tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68975355447131877002024-03-13T04:50:20.670+00:00The JuicyFigJuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.comBlogger204125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-60841870980752991682023-02-02T15:44:00.001+00:002023-02-02T16:10:14.259+00:00February's Word of the Month #WAMSAL2023 <p dir="ltr">#WAMSAL2023 </p>
<p dir="ltr">February<br></p><p dir="ltr"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<p dir="ltr">February - the Month of love... Well that's what the grating card and chocolate manufacturers would have us think as we celebrate St Valentines day. </p>
<p dir="ltr">But, what does February really make you feel and think?<br>
February is supposedly the last month of winter and there are signs of spring beginning to reveal themselves if you look carefully. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The first snowdrops are all ready out with their tiny white heads hanging gracefully over their fresh green stems - the local churchyard has a glorious sweeping carpet of them, as do many of the road sides along the old road over the tops that was once a packhorse trail. I had heard once that the reason for this was traveling people and gypsies many years ago would plant snowdrop bulbs as they went so as they grew and spread they could harvest bunches to sell along their route - I hope that is true, its a wonderfully romantic tale.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Not far behind are the crocus and daffodils adding their splash of pinks and purples and all the shades of yellow - and I always seem to buy more flowers for the house in February and March, almost trying to encourage spring to hurry up and arrive - but February can also supprise us with Snow and Ice, heavy rain, wind and mud - It is said if February has snow and ice at the start, there is more winter ahead than behind - If it thunders in February, there will be frost in April, but if there is Fog in February we will have frost in May! I know I remember Easters where we had thick snow and others when I got sunburn! <br>
I love the folklore around weather. </p><p dir="ltr"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<p dir="ltr">Imbolc or St Brigids day is on the 1st February, it marks the mid-point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox - St Brigid is the patroness Saint of Ireland and worth looking up and reading about her story.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I often find I am at my lowest ebb in February - in past years when I have made those January resolutions, started the diet, joined the exercise group etc I often get to February feeling burned out and wondering why on earth I thought it was a good idea to take so much on - and inevitably I give up on most if not all of those goals.<br></p>
<p dir="ltr">This year - I am hoping that after spending January dreaming and embracing the cold dark months by not taking on those unattainable goals in the first place, taking a more considered approach to the whole season that February won't be quite such an endurance test!</p>
<p dir="ltr">And so, February's word is PLAN</p>
<p dir="ltr">As nature begins to make the first tentative steps into spring, the sap beggins to rise in the sleeping trees and the buds of the new leaves begin to form, as the hybernating animals step out to look for food and a mate, then from the dreams we had last month, we wipe the sleep from our eyes and stretch our limbs and we can begin to formulate our plan for the coming year.</p>
<p dir="ltr">So I am asking the same questions...</p>
<p dir="ltr">What does February mean to you?<br>
What images does it evoke?<br>
Is there a colour you associate with February?<br>
How does February make you feel?</p>
<p dir="ltr">You may be a huge fan of Valentines day, do meals and flowers and dates and chocolates, the colour of February for you may be red, evoke love and joy, or you might avoid it at all costs, have no interest in it whatsoever and have other significant events you celebrate, or maybe February is just another month to be endured until spring arrives. Make it relevant to YOU, not what social media, supermarkets and advertising tell you what it should be about. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Remember to take it at your own pace, and do no more than you have time or feel necessary - of course if you want to spend hours and hours on it, that is absolutely fine too! </p>
<p dir="ltr">This month I will be demonstrating couching. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Head over to my YouTube channel to see a demo and listen to my ramblings! </p><p dir="ltr">(please understand I am very new to videoing myself - they will get better as I go along and I have joined a course to help me improve, but that was after filming this one!) </p><p dir="ltr">https://youtu.be/ym_BgmtuQNc </p>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-75644441119833482552023-01-15T10:28:00.000+00:002023-01-15T10:28:35.692+00:00Januarys WORD of the Month #WAMSAL2023 <div><br></div><div><br></div><div>DREAM</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br></div><div><br></div><div>This is such a strange month I find - it arrives after a month I seam to have spent running around finishing jobs off before the end of the year, buying and wrapping gifts, attending school events, Christmas fairs, pantomimes, kids parties, crazy food shopping, spending time with family, visiting people, tidying, cleaning, decorating...the list goes on and on, and in the midst of all this frantic movement and a head feeling like it's been in a food blender we are supposed to relax 'betwixmas' in the mythical down time we supposedly have between Christmas and New Year, knitting, reading books and drinking hot chocolate with Marshmallows in front of a roaring log fire, but in reality I am usually still finishing projects, planning for January and preparing for the return to school and work. </div><div><br></div><div>Nature on the other hand knows the score. In the northern hemesphere January is slap bang in the middle of winter, the trees are resting in slumber, the wildlife is hibernating or sleeping more and reserving its energy and resources, and while the day light might steadily be growing longer, the weather rarely let's us notice the change. </div><div>Us humans on the other hand are busy setting resolutions for the coming year and throwing ourselves back into work, diets and fitness classes to start the year as we mean to go on - usually giving up the dieting and fitness by February! </div><div><br></div><div>I am guilty of all the above and more - but not this year!!!</div><div><br></div><div>I approached December with a mind to January this time - determined not to set and resolutions or sign up to any daily task projects, or even start anything new at all. I know I can't clear off and hibernate until the sun has warmth in it again, but I knew I should be more proactive in slowing down and being more mindfull of what I chose to do and how I chose to do it, and that is where the idea for this project was born. Something I could do myself but also share with others who also might feel like me, so here it is.</div><div><br></div><div>So - for month 1 of the Word a Month Sew ALong the word I am using is DREAM</div><div><br></div><div>Feel free to use the same word - or chose another if that doesn't speak to you! </div><div><br></div><div>I am trying not to plan very much at all in January, but rather to alow my mind to wander and dream, and while I still have school, meetings, work etc etc, I am not planning anything on top of that at all, my 'free time' will be spent reflecting on 2022, doing gentle activities like knitting and sewing without pressure to finish anything, reading some of the almanacs and books I got at Christmas and dreaming. </div><div>I read somewhere recently that all children should be bored for at least an hour a day in order for them to use their imaginations, to stare at clouds, watch ants on a lawn, raindrops running down a window - to be honest I think that's sound advice for anyone at any age. I remember being that child watching raindrops chasing each other down a window and can't imagine even having the time to do that - but in reality I know that if I tried to do that these days I would have to be far away from WiFi to succeed - perhaps I could just leave my tech somewhere and try.</div><div><br></div><div>Here are some prompts to help you, if you decide to use the word DREAM (or whichever word you use) keep it in mind as you go through them - this is to help you chose colours and materials. </div><div><br></div><div>The stitch I will focus on this month is Blanket stitch - perfect for dreaming under </div><div><br></div><div>What does January mean to you?</div><div>What images does it evoke?</div><div>Is there a colour you associate with January?</div><div>How does January make you feel?</div><div><br></div><div>When you do an Internet search (in the UK at least) the images that come up are usually of clear blue skies, crisp white snow covered trees and fields that sparkle with only the footsteps of wildlife to be seen...</div><div>I know that the reality in my corner of Lancashire is usually grey cloudy skies, mud, mud and more mud, cold winds, driving rain, swollen brown rivers waiting to flood, nights that feel like they start at 4pm, mornings where opening the curtains let's no light in - a month that seams to last forever, with the dark foreboding outlines of bare trees black against the grey sky. </div><div><br></div><div>I want my January page to reflect that, but also the cosyness of the home where I wrap up in blankets, keep the fairly lights on and the slow cooker bubbling away with warming stews, where inspiration light up the darkness with sparks of joy and light as I take the time to DREAM...</div><div><br></div><div>The link below should (fingers crossed) take you to my YouTube channel and my first video</div><div><br></div><div><a href="https://youtu.be/_wym6x0pWiw">Tutorial and chat</a><br></div><div><br></div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-5073766519243031532023-01-08T11:40:00.001+00:002023-01-08T11:40:27.313+00:00Welcome to #WAMSAL2023 <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Hello! And welcome to #WAMSAL2023! </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>I have been plotting and planning, procrastinating and putting off - but sometimes you just have to say "sod it" and do the thing.</div><div><br></div><div>Who is up for a little stitch along? </div><div><br></div><div>I wanted to make a start or a restart to my little JuicyFig business, but with all the to dos regarding Etsy at the moment, having no idea how to set up a website and looking for the perfect platform to set up my shop - well, it might take me a little longer than I anticipated - so to kick start myself I thought a nice gentle sew-along would be nice.</div><div><br></div><div>This is not a subscription or anything fancy, just somethingt I wanted to do myself and share with others, then I thought people might also like to join in as well. </div><div><br></div><div>It is a project, not a challenge. </div><div><br></div><div>And - it is open to anyone at any time - I thought it would be nice to start in January and make it last a year, but it will be something you can do at any time.</div><div><br></div><div>It also won't be a strict "this is how it should be done" kind of project - basically I am trying to make a project even my own AuDHD brain can cope with.</div><div><br></div><div>So what is it?</div><div><br></div><div>It is a fabric book! </div><div>Each month I am going to choose a word - you are welcome to use the same word, or choose a word that speaks to you personally.