funkymonkey

It's on the Way

2011-12-05T14:05:00.011Z

I'm not a great fan of Christmas. I can't stand all those crowds and seeing all those naff presents in the shops. But buying the Christmas edition of the Radio Times is one of those traditions that rates along with buying the tree each December. I've been very restrained and haven't even opened it yet, but I'm already anticipating the goodies that await us over the festive period. My favourite film The Railway Children must be in there along with Doctor Who and a Harry Potter. Mr. F and I will probably be fighting to read it first, but there is always consensus when it comes to choosing what we must watch. We never see anything on Christmas Day, but know what is a must on catch up t.v. and we'll enjoy searching out those feel good programmes and old black and white films that get hidden away in the schedules. There's nothing like cosying in on a dark December afternoon with an Ealing comedy, a little tipple and some Christmas chocolate or my absolute favourite...amaretti soffici.Just the thing after a long walk over Kinver Edge. I'd love you tell me your guilty(or not so guilty) tv pleasure over the Christmas period. We're really busy at the moment trying to decorate. Most of the house needs redecorating, but things move slowly in the Funkyhouse. For 18 months now, the books from the study (spare bedroom) have been boxed up and living in my bedroom, so that the study can be redecorated. It's taken a long time
to get to the stage where we can choose wallaper.

I was all for for a pale, modern look but both Mr. F and Teenage Boy insisted that we had to keep a warm and cosy look. Outnumbered again, I gave in and we have found something dark and cosy.It's not all papered yet. Fancy a sneaky peek?

Hopefully it will be finished by next weekend as it will be another full weekend as we need to buy a tree. It's one of the few outings we get with Teenage Boy these days, as he loves to help choose a tree. It's quite a decision some times and we cannot buy one without our young man's approval. Have a good week., I hope your festive preparations are going well.

The Civil Wars

2011-11-28T17:38:00.003Z

I first heard The Civil Wars being interviewed on the radio one Monday morning. I heard a few bars of this track and had to dash upstairs to the computer to find it on You Tube. I then discovered that they were performing on Jools Hollland that week. It has been on constant replay ever since. I've asked Father Christmas to put a copy of the cd into my stocking. He does sometimes read this blog....so here's hoping.

It's certainly not my usual taste in music, but I've been blown away by them and have been watching many videos on You Tube, including a fantastic version of Billie Jean that they performed on Later... with Jools. Let me know what you think.

By the way....if you don't feel tempted to watch the video....one of the duo is a dead ringer for Johnny Depp. I bet you'll watch it now! Roll on March when I'll be going to see them in Birmingham.

Summer's End

2011-09-26T11:15:00.002+01:00

From Aug 2011

Summer's End? Well, not quite it seems. We have summer's final fling on the way and it's due to last until the weekend. After, the darkness and rain of yesterday the sun has returned today with that gentle warmth it usually posesses in September. Light and sunshine are making my bargain flowers look even more spectacular. Only two pounds for all of them from Bridgnorth market. You wouldn't find that in the supermarket now would you?

From Aug 2011

There won't be many more opportunities to buy such luscious bunches thoughas the garden flowers of summer and autumn give way to those that can be grown cheaply in greenhouses. Nevermind, I'm making the most of this gorgeousness whilst I can.

From Aug 2011

Mr F. and I recently treated ourselves to a day out in Ledbury. One of my favourite shops Hus & Hem has moved into larger premises and was full of wonderful, funky Scandinavian design. I couldn't resist these hand blocked tea towels. I loved the big bold design of this green one

From Aug 2011

or the colours in this purple one.

I neeeeeed them in my life. I must be such a sad, boring person to get so excited about a couple of tea towels, but they are another of my 'one weaknesses'. If I see a nice tea towel....then I've got to have it.......because I neeeeeeed it in my life. I'm not fussy, they can be be floral or stripy, bright and bold or pale and subtle, but if it grabs me...I've got to have it. Please tell me, do I need help, or does anyone else have this strange addiction? What is yur 'one weakness'? OOh! They are one of the few things I enjoy ironing too, there's nothing like the satisfacti0n of a pile of neatly folded freshly ironed tea towels. I think I'd better end my post there.....before my ramble degenerates any further. Have a good week everyone and enjoy the sunshine whilst you can.

From Aug 2011

Three go Down to the Sea

2011-08-28T15:53:00.002+01:00

This is St Anthony Head lighthouse...more commonly known in the Funky household as 'my lighthouse'. We've been visiting the Lizard Peninsular for nine or ten years now. Faithfully revisiting the same village and the same cottage year after year. Most evenings I will walk down the steep hill, past whitewashed cottages to sit at dusk on the pebbly grey beach and gaze at 'my lighthouse'. The view you see above is not the view I am used to for that glorious August week. Instead, I have to wait until dusk before I can see the beam of light from St Anthony head across the bay near St Mawes. But it is still 'my lighthouse' and every year my heart leaps as I see its comforting light shining across Falmouth bay, guiding ships through the infamous Manacles, rocks that have caused so many shipwrecks and taken so many lives.

This year we took the King Harry ferry

and went across to the Roseland Peninsular. We really went to look at St Mawes and the church at St Just in Roseland, but the highlight of my day and totally unexpectedly, was our visit to 'my lighthouse'. I love lighthouses and the safety and comfort they represent, knowing that ships can identify where they are by the 'character' of each light. Every lighthouse run by Trinity House has its own 'character' which means that the light stays on for a certain length of time, then off for another length of time, and lights can be a combination of white and red. St Anthony's character is a combination of red and white light flashing for 15 seconds at a time. I dream of living in a lighthouse, watching ferocious storms from the safety of its impenetrable thick walls.......I think I read too much Enid Blyton as a child.

That day, we were also able to visit Portscatho and the lovely shop I've seen here at The Mermaids Tale.

Do you like the little bottle I bought there? Naughty of me....but it did happen to be my birthday. I think I deserved a little treat.

We love Cornwall, but not for us are the bustling streets of St Ives, we love the quiet coves

From Aug 2011

and wild coasts

From Aug 2011

Not to mention the odd fishing village where we can usually be found wandering around, devouring the occasional roskilly's icecream.

From Aug 2011

Edit: I've not blogged for a couple of months now and hope to get back to blogging from now on. Things have been difficult at work recently, as I now have to do half of my hours at another location. This involves extra travelling and longer days for me, besides the disruption of being in another place learning another set up. I'm still trying to figure out if this move makes my job more or less vulnerable and as you can appreciate it has been quite a worry for me. As I like my blog to be my 'happy' place as opposed to a 'gloomy' place like Eeyore's I thought it better to keep out of the blogging world for a while, and although I haven't felt able to comment on blogs, you can rest assured that I've been reading blogs avidly to cheer myself up. Hopefully, normal service has been resumed.

Sweet William

2011-06-10T09:25:00.002+01:00

Sweet William. Along with the bright colours of autumn dahlias, Sweet William always remind me of my Grandad's garden. He grew them every year without fail and I think I love them because of it. Grandad's garden was very organised. A small lawn for the grandkids to play on and a path up the middle seperating the remaining garden, with regimented rows of beans, potatoes,onions and peas doing their own thing, scrambling up the pea sticks. The other side of the garden was my favourite because that's where the flowers grew. Reds, yellows, blues and pinks. At that age, I couldn't identify most of the flowers, I just knew if they were pretty, or smelt good. The fences of the garden were low and much time was spent chatting to neighbours, although voices had to be raised to include those a couple of houses down the row. I can also remember the pigsty, almost a ruin then, hidden down in the far corner of the garden. I couldn't understand why this small red brick litle building was called a pigsty. I'd nver seen a pig there. But apparently, Grandad used to keep pigs during the war to supplement the rations. Although, not allowed to keep all of the pig when it was slaughtered, I'm sure it helped feed the family still left at home, not away fighting.

He was brought up in the countryside, his brother a shepherd I think. So keeping animals was a normal thing to do in those days......I think we're getting back to that way of life now aren't we?
I think there may have been chickens too at one time.

I also remember the Anderson shelter. It intrigued me, even scared me a little. Many people kept these after the war and Grandad's was still going strong in the sixties and seventies when I was young. It was split into two sections, with an entrance at either end of the shelter. One side was used as a little work shop, with a bench and tools hanging around the corrugated iron walls. The other side was full of plant pots and other gardening paraphanaelia. It was here that the onions were strung and hung in the autumn.

Well, last Saturday whilst shopping in town, I saw these flowers and had to buy a couple of bunches and bring them home with me. They still look pretty today, some in the lounge and a few on a kitchen shelf, reminding me of my Grandad's garden. Do flowers bring back memories for you? I would love to know. I know that foxgloves always make me think of my husband and I suspect cow parsley in the lanes always remind him of me. Flowers...don't they bring back evocative memories.

A little Treat

2011-06-06T10:54:00.002+01:00

From June 2011

With Teenage Boy holidaying in France last week and me feeling all jittery about him being away from home for a week,Mr F. decided we should have a little treat. It certainly helped me stop worrying. We had just one night away in gorgeous B&B in Lacock. Above, you can see our very own private door with polished wooden stairs that led up to our cosy bedroom, set away from the main house. We even had our own little garden to enjoy the evening sunshine. We spent the morning in Bath, where I got chance to visit some of my favourite shops and spend some money I shouldn't have. But Lacock was the real treat. In fact, I've taken so many photographs, I'll have to blog the second day of our trip in a seperate post. As there are quite a few pictures, I won't bore you with many words.

From June 2011

This is the main building of our little getaway.

From June 2011

And the view from one of windows in our room.

From another of our windows you could see St Cyriac's church

We were also next door to house of James and Lily Potter. In fact it's where they were murdered by the evil Lord Voldemort.

Of course any visit to Lacock is not complete without a visit to Lacock Abbey, also used in the Harry Potter films

From June 2011

The Abbey gardens and grounds were very pretty too.

From June 2011

How about a little tour of the village houses, shops and gardens?

From June 2011

Such a pretty, peaceful village, although I was a little disappointed not to bump into Colin Firth, Greg Wise or Judi Dench...maybe next time. by the way, Teenage Boy arrived safely home yesterday, having had a brillant holiday with his friends. He brought this with him

From June 2011

and this.

From June 2011

He's Gone....

2011-05-30T10:50:00.003+01:00

Oh yes....he's gone. Saturday morning Teenage Boy met his friends at school and boarded the coach for the long journey to the south of France. To the Ardeche to be precise. He doesn't look that excited in this photograph, taken just before we drove to school. But I think that's just his aversion to having his' boring' parents taking 'boring' photographs. We waited a while whilst everyone was checked in at school and luggage loaded. And watched the scramble for seats, only to see them all get off the coach again because they had forgotten something, or because Mom and Dad needed to check something before finally sending them off on their week long adventure.

