Piccalily & Blossom

From this to this.....

2012-02-07T21:15:00.001Z

It does help if you upload your previous posts picture does it not. Another example of how one girl can be a techno knit wit! Haha

Granny chic springs into action

2012-02-05T20:19:00.001Z

Snow on the ground, candles burning, leap year (the film) playing and a crochet hook moving swiftly to create flowerpot cosies to enhance the vintage tea cups and spring florals (thankyou Emma). Job done I say.

A splash of Easter?

2012-01-22T17:02:00.000Z

Ok not wishing to freak out anyone in blog land but I thought a cheery pic of some tulips and a cheeky photo of my dish drainer in the shape of a rabbit would keep us going through the dark nights. Ethel does not share my new found enthusiasm for washing up! In fact she is not keen on the rabbity competition!

2012-01-06T18:57:00.001Z

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The candle of the Magi

2012-01-06T18:55:00.001Z

First weekend of the new year time for reflecting. This candle of the magi was bought for me as a gift from Norway. I am lighting it this twelfthnight evening and reflecting whilst looking to the future enjoy your evenings. Xx

The BIG apple

2011-12-24T19:53:00.000Z

Returned from the Big Apple today. What a fab trip. More to follow and pics of Purl SoHo.

Merry Christmas........'Happy Holidays' x

Back in the saddle

2011-10-24T11:25:00.000+01:00

Coffee break. Out and about today buying fabric. To complete Pic and Blos orders. The dear bro is busying himself with creating me a website. More to follow. Ciao x

First Day back....

2011-09-05T07:31:00.000+01:00

I love going back to school, even now I'm in my thirties! (obviously in a teaching capacity no longer a pupil). Anyhow to make others smile in their first day back I made treats. White chocolate fridge cake. A little goes a long way unless you have a very sweet tooth. Enjoy your day all. X

St Ives

2011-08-25T18:22:00.000+01:00

Staying in a CUTE Hotel called The Hollies in St Ives I have not been here for 15yrs. But love it. Tomorrow I am going on a course run by Poppy Treffry. Just going to get fish and chips now. Ta ra

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St Ives

2011-08-25T17:53:00.000+01:00

Never one to blow my own trumpet

2011-08-11T08:34:00.001+01:00

I am staying with my mom and dad whilst I deliver the Piccalily & Blossom goodies. Oh how I laughed this morning. Starting the day with a cup of rosie lea in a cup stating "its exhausting being fabulous" te he. Enjoy the day.

Working the late shift

2011-08-09T22:45:00.001+01:00

Why oh why do we all do it. Think we have more time; then realise we have less time than we think and end up working through the evening. Yikes.

Sigh of relief accomplished target for this evening.

2011-08-09T16:52:00.001+01:00

Happy 60th, yoga Tuesday and the three little cosies

2011-08-09T16:50:00.000+01:00

HOLA ! all; just practising the holiday lingo. Despite camping out here in lil old Blighty. Anyhow today is the step fathers 60th, Happy Birthday pa. Hence the chocolate cake. Todays makes include three teacosies here is the first so after yoga this eve ill be back on Bertha finishing them off. Have fun y'all.

Pimp my crochet hook!

2011-08-05T21:45:00.002+01:00

Wahoo after reading about Attic 24's fabarooney crochet hook I decided to jazz up the gals (sizes 3.5mm-5mm hooks) using some Fimo. Impressed am I. Now its time for some happy hooking.

Hair today ....

2011-07-28T18:31:00.000+01:00

Well it comes to something when you spend most if your day sat in the hairdressers. Luckily for me as I hate the whole shenanigans so much I now go with my best bud Elsie,so we cause chaos and laughter with well just being us really! We thought we should have our own tv show to make the world laugh, she calls me Floss so it would be Elsie and Florence with special guest Ethel. Ok ok yes too much sun and hairspray. Back to the studio tomorrow! Ethel was not impressed as she didn't get to have her barnet sorted.

Me & My Shadow

2011-07-28T06:45:00.007+01:00

Sunday at the park, beautiful weather happy people milling around.......me and my shadow for company!

The current project commisioned seat cushions.

Ethels debut B&W photoshoot....poser!

The Park....its funny how some images capture the 1970s vibe, of old local picture postcards.

So as usual I had been happily snapping away with all the good intenions to upload my pictures to what appears to be this on line journal of mine, and in usual Blossom stylee I had not managed to do that. But this morning I have awoken with a slight spring in my step. I feel slightly like a butterfly must feel as it leaves its cocoon for the first time......happy.......a bit emotional?.....hopeful and overexcited ........................oh dear!!

