ARTISANNE

To cure your Burns Night hangovers.....

2012-01-26T15:42:00.000Z

The key to my heart....

2012-01-20T15:35:00.001Z

Hanging on the telephone....

2012-01-20T15:31:00.000Z

Get those paints out.... :)

2012-01-17T15:40:00.000Z

An artistic, clever and colourful collection curated by the very talented Jay at RED ROAD DESIGN

Scottishness.....

2012-01-04T08:22:00.000Z

Caledonia....

2011-11-07T10:33:00.000Z

Blue Halloween....

2011-10-12T08:52:00.000+01:00

Forest walk....

2011-10-07T18:09:00.000+01:00

Let's walk the forest.....

2011-09-28T13:30:00.000+01:00

Midnight.... not a sound from the pavement....

2011-09-26T21:35:00.002+01:00

T.S. Eliot - Born 26 September 1888 in St. Louis, Missouri, died 4 January 1965 aged 76 in London, this poet, dramatist and literary critic was American by birth and declared British from 1927. Elliot attended Harvard University and Merton College, Oxford gaining an A.B. in philosophy. He was married twice, to Vivienne Haigh-Wood (1915–1947)and Esmé Valerie Fletcher (1957–1965).
In 1930, Thomas Stearns Eliot published a book of verse, ,'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats... after Thomas's death, the book was adapted into the infamous musical, Cats, by the inspired and inspiring Andrew Lloyd Webber, opening in London's West End in 1981. I was fortunate enough to be in the audience that year, on a school trip at the tender age of twelve! Elaine Paige, Brian Blessed, Paul Nicholas, Wayne Sleep, Bonnie Langford... goodness knows who else, Richard Stilgoe was sitting behind us too... I think I would fully appreciate it much more now...

Trivia... Finola Hughes, the 'cat' far right of the top pic also starred with John Travolta in the 'Saturday Night Fever' sequel, 'Staying Alive'... top girl!!

Green, green grass of home.....

2011-09-26T20:42:00.000+01:00

Sublime.... not ridiculous....

2011-09-20T15:14:00.000+01:00

I love to boogie.....

2011-09-16T13:43:00.000+01:00

Mood lifting...

2011-09-09T19:25:00.001+01:00

The King of Queen......

2011-09-05T13:55:00.000+01:00

Freddie...

Hug a tree....

2011-08-27T19:31:00.002+01:00

Summer's not quite over yet.....

2011-08-22T22:01:00.000+01:00

Silence is NOT golden...

2011-08-22T21:36:00.001+01:00

You say color, I say colour....

2011-08-19T08:50:00.000+01:00

Where do you want to go?

2011-08-16T15:34:00.001+01:00

Treasure Hunt....

2011-08-05T19:42:00.000+01:00

Some wee gems from Etsy....

Sunny Scotland.....

2011-07-28T12:21:00.000+01:00

OK, it's not sunny... but these are!

Treasury addiction.....

2011-07-27T14:41:00.001+01:00

Let's go to the seaside.....

2011-07-14T13:47:00.000+01:00

Well rounded....

2011-07-12T13:29:00.000+01:00

Land of the free......

2011-07-02T20:43:00.000+01:00

"I wish that every human life might be pure transparent freedom." ~ Simone de Beauvoir

Wishing my American friends a fantastic 4th of July x

Love Birds....

2011-06-29T14:43:00.000+01:00

Scenes From An Italian Restaurant....

2011-06-28T14:51:00.001+01:00

So... I've not mentioned him for a while... you know... the love of my life... Mr Joel :)

When he's ready to take on wife number four and heads to Scotland to find me, I know just the place for a romantic proposal.

Of course, a middle aged Scottish lassie might not seem to have as much to offer as an ex underwear model/tv chef nearly half my age, but, I think he'd approve of my cd collection at least... and my old motorbike... as for my culinary skills, or lack of them, eating out frequently would be advisable. Which leads me to THE BEST Italian restaurant in Aberdeen

Mi Amore

Fantastic personal service from lovely people and fresh, mouth watering, authentic Italian food for every budget. I want to blow the trumpet of this little gem as eating out lately has been disappointing, over priced and, quite frankly, not good enough. So, when somewhere is doing it right they deserve a wee mention and a huge pat on the back.

If you get the chance, go!

Now I feel a song coming on.... a bottle of white, a bottle of red.....

Home is where the heart is......

