Hetty's happy days!

A bit of this and that....

2011-07-26T16:51:00.004+01:00

As you may well know, things are a bit hectic around here with my two very active girls. Not only is Evie into everything, but she also wants to follow her big sister everywhere she goes and do everything she does.

So I haven't had much time to keep up with my blog or letters - the only bit of relief I have really is to pick up my needles and knit when they are in bed. I have found it a great comfort in helping me to unwind before going to bed myself. There's something about the needles moving back and forth and the fabric growing that I find really soothing.

So here are a few finished items from the last few months that you might like to take a look at.

Evie's Andalucia.....

... a little cropped cardigan for Leah....

... a wonderfully soft baby Kina for a friend's new daughter....

.... and a mini chic for Evie - although for the life of me I can't remember where I've put it!!!

Evie

2011-07-12T13:08:00.002+01:00

Hello! Time has really gotten away with me lately, and I haven't been up to blogging much. I just wanted to share some photos of Evie modelling a test knitted cardigan I did for a lady on Ravelry. She really is growing into a cheeky little lady.

We had a lovely week in France in June, so I will let you know about that real soon - plus -LOTS of knitting updates!

Wonderful button giveaway

2011-05-03T10:38:00.003+01:00

There is a wonderful button giveaway oover on this blog . They are truly beautiful! Unfortunately I don't speak Polish, so I'm not quite sure what the lady's name is...... I was directed by a lady called kasia who left a comment on my previous post. It is well worth a visit and good luck!

Some finished knitting

2011-04-28T10:42:00.003+01:00

It has been a busy couple of weeks here, what with the Easter holidays and Evie beeing poorly. I haven't had much time for blogging, but have managed to finish some baby knits.

This was a spur of the moment knit and I'm still not sure who it's for. I wanted to use up some yarn and found a sport weight sock yarn just perfect for it. I edged it with some kashmir dk which gives it a lovely soft feel. The pattern is available for free here, you just have to be a member of ravelry to get it.

This little cardi is for Amelia, as long as it fits! I loved knitting the pattern and will definitely be knitting it again. If it doesn't fit her, Lily can have it. I'm sure Anna won't mind too much.

I made this cardigan for Leah and although I wasn't impressed with the yarn, the over all cardigan isn't too bad. At least she wears it, which is always a bonus. I used James C Brett marble and I wouldn't really want to use it again. That doesn't really happen to me all that often!

Finally I made another cardigan for Evie. I wanted to try and stay away from too much pink, so I decided on cream and navy. I think it turned out rather nice and she looks so cute in it. I do love Sirdar patterns, and they always come out so nice.

Chick, chick, chick, chick, chicken

2011-04-01T20:56:00.002+01:00

It's Leah's fourth birthday next week so I've been frantically knitting up these little chooks to go into her friend's party bags. I wanted to give them something a little bit different to take home and these were just the kind of thing that I wanted. The pattern said to use worsted weight yarn, so I comprimised and used 2 strands of various left over sock yarn, as I felt that would give an interesting effect when knitted in garter st. I was right - they came out pretty well.

I have sewn up 6 so far, so just have another 10 to go before next saturday. I think I will get there!

Welcome Lily Rose

2011-03-30T14:01:00.002+01:00

I meant to share one of the first pictures of Lily Rose. Here she is, just a day old. So cute! It does make me want more, but I know that two is my limit. I am beginning to get some time back to myself and couldn't face sleepless nights again!

An itty bitty cardigan

2011-03-28T13:54:00.003+01:00

I wanted to use up some odd balls of Sirdar Snuggly Chatterbox that I had lying about, so I found a nice little pattern on Ravelry to knit. It's another top down, knitted in the round and was very straight forward. You can find the pattern here It had to be knitted for Lily, as Evie has well outgrown any small baby sizes now. I hope my sister likes it - I did, but unfortunately my photography doesn't show up the lovely pastel colours.

The yarn is nice and soft so perfect for a little newborn baby.

Evie is still coughing away, and I had the pleasure of her being sick over me this morning, as she was coughing so much. Lucky it was only mucous! I took her to the doctor who has given her some asthma syrup which she has to take for a couple of weeks. i am keeping my fingers crossed that it will help to clear the pesky cough up!

A Cornish sea shanty

2011-03-23T09:58:00.002Z

Last week I put the finishing touches to William's sweater and I am pleased to show the finished article. It was a really straightforward knit, although there were plenty of ends to sew in afterwards!

The pattern said that you only needed one ball of contrast yarn, but I knew in the back of my mind that it wouldn't be enough. Luckily I was able to get another to finish the sweater. It used 1 and a half of the contrast altogether, so the pattern was completely understating the amount. oh well, no real harm done!

I think this is just the right sort of sweater for the spring/summer as its light weight and easy to wash being cotton and acrylic. I just hope that her wears it. I quite want one myself!

On another note, my sister gave birth to a healthy baby girl on saturday 19th weighing in at 8lb 13oz. Quite a big baby! She is gorgeous and very fair. her hair looks almost like spun gold. I've had a lovely few cuddles and hope to see her wearing some of my cardigans soon!

We also had some bad news yesterday. My Nan lost her battle with cancer and passed away in the early hours of yesterday morning, at home in her bed. She was given a couple of months left to live in January, so we had her for a little longer than expected. She was the one who taught me to knit, so I thought this blog would be a nice little tribute to her. Whilst I was at home I saw my nan and grandad evey day as they lived next door to my parents, and they did until they both passed away. I was very close to my Nana and she will be missed terribly. It will be strange not having her so close by any more.

Love you Nana xxx

I love this so much....

2011-03-15T21:00:00.003Z

When I saw this pattern on Ravelry this morning I knew that I had to have it. It's by a lady called Katie White who goes by the name of Frizzyknits. The pattern itself is called Mini Chic and I just couldn't resist.

I know I already have hundreds of patterns (well that's what it seems like) and I know I already have about a dozen things that I want to make Evie, but there it was calling me in all its glory.

The wonders of instant downloads meant that after paying with a click of a button I was the proud owner of of my own Mini Chic copy. So exciting! I love having it there in my hand and all I could do was to read it and think what it would be like to start knitting. I get such a rush I almost feel like a 'knitting junkie'!

I have permission from Katie to use her photos as I really wanted to share what a lovely pattern it is. I have the yarn in my stash already, and will be making my own little Mini Chic quicker that you can click your fingers!

Still waiting..............

2011-03-14T13:24:00.001Z

Come on Anna, I want my new niece to arrive NOW!!!!! A week late and still waiting........

Six years ago today......

2011-03-12T08:22:00.002Z

Six years ago we were waking up to a beautiful, crisp March morning, and by that evening we would be married!

It was a lovely day, and we wouldn't have changed a thing, well apart from the freezing cold weather. Didn't spoil a thing.

We now have two beautiful daughters who make it all so worthwhile. I am just pleased we are all safe and well, and my thoughts go out to all the people in Japan who have lost their lives, homes, family and livelihood. It really makes you thank God for having everything that we have, when some people around the world have been left with nothing.

Another little coffee bean cardigan

2011-03-04T13:39:00.003Z

I finished another little coffee bean cardigan, this time for Evie. For those of you on ravelry, I would well recommend getting a copy of the download as it is such an easy and straight forward pattern, with lovely results.

I love the way the raglan shapings are done by a YO, and they set so nicely, the cardigan doesn't need too much blocking at all (none done in the photos!)

I used about 2 balls of the plum and 1 of the red (cashmerino and rialto aran respectively), and love the way it turned out. The fact there is no seaming either is even better!

I made the 12 month size on 4.5mm rather than 5mm needles and it fits Evie perfectly. She is a happy little girl.

I forgot to mention I've been 'published'!!

2011-03-03T16:55:00.002Z

I forgot to tell you all that I had a letter printed in the current issue of Simply Knitting Magazine. I wrote in just after Christmas and it was published this month. it's quite an odd thing seeing yourself in print!

The photos of Evie look quite good and I'm pleased they printed a couple.

My name in print - ha ha!!!

