tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34014433035651549842024-03-14T06:44:17.455+10:00Carrose CreationsCarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.comBlogger1415125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-81498083377030859082020-03-31T16:35:00.002+10:002020-03-31T16:35:51.047+10:00{SLOW} <br />
At the end of last year I rediscovered a love of scrolling pinterest. This new found love of pinterest had everything to do with my decision to leave Facebook. In late October 2019, I logged out & deleted apps off every computer and device and have been Facebook free for 5 months and counting. (Disclaimer; I am still on FB Messenger) <div>
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With all this free time, I stumbled headfirst into a world of Slow Stitches on Pinterest. </div>
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The plan for the year was to spend at least ten mindful minutes slow stitching each day. January started strong with a flurry of single pieces that will eventually be bound into a journal; along with two dedicated Cross Stitch SAL (CSAL...?) - more on both of those projects in a later post! </div>
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As February came and went with work deadlines and a new School year to juggle I started falling off the daily stitching wagon and eventually switched to a single piece with no purpose other than to simply stitch. </div>
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The first piece is my first "freestyle" piece. Stitched on up a pair of my favourite Denim Jeans that wore out. I have added fabric scraps from stash along with offcuts from the opshop and remnants. It has been a fun adventure in learning what colours go well with each other and what I like in terms of stitching - running stitch is my FAVOURITE. </div>
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The reverse of this piece even has a pocket on the back - made with a Sashiko sampler I stitched a couple of years ago. At this stage I have no plans on what the final piece will be turned into. For now I am more than happy to be simply creating for the sake of creativity. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AncMxQQVLnk/XoLgaDc8b-I/AAAAAAAANPw/K0ltA3cOnZYim6sKCp7G3CuyTVfRfCdoQCEwYBhgLKs0DAMBZVoCJhL58eBTiP-qY17x_Ryj_Qk6SDSmGhCbtGZqchRBcGq5qrt-lgG8V5iEM8sECISzDW8K9SybVNzyi2K-A_MoHrUiXNDEAPKVykxeQpMql3k3LT1oi4dovesD7CKHFuo-tbGtDka6st6BYZnAimkiwU3xT2wnhtrjJBYttP0ZiHO4WqbBayZxnIUlzij4eYJj-0yKGFIuYSiGujZUJfjt-53-arlAkU6JX85zf_yBLZuO4xTdOyPBOlCfHLcKdVSa1d1wrtR8WPmWdFfbGtR-YQqqIjFOHZXdU6ZohgKt3u9G6Zg9qapzc1fcuRMXV4wwMxeaV1tNDW1otIih9DEvQ0AOYCJXJHDSOt_ofNh0QzPqZ1j2vVZkMSeeJ5Oc3xWD3_f3LHUVE9Qouz2EGfdO__X93j2yoRXWFm73yp9gtS_6voF_4WoFQ8YCzhdUSEBgAzEuUwHA49Zi6-qEJImsEzWxZzBuhgKowgFocKB94VgtKR5Y19R9LqRELhghiQ_E7hWPoKLQ7gA-UZOdZ9qKAel33vI9DYY6Ct5FtXyf_7xkLdRBPcS_byy_oVAQsH2mDgnUKuLmreQUF0oMV4NvwcyDQ03eiKdUwgMeL9AU/s1600/2020%2B03%2BSlow%2BStitches1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1210" data-original-width="907" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AncMxQQVLnk/XoLgaDc8b-I/AAAAAAAANPw/K0ltA3cOnZYim6sKCp7G3CuyTVfRfCdoQCEwYBhgLKs0DAMBZVoCJhL58eBTiP-qY17x_Ryj_Qk6SDSmGhCbtGZqchRBcGq5qrt-lgG8V5iEM8sECISzDW8K9SybVNzyi2K-A_MoHrUiXNDEAPKVykxeQpMql3k3LT1oi4dovesD7CKHFuo-tbGtDka6st6BYZnAimkiwU3xT2wnhtrjJBYttP0ZiHO4WqbBayZxnIUlzij4eYJj-0yKGFIuYSiGujZUJfjt-53-arlAkU6JX85zf_yBLZuO4xTdOyPBOlCfHLcKdVSa1d1wrtR8WPmWdFfbGtR-YQqqIjFOHZXdU6ZohgKt3u9G6Zg9qapzc1fcuRMXV4wwMxeaV1tNDW1otIih9DEvQ0AOYCJXJHDSOt_ofNh0QzPqZ1j2vVZkMSeeJ5Oc3xWD3_f3LHUVE9Qouz2EGfdO__X93j2yoRXWFm73yp9gtS_6voF_4WoFQ8YCzhdUSEBgAzEuUwHA49Zi6-qEJImsEzWxZzBuhgKowgFocKB94VgtKR5Y19R9LqRELhghiQ_E7hWPoKLQ7gA-UZOdZ9qKAel33vI9DYY6Ct5FtXyf_7xkLdRBPcS_byy_oVAQsH2mDgnUKuLmreQUF0oMV4NvwcyDQ03eiKdUwgMeL9AU/s640/2020%2B03%2BSlow%2BStitches1.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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Before I finished the above piece - I pulled out a canvas piece that I had used to test paint colours on. It was destined for the bin because the puppy (now nearly FIVE and old enough to know better) found it on the floor of my craft room one day and had a little chew on it. </div>
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Rather than turf it, I decided I will add a lining in fabric to cover the chew marks *sigh* then sew it into a cover for the sketchbook revival class. Lucky for me the suggested notebook class this year was a junk journal from a vintage book. I am taking creative switching it up license and doing the junk journal part in this cover. Because rules are made to be broken! </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-faEx8JFOUGg/XoLgZFWJO7I/AAAAAAAANPs/0UeZ2vCeK1gNuWVxk0MSLH6WQ9J4W9adgCEwYBhgLKs0DAMBZVoAiLAZrZwmgS06DdsRYMhtklR2pSJ3nwsZMG614qQB_W4A0J4plEDpgIVAHoOjc5COEiIMY3L7lwD5O32aGyXYB02hIW3hqqd3fYV7hU-j9OyDgRO5EyHdYkqBjYgh4ZREH29Nz3k2EECx5VehIGiCqJ-I_Dd87KCg3A9nw7KvOHOyabQjh2rR7yPm4iTWJAps0pXvu3ZCA8INBUFSAhovXRUS5Kt6aAQ1Q9lpxzfqgG9NEw_aKmQ7HJ2KV4S_2dvae-XvAixM-l93hgwabhJ2xUZvyAz6VgFsWbPUt2vQNueb0wMQ8WocW4KdFW7E6nv4Pa6KRtk_sYEQkYDYH3szg_2ioiX_ZPKCyVue3Lqv_LSNiC6A9pLqrfhi8YKmEDl65WK0KzF-IeBVr39hKKTukVkhQkRfLXVBKxCxfPADjqmp1xssXVA4qBqoJAwpIWgdw6gQl-AwfbjnH8DF2uRg0VLO4xuDW5qXrlc2HQW-VXyl7ei4Gh6dyJpsoXG3zhd08NOJ8VDJ9F7J3nLgB4X0ANXYHBBvm14OUtKsYaPpvAkd_u3IeStgmDKlkTH9NVuEl4ekdfyGPhHADhouj6hfclhx8FCv25kkwo8iL9AU/s1600/2020%2B03%2BSketchbookRev.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="937" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-faEx8JFOUGg/XoLgZFWJO7I/AAAAAAAANPs/0UeZ2vCeK1gNuWVxk0MSLH6WQ9J4W9adgCEwYBhgLKs0DAMBZVoAiLAZrZwmgS06DdsRYMhtklR2pSJ3nwsZMG614qQB_W4A0J4plEDpgIVAHoOjc5COEiIMY3L7lwD5O32aGyXYB02hIW3hqqd3fYV7hU-j9OyDgRO5EyHdYkqBjYgh4ZREH29Nz3k2EECx5VehIGiCqJ-I_Dd87KCg3A9nw7KvOHOyabQjh2rR7yPm4iTWJAps0pXvu3ZCA8INBUFSAhovXRUS5Kt6aAQ1Q9lpxzfqgG9NEw_aKmQ7HJ2KV4S_2dvae-XvAixM-l93hgwabhJ2xUZvyAz6VgFsWbPUt2vQNueb0wMQ8WocW4KdFW7E6nv4Pa6KRtk_sYEQkYDYH3szg_2ioiX_ZPKCyVue3Lqv_LSNiC6A9pLqrfhi8YKmEDl65WK0KzF-IeBVr39hKKTukVkhQkRfLXVBKxCxfPADjqmp1xssXVA4qBqoJAwpIWgdw6gQl-AwfbjnH8DF2uRg0VLO4xuDW5qXrlc2HQW-VXyl7ei4Gh6dyJpsoXG3zhd08NOJ8VDJ9F7J3nLgB4X0ANXYHBBvm14OUtKsYaPpvAkd_u3IeStgmDKlkTH9NVuEl4ekdfyGPhHADhouj6hfclhx8FCv25kkwo8iL9AU/s640/2020%2B03%2BSketchbookRev.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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I am trying not to think before I add fabric or stitches and just letting it flow. The beauty of this sketchbook cover is I have chosen a sketchy black and white fabric for the inner and will be able to continue adding stitches if I feel compelled to add them as I work through the class. </div>
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However before I can do that I do need to actually construct the inner layer so I can remove those pins and stop poking myself with them! LOL </div>
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Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-82723576390797675592020-03-30T15:55:00.005+10:002020-03-30T15:55:54.683+10:00*shiny* New ProjectsLast week as my family made moves toward our new normal (impromptu homeschool, social distancing and a sudden reduction in workload) I realised I now have ZERO excuses not to begin finishing long ago started projects...<br />
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Yet I then felt overwhelmed with free time and a craft room heaving with possibility and a mess from my last full day of creative mayhem (when is it every not a great big mess.)<br />
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Inspired by a knitting project <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">My partner in all things crazy</a> was casting on, I remembered a project I cast on years ago and went searching on my blog to see if I could find the pattern that went with it. Alas it would appear I did not blog that particular project - but I did have fun going through some of my archives and seeing how back in the old days we GOT STUFF DONE.<br />
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And Finished.<br />
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When I mentioned this, I was encouraged (& by that I mean <strike>threatened</strike> challenged) to return to blogging. Daily. Next thing I know I was issued a list of what to blog about this week.<br />
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Monday - creative projects we began over the weekend.<br />
