HawthorneC

A Monday Find

2012-01-30T11:25:00.000+11:00

This is my first sewing machine. The machine arrived from Santa one year (won't say what year but many, many years ago). I remember my mother telling me that I was probably too young for such a machine but she thought I was ready. Basically I think she was tired of me wanting to use the treadle machine. I made dolls clothes. Lots and lots of dolls clothes.

The box is well worn and taped together. The blue paint on the box was a simple way to identify the colour of the machine. I have only seen this model in blue.

The instruction book has been well used.

Morning Walk

2012-01-28T16:24:00.001+11:00

Some mornings when I do the early trip to the train station with Brie I go for a walk around Lake Wendouree.

Breakfast for some.

This mosaic commemorates the 1956 Olympics. The rowing was held on the lake.

A Busy Day

2012-01-27T13:21:00.000+11:00

David has been on the Grey Fergie cutting grass. The sheep cannot eat fast enough. In fact the sheep are asleep under the trees.

This is some grey wool, mohair and silk I have spun today.

Mohair I have dyed - ready to be blended this afternoon.

A soft blend I will spin after lunch.

Bird's Nest Fabric

2012-01-21T09:35:00.001+11:00

Some time ago Marilyn of Missymaomao gave me a small strip of fabric. Marilyn thought I could design something using the fabric. The fabric piece was narrow and featured 3 birds nests and a few branches.

I knew I wanted to make special with the fabric. So the fabric has been on my studio work bench waiting patiently.

In my button box I found some bird buttons. This week the fabric and I got together with the buttons and now we have brooches for the markets and Website

Chunky Hats

2012-01-20T13:32:00.000+11:00

This weekend is busy with 2 markets. Tomorrow I am at Buninyong Farmers Market and Sunday I'll be at the Arts Centre Melbourne Sunday Market.

These chunky yarn hats are finished.

New brooches are almost ready. And I am now off to the Felting Studio to make felt hat bands for my hats.

Even though it is summer here we have many visitors from the Northern Hemisphere particularly over the next couple of weekends. The Australian Open (tennis) is all happening in Melbourne.

Tea Time

2012-01-07T10:55:00.001+11:00

New tea cosies just finished.

Moss stitch with a felt cone and curly tops.

Moss stitch finished with a felt cone.

Dusty pinks finished with felt and crochet flowers.

Now I'm off to label yarn. Great drying weather so I can wash the dyed yarn, get it dried and labelled in one day.

Marketing Again on Sunday

2012-01-06T11:59:00.001+11:00

The Arts Centre Melbourne Sunday Market is happening on Sunday 8th January after a 2 week Christmas/ New Year break. I must say I really enjoyed a couple of Sundays at home.

A new Aqua/brown hat with a touch of purple.

And a tea cosy in burnt sienna with gum nuts and flowers.

I'll post more new stock this week. Need to take photographs but first I have an order to finish.

Shearing

2012-01-05T11:55:00.000+11:00

The sheep waiting to be shorn. We managed to get all the sheep in the yards without Stella leading the flock astray.

Some of the fleece ready for me to spin. I really enjoy shearing once the sheep are in the yard and the shearer is at work. Well I'm even happier when shearing is finished and I can look at the wool.

All the fleeces have been sorted. Some fleeces are for yarns, some for weaving and some will be for sale. Yesterday I finished cleaning the shed.

Water Lily Time

2011-12-14T11:18:00.000+11:00

Water lily time again. This is only one plant in the dam.

New flowers appear every day.

The Girls are Ready

2011-11-25T19:54:00.000+11:00

The girls are now happy to be all dressed up on brooches. Tomorrow I will be at the Daylesford Makers Market with lots of new brooches.

Sunday I'll be at the Arts Centre Sunday Market in Melbourne.

New stock for Christmas Shoppers

2011-11-23T14:33:00.001+11:00

Each week I make buttons and I need to make extra this week. Next weekend I will be at Daylesford Makers Market on Saturday and Arts Centre Sunday Market on Sunday. Great markets for Christmas shopping.

Small tea cosies for the 1 to 2 cup pots.

This colour combo of raspberry, pinks and mauves is very popular. Travellers to the northern hemisphere for Christmas need hats and scarves.

The Echidna is Back!!!

2011-11-22T13:22:00.001+11:00

Darwin was barking at a bush!!! Brie thought it may be a snake so very carefully investigated

No snake to be found. Instead the echidna had returned. Well I think he or she lives around here now.

Darwin ans Mopsy had to come inside and be quiet. Within about 20 minutes the echidna was all brave again and wandered off. Thanks for your quick thinking and the photos Brie.

And I promised photos of Darwin swimming in the creek. So here he is having a look around.

Each day Darwin likes to swim in the creek or the dam. Mopsy likes to walk but is not so keen on the swimming.

Darwin's life has not been dull after the echidna left for a more secluded home. Cows and calves have moved into the paddock opposite to eat down the grass. One cow gets out at least once each day much to Darwin's amusement.

Monday Vintage Find

2011-11-21T13:19:00.000+11:00

This was my Mother's shopping list gadget. She would use this every week. I remember being so excited when I was allowed to make the list by moving the small red beads. I notice that the ice cream red bead is a little loose! This list maker is from the days when I would go to the grocer with Mum. The teddy bear biscuits (and all the biscuits) were in square metal tins which had an illustration on the front showing the type of biscuit. The required biscuits were weighed and sold in paper bags.

The list gadget was made in Austria.

Which way shall we go???

2011-11-12T15:50:00.000+11:00

Brie has been home writing essays which means the dogs have been on lots of walks. Walking Mopsy and Darwin is an adventure time for them.

They are vaguely thinking of going in the same direction. So many smells of rabbits, hares and foxes. And horses have been up the road as well.

Mopsy may have found something more interesting over there.

For a short distance Mopsy and Darwin are walking in the same direction.

I forgot to take a photo of Darwin swimming in the creek. Next week I'll take a photo before Darwin shakes water all over me.

Our Duck Family

2011-11-08T18:02:00.000+11:00

Our duck family used to number 3 or 4 ducks. They come to visit our dam after a swim in the creek.

With such a great season the duck population has increased enormously. I have counted 31 ducks this year.

After a chat the ducks are leaving to visit the dam next door. The ducks leave in 2 separate groups.

A Few of My Friends

2011-10-26T08:46:00.002+11:00

I just love my "hair do" As soon as it gets to the length I like and my wool looks stylish she decides its time to shear us all. You just ask the other girls how they feel about having the right look!!

