Mary Andrews

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T12:09:00.000Z

Looking out of my window its a lovely sunny day, still cold though. Hard to believe its Christmas day tomorrow. So I want to wish all my friends and family a very Happy Christmas, hope you all have a lovely day and a wonderful New Year 2012.

Warrington Art Festival

2011-10-09T14:47:00.000+01:00

The studio's are open as part of Warrington Art Festival. Although I say studios, in fact there is only me, I am the only resident artist who actually uses the studio to work and exhibit. The main area of the large hall is taken up with other artists work which is on display free of charge. It was originally agreed that you would have to rent a studio to exhibit, that is obviously not the case now as every tom, dick or harry can display free. I have never ever in all my years found anywhere that lets you exhibit free of charge.
All my paintings that are on display -in my studio- are reduced as I am giving up painting, not completely but not on such large canvas's. I am concentrating on my textile art which starts mainly on paper and my bags which are doing really well. My bags will be on display at the open studio events. I cannot do textile work at the studio as the darn mice keep eating my fibres, which is no joke. They have ruined some of my best wools and cottons.
So, come along and listen to ABBA which is nice and uplifting and view my work and, if you feel inclined, make a purchase. Lots of sale including key rings, postcards, gift tags, bags and paintings.

Ladies iPad Rag Bags

2011-10-08T12:43:00.003+01:00

My label.

I made myself a bag to carry my iPad in, I wanted something I could use all the time that didn't draw attention to the fact I was carrying an iPad. Its been a huge sucess and I use it all the time.

I have been getting lots of requests so now Weavewoman iPad bags have arrived.

All the bags are designed and made my me, they are all photographed at various stages in their development and all are numbered and carry my label.

I have now received commissions to create the same bags but for men (they don't want the girly handles). So, watch this space.

Bag 001 Fiona - commission

Bag 002 Emily - commission

Bag 003 Kizzie - commission

These photos don't really present these bags at their best. All the bags are made of torn strips in coordinating fabrics, they are lined with a magnetic metal stud fastening. Each bag takes eight hours to make, excluding preparation of fabrics.

Indian Summer

2011-10-03T08:59:00.008+01:00

It has been really hot lately, but it looks like it might be over. Although the sun is streaming through the window it has rained again. My bike is covered in plastic and my shed is sill in its box!

You can't really tell but there is a puddle on the box lid. I thought it would have been delivered in four sides and a roof, not is small strips to put together myself. Another challenge I can do without.

Craft Fair at the Lowry

2011-09-11T13:02:00.002+01:00

I went to this craft fair this morning to check it out with a view to possibly joining the circuit. What a disappointment! When I contacted about getting a stall, the lady said I had to be vetted along with my products. They have to be hand made, original and she doesn't want too many of the same people present. So, I was expecting good quality crafts. Nearly every stall, which was just scattered about the shopping centre, had bought in stuff. There were a couple of people who were making their own cards, several 'stone' people, who buy stones and make jewellery, a stall with Russian dolls, a photographer (not sure they were his own photographs) and a lady with knitting wool, needles, patterns and terrible Christmas stockings!! It looked more like a school fete.

I was there and back, including coffee and cake in under an hour! I will definitely be crossing them off my list.

Moving Home

2011-08-21T14:26:00.002+01:00

Not been around for a while, I am still packing and moving house. Two days to put up curtains and I still haven't managed it. Why do they keep changing the design of curtain track, what was wrong with it before. After buying more screws as the ones provided are too long, I have fastened the bits into the board, but cannot get the curtain track to fit on!

I have never rented through an agency before, its all 'you can't do this' 'you can't do that' and only managed to get some boards put over my windows after a prolonged argument, when I said I am not living in a house without curtains, especially a terrace where people walk past feet from my front window!

It's starting to look like home and contains most of the stuff from my studio, so my studio is bare lol.

Zoot Scoot Egg Run

2011-04-09T17:01:00.002+01:00

Today was the annual Zoot Scoot Egg Run when all the scooter owners in the North West get together and take Easter Eggs to the Children's Hospital. The Warrington Scooter Club sets off from Zoot Scoot. (photos are not cropped or touched up so all the other rubbish is visible).All these are Italian Lamberetta's.

Love this one with the engine exposed.
This is an original 1950's and worth about 8k !!

Choo choo

2011-04-02T17:26:00.002+01:00

It's not often these days you see a steam train. It reminds me of my youth, we lived by at station and the trains would stop and let off steam, which was very noisy. This one came through while I was at my Studio, I missed it earlier and was advised when it would return. So I went off to a nearby car park and nearly missed it again!

The End

2011-03-09T16:47:00.002Z

I have found out that my job is finished. Whether or not I will be able to secure another I do not know. Currently we are near the end of the 90 day consultation (they forgot to tell me I was included), if there are any jobs I will get matched after this time. It is not looking too promising.

On a happier note, it snowed today, big flakes for about 3 mins, then nothing. Sunshine and a very cold wind.

Earthquake in New Zealand

2011-02-22T16:40:00.001Z

I have just heard about the terrible Earthquake in New Zealand. I just hope and pray my little sister and nephew are alive and well.

Graze - nature delivered - not happy

2011-02-05T08:27:00.004Z

I signed up to Graze, first box free...nice, next two at reduces rate, then after that full price. I signed up...set my selection...placed my order...my first free box would be delivered on 31st January, my half price box on 2nd February. Got the picture?

My box didn't arrive, so I tried to log on to the site but it kept saying my password was wrong...no it isn't, its the same one I am currently using at work. Tried several times, no luck. How do you contact them, by logging on and leaving a message.. there is no other way!

Thursday 3rd and two boxes arrive! Both containing food I stated I could not eat! Out of 8 selections, 4 a day, I could only eat 5, so I tried to contact them again. I am having problems with my server so cannot receive emails, so in desperation I opened another account in my work email address, left a message to explain who I was, also saying how disappointed I am and to cancel and refund any money they may have taken. They simply emailed back to say I hadn't ordered any boxes???!!! I went to log on to try and speak to them again and guess what?? my password is incorrect!!!! NO WAY!

Checked my bank today and guess what, they have charged me half price for my free box and full price for my half price box. And as my email server is down there is no way I can contact them. What a shit company, who runs a business like that. Nice way to rob people, take their card details and then not deliver what's requested and then charge them when its supposed to be free/half price and keep on charging them for food they do not want and cannot eat!!!!

Flower Power

2011-01-29T14:32:00.002Z

For the first time, I have an Orchid that has flowered a second year. Normally they just die.

