Inside the world of Mad Boo

New Blog

2009-11-09T15:34:00.001-08:00

Just a quick post,
please visit a fab new blog, http://asdantheartexperience.blogspot.com

The group would love positive comments :)

The Good Life

2009-07-04T15:20:00.000-07:00

I am shocked, stunned and just amazed!!! My first crop of potato's!!! Yes the humble spud has been around for some time but I really cannot believe that I have succeeded in the art of veg growing. In fact I had planted many seed potatoes in tubs , and the particular tub that my little stash came from are a miracle, because I thought they were diseased and dead, so it was a joyous moment when I plucked not one or two spuds , but a plentiful amount for tea!

They went down a treat, boiled with my very own home grown mint, salmon with "my home grown" dill, and a little salad (shopped locally at co-op!! , I am afraid- but i do like co-op instead of the bigger s.markets). Anyhow, salad veg is still at the growing stage.

The question is can I call myself a gardener now? Or Is that a tad to optimistic!?

Living The Magical Creative Life

2009-07-04T13:09:00.000-07:00

Left: Colourful artists.

Right: Kay Susan's smiley happy plant (the photo really does not show the fine detail)

Sue's knitted gems and a box of delights. Above: Sue's painting.

Living the magical creative life was the intriguing title of an invite to Susie's house. Indeed such an invitation is not to be missed, as Sue is very much a creative spirit. I arrived to her sun trap, decorated with colourful sari,s , blooming colourful flowers, a fine feast, and a selection of colourful lovely creative souls!

Creative people being; musicians, artists and a wonderful story teller. As we chatted and devoured the fine food some people passed around their current art and craft work , along with beautiful angel and flower cards being passed around the circle.

Sue has been working on Knitted balls for necklaces and had a joyous moment the other week when she worked out how to knit little leaves. The pics show how jewel coloured knitted necklaces also a delightful box of knitted and felted brooches. Another fabulous Sue idea was displaying her paintings in the garden, why just hang them on the walls indoors?! It really created a sort of secret garden feel. I also met another etsy lady called Kay Susan, which is quite surprising as I thought there was only about three etsians in my area. Her work is exquisite , she produced this divine, smiling embroidered plant from her bag. The detail in her work is masterclass so take a look at her brilliant blog and etsy shop: http://www.smockerysmart.etsy.com/ and http://smockery.blogspot.com/

Anyhow a beautiful day : "a gathering of artists in an artistic setting" , so sending big thanks to Sue and Tanya.

New Vintage Lovely

2009-06-17T03:31:00.001-07:00

Thought I would quickly blog/brag about my new 60,s silk vintage skirt. I traded this in one of the new Vintage dress shops in town.(Purfect Vintage) I had a beautiful floral 60's tailored dress, which was never, ever going to fit me. It was very small in the bottom half and It did'nt matter how much weight I could loose for the dress, as I would never fill the ample room in the bust! So rather than keep the dress just to look nice in my wardrobe, It made more sense to swap it for something that I would actually wear and hope that the dress would be actually worn rather than a beautiful object to look at!

I love the skirt and wore it to work yesterday, hence I am not at my best in the morning!

I will post my other new vintage acquisition, which will get all lovers of 40's & 50's fashion drooling!

A Summer Boy

2009-06-14T13:07:00.000-07:00

That broody feeling has happened again. So I could'nt hold back any longer, after all I have curbed the high street shops (pat on back). Although there seems to be a rapid increase in vintage clothing shops in the nearby town, perhaps I will show you my new bargain vintage pieces another time. I think there must be 4 new vintage clothing shops just opened in the town!

Anyhow , my favourite indulgences are No1. art shops :the one in town is like an Aladdin's cave. No2. shoe shops. No3. The bakers!! (I live near to 2 which I declare are the best in the South East! and No.4 has to be Pet shops / animal sanctuary's.

So here is the new baby, a little dwarf Netherlands boy, who has yet to be named. He is 9 weeks old and super cute.

Please leave any "nice" names if you so wish. (Stewart is a no-no!)

New Shoes

2009-04-30T04:17:00.001-07:00

New Shoes

2009-04-30T03:58:00.000-07:00

Sad as it may be nothing gives me more joy than shoes! I am aware of my addiction and have come to terms with the fact that lots of shoes do not make you a happy person ! But, I am sorry shoes do make me happy , and this is a weak shameful and shallow side of me . For the last year I have really curbed my shoe-addiction, but I have had enough . Enough of wearing my comfy, scratched, red knee high boots because it is Spring and from a health perspective it is not good to keep your feet thermally insulated.

So I bought these little Spring/Summer lovelies in Brighton at the weekend. I adore them and they are versatile to wear at work at home and look divine. They come from a cool shop in the Northern lanes called Yoma. Lots of gorgeous clothes and shoes all designed in Brighton (unsure where they are made -hopefully of ethical practice). The clothes have a sort of 60's swing / rockabilly vibe and so do the sales assistants.

Cannot wait to go back to Brighton...........................to window shop of course.

Happiness is.........................

2009-04-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

Happiness is................................................. neglecting your etsy shop for some time, only to find a sale! What a joyous moment ! I have been purposely avoiding my shop in order to refresh my ideas as I was losing my creativity and verging on becoming a mass (well not quite mass) production robot. I would sometimes look at the very successful shops and feel slightly despondent with my own work and consider ways to sale lots on a weekly basis. It will never happen, so I have aimed to avoid putting any work in the shop until I am good and ready!

The down side was that some of my items became redundant/ unsold and I did not feel the need to re list. However I have thrown caution to the wind and renewed some of my summery items, because they may not of sold but I think they are damn gorgeous!!!! The photos are of some of my fav dresses!

It is amazing how one sale can lift your spirits ( I am even more amazed that someone stumbled across my shop!! :))

Early Morning Art

2009-04-04T04:37:00.000-07:00

Most people are either a lark or an owl. I fall under the nocturnal group, due to the fact that I stay up until the small hours, and find it really difficult to go to bed at a "normal" time. I wake early due to the fact that I have little people, but I am not fully awake until I have a pint of coffee!

My son is most definitely a lark, he happily goes to sleep early and bounces out of bed at the crack of dawn.