I have grown so much wool this year she will be happy with my fleece.

I have the best fleece of all. Well that's what I'm saying. And she can't have it to spin until this weather improves.

I'm bored. Let me out into the paddock again.

I hope to get shearing organised in the next month.

A Wet Wesley Hill Market

2011-10-25T08:45:00.000+11:00

Saturday was very wet at Wesley Hill. This is the view from our market tent early in the morning. We were dry and our stock was well protected. On a sunny day the market is busy early and we are set up by 7am.

Wesley Hill is a great market. Lots of plants, good quality fruit and vege, some excellent bread and hot food for lunch. There are some treasures to be found as well as our woolly products. We will be back there on the 5th November with lots of new colours in the sock yarn.

Garden Time

2011-10-13T17:16:00.001+11:00

This year the garden is producing some amazing colours.

I even had enough iris to enjoy some inside. Love the colour combination of the iris with the orange tulips.

The vegie garden is gradually being weeded and prepared for the next round of vegies. Have found far too many snails. Am looking for some more guinea fowl as we only have one left.

Wesley Hill

2011-10-13T09:16:00.000+11:00

Last Saturday David and I set off early for the Wesley Hill Market at Castlemaine.

The weather was perfect and we were set up early.

The market opens at 7am so we enjoyed a great coffee as soon as we were set up. I purchased plants and fruit and vegies from other stall holders.

We plan to be at Wesley Hill every fortnight. You can always check our Newsletter to find out where we will be.

On the Loom

2011-10-05T15:12:00.000+11:00

Today I am finishing weaving this floor rug. The wool is from my sheep and is a blend of browns with a touch of grey. If I get back to work now the rug will be finished before dinner.

On Saturday David and I will be at the Wesley Hill Market, Castlemaine. The market is from 7am (yes we will be awake very early) and finishes at 1pm. The rug will be available at the market.

Sock Friday

2011-09-23T15:27:00.001+10:00

I have dyed lots of sock yarn this week along with chunky yarn. This morning I wound all the yarn into hanks and this afternoon I will label and pack for Sunday's market

The sock weight yarn makes a lovely shawl. Each hank is 400mtrs and if you wish to make a large shawl I'm happy to dye 2 or 3 hanks in the one dyelot.

The week has been very busy so I'm pleased today is Friday. Outside work has been in the vegie garden as there are lots of weeds to remove before planting again. I have a tea cosy nearly finished and I hope to complete the knitting tonight.

Enjoy your weekend.

Recipe Book

2011-09-22T12:05:00.001+10:00

This recipe book is at least 70 years old. It was one of my mother's treasures and she gave it to me when I moved into my first flat. I wish I had asked her who made it. The book looks like it was a woodwork project and I think my father may have made it at the Stawell Technical School. He made a table and other items as well as producing some cool technical drawings.

The book is made using a cut down school exercise book. The "cook" is drawn onto the ply wood and then painted. The edge is decorated with burnt notches.

My first recipes were rather basic and some are recipes I had cut out of the Womens Weekly. There are a few of my mothers recipes as well as a list of plates, cutlery, salt and pepper shakers. I guess that is a list in preparation for a party.

A Woolly Week

2011-09-21T11:55:00.000+10:00

A woolly week is of course not unusual for me. This week has been very much starting from the raw fleece. This yarn has been handspun from some grey English Leicester Romney cross fleece from a very handsome sheep. Just fabulous wool to spin. This yarn will be available at the Arts Centre Market in Melbourne on Sunday or you can contact me if you are unable to make it to the market.

The Girls

2011-09-16T09:55:00.000+10:00

Two of the new brooches for this weekend's markets. I just love these buttons - so much personality.

And the popular farmer and his sheep as well as the tree and house. I'll be at Buninyong on Saturday and the Melbourne Arts Centre on Sunday.

Now I'm off to Daylesford to have lunch and celebrate a special friend's birthday. Market packing to be finished when I get home.

Weaving Yarn

2011-09-15T09:07:00.000+10:00

This hand spun lumpy bumpy yarn is ready for weaving into a floor rug. The wool is natural colours and I think the contrast of the light and dark browns will work well.

I was up early this morning. The goose was making a lot of noise which sometimes is a signal that the fox is lurking. No fox but a frost.

Just a hole

2011-09-14T16:33:00.000+10:00

All that is left under Mopsy's kennel is the hole. The echidna left and didn't return.

Lovely to see some spring colour.

My crab apple trees are covered with blossom.

End of the Echidna Saga

2011-09-12T12:01:00.000+10:00

For those who would like more info on an echidna have a look here Echidna info

This is a very focused Mopsy. We moved the dogs well away from the echidna. Mopsy was not pleased.

The dogs were put to bed in the shed last night. Mopsy pushed her way out through the smallest space and sat outside our bedroom window until David went to see what she was doing. Next thing she jumps on the bed thinking that is where she would sleep. The echidna had moved by this time and Mopsy was put back in the yard. Now it was Darwin's turn to cry. He was not going to sleep in the warm shed if Mopsy was having a more exciting life.

Echidnas can live for up to 49 years. I wonder how long the echidna has lived here?

Just Packing

2011-09-10T10:14:00.000+10:00

Usually I am packed and ready by now for Sunday's market at Arts Centre in Melbourne. But I am not. Yarn (sock and aran) is dry and tea cosies finished. Need to print some labels before I can finish packing.

Time for a cuppa and then back to work.

I'll finish the echidna saga later - we had disturbed sleep here last night!!!

Echidna Update

2011-09-09T12:45:00.000+10:00

No photos. Well I could show you a photo of dirt under Mopsy's kennel.

The echidna is now asleep where Mopsy's kennel used to be. We tried to gently persuade the echidna to move this morning but it could dig faster than us!!!

After a phone call to the Wildlife Service the plan was made to move the dogs. So we moved the kennel and the dogs when of course the heavens opened and hailed upon us. It is thought that if the dogs are moved away the echidna might wander off on his/her merry way.

Not so simple. The dogs found great joy in their new homes and needed to bark and tell the world. I have just been into town to buy big bones. Now the dogs are quiet.

And the echidna is sleeping soundly and hasn't moved an inch.

All Creatures Spiky and .....

2011-09-08T15:30:00.001+10:00

Our week of adventures began when Darwin found a snake when walking with David. Darwin thinks all things that move make for play material. Luckily no snake bites and we will be very careful where we walk now.

