Crooked Road

Now I am 2!

2012-01-22T14:29:00.000+11:00

And a Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T09:20:00.001+11:00

Guess who has reached 1.56kg, had her 1st bath, and yesterday spent 8hrs without any breathing assistance?
Miss Lucy, thats who!
We are so PROUD

A very Merry Christmas!

2009-12-28T09:43:00.002+11:00

We had a very Merry Christmas with Miss Lucy-lu
as you can see, she has had her c-pap removed,
and is now on fast flow prongs.
Lucy has also been reclassified as a 'Special Care' baby
and is no longer 'Intensive Care'.
This is another milestone.
She now weighs 1.4kg, twice her birth weight!

Merry Christmas from these two beautiful girls
Sophia was once again an angel
at her Kindergarten concert.

Look who's getting bigger

2009-12-16T07:27:00.001+11:00

Miss Lucy-Lu
has now reached 1.186kg
and measures 38cm
and is now off all IV's!

2009-11-24T22:31:00.004+11:00

You may have wondered where I've been! Apart from having a virus on my p.c. that would not allow me to blog, I have been pregnant with this little dot!
May I introduce to you Lucinda Grace....aka Lucy. She was born at 27.2 weeks gestation, weighing 721gms, length 33cms and head circumference 21.5 cm.
Lucy arrived on November 14 th, but wasn't due until February 11th 2010. SO far she has done amazingly well for her prematurity, but we have come out of the honeymoon period, and she gave us quite the scare today when we went to visit. Tonight she is having a blood transfusion, and hopefully this will help with a few of the problems she is having at present.
We now understand that it will be a rocky road we will be travelling over the next few months.

Our second daughter, Tessa, was also born prematurely. Tessa was born at 33.3 weeks weight 1630gms. Tessa fought hard, and is a happy healthy 3 1/2 year old now. We can see already that Lucy has some of the same stamina, but will face a few more challenges.

We are all madly in love with her

a couple more

2009-07-20T16:22:00.002+10:00

Two more blocks for Bee Modern Quilting Bee
These are for Claudia of Sugared Limes
using the 'Hello Betty' line

The Shy Monster

2009-07-09T16:42:00.002+10:00

This is my latest Quilting Bee Block!
It's not very scary, and kinda looks like a girl!
I think the wall it's looking over, looks more like a quilt
OH well....

Another couple of projects

2009-06-10T10:13:00.003+10:00

Here's the beautiful quilt Julie sent me for
May S.T.U.D. alphabetmania
'I' for Illusion

and a little bug (or slug) for Skovy
for the Sew Kid at Heart Quilting Bee

What I've been working on lately!

2009-06-03T17:10:00.004+10:00

My S.T.U.D. mini groups theme for the month was
'Alphabetmania'
My letter was 'L' and my Mini for Jgmehlin
was this Gees Bend/ Art Inspired piece named
'Lemons, Limes & oranges'

I've joined the Bee Modern Quilting Bee!
Here are my first blocks for Nichole
and for the month of June
lots of fun!
I got a bit carried away with 4, but, I learnt a new applique technique in the meantime!

Finally!

2009-05-31T22:49:00.003+10:00

Here is a picture of the beautiful quilt
I received from Ritapizza in DQS6
I had the best time exchanging comments with Rita,
I knew from her first picture post that it was for me,
I jut had to wait....

It's taken me a while to post a pic. as we were supposed to include
ourselves in the shot
Yes I bailed, and included the girls instead!
Oh well!

Oh!

2009-05-08T14:18:00.004+10:00

and here is what we sent Teena
there is a card of green ribbon missing, and a Cherry Ripe (yum!)
The bottom left is a little doll quilt for Miss Violet

Pink & Green Swap

2009-05-08T13:34:00.006+10:00

Her are the lovely things we received from Teena in the Pink & Green Swap
which included; home-made lavender bath salts,
green kitchen implements, beautiful pink wool, thank-you notes
a vintage apron

and a beautiful set of hand dyed silks for the girls to play with

Thank you so much Teena!

Glorious!

2009-05-08T13:23:00.001+10:00

Here is the Mini I received from Fissiet/Liliane
Every element I love
It is truely GLORIOUS!

finished, sent and received!

2009-05-05T15:06:00.002+10:00

I've finished the little Sampler Quilt for Liliane in Luxemburg!
I just had to change 1 block which didn't suit,
I also used Perle 8 for the first time
Wow, was it easy to use, and looks really effective

And to my big girl who once again has injured herself
It's healed amazingly well in the 10 days since it happened
I can't bear looking inside
I'm pretty sure 2 teeth went through!

DQS6 and another little project

2009-04-15T11:02:00.004+10:00

I've started working on my Sampler Quilt
for the 6- 12" mini group
the blocks are approx. 3" each
my partner likes colorful things
so hopefully this will be to her liking

This is the finished quilt for Doll Quilt Swap 6
my partner loves 1930's repro's
I'm hoping he or she will like how this came together
I'd like to make it in a larger scale next time

the gorgeous vintage shell buttons came to me in a previous swap
and were perfect for the flower centers

guess how much I love you?

2009-04-08T17:56:00.003+10:00

This is the March swap quilt I made for QuiltinKimmie
The theme once again was Childrens Literature
This is my interpretation of little Nut Brown Hare
from the beautiful story book 'Guess How Much I Love You'
This is Sophia's favourite book, and is quoted daily in our house!

2009-04-06T17:12:00.002+10:00

Yes, I have joined another swap!
But, Pink and Green, my favourite colors!
How could I resist?

stitchin'

2009-03-31T17:09:00.004+11:00

Doing a little stiching on my quilt for Doll Quilt Swap 6
I've done some hand peicing, and some machine peicing,
and now a little blanket stitch
My partner is also a 1930's lover
I'm hoping they'll love this little cutie!