Last night I was far too tired to put away my crafty materials and left them safely on my craft table. This morning I was not awaken by the demand for breakfast , but presented with a "embellished sock" from my little boy. Obviously the array of my craft bits n bobs , created a burst of creative inspiration for my sons abstract sock art! I told him he is a very clever little artist (but I did not question his use of all of my yellow bows- it was for the sake of art).

The Little Herberts

2009-03-28T13:08:00.000-07:00

Many Thanks to Tali.

Tushtush.etsy.com

Sooo happy

2009-03-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

For some time I have been scouring etsy for an artist of my liking to paint or draw a portrait of my little herberts. Someone with good colour sense, energy and originality and finally I discovered Tali from Jerusalem. Not only is she a fabulous artist but super speedy, she worked from one of a few photographs I had sent. Every pic had one of my little darlings pulling a silly face, Tali liked this and certainly captured there "lively characters". She created the painting in less than a day of receiving the pics and offers a no obligation to buy if you are unhappy.
But I am super impressed and will more than likely will be a patron to her brilliant art work again in the near future.

I cannot wait to have this fabulous work framed and on display.

R, R & R

2009-03-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

No, not rest and relaxation. Thou fellow bloggers may think that is the case, unfortunately I have become shamefully neglecting my blog.

R.R.R as in recycle, reduce and reuse, I am trying very hard to live a more Eco-friendly lifestyle. Gone are the days when I would plan a whole day excursion to Ikea, and be a complete sucker for the seemingly cheap prices and quirky designs. I still love the designs, however many things I have purchased are no longer, due to the fact that most things did not survive the test of time.

One item I did purchase, which is still going strong is a wooden high chair, it must be about 5 years old now (vintage Ikea!!!). About 2 years ago I spilt something unpleasant on it like turps or nail varnish remover which removed the varnish ., and left a rather ugly looking splodge mark.

Last weekend eldest daughter and myself did a spot of decoupage/ covering the chair with some

vintage map/ globe wrapping paper and voila :1 up cycled desk chair for my sons bedroom.

I gave the chair another coat of satin varnish, so maybe it could last another 5 years!!

Tag ! You have been tagged!

2009-02-28T15:34:00.000-08:00

The RULES of this Blog Tag Game are simple: Choose the sixth image out of your sixth picture folder from your computer and blog about it. Then tag six more people to do the same!
As I've never seen this version of tag, I decided to play along. Here's photo number six from file six. And a side- ways number seven, just for luck! ( I really cannot work out how to delete it!!!

Theresa J , tagged me,at first I thought oh no, but when I nipped across to her blog I loved her pics and thought it was an innovative game of tag!

Also the photos, from file No 6 , bring back some good memories of when I took my daughter on a short break to Amsterdam, (Easter 2006). I have three children , so it was nice to spend some 1-1 time with my middle child. The photos are the just outside the Van Gogh museum. I remember we both enjoyed a lovely marshmallow and cream topped hot chocolate after I took the photographs.

The blogs I have tagged are:

http://threadsofmagique.blogspot.com/

http://colorofdawncreations.blogspot.com/

http://mopeycantswim.blogspot.com/

http://tiltcreationstoo.blogspot.com/

http://blossomingtree.blogspot.com/

Http://michelleburnett.blogspot.com

The Boudoir

2009-02-28T14:25:00.000-08:00

Thought I would post a few pics of my little bedroom, one of my many works in progress! I really wanted to give the room a Bloomsbury feel and paint every inch of the walls with designs like Vanessa Bell, however I was too gutless (or perhaps not!?). Once all of the walls were immaculately painted I really was far too inhibited to go wild with my set of paints. However, I sanded , primed and painted an old chest of draws and painted Poppies on one side, I still feel that my poppies are slightly restrained! Anyhow the chest of draws looks far better than it,s former self. I have also started on the wardrobes,(which I thrift ed very cheaply from a second hand shop- solid wood too!). You can see one is prepared for a design and the other needs sanding and about 3 coats of undercoat.
The colour scheme is whites, creams, linen and poppy reds, it is quite a small room so it needs light and I need a little bit of serenity!
I also have a patchwork in the colour scheme, I might post some pics at a later date. I started making different panels, but I think I might use the panels as cushion covers and use some of the same fabrics for a Grandmas rose garden quilt, as I tend to like the antique style of quilts rather than the contemporary.
Oh yes, the mustard carpet may be vintage but I am afraid it is going! I will use it on the top of my compost- does that count as recycling?

A Happy St.Valentines Day

2009-02-14T13:37:00.000-08:00

Here is wishing you a smoochy lovey-dovey St.Valentines. I should of really looked into who St.Valentine is....? But, a very good Saint he/she is,such a sweet time of year seeing all types of people treating there loved ones...arghh!
A long time ago... I used to work opposite an inter-floras, and sigh every Valentine's at the mountains of red roses which would be wrapped and ribboned... but never for me...

Next chapter (of my life) now I am treated on St.Valentines by my beloved. Not roses, no! no! - he likes to surprise me with something different, however I really don't think he knows the Latin meaning of the beautiful orchid!!!!Must eat my lovely raspberry liqueur truffles, wish I could share my chocs with you bloggers, but alas......

Is love , making your partner fat????

Narnia

2009-02-02T13:40:00.000-08:00

OMG! No school, No work , some thing magical has happened! We have found Narnia!

January 2009

2009-02-02T13:28:00.000-08:00

A belated Happy New Year to you all! January is the month of preparation for the year and a little bit of hibernation, hence my lack of blogging. Here are a some photos of a refreshing winters walk!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

2008-12-22T14:59:00.000-08:00

I think it is a jolly good tree!

Such a clever cat! He knows the best place to lanquish!

Jude, my dog. I had to include him in the photos, though he is just not a hat wearing sort of hound!

From myself and all in the world of Mad-Boo, I wish you all glad tidings this christmas and a splendid New year.