And today we have earth moving works happening.

Darwin is the guard dog. Maybe he will divert me from finding out what is going on in dog world.

This is the echidna, the cause of much barking, interruption to my afternoon of wool dyeing and a cross Mopsy.

An unhappy dog. I have shut Mopsy out of her yard as she was digging like crazy. Firstly I thought she was trying to retrieve a hidden treasure. Mopsy has many hidden treasures. The digging frenzy made me then realize there was more to this. After the snake sighting I became wary as I saw movement under the kennel. Then I saw the echidna. The echidna has obviously gone into shock or is just stubborn and won't come out from now a lovely soft earth home.

Still have barking dogs, an echidna on strike and dog yard fence to repair. I am surprised how far down Mopsy has now dug under her gate trying to get back into her yard.

My Friend the Sheep

2011-09-02T20:01:00.000+10:00

Included in stock for the markets this weekend is the first of my new range of brooches.

I'm all packed and ready for Daylesford Makers Market tomorrow. When I arrive home it will be a quick repack for the Sunday Market at the Arts Centre in Melbourne. Then I will cook a Fathers Day dinner as I will be at the market on Sunday and by Sunday night its time for an easy meal.

Last night we had, well the goose had a visit from the fox. The fox slightly injured the goose. Tonight I have moved all the sheep into the yard around the goose yard. David has set up motion lights and we have a spotlight we can turn on quickly. The fox has been on the prowl and sadly killed and injured our friends chooks last week. Our goose is very grumpy but we are very fond of him

Enjoy your weekend.

Late in the Afternoon

2011-08-31T13:54:00.000+10:00

At the end of a market at the Arts Centre in Melbourne the sun has moved to the west.

The shadows take over where children have been playing

My depleted stall is ready for the pack up and a trip home.

Weekend Markets

2011-08-19T17:39:00.000+10:00

A busy weekend ahead with two markets. Tomorrow is the Buninyong Farmers Market in the Buninyong Town Hall. The car is packed. Much easier to pack the day before and then I can enjoy a more relaxed breakfast before leaving for the market.

Certainly hat season. I have made more felted hats this week as well as the chunky style berets.

Have a relaxing weekend.

A Hat Week

2011-08-17T10:22:00.000+10:00

This week I have been writing a pattern and test knitting some very soft 10 ply Aran weight merino yarn.

Great knitting weather with the rain pouring down today. Also dyeing chunky yarn so I'll be back later and show you the new colours.

The End of the Week

2011-08-08T20:58:00.000+10:00

No, these candles are not on the table to set the atmosphere for a special dinner. Last Friday I had finished my work, packed early for the market and was ready to relax. I came inside to cook dinner and the power went out for a couple of hours.

When the power was restored Darwin came inside. He was obviously as tired as the rest of us on Friday night.

This Week's Work so far

2011-08-04T15:59:00.000+10:00

This week has been a very productive week. New stock is needed for the Studio and the Arts Centre Market. I have made brooches. Some new colours using pink and teal.

Merino tops, dyed and plaited ready for spinners and felt makers.

Sock yarn. Lots and lots of sock yarn to be labelled this afternoon.

The popular tree brooch.

A red and silver brooch.

Now back to the studio to label yarn. Then tea cosies are next on the list.

Sunny Market

2011-08-04T10:26:00.000+10:00

Last Sunday we enjoyed a beautiful sunny day in Melbourne. The market was busy.

Hamer Hall which is next to the market is under reconstruction and was open to the public. I was busy with my stall so didn't get a chance to have a look. All the comments I heard were very positive about the refurbishment.

Frost and the Fox

2011-07-29T16:45:00.000+10:00

One morning this week we had quite a frost. I've had trouble loading photos for some unknown reason. All working again today.

On this frosty morning I took Darwin for a walk. We were happily walking up the road when a sable fox slowly walked across the road in front of us. Darwin barked at the fox who didn't bat an eyelid and just kept walking. At least the fox was walking away from our chooks (chickens).

As we walked back who walks in front of us returning from his walk but Mr Foxy Loxy. Even closer this time. This was too much for Darwin and he just let out a big sigh.

Other mornings have been cold and sunny. This is Darwin soaking up the morning sun and maybe expecting to see the fox again.

Our road.

The Dyepot

2011-07-25T10:29:00.000+10:00

New lace weight yarns - so soft and silky.

A chunky loopy mohair in 100mtr hanks

Sock and 8 ply yarns.

Hat Friday

2011-07-01T15:00:00.001+10:00

New hats for the markets this weekend. This purple and burnt sienna hat has a felt and chunky yarn band

Purple and olive combination with a vintage button.

New green, blue, pink and damson hats this week.

Circle Brooches for Daylesford

2011-07-01T09:23:00.000+10:00

These are new circle brooches which will be available at Daylesford Makers Market on Saturday. Have also been dyeing sock yarn, felting hats, spinning chunky yarn and knitting tea cosies.

The Loft Window

2011-06-28T08:15:00.001+10:00

This is the view from the loft window this morning now that the fog has lifted.

The Orange Tea Pot

2011-06-24T12:51:00.000+10:00

When orange was "the colour" in the 70's I gave this teapot to my mother as a present. I didn't even think if she would like the colour, I was just sure she would.

This orange tea cosy fits the pot so well. The cosy will be available at the Sunday Arts Market in Melbourne on Sunday.

2011-06-24T12:46:00.001+10:00

Having Words.....

2011-06-23T12:34:00.000+10:00

Our little farm is lush and green this winter. But every time I go outside a sheep or 2 will come and chat. So maybe they are needing some hay??? This morning I put out a lovely breakfast but all did not go well in sheepland. Goosie took a dislike to this sheep, they had loud words and the sheep ran away with goosie winning once again.

The sheep were not hungry and are waiting to go back out into the big paddock.

A Winter's Afternoon

2011-06-21T17:58:00.000+10:00

This afternoon I enjoyed the warmth in the loft and knitted. With lots of orders I have a busy week of knitting and spinning. I usually work in the studio but as no one was home today and the slow combustion stove was heating the house the loft was the place to be with my knitting, a cuppa and Country Living. On the needles I have a scarf in Chunky Carnival, a beret in natural brown and a headband in cream which will be finished with a black flower

Socks and Jam

2011-06-20T15:07:00.000+10:00

Lots and lots of sock yarn has been dyed. These are some of the hanks I'll be putting on my website later today.