Happy 5th Birthday

2009-03-29T20:27:00.002+11:00

We celebrated Sophia's birthday last weekend with a big girl princess party
Fortunately the venue we went to has a face painter on a Saturday night
She invited 7 of her girlfriends from Kindergarten and Joel!
I made little carry bags in princess/castle/unicorn themed fabrics
instead of lolly bags (& a car 1 for Joel)

She then celebrated her real birthday on Thursday
and with cupcakes at Kindergarten on the same day.

Happy 3rd Birthday

2009-03-18T16:14:00.000+11:00

Happy Birthday Tessa, my tiny little girl!

Fun Day Out... & a few other projects

2009-03-12T09:55:00.002+11:00

Well, yesterday Janine and I went along to 'The Stitches and Craft Show'
There were many reasons to go, but one of the things I enjoyedthe most was meeting
Jodie and Louise
We saw Jodies' great selvedge projects, made a little liberty button brooch,
I purchased some cute cards and the most gorgeous fairy fabric for Sophias room.

I've now completed some blocks for The Bushfire Quilt Project. I think they are up to 50+ quilts!

Here is the gorgeous quilt that Kimmie sent me in the 6 -12" Mini Swap.
The theme for February was childrens literature,
Kimmie sent the quilt and three of the 'Frog and Toad' books for the girls to read

Hi!

2009-03-06T22:51:00.002+11:00

Sorry we are a little quiet at the moment!
I should have a post very soon on my fabulous February 6 - 12 " swap with Kimmie.
But at present we are readying ourselves for a
3 yr olds and 5 yr olds Birthday Party!

and the procrastinating continues...

Inspired

2009-02-20T15:24:00.003+11:00

For the January swap in our 6-12" mini the theme was
'be inspired by the quilts of Gee's Bend'
This is the mini I sent to Toni
ispired by this quilt

I can't tell you how much I enjoyed making it!

Bush Fire Quilt Project

2009-02-11T17:27:00.000+11:00

Hi Guys
As you may be aware, we are in the midst of the most horrific fires to hit Australia. There has been a huge loss of life, nearing 200 at last count. Many of these fires are man-made, and some entire towns have been lost.
I live approx. 1/2 hour from the major bush fires, and most people I know, know someone who has been affected by one of the fires.
There are many ways you can help including cash donations to The Australian Red Cross and by donating clothing, shoes, toiletry etc.
An online quilting friend has started up The Bushfire Quilt Project. This is an international group,and all that you need to do is make 1 or 2 Maverick star blocks and Tia will piece the blocks into a quilt and forward them to the victims of the fire.
These blocks can be made from scraps, so if you have the time and are handy with a needle and thread, please help.

What Sylvie sent me!

2009-01-28T17:28:00.003+11:00

The Three Bears!
a beautiful French version of the story
a letter, and drawing from her daughter
and some yummy chocolate covered marshmallow bears

aren't they sweet!

Le Petite Prince

2009-01-26T17:16:00.003+11:00

Here is the little mini quilt I made for January
in the Flickr 'Swap till You Drop' group.
Theme: read it, watch it, sing it

It is for Sylvie in France,
and so I decided to use a famous French childrens book/opera/movie
'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
This is one of his beautiful illustrations!
I really enjoyed making this, I was inspired by this work.
Although I was a little frightened, to do it on my 30yr old Janome,
I decided to use a strand of embroidery thread and hand applique it.

Sophia's project

2009-01-05T15:31:00.003+11:00

Here's the quilt project Sophia worked on in '08 for Andrew
She designed and helped sew
she ironed

and I quilted and bound.
We quilted Sophia's name into her color and Andrew's into his
purple & red

Do you like the dinosaur backing.
I originally used this on a quilt for my niece in 1991 !

A little Mini from eggmoney!

2009-01-05T14:14:00.005+11:00

Here is the lovely little mini I received from 'eggmoney'
for our November 'words' swap
Inspirational words!

and these gorgeous cards she sells in her etsy store
thanks Lynn!

These is a little tempter of the January mini I have made for 'TayLynnsbean'
The theme is to be inspired by The Gee's Bend quilts
If you don't know of these quilts go have a look here.

and finally, this is how my beauty fell asleep on Christmas eve whilst waiting for dinner
We dressed her, popped her into bed,
and her sister had to wake her on Christmas morning at 7.30am

A Merry Christmas to all!

2008-12-25T21:20:00.002+11:00

After a week that started out very "Bah Humbug" on the F.I.L.'s behalf, and saw him not only cancelling his appearance at our Christmas lunch, but taking it upon himself to cancel lunch at his sisters on Sunday that we were all looking forward too. And should I add, a drive by present drop off at 10.30pm last night... tooted the horn and left the presents for hubby to bring up!!!
Memo to self.... invite F.I.L to daughters Christmas concert next year, if this is the kind of sooking we will witness.
Remind self...which one is the 4yr old????

Anyhoo, a lovely and relaxing day was had by all who attended. Children received all and more than required. And, Mummy barely slept with the thought of the mornings excitement.

"Oh My God" was heard on several occasions from the 2 year old... how many babies can one girl have ?

And the big girl is in love with her new PURPLE bike which does skids just like Daddy did when he was a boy... and, how much lip gloss can a 4yr old apply in one day ?

Wishing you and yours the most wonderful of days, and a big thanks for reading :)

Jane

2 more swaps, 1 more project completed

2008-12-14T21:38:00.004+11:00

Here is a little swap I received from Anne, in my online patchn'quilt group
The word was Christ
I received

Cushion, 10cm Xmas Ohio star
Hand Towel and washer
Ribbon
Interfacing
Sewing cotton
Tea pot holder
& a little picture Anne had done with wax and an iron of her fish tank

(I couldn't find the cushion for the photo as Tessa has ferreted it away for her dolls)

This is the little 1930's quilt I received from Bonnie in
'Another Little Quilt Swap'
She chose 2 of my favourite colors pink & green
Tessa has also claimed this one for her doll cot.