Not to mention the comedic scenes as teenage boys ducked and dived and in some cases ran to avoid giving their parents a hug before leaving. Mr. F. proffered a hand in case Teenage Boy prefered a handshake to the much wanted hug....I'm pleased to say, we both got our hug. And now he is in the Ardeche, jumping into raging rivers from the top of cliffs, canoeing dangerous rapids and later in the week moving on to the mediterranean coast, windsurfing and sailing in dangerous tidal waters. I know it's true........I saw the video of last year's trip. So this week, I shall spend worrying......is he eating? did I pack the right clothing? will he hurt himself jumping into that damned river? Who'd be a mom? Do you worry about your kids constantly, or are you able to be laid back and say ....wahtever? Mr F. has plans to keep me occupied this week and I think that will be the best therapy.

I might get around to planting my new baskets and herbs

From May11

and relax in the garden if this rain ever stops.

We could do a spot of salvage hunting

From May11

Or visit some beautiful houses and gardens.... and eat cake. Yes that might stop me worrying. What do you do to stop worrying and relax?

My Day

2011-03-25T13:40:00.003Z

I'm certainly making the most of the sunshine and the warmth. Wow! What a gorgeous couple of days we've been having. It's at this time of year I get all excited about gardening. I gaze at wonderful lush green gardens in magazines and books and imagine my garden resembling a corner of Great Dixter or Sissinghurst. Of course it never does. By the time August comes, I'm tired of lugging the watering can around the garden, slugs and snails have usually wreaked havoc eating my favourite plants and everything is beginning to look a little tired. But not now. In March, I'm enthusiastic, excited and convinced that the garden will definitely look better than last year.

From March 2011

I love seeing these old fashioned plants in borders, although I've never grown them myself. Last week in the garden centre I was persauded to buy them by this little message on the back of the packet, written in capital letters.'VERY EASY TO GROW'. Well, it's certainly worth a try isn't it?. So they came home with me ready to become part of my master plan for the garden.

Such strange little seeds aren't they? More like little millipeeds than seeds.

I've taken the plunge this morning and planted some in a seed tray. Now we'll see if they are 'VERY EASY TO GROW'. Also, I must show you the bargain of the week.

From March 2011

I spotted the new Hummingbird Bakery cookbook for the grand price of only six pounds in our local Sainsbury's yesterday. Retail price should be twenty pounds. Needless to say, it found it's way into the trolley very quickly and without too much 'should I? Shouldn't I?' debating with myself. I couldn't wait to get started with it, so popped into Waitrose this morning to top up on essential ingredients to make caramel cupcakes

Not bad eh?

From March 2011

I wonder if Mr F. and Teenage Boy will miss this one?

From March 2011

This Weekend

2011-03-21T11:17:00.002Z

This weekend didn't go as planned. I suppose not many do really. It very probably ended up being better than planned, as I was able to spend some time working in the garden, tidying, planning, admiring, and 'having good ideas'. Whether any of them come to fruition is quite another matter as my butterfly mind will probably be distracted by other 'good ideas'.

From March 2011

Saturday was so warm that I sat in the shed with a cuppa..... it felt like heaven after all the months of being cooped up in the house, much of the time not going out because of snow or extreme cold.

From March 2011

It doesn't take much to keep me happy does it? Sunday turned out unexpectedly as well. We decided to go for a llong walk in the afternoon, but rather than walk the hills or canals we decided to explore one of the local villages. We are used to driving through here regularly but rarely stop. Don't places look different when you walk around them instead of whizzing through in the car?

You know I can't resist a pretty cottage

Or two

Or three. Even the old workhouse looks pretty. Much better as a home though don't you think?

From March 2011

And the workhouose residents only had to a couple of minutes walk to the local church.

From March 2011

I didn't realise, but over a very small area there were 12 mills working, as far back as the 15th century. Scythe mills and corn mills. This mill race served a mill called Nog's Mill. Wonderful name that immediately makes me think of Noggin the Nog!

From March 2011

There are still several broken mill stones as evidence of the area's industrial past.

From March 2011

We were able to follow this little path a short way along the stream before deciding it was time to come home for tea and cake.

I've come up with idea of adding whatever I'm reading and listening to on the blog. What do you think? Sometimes, I might add them to the end of the post, or I may give them their own post. I've found some good books by reading other people's recommendations and it would be great if others joined in on this too.I've almost finished this book. Susan Hill's account of how she decided not to buy any books for a year and only to read, or re-read those she already had in the house. My goodness, that requires some self-control. Not buy a book for a whole 12 months? There's more chance of me ignoring chocolate for a year. I've enjoyed this one, I've not only added books to my 'to read' (buy) list, I've found out more about Susan Hill too. Don't you just love the cover and the title? I really loved The Magic Apple Tree and her very different Simon Serraillier crime novels.

From February 2011

Mr F. surpised me with this CD. I love Trio Mediaeval and being fairly near Worcester, just had to have this CD based on a manuscript belonging the cathedral there. There are no track samples for this one on Amazon but I think you may get tasters of their other albums on there if you want a listen.

Sorry if it's been a long and rambling post today, but I do feel a bit rambly. Have a good week.

From February 2011

Blue Sky

2011-03-07T12:07:00.003Z

From March 2011

Yes, at last, blue skies here in the West Midlands.

After feeling like I've spent the last couple of weeks in darkness we awoke yesterday to the rare and welcome sight of blue sky and sunshine. There were plenty of chores for us to do in the morning and probably even more we could have done in the afternoon. But we decided that we needed to escape, even if it was only a couple of miles down the road to one of our local beauty spots.

From March 2011

Look, there it is, blue sky, bright, intense, uplifting. Oh! It certainly did me good to be out and about walking in the beautiful woodland and heathlland of Kinver Edge.

From March 2011

Bright blue sky again! I don't believe it.

The intense cold didn't deter us. We were wrapped up, protected against the biting wind and the sun was shining. There was just the slightest hint of warmth from the sun, but it was there, enough for us. And we were surrounded by intense colour, even in the absence of buds and flowers yet to burst into life.

From March 2011

I loved the shadows cast by the trees in the late afternoon sunshine.

From March 2011

And it was good to see young life in the fields, though no sign of lambs with any of the sheep yet.

From March 2011

Oh yes. It was a good day to be out enjoying blue sky, sunshine and being hopeful for the Spring to come.

From March 2011

Pretties

2011-02-28T12:59:00.003Z

I feel as though I've spent this last week in darkness. I live in a small terraced house with little natural light. The weather this last week has been so incredibly dull and dark, and full of that chillingly wet coldness that seeps through to your bones, and drains energy out of you. I would have loved to have spent some time in the garden over half term but the wet and cold have put paid to that idea. If it had been autumn, I would have been content to cosy in, switch the lights on and turn the heating up. But now, like the plants in the garden I need light to thrive, and perhaps a little warmth from a watery sun would give me a little boost. Instead today, I've had to search the house to find some prettiness and colour to chase away the depressing effects of the darkness and to be honest it has helped. For instance, I've unpacked my new cushion yet again.

From February 2011

It's so very pretty, with bright, springtime colours that instantly lift my mood.

From February 2011

I pack it away again carefully and resist the temptation to display it....that's for when the bedroom is decorated and is once again a clean tidy space I can be proud of.

From February 2011

Next, I open the wardrobe and pull out my latest puchases. Two floral shirts from good old Sainsbury's and a little cardigan covered in the prettiest of pink roses. I begin to feel a little chirpier as I put it on and the delicate pinks add a little colour to my pale features. Once again in the kitchen I see colour and prettiness in the most mundane of things. Yes, even a tea towel can be cheery.

From February 2011

Cupcake cases can be pretty and cheerful too.

From February 2011

And the pattern on one of my favourite jugs lifts my spirits.

From February 2011

A cup of coffee later and I'm beginning to feel better. I decide to brave the damp and venture into the garden and am glad I do. Just look, a pretty, colourful sign of things to come.

From February 2011

Going With the Flow

2011-02-21T12:52:00.007Z

From February 2011

There's nothing for it this week but to go with the flow. I've got the week off work and things I'd like to do. I'd like to get these colourful polys planted up into their lovely wicker basket but as you can see it's very wet. I don't garden in the wet. In the cold yes, but wet, no. But they'll wait until another day.

From February 2011

Teenage Boy went out of the house early this morning to do his paper round. 'Is it o.k if my mate comes around early this morning?' he asks absently. 'Yeh o.k' is my reply, thinking that the friend in question is not known for being an early riser and would probably turn up at about ten o'clock. No, he arrives at 8.20am, before Teenage Boy is back home from delivering newspapers. Good job I didn't decide to have a lie in then.LOL. Luckily, Teenage Boy's friend is a nice young man and can make himself at home. When Teenage Boy is breakfasted I think maybe it would be a good idea to clean the bathroom, so I begin industriously cleaning the bath, the basin etc when Teenage Boy appears and says 'I need a shower now'. All my work undone, yet again. Perhaps I won't do any cleaning today then. Good decision - as other friends arrive leaving their muddy trainers in various locations in the house....as well as a trail of mud. I give up, find my lovely Nigel Slater book

From February 2011

and bake a coffee and walnut cake instead. It's not complete until Teenage Boy and teenage boys have left the house, so it will last longer than a couple of hours and I can hide it until Mr. F. gets home.

From February 2011

So, this afternoon, I'm not going to try and acheive anything. I'll finish that bar of posh chocolate I was given for Valentine's Day.

From February 2011

Enjoy a nice cup of tea.

From February 2011

Watch one of the dvds I was given at Christmas.

From February 2011

Or I just might listen to some lovely music.

From February 2011

Whilst I catch up on some reading

From February 2011

Not forgetting that chocolate.

I'd love to know how you cope with half term. Do you battle on as usual or give in and go with the flow?

Help!

2011-01-14T13:02:00.004Z

Now I'm a girl that tends to go overboard a bit. When I like something, I like it a lot. It tends to become something of an obsession. And I'll admit it, I do have a bit of a 'thing' for ceramic jugs.I collect them. I collect a lot of them. Over the years I've probably collected somewhere between 30 and 40 of them. Old, new, patterned and plain, large, small and some incredibly tiny. There's no method in my madness. I don't buy just from one range. Bridgewater, Nicholas Mosse, Brixton Pottery - I'll have 'em all! I am a woman without control! You might think that today I might be showing you some of my collection. Oh no ladies - I need your help. Mr F. bought me this jug a couple of years ago from a shop in Bishops Castle. It is my very favourite and I would love to buy some more of these gorgeous ceramics. But the shop in Bishops Castle has closed and I don't now where I can buy more.

There is no pottery logo, just a very discreet bell stamped on the base. Everywhere we visit I look out for this lovely, individual range. I've spent hours on the internet looking for a website or supplier without success.

Have you ever seen any? Do you know the maker? Please let me know if you have.

Not that I need any more jugs.

I'd love to know what you can't resist buying and don't forget let me know if you know where I can buy any of this wonderful range

Lovely Leominster

2011-01-01T12:56:00.018Z

New Years Eve and the first opportunity we have had in weeks to get out and about. There's no snow to hamper us any longer and pretty though it was I'm heartily glad to see the back of it. The rush and responsibilities of Christmas are over and normal life can begin again.

