Luna

Bigger than than the sum of it's parts? For Ruby's bedroom I made this chandelier, combining two of our favourite things - Kokeshi dolls and an old chandelier -a lucky junk shop pick up for $5. The kokechi dolls more expensive than we would have liked but by then we were fixed on the idea.

A short new year visit up Sydney way to visit Uncle Gareth and Aunty Karen was cancelled due to illness in our household. And not just me - the kids too. I tried to cheer things up a bit by stitching some easy projects from the Felties book I recieved as a Christmas present from Aunty Lynette. The book suggests each project only takes two hours but I don't think that takes into account flus and chest colds. As a result I had to disappoint Archie when the Chihauhau wasn't done before he went to bed. Not to worry - it was ready for when he woke up. As for all the other projects sitting by my sewing machine I thought this might be their time of year, sadly not. Only one bag to go in the Getting To know My Sewing Machine mission and then I'm free. So many other things I'm desperate to try out...

Archie and I found a goldmine of little dead sticks in the backyard that are perfect for christmas crafts: witness antlers for the polymer reindeer he made and a trendy Christmas tree for the doll house! MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Can't believe I've finnished two bags now from the 'make friends with the sewing machine' project instigated about 6 months ago. Completing projects has never been my great love mainly because disappointment always sets in somewhere between inspiration and the first stitch. Perseverence paid off with this one and I learnt a lot along the way - such as no need to put all your favourite colours and embellishments in to the one project (yes, believe it or not this is my example of restraint). Also notable exception: stripes. They are welcome anywhere as far as I can see especially as linings.

Finally finished the first of four embroidered bags that have been harassing me. Started these as my 'learn to sew/make friends with the sewing machine' project a few months ago. Feel liberated and inspired to keep going now. This is of a babushka doll with her smallest daughter. For reasons known only to themselves they have a small pink cat. The main part of the bag is linen, the back is in red velvet and the lining (my favourite) is in a white and navy stripe.