La Bassine jams and marmalades are delicious. The jams are available at the Buninyong Farmers Market on the 3rd Saturday of the month. Farmers Markets are great places to find special home made products.
I opened Lemon Marmalade to have on my toast this morning. Lots and lots of fruit. Tomorrow I will try the apricot and almond.

The wind is blowing a gale today. Not sure it is the best day to wash fleece but want to get this fleece washed and dried today. I've put the fleece outside for a while and then I think the loft will warm enough to finish the drying.

And just need to let you know the chooks (chickens) did not produce any eggs today.

The Hat Department

2011-06-17T16:58:00.001+10:00

Hats are in fashion this winter. These are some of the hats I have made for this weekend's markets.

Burnt Sienna and Purple. Sold

Old gold and Purple

Rust and Orange. Sold

Blues.

I have 2 more hats to finish now and that's it for this week. I have packed for the markets.

Animals have been fed and put to bed. The dogs are asking for dinner early in the cold weather. Well I thought they were asking for dinner but there is a lot of barking outside so I had better go and find out what the noise is about. This morning I collected 2 eggs from my 3 chooks (chickens) so that is pleasing in winter.

Yarn for Socks

2011-06-17T08:28:00.000+10:00

This is a some of the sock yarn I have dyed this week. The yarn will be available at the Buninyong Farmers Market tomorrow and the Sunday Arts Market in St Kilda Rd, Melbourne. I will be adding sock yarn to my website later today.

Have also been busy making hats. I'll be back later with the "Hat Department".

Long Weekend

2011-06-15T12:44:00.000+10:00

David and I took a picnic to Daylesford. We stopped at Lake Jubilee after purchasing our honey supply from O'Toole's Honey Stand.

The day was chilly but we did enjoy some bursts of sunshine.

This lake is so picturesque at any time of the year. We went for a walk but not the usual long walk. I was so far behind in finishing hats for the market we came home early.

This little friend was determined he could join us and share our picnic.

This Week on the Loom

2011-06-08T08:40:00.000+10:00

With lots of weaving wool spun the loom has been busy. This rug is woven using all hand spun wool from my sheep.

The wool I'm using for this rug is white English Leicester and the grey wool is from an English Leicester Cross sheep. The English Leicester is so strong and hard wearing and perfect for floor rugs. I have hand woven rugs I made 30 years ago and the rugs have been in use constantly since then.
The rug will be finished today and ready for the Arts Centre Market on Sunday. The weaving was going to be completed last night but Brie and I watched Persuasion and I knitted a red scarf.

Two Warm Eggs

2011-06-07T13:50:00.000+10:00

This morning I raced over to the studio because I needed red yarn to cast on a scarf - right there and then! You know when you get a project in your mind you need to start now. It was bitterly cold early today and in fact it is still wet, windy and very cold.

When I go out the front door in the morning Stella demands some sheep pellets and then the goose takes up with a loud squawk cos he wants to let out and then the chooks (chickens) need to get out as well. I hadn't planned to do the animal thing so early but I got the guilts. By the time I was at the chook house I was freezing cold. Then I collected two warm eggs as a thank you from the chooks. I think the chooks poked their heads outside and promptly went back to bed.

I was sorting out a box of my parents things yesterday and found this plate. I will make some small almond biscuits to suit the plate and get out the "good" cups on Saturday for High Tea .

Busy Week and Weekend

2011-06-03T15:32:00.000+10:00

Lots of wool this week. Fleeces been washed and I have put the last of this week's wash out to dry in the breeze. Rain is coming and as soon as I hear the first spots on the roof I'll be out to gather the fleeces. The "pretend sheep" drying rack is actually a small folding fence DD had when Darwin was a puppy. I was about to put the fence in the shed when I realised that if I unfolded the fence sideways it would be perfect for drying fleeces.

I'm back into weaving again now I have washed and spun wool especially for weaving rugs.

This rug is a combination of spun yarn and fleece. The rug is off the loom and I'm going to sit and finish the ends this afternoon.

The quince trees are dropping their leaves ready for a winter rest.

I'm packed and ready for Daylesford Makers Market tomorrow and then I'll be at the Arts Centre Market in Melbourne on Sunday. Well almost packed as I am still dyeing yarn!!

And just between you and me the house is a mess as is the studio so Monday is clean up day.

Frosty Start to Winter

2011-06-01T11:24:00.000+10:00

The sheep were grazing early even though we had quite a frost. The crunchy grass wasn't a problem. Just after this photo the sheep walked through the creek. The sheep have a set routine for grazing and you could almost set your watch.

Looking towards Mt Buninyong

Even the birds on Stella's coat were frosty. Stella is very happy wearing her coat although some of the other sheep have been getting close up and personal trying to decide what this "animal" is.

Last night I was a little slow feeding Stella so she started chewing my apron as I tried to get the food over the fence. A very bossy lady.

Stella's New Winter Coat

2011-05-28T19:25:00.000+10:00

Every year I make Stella a new coat. This year I was trying to think of a theme. I had some of this delightful bird fabric from Bloom which gave me an idea. This bird fabric is a very soft knitted fabric.

I sewed a strip of the bird fabric along the side of the coat. I then cut out felt birds and sewed them on adding button eyes.

I use a woven ready made sheep coat with a few alterations. The edges of the fabric are a bit rough along slits for the legs so I have bound them with a soft plush fabric. I hope the sewing machine is OK as the coat fabric is tough to sew.

Stella was not obliging when I wanted her to pose for the yearly "New Coat" photo. This is a size 3 coat. The larger size is too loose. As the wool grows the gusset at the neck can be let out.

I plan to coat more of the sheep next week. I will add a bird or 2 to their coats but Stella is the Princess.

Packing for Sunday's Market

2011-05-27T10:55:00.000+10:00

Just thought I would give you a peek at some new yarns I have for the market at the Arts Centre in Melbourne on Sunday. Finishing in the yarn "dept" this morning but I will have some yarn which is still drying to label tomorrow.

I now have sock yarn available again. About to label the remainder of the colours.

And lots of 8 ply. Some yarn is still in the dyepot and other yarn is drying in the loft. New hats are almost ready - just need to add a finishing touch. I've had a really productive week.

Enjoy your weekend.

This Week's Colours

2011-05-25T11:58:00.000+10:00

It is a busy week here dyeing kilos of yarn. I have been winding yarn into hanks on my trusty hanking machine which saves so much time when yarn is on cones.

The dye supply was low so I have mixed colours and have a full range of dyes in bottles to choose from now.