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This project I technically started a few weeks ago, but over the weekend, I decided I would finish the white in the border and finally stitched the last stitch at 8pm last night. It was so tedious and I am NOT looking forward to adding the black on the borders.<br />
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Alice In Wonderland - SAL by <a href="https://satsumastreet.com/">Satsuma Street</a><br />
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When this pattern dropped into my radar I had already signed up to do another two patterns during 2020 (both of which I will blog about in the coming weeks) as both are on track to be finished this year - I signed up to this one on the proviso I could do it on the cheap. </div>
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I pulled out stash Aida, found a box of teal dye in the laundry cupboard and went to town. </div>
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The colour is stunning! </div>
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Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-91282719277120506532019-10-03T16:18:00.001+10:002019-10-03T16:18:36.436+10:00{Space} Every few months I get stuck in this terrible routine of not cleaning off my desk and workbench after I finish a project and then the piles multiple. Like rabbits. Each pile attract another piles and it all builds up until the legs of the table are threatening to collapse under the mountains.<br />
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While on a mini holiday & housebound with a tween wanting to spend her days hanging about like lounge lizards (she has not stopped for two terms with school work + 8 hours extra curricular every week...) I ventured into my sacred space and sighed at the mess.<br />
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I began with the desk.<br />
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Then the Workbench.<br />
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Then the floor.<br />
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Finally my overwhelmed state spied clear white space, the crafter in me yearned to mess it up. The anxious side talked her down, declaring war on new projects until old ones were tidied away.<br />
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A week later and I am really pleased to report - it is still clear. The space is so calming and I feel I can breathe again.<br />
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However.... there is still a few niggly messy parts. This weeks plan is to deal with the following: <br />
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1. Stuff under the table<br />
2. Two Art carts<br />
3. Some 12x12 papers needing a home.<br />
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Heck if all goes well I might even plan another three for next week.<br />
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More accountability. More focus. More Calm moments of creativity. YAY!<br />
Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-80817822654830823172019-10-02T17:37:00.002+10:002019-10-02T17:37:34.061+10:00What once was Old becomes New Sometime during the depths of July, I found myself lamenting my lack of crafty pursuits. Aside from a little journaling and a little Art there was no other creative fun.<br />
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Squeezing around excess storage boxes on the floor of my craft room I spied a box with old Cross Stitch supplies and I pulled out a bookmark I started yonks ago and each night added a little bit more.<br />
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When I finished that I remembered a stack of mini's I used to buy at Spotlight - just because.<br />
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A cute dragonfly and a teacup were soon finished.<br />
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I have NO idea what I will do with these, I considered making them into little mini coasters - you can never have too many coasters right? Or I will make them into journal covers. </div>
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Yesterday as I was writing my list of what I wanted to do during October, I received an email from The Frosted Pumpkins featuring a cute Halloween stitchery. As I went to their website I was tossing up whether I needed another pattern in my life - then I remembered I had purchased a cute little Witchy pattern YEARS AGO! Lucky for me I had every colour DMC required and a piece of blue fabric I dyed for a different Halloween project (again years ago!) </div>
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Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-15416258597130848122019-10-01T17:06:00.000+10:002019-10-01T17:06:10.313+10:00Make a {LIST} At some point during last month I threw my hands in the air and declared I simply needed to simplify EVERYTHING. <div>
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<b>EVERYTHING</b>. </div>
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Then as October approached everyone began sharing their daily October challenges. I sat with my simplified systems and with growing FOMO wanted to do ALL THE THINGS. </div>
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<b>ALL. THE. THINGS</b>. </div>
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Then my <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">crazy half</a> says "are we..." </div>
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"CHALLENGE ACCEPTED..." I reply calmly. </div>
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This morning bright eyed I sat and wrote my list of possibilities I want to attempt this month and here I sit at 4:49pm wondering what the heck was I thinking. So without further adieu.</div>
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My current wish list for October stands as follows: </div>
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1. Inktober </div>
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2. Blogtober </div>
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3. Halloween Reading </div>
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4. Finish two Book Club Books </div>
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5. Read two NovelTea Book Clubs </div>
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6. The Painted Diaries </div>
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7. Healing & calm </div>
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8. Camp Gifts </div>
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9. Work </div>
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10. Morning Scribbles <strike>& words </strike></div>
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11. 31minutes / 31days </div>
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12. 365 Daily</div>
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and because a round dozen wasn't very Halloweeny, I rounded it to a spooky 13. </div>
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13. All Hallows Eve Cross Stitch </div>
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I am leaving the list here so I have some kind of accountability. Or worse case - so I can return here NEXT October and remind myself that taking on too much is a crazy idea. Wish me oodles of luck! </div>
Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-86943049454372837652019-08-14T14:34:00.000+10:002019-08-14T14:34:00.916+10:00Watch'ya Reading Wednesday In 2019 I set myself a reading challenge of 52 books - a book each week.
More importantly I was originally aiming to spend my spare time with more intention.<br />
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At nights after dinner is eaten and packed away, I curl up on the lounge with my phone on one side. iPad on the opposite. Then I scroll.<br />
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And scroll.<br />
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And scroll.<br />
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So I deleted the Facebook app from both devices and began reading. I was doing exceptional until someone introduced me to Lemmings.<br />
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I remember back in the Candy Crush days - I resisted the urge to play, watching as other mums were sitting in the playground mindlessly thumbing their phones and asking for power.<br />
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7 years later... I caved. Because the lure of a childhood game was hard to resist.