Finally a couple of projects for the Kinder teacher and Assistant

A Christmas Pageant

2008-12-14T21:21:00.003+11:00

On Thursday Sophia had her Christmas Concert at Kindergarten
During all the practise sessions, she has been desperate to play 'the Angel holding the star'
and guess what she was?

Take a bow Angel Gabriel

Woops I forgot to rotate this one,
but here is my beautiful girl dressing the tree
and Yes! you do need to wear your best dress to do that

egg

2008-12-02T13:38:00.003+11:00

This is the little quilt I made for the November swap themed 'words'
Originally I was going to have a profound word,
But couldn't go past this cute one

It is also a part of my partners tag 'eggmoney'

I quilted rows of eggs too!

I'm happy to say she is very pleased with it

Awe Struck!

2008-11-30T20:32:00.003+11:00

Yes me!
Yesterday, whilst at work I served the one and only
Rosalie Quinlan
All a fluster and red faced
She was so sweet
and said she'd look out for my little old blog
gosh!

Crackerbox finished and sent!

2008-11-19T23:27:00.004+11:00

Here are some pictures of the quilt I sent to Kate in the swap 'Another Little Quilt Swap'.

It is the Cracker box pattern I have used before, but, I just reduced the size to a 5" square rather than a 10".

I really enjoyed making and quilting this one.
I used some of the fabrics that Kate sent me, some of my own, and some from the American Jane collection. I tea-stained the Kona to get a more creamy effect.It's a different palette than I would usually use, but I'm pleased with the result.

What we sent to Kristin!

2008-11-12T09:49:00.003+11:00

Here are the things we sent to Kristin.
We made a bag, modelled here by the cheeky monkey

'Possum Magic'
by Mem Fox and Julie Vivas

A possum handpuppet, the recipes from the book
Cookie cutters, furry friends chocolates
Minties & a bookmark

If we could have sent some of the other yummy foods
mentioned in the book, we would have!

#3 Kid-made Quilt Swap

2008-11-08T15:42:00.003+11:00

As a spin off from our 6 -12" Mini Swap, and at the behest of her son Andrew,
'Davenjilly' decided to start a Kids swap.
The idea was to allow the children to design and make as much of the quilt as possible.

Sophia has loved this swap, it has allowed her to be creative with Mum, sew with Mum on the sewing machine, iron, but mainly, be in charge!

We received Andrews quilt for Sophia this week, perfect timing for a sick girl
Sophia has spent the week cuddled up with it on the couch

And, is that a thief I spy?
Guess who ate the chocolate and lollies!

#2 One Good Book Swap

2008-11-06T22:24:00.008+11:00

The lovely Jill, over at 'Nature Girl', held this fabulous swap.
We decided to join up after doing the Little People swap together.
Wow! We didn't realise what fun it would be.

Here's Sophia fleeing with the goodies when they arrived from her new friend Kristin.
The book that Kristin chose for us is 'Flotsam' by David Weisner
It's all about a little boys day at the sea and the things he discovers.

Here are the wonderful things Sophia received, they are all linked to the book.
Bucket and spade, magnifying glass, underwater camera and frame/album for her photos
dolphin, sea animals and foam stickers, sea placemat
and finally, the lovely scarf they made themselves
Thank you Kristin and Charlotte!

We'll show you what we sent in a few days.

Sophia's first solo swap

2008-11-06T15:09:00.005+11:00

Here are some photographs of Sophia's first swap. She looks a little overwhelmed!
She has since got the hang of it , as you will see in our next few posts

We joined the Kiddio stationery swap, and, Zoe and Sophia swapped;
stickers and pencils, labels and cards.
All sorts of lovely things
Thanks Zoe!

'S' is for Sophia

6-12" Quilt Swap

2008-11-05T16:44:00.004+11:00

Here is my gorgeous little quilt I received from 'Olivethebeach'
Look how vibrant the colors are!
We were in the minority who did mushrooms, 80% would have been owls.

For November the theme is 'words'
I have a few idea's floating round.

ALQS w.i.p.

2008-11-05T16:33:00.004+11:00

At the moment I'm working on a doll quilt for 'Another Little Quilt Swap'
This is my selection of fabrics,
I used the American Jane tape measure fabric as a color palette
I don't think I'll use it in the quilt, it's a bit much, and I have another project for it.
My partner isn't so keen on brights, hopefully she'll cope with this!

My new friend Kate sent me a BUNDLE of 30's narrative prints
She knew that I loved them, and wasn't using hers!
It has rebuilt my stash, and I am using a few in this quilt.
Thanks Kate!

Now that it's arrived!

2008-10-07T10:46:00.002+11:00

Here is the latest Mini that I sent to Olivethebeach.
The theme this month was Owls/Mushrooms.
I decided to go with the Mushroom/toadstool route.
What do you think?

DQS4 arrived

2008-09-30T20:59:00.002+10:00

Here is the gorgeous quilt I received today from Adds at 'The Humming Cat'
The fabric is 'Amy Butler', and it is so rich and scrumtious!
(I wish it were a full size quilt)
Adds also sent us a cute matching pin cushion,
Tessa is using it as a pillow....

Thanks Adds!

4SQS angel quilt received

2008-09-24T17:10:00.004+10:00

We just love this 30's applique quilt that Kate sent us today.
Kate was wonderful to make this angel quilt for me after hearing of my plight

THANK YOU KATE

Lion and Rhino arrive in Australia

2008-09-23T10:09:00.003+10:00

Last week we received our "Little People" swap from the U.S.A.
Sammy and Abby sent Rhino & Lion, along with a bunch of other goodies.