Tuesday antics

2011-07-26T18:04:00.001+01:00

AGENDA TODAY:
Turning a whopping courgette into two chocolate cakes and a batch of feta cheese muffins.

Cleaning Bob

Time to chill at yoga.

I thank you and goodnight. X

My new approach to Sunday

2011-07-24T17:09:00.000+01:00

Park, sun and a good book. The end x

Gran inspired a floral

2011-07-17T16:39:00.002+01:00

A visit to gran and a cheeky little photo of her cut flowers and hey presto I was back home (ok not like Harry Potter magic style) but none the less I returned to my workspace and it has resulted in me creating a little vintage looking ribbon rose. Oooh coralicious! Enjoy xx

DJ Fresh & Sian Evans Louder BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge July 2011

2011-07-16T17:24:00.001+01:00

This song means a lot to me at the moment especially with all the changes I am experiencing; for the greater good. I love hearing it on the radio, this accoustic version I heard on radio 1 on Friday. Enjoy your weekend all. X

Baking your troubles away

2011-07-16T17:12:00.002+01:00

Baking! Chocolate cupcakes....is the answer to not worrying about anything else in life. It certainly took my mind off things that are going round my head. There were about 4 other things to do of slightly more importance but hey ho baking won the day. Sadly I only had 11 maltesers to adorn the top of these chocolate mountains (due to a previous cinema trip....no not gone mad eating half a small packet it was a grab bag). I had just enough mixture for 11 cakes oddly. But then there was the accident..... I dropped one and had to sample it; ooops! Well that was the second stroke of luck as only 10 would fit in the cake tin.

Chicken or the Egg?

2011-07-10T13:37:00.001+01:00

Something to contemplate whilst eating scrambled egg on toast I feel.
Have a fun Sunday, mine has been lazy so far watching 'Dear John' on DVD. Visiting my mom, now I'm going to tackle some serious making.

Poppytastic 2

2011-07-09T23:25:00.000+01:00

More poppies to peruse.

Sharing the love...

2011-07-09T12:41:00.000+01:00

Ok so really a treat is not on the agenda especially after a trip to IKEA ended this week with purchasing two bars of their cheap but very cheerful hazelnut chocolate. I bought one for myself and one for my best bud Elsie. I'm ashamed to say (and have already confessed) that I ate both. It doesn't end there they went in one sitting! Crikey chief.....I couldn't help it they were calling to me. So actually this love bar is rather tame in comparison at least it has seeds on right?

Number crunching

2011-07-05T22:20:00.001+01:00

30, 187 and 8.

30 lengths of the pool swam tonight.

Sadly defeated by the intake of 187 calories in my packet of maltesers (lighter than ordinary chocolate apparently).

8 rows in the cable pattern I'm knitting on 5 needles oh wish me luck with that one.

Poppytastic

2011-07-03T20:19:00.001+01:00

After my inspirational day yesterday I have decided to start drawing and painting again. Here are the fruits of my labour so far. Wahey have a good week; now its time for knitting with 5 double pointed pins another new skill to master so far so good. Enjoy your week amigos.

Posting bug?

2011-07-02T21:52:00.001+01:00

WAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
is how I would describe how I feel right now. After my visit to the big smoke I am being very productive. A glass of Rose and one 'small' bag of maltesers (steady on..... a girl can have too much fun) I have started sketching and have a lil vision of things I'd like to do after todays inspirational day. More pics to follow but had to share my Islington antiques market orange glass bowl, which contrasted beautifully with the duck egg alpaca yarn courtesy of Loop. Love the sweets!, too pretty to eat though. So that's it a three post Saturday, quite tired may have to venture to bed soon after my 16hr day.
Enjoy all x

Peggy pitstop

2011-07-02T13:57:00.000+01:00

Time for tea and cake; well it is the weekend who needs an excuse especially when you land on the doorstep of one Peggy Porschen. A lime and coconut cupcake and tea for me please!

The early bird...

2011-07-02T07:14:00.001+01:00

DESTINATION: London
AGENDA: Business Design Centre New designers 2011.
Loop : Islington
Peggy Porschen
VV Rouleaux: Belgravia
Hummingbird bakery: Covent Garden.

Maybe a sneaky bit of Cath Kidston too.

Have a fab day y'all.

Better late than never....

2011-07-01T22:13:00.001+01:00

It was my intention to bid you all Happy 1st of the month this morning, whoops how time whizzed by and now its nearly the end of the day.
The thought was there.

A nutty start

2011-06-29T08:27:00.001+01:00

Well what a nutty start to my day already. I have had to stop the vehicle on the way to work as I had a hijacker in the form of a wasp dancing round my car. Then I thought I was looking in a mirror as an identical car and similar looking driver with CREAM sunglasses on let me turn in the traffic. I got to work to find this on my desk Nuff said really.