BUT that's all about to change - I am inspired by my current tally 45/52 and after not seeing a dent in my current to-read piles (yes plural) it is time to stop the mindless games and start with <i><u>mindful</u></i> reading.<br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/12634095-car?shelf=2019-reads&utm_medium=api&utm_source=grid_widget" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration: none;">Car's 2019-reads book montage</a>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22391735-spinifex-baby" rel="nofollow" title="Spinifex Baby"><img alt="Spinifex Baby" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1401707611l/22391735._SX98_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8667848-a-discovery-of-witches" rel="nofollow" title="A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy, #1)"><img alt="A Discovery of Witches" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1525097370l/8667848._SX98_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11354566-rosalee-station" rel="nofollow" title="Rosalee Station"><img alt="Rosalee Station" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1342082014l/11354566._SX98_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40048352-return-to-rosalee-station" rel="nofollow" title="Return To Rosalee Station"><img alt="Return To Rosalee Station" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1527809673l/40048352._SX98_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/38351729-making-peace" rel="nofollow" title="Making Peace"><img alt="Making Peace" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1517805768l/38351729._SX98_.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40389527-the-woman-in-the-window" rel="nofollow" title="The Woman in the Window"><img alt="The Woman in the Window" border="0" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1528225499l/40389527._SX98_.jpg" /></a></div>
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Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-37342071699910930482018-10-09T14:08:00.000+10:002018-10-09T14:08:34.184+10:00{Blogtober} Mind your own BEESWAXWhen my <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">partner in crime</a> threw down her 26 materials challenge (Make all the things) I perused the list of materials and saw Wax. EASY. I received a candle making kit for my birthday 2 years ago and it has sat in the cupboard and been moved around more times than I can count. I will pull it out and make it.<br />
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Over the weekend I wanted a quick and easy project and as I was looking at my bookcases I spied this Gondwana Kit "Beeswax Candle Kit" PERFECT!<br />
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Confessions of a Crafty Hoarder - I think I purchased this back in 1999... yes. My name is Car and I am such a crafty hoarder!<br />
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I'm sure beeswax lasts forever so I pulled it out and got making. It was the quickest and easiest craft I ever did and I am not sure why I waited so long to use this kit!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mhFup_rdTcU/W7wnJBPaQbI/AAAAAAAANFI/MFliTdt0gzspjsyuVR8T43XWdMrzmxsQwCLcBGAs/s1600/CC%2B10%2B08%2BCandle1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mhFup_rdTcU/W7wnJBPaQbI/AAAAAAAANFI/MFliTdt0gzspjsyuVR8T43XWdMrzmxsQwCLcBGAs/s640/CC%2B10%2B08%2BCandle1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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#makeallthethingschallenge</div>
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project 4 or 26</div>
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Material - Wax </div>
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Two pillar Candles, two tapered candles and a mini because one sheet looked dubious. I even added a red heart or two (because I could!)<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--I7xCbYIw-c/W7wnI3UnFxI/AAAAAAAANFQ/ylimfMRqApMuHyAX7y-zrrFvA8KcD-MPwCEwYBhgL/s1600/CC%2B10%2B08%2BCandle2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--I7xCbYIw-c/W7wnI3UnFxI/AAAAAAAANFQ/ylimfMRqApMuHyAX7y-zrrFvA8KcD-MPwCEwYBhgL/s400/CC%2B10%2B08%2BCandle2.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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This morning as I took some photos of my candles I decided to attempt lighting the small one... </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnAGVNOQSv8/W7wnJNdEMEI/AAAAAAAANFU/n8KrwADZz2Y8OgCVw0TIYiVFEkkadWGnQCEwYBhgL/s1600/CC%2B10%2B08%2BCandle3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QnAGVNOQSv8/W7wnJNdEMEI/AAAAAAAANFU/n8KrwADZz2Y8OgCVw0TIYiVFEkkadWGnQCEwYBhgL/s400/CC%2B10%2B08%2BCandle3.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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While Beeswax might have a long shelf life, it would appear the wicks do not. It withered and burned out. Aaaah! Even if they don't work I guess I can call it a win because I used up some stash items.<br />
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Bright side - they smell nice!Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-7871127829852717252018-10-07T14:36:00.000+10:002018-10-07T14:36:01.049+10:00{Blogtober} Sashiko <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Earlier in the week, my <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">partner in crime</a> mentioned a new project involving thread with intentional stitches purely for mediative purposes. I have something that might work says I (having stumbled over a long forgotten Sashiko kit I picked up at one of the Quilt fairs years ago!) </div>
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A quick google search tells me that <a href="https://www.seamwork.com/issues/2016/04/sashiko">Sashiko</a> is an ancient Japanese hand sewing technique that means "little stabs" </div>
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Well I was feeling a lot stabby last night and pulled out the two kits. Another quick google on how to sashiko was found on <a href="https://www.purlsoho.com/create/sashiko/">Purl Soho</a> and I was off and <strike>running</strike> stitching! </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2hXo_ikTuTg/W7mJLNkYbZI/AAAAAAAAND8/PqGCSVBwbxMsA76usdvgLgUNuD0BM9U5gCLcBGAs/s1600/CC%2B10%2B07%2BSashiko.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2hXo_ikTuTg/W7mJLNkYbZI/AAAAAAAAND8/PqGCSVBwbxMsA76usdvgLgUNuD0BM9U5gCLcBGAs/s640/CC%2B10%2B07%2BSashiko.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The square pattern worked up so quickly - it was the perfect pattern to begin with.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0NqO5YTGkPY/W7mJLXWfabI/AAAAAAAANEA/MAobWJ1N0lUuGTru1hH7a8SoRu3wBiGtACLcBGAs/s1600/CC%2B10%2B07%2BSashiko%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="992" data-original-width="650" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0NqO5YTGkPY/W7mJLXWfabI/AAAAAAAANEA/MAobWJ1N0lUuGTru1hH7a8SoRu3wBiGtACLcBGAs/s640/CC%2B10%2B07%2BSashiko%2B1.JPG" width="418" /></a></div>
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The second star pattern was equally quick, however I did struggle somewhat with the fabric puckering. Which was more to do with me working my way around the star rather than working certain directions first? </div>
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My plan is to sew these into basic journal covers when I get a spare minute to set up the sewing machine! </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V83MpifVT_U/W7mJLDxdrsI/AAAAAAAAND4/JWstnTxVXlkdzWMcYQysj8cd62cHcmJkwCEwYBhgL/s1600/CC%2B10%2B07%2BCard%2Bmaking%2BDay%2B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="997" data-original-width="1280" height="311" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V83MpifVT_U/W7mJLDxdrsI/AAAAAAAAND4/JWstnTxVXlkdzWMcYQysj8cd62cHcmJkwCEwYBhgL/s400/CC%2B10%2B07%2BCard%2Bmaking%2BDay%2B.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yesterday was world card making day, apparently the rules were one card and blog it - I only instagrammed it - whoops! I opted for Simple with a scrap of ribbon, a little wonky stitched border around a stamp. </div>
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This project #3.5 for <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/general-stuff/whats-old-is-new-again/">Make All the Things Challenge</a> #26materials - THREAD </div>
<br />Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-85422752380416826942018-10-06T13:56:00.003+10:002018-10-06T13:56:45.115+10:00{Blogtober} For the love of FABRIC Over the years my creative pursuits have evolved as new pretty things entice me and a certain someone (we won't name names) encourages me with Challenges like the 26 Materials Challenge.<br />
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While I have a HUGE stash of fabric, I haven't been feeling the urge to pull them out and actually use it.<br />
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I did however fall into Spotlight when I spotted the cutest llama and sloth fabrics.<br />
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Then I endured the great sewing machine fiasco of 2018...<br />
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My beloved Bernina has been playing up and while I had found a temporary solution, earlier this year she died. I was beyond devastated. My $3G machine D.E.A.D... The repair shop is an hour away and I so it sat in storage - waiting. I finally dropped it in last week and it cost me a small fortune for a service!<br />
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NO PROBLEM... I pull out the vintage Bernina and find the gaffa tape that was used on the cord was used for a very good reason. After 30 odd years the tape is losing its sticky and I could see all the inside electrical bits poking out of it.<br />
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DON'T PANIC... I remembered the Janome in the storage room.<br />
