs of four and worked on a joint masterpiece, using one chalky pastel each, plus black and white for shading/highlights. When we'd finished, it was divided up into four, and we each got a piece.

We each cut a strip from the piece we'd been given, and cut the strip into smaller chunks (still with me?) and then had to reproduce those chunks in a larger scale, using the same colour pastels.

The last three are mine. It was a really good exercise, but with hindsight, I probably shouldn't have worn a black top.

We had a delicious shared lunch with savoury cheesecake, salmon and asparagus tart, cream filled home-made meringues and fruit, and a sponge cake to finish. (I took the crisps, and chopped up celery and carrots for the dips - you have to know your limits).

Fortunately we got away early so I was able to nip home to change my multi-coloured pastel-covered top, for something a bit cleaner, before heading off into town again to meet some friends at The Globe Theatre to see a production of Anne Boleyn. I've never been to The Globe before - the setting is fabulous.

The Cast come out and 'meet and greet' before the performance

We all really enjoyed the play - it was funny and entertaining so do go if you get the opportunity, but I recommend that you pay a quid to hire one of their cushions - the seats are a bit uncomfortable. Oh and take something warm to wear - it gets chilly when you're sitting still for hours, exposed to the elements.

Anne Boleyn - Rick Wakeman

(to be honest, I don't particularly recommend listening to this, I never liked Yes, and I prefer Rick Wakeman now when he's being a witty raconteur, but it happens to be appropriate)

Imelda

2011-07-12T16:07:00.000-07:00

Sadly my old camera never recovered from it's soaking a few weeks ago, so I did a bit of research and decided to replace it with a similar one but upgraded - and I'm really pleased with it. It's only a little digital but it's got a pretty good zoom on it. So I took it with me to the Imelda May gig at Somerset House last night - a great venue if the weather is good, and luckily it was. If it had looked like it might rain I wouldn't have taken the new camera, and I had a plastic bag and a brolly on standby JUST in case.

The venue looks really magical when the sun goes down and the lights come on (especially when they're pink)

Imelda has an amazing voice and and the whole band are great performers - I love it when the band members look as if they are enjoying themselves.

Anyway, no more chat - I'll just try to impress you with my photographs. No great skill involved on my part, it's all down to the camera being idiot proof. Well, apart from the idiot next to me who kept waving her arms about from side to side, but I managed to dodge her now and then.

Just to prove I wasn't THAT close ...

Get the facial expression of the guy on the double bass

IMELDA - Mark Knopfler

No Help At All

2011-07-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed my day 'helping out' at Gina's Open Studios yesterday, although it's difficult to put my finger on EXACTLY what assistance I provided. I think I made a cup of tea once, then I helpfully ate the sandwiches kindly produced by Gina's husband. Oh, and I spoke to some visitors, including DottyCookie and Niminy Fingers. It's so lovely to meet blogging friends in real life. Even if some of them do have rather dubious musical tastes. (Tom Jones?!?!?!?)

Gina had made a beautiful display of her work - I can't believe how much there is - does that woman ever sleep??

I marvelled at her tidy and well-organised studio, which she assures me ALWAYS looks like this

And then, when I was exhausted from all that hard work, I stopped in the village to marvel at this piece of work, by Cambridgeshire's answer to Banksy

It's brilliant, she should be very proud.

Anyway, don't take my word for it, I've only shown you a taster - so go along next weekend and check it out for yourself. I won't be there next weekend though, obviously I'm having to take a much needed break.

No Help at All - Ron Sexsmith

Photograph

2011-07-09T02:21:00.000-07:00

It's arrived! I've got a camera again.
Which means I can do a quick collage of some of my birthday goodies -

There's quite a pink/heart theme going on there, isn't there? They know me so well.

Right, got to dash, off to Gina's Open Studio today. I can't wait to see THIS for real. If you are in the area, do come and have a look - details of Cambridge Open Studios here
I go armed with my 'signature dish'. Or, if I'm honest, just about the only thing I can cook successfully.

Photograph - Ringo Starr (pathetic, I know, but I was pushed for time!)

Turning Japanese

2011-07-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Whilst searching the t'interweb recently for images of Waterloo Sunset, for one of my projects, I inadvertently found the Went The Day Well website. It's the website of two 17 year old students who are planning to cycle from John O'Groats to Lands End to raise money for Help The Heroes, specifically for a Personnel Recovery Centre for injured soldiers. As well as the cycle ride, they organised a concert at St Paul's Catherdral (if you're gonna organise a gig, you may as well have a half decent venue!) Now, you all know this isn't generally my genre of music, but the thought of listening to the choristers of St Pauls, whilst sitting in that iconic building really did appeal. So, I got tickets and on Wednesday, that's where I was. It was fabulous, and whilst I won't be rushing out to buy hundreds of choral CD's, listening to those fantastic voices, whilst sitting under the dome, looking up at the ceiling of that great Cathedral, made the back of my neck tingle.

The two boys are apparently starting their mammoth cycle tomorrow, so if you want to see how they get on, check out their blog here. I'm sure they'd be very grateful if anyone would like to donate too.

Then on Friday I had tickets for a 'Fashion in Motion - Yohji YAMAMOTO' show at the V&A Museum. The tickets were free but you had to prebook, and I was lucky enough to get some. AND, as it was my birthday, it was the perfect way of spending the day. I had a bit of retail therapy first, then along to the V&A for the show, which was fantastic - a proper catwalk show featuring the Japanese designer's Spring/Summer 2011 collections. After a quick cup of tea and cake (well, it WAS my birthday!) I visited the current Yohji Yamamoto exhibition. For once it didn't matter that I couldn't take photos, because I haven't got around to getting a new camera since the demise of my previous one.

After that I had a wander round two other exhibitions that finish shortly

and ....

both of which had some really interesting exhibits.

The only slight downside to the day was when a handsome young man smiled at me on the tube - and then stood up and gave me his seat. I guess that's what birthdays eventually do for you.

Botox, anyone?

Turning Japanese - The Vapours

My Perfect Cousin

2011-06-26T12:36:00.000-07:00

We've had a really good family get together today. My Uncle Michael (well, actually he's my Dad's cousin, so strictly he's my second cousin, but let's not complicate things) is over from Australia with his family, and I decided it would be a great excuse for a family reunion. There were 33 of us altogether for Sunday lunch. And no, before you ask, of course I wasn't doing the cooking - I like my family and I wouldn't put them through that. It was brilliant to see everyone, some of whom I haven't seen for years, and in spite of that, once we got chatting it was like we'd never been apart.

Michael emigrated to Australia with his parents in 1948, and just before they left there was a family party then too (no, I wasn't at that one) Anyway, the six cousins posed for this photograph at the party

My Dad is standing on the left, then his cousin Bernard, then cousin Terry. Seated on the left is my Dad's brother Brian, (I think he'd like me to point out that he is the baby of the family) then Terry's brother Fred/Dennis - depending on who you're talking to- and finally Michael.

And today, they travelled to Hertfordshire from Australia, Dorset, Norfolk, Essex, and Sussex to re-create the photograph.

I am so proud and so pleased that they were all able to make it - although I can't imagine that it took QUITE as long in 1948 to organise them for the picture.

Someone suggested we take a picture of the next generation of cousins (or maybe 'second cousins once removed'

And then the next - not sure if they are third cousins, or second cousins twice removed?

A beautiful day - and certainly better weather than they laid on for us when we visited them in Australia.

My Perfect Cousin - The Undertones

Waterloo Sunset

2011-06-23T01:23:00.000-07:00

Now, given the title of this post, and the fact that on Sunday evening I got to see Ray Davies perform the last night of the Meltdown Festival at the Royal Festival Hall, you'd think there would be a picture of a Waterloo Sunset. I DID take one. In fact I took several as I wandered along the Southbank. I also took several (permitted) photos in the gig - there's usually a ban on photography, but as this was a special occasion, Ray said that there would be a photo opportunity during "People Take Pictures of Each Other",

So there should be pictures, because I took loads, before, during and after the gig. Except that I hadn't got around to downloading them, and then I went for a long walk yesterday.

My camera was in my rucksack, as was my showerproof jacket, just IN CASE the sun stopped shining and we had a shower. Unfortunately, it was far more than a shower and went on for a couple of hours, and my showerproof jacket and rucksack were no match for the downpour. Everything was soaked, inside my rucksack and ALL of my clothes. As soon as I got home I got the camera out and at the moment it's not looking good. I've researched it on the internet, and I'd already done the right things - taken out the battery, and the memory card, opened everything that opened and left it in the airing cupboard, but I'm afraid to say it still isn't looking hopeful.

I'm going to take it to the camera shop today to see what they recommend, and I'm going to try putting it in a cardboard box with some of those silica sachets, which was another internet suggestion. Not sure I fancy putting it in a warm oven overnight, which was one of the other suggestions, although if everything else fails ....

So, no pictures I'm afraid. I nicked this one from the Guardian's website.

It definitely makes it into my list of 'Top Ten Gigs I've Attended'. To think I nearly didn't bother to get a ticket - the whole 'Orchestra and Choir' combo didn't really appeal to me, but when I looked there was one little seat on its own in the very centre of the second row of the rear stalls, and all the other seats were booked, so I decided to go for it. I'm SO glad I did. The LPO and the CEFC, far from detracting from the performance, as I'd feared, made the whole event so much bigger and better. And I love the fact that when the cellists weren't actually playing, they were clapping their hands enthusiastically over their heads and rocking with everyone else.

The first half was the whole of The Village Green Preservation Society album, and then the second half was a mixture of Kinks' hits and tracks from Ray's solo albums. A really good night, and when I got chatting to the couple next to me - it turned out they had nearly bought the seat I was in, but in the end decided not to invite their mate, for which I am very grateful, or I wouldn't have got to be there.

I must say, it seems odd to go to a gig and sit down. All the gigs I usually go to are standing-only venues, which will always be my preference, but it DID make a pleasant change to sit there with a really good view, without people continually getting in your way or spilling beer down you as they squeeze past with four pints of lager and two of Guinness. Obviously, no-one is capable of watching a band without pouring alcohol down their necks, in much the same way as they can't watch a film at the cinema without shovelling popcorn in their gob. Believe me, I can do both, and I've never collapsed through dehydration or malnutrition - maybe I've just been lucky.

Talking of which, wish me luck with the camera.

Waterloo Sunset - The Kinks

Bobby's Girl(s)

2011-06-19T06:25:00.000-07:00

In my last post, I mentioned that I was on a four day Bobby Britnell Summer School at Art Van Go, called 'Locating and Abstracting' It was a really brilliant four days, and we used loads of different drawing and mixed media techniques, and artist research to work towards producing an individual textile work or a series of smaller pieces.
For a more 'in depth' explanation of the workshop - have a look at my post on the Art Van Go blog but I thought I'd show you some photos of the work that we produced between over the four days. (There were ten other 'girls' as well as me)

The first one is mine - all the little sketches were produced from just one pebble (sorry about the poor lighting - couldn't take them outside as it was raining most of the time)

This next one is mine too - well, it would be - it's got hearts on it. The blue to the left of the picture is fabric I painted with gesso and acrylic paint, which I'll use to make my finished piece.