Here is the fantastic scrapbook they put together of their summer travels with Lion & Rhino.
The girls just loved looking through it, and there is room for plenty more adventures!
This has been such an amazing swap for the girls to be involved in, not just learning about other cultures, but also their own!

A right of passage

2008-09-23T09:13:00.004+10:00

Ken has been patiently waiting since Sophia's birth to take her on a go-cart.
Fathers day '08 was the big day.
Sophia is finally tall enough to go on a tandem cart!

Big girl with a big helmet

Racing the Go-cart track with Daddy.

Meme

2008-09-10T17:19:00.004+10:00

1. My name..Jane
2. favourite meal ..spaghetti
3. year I graduated High School
4. favourite color..pink
5. celebrity crush... Jay Lai'gaia *
6. favourite drink ..coffee
7. dream holiday destination ..Wellington N.Z.
8. favourite dessert...Chocolate pudding
9. what I wanted to be when I grew up... a Mummy
10. whats most important to me...my family
11. what word describes me... one my brother use's chubby cheeks'
12.my flickr name... tessophia (this is a quilt I sent out to Lucysquilts)

* I've loved Jay since watching him on Playschool in New Zealand whilst Nannying 20 years ago

These photos are all found on flickr search, using the answer to the question. I had to laugh when I searched for the alternate last block....my pets names, I came up with two transvestites....lol.

A Day at the Beach

2008-09-10T16:33:00.005+10:00

Oh how I wish we'd taken our camera!
Spring has sprung, and what a beautful day we choose to travel down to Frankston to pick up a patchwork pattern for Wendy from the U.S. It was around 18 -19 0c with a clear blue sky.
After finding the shop and purchasing the pattern, we headed on down to the Lifesaving club and walked along the shore. Tessa couldn't believe her eyes and was a little retisent to come near the water to begin with. Sophia and I were straight down and feet in water.
Thats when I noticed jelly fish washing up on the shore. We investigated without touching, said hello to a few dogs and babies, and then headed up to the club for coffee and cake on the balcony.
Ah! Thats the life.

A Day at the Zoo

2008-09-01T23:46:00.004+10:00

Last Sunday, we spent the day at the Zoo. As you can see the girls were amazed with what they saw. Tessa loved the Elephants, Sophia the Lions, and along with the Orangutans here is one of my favourites

The Giraffe, I love their color and beautiful markings.

We visited the Australian native animal section as they were just about to be fed. One even had a little Joey in her pouch
.

Before we left we headed over to the Ape section. We stood at the glass window and listened to the Zoo keeper chatting. As he did, one of the females came over the hill and straight down to Tessa to have a little look. I started snapping photos into reflective glass and scared her off, and didn't get any shots. Wish I'd just taken in the moment!
"She wanted to cuggle me" was all Tessa could say, wrapping her little arms around herself.

Pop on over to my flickr site for some more (better) photo's.

Uncle Lance's Gold Medal

2008-08-17T20:19:00.003+10:00

On Thursday Sophia was honored to take her Uncles 'Special Olympics' gold medal to Kindergarten. He won in the national games, in Basketball, in 2006. I think she looks very proud.
The kids loved seeing the medal and all of the photos from the game. They have also been making their own medals. Sophia's said "she was good at hopscotch" and Riley "was good at digging"!

Father and Daughter

2008-08-15T11:57:00.003+10:00

Here is a pic. of my brother Tony and his daughter Leah in Sendai, Japan. Tony has lived in Sendai for nearly 10 years and Leah lives in the U.S. Leah went to live in the U.S. with her mother when she was 13months old* and apart from two very brief visits, they have not seen each other until now.
Leah is now 18 yrs old and loves Japanese culture, so she's loving her time there.
Here they are attending a Tanabata parade in traditional dress. Michi's (Tony's wife) parents gave Leah her Yakata as a gift. They have been so busy with visits to Temples, shopping, sporting events .. Sumo, Soccer e.t.c. She has also spent some time hanging out with some Japanese girls. Now they are in Tokyo for a few days before Leahs return home.
Hopefully Leah will be able to make it to Australia soon, but for now we enjoyed seeing Tony, Leah and Michi on skype a couple of times. The girls were so excited to see their one true cousin.
For me it is such a joy to see them together, words cannot describe, and are not even flowing properly as I try to tell you about their visit.

*A difficult situation to explain!

Another Quilt, Another Birthday Party

2008-08-12T20:19:00.003+10:00

Hurray! I've just finished another quilt, this time for Doll Quilt Swap 4. I really enjoyed this one, it was a pattern I'd wanted to try for a while. I'd like to try it in 1930's with the red patches scrappy. I used some of my Japanese stash again! It's like the Magic Pudding, I never seem to run out of it, and it looks so good in this style if I do say so myself.

Here's a closeup which also shows the hand quilting. Please remind me to wear a thimble next time. That needle was living inside my finger by the end!!!

I just had to add this shot of Sophia at her very 1st Girlie party. We seem to always be going to boys parties, and it was such a joy to see all these little fairies. Happy Birthday Sian.

Quilts and other projects

2008-07-26T21:14:00.003+10:00

I have finally finished my 'Summer' Four Seasons Quilt. I have named it 'Bushfire Sun' as the colors remind me of the unusual color and haze of the sun, and the quilting reminds me of the radiant heat. This is the fourth season I have participated in. Once I receive my quilt in return, I will have to 'post' all four together.

Here is a photo from our "'Little People on the Move ' swap. Sophia is holding Birra the wombat and Pinta the Koala. They are spending July with us, and sharing many adventures. At months end, they will wing there way to the U.S.A. passports, scrapbooks and bags packed to live with 2 little people there. In return there little buddies will head our way to live with Sophia and Tessa. (nice bottom there Birra)

They came two by two

2008-06-30T04:53:00.003+10:00

Finally, here is a photo of the finished 6 1/2" quilt I made for my partner Tine. I actually made it for her son Ask , based on a gorgeous animal quilt that she had made for him. If you know me well, you will know I can't pass up the chance to do something in a Noah's Ark theme. I LOVE Noah's Ark! I have been told it will be hanging above Ask's bed.