Teenage Boy decided that friends and the local park were much more exciting, so we were free to have a day out without any grumps or groans or 'can we go home now' uttered every five minutes. Mr F. suggested a trip to Leominster. How I love this place. Full of antiques and shops selling vintage it's just the sort of place I love running riot in. Shop fronts are genteel Georgian affairs

and shop windows are filled with goodies that entice me inside followed by a very patient OH. Generally, it's not an expensive place either and wonderful things can be found for pocket money.

One of my faves is The Blue Door, full of vintage and new items that would sit so nicely in my home

and the rambling Zani's with room after room full of such lusciousness I don't know where to look first.

These were my acquisitions from Zani's yesterday. An old metal sign to be fixed to the garden wall

and some gorgeously coloured threads that will be displayed at a later date.

Oh the excitement! Of course everyone has to visit Utter Clutter. But do go on a diet before your visit - space is VERY tight!

By contrast Minster House rambles upstairs and downstairs, into the cellar and out into the garden and has things for sale from a couple of quid into the hundreds.....something for everyone. There's even a roaring open fire in the winter. If only they served tea.

Nevermind, we were able to visit Barber and Manuel for tea and the BEST chocolate brownies ever

sat in front of a fireplace still decorated with Christmas stockings made from vintage fabrics. Oh! I'm so glad to be out and about and back to normal.

Happy New Year everyone.

Ready

2010-12-23T12:36:00.018Z

Today I finally feel as though Christmas is real. I finished work yesterday evening and was glad to do so. There was no heating in the building for five days running and we were all perished, the chief of all our branches visited and never even thanked us for putting up with the conditions. It was a cold, long journey on the train to get home to a warm home and warm hearts.

Today feels positive. The jewelled colours of Christmas chocolate immediately cheers me up and yes, I've pinched one. But don't tell my teenage boy - he's been told not to touch until Christmas Eve. I know he's not touched them.......there would be a tell-tale trail of discarded wrappers glistening and glinting all over the house.

Christmas is certainly on the way and I feel ready after a few final touches to here and there. Baubles popped underneath a domed cake stand should look o.k. as a table centre for Christmas Day I think?

And there's a wreath on the kitchen door as a welcome

Presents are wrapped and ready under the tree.

The Teenager has gone out to meet friends and I'm going to enjoy these last few quiet hours before the hustle and bustle of Christmas really begins. I may even watch a film this afternoon.....I might even pinch a few more of those chocolates. Would you like one? Help yourself.

The snow has really only affected us badly since Saturday when its heavy, silent downfall filled the skies and streets and quietened the normal sounds of the day replacing them with the thuds of snowballs landing and children shouting and laughing as the snow hit its target. You've all probably seen enough snowy pictures to last you until the summer but we enjoyed such a wonderful afternoon walk at the weekend around our town that I just wanted to share a few with
you if you don't mind. Down our street

to the local park

and a walk around the frozen pond

through the town and past beautiful St Thomas's church.

As the light faded, we walked home along the canal, past the Bonded Warehouse, still busy with families queueing for narrowboat trips to see Santa

passing a few narrowboats along the way. It was dark by the time we reached home and we were ready for that warming cup of tea.

Have a great Christmas everyone. Stay warm and safe annd enjoy the snow. Let me know what you're up to.

Unexpected Snowfall

2010-11-26T13:34:00.020Z

I've been listening to the radio this morning. Presenters are taking phone calls from from people who have seen upto 14 inches of snow. Well, it's bloomin cold here in the West Midlands and I'm not particularly fond of snow but I am beginning to feel left out now. Don't get me wrong, if I'm snowed in tomorrow and can't get to the hairdresser I'll be mightily displeased but today, when I don't have to go out particularly, well perhaps a litle of the white stuff might be quite nice. I bought the jigsaw last weekend intending to keep it until Christmas as a little something to do inbetween all that eating. However, it is proving difficult to resist and as I no longer have Downton abbey or The Pilllars of the Earth to keep me out of trouble... well I might just have to unwrap it.

I have walked into town this morning and for once the charity shops came up trumps and I found this beautiful tablecloth. I love its cheerfully embroidered flowers, just right to brighten up a day of leaden skies. I also found this bright jingly jangly heart that does sound very like the bells on Santa's sleigh. I was extremely norty because I couldn't resist this little red heart either.

I thought you might like to meet our new pets. They came all the way from Ikea and will go on the Christmas tree eventually. At the moment though they do like exploring the house and keep popping up all over the place. Today, they're in the kitchen having agood old nose around. Thankfully, they've not discovered the biscuit tin yet.

Well, I think it's the kind of afternoon to spend with a pot of tea

in front of a snuggly, cosy fire.

I bought this for Christmas too. Do you think I would be very very norty if I opened it now?

Have a great weekend, I'd love to know what you're up to.

Rambling

2010-11-08T14:09:00.013Z

I've not been near my blog for weeks again. I've felt that I've had nothing interesting to write about or to show you. For months the house has been in upheaval as Mr F. struggles to find time to decorate inbetween work and other commitments and my bedroom has been turned into a storage room with just enough space to navigate a route around the bed. Still, I suppose it will all get done at some stage and then I'll have plenty of pics to share. I've missed writing my blog and reading your comments, so here I am back again, not a lot to say so I'll just ramble on a bit if you don't mind.

One positive of late is my refound interest in cross stitch. I finished this chess board over the half term holiday. I've had it on the go for simply ages I'm ashamed to say. I'm pretty pleased with it and it has spurred me on to begin a project in petit point.

I've still got to make sense of this bundle of threads but the colours are wonderful, exactly right for this beautiful time of year.

A Sunday walk in the park last week showed off all the glory of Autumn. Since then, the wind and the rain have blown most of these golden jewels off the trees and little feet in brightly coloured wellies are jumping into the huge heaps of papery leaves that have been enthusiastically gathered. Much more fun than the swings and slides in the play area!

This is the time of year to cosy up as nights become darker and colder. After a summer of idleness, fairylights are switched on and add a warm glow in a dark corner. The the tub of hot chocolate stays permanently on the kitchen worktop ready for young Master F. to come home from school, usually uttering pleas for marshmallows and chocolate flakes to be added because it's been such a hard day at school.

I love to spend the evenings in my winter pyjamas. Do you like my new Primark ones?Exactly right to settle down for an evening of Autumn t.v. and I've LOVED watching Downton Abbey. I can't wait until the next series.

Time for me to put the kettle on for myself I think. Just want to leave you with this view from my kitchen window today. I bet that poor cat wishes he was somewhere as cosy as me.

I hope not to be leaving it so long between posts in future.....

September Days

2010-09-24T14:34:00.014+01:00

September brings a a sense of expectation for me. I look forward to closing the curtains against the dark, lighting the fire and putting on cozy socks for the first time this autumn. September is a time of opportunity. The time for English apples, making damson gin, preserving and pickling and making the most of the last of the summer flowers. This is the time of year I need to 'play house', make us cosy and warm and nothing makes me cosier than cooking and baking.

I love buying cookbooks. Many are packed away at present as we decorate our study(spare bedroom) but there is nothing lovlier than curling up on the sofa with a favourite cookbook. My very favourite at the moment is this by lovley Lotte Duncan.

Any blogger who loves vintage will ooh and aah over this book. Not only are the recipes mouthwateringly good but it is a feast for the eyes as well. The pictures show the food photographed in Lotte's beautiful cottage and garden. Believe me you'll pick this book up again and again and love every minute of it.

I loved this plum cake I made from it.

Another favourite at the moment is the Popina baking book. Try the chocolate cookies from here - the best I've ever made.

Young Master F has a real passion for cupcakes and I think I could make these from memory now.

And of course yuo have to make the most of the strawberries whilst there is still a hint of warmth before Sunday lunch return to the ritual of fruit crumbles.

Whilst I witter on about baking and food. Has anyone been watching The Great British Bake Off? I've loved watching this series but I was so disappointed with the final. I didn't like losing one contestant after the first challenge and felt that some of the comments directed at one of the contestants was so unfair. I was with Mary Berry - I so wanted Miranda to get through. Her lemony cupcakes were just the thing for afternoon tea. I'd love to know what you think.

This Summer

2010-08-30T19:12:00.021+01:00

As August draws to a close I thought it was about time I revisited photographs from the summer months and actually did something with them. It's been a funny old summer hasn't it? It began with so much promise, the sunshine and heat of June only to give way to such dullness and disappointment in July and August.

Above and below is my Cornish cove. Yes , it is mine - at least it is at eight o'clock in the mornings when I share it only with the oystercatchers and ships lined up ready to dock in Falmouth.

Later on I do have to share it with others, but being a pebbly beach in a tiny, tiny village it has very little chance of ever turning into the type of seaside I avoid. We had some lovely days in Cornwall this year my favourite being my birthday when we had a walk from the tiny village of Zennor and its beautiful church to the gaspingly beautiful dramatic cliffs of Zennor Head.

Pausing on the way to Zennor Head we were able to admire the hedgrows

and some inquisitive locals

suddenly to find this spectacular scene before us.

I really could live in a house here.

Josh had a fantastic week as he left his Mom and Dad behind to camp with friends who were staying just a few miles away from us at Manaccan. That freed us to do some 'boring' stuff like visiting CK in St Ives. Well it was my birthday!

And to revisit my beautiful, peaceful Trerice. How I would love to live in a house this old! Mind you I wouldn't fancy the bills that come with it!

Mr F. is more suited to the Victorian grandeur of Lanhydrock but beautiful as it is I think I might get lost too often if I lived here.

This year was the first time we had walked along Gillan Creek with the serene St Anthony church right beside it. I can't think why we hadn't done so before as it's close to where we stay.

There was a trip to Porthleven.

To Coverack too.

I did mean to take pictures of tea rooms and cake - but the trouble was I just wanted to eat it and couldn't be bothered photographing it to share with you. Mind you everyone else in the tearooms would think I was a right old nutter wouldn't they, taking pictures of cake. Or maybe they might say "Ah! There's another blogger dear, bless!' Well, today is the last day I can put my feet up. It's back to work tomorow.

Disappointment

2010-07-05T12:26:00.023+01:00

If you've visited my blog on fairly regular basis, you will know that I freely admit to being a magazine addict.

There's nothing like coming home from shopping on Friday morning with a pristine copy of a glossy magazine full of luscious photographs that will lift me up to heaven for a few minutes. My favourite features of these magazines are those where we get have a nosey around someone's home. To be perfectly truthful, they are my favourite blog reads too. There's nothing more satisfying than finding great design ideas that can inspire you with ideas for your own home. I thrive on seeing all these quirky, cluttery, shabby homes. My very favourite magazine without doubt is Country Living. I've bought every issue ever published and although there are times when it has gone through a rough patch I still wait eagerly for that familiar thud as it lands on the doormat and I try not to rip the wrappper off before I've done all the housework. Sometimes, I have to admit, I give in, leave the mop in the bucket, or the washing up in the sink, then just wait for the soothing whistle of the kettle before I grab that coffee and pore over the loveliness inside.