- and of course we all went away with sketchbooks stuffed full of ideas and technique to work on.

It was a fantastic way to spend four days - and as well as all the samples we produced, we also got the opportunity to see some of Bobby's work, which was really inspirational and something to aspire towards. I'll show you my finished piece, as and when.

I'm off to see Ray Davies at the Royal Festival Hall tonight. Not sure how I'll get home, as the tube drivers are going on strike this evening at 9pm - but it'll take more than Bob Crow to stop me going to see Ray.

Bobby's Girl - Susan Maughan

Is It Just Me???

2011-06-15T14:10:00.000-07:00

Today, I've been on the first day of a four day Summer School at Art Van Go with Bobby Britnell. I've been looking forward to it for ages, and I've had a really good day and looking forward to the rest of the course. I did intend to post some pictures of the work we produced today (there was a lot of it!) but unfortunately my photographs didn't turn out very well, and I've a feeling you wouldn't be impressed. I'll try and get some decent ones over the next few days, but in the meantime, I felt it was time I posted about something. So here it is. It might not be of much interest to you, but it obviously WAS to me.

After changes in their line up, much acrimony between band members, an absence of five years, spells in the Priory for rehabilitation, and finally reconciliation ............

The Darkness are back!!

A lot less lycra,

more ridiculous moustaches

a lot more tattoos

but still the same loud guitars, falsetto singing and rock posturing,

and, of course, the obligatory parade around the audience on a big guy's shoulders for "Love On The Rocks".

It was a brilliant night - I grinned all through the gig - and even my mate Jane, who I'd press-ganged into coming with me, said she enjoyed it.

I wonder if I'll EVER grow up.

Is It Just Me? - The Darkness

Pink Cadillac

2011-06-07T01:09:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been a while - I spent ages posting this yesterday - bl***y Blogger said it had published but it hadn't. So, as I've got to start again from scratch, this will be an abridged version. Since we last spoke, I visited the Prism exhibition at the Mall Galleries, which I think was the best Prism I've seen - lots of things I really loved. I didn't take any pictures, but if you couldn't make the exhibition and would like to see what you missed, Angela has some pictures on here. I couldn't run to buying any of the exhibits, but I DID get tempted in the shop and bought this fab heart made by Wendy Green.

You can never have too many hearts.

After the exhibition, I had a bit of a wander, through Trafalgar Square - I haven't really kept up with the changing exhbits there, so I'm not sure if this is temporary or not

And then up Regent Street for a bit of shopping. I didn't buy anything in this shop, but I love the window display.

I wonder what they will do with all those beautiful old sewing machines afterwards?

It was a lovely day, just a pity about getting my car towed away.

I've also had a few days with my folks in Norfolk. And, as luck would have it Gina happened to be running a 'Tyvek flowers' workshop at my sister's patchwork group, The Flying Geese, so, passing myself off as her trusty assistant, I was able to go, and I made a flower, and a seed pod.

Everyone had a really enjoyable day, and there are photos of the other flowers produced here on Gina's blog.

No trip to Norfolk would be complete without a trip to Holt, for a bit of retro retail therapy in the charity and vintage shops. I got some pretty treasures

The blue pot seems to have been hand thrown, as it has the name of the maker scratched into the surface.

I wonder who Win is - I'd love to know.

I'd heard a lot about Holkham Beach, but I've never been there, so after I'd finishing shopping and browsing at Holt, I went for a walk there. It was late afternoon, and most people had made their way home, but the sun was still shining, and, being Norfolk, needless to say, the wind was still blowing.

Back to stitching, and since our textile group Spectrum, had a day working with the Embellisher, I've had a bit of a play and made a few bits and pieces. It's a real bonus, not having to thread a needle or cope with shredding thread. These were made entirely on the embellisher, with the additional of a few french knots and beads.

Right, fingers crossed this attempt at posting works

Oh, and I lied about my car being towed away. If that pink beauty was mine, I'd never ever leave it on it's own. And I know it's not a Cadillac, but it's MY blog and I'll call it what I like.

Pink Cadillac - Bruce Springsteen

Paperback Writer - the Sequel

2011-05-19T17:41:00.000-07:00

I suppose you want an update on the whole Babs Cartland adventure. Yes, with photos. After all, who wouldn't want to set themselves up on the internet to be ridiculed by all and sundry.

This morning I decided to go the whole hog and get myself some false eyelashes - if a thing's worth doing, etc etc.

Didn't want to go TOO overboard though, so after lengthy deliberation I chose some 'natural-look' lashes designed by Girls Aloud. Who'd have thought those talented songstresses would have had the time and inclination to design false eyelashes?

A considerable amount of water has flowed under the bridge since I last wore false eyelashes, and they are every bit as difficult to put on now as they were years ago. But, with persistence, they were eventually stuck in place, although sadly, I'm afraid the overall effect was more Danny La Rue than Cheryl Cole.

I obviously wasn't short of bling, thanks to my serious charity-shop-diamante addiction. (I actually thought I had it under control, then I spotted that real diamond tiara for 3 quid, and I was back off the wagon) I wonder if you can get a week in the Priory for a costume jewellery habit.

Anyway, enough of the waffle, I guess you just want to see the proof.

Here's me hanging about backstand, awaiting my entrance, firstly wearing a black lace dress that Ms Cartland had specially made for a TV interview following the death of Princess Di

And then the more traditional pink

And here's a selection of the other ladies in their various outfits ..

It's not every day you get the opportunity to wear a bit of history, so I'm glad I did it, and we did all have a laugh. Oh, and thanks to my mates who turned up in support ( and took the photos) - although to the one who said it was a 'cracking night' - you really do need to get out more.

It was a bit of a cultural leap from earlier in the day - I'd had a guitar lesson when I'd spent an hour or so desperately trying to play 'If You Wanna' by the Vaccines. That was brilliant - and much more me.

Now, I bet you CAN get in The Priory for multiple personality disorder.

Paperback Writer

2011-05-19T00:04:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Matthew, I am going to be Barbara Cartland.

As reported in the local press, there is to be a charity event in Hertford this evening, where I and some other barmy volunteers will be wearing some of Barbara's frocks.

I will try and ensure someone gets some photographic evidence, and if it's not TOO hideous, I'll post it here tomorrow. Obviously, I may just wish to draw a veil over the whole thing.

Of course, if you are near the Corn Exchange in Hertford yourself this evening, you may wish to come and see for yourself!

Anyone remember how to put false eyelashes on???

Paperback Writer - Beatles

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2011-05-08T06:27:00.000-07:00

I'm writing this from my sick bay - I am full of germ and aches and had to cancel a shopping trip today, so I MUST feel rough. And, I didn't get up until about a 12.30, which is most unlike me. Anyway, enough moaning, a brief word about what I've been doing this week before I was struck down.

I went on a girls night at MANICS - no, it's not a nightclub - it's a china painting shop (much more fun and you don't have to teeter about in ridiculous heels and a boob tube) You choose a piece of once-fired pottery, paint your design, and then leave it to be glazed and re-fired and collect it a couple of days later. It was really good fun and I'll do it again. Here's what I did (predictably)

Or, if I'm feeling delicate and ladylike, I can turn it around -

On Friday, ignoring a slightly sore throat, I did a 7 or 8 mile walk on Friday around Much Hadham, Perry Green and Widford, including through Henry Moore's garden

Actually, it wasn't supposed to take us THROUGH the garden, we were supposed to skirt round it, but my map reading left a bit to be desired. The groundsmen were very nice though, and didn't have us done for trespassing, and even pointed us in the right direction.

The walk took longer than we anticipated, not least because the book I was going by was published about 20 years ago, meaning that one of the pubs referred to is now a private residence, so we missed it, and then one of the footpaths had been diverted and it took us ages to find our way back to where we should be. Then finally, one of the fields we were due to cross had horses in it. I'm fine with them, but my friend confided that she doesn't do horses, so we had to do barbed wire instead. We both decided 'under' was probably preferable to 'over' so we had to lie flat on our backs and wriggle under the fence, which is difficult when you can't stop laughing. Needless to say, there are no photographs of that bit. Anyway, we got back safely, and had tea and cake at Hopleys Garden Centre.

Which only left me about an hour and a half to get home, shower and change and go out again for a gig at the Corn Exchange in Hertford - Whole Lotta Led, who were brilliant as always, and if you are a Led Zep fan I recommend you check them out.

Yesterday, I helped out with Young Embroiderers', and under Gina's excellent tutorage, we all made 'Button Babes'. See Gina's blog for photographs of all the wonderful work the Young Embroiderers produced, but here's what one Old Embroiderer came up with.

I just hope I didn't give them all my germs. Must go, I need another hundredweight of tissues and another lie down.

Lazy Sunday Afternoon - Small Faces

White Wedding

2011-04-29T02:51:00.000-07:00

I've found the answer to a smaller waist and a flat tum - no dieting or exercise required. Gina, Pam and I went to an exhibition of corsets at Hitchin Museum yesterday, and they had some that you could try on. With some assistance I got mine done up (it fitted marginally better once I realised I'd had it on back to front to start with. Apart from the trimmer figure, I think it would make you stand and walk straighter, and probably move more gracefully.

There were some pretty wild claims for the health benefits of corset-wearing in the old adverts displayed. Apparently they cured rheumatism, gout, brain fag(?!?) lethargy and digestion. Obviously Advertising Standards weren't around then.

There were some pretty ones too, I particularly liked these

Maybe I'll make one.

Changing the subject just a bit, I don't know whether you'll have heard or not, but there's going to be a wedding today.

Incidentally, do you know how to work out your 'Royal' name. It's the name of your Nan or Grandad, with the name of your first pet, and then the street you grew up on. So mine is Gladys Bunty-St Leonard. And my sister is Violet Snowball-St Leonard. Let me know what yours is (oh come ON, don't pretend you haven't just worked it out!)

I'm neither pro- or anti-Royalist. They are just there, and I don't mind. They provide a little entertainment from time to time, some of them work hard, some of them wear or say odd things, but generally they don't interfere with me and I don't interfere with them. And I'm not sure that getting rid of them, to replace them with someone else, would necessarily be an improvement.

So, although I didn't feel the need to throw a street party, or hang out bunting, or camp out in Parliament Square for a week - which would probably entail all the bad points of Glastonbury, but with none of the good - I will watch it on the box, and I'll be interested in the frock, and I really hope it doesn't rain - as much for the bride's sake, as for the fact I've just hung some washing out.

This evening though, I will be going to see a Sex Pistols tribute band. It's all about balance.