Back in the New Year. xoxoxox

Finishing Touches

2008-12-22T14:04:00.000-08:00

Yah! the decorations are done, pressies wrapped and most of the food shopping done. At last time to now enjoy the Christmas and the end of a rather strange year! This year has been a lot of changes, also a time to take stock and a lot of reflection on the personal, home and work front, so I am anticipating a refreshing and exciting start to 2009!
This year I really made a conscious effort to think more ethically regarding environmental issues. Being a bit of a fashion victim I am highly influenced by new trends, designs, technologies and inventions. However I have become a lot more thoughtful of my shopping habits regarding all areas, food, clothing etc. (Recycle-Reduce-Reuse)

This year I purchased my first Christmas tree with roots , so I can plant it in the garden after Christmas, and get all nostalgic when the children are older and tell them that was our first tree in the house! Unfortunately my partner moaned a bit , cause it does look a little sad, a bit lop sided and the needles may all fall off by Christmas day! - but it is the right choice, or perhaps no tree is the right choice!?
Well, with all the room all pretty and some of my bunting and holly from the garden I think it looks quite pretty. I have added a photo of Kevin, the ultimate homely feel is my little cat in front of the hearth!

Time to relax

2008-12-21T14:04:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year, the children have such a fun filled time with all the school shows and parties. I double checked the calender every day for the past two weeks because it is so busy, as they have had Christmas dinners, activities and etc on different days. The children broke up from school on Friday so this weekend has been the chance to relax and enjoy being at home and finish off the decorations and a few last bits of Christmas shopping.

A few pictures of finishing touches.

Of course the guinea pigs have a stocking!

The cutest elf-cat in the world! X

My son made his own wonderful Christmas hat creation to wear at Christmas Lunch.

Getting into the Festive Spirit

2008-12-05T16:08:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I managed to bag a craft stall at a wonderful place called Chasely at the Christmas art and sculpture exhibition. Chasely is a fabulous Victorian building, overlooking the sea near Holywell in Eastbourne. Chasely is the home to many people with severe disabilities, including spinal injuries, MS, acquired brain injury and cerebral palsy. residents receive expert care and the building provides top quality accommodation.
The art exhibition was a remarkable showcase of local talent.(Lots of sales) The craft stalls were also as fabulous, with lovely friendly crafters too!
Of course I had to take a few pics of every ones work for you all to see.
This work is by a lady called Doreen Carter, and I discovered that she lives quite near to me, so hopefully I will meet her again. She makes the most wonderful enamelled and fired copper bowls, I couldn't resist buying some little ones for Christmas pressies.

This is Tanya who runs the creative co-op, and a truly talented lady, beautiful art work , jewelry, amazing recycled Christmas decorations and a master poet.

Here is lovely Sue, with her beautiful table and the most exquisite jewelry. This lady is truly blessed with talent. I always feel so inspired when I see Sue.

She flew in with the wings!

This craft event was also the most entertaining, we had a little lull on the Sunday afternoon, so Tanya decided to sing (no music) one of her own songs: the "anti-consumer" song, Not only was it lovely to hear but hysterically funny too, followed with her own poetry! Is there no end to her talents? This had an effect On Sue who then stood up and recited one of her poems, followed by some Shakespeare from a lady called Maria and finished with a hilarious story of "Ernie the Electric Eel" from Doreen.
I did,nt become rich from the event by definitely had a few giggles. I am going to have to learn a new entertainment piece for next craft fair!

Tanya singing.

Crafty Ladies

2008-11-24T15:09:00.001-08:00

Busy, Busy painting and decorating my little boy,s bedroom and the front room. The front room is my space for sewing, the p.c. and a lot of clutter and I have yet to decide it,s future purpose. I hate the space the computer takes up, and I can not quite work out where to put it.( shed at the end of the garden, perhaps?) You will see phoographs when the room is finished, By then I will think up a grand name for the room ( rather than sewing/p.c/clutter room).

This is a quickie post of the lovely little "Crafty Ladies" Christmas craft fayre I sold my wares at , on Saturday. Really lovely stalls of jewelery, crystal angels and salt dough Chrimbo decorations. I shared a table with Mrs. Lingdesigns who also sales her cute hand-knitted crafty creations on etsy. Photo of Mrs Ling and my friend H at the table we shared.You may just see my fab new Christmas bunting in the corner, I will be putting some on etsy this week, because I have grown some what obsessive about making it - very relaxing.

Sleepy Heads

2008-11-09T13:22:00.000-08:00

Just found youngest daughter and Kevin asleep, both exhausted by a eventful day!

The Adventures of a Little Kitten

2008-11-09T12:29:00.000-08:00

Spot Kevin...

A shrill voice of my distressed daughter beckoned me to the garden. As I approached the garden, panic of my daughters cries were mimicked by a distressed miaowing! Kevin was stuck in a conifer tree! Last Sunday we had to make an emergency trip to the vets after Kevin had been stung by a bee! His poor little paw had swollen treble (if not more).
This problem could be easily solved ( I initially thought) I asked my daughter to get the dried cat food and we spent a good 20 minutes shaking the food and calling him. The problem was that it was a very windy day and the more the wind blew,the more the tree shook and Kevin decided to climb higher. He was crying in distress but could'nt work out which branch to climb down. I really did not want to call the emergency services ( having visions of three or more fire engines arrive in my street would be quite embarrassing. I decided to call my bro, who is a fire fighter for any "cat down the tree "tips. Alas, he was out and his mob was off. Another twenty minutes passed and finally Kevin worked out how to descend the tree!
Later my brother informed me that a cat can stay for up to 48 hours in a tree! What would worry me is that if he was blown out of the tree at night time I am sure the pack of foxes or badgers who venture into my garden at night would eat him for tea!!!!

Reunited!

Raindrops and Roses

2008-11-03T10:42:00.000-08:00

Whiskers on kittens, bright copper kettles yada yada!!! Yes I love all pretty things especially sparkly and glittery things. So my first festive creation had to be a combination of cute, glitter, sequins and tied up with ribbons!
Voila my Christmas baubles, somehow these may be a limited edition as they took longer to make than anticipated!

Halloween and Half Term

2008-11-01T05:09:00.000-07:00

A busy and fun filled week this half term was had by all. Although, little making for my etsy and looming craft fairs.On the first day of half term we took the train to London to see the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, we did have a great day and managed to see another small area of each museum (because they are huge). I did,nt quite anticipate that everyone else had also decided to descend on the capital, as there were huge queues everywhere. Think I will probably take the children again on inset days.

On the days we spent at home, it felt somehow appropriate to head to the kitchen and bake. I think the colder days and dark mornings and evenings seem to have an effect on me like animals that hibernate. The need to fill up on warm homely cooked foods and prepare for the harsh cold winter, when we are snowed in and cannot get to the shops. Well, perhaps I slightly exaggerate, it never snows until April!