We went for our first drive along the tollway today. It was chockers! It was fun to see how quickly we could get to different places, quite the novelty. I even got a trip to Chadstone S/C out of it and a new pair of shoes for Miss Tessa (so cute I will have to post a picture soon).
The funniest thing came to mind as we were driving through the tunnel. My Mini quilt swap specialty group for June have been doing English paper piecing, so as soon as I looked at the entry all I could think of was hexagons, and my quilty friends

Open Day at Eastlink

2008-06-16T16:46:00.002+10:00

Look what fun we had today at the new Eastlink tollway open day. Tessa was pictured on the big screen, dancing away to the Big Band. We took a bus tour along one side, whilst cyclists rode/raced the other. Over 100 thousand people visited.
Here are but a few of the cyclists resting after their tour.

And off we head into the tunnels. The one on the left is named after the Opera singer Dame Nellie Melba, the Melba tunnel . The one on the right is named after the creek whose flow it disrupted, the Mullum Mullum tunnel. You can also see the fume chimney in the middle, I think its quite pretty.
The tollway will open next weekend, Daddy is very excited as it will cut about 20 minutes each way from his work travel time. And, in the other direction it will whisk us to the beach!

Projects

2008-06-11T17:39:00.003+10:00

Here is a little tempter for my 6 1/2" mini quilt swap for June. It will be winging it's way to Denmark as soon as I can get to the post Office.

And, here is some great flannelette I found in my stash. It was with fabrics Mum bought for me when I was a child...early 1970's.
Who'd think I'd have a girl who loved purple. Now to find the time to make some new P.J.'s.
The fact that my very tall 4 year old is still wearing her size 2 P.J.'s should be enough incentive don't you think?!

Four Seasons Quilt Swap

2008-05-25T14:58:00.004+10:00

Yesterday I received my partner for the new 'Summer' round of the 4SQS. This round there are over 100 swappers, it sure has grown, it took about 2-3 days for the sign up to close.
I've already been checking out my partners blog, and some of the new swappers, including a gentleman from the U.S. How exciting, he looks very skilled.
I have had an idea for 'Summer', hope I can find the right fabrics, and that my partner will like the end result

Sleeping Fairy

2008-05-22T13:56:00.003+10:00

Eat your heart out Anne Geddes..........lol!
Here's my big girl as I found her, new party dress and fairy wings, all worn out after lots of
Fairy Dancing

Doll Quilt Swap 3

2008-04-28T15:55:00.004+10:00

This is my latest quilt for my swap partner in Doll Quilt Swap 3. I'm hoping she likes it! I didn't have any modern prints like this in my stash, so Janine helped me out with a part jelly roll by Urban Chicks. The finished size is approx. 13". The pattern is a miniature version of a quilt I made for Tessa called 'Rebekah Amy' by Rosalie Quinlan. I'm really pleased with the end result, I was going for a very 'busy' look.

This is the quilt I received from Taylynnsbean. It has a real assortment of buttons, which have been used to tie the quilt together. Tessa has become quite attached to it.

What a gorgeous Autumn day.

2008-04-22T15:57:00.005+10:00

Today I had a visit from one of my quilting friends. Hi Janine!
Wow! I am in show and tell overload. First I showed her some of mine, then she showed me some of hers, and so it went. QUILTS that is .......she showed me her quilts, I showed her my quilts!!! We are both huge 1930's devotees, so there was lots of ohhing and ahhing. We compared blocks in our recent 1930's churn dash swap. She has already finished her quilt top, I was waiting for the inspiration (which I may now have found).
It felt like such a quick visit as we had so many things to fill it with. Poor Sophia and Tessa were at a loss. "What your not her to visit and play with us, you're here to play with Mummy.......no fair!"
She also blessed me with a part jelly roll which will be perfect for my 'very interesting' Doll Quilt Swap III partner. I was at a loss with nothing in my stash and no car still to get around and peruse the shops.
Good news!!!! We will be picking up our new Sophie car tomorrow.....yay! As she was under one year old they are replacing her with a brand spanking new one. Photo's to follow.

4 Seasons 'Spring Quilt"' Swap

2008-04-17T16:44:00.003+10:00

And here is my Spring Quilt "1930's Butterfly" tomorrow it will wing it's way to it's new home. Yes very similar, but I did say I was glad to see 1930's lovers coming out of the woodwork!
This is on it's way to another 1930's lover, and I hope it suits her. The body of it is a triple Irish chain that I have made for myself and as a wedding quilt. It took around 80 individual printed squares for this block alone, so I may have doubled up on some prints! You will recognise my favourite butterfly in the middle (in Sophia purple).

Look what I received!

2008-04-12T22:01:00.003+10:00

Have a look at this little "Antique Cutie" made for me by Lori-Lyn for the Four Seasons Spring quilt swap. Pop over to her site to see how she made this on her beautiful 1920's Singer treadle machine. Amazing! The stitch on that machine is just beautiful.

Lori-Lyn also spoilt me with a cute zippered 1930's bag for the quilt and some vintage buttons and notions.

You know how I love 1930's fabrics, so, you can imagine I am just over the moon about this quilt. You will also laugh when you see my quilt for my swap partner. One thing I can say though, it's nice to see some 1930's lovers coming out of the woodwork.

I will post a picture of the added gifts and of my finished project very soon. Then it's time to start my quilt for my very interesting partner in the Doll Quilt swap.

Crafting up some birthday treats!