White Wedding - Billy Idol

Come On Down

2011-04-22T00:11:00.000-07:00

Just a quick one.
If you are in or around Hertford tomorrow - do try and come along to the all-new Arts and Craft Market in the Corn Exchange (in Fore Street). It's going to be a monthly event and I'm really looking forward to it. I've not got a stall or anything, but maybe in the future....

Hope to see you there.

Come on Down - The Kooks

Get Happy!

2011-04-18T13:43:00.000-07:00

I rang my little sis (Patchwork Linda) this morning who told me off for my miserable post on Friday night and said I hadn't mentioned all the nice things I'd done. And it's true, I had intended to, I just needed to get my theatre trip off my chest, and then I ran out of time. Anyway, it's now time to redress the balance.

A couple of weeks ago, I had a relaxing few days in Norfolk at my parents - with proper dinners (thanks Mum!) some lovely walks in the sunshine

and with the added bonus of a surprise present from my sister (I can't think WHY she thought of me when she saw this)

Then the following weekend I met up with Linda again, and her Norfolk based patchwork group The Flying Geese for their annual "Go It Alone" weekend at Belstead House near Ipswich.

Yeah, I know, I'm not a patchworker, I'm not a member of her group, and I don't even live in Norfolk, which just proves that it's not WHAT you know. Belstead House is one of the rapidly diminishing number of Adult Training Centres, and it runs a wide variety of courses throughout the year, including lots of arty-textile-y weekends. If you fancy going, you'd better get in quick because it's due to close in 2012 which will be a real shame. It's a lovely venue, with excellent tutors and the food is great. So great that you feel compelled to go for a walk before breakfast just to burn off a few of the previous day's calories. That's the house in the background.

As I don't really do patchwork, I took the opportunity to finish off some projects that have been hanging around for a while - I sewed up a jacket knitted in denim yarn, I tacked together a dress that I found in the depths of my fabric cupboard, that I'd obviously cut out years ago and forgotten about. I'm not big on tacking but I thought I'd better check it was going to fit - which it does, so I will now finish it, oh and I made a bag. Linda, who is a prolific patchworker, cut out and put together a quilt of her own design

and, not only that, finished loads more of the Liberty fabric hearts that she's making into a double bed quilt.

It's going to look beautiful.

And finally, on Saturday I went to Berkshire to visit my friend Lynn for the weekend, and to start her off with some machine embroidery tuition. We had a lovely time stitching and chatting - we had a lot to catch up on, as we've not seen one another for a couple of years. Lynn was showing me her new bedroom, and when she opened her new wardrobe doors, I just had to get my camera and take a picture. I thought you only saw wardrobes like this in style magazines

So much colour! Although I have to say, mine is colour coordinated too - everything's black.

So, that's more or less it, apart from the odd stint at Leyton Orient, a few days at work, and a brilliant gig at KoKo in Camden - Jim Jones Revue No, I didn't know much about them either. They describe themselves as Punk Rock Blues, and I'd say it's a bit 'Jerry-Lee-Lewis-on-speed'. A really good night, and my ears are nearly better now.

Get Happy - Rufus Wainwright (as Judy Garland)

Never Again!

2011-04-15T15:32:00.000-07:00

I have just wasted three hours of my life. I talked my poor friend Jill into coming to see a production of "The Birthday Party" by Harold Pinter at a local theatre.

The evening didn't start well - we had deliberately arrived in good time so we could have a look at an art exhibition displayed there. It had apparently been massively over-subscribed with entries and consequently, we were told that everything was of a very high standard. Now, I accept that everyone has different tastes, and you can't expect to like all the pieces in an exhibition - but to be honest I'd have been hard pushed to find anything that I'd want as a gift. Of particular note were two cheap 9" canvases liberally smeared with thick nasty green and mustard paint. It wasn't even skillfully smeared. I can only think that whoever judged the entries sees things differently to me.

When I say I wasted three hours, I suppose that's a slight exaggeration. After all, I enjoyed the walk down into town and back, and the lemonade I had during the interval was very, er, lemony.

But I'm afraid to say the play was absolutely dire - I had no idea what it was about; before, during or after the performance (and neither had Jill - and she's got a degree and everything!) so I came back and read up about it on t'interweb, and I'm still none the wiser.

The best bit was when two women in the audience, who had clearly been partaking of something considerably stronger than lemonade, decided they've had enough of the play, and stumbled up out of the auditorium, tripping and giggling, and then you could hear the click-clack of their heels as they clattered all the way along one aisle and back, and then all the way down another aisle, in an attempt to make good their escape.

No, that's definitely enough of the highbrow stuff for me, I'm sticking to loud rock'n' roll from now on.

I'd intended to report about the other stuff I've been doing, with pictures of things I've made, but to be honest, after tonight, I feel completely underwhelmed.

"NEVER AGAIN" - yeah, I know it's Nickleback, but after tonight, even THEY don't seem so bad.

ON THE (Right) ROAD AGAIN!

2011-03-25T05:27:00.000-07:00

Ooh dear, been a while again hasn't it? I hope you haven't all gone away to be friends with someone more prolific and reliable.

Had a lovely day out with Gina yesterday at the Fashion, Embroidery and Stitch Show at the NEC. (Look, don't say anything to Gina, but a quick word of advice - if she ever offers to navigate for you, just get yourself a SatNav) I'm just joking really - we only went very slightly wrong, and it was definitely a team effort.

Besides, her job of navigator was really just a secondary role. Her primary task for the day was to act as 'Purse Police' so that I didn't spend too much, as is usually the case. And it worked- I was very restrained by my standards and I only bought this little selection

Four little bits of gorgeous silk fabric from here, three bags of sequins, a roll of batik-y type fabric, some cobwebby synthetic stuff (not sure what I wanted that for but it was only 1.50 a metre, so it'll be cheap to experiment with/forget-about&lose) and a Vintage Vogue pattern (although that came free with a trial subscription for two issues of a magazine, so was a bargain) There was one other thing but that's going to be a present so I'm not telling you about that, although I'll try to remember to show you when it's made some time in the future.

My sister says she's very impressed and Gina is obviously a very good influence on me.

We spent quite a lot of time looking at the exhibititors' work - we had a long chat to Lynda Monk who was demonstrating some brilliant techniques on her stand - really want to do another workshop with her soon, and also to Laura and Linda Kemshall - I wish my sketchbooks looked like theirs.

We were both taken with this outfit which was made by a fashion student.

I'd love to tell you her name and which college she was from but I'm afraid she wasn't on the stand and I don't know. Anyway, we spoke to her tutor (I think it was Warwickshire College but I'm not certain) and the outfit was apparently made from a pair of old curtains - the coat was cream coloured jacquard fabric that had been machine couched with pink thread, and was lined with the curtain lining. The neckline of the dress was edged with free machine lace. Really lovely - and certainly doesn't look like upcycled curtains.

A really lovely show - although not sure how the NEC can justify £1.80p for a cup of tea, without milk or sugar. Maybe I should take my own teabags next time.

And what else have I been doing? Well I made a couple of these

one of which I gave to my friend Val for her birthday, and I made this (poorly photographed) bracelet at our post-C&G embroidery group, using Aquabond, machine-made braids and free machining.

The Embroidery Group With No Name now DOES have a name - we are going to be called SPECTRUM (See, this is why I don't get anything done, I'm too busy 'colouring in' on here) Some time ago we had initially come up with 'Tension' for want of any other inspiration, but none of us liked that, and in fact some of us positively hated it - I couldn't bring myself to write 'Tension Group' in my diary for fear that anyone seeing it would think I belonged to a self-help group for stressed women of a certain age. Anyway, we're SPECTRUM now. Sorted.

On The Road Again - Canned Heat

Pretty in Pink

2011-03-06T10:18:00.000-08:00

In the last week I have been for a walk along the towpath beside the canal, just as the sun was going down

to a beautiful sunset

I've made a little box with free machining on metal,

And I've made another flower brooch, but this time, instead of using paper, I used some recycled plastic-y metallic ribbon, which I had saved from my Christmas presents, (much to some of my family's amusement.)

So, slightly less subtle that last weeks, but if you think the brooch is a bit lurid - you should see the pink cakes I made!
Oops, too late.
Pretty in Pink - The Psychedelic Furs

Personality Crisis.

2011-02-27T08:06:00.000-08:00

I've had a great (and quite productive) week. I think it must be because it seems as if Spring is on it's way.

Wednesday was the meeting of our embroidery group, and Gina showed us how to make handmade books, and I finished two - the colours are a bit naff, but it was just a practice.

The bigger of the two is a hardback cover, and the small one has lots of little folded pockets. As I say, the choice of colours leaves a bit to be desired, and the folded cover of the little book should really be in card rather than paper, but you get the general idea.

Then on Thursday, it was beading - at the moment I'm beading around sparkly rivolis with a view to connecting them together with other round elements and making them up into a necklace.

On Friday I met my sister at Textiles in Focus where we had a lovely day. We did a workshop called Mini Textile Masterpieces run by Bonnie Osbourne. I came home and finished mine.

On Saturday it was another workshop - this time with the Embroiderers' Guild, tutored by Jill Flower. It was brilliant - I've wanted to do a workshop with Jill since I first saw her work at the Knitting and Stitching Show a couple of years ago. And, believe it or not, I finished one brooch while I was there -

and another was well on it's way and I finished it when I got home.

There are lots more pictures of the brooches that everyone else made on Gina's blog.

The only slight problem, is that whenever I go on a workshop and make something new or learn a new technique, I want to spend the rest of my life devoted to doing whatever we learnt that day. So, I've had a bit of a crisis of personality this week - one minute I'm a bookbinder, then I'm a jewellery maker, then I'm a minature artist.

Just so long as I don't become a cook.

Personality Crisis - New York Dolls

Viva Las Vegas!

2011-02-21T12:51:00.000-08:00

Sorry I've been away so long - I love to say I've been busy stitching/painting/sketching - or even practising the guitar, but sadly, I've not done nearly enough of any of those.

I have made half a pair of socks though -

I've never made a sock before, and I turned the heel without too much trouble, and even grafted the toes. How wonderful - a garment with no sewing up! I'll try and remember to let you know when I've knitted the matching one.

As for sketching - I did draw a biscuit. In the past, I think I've been rather scathing of custard creams, I tend to think of them as 'old-lady' biscuits. (as if knitting socks somehow isn't an 'old lady' occupation!) Anyway, if you look at them, they are really quite pretty. Such a lot of trouble to go to when it's just going to get eaten in one or two bites. So I drew one,

And when did I find time to draw this? Whilst waiting for yesterday's game to start! Yes, I know I'm not the slightest bit interested in football, but I was working at Leyton Orient yesterday, and I'm afraid the excitement did start to rub off. After all, this is a sight not often seen at Leyton's ground -

The whole place was really buzzing. Just for once, there were as many bums as there were seats, even if quite a lot of those were Arsenal bums (if you'll pardon the expression) and the atmosphere was brilliant. I never thought I'd see Arsene Wenger walk around the pitch at Orient. Although, I have to admit, I've never really given the idea much thought previously. There were even cheer leaders, and a release of red and white ballons. As for the supporters, they were the loudest I've ever heard them, it sounded like a proper football ground! Obviously, Arsenal had to play in yellow, because we'd already bagsied the red.