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One Sunday afternoon in July I felt like sewing something, so I set up the Janome & let me tell you she ran like a dream machine. With no pattern and a little inspiration from a journal cover I saw on The Artstronaughts, I winged it and it was so much fun!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xRN4PEFkI1w/W7gwQz1LwAI/AAAAAAAANDU/VJ4VHkmkSiAdkGZIWHpiCgE3l5KOx6uGQCLcBGAs/s1600/CC%2B10%2B06%2BFabric%2BCovers1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xRN4PEFkI1w/W7gwQz1LwAI/AAAAAAAANDU/VJ4VHkmkSiAdkGZIWHpiCgE3l5KOx6uGQCLcBGAs/s640/CC%2B10%2B06%2BFabric%2BCovers1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The general plan was to replace the elephant cover for my growing daily journal. I picked my favourite fabrics and started mixing and matching. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sDtzyKlUQOs/W7gwP_JLmqI/AAAAAAAANDI/RW-z4Zq_k-wh_Usz9PMOUjSONpJJfn2PACLcBGAs/s1600/CC%2B10%2B06%2BFabric%2BCovers%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sDtzyKlUQOs/W7gwP_JLmqI/AAAAAAAANDI/RW-z4Zq_k-wh_Usz9PMOUjSONpJJfn2PACLcBGAs/s640/CC%2B10%2B06%2BFabric%2BCovers%2B2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I adored the finished cover. It is suitably chunky and soft and not perfect at all. Which makes it completely perfect in my eyes! </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3e5jb72NMNk/W7gwRLXBylI/AAAAAAAANDY/-zpCsOPF4EIhEXdziWbwY3WcUyVWOSnXwCLcBGAs/s1600/CC%2B10%2B06%2BFabric%2BCovers3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3e5jb72NMNk/W7gwRLXBylI/AAAAAAAANDY/-zpCsOPF4EIhEXdziWbwY3WcUyVWOSnXwCLcBGAs/s640/CC%2B10%2B06%2BFabric%2BCovers3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I even added a #carsoddblobs creature holding a journal as a pocket on the inner covers. It is the perfect pocket to store a small set of watercolours or a stack of ephemera for my journal. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q2bvFOqR5FY/W7gwQC2k2aI/AAAAAAAANDM/1l5ydvp5w6w18h5ce3F6ek8EEPvdKzzHwCLcBGAs/s1600/CC%2B10%2B06%2BFabric%2BCovers%2B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q2bvFOqR5FY/W7gwQC2k2aI/AAAAAAAANDM/1l5ydvp5w6w18h5ce3F6ek8EEPvdKzzHwCLcBGAs/s640/CC%2B10%2B06%2BFabric%2BCovers%2B4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I even added a place to store my pens (however it was not the best protection for my fountain pen that fell out and smashed the lid!) It has two main journal pockets, one for my current journal & one for a Moleskine sketchbook. </div>
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The big question will be whether or not I can actually finish this journal THIS year (with 200 pages to go - I am thinking it will be a 2019 journal too!) </div>
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After using it for a couple of months, it is standing up well. The only negative is I do have to remove my journal to write as it can be a bit awkward to move around when I'm sketching, painting or writing. </div>
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Best part because it was made this year, I am making it one of my #26materials projects. (That is 2 blogged and 1 bonus point because I realised this morning plastic is not on the actual list... it would appear my brain was not switched on at all yesterday!) </div>
Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-11020322064604328182018-10-05T18:15:00.003+10:002018-10-05T18:15:53.193+10:00{Blogtober} Sharp Instruments <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This morning I had an unexpected few hours child-free and decided to do some work in my emotional therapy journal (more on that later)</div>
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As I read the exercise I pulled out my sets of stencils rifling through. I found an anatomical heart (which I need for my next page) however I was on the lookout for a brain. I looked up my favourite stencil sellers on etsy and eBay but was put off with the dismal dollar rate combined with exorbitant shipping fees. </div>
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Then I remembered the 26 materials challenge I signed up for with <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">The Barefoot Crafter</a> wasn't plastic one of the challenges? YES IT WAS! </div>
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A fairly basic "brain" found on Clip Art a reduced size print and I was ready to get my craft on! </div>
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A roll of acetate, a dodgy cutting tool, unsticky painters tape and a black sharpie and I was cutting and humming away pretty pleased at how it was turning out and then BOOM.<br />
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My irony that I forgot to utilise my BRAIN before cutting out the brain...<br />
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I will call this a really FUN attempt at 26 Materials - Plastic. <br />
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Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-86157914617793891502018-10-04T17:34:00.002+10:002018-10-04T17:34:43.605+10:00{Blogtober} 100 Faces Project Back in 2014 I purchased a Large Dylusions Journal and decided I would do mixed media faces.<br />
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Back in 2014 I was super keen, unfortunately the finished faces weren't terrible awesome. They were okay. With only 13 - 14 faces in the entire journal, there was a whole tonne of blank pages mocking me.<br />
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Fast forward to 2018, I stumbled across the 100days hashtag on Instagram and I was suddenly inspired to draw 100 faces in any medium! I figured this project would: <br />
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1) make me better at drawing faces<br />
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2) be more in-tune with what mediums work<br />
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3) FINISH a journal.<br />
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Disclaimer: I began this project at the beginning of April... It is now October and I am finally calling it finished.<br />
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By Day 3 - I was in awe at my improvement (allow me this small pat on the back!) <br />
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I managed to draw a face every single day for 50 days straight. After that I struggled to find the time daily. By Face 55 I was all faced out. I wasn't able to finish them to a point I was completely happy with. Hair became non-existent (which is ironic, since the first two I shared here have NO hair) and they began feeling very same-same. Same expressions. </div>
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I pushed on and in the end I did manage a total of 94 faces. There is still another 4 pages in the book, but sometimes I think you have to call it a day. With a total of about 108 pages filled, I am willing to allow myself to close the book. </div>
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I FINISHED AN ART JOURNAL! </div>
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The biggest lesson learnt: I absolutely HEART pencil sketches. Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-88701841034323213382018-10-03T16:34:00.001+10:002018-10-03T16:34:15.440+10:00{Blogtober} What I Read WednesdaysWell that blog title was a tongue twister...<br />
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This year I set myself my usual challenge to read 52 books.<br />
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This morning I finished Book number 70.<br />
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In September I managed to finish NINE books. Yikes. As I am reading so many books, is it any surprise that I forget what each book was about? Here is a mini review on each of the books I finished last month!<br />
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<b>Desperate Deception (#2) - DB Tait</b><br />
Kindle<br />
Author Recommended by Book Club Members<br />
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After spending 10 years in prison, this book picks up where the first book Cold Deception left off. Julia Taylor is still adjusting to life on the outside and struggling to maintain a relationship with her Cop boyfriend Dylan. When she stumbles over the bodies of her neighbours apparent murder / suicide, it isn't long before the body count rises she finds herself caught up in the investigation.<br />
I devoured this book in a couple of days as it ticked all my favourite boxes being a mystery thriller / romance style.<br />
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<b>Festive Deception (#2.5) - DB Tait </b><br />
Kindle<br />
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This was a novella and at only $1.33 it was worth it to follow further adventures with Julia / Dylan. How many dead bodies can a recently released murderess stumble over in a small town? Does it matter though? I enjoyed this quick read and am looking forward to the next full novel instalment!<br />
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<b>Daintree (#2) - Annie Seaton </b><br />
Kindle<br />
Author Recommended by Book Club Members<br />
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This trilogy is loosely connected and can be read standalone (as long as you don't mind spoilers... but really you know the girl gets the boy!) Dr Emma Porter lives alone in a shack along a river in the Daintree. Her life is tipped sideways when her ex boyfriend Dr Jeremy Langford strolls into town. Their lives collide, mystery abounds and okay I totally worked out who dunnit within the first few chapters but it was still a good read.<br />
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<b>Blaze (#1) - Rachael Herron</b><br />
Kindle<br />
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I can't remember if this short story was a freebie or 99c and it has been sitting my Kindle to-read shelf for years. Much as I have enjoyed previous Herron books, this one was simply a filler and I wouldn't recommend you run out to buy it. Unless you like firefighters!<br />
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<b>This is the Story of a Happy Marriage - Ann Patchett </b><br />
Actual Book ;)<br />
A Circle of Books Read<br />
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I haven't read any books by Patchett prior to this. I enjoyed it although it was a series of Essays / short stories based upon her life throughout the years (& I don't particularly love a short story)<br />
As a wanna-be writer, I actually found some of the stories an inspiring read. Patchetts sentence structure is beautiful.<br />
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<b>Ghost Gifts (#1) - Laura Spinelli </b><br />
Kindle<br />
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One of many kindle daily deals. I was disappointed with this book, the plot line was everything that I love and would work so well if it was executed but it just fell short - in my opinion. Basically a reporter Aubrey who writes up House Sale Reviews can commune with Spirits. When the body of a woman is discovered, she is pulled into investigating the case with Levi St John (the name... :O ) long story short he discovers her gift, she realises the case is familiar and the entire novel has flashbacks to the past and the dead girls' story. Throw in a ghost who wants to commune with Levi St John, a ghost who wants revenge and attacks Aubrey and a murderer who I picked from the first moment she appeared in the book and is it any wonder if fell short?<br />
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<b>The Summer of Secrets - Barbara Hannay </b><br />
Kindle<br />
September Book Club<br />
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This was a lovely easy to read story based in far north Queensland. Chloe takes a newspaper posting after her long time boyfriend admits to not wanting children, running away she is adamant she will do IVF and become a single mum. Finn a foreign correspondent is hiding away at the small town newspaper after a family tragedy. Emily the 60-something owner of the newspaper is also hiding after her husband deserted her. Then Ben goes missing.<br />