</div><div>The word is supposed to encapsulate that month - for me when I think about each months I have a a mental image, often a colour, a mood, a feeling or a desire of what I'd like that month to mean. </div><div><br></div><div>Then, we will stitch a page of the book. You can incorporate the word, or suggest it as an abstract or literal image, and embellish it as much as you want or as much as time allows - if you have lots of time and want to work on it all month -- do! If you only have half an hour, then keep it simple. </div><div><br></div><div>I will try and incorporate a particular stitch or technique with a tutorial so if you want to try you can do. </div><div><br></div><div>At the end of the year we will then assemble the pages then the book with a wonderful slot technique paper book makers use and the amazing Anne Wood uses for her fabric books too. (I think I have managed to work out how it's done with the amount of pages we will need)</div><div><br></div><div>The project is intended to be done by hand sewing, this way you take the time to slow down from the frantic pace of life. A machine sewing can be used if you want of to make certain bits quicker or easier, but it can all be done by hand if you don't own a machine, bondaweb and glue - all fine if it helps make it easier - and if you don't sew at all and don't want to - it could be done on a good quality paper! </div><div><br></div><div>I will give a list of basic materials needed for what I will be doing each month, and a basic list to get you going. If you have scraps to use or even recycled textiles like clothes etc even better! (best of all if don't need to buy anything and use what you have - and keep your eye out in thrift stores and charity shops for amazing vintage supplies!) </div><div><br></div><div>You can choose a colour scheme, make it bright, multicoloured, monochrome, whatever gives you joy</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Each month I will be writing a blog post with my suggested word, explaining why I have chosen it, what it evokes for me - and a hashtag so you can share your work on Instagram or on my Facebook page </div><div><br></div><div>#WAMSAL2023 #WordAMonthSewALong2023 </div><div><br></div><div>Interested?</div><div><br></div><div>I will be posting my First word etc in a few days but for now here are some suggested materials and equipment you may need.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Page fabric - pages will be approximately 13cm x 13cm this includes the seam allowance for when we assemble the book. </div><div>You will need 16 (this makes a cover as well) in a woven fabric (not a stretch or knitted fabric) for stability. </div><div>You could make these all the same fabric and colour or a different fabric and colour each month.</div><div>If you like to use an embroidery hoop you may need to cut them larger then trim to size after.</div><div><br></div><div>Scraps of other fabrics </div><div><br></div><div>Embellishments - e.g. Buttons, lace, ribbons, rikrak, charms etc.</div><div><br></div><div>Sewing thread</div><div><br></div><div>Embroidery thread, crochet cotton, wool, whatever you have to hand</div><div><br></div><div>Bondaweb (not necessary but handy)</div><div><br></div><div>Pins</div><div><br></div><div>Sewing needles</div><div><br></div><div>Scissors</div><div><br></div><div>Embroidery hoop (not essential but may need one if you want to learn any of the embroidery stitches) </div><div><br></div><div>Iron and ironing board/pad</div><div><br></div><div>Cup to tea or coffee.</div><div><br></div><div>So far January has been far busier than I anticipated so please be patient if I get a little behind.</div><div><br></div><div>Hopefully this week I will be doing a short video with January's word, what I will be making and some instructions on the stitch I am featuring this month for anyone unfamiliar with it. </div><div><br></div><div>If you are joining in please show us your progress either on Instagram using the hashtag #WAMSAL2023. If people want me too I can also set up a Facebook page to share your work - just ask!</div><div><br></div><div>See you later in the week </div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-15485313574865061072022-11-03T11:47:00.001+00:002022-11-03T11:47:41.457+00:00When things just don't work out...<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br></div><div><div><br></div>At the start of October I had no orders at all for the whole month for one of my jobs. This is always a tough position for me as although I am self employed I do rely solely on one companys work - it's a long story, but that's the way it is.<div><br></div><div>I decided it was the ideal opportunity to make a start on a project for this blog to give you all a simple free pattern project that is very season specific - and really wasn't overly relevant after the end of the month.</div><div><br></div><div>I made a great start! I made my mock up patterns, cut out the fabrics, made samples, photographed them, worked on the instructions, and made a start on the PDF that people could download for free...</div><div><br></div><div>Then, 1 week before the end of the month we had school half term. I planned out my time to work, booked my son into various activities we could all go on - I was very exited to publish the post. </div><div><br></div><div>Then...I hit a brick wall with the PDF, it just wouldn't work, I followed instructions, swore, cried, and shouted a lot...but I felt sure I could sort it out in time - but - the company I do the work for suddenly had an emergency order...4 days before the end of the month! </div><div><br></div><div>I was kind of grateful for the work, it meant a small amount of money would be available for December, but it also meant that I just wouldn't get my pattern published in time! </div><div><br></div><div>I was a mess - this is something I have learned is probably due to my ADHD - As always I was in denyal about how much time and effort the project would take, I have done this all my life but now I know why. I overestimate my abilities and I find it hard to make the time to do the things I love doing because I get so easily distracted and assume that because something has instructions on YouTube it will automatically translate to what I am doing - how often do you follow instructions that say "click on the button on the bottom right side" only to find that in your version of the program or app there is no button!</div><div><br></div><div>Now I understand why so many industries work 2 or 3 or even 4 seasons in advance! - I have things I would love to have a virtual shop set up and my first kits for sale by the end of November - but in reality I think I need to be working on plans for next Christmas - but I also know that if I decide to do that, I may well procrastinate so much that in 12 months time I will be in the same position I am now. </div><div><br></div><div>I have been reflecting on why I have always struggled with consistency in the one area of self employment that I have wanted to do more than any other all my life, compared to my other "self employed" work, and I think I have figured it out...</div><div>Currently I have two self employed roles. The first as I mentioned is order dependant - I get an order and a deadline - I get to chose when I do the work so it fits in around childcare, school, etc etc but ultimately has to be done by a certain date or I don't get paid and that is what motivates me to do it. I don't enjoy the job, but it fits with my life at the moment.</div><div>The second job is actually a franchise that I am tied into working on a certain day at a certain time every week of the year. The income fluctuates massively seasonally and sometimes even weekly. I actually enjoy running the sessions each week, and the fact that it is a structured, unmovable event also means that I have to do it, or I don't get paid. </div><div><br></div><div>But - my dream has always been to do my own thing, to make, sell, teach, enable people with my textiles. To be free to work and fit it into my life, to do the things I am passionate about, to be in control of my projects and time...but without those deadlines, those set in stone sessions, and with no one but myself to be answerable to, it feels like everything is out to stop me, to get in my way, to drain my time and energy - and it doesn't matter how structured my plans are at the start of the week, an email, opening social media, a request for help from a parent, a TV show, basically anything at all will draw my attention and before I know it 3 hours have passed and I have done nothing, or I sit there feeling paralysed by other tasks that grab my attention, like the bathroom needing a clean, or a pile of things for the charity shop that have sat there for month. I end up feeling I can't do one job until I have done another, and do neither! </div><div><br></div><div>In January I may have to give up my franchise to fit around my sons school timetable, which to be honest I will be glad to leave, and Juicyfig I am hoping will help replace some of that lost income - but knowing my own mind like I do, I am already panicking - I know technically I will have more time to do my JF work, but I also know how easily that time will just evaporate if I let it. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div></div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-53001861005866722772022-10-13T13:37:00.001+01:002022-10-13T13:37:08.344+01:00The season of mist and mellow fruitfulness...<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br></div>It is hard to believe that only a couple of months ago most of the UK was in the grips of a heatwave. As I searched for the coolest clothes to wear and filled the freezer with ice pops it was inconceivable that before long I would be digging out my winter sweaters and buying an electric blanket! <div><br></div><div>Autumn is a season of great contrast, it bridges the end of summer and the start of winter, with cold crisp mornings that take your breath away and dazzles your eyes as the sun sits lower in the sky. The leaves are a riot of shades from green, yellow, orange, red and brown, the hedgerows are filled with fruit and nuts, the woodlands and fields providing edible fingi to pick and non edible fungi to marvel at, the apples are abundant, and we search for conkers like they are precious treasure, filling our pockets. </div><div>There is a sence of comfort that comes from preserving nature's harvest for the coming months.</div><div><br></div><div>I get me Sloe Gin and Beeswax book off the shelves, look through the pages and dream of my small holding and my still-room that I probably will never have, but it's still nice to dream.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br></div><div>Autumn is also a time for endings, the nights draw in and the days feel shorter, the warmth from the sun has gone, the trees become bare as the leaves fall and rot feeding the earth around them, small creatures stock their larders and fill up ready for a time when the ground will be hard and their food supplies become scarce, the rain comes more often and the ground slowly becomes saturated leading to flash floods that seam to occur more frequently and to more devastating effect that they used to - and of course this year in the UK we have the "cost of living crisis" and it has become too expensive to even heat our homes, cook those warming winter dishes we crave or even drive our cars! </div><div><br></div><div>Currently I work a couple of different jobs, and one of them is very quiet this month, I rely on orders from one company and this month they haven't ordered anything. I am taking the opportunity to make a start on my new venture, well..it's more of a relaunch of an old venture but in a new way - I mentioned it briefly last time.