Leyton had done really well to get to this stage of the FA Cup, but, not wishing to appear disloyal you understand, I fully expected them to get well and truly beaten by Arsenal. But it just goes to show how wrong you can be. For, not only did they NOT get thrashed, but thanks to an Orient equaliser in the last few minutes of the game, they managed a splendid 1-1.

This footballing lark is beginning to grow on me. I'm going to try and get a ticket to see the re-match at the Emirates.

I could always take my knitting.

Viva Las Vegas - Elvis Presley

And in case you're wondering about the significance of this post's song title - Barry Hearn promised to take the team to Las Vegas if they got to play at the Emirates. Sadly, I don't think the offer is extended to Control Room staff.

Those Were The Days

2011-01-18T14:52:00.000-08:00

After much debate, I decided to throw my felted slippers into the washing machine for the third time, this time at a slightly higher temperature. I was a bit concerned they would shrink too much - but no, they are now just perfect size-wise. I also felted some knitted flowers I made to go on them at the same time, and now I can't decide which ones I like best.

All this indecision - and the ridiculous thing is - I don't wear slippers. Oh well, maybe I'm getting to the age where I should start. Which brings me to an incident earlier today.

I'd seen that Tigerstores sell LP frames - for displaying an album cover on the wall. I explained to the young shop assistant that I'd seen LP frames on their website but that I couldn't find them in store. He smiled obligingly, and said he would show me where they were. The following conversation then took place.....

Him - "There you are madam, all our frames are here" indicating some small photo frames.

Me - " No, they'll be much bigger than that, they are for displaying vinyl Album covers"

Him - "Oh, it's an album you want, they're over here" (indicating a fine selection of photograph albums)

Me - "No, not photograph albums, these are frames, for hanging on the wall, to display an album"

Him - Puzzled silence.

Me - "A vinyl album - the cover for an LP"

Him - "What's an LP"

Me - (Long sigh) "It's what old people used to listen to music on, before you were born"

In the end, I found a label on the shelf showing where they were meant to be, and he took the stock number and went away and came back with a boxful, and I bought a couple.

To make matters worse, I asked the girl at the checkout if she knew what an LP was, and she didn't have a clue either.

On the website, they have the frame displaying a copy of a Beatles Album. I'm glad I didn't mention that, I'd have probably had to explain who the Beatles were.

I decided to bake some cakes when I got home, to take to my Embroidery Group tomorrow. I made some Red Velvet Cupcakes.

Big ones ........

and, for the dieters, small ones -

The recipe is from the Hummingbird Bakery Book - but I'm afraid I cheated. Our local cake decorating shop has a ready made mixture for this recipe, so I used that. You can't really see in the picture, but they have red (edible!) glitter on and look like very wicked cakes.

So, if you read of the mass poisoning of a Hertfordshire Embroidery Group..........

Those Were The Days - Mary Hopkins

Wild Dog Blues

2011-01-12T09:46:00.000-08:00

I went along to the North Herts and Beds Embroiderers' Guild on Saturday, and the speaker for the afternoon was Fan My Flame who had been asked to give a demo of the sock creatures she makes. I took a pair of pink and black striped socks (new ones, of course!) with me, and swapped one of mine with one from the nice lady sitting next to me, who just happened to have a co-ordinating pair. I didn't stitch my creature while I was there, but I made loads of notes, in the hope that I'd be able to decipher my own handwriting sufficiently to make mine when I got home. Anyway, I did and here it is ....

Neither photo is great, but I'm quite pleased with her. Anyway, for reasons which I won't go into, I decided to send her off to my sister as a surprise (which is why I'm only posting about it now).

I had a call from my sister this morning to thank me for it - she didn't get it until she got home last night, and apparently it caused quite an upset in their house. She unwrapped it, watched in eager anticipation by her bouncy, black Labrador puppy, Bentley - who then proceeded to howl and cry for over half an hour because he wanted it, and she wouldn't give it to him. In the end she had to take it upstairs and hide it just to shut him up.

You see, some of you might sell your beautiful work in galleries, or at craft fairs, or from websites - but how many of you can say that your work reduces a puppy to tears? You've either got it or you haven't.

Wild Dog Blues - Willy Mason

Two Hearts

2011-01-09T09:32:00.000-08:00

Do you remember a while ago I asked if anyone knew of a stockist for WonderFil metallic threads? I'd bought some at Chilford Quilt Show and they seemed brilliant. I generally encounter lots of problems with metallic threads - shredding and breaking, inspite of using metallic needles and topstitch needles. In fact, if I know I've got to use metallic thread, I tend to take myself off to my studio at the bottom of the garden and stitch down there, so as not to upset the neighbours.

Anyway, when I tried the WonderFil metallics, I didn't have any trouble at all, and used an entire spool without a single breakage or shredage (if that's a word?).

I wanted to get some more, but despite searching the internet, I couldn't find a supplier in this country and didn't get any joy when I emailed the company in the US. So, as a last resort, I contacted Grosvenor Shows (the organisers of Chilford) for a list of the traders at the show, and intended to email all of them to see if I could track them down. (Ok so next time I'll be more organised when I buy stuff, but no-one's perfect). Grosvenor Shows were really helpful and emailed me back the very next day with the name of the supplier that sold them. Which, in case you're interested is Cottage Patchwork and I've contacted the nice lady there (who tells me at the moment she IS the only stockist in the UK) and ordered some more.

Today, in an attempt to do at least a little bit of homework before my next Embroidery Group meeting, I've been stitching into metal. So, to really put the WonderFil threads to the test, I free machined into metal shim. And it STILL didn't shred, which I think is pretty impressive. More than can be said for my photo, but the light's bad, so I had to scan it.

The top one is stitched with a machine quilting thread, and the bottom one with the WonderFil metallic.

Two Hearts - Bruce Springsteen

Listen To Her Heart

2011-01-08T03:46:00.000-08:00

For those of you who wanted to see the finished felting flippers - here they are after two washes. They kind of fit, and I'm not sure whether to give them another go in the washing machine or if that will turn out to be a felt-too-far. What d'ya reckon? Then I've just got to knit little flowers to stitch on them.

I inadvertently stayed up until 2.45 this morning. I started watching a Peter Bogdanovich film about Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, which started at 10.45pm last night. What I didn't realise was that it went on for FOUR hours (with no ad breaks). I did really enjoy it though, and fortunately I didn't have to get up early today. While I was watching/listening, I did a couple of sketches - although it's taken longer to scan them and adjust the brightness/contrast to make them visible on here, than it did to draw them. Maybe it's best to use pen rather than pencil. Anyway, both on a heart-shaped theme.

I don't know about you, but three nights spent watching 'Stargazing Live' with the lovely, smiley Professor Brian Cox. (the one with the hair, and the enthusiasm of a bouncy puppy) and there I am, searching on ebay for a telescope. Except that I think I'll delay that until the weather improves - not sure I really want to stand out in the garden in the middle of the night with icicles hanging off my nose. But maybe my next sketchbook work should be star, instead of heart, inspired.
Listen To Her Heart - Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers

Drawing The Line

2011-01-02T09:08:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd get started straight away on the Sketchbook Challenge - January's theme is "Highly Prized" which I've interpreted as precious things that are special to me. Obviously, family and friends are at the top of the list, but as I don't want to offend anyone, it's probably best if I don't try and draw them at this stage in the proceedings. Instead, I made of list of my favorite things - r~~aindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens~~ (oops, that's what comes of watching Sound of Music) - hearts, sweeties, loud guitar music, pointy boots, pottering in my studio, fairylights, etc etc.

No point being uncomfortable, so I decided I'd sketch the beautiful cushion my sister made and gave me for Christmas, which meant I could sit with my feet up on the sofa.

And Here's my interpretation ...

Bit more successful than the slippers I knitted, which appear to be slightly on the large side.

I'm sure the pattern said "slippers" and not "flippers". I'm sure they'll be all right really - they've got to be felted in the washing machine and they'll end up (hopefully) a lot smaller. Anyway, I've got mates with little feet and other mates with bigger feet, so they're bound to fit someone.

Oh, and in case you thought the healthy eating was just a flash in the pan, today was roasted veg .......

And they said it wouldn't last.

Drawing The Line - Porcupine Tree

New Year's Day

2011-01-01T13:13:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

So - did you make any resolutions then? I believe that last year I decided to 'Make More, Buy Less', which by and large I did - I even made some of my Christmas presents. As I managed to stick to that one, I am carrying that forward for another year. I also intend to get back to practising the guitar regularly- it seems to have fallen by the wayside a bit after my Aussie trip. And I suppose I'd like to exercise more, and eat more healthily. So, to kill two birds with one stone, I walked into town today to buy some vegetables. Unfortunately, all the food shops were shut, (well, I suppose the big supermarket that I don't mention was probably open, but I definitely wasn't going in there).

It was quite tempting to just eat sweets again, but I decided I couldn't fall at the first hurdle, so when I got home I found an onion in the depths of my fridge, and an orange squash thing (a bit like a pumpkin, but smaller) which has been hanging about for a few weeks. I think my original intention was to draw it, but that didn't happen, and it was starting to get dusty. Anyway, I decided to make what will now be referred to as "Squash Surprise Soup"

The mini pumpkin took some peeling (are you supposed to peel them, do you think?) and I roasted them with the onion.

When they were sort of roasted (but, fortuitously, not burnt) I chucked them in a pot with some stock (oh, don't be ridiculous, of course it wasn't home-made) and simmered them, then bashed them up with my whizzer. And then there was soup.

So, how about that then. A resolution adhered to or what? And, just in case you were wondering why "Squash Surprise Soup" Well, it was not only edible, it was delicious - which believe me, was a surprise.

Oh and, I've just remembered another intention (I think the word 'resolution' is a bit too inflexible, personally)
I'm going to join in with the Sketchbook Challenge which looks as if it might be quite inspirational. Right, I'm off to practise guitar, quickly followed by some sketching. (I wonder how long this will last?)

New Year's Day - U2

or you could try listening to this lullaby version!