I also have something to be published later this month, but won't reveal too much yet in case it doesn't materialise. I have my copy ordered though, and will let you know if it does appear. I will have to wait until the 24th!!

Flying off the needles

2011-02-27T18:27:00.004Z

My sister is expecting her second child in just over a week, so I've been knitting frantically to get a few bits finished for her.

I made this little coffee bean cardigan in Debbie Bliss cashmerino aran, which is so soft and just right for a little baby.

This apple blossom cardigan was another free pattern (as was the one above) and I though yellow would be just right for the spring. It was supposed to be in worsted weight yarn, but I used DK which actually gave a better size, more like a real newborn size.

Finally for her I made this little cardigan, which I have made before for Evie and Leah, and I chose to use something other than pink. I think she likes it!

I also made something for leah that she actually doesn't mind wearing. The yarn is the yarn that I got from sirdar as a replacement, so the only cost to me was the pattern.

I think it turned out rather well.

What better to cook than cookies............

2011-02-24T16:52:00.002Z

Leah's friend came over yesterday, so we baked some cookies together. You are supposed to use chocolate chips for the recipe, but I used mixed fruit instead.

Here is the recipe.

4oz butter or margarine

2oz caster sugar

3oz soft brown sugar

8oz plain flour

1tsp baking powder

1tsp vanilla extract

1 egg, beaten

4oz of choc chips (white and brown) I used mixed fruit instead

set oven for 180 degrees and grease 2 baking sheets

cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

add egg a bit at a time, along with the vanilla extract.

sift the flour and baking powder together over the mixture and stir in with a metal spoon. Stir in the fruit.

using 2 spoons, place the mixture on the baking sheets, wide enough apart to allow for spreading whilst cooking. makes 15 cookies.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden, moving around in the over after 10 minutes for even cooking if necessary.

Leave on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack for cooling.

Enjoy!!

Look what I made!

2011-02-23T17:02:00.003Z

It's not that often that I experiment with making something completely new, but last week I did.

I made some lovely bath bombs and I was so pleased with the results. I think that Leah aand I will be making some of these later in the year for Christmas presents, especially as she will be at school and everyone seems to give their teachers a gift these days.

Happy birthday Evie May!!

2011-02-07T16:51:00.002Z

Who would have thunk it? Little Evie is a whole year old today.

We had a party for her on Saturday and today she's been with her sister to a friend's birthday party and had a great time. So great she's having a little nap now.....

She's changed so much, I really don't know where my little baby has gone. Doesn't time fly!

She's still no good as modelling her clothes, so I have had to post a photo of her latest cardigan without her wearing it. Not as cute, I must admit, but at least it shows what I've made.

A really nice easy pattern, although I didn't fancy embroidering the flowers as the pattern suggests.

Sorry about my absence...............

2011-01-29T15:45:00.003Z

I don't know why, but everything has been going wrong lately. For some reason the laptop stopped working and had to be sent back to the manufacturer (which is why I haven't been around of late).

To top that off we have a dishwasher that isn't washing properly, a boiler that is leaking, the shower broke (and is now replaced thankfully) and lights on the hob cover which have a life of their own. All in all not a great start to 2011.

We are also trying to get Evie to go to sleep on her own at night, and a week on it's still as hard as ever. She screams so much, I'm hoping soon it will take less time, less effort and less stress!

I have been able to do some knitting despite less time in the evenings (due to the sleep - or lack of it - training).

I've started to make up the crochet hexagon blanket I have been working on, to see how the colours work out. I am running low on the cream for the outer hexagons, so will have to continue making the inners until my LYS has some more in stock, else I will have to resort to t'internet.

I made a slip over vest/tank top for Evie, but once it was finished I've realised that the 56cm chest will fit Leah, so she has adopted it instead. I'll make Evie some other kind of vest I think.

I made this cardigan for Evie and although it was for 3ply yarn I used 4ply and it turned out ok. I was running quite short when it came to the button border, so I used some cream yarn for it and knitted the last row and cast off in the main body colour instead. I think it turned out ok and I really like the little vintage shank buttons.

Lastly I finished off this bolero that I started when Leah was just two! I'm not over keen on the yarn but as it was such a bargain I thought I would use it up anyway as this only took 2 balls. it will fit Evie in a few months time, so she may be able to wear it in the summer.

That's about all for now, I am going to try and catch up on all my favourite blogs now - I may be some time!

Finished the hoodie

2011-01-07T13:45:00.002Z

Do you remember the hoodie I was making Evie at the end of last year? Well I finished it just before Christmas and I am really pleased with the result. Evie seems to like it too.

The little button I bought really finishes it off nicely, although the picture doesn't really show off the colour as it should. The lighting is a real problem this time of year when you are trying to get photos taken.

It was a lovely simple knit and I am sure I will be making another at some point.

Evie is currently pulling herself up onto any piece of furniture she can find and I am sure she will be taking her first steps before long. I can't believe she is going to be one next month. Doesn't time fly!

New Year resolutions??

2011-01-05T16:26:00.003Z

Have you made any new year resolutions?

I don't tend to make any that involve fitness or weight loss, as these ones usually go out the window within the first week.

Instead I tried to think of some that would actually mean something.

The first is to be more patient with the children, Easier said than done, but it is something I want to try. I think there will be plenty of counting to 10 before reacting!

Another is to make more time for my friends. Since having Evie I have rather sidelined my friends, more out of habit than anything else, so this year if i get asked to do anything with them I will be trying my hardest to go along.

A bit of a selfish one is for myself - to try and finish a project before srarting a new one. Or at least finishing all of my WIPs!

The last is to walk at every opportunity rather than taking the car. It may mean that I will have to get up earlier (!!) or get myself and the children more organised, but I will be giving it my best shot.

Mr. Snowman

2011-01-05T16:18:00.002Z

When we had the last lot of snow, Richard and Leah made a snowman whilst Evie and I kept nice and warm inside.

I don't know the last time Richard made a snowman, but he didn't do a bad job. They hardly left any snow on the lawn!

They look rather proud, don't they! The last of Mr. Snowman is now melting.......so sad.......

Merry Christmas everyone!

2010-12-28T08:42:00.009Z

I hope that you are all enjoying the holidays and that Santa brought you all some lovely presents.

The girls had a lovely couple of days - Christmas day at our's and Boxing day at my parents' house. We had a great time - all 14 of us!

Leah and Evie enjoyed opening their presents (even if Leah didn't like everything we got - think I should've given her the best presents last. Note to self to do that next year)

Leah got a sledge from Richard's parents which they both enjoyed playing with.

Evie certainly liked it!

Boxing day was spent with family as I said, and Leah enjoyed being with her little cousin Amelia. She's 10 weeks old now, but still as tiny as a little doll - and has a full head of hair!

I did my annual dress up and made the effort for a couple of days. I even wore a dress each time. You have to make the effort at Christmas, don't you?

Of course, we had far too much to eat as usual, and the kids tucked in. Although I must day Leah was far more interested in the crackers than her dinner.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Preparing for Christmas

2010-12-21T15:42:00.002Z

The last few days before Christmas are always busy, let alone when you're youngest isn't sleeping due to an ear infection. Luckily the antibiotics seem to be working, so we're in for a better Christmas than it could have been.

The tree is up and decorated, although parents of young children know how tempting it is for the kiddlies to mess with the tree. I'm constantly redressing it where Leah has been fiddling to make it 'better'!

We madesome decorative presents to go on the tree this year, from mini cereal boxes, wrapping paper and ribbon.So easy yey so effective. They look great although I haven't been able to photograph them well enough yet.

I even put my sewing skills (?) to the test this year and made one - yes one - felt bauble. TA DA!

Today Leah and I made some very tasty mince pies, and even though I told her that raw pastry was not very nice, she didn't believe me and went ahead and ate it. It was spat out and left on the worktop - need I say more?

They are very tasty anyway, especially with a cup of tea. Not bad for my own pastry making skills - the chicken liver pate is being made tomorrow. Wish me luck!

We had a big dump of snow of saturday, and I managed to get into the garden quite soon after to take some photos.

The apple tree looked so pretty I just had to show you the picture of this snow covered branch.