</div><div><br></div><div>It feels perfect for Autumn, I feel like I am preparing for harder times with it, filling my larder in preparation for the months ahead so to speak. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br></div><div>So on the days when the sun filters through and the days are crisp and dry I will embrace my hand knits and cosy boots, and when the weather is wet and muddy my wellies come out and my waterproofs, and inside we will wrap up in our patchwork quilts and knitted blankets, light the candles, eat hot carb filled soups and stews from our slow cooker and hunker down waiting for the dark months to end and spring to peep through once more.</div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-28988842658133043192022-10-06T15:43:00.001+01:002022-10-06T15:43:34.394+01:00A fresh Perspective <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div><br></div><div><br></div>If you have followed me for a while on this blog or on Instagram you will know how many times I have tried to make my own little business out of what I love...Textiles.<div><br></div><div>I have made random items to sell, decided I needed to focus on one area, got bored with repetition, changed tack, started again and again and again, done courses, qualifications, training... You get the picture.</div><div><br></div><div>One thing getting an ADHD diagnosis has done is send me down the rabbit hole of researching everything about it and trying to relate it to my own life, and future.</div><div><br></div><div>Something that I see repeatedly is how suited us ADHDers are at creativity and self employment</div><div>All I read in the forums is just how difficult ADHDers find it to find the focus to actually start and then be consistent within that business, and when tasks that don't stimulate our dopamine need to be done...we ultimately give up and give in.</div><div><br></div><div>I knew this was something I had always struggled with without knowing why - but now I know the why I need to work out the how - just how can I make a business that satisfies my own needs but also engages potential customers, and also keeps those customers returning?</div><div><br></div><div>I have found the kind of self employment I have been doing for the past ....years works because the work I am doing has deadlines and set times etc that I have to work to in order to get paid, but working entirely under my own steam as I have tried with the crafting means that without those deadlines and set times and routines I just procrastinate the bits I don't enjoy, get distracted from tasks and also end up being the person who gets called upon time and time again to provide support (elderly parents, family etc) they know I don't work 9 - 5 so assume my time is my own or flexible. And while I do want to help and rescue, and support (as we often do!) it eventually drives me to burnout, meltdowns, and feeling like I have no life to do what I want - and don't get me started on the distractions of social media!</div><div><br></div><div>Recently I have had to rearrange my entire week to work with my son at school, he is only in for 2 hours a day at the moment and unfortunately his new teacher said it was OK for mummy to be in the classroom with him when he asked on his first day back. I now have no chance of leaving him now, but I sit in a corner so he knows I am there and the only resource I can take with me is my tablet and note pad (neither of my other 2 jobs can be carried to a classroom, and neither need a computer!) </div><div><br></div><div>So I had to decide what to do with that time, as doom scrolling Facebook was not an option, I had to make it productive!</div><div><br></div><div>And so I have picked up the research I was doing in my degree, I am working with how my brain and hyper focus and distraction etc effect me and I am making a plan!</div><div><br></div><div>I know my "shop" will be random, but within that random will be the textiles theme interwoven in every fibre of it (see what I did there?) </div><div>I know that I will lose focus on certain areas and plan to have kits, instructions, tutorials etc in place to enable others to create their own items, or to learn new skills or techniques while I can work on the next project </div><div>I know there will be a lot of learning for me, there are new tools and tech available that I need to learn as the ones from only a few years ago I used in my degree have already been surpassed. Social media much as I loath it and love it in equal measures has also changed a lot in recent years so yes, lots to learn and navigate.</div><div><br></div><div>What I won't do is put myself under too much pressure - Hopefully in the New Year our school situation will have changed, but if and when that happened I may have to give up one of my other self employed jobs just to fit in school runs and support, and that seams like a nice time line to bring this new incarnation of The JuicyFig to reality. </div><div><br></div><div>If you would like to follow my misadventures on Instagram I am at @the_juicyfig and soon I will hopefully have a shop etc so check out @juicyfig_makes</div><div><br></div><div>And..you never know, I might remember to blag about it all too! </div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-64221508249234577452022-09-23T09:51:00.000+01:002022-09-23T09:51:22.592+01:00When Life Suddenly Makes Sence...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div>Here I am with the world's most intermittent blog! <div><br></div><div>But - now I understand why my blog is so intermittent - and why it wasn't so intermittent when I started it - and why it may or may not be intermittent in the future...</div><div><br></div><div>About a year ago my sons school suspected he may had ADHD and so we set the wheels in motion to get him assessed. While we were waiting for appointments I naturally decided I needed to learn more about ADHD, the signs, symptoms and possible treatments, and while doing this research realised that they also applied to myself - so I asked my GP for a referral for myself. In January my son was diagnosed and his pediatrician suggested he may also be Autistic, and so the assessment for that too began. In February this year I too was diagnosed with ADHD and again my Dr suggested I too am probably Autistic, so again I researched this and although I have no official diagnosis I am 100% certain I am.</div><div><br></div><div>To be honest my feeling have been quite polarised around my own diagnosis. </div><div><br></div><div>Firstly I feel a sense of relief, suddenly my life makes sense! Then I felt anger at all the misdiagnosed symptoms I have had from medical professionals who have fobbed me off with shrugged shoulders and a "just get on with it" attitude at times, and medications that were entirely inappropriate. Anger at the schools and colleges I attended who never spotted why I was struggling in certain areas etc. </div><div><br></div><div>It explains why I have had so many diverse jobs, why I hyper focus on one activity to the exclusivity of all others until the hyper focus evaporates and I move on to the next subject or back to a previous one and why every single new hobby becomes a viable business in my head pushing out the last viable business I had planned.</div><div><br></div><div>It explains why I procrastinate at life by studying rather than doing. It explains why my house is always messy and needing cleaning, my sudden meltdowns and angry outburst, my wild mood swings as my hormones battle with my body and my body and minds craving for the dopamine it lacks </div><div><br></div><div>Explanations and realisations are just a part of the journey though, tools to help are something else! I am trying the ADHD medication myself now - I am in what is know as the Titration phase, working with my doctor to get the right medication at the right dose, and figuring out just how it is supposed to make me feel and behave, I am finding when it works it is helping to calm me down and do more, but as to focus? Well, I'm not so sure...</div><div>People ask me what it's like having ADHD because I don't seam hyperactive...</div><div>I do have bouts of hyperactive activity but for me (and many females with it) the hyperactivity is in my head. Imagine being in a room with the walls covered in TV's and every one is on, and every one is on a different channel and they all demand your attention...its a bit like that! When the hyper focus hits, all that is still going on but muted a little while you obsess over your hyper focus subject, it is all you want to think about, all you want to do, all you want to talk about to anyone who will (or won't) listen. </div><div><br></div><div>There are so many layers to it, and more becomes apparent every day. </div><div><br></div><div>And so, now I need to move forward and grow in a new way that supports and works with my mind. I have a lifetimes experiences to draw on, and with this new revelation I can look at those experiences and work in a new way that doesn't fight those impulses but embraces them, making the most of the hyperfocus, recognising the signs of overwhelm and having a protocol in place to rest without guilt, and I am learning to say "no" to people rather than taking everything on because people know I can't say no and take advantage of me. </div><div><br></div><div>If you look back through this blog, you will know that the only thing I have ever really wanted to do it create and make, textiles, food, friends - I have been my own worst enemy at succeeding in this, but I am working on a plan that will work with my hyperfocus, not against it! </div><div><br></div><div>I am not rushing into this like I usually do, I am getting advice, making plans, learning what I can do and what I can ask for help and support with, I am learning to deligate! (I have been accused of being a control freak!) and who knows, I may even blog more. </div><div><br></div><div>I would love to hear from you, your thoughts and experiences. </div><div>Big love to you all, K x</div><div><br></div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-5301470532690796362021-05-10T13:32:00.000+01:002021-05-10T13:32:42.989+01:00A long time in the writing...<p> Wow, it has been a very long time since I last ventured onto here, life has been so very different over the past 5 years since I had my son. Who would have thought I would be starting a family all over again 24 years after having my daughter? </p><p>The plans I had made when I started doing my textiles degree back in 2013 were practically abandoned by the time I left in 2016 with a small baby. </p><p>That small baby is now a 5 year old school boy with the energy of an Olympic athlete. I soon realised that at over 22stone in weight and being a much older mum things had to change for me in certain areas, so in 2017 I joined a weight loss organisation and over the following two and a half years lost 12stone and became a consultant with the company buying my own franchise in it. When I turned 50 last November during the global pandemic, I was fitter, thinner and healthier than I have been since I was perhaps 9 0r 10 years old!</p><p>It has been a pleasure being a mum again as my daughter got way beyond childhood and into adulthood, but it certainly hasn't been easy, and I do feel like yet again I have put life on hold as I struggle to juggle everything it has thrown in my direction. HOWEVER I am beginning to feel that familiar old kick up the bum that makes me move forward and start to plan what direction my life will be heading to in the near future. </p><p>The crafting bug has never gone away, waned a little a times, swapped allegiance from one craft to another, and at times vanished all together briefly but as times move towards a greener more ecological future I am beginning to make tentative steps in certain directions, directions I feel are hopefully going to make me happy, satisfy my need to work for myself in an occupation that I know is sustainable and will keep me wanting to do more and more of it. I have tried so many avenues in the past it can at times feel a little hopeless and futile, but that I now see as a learning exercise into what I have enjoyed and would like to expand on, and what has been a failure or experience that I never want to repeat - I have learned to learn them! </p><p>I always say I don't have enough time to do everything I want to do, but turning 50 has made me realise that if I don't start to find or make the time, then the time it runs out is a lot sooner than it used to be! </p><p>Happy Crafting folks of blogland, and fingers crossed I will be back soon! </p><p><br /></p>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-67657084678983077212018-02-28T11:18:00.000+00:002018-02-28T11:18:23.986+00:00My first Zero Waste shopping experience<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been shopping! </div>