This weekend however, I could not contain my disappointment when this month's copy of Coast was hurriedly removed from its plastic wrapper.

Promising start, lovely cover

Bright, cheerful beach huts

The problem was, there it stopped. What's this? Green plastic lump of WHAT? Yeah, we're all going to dash out and buy one of these aren't we girls? Never mind I thought, that's just one article, a bit further along there might just be a Cornish fisherman's cottage with flagstone floors and a kitchen full of Bridgewater - and no I don't care if that's not the 'in thing", it's what I love! Maybe, there will be some lovely slatted wooden doors with old fashioned latches and windows with monkey tailed catches? Not on your life. I thought I was reading a bloody double glazing brochure! Just look at it all.

I'm sure you want one of these. It's even got lightshades hanging from it!

Patio doors.

More patio doors.

Another set of patio doors

And ermm... some patio doors

Just for a change....an attractive(?) staircase.

Don't know what this is but it's not what I expect from CL's sister magazine. If that's 'design' you can keep it.

Look - this house has a red plastic thingy a bit like the green plastic thingy we saw earlier.

All the time I'm hurriedly turning the pages there are sighs and harrumphs and there's also lots of tutting. I'm tempted to get on the phone and tell Mr F of my disgust....no better not. Believe it or not I'm getting angry and uptight over a magazine of all things. I put it down, walk away and go and do something else for a while. Problem is, I have to keep walking back, picking up the magazine, looking at the offending pages, swear a bit, throw it down in disgust, swear a bit more.
When Mr F comes home I am waiting and before he's untied his working shoes I thrust the offending magazine under his nose.

"Just look at it" I say "Just look". There follows more swearing and sighing from the grumpy old woman and a few giggles from Mr F and 'Well, I can't do anything about it" sort of comments. My temper doesn't improve after a couple of glasses of red and spag bol either.

Later that evening I pick up a copy of H&A. Now this is what I want. Just look at the loveliness of Nikki's home from Nostalgia at the Stonehouse. It immediately makes me feel calm, content and inspired. All's well with the world again. Aah!

Saturday morning and July's CL - all's right with the world, beautiful, calm, English, comforting, home.

And Coast? I've cancelled my subsciption.

A Week to Myself

2010-06-25T16:46:00.024+01:00

Yes, it's true. I've had a week's holiday from work all to myself. I've been into work some extra Saturdays and done some training to be able to lead walks for the public. That's meant I've ended up with loads of time owing and course I picked this week to have the time back, primarily because of the England game on Wednesday. (Huge sighs of relief on that front).

The weekend began with a trip to lovely Shrewsbury and my first visit to Vintage. Just look at that oh so inviting display in the window and on the pavement. Well, I couldn't pass it by now could I? The shop is mainly vintage with a few new items and is really attractively laid out despite its small size. Needless to say, I didn't come away empty handed. Have a look at my goodies. A pretty plate

another pretty plate

and a huge bar of French lavender soap.

Although I think the bargain of the day must have been the new pair of Birkenstocks from the QVC shop for only ten pounds.

This glorious weather has meant that I've actually been able to enjoy the garden

and pick some pretties to display in the house

along with some beauties from the local Waitrose.

I've also kept Mr F and Josh happy by baking yummy lemon drizzle

and the more exotic red velvet cupcakes

from this fantastic book.

Yesterday I took the train to Worcester and found a few goodies there. A new CK bag to feed my spotty obsession.

Also feeding my spot obsession was this bargain scarf at three pounds.

You might have noticed my fondness for anything Union flag related

it was a bargain - really!

I've also made a new button necklace from some vintage coat buttons. Larger than I usually use, but I've already had some sweet comments about it.

Tomorrow, I'm off to the hairdressers for some pampering and on Sunday - well, it will be a very stressful afternoon watching our boys pasting the Germans! Don't underestimate us Mr Beckenbauer.

Back at work next week for a rest I think.

Not sure they'll like it if I turn up in PJs.

Making me Happy

2010-06-07T14:56:00.010+01:00

Oh I have missed my computer! After four weeks it's working again and I can do all the things that I've missed so much. I've already had some much needed retail therapy and now it's time for me to catch up with all you lovely ladies. I've tried to keep up with your blogs whilst I'm at work but it's very difficult as even though I'm using my lunch time to catch up with everyone the time is monitored as well as the sites we use. So all in all I feel quite uncomfortable using their p.c.s and as a result I've missed you all.

I was so happy to get the computer back and looking forward to sharing the photos I'd taken with you of the places we had visited and of the garden as it has sprung back into life. So as I settled down to upload my pictures yesterday I anticipated sharing loveliness with you and making up for lost time in blogging terms. However, just as the pictures had been uploaded and then deleted from the camera - the heavy rain outside turned into a thunderstorm and a power surge turned the p.c off for a few seconds - not long - but long enough to lose all my pictures! Maybe I should give up blogging now!

So today, I have very little to show you in the form of pictures. No pictures of my garden looking pretty or of elegant Berrington Hall or historic Hellens where we spent a couple of lovely days last week. Instead, just a few pictures of the things giving me plesaure today. Best of all, my Alys Fowler book arrived this morning. I have missed this series so much since it finished. I am hoping that they will put it out on dvd so I can watch it again and again and probably get something new from it on each occasion.

Also making me happy today - seeing the jolly cushions I made a few weeks ago, in the garden arbour

and being able to chill in there with my delicious new book.

Colourful teatowels that make the washing up a little less of a chore

my new, old tin,

Sweet William,

and new mugs for the picnic basket from Waitrose. I'm sure that we'd actually got plenty of mugs in the cupboard that could have fitted the picnic basket but these just said 'buy me'. Don't tell Mr F!

And the thing that's making me happy most of all?...........................Being back in the world of blog of course!

Polka Dots and Paintballs

2010-05-03T16:03:00.020+01:00

Well it's been a great but busy week. On Thursday I had a girly day out in Shrewsbury with friends and then Friday saw the final preparations for Josh's weekend at The Big Game paintball battle in Stone, Staffordshire.

Here he is in full battle gear ready to see off the raiders from The North. Of course that meant a teenager free weekend for Mr F. and myself. So of course we made the most of it. Saturday we spent the morning in Tewkesbury at the food festival and the afternoon wandering around the market town of Pershore. We had a wonderful day with a good lunch and afternoon day without the usual accompanying teenage grumbles. On Sunday we were in charge of bringing our soldier and a friend home from the battle so we decided to head a little further north to the Potteries and visit a couple of factory shops that I've been wanting to visit for ages. Here's where we went first.

Who can resist an offer like this?

I'm sure the staff were perturbed by the persistent oohs, aahs and shrieks of pleasure as I spotted goodies around every corner in the sort of quantities that I've never even dreamt about. If only I could get that lottery win and fill trollies full of the stuff!

I've never seen so many mugs altogether at once.

Loveliness.

Gorgeousness.

Goodies galore.

Next it was on to Burslem to the Middleport Factory of Burgess, Dorling & Leigh and the most gorgeous blue and white pottery ever, ever, ever!

I was a little worried when I saw this sign outside the shop

but needn't have worried as there was literally a warm welcome in the shop with a log fire beckoning us in from the raw wind.

This is one of the dressers I will have when I've had that lottery win. Laden with a selection of goodies from Burleighware I'll never be stuck for the right size jug or pretty dinner plate again.

Maybe there'll be space for this dresser too. Or do you think that's just being greedy?

Maybe I need a little girly pink too?

Such a lot to choose from, so little money.

Luckily, Sunday was our wedding anniversary so we did have a few pennies to spend. Goodies from EB

and loveliness from Burleighware.

Then it was a weary jourey home for our young soldiers......but they were triumphant in victory.

Cushions and Shopping

2010-04-26T11:55:00.020+01:00

Earlier this year, I won some pieces of fabric from Sal at Sal's Snippets. They have been in my sewing box for a couple of months now until I could find time to sit down and do what I wanted to with them. I've so enjoyed myself this weekend cutting the fabric and sewing the squares together to make cushion fronts. Does anyone remember back in the 80's when Laura Ashley used to sell packs of squares and hexagons ready for patchworking? I used to love these packs in their co-ordinated prints or even better, you could buy packs of random pieces which really came up with some goodies and fantastic colour combinations.

One of the fabrics was large enough to make a cushion front of its own and I love its bright colours and delphiniums that could cheer up any dull corner.

They are just the thing to make my shed nice and comfy now that the weather is warm enough for me to sit here with a book or listening to a good radio play.

Thanks Sal, I've really enjoyed using my goodies.

The past month has been busy but fun. We had a really great Easter with a trip to Hay-on Wye and a whole week away from work for me which I really enjoyed, gardening, tidying, reading.....absolute heaven really. Last weeekend we took a little trip to Bewdley.

Now we live about a 20 minute drive from here but I've never bothered blogging it because it's really been in the doldrums for the past couple of years. Most of my favourite shops had gone and it was depressing to see this beautiful little town struggling to survive.

Last weekend gave me the most tremendous lift. Shop units are being filled with the sort of shops I love.

Indeed , it also seems to be developing a foodie theme with a gorgeous delicatesen and a wonderful, old fashioned grocery, filled with loveliness.

I'm pleased to say that the tea rooms were busy

and that the town's fantastic Georgian architecture was coming back to life.

Even better, I found some goodies to bring home with me. I couldn't resist this pretty mini bunting for the kitchen

and this serving dish cost me the grand sum of three pounds.

As did these lovely plates.

They'll look even better with cupcakes on them! I haven't forgotten the giveaway from the last post. I drew a name scientifically from the hat. This time the winner is Pipany. I'll try to do another giveaway soon... when I find something nice!

Anniversary Giveaway

2010-03-28T16:09:00.015+01:00

Another date has passed me by without realising. It's been two years this month since I began blogging. It would be lovely if I could share afternoon tea or morning coffee with all the lovely bloggers I've 'met' over the past two years, who at times really make my day and certainly bring a smile and a giggle now and then. To celebrate, I'm giving away the Cath Kidston mug in the above photograph. If you would like to enter please leave a comment on this post by midnight on Easter Sunday and I'll announce the winner the following week. The winner will be drawn at random but to make it interesting for me, I would like to know if you are a tea or coffee drinker and what is your favourite blend. Are you a delicate Darjeeling girl or do you like a more gutsy builders tea?

Do you remember my last post, when I thought I had found some gorgeous wallpaper from CK that was just right for my bedroom? Well, just as I thought. I can't afford it! Lovely Hen from the Henhouse popped over to tell me that it is a hundred and fifty quid a roll! Rip off! As usual in this house, it's a case of 'Harrod's taste...Woolworth's money' and it's back to the drawing board.

Mind you, I think either of these two lovelies would be great in my bedroom. Samples are hanging on the wall as I write. It will take me several weeks to decide which I like best. Then a few more weeks to get round to starting the work. However, we have set a target date.....the beginning of the World Cup will mean a month sat in front of the t.v. agonising over every free kick and corner England take and everything else will take second place until after finals day. So it has to completed in time for kick-off of the first game. I'm so sad to get excited about it all I suppose - but I can't help myself, I still love my football. I'm just crossing everything in the hope that Rooney stays fit!