C'mon c'mon c'mon c'mon take that

2011-06-28T23:44:00.006+01:00

and party!!

That's progress

2011-06-27T23:45:00.000+01:00

Take that progress tour. Birmingham villa ground Nuff said.

Sent from my HTC

21 again

2011-06-26T23:12:00.000+01:00

This weekend has been jam packed. It seems like one of those weekends, that have lasted longer than usual. Friday night was a hoot, as I took part in the schools murder mystery evening playing the part of the hotel maid and accomplice to murdering the hotel manager. Well by eck (northern type accent adopted for acting debut). I also went back 10 years after finding these 21's which were hidden everywhere at the time of my birthday (back in the day). These particular pieces of confetti were hidden in my pac a mac hood it was a birthday gift. Only when I washed it and had it hanging on the line today did I notice them. Odd and funny here I am at 31 and a lot has happened in between. Including this weekend picking up Bob, my new Lil Fiat 500. Have a fun week everyone; another blast from the past tomorrow for me as ill be watching Take That perform, and I was going to have an early night tonight! Yikes!!

Heart today.....gone tomorrow?

2011-06-23T22:33:00.000+01:00

My heart will go on..........! Oops sorry came over all Celine Dione then must be the surge of caffeine as no offence Celine but I'm not into warblers. Anyhow as per usual I digress. What pray tell has she been up to now you may ask (or may not) anyhow......Answer: crafting a small sample of lavender hearts none the less. To take with me to stock the shop Saturday in Market Harborough, Leicestershire. This will give me chance to pick up the information for a special commission. Wahoo maker rooney, even Ethel is excited having just completed a celebratory lap of the kitchen. Ok no more tea!

In the valley

2011-06-22T22:15:00.000+01:00

An epic day. Geography field trip with year 7 at Carding Mill Valley. Beautiful place, followed by a murder mystery rehearsal and an evening socialising with an old friend. Soooo tired off to bed for me.

Burning the candle both ends and every other angle?

2011-06-21T22:01:00.001+01:00

'Trying to do too much' hmm as frustrating as it is, I have had the revelation that I am not a robot. Sadly my efforts for large lavender heart production have gone what only can be described as 'Pete Tong'. For those of you in the unfamiliar territory of rhyming slang I mean 'wrong'. What's a girl to do at a time like this. Too many ideas no time or ability at the moment to be productive! Ahhhhh retreat to Bedfordshire and read the chick lit.

Had to share...

2011-06-19T02:09:00.002+01:00

Why I feel so compelled to share these pictures at this early hour is beyond me? I am waiting for my oreos and milk to kick in and return me to slumber. Maybe I'm too excited? Anyhow......poppies I have driven past these for days on the way to work every time fighting the urge to stop and take a picture as they looked so pretty. Then one day this week after work I just pulled over and took a snap shot. Enjoy! they certainly make me smile.

Blissful....

2011-06-18T18:19:00.000+01:00

A fun old day, swimming, visiting friends with a cheeky last minute shopping trip to a very sleepy old town, but found an old wedding dress shop the door was amazing, followed by biscuits and tea in the garden, despite the weather forecast. I even got to sport my free retro shades.....NICE! have a fun time whatever your up to. Xx

The big day....

2011-06-10T08:20:00.001+01:00

the sale of my house goes through today and although I've already moved it is quite sad like the end of an era. My best bud Elsie certainly knows how to keep me cheery there was a Lil gift waiting for me on my desk. If friends were flowers as they say... I certainly would pick Elsie.

Day Dream Believer

2011-06-08T06:17:00.001+01:00

Yesterday I was given this beautiful little fridge magnet. So now every time I go for the milk I can stop and think.....its ok to dream and have aspirations. Sadly for me, Mr Lurgy has decided to suddenly pay a visit, not a welcome one either grrr to you Mr L. Have fun amigo's.

Zappaberry zing zing

2011-06-02T09:04:00.000+01:00

Breakfast my favourite time of the day! Strawberries, blueberries and creme fraiche. Ok the creme fraiche is rather indulgent but I had it left over from a Jamie Oliver recipe. So after feeling like I should stay in bed to catch up on my sleep after constantly being on the go and doing lots of things over the last few days. I felt a zap to the palette was in order to perk me up nicely for the day. What a lovely day too! strawberries....... Wimbledon? ....tennis anyone? ........steady on Blossom!

What a Liberty...