A small sample of yarns which will be available at the Arts Centre Market in Melbourne on Sunday. Some of the yarn I have been dyeing has been for friends who are talented knitters. Looking forward to seeing the knitted results.

Sock yarn is next to be dyed and after disappointing a few customers I will hopefully put some smiles on sock knitters faces on Sunday.

Have washed a couple of fleeces today. David has cleaned the chimney so the heater is working again and warming the loft. I do have to go out to the studio this afternoon to wind more yarn but luckily I have lots of knitting to get done so I'll sit by the heater.

Click Clack

2011-05-14T11:56:00.000+10:00

In the southern hemisphere it is time to get out the needles and start knitting. This week has been very cold in Ballarat.

I have been spinning more of the multicoloured yarns for the Arts Centre Sunday Market in Melbourne. Last week I sold out. This week I have these two yarns and another olive and watermelon plied with natural brown - that hank is still drying!!!

Mothers Day Market at Arts Centre

2011-05-07T11:27:00.000+10:00

The Arts Centre is always a busy place on Mothers Day. The Mothers Day Classic run and walk takes place early and then the participants and families wander enjoying a coffee and browsing the market.

Weather is getting colder so I have been busy making hats and scarves.

A knitted felted hat with a wool and silk band.

The ever popular helmet hat

A mobius scarf with scarf pin.

What to Knit with Chunky Yarn

2011-05-05T10:31:00.001+10:00

As I am often asked what can be knitted using a hank of Chunky yarn I thought it was time to give you some ideas.

One hank of Chunky (50 metres) and a small amount of 8 ply (DK) will be enough yarn to knit you a beret.

The rib bank is knitted using 2 strands of 8ply yarn. The pattern is available free with the purchase of a hank of chunky.

Another Life with Red Lanterns

2011-05-04T10:30:00.000+10:00

Tomorrow is your first chance to view Maria Cook's Quilt Exhibition at Space 22 at 22 Main Road Ballarat. The exhibition is open Thursday to Sunday, 12 noon till 5pm until May 22nd.

Another Life by Maria Cook

Maria has displayed her quilts in two rooms at the gallery.

" Room one holds quilts that have been made of fabric obtained from used kimonos"

Detail of Another Life

"In Room two I have been attempting to make quilts by use of only one or two colours exploring the texture and tone of a limited palette"

Detail of Red Lanterns

Official Opening is on Saturday 7th May at 3pm.

This coming weekend is Ballarat Heritage weekend so there is plenty to see if you are visiting the area. http://www.ballaratheritageweekend.com/

Easter Bonnets

2011-04-22T15:12:00.000+10:00

Today I'm packing for 2 markets which are on this weekend. Tomorrow I'll be at the Daylesford Makers Market which will be held in the Daylesford Primary School in Vincent St. On Sunday you will find me at the Sunday Arts Market on St Kilda Road, Melbourne from 10am. I'm in the row of stall at the back of the grass near Hamer Hall. On Monday I'm having a relaxing day!!

Blue with a hand felted band with a touch of green.

Purple with a felt spiral. I love this colour and it suits so many women.

Raspberry red finished with lace, beads and guinea fowl feathers.

Packing is finished so now for some cooking. Have soup cooking on the slow combustion stove - as well as quinces. I have been cooking quinces and apples together. Adding the apples means I don't need to add sugar. Think I'll make an apple and quince tart. You may have realised that we have an abundance of quinces here.

Markets on Saturday and Sunday

2011-04-12T15:19:00.000+10:00

Next Saturday I have a stall at the Buninyong Farmers Market. My stall is inside the Town Hall. I have been spinning Chunky yarn and this is the first batch of colours for next weekend. I will be dyeing more yarn tomorrow and Thursday so I have a good range of colours for you to choose from. Knitting weather is definitely here.

Sunday I'll be at the Arts Centre Market in Melbourne with Missy MaoMao and Lynda from Twisted Violet Jewellery

Tomorrow I'll be back to show you a beret you can knit with a hank of Chunky yarn.

Maybe a circle theme happening

2011-04-11T15:27:00.000+10:00

A new brooch made using felt, some stitching and a purple button I couldn't resist.

And for those who like coffee. I have been asked so often for coffee pot cosies. This is the first of a range of cosies for your coffee pot. Some will be felt and others knitted and some a combo of knit and felt.

Next Saturday 16th April I'll be at the Buninyong Farmers Market which is becoming increasingly popular.

Packing for the market

2011-04-01T13:17:00.000+11:00

Friday is market packing day. This weekend involves packing for the Daylesford Makers Market which is on tomorrow and the Arts Centre Market when is held on Sundays. As I drive to Daylesford I can can take a little more in the way of props.

Then when I come home tomorrow I repack for the Arts Centre on Sunday. I travel to Melbourne by train on Sunday. It is better for the environment and better for me. I take a two basket trolley so I have to concentrate more on stock. When the Art Centre Market was in the under croft we had storage for props. Now that the market is all on St Kilda Road and on the back of the grassed area between Hamer Hall and the Arts Centre there is no storage. I'm becoming more inventive.

Packing on the veranda of the studio is bliss when the weather is fine. Wonder how many more weeks I will be able to do this before the weather changes.

the studio @ flinders gallery

2011-03-30T21:42:00.000+11:00

From 9th April to 1st May you can visit the Melbourne Annual Easter Teapot Exhibition
at the studio @ flinders gallery, 65 Cook St Flinders, 3929. You can find more info here
I am making 2 maybe 3 tea cosies this week for the exhibition. Well you can't have teapots and no cosies can you??
The knitting is done and I have dyed silk and silk chiffon. I have a few ideas to work with the silk and some beads and maybe embroidery.
Tomorrow I have quite a list of things to do, first thing will be a walk with the dogs and then it will be time to work on the tea cosies as well as dyeing the chunky yarn I spun today.

Daylesford Market on Saturday

2011-03-29T19:34:00.000+11:00

The Daylesford Makers Market is on again this coming Saturday. This market is in the Town Hall from 10am till 4pm.

This is an all natural yarn, a mix of grey and brown.

This is a grey plied with a merino and silk blend in teal and purples.

I am busy spinning some new yarns as it is time to get your knitting started for winter. The orange chunky is a soft merino yarn.

I'll be back tomorrow with some other new colours.

Maria's Quilts

2011-03-29T09:07:00.000+11:00

As I have mentioned in a previous blog I will show you some snippets of Maria Cook's quilts over the next few weeks.