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not very exciting really...but the changes I've made in a few weeks are having a massive impact on my bin - so I'm very happy - AND, it's been much easier than I anticipated.</div>
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So the story so far - well, like most people I have done the majority of my food shopping every week in the supermarkets. For me, with a husband who has a lot of food intolerance and a very tight budget, this has meant shopping at Aldi for fruit, veg and meat, Tesco for certain "free from" items, Booths for others...the list goes on. I also got a few bits from Blackburn Market each week, some fish, bits of meat, eggs etc. I felt like I was always shopping and then throwing away tonnes of packaging (although I had convinced the fish stall that the 3 pieces of fish I get each week don't all need their own plastic bags, than all to be put in another carrier bag) </div>
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So after a few weeks of sewing up fruit and veg bags from an old duvet cover, saving up for a set of stainless steel containers (only cheap ones, not the best!) and asking the butcher on the market how he would feel about me using my own containers and him being quite positive, I set off for my first zero waste shop</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A draw full of fresh packaging free veg<br /></td></tr>
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It was BRILLIANT! </div>
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Everyone was so positive - the fruit and veg stall thought it was wonderful and complemented me on my bags, the Exchange Coffee Co were more than happy to fill my tins with coffee and loose tea, the bacon stall owner asked me about zero waste shampoos as she's trying to reduce plastics herself, the fish stall just grinned at me when I passed them a tin, and the meat stall laughed when I asked for as much chicken as he could cram in the tin - I even had a tiny tin that was just the right size for my toddlers weekly pie - wins all round...until I got to the cheese stall. Even though they have the full cheeses they had cut and pre-wrapped pieces in cling-wrap. They were not happy about cutting another piece for me, and instead spent ages weighing the pre-wrapped pieces to find the closest to the weight I wanted. As there is no other cheese stall and I know it all comes pre wrapped at the supermarket I gave in until I can find another supply! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stainless steel containers with meat, fish and bacon in - plastic free.<br /></td></tr>
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I did end up at the supermarket for a few bits and pieces, cereals and bread for my husband mainly and a few tins and jars, but overall I am really pleased - here's to the next shop! </div>
JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-43035071471900425562018-02-12T10:14:00.000+00:002018-02-12T10:14:04.754+00:00Upcycled, recycled, cycled all over...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another goal for 2018 is to make as many of my own and my sons clothes as possible, but to make this just that tad more challenging I am also trying to not buy any fabric this year! </div>
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Sounds impossible? Well, looking around my sewing room I think I probably have enough fabric to keep us clothes for many years to come - it's going to be tough not to buy more though...</div>
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For almost 12 months now I have been on a diet - a BIG diet - so far I am 1lb off loosing 6 stone, I have another 4 stone to loose before reaching my goal, so a good source of fabric is my ever increasing pile of clothes that are tooooo big. Some I have donated to charity, some I intend to sell on e-bay but others are perfect to down size!</div>
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My first down sizing of 2018 is jeans that I have cleverly re-invented as....well, jeans! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arranging my pattern onto old jeans</td></tr>
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I bought a load of PDF patterns last year, there are three designers I buy from at the moment, they are brilliant, Most of the patterns come in multiple sizes, and when you pay for them, you get them instantly - Most of them are now moving to 'layer' formats so when you open up the PDF in Adobe, you choose the layer with the size on you want and just print that off, simple! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This finished Ants in the Pants pattern from Puperita</td></tr>
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The pattern I used was <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/281075374/bundle-ants-in-the-pants-vest-and-shirt?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=puperita%20ants&ref=sr_gallery-1-1" target="_blank">Ants in the Pants from Puperita</a> on Etsy - the great thing about all these designers is they also have great support groups on Facebook, so if you have any questions, there's always someone there to help - often the designer themselves. </div>
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All of the designers I use are also happy for the finished garments to be sold by the makers. One does ask for anyone doing this to make a donation to a womens refuge, another charity, or to her sponsored child in Africa, and they all ask that they are named as the designer - fair enough I say!</div>
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Here they are being modeled - He is hard work to get to model anything! these are the least blurred shots.</div>
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His top is also made by me, this is a MBJM (Made by Jacks Mum) pattern.</div>
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I will pop the links at the bottom to my favorite PDF pattern shops! </div>
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Happy sewing.</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/PUPERITA?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">Puperita - pattern for babies and kids</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MadeByJacksMum?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">mbjm - from new born to adult</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MotherGrimm?ref=shop_sugg" target="_blank">MotherGrimm Kids and adult patterns</a></div>
JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-40659637680646102302018-02-10T11:16:00.000+00:002018-02-10T11:16:09.110+00:00Getting Stuff Done - In the Kitchen<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Glass storage Jars for dry goods on display </td></tr>
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Well my year of getting stuff done is certainly gathering momentum.</div>
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I think a more relaxed approach is paying off, along side good research and a feeling of positivity, I am surprising myself with how much I can do, although it is making me kick myself a little at how long it has taken for my eyes to be opened.</div>
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I did not watch Plastic Ocean, (I will do when I think I can get through it without sobbing) but its effects are starting show in other people. I have joined a few Facebook groups dedicated to reducing waste and making do and mending, plus up-cycling clothes and fabrics etc, They are helpful and infuriating all at once! </div>
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There is definitely a generation gap out there that really shows those who lived without much plastic years ago, those who have studied Home Economics/Cookery etc at school, and those who didn't. My approach is to just read the advice and do it how I think best, and what suits me and my circumstances.</div>
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For many years I have been aware of a problem with the amount of plastic we consume on a daily basis, but besides giving up carrier bags a few years ago (and feeling rather smug at the checkout with my reusable bags) I have buried my head in the sand with regards to everything else - And so I have been doing a waste audit. </div>
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I have been shocked at how much plastic, single use and otherwise, my life seemed to require to function normally.</div>
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Rather than have a knee jerk reaction and just bin it all and start afresh I am considering each item as I encounter it. Can I use it again repeatedly? Once its empty/finished can I find a better alternative? Do I even need it at all? </div>
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Small changes are already making a big impact on my rubbish and recycling bins.</div>
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First was to go back to getting doorstep deliveries of milk in glass bottles. </div>
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We always had a milkman deliver when I was growing up, as far as I remember milk just wasn't sold in the supermarkets - and when I moved into my own home in 1992 I got my milk delivered then, but after a couple of years the milk started to arrive later and later until it was being delivered after I had gone to work, and coming home on a hot summer day to sour milk on the doorstep was the last straw, so I ditched them. </div>
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I am so glad I have gone back (new milk man!) It arrives about 5am, so by the time we are up at 6.30am (toddler time...) it is there. I recon that's at least 4 large plastic bottles a week less going into my recycling bin.</div>
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I am currently on the Slimming World diet, and was becoming a little bit addicted to Muller-light - so my next mission was to start making my own yogurt for both me and my toddler.</div>
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I bought a wide neck flask and a small pot of live yogurt as a starter culture - and pow! I have yogurt! Apr another 18-20 less plastic items going to landfill every week.</div>
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I have been straining the yogurt to thicken it up and have had whey left over...so in the spirit of re-using I have thrown myself into the world of Fermented Vegetable - Wow, they are sooooo delicious </div>