The upturn in the weather and the fast approach of Easter really does give me a lift, as does seeing this pretty wreath on the kitchen door. I love the colours associated with Easter - they help me look forward to summer, warmth and blue skies......I think we deserve some, don't you?

Flowers are certain to lift my spirits and I cannot bear the house to be without a few blooms

and with the onset of spring, there is so much more choice to buy in the shops.

I just like to buy what takes my fancy on the day

but I especially love the cottage garden flowers that I associate with English gardens. The garden is beginning to come to life again and shoots are poking their heads through the warm soil ready for flowering in May and June.

Until then this pot of Primulas will give some cheerful colour. I've got a couple of days at work next week then a week's holiday - my first in six months. I will be really lazy and get up late and eat lots of chocolate. (Nothing new there then).

Giveaway kindly sponsored by Mr F.

I Want Kirstie's Frock

2010-03-08T10:10:00.001Z

Yesterday I popped into Waitrose to buy a couple of things that had been forgotten and were needed for the weekend. Whilst there I picked up a free copy of the John Lewis magazine. I usually like a leisurely browse through this over a cup of coffee after the rigours of the supermarket. You know the sort of thing....admiring the flawless finish of the room sets, wondering my house looks more like the SAS has been camped here for a week and not tidied up after themselves before they left. I do like to look at the latest kitchen kit before I decide that perhaps I'll make do with my trusty stove top coffee maker rather than the latest superdooper coffee machine that does everything except wash itself up and only costs two hundred pounds. I do also enjoy the fashion shoots, I marvel at the skinniness of the models and think perhaps I might not eat that fourth chocolate digestive after all.

However, this month's fashion has left me cold...instead I've been drooling over Kirstie Allsopp's frock. Yes, it was an interesting interview but just look at the frock. Isn't it gorgeous and I want it NOW. Forget all those anorexic models in the latest designer labels, this is the dress for me. All flowery and vintagey and such gorgeous colours. I think I need to aim for this look this summer. Oh dear, I bet it's either proper vintage or a costly designer label. Time for me to dream on I think.

I've also been drooling over this gorgeous wallpaper featured in the latest CK catalogue. It's not on the website yet and I know it would be just the thing as a feature wall in my bedroom. This has also given me the idea of painting my existing pine furniture to a distressed off white. Do you think this would work? Anyhow, it's all up in the air at the moment - the wallpapers on the CK website range from twenty odd pounds up to on hundred and fifty. So, as usual I'm hoping my taste isn't outstripping my budget and my fingers remain strictly crossed in the hope that I'll be able to afford it.

With the return of the sunshine I suddenly feel more positive and energised and I am loving the colour that is returning to our lives along with the light. Bright, cheery flowers

and even my favourite magazines are joining in this colour fest. I just love the cover of this month's Country Homes and Interiors.

My charity shop finds with their delicate pinks and greens

are also telling me that Spring is just around the corner and that days will lengthen and strengthen in warmth and that with it, we will be able to have more garden living, walks and days in the countryside. Heaven.

Catching Up

2010-02-22T09:20:00.000Z

I've finally got chance to pop in and say hello. I want to say a big thank you to everyone who left comments on the last post. They certainly made me feel that I shouldn't give up blogging and should keep going, even if I can only find time sporadically.

I'm couldn't be accused of being the most prolific blogger and I just haven't felt the inclination, even to read many blogs at the moment.

The weather really has had an effect on me this winter and I really cannot wait to be sat in the garden with a cuppa/glass of wine, listening to the birds singing with a little warmth from the sun on my face. We have been out and about but I've been very naughty and not taken the camera with me. Last weekend saw us take a trip to Ludlow and I loved it despite the bitterly cold wind that chilled our hands and feet and saw my poor little nose glowing red like a beacon. I had a lucky day there and found a lovely green cordurouy skirt for just twelve pounds and a sweet little tin from Emma Bridgewater that has been duly filled with home made shortbread this weekend. Sunday meant a trip to Bridgnorth to collect our newly repaired mantel clock from the antiques centre in High Town and once again I feel comforted having it's regular tick tock accompanying my day, punctuated by its deep, serious chimes on the hour and half hour. My word, it's good to have it back home.

Because I've been lazy and not taken my camera with me everywhere I go, I've not got much in the way of photos to show you today. I hope you don't mind but I've quickly taken some photos of the newly finished kitchen. I'm sorry there's no special styling going on although it is pretty tidy. My promise not to clutter it all up is fading quickly as things creep back in and new acquisitions are discovered, oohed and aaahed over and Mr F saying 'buy it you know you'll regret it if you don't. I'll be a minimalist in my next life!

As you can see, it's still tiny, the aga is still a distant dream and you certainly aint gonna eat Christmas dinner in there

but I'm happy. I have new units and appliances that make me happy to be spending time in there

and I know how lucky I am.

Once again, thank you so much more the wonderful comments on my last post. I hope to begin catching up with everyone soon.

Five Things

2010-02-01T12:48:00.001Z

How are you? Did you have a good weekend? Once again I've not blogged for ages and am beginning to wonder if I should carry on. Blogging seems to take up so much time and I'm feeling guilty that when I'm blogging I'm not actually acheving anything - cakes don't get baked, floors don't get cleaned, the garden becomes messier. Work is busy, with news of redundancies due to spending cutbacks and more to come next year. We all know the people losing their jobs and feel so sad for them and their families. Next year might mean interviews to keep our jobs - and I'm not hopeful as someone who is very shy and was always told not to show off when I was little, interviews are a difficult thing. Some of us get a little cross when jobs are given to people we know are lazy or who just don't bother turning up for work when it suits. Oh dear! I bet you've all switched off after all that moaning - my blog is supposed to be like Eeyore's gloomy place - except it is my happy place. I fully intended today just to post up an award and to pass it on to 5 lovley ladies and instead I'm feeling sorry for myself. Time to cheer up I think!

Just before Christmas, Jo at JoJo Designs gave me this award. The condition of accepting the award is to list 5 things I like doing and then pass the award on to 5 other people. So here goes.

1. Shopping
Like most women, I adore shopping. Not that horrible boring weekly walk around Sainsbury's or that dash into town to queue at the bank or to pick up half the stock from the floor at Primark. No. certainly not. I mean this sort of shopping

beautiful things, beautifully presented and inspirational ideas that lift your spirit and put that gorgeousness into your home or garden. I also like this sort of shopping

Finding loveliness to bring home and treasure. Finding that little thing someone no longer wants that feels me with such excitement.

2.Holidaying in Cornwall.
My beloved Cornwall.
Sometimes the weather lets us down

but the people and the spectacular scenery are constantly wonderful.

3.Cross Stitch
Something else I've loved doing - yet this last 12 months I lost the mojo.

4. Baking

I love baking. Cakes never look particularly pretty but they never stay around long enough to be admired.

5. Getting Out and About.
Whether it be with friends or family, I love to get out and about. I love walking along the local canal

visiting churches

National Trust houses and gardens

and just taking time to enjoy the countryside.

I'm going to pass this award onto the ladies at the following blogs.

A Mermaid's Purse
Andi's English Attic
Kids and Capers
Tapestries of Nature
The Vintage Bothy.

Necessary Things

2010-01-08T12:17:00.000Z

This week has seen young Master Funky do a total of three hours at school. The rest of the week has been spent sledging, sliding on the ice, having snowball fights. All of which I am certain are far more dangerous than walking up the hill (or slight incline) to school. I'm sure I went to school in the snow, but then, that was in nineteen hundred and frozen to death! Maybe I'm getting old and grumpy or maybe it's just this snow and ice. There are certain things I need during this cold weather that I really need to make it bearable. Of course we all need wellies

glamorous aren't they? But some funky welly socks does make wearing them a bit more fun.

I'm also certain that this scarf is snugglier because it's funky and silly.

A cosy bed, with crisp bedlinen is a must.

As are colourful warm blankets.

Skin needs some special treats

and a mug of G&B hot chocolate is made more delicious with the addition of glorious pink and white marshmallows

once I've chosen from a selection of favourite mugs.

A good selection of magazines is sure to give me that feel good factor with elevenses.

As will a teetering pile of books for the afternoon (unless there's a good play on the radio).

Of course, you do need that special place to sit and read.

There are also those times when you really need a cosy, snuggly dvd, with costume, romance, nostalgia... or just simply Richard Armitage.

I'd love to know what you do to keep going through this really awful cold snap. I'm off for lunch in front of a roaring fire now before I prepare a beef in ale casserole for tea. I'm at work tomorrow, so it looks like a slippery, slidy walk to the railway station for me. Have a good, warm and safe weekend everyone.

Nearly There

2009-12-21T12:10:00.001Z

Whilst shopping at the weekend I was pleased to see someone entering into the Christmas spirit! How are your preparations going? We're almost there, just the fresh food to buy on Christmas Eve. Hopefully, we'll be up and about early enough to get to Bridgnorth's bustling market and to indulge in a good hearty breakfast here as well. I've got my damson gin bottled ready to warm us on these cold winter evenings. Well actually, it's already been started and it's yummy, yummy yummy. Just the stuff needed to make watching Cranford on a Sunday evening even more enjoyable.

Most of the decorations are up.

Although I always leave some decorating for Christmas Eve because we have an abundance of ivy in the garden which just has to be one of the best things to bring into the house at this time of year.

New, snuggly Christmas pyjamas are ready

and I've been searching through these lovely books that Mr F surprised me with earlier this month.

Mr F. gave me another surprise at the weekend with a trip to see Wightwick Manor decorated for Christmas. I've been to this house at all times of year and it never fails to have the tingle factor. If I do ever win the lottery I will make the NT an offer they cannot refuse and move in to enjoy its Pre-raphaelite paintings and its William Morris decor - I'd be in Funky heaven!

We strolled around its magnicent rooms decorated in Christmas finery as we listened to the carol singers in the great hall. Their music followed us throughout the rooms and up to the minstrels gallery and even into the bedrooms leading off the landing. Everything looked wonderful with its natural Christmas greenery, flowers and candles - no balding tinsel here! I only wish that I could
have videoed the visit to share with you the atmosphere of my favourite place. You are not allowed to take photos of the interiors but Mr F. took one from the outside looking in. It's not brilliant but does give a little taste of its beauty, along with the painting of Janey Morris by Rossetti.

Sadly, they said I couldn't spend Christmas there, so I'll carry on with my preparations here in the Funkyhouse. Have a good Christmas ladies - don't work too hard, make sure you enjoy it.

Much Wenlock Christmas Fayre

2009-12-07T09:37:00.000Z

There's nothing like seeing a donkey to make you feel all gooey and Christmassy is there? This chap (or lady) was at Much Wenlock Christmas Fayre on Saturday with his friends giving rides to youngsters in the town. This fayre is a ritual for us the first weekend in December, ever since Josh was tiny and he rode a donkey through the priory grounds to visit Father Christmas in his candlelit grotto. Nowadays we are accompanied by a sometimes reluctant teenager. This little fayre in this tiny town feels like no other. It really has that special feeling you get in a smaller community as shopkeepers and stallholders alike join in proceedings. There is a marquee selling local crafts and foods.