Merry Christmas Everybody

2010-12-23T04:25:00.000-08:00

Just to prove I haven't been sitting around not doing anything, here's just a few of the things I've finished in the last couple of week. A book cover (one of several, but the others are surprises, sshhh)

Some cushions - there's a story attached to these. My friend, and watercolour teacher Christine painted the silk, quite some time ago, and asked me if I'd make them into cushions. She said "There's no rush" and I took her at her word, because it's taken me about 4 years to get around to doing them. How can it POSSIBLY take that long to make a few cushions? Well, I took a while choosing the fabric to make them with, then I put that aside for a while. When I realised I still hadn't made them, I couldn't find the fabric. Then, during one of my mammoth sort outs - I found the fabric - so it was all game on. Except that, during the intervening period, I'd mislaid the silk paintings. (Does any of this sound familiar). Anyway, recently I was searching my sewing room for something else and during the course of that, I chanced upon the silk paintings. Hurrah! Then, the painting group (which I haven't been to for a couple of years, partly because of my City and Guilds course, and partly embarrassment at not having made the cushions) had their Christmas dinner, to which I was invited, and so I made up my mind to make them and take them with me. Chris seemed really pleased with them, once she got over her initially amazement that they were actually finished.

Then, there's a cake stand

and some Christmas hearts

and something for Julia, using some fabric she'd admired on our trip to Holt, and which I secretly bought later and made into a 'pinny'.

There's a few other things too, but they are surprise presents, so you can't see those yet.

I must admit, the snow has helped - being stuck indoors for a few days gave me time to do some stitching.

I also - first time for years - put up a few festive decorations, just to prove I'm not really 'bah humbug'.

Not a real tree - I don't have the space, just a few bits of yew tree trimmed from my garden and stuck in a vase, with a few lights and baubles bunged on. (Not very Homes and Gardens, I know)

Adorned with a beautiful beaded snowflake, a present from Carolyn

My photos aren't brilliant - not sure if it's the poor light, or if I've inadvertently done something with the settings on my camera, but you get the general idea.

That's all for now, except to say .....

WISH

YOU A

HAPPY

CHRISTMAS

AND GOOD LUCK

IN THE NEW YEAR

WITH

LOVE

FROM

VINTAGE

ROCK

CHICK

She's a Saint Not a Celebrity

2010-12-19T07:49:00.000-08:00

I had a call on Friday night, saying that as it was snowing and icy in London, Saturday's match at Leyton Orient was postponed, which meant I could have the day off. (I can't tell you how delighted I was - I had so many things that needed doing and I just love an unexpected day at home.) In the morning, I thought maybe they'd been a bit premature, because the view from my kitchen window looked like this at sunrise - and it seemed like it was going to be a nice day.

But the weather forecasters had obviously got it right, because just a few hours, and about three inches of snow later, it looked like this ...

so they obviously DID make the right decision. Anyway, it meant that I could spend the day sewing, pretty much as I have done today too, so I've got more things finished that I thought I would and for once, EVERYTHING on my 'to do' list is done!

I felt a bit sorry for the birds this morning, particularly the robin and the blue tit that were pecking away at the fat balls which must have been frozen solid, so I brought them in and warmed them up with my hairdryer. No, you fools, not the birds - the fat balls. I thought if they were a bit softer it wouldn't be so tough on their little beaks. I also re-filled the nut feeder for the third time this week., and I'm beginning to suspect I'm the only person in the Home Counties who's putting food out for the birds, given the rate they get through them. Turning into a proper little Mother Teresa aren't I?

My own personal nomination for sainthood goes this week to Gina who not only gave me a jar of her homemade Clementine Curd when I met up with her on Wednesday, but also carried it around for the rest of the day because it was too big to fit in my handbag!

I just treated myself to some of it on hot toast, as a reward for venturing outside to clean the snow off my car in preparation for work tomorrow, until my hands ached with the cold, and I am able to say that it is absolutely delicious. Gina's written on the little label that it needs to be eaten by 13th January - I don't think she needs to have any worries on that score.

Incidentally, we met up to visit the Barbican Gallery to see the exhibition Future Beauty - 30 Years of Japanese Fashion which was fascinating - Gina has done a really good post about it here.

PS Does anyone know of a UK stockist of 'WonderFil' threads? I bought some WonderFil metallic threads at the Chilford Quilt Festival, and it's absolutely brilliant. I've used a whole reel, and it didn't break or shred once! I've searched on the internet, and emailed the company but they couldn't tell me of any UK stockists - but there must be one, because I bought the threads from them.

She's A Saint Not A Celebrity - The Foxboro Hot Tubs

The Winner Takes It All!

2010-12-12T13:38:00.000-08:00

Being a bit of a cheapskate, I was only intending to award one prize, but the lady who made the closest guess, wasn't able to leave a comment on the blog and sent me an email instead, so I thought you might think it was a fix and that there wasn't a prize at all! So, taking that into account, and the fact that there is only a mile or two between the guesses in 2nd and 3rd place, and the fact that it is the season of goodwill (Bah, Humbug) I have decided to award not one, not two, but THREE prizes.

Ok don't get too excited, it'll only be something I've thrown together, but be grateful for small mercies, they have been produced in my sewing room, and not in my kitchen.

And the winner is.... or in fact, the winners are ...

In third place is Nellie's Niceties - 23.7 miles

In 2nd place is Love Stitching Red - 21.7 miles

and in 1st place is Pat, who sent me the email guessing at Leyton Orient - 15.6 miles

The photo was taken from the window of my office in West Hendon, looking out over the North Circular at about 6.30 one morning a few weeks ago. But then how could you possibly know that?

If you email me your addresses girls, I'll post your prizes off this week.

Winner Takes It All - ABBA

Competition Ain't Nothin'

2010-12-05T04:04:00.000-08:00

........... if no-one enters!

Come on, don't be shy - have a guess at the photo competition at the bottom of my last post - or I'll think you've all gone away.

Competition Ain't Nothin' - Carl Carlton

(I wonder if there's some way I could put a link so you could listen to my musical references??)

SYDNEY

2010-12-03T05:26:00.000-08:00

I've not been very good at this blogging business recently have I? It's taken longer than I expected to settle back to real life since my trip - not that I'm fed up or anything, far from it - I've just remained in a relaxed holiday state of mind, and can't seem to rush about doing much. I'd love to tell you that I've finished all my Christmas shopping, written all my cards, made my Christmas puddings and iced the cake, but it would be untrue, and as for the last two - I just know that most of you would accuse me of being a bare-faced liar. I have made a few Christmas cards, and quite a lot of lists, but that's as far as it's gone.

Anyway, this extended holiday blog has gone on for quite long enough, so this will be the final one. (I can almost hear your collective sighs of relief. It's rather picture-heavy so bare with me.

Sydney was brilliant - the highlight of the trip for me - we had a guided tour of the Opera House

We walked across the bridge

(not over the top I hasten to add, but you get just as good a view from the stone towers,

We went up the Sky Tower

took a ferry trip to Manly Beach,

and had a bus ride to Bondi Beach

Then it was off on the train to Melbourne (yes the train - it takes 12 hours but none of that messing about at airports, you get to see the scenery AND you can walk about. I'd recommend it.)

We had a trip on the Murray river

Apparently it's the most flooded it's been since my parents went about 15 years ago - looks like we should be used as 'Drought-Busters'

In Melbourne itself we went up more tall buildings

Explored the shops - I loved this one

and this caught my eye - my initials are GAL (the rest of the word GALLERY went round the corner)

and admired the graffitti.

Oh, and lay on the floor of a Museum to take a photo of the fantastic stained glass ceiling

Then we fly off to Bali for the last few days of our trip - it was very very hot, and very beautiful - this was the view from our balcony

and this was the walk to breakfast

and this is the view from our breakfast table

As we were only there for three days, I'm afraid to say that we barely left the hotel grounds, but I'd definitely like to go back there for a longer visit and explore the island.

Anyway, now the holiday posts have finally come to an end, here's the giveaway competition I promised - you just have to say where you think this beautiful sunrise photo was taken. The person who makes the closest guess wins - something pretty and heart-shaped.

Sydney - by 'Puddle of Mudd'

T&B&P x 3

2010-11-17T12:49:00.000-08:00

We both loved Byron Bay, and had a walk on the beach there and a wander round the shops, then the sky turned black, and yes, you've guessed it, another thunderstorm. Fortunately we found a handy bar and sheltered in there with a couple of white wine spritzers. The following day we continued south on the Pacific Highway passing another couple of oversized fruits - an avocado and later a banana (sorry, no photos, you'll just have to take my word for it.

Far more exciting was the fact I saw my first real live kangaroos in the wild! Okay, they didn't put themselves out in the way that the whales had - no back flips or somersaults, but I was still quite impressed. Following directions to the next campsite at Coffs Harbour, we narrowly avoided taking the top off the van when we reached a very low bridge. The clearance was 3.3m and our van was 3.5m. I was all for taking a chance, and I even got Sarah to get out and check, but she was sure there wasn't enough leeway, so I had to make a 57 point turn in a VERY narrow road, but I have to say the drivers of the cars that were tailing back were much more understanding than they would have been over here.

The following day we were off again and stopped at Port Macquarie - and found a lovely campsite, right by the beach in the centre of town. We wandered up to the local Koala Hospital for a guided tour

Aparently they sleep for about 18 hours a day, and I don't quite know how they manage it without falling out of the tree - it certainly doesn't look very comfortable

We left there - although not before Sarah decided to 'adopt a koala' called Oxley Holly - and made the most of the lovely day, by having a walk along a beautiful deserted beach (that's me paddling)

looking at the dozens of 'graffiti painted rocks'

and then sitting outside a bar, watching the sun go down.

Our next stop was Port Stephens where we had a long walk to Stockton Beach to see the shifting sand dunes. As I looked along the beach, I could see something coming towards me that looked like a camel train, and sure enough, as it got nearer, I could see that it was. I can't say that I'd associated Australia with camels.

And then it was on towards Sydney. We visited my Dad's cousin Mike and his family in Pennant Hills, just north of Sydney and had a lovely day with them, then the next day we went on to see my cousin Laura and spent a couple of days with her family. It was good to sleep in a real bed with a real bathroom just next door and not have to trail across a campsite in the rain. Oh sorry, did I say rain?

At our request, they took us to the Blue Mountains - but unfortunately the weather let us down again. We went to see the Three Sisters - three massive sandstone rock formations. Unfortunately, given the severely inclement weather (very heavy rain and thick mist) we were unable to see hide nor hair of them, but we bought a postcard to see what they looked like. You'll have to take my word for it again I'm afraid, but they ARE in the background of the photograph.

We then went to Katoomba, which is a 1920's holiday resort for Sydney residents - lots of Art Deco buildings, and we had coffee/elevenses in a fantastically well-preserved 1920's restaurant called The Paragon - it even had 1920's music playing. We visited the Scenic centre and went down in a very steep railway - at 52 degrees apparently the steepest funicular railway in the world, and then back up in a cable car. Fortunately the mist cleared sufficiently for us to enjoy some of the views

And then it was time to hand the van in and head for our hotel in Sydney. It was a really good way to travel, and it makes you appreciate how vast a country it is. We drove 3250 km in 17 days.

And, only one minor mishap which perhaps I should mention. I misjudged the length of the vehicle as I manoeuvred in a petrol station, resulting in scraping the side of the van along a bollard. No real damage done to the van, although there were considerable signs of yellow and grey paint on the side. However, I bought a tin of the Aussie equivalent of 'T Cut' (other abrasive polishes are available) and polished all evidence away. The petrol station happened to be a BP one, so I think they are fully aware that accidents happen, and to be honest a few scratches on a bollard on a station forecourt was probably the least of their worries at the time.