Orchid

This is mum's cactus, I got it for her just before she died and it has been dormant for all these years, now its started to grow at last.

Christmas Snow

2010-12-24T17:30:00.002Z

It's Christmas Day tomorrow and we still have snow. Work is finished for a few days and everything is ready, just got a couple more deliveries to make then I can put my feet up and enjoy Christmas.

Took Ben for a walk with Emily through the woods, they both love the snow. This is one of the trees that fell from the winds last year.
Ben is so small the snow comes up to his tummy. You can't keep him in, he is constantly in the garden, running back and too.

I just want to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and hope 2011 is great for everyone. A special wish for my big sister who is very ill, and my little sister and nephew who will be in sunny New Zealand for Christmas.

Snow - what snow

2010-12-06T15:42:00.003Z

After the country was covered in a blanket of snow, Warrington had hardly any. As you can see from the above, it didn't even cover the grass properly. In one sense we are lucky, our roads are clear, pavements a bit dodgy after the freeze. But, its a disappointment for all the kiddies who see it on tv and want to play snowballs and build snowmen.

Down at the studio what little bit of snow we have had has frozen to a sheet of ice.

Today we have had more snow, but mainly the fog has frozen on the trees, it looks so nice and I really love it.

Snakes

2010-12-06T15:35:00.003Z

Not a very good photo, but this is one of my snakes. Its feeding time and I have to feed them at the same time, so I put two in separate buckets and one stays in the tank. This one normally eats fastest and will go after the others food, so I have to keep them out of the way.

I just love the colours, I have a black one and a white one as well. I will do some better photo's some time (when its warmer). I have had to set the tank up with another heat pad as its so cold. now.

Busy Weekend

2010-11-07T15:28:00.003Z

Had a very busy weekend at the studio while I get my self sorted! I have been distracted lately and started to lose my way a bit. Also the police found a cannabis factory underneath my studio which they raided and we got the pleasure of an invasion of mice!!

I have cleaned my studio, cleared the rubbish and organised some storage. No mice now. I managed to get a bunk bed off the notice board at work, its a single with desk underneath, ideal for current storage and a work place. I have also managed to get my small pc desk underneath as well. Its good as I can do some research when I need to or check emails.

Just have to remember not to stand up underneath - lol.
I have also got rid of the massive table I had, I have a smaller one now that is just for my machines, I have them set up so can just sew when I need to without having to keep getting them out and putting them away. This is the view into the room from the window end. You can also see I have put some scaffolding up on the beams, for storage of stuff I won't be needing for a while. (bubble wrap and some materials etc).
Finally this is the view from the door, you can just make out my easel in the distance by the window, and behind the radiator on the right my snakes.

Next job is to sort my workbooks out and keep my inspiration stuff together. I will update you on my latest project over the next few days.

A Day in the Life

2010-08-08T16:32:00.004+01:00

Its the 8th August today and would be mum's birthday if she was still alive. Wish I could turn back the clock, what I would give for one of mum's hugs today.

Anyway, life goes on....I have a new job which I've had since October, I work on my own and can more of less choose my own hours as long as the work gets done.....that's the hard bit, getting it done. I just manage to get on top of everything and we get a month end, so I have to do all my reports and bingo....behind again. After work I tend to go over to the studio, relax and do a bit of my own work. I have been working on an installation for the exhibition in Warrington next year, to celebrate Warrington's Industrial past of Wire and Cotton, was trundling along nicely until somebody trashed it! So, I have started again. We now have CCTV installed inside the studios as well as outside so it shouldn't happen again. There is a large open hall with the studio's off to one side, most of the big work is done in the hall, which, when people are in the studios, is open to anybody who comes in.

Its then off home for dinner and upstairs on my pc to play WOW (World of Warcraft). I find it quite amazing that thousands of people play yet I hardly ever speak to anyone, the most I say is thanks and bye after a dungeon. I love Wintergrasp, its such fun. It suddenly dawned on me last week that I do everything on my own and as I haven't had a mobile phone for ages hardly speak to anyone these days. My saving grace is my best friend, Shirley. Thanks Shirl, you keep me sane - lol.

I will make more effort to keep my blogs up to date, especially with bits I am working on at the studio.,

Studio Update

2010-08-08T16:19:00.004+01:00

As I seem to live more and more at my studio and my work is changing thought you might like an update.

I picked up this metal shelving for a song in a bric a brac store, its great for my weaving's and for hanging my gift tags on. Fits neatly behind my sofa.
View from my sofa, where I sit to do any hand stitching, reading etc, also now have video and dvd's to watch.
My working end, starts to get very scruffy. Boxes of wire, tools and papers. I tend to kneel on the floor when working here as its usually with a hot iron, poker or other electronic gizmo's! As you can see my bike doesn't go anywhere these days, now attached for indoor riding, but its so noisy it hardly gets used.
Hung a couple of my weaving's, this hides my scruffy area when anybody looks in the door.
View from the door, difficult to see anything as it into the light.
One side of my worktable, with the back of a hanging where I put postcards.
Part of my table where I sit and tend to do most of my work.

Happy Birthday

2010-06-12T09:52:00.001+01:00

I haven't been on for a while with one thing and another, lots to update, but can do that tomorrow. On today just to wish my little sister a very happy birthday, hope everything is wonderful for you Jane xxx

More lovely Snow

2010-01-31T10:03:00.002Z

Overnight we have had another snowfall, not very heavy but enough to put a white blanket everywhere. Being a Sunday I have been able to take the dog for a walk and get some photos.
The pond is still frozen from the last big freeze, above a leaf under the ice.
Birds footprints across the pond. Big bird too.
Frozen pond with bird footprints.
Pathway at the back of the house to the woods.

Snow, snow, lovely snow!

2010-01-09T13:23:00.005Z

My poor pond, no doubt the fish are dead, the water is still running on the filter but the rest is frozen.

The roads, just compact ice

Ice and snow on my side window.

Unlike a lot of people, I just love the snow. Its clean, crisp and fresh. The only downside is the Council have not gritted the roads or pavements. Consequently, the roads are just sheets of packed ice, buses haven't been running and other services are disrupted. My little car is snowed in so I can't use it and its just not suitable or safe to cycle.

Snowed in a bit, before digging it out.

Finally cleared to the door, so I can now get out.

I work for the emergency services and I made every attempt to get into work, unlike a lot of people who just moan and complain. I have been up at 5:30 every morning, have my porridge, kit myself out in hiking boots, over-trousers, jacket and fur hat and then along with my hiking sticks I have walked to work, its just over 3 miles and its been taking me one and a half hours each way.
The morning walk is not too nice, its dark, very cold and I have been walking by the road as its the safest. Coming home is much nicer, I cut through the park and its lovely. The canal is frozen and all the wildlife has gone, but its full of people walking their dogs and children on sledges. The low sun casts a lovely glow on the snow, I just love it.

