This is the first picture of Mum and me together on the day I was born and in the background is the beautiful receiving blanket that she knitted whilst she was pregnant – something that is now an heirloom in our family. Amongst many other things, Mum taught me to knit – something I’m so grateful for as I’d be lost without my knitting! She’s still a whizz with the needles and is currently helping me knit up the bases for a new batch of cakes. You’re a star Mum, Happy Mother’s day xxx

One of the first blogs I started reading regularly was An Irish Craftworker’s Good Life. I love Rebecca’s humour, creativity and determination to make a better life for her family. Since discovering her site I’ve come to regard Rebecca as a friend and although we’ve never met I really enjoy her virtual company. So it was great to hear recently that she’s launched herself another blog (along with her husband Dan who has his own blog about his fabulous handmade wooden toys, they’re now a 3 blog family!). Rebecca’s new blog Irish Sally Garden focuses on their pursuit of a sustainable, eco-friendly lifestyle and features regular appearances from her extended family of goats and pigs. Pop over and take a look, it’s a real inspiration and you’re guaranteed a warm Irish welcome.

Today I am reminded of a song by John Denver (a favourite of my Dad’s when I was growing up).

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy
Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry
Sunshine on the water looks so lovely
Sunshine almost always makes me high

And it does, doesn’t it? A little bit of sunshine goes a long way to brightening up a day.It looks especially nice on the old plum tree which is now covered in blossom.