2011-06-01T20:13:00.000+01:00

Happy first day of June y'all. What a lovely day in parts. Spent the day in the big smoke our Gt British Capital. Took my mom to see 'The Wizard of Oz' with the talented young Danielle Hope winner of Find a Dorothy BBC show and Micheal Crawford. I had heard that it was not so good, but really I thought the staging was amazing and the.production wad good on the whole. Lil Toto was an absolute dude. Loved it, as we saw the matinee show we then tottered across to Liberty's and went directly to yup you guessed it, the fabrics and craft section. Amazing! those Liberty prints are beautiful. I bought a metre for another top to be put together. Ill keep you posted when that occurs. I am now waiting for my train but I am sure it will be a quiet journey home I am shattered.

2011-05-31T07:16:00.001+01:00

Learning to love.....

2011-05-31T07:15:00.001+01:00

Looking after yourself. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day so I am told. (NOTE: any meal is important to me I love eating!). I have been awake since 5.30am not in a woe is me I can't sleep way more of a get up and do something kind of way. So as I lay there I planned my breakfast! Oh how lucky I am I know to lie awake and only worry about the first meal of the day. What a luxury thank goodness for half term. X Ciao X

A very British Bank holiday!

2011-05-30T10:39:00.000+01:00

Rain....on the downside, wet, cold, grey, dull.......on the up....chance to stay indoors drink countless cups of tea, sit in a comfy chair and catch up on my reading. Happy BH Monday to all enjoy whatever the weather.

In my free time......

2011-05-22T20:26:00.000+01:00

I have recently watched the three twilight films. I must confess that I really like them despite my reservations due to the hype when they were released. Anyway I have now started reading the first book, which I am also really enjoying. Some folks may think my actions slightly backwards as its more usual to read the book first. Luckily it's quite different though so still captivating. Also decided to develop my crochet skills, brushing up on my counting and use of memory I managed to create the first of many squares to come. I just hope they do not become another of my great unfinished ideas.

Mainly coveting.......

2011-05-21T09:26:00.000+01:00

Emma Bridgwater's sampler range. Which in the bigger scheme of setting up home elsewhere is not really a priority at all.....Blossom! (note to self talk to oneself 'NO' is the correct word you should hear). Anyway my secret love for all things red has risen its red ......head again ha ha see what I did there. I have always said ewwww no not red but really RED is a strong, happy, bold colour what was I thinking?

[You may by now be sick of my obsession with that there anaryllis but 'blooming' heck it does have four flowers in the making. Which beats its earlier attempt at a floral showcase.]
Ciao x

Spread your wings and fly....

2011-05-20T21:58:00.001+01:00

It's funny how time changes us. My ever thoughtful friend Elsie today left me a little postcard and cheery nail varnish treat. She is soo thoughtful. Thought it made a cute pic. The bird necklace a gift to myself to remind me to spread my wings and fly again. Have a nice weekend xXx

Second chances

2011-05-15T19:26:00.001+01:00

Not only did the amaryllis bloom once earlier this year with two flower heads, but it's decided to bloom a second time.

As I said in one of my previous posts there are lots of changes taking place in my life. I feel like it is my turn to bloom again and see where life takes me. Ethel and I are moving home soon to start a new life. Wish us luck.

The Final Frontier

2011-04-16T16:04:00.000+01:00

Last leg of our holiday, off to Los Angeles today. Luggage seems to be growing by the hour.

Todays sweet treat......

2011-04-16T01:29:00.000+01:00

Pistachio ice-cream from Norman's icecreams in the Cannery (old del Monte canned peaches factory) San Fran.

Deeeeeeelicious !

The last photo sums it up really.

Cheese! Cake!

2011-04-15T06:30:00.001+01:00

A visit to the cheesecake factory 7th floor if Macy's whilst shopping in San Fran. 7hours of shopping till we were dropping, allowed us to divulge in a cheeky Lil (large) piece of cheesecake. As pictured Apple streudal flavour ............its worth the journey accross the Atlantic just for a slice if this action! Drool!

Breakfast....... Amore

2011-04-14T02:18:00.000+01:00

Hello all, still here in what is now sunny San Francisco. This morning was a different story as it was cold and wet!

Today started well, as fruit and waffles were on the agenda. We then walked to Pier 33 to catch the ferry to Alcatraz which included one of the best audio tours I have now been on.

The walk later from Pier 39 up to Macys was well....gruelling; but the trolley ride back to the Holiday Inn surpassed itself, needless to say I am now tired. Tomorrow myself and my future sister in law (my brother asked his girlfriend to marry him when we visited the grand canyon) will go back into the city to shop!, I have now sussed where Britex fabrics the fabric of all fabric shops is situated. Better make it a good breakfast again!

Luckily found an engagement card in a store this afternoon. The words are lovely.....How exciting!

Enjoy.......... Blossom x
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Are oreos posh bourbon biscuits?