I have been busy this morning, trying to clear the ice off the drive. I have to attend a meeting at work next week and will need my car, so have been digging it out. I was told the battery would probably be flat as its not been out since before Christmas, but it started first time.

Happy New Year 2010

2010-01-01T08:50:00.001Z

A very happy new year to all those who love me and all those who don't.
xxx

Happy Christmas

2009-12-26T09:22:00.003Z

Happy Christmas to all my friends and family.
Happy Christmas to those who choose not to be in contact with me xxx

Art Exhibition Soaptank Studio

2009-12-08T18:01:00.002Z

The exhibition was a great success at the weekend, with over 100 visitors. I made a few sales and had a lot of people who were interested in life classes and asking if I would hold/teach them! I have no idea why, as the only bare flesh on the day was my hands and face! My artwork is buildings and couldn't be further from life painting.

I made some Gift Tags and have a few bags left so will be putting them up for sale. Just have to photograph them.

Open Studio & Art Exhibition Today

2009-12-05T07:38:00.003Z

Come along to the Soaptank Studio's today and tomorrow, several artists are exhibiting their work and the Artists Studios are open, you can see them at work.
Lots to see and all exhibited work is for sale, so you can nab a Christmas present or two (or three or four). Refreshments are available.

Soaptank Studios
Unit 10a
Bank Quay Industrial Estate
Slutchers Lane
Warrington
WA1 1PJ

Ring the bell for our Meeter and Greeter.

Sell Off

2009-11-15T15:49:00.002Z

Getting my stuff ready for the Exhibition and Open Studio, I have been making small things for selling, tags etc.
I have decided this will be a good opportunity to have a clear out of my books, I will be selling lots of embroidery books and might even bag up some of my threads and stuff.

Open Studio & Exhibition

2009-11-09T16:21:00.004Z

Visit the website for more details.

Latest Painting from Scotland

2009-10-20T17:24:00.002+01:00

This is my latest painting from Scotland, from one of my photographs. It was the first day of snow on the Saturday we arrived, but I have taken a little poetic licence and used part of somebody else's image with my photograph.

Images from Scotland

2009-10-15T20:17:00.004+01:00

Just a few images from Scotland, where the weather was lovely.These birds were being fed in the car park to the woods. There were loads more but when I got my camera out they flew away.
This is a little cottage we found in the woods, now being used as an information centre.
This is the amazing stove inside, which as you can see is still used.
This was outside the cottage, quite a lot to look for.
I like sculptures, this was in Aviemore.
This is another, in the shopping centre in Inverness.
Bagpipes on sale in the market. They look like they are marching along.

Studio Update

2009-10-11T17:29:00.003+01:00

I have painted the door frame and started to paint the beams, the sparkly pink and purple are just not me. I have covered the sofa properly.
I have painted this one column in red, it sets the prints off really well.
I have acquired a nice big table, all my stuff is stored underneath, so it keeps the place tidy. It gives me somewhere to work when I am not painting. (new canvas started already)
The view up to the window, still have these beams to paint.

Liverpool One

2009-10-10T15:57:00.003+01:00

I have finished my painting of Liverpool One, prints will be available as soon as I find another reliable printing company, the owner of my last one has retired. It's in a temporary space on my Studio Wall I wouldn't normally hang them next to an electric socket - lol.
I have lots of photos from my trip to Scotland and I will be selling a few of them as prints, I have also started a painting from one.
Now the triathlon season is over hopefully I will have a more time to spend at my studio and should have lots more to show over the coming months.

Bonnie Scotland

2009-10-07T20:38:00.002+01:00

I have just come back from Scotland where I did the Baxters River Ness 10k (see my other blog), I stayed in a cabin at Lochanally, Carrbridge. When you open the patio door in the morning all these ducks walk in. I just had to feed them with bread which really just encouraged them to keep coming in - lol.

This is the pack horse bridge that Carrbridge is famous for. I will be adding lots more photos once I have downloaded them.

Work in Progress - Getting There

2009-09-12T15:18:00.002+01:00

I have been busy working in my Gallery, getting it ready to work and for the public to visit.
I have managed to hang most of my pictures, its strange but one wall was quite easy the other side was really hard to drill into
I have managed to get an old sofa, which I have now covered properly, in this picture the material is just thrown over it.
I have ordered my paint so I can paint the beams and door frame. I will probably put a ceiling over the beams, to give me some storage place.
I also need to build some cupboards, my coffee machine is on the floor!
This is my working corner where my desk is going to go.
A selection of my framed black and white photos.

My New Studio

2009-09-02T20:53:00.002+01:00

It doesn't look much at the moment but I have just signed up for my new Studio. It's 9mts x 3 mts and its already been painted, it's got lino on the floor which is great for me, west facing so I get lovely sunsets over the tin roofs. I will start to move in tomorrow, whoooo.

Liverpool One

2009-08-31T15:22:00.003+01:00

After my triathlon yesterday I decided to take it easy today and recover - well that was the idea. In the end I went to Liverpool One, it's the end of the Mathew Street Festival and there were groups playing all over, a lot of the stuff was Beatles but there was other music too. Along with all the groups there is of course so much shopping. I ended up walking around for two and a half hours, not much rest there, and as Liverpool is on a hill it was up and down all the time. Of course shopping is not shopping without a new handbag or two. I love Lollipop handbags and there was a sale on, so I got a bag and another for half price! Bargain. Photos to follow - lol.

New Studio

2009-08-29T08:31:00.003+01:00

I have found some studio's close to home. I am going to view them this morning, it will help to take my mind off other things (like my triathlon tomorrow). On the advert the studio looks massive and some can be shared, but that depends on who I share with. I think I would prefer one to myself, as there would be no competition for the window, if you share and get stuck at the back (they are long and thin with a window at one end) there's little light which is not good. Sharing does have its advantages though, you get company, somebody to bounce ideas off, somebody to give a critical opinion. There's good and bad to sharing.

Spoons

2009-08-27T09:11:00.004+01:00

I came across these spoons while I was browsing a bric-a-brac stand. They were just asking to be used, and not at the table either. I just need to get my hammer out, some paints and have some fun. The photo is from my phone so its not the best quality.