2008-04-10T23:14:00.002+10:00

We have had a few boys birthday parties to go to lately, so we've made a couple of bean bags, an apron and cookware for a budding chef
and to a superhero party, I made the girls these reversible capes I found here
I just changed the 'S' into a 'T' for Tessa and reduced the size slightly. They then became 'Super Sophia' and 'Terrific Tessa'. On the reverse is a Princess crown so they can be princesses if they please!
I know, I should have ironed them before the photo!!!

Happy Birthday 4 year old

2008-03-26T16:06:00.002+11:00

Happy Birthday my big girl! Are you really 4 years old? You've grown so tall and so mature. You are a wonderful big sister. We love you my darling Sophia!

The best laid plans..

2008-03-22T22:37:00.004+11:00

We headed off yesterday on our much anticipated trip to Newcastle to visit Auntie Dianne (my best friend for nearly 30yrs), Uncle Scott and the boys. We have been excitedly planning this trip since November, it being our first big road trip with our beautiful girls, and, their first meeting with Auntie Di's 'big boys'. Sophia has been packing & repacking her little pink case daily, with precious things to show Auntie Di. I also have been looking forward to it after a fairly shocking month including my second bout of bronchitis for the year, and, a spell in hospital with Gastro.

After much planning we decided (after a sleepless night) to head off two hours early. All seemed well with quiet roads and one sleepy Wallaby avoided in the middle of the road. After leaving the country roads a good two hours from home, and entering the Hume Highway, I decided to have a sleep before taking over my driving shift. Mistake one and two.
I awoke a couple of hours later to an almighty bang and our car veering of the road at an frightening pace!

If I was a good blogger I would have shared with you a photo of my Husbands' 9 month old Honda Jazz in purplish blue..."SophieCar"....chosen by our little girl..... sitting on the back of the tow truck with it's right front ripped off. Or, the four of us sitting on the side of the road, the girls in their p.j.s with all our possessions, waiting for someone to help us with a Hire car on Good Friday. But, I could not do that to my mortified husband. He, with the thoughts of what easily might have been.

We are all, Very Thankfully well, and returned home safely, unlike many others at this time of the year. We are thankful every day for our precious girls, and especially this morning as we awoke, entwined in each others arms, those beautiful girls sleeping between us.

And so my wonderful holiday photos, Sophia's first ice skating adventure with the boys, all these things will wait until we are ready to venture forth again........possibly by airplane.

Happy Birthday 2 Year Old

2008-03-18T13:20:00.002+11:00

Guess who is two today? Happy Birthday my beautiful girl! How you have grown. You are so much like your Mummy, you like babies and dollies and kisses and cuddles. We love you so much Tessa.

Winter Quilt received

2008-02-13T17:31:00.003+11:00

Oh my! Look what I received in the mail from the U.S.A.. I LOVE IT! Thankyou Jeanne.

I knew as soon as I saw this quilt on the flickr site, that it was for me.

1930's fabrics...applique.....gorgeous. Apparently Jeanne had something else in mind for me, but I couldn't have asked for more, she has paid great attention and detail to my likes.

The little bird on the snowman is a cardinal, which frequents her area.

Winter Quilt. Four Seasons Quilt Swap

2008-01-28T02:31:00.000+11:00

Well it is just about finished, only the binding and label to go, then it is off to it's new owner.

Excuse the poor quality photograph, but it is taken on my mobile phone while I await the return of my camera.

Winter was a real quandary as we could also use Christmas as our theme, there are so many options. I was going to go with the snowflake/snowman type theme, and then I thought "well this isn't really winter to me". Christmas seemed a better theme and with two little ones, I could imagine that light in the window being left on, watching for Santa.

I decided to name my Quilt 'HOPE' as this is what Christmas brings, and Winter brings the hope of regeneration in the Spring. I think you will see the star which brings,or brought hope, and the doves with their olive branches, bring the hope of peace and new life. Hope is what I have for the future and for our family.

Hair Ribbons

2008-01-16T11:34:00.000+11:00

Does anyone have a good idea or way of storing little girls hair ribbons (1/2 mtr lengths)and hair ties?

What I'm working on!

2008-01-07T13:52:00.000+11:00

Well, I still haven't got my camera fixed.....so no photo's yet.

I have been busy since Xmas fulfilling swaps for the end of January.

Firstly I have completed 5 'grandmothers Fans' for a Sampler quilt swap in my patch'nquilt group. We all had to use Moda fabric 'Allspice tapestry' by Figtree Quilters, so it will be a very pretty quilt.

Secondly, one of my appliqued butterfly blocks for Elizabeth in my monthly block swap group. She is also a lover of 1930's fabrics. Fingers crossed she likes it!

Next, will be 12 churn dash blocks in 1930's fabrics to be sent off for another swap in the U.S.A.

And finally Winter in the 'Four Seasons quilt swap. I have gone through 4 different ideas/themes, but, am close to starting. I'm going to applique this one, which should be a lot easier and more enjoyable with the 2 little helpers. Hopefully, time permitting, I can also practise my hand quilting skills.

Whilst one big girl is at the beach with Nana, the other has fallen asleep in my arms, so I will sign off until next time

A Merry Christmas to one and all

2007-12-25T23:25:00.000+11:00

Jane & Tony circa 1970

A Merry Christmas to all our family and friends, and especially to all the new friends I have made since joining the blog world. Thank you for your friendship, your kindness and your inspiration.

A Kindergarten Christmas

2007-12-21T10:03:00.000+11:00

Well, my big girl finished her 1st year of Kinder this week. We started a week of celebration with a nativity/christmas concert in which Sophia was an Angel. How cute! There were many Dads and grandparents there too. Next the children had a Christmas party with a clown and lots of party food. Christmas cards were exchanged, presents and one very special kiss from one best friend to another

Seven Things...A Christmas version

2007-12-09T21:10:00.000+11:00

I saw this over at Carries sight and thought it would be fun, so here goes.