2011-04-13T05:38:00.000+01:00

And if so why do I like them. Not sure about bourbon (drink or biscuits) if I am honest!

2nd leg if our trip, arrived in San Francisco today.......found a gorgeous chocolate shop which sold these chocolate covered and mint oreos. Mmmmmm ! Well a girl needs calories when its cold and boy its cold in San Fran compared to Las Vegas.

2011-04-11T04:31:00.000+01:00

Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

2011-04-11T02:59:00.000+01:00

This morning er have we walked! Boy oh boy. Inside the Bellagio past the lobby is this oasis of tranquility. The scent of the flowers is amazing and blows you away. Photos were a must and from here we have worked our way along the strip to see some amazing hotels and sights. I was even brave enough to try my luck on the newyorkers roller coaster, with its 204ft drop. Hilarious!

The other city that never sleeps

2011-04-10T12:20:00.001+01:00

Amazing woke up its 4.11am here. Just opened the drapes (curtains to you or I) using an electronic switch feel like the character played by Kate Winslet out of the film 'The Holiday' to find Vegas is still lit up like a Christmas tree! No doubt the revellers are still pulling on the arms of those bandits, and placing bets on the tables downstairs its so surreal and I can now understand why people lose track of time go in one place and come out 24hrs later! More sleep needed. Night x world!

Vegas Baby!

2011-04-10T00:28:00.000+01:00

I bet you all wonder where has that girl gone? 10HOURS and one trip back in time or so it would seem and here I am in Vegas. We are staying at the Bellagio. Everything here is huge! Quite frankly! ........I am 6ft and feel dwarfed by everything around me. The room here is amazing think Kevin a la Home Alone 2 lost in New York but more Italiano! So the plan firstly close eyes, secondly try that huge bath! Then hit the strip!

2011-04-10T00:27:00.000+01:00

Leg two of the journey....

2011-04-09T09:35:00.000+01:00

So here I am in the virgin lounge at Gatwick airport. Complimentary drinks, food and comfy seats. Wow! Feel like a film star.

A new chapter

2011-04-08T19:45:00.001+01:00

New beginnings always start with journeys. So here is the view of stage one of my journey, to the airport, sunset on the M6. Here is to the road ahead!

Alteration's and Preparation's

2011-04-07T06:28:00.000+01:00

Posting for me is like waiting for a bus, none for a while then they all come at once. Last night I managed to construct this simple top using fabric from Raystitch (gorgeous). Just in record time to pack for the holiday. Packing aghhhhh one if those hateful tasks. Am I taking too much, too little have I forgotten something etc.
So ill leave you with my top and the continuously changing amarylis flower. Like I said in a previous post lots of changes taking place here at the moment too!

On my desk Wednesday

2011-04-06T10:29:00.001+01:00

There is nothing like a surprise gift on your desk to make you smile. My friend left me this little bloom, just lovely.

Life changes!

2011-04-01T07:37:00.000+01:00

Sorry for my lack of posts lately. There have been a lot of changes going on in my life recently.

Somewhere over the rainbow

2011-02-26T17:16:00.000Z

Rainbow spotting on the M6 well you have to pass the time somehow. Now where's that wizard?

Tea break.....

2011-02-23T16:19:00.000Z

Still hard at it, just time for an afternoon tea break. Ethel has been stock checking. She is a worker that rabbit!

Working 9 till 5

2011-02-23T10:04:00.000Z

MORNING ! I would say early birds but its now 10.00am, and I am a wee bit concerned my list had already gone by the way side. Job 1 start and finish step moms birthday gift ready for party celebrations Sat. Job 2 well I am still getting over job 1 so we will see how it pans out. Have a good old day folks. Hi to Gina and Quinn thanks for your frequent comments. Have fun ya'll X

The wrong stitches...

2011-02-20T17:19:00.000Z

AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH think that about covers my angst. I have just happily spent the last half an hour knitting the wrong stitches, oh joy! Now this either calls for 1. A knitting interlude or 2. More posh choc's. I think number 2 could win.

The problem with the voluptuous Nigella teapot and other stories.

2011-02-20T15:26:00.000Z

Sunday..... a lazy day to launch into the half term holiday nicely. There has been much tea drinking today, but a shocking revelation made me see that Cath Kidston and Nigella do not see eye to eye, sigh... this will just not do. Mainly due to the plump shape of the teapot!
In other news I have started to knit a small cardigan for my friends baby due in April, as I am fully aware of my drifting action from project to project I thought I had better start now. This has however resulted in more emergency tea and a few posh choc's to boot. This is as they say the life.

The Town of Bridgnorth

2011-02-19T17:27:00.000Z

A whistle stop visit to a historic market town today, ended with bagging some granny chic booty. Let the making commence!