42 Bikes in One Parking Bay

2009-08-26T13:08:00.003+01:00

This is pretty amazing, 42 bikes parked in one vehicle parking bay!
So if you go out with 41 friends you can all park together, you would have to leave together as well especially if your bike was the one in the middle.

Sky Ride

2009-08-25T08:03:00.002+01:00

After working 7 days a week for 3 months, running my gallery and working full time, I have been having a break and quite frankly not doing much.
However, on Sunday I did go on a Sky Ride. http://new.britishcycling.org.uk/skyride check them out, they are fun and free. From families with children, beginners to experienced, there is a ride to suit everyone. They have several levels, from beginner to strong rider. I went on the strong rider and fell off my bike - twice - lol. At the end of the ride, which can be up to 3 hours, you get a free t shirt!

Sad Day

2009-08-05T14:34:00.003+01:00

It's a sad day for me today. I have closed the gallery down, packed all my pictures up and put them into storage. I have sold some original art, some prints, postcards and key rings. But the footfall promised did not materialise. Most of the visitors are on the day out coaches, they get off, have a pee and cup of tea and only have a few minutes left to browse the shops. Many have no intention of buying, its just a coach stop for them. This week they have also just opened a bric a brac emporium - loads of cheap tat. Once they have been round there then it's back on the bus ad away. I have made a loss for the last two months, so decided to quit. I am still looking for a place in Manchester, I may even go for an exhibition nearer to Christmas. But for now, nothing.

Dark Peak

2009-08-03T10:21:00.003+01:00

Sunday and our last day, the weather was much nicer, warm and sunny with a cooling breeze. This time we walked along the dark peak, a much easier walk, after the initial climb it was relative flat. We were walking along a rocky outcrop which had these circular holes cut in them, each one numbered. We couldn't work out what they were for, I think it must be climbing/abseiling points.

A nice spot for a rest and a quick bite to eat.
The views along the ridge were stunning, especially as today we could see them. Also because it was a nice day, it was really busy with rock climbers and abseilers.
I believe this place is so popular as it's only half an hour from Manchester and about the same from Sheffield. Also as you can see in this picture, the road is quite close so you don't have far to carry your stuff if you just want to spend the day climbing.
Our girls climbed here and abseiled down. It was interesting looking at other more experienced climbers. This guy under the overhang actually fell off twice, he was connected to another climber, so as he fell the other guy counter balanced him and they sort of swung around together.
This guy was like a spider, he just kept climbing up and down all over the place, and seemed to pick the harder routes. He didn't have any climbing equipment at all, just a little bag of powder on his belt.

I had a great weekend thanks to The Camp and I am looking forward to more.

The Cave

2009-08-03T10:03:00.004+01:00

We ended the day with a visit to a cave. This was not a commercial cave, but a completely natural one. No lights or ropes inside. I was really apprehensive, it's just not my cup of tea at all, but I said I would give it a go.

You go inside walking through running water, which comes over the top of your boots, so wet feet! At times the ceiling is so low you have to crouch right down, the entrance goes down so you are going lower and lower underground, there comes a side tunnel which we went down.
It comes out into this chamber, which is so noisy with water running down one wall.
Apparently when the cave was first found they would sleep there overnight. How I have no idea it was wet and you couldn't hear yourself speak!
We went along another tunnel to another large chamber, very high but not very wide, but deadly silent. The water that runs down the rocks leaves deposits on the limestone which turns solid and had lovely patterns.
There are piles of deposits on the floor which look lovely. We stopped in this last cavern and turned out lights off. It was so black you couldn't see your fingers in front of your eyes. And it was so quiet, it was really scary. We eventually put our lights back on. There was another small tunnel that leads to a large drop where you cannot see the bottom of the cave, there was a rope as somebody was still down there. We passed a few people coming out who were in full yellow suits who had been down the bottom of that pit. Personally I couldn't wait to get out, I prefer the daylight thank you.

It was very interesting and I am glad I did it. It was an experience, one which I will not repeat.

White Peak

2009-08-03T09:46:00.003+01:00

Got together with a group of girls from the camp and had a weekend away, walking in the Peak District. Saturday started off a bit damp and drizzly, but it was pleasant. Beautiful scenery to walk through. We set off from base at 9am with our pack lunches and our guide.

The start was not too bad, but then we had quite a climb, over rocks and running water.
When we reached the plateau, we were up in the clouds, or rather the clouds had come down, it wasn't really raining just the damp of the clouds. At times you could just about see the person in front.
There are some steep gully's to climb over, and parts where the rain had washed the path away completely. You sank up to your knees in bog if you weren't careful.

We met a lot of other people walking, it surprised me how many were there on such a damp dismal day. We came across a group of three girls, who had directions, but no map or compass, they wanted to know which way was east. Thankfully I had a compass and was able to direct them, but I thought how silly they were. The Peak District has the highest rate of call outs for mountain rescue in the whole of the UK. I would have thought it was Scotland, but its not. I think people just think they can't get lost, but they can easily. It's a dangerous place with bogs and steep gully's, if you were to get lost and it got dark it could be fatal. We were sensible, we had an experienced guide who not only had walked this route on many occasions, but he still carried a map, compass and survival kit, just in case.

On the Beach

2009-07-18T09:51:00.003+01:00

My latest painting. Still on the sea theme.

I am having mega issues with my printer. It just will not print on photo paper, just keeps jamming. I am tearing my hair out. I got this printer specifically for photo quality prints, so I can produce prints and cards for my shop. It is supposed to print up to 250 gms quality, but it won't even print 178! Its a Brother MFC5860CN printer and its CRAP!!!!

Peace

2009-07-11T19:06:00.002+01:00

I have been very busy lately, what with working full time, then on my days off I am working in my Gallery, also trying to fit in some training. Phew!

Anyway, here's my latest painting. Its big and everybody seems to like it, just thought it would make a change from my relfections.

My Rainbow

2009-06-27T22:26:00.007+01:00

I got this from Rambles from My Chair. Try it its fun.

Your rainbow is shaded green.

What is says about you: You are an intelligent person. You feel strong ties to nature and your mood changes with its cycles. Those around you admire your fresh outlook and vitality.

Find the colors of your rainbow at spacefem.com.

Latest painting

2009-06-19T20:11:00.003+01:00

Finished my latest painting today, its the reflection in the Gallery Window at Blakemere. Now hanging in the entrance to the Gallery.

I have my next canvas on the easel already. Going to do a landscape for a change.

Evening Walk

2009-06-14T21:09:00.003+01:00

I love this time in the evening, just as the sun is going down. I love the way the light creates patterns on the trees and the wood paths.