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On the Right is my Husbands Whey free fermented Veg (He is milk and dairy intolerant) in the middle are my Whey Fermented Veg, and on the Left is distilled vinegar with lemon rinds infusing for cleaning</div>
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Fermented Veg in the fridge and jars of Whey waiting to be used</div>
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I have also used the Whey as a starter for my next batch of yogurt and to replace some of the water in my bread recipe - delicious!</div>
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Another issue on my list had been food waste. At one time this would have all gone to our allotment to e composted (apart from meat, dairy, citrus fruit etc etc) ut as we don't have an allotment anymore or much of a garden or a council food waste collection I have now invested in a Bokashi Bin! </div>
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We are in early days with it yet, but it seams to be going well. Basically this is an Anaerobic digestion /fermentation system that means I can eventually 'compost' ALL food waste, I mean EVERYTHING - raw, cooked, meat, dairy, fish, bones, shells - the lot! </div>
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It isn't taking up much space and is easy to use </div>
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Bokashi Bin with Bokashi Bran on top</div>
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And finally, I am trying to bulk buy, find places to take my own containers to fill, making veg bags etc. More an those adventures soon. </div>
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Results so far are;</div>
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1) less waste in both recycling and landfill bins</div>
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2) saving money - quite a bit!</div>
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3) loosing weight faster and eating healthier </div>
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win win win! </div>
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And that's just the kitchen...</div>
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Useful Links; </div>
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<a href="https://zerowastehome.com/" target="_blank">Bea Johnson - Zero waste guru</a></div>
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<a href="https://evengreener.com/composting/food-waste/kitchen/blackwall-twin-pack-bokashi-bin-kcomslv2" target="_blank">Bokashi Bins (the cheapest I found)</a></div>
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JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-35708729212431310572018-01-03T10:36:00.000+00:002018-01-03T10:41:10.183+00:00HAPPY NEW YEAR 2018 - The year of getting stuff done! HAPPY NEW YEAR!<br />
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Where does the time go?<br />
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Its been 2 years since I last posted and everything was in the middle of change! Then suddenly it's 2018.<br />
I have been trying so hard to find time to blog, but there is always a million other things to do as well, and this always seams to take a back seat.<br />
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I wondered what people meant when they said they felt like they were running round like a headless chicken - now it all makes sense!<br />
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I finished my Textiles Degree with first class honours - just 5 months after giving birth to my surprise son! A surprise because 1) my daughter is now 26 years old 2) I thought I was too old - and might be going through the menopause 3) well, he just wasn't planned - but he is certainly very welcome and very loved now he is here - and almost 2 years old already!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Fig No2 at just a few weeks old - on a quilt I made many many year ago! </td></tr>
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So as you might imagine, my great plans for my post degree career have all been kind of - well, altered! (I would say postponed, but at my age I think altered might be more realistic.)<br />
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I am not letting my degree go to waste though, I did a lot of interesting research in a few different areas, that I want to develop into both lifestyle habits and business opportunities, and the biggest driver in my life right now is plastics, and how I can reduce their impact on the planet in my own tiny way - 'every little helps' as the saying goes.<br />
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I have been busy joining groups on Facebook, looking at ideas on pinterest, contacting people, researching alternatives and figuring out how I can do my bit - this is going to be a long and winding road with no easy solutions, but I am determined to learn, and do what I can so that the world my son inherits is a cleaner, better one.<br />
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So...Baby steps for now.<br />
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I have been making resolutions for the new year as always, but this year I have been working on them for the past month - the first one is to worry about getting stuff done so much! Hopefully this year they are going to inspire me to take the slower, more meandering journey rather than the all or nothing journey I usually take on then abandon soon after - I am feeling positive! I know there are more changes and upheavals ahead, so lets get this year started, bring it on!<br />
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<br />JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-23729669419172805302015-09-27T11:13:00.000+01:002015-09-27T11:13:04.295+01:00New BegginingsWow - I can't believe its been almost 3 YEARS since I last updated this blog, and SO much has happened.<br />
2 years ago we lost my beloved grandma Queenie, my inspiration for crafting and my number one fan. She was 98 years old and had lived through 2 world wars and a world that had changed in incredible ways, not least the digital revolution that makes this post possible! I miss her, and think of her often.<br />
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Baby Fig has gone off to university in London to study fine art, and is loving being in her favorite city - and finds coming home to our quiet little part of England quite dull now.<br />
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For myself, well - I took the plunge as well and am just starting the 3rd year of a degree in contemporary textiles at our local collage. It has been a struggle at times with much soul searching and angst but I must admit I am enjoying it immensely, and looking forward to this last year (although the 10,000 word dissertation is like a looming black cloud at the moment!)<br />
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Mr Fig continues to make jewelry in his shed and has invested in a pressure pot - I steer clear as it all sounds a bit dangerous!<br />
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There has also been another major development in my life - but more of that at a later date...<br />
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So - some of the pleasure crafting has taken a back seat for the university work, I have learned lots of new things, and played with modern technology like the laser cutter, digital fabric printers, sublimation printers and computer programs like illustrator as well as learning how to do gold work and teaching some Russians how to make felt!<br />
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I shall leave you with a couple of images from the pieces I had to make for my course at the end of last term, and hope you are all well and happy and crafting!<br />
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<br />JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-79675430258853584662012-11-11T14:16:00.005+00:002012-11-11T14:17:50.730+00:00the creative bug!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://annwood.net/blog/2011/02/24/paper-mache-teacup-pattern/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LQAV_Fy9mAo/UJ-vR_qJwbI/AAAAAAAABc8/WbtFjCz_pX8/s320/papier+mache+013.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I have been fortunate enough to discover a FREE art and craft class at the Ace centre in Nelson (Lancashire) </div>
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It isn't often you get anything for free these days, and as one of those people who loves learning new skills, and meeting similar minded people, but who can't afford to go on a class, and doesn't qualify for a reduction, I have really relished these classes. </div>
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I have had a go a drawing and painting (something I haven't done since 1990 back at collage - pre baby fig days!) and I have enjoyed the quiet contemplativeness required and been quite pleased with the results so far! (pictures at a later date!)</div>
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In the afternoon we have been doing various crafts, but I must admit I have been totally absorbed in Papier Mache. The last time I did any was to make masks for my Theatre A'level back in the late 1980's, but thanks to an amazing blog by <a href="http://annwood.net/blog/" target="_blank">Ann Wood </a>I have been inspired to not only do a few of my own designs but to have a go at a couple of the free designs she has posted. </div>
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I have no idea what I will be using these tiny tea cups for - but who cares? they were a joy to make! </div>
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And these two sailing boats have almost sated my desire to re-rig a vintage sailing boat! </div>
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I have lined them with Primark tissue paper, and sewn patches of fabric and an old map to the canvas sails. They are names 'Harriett' and 'Bessie' after my crafty Grandmothers! </div>
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Just click on any of the images to take you directly to Ann's website for instructions and templates! </div>
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JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-53398440211839811302012-11-04T14:40:00.000+00:002012-11-04T14:45:18.342+00:00When life gets in the way of living.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It feels like I am forever appologising for not blogging regularly - but with one thing and another, life for example, it tends to take a back seat most of the time, even though I am usually writing it in my head one way or another. One day the technology will exhist for us to transfer our ideas directly from our minds to the computer. </div>
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The weather has become really cold this past couple of weeks, and with the early dark nights back for the next 6 months and having to work longer hours, well, time slips away, and when I do have an hour or two to myself I just haven't felt like doing anything much at all.</div>
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My baby brother found out recently he had cancer of the thyroid. He is only 36 and has 2 gorgeous girls of 7 and 15. Luckily it seams it has been cought quickly and he had surgery a few weeks ago to remove as much as they could, cutting him from ear to ear! While his partner spent hours at the hospital and dashing round here their and everywhere for him, we have had the pleasure of spending a lot more time with my nieces - the youngest is in the photo above with my 'little' girl and our old Jemmy dog, all cuddling up together. </div>
