The Spice of Life

Back to normal programing

How about a creative share?

A month or so ago, Jaime was invited to her 3rd birthday party in 5 weeks. This would have been the 6th this year. When you add this with the ones Ashleigh was invited to along with the nieces and nephews (12 of them) this adds up to a heck of a lot of presents. I don't know about your bank account, but mine can't take the strain. Handmade gifts are a way to ease the strain on the ol' back pocket, but I also think there is something so special and personal in handmade gift.

There is a wealth of inspiration and ideas and instructions and tutorials out there in blog land. On my travels one day, I came across a few blogs by some very clever sewers, and just like that, I wanted to drag out my material supplies. They hadn't seen much light in the last few years. It was lovely to use the old sewing machine for something other than paper craft. Check out these links.

Skip to my Lou

Vintage Ric Rac 

Pink Penguin  

So now for some pics:

   

 

 

You'll find instructions for pencil rolls like this one on many blogs. I used this one. Not bad for a first attempt. Next time I'll use pinking shears around the edges. I think this such a simple and cute gift for kids, especially those that love to draw.

 

 

And lastly, this is my present to my lovely sis for her birthday this year. Lots of stuff from my stash. Stuff that I buy because I like it, but never really get around to using.

I've also been busy sewing pants for miss Charlee. Photos of these will have to wait for another post.

I've also started my Christmas projects for this year. I was walking past a toy shop last week and the sign said 63 sleeps to go! What!!! It's that close already? Time to get cracking on those cards and Kaiser decorations I was going to do last year and never did.

So over the next month or so, I'll be sharing my Christmas projects.

At peace...

Dad was laid to rest on Monday, in Alice Springs. He is now at peace with our mum.

It has been a totally exhausting two weeks - very emotional. In going through his belongings, Viv and I were able to think and remember and talk and laugh. It was good.

I want to thank every one for their thoughts and kinds words of sympathy. It has meant a lot to me.

Rest in peace dear Dad

Today we are mourning the loss of my father. His death was not expected and we are all in a great deal of shock.

This is a very personal journey that we are going through right now yet I am choosing to document it publicly. I want to be able to record my thoughts and feelings about Dad and about our journey that we have just begun.

We have had so many ups and downs with our Dad but I choose to remember him for the loving father and grandfather that he was. He was a man with a wicked sense of humour and he knew how to make fun of himself. He was a man that would be there to help with out a hesitation and he gave his family so much of his time and attention. He will be missed so very much.

My big girls will no longer have their special Poppy Days and little Charlee will not grow up to know him. This makes me very sad.

Time for a new Dare

October's theme at How Dare You is Glue and Adhesive. There are some wonderful examples up on the blog so go check it out!

Here is my interpretation..

  

I filled a chipboard shape with Dimensional Magic and then covered the glue with micro beads. I love this technique!

If you are after further inspiration on how to use glue and adhesives in a different way, check out Kate Mason's  blog for her work using Modge Podge and napkins, or maybe this post on Viv Bonder's blog to see examples of a glue transfer.