This was a lovely Beech tree, which fell in the winter. It's been left to slowly rot and feed the little bugs and beesties.

The pond looks lovely too, with a young Moorhen family swimming about.

Working Gallery

2009-05-18T19:44:00.004+01:00

My gallery is now set up and I am working while I am there. I have two walls with my Reflections and one wall with my prints.

The right wall and back wall showing my paintings. I have my sideboard displaying my postcards and keyrings. I keep my paints and brushes in the cupboards. I have a glass computer desk which I work from, great for cutting on.
This shows the left wall with my prints, it also shows where I have managed to put my easel (with work in progress). Its the best place for light and it doesn't block my work.
This shows the end wall, I have two paintings on small easels on the floor. Overall I am very pleased with it. I have some bobbin lace on the table, just for a break while waiting for my paint to dry.

Little Moreton Hall

2009-05-17T17:03:00.003+01:00

A wet and miserable day, so decided to go for a drive out. Went to Little Moreton Hall, a place I have always wanted to go but never have. It's Cheshire's most iconic black-and-white house, they say Tudor skill and craftsmanship at its finest! The top floor is a long gallery, windows all along one side, scarey as the floor slopes but lovely views.

When you approach the house, which is set on a moated island, you go over the bridge into the house and come into a courtyard, which was totally unexpected.

Downstairs seems to consist of many connecting rooms, including a very small chapel which holds a service every day, seats about 10 people max.
Walked around the gardens outside and there is an inscription on one of the beams.
The moat is full of large fish, look like massive goldfish! I am surprised they haven't been got at by herons!

This is the lovely small knot garden. And, it didn't rain!

Gallery Update

2009-05-04T20:54:00.004+01:00

I have taken an old sideboard in and some large paintings. It's starting to look good. Once I have more chains I will put all my prints on the right wall and keep my paintings on the other two walls.

I have had a lot of positive comments, I am feeling far more confident.

Gallery Setting Up

2009-05-01T21:08:00.002+01:00

Today is my first day in my new Gallery. I arrived early to set everything up, but I was too keen and too early, I had to wait outside until the keyholder arrived, thankfully it wasn't raining.

This is the Elements Gallery at Blakemere Craft Centre.

My pile of work from the car, its surprising how much you can fit in a Smart Car. Two boxes of framed prints, several canvas's and all the other bits necessary.

I have some more paintings to take down tomorrow. This is just a temporary set up, I need more chains as they are a bit wonky on one chain. Also I need a larger table for my postcards, keys and booklets, they are rather cramped on the one I have. I will also need to take my spare easel and paints, so I can be productive during the quiet periods.

Art Gallery

2009-04-22T16:33:00.004+01:00

With effect from 1st May, you can see my paintings exhibited in my new Art Gallery. Original art, framed prints, postcards and key rings will be available to purchase. Or just come along for a look. There is plenty to do at Blakemere for families, to check out the location and other events go to http://www.blakemere-shoppingexperience.com/location.html.

Sefton Park, Liverpool

2009-04-19T17:17:00.005+01:00

I did the Pedal it Pink half marathon in Sefton Park today, as I was on my day bike with the basket on the front I was able to take my camera. Here's a few photo's which show why I love to do my events in Sefton Park.

Me with my day bike, waiting for the start.

Gail, also waiting for it to start.

Formal gardens outside the Palm House.

Peter Pan statue, outside the Palm House.

Part of the stream which runs through the park.

This is a lovely Monkey Puzzle Tree.

Trees in blossom, beautiful perfume and so nice on such a sunny day.

This is the Palm House, a grade II listed three tier Victorian Glasshouse. It was restored in 2001. It's open to the public and they hold events there.

You can even get married in there.

There is a grotto in the park, the entrances have been fenced off with nice gates. It's just a pity they didn't clean up the inside before sealing it up. It's got lots of graffiti inside which spoils it, maybe its on their list of 'to do' jobs.

Facts about Sankey Navigation Canal

2009-04-17T19:09:00.003+01:00

These posters are all along the canal, they make very interesting reading.

At one time when the canal was built, it was lined for miles with industry. Now as far as I can tell, there is just Fiddlers Ferry Power Station.

There are plenty of boats, all for pleasure these days. There is the Yacht Haven, where they are moored and repaired. Further up by Spike Island they are all moored ready to go to sea when the tide is in.
With all the mud flats when the tide is out, its a real haven for the birds. Although all I have seen are the usual, swans, ducks, canada geese, coots and moorhens.

Sankey Canal

2009-04-17T18:30:00.005+01:00

I am doing the Pedal it Pink half marathon bike ride on Sunday along with a work colleague Gail. As Gail hasn't been on a bike for ages, we went on a ride this afternoon to see how she gets on. We decided to do the Trans Pennine Trail as its by the canal so mainly flat. It was a lovely afternoon, but due to previous rain, there was loads of puddles and we both got rather filthy.

We cycled up to Spike Island, a haven for wild birds.

We came across this butterfly in the middle of the path, sunning herself.

These old locks are interesting, they have the depth of the water carved on the stones. They are not used now and all dried up, but you can still see the roman numerals.

It was fun though, we did a lot of stopping as Gail's saddle is a bit hard for her and she was very uncomfortable. We even walked for a while and came across several fishermen along the way. One had caught a Ghost Carp, it was quite big, I didn't think there would be fish that size in the canal.

The view across the estuary to Runcorn Bridge in the distance.

The view across the estuary looking back.

We passed a swan nesting in the reeds. Making sure we didn't get close enough to disturb her.

Was that Summer?

2009-04-17T09:11:00.002+01:00

Well, we did have a couple of days of lovely weather, but now its back to, yes rain again!

This is Emily's cat Sox, enjoying the brief spell of sun.

Some colour in the garden at last, it cheers you up even though its raining.

This is the only Rhodedendron in the garden that I can remember the name of, its Susan, so its easy to remember. I did label my plants but my husband removed them as he said it spoilt them!!

I keep my plants well pruned as I only have a small garden and I know some can take over if left unchecked.

My Perris just coming into bloom, I keep this one in a pot.

Dunham Massey

2009-04-05T16:47:00.005+01:00

It'd been a lovely day today, so I decided to go to Dunham Massey, I haven't been there for years. I think half of Cheshire also decided to go there today too. There is a lovely Georgian mansion which claims to have a fabulous collection of paintings, furniture and Huguenot silver.