The first batch of baking this week was some yummy banana muffins, which swiftly disappeared.

Halloween, yet another excuse for more baking! With the emphasis of aiming to be a self sufficient household we scooped the seeds , to save and plant next year. The little Herbert's created some ghoulish , yet cute pumpkins and we saved the flesh to make yummy, scummy pumpkin muffins. These muffins are so light in texture , but rich like a chocolate pud, that I think they would be delious warm with custard.

In the U.K., not everyone is pro trick or treat, it is only a bit of fun, but I guess some folk don,t see it that way. So we decided to dress up in Halloween spirit and meet some friends with their children at a child friendly pub for a meal. This was enjoyed by all and we went to another country pub afterwards to see a firework display. So a great time was had by all, especially me, as I had no washing up!

When we arrived home I let my eldest daughter stay up and watch my new ( or not so new) "Footloose" DVD. I bought this the other day which is actually a double film set with "Flashdance". To me Footloose is a classic 80's film,and it only seems like yesterday that I saw it at the Cinema. Quite scary how long ago it was made; 1984 to be exact! However you will see a young Sarah Jessica Parker and I think she is a classic example of someone who has blossomed with age. My daughters verdict was that she thought it was a good film!! Could be because of the fashion cycle, a lot of the fashion in the film can be found in your local Topshop or Primark!

Plum and Apple Crumble

2008-10-26T14:39:00.000-07:00

Finally back to blogging after a little computer annoyance! Though, I am happy now that I have broadband. So much has happened over the past few weeks, many ups and downs, so in some ways it has probably been a blessing that I had no p.c. I don't know where to start, so I will start with a little autumn warming dessert recipe. I have tried this a few times over the past few weeks and its a bit of a winner in my home, so took a few photos of the creation.

With the price of food shooting through the roof, I am trying to be resourceful with what I can find in the garden. We have a glut of cooking apples and eating apples, therefore my recipe is for Apple and Plum Crumble. The plums are one of the few fruits which are quite cheap in the shops.

This is a dish that anybody can make, and even easier if you have a mini master chef with you to make the crumble.

Now, everyone wash your hands, pop on an apron and pay attention

Can serve 8 (or in my case 1)

8 fresh dark plums, cut in half and stones removed

8 cooking apples, fresh from the tree, or bottom of the tree

nutmeg

cinnamon stick

glass of red wine

4tbsp of caster sugar

FOR THE CRUMBLE

100g butter

100g brown sugar

200g plain flour

Pre-heat the oven to 200 c /gas mark 6

Saute the plums and apples with the butter for a few minutes. Add a teaspoon of nutmeg, the cinnamon stick, red wine, sugar and 50ml of water, then bring to the boil and simmer for about 8 minutes.

As the fruit breaks down to a thick, syrup like texture, place in an ovenproof dish. I am putting some in a large dish and some in a little individual dish (so I can take one to my mothers)

My son is always more than pleased to measure the ingredients, sift the flour and make the crumble.

Sprinkle the crumble over the fruit and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden.
This is a before photo, just to show you how sweet the crumble is as an individual portion, in my 1970's dish I bought from a charity shop.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly, before serving with custard, ice-cream or cream. I have opted for cream today. This is such a lovely comfort food and with the cinnamon and nutmeg, you have this glorious warm homely aroma wafting around the house, which make the dark early evenings seem a little cosier.

BLOG TAG!!

2008-10-03T01:30:00.000-07:00

Blog Tag

I am IT!! Deborah from the gaudygoddess has tagged me. I suggest you visit her blog at http://thegaudygoddess.blogspot.com and see her lovely blog and her 6 secrets!! Now I am IT, I have to tell you my secrets!

The idea of this game is to learn something new about our blog friends, I have to list 6 secrets about myself and those who I have tagged will divulge 6 unknown facts about themselves.

I may regret this later!

1) I was asked to leave the church choir,(must of been about 11 years old) due to my appalling voice and diplomatically asked if I would like to be a church server. I stopped attending church from that point.

2) I was a proud Brownie with an arm and a half of badges!

3) I have always had a burning desire to run the London marathon. I have got to do it before I am 40 - so I have a few years left! I expect I could start training after I have got rid of this chesty cold. I have run half marathons, but I really want to do the big one!

4)I have an O.C.D with cleaning. I have not actually been diagnosed, but I seem to spend a lot of time doing it. I blame my mother , shes always cleaning! It dose not matter how much time I spend sorting, tidying and cleaning ; it,s a mess!

5)Career- Ever since I was a child I wanted to be a vet, but I was never a straight A student in the science area, which is what you need to be! (I used to set up charity sales when I was at junior school to raise money for the PDSA.)Even if I studied now it would take far to long to qualify (and a lot of money).

6) I do not want to spend my entire life in England and wish to live and experience other parts of the globe! I would so love to live in another country, just for 1 year, while the children are young just so they can have that experience.

That's me done!:)

now my turn to tag (he he)

I am tagged the following blogs :

http://gwnnsgifts.blogspot.com
http://friendlyhands.blogspot.com
http://shellmitchell.blogspot.com
http://sewrecycled.blogspot.com

Sleeping Kittens

2008-09-29T13:00:00.000-07:00

When I came down stairs this morning I walking into the living room and found my youngest daughter curled up with Kevin the kitten on the sofa, both fast asleep. After oohing and arghing , I grabbed my camera to photograph the cute duo. There is something warming and comforting seeing my children lying in the fetal position, it also reminds me of when they were babies and I would cuddle them as they slept in the same position.

So after such a lovely sight first thing this morning, youngest daughter and kitty had to be today's subject for a painting.

My Inner Child

2008-09-24T02:05:00.000-07:00

I am so pleased to have started painting again after so long.I have been meaning to start a series of work based on elements of my very own three little Herbert's for some time. This painting is based on my eldest daughter. She has butterfly like characteristics ( if you can understand that!), as a tiny toddler she would dart to and throe and she is no different now, the dress is similar to the pretty dress she wore on her 11th birthday; feminine, floaty and fairy-like!
I always have a ridiculous list of things that I want to do and make and there is never enough hours in the day! During my "sorting out" time , I now feel more relaxed and have temporarily put my sewing machines away in the cupboard under the stairs, we need a trial separation.