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Baby bro is on the mend now - he still has to go to Chrisites for a radio active iodine treatment in the next couple of weeks, and will be on thyroxine and other drugs for the rest of his life - we are all just glad he is going to be around for a long time yet!</div>
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Mr Juicy is suffering with his digestion still, he is wheat, glueten and dairy intollerant and really struggles with his food. I decided to have a go at making crumpets for him a couple of weeks ago - baking always takes my mind of my troubles. It was the first time I had ever made crumpets, and I was just so chuffed when each stage did what it was supposed to do with the alternate ingredients I had to use. Look - little bubbles forming as they cooked in their rings! </div>
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So things haven't all been doom and gloom - I have been enjoying knitting these "V Junkie" socks from "Socktopus" - starting them in the hospital waiting area (socks are the best ever portable project)</div>
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Baby fig got a full time job she seams to be enjoying - and I daresay she will enjoy it more when she gets paid! </div>
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I have finished another pair of socks for Mr Juicys Christmas pressent and will soon be starting on his Birthday pressent so I am not rushing between Christmas and New year to make them,</div>
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And I have been enjoying a FREE art and craft class weekly - we have been doing Art in a morning, something I haven't done since school and am really enjoying the peace and quiet of studying and interpreting images - then we have been doing crafts in the afternoon - for me mainly papier mache - which I have enjoyed much more than I thought I would - photo's of my projects to come! </div>
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Here in the north we have had the most spectacular autumn - The colours of the leaves dying on the trees has been more vivid than I can remember for a very long time. I have consistantly forgotten to take my camera out with me, but it doesn't matter, at least I have had the opportunity to walk or drive past them daily and never cease to be awe struck at their colours - the yellows have lit up against the stormy skies, the reds have glowed, and their seams to have been every colour inbetween. Lets hope winter is mild and bright. </div>
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JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-41541771603984044872012-09-12T13:35:00.001+01:002012-09-12T13:35:13.721+01:00I am a sock puppet. <div style="text-align: center;">
I have had a pair of socks on the needles constantly for months now - as soon as one pair is finished, I start on the next. It has become a compulsion almost, and now I am going to justify it! </div>
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First of all, there are so many gorgeous sock yarns out there - everywhere I look! I start most days drooling over one yarn site or another - and have 3 balls of the most gorgeous coloured yarns saved on my e-bay watch list. I have yet to save enough money in pay pal to buy them, and have watched them for almost 60 days now. One day my beauties, you will be mine.</div>
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Secondly, Mr Juicy has been wearing the last two pairs I knit for him in a 'wash wear' rotation for weeks now - so I NEED to knit him some more, what with winter coming up and us no longer having a tumble dryer etc etc....</div>
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Thirdly - I have still got about 6 different sock yarns to use up in my sock yarn stash trunk, it would be a shame for them to sit there unused.</div>
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fourthly - there are oodles of amazing sock patterns out there that are begging to be knit, can you hear them? "knit me, knit me"</div>
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fifthly - socks are small practical projects that can be carried any ware with you to fill in those boring moments, e.g. sitting outside a shop waiting for husband/daughter, in hospital/dentist/doctors waiting room, and perfect to take to a knit and natter if you are just knitting round and round - you can't make a mistake while getting all the juicy gossip.</div>
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and sixthly - oh, I am sure there are a million other reasons! can I not just LOVE knitting socks?</div>
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/JuicyFig/shauns-christmas-socks" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z2MNKgMd0qo/UFCAxw2g7pI/AAAAAAAABaM/MdBil6ZXltE/s320/opal.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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My latest socks on the needles in an amazing Opal self patterning yarn - for more details of the yarn and the VERY basic pattern, click on the photo to take you to my Ravely page.</div>
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JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-77955847140692815052012-09-04T12:43:00.000+01:002012-09-04T12:43:16.255+01:00a little bit of everything.<div style="text-align: center;">
All sorts of life has happened since I last blogged, some good, some bad. </div>
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I thought it was about time I did a quick catch up, but just the good stuff! </div>
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on 24th August my brilliant Grandma was 98 years young. I knit a pair of socks for her in bright stripey colours. Anyone who has read my blog will know she was a sock knitter since WW2 when she was passed 5 needles and an ounce of sock wool in her local yarn shop and told "you never had a better chance to learn" - however she was convinced until getting her new socks that sock wool only came in grey. I would love to take her to a yarn shop and show her all the amazing colours there are now.</div>
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I also gave her some small tatted ornamental hangings bought from a leprosy charity in India. She was an amazing tatter. I explained where I had got them from and that no - I still had not got the hang of tatting. She declared she would tell everyone in the home that I made them anyway, and that she was incredibly proud of my tatting skills. Thanks Gran.</div>
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Earlier in the year a project had started to "Yarn Bomb the Castle" - the castle in question being Clitheroe Castle - the nearest town to us, just 4 miles away. </div>
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This had caused some controversy in our local paper after a Clitheroe craft shop owner wrote in to say what a dreadful idea this was, and that we should all be knitting baby clothes for Africa. It was a long story and I did end up writing a letter in response and getting quite irate about the whole thing (I am not one for writing to papers!) </div>
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Anyway - nearly every local knitter I know ended up knitting 5" squares for the project. Our little knit and natter group made hundreds and my mum took it upon herself to sew them into strips. This was so the strips could be wrapped around things then taken down and made into blankets. Her living room was full of huge wheels of colour. </div>
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On Saturday 25th August it poured down! This was the day of the "Clitheroe Torchlight Procession" an event held every 10 years, and the yarn bombing coincided with this event - and even though the castle itself remained un-bombed the trees, railings, signs etc were covered in wool - it looked really good! </div>
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September is the month we all say "oh no! it's less than 4 months to Christmas!"<br />
I have been wracking my brains for gifts that don't cost much as we are still completely skint, but that have time and love put in to them - September is the month to plant bulbs that will flower for Christmas - so I have reserved a dark cool space in the shed, will be hunting through my cupboards for vintage dishes, teacups and bowls - and am about to go and peruse the bulb selling websites so I can compare them with prices at our local garden centres. this years motto is to be "BE PREPARED!"<br />
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I have so much more to tell, but am going to get started on my Christmas project and will return soon with further adventure! lol<br />
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JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-13476692718322781092012-08-13T16:25:00.000+01:002012-08-13T16:25:42.137+01:00Isn't baking just BRILLIANT! <div>
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With the wonderful '<a href="http://www.thegreatbritishbakeoff.co.uk/" target="_blank">Great British Bake Off</a>' starting tomorrow I thought I would post a Guest Post I wrote some time back for <a href="http://www.pennywisepenny.co.uk/index.html" target="_blank">Penny wise penny.</a> </div>
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I have also been baking non stop for the past week for a party last Saturday to celebrate Baby figs 21st birthday on the 15th August - we had a fancy dress Alice in Wonderland tea party - with embroidered table cloths, mismatched china, cucumber sandwiches and lots of cakes. If it has taught me one thing it is NEVER to attempt to enter the <a href="http://www.thegreatbritishbakeoff.co.uk/" target="_blank">GBBO</a>! </div>
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<span></span><br /><span></span>Bread
has been around for about 30,000 years. It is still a staple in most
European diets, and comes in more shapes and variations that you can
shake a stick at. It is filling and comforting, and there is nothing
more satisfying than making your own.<br /><span></span><br />At one time
making the daily bread was part of most housewives’ routine, in fact for
many cultures it still is, but for most of us the routine has changed
to buying either a mass produced supermarket loaf or maybe treating
yourself to an artisan loaf every now and again.<br /><span></span><br />I
am not trying to convert you to giving up shop bought bread, but I am
trying to encourage everyone to have a go at making just one loaf – you
never know where it will lead, and the whole experience is more than
likely to lead to more bread making, experimenting and appreciation – it
is just so satisfying on so many levels, and very economical! <br /><span></span><br />A
basic loaf of bread is made from fewer ingredients than you may
imagine, a strong bread flour can cost as little as 80p for 1.5kg,
enough for 2 large loaves, dried yeast lasts for ages, but do check the
use by date, after all it is a living organism – and fresh yeast is
incredibly cheap, even free at certain supermarkets – just ask at the
bakery section - but please only get an ounce at a time as it doesn’t
last long! Then you will need a couple of teaspoons of salt, an ounce of
butter, and water – that’s it! And if you don’t have a loaf tin use a
flat oven tray – there is really nothing to stop you having a go, and I
promise you all your senses will be in for a treat.<br /><span></span><br />From