An experience with complaining

2010-12-15T17:38:00.003Z

it's not often that I complain, but whilst knitting this hoodie for Evie I noticed a real difference in colour between the balls of yarn I purchased, all of which were in the same colour and dye lot.

I didn't quite know who to contact so on Thursday night I e-mailed Sirdar and explained how the colour was different from ball to ball, and hoped for the best. You can see from the photo below how the colour is slightly different, and unfortunately, enough to notice in my opinion.

I received an e-mail back Friday morning, saying that they were sorry I had found a problem and they would send me a prepaid label to send the yarn back for examination.

I didn't read the e-mail until later in the day, and as I had half knitted the hoodie I explained that I was rather reluctant to send anything off and would they accept some photos of the problem.

Due to the time I sent the e-mail I didn't receive a reply until Monday, and when they did they said that photos would do fine. I sent them over and within an hour they sent another replying saying that they would replace the yarn I had bought with any other yarn to the same value.

So I chose some yarn and it arrived this morning!

The moral if the story is that don't be afraid to complain as there are some very good companies out there with very efficient and competent customer service.

Meet the jolly tots!

2010-12-10T08:37:00.002Z

I just wanted to show you some of the jolly tots I have knitted recently from the wonderful pattern from Dollytime over on Flutterby patch.

They really are a joy to knit and they are so much fun.

One has plaits....

and the other has cute curly hair. Leah has received them in her advent calendar - although at the moment she is a bit more taken by the sweeties!

I've also knitted these little bootees to keep Evie's toes warm in this cold weather we have been having of late. They stay on better than some other bootees I've knitted which is a bonus.

She's now ten months old and loves having a chew on toast and marmite as well as eating scrambled egg from the chooks. Unfortunately she has a cold at the moment as well as teething, so you can imagine that we are having some problems at bed time with her. Hopefully not for too long!

Some snowy garden pictures

2010-12-09T09:51:00.002Z

My garden always looks so different in the snow. I think everywhere does under the blanket of whiteness.

This crow was waiting for me to go indoors so he could eat some of the goodies I put our for all the birds. I love watching to see what appears in the garden.

Yum, yum, yum!

I really haven't a clue what this plant is, but under the white I could see some yellow bits poking out and though it looked rather stunning!

A walk in the snow

2010-12-06T20:38:00.002Z

Thursday afternoon, after spending all morning at home with the girls, I decided to go for a walk to the seafront to see the seaside in the snow. I had no chance of taking the pushchair, so I strapped Evie to me, and leah and I braved the cold.

I really loved the beach huts in the snow.....

....they just look so serene and peaceful.

Leah liked looking out to sea, although we couldn't see that much really.

And of course jumping in the snow to see how deep it was!

Aaaarrrrgghhhhhh - SNOW!!!!

2010-12-02T09:07:00.003Z

I didn't believe the weather forecasters last night when they said there was going to be more snow. I was wrong - as always!

Leah's pre school is shut today, so I am pulling my hair out trying to think what she might like to do. I think it will be some painting and sticking today!

This is the view from my front door.

I've only ventured out in the back garden enough to defrost the bird bath and to give the birds some food. Going to be drinking lots of tea today!! (and hoping to do some knitting too)

Lots and lots of finished knitting

2010-11-28T14:12:00.004Z

I have been trying to finish my WIPs before starting anything new, so there are a few new things I have to show you. I am real impatient knitter and can't wait to start a new project, so I was really pleased I managed to get these finished.

There is a Moebius scarf for my Mum - although not knitted traditionally as a moebius design. It is knitted, twisted and the ends grafted together. This was knitted in Louisa Harding Kashmir DK.

A neckwarmer for somebody for Christmas (not decided yet) knitted in Debbie Bliss cashmerino chunky. Even better that it took just one ball.

A pink cardigan for Evie from Sirdar Snuggly Kisses DK.......

.....and another that I must have started about 5 years ago and never thought I would finish!

The yarn is discontinued (and probably has been for ages) but has a really nice effect and is good and warm for the current weather.

Another cardigan for Evie, this time in Patons 4ply, which is another lovely soft yarn, and most importantly very easy to wash too.

Bless her funny face!

Finally a baby hat and mitten set requested by my sister for her neighbour's grandchild. i hope she remembers the liquorice allsorts she promised for my troubles!!

I am just hoping that it doesn't decide to snow now. i went horse riding this morning and thought my toes were going to drop off!

Pussy Cat, Pussy cat, Where have you been....?

2010-11-16T16:37:00.010Z

Well not quite to London to visit the Queen, but to Norfolk instead, to Sandringham to visit the Queen.

But she wasn't in, should've phoned first I think.

We had a lovely time anyway, especially as the seasons were changing and the leaves were falling from the trees.

Such fun!

Even when not all of your children will pose nicely for a photo either!

catch me if you can!!!

We stayed in Hunstanton for the weekend and had a lovely walk along the promenade on Sunday, even if it was alittle too much for the youngest. She always looks so cute asleep, as do they all.

We took a trip to the sealife rescue centre and Leah loved it there.

We saw seals, otters, sharks, lots of fish and penguins.

Afterwards we had a few rides on a big slide....

.....with Mummy

and daddy.

Then back to the caravan to feed the ducks. A good time was had by all.

Clever Girl!

2010-10-26T11:02:00.005+01:00

Little Evie has been crawling for exactly a week and three days now and she loves being able to get about. Leah is a very good teacher and encourages her to follow her everywhere.

She can make it to the kitchen from the front room - via the dining room - in one go without collapsing in a heap half way through which we are very proud of :o)

She can also make it to the bathroom from our bedroom whilst exploringh Leah's room in the process. There really is no stopping her now.......

See what I can do!! I'l be walking next, hee hee hee!!

Mrs. Cluck has flown the coop

2010-10-23T17:23:00.003+01:00

Mrs. Cluck finally decided to put in an appearance yesterday much to Leah's delight. She is slightly obsessed with chickens thanks to my Dad or 'Grandad Chick-chick' as she likes to call him.

She spent last night in bed with Leah and they had a lovely night's sleep!!

I am not allowed to sell any of these, but would be happy to do a swap of some kind if anyone would like one knitted. Just drop me a line if you'd like to :o)

Amelia's newest cardigan

2010-10-15T10:45:00.002+01:00

I do love knitting baby things - they are so satisfying as they are finished so quickly. Evie is growing so fast I'm making 51cm chest (either 6-12 months or 1-2 years depending on the pattern) which take a little longer to knit.

This is the last of the cardigans I have made Amelia and I was able to finish it on the night of her birth and give it to her on our visit yesterday.

I was going to make it all one colour but decided that a contrast border and flower would set it off nicely. I embellished it with a little button too which gives the flower a nice little finishing touch.

I am hoping to make another to sell in either my Etsy or Folksy shop for £8 plus p&p. I will be making it in the same shade of Sirdar Snuggly 4ply, so if anyone is interested before I put it in my shop, please let me know. It is size 0-6 months, and 41cm chest.

An 'ickle baby arrives

2010-10-14T22:19:00.006+01:00

Our newest niece Amelia Rose arrived yesterday by C-section at 5.36am, weighing 6lb 7oz. She actually started her arrival on her due date (11th) but didn't arrive until the 13th.

She gave her Mummy a bit of trouble but was worth the wait, so we've been told!

What a proud Auntie!

More finished knitting

2010-09-28T19:58:00.002+01:00

I've finished yet another cardigan for my brother-in-law's baby due in October. I thought it would be nice to have a contrasting border on this one and I think it has turned out to be rather effective.

I finihed it off with a little balloon shank button.

Now I just have to make the matching bootees!

More bootees

2010-09-26T18:22:00.003+01:00

I have been wanting to make these little bootees for while now and finally I got around to making a pair yesterday for Evie.

As the weather is changing and she isn't yet on her feet, I thought they would be just the thing to keep her little tootsies warm when we go for our walks to and from pre-school.

I used some DK yarn I had in my stash from a swap, and I think they look really cute. It is a really simple pattern to do and I am really pleased with how they've turned out.