There was a lot going on in this book, but the author executed it and pulled it off AND wrapped up everyones stories neatly. It was an enjoyable read.<br />
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<b>The Distant Echo - Val McDermid</b><br />
Kindle<br />
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Four drunk students stumble over a dying girl in the early hours of a snowy morning. After trying to save her they become the prime suspects but the police never have enough evidence to charge them. 20+ years later the cold case is re-opened and someone is plotting revenge and targeting the four students.<br />
Aside from the fact I clued into the killer about half way through the book, I quite enjoyed this book. It wasn't quite as graphic as her previous books. The only negative point was the four students went by stupid nicknames. So throughout the first half of the book I was forever trying to work out which nickname went with with character. Very frustrating!<br />
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<b>The Wildwood Sisters - Mandy Magro</b><br />
Kindle<br />
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I am currently on a mission to read the back catalogue of Australian Rural Romance writers. Renee left town 9 years earlier when her life was threatened after her sisters disappearance and suspected murder. A family tragedy finds her returning to her roots and to the man she left behind. As she re-aquaints herself with the townsfolk, she struggles to find out who she can trust. This was a quick easy read in a genre I am fast becoming to enjoy. Simply because I don't have to think and happy endings are a given.<br />
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PHEW! I am thinking I need to start reviewing what I read on a weekly basis, considering the volume of this blog post!<br />
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Tell me - what are you reading at the moment (because my kindle account will totally thank you!) Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-75772557865688174242018-10-02T15:25:00.000+10:002018-10-02T15:25:04.958+10:00{Blogtober} #useitup Challenge In September I issued myself a mini challenge to <a href="http://carrose-creations.blogspot.com/2018/09/september-useitup-challenge.html">#useitup</a> - in this instance a stack of Bamboo / Cotton that I had every intention of turning into face washers. <div>
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I finished the month with THREE face washers (one still needs the ends tied in)</div>
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#useitup - 5 Balls of Yarn FINISHED (only pictured 4 rolls, the child absconded with the 5th and while we are here, can we definitely call what's left on the green roll complete?) </div>
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Purple - Pattern "<a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/grandmas-favorite-dish-cloth">Grandma's Favourite Dish Cloth</a>" </div>
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Pink and Green - Pattern "<a href="https://homespunliving.blogspot.com/2007/11/waffle-knit-dishcloth-pattern.html?m=1">Waffle Knit Dish Cloth</a>" </div>
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<b><i>Things I learnt: </i></b></div>
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* I forgot how much I enjoy the simple rhythm of knitting when it's an easy pattern </div>
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* Full garter stitch is best suited for cleaning purposes than a face wipe </div>
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* I can listen and knit - I consumed The Teachers Pet podcast while clacking away quietly. </div>
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* Long tail cast on is so much easier than normal cast on! </div>
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* I cannot knit a square to save myself! </div>
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* With a newly renovated bathroom... in grey and whites, these are not the best matching colours. </div>
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Happy that this challenge worked in using up half of my stash, I am continuing this challenge into October. The next washer is already cast on, I am hopeful to have another 3 washers finished by months end. And equally hopeful that I will be a master at this pattern or learn to block! </div>
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Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-14667286815640451552018-10-01T16:52:00.000+10:002018-10-01T16:52:31.392+10:00{Blogtober} Welcome to the Madhouse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We are all a little MAD around here </div>
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Blogtober is here and that means a return to a MADHOUSE of daily blogging! I am actually excited to be creating things and blogging about stuff and most of all HAVING FUN! </div>
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Even though I wrote a list of all the things I could be blogging about - I found myself staring at a blank screen earlier today and thinking 'what was I thinking saying YES to daily blogging, I have nothing to share!" </div>
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So today is simply a welcome post! As for what you might find over the next 31 days is anyones guess... it could simply be 30 days of no new blog posts as I flail under the weight of expectations OR you might be lucky enough to see a few more of these crazy little critters pop up as I use up the rest of the polymer clay batch as part of #26materialschallenge </div>
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I have some small projects I have finished recently I need to share and a rather EPIC project that I am literally 2 pages from finishing. I want to share with you some of the books I have recently finished. </div>
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But most of all - I want to create stuff for the sake of creating. For the joy and the fun and I want to write about them. Because I miss writing. </div>
<br />Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-10120174274049398012018-09-24T15:45:00.001+10:002018-09-24T15:45:51.476+10:00DIY Dye and {another} New Project <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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About this time LAST year (actually in my brain dump book it was the 18th September) my fellow <strike>crazy crafter</strike> <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">awesome blogging friend</a> reminded me of the good old days where we blogged and made things and FINISHED projects! When she (<a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">The Barefoot Crafter</a>) suggested a challenge I was YES PLEASE AND THANK YOU.<br />
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From that moment forth the massive project lay dormant as life around me became crazier. While I am sure I have completed some of the materials on the list over the past year, today I am going to simply begin by blogging my most recent creation.<br />
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#makeallthethingschallenge </div>
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project 1 of 26</div>
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Material - Dye</div>
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Last week I went searching in my Kallax unit for a cross stitch pattern. As I pulled out pattern after pattern and abandoned projects I cursed and decided it was time to start stitching again. </div>
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As the story goes... I receive an email and promptly think Ooh pretty, shiny new project get in my basket and before I realised what I was doing, I owned myself a new pattern. This called for a made dash to Spotlight because while I owned a sum total of 4 threads for the project I needed another 10. But that was okay. I justified it by realising I actually could save my money on Aida as I found a piece the perfect size in my stash. Except it was white. WHITE. </div>
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I know - I shall DIY and colour it myself. </div>
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Let me tell you a little secret - the colour on the packets of dye is not necessarily the colour you end up with. I probably should have paid attention to the "GUN METAL GREY" but last time I attempted dying something it turned out really light. So home it came, half a packet later and it was a LOT darker than expected (or wanted) and bordering on almost navy. </div>
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Not exactly the perfect colour, but as it's a Halloween piece, I wasn't too perturbed. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gsaV3A5V-bI/W6h1VHRLowI/AAAAAAAAM_I/uGyV8jDQhPIUsmCvIfEzow1unjKxzrePQCEwYBhgL/s1600/240918%2BDYE2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gsaV3A5V-bI/W6h1VHRLowI/AAAAAAAAM_I/uGyV8jDQhPIUsmCvIfEzow1unjKxzrePQCEwYBhgL/s640/240918%2BDYE2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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*this* shows a more accurate colour </div>
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STILL NOT WORRIED. I quickly realised these two colours need to be replaced as even though you can see them there, they won't show on the dark background and would you believe they were the border and letters of the Sampler (*sobs*) but it's okay. I took a 2 person poll and have found 2 colours that are a dusty grape that will work just as well. </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Now is not a good time to mention the black cat or the witches dress or the ninja dress-up. </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sE96KbO1oC0/W6h1VLWxoTI/AAAAAAAAM_M/mTykbc4HcqsGrRN44hf8FLX2hTB09s88QCEwYBhgL/s1600/240918%2BDYE3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sE96KbO1oC0/W6h1VLWxoTI/AAAAAAAAM_M/mTykbc4HcqsGrRN44hf8FLX2hTB09s88QCEwYBhgL/s640/240918%2BDYE3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Do you think the missed spots look a little like ghostly orbs? </div>
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I started stitching late yesterday afternoon and as we are currently on School Holidays, I have spent a chunk of time today stitching away. </div>
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While the DIY Dye project didn't quite turn out as expected, all is not lost. It is workable and most of all I had a lot of fun in the process - which was the whole point of this epic project of ours! </div>
Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-25577396924506257162018-09-03T13:52:00.000+10:002018-09-03T13:52:05.301+10:00September #useitup Challenge <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If I never make progress, I will never see progress. </div>