I am not completely happy with my painting, but then again I can over analyse my own work and that will probably never change.The paintings (Flutterby and future series) are purely light hearted, intended to be just aesthetically pleasing, whimsical and childlike, no heavy message or concept involved with this work- as I wish to enjoy this creative process!
I do feel a kind of inner self satisfaction and forgot how much I enjoy painting. today I will start painting number two, but must go out and buy some new paints as many had dried up. Unashamedly I get just as excited buying paint as I do fabric!

Honey and Lemon

2008-09-21T05:17:00.000-07:00

The sun is finally shining, which is fabulous, typically expected we have an Indian Summer. Typically I now have a cold, which has zapped my creative juices, so I have spent the last few days feeding my obsession with arranging my art and craft bits and bobs, due to my creative yet chaotic mind I strive to have some order and try to work in a methodical manner. I become irritated when I cannot find what I am looking for and end up making a big mess and quickly lose momentum. So here is the result of hours of sorting!!!! They look very pretty, but I do think I am bordering on having OCD!!

Colds must be the most irritating of common ailments, and so easily prevented if I consumed more vitamin C. So to quickly get the cold out of my system I am using my dear mothers recipe of honey and lemon in hot water. I intend to continue drinking this when the cold has gone , as it must be healthier than the silly amount of tea and coffee I normally drink.

The Summer of 2008

2008-09-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

The Summer seems to of paid a very short visit year, short bursts of sun followed intermitant with lots of rain. I did intend to brave the world of camping but seriously the weather was so bad that the camping venture is postponed for next summer! However I did have some fun times with the children and thought i would post some random snippets of our not so sunny summer.

Fishing:

Yes we spent many days freshwater fishing in the rain catching big fishes and lickle fishes, and many a fish got away!

Barbeque's :

I postponed our Barbey, but a brave friend carried on with his summer barbie with the aid of much tarpaulin and everyone had a fabulous time.

Tales of the river bank :

It was beginning to feel natural to be near water!

The Guinea Pig Project :

The interactive 3D project, It was fun to make, the children loved it and I thought that if we made one it would be so much cheaper than buying one! I thought fabric was expensive until I had bought the materials for the guinea pig run! I also wished that I had not looked on the web at the price of ready made- home delivered ones. I guess the secret to saving in pennies is to source the materials from anywhere but a D.I.Y. store. Homer and Bart the guniea pigs loved the finished run.

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The holiday fund :

I could,nt quite remember why I had,nt booked a holiday to the Caribbean, then as September dawned I remembered why : I had to buy my little darlings there school uniforms. this does occur at the same time every year you may think. However this year eldest daughter starts senior school and her school tends to have a lengthy list of uniform requirements. My other two little darlings changed school when we moved at the beginning of summer, so I managed to get away with not kitting them out with all of the uniform. All three looked very smart when they started the new school term, but I do wish schools would not make us purchase all the items with the embroidered logo!

The shoe photo reveals the scary financial reality of three children in 2008!

I am so glad it is Autumn now, my favourite season; it never lets you down. Autumn is the season that does what is is supposed to do. Today was a glorious beautiful autumn day, in fact it was one of the sunniest sundays in a long time. Autumn fashion is so much better as well. Too much pink flesh or per ma- tan on show in the summer!

A New Throne

2008-09-01T13:33:00.000-07:00

Gosh, it,s like having a new baby in the house! Everyone wants to hold Kevin, but not too much in case he gets anxious. He spent his first night asleep in his cat carry case with a little hand knitted blanket which had the scent of his mum. Today we went out in search for a new bed/ basket for the little man.

we went to one of those large pet care shops, which have everything your pet would need and also a lot of things pets do not need. I was amazed how pet accessories have developed. I knew that you can get everything for the fashion handbag dog, but was quite amazed by the range available for a rabbit! In my childhood, I had a pet rabbit , which urinated and pooed a lot and ran around the garden like a lunatic. I would love to know what rabbit sits still in a fluffy cocoon style basket and has fun running through a white and pink fluffy fur fabric tunnel, you can get a whole range in pastel pink or pastel blue!

Anyhow, I had a very difficult time choosing from the vast range of Kitty beds,; four poster beds, girl beds , boy beds, beds with a scratch post and toy incorporated. Then I saw the most stylish of beds in the cats "Natural Collection", a whole range of adorable kitty things in naturals fibres and fabrics. I blew the cat basket budget on the "Natural Sphere". Kevin will look super cute and extra snug and it will go with the interior of my living room. O.K. I have not even started on the living room since we moved in, but this will be the start as I want a natural, slightly ethnic look. So Kevin,s chair is the starting point!

Here are some more photos of him in his super cool basket. He looks larger in his photos than in real life.

I do aim to get some art and making done....soon.

Meet The New Addition

2008-08-30T15:35:00.000-07:00

I am so overjoyed with happiness, that I must blog about the new addition to my family. We collected an adorable 9 week old male kitten from the Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare. My daughter named him "Kevin", which I think suits the young man just fine!

It was a few weeks ago, that I first visited Raystede, and was astounded by the beauty of the Animal centre. There is approximately 150 staff, 50 employed and the rest are voluntary. The grounds and facilities are very well cared, considering the vast size of the place. Raystede take in unwanted and abandoned animals, Dogs, cats, horses, goats, chipmunks, exotic birds, ducks to name but a few! The aim is that most will be homed into a caring environment, whilst some remain at Raysted for the rest of their days. The organisation is a charity, so they have to work extremely hard as I saw a sign that it needs approx £3000 a day to run!! A lot of people go to the centre for a day out, as there is a tea room, picnic area and bouncy castle for children, so i guess that helps a little towards the staffing, upkeep etc.

Anyhow on my first visit I left my contact details and was put on the waiting list for a kitten. I had a call this week that one was ready and would I like to see it, which I did immediately, although I could not take him home until I had been approved by a home visit! Thankfully the home visitor approved our suitability for young Kevin and he is quietly in his basket near me as I blog.

A quiet intro into our home as he has only known the centre, as he was born there. I actually could not believe the amount of pregnant cats which are left there, which is sad. However most they are extremely well cared for at the centre and most will be re-homed.