Evie likes them too!

Baby Bootees!

2010-09-24T20:43:00.003+01:00

My sister in law's baby is due at the beginning of October so I've been frantically knitting some small baby things (I say small because all the baby things I'm knitting for Evie are bigger!) and I am enjoying the quickness of it.

She is expecting a girl so I made a simple cardigan and a cute pair of bootees.

I actually adore the little boots so much I will be making a bigger pair for Evie. I've never made bootees before and I love them! I just want to eat them up!

So here they are in all their glory - I just hope that she likes them. I'm evem tempted to make some for my Folksy shop in the run up to Christmas, I just don't know if they would sell? Do you know?

Update on Leah

2010-09-22T21:23:00.002+01:00

Do you remember back in August when Leah had a water infection? Well she was referred to Paediatrics at the hospital by our GP because of the history she had with the RPD whilst I was pregnant.

We had the appointment yesterday and everything went really well. She was really good being examined and we've been given three pointers to try and prevent any further infections. One of the things is to have shorter baths which she isn't happy about, but hey, you've got to do what's best for them.

The X-ray department rang today - which was very quick - to arrange an ultra sound which has been arranged for October, so hopefully nothing will show up on that. Then she has a follow up appointment in January. You really can't knock the NHS in my humble opinion!

On another note Evie is so near crawling I keep expecting her to crawl off any moment. She's doing the rocking thing on her knees - which Leah never did - and she can really get about 'Commando' crawling and it's so cute!

Mmmmmmm.......................pizza!

2010-09-18T15:43:00.005+01:00

On Thursday Richard went out for a curry, so I thought I would treat Leah and myself to pizza, except we were going to make it ourselves.

I made a recipe for basic dough courtesy of Jamie Oliver, but halved it using about 500g of flour.

We let the dough prove until double in size (about 40 minutes or so)

and in the meantime got our toppings ready (can you see my hot chillies hidden in there?). Not a great choice, but all I had in the fridge!

Once the dough was rolled out I covered it in my tomato sauce (made earlier using passata, olive oil, carrot, celery, onion and garlic all whizzed up together)

then added my lovely toppings.

Here is Leah's finished cooked one,

and mine!

And as I had had some dough left I made a nice little loaf.

Yummy, yummy, yummy!!

Another 'Lucy' bag

2010-09-16T17:15:00.002+01:00

I just wanted to show you the other bag I made from the lovely pattern over on Attic24's blog. It is so named the 'Lucy bag' after the wonderful creator.

This time I chose just four colours and I think the effect is much better than the last one. I also decided not to make it quite so big, as I don't know how to line bags, and without doing this it isn't so strong. That's one thing I wish I knew how to do!

As before the little crocheted flowers and buttons really set it off nicely. I just have to make sure Leah doesn't pinch it.

Thanks Lucy for the great pattern, it is much appreciated.

Time for tea

2010-09-15T13:34:00.002+01:00

For those of you that know me, you will know that I am very fond of a cuppa, or two, or three...

So whilst on holiday, we stumbled across a flea market in Mevagissey, so of course I had to have a look. There was a stall selling trios of china, a cup, saucer and side plate for £1.

I was quite happily going to treat myself to a set, when the stall holder said if I bought the whole 5 sets, he would throw in a teapot and sugar bowl for nothing, plus an extra saucer and plate. So I got the whole lot for a fiver - minus one cup which he said had gone missing, and I am really pleased with it all. It does mean I only have a set of five, but they do look lovely in my dresser.

It is Royal Stafford Bone China in the 'Roses to Remember' design and I just love it. Very Chintzy, but great! Now I just have to have some guests for tea and cake.....

More Cornwall catch up.....

2010-09-13T20:56:00.005+01:00

Believe it or not, we did actually have some lovely weather in Cornwall this year, albeit the first weekend. So in our excitement, we headed off to the beach bucket and spade in hand (plus windbreaks, blankets, tent, cool box, etc., etc., etc.!)

I really can't think of anywhere else in the country that is as beautiful as Porthtowan beach with the tide out and the sun shining. it really is beautful with lots of wonderful sand to walk along and admire the views.

Leah loved building sandcastles - and knocking them over - with her Grandad and splashing about in the sea with her Daddy. Even Evie had a paddle, but it was a little too cold for her little tootsies.

It really was lovely and I can't wait until our visit again next year. What made it better was that it was Richard's birthday, so he went for lunch in Blue bar leaving Anna, Evie and myself to relax - as you can see. She was soundo!

Horse and pony riding in Cornwall

2010-09-06T13:25:00.006+01:00

Whilst we were away we visited a place called Dairyland, near Newquay, so the children had something to do other than look around places with us.

One of the activities they could do was to have a pony ride, so of course it was the first thing we did.

Leah was really excited even before getting on the pony....

....and even more so once she was in the saddle. She loved it! Teh pony was called Muffin and was very cute. Look at her excited little face!

She really enjoyed it.

And William did too!

A week later it was my turn and I went riding at Mount Pleasant riding stables in Porthtowan, just up the road from where we stay.

I rode a piebald mare called Phoebe who was very girly! She was a lovely ride and very comfortable too.

We rode over the cliffs over looking the beach and the views were breathtaking.

Say 'Cheese!'

Another February baby sweater

2010-09-05T10:22:00.002+01:00

I really love the February Baby Sweater by Elizabeth Zimmerman and I had to make another! What I like is that the chioce of yarn and needle size is entirely up to the knitter and so you never quite know what size the sweater will come out unless you are a real stickler for tension swatches which I am not.

This one was knitted on 4.5mm needles with Debbie Bliss Rialto aran yarn. I used up 4 balls and Ithink this will fit Evie at about a year old. I made the sleeves 3/4 length as this is a bit easier for when babies are crawling around. I love the colour and I am really pleased with the colour match of the buttons I found in Falmouth - especially as I matched the colour by memory!

If anyone would like me to read the instructions to them if you are unable to find a copy of the book, please let me know. I cannot do a photocopy for copyright reasons!

Evie and me!

2010-09-04T15:52:00.002+01:00

Whilst we were away Richard took this picture of Evie and I, and I couldn't resist showing you. I think she looks sooooo cute!

I have plenty more holiday pics to share, I just have to find a few spare minutes to sort through them.

I took this one of Leah, I think the face says it all - she was not amused!

We are in for change...........

2010-09-02T16:59:00.002+01:00

We haven't decorated our dining room since we moved in almost 5 years ago, and now finally it is done! I was allowed (ahem!) to choose the paper and Richard didn't have a say in it much at all - yay!

I (we) chose a large pattern print and I really love it. We had a new floor laid too so everything looks super new at the moment.

The worst bit was having to empty everything out into the conservatory and due to the HUGE amount of washing and ironing I had since coming back from Cornwall (four people really use a lot of clothes!) I haven't had a chance to put everything back yet.

The curtains for the back door are being hung on Wednesday and then it will be complete, hooray! I think this is now my favourite room :o)

Back from holiday

2010-08-31T13:47:00.009+01:00

Before going away on holiday I took part in a happy swap thanks to Lisa at Periwinkle park. My partner was Adrienne and she sent me this load of goodies!

Doesn't it all look great?

This soap smells wonderful.....

....and this little balm will come in very useful.

Some very handy cotton yarn.....

....and a lovely summery knitting book.

I just love this beach blanket in a bag, I think it will be very quickly going onto my Ravelry queue!

Thanks for all the wonderful things Adrienne, they sure made me happy!

Feeling better............ thankfully!!

2010-08-12T15:33:00.003+01:00

After a course of antibiotics, lots of calpol and tons of bribery Leah is now well on the way to a full recovery. She is back to her cheeky little self which is such a relief. I really was worried about her.

I can now get back to doing some chores around the house without feeling guily about not giving her enough cuddles, and can also give Evie some much wanted attention too! You never know, I may even get a chance to have some time to myself. ......and pigs may fly!!

It's just good to have the 'old' Leah back.