the texture of rubbing the silky flour and butter between your fingers,
mixing in the warm water, the change in the dough’s texture as you
knead it to become a stretchy, smooth pliable balloon. Your eyes will
never become tired of the delight of seeing the bread rise under its
damp cover as the yeast works its miracle. The smell is comparable to
nothing else, warm, homely, comforting, and finally the taste – a slice
of warm soft spongy bread with butter gently melting into it might give
you serious indigestion, but trying to resist really is futile, even the
day after, if there is any left, toast a slice and cover with home made
jam or marmalade for breakfast – it doesn’t get much better!<br /><span></span><br />So
what are you waiting for? Most bread making products, i.e. the flour
and yeast will come with a basic recipe printed on them, give it a go
and if you become hooked, experiment! I can assure you, the final sense
you will experience is an overwhelming sense of satisfaction. Happy
bread making!JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-69531585841057611512012-07-23T11:38:00.000+01:002012-07-23T11:38:47.380+01:00when everything turns to cr@p - knit socks.<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't know if it has been the rotten weather of late but all my mojo seams to have gone. I have not been in my craft room for weeks and just don't feel inspired to do very much at all. I have let me folksy shop run down to almost no stock because I was just not getting any interest at all, and my Etsy shop has had few visitors either, I emptied all the books from my Amazon shop because they were all very heavy and you don't get enough to cover postage, and when others sell their copy at 1p - well, I just couldn't compete - and I seam to have almost run out of things to sell on ebay.</div>
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I have been desperate to finish quilts before starting any new ones but the tops I have are all huge so I just don't have the space to do them properly and likewise I really want to go through my fabric collection and make myself some new clothes but can't for the same reasons. </div>
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To be honest I have feel thoroughly sorry for myself.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1E-p7hAlNQo/UA0n8IciiBI/AAAAAAAABWQ/Gxaebz-Z70Y/s1600/socks+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1E-p7hAlNQo/UA0n8IciiBI/AAAAAAAABWQ/Gxaebz-Z70Y/s320/socks+001.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr Figs Noro Rainbow socks</td></tr>
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Something that does keep me busy and is ultimately rewarding is knitting a pair of socks. </div>
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They are something I can do without having to think too much, I can watch telly, chat, take them anyware, and that tube just goes round and round and round. In the past month I have knit 4 pairs - two were claimed by Mr Fig instantly and he has worn them in rotation ever since - even gently hand washing them himself! Another pair is for my Grandma's 98th birthday next month (deliberately in bright colours as she can't believe they make anything but grey sock wool, or that people knit them these days.) and the last pair has been for myself as a pair of slouchy warm soft sitting around at night socks. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma's 98th Birthday present.</td></tr>
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My box of sock knitting wool is still full to the top - and there always people who are willing recipients of a pair of hand made socks. No matter what other projects I have on the go - or not on the go as the case may be, I will hopefully always have a sock on the needles. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSqmUDIFsQw/UA0oCTFuKcI/AAAAAAAABWg/pZvy6u6lsSQ/s1600/socks+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zSqmUDIFsQw/UA0oCTFuKcI/AAAAAAAABWg/pZvy6u6lsSQ/s320/socks+007.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">random arty close ups of socks! </td></tr>
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If you are a sock knitter you will know what I mean - if you always wanted to have a go at sock knitting but were afraid of using 4or5 needles - HAVE A GO! it's easier than you think (once you get past the first couple of rounds!!!!) </div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-68479476196185994332012-07-03T15:07:00.000+01:002012-07-03T15:07:10.370+01:00a little colour in an otherwise grey sky.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yesterday I drove a whole 5 miles to Gisburn to collect baby fig from <a href="http://beatherder.co.uk/" target="_blank">the beat-hearder</a> festival.</div>
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Last year she had gone for the first time. The weather had been amazing, she came back the same colour as a boiled lobster with colourful tales to tell about the whole experience. The people, the bands, the food, the camping, and everything else that goes with a festival.</div>
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Yesterday I struggled to get my car onto the site through the mud. Everything she had taken was caked in it, wet and muddy and more than a bit smelly, her legs were aching, and she was tired.</div>
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She has just woken up after a good 13 hours sleep in a rotten mood, so I have escaped upstairs to <strike>avoid</strike> give her some time to sort her stuff out.</div>
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I have been playing with colour to keep a cheerful head on while the rain continues to fall here.</div>
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I have been working on a bathroom rug made from Tee Shirts cut into 1" strips and knitted.</div>
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It is working out better than I hoped, but is getting quite heavy now and squeaks while being knit. </div>
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It is also taking a lot more Tee Shirts than I thought it would. I am on my 4th now and it is still only 20" long.</div>
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A friend gave me a ball and a half of some Rico creative DK - so I decided to make myself my 2nd <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/JuicyFig/childry" target="_blank">'Childry'</a> </div>
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It is perfect for just protecting my neck from drafts and keeping the earache at bay. </div>
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Although the frilly edge is over 600 stitches long, so I only knit about 3 rows instead of 6 - they were taking almost 1 hour each - and lets be honest, who really need a frill that deep?</div>
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We have between the rain and floods actually had 1 really nice day last week. As I sat in my little sewing room this lot pulled up outside the window. They were off to the fields behind us to cut the grass for haylage. It is like a military operation with the filled trailers hurtling up and down the road all evening - and none of them slow down for the speed bump about 20 yards away because I think they like the incredible noise it makes. Ah, the bliss of country living! </div>
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<br /></div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-4221351107844837732012-06-18T12:22:00.000+01:002012-06-18T12:22:54.933+01:00shouldering the burden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8dtVtbQmguc/T98Lg4JRx4I/AAAAAAAABUQ/dNqwXqJwNkY/s1600/cushioncover+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8dtVtbQmguc/T98Lg4JRx4I/AAAAAAAABUQ/dNqwXqJwNkY/s320/cushioncover+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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For over a week I have been feeling very sorry for myself. An old shoulder injury came back to haunt me and I have been fairly immobile and full of painkillers, wincing and moaning and feeling generally crappy.</div>
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It is easing away now, and just in time as over the next few weeks I have to work long hours doing 'piece' work for a rush order of plastic flags for a company in the village. It pays well but is rather sporadic. It's not what I want to be doing, but at the moment is a necessary evil. Today is my last day off for a while!</div>
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I was so glad the sun shone this morning. </div>
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I have had to lay off the knitting for a while as it aggravates my shoulder, but managed to finish off the squares for a cushion cover - all laid out ready for assembly.</div>
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The Country File photographic competition is upon the nation once again. So I set out with my camera for a short stroll round the field a couple of streets away - just me, the dog and the cat. Always a strange sight!</div>
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I don't think I managed to get any winning shots - and the animals are as far from wild as you can get - but they are so cute I can't help myself. </div>
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I suppose I am going to have to get all extreme with the weather of the time or the situation to get the shots I really want! </div>
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Poor old Jemmy having yet another rest. </div>
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<br />JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-36009026378112960062012-06-15T13:19:00.001+01:002012-06-15T13:19:25.466+01:00I didn't know you Felt that way!<div style="text-align: center;">
I have been living a deluded existence. </div>
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Yesterday - for the first time ever, on two separate occasions in two separate towns by two separate people it was assumed I was a GRANDMOTHER!</div>
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So obvious was the shock and look of worry on my face I do believe I have actually aged about 10 years.</div>
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The first lady to make this terrible error was attending the same class as me in Nelson. I had taken in a small bag made from a piece of felt I had made the week before. </div>
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"what are you going to do with it?" she asked - "I bet your grandCHILDREN would love it"</div>
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The second lady was in ASDA in Colne - She was promoting mayonnaise, and my Daughter and I stopped to dip one of her tempting potato wedges into a pot of mayo with a hint of wasabi.</div>
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After chatting with the lady and agreeing to buy a jar of this tasty sauce she handed us a promotional pack with a competition in it along with some cardboard crowns and a party game which would be perfect for my to give "to your grandCHILDREN" </div>
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I couldn't believe it - as we say around here "I was gob-smacked" </div>
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not only did I look old enough to be a grandmother but I looked old enough to have several of them. </div>