2011-06-21T22:07:00.000+01:00

Man up!

2011-06-17T11:11:00.000+01:00

Any man can be a father. It takes someone special to be a dad.

Love is like a butterfly.....

2011-06-13T09:09:00.000+01:00

For the cowboy in your life....

2011-06-08T10:47:00.000+01:00

Beach Time... from 1846 House Soaps

2011-05-30T09:47:00.001+01:00

Many thanks to 1846 House Soaps for including me in her wonderful beach treasury :)

Happy 70th Mr Bob Dylan!

2011-05-24T15:23:00.000+01:00

Oyster Bay.....

2011-05-18T12:46:00.002+01:00

A great interview with the most wonderful musician and human being... Mr Wiliam Martin Joel :)

Billy Joel Interview: MyFoxNY.com

Sea Glass and Chard by Judith North

2011-05-05T12:30:00.002+01:00

Sea glass and chard, a photo by Judith North on Flickr.

Had to share this fantastic work of art by Judith North :)

Colour Explosion....... by Mark Chadwick Art

2011-04-22T14:39:00.004+01:00

Abstract Acrylic Multi-Colour Painting, a photo by markchadwickart on Flickr.

Mark Chadwick Art

A bit of colour for the weekend!

A Scottish lassie with great taste.....

2011-04-21T13:01:00.000+01:00

Had to share this fantastic colour explosion curated by Ae Fond Kis

Sweet Baby James.....

2011-04-21T10:40:00.001+01:00

A Thursday Soother (trying saying that after a few G&T's!)

Enjoy (especially you Linda :))

Sleevefaces by See Gee

2011-04-14T14:39:00.003+01:00

Sleevefaces, a set by See Gee on Flickr.

A bit of Flickr fun from this clever guy.... click on "Sleevfaces" above to get them all :0)

Via Flickr:
You take a record sleeve. You take a face. You make a Sleeveface.

No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow.........

2011-04-08T22:18:00.000+01:00

Red, red wine....

2011-03-11T11:30:00.000Z

Beat the blues....

2011-03-04T12:38:00.000Z

"What passion cannot music raise and quell!" - John Dryden

Huggable....

2011-03-03T15:08:00.002Z

Sometimes all we need is a big hug :)

Beach therapy.....

2011-02-22T14:13:00.000Z

"Don't grow up too quickly, lest you forget how much you love the beach." - Michelle Held

For the record...

2011-02-21T12:41:00.001Z

The LP's we loved so much given a new lease of life by the clever creators on Etsy :)

You should be dancin'.......

2011-02-18T19:46:00.001Z

A very happy birthday to my other 'man hero', sorry Mr Joel, but there's been someone else for 30 odd years!!
Wiggly hipped, charming and generally nice human being John Travolta is 57 today and certainly hasn't lost any of his sparkle. Saturday Night Fever is still my favourite film and I feel no different now, watching Tony Manero struggle through life, as I did when I was 11. It hasn't all been dance floors, movies, scientology and flying planes.... JT has endured heart wrenching tragedy in his personal life but his strong, close family haven't let it beat them.
So.... no matter what punches life throws at you, NEVER throw away your dancing shoes!

OK, I have to mention him...but Billy isn't doing too badly strutting his stuff either... and hey, what about that blue rinse?!

Have a great weekend all :) x

Somewhere over the rainbow.....

2011-02-18T10:47:00.000Z

It's a grey, dark, cold Friday in northern Scotland but these three talented and inspirational artists are warming up the soul, ready to take on the snowy weekend ahead.
Wherever you are, enjoy! x

Matt Hamblen

Catherine Horvath-Buchanan

Renie Britenbucher

“Mere colour, unspoiled by meaning, and unallied with definite form, can speak to the soul in a thousand different ways.” - Oscar Wilde

"I advise students on the subject of color as follows: If it looks good enough to eat, use it." - Abe Ajay

Seeking Inspiration.....

2011-02-15T13:40:00.000Z

Life has been busy and, dare I say it, a wee bit stressful of late. The creative juices have dried up a tad so this week I'm seeking motivation from some of my favourite artists (who happen to be lovely, inspiring people to boot!) Three for today......

AE FOND KIS

MIMI LOVE

SIGNETURE LINE

Friday quote.....

2011-02-11T10:57:00.001Z

"Although the world is full of suffering, it is full also of the overcoming of it” - Helen Keller

It's been a while... have a great weekend... romantic or otherwise :) x

Auld Lang Syne.....