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I miss the old days when blogging was a thing, craft projects were started and FINISHED and a #challenge was thrown down and #challengeaccepted was shouted before the rules of said challenge were issued. </div>
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I'm bringing back the #challengeaccepted hashtag guys! </div>
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In September I am starting small (hahahaha) see this stack of Bamboo Cotton. I am taking that stash and turning it into face washers. </div>
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A <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">wise woman</a> once asked me - who needs that many face washers? Who indeed!<br />
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With an influx of new babies in the family (2 great nieces, 1 great nephew and a 2nd cousin or two) a family member attempting to simplify her life and lets face it mine probably need replacing since the last time I picked up the knitting needles - dinosaurs roamed the earth!<br />
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Want to win a face washer? Guess how many face washers I end up with by the end of September and I will pop one in the post to you! (now I know I need to finish at least ONE! LOL)<br />
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Look at that I even remembered how to cast on...<br />
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If you want to join me, leave me a comment below! Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-13997122715265167272017-12-13T18:42:00.000+10:002017-12-13T18:42:00.412+10:00Elephants and Luck<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once upon a time I owned a sewing machine. </div>
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As the excess STUFF (read: mess) piled up around my room, on the floor & coated my sewing desk, I realised that the machine was possibly lost forever. The missing in action sewing machine became a running joke and <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">evil cackles</a> were forthcoming every time I mentioned anything to do with sewing. </div>
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With my new improved space - I pulled out that machine and no longer is the joke on the MIA sewing machine. The joke is... </div>
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<b><i>I forgot how to sew</i></b></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4TJaohTEy0/WjDkMVi0esI/AAAAAAAAM7o/dq8UuRRuvcsInmjMp1pQZQ_7AJ0zPgbYQCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017%2B12%2B13%2BJournal%2BCover%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4TJaohTEy0/WjDkMVi0esI/AAAAAAAAM7o/dq8UuRRuvcsInmjMp1pQZQ_7AJ0zPgbYQCEwYBhgL/s320/2017%2B12%2B13%2BJournal%2BCover%2B2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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All was not lost - I have not forgotten how to use a quick unpick. I measured and cut and mentally adapted the size I needed using this <a href="http://www.vanessachristenson.com/2010/01/tutorial-composition-book-cover.html">awesome tutorial</a> </div>
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<i><b>One New Journal Cover for my Enigma* </b></i></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-94dXy819vks/WjDkNm8hmqI/AAAAAAAAM7s/6kzWg_sGg8Mx0UIuJLwwt5qfjKBMPAXUQCLcBGAs/s1600/2017%2B12%2B13%2BJournal%2BCover1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-94dXy819vks/WjDkNm8hmqI/AAAAAAAAM7s/6kzWg_sGg8Mx0UIuJLwwt5qfjKBMPAXUQCLcBGAs/s320/2017%2B12%2B13%2BJournal%2BCover1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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* The Enigma journal is from Taroko Shop on etsy. 384 pages of Tomoe River paper. Yes 384... a few less than my Hobonichi I have used this year. </div>
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The fabric of the cover is some elephant echino (?) I purchased way back in April then promptly forgot about it. I teamed it with some upcycled denim from a cushion cover I made years ago (the cushion + new puppy disagreed!) </div>
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Apparently elephants with their trunks up brings good luck - as I am hopeful to fill this journal during 2018, I will likely need all the luck I can get! </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAIEoXEFzvc/WjDkMRSV07I/AAAAAAAAM7w/vqRGXO_oAJs50YCZM26YSquN2ysc8XOrgCEwYBhgL/s1600/2017%2B12%2B13%2BJournal%2BCover%2B4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAIEoXEFzvc/WjDkMRSV07I/AAAAAAAAM7w/vqRGXO_oAJs50YCZM26YSquN2ysc8XOrgCEwYBhgL/s320/2017%2B12%2B13%2BJournal%2BCover%2B4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now I have found my machine, I have grand plans to whip up another two of these before the end of the week! <br />
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<br />Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-12693689476948839172017-12-12T13:17:00.004+10:002017-12-12T13:17:38.798+10:00Always be Creative <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My Name is Car and it has been so long between blog posts; I nearly forgot how to blog! </div>
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Rather than give you a million excuses as to why I have been absent - how about I just begin and share some snippets of some recent creative pursuits. </div>
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<i><b><a href="http://sojournerusa.squarespace.com/">Sojourner</a> Travellers Notebook </b></i></div>
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This Sojourner B6 Slim Travellers Notebook popped up in my Facebook for sale feed when I was feeling overwhelmed one day and before I could stop and think it was winging it's way to me. In the beginning I intended to use it as my every day carry to house my Hobonichi Weeks (planner)</div>
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I used it for several months but two things kept bugging me as my Weeks (with the plastic cover on cover) was a touch too tall for the cover. And much as I love the suede it marks up too much to be in and out of my handbag every single day. After accidentally placing it in white paint one day I decided it needed another purpose. </div>
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<i><b>#carsoddblobs</b></i></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZO5x3XWiCCk/Wi9ESZk9HzI/AAAAAAAAM7M/Bz7pg3qHNWAzPWwUSsiuv6I90tFHb55DwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZO5x3XWiCCk/Wi9ESZk9HzI/AAAAAAAAM7M/Bz7pg3qHNWAzPWwUSsiuv6I90tFHb55DwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1524.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you follow me on instagram - check out my new <a href="https://www.instagram.com/carrosecreative/">carrose creative</a> account - I have been dabbling with watercolours this year. At first I had no clue on how to control the watercolours. Then sometime around October I threw control out the window and let it go. I ended up with some seriously odd shapes. A few crazy faces began appearing and before long I had an entire zoo of #oddblobs. </div>
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One Saturday it was pouring with rain and I was lamenting a serious lack of craft when I stumbled over a new to me You Tube channel. Two hours later I created a mini upcycled magazine cover thanks to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/craftyhodges/videos">Crafty Hodges</a> and even better I made it to fit my sojourner cover. </div>
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<b><i>The creatures</i></b></div>
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Crafty Hodges shared a 6 part series on creating quirky characters - combining Teesha, Pinterest and a magazine image the creativity began pinging. </div>
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The idea was to use up scrap papers and create a book of creatures from my growing pile of collage sheets. </div>
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<i><b>Sneak Peak </b></i></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nuels-y11gY/Wi9ETQkIloI/AAAAAAAAM7Q/vkOuyMWyfCom94bV90HyUSThn-4sJn19QCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_1526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nuels-y11gY/Wi9ETQkIloI/AAAAAAAAM7Q/vkOuyMWyfCom94bV90HyUSThn-4sJn19QCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_1526.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We have been renovating most of this year and my craft space has been non-existent. I am finally 97% moved back in with ample space and can't wait to finish it so I can kick start the new year with new projects. I found these cute modular baskets at Kmart that hold my regular sized Travellers Notebooks perfectly. </div>
<br />Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-52492011915712905892016-08-01T13:49:00.000+10:002016-08-01T13:49:10.423+10:00The Leather Shopper Last year my hubby gifted me a MIDORI Travellers Notebook for Christmas. It truly changed my world of journaling. In 2015 I filled four notebooks and another one this year. <div>
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Except... </div>
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It was smelly! I am talking on your nose, cannot rid the chemical smell - smelly! Don't get me wrong, I love the journal and every single time I move out of it into another I find myself yearning to return to it. There is something about the thickness, the feel, the connection I have with it that makes me want to keep coming back to it. If only it didn't smell. {disclaimer: my passport sized midori does not have the same issue as my regular} </div>
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As a crafter I wondered if I could make one. So I did. Several times over. But in all my previous attempts something was missing. </div>
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I sourced a leather shop that is literally 20 mins from home. (uh-oh!) </div>
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I finally jumped and purchased a single piece of thick leather that was far cheaper than buying it by the metre squared; and I had hubby standing by my side who didn't bat an eyelid at the price. </div>
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I made this back in June, after a particularly bad day called for a spot of ME craft. And within an hour I had a pretty new A5 journal. </div>
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Except... </div>
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I truly wasn't happy with it. The quality and thickness were awesome. The smell - DIVINE. But it was unfinished and I knew I couldn't be happy with that. So I did some shopping and a few weeks and several packages later - I was ready to spend some quality time with this journal. </div>
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Now I am a complete newbie and I know NOTHING about working with leather. Google became my friend as I became increasingly confused with all kinds of suggestions. I started with Saddle Soap and Beeswax for the edges. And a quick clean with saddle soap. </div>