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As my family have pointed out to me I am technically old enough to have one or two - me being the ripe old age of 41 and my daughter is 20 - and maybe in Nelson and Colne most people of my advanced years do have grandchildren, I don't know - or maybe I delude myself that I look younger than I really am and all those years of going to illegal raves, dancing all night and sleeping for about 10 hours per week back in my late teens has finally taken it's toll and to the great unwashed I just look knackered.</div>
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Anyway I phoned my mum straight away for sympathy - and when she finally stopped laughing I told her it just meant that she probably looked like a Great Grandmother. Harrumph!</div>
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Here are a couple of photo's of the felt I have been making that my Grandchildren will no doubt love so much! </div>
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<br /></div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-31387887357554991012012-06-12T11:56:00.000+01:002012-06-12T11:57:36.089+01:00195 Thrifty Days till Christmas<div style="text-align: center;">
I have been a thrifty girl of late, although not everything goes to plan. The socks I knit for Dad for Christmas will actually be given to him for fathers day (I forgot about that one!) and the socks I was knitting for hubby - well, he saw them and really liked them so I just gave them to him - he then quizzed me incessantly about the next pair I was making and well, he's now wearing them as well - Still I am determined the Aran sweater I am knitting him will be for Christmas, I just need to make him something in secret for his birthday on new years eve rather than frantically search the sales for anything he may like. </div>
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Last weekend we were invited to my sister in laws wedding. I had been very apprehensive before hand - for many reasons that all seam very trivial - the main reason was that the whole of my husbands family are incredibly thin - I on the other hand have never even been remotely thin! they always look glamorous and gorgeous, I always feel fat and frumpy. </div>
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I spent weeks deciding what to wear, I don't own a skirt or a dress and wouldn't wear one if I did, and we are so skint at the moment that a new outfit was out of the question. </div>
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My dad took me to Burnley to the littlewoods catalogue shop and I found some white linen pants for £4 and a top I kind of felt comfortable in reduced from £70 to £5 - which he kindly paid for - but I still um'd and ah'd over it all. I even cried more than once - I couldn't believe it because for the rest of the time I am perfectly comfortable in what I wear, how I present myself etc.</div>
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On Thursday evening after looking through my Molly Makes vintage wedding supplement for the umpteenth time I decided to get a lovely white top my mum had given me last year that I had worn once and managed to get a coffee stain on - out of the cupboard. I rubbed vanish into the stain and found my stash of fabric dyes bought from a closing down sale a couple of years ago. Among them was 'French Pink' - 20 minutes later I had a new pink top. A frantic search through my mountain of vintage lace then ensued to no avail, so on Friday morning I popped into Clitheroe and came back with 2 meters of white cotton lace for £1.80 </div>
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A couple of hours in the sewing room and I had pinned, pleated and sewn my new creation. Something was missing though - A coat or cardigan. Off down to mums who said "I don't think I have anything like that but have a look"</div>
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In her wardrobe was a pink dressing gown she had worn once on a hospital stay, she had forgotten it was their! She can't stop laughing at some of my ideas and this was yet another.</div>
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Off came the bottom 2 foot of the dressing gown, 2 darts sewn into the back, the buttons removed and replaced with some vintage style ones given as a free gift on MM's then disaster! I tried to iron the darts on the back and the second the iron touched the fabric it melted! </div>
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So a patch went over it with 2 more buttons and voila! one hand made vintage style wedding outfit! </div>
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I am not a 'pink' person - but I felt really comfortable in the outfit, and a lovely day was had by all! </div>
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<br /></div>JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-78461034595690081102012-06-02T11:51:00.002+01:002012-06-02T11:51:55.693+01:00Bunting n stuff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is Jubilee weekend - 60 years of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_II" target="_blank">Queen Elizabeth II</a> reign. The second longest reigning monarch (after Queen Victoria) and only one of a hand full of Queens our little island has had.</div>
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We have strung up some bunting outside the house, and will be eating a scone and sipping tea while raising a toast to her majesty at some point this weekend - although in the village there doesn't seam to be much going on. A far cry from her silver jubilee in 1977. </div>
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I was 6 years old and remember school parties, free mugs and tea towels for all the children and a best decorated bike competition - Mum and Dad covered my bike with red white and blue crape paper flowers and flags - and I won! </div>
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There I am in front of their house proudly posing for the camera.</div>
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I remember my mum and one of the neighbors sewing miles of bunting and my dad taking me with him into the front bedrooms of each house on the street to help him tie it all up so it zig zagged above our heads. Trestle tables were borrowed from the conservative club at the top of the street and everyone contributed food to the feast. </div>
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Most of the street had lived there for ever - people didn't move much in those days - My parents had bought their house from my dads grandad in 1970. They still live their today! Most of the old characters have long since died or moved and the street has lost it's community feel. It is more of a spare car park for the village now when once my dad had the only car on the street! </div>
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The village organised a big sports day at the cricket club with all kings of races for the kids, 3 legged, egg and spoon, sack rage, relay's - a cricket match for the adults, tug of war, and plenty of Shandy's being drunk. </div>
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This time around my mum is the only one to have put up a little bit of bunting - there is no street party organised, no neighbors getting together to sew bunting and flags, no children having egg and spoon or sack races. There are no village events where all the children get to run around wildly - but the pubs have organised a 'Whalley live' event. In the pubs, at night. </div>
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Whatever you get up to this weekend, if you are here or abroad, part of the commonwealth or not, Have a lovely time. Spare a thought for what community means to you and what your place is in it.</div>
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And Your Majesty - if you happen to be reading this (that would be too weird!) </div>
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Have a good one love - you've been a good Queen - you're ok by me! </div>
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<br />JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6897535544713187700.post-72699089993019958752012-05-23T13:28:00.002+01:002012-05-23T13:28:32.717+01:00Shed-ing some junk!<div style="text-align: center;">
For the past few years our shed has turned into a bit of a dumping ground for anything we couldn't bare to throw out but had no room for in the house, plus Mr Fig has been steadily collecting sticks and bits of wood for his new woodcraft obsession. </div>
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It had eventually filled to the door, and the freezer was inaccessible and Mr Fig has been woodworking next to the sink by the kitchen door on a piece of bench about 20" x 8" </div>
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His excuse for not sorting out the shed and making it into a proper work area has been;</div>
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his back</div>
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too big a project</div>
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not enough day light</div>
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it might rain</div>
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needing help</div>
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too many other things to do </div>
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well, you get the idea. </div>
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So, with his back ok, no rain in sight for the next few days, the yard being clean and tidy and full of space and the promise of help from me (well, in a supervisory capacity - involving the words "throw it away") he has finally made a start this morning! </div>
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I cannot believe what junk we have kept hold of for so long! bike racks, sledges, old tool handles, empty paint tins, enough jam jars to restock chivers, chili sauce bottles, empty wine bottles, broken buckets, broom heads - but it has to be the kitchen machines, designed to make life simple quick and efficient that really makes me laugh, usually resigned to the shed once it becomes apparent just how much of a time consuming bore they are to clean, or store, or assemble etc.</div>
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a juice extractor, a veg steamer, a seed sprouter, coffee makers, blenders, mixers, some strange German biscuit extruder and a microwave that broke about 6 years ago.</div>
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I am determined never to buy a so called labor saving device for the kitchen again - they are just far too much trouble, and take up too much room. I have free-cycled my bread machine because making it by hand is just a simple, my doughnut maker used once and my toasty maker.</div>
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So what have I kept? </div>
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The toaster - used almost every day and missed when it broke.</div>
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the blender - I could live without it, but it does get used a lot.</div>
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The kettle - in almost constant use.</div>
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Here is Mr fig (in a fine pair of socks knit by me!) in our tiny back yard - working very hard!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lVOi5GdBoeE/T7zXpO2X5kI/AAAAAAAABSw/hE0WK2n1qAU/s1600/shed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lVOi5GdBoeE/T7zXpO2X5kI/AAAAAAAABSw/hE0WK2n1qAU/s320/shed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Enjoy the sunshine - this may be Summer! </div>
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<br />JuicyFighttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08834650999779836971noreply@blogger.com3