2010-12-31T10:32:00.010Z

Wishing everyone a wonderful 2011 xxx

Auld Lang Syne

Happy Holidays!!

2010-12-20T13:29:00.007Z

"Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect." - Oren Arnold

"May the spirit of Christmas bring you peace, the gladness of Christmas give you hope, the warmth of Christmas grant you love."
- Author Unknown

Something old, something new......

2010-12-10T13:09:00.018Z

Love it or hate it, we well and truly live in the age of technology. On one hand it opens up a whole new world of opportunity, on the other it takes away an element of life's simplicity.

Pre machinery.... a large section of society earned an honest if meagre living doing the work of machines, which probably left them exhausted but with that precious feeling of purpose.
Pre TV.... families interacted and talked more (and not about who needs dumped from the X Factor!)
Pre mobile phones.... when we made an arrangement we had to stick to it.
Pre email.... the fact our boss delivers bad news by email while sitting two feet away from us speaks for itself!

I admit to being a huge fan of the digital camera, apart from anything else, no more waiting and paying a fortune for pics to be developed in Snappy Snaps... only to discover missing heads and blurry babies. The 'trial and error' aspect and the instantaneity of it all is very appealing and I expect it's encouraged many to have a shot at photography and discover talent they didn't know was there.

The same goes for art. Experimenting and 'mucking about' with Photoshop and the like can be extremely satisfying and also a lot of fun for anyone who simply appreciates colours and shapes, the tools available are endless and the 'undo' button is a godsend!!

I realise many in the art world will despise the digital onslaught and will never consider it 'real' art, but for those of us who weren't fortunate enough to be blessed with the extraordinary talent of Leonardo, Canaletto or Stubbs, it's a gift!

I've mixed old and new by photographing (with a camera phone!) a couple of paintings I was never really happy with and have given them the Photoshop treatment.... I guess you'll make your own minds up.

"Since the technology of electronics has become such an important part of modern life, it is inevitable that it be employed in the creation of art." - Ben Laposky

"He was always jumping on the newest things and new media. He would be creating art on computers now. That's where he'd go." - Yoko Ono on John Lennon

"The moment you cheat for the sake of beauty, you know you're an artist." - David Hockney

"It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see." - Henry David Thoreau

Bonnie Scotland.....

2010-11-30T13:52:00.013Z

Despite the fact I've had a good moan about the weather lately, I love living in Scotland.

Today, November 30th, is St Andrews Day and an opportunity to celebrate all things Scottish..... here are just a few reasons that compel me to endure the erratic climate and keep my feet firmly fixed in our wee country!

Living in spitting distance from the city, the countryside AND the seaside
The creative, interesting, friendly and often eccentric people
Stunning skies
Magical castles
Museums and galleries
Scottish dance music
Men in kilts
Robert Burns
Shortbread
Porridge
Neeps

I could haver on and on but better run to the glens and net a haggis for the tea :)

So, to all my Scottish friends.... and the ones who want to be Scottish....

Happy St Andrews Day.... Lang May Yer Lum Reek!

Revver Of Dreams......

2010-11-16T14:18:00.004Z

Not content with being the world's greatest entertainer, singer, songwriter, composer (ok... I'm bias!)..... my superhero, Billy Joel has just opened a motorcycle shop in Oyster Bay, Long Island. Bike rider and enthusiast for the longest time, the piano man hopes that 20th Century Cycles will have a positive effect on other businesses in Oyster Bay and be part of the revitalization of the village. He does not intend to be a stranger and promises to play an active role in the venture.

Ever the comedian, Billy, in a conversation with Newsday writer Glenn Gamboa, says.......

"There are a lot of accidents that happen because people aren’t aware of motorcyclists. This will help raise that consciousness. Maybe people might think twice when they see a motorcyclist and drive more carefully because they think, ‘That might be Billy Joel.’ On the other hand, some people might say, ‘If I knock that guy down, I won’t ever have to hear his music again.’ Who knows?"

I wonder if turning up on my little Honda 125 would sway his decision to make me Mrs Joel the 4th......

Read the full story at the..... Levittown Tribune

Harvest Moon

2010-11-12T13:56:00.002Z

Happy 65th Birthday Neil Young....

