Ummm....

Look what I got. Her name is Millie, and I believe she has stolen my heart.



Oh, and word on the street is my pincushion has been received and is well loved. Go check out Tracey's blog for the unveiling.

Done!

Finally, my pincushion is done! It took me more time agonising over which teacup and which fabric to use than it actually did constructing it! But I'm very happy with the result. I just hope my swap partner agrees!

Too soon?

Mr Vintage has been bombarding me with very cute pictures of Staffy pups in the hope that I will agree to getting a new puppy.The problem is though, is it too soon after the loss of my beloved China? He has some valid points for why now is a good time, with me at home for a few months before looking for another casual job, we won't have to leave a puppy home alone a lot.
But is it too soon? Will it ever be "the right time"?
He has, in fact, been wanting a new puppy since our other dog, Jack, ran away (for the 1,345th, and the last, time) about 4 years ago. I wanted China to live out her twilight years in peace and quiet, and he agreed, which is why now he so keen to get another one.
Is there meant to be a set mourning period, or am being too morbid about it? Does anyone have any thoughts? I would love to hear them.

All puppy images found on the net, although that white one looks very much like China as a puppy, not quite as cute though.

Swapsies!

Look what arrived today! My pincushion from Foxs Lane pincushion swap!


My secret swap partner was Megan from Simple Pleasures, and she made me this gorgeous, bright and cheery pincushion. And there was also one of her zipper pouches as well. Thank you so much Megan, they are simply gorgeous!


Head over to Megan's blog now, she has a super cute giveaway happening. But don't enter or anything, I want it for myself!

my creative space...

Shhh, secret crafters business going on around here.

Well, at least there will be when I can get rid of the Spawn of Evil (a.k.a one very hormonal almost 13 year old Miss M) for a couple of days.

Other more creative spaces over here.

Pincushion Overload

Is anyone else involved in Kate's pincushion swap having a minor freakout?? I've got to stop Googling pincushions!

I had decided what kind of pincushion I'm going to make for my secret swap partner, but now I'm having some doubts. I've made several teacup pincushions before and think they are gorgeous, but I've just got that nagging feeling of whether or not my partner will dig it as much as I do.

These are just a few of the images I've come across in my searches. I hope I can pull this thing off without anyone getting disappointed!


all images found on the net.

A little "baking"

I simply couldn't resist "baking" some croissants to go with my cupcakes. I'll start the coffee machine, are you popping over for some baked goodies?

Flea market finds on Bunny day!

Happy Bunny day everyone!

I have been so busy this week with my job ending and doctors visits that I've barely had time to scratch myself, let alone go op shopping! But I did find myself with a spare 15 mins between errands and couldn't resist popping into my local oppy for a little poke around. So glad I did! I found these 2 sweaters, perfect for felting.
And what's that you say? Does that sweater say "100% cashmere on it's label?", why yes, it does! 1 pure cashmere and a lambswool/angora blend sweater all for a total of $10.


And the cashmere felted up gorgeously and has already come in handy for a last minute bunny gift for Miss 12. Using this super easy tutorial.


Pop over to Sophie's and check out all the bunny day finds!

Bunny Friday - week 4.... Happy Easter!

Well, I promised last week the piece de resistance of bunnies, but....things went a little pear shaped. Still tastes good, just looks a little.... well, melted.

Bunny marshmallow! My Mum used to make these when I was a kid, and they were oh-so-good. Recipe from my CWA cook book.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons of gelatine
125ml cold water (1/2 cup)
pinch salt160ml hot water (3/4 cup)
320g sugar (1 1/2 cup)
colouring and flavouring (optional)

1.Prepare your bunny moulds by brushing some melted butter over the inside and dusting them with an equal measure of cornflour and icing sugar.2. In a bowl combine gelatine, cold water and salt.
3. Bring sugar and hot water to the boil and pour over gelatine.
4.Beat until thick and white.
5. Add colouring and flavouring if desired. (I only added pink colouring to the mix after I had poured the little ones. I didn't add any flavour and they taste great.)
6. Pour into your moulds.7. Cover and stand in fridge for 24 hrs.


To turn them out I dipped them in a sink of hot water. This is where I probably went too far. The little ones came out easier, but I left the big one in too long and it melted the top, so her ears aren't as pronounced. Oh well, live and learn! Once they are on the plate, dust them with icing sugar and enjoy!

Hope you all have a great Easter break, I have some baking planned tomorrow, using this recipe for hot cross buns. Have a bunny great time on Sunday!

my creative space...

Stepping out of my comfort zone a little this week and trying out a different medium than what I'm used to working with. Quite enjoyable actually!

Very much inspired by this post from Krafty Panda, I'm making some pin toppers to go along with my pincushion for the great pincushion swap.

Yes, they are cupcakes..... in case you couldn't tell.

More creative spaces over at Kirsty's.