Wahoo

2011-02-17T20:41:00.001Z

I am sooo excited I could squeel. Control Blossom control ! Anyhoo I just finished preparing a little meal and cheeky sticky date, Apple and walnut crumble. Using a bit of inspiration from old Sophie. This is all for tomorrow evening, when another of mine and Mr H's great mates monsieur le Christof will be dropping by for some nosh and a wee blast on the old computer console. Wahoo yeeha and all that. It's half term as of the morrow and I have a week off yet more reason to be excited. Yippety doo dah yippety eh. ciao all x

Bloom

2011-02-17T07:58:00.000Z

WOW Hurrah, yipee finally my winter pansies have burst into life.

Preparations

2011-02-15T21:55:00.000Z

Tonight is all about the IDEA, for a hand embroidered 50th birthday gift for my step mom. So we take the following, mix it up and wait for the idea to flourish all with a little help from my chum Ethel.

2011-02-10T21:43:00.001Z

Make a wish.....

2011-02-10T21:42:00.001Z

What a hoot I have had today. Once again I have been completely spoilt. Thank you everyone who wished me well on this celebratory day of my birth. Cheers ma, what a life to date.
Happy Birthday Monda too we share a day in the calendar. Never too big for a cake !
X

Yeeeeeeeeee Haaaaaaaaaaa

2011-02-07T22:10:00.004Z

Nope I honestly have not gone all rodeo on you fellow blogger's, I guess I am just a little delirious after uploading images etc to my Etsy page. YUP you got it Pic & Blos is all systems go on the 'selling on the Internet front'.

I must just say a big thank you to Quinn who really gave me the extra push I had needed to go LIVE . After the comments on my last post it made me think!! Yes WHY am I spending my time selling my second hand goods on e-bay when I should upload the pics of my handmade goodies to Etsy. {So thanks soooooooo much and as a special treat Quinn if you read this drop me a line and we will talk turkey (te he). What I mean is I will make you a special knitted brooch all for you just to say thanks}

So go ahead everyone have a mooch around the lil shop and drop me a line, to say ha 'call that a shop' or maybe even a 'oh well done you managed it after all this time' sort of a comment. Either way I would certainly be chuffed to bits.

Ok so my lil shop is certainly in its infant years, heck this baby isn't even walking yet but I do hope to improve my picture taking, products and written word to fine tune this machine into a hum dinger!!

On that note I must be off to calm down before I try to catch those ZZZZZZZZ's

Night all.....Blossom X

Chookie egg lunches

2011-02-05T15:49:00.001Z

It's been a fairly laid back Saturday morning here. Few chores done {check}, and time to stop for lunch. I am very sad and have been checking my phone like a crazed individual for updates on my eBay sales. Ooh I love making a few pennies.(Mr H and my dear friend Elsie have however informed me its technically a swap if you rebuy items) ah what's a girl to do. X

Mr Lurgy strikes back..

2011-01-29T15:29:00.001Z

Mr Lurgy paid a visit and like those visitors that get quite settled and make you wonder, Erm just when are you off then? He has settled himself in nicely. Unfortunately this had left me somewhat frazzled and unable to function. Yikes. On the cheery side I just took delivery of this gorgeous hand tied bouquet courtesy of my best pal Elsie. Thank you Elsie you really know how to cheer a girl up x x

New

2011-01-23T21:52:00.007Z

How do you describe one of those weekends when you have not been 100% what with a virus striking days before. I was off work the last two days last week as I have felt poorly. Frustrating as it is my mind has been whizzing and my body not able to cope/function and do anything that I deem constructive i.e. knit, sew etc. Saturday I was up early to attend an appointment at the opticians. As I was sitting waiting in the car for Mr H to scrape the windows clear I noticed that there seemed to be a Dalmatian/leopard print etched into the ice so I reached for my phone to snap away. The icy blanket that had fallen is quite magical, the patterns shift and alter with the changes in temperature. It made me think of when I was small and would trace the rain drops which ran down the window as I would sit in the back of the car.

BRRRRRRRRRRRRR....RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR..............RRRRRRRRR

So for all of my weekend I have been home.

It has been very cosy at home, drinking lots of tea, and eating pancakes for breakfast this morning. Funnily enough I hadn't realised the batter mix was for making American pancakes. (It must have been another of those occasions where I was whizzing round the supermarket in my ZOMBIE mode). I was rather excited by the prospect of making them in the end. Mr H was not so impressed particularly as I got so carried thinking of how to arrange and take my artful snapshot of the little delicacies, that I forgot the heat was up too HIGH, and I seemed to cook the outside TOOOOOOOOOOO quickly and the inside was well.................... squishy and tasted somewhat undercooked!! Mr H laughed!! He thinks it hilarious that I am also trained to teach food technology/old skool home economics. Not so economical I guess as they ended up in the new recycle bin for food waste. Ohhhhhhh the sweet joys.