'Grrrrrrrrrrr!!!'

poorly little girl

2010-08-06T14:40:00.003+01:00

My eldest little baby is poorly and I don't know what to do for her. She's been running a temperature since Wednesday and the doctor thinks she has a water infection. She's really not herself and I am so worried about her. Hopefully she will be on the mend soon.

Finished a Granny Blanket

2010-08-02T11:39:00.002+01:00

I finished the granny blanket I have been making for my sister in law and I am pleased with the result.

Hubby has been fiddling with the computer so I have so far been unable to rotate my photos as I used to. I hate it when he installs different programs.

So this photo was taken the other way, but I couldn't figure how to turn it. I am but a novice when it comes to things like that!

The edging is courtesy of Lucy at Attic24 - very lovely I must say...

.....not bad colours for an acrylic bought at Aldi!!!

My baby blanket - now I want to make one for Evie :o)

How does your garden grow?......

2010-07-30T17:20:00.008+01:00

Mine is positively blooming - in pots anyway!

The cougettes are sprouting two - yes two - actual, real, tangible courgettes!! The other plant is flowering but so far seems to have only female flowers, so no actual fruits yet. I am indeed, an expert, don't you know - ahem!

The tomatoes are gathered daily and are waiting to be turned into something scrummy, a salad, a garlicky rich pasta sauce, who knows yet?

Then there are the butternut squash plants. Getting bigger by the day and no sign of anything much happening.

We shall just have to wait and see. Can you spy my poor basil being taking over??

Beyond the square.......

2010-07-29T08:37:00.004+01:00

have always dabbled in crochet and have had a few books sitting on the shelf for a while which I had never used - until now.

I really wanted to learn to make hexagons so I can turn into a blanket or something for Leah.

At the beginning of the week I took one of the books off the shelf and had a little go with some yarn I had left over from a few projects.

This is the result.

The book is Beyond the square crochet motifs by Edie Eckman. Although it is an American book I did manage to adjust to the terms quite easily. It is well worth a look!

My Lucy Bag

2010-07-27T09:35:00.003+01:00

After a month or so of crochet I have finished by crochet bag courtesy of Lucy at Attic24

It is a lovely simple pattern but I still mananged to make it with plenty of mistakes, hence the humungous size it turned out! I am still happy with it and my Mum has called first dibbs, so I will be dropping it of later to her.

What I liked were the easy embellishments to make the bag your own. These little flowers really add a lovely finishing touch.

I like the pattern so much I have already started another smaller one for Leah, but in a much more subltle colourway!

Knitting and hooking fun with Mr. Dinosaur!?!!

2010-07-26T14:09:00.004+01:00

Mr. Dinosaur has ben going everywhere lately and even managed to sneak his way into my photos this morning.

I wanted to show the granny blanket I made Leah, not a very difficult project to do but something that she likes to snuggle up with in bed.

She chose the colours when we were in Cornwall last year - very bright aren't they? I also have a few other crochet projects in process and am also trying out lots of different shape motifs. I think they are going to look better blocked so will photograph those as soon as I get around to doing that.

I also finished this cardigan in Sublime Baby Cashmere Merino Silk and it is adorable. I went all the way into town on Saturday just to get a button! I really like the yoke on this and already have the yarn to make another for Evie in the next size up. Unfortunately there isn't a pattern big enough for Leah and I don't have the skill to upsize the pattern.

This is more a true likeness the colour, quite a nice lilacy - mauve (?) - pretty anywhoo!

I was having a bit of help taking the photos today as you can see and couldn't really leave this one out.

I finally made it!

2010-07-22T17:44:00.002+01:00

I finally got around to making the February Baby Sweater by Elizabeth Zimmermann and I absolutely love it! I used Debbie Bliss baby cashmerino yarn and I forgot how soft it is. The cardigan is for Evie and I am pleased to say it fits her. I am making another in Debbie Bliss Rialto aran and I am not sure who it will fit yet. Leah has tried it on, which would give her 3 quarter length sleeves, but I won't know for sure until it is finished.

Our tea party....

2010-07-22T17:18:00.005+01:00

We managed to raise just over £200 for Marie Curie Cancer Care and I was really pleased with how it all went. Next year I will try to be a bit more organised!!

Yummy jam.....

2010-07-13T11:01:00.006+01:00

Take some cherries (5lb or 2.5kg) and stone them. Add them to a large pan along with some stones in a muslin bag.

Simmer with the juice of 2-3 lemons or 1 tsp of citric acid for 20 - 30 minutes.

Once boiled, dissolve in 3.5 lb (1.75kg) of sugar then boil rapidly until setting point is reached. (This can be tested by putting a small plate into the freezer, then once cold pouring a small amount onto the plate. If the mixture wrinkles when pushed, setting point has been reached - hopefully!)

Once put in jars, leave to cool......

......then enjoy for breakfast with a lovely cup of tea!

So many cherries!

2010-07-12T11:34:00.006+01:00

My brother in law's cherry tree produces an abundance of cherries each summer, most of which end up in the bird's tummies. This year I climbed up the tree and picked myself a ton (or so it seemed) of lovely juicy red cherries.

Now I can only eat so many myself so I have roped my Mum into a jam making session this afternoon. I have never made jam before so I am quite looking forward to it. I just hope it turns out OK. I just couldn't see all that lovely fruit go to waste. If we are successful I will be up that tree again quicker that you know it!

On another note, our shopping arrived today and Leah spied the sushi I ordered. She hasn't quite got the hang of chop sticks yet but she does her best! It's one of her favourites, what an odd child I have!

Blooming great tea party!

2010-07-07T11:30:00.001+01:00

For any of you bloggers who live in my area, please contact me for the details of the tea party being held tomorrow in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care. I hope we raise lots of money.

Similarly, contact me if you'd like to make a donation.

The computer is kaput!

2010-06-26T21:11:00.002+01:00

I'm back on the keyboard after a few days without a compooter!! For some reason it decided not to work on Wednesday, which I put down to the huge number of people wanting to watch the final group match in the world cup. needless to say it wasn't that and hubby can't seem to get it to work despite pulling it apart and other things I don't really understand.

So here I am on our old desktop kindly recovered from Richard's work where it has been living for the past few months. My back aches leaning over but I suppose it will have to do.

We've had a busy day today as we are preparing for Evie's Christening tomorrow - which, by the way, is inconveniently clashing with the England second round match, but can't be helped. We were thinking of Sky Plussing it, but by half time someone will know the score anyway, so we decided just to watch the second half when we get back.

There's not much to do tomorrow, just the rest of the tidying up and the making of the sandwiches for about 60 odd people. Oh, and the icing of my carrot cake of course. Can't wait for that!

Our little garden

2010-06-16T10:15:00.006+01:00

I'm ashamed and a little embarassed to say that I am always envious of all the wonderful gardens I visit on my trips to people's blogs. I don't have green fingers at all, not in the slightest. Despite that I was out in the garden this weekend planting my flowers trying to brighten things up.

This is one of the lovely geraniums we bought, such a vibrant and vivid red against the blue of the brickwork.

This is my favourite flower in our garden, a bed of beautiful orange lillies that come back to life for a few short weeks each year.

I have, against all odds, managed to grow some veggies too, even if some were inherited from my Dad's greenhouse!

This wonderful green lettuce is almost ready for picking,

and the tomatoes are well on the way.

I can't wait for these little fellas to get big and juicy. They have some way to go yet....

These peas I can say were proudly grown by my own fair hands from seed, although I must say that this one plant in particular looks like it belongs in 'Day of the Triffids'!

I just love fresh peas - I really can't see many of these making it to the table!

Blog candy arrived!

2010-06-12T09:07:00.004+01:00

I was lucky enough to be the winner of this wonderful yarn from Ellie's great knitting blog. There are two hand dyed and one Cherry Tree Hill in Pestp. I already know which socks I'd like to knit with this when I get the chance.

This is one hand dyed,

the Cherry tree hill

and the other hand dyed. What woolly lovelyness!

Playing hooky too!

2010-06-10T13:44:00.003+01:00

I have been meaning to start this crochet pattern for a while, but after seeing quite a few blog I read taking a break (even if briefly) from knitting, I thought I would do the same for a little while and have a go at the neat ripple pattern from Attic24.