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A few tools. I have ZERO clue what half of these actually do. But it was a cheap eBay seller and cheaper to buy as a set to get the 2 I needed "right now" </div>
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Yesterday I took my cutout journal piece and I sat in the sun and began. </div>
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The top layer is the unfinished edges. </div>
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The bottom layer is the edges burnished. Apparently one needs a leather dye to make it really swish, but one could not justify spending more money right this second. </div>
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An hour of rubbing and one sore arm later... TA DA! </div>
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I suddenly realised WHY the prices of hand made leather journals are so expensive - a lot of work goes into the finish. I cannot begin to tell you how impressed I am with my new journal. </div>
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As luck would have it, I finished my last insert in my midori last night. A new month, a new journal and a new journal cover. What more does one need in life? </div>
Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-12625945521038156472016-07-30T15:33:00.000+10:002016-07-30T15:33:01.903+10:00Harry Potter Eve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's the 30th July today and that day is SUPER exciting because tomorrow is the 31st July. Rather than be freaking out that another month is gone in this fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants year, I am excited. </div>
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TOMORROW is release day of the newest Harry Potter book. </div>
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I am living on the edge and hoping one of the three big dept stores or the bookstore at our local shops will have ample stock and I will be able to get my copy (without pre-ordering!) </div>
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In honour of SUCH and exciting thing to happen in 2016. I thought it was high time to pull out the latest quilt I started, write a blog post about it and maybe start sewing another block or two. </div>
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A Harry Potter - Bookcase Quilt. You can find the project<a href="http://www.fandominstitches.com/2015/07/harry-potter-bookcase-quilt-along.html"> here</a> </div>
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I have only completed the first four blocks, a crystal ball (complete with silver Michael Miller Fairy frost fabric - Oh My Gosh... LOVE!)<br />
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After cleaning out my craft room, I realised I have far too much fabric for the amount of sewing I do - so I chose to make this quilt from stash.<br />
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The background is black with a grey vine print. The books are from a rainbow set of fabrics I purchased years ago and the other bits (potion bottle / crystal ball stand / wand) are all leftovers from my Dear Jane (yes that one is STILL a WIP!)<br />
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I made a slight change to Harry's glasses because you couldn't see them on the black background, so I popped in the yellow backing which I'm hoping sort of resembles a torch light (hence the yellow coming from the wand) when I eventually start to put this together, I am hoping to embroider a few spells across it, as well as names for some of the books.<br />
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Did you spy the hidden map? Look very closely, I was a very lucky girl to receive a little harry gifts in the mail yesterday! Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-26570404316842713412016-07-25T13:31:00.000+10:002016-07-25T13:31:03.567+10:00Stumbles Back in... When a <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">friend</a> challenges you... there is no other option but to rise to the challenge.<br />
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The challenge (if you choose to accept it) is to write at least 2 blog posts each week for six weeks to attempt a return to regular blogging.<br />
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Of course I accepted. Really did you expect anything less?<br />
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Then I promptly freaked out because what do I have to show apart from a few dust bunnies, an overflowing craft room and a lengthy hiatus from all things crafty over the previous few months?<br />
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Then I remembered my 2016 Art Journal. Because I LOVE it. And Because I am super proud of the art in it (not because the pages are GREAT ART, more that it finally feels like "me")<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T0ps7WU6sCk/V5V_3VAR-hI/AAAAAAAAMzg/CeakhQ-sE9IqX6sPBsWqVZTiWu1q0NTjACLcB/s1600/2016%2BArt%2BJournal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T0ps7WU6sCk/V5V_3VAR-hI/AAAAAAAAMzg/CeakhQ-sE9IqX6sPBsWqVZTiWu1q0NTjACLcB/s400/2016%2BArt%2BJournal.JPG" width="225" /></a><br /><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">I purchased the Journal from <a href="http://thebarefootcrafter.com/">The Barefoot Crafter</a> as blogged about <a href="http://carrose-creations.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/thirteen-advent-blog-long-overwhelmed.html">here</a> and then was too scared to use it. After stumbling across a few free journal with me style places around the internet, I finally knew exactly how I would tackle this journal and have since been throwing everything at it. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">There are splatters of paint on the beautiful cover (#eek!), it is beginning to bulge along the edges as each page is crinkled under the weight of heavy mixed media and I just love it. Did I mention that yet! </span></div>
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Not every page matches the opposite one (in colours used or feelings shared) and that is okay. Some days the final page makes a lot of sense (to me) other days they are a wish mash of blah but I am thoroughly enjoying the freestyle approach and of finally moving past the "OMG every page must look Perfect!" In letting go of that evil perfection; I am finding myself creating pages that erupt from my mind.</div>
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I am watching as many videos on art journaling as I can possibly fit into my week. With each one I pick up more tips on using my art supplies in different ways. The above spread was inspired by Willowing Arts & was a free course on her ning website. (it is supposed to be a self portrait... can you tell?) </div>
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I wasn't particularly in love with the above pages and added the vellum tip in to tone down the charcoal sketch (as well as to protect the opposite page.) The flower is a watercolour I did during my daughters art lesson (with her art teacher looking over my shoulder yikes!) I really don't like it, but chose to leave it and move on.</div>
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<br />Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-33098735487602248532016-03-08T13:43:00.004+10:002016-03-08T13:44:01.049+10:002016 Cross Stitch ~ Harry After last years finish of the <a href="http://carrose-creations.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/six-advent-blog-long-storytime.html">Storytime Cross stitch</a> I was super inspired to start another project. I had been staring in awe at the Harry Potter over on <a href="http://cloudsfactory.net/harry-potter-giant-version.html">Clouds Factory</a>. The price always deterring me away until I saw you can buy it in instalments. So as a treat to myself for <b><u>FINISHIN</u></b><b><u>G</u></b> Storytime, I purchased the first instalment.<br />
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It is now the start of March and while I did expect to be further along on the pattern, I am really happy with how it is looking. I did have high hopes of finishing this project in 2016 but considering the length of fabric is 30+ inches I am settling for a really long term.<br />
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Usually I don't change patterns (my brain does not compute in that fashion) but the suggested colours in the frame weren't working for me. I changed the yellow leaves to be Gold as Gryffindor in the books are Scarlett and GOLD. The blue centre is actually part of Ravenclaw colours (bottom right) it seemed too much blue, so I switched to the Charcoal. I personally think it works better than the blue. </div>
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The metallic thread is super slow going, so at the moment I am switching between adding the Metallic Initials and working on the Hufflepuff banner. </div>
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As it is a large project, I needed a storage solution (as you do) and found this awesome basket at Kmart for $8. The lid works perfectly as a mini desk to hold the pattern as I'm stitching. </div>
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Even better it fits in ALL the threads required for this pattern - why yes I does take up nearly half a thread organiser - I was not kidding at the size of this EPIC stitchery. </div>
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Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-32635893763920261212016-02-12T10:49:00.001+10:002016-02-12T10:49:18.442+10:00Inspiring Books I ReadI am shaking up my blogging a little this year - partly because I am finding it a slog to continue when I feel like I'm talking to myself and partly because I found last years direction draining (it felt it was ALL cross stitch and reading)<br />
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This year I will no longer be blogging my monthly reading pile, I will be adding the books I read each month to the page I created (see the top of my blog!) Instead I will be picking out books that I found inspiring in some form - hopefully creatively!<br />
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In January Danny Gregory featured heavily in my Reading Pile. I finished two of his books and have a third waiting to be devoured.<br />
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An Illustrated Journey is a collection of short stories and pictures from a variety of artists across the globe. Each artist shares a little background on how they began drawing, an insight into what supplies they use and of the places they have travelled. </div>
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As I mentioned in my last post, watercolours scare me silly - but somehow reading this book inspired me and I am starting to play and hope that someday I will be practiced enough and confident within myself to travel and draw what I see. </div>