Hopefully normality will return soon.
?

Oh and what do you think of the NEW look P&B? I have been reading 'Blogging for Bliss' and decided it was time for a change? Well several alterations and changes have occurred over the last two days, so if you have recently called by to check what I have been up to; nope there is no need to visit your own opticians!.

Gloomiest Day?

2011-01-17T19:50:00.000Z

Were the immortal words uttered on the radio this morning. I guess it depends how you view the world. Nothing beats bright flowers to banish the winter blues. No wonder the UK felt gloomy and grey today if that's what they heard first thing this am. Keep upbeat folks!

Step away ....

2011-01-12T18:03:00.001Z

Despite my good intentions .....my body is a temple hmm .....perhaps. I just can't stop looking into the tin and snaffling those remaining Christmas biscuits. I did keep out the blue shiny foil wrapped number but I have done the mature and adult thing and put it back. Just after I had already eaten 5 others. Aghh!

Red.....

2011-01-11T16:14:00.000Z

Healthy mind, healthy heart.

2011-01-09T22:19:00.000Z

This weekend has been all about working off the stresses of the working week. Walking = healthy heart, knitting = healthy mind. Have a faberoonie week ahead. X

Escape

2011-01-05T19:35:00.000Z

Ahhh I did wonder how long my, just relax........ stop and take time to think and do not become manic in your day! approach to situations would last. I would love to see myself as a calm oasis who is completely all together and totally in control breezing through life. HMMPH unfortunately due to my complete control freakish ways (at times) I just cannot let go and so after two days of being back in the saddle, writing school reports and catching my tail I feel like escaping on 'Anthroplogies' wee bike (might need to remove said cushions etc first).

Ahhhh and relax!! Must dash.
X

Happy Birthday

2011-01-04T19:41:00.000Z

Ethel is one today.

Turkey pie

2011-01-04T19:28:00.000Z

I have been chomping at the bit all Christmas wanting to make my turkey and leek pie. Finally we have had it for tea. Trouble is I am now pooped. Better go and sit down with a cup of rosie lea.
X
I hope your return to work had been most enjoyable.

Last chill out...

2011-01-03T20:54:00.000Z

Just time to relax before the working year begins. Happy New Year to you all. Let the fun begin.
X

Happy New Year

2010-12-31T21:10:00.000Z

"We will open the book. It's pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and it's first chapter is New Years Day"- Edith Lovejoy Pierce

Rob Ryan Thursday

2010-12-30T20:12:00.000Z

Its still the Christmas holidays ahhh sigh of relief and today we toddled across to Stafford's Shire Hall gallery to take a lookie see at the fabuloso Roberto Ryano, (Rob Ryan to his friends). One word AMAZING!!

His words really make you stop and think, you are almost holding your breath as you take it all in.

The Rob Ryan love even drifted on to the high street.

Spread the LOVE!!

Merry Christmas.....

2010-12-24T21:46:00.001Z

Have a very Merry Christmas 2010 one and all.
X

The Eve of Christmas Eve

2010-12-23T19:55:00.000Z

Ho ho ho and all that jazz, another busy day in the land of P&B, my previous post should have been posted yesterday but unfortunately my technology must have had an off day and did not co-operate. Anyhow I digress; today has been busy, busy, you will not believe it but I ended back in Sainsburys; I know madness! and they still did not have any fresh sage!! Double grr, anyway when I awoke from my gentle slumber and opened the curtains to let the day in.................................................(scratch that) more like I was awoke by the screeching of the pretend alarm bell function on my phone with a wee headache and stopped in bed grrrr. Eventually getting up! Te he.

Anyway on really opening the curtains this whopper of an icicle was suspended from our guttering and me being me said we should extract it from its new home as it would most likely end up going through the conservatory roof!! Mr H took it down and took it outside to dispose of it carefully. (Anyone would think we found a timebomb).

Ice-ice baby!!

Ice-man!!! The finished product!!! Hurrah I managed to finish Elsie's hat and wrapped it up for my visit today. She is so lovely and prepared me a delicious lunch.

Ooooooooooooooooohh and these treasures landed on the mat this morning my custom stamps for P&B hurrraaahhhhhhhhh I hear you say (oh no that was just my echo).

Finally I received a bag of Christmas pressies from Elsie and the Christmas arrangement below with beautiful greenery and lucky rosemary. What a clever clogs you are young Elsie.

ThAnK YoU

Enjoy your evening.

PS I think it is my 100th post next time, tune in for exciting news!!