As well as stalls lining the narrow high street.

Vintage vehicles

You can always find something good to eat

and there are still favourite shops to explore and festive shop windows to peer through.

Ippikin has loads of funkiness going on with colourful wacky knits. If you enlarge the picture you might see some of their wonderful tea cosies. Mr F did buy me a little pressie from there...but of course I can't show you until after Christmas.

And of course you have to have The Salvation Army belting out some beautiful Christmas Carols.

After a busy morning and lunch at the fayre we moved on to Bishops Castle for more shopping and aftenoon tea. You can see more of Bishops Castle here. Our journey there and back meant a steep drive over Long Mynd at Church Stretton. The homeward bound journey was quite eerie as the mist and rain moved in. I'm not quite sure the photos show it at its mysterious best.

Of course when we got home we felt we needed more tea and cake!

Yesterday was still busy as we visited several garden centres looking for door wreaths. After much deliberation I chose this. Do you think it will do? I'm pleased with it as it is a little different to ones that I've had previously....time to ring the changes...but only a little.

One place we visited had a family of reindeers visiting for the weekend. No doubt they were having a nice rest before their busy time ahead. Each time the reindeer moved the bells on their collars made the most tremendous jingling sounds....just like Santa was already on the way.

Next weekend is tree weekend. Josh had a friend staying on Saturday evening/Sunday morning so wasn't free to come choosing trees with us. I don't think we would have been popular parents if we had chosen without him! I hope they still have some good ones left....you know the type I need....one that is exactly the right height, the right shape, a good straight bit at the top for fixing a star and branches that are spread nice and evenly throughout the tree. Oh and it needs not to shed needles everytime someone walks past. Please tell me if you see one!

Friday

2009-11-20T12:41:00.001Z

This is the usual scene on Friday mornings as I return from the shops. Bags and bags of shopping - and these are just the things I can't get when we do our big shop at the supermarket. At least the bags are cheery and never fail to provoke comment from other shoppers or assistants in the shops. This morning's comment was from a pretty young lady selling copies of The Big Issue and yes, she was right, they are pretty. It sounds very silly but they do make the shopping trip a little more enjoyable. Fridays usually follow a particular pattern and I can't wait to get home and put the kettle on and sit down for a few quiet moments with a magazine before the shopping is put away.

I couldn't resist buying these pretty little lights today and think they look mighty fine wrapped around the wirework heart on the kitchen door. The only problem is that it does look a bit Christmassy - and the C word isn't allowed around here until December. Never mind, they make the kitchen feel cosy and I like cosy.

However, last Friday didn't follow this familiar pattern - I went somewhere posh! Can you remember my post about a special day in the spring when I spent a lovely day with friends at Coughton Court? Well, we've sort of had our Christmas outing early! None of us enjoy the usual work dos at this time of year. Restaurants overbook, there are large, rowdy crowds and the food is usually inedible. We decided that we deserved to be thoroughly spoiled and we certainly were - here at Brockencote Hall. Sadly, it wasn't snowing whilst we were there

it looked more like this

We all put our glad rags on. Do you like my velvet coat? It was it's first outing and I really enjoyed wearing it.

We were looked after so well and felt so pampered, no wonder this Friday feels very routine. I've got a couple of thank yous to make today. Firstly to Vicki at Anglesey Allsorts for the wonderful buttons and lace she sent me.

And also to Hannah at Lou Lou Loves Vintage for her lovely giveaway. The chocolate coins didn't last long Hannah - but I'm still enjoying the other things!

No Time For Blogging

2009-11-09T14:36:00.000Z

I can't believe that I haven't had time to blog at all during October. I think that it has been a combination of decorating, half-term(not getting to the computer) and Josh being ill. I think that I've just about got rid of the dust after the kitchen refit and I feel ready to go again. Blogging wise that is. I still can't comprehend the disruption caused by re-fitting such a tiny space but at last I seem to have conquered the dust and hopefully I'm back now and can spend more time with my lovely bloggers. The kitchen is now complete, except that I haven't chosen a blind for the window yet. I am trying to be tidy but I know that the clutter and charity shop finds will find their way back in there but I just can't cope with minimalism. There is no particular theme for my post today, so I'll just show you a few things we've been upto. Well, there was a bit of baking over half-term week.

There were a few decorations for Halloween.

I've started collecting the Christmas editions of my favourite magazines.(Yes, I am still a magazineaholic).

I've also been very naughty and bought some new cookery books. (I think I ought to own up to the fact I am a bookaholic). I do love watching Hugh FW and believe he's back on t.v. on Thursday evening with a new River Cottage series - pure comfort t.v. for me.

Today, I'm cosying up in front of the fire

enjoying using my new favourite mug. (Yes, I am a mugaholic too). Perhaps I ought to show you my collection one day!

This Saturday was an incredibly important one for Mr F. His football team reached the 1st Round of the F.A Cup for the first time in their 133 year history. Not only that but it was a home tie against the mighty Walsall, five divisions above us.

However, a trip to Wembley is not to be this year, as we lost the game 1-0. Perhaps next year will be The Glassboys turn for glory. Oh, yes and Mr F. was able to buy a commemorative mug for the occasion. I'm sure you'll be disappointed to know that I couldn't photograph it today as it is sitting proudly in his lunchbox as a reminder of Stour's glorious cup run!

A Horrid Few Weeks....and an Apology

2009-09-28T14:27:00.000+01:00

It's been a disrupted few weeks here in the Funky House. I just haven't had the time or the inclination to blog and in all the hoo haa and yukiness going on I forgot to post the result of the giveaway I did earlier in the summer - I expect everyone has forgotten about it now! Please accept this virtual bunch of sunflowers as an apology to you all. To choose a winner I did my usual scientific thing of chucking all the names in a hat and this time pulled out Steph's name at Curlew Country. I'll be in touch with you Steph to get your details.

The reason for all the trouble at home was because we had some work done on the kitchen. Everything is o.k. now and we are getting back into some kind of order but we have had so much trouble with deliveries, things being measured wrongly, rude incompetent staff at a certain DIY store that it really has been a dificult few weeks to get through and my mind has certainly been woollier than normal (and that's pretty woolly). At least we have had a gorgeous September and have been able to enjoy the last of the summer flowers

as well as some gorgeous sunsets.

I have also managed to make some damson gin. Last year I missed out on making this delicious winter warmer because there were just no damsons on the trees. Luckily, this year we were able to obtain some from my Mom-in-Law's neighbour. It will be ready by December and I shall look forward to sipping it as I'm watching something suitably cosy on the long winter evenings in front of the t.v. I am hoping for another series of Lark Rise to Candleford and until then I'm settling myself into the new series of 'Strictly', deciding who will be my favourites for this series.

Well, I think that's enough for today as I 'm trying to find my way back into blogging gently. I think this has been a rambly post and hasn't made much sense.....but I think that's just a sign of my messy brain at the moment. Oh, before I go, here's a peek at the new, unfinished kitchen.

Guess Where I've Been

2009-08-25T10:56:00.000+01:00

Things I love about Cornwall.....

Pretty Cottages.

Boats and Gigs

The Eden Project

Trips along the Helford

Did I mention the shops?

Historic places.

Sandy beaches that stretch on forever.

Pebbles that make the most wonderful sound beneath your feet.

Tall ships

Caravans at Roskilly's.

Even these noisy, cheeky things.

And of course...this

The Holiday I Forgot

2009-08-08T11:54:00.001+01:00

I was tidying up my Picasa files this morning when I realised that I'd forgottten to post the last pictures of our holiday in Cumbria in May this year. If I don't do it now, I'll have another stash to show you from Cornwall in a few weeks time. One of the places I really wanted to visit was Blackwell, an arts and crafts house overlooking Winderemere. When we visited it was a dull misty morning and I don't think shows the house's exterior looking its best. Of course I couldn't take pictures inside the house - but for anyone who likes the William Morris or arts and crafts designs - you would love this.

Have a look here for some interior shots of the house http://www.blackwell.org.uk/visitor-information-0 .

Josh, dearly wanted a boat trip and he chose Coniston for that. I was bit disappointed by the village itself......it was a bit touristy, but we did find a few nice views to share with you.

Looking for somewhere interesting to take your dog?

We were lucky to have a trip on Gondola - the boat owned by The National Trust. Here she is dressed in her fashionable Union flags. Doesn't she look gorgeous?

Our last day in Cumbria meant a trip to our favourite, the loveliest of the larger lakes - Ullswater. It is always so beautiful here. That day was sunny with the sun to warm us and make us feel drowsy after our picnic but it I've seen it look equally as beautiful with the clouds rolling among the fells and the rain blowing into our faces as we climbed higher and higher into mystical fells.

An afternoon drive through lanes of rugged dry-stone walls

led us to Ambleside. Again, a bit too touristy for my tastes but we did enjoy seeing this old vehicle brightening up the scenery

Then it was back to our cottage, to spend our last cosy evening and look forward to our next visit.

Bathroom Reveal & Mr Funky's Giveaway

2009-08-03T14:31:00.000+01:00

Mr Funky finished painting the bathroom yesterday and I've spent part of this morning titivating and tweaking and probably will be titivating and tweaking all week as I decide exactly where everything should go.

Because the room is so small it has been very difficult to take photos to show it and I'm not really satisfied with my efforts. Nevermind, I've had a go. I'm just so relieved to see the back of all that peach that was in there previously.

There isn't really too much to say about such a very tiny space, so come and have a visual tour with me instead.

Look carefully and you'll see me and camera lens!

Thanks for joining me on the tour. Now, onto Mr Funky's giveaway. Mr F went shopping alone a week or two ago and came home with the soaps pictured above, as well as a set of handbag sized tubes of handcream. Lovley man that he is he also bought a set for you

...........well one of you at least. If you'd like these for yourself just leave a comment on this post and Mr F will pick a name from the hat to find the winner. I'll leave this giveaway open for the whole of August. I know many people are taking holidays and I'm finding it difficult to get computer time as Master Funky and teenage friends fill the spare bedroom in an attempt to take over the world via X-Box Live. I'll name the winner at the beginning of September, though I do hope to be blogging sporadically during August.

Refuge

2009-07-12T14:10:00.000+01:00

Oh I've missed being here the past couple of weeks. There has been dirt and chaos everywhere! Never mind, all that remains to do in the bathroom is the electrical work and then we can paint and most importantly I can titivate. I'm not sure of the correct spelling of titivate - but I like titivating when I get chance and there hasn't been the opportunity to do that in the past few weeks. The guys doing the work in the bathroom have been great workers and also made themselves at home. Their first job in the morning was to boil the kettle ready for coffee!