Maria has an exhibition opening on 5th May at Space 22, 22 Main Road Ballarat. 3350

Exquisite stitching and fabulous use of colour.

Neck Scarves for chilly mornings

2011-03-28T17:28:00.000+11:00

In greens and mulberry...

And pink as well

Hats are happening

2011-03-16T22:57:00.001+11:00

The season for hats is approaching. Quite a few are in the construction pipeline. Some new hats are finished.

This is a raspberry hat finished with a handmade felt band and a fabulous grey vintage button and a felt flower.

Burnt Sienna with felt flowers and leather buttons from my button collection.

This hat is from the Tea Cosy hat range for this year. So often customers would like a tea cosy as a hat and this year I'll have a much larger range than last year.

Nature

2011-03-16T12:22:00.000+11:00

The power of nature has been shown to us. Floods, Earthquakes and Tsunami have occupied our minds and I must admit I felt blogging to be insensitive to these events. But then to deal with the happenings in this world we sometimes need to continue with something that is part of our normal routine.

Cobweb displays have been fascinating . The grass in the photo above is hanging from a cobweb woven between 2 trees.

This intricate web weaving was near the chook yard first thing in the morning.

The power of nature can be beautiful and it can be so destructive and terrifying.

A Date for Your Diary

2011-03-14T19:30:00.000+11:00

A must see exhibition of Quilts by Maria Cook opens on the 7th May in Ballarat. Maria works magic with her designs and colours. I will show you more of Maria's work over the next few weeks before the exhibition opens. I know it is a few weeks away to the opening but it is so easy to fill the diary. If you are from out of town (Ballarat) there is so much to see in Ballarat you can make a day trip or even stay for the weekend.

This is Maria's first solo exhibition featuring quilts that have been exhibited in Tokyo Quilt Show,

World Quilt Show: New Hampshire, USA, Pennsylvania National Quilt Extravaganza: Oaks, Pennsylvania
Pacific Quilt Festival: Santa Clara, CaliforniaWorld Quilt Show – Florida: West Palm Beach, Florida
Greater Chicago Quilt Exposition: Schaumberg, Illinois

Tea for 1 or 2

2011-03-10T13:41:00.000+11:00

Life is back to normal after the wedding. Well as back to normal as it ever is here. Certainly had some sleep to catch up on and then into making stock for the Arts Centre Market on Sunday.

Often I am asked for tea cosies to fit the one to two cup teapot. So I am making a range of the small cosies. This one of the new cosies which will be available on Sunday. If you can't make it to the market you are welcome to contact me.

The Special Day

2011-03-07T13:12:00.000+11:00

The weather in Bendigo was perfect for Anna and Taffy's wedding on Saturday. The bride looked radiant and the groom very handsome. The bride arrived late to the cathedral, in fact quite late. I think Taffy became nervous after 15 minutes had passed and the Priest decided to sit down.

The sunlight filtering through the windows in the late afternoon gave a warm glow.

The groom and groomsmen arrived in 2 these cars. My heart sank when I noticed Taffy was wearing brown shoes and worse still Lachlan who was Best man had white runners. What were they thinking wearing these shoes with black suits. I was informed that you can't wear ordinary shoes when driving these cars. Mothers don't know everything I guess. I'm glad the bride was not expected to travel to the reception in the sports car. Mind you for a moment I thought the bride and groom may be travelling to the reception in separate cars!! Taffy was very attached to this car.

These are the pew bows I made.

The flower centre piece on the tables at the reception.

The "Cake Topper" arrived with the happy couple both with brown hair. I was asked to paint the bride's hair blonde!! I offered to help with anything and this was one of the more unusual jobs.

Not even invited and....

2011-03-03T13:55:00.001+11:00

We haven't been invited to the wedding and still they made us have a bath.

I love a bath with the sweet smells. And then I sat in the sunshine. I get first bath as I'm much more co operative than Darwin.

You know I much prefer swimming in the creek and the dam. I don't need all that smelly shampoo. I can't understand all the fuss. Just because I found something fishy to roll in they want to give me a wash. They did give treats though .

No Market on Sunday

2011-03-02T13:55:00.000+11:00

Well there is a market on Sunday at the Arts Centre but I won't be there . I have decided to take the day off and recover from the wedding. The weather forecast for the special day is for a sunny day and not hot so thank you to the Weather Gods.

I think I have everything ready for the wedding from this end. Thought if I was organised I would be available if any of the wedding party need help at the last minute. I have been writing lists and checking lists. I have been ironing table cloths which is not my favourite past time. As soon as I think I'm finished I see another crease. I just have the small creases to iron out now and I'm finished.

My mother had a wonderful collection of cloths and doilies. I think it is time I did some sorting as I like to use the cloths but I need to rummage to find what I want.

Farmers Market

2011-02-25T09:05:00.001+11:00

On the 3rd Saturday of each month I take my wool, yarn, handknits and tea cosies to the Buninyong Farmers Market.

As well as selling I also do some buying. These organic carrots were just delicious. We baked them with beetroot and fennel also from the same grower. I purchased egg plant, basil and tomatoes from another stall holder. It is a small market but with good variety - cakes, free range eggs, olive oil, peanut butter, vegies, salami, soaps, plants, quilts and more. Market starts at 9am and finishes 12.30 ish. Stalls are in the Town Hall and outside.

Just a Peek

2011-02-24T13:58:00.000+11:00

Taffy and Anna's wedding is just over a week away. I have been making the decorations for the end of the pews - 14 of them. I showed Anna the idea and then purchased the fabric. There was just enough of the fabric I wanted remaining on the roll and I couldn't find any more the same "white". Then I froze. What if I stuff up?

Finally I picked up the scissors and off I went. The decorations are nearly finished - hopefully tonight I will put them in the box. I'm off to the studio again to sew some more. The sewing machine had a hissy fit this morning and my heat sank. The bobbin case popped out as it has before. I'm not sure how I fix it but I can. It takes a while and I guess it took longer this time as I began to panic. My machine is an old Singer and I wouldn't change it for the world. Maybe time for a service though.

So just a peek at the bits and bobs still to be assembled. Can show you the finished pieces after the wedding as some of you will be at the wedding.

Not much more to do before the wedding. Taffy and Anna have worked well organising the special day. Brie is a bridesmaid and we have to collect her dress next week. Probably a good idea to "wear in" the new shoes.