My family always had a real Christmas tree culled from native bushland, my husband thought this was stealing so we now have a artificial one!
My mother made the best Christmas pudding known to man. It was so good, my father and I asked for it for our birthday in June one year.
My mother used to let me open one gift before I went to bed on Christmas eve.
We always watch "Carols by Candlelight" on Christmas eve, and possibly the repeat on Christmas day. But what good Melbournian doesn't!
I always opened my Christmas presents at the foot of my parents bed on Christmas morning, carefully chosing one present at a time for each of us to open.
My family have beautifully made Christmas stockings, my brother and I had pillow slips, which my mother would fill with the likes of; an orange, an apple & a banana, undies and socks, and a personal gift.(do you think my parents went through the depression & war!)
I don't even know the name of my favourite Christmas movie! It is about a guy who needs to find a Christmas tree for Rockefeller Center in N.Y.C. and the story of the Nun who has grown with this tree. My Mum grew up in a convent too, so it has a personal touch!

I'm Back!

2007-12-07T09:44:00.000+11:00

I'm back at last. heave a sigh of relief! It was like coming down from an addiction. No daily fix of all things Internet, seeing what all my blogging friends were up to e.g. where Jodie is up to in her house...what new shoes Lisa is coveting...what new crafty project Monica has made.
And for the swaps I've taken part in whilst of offline;another sisters shoebox swap, and a vintage Xmas stocking swap, photo's will be added soon. You can view what I sent Chrisi at her blog.
The girls are both well. Sophia is preparing for her kinder concert, singing lots of Christmas songs...at home...at the shops....anywhere. She is so excited! Tessa has started to form more words, and is going through quite a growth spurt which is great. Daddy is starting a new exciting project at work, and as for me, I have joined the Kinder committee for the new year!
The girls are enjoying lots of outside play now the summer has arrived, although I can't say we are enjoying the 30'oc plus days usually it's off to the pool to cool down. We have found a fantastic wave pool not to far away that the girls just love it. I'm so proud of what confident swimmers they are becoming.
Anyway off to playgroup....promise some pictures soon

Missing in Action

2007-10-21T15:59:00.000+10:00

Will be so for a little while! will be able to check my mail via m.i.law, but the laptop has become a casualty of war and so I won't be able to post until we acquire another. Best wishes to all....Jane

A wonderfully generous week

2007-10-05T12:46:00.000+10:00

What a wonderfully generous week we have had, Tessa received this cute bunny and Sophia

this cheeky monkey, actually which one is the cheeky monkey? And I received

these gorgeous Vintage buttons and fantastic braid, all for doing a small favour for RicRac. Thank you so much Jodie these gifts are much appreciated, and only go to prove the power of friendship and kinship in the blog world.

And, on a day in which we remembered the 10th anniversary of my Fathers passing, I received this. It is my beautiful Four Seasons Fall Quilt all the way from Jeanette in Finland. I initially said that the quilt I received would be used by the girls for their dolls......no way this is too beautiful.

Jeanette even included applique (my favourite) of an angel(her favourite), a beautiful letter and some extra quilting fabrics. My photography doesn't do the colors justice. Here is the poem which brought me to tears included on the label

I believe there are angels among us

Sent down to us from somewhere up above

They come to you and me in our darkest hours

To show us how to live

To teach us how to give

To guide us with a light of love..

Thank you Jeanette, Thank you Jodie, and I love you Dad

U.F.O. Week

2007-10-05T11:40:00.000+10:00

This week was put to good use with several Unfinished Objects either completed, or on their way to being so. I know we all have 1 or 2 (or 15).
Firstly the doll cot! Started before Tessa was born, meant to be for Sophia's 2nd birthday, but, rudely interrupted by someones very early arrival. It needs another sand and varnish, but better they use it than wait for Mum! So, finally the base was made and the mattress and old linen put to good use. I believe Manny the bear finds it very comfortable.

Secondly, the 'Cracker Box' repro. quilt. All it needed was the binding sewn down on 2 sides! An hours hand sewing, and it was finished...Yay! A quick look at the label on the back ....1996

Next my big challenge......hand quilting. I began these after seeing some similar Vintage 30's butterfly blocks at the Lancaster County Fair in Virginia. I resisted the purchase, but once I got home had to reproduce them. The only problem is that I used my favourite cotton batting which is not the best to hand quilt. And so it's been sitting there ever since.

I was in the U.S.A. visiting my 5 year old niece Leah, she will be 18 this December!!!

And finally Judie Rothermels' 'Tea Leaves' quilt, only started 5 years ago. Cut and ready to go. One wheel complete. I thought I might continue and practice my hand piecing skills. Will let you know how that one goes

Sisters Shoebox Swap Two...Cozy

2007-09-30T11:48:00.000+10:00

I'm so excited the second round of the Sisters Shoebox Swap has been announced. The theme for this round is "cozy" , isn't that just yummy. I think the theme is more evocative than "refresh" was, for me at least. They are also suggesting you include Christmas & Thanksgiving items for the holiday season. Please stop by and have a look at the real life sisters Monica & Carrie, I have loved getting to know them both and also Lisa our last swap partner. Seriously, if you love swaps, this is a truly enjoyable & indulgent one

2007-09-28T10:37:00.001+10:00

Take the Quiz here!

Oh No!

2007-09-24T13:30:00.000+10:00

Look what a 3yr old can do to your beloved Olfa mat when she uses it as a bridge for her "Little People" bus! Words were spoken! Then, in mid speech I realised I do have 2 more. They are different sizes, but none the less two more! Enough said.

Four Seasons Quilt swap

2007-09-24T12:47:00.000+10:00

Well, I have now finished autumn/fall doll quilt #2 after the ironing incident that was #1. Although I loved the first quilt, this was a much more pleasurable one to make, and quilted up better. I think I may try a little hand quilting on the next 'winter' quilt. All depends on my partners preferences.