My refuge from all the mess has been my little shed at the bottom of the garden where I've been able to sit and read my magazines and my latest book 'the Shadow of the Wind' by Carlos Ruiz Zafon - It's one of those books you really really don't want to put down and I know I'll really feel bereft when it's finished. A couple of weeks ago I discovered a great new shop in a local village called 'Talulah & Blouwsie' - I nearly fainted with excitement and pleasure - in fact I had to go in twice just to take it all in. Next time I go I might pluck up courage to ask if I can take a few photos. It was crammed full of vintage loveliness, old and new items that made me wish I could take you all shopping with me. There was jewellery, French storage jars, vintage clothing, linens and more - it was heaven on earth. I was very controlled (well I did have Mr Funky with me) and bought just the one item - this pretty, sparkly, girly, crystal necklace.

I couldn't put it down for days. I unwrapped it from it's pink spotted tissue paper, wrapped it back up again, decided I needed to look at it lovingly and unwrapped it yet again. Just look at all the pretttiness going on with the light reflecting all those colours. Mom-in-Law got to hear about my excitement for this wonderful shop and ecstay of ecstacies - she produced all of this gorgeousness for me. This time, a double row of crystals

and three sets of pearls, which belonged to Mr Funky's grandmas and an aunt.

There was also this piece which looks very modern I think but is definitely a vintage necklace. I am so lucky and I can't wait to wear them. I love the ones from my new favourite shop but don't you think it's even better to make use of something that a member of the family has treasured?

At Last

2009-06-24T18:57:00.001+01:00

At last this tatty old bathroom suite is out of my bathroom and out of my life (well almost). I've waited for this for so long and I'm happy to see it lying in the garden as a pile of junk.

This is my bathroom as it looked on Monday....I really don't care about the chaos and the mess. I'm so pleased to see that we are on our way to a shiny, clean space. I've managed to keep out of the way of all the chaos by being at work for two days and then going on a long shopping trip another day. Tomorrow, I'm having a day out with a friend - somewhere within easy reach of a nice clean loo!

All Sorts

2009-06-18T14:11:00.001+01:00

Chaos here at the moment folks. Next week sees an incredibly busy week with the new bathroom being installed. I don't know whether the mood here is full of excitement or tension. The dining room is looking particularly glamorous with all of this stuff stored in here and the bathroom needs stripping out, cupboards need to be emptied and storage found elsewhere.

Added to that I 'm still finding plaster dust lurking in the most peculiar of places and there is still electrical work to be done. Josh also has an overnight stay in Wales next week with his school, a guitar exam and a three day trip with Scouts - nothing's ready and here I am again blogging instead of doing something useful!

Yesterday I received my first bunch of sweet peas from Father-in-law's garden.

I wish you could smell them, they are so gorgeous. There will soon be enough for him to leave a bucketful of bunches at the gate to sell to passers by and later in the summer the finest specimens will be kept for the all important competitions.

He also gave us our first English strawberries of the season. We are a bit choosy here in the Funkyhouse and will only buy English strawberries in season. They are so much better than the imported ones that are here at totally the wrong time. O.k. lecture over! I also love these delectable sweet william. They always make me think of my grandad, as he always grew them in his garden as well as dahlias later in the season.

I will be back in a couple of days to post the last of my holiday pics but I thought you all deserved a break from them! I'd better start thinking about doing some work of some kind instead of sitting here enjoying myself. I'm also thinking of places to visit next week as there is no way I'll be sticking around the house with no available loo. That means I'll probably be spending money I shouldn't but I can't really stay here can I?

I Think I've Died and Gone to Heaven Part 2

2009-06-08T14:03:00.000+01:00

Morning ladies! I'm back again with more photos of our holiday. As there are lots of pictures I'll try not to give you sensory overload with too much natter.So let's get going. We decided to stick close to home on Sunday after the long journey the day before. I'd heard lots about Sizergh Castle, so we decided to visit there.

To be honest, I was a little disappointed with the house itself. Every blind and curtain seemed to be closed, which made an already very dark house difficult to enjoy. I do appreciate the conservation issues but I would like to see the house I'm walking around. Take note please NT!

By contrast the garden were full of gorgeous colour and it was so relaxing walking around with the sun on my back and a strawberry ice-cream in my hand.

Monday was once again sunny and hot and my boys decided that they wanted to
climb the fell that sort of came with our cottage.Did I want to go with them?

Not on your nelly! I was quite happy to sun myself in the garden, enjoy the view from the living room

and complete this taxing project.

They did get to the top of the fell.

And bought back these picture perfect views.

Kirkby Lonsdale was our destination on Tuesday. It was a sunny day, but very, very windy, which made wearing my new skirt quite difficult but here's the photo to prove I actually got to wear one.

I think my legs are red with cold, rather than the sunshine of the previous day. As for Kirkby Lonsdale.

It was a shopping paradise for bloggers.

I did buy a lovely metal sign for my soon to be new bathroom but perhaps I'll show you that when the bathroom is done! After lunch we pootled along to Arnside, a small Victorian town on Morecambe Bay.

You can see the rain clouds gathering can't you? Time for a warming cuppa and a slice of chocolate cake methinks!

The Posh Sardine was just the place for this. As well as selling loads of funkiness it had a welcoming cafe area from which you could enjoy scenic views of the bay with a certain degree of warmth. I managed to spend some more money before pootling on once again.

It did rain as we journeyed back to the cottage but we were greeted by these little ladies once again as we reached home, eager to see if we had anything for them.

We were in just the right place on a cold evening! I love evenings like this, cosy and warm after a lovely day with my family.

I Think I've Died and Gone to Heaven Part 1

2009-06-07T14:07:00.000+01:00

I've been trying to find the time to do a new post but things have conspired against me! We had a wonderful week's holiday only to come home to a building site (well almost). Whilst we were away electricians came in to re-wire the house and although it was wonderful to be out of the way whilst the work was done, I've been fighting a battle against plaster dust this week, plus all the washing and ironing that the holiday created. We took so many pictures that I'm going to have to blog the holiday in several instalments (sorry to bore you all folks).

We had a fantastic holiday. When we turned up the lane to the cottage we were treated to the sight of beautiful lakeland fells and then had to finish our journey half a mile down a rough track,

past the bastle house,

to the sort of cottage we all have dreams about.

Waiting to greet us were these little ladies and their friends. They look sweet and innocent but believe me they were not. Any whiff of a peanut butter sandwich and they would snatch it out of your hand like a mugger takes a handbag!

Honey on the other hand was happy just so long as would throw sticks for her to collect. She loved jumping into the stream at the bottom of the garden to find any stray sticks that had found their way over the garden fence and was always quite considerate as to where she would shake herself to dry off her fur.

And these neighbours were no trouble at all. Although, I expect Mum wonders where they are, as they have escaped their field to find more lush greenery to eat.

It was lovely to have a pasta supper in this sweet little kitchen,

even though we did have an audience whilst we ate.

Josh loved his little bedroom

as I loved my slighter bigger one.

It was just the place for a relaxing read.

I can't tell you how it felt to wake up to this view in the morning

and how wonderful the sound of this stream was as I lay in bed with my early morning cuppa. What a contrast to the sounds of a suburban street.

Well, it's taken ages for all of those pictures to upload and I've only shared half of day one with you. Sorry folks, but I'll be making you suffer some more holiday pics just as soon as I've caught up with clearing that blessed plaster dust!

Flowers and Skirts

2009-05-18T10:40:00.000+01:00

By now I was hoping to show lots of pictures of a gorgeous garden. The weather this last week has really put paid to that with the rain battering petals and the wind completing the damage by blowing the already damaged blossoms off their stems. I did get some photos inbetween showers of heavy rain

Luckily, I did photograph the peony before the worst of the rain really put paid to it's showy display for this year.

Here are a few other shots of things that don't look too bad. The lemon balm is thriving.

The clematis is just beginning to open its delicate mauve sepals

and the persicaria is doing its usual thing of getting on with things regardless of the weather.

The honeysuckle is really looking wonderful but however I photograph it, it just doesn't show it at its best. Here are my better efforts anyway.

The one thing that always looks wonderful in the rain is the ever reliable alchamilla. I'll make a trip down the garden just to see this when there has been fresh rainfall.

I'm really hoping that this rain doesn't continue next week as we are going to the Lake District for a holiday. We are used to staying in the north of the area, near Penrith. This year, we are in the south, near Kendal and Windermere. If anyone can recommend places to visit please let me know as we don't really know this area at all. Things to keep a teenager happy would be good!

I have bought some new skirts to take away with me. I must be mad! I can see I will be in jeans and walking boots all week, probably with a fetching waterproof keeping the weather at bay. Yet again! Anyway, I will show you the skirts as they were all bargains, one from a local shop and the others from Sainsbury's and Matalan. None of them were more than fourteen pounds and they do look really good.

So that's the fashion show over! Never mind, if I do get wet through next week I know that we have a lovely logburner in the cottage where we can dry out - us and our clothes! I'm hoping to bring back loads of photos to share with you. Hope you all have a good week. Its pouring down again - I'm off for tea and cake.

A Special Day

2009-05-08T09:58:00.001+01:00

Some of the very best days out are those that come together at the very last minute don't you think? No great plans, just 'wouldn't it be a good idea to...?' and a happy agreement between friends. At work on Wednesday, four of us decided that we didn't want to spend Thursday shopping, ironing, cooking, cleaning. Instead, we quickly planned a girls day out, just for ourselves. No men, no children, no deadlines. Just four people who have known each other for many years deciding to play hookey for a whole day. After a panic and a dash to meet one friend at the railway station we took a leisurely twenty minute train journey to meet another companion waiting to drive us to our destination...Coughton Court. In the car we chatted, put the world to rights, oohed and aahed at the pretty Warwickshire cottages we passed on the way and relaxed in a way that we don't get to do very often. We met up with the fourth member of our party at Coughton, our little group ready to leave our cares behind to enjoy the glorious sunshine in a magical place.

We took advantage of an introductory talk about the house and wandered round the house at our leisure, delighting in its serene beauty.

By the time we had finished walking around the house we all felt we deserved some lunch in the tea room. There was much carrot cake, cheesecake and coffee and walnut cake consumed, along with several pots of tea drained and continued chatter and laughter. Once we had rested we then took a long walk across the fields to explore the bluebell wood - it was so worth it. Just look at the mass of colour here. The photographs really don't do it justice.

Then it was back to the main area of the house to walk discover Lady Throckmorton's private gardens. It was just my favourite sort of garden, with a series of walled gardens, each with a different theme. It was wonderful to grasp the lavender between our fingers and smell its glorious scent.

Before we came home there was time to talk a sedate walk around the lake, watching the wildlife and the sun glistening on the water.

Then of course it was time to begin a weary journey home, a little less chatter this time. Probably because we were thinking of all that shopping, ironing, cooking, cleaning...waiting for us today.

