I began blogging in September 2006, on the day that my then 4 year old son started school. It was a way of connecting with others who enjoy the simple pleasures of crafting, nature and raising a family. Though I've at times gone a bit silent for a month or so, I've blogged pretty much… Continue reading hello and welcome
Easter Break and a bit of a re-set
Firstly I wanted to say sorry for being so downbeat in my last post, usually I'm able to find a bit more balance and positivity. Thank you so much to everyone who took time out of their day to comment or send me a… Continue reading Easter Break and a bit of a re-set
March
March has been full of extra challenges here, a two-steps-forward one-step-back kind of month. Amy went into hospital for surgery on her complicated wisdom teeth, which required a general anaesthetic and, for someone with quite intense anxiety issues, this was very difficult for her. We're proud… Continue reading March
Spring, maybe?
It's been so wet here, rain has fallen for weeks on end and many of our familiar pathways through the woods are now well beyond muddy and are completely flooded and impassable. It's been mild too, we've only had a few frosts… Continue reading Spring, maybe?
A little lull
There's currently a lull in our planning for Toby and a temporary reprieve from paperwork, so I'm enjoying decompressing a little with regular walks out in the woods. Although winter still has the countryside in it's grip, there are signs that a… Continue reading A little lull
Winter Walks
The countryside is currently drab and dormant and much given over to mud, so most of the pleasure in a winter walk comes from the promise of what awaits on returning home. Coming back home after a chilly walk in the murk… Continue reading Winter Walks
January, beginnings
Well here we are again at the beginning of a new year, I hope it has started well for you. We're doing quite well here, Toby coped with going back to college yesterday and the much earlier start to his days and I've been slowly… Continue reading January, beginnings
End of year ponderings
At the beginning of 2023 I had such big plans: I was going to write lots of patterns; make lots of finished animals, some to sell and some to give away; reply to all of my emails; reply to all instagram, facebook and blog comments; comment on everyone's projects on Ravelry… Continue reading End of year ponderings
the golden hour
The shortening days are making me appreciate how precious light is and I take time to notice how magical the daylight is at this time of year. Here at the beginning of December the sun only rises to around 16 degrees… Continue reading the golden hour
Autumn in the woods: part 2
There's a line from a Mary Oliver poem, which resonates for me... "If you have ever gone to the woods with me, I must love you very much" 'How I go to the woods' from… Continue reading Autumn in the woods: part 2
Autumn in the woods: part 1
Autumn has arrived here, with wet and windy weather and a sudden profusion of fungi out in the woods. I head there at every opportunity, savouring the soothing peace and quiet that flows between the trees. It's been a good year for the hedgerow fruits of hips, haws and berries and the woodland creatures… Continue reading Autumn in the woods: part 1
little cotton rabbits 