I foulnd the foundation chain really fiddly to crochet into and ended up losing stitches and with a piece of crochet a lot smaller than I had inticipated. I decided to use this as my practice run and ended with this:-

It isn't too bad for my first attempt. As I wanted to make a small cot blanket for Evie (who just decided to sick up all over my hand!), I thought I'd use a larger hook for the foundation chain, that way it would be easier for me to crochet into the chain. Ta da! It worked! I made a chain of 101 (you need a multiple of 14 +3 for the pattern) and I didn't mess up once. it also cut my time down as on first attept it took me over an hour for a very poor result!

This is my progress so far and I am really pleased with the result. I'm not totally coverted yet, but it does make a nice change.

Dorset part one - Lulworth castle and Weymouth

2010-06-07T08:32:00.009+01:00

Here is the first of my posts with photos from Dorset, I didn't realise we had taken so many so have had to do it in several goes.

We visited Lulworth castle which was actually burnt down in 1929 so the interior has completey gone. It would have been a lovely hunting lodge inside, as the outside is so grand. It was a bit hair raising walking up to the top carrying Evie, and we were all pleased to get down!

There is a farm you can visit on site and we saw lots of lovely animals including..

...this wonderful peacock (as well as a dozen others)

some ponies,

and some cute and furry alpacas.

there was a cute little seat outside the farm and I had to try it out with Leah.

This is fun!

I was also a bit naughtly so got sent to the stocks. As you can see I was not amused!

Leah was having lots of fun running about and being cheeky, then fell over and grazed her knees.

She was not happy as you can see, bless her.

We had a day out in Weymouth at the end of the week and the weather was glorious. At the end of the promenade we found the mini fun fair and Leah had fun on the rides.

She liked the safari jeep the best.....

....and we even had a ride on a magical carousel.

Finally we had a stroll along the beach, although the sand was pretty hot. Poor Evie had to watch from her pushchair. She'll be able to join in soon!

I am still alive!

2010-06-06T17:48:00.002+01:00

Sorry for not posting in ages, I find the time really flies away at the moment. I keep meaning to post the photos from our week in Dorset, as we had a lovely time and Leah loved it, especially all the ice cream.

We stayed in a place called West Bay, not far from Lyme Regis, and other than our pram breaking and having to find a shop open on a Sunday to replace it, we had a really good time.

We visited a place called Monkey World which Leah loved and really didn't want to leave!

I have also been finishing off some projects -

this sweater for Leah which I started in June 2009 (!) but luckily will fit her quite easily, as I was making a bigger size anyway. It has a lovely flower motif on the front, I just have to persuade Leah to wear it now.....

You can find the link to Ravelry here and see what the whole sweater should look like.

I have also made a couple of things for Evie,

this single buttoned cardigan in Snuggly Baby Bamboo Dk which comes up beautifully shiny before it is washed, and isn't too bad after.

I also made her this little Kimono made from Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino which is another lovely yarn. I think this is a pattern I will be knitting for my niece when she is born later this year.

A lovely weekend

2010-05-05T17:52:00.013+01:00

We had a lovely weekend this week made even better as it was a bank holiday. On Saturday the weather was lovely, so we were able to be outside at a friend's fourth birthday party.

The children had a treasure hunt.....

.....looking for necklaces and coins amongst the bubbles....

...with their treasure bags......

....and finding lots and lots......

...of treasure!

On Sunday we had a wet and windy day out at Audley End house and gardens owned by English Heritage.

The weekend was special as they have opened the stables for the first time so there were lots of displays to see.

The following are the display of the 17th Lancers and they looked spectacular. One of the horses even used to be part of the Queen's Household Cavalry.

A little bit of knitting........

2010-04-19T10:34:00.004+01:00

I finished another little cardigan for Evie, and hopefully this will be one she can grow into rather than out grow straight away. She's now 14lb 12oz the little piggy. My health visitor says I must have gold top milk, ha ha!!

I really liked this cardigan and the yarn was a real good bargain from black sheep wools.

This one I finally got around to sweing up, as it was supposed to be for Evie. Of course once she was born she wasn't a boy so now I just have to wait to see if anyone's new arrival will need this.

I managed to take a photo of her wearing the little jumper I made with the Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino yarn, but as you can see she isn't going to be able to wear it again as her little (or not so little) tummy id too big. Poor little mite - good job she's a happy little soul :o)

Happy Belated Easter.....

2010-04-06T16:37:00.004+01:00

I hope that everyone had a good Easter. We spent it with family - on Saturday we had champagne and drinks to celebrate Evie's birth, and Sunday and Monday evenings we had dinner with my parents and then the in laws.

Tomorrow we are having a day out as it is the little monkey's 3rd birthday. I hope she'll have a fun day!

I planned to make bunny egg cosies for all Leah's friends who are coming to her party on Saturday, but what with having Evie wanting most of my time I haven't had a chance to knit all the pieces let alone sew them up which I found to be pretty time consuming.

I did manage one complete cosie so Leah's nabbed that one!

I have managed to knit a little cardigan for Evie, but with the rate she is growing an the lack of warm weather, I'm not sure if she'll get around to wearing it. I do hope so as I think its a really pretty one.

Here she is today, being a very good girl whilst I prepared dinner. What a cutie, even if I do say so myself!

My little pudding!!

2010-03-21T13:45:00.006Z

As you can imagine I have been quite busy since my last post dealing with my two little girls. Leah is still totally in love with her baby sister which is such a relief!

Little Evie is doing really well and is strting to sleep a bit longer at night, yay!

She weighed 12lb 9oz on Thursday, not bad for almost 6 weeks considering her birth weight was 8lb 3oz. Who says breast fed babies don't put on much weight?!? The health visitor said I should bottle it for sale!

Here are a few little pics anyway to share taken today....

..the hat I made her on Thursday...

..and Leah not wanting to miss out!

Bye everyone - and remember to SMILE!

Some knitted things for Evie

2010-02-28T16:59:00.006Z

I haven't posted many things I've knitted for a while, so whilst I have a spare minute, I thought I'd show a few things I have made for Evie (although most were knitted before she was born and before I knew we were having a girl).

This little jumper made with Debbie Bliss baby cashmerino,

a little wrap over cardigan,

a lacy cardigan in DK acrylic,

and another little cardigan this time in 4 ply rather than DK acrylic (for easy washing!). Although wool is nicer it isn't as easy to care for.

I have just got some lovely girly coloured yarn, so will post some pictures of the things I have made once they are knitted. The above are all aged 0-3 months, and the next wave of knitted will be for 3 - 6 months, so she will have a chance to grow into them.

Evie and Leah

2010-02-21T12:21:00.007Z

Finally here are some photos of little Evie. At the moment we can't find the lead for our main camera, so I've taken a few with my old one. I wanted to show you all the photos of her when she was first borr, but at thr moment I will have to make do with these.

Here she is with her big sister, who can't stop kissing her! I was a bit worried how Leah was going to react to anew baby in the house, but luckily so far she has been really good. She's been a bit difficult going to bed, but apart from that she has been a real star. her favourite thing is helping Mummy to give Evie a bath.

Evie doesn't look so happy here!

baby's here!!!

2010-02-07T22:54:00.002Z

I'm writing from my hospital bed so won't be long. Baby Evie May was born today at 11.39 am weighing 8lb 3oz. I had a natural delivery with only gas and air. We're both ok just a bit sore - photos will be posted once we're home.

Still waiting.........

2010-01-25T20:06:00.003Z

Well, still no patter of tiny feet, I have 8 days left and counting until the little monkey is due to arrive!

I had another obstetrician appointment on Thursday and I've been booked in for an elective caesarian on the 15th February if baby decides they don't want to put in an appearance before then. Hopefully that won't be the case!

Every twinge I have I think 'is this it?' and to be honest I am getting rather impatient.......

I will keep you all updated......

Any help with getting the baby here will be appreciated (although when my daughter was overdue I tried everything including pineapple, raspberry leaf tea, going for walks, hot curries and the 'S' word!)

Haven't been blogging much lately....