And I hope that the day is not too hot - I don't do heat! But the weather is not important, not important at all. As I have been sewing I have been thinking that there must be many couples in Christchurch whose wedding plans have been totally destroyed. Family members lost, wedding dresses ruined, the church destroyed.

Two Markets this Weekend

2011-02-17T12:35:00.000+11:00

With our son's wedding only a couple of weeks away there has been plenty to do. Finally I have my outfit and jewellery all sorted. This week I am making the decorations for the church pews.

As well I have been busy making market stock. I made these neck scarves and more as well in black and grey. Brooches have been designed and I'm off to the studio for the afternoon to spin and sew the brooches.

This weekend I'll be at the Buninyong Farmers Market on Saturday and at the Melbourne Arts Centre Market in St Kilda Road on Sunday.

At last I can have my say!

2011-02-04T08:29:00.000+11:00

I've been asking for my own blog for ages. She (the boss) said no but maybe if my wool is beautiful a I can share sometimes and let you know what is happening out in the paddocks.

You know it took ages to get shorn this year. Had to wait in a queue for the shearer. We are all feeling so light and bouncy now just like Shaun the Sheep. I know she is going to spin some of my wool today.

The boss has been so busy with the glam shopping. The son is getting married so you know what goes on with these humans, new clothes, new shoes. We (all 37 of us) check the letter box every day but still no wedding invitation. Thought we could be a guard of honour. Everyday I'm teaching them but you know some baa doesn't want to be next to some other baa. Our wool will have grown in another month and we will look quite dashing. The girls are thinking anklets or even frilly socks. Us men, well we thought gumboots if it is raining and perhaps a tie. If she gets that spinning wheel going we could all wear a beanie - knitted in my wool of course.

This photo is of me and some mates. We have lush grass this year. Mr Boss is slowly cutting all the thistles. It will be so good not to have those prickly things in my wool.

Well had best be off. Need to book accommodation for this wedding. Would like something close to the church. Think there is grass around the church so we could have lunch there. A snooze after the ceremony and then be sprightly for the dancing. Wonder what the food will be. Lucerne chaff maybe but that is a bit messy. Must remember to get some wedding cake for goosie. One of the mob was allowed to sleep in his yard last night. This morning so as not to be left out we all went into goosie's yard. That goose has a fierce peck sometimes. The promise of wedding cake soothed the situation.

How does your garden grow?

2011-01-19T20:44:00.000+11:00

GARDEN Tea Cosy is finished and will be available at the Arts Centre Market in Melbourne on Sunday. A few more tea cosies are almost finished.

It has been a quieter week here. David has finished fixing the fences that were flattened in the flood. I have been knitting and spinning. Friday will be wool dyeing day and hopefully shearing on Saturday.

Local Knowledge is Helpful

2011-01-14T18:23:00.000+11:00

Today a local man was chatting to David and was telling him about the floods in 1956. If you look at the power pole you can see the metal band to keep possums from climbing the pole. The 1956 flood was 2 feet above the band. Local knowledge is so important as even in that flood our house wouldn't have been flooded - but other houses built since that date would be flooded. We did not have this information when we built here but we did build on the high ground.

Ducks are making the most of their new playground. This is one end of our road.

The paddocks are still underwater. All sheep are safe. We counted them again today just to make sure. Mind you their attitude is what you would say "grumpy" I went out in the rain this morning to give them hay and they just put their noses in the air and walked off. And I returned home with gumboots full of water and very wet.

More Rain Tonight

2011-01-13T17:08:00.000+11:00

No matter what the weather these happy faces appear in the dam. I must plant another couple of water lilies.

"Yes, Well I'm not very happy. All this wet wool is very heavy and far too wet for shearing. I found the best spot to shelter."

This flood has been spreading all day. More rain is expected tonight. The sheep are on high ground and safe.

Our Road is Washing Away

2011-01-13T11:51:00.000+11:00

Today is not a good day for our road. The water is rushing down and washing away the gravel surface. Early this morning the Council truck got bogged when putting out the "Road Closed" sign. The sign is now in the flood and likely to wash away any time soon. The poor sheep are sopping wet and no shearing is possible on Saturday.

The Old Grey Fergie

2011-01-11T15:03:00.000+11:00

This is our old grey Fergie tractor having a rest under the tree. The mower needs some repairs (I think the mower took one look at all the grass and took a sickie!!!). The tractor has had many bypasses and transplants over the years. I notice that David has used a wool pack to keep the tractor dry. We are shearing on Saturday and I wondered why I was missing a wool pack.

Well we have booked the shearer for Saturday but the rain is bucketing down and it feel it will be impossible to get the sheep dry yet again.

Thoughts are with those in Queensland. Each news bulletin gives more news of evacuations and disaster.

Busy Week

2011-01-07T07:33:00.000+11:00

The week has been busy here. Still more to finish today but after I wind off sock yarn into hanks I'm off to town for coffee. Then home to dye yarn. Great drying weather today. Well it will be warm although I can hear some rain on the roof just now.

Finally have a shearer organised. The sheep keep asking me when they can give me their fleeces. Shearing is a month late due to the rain. Need to clean out the shed.

A farm scene tea cosy. A cute grey ceramic sheep with a black face, a chook (chicken), a bee, a barn and of course a farmer.

And now I'm making some smaller cosies like this turret cosy. Have another small cosy nearly finished so will work to get another one or two finished for the Arts Centre Market in Melbourne on Sunday.

For the large Teapot

2011-01-06T13:06:00.000+11:00

So often I get requests for tea cosies for teapots of different shapes and sizes. Well here is a tea cosy for the larger teapot. This cosy will fit an 8 cup pot easily and a tall pot as well. I'll be back later to show you some more new stock for the Arts Centre Market on Sunday and for the web site.

The Beauty of Nature

2011-01-04T10:20:00.000+11:00

No photos. You know how often you see wonderful things and either you don't have your camera or the camera would spoil the moment.

Today I have farm chores to do as well as some gardening. On my way to getting some straw for the chook (chicken) shed I stopped by the dam to see how many leaves are on our water lily plant. While standing on the side of the dam 2 Pacific ducks arrived for their morning swim. I stood motionless and they didn't realise I was there. The ducks chatted to each other as they swam and splashed. If I had a camera the movement would have ended the occasion.

On Sunday when driving to the train station on my way to the market the fog lifted just as I was leaving. The grass is very tall after all the rain and there is the occasional extra tall blade of grass. As the fog lifted I could see hundreds of spider webs strung between the extra tall grass. The sun caught the delicate webs as the breeze slightly added to the shimmer. This time although I did have my camera I decide just to enjoy nature.