Kevin has a guarantee of lots of love and care, and I must go and give him a cuddle now. Only a little one though, because everything is very strange for him at the moment.

Check out the web :

www.raystede.org

An Earthly Paradise

2008-08-16T16:13:00.000-07:00

"How extraordinary that there should be such an unchanged spot in the world still," wrote Janie Bussy of the Charleston garden in 1947. After thirty years of Bloomsbury occupancy it was then in its maturity, a teeming mass of flowers. Today the summer borders still spill over with geraniums, delphiniums and poppies.

Charleston a Bloomsbury house and garden

2008-08-16T15:18:00.000-07:00

Since moving into our new house , I have restrained myself from rushing to the D.I.Y stores in order to not make rash decisions and with the intent to rest orate and decorate each room beautifully. The garden has proved another problem for me, due to the fact that the previous owner had lived in the house for a long time and in fact he inherited it from his parents, who were all skilled gardeners! I am a mere novice. I have spent the last few months looking and pondering at the amount of work to do , at the same time slightly apprehensive as to what to cut back and pull out. In my eyes it looks beautiful, I love the layout and it was not a streamline modern garden but more of the wild Victorian style. Everyday I see new flowers, so I am glad that I have held back but still slightly worried that I should be doing something apart from mowing the lawn.

I decided to take a visit to the beautiful Charleston farmhouse for some inspiration, the last time I went there, was over ten years ago. Charleston is set in the heart of the Sussex Downs near to the town of Lewes, it is the most important remaining example of Bloomsbury decorative art created by non other than the Bloomsbury group. The artists Vanessa Bell (sister of Virginia Woolf) and Duncan Grant, (the relationships of the individuals in the house is a bit complex to explain and not really necessary),Quentin Bell, many other creative individuals lived at the house also.(from 1912)

The group lived in the beautiful house for most of there lives and decorated every aspect of the house from painting the walls and furniture with stencils and detailed panels, screen printed fabric furnishings, pottery in the Bloomsbury style. throughout the house is examples of their beautiful artwork with influences of Picasso, Cezanne, Seuratto name a few.

The garden is an absolute joy, and indeed it has wild English garden feel, with vegetable plots and glorious carpets of colour from all the beautiful flowers. Nestled in between flowers and trees are examples of Quentin Bells sculptures and beautiful mosaics from scrap plates and pottery.

The property is thankfully owned by a trust , so it will continue to be preserved for more years to come. What amazes me is that the style of the house, interior and garden , in my eyes does not seem to date, each room appears as beautiful, not excentric or bizarre. So my visit to Charleston has greatly inspired me, and it has probably saved me a lot of money as I am thinking along the same lines to decorate my own house, it may take a long time but I am in no rush!

Regarding the garden, I luckily bumped into the gardener at Charleston and he advised me to leave my garden for one year, so I can see what is coming up when and where and gave me a few tips on which bulbs to buy. He also told me to go back with photos,(so I have no excuse not to go back)

All in all my visit was so inspiring, for house and garden ideas and I am desperate to start painting again once the children are back at school.

REPRISE A Film By Joachim Trier

2008-08-11T15:51:00.000-07:00

Each week I pop to the beautiful "re-vamped" local library ( so high tech , I have yet to work out how to use all of the new techno machines. I take out a DVD once a week , which is rented for the "whole" week, and cheaper than the video rental shop ( and I usually miss the handing in deadline and end up paying double!)
I like to watch art house and world cinema and picked up the Film "Reprise", firstly I noticed it is Norwegian and then I scanned the review quotes. The Independent on Sunday " Trainspotting with Better Furniture"!. I am a fan of Scandinavian interior design and also one of my favourite films is Trainspotting, I remember seeing it when it came out in the 90's and loving the way the film was shot (quite original at the time.) So I grabbed the DVD, watched it this evening, and it has certainly got my creative juices flowing.
So a very quick review, as I do not want to give to much away, If you love foreign films ( don't mind subtitles) this is a must.

Reprise (cert 15)

A touching, witty and sensitive film. It is beautifully shot, touching the fringes of mental illness. This film depicts the passion of youth and the unpredictable perils of fate , through the journey of friendship, love, madness and creativity.

Reprise has a awesome soundtrack, to give it a young buzz throughout with music from Blur, Joy Division and New Order.
Also the interiors and furniture are fabulous and everyone in Norway wears black, gray and white! (Though I am sure that was down to the art/costume department , creating such a beautiful film :))

Happy Birthday Sweet Daughter

2008-08-07T11:14:00.000-07:00

My eldest daughter celebrates her 11th birthday today! They grow up so quickly, but at 11 she is still my little girl. Her wish for today is a sleepover, thank goodness for the beautiful weather, as I have a tent erected in the garden-so they can make as much noise as they want (with in reason)! her second wish was for a chocolatey birthday cake, so I consulted my "500 Fabulous Cakes and Bakes" (by Ted Smart) book. She opted for the "best ever chocolate cake", which indeed is very chocolatey and I used about 18 eggs in the making (I only had little bantam eggs).The added embellishment of numerous bags of maltesers and 2 flakes, I think gives it that chocolaty edge! So we have renamed this cake "Chocowockyfantubulios" I only have about another 485 cakes in the book to try out.

Must go , have a barbeque on the go and cake to eat.

Happy Birthday Beautiful Daughter

Foxy in the Garden

2008-08-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

I went to the Lammas fayre in Eastbourne today ! Lammas comes from old English language , meaning "loaf mass." So it is similar to the harvest festival, a celebration of the earth,s bounty which traditionally was held at the time of the first corn crop. in Ireland it is known as Lughnassah, the name being derived from the Celtic sun god Lugh. It is one of the four Pagan Celtic Fire fire festivals which were adopted by the early catholic church, and have now been re-appropriated by the Modern Pagan movement. The aim of the fayre was to showcase local talented musicians, and dancers, groups of drummers, Morris dancers etc and raise money for the R.N.L.I. There was also a wonderful range of craft stalls with all things pagan and natural, so beautiful. Silly me forgot to take my camera! One of my friends was drumming and I so wish I had a photograph of her in her green jacket and evergreen accessories. Anyhow one of the craft stalls had these fabulous masks from Venice ( I cannot work out the link to Lammas) but they were fabulous, so I bought a few to embellish myself. I still think they look great plain as well.