Easter Weekend

2009-04-15T09:35:00.001+01:00

I didn't intend to be away from my blog for so long and have I missed it! This last week has been so busy, with Josh being on holiday, visiting the in-laws on Easter Sunday and a couple of nice days out with Rob. We've also been having quotes for a new bathroom and kitchen which has taken time and me ending up getting fidgety about having people in the house trying to impose their ideas on me. I keep getting asked stupid questions like 'why do you like belfast sinks?'. I get the feeling that just because I live in a small terraced house, with a small kitchen that I should have the cheapest kitchen with the crappiest materials! Is it me? I am odd? Do you always get the third degree because you like something that is a little more unusual?

Anyway, I am a bit late really showing our little efforts at decorating for Easter but I refuse to be left out so here are our little bits and bobs. They didn't take much time and certainly no skill but I love Easter as much as I hate Christmas, so we always have to have a few bits and pieces about.

We had a great day on Friday. Years ago, we used to visit Hay-on-Wye a couple of times a year, but it must have been around fifteen years since our last visit to the festival to see my screen hero Dirk Bogarde. Anyhow, we decided it was time to visit once again, so the picnic was duly packed and we set off on the journey that took us through Leominster before we finally got to Hay. Hay has always been famous for its huge amount of bookshops and was the initial attraction for us both as book lovers but I have to say that the whole shopping experience has improved since we last went there and there is now a really good selectioon of shops for professional shoppers like me. I make no apologies for the number of photos of shops that follow! Yep. Friday was a shopping fest, I'm a shopaholic and I love it. I don't want to be cured thank you! If you want a closer peek in any of the shop windows, just enlarge the pics for a better view.

The Green Room was full of loveliness for your garden and even had its own little yard packed full of goodness.

I did get a couple of repro bargains from here.

Lots of French vintage goodies in here.

Some Bridgewatery goodness in here.

Some more antiques in here.

The greengrocer in our town doesn't look like this.

I thought this shop looked very inviting

and this shop gets regular mentions in Country Living, Period Living etc.

Of course the town does a have a few bookshops.

Good places to eat and stay.

Rob and Josh indulged themselves in some goodies.

and so did I.

I hope you enjoyed your trip to Hay with us as I don't think we will be going very far away from home today. At eight-thirty this morning the sky was black and only lit up as the lightning streaked across the sky and the thunder rumbled ominously. I think today might be the day for making those little cornflake nests that I should have made last week.

New Things

2009-04-03T15:05:00.000+01:00

It's the first day of the Easter holidays and for obvious reasons I've not been able to get to the computer until two o'clock this afternoon. Josh has finally got off X Box Live, into his Guns N Roses t-shirt, jeans with holes in the knees and took himself off to the park with friends. I've done the usual trawl around the shops this morning and for the first time in ages the charity shops have been really exciting.

These cups are so pretty and springlike that I really couldn't leave them in the shop.

These little plates will look great used with them and they only cost one pound twenty -five, what a bargain.

This little cup cost almost as much as the other four - it seems very lady-like and refined rather than cottagey like the others. I can imagine Jane Austen drinking from something similar in an elegant Bath drawing room.

I love books, I work with them and I've had a book by my bedside for most of my life and there are occasions when I do judge them by their cover. This was so attractive and its spine was just as lovely that I knew it had to come back home with me. The book plate inside says that the book was presented in 1897 to Harriet Hinton by Lye Primitive Methodist Sunday School for 'Early and Regular Attendance'. I would love to have have seen dear Harriet in her Sunday best off to church and I wonder if she fidgeted whilst she sat in the church pew just as my son did over a hundred years later. Josh won a trophy for regular attendance at church from his Beaver troop several years ago. As an seven year old he was very proud to see his name engraved on the trophy, just as I imagine Harriet was when she received her Sunday School prize.

This week has been a good one for buying things. I bought a camera case

and a funky tote bag, both from Jo over at Jojo Designs. This is me with it on Tuesday evening just as I've arrived home from work to discover a parcel packed with this piece of scrumptiousness.

The camera case is so lovely compared to the usual black cases we see and I shall look forward to using it on holiday in a few weeks time. I intend using the bag on our wonderful trips to my favourite towns but I couldn't resist using it today - well it is magazine day - and my Period Living and Country Homes deserve better than a plastic bag.

Mandy at LiveLaughLove at Jo at JoJo Designs have both given me awards this week. I've just tried to upload both of them but either Blogger or Picasa doesn't like them at the minute. So thank-you ladies very much for your awards, I really appreciate them. I will try to upload them another time when the computer isn't frustrating me.

We're off to the folk club this evening to see Flaxenby and then if the weather's o.k. we'll spend the weekend tidying the garden. Have a good one everyone.

Friday

2009-03-27T12:39:00.001Z

It's been the usual routine this morning. A walk into town to finish off the weekly shopping. I don't really enjoy food shopping, it's just a chore but there is always the added attraction of doing the circuit of the charity shops in anticipation of finding a treasure I didn't know I needed. None found today mind you. The town is a little depressing at the moment with lots of empty shops and only the very basic shops still thriving. No individuality left here at all. These cheery Tesco/Cath Kidston bags do make the shop a little more pleasurable though and are usually admired by the ladies on the checkouts in Waitrose. Poor Mr Funky. We don't have a Tesco in town, so he had to drive me to the nearest large store so that I could complete the collection! I dread to think how much they all cost. Still - I am helping the environment aren't I?

I was tempted and succumbed to this sweet little tin of Redbush Rooibos tea. This stuff seems to be breeding on the shelves. There are loads of different packages containing this South African tea. Is it because of the influence of Precious Ramotswe and the Number 1 Ladies Detective Agency? Or I have I only noticed it because watching it has become my Sunday evening replacement for niceness and decency since the end of Lark Rise to Candleford? Anyway, I'm intrigued and I'm going to give it a whirl. Naturally, I couldn't buy a cardboard packet - I couldn't resist the little tin (my one weakness). So now there's another tin to add to the ever growing collection in my tiny kitchen.

As I picked up the post I noticed a new Bridgewater catalogue in amongst the brown envelopes and general junk. Just the thing to browse with a cup of coffee. Not a lot of newness in there but as usual it's beautifully photographed and I don't need an excuse to share some Bridgewater loveliness with you.

Spots

Birds

Happiness

and all round general loveliness.

Perhaps I should have used a mug like the picture above to display some of my daffs. Quite a bargain I think - three jugs filled for two pounds.

Anyway, I hope you all have a great weekend. Keep warm - it's going to be a cold one.

Mothering Sunday

2009-03-23T11:33:00.001Z

A picture heavy post today. I hope you don't mind. I hope you all enjoyed Mothering Sunday. I was certainly treated to a wonderful day, spent in the company of my two favourite boys, Mr Funky and our gorgeous teenager, Josh. Both Mr Funky and Josh send me a card on Mother's Day.

And I also had two great presents, a decorative candle and a book I've been wanting to read since I saw it over at Sal's Snippets (thanks Sal).

Best of all, I was taken out for the day. It's that time of year when the National Trust begins to re-open its properties and it gives us the opportunity for some relaxing days out. Josh is at the age where he is beginning to find walking around old houses a bit boring, but he behaved really well. (No complaining about wanting to be on the Xbox, or wanting to go out with friends). So we packed a picnic and made our way into Warwickshire to Packwood House.

It was a bit difficult taking photographs as most of the house was covered in scaffolding due to roofing repairs but I do have these for you.

These sundials, unusually on the walls of the house look superb.

Packwood is also famous for its yew trees. They are said to represent the Sermon on the Mount.

And the rest of the garden doesn't look so bad either.

Not content with visiting one house, we visited two! Two miles down the road from Packwood is Baddesely Clinton, a moated mediaeval manor house, famous for its connection with the Catholic faith and its priests hiding holes. I wish I could show you the interiors of both of these houses but photography isn't allowed for perfectly understandable reasons.

Just about time to show you the garden before closing time I think.

And a quick visit to the church before we make our way back home.

Thanks Rob and Josh for such a wonderful day.

Caution Ducks Crossing

2009-03-16T14:36:00.000Z

Sunday's weather was so mild and springlike I wouldn't settle and be content until I'd been for a walk along my favourite piece of towpath. I should really have washed, ironed, dug the garden but I really, really needed just to be in the fresh air away from the usual hum-drum stuff. By the time we'd collected Josh from his sleepover and and bought a voucher from the garden centre for Mom-in-law's present next Sunday the day had become a little dull. It didn't matter, it was warm and we could hear the birds singing and look at new greeness of Spring. What more could we need? I love this little walk along the canal. Josh gets annoyed with me 'not the same bit again?' I love its familiarity and its friendliness as walkers, cyclists, bargees and residents greet you with a cheery 'hello' as you walk on by. You can even do some shopping there if you wish at one of the canalside cottages.

I love to cross the towpath using this this tiny little bridge.

Here's a view from the top of the bridge to its left

and the view to the right.

Once over the bridge there's a little hamlet of cottages

next to fields.

I'd love to live here, tucked away in an almost secret little village.

It's on our way back to the bridge and the towpath that I notice this little sign, that's obviously been there some time.

It made us laugh, although we did keep a lookout for ducks on our way over the bridge. We did see plenty of ducks. All paired off now, with the odd noisy interruption of single males trying to steal a pretty girl from her mate.

Another few weeks and we'll be watching Mum leading her ducklings out and about as they play and discover their surroundings. We become distracted again and take a detour down a litle lane to the river

and up the hill to the fields with green shoots just peering through the red earth.

The church overlooks all of this from the hill, constant in the ever changing scenery.

Back on the canal and I love this sweet little hut. I imagine myself on a summer's day, sitting there on the porch watching the narrowboats chugging by. On winter walks, I imagine sitting inside, snuggled up with a heater, a hot drink and a good book.

Before I forget, we did see some of these as well.

Cheery, cosy, welcoming. When I win the lottery I'm going to buy one! However, it will have to be for weekends and holidays only. I have too much stuff to fit on one of these. Of course I would expect other bloggers to visit for afternoon tea and a bun.

Giveaway Result

2009-03-15T11:33:00.000Z

Sorry ladies, but Johnny Depp was unavailable today to pull a name from the hat, or bowl in this case. So Mr Funky stepped in and performed the duty admirably. To be honest he was a lot cheaper than Johnny, although I'm not so sure that he looks quite as good in the pirate outfit as Johnny but you can't have everything can you.

The first name out of the hat (bowl) was Simone from Linden Grove. Congrats Simone, I'll be in touch via your blog for your details. I was quite overwhelmed by the number of people entering the draw and I'm just sorry I can't send you all something but thank you all for your kind comments. I know that I will have some new blogs to read and some new friends to meet from comments made on the last post. I shall look forward to catching up with everyone over the next couple of weeks.

Blogiversary Giveaway

2009-03-08T11:02:00.001Z

Next Sunday is the anniversary of my first blog. It's been a lovely year blogging wise and I want to celebrate by having a small giveaway. All you need to do to have a chance of winning is to leave a comment on this post. I will choose a winner at random next Sunday, so leave your comment by Saturday 14th and your name will be added to the draw. If you are the lucky winner you will get a gingham heart

a candle in a tin

and a vintage cotton reel donated by Mr Funky.

Everyone is welcome to enter, new and regular readers alike.

Thank you for making blogging such fun.