2010-01-11T10:32:00.002Z

Over the Christmas period, as well as playing in the snow (kind of anyway) we have mainly been getting ready for the new arrival in February, just three weeks to go!

We've got everything out of the loft, sorted all the clothes and bought new mattresses, changing mat and bath equipment for the little one. It was lovely looking through all the baby things again, just a shame we don't know what we are expecting!

Leah has been really helpful too and had helped me with all the sorting out. Now we just have to try and get her to change rooms which she doesn't want to do. We bought her a Peppa Pig duvet set so maybe that will change her mind....

I've also been knitting a few things for baby, but haven't got round to taking any photos yet, mainly due to the light being so poor of late. Maybe its due to all the snow??

Anyway, I have got some photos to post from the last few weeks, but I don't have a chance to do it now as Mr. Tesco is due to arrive any minute (its too much hard work to go the supermarket to do a full weeks shop on my own now, the interent is great!)

See you again later with some piccies

xxx

What to put in a toddler's advent calendar?

2009-12-04T08:30:00.008Z

I finally found an advent calendar for Leah which I didn't have to put together from a kit and wasn't over £30.
I actually found it at our local Church Christmas bazaar for £3!

I had to come up with some ideas to fill it with as I didn't really want to give her sweets or chocolates each day.

I looked on Ravelry for some small toy knits which wouldn't be too time consuming and would be loved by Leah.

The first I found was a pattern for an Amigurimi Pocket Bunny which was a bit fiddly, but pretty cute. Leah keep moaning that iIidn't make it a tail!

The second I have made so far is for a holiday mouse by Fuzzy mitten (this can be found via the link to Ravelry or via her blog). This was a really quick knit and knitted up in just a few hours. As it is knitted straight it wasn't as fiddly and as she uses bobbles rather than knitting arms and legs there is much less sewing!

I think he's pretty darn cute :o)

We're going to finish off the Christmas shopping today so we're going to head into town early(ish) to beat the lunchtime rush!

To have or not to have, that is the question

2009-12-01T09:48:00.002Z

I am due to have the swine flu vaccine on Friday and am still in tow minds whether to have it or not. If I wasn't pregnant and was offered it I wouldn't really hesitate, but being 31 weeks pregnant now I don't know what to do for the best.

At the moment I feel that the risks and complications of getting swine flu in the third trimester outweigh the risks of the vaccine BUT as it is a new vaccine and had been produced pretty quickly I don't know how I should feel about having it.

I spoke to my midwife yesterday who handed me a leaflet printed by the Government - who want all pregnant women to have the vaccine - so I didn't expect them to say not to have it.

I really am in a bit of a pickle and don't quite know what to do! Any views or experiences with receiving the vaccine would be greatly appreciated!

Little Alfie has a new home

2009-11-25T19:51:00.003Z

I have just checked my e-mails and have sold little Alfie via Folksy, I am sooooo pleased! He will be packaged up and sent very soon.

Here's Bertie Bunny..

2009-11-15T21:05:00.004Z

Finally I got around to taking the photos of Bertie, who is now for sale. He is made from British Herdwick Aran Yarn and is stuffed with polyester filling meeting the European Safety and Cleanliness standards.

He will sell for £11 plus P&P. If you are interested just e-mail me or leave a message and I will get back to you.

Leah likes him so I have had to hide the little fella to stop her hugging him all the time!

Here he is sitting on the sofa...

... and relaxing in the sunshine!

Hello girls!

2009-11-13T18:33:00.003Z

It was my Dad's birthday yesterday so my sister and I bought him two new chickens. The one on the left is a cuckoo maran and the one on the right is a light Sussex. They are settling in ok, except the other chooks won't let them near them yet!

Luckily there hasn't been too much hen pecking!

They have yet to lay their first eggs, but I'm sure it won't be too long.

Next bunny almost here!

2009-11-03T11:05:00.003Z

The newest addition to my Etsy shop is almost here, just the arms and jumper to finish. It is a little larger than normal due to the yarn I used - a British Herdwick aran, but is still very cute.
He will sell for £11 plus P&P.

Pictures to follow soon!

Don't forget if you want a custom made bunny in time for Christmas please e-mail me at

hetty24tigger@yahoo.com

Some yummy goodies on their way (soon)

2009-10-29T08:34:00.009Z

I saw a lovely post on Lizzie Jane's blog about her soap making and I really couldn't resist. Her daughter has a lovely etsy shop with an amazing amount of bath goodies which I just had to have. Luckily she ships to the UK too!

I ordered some delicious items as you can see :o)

This one is a vegan Jasmine soap (can't wait for this)

a Frankinscence and myrhh soap bar, just in time for Christmas,

and finally some little strawberry and kiwi bears for Leah to have in her bath (she loves to get clean).

I would recommend popping by as she has a 20% sale until 31st October and everything is beautifully made!

The first of my Christmas bunnies

2009-10-25T09:53:00.004Z

I wanted to introduce you to the first of my Christmas bunnies which are for sale. This little fellow is called Alfie and is knitted from Sirdar Snuggly DK, so is very soft and cuddly. I made his jumper using some Christmas motifs I found in a knitting magazine from a few years back. The bunny itself is from my own design.

He is looking for a home and is £9 plus P&P, depending on which country you live in. I will only charge for postage and packing materials, nothing more!

I made his little tail from Sirdar Snuggly Snowflake and it is very soft and cute! If you are interested please e-mail me or leave a message on this post.

Thanks everyone for dropping by!

An evening walk to the beach

2009-10-24T17:20:00.004+01:00

We didn't get out if the house much yesterday, mainly due to cleaning, washing and ironing (what joy!) so once dinner was on, I though Leah would like a little trip to the beach.

Armed with her bucket and spade we set off hand in hand to the seafront - just at the end of the road!

She always loves it there, filling her bucket with shingle and trying to make a sandcastle (that is never going to work, is it?)

She had fun anyway and I enjoyed watching her playing with the shells.

She even ran up the hill on the way home, I wish I had that much energy. No chance with a growing baby inside me !

A giveaway on a wonderful blog

2009-10-17T09:21:00.003+01:00

Denise at The Knitting Den is having a giveaway in honour of her birthday and Breast Cancer Awareness month.

The giveaway is for a beautiful pink scarf in true Breast Cancer Awareness fashion. The time and effort she has put into this is wonderful.

Just pop along and add a comment and you will be entered into the draw. Good luck!

Some yummy baking

2009-10-16T14:46:00.007+01:00

This morning Leah and I were watching a new CBeebies programme called 'I can cook' and on there they made some yummy Melting Moments (you can download the PDF from the recipes)

I had all the ingredients in the cupboard so I decided that Leah and I should make some, for something different to do.

here she is creaming the butter and sugar together.....

.... and beating the egg....

.and licking her fingers after rolling in oats and getting ready to bake!

The finished article - VERY tasty!!

Christmas orders

2009-10-14T16:13:00.002+01:00

I will shortly be starting on some Christmas themed bunnies, so if you would like to pre-order one or have one custom made, please do not be afraid to e-mail me or to leave a comment under this post.

All the bunnies for sale will be posted on my blog with the price for each :o)

Off on another adventure...

2009-10-01T17:06:00.002+01:00

This weekend we are venturing north west to a lovely part of England called Shropshire. We have never been before and are all really looking forward to it.
We are staying on a farm and I can't wait! Look out for lots of animal pictures on our return :o)

On another note I had an appointment yesterday with the VBAC midwife at the hospital, to discuss whether or not I will have to have another C-section this time around or can just go for a more 'normal' birth.

Luckily I can go for my own option of a more natural birth, but will have to be booked in for a C-section if I go overdue (again) as I'm not permitted to be induced for a second time. I'm apprehensive about either option, but I'm sure it will be fine - eek!

Leah also had a session at a pre-school this morning and I have decided that it will be the one for her, it was so nice and friendly. I have filled out her application form and now just have to wait to see when a place is available. I know she will settle in really well and unfortunately won't miss me one little bit!

A giveaway very soon!

2009-09-23T17:07:00.003+01:00

As Autumn is very nearly upon us I am thinking of doing a little giveaway to celebrate the changing of the season.