"I just do what I do. I like to make music." - Neil Young

"Though lovers be lost love shall not." - Dylan Thomas

2010-10-27T11:59:00.013+01:00

Dylan Marlais Thomas born on this day in 1914 had a short but very significant life as a poet and writer.

Considered by many his greatest single work, Under Milk Wood, is a radio play featuring the characters of a small, imaginary Welsh fishing town Llareggub..... 'Llareggub' is 'Bugger All' backwards, implying that there is absolutely nothing to do there!!

The narrator invites the audience to listen to the dreams and deepest thoughts of the residents in this moving and funny tale as we join them for one full day in the coastal town.

Thomas performed the play solo for the first time at Harvard during his 1953 US tour, and then with a cast at the Poetry Centre in New York. Sadly he died in November 1953 at only 39, before the BBC could record the play, but two months later Richard Burton starred in the first broadcast and was joined by Elizabeth Taylor in a film version several years later in 1972.

"He who seeks rest finds boredom. He who seeks work finds rest." - Dylan Thomas

A beautiful print of the house where Dylan Thomas spent the last years of his life, by Art By Crixie

If you're interested in finding out more, here is a site devoted to all things Thomas! Dylan Thomas

Moon Shine.....

2010-10-22T12:52:00.013+01:00

I've always been fascinated by the moon and today is a full moon.... it's damp and overcast so chances of catching a glimpse later are pretty low!

So, first, a few lunar facts, then enjoy some artists who have captured the full moon in all it's glory.....

The world's tidal ranges are at their maximum during the full moon when the sun, earth and moon are in line.

It's only during a full moon that the dark side of the moon is completely dark.

February is the only month that can occur without a full moon.

The full moon may look round, but it is actually egg shaped with the pointed end facing earth.

"I like to think that the moon is there even if I am not looking at it" - Albert Einstein

Mary Vican Photography

Renie Britenbucher Art

Vickie Wade Fine Art

Falling for Autumn....

2010-10-21T12:43:00.020+01:00

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower." - Albert Camus

"Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all." - Stanley Horowitz

Marriage Of Metal

Winsome Works

Graphic Spaces

Con... grat.... u... lations....

2010-10-14T08:48:00.007+01:00

Since 1958 he's been movin' and a groovin' and appears to have no intention of sitting still in the near future.

Happy 70th birthday to Cliff Richard, an inspiration to those of us who sometimes feel to old too open a tin of beans!

"To be seventy years young is sometimes far more cheerful and hopeful than to be forty years old." - Oliver Wendell Holmes

"A man is not old until regrets take the place of dreams." - John Barrymore

"How old would you be if you didn't know how old you were?" - Satchel Paige

Hells Bells......

2010-10-05T11:23:00.012+01:00

Happy 63rd birthday to Brian Johnson, lead singer of AC/DC.

Replacing an iconic singer in a band seldom works out, but, after original front man Bon Scott tragically died in 1980, Brian became a formidable replacement, keeping the AC/DC 'sound' intact and adding some extra voltage of his own for the last 30 years.

I saw AC/DC back in 1996, it was my first 'big' rock concert and is way up there in joint first place..... with who? Billy Joel of course!!

Don't know if Brian would take that as a compliment, but it is!!

It's Still Rock and Roll To Me.....

2010-09-28T11:13:00.011+01:00

Well it hasn't taken long for my Hicksville hero, Billy Joel, to feature yet again!
While I was browsing for gift ideas to blog, I stumbled upon this AMAZINGLY talented and very interesting artist, Leslie from New Jersey, who has an Etsy shop. A visit to 'Rock and Roll Hart' is synonomous with a trip to a top notch art gallery full of rock and roll legends, 60's inspired masterpieces.... and a little bit more. I adore the unique caricature style of this artist, particularly the colour highlights which feature in some of her work and I also love her attitude....
"I'm a child of the sixties... a Woodstock survivor, who shares a background and personal history with some of the artists that you'll find in my shop. Being raised on peace, love, and rock and roll, it seemed like a natural progression to open a shop filled with creations that celebrate my love of music and art. I am a daughter, mom, aunt, sister and artist that believes that every positive thing, thought or action taken brings something better back to you. Peace and Love, Leslie"

Peace and Love right back at ya Leslie!

As always, pictures speak louder than words....... enjoy!

Tis the season.......??