When we handed the motorhome in I just kept the bloke talking when he checked the van, so he wouldn't have noticed anything untoward anyway!

Trains and Boats and Planes - Part 2

2010-11-14T11:31:00.000-08:00

Where were we? Oh yeah, in Cairns with a massive truck. We'd booked a 3 berth, but somehow we ended up with a six berth - great for the space inside, but slightly daunting when I had to think about driving it. A bit of a change from my usual little Peugeot. We set off, stopping briefly at a supermarket to get some supplies. By the time we came outside it was absolutely pouring down with rain, which I assumed would just be a short cloudburst before normal service was resumed. Oh, how wrong I was. Anyway, the driving forward was fine - and we got to our first campsite and I even managed to reverse successfully - albeit slowly - onto our pitch. We unpacked and settled in for the night, Sarah in the bed above the cab ...

(I must admit I didn't fight her for it) and me at the rear of the van. I fell asleep to the sound of rain pounding on the roof, and I dreamt of Yorkie bars and becoming Eddie Stobart's top driver.

I think the rain must have continued throughout the night, because the following day, every news bulletin kept talking about the phenomenal rainfall, and our plans to stay at Airlee Beach the following night were thwarted by the fact that it was completely cut off as all the roads were flooded. Mmmm. And this is Australia, right?

As a result, we had to spend the next night at Bowen - a fairly uninspiring town which is only known for two things - a giant 20 foot mango, and the fact that most of the film Australia, with Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman was filmed there a few years ago. So, unfortunately, we'd missed Hugh but at least we got to see the mango

and the sun made an all-too-brief appearance, after we'd heard reports that Bowen had had the heaviest rainfall in 24 hours for over 50 years. Just call me lucky.

Right, I'm not going to keep on banging on about the weather, except to say that it rained virtually everyday for ten days or so, and apparently it was Queenslands wettest September on record. (At one point I did say that next year I'm going to holiday in the Lake District or Wales for better weather).

Anyway, despite the rain we had a brilliant time - some of the highlights on our drive down were Hervey Bay - the only campsite we stayed at for two nights, so that we could visit Fraser Island - the worlds largest sand island, with miles of beaches, rain forest and freshwater lakes. We walked through the forests,

paddled in the lakes

and drove along the sand in a 4 wheel drive bus, and then back again.

Or at least Sarah went back in the bus, but I took a slightly more adventurous route back

Obviously, I'd like you to believe that I flew it all by myself, hence the 'Amelia Earhart' pose, but in fact we had a pilot and six other passengers. I couldn't convince Sarah to come with me, but she's not what you'd call a keen flier. It was certainly a great experience, and I can't image that I'll have too many opportunities to take off and land on a beach. Great views - rain forests look like giant broccoli from the air.

The following day, we had booked a trip to go Whale watching. They guarantee that you'll see whales, or you get your money back. I imagined that we might see a bit of a whale somewhere in the distance, but it absolutely surpassed all our expectations. We went out in a fast catamaran,

out past Fraser Island (you'll notice that the sun is shining!)

then parked up and after a short wait the whales appeared.

It was almost as if they were putting on a display for us,

with mothers showing off their calves and playing about right up close to the boat.

Absolutely brilliant and worth every penny of the trip.

Having left Hervey Bay, we stayed at Noosa for the night, then down to Brisbane, where we met up with my cousin Barbara, who took us for a walk at the seafront at Wynnum,

then to the Botanical Gardens

and to a lookout with fantastic views across the city

I'm glad Barbara was driving that day and I didn't have to negotiate our bus through the middle of Brisbane.

The following day we headed south again and stopped for lunch at Surfers Paradise, where the weather was glorious.

I guess we should have stayed there, because by the time we reached our next campsite, at Byron Bay, we were in the midst of yet another thunderstorm. We got soaked just connecting the van up to the electricity. Or at least Sarah did. Well, I was doing all the driving!

(Are you sure you're not bored yet?

Trains and Boats and Planes

2010-11-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I've been away for rather longer than I intended. I've had a bit of a road trip.

Back in 2008, my lovely niece Sarah, asked me if I'd do her a favour. I said of course I would, what was it? And she said "Will you come travelling with me when I'm 21?" Err, let me think about it for a nano-second. Yes. YES!! To cut a long story short, we booked it about a year ago through a local travel company that specialises in trips to Australia. They turned out to be fab, incidentally - so let me know if you're thinking of going - I'd highly recommend them. Several times during the planning and subsequent booking, I asked Sarah if she was really sure she wanted to go with me, and not one of her mates, and in the end she said something that I'd like engraved on my gravestone when the time comes -"Let's face it, you're not the typical elderly aunt, are you?"

So, the day after the Muse gig found me in a flurry of packing and last minute phone calls, before heading off to Heathrow at Sunday lunchtime.

Our first stop was Singapore - it was the weekend before the Grand Prix so there was lots of activity and decorations.

We did actually drive round part of the track, on our way to the Night Zoo but sadly in a bus, and not in a racing car. The Night Zoo (yes, it really is only open at night) takes you round in a little open-sided train, apparently exposed to the dangerous animals either side of the tracks. I'm assuming there was a deep pit to prevent them dragging us from the train and having us for supper, but you couldn't see it. I was concerned that I wasn't going to make it long enough to dice with death with the venomous snakes and man eating sharks of Australia. Anyway, we survived and the next day we went into the city for a bit of shopping.

We didn't actually go shopping in here - but I had to get a photo ....

And of course, we couldn't resist doing the tourist thing and having a 'Singapore Sling' at Raffles

We were there for three nights, then it was off to Cairns (right hand side of Australia, near the top) On our first full day there, we had glorious sunshine for a trip north to Kuranda, a village in the rainforest. Fortunately, I don't have too much of a problem with heights as this entailed having to dangle thousands of feet off the ground, in what appeared to be an oversized glass bauble strung from a thin wire. We had spectacular views on the way up....

When we arrived at Kuranda village, Sarah got to fulfill one of her ambitions, to cuddle a koala. They have exceptional sharp claws - and she had the scars to prove it for a few days.

But I didn't get to fulfill my ambition to have a handbag made from one of these ...

I'm joking, I'm joking!!! I love all animals, even scary looking ugly ones.

After lunch and a wander round the market (I have to admit to buying an Aussie hat - no corks!) we travelled back down to Cairns on the Scenic Railway - the rail road having been cut out of the side of the mountain for tin miners in the late 1880's to provide a route to the coast. I think it was to get food and supplies in, rather than to provide them with transport to go surfing on their days off. It was a lovely old train and I contravened all the Health and Safety advice to stick my head out of the window to get this shot. (The girl knows no fear!)

The following day we had a trip across to Green Island, at the top of the Great Barrier Reef

We went out in a glass bottomed boat, and saw all sorts of coral, fish (including the Nemo-type fish from the film), a couple of turtles, and even a small shark. It was only a small one, about five foot long. I'm not sure I'd have felt so complacent if I'd been swimming at the time, but it looked small from the boat.

The following day, we went to pick up the vehicle we'd booked for the next part of the trip. Now, unlike the shark, that really did exceed my expectations, size-wise.

But that's all for now, I'll bore you with the rest of my trip later.

Oh, and I haven't forgotten that I promised a giveaway - I just haven't made it yet. And I think I'm going to make it a competition (nothing too tricky, honest)

Trains and Boats and Planes - Billy J Kramer and The Dakotas. (Or Dionne Warwick)

Feeling Good

2010-09-11T04:30:00.000-07:00

I don't usually 'do' big gigs - preferring smaller venues. But last night I made an exception and found myself at Wembley.

I can't begin to tell you how spectacular Muse were last night - first time I've seen them but it won't be the last. Worth every penny of the ticket price, and I didn't even care that I went on my own. A fabulous night.

The light show was pretty impressive too.

I've got a lot on at the moment - work and family stuff, so I've decided to have a short break from blogging for a month or so. To ensure that you come back when I start again, I promise to have my first ever giveaway - so watch this space!

Feeling Good - Muse (or Nina Simone, if that's more you're thing)

Second Hand Rose

2010-09-10T05:46:00.000-07:00

I saw this blouse in a charity shop - I loved the fabric which was a well-washed cotton and is consequently soft, rather than crisp, and having tried it on, it fitted well, but I hated the puffed sleeves. Inspired by regularly reading New Dress a Day who takes some unbelieveably hideous garments and transforms them into something wearable, I decided to give it a go.

So, I cut out the sleeves and stitched a little turning, and now I love it. All for £2.99.

I had quite a productive day, doing some stitching on my rust dyed fabric, using metallic thread (as per my homework) and taking ideas from my sketchbook as inspiration.

The ones above are ATC sized - and I've decided I'm not very good at doing edges, especially the corners - so any advice would be welcome!

I think that the black stitching on the last one is a bit heavy looking for the background, but I like the rust markings.

I'm probably too slapdash - but I guess if I keep practising they will improve. At least I've had more success with the metallic thread - I used a different machine, and put the spool in a jam jar behind it, rather than on the spool holder. (Blimey - this is interesting stuff isn't it)

Anyway, I'm going now before you doze off. I'm going to see Muse at Wembley later - all by myself - so I do hope it doesn't rain.

(Second Hand Rose - Fanny Brice) Who knew she was a real person?!?

Pictures In An Exhibition

2010-09-05T09:28:00.000-07:00

I popped into Art Van Go yesterday, partly to see the Made at Art Van Go exhibition, which looked brilliant - really varied with some great work, including a couple of paintings by my friend Jill,

some fabulous books

this huge piece, which I loved ....

and even a couple of bits you may have seen on here before .....

I have posted more photos on the Art Van Go blog if you'd like to see more.

My other reason for going today, was that Pauline Verrinder was in the studio, demonstrating machine embroidery, and she had produced some lovely stitched textile jewellery

It just so happens that she has recently been working on seed pods - which is what I'm supposed to be working on in my sketchbook. Fortuitous or what??

(Pictures In An Exhibition - Death Cab for Cutie)
You didn't think I was going to go for Emerson Lake and Palmer, did you?

Rust

2010-09-03T15:21:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday we had the first meeting of our "Embroidery Group That Dare Not Speak It's Name" - but only because it hasn't got one yet. We are made up of members from our previous City and Guilds Group, plus one welcome addition, and with Gina, aka Fan My Flame as our mentor. This term we are focusing on metals, so to that end I spent the best part of a day trying to stitch with metallic thread. At a conservative estimate, I would say that my thread broke about 8,256 times, and that I completely re-threaded the machine approximately 3,008 times. And all without a single swear word. Next class I will be mostly stitching in quilting thread.

