The generosity of bloggers

Sometimes the generosity of bloggers astounds me. This week I received the most wonderful parcel in the mail from Jess (from Button Beauty), filled with goodies. Not just any old goodies either - but thoughtful, considered gifts, that were just so perfect. And all because the winner of Jess' giveaway had found her via my blog. How is that for generous!!! And as an example of her thoughtfulness, Jess had remembered from a previous post of mine that I loved nasturtiums, especially the way water beads on their leaves, so she included some nasturtium seeds!!! She also gave me three gorgeous pieces of fabric, the most beautifully soft and well made cotton bamboo face washer (it really has to be touched to understand just how soft it is), some lovely fabric covered buttons, and the best vintage sewing book ever. In fact, I spent quite some time showing my husband some of the classic pictures in this, and reading out various parts to him (such as 'I had no idea there were so many types of sleeves, or that there is a sleeve design called 'the leg of mutton'...he he he...).

In fact, the book is such a cracker, that I just have to share some of it here. For example, how cool is this little sewing corner. The holders on the wall are actually straw hats!!!!


My husband says he would be quite happy for me to whip up this cheerleader outfit for myself...ahem...don't think so!!!


Although he wasn't so enthusiastic about me kitting myself out in this nightie :P



There are just so many great pics in this sewing book, and so much great fashion. I LOVE the shirt on the girl on the left, and how cool is her hat!


And lastly, as this IS a sewing book for 'teens', of course it includes the obligatory 'checklist' so you can work out exactly where your wardrobe is lacking, and what items you need to sew for yourself (click on the image for a closer look at what your wardrobe might be missing). Hmmmmm, looks like I need to start sewing myself some 'pants and jeans, from knock-about casual to party-timers....' Guess I'd better get cracking!!!


Thanks again Jess, it really was such a lovely package to receive :)
Cheers, Bec X

Oh, and as an edit to this, I almost forgot to add, that while I was having my bloggy break, I also received a Brilliante Weblog Award from Jess, which I somehow completely missed (which really goes to prove my unworthiness I guess). But can I also say once again Thank-you Jess!!!! And I am hereby passing this award onto anyone who suffers from 'Blogging Guilt' over tags or awards that they have received that they either accidently missed, or haven't gotten around to posting about yet.....please say I'm not the only one????

Spring has sprung

I can smell it. That indefinable aroma of spring. And it's not just the smell, it's the sounds, the light, the slight haziness of the air and the mildness of the breeze against my skin. Makes me want chink wine glasses over a meal at an alfresco restaurant, or sit on the front deck of our house, drink crisp Rogers beer and watch the sun set over the trees.....all things that are not really possible with two small children. Sunset being feeding time at the zoo when the mad rush for dinner, bath and bed is happening, and restaurants being limited to child friendly ones that definitely do NOT have seating where kids can run onto the road...but ahhhhh, all the same...it's Spring!

I took the kids into mum and dad's garden yesterday (yes, we are STILL living with my parents while our house is being renovated, but that's another story entirely) and we went on a flower hunt. Looking for all the new growth and little flower buds that are starting to sprout after our recent rain. Not much loot to be found yet - but Lee had lots of fun collecting these:


And Kate had a great time pulling petals off the lantana flowers and throwing them everywhere, while saying "wower".

There's nothing like nature, happy kids, and the smell of Spring to drag you into the present moment. It was lovely. I must try to stay here more often.