Burrumbeet Races.

2011-01-03T12:25:00.000+11:00

New Years Day for us is always a day at Burrumbeet Races. The weather was perfect for the country race meeting. We went early and set up our table under the trees. Just needed a whole day off before the markets started again.

A future jockey!! A couple of the race horses had companion ponies and this Shetland was one. I was surprised there were no grey horses racing this year. My first ponly was grey and just have a thing about grey horses.

A picnic atmosphere under the trees. It was a great family day with an animal farm and other activities for the kids.

This Tuscan loaf has just come out of the oven. Nearly cool enough to eat!

For Christmas lunch I made raspberry coulis. I made cup cakes and swirled the remaining coulis through the cakes before baking. Very delicious.

New Year - Market

2010-12-31T08:08:00.000+11:00

After the Christmas rush it has been a quiet week to recover. Hope you have found some quiet time before the New Year celebrations begin.

Markets begin again on Sunday at the Arts Centre Market in Melbourne. So new stock for the New Year.

A periwinkle tea cosy with yellow and blue flowers.

And a touch of glamour with this purple beaded tea cosy.

Am packing for the market today so will take more photos - might be back later.

Where will I see you??

2010-12-17T16:42:00.000+11:00

If you are out and about this weekend you will find me at Buninyong Farmers Market on Saturday Morning, the Daylesford Makers Twilight Market from 4pm Saturday and then on Sunday at the Melbourne Arts Centre Market from 10am. So still plenty of markets to browse for last minute gifts.
I'm all packed and ready to go!!!

This week I have been designing tea cosies, brooches and felted hats. Yarn spinning is next on the list.

This cosy is the last one finished today. A colour combination that would suit a vintage teaset.

A mini tea cosy for the mini teapot.

Red and charcoal is a popular colourscheme. This cosy sold as soon as I put it on the website. Will make more with a red theme.

To Market, To Market

2010-12-10T19:26:00.000+11:00

Life is busy, busy for most of us before Christmas. Sometimes we need to take some time out. I've been in the vegie garden this afternoon. Pulled out lots of weeds, planted vegies and ate raspberries. Yum.

Sunday I'm at the Arts Centre with lots of sock yarn and new tea cosies.

And then next weekend I'm at the Buninyong Farmers Market on the morning of the 18th, then in the afternoon I'll be at Daylesford Makers Twilight Market. Sunday the 19th is the last Arts Centre Market for the year. So some great markets for last minute shopping including vegies and fruit at Buninyong.

Yarn for Socks

2010-12-09T19:13:00.000+11:00

More sock yarn has found its way out of the dye pot - well not by itself. These yarns are about to listed on the website. Dyeing a mix of colours, not leaving the guys out this time! Sock Yarn

Yarn Thursday

2010-12-09T09:12:00.000+11:00

A peek at some of the yarn available from my Shop this afternoon. Market customers are welcome to contact me if they would like a particular colour and you can then collect from the Arts Centre Market on Sunday. I'll be adding sock yarns, 5 ply, 8 ply and Chunky yarn. So back to the studio to label the yarn.

Farm Tea Cosy

2010-12-07T17:07:00.000+11:00

I have just added this new tea cosy to my Etsy shop. Tea Cosy Have finished two more cosies so will show them to you tomorrow.

This week I am weaving another floor rug and need to get some sock yarn in the dye pot for the Melbourne Sunday Arts Market.

Sock Yarn at Arts Centre Market

2010-12-04T17:37:00.000+11:00

The sock yarn is ready to be launched tomorrow. The yarn was dyed yesterday and it didn't take long to dry. Just finished winding the yarn into balls. Not sure if I can always do this but when you buy sock yarn you just want to start knitting.

Some browns and greens and blues

Pink mix, purples and a jewel mix.

Red/orange and a dark turquoise/grey/brown mix.

I'll be at the Melbourne Arts Centre Market from 10am. Remember that if you spend $20 you can fill in a form for the Christmas prize draw.

If you can't make it to the market and want to purchase some sock yarn please contact me.

A Mauve Day

2010-12-03T16:35:00.001+11:00

A brooch made using a hand made ceramic button and vintage lace.

And a tea cosy with the ever popular mauve/purple theme.

I will be in the SIDE ROOM at the Buninyong Makers Market tomorrow. Market starts at 10am in the Buninyong Town Hall. Customer Raffle at the Market also.

Catch Up Friday

2010-12-03T10:42:00.001+11:00

During the week we finally went to see the Lal Lal Falls. We often go to the falls for a BBQ/Picnic but this is the first time for ages there has been such a waterfall. I packed a picnic as it was David's birthday.

The sky has been putting on quite a display. Cloud formations and colours have been magical.

Within a few minutes the colours and cloud formations change.

Our last group for the year of Farmstay students has been to stay with us. This time the girls really wanted to send postcards home. I didn't dare say that they would be home before the postcards would arrive as these farmstays are only for a few days. The weather was kind to us with the only rain falling on the last morning.

I'll be back later to show you new tea cosies ready for the weekend markets at Buninyong and Arts Centre Melbourne.

Sunday Market Christmas Competition

2010-11-30T19:26:00.000+11:00

The Arts Centre Market (St Kilda Rd, Melbourne) Christmas Competition starts this Sunday 5th December and the final Sunday is 19 December 2010. Customers need to spend $20.00 at one of the many market stalls and fill in the entry form to be in the running to win one of four $60.00 vouchers to spend in the Sunday Market from January- June 2011. These are some of the brooches available from the Hawthorne Cottage Stall.

Crochet flower brooches with face centres.

Vintage gold lace combined with black velvet and a vintage glass button. Perfect for evening wear

And the so popular yellow with dragon fly Japanese fabric and dragonfly charm brooch. The brooches are attached to a handmade paper card and a perfect gift.

Red, Red Rose

2010-11-27T19:03:00.000+11:00

A friend called in last week and gave me these beautiful roses. These are real roses, roses that have a perfume. I placed the vase in the centre of the house so I would walk past them often and enjoy the rose perfume.

Last week was one of those crazy weeks with too much happening and I really appreciated the gift of roses. We got through and with an early night I think I will have recovered.

Had a great day at the Daylesford Makers Market today. And I am all packed and ready for the Arts Centre tomorrow, the tomato plants are where they should be and I dyed some sock yarn. Why I decided I should dye sock yarn at the end of a busy day I don't know.