The other activity was considerably more successful (how could it not be?) with Gina showing us how to do rust dyeing. We soaked fabric in salt water, and wrapped up various rusty objects - I'm SO glad I come from a long line of hoarders - although what my Grandad would have made of me sorting out the rustiest nails and bolts from his collection, and then wrapping them in wet fabric is anybody's guess.

We had to leave them for at least 24 hours, and I managed nearly 48.

(I did think it might be another unmitigated disaster like the metallic stitching, so I was just delaying things I suppose. I took my parcel outside

I started unwrapping, and it was clear that at least something had happened

And it had - although I think my neighbours may be a bit concerned about my washing

I'm going to use it for my homework, and then for a piece for our first exhibition (cos "The Mentorist" says so)

You may notice my usual heart shape - in the middle of the right hand piece.

I didn't get where I am today without a battered and rusty old heart.

(Rust - Echo and The Bunnymen)

The Last Time

2010-08-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I'd love to be able to report that that Tewin Car Show was an unmitigated success, and that we sold loads of stuff. I'd love to, but it would be a complete fabrication.

First, the pluses - despite a slightly damp start to the day, the sun came out and it was a lovely day. Val's gazebo was really easy to put together, so no hitches there. We didn't even mangle any tent pegs. (I have to say, that as everyone was setting up on the cricket field, and the 1950's music was playing over a crackly loud speaker, the day began to feel like the start of an episode of Midsommer Murders, so to ensure that we weren't inadvertently responsible for any nasty 'incidents', we made sure that we securely locked Val's claw hammer in the van - you can't be too careful)
We set our stall out (as they say) and we were pleased with how it looked, with Jill's pictures -

My cake stands and jewellery -

and a small selection of Val's knitted stuff -

We had a few visitors , and about a dozen people said how lovely my cake stands were, but then they turned over the ticket, saw the price and walked away. I'd priced them at £25. Now, leaving aside my time, for a moment, they actually cost me £15 per stand to make, just for the plates and fittings. Then there's the time involved in hunting down suitable plates, driving to the suppliers to buy the fittings, and the special drill bit you need to make the holes. It took quite a time to make them, and to choose which plates went together, then package them, and pay for the cost of the craft stall. So, I don't think £25 is unreasonable, do you?

Never mind, I guess that's some of my Christmas presents sorted out.

All in all, I sold 5 cards, for the princely sum of £4.50. Well, it would have been £4.50 but one of my customers was busy chatting and forgot to pay me, so I actually took £3 all day. I think it's unlikely I'll be nominated for "Business Woman of the Year"

The only time I took any cash, was when I was doing my one hour stint in the refreshment tent - when we served cakes and drinks non-stop- including serving Lewis Hamilton's dad with a cup of tea!

On the positive side, I got to spend the day in the sunshine with two great friends, and we did have a laugh, and from where our pitch was, we were fortunate enough to be in prime position to watch the Morris dancers

I'd love to say more about the Morris dancers, but I really can't afford to offend any potential customers. I remember watching a programme about them once, and the interviewer asked why they did it. One of the dancers said that there was always a lot of alcohol involved. I guess there would have to be.

The lack of customers meant that I had a chance to look around at the Classic cars - and this one was the most unusual - it's hand built and the bodywork is highly polished wood.

If I could have had my pick of the cars I saw - and there were lots of Porsches and Lamborghinis - I'd have picked the White Thunderbird. I love those big American cars with 'fins'. Knowing my luck though, I BET it belongs to one of the Morris Men.

So, I know I've said it before - and I'll quite possibly say it again - that's the last time I do a craft fair. From now on I just make stuff for me. Probably.

(The Last Time - Rolling Stones)

Crumbs From Your Table

2010-08-21T05:38:00.000-07:00

Been busy making for the Tewin Car Show tomorrow. I've made some 'rock' corsages, using imitation leather. Not sure what I think of them, the design definitely needs more work, but being me, everything is left until the last minute as usual. Oh well, another work in progress.

And I've made some necklaces -

The pictures aren't brilliant, but I'm quite pleased with how they've turned out, and they look good against the black velvet background - which is actually my wooden chopping board shoved down the leg of my Mum's velvet trousers. It's ok, she took them off first.

I have a stall at the show with two friends, and we have to start the day by erecting a gazebo, in case of pouring rain, or (ever the optimist) scorching sunshine. None of us has ever put up a gazebo before. What can possibly go wrong?

Talking of which, you know in recipes where it says 'allow to completely cool before removing from the tin'. I now know why it says that. I made another courgette cake yesterday, and it looked beautiful. I waited quite a long time for it to cool. Oh ok, about 10 minutes then. I carefully lifted it out in it's paper case and it promptly collapsed and dropped on the floor. Mashed up courgette cake crumbs, anybody?

(Crumbs From Your Table - U2)

Lost and Found

2010-08-17T14:02:00.000-07:00

Guess what - I found them! I had a flash of inspiration - it still happens occasionally. I looked in my studio and I went straight to my sparkles. They were in a little plastic box, that fits (with lots of others) into a bigger plastic box. I'm telling you, just in case I forget again. Anyway, as promised, here they are adorning the tshirt. Ok, so it's not much to get excited about, but I was pleased.

I think what I'd better do is make a list of everything I have in the world, and write where I've put it. At least then I'd only have to read through a long list, and I wouldn't have to turn everything out, and put it away again.

So, having got the day off to a good start, I thought I'd make some cake stands for an upcoming craft event. I'd already got some plates drilled, I drilled some more, and I've come up with these.

They are for the Classic Car Show at Tewin on Sunday. I'm having a stall with some friends, and I'm also doing teas for an hour or so, (I'm only warning you in case you're coming, and you may decide you'd prefer to bring a flask!). Hopefully I'll have made some jewellery before Sunday too. WHY do I always leave everything to the last minute???

(Lost And Found - Echo & The Bunnymen)

I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For

2010-08-16T12:38:00.000-07:00

If I could get back all the time in my life that I've spent looking for stuff, and that I know I've put in a safe place, I reckon I'd only be 28. Today, it's those little iron-on diamante things. I bought a Tshirt in Oxford Street on Saturday, it's got black shoes with red bows printed on it, and I decided I wanted to make the bows sparkly. Simple job, you'd think. Well, it would be if I knew what I'd done with them. I've looked through all my bead stuff (a cupboard and a drawer) my Roses tin of 'embellishments' , a biscuit tin full of sequins, and two plastic boxes of stuff with things that don't really fit into any category. I thought I'd struck lucky when I found my Bedazzler (Oh, come on - don't make out you that you're not conversant with the Bedazzler! I can't be the only one that bought one from that certifiably-enthusiastic saleswoman who used to demonstrate at the early Knit and Stitch shows? ) But no, that box only contained the diamantes that fit into the little gadget, but no iron-on ones. I'm only telling you this, because I thought it may concentrate my mind and I might remember. I'll not only let you know when and where I find them - but I'll show you the finished Tshirt. It's a matter of principle now, I'm not wearing it until it's got sparkles on. Feel free to suggest the sort of things that you'd file iron-on diamantes with, if you had any, in case I've done the same.

I've had a bit of a making week. I made a net petticoat -

to go under under a dress I made, to wear to a 50's themed party.

The dress isn't vintage, obviously - I only made it last year - but the belt buckle is, if that counts.
Oh, and I made a courgette cake. Who says I don't eat vegetables?

It was so absolutely lovely, (even if I do say so myself), that half of it was eaten before I remembered to take a picture as evidence.

I've been making some jewellery, but I've not quite perfected the design, so pictures will have to wait, and I've also done a bit of work in my sketchbook, in the would-be style of Fan My Flame but the sketches are still a bit rubbish, and without a proper theme, so I'm not showing those either. However, what I WILL show you, is my sister's beautiful new puppy Bentley, who I met for the first time yesterday. I stopped at a petrol station, and you know there's always some tacky gadget or toy that you can buy for a couple of quid as long as you spend the equivalent of a month's wages on petrol, well I've always wondered who bought them, and yesterday I found out - it was me. The magnificent offer was for a stuffed Meerkat dog toy, and he loved it.

Sorry, I couldn't limit myself to one photo. He's so gorgeous and bouncy. I want one.

(I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For - U2)
I toyed with the idea of Puppy Love by the Osmonds, but that's definitely not very Rock'n'Roll.

Everyday Should Be A Holiday

2010-08-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

Saw the Dandy Warhols last night at Koko in Camden with my friend Jane, of janeslondon. Really good gig - it was the last night of their European tour which usually means the band is up for a good time. I think that happened the last time I saw them too - they must always finish up the tour in London. And why not? Apparently they've been supporting the Specials on tour, which seems to be a bit of a weird musical combo, but if it suits them....

So, as it was the last night they got the horn section of the Specials on stage to play with them on a couple of songs.

Sorry, the pictures are a bit ropey, but anyway .........

I think that's one of the Specials in the wings, together with the ex-Adam and the Ants flute player (who knew AATA had a flute player??) who also came on for one track.

On a more rural note - the tomatoes are now coming thick and fast -

How many tomatoes equals a glut. Don't say I'm gonna have to start making chutney!
And it's not just tomatoes - I have blueberries too -

I think I may have to get a couple of sheep and a goat, and then I could save a fortune on milk, cheese and yarn.
Right, I'd better turn in, us farmers have an early start.

(Everyday Should Be a Holiday - by the Dandy Warhols)

The Girls in Their Summer Dresses

2010-08-08T06:34:00.000-07:00

I had a trip to London with Fan My Flame on Wednesday to an exhibition of 1950's Horrockses frocks at the Fashion and Textile Museum in Bermondsey.

Horrockses made off-the-peg women's fashions in the 1940's and 50's. Mostly cotton dresses, housecoats and beachwear. (Housecoats!)

Sorry about the standard of the pictures - I couldn't use flash in the exhibition, so they were very dark, and I've lightenened them a bit in Photoshop. Not brilliant, but you'll get the idea.

Love the dresses - not sure about the playsuit thingy in the back though. The fabrics were really beautiful, and the designs came from a number of sources including in-house staff, commercial design studios, freelancers and also from well-known artists such as Graham Sutherland.

This next one depicted plates of food ..........

Gina and I both picked the same one as our favourite ...

I love the black gingham overprinted with blue roses. I might have to try the same thing with applique. I'll just add that to the list of intended projects.

As well as the dresses, there was some of the original artwork for the fabric, and it was interesting to see a bit of the design process.

It's a lovely exhibition - and if you are interested in vintage fashion, I'd urge you to go. It's on until 24th October.

I have become more or less self-sufficient in the garden. Well, ok maybe that's a tiny exaggeration. I have nine tomato plants, five in the ground and four in pots. I planted them in good quality compost, I've staked and tied them (several times, as they've got bigger) I have watered them everyday, and fed them every week with Tomorite (other tomato fertilisers are available). Oh, and I used an organic method of slug control.