Unfortunately you are not allowed to take photographs inside the house, having said that, there is not much inside I would want to photograph. I know they have to keep the curtains closed to protect the furniture and textiles from sunlight, but the house inside was so dark and depressing. It was also filthy, a lot of the inside walls and ceilings could do with a lick of paint. I am sure when it was occupied, in the old days, it wasn't so drab and dirty. Anyway, the gardens and grounds are massive and really nice on such a lovely day.

Approaching from the car park, looking at the stables across the moat.

Looking across the moat to the front of the house.

The moat running through the gardens.

Looking back at the house and the orangery.

I think these must have been the outdoor workers houses, probably the Estate Manager or some such high gardening position. They have deer in the park which must have been managed by somebody at some time. It was a lovely afternoon.

Frogs

2009-03-14T11:53:00.002Z

As you all know, I love my frogs, I just love frogs in general, but right now they are driving me nuts!

It's the mating season and my poor little pond is full of them, the noise at night is driving my daughter nuts as her bedroom is just above them. And the frogspawn....it keeps blocking up my filter, so every day I have to clean the filter out and remove the nights invasion of spawn. I took a bucket full out yesterday and quarter of a bucket today. I just move it to the patio pond which doesn't have any fish so its no problem there, but its gradually filling up so there is nearly more spawn than water! At this rate I am going to have to build a bigger pond! (which I would like anyway, its just the cost).

Closest Book To You

2009-02-14T18:27:00.000Z

Closest book to you
How to play:
* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence along with these instructions in a note in your BLOG.
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual... Use the CLOSEST

Thus stimulated, encouraged and naturally precocious, Pugin begins to emerge as a distinct personality.

My book is Gods Architecture by Rosemary Hill.

I love architecture, I base most of my art on it. I spend ages photographing and drawing buildings. This book was on my christmas list, and I am so glad I received it.

http://unusual-architecture.com/

http://villageofjoy.com/amazing-architecture-of-dubai/

Snow...what snow!

2009-02-03T10:45:00.000Z

Today the country is still gripped by heavy snow...
its sunny in Warrington, no sign of any snow!

Snow!

2009-02-02T13:42:00.000Z

The country has been hit by snow. Planes, boats and trains cancelled. But here in Warrington...we woke up to this - a blanket of snow, a very thin blanket at that. Its now nearly 2pm and it has been snowing on and off all day and what is it like now...hardly any visible snow at all! I'm going shopping and tomorrow while we have no snow to speak of I will be cycling to work!

Take your own quiz here.

2009-02-01T21:46:00.000Z

http://helloquizzy.okcupid.com/

Knitting

2009-01-19T09:49:00.001Z

I have been quiet this year, so what have I been doing... knitting, knitting and more knitting.
This is a long aran coat/jacket. I just have to tie in my loose ends and make some buttons. Also due to the pattern being quite loose I need to wash it to tighten it up. I haven't knitted for years but the bug has got me again - lol.

Jacket Front
Jacket BackButton Detail. It only has two buttons to fasten.

And for my Grandaughter Georgie a colourful top. She loves pink, typical girl. Again just have to make the buttons and wash it.

Front

Back

I have loads of yarns, mainly because when I see one I really like I can't resist it. Also when I was weaving I was dying my own which was also quite addictive. So now I am digging out my yarns and old knitting books, so watch this space.

Santa Dash 08

2009-01-17T13:28:00.001Z

Finally, my photo has arrived. This is me and my daughter Fi at the start of the Santa Dash in Liverpool. Everyone is hanging around waiting for the off.

New Year

2009-01-01T14:40:00.000Z

What not to do...take a photo of yourself, reflected in a window, using flash!

1st January 2009

2009-01-01T14:15:00.000Z

Happy New Year to everyone. Remember, don't make resolutions that you know you won't keep!

Did a couple more shots of my frozen water in my little pond. They really inspire me to do a bit of manipulation and textile work.

Went for a walk, even though it was freezing cold. I followed the Sankey Canal in the opposite direction and walked towards St Helens. This part of the canal is now just a almost dried up bed.This is a pond near the beginning of the dried up canal, the swans nest here every year, but today it was frozen solid, though you cannot tell by this photo.

This is all that is left of Hulme Locks, its been filled in so you can walk across it.

One of the remaining posts, nearly rotted away. Lovely textures though.

The Day that Winter Came

2008-12-30T10:09:00.001Z

Well, winter has finally arrived. It has gone from this one day... frosty but not too bad..

to this...fabulous icicles on my pond.
I have some branches from my tree across my pond to stop the Heron from eating my fish. These have some lovely icicles on. There are plenty of large open areas of water where they can get plenty of fish.

2008-12-24T08:29:00.000Z

Liverpool Santa Dash 2008

2008-12-07T13:16:00.000Z

Liverpool, Santa Dash with Fiona. This is my decorated suit, with a massive bell on the hat, nearly knocked myself out when I bent down - lol.

Medal, Tshirt and number, finished in a respectable 47:12, we both walked as Fiona had done no training at all and was moaning that her feet were killing her!

Another medal for my bedhead.

The only downside to the day, was Liverpool Council, boy did they let us all down. They said the roads would be closed from 8:30, but there would be ncp and street parking available until then. NO - the roads were closed by 8:05, so you could only park in the Q park or Albert Dock. Our literature stated park for £5, what a rip off. When I left it charged me £6!! So I complained and was told that if I stayed all day I would only have to pay £5.

Q Park is the new car park for Liverpool One, their new shopping centre to rival the Trafford Centre. Well, there is no contest, the Trafford Centre wins hands down...First its totally free parking, whether you go for one hour or all day.....Secondly its all under cover indoors, warm and tastfully decorated. L1 just appears to be streets on two levels, freezing cold with christmas decorations consisting of giant chains!

I will never go there again, and I will never do a Santa Dash in Liverpool again. Its just one big rip off which spoiled the day.

Albert Dock and Santa Suit

2008-12-01T16:10:00.000Z

I went into Liverpool today with Fiona to collect our Santa Suits for the Santa Dash on 7th December. I decided to park at Albert Dock. The idea being we could walk up to collect our suits then come back to the docks, browse the shops and have a snack before going back home.
I haven't been to the docks for ages, what a dissapointment! There are hardly any shops there now, its mainly restaurants! You used to be able to walk inside and go into various shops, not you can only walk outside and go in individual shops.
Looking across at what was the main shopping area.

Some colourful boats.

The Pump House, a pub.

This used to be Granada TV, I think its just offices now. Albert Docks used to be a thriving place when Richard and Judy was televised from here.

Looking across from the docks to the Liver Building.