A Grand Day Out

2008-08-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

I decided to take the children for a "Grand day out" to lovely Brighton, one of my most favorite places which is no longer a town , but a city! Firstly it is a fave, because it has fabulous shops, however my children do not class shopping as a fun day out. (If I go to Brighton I will start at one end of the main shopping areas until I reach the other (near Hove)- therefore I am better shopping on my own!) I also love the people in Brighton, why? - because you see "all sorts" , so in my book it is a great people watching town, from a fashion perspective, street fashion and new trends fashion- it,s the place to visit. generally the place has a vibe and sense of originality, trendy, fun and lots going on, I could go on and on....

Anyhow the visit was for my children , so where else, but the sea life centre first, which they are mesmerised by, followed by good old fish and chips on Brighton beach- in the baking sun. My children had lots of energy to run into the sea, with clothes on, as I looked on in horror of their soaking wet clothes at the same time feeling heavily sick and bloated. Why do us Brits eat such food in boiling hot weather? -utter madness. Though I am sure I will do it again. Just a traditional seaside thing!

I intend to get some work done for my etsy this weekend, but finding it quite hard with the summer holidays. So much I want to make and not enough hours in the day!

Just a Little Paddle.

2008-08-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

My son asked to take a little paddle! I should of known better!

Brighton Beach

2008-07-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

One may come across interesting sights on Brighton Beach!

Like these old girls!

Last Day of Primary School

2008-07-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

The very last time she will wear a gingham summer school dress! ....sob!

As long as we have memories,
yesterday remains.
As long as we have hope,
tomorrow awaits.
As long as we have friendship,
today is beautiful.

Anonymous

First Day of School

2008-07-28T16:44:00.001-07:00

I still remember her first day at school as if it was last week.

Class of 2008

2008-07-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

Last week was an emotional roller coaster to say the least. It was the final few days of junior school for my eldest daughter; L. Firstly I am amazed by the excellent planning and preparation by her school.( I was astonished by the induction days at her new school which was a few weeks back.)Teachers at her school put together such fun and thoughtful activities to enable our children to have positive and fond memories of there school days. The previous week all of year 6 had a trip to Chessington, Monday was a trip to the beach , and Tuesday was the church leavers service, which started the emotions flowing for the children and the parents!. It really made me appreciate even more how special all these young children are and how positive are future is. Many of the children talked of there school memories, readings, poetry recitals, singing and dancing.There was also a symbolic procession and lighting of candles as a representative pupil from each year made a wish for the year 6 leavers. Towards the second half of the service many of the year 6 pupils were fighting to hold back the tears. However it was the parents sobbing when a "slide show of memories" was put on to the music; "We are the champions" and "One Day in Your life". The slide show consisted of photos of every year 6 pupil at school on a trip or some other activity at different times during their 7 years at the school. The service ended with a beautiful blessing from the Cannon.

On the last day of school all the children received a leavers book with a profile page of each classmate with there hopes and aspirations for the future and memories of their time at the school,so they can remember there friends even if they are not going to the same high school. At the back of the book teachers have left notes and poems. It is really strange how this turning point is so poignant and has come so quickly. I expect it is also because I know that I will have to give her more freedom as she starts her new school.( But not for a while!)

Thank You Emma

2008-07-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

Ignore the previous post , something went strangely wrong with my computer.
As I was saying, one of the wonderful things about etsy is the forums, it is filled with lots of interesting information, and there is a consistent stream of fellow etsians there , to give feedback, critiques and promoting there amazing etsy shops. I frequently visit the forums, as I have know discovered a whole community of people who share the same excitement over things like a piece of fabric! ( I seriously thought I was a bit strange in getting so enthusiastic over prints and fabrics when ever I ventured a fabric store, now I know I am not alone!)
Last week , whilst browsing through the promotions forum, I came across Bagladee, who was promoting a competition on her blog. I entered and was shocked when I later received a e-mail, stating I was a winner!!

I little package arrived on my doorstep this week full with lovely scrummy, arty crafty goodies. So big thanks to Emma (AKA bagladee):) Please check out her beautiful etsy shop of bespoke, impeccably "tailored" bags; they are beautiful. If you love color , you will love her shop : www.bagladee.etsy.com

Thank you from a very happy winner X

Sunday

2008-07-20T16:37:00.001-07:00

Oh it,s such a perfect day,

2008-07-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

I,m glad I spend it with you
Oh such a perfet day you just keep me hanging on
you just keep me hanging on..................

Perfect Day

2008-07-20T15:24:00.000-07:00

My idea of a good day, is to keep the children happily occupied, clean the house ( I do not enjoy it, but once it,s done I can feel relaxed), Getting the laundry mountain down, some of my "to do" list crossed off , a beautiful meal, and a trip to somewhere nice and non commercial! I managed all of the above, and cooked a beautiful Sunday Roast, unfortunately my carb free diet fell to the way side: as I ate a few roast potatoes! (though I must boast that they are soooo perfect, how could I resist!) So late in the afternoon I took the children for a beautiful and energising walk to the Sussex Downs , near the famous Beachy Head. The Sussex Downland is spread across Sussex and East Hamphire in the South East of England, and is one of the most beautiful areas of outstanding natural beauty. The views are breathtaking and you can walk a few miles without the feeling of over exerting oneself! I say the day was perfect, due to the fact I had ticked off a lot of things, but I would of wished to make something for my etsy today, but there are only so many hours in a day, however the walk inspired me to start some paintings.

The Downland is a combination of heathland, woodland, wetland and the chalk downland, so it is full of beautiful flora and forna. Each direction we walked, there were blankets of colour, cerise pinks, primrose yellows,hot purples, just such a beautiful undulating landscape. We did not venture to close to the cliff edge, (which is known as a suicide spot). I actually wonder if many of the unfortunate deaths were accidents, a long time ago ( when I had more nerve) I did lay on the grass and look over the edge ( out of intrigue), and there was quite a mysterious draw to pull myself to look further, perhaps it was just me, because I am fascinated by the sea! The beachy Head spot is as famous for it,s macabre as for it,s awesome beauty as a whole list of films have used it as a location, Atonement, James Bond (Living Daylights), Quadrophenia, to name a few.

I think we will definitely go back over the holidays, but next time we will take a picnic and sketchbooks.