Surprisingly enough it worked. No poisonous blue pellets, no egg shells, no coffee grounds, just a little notice informing them that they weren't welcome. Organic, or what?

And today, finally I have reaped the benefits. I had two (yes, two!) of my very own tomatoes.

True, they were on the small side, but they were delicious. And there's plenty more green ones, so as long as the sun shines again in the next few weeks, I'll maybe get some more.

(Blog Title - The Girls in Their Summer Dresses by Airborne Toxic Event)

To Cut A Long Story Short

2010-08-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

Rock At The Castle (or RATCastle) went off very well. After listening to the weather predictions the day before, and looking out of the window before I left, I was just a bit concerned it was going to be a wet one. Now, obviously, having been to Glastonbury a couple of times I am used to standing in the pouring rain, with mud covered wellies, listening to bands who choose to ignore the fact that they run the risk of imminent electrocution, all for the greater good. However, on Sunday, while the sun didn't exactly shine, at least it didn't rain. There was some great music, and everyone seemed to have a really good time.

I thought I'd make a photo collage of the bands, predominantly Sweet Sister, obviously, but I've included some of the other bands too, not wishing to appear biased.

It was a really good day, and hopefully the organisers will have collected a nice lot of money.

On an entirely different subject, I don't know if it's just me, but if ever I go off to do any arty-crafty weekends or courses, the blokes at work always say "how did your crochet class go?" It's a particular source of annoyance to me - as I'm sure they are only too well aware - because although I have always painted, knitted, and stitched - I couldn't actually crochet. I wasn't really too worried about this, until I started reading Lucy's blog and saw the wonderful things she creates with yarn, and a crochet hook. So, last week I went to Jolie at Walkern, the beautiful shop that sells knitting pattern books and wonderful yarns and pretties and lots more besides. There were only two of us students - so we had constant individual attention from Linda, who taught us all the basic stitches. Dany kept us constantly fed, with coffee and biscuits, and then a lovely lunch, and then tea and cake. Oh, and I did finally learn to crochet. Not only did I make a Granny square on the day - I came home and made some more ....

I do love pink and orange together. And, as I've been up to London again today, I've nearly finished another one on the train. I think they're going to be a cushion when they grow up.

I nearly forgot, whilst we were busy learning to crochet, a man put his head through the window (no injuries sustained, thankfully, the window was open), and said "Hello Girls" I thought, "Blimey, that bloke looks just like Tony (Spandeau Ballet) Hadley. Then Linda said "Hello Tony" and it was him! I didn't get a photo, so you'll just have to take my word for it. So, if you're a potential Tony Hadley stalker, best you get yourself down to Jolie and book a few courses, and maybe he'll turn up again. And, if he doesn't, at least you'll have learnt some new skills and had a delicious lunch.

I had thought I might make my squares into a blanket, but I recently inherited a large quantity of knitted oblongs (it's a long story) so I might sew those up into a blanket instead.

They are in different widths and lengths, so it's going to take a bit of working out, but it will certainly be colourful when it's finished.

Rock Around Clock (or even The Castle)

2010-07-30T16:39:00.000-07:00

I wouldn't be doing my job as a band manager properly, if I didn't tell the world about this forthcoming event:-

THIS SUNDAY 1ST AUGUST, IN THE GROUNDS OF HERTFORD CASTLE

12.30pm – 7.30pm
Admission £2 voluntary donation supporting the MATT SCALES MUSIC FUND
Hertford Town Council with the help of GRAPHIC NATURE STUDIOS and Kev Saunders present

ROCK AT THE

CASTLE 2010

Get there early and make sure you don’t miss a single crotchet or quaver of 19 terrific acts on two stages
plus our shy and retiring MC, Jim Distortion!

MAIN STAGE

INSOMNIA MUSIC LIVE ACOUSTIC STAGE

HERTFORD ALLSTARS
DAN SPALDING
DISTORTED BREED
JAMIE FALLON BAND
AHEAD OF TIME CREW
ADAM BROWN

WIDEBOY GENERATION
JUAN ZELADA (set 2)
CRIMZEN
JUAN ZELADA (set 1)
DREGS OF SOCIETY
JIM RALPHS (set 2)
TOM DIBB
JIM RALPHS (set 1)

THE CHAMBERS
CHLOE TURNER
THE DOCTORS
NUALA

JOAN OV ARC

SIMONE ALEXANDER

SWEET SISTER (That's my band!)

Sweet Sister are on first, at 12.45, so get there early if you don't want to miss them.

Diamonds Are Forever

2010-07-27T12:41:00.000-07:00

Firstly please allow me to boast a bit - on Saturday I entered two of my City and Guilds pieces in the local horticultural show, in the handicraft sections. And look what happened..........................

Ok, so it's not a massive show with hundreds of entries - but I was still really pleased.

Then on Sunday we had a party for my parent's Diamond wedding anniversary. There has been lots of hectic preparation. Why hectic? - because, as you know, I leave everything until the last minute. Obviously, some things HAVE to be left until the last minute - you can't really make sandwiches weeks beforehand, can you (unless you work for one of the budget airlines, I suppose)

So, all day on Saturday, and again on Sunday morning there was lots of activity:- from my friend Jill,

from my sister Linda.................

and from my niece Sarah (who incidentally, has just become a newly qualified nurse - Congrats to her!)

I did a few things too, honest, it's just that I had the camera so there's no photographic evidence. I was, in fact, responsible for a number of things. Unfortunately this included leaving the lemonade in the boot of my car at home. Oh, and for forgetting the mint for the Pimms. But I did produce my signature dish - White Choc and Raspberry muffins.

Then, finally the food was prepared, the flowers were arranged, the bunting was hung, we got out of our pinnies and into our frocks - and the guests of honour arrived...

Don't our Mum and Dad look fabulous - they certainly don't look old enough to have been married sixty years! It was a lovely day, everything turned out well, even the weather was good.

And the beautiful cake made by Steph says it all ....

Tiers for Souvenirs - and All That Jazz.

2010-07-18T01:01:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the short absence (like you even noticed I'd been away) but I've been away in Norfolk staying with my parents. It's been an action-packed week - starting with the premiere of The Guilty, an independent film directed by Brendan Sheppard. (it's not what you know ......)

That was followed by a picnic at Grafham Water to celebrate my niece's 21st birthday. For her proper pressie, I'm going to treat her to a trip while we're off travelling together later in the year, but on the day , I gave her a pile of magazines that I bought for her on the day she was born. See - all you who think I leave everything until the last minute - I AM capable of forward planning sometimes. Of course, I had to have a little flick through the pages before I wrapped them up, and do you know, back in an interview in July 1989, George Michael was hoping to meet a nice girl, settle down and have a family. Mmmm, best laid plans, eh George?

Later in the week, it was my nephew 's Prom night, with much enthusiastic dancing, and on Wednesday a trip to Holt, one of my favourite places in Norfolk, for even more enthusiastic shopping and lunch with my sis. And yes, of course there was cake. We browsed in "Past Caring", a great vintage clothes shop, where I tried on two 1940's jackets, but managed (with great difficulty) to resist both of them, thus saving myself a total of £100. So, with that £100 burning a hole in my pocket, we had a fruitful tour of the charity shops,

and we also discovered a lovely shop that we hadn't been to before, called Great to Be Green. It was full of goodies, some vintage, and some made from recycled materials, so we did a bit of ethical shopping.

And then some more.

I suppose, if you're going to be a shopaholic, it's better to be an ethical shopaholic. (Unless you have a lisp)

And finally to the Pied Piper Shop. I've no excuse for this at all, - I don't even DO patchwork ...

On Friday night we all went to Oxburgh Hall in Norfolk to see DixieMix, a Trad Jazz band. Yeah, I know, I know, it's not exactly Glasto, and it's definitely not my usual sort of music, but my family kidnapped me and there was nothing I could do about it. The setting was fabulous, with fantastic views and beautiful gardens, which Linda and I explored before the music started.

It was a lovely evening, and the band were really good (high praise, coming from a non-Jazz fan) and very entertaining. I don't think it can have been proper Jazz, because you could tell what song they were playing, and I suppose it's not their fault that they never learned to play rock music - I guess it takes all sorts. My Mum and Dad (who ARE trad Jazz fans) loved it and I believe they are going to try and see them again soon, so that's a recommendation from them.

And, they did have a guitarist with long hair, so at least I had something to look at.

It ended up being a typically British evening though (my sister wasn't fed up, I caught her at a bad moment!)

In amongst all that social whirl, with much advice, and a little assistance from my Dad, I've been drilling holes in plates. It was far more successful than I thought, I've not broken any so far - and I've made this, a three tiered cake plate with vintage plates......

Do you think they would sell? Maybe I could become tiered cake stand supplier to the stars. (I'll not give up my day job until I hear from you).
I also recovered a couple of chairs, and knitted the back of a jumper. Can I go back to work now please?

Forever Young - or Knocking on Heaven's Door???

2010-07-05T02:49:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I went down to Kent..........

To the Hop Farm Festival, to see (amongst others) the legend that is Bob Dylan.

It was a lovely day, very hot and we wandered around for a while having a look at was else was happening before the music started.

There were a few fairground rides (no thanks) - why would anyone want to do this ......

When you could just sit and listen to the music and do this .....

Anyway, on to the music. We saw Foy Vance and later Johnny Flynn - neither of whom I'd heard of but they were both worth a listen. The Magic Numbers, who all looked about half the size they were when I last saw them, but sounded the same. Laura Marling - I'm afraid I had to wander off during her set, for fear that I would end up as clinically depressed as she sounded. Seasick Steve was great, playing all manner of instruments from a guitar with only three strings, a banjo-shaped thing made from two Morris Minor hubcaps; and something he calls a Diddley Bo, which is made from a lump of wood and a piece of string. I didn't hear much of Mumford and Sons, as I was either in the queue for a drink, or in the queue for the loo, but was back in time to enjoy Ray Davies, who was really good, but then as you know I can be a bit biased as regards Ray.

But, the surprising highlight as far as I'm concerned, was Pete Doherty. We didn't really expect him to turn up, given his previous history, but he was on time, he looked fit and healthy and sober, and appeared to be in complete control. He was on stage on his own, playing an acoustic set, with the occasional addition of a couple of dainty ballet dancers, for a couple of numbers.

He sounded great, he was funny, he interacted with the audience, and he looked fab. Maybe he has finally sorted himself out. Or maybe we were just lucky on Saturday.

And then Dylan. Mmmm, I think maybe it's time he considered hanging up his white fedora, and giving up touring, to see out the rest of his days reflecting on past glories. His voice, described by someone in the crowd as sounding like it'd been run over by a tractor, is totally shot. Some of the songs were unrecognisable and they all sounded pretty bleak. I guess I should have seen him years ago.

I'm sorry if I've offended any diehard Dylan fans, but I've not been as rude as the reviewer from the Guardian

Anyway, all in all it was a great day - a lovely festival, a kind of "Glastonbury Lite"