beat and sift

the worst thing about new fangled gadgets is that sometimes they break down and this week it's been the turn of my most used kitchen tools - the electric beater and fancy flour sifter to bite the dust. Rather than endure days of decision making at the kitchen store, I rediscovered these well loved yesteryear kitchen items. At the very least I'll be doing my bit to save electricity as well as getting a good workout at the same time. Now off to do some baking...

As for sewing, not much happening, the bicycle is proving to be too distracting!

bicycle

I have to introduce you all to my early wedding anniversary present... a Dutch commuter bicycle complete with the cane basket. Isn't it beautiful? as some of you may know I'm a fan of retro and this bicycle style has been on my dream list for a very long time. Back in the late 70s-early 80s I was the very proud owner of a Raleigh 20 cruiser which was a dream to ride on the flat. I rode it everywhere. The only problem was that it had one single gear and was a pain to ride up hills. This bike takes hill rides to another level... smooth and easy!

Now all I need to complete the picture is to cycle in heels and a frock, looking ever so urban chic.

ps. since this bicycle arrived, I've not been anywhere near my sewing machine. So I'll be doing a few late nighters to get my birthday surprises finished before Sunday.

monarch butterfly

since dear hubby planted a swan plant in our garden, we've been inundated with visiting monarch butterflies keen on laying their eggs. This poor butterfly braved a very rainy day to be the very first visitor.

life has been pretty hectic since the kids returned to school. Sometimes I feel just like a butterfly flitting from one thing to another. Sports days kick off the year with a bang. Miss 13 came 3rd overall in her year for the swimming sports at College, she's as pleased as punch! athletics and netball trials up next. Mr 11 is settling into a bigger school and at the same time getting used to a more disciplined environment and our littlest person celebrates her 3rd birthday in a fortnights time and starts kindergarten then too.

on the sewing/crafting list I'm working on making some kindy clothes that Miss almost 3 can splatter and dirty as much as she likes as well as a couple of top secret birthday items for her. Hope to show you what I've made in a few days time. Then it's back to the girls dressing gown that I've just cut out.