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The second book I finished was Art Before Breakfast. A very basic introduction to drawing daily it is inspiring for those of us less confident with our work. Danny Gregory tells it like it is - anyone can draw, you just need to practice. </div>
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I've started a few very basic sketches and playing with watercolours in my #cardori - I know my art is not PERFECT and I know I will never, ever make a living from it but for me - art is about expression and although I shudder when I look back at some of my earlier attempts, they are all just that - attempts. They may not be perfect but the 10 mins I steal each day to splash some colour around, or try to draw something is 10mins of really super cheap therapy. </div>
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See TOLD you they weren't perfect! </div>
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Even my daughter got into the act by helping spread those colours across the page. It was 10mins of quality time spent with my girl and I felt 20 time better after. </div>
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<br />Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-29070598701454240692016-02-10T13:40:00.004+10:002016-02-10T13:40:48.883+10:00The Craft Ban Glaze At the beginning of 2016...<br />
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I'M IMPOSING A CRAFT BAN.<br />
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(this sentiment is my normal declaration that I utter at the beginning of EVERY YEAR)<br />
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2 days later.<br />
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"CHECK <a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/shop/classes/sketch-your-world">THIS OUT</a>. YOU HAVE TO JOIN ME"<br />
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(we shall not mention names because those who know me, my partner in crime and broken craft budgets will know exactly who I am referring to)<br />
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"LOVE IT... but my craft budget," I utter almost to myself.<br />
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"YOU ARE ON HOLIDAYS. SIGN UP TO ALL THE THINGS. IT DOESN'T COUNT"<br />
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Maybe it was the fact I was stuck in the car for an extra long stint and was experiencing intermittent internet connection. Maybe it was the fact that when said text arrived I happened to be driving through a lengthy internet area. Maybe it was the <u>FREE</u> stuff that came with the course.<br />
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At any rate, faster than my brain could compute I pressed buy it now and waved goodbye to the craft ban.<br />
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I am a more than a little impressed that I lasted TWO whole days this year.<br />
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A few weeks later a similar line of conversation happened, this time about paints. Namely watercolour paints and being the awesome friend that I am, I figured I needed to do my market research before replying with an all knowing review of paints.<br />
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<i>HOW DID THAT HAPPEN? </i></div>
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In my defence ever since I purchased my cheap travel set of Zig Watercolours I have been coveting after the full 36 set Kuretake Set. However it was sold out overtime I looked. During my market research I stumbled across an eBay seller and low and behold, it was nearly as cheap as my travel set (yes people my travel set of 14 HALF pans was only a few dollars less than this set of 36 full pans & by full, I mean they are three times the size of ordinary half pans) </div>
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I immediately created a colour chart with them to see how the new colours would stand against my Schminke set and I think they are pretty darn awesome. The bonus about this set is way more greens and blues to choose from - something that has been bugging me about my other set. </div>
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Now is perhaps the time to mention that I have been struggling with a love/hate relationship with watercolours? It was the reason I said YES so readily to the class my friend texted me about. The purchase of this extra set boiled down to a number of factors - the craft ban broken, the thought of locking down all non-essential spending as we notch up a gear toward achieving a huge money goal and technically I *was* still on holidays. </div>
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While waiting for the course, I was inspired by the same friend who set me on a collision course of pretty colours and over the course of a couple of weeks, I created these mini pictures. The lighthouse and that weird one on the side are from photographs I took on our road trip. Bottom left inspired by the Island I live near. I think it is safe to say I AM HOOKED. </div>
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And broke. </div>
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<br />Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3401443303565154984.post-10902410387329959722016-01-23T15:15:00.001+10:002016-01-23T15:15:13.002+10:00{Reading Pile} December 15 Ack! I burnt out at the end of last year - I do apologise for my sudden absence during my annual Christmas countdown (bad, bad blogger etiquette) I combusted. End of School, holidays, planning for a non-existent Christmas and BOOM!<br />
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The past 6 weeks have passed by in a blissful guilt-free rush of limited computer time and it has been FUN! However there are posts to share to complete the year that was - actually in keeping with my entire theme of 2015 - it is only a wrap up of my reading pile but it needs to be done.<br />
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<b>Book 41; Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert </b><br />
{Audio Book} The cover art first drew me into buying this book - all that colour bursting to erupt. I listened to this book exactly when I needed to hear it. If you are a creative soul - in any way shape or form - you need to read this. Some of it is quite wordy (likely more prevalent since I listened and could not gloss over paragraphs as I am wan to do!) As a wanna-be writer, the simplicity of Gilberts' words were like magic to my ears. I started jotting down phrases and decided that I needed a hardcopy of the book for future reference (I opted for digital as I am still aiming for minimal crap!)<br />
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<b>Book 42; Revealed by PC Cast </b><br />
Ever read a series then feel compelled to *finish* said series for closure. This series of young adult vampire genre started off on a high note, when all the vampire books hit the market these held their own against Sookie Stackhouse and whiny Bella... okay so they weren't "OMG BEST BOOK EVAH..." but they were a quick read and an interesting twist on the genre. HOWEVER this was book 11 and I don't know if it was simply that I left it so long between reading the final two or that all previous reads were when MY life was simpler - either way - I just needed these to end. The storyline was mediocre I couldn't tell you what actually happened because out of sight out of mind and all that jazz, and it bugged me no end to see the appalling number of spelling mistakes. It was glaringly obvious that they relied on word and slipped through the editing process (very disappointing considering there are TWO writers on this series - surely one of them picked it up!) Case in point - the MAYOR got eaten. Three paragraphs later they discovered the dead MAJOR.<br />
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<b>Book 43; A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens </b></div>
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I read this one as part of the Story Time Cross Stitch read along (still reading the others!) I managed to read it in a day and I really enjoyed the simple moral of the storyline. </div>
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<b>Book 44; Redeemed by PC Cast </b></div>
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See my rant on book 42. I finished the series. All 12 books... I may steer clear of Young Adult and Vampire genre for a very long time now. But hey did I mention that I FINISHED THE DARN SERIES? YAY! </div>
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Although I really wanted to read 50 books this year, I came in a little under target at 44. However I am pleased to report that this year is probably the first year that my reading was shaken up completely. Lets see - a mini breakdown (because I can) </div>
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Audio Books - 5 </div>
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Classics - 7 (*THIS!) </div>
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Self Help - 4 </div>
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Writing - 1 </div>
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Art - 1 </div>
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Poetry - 2</div>
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Kids - 1 </div>
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Fiction - 2</div>
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Non Fiction - 19 </div>
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Graphic Novel - 1</div>
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<u>READING WITH KIDS</u>! </div>
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<b>Book 11; Harry Potter & The Chamber of Secrets </b></div>
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As our nightly reading changed a gear this year and chapter books were introduced - I thought I would count these as "reading" as well. Considering I was only reading every second night until late November (when Miss K duly fired her father from all future reading duties... all because she was suddenly hooked on Harry Potter! LOL) I think we did pretty good to get through 11 books. </div>
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Famous Five - 5 </div>
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Treehouse - 4 </div>
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Harry Potter - 2</div>
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This year as her father is still "sacked" I am unsure how many we will manage to read together. Have you SEEN the size of Harry Potters book 4 - 7??? I was seriously considering buying her the audio versions to listen to in the car, freeing me up to pursue her new set of Andy Griffiths "Just" series. She didn't seem all that interested so I guess we will see how we go! </div>
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<br />Carhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17412323070595507627noreply@blogger.com1