Although I love the Summer, I do like to look forward to Autumn with it's chilly mornings and darker nights (not to mention that it means my birthday is nearer too!)

I am not sure quite what it will be yet, but keep dropping by and you will find out really soon :o)

Some more goodies!

2009-09-21T13:44:00.004+01:00

At the weekend we popped into town to get some jeans for Richard, and as we were passing I had to look in the local wool shop.

I spied this at a reduced price, so whipped some up to make a Christmas scarf for my Mum. I didn't really have a pattern in mine, but after searching Ravelry, I came across this So Called Scarf.

The pattern is really easy to memorise and the effect isn't too bad, although I think it would look better in a smoother yarn.

Here is my WIP,

and a close up of the pattern from the side view. Not too bad I think?

What a lovely package !?!

2009-09-19T08:14:00.005+01:00

My lovely package of yarn arrived yesterday destined to be turned into some little rabbits for Christmas. My favourite is the Sublime Merino Angora DK, it is just so soft and will make lovely fluffy bunnies.

I have also been thinking about Christmas gifts (I know it's early, but if I don't start thinking about it I will never ger around to making anything.)

I bought this beautiful soft yarn to make my sister Cecile, which I made for myself last winter. She finds wool itchy like me, so this Merino wool shouldn't bother her at all as it is so soft and I don't find it irritating at all (I can't wear normal wool either for the same reason).

I think she will like the colour and she is always on at me to make her a beanie!

I also have plenty of Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran in my stash, so I'm planning to make Mum (and myself) a pair of Fetching wrist warmers. The pattern says that it only takes one ball, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed as I only have one in the dusty pink I want to use. I do have 5 balls of purple, so I know I can get some more from that!

A jumper for baby 'B'

2009-09-17T17:39:00.001+01:00

With the thought of a new arrival on the horizon and an ever growing stash, I thought I would put it to good use and make somethings with all the yarn I have.

The first is this Fred sweater which I think is beautiful. I'm using a really soft yarn so I hope baby will apppreciate it once he/she is born (we decided not to find out!)

What a busy weekend!

2009-09-14T19:47:00.011+01:00

We had a busy but enjoyable weekend this week. First we went to the Essex Country Show at Barleylands Farm in Billericay.

It turned out really warm and we had a great day. It was just a shame we didn't get to see it all in one day.

Sunday Richard and I did a boot sale to raise some much needed holiday funds and to make a bit of room for our new arrival who is due early February next year. We made a good profit and I actually enjoyed myself.

This year I gave myself a treat and held an owl. She was a European Eagle owl and weighs about 9lb (without feathers) so I was told. She had the most beautiful orange eyes and I even stroked her chest - but very carefully!

Here are a few pics from Saturday.

Leah and I enjoyed a ride on the carousel and she smiled the whole time!

There were lots of draught horses pulling traditional ploughs in the field, so here are a few of my favourites.

This one was called Ben and he even turned to the camera when I called him!

Cornwall part four - Lanhydrock

2009-09-11T08:52:00.006+01:00

While we are away we always try to visit some National Trust houses and gardens, so this year we weny to Lanhydrock near Bodmin.

It really was a great house to visit and you could look in almost 50 rooms! That is a lot to see.

I'll leave you with some pictures.

Cornwall 2009 - Part three, St. Ives

2009-09-10T07:24:00.009+01:00

Here we are are in St. Ives, one of our favourite places. We always visit at least once! If you can see the board in the photo advertising Ghost Walks, well we took part on one of those quite a few years ago and it was really good, but not very scary! More a tour around the back streets in the dark.

We had a nice lunch in the Seafood cafe and it was yummy! I had a really tasty fish stew with some delicious bread.

There were rib rides taking place from the harbour, so we took a photo of the people on their way out. rather them than me, I'm sure they got wet!

We took a walk along the harbour wall - I wonder what they can see? (see later pictures)

This is the view across the water to the other side of the harbour......

......and this is the other view where you can see Porthminster beach. it looks beautiful.

This is what they spied, a cheeky seal. I wonder if it is the same one I blogged about last year??

Cornwall part two - the cider farm and the beach

2009-09-06T16:42:00.007+01:00

We visited the local cider farm to taste all the jams and chutneys and to see the animals.

There is 'Stumpy' the highland cow,

some cute pigmy goats,

and some pigglies!

In the afternoon we went to Porthtowan beach as Leah was dying to get into the sea. She just loved it!

What a shame the tide was coming in - as the beach is much more beautiful when you can see the glorious sands. This isn't too bad a view anyway.

Hello Pip Pip!

2009-09-04T20:32:00.003+01:00

I finished a little seaside bunny today and Leah has adopted her already. I liked the way she turned out, I just found it a little difficult to attach the head as you have ot do it on top of the sailor collar rather than direct on the body.

Due to this her head is a little wobbly but still firmly attached :o)

Leah has called her 'Pip Pip'

I think she makes a wonderful model!

Cornwall 2009 - part one - Pendennis Castle, Falmouth

2009-09-04T13:41:00.012+01:00

We decided to take a trip into Falmouth on the first Sunday, to do a bit of shopping and to have a look around.

We picked up some pasties and sausage rolls to have for a picnic later that day. As we were going to visit Pendennis Castle we thought we'd have the picnic there (or 'picpic'as Leah calls it).

There wasn't much eating going on really.....

.....more messing about!

Here is a lovely photo of the Castle....

We carefully climbed up the spiral staircases to reach the battlements at the top. The views are fantastic from up there.

You can see across the Fal estuary to see St Mawes castle.....

.....what a stunning view of the sea- and lots of big boats moored up.

Leah and I didn't make it right to the top, mainly because I am the one who has to carry her up there! Instead we went back down and Rich took a picture of us from the top (zoomed in to the max!)

Baking some yummy cookies!

2009-09-03T17:46:00.004+01:00

For some very strange reason I decided to bake some cookies with Leah this morning at 9am!

I was pleased with them and they are very tasty :o) They contain almonds, so I made sure the praline was in small pieces so Leah doesn't choke on them, unfortunately I like them more than her.

Here is the recipe anyway, in case you'd like to bake them.

For the praline

3oz sugar

1 oz of flaked almonds

for the cookies

60z plain flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

4oz butter or cooking margarine, softened

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp water

first you have to make the praline. Put the sugar and almonds in a heavy based saucepan and put on a medium heat until sugar has melted and turned a golden colour.

Pour onto a greased and lined baking tray and leave until cold. Once cols break into small pieces and put in a polythene bag. Bang with a rolling pin until the consistency you want to be in your cookies.

Pre heat your oven to gas mark 3, 165 degrees.

Sieve the flour and baking powder together and put aside for later. Cream the sugar and butter together until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract.

Add the flour and water alternately and mix until smooth. Once to this stage stir in the praline.

Put rounded teaspoons of the mix at 5cm/2inch intervals onto a well greased baking sheet.

bake for 16-20 mins or until brown at the edges.

remove from oven and leave on the baking tray for two minutes, then remove fully onto a wire rack for cooling.

The recipe should make about 36 depending on the size cookies you make.

Enjoy!

Back from our hols....

2009-09-02T09:15:00.002+01:00

Sorry for not being about for the last two weeks or so, luckily we have been enjoying ourselves in sunny Cornwall!

Funnily enough we stayed in exactly the same place as Lissy Lou and the Two Little Boys so it is well worth popping by her blog to see what she was up to.

We have a new camera, so I have to get to grips with that before being able to post on some of our photos. Please be patient, as Richard is also planning a quiz this Saturday night, so he's been hogging the laptop in the evenings!

Don't forget!!!!

2009-08-12T11:42:00.002+01:00

I just wanted to post to remind my visitors that if you want your own bunny or toy personally made by me, you just have to e-mail me and I can do it for you! (hetty24tigger@yahoo.com)

I can make a selection of toys with various outfits and themes, just ask.

I always try to be reasonable in my pricing and we can always come to some arrangement. Just because I haven't posted a picture of the finished toys doesn't mean they are not available.

Here are some examples of finished toys....