X

Sit back and go with it!

2010-12-23T10:16:00.000Z

That's my advice, Christmas as lovely as it is, is totally crazy my day has comprised of navigating my way through even more snow. Here in the Midlands it snowed heavily this morning. I was attempting to deliver cards and gifts to family and friends. Then went to Sainsbury's as I was ready to get my ingredients to make alternative mince pies after being inspired by J Oliver. There must have been a run on filo and puff pastry as the shelves were bare. So I sacked off my idea and bought a box of Sainsbury extra special ones. Life is too short for additional pastry stress sorry Jamie. Tonight we went to Nando's and had chicken burgers hence my photos. Three more sleeps to go. Think this full moon has something to do with the odd goings on lately! X

Crucial moment..... Or crisis in the making?

2010-12-21T20:00:00.000Z

HMMPH t-minus 48hrs till delivery deadline and methinks I could be running out of wool. Sadly I did not order an extra ball double yikes. This gift could end up with a different coloured ending.

When the weather outside is frightful..............

2010-12-20T19:19:00.000Z

but the fire is so delightful..............

I have had a lazy day of sorts, going through my growing pile of magazines pulling out images that are inspiring, adding to my wishlist, or project list. Note to self there are exactly 5 sleeps to go and I still need to complete two Christmas presents. Typical me!

Enjoy your evening, Jamie graces the tv at 9pm that should get me into the Christmas spirit, (not spirits!).

A child at heart.................

2010-12-19T20:57:00.000Z

This morning we awoke to a blanket of fresh snow. Sunday tradition dictates tea in bed, I hoped Mr H would make it! We drew for it, well played one game of paper, scissors, stone I was quietly confident and .......................Lost (Mr H one ) he played scissors (Mrs H nil ) to my paper. Whilst I was making the tea this little chap was spotted through the bedroom window.

I love Robins......I felt like he had popped along to say Merry Christmas.

We drank our tea and ate our scrummy biscuits......................

Ethel heard there was biscuits on the go....................

I spent the morning wrapping gifts, we had eggs and soldiers for lunch and went out for our afternoon walk, with the deal we would get back to watch the muppets Christmas tv show.
The sun started to set and I had lots of fun stomping through the snow to the old fashioned post box.

Its amazing how pretty everywhere looks in the snow. I'll be off now to do some more knitting, watch The Apprentice Final and eat Pom Bears; well I have been in child mode all day why stop now?

Lacey surprise

2010-12-17T15:14:00.000Z

I am a lot more excited today, it was the last day of school before Christmas and on the mat when I arrived home was a lovely surprise from Gina Ferrari. A trio of postacrds of her work titled 'Lacuna' .Thank you so much I was so excited to see my little something blue lace from my bridal bouquet stitched into your lace work. How delightful! Thankyou. Have a fun weekend. X

Ahhh!

2010-12-16T17:39:00.000Z

One day to go before School closes for Christmas. What better than to gather my thoughts with mini mince pie or two (it's allowed) and latte. Not sure about the protocol of mince pies and latte's especially latte's from a sachet! But ahhh and relax.

Erm did somebody press fast forward??

2010-12-13T22:19:00.001Z

Two weeks ago today I made my delivery to the art gallery, my hours of hard work finally paid off and I was excited to see the lil items sitting in the shop this Saturday just gone when I popped in to the Queen Vic Christmas Fayre.

3d lavender bags a plenty A few more knitted brooches

Cute clutch anyone......?

Last Monday was the school trip to the clothes show live at the NEC we saw Caryn Franklin (the pupils just did not understand who she was) and George Lamb (they certainly knew who he was!!).

I felt erm too old for this caper and totally out of touch with young fashion!

To be honest I am rather glad its too cold to not wear a cardigan (mum you must be so proud those words have finally left my lips)

Last Thursday was my Christmas sale at school, hurrah. But silly me I was up till 1am the night before and then foolishly felt the urge to get up at 5.30am the following morning!

Clearly this deserved a biscuit and builders kind of kick start!! Yes I know its not what the doctor ordered!

Ethel was full of beans as usual.....

Just time to take a few sneaky shots of the goodies on sale.

Christmas smelly squares went down well.

Clutch bags with felt roses did well too,

Felted puddings sold out!

As did the hand felted pin cushion/pot cupcakes

Then here I am landing with a bump this evening, where I have made up two further draught excluders for commissions.

Cute buttons

Ethel approved hearts......spread the love Ethel.....

and finally a commissioned toiletries bag....I hope they go down well when I take them in tomorrow. All after a full day at work yikes!!!!!!!!!

I would now go and read my cheesy chick lit but I feel like Droopy the dog.

Night one and all :)