Things I have done

2008-12-01T08:27:00.000Z

I got this from Rambles From My Chair, The ones I have done are in red. 43 out of 100, I have not done much - lol.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis (Does a snake count instead)
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run (Does scoring a goal count?)
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo's David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant / cafe
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check (accidentally)
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book (working on it)
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day.

Outward Journey

2008-11-30T23:06:00.001Z

I set off on the Sankey Canal, it was called the Sankey Navigation Canal and was the first canal in the country built in the industrial revolution. The bridge in the picture is the first viaduct in the country. All this history on the doorstep and yet there is nothing in the area publicising this.

Setting off along Sankey Valley, ice on the canal and very cold and misty.

An unusual signpost at Fiddlers Ferry

The tops of the towers just appearing in the mist

Approaching Widnes with the sun coming through the mist.

The estuary is a sanctuary for all birds, especially waders. There is information and what you can see through each window. Also a long viewing platform built over the estuary.

Homeward Bound

2008-11-30T22:57:00.001Z

By the time I was getting near Runcorn Bridge the sun was shining through the mist.

The Mersey Estuary

Looking Down on Widnes from Runcorn Bridge

Making my way across the footpath on Runcorn Bridge (the road to the right was very busy)

Looking back at the afternoon sun on the canal near Walton.

Nearing the end of my ride by the canal.

Cycle Ride

2008-11-30T16:34:00.000Z

I decided as it was a fresh morning, and no rain, I would go on a bike ride. I went beside the canal which was really nice, the mist rising from the water, all the moorhens and coots running away from me, the ducks just quacking and the swans swimming majestically. I will post my photos later when I have downloaded them. Basically I was out for 3 hours and 55 mins and cycled for 26.3 miles! I got lost as the cycle lanes in Runcorn don't have very good directions, you come to junctions with no direction as to where all the roads lead to. I finally discovered where I was and started to make my way home. I was frozen by the time I got home and nearly two hours later I am still cold! Its funny but apart from my toes I wasn't cold while I was cycling.

I got a few nice pics some which will be nice painted. Watch this space as they say - lol.

Cross Stitch

2008-11-20T13:36:00.000Z

Still stitching away on my Lowry, its looking better but still lots to do, cross stitch is so time consuming.
On a personal note, I have finally ditched the pink and red hair, its too much trouble trying to keep the colour in, every day its washed and it just fades to a manky colour, so now its dark with a hint of purple.
The weather seems to be going from constant rain to very windy, no snow yet though. The wind is a killer on my bike. It always seems to be against me when I am trying to cycle up hill!!

Cross Stitch Lowry

2008-10-30T14:16:00.000Z

What have I been doing lately? Well, apart from a lot of walking, cycling and working, I made up a cross stitch of a lowry painting called the Handcart. You can just about make out the factories and houses and a few people at the bottom. I do all the large areas first, then the smaller ones and fill in the bitty bits last. I think I have used too many colours though, if I do one again I will limit the amount of colours.

Galloway

2008-10-21T16:52:00.001+01:00

I spent the week with a great group of girls, never met them before but we all got on great together. It truly was a brilliant week.

Walking in the Mountains

2008-10-10T14:20:00.000+01:00

I have decided to take myself off for a holiday. Just me, myself and I. Iwill be walking in the Scottish mountains around Galloway. See you all in a weeks time.

Liverpool 10k

2008-10-05T14:15:00.001+01:00

I did a power walk again for the Liverpool 10k today. Due to all the rain the park fields were flooded, but as the run was on the paths it wasn't too bad. There were parts where the water was like a stream running across the footpaths. I got a little muddy but not too bad. It started the day rain, but by the time I got to Liverpool it thankfully had stopped. We started and it was dull and overcast, but on finishing the sun was shining. A big thank you to Asics and Powerade, and of course Liverpool Council for letting us run in Sefton Park. Not a too bad a time 1:33:09. (from the official results from my chip)I came 22nd in my category. Well, it gives me plenty of room for improvement.

In the Garden Today

2008-09-13T15:44:00.000+01:00

More rain again. Things are looking decidedly manky in the garden. Even my lovely fuschia looks the worse for wear.
I have some massive spider webs in the garden, approx five foot across! Here are two of the little chappies, waiting for dinner. The rain doesn't seem to bother them.

Remember the Bean

2008-09-08T13:28:00.001+01:00

To recap: I saved a bean plant from my daughters porch, where it was dried to a crisp and at deaths door. Well, look at it now, it has babies, yeah!

Adidas Women's 5k Challenge Liverpool

2008-09-07T13:36:00.000+01:00

Simply the best. Managed to do a bit of running but for no more than 2 mins, which slowly dropped to 30 seconds. Very dissapointed 43:50 final time. So what is simply the best, well, the whole organisation done by Adidas. Liverpool is alway good for runs, as they are usually around Sefton Park as this was, but apart from the medal it was an amazing goodie bag. And there was plenty of water available, not like the last 10k I did there when there was no water left when I finished.

This is our amazing goodie bag and this is whats in it.
Canvas reusable shopping bag.
Adidas T Shirt
Medal
Canvas wash bag with large can deodorant, after sport shower gel and voucher for £1 off deodorant.
Sample can action control deodorant.
All the above from Adidas.
Also:
Papermate pen (pink)
Bar Milky Way chocolate
Bottle Schweppes Malvern water
Nature Valley Crunchy Granola pack 2 bars
Special K oats and honey serial (single portion)
Jordans Frusli bar
PG Tips, 2 Green Tea Lemon bags
Ricola, swiss herb drops sugar free sweets (sample) and 25p off
Bodyshop moisture cream sample
Bertolli Baked Bites pkt
Vitabiotics wellwoman capsules (7)
Nivea soft moisture cream sample
Nivea for men moisturisor sample
Shock Absorber leaflet

You really can't complain at all that. Adidas you are simply the best. Thank you.

Rain

2008-09-05T10:10:00.001+01:00

It's so depressing, everyday it rains. Sometimes for an hour, but lately all day on and off. What happened to Summer, when did we have it and where did it go?

Dreams

2008-08-25T09:31:00.001+01:00

I have a handmade book which I purchased from Rooks Books in London, when I was at the Oxford Arts Fair last year. I was writing my dream in it today and thought I would share it with you, not the dream the book. The guy is amazing he has this old car and he is slowly covering it in leather. Check him out www.rooksbooks.co.uk

Butterfly at last.

2008-08-24T14:05:00.000+01:00

I have two cameras, the Canon Proshot for my everyday photography which I ususally use. I also have the Canon 400D which I bought just the camera body and a separate lens just for macro photography. I mislaid the battery charger so haven't been able to use it for a while. Today at last I have butterflies in my garden. All taken using the macro lens.