Positive Chi Please

2008-07-16T12:34:00.000-07:00

One of my dearest friends is unwell at the moment and needs as much positivity as possible to get her better. It is very difficult to be of any use, so I was racking my brains thinking of something I could give her which would be positive. She does not feel like eating apart from bananas and lemon in water! So I decided to make her a fruit basket focusing on the colour yellow. A) It,s the only food that she wants to eat at the moment, so I have put in some organic bananas and lemons. And B)Yellow is symbolic of health and well being.
So I have made her a little funky basket of positive zingy yellows and brights to turn her fears into vibrancy, strength and love. I have added some funky natural banana and lemon soaps, healing crystals and a little picture of the medicine man that I found in the local Buddhist shop.
She is quite a spiritual person so I hope this gives her some positive energy at this dreadful time. She is one of the kindest , helpful and caring person that I know so please leave all positive thoughts, prays and comments because I am sure it will help her.

I Love The Sea

2008-07-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

One of life,s luxury's to me is that I live near to the sea. In fact I have only lived inland for a few years, in my entire life, and even then I would often take visits to the nearest coastal town. I find the sea has an amazing draw in so many ways. I visit even more frequently since having children, when they were babies I would take them to help their sleep. As toddlers I would take them to exert their energy, and still do now. They practise scooting, roller blading, cycling along the prom.On the beach we investigate all the weird and wonderful creatures in the rock pools. The Children have the same enthusiasm for the sea as I do. Though I use it as a place to take stock of things, escape and take refuge from worries (which we all have from time to time). I use the beach as my place to wish, dream, cry, laugh, think, recharge and refresh myself.
The photograph is of my son yesterday afternoon, who also never tires from a visit to the beach.
I also went for a lovely walk this evening, along the prom and back with my daughters( I find it gives us a good opportunity to talk) the sea was calm, the sun was setting, just bliss!

Yes, I probably will be one of the old ladies sitting in the deckchair with a 99!

The Polite Sea

2008-07-14T13:14:00.000-07:00

By the polite sea I rest,
Engaging in attention
And words. By the sea
I lay, by the sea I pray,
Dropping my elbows and words
Onto her sand.

By the amorous sea
I dream. And dream. And dream.
I love the sea. I love the sea.
She is quiet and polite
Tenderly allowing me permission
To be.

Masiela Lusha

The fashionista purse

2008-07-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

Cute little purse, wristlet, perfect to hold money for refreshments and possibly lipgloss!

Dancing Queen

2008-07-12T05:24:00.000-07:00

My eldest daughter :L, is soon to finish junior school, this is a major turning point in her life and also for me. When she starts secondary school she will be a child and leave as a young adult, time just flys by. I intend to make every effort to savour and embrace these years, before my children disappear into the world of Independence. Anyhow, L has worked really hard at school this year, this was reinforced by a brilliant school report so I thought I would make her something nice for the last junior school disco.

L choose bright , yummy pink satin, and I had a Bit of A "Gok" moment and accessorised the dress with a nice clashing little clutch purse in bright red and lined the pouch with the same pink satin. l looks a bit like a mini Sarah J.P. with her glitzy party sandals to finish off her outfit; What a fashionista! Would of liked to take more photos of her, but she would of been late for the function of the year!
By the way , she is not frowning; just a serious pose!

A lot of her friends liked the dress and bag, so perhaps I could make something similar for my etsy shop.

2008-07-09T04:43:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine has kindly lent me this book. I was slightly dubious to pick it up at first, because I am a staunch anti diet person. In fact I am a firm believer in "You are what you Eat" and try to be active. However in my chaotic life I do not always practise what I preach, I do go to the gym , but not on a regular time table. The only regularity in my lifestyle is that I get up early and crawl to bed far too late. I do not have a major weight problem , however I have a bit of a tummy. My problem is basically I am constantly tired, I could happily have a little sleep anywhere anytime, but with three children cat naps are not advisable. Anyhow the crux of this book is to give the heave-ho to carbs- which I love! All my favourite foods are jacket potatoes, bread and good cheese, rice, pasta. Anyhow I am far to young to feel this fatigued all of the time, so I am going to give it a go.
I will write a little book review and tell you how I get on in a weeks time. hopefully full of life and vitality,and I hope that rain stops!

We can plan the day, not the weather

2008-07-08T06:06:00.000-07:00

British Weather

2008-07-08T05:36:00.000-07:00

What a fun filled weekend and week ahead planned-all cancelled!Due to the lovely unpredictable British weather.

This week-end I went out and bought my first barbecue, one of those little drum style ones, and planned a "grounds day" at home. My children have grounds day,s at there school,where once a term they go in to school in old clothes and all the parents are invited to help with the gardening and to make the school look pretty! It is quite amazing how much work gets done. So my plan, was just my children, partner and I would tackle one area of the garden together and at the end of the day celebrate with a barbecue. Unfortunately this was not to be, the heavens opened and the barbecue remained in the box. Now this week was also a combination of a school trips , parties, dental appointments, sports days etc,. All three sports days ( all on different days) are now cancelled and we hopefully go ahead on the reserve days. I am not even going to look at the weather forecast. I hope to start making some women,s garments this week,so the plus side is that if it does turn into a dismal rainy week at least I have a chance to make some more things for my etsy shop. I feel guilty when it is sunny if I am not gardening, thou it is more jungle clearence rather than gardening at the moment.

Hope to post more positive news next time

Victoria

2008-07-05T13:28:00.001-07:00

Hello, Welcome to the world of Mad Boo

2008-07-04T15:26:00.000-07:00

Welcome

A little about me; I live with my partner and we have three beautiful children, two daughters and a son. We live in a beautiful part of East Sussex, near the sea and near the Sussex Downs . Recently we have moved into a very old house (project no 1) and have lots of work ahead of us. I spend a lot of time painting, drawing and making everything and anything out of textiles and sell my designs on etsy. (http://www.madboodesigns.etsy.com/). I really love nature, flowers, animals and intend to set up my garden like "the good life" (project no 2). I am a teacher in adult education , which I love but have decided to take some time out, to focus on all of the above, because sometimes life is too short!
I love fashion, because I am a mum that is no reason not to keep your finger on the pulse, even though I seem to be going for gardeners fashion at the moment!

Incidentally my name is Victoria

Victoria X