This is the autumn/fall inspired backing fabric! It's now on it's way to it's new owner in the U.S.A. If you'd like to visit the flickr site to view the rest of the fall quilts find the link here.

And this is what I sent Lisa

2007-09-24T12:16:00.000+10:00

A Japanese reversible bag, made from fabric my brother brought on a trip home from Sendai

Fantales for the choc/caramel lover, a b/w photo of Puffing Billy (chosen by Sophia), some charity post-its from Bonnie babes and Missy Higgins latest c.d. Popover and see what Lisa thinks!
Finally my first dishcloth made with the cotton Lisa sent. The pattern was on the back of the label. I have since found a link to dishcloth patterns at Louise's site

Wow! Look what arrived today

2007-09-14T13:46:00.001+10:00

Our parcel from Lisa arrived this afternoon. "How exciting!"
Isn't this beautful!
What a generous friend. The girls and I thoroughly enjoyed exploring our shoebox
Thankyou from the bottom of our hearts! It is truely appreciated Lisa.

But look there's more

2007-09-14T13:18:00.000+10:00

1. paper/cards for fun with the girls!

2.great now I can make some dishcloths!

3. yummy treats for mummy!

4. and a little self indulgence

A weekend walk

2007-09-14T13:01:00.000+10:00

Here are loyal companions, Zoe and Bianca. Sunday was such a beautiful day we thought we'd head done to the park to throw the ball. You can see how dry the grounds are, and it's the end of Winter!
"come on just throw it"

Dear Mum

2007-09-05T10:47:00.000+10:00

Please listen when I say I need a bath
Please don't dawdle
Please don't run and get my sister
Please don't say you'll be there in a minute
Please come and undress me and put me in quickly, because Mummy

I will just do it myself!

When I am young I shall wear purple...

2007-09-03T21:33:00.000+10:00

Sophia loves purple! Everything needs to be purple. It's suprising where this little obsession comes from. . . her last dummy was purple!
I am a pink girl, my mother was a pink girl, it's hard for me to get my head around. I have the challenge of making a purple quilt now, I look at the fabrics and they don't gel together. it's amazing how you are in tune with certain colors and hues and others not. Colors give you certain feelings and memories. Don't you agree?

Sophia has been helping me with my 'Sisters shoebox swap'. We spent the morning at a local craft market last weekend and she chose something very dear to her heart for our friend Lisa. This week I will be making something, with fabric my brother purchased for me. It comes from the country he has lived in for the last 9 years. Add something sweet, something pleasurable, it's all coming together....

Getting Started...with a little help

2007-09-03T21:04:00.000+10:00

Whilst looking through my stash of scraps/fabrics Tessa found a little ziplock bag containing these 2 5/8" triangles which are perfact for my Four Seasons Fall doll quilt.They are from a quilt I made around 12 years ago (scary!). The main reason I like them is that red is my favaourite autumn leaf color. So, with the addition of a few extra new pieces, the top is finished and I just need to quilt and bind. Watch out for the updates

This photo reminds me of all the shots of cats sitting by there masters machines. This is my faithful kitten Tessa! Always ready to help, and yes she is taste testing the fabrics. . .

Our Tessa

2007-08-27T17:26:00.000+10:00

Understandably, when you begin your life like this, you parents will fret.

Saturday night was one of these occasions. Tessa went to sleep as normal after a busy day, and, at around 11.30pm awoke screaming. She did this uncontrollably for at least an hour. Now she has a cold, so I'm thinking 'Influenza A' (to those o/s readers, this is taking children's lives in Aust.). These are the times when I wish my mother was here, and able to share her wisdom. I rang 'nurse on call' and they talked me through different scenarios, and in the end I was just told to monitor her! Eventually she stopped and we all had a good nights sleep. Sophia never woke during it all.

Monday arrives and my cheeky brown eyed girl is lying giggling on my lap, and I see the source of all our trouble. . . a new tooth!

What fun!

2007-08-21T13:54:00.000+10:00

Today we walked to Kinda, and when we arrived we noticed they were a Mum short on duty, so we volunteered. It is wonderful to watch Sophia's freindships flourish, and to get to know the other children. We played puzzles/games/dressups, listened to music, read books, played outside, and finally made Dads gift for Fathers Day. We came home with an invitation to breakfast the saturday before Fathers Day. I know they will both love it. Needless to say Tessa also had a wonderful time, playing with the big kids/ eating dirt outside e.t.c.
I received my first postcrossings postcard today, all the way from Finland! How exciting!

Home Baking

2007-08-20T18:02:00.000+10:00

Well those who now me will tell you I'm not a big fan of cooking. Baking on the other hand, I don't mind. After some inspiration from fellow bloggers/uber mothers, I decided we should give it a go. Sophia and I, with a little help from Tessa, made a tea cake yesterday and pikelets today.
Yum, the cake was quickly demolished by all, including Daddy, which is the sign of a good cake.
The pikelets were great when there's not much in the cupboard and there are empty tummies.
Now I need some hints on house cleaning. I abhore it and turn into a screaming banshee. Any advice?

Getting there

2007-08-19T08:48:00.000+10:00

Well, still no photo's! Will be working on that this week.
Apart from the usual I have been starting my two new swaps, trying to figure out my partners; their likes and dislikes, color themes e.t.c.
The only problem being, with one blog site I find a link to another and another, and so it goes. I'm sure I am not the only one with this problem?

with all that I've been given: swaps

2007-08-13T16:25:00.000+10:00

with all that I've been given: swaps

The first day

2007-08-13T14:31:00.000+10:00

Well this is the first day of my life as a 'blog'. My husband thinks Ihave gone a little crazy with swaps and forums and such. I am enjoying reading and learning from peoples blogs, and especially swaps , I figured why not give it a go. Time for some Aussies to share their life and knowledge. I'm sure you'll get to know me/us as the days go by.
Jane