Of course the dog, Casper has to get in on the act, he came up to see what I was doing. You can see me in his eye, which I think is cool.

Peover Church

2008-08-23T17:20:00.000+01:00

As everything wouldn't fit on my previous post, I don't know why but I am extending it here.
This is Peover Church, a beautiful church, all wood bar the bell tower. (Daughter Fiona and Grandson Shaun shown bottom left)

Just a couple of shots from inside the church.

Among the old graves is this one, made entirely of wood. All the cross, headstone an block the cross stands on is all wood. Something I have not seen anywhere else.
Just as we were leaving a robin landed on one of the graves in front of us. I had to explain the red breast to Shaun, also to reiterate that robins do not only appear at christmas!

The Bells the bells 21 today.

2008-08-23T17:11:00.000+01:00

My baby (she hates that) was 21 yesterday. She celebrated with her friends last night and wanted a family meal today. So we all went to the Bells of Peover (pronounced Peever). Its a lovely old pub, down a cobblestone road, with the entrance to the church opposide the door to the pub.

The entrance has a really old wisterea growing over it, beautiful when in bloom.The bar inside is tiny and not used much as it only seats about 4 people. Its more a restaurant than pub. Three rooms full of dining tables. The food is lovely.
This shows the gate through to the pub entrance.

Slowly slowly

2008-08-21T11:11:00.001+01:00

It is taking so long and I am still filling in the background with cross stitches.
I have added some beads to the leaves and some machine stitching.
and for a change, I have done french knots on the satin fabric and edged it with blanket/button hole stitch and herringbone. Also, I have just done a little stitching on the net fabric. Not sure about these at all.

Low Flying Geese

2008-08-17T12:36:00.000+01:00

When I went to see my therapist this week I was early so spent a few mins watching the geese that frequent the pond on the estate. Its also on the flightpath for Manchester Airport!

Ruthin Craft Centre

2008-08-12T11:18:00.000+01:00

A wet and miserable day, so in the afternoon we went to Ruthin Craft Centre again, this time it was open. The place seems very popular, but its such a shame only one craft studio is occupied. There is a main exhibition room where I was allowed to take photographs.
This first one is by Audry Walker.

The following are the main exhibition, and I have lost the persons name which I wrote down. Anyway they are all made mainly with mirrors and glass. Unfortunately I appear in the reflections of some and for Gandhi someone walked ito the picture and I didn't realise.

Winning Award

2008-08-08T18:48:00.000+01:00

Whooo! I have won an award. Thank you so much Fi for nominating me. Check out Fi's blog at http://fisfaultscraps.blogspot.com/

The rules of the award are:
The winner can put the logo on her blog.
Link the person you received your award from.
Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
Put links of those blogs on yours.
Leave a message on the blogs of the girls you’ve nominated...

So here's mine.....

http://downunderdale.blogspot.com/

http://www.purplemissus.blogspot.com

http://stitchworks-jackie.blogspot.com

http://textilegoddess.blogspot.com/

http://suebleiweiss.typepad.com/

http://cheshirecheese.blogspot.com

http://kirbanita.typepad.com/take_joy/

Wordle for Today

2008-08-03T22:16:00.000+01:00

Catch up with Leaves

2008-08-02T10:59:00.001+01:00

Just a catch up to show work in progress on my leaves for the botanical work. Still stitching the background, takes ages but I have done some experimental work for the leaves.
This first one is felt embellished with fibres and thread.
These are velvet, embellished with silk, shimmer fabric and some fibres. As I was lazy and didn't change the threads on my overlocker, I painted the edges with green paint to cover the white stitching.
For the next lot, I painted some bubble wrap with acrylic paints and glitter. Then ironed it between greaseproof paper to burst the bubbles and spread the paint. I intended to stitch into it, but the paint just wouldn't dry, so I put pieces of fabric over it, satin, net and the shiney fabric and ironed it again. The results on the fabric are super.
This is the satin piece, which I have started to stitch onto.

All the B's

2008-07-27T14:08:00.000+01:00

It has turned out really hot again today. I was sat on the garden swing early this morning, listening to a pair of wood pidgeons and a magpie. Where are all the little birds? At one time they would be singing away, now no sign of any. My bird feeders are untouched and the only visits to the bird table are the wood pidgeons! My budlea is covered in flowers which should be covered in butterflies but there are none to be seen. So far today I have seen one butterfly, which didn't stop and my only bee. She likes the sunflowers.

Monkey Forest

2008-07-21T15:53:00.000+01:00

Went for a day out to Trentham Monkey Forest, near Stoke on Trent (UK).
The weather was nice an sunny and what an amazing place. You can walk through the forest where all the monkeys are free, not caged. I was taking photographs and one walked right past my legs. The forest is 60 acres and they have 140 Barbary macaques's, all roaming. I took loads of photographs, but will limit them here.

This is one walking across the public walkway.
Down by the stream a group of three one year olds were playing together, they are just like children. One grabs a branch and runs, the other two chase after it. They even try to push each other into the water.

The older ones, still keep watch from the tops of the trees and they also sleep in the trees at night. This one was asleep and looks rather uncomfortable!

Of course the treat of the day, there were two babies, only 8 weeks old. Two males, they are so cute.

If you are in the UK, give them a visit, or visit their website www.monkey-forest.com.

Botanical Water update

2008-07-18T13:44:00.000+01:00

I posted a picture of my water from the botanical gardens in Glasgow. This is the latest update. I am still working on the background, it takes ages to stitch all the french knots, three strands of cotton, some different shades, at the same time. I am just putting in the rest of the background now, random cross stitches to pull the water together. I can then start to add the embellishments, the surrounding plants.

Growing Garden

2008-07-18T13:41:00.001+01:00

The rain doesn't bother the bees too much, you can just about see one inside the flower.
A nice mix of colour, sunflowers, buddlea and rhus all blooming together.

Wordle

2008-07-18T07:13:00.000+01:00

Another wet and miserable day here in Cheshire. All this rain is making the garden grow, which is good, but because its always wet I can't cut the grass or the neighboring bushes which keep pouring into my garden! They were only cut a couple of weeks ago and they are as bad as ever.

So while reading all the wonderful blogs about all the wonderful work you are all doing, I came across wordle. I just wish I could make the picture bigger.

This is made up of random words used in my blog. visit wordle its fun. http://wordle.net/

First Sunflowers

2008-07-15T08:35:00.000+01:00

At last, my first sunflowers have bloomed.
I should say rainflowers, as that is all we seem to have had lately. They are only small, but lovely.