2010-09-16T13:10:00.016+01:00

Christmas comes but once a year.... but for FOUR months??!!!!! Every year I'm astounded how early the Christmas advertising commences, I don't want to see Santa yet or be surrounded by seasonal sparkles in September for goodness sake. Anyway, no matter how I've tried to fight it, the festive elves have succeeded in penetrating my wee brain resulting in involuntary thoughts of Brussels sprouts, tinsel and gifts. So, what the heck, I'm jumping aboard the 'buy buy buy' bandwagon and will be throwing a few ideas at you for the next few blogs. No 'high street' stuff, just something a little bit different from wonderful shops captained by very nice people!

Along came a spider....

SignetureLine

Now, where was I?.....

AeFondKis

Knock 'em down wiv a featha....

Mimilove

Think positive ....

ArtByTrudy

Of course, it doesn't have to be Christmas... and it doesn't need to be a gift!

xx

A good friend is cheaper than therapy......

2010-08-31T12:03:00.027+01:00

What a month!! August has come and gone in a flash but it's all been good. I've had the top notch company of my best friend and her beautiful wee girl for the last few weeks and 'normality' has been a tad neglected as expected.... don't run your finger along my shelves please, who knows what you might find!!

Anyway, life is way too short to worry about that, we've had an absolute ball and that's what matters.... BBQ's, Garden Party's, Eating Out, Beachcombing, Singing (Billy Joel obviously!), Talking, Dancing, Painting, Playing.... etc. etc.

Big, big heartfelt thanks to my fantastic friends, near and far, for making the last month so perfect... and to Mr Sun for showing his face just when it mattered. It's good to get out of routine for a wee while, have some fun and refresh the soul.

"A child reminds us that playtime is an essential part of our daily routine" Author Unknown

Ok, enough rambling... as someone once said... a picture speaks a thousand words....

Biker trouble....

Ah... nothing quite like a blank canvas...

Found a bit!!!

Oink!!

If only girls were allowed to play for Scotland...

Who needs to go abroad??

Never too warm for a fire up North!

You can't have a party without bubbles... and a camp cowboy!

Through the eyes of a 7 year old...

I also had the enormous pleasure of catching up with some old friends at a school reunion last week... we may have reached our 40's but we were all 14 again that night. I wasn't sure whether to go or not, having left my home town nearly 25 years ago, but am so glad I did... a great reminder that friendship can remain intact despite distance and time!

Other than the dreaded day job, the next few weeks will be spent, amongst other things, having a good clear out (if I haven't worn it since 1983 it's going!!! ), gardening (before the dark nights are well and truly upon us), creating, blogging, researching a new camera (yay!!), compiling a pub quiz (why did I agree to that??!) and last but most definitely not least, catching up with my wonderful bloggy, flickry, creative cyber friends.... oh.... and trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle after a month of unaldulterated debortury!!

"While we try to teach our children all about life,
Our children teach us what life is all about" - Angela Schwindt

Friends reunited.....

2010-07-23T11:49:00.009+01:00

I hope this finds everyone in top form! I've had a busy few weeks between one thing and another but can now look forward to the impending arrival of my best friend and her daughter. They are travelling 5000 miles home for a nice long visit..... it's been over 18 months since our last shenanigans, so, fun, frolics and a few gin and tonics are most definitely on the agenda.

We'll be doing a bit of this......
....so hopefully this will make an appearance.....
...but we always have this to warm us up....
.....with a wee bit of help from this.....
....I predict a few late nights ahead!

I'm not going to kid myself and pretend I'll get any of my 'normal stuff' done while they're around, I've put myself at their disposal so to speak! So, I'll see you all in about a month, when normal service will be fully restored. Have a very happy weekend one and all!!

"A good friend is a connection to life - a tie to the past, a road to the future, the key to sanity in a totally insane world." - Lois Wyse

Sea Glass Angels......

2010-06-30T19:42:00.013+01:00

Hello friends, I hope this finds you all happy and healthy.

Isn't this gorgeous, magical, stunning!!!! In the last post I promised to tell you more about the artist that created this masterpiece. Can you tell I love it?!

I was fortunate enough to 'meet' Signe, the lady at the helm of Signeture Line Jewelry, through Flickr, a superb website for amateur and professional photographers... I warn you, visit Flickr and you might never get away.... such an eclectic collection of photographs from all over the world depicting every aspect of life is very addictive.

It's such a pleasure to encounter so many inspiring, creative and downright lovely friends through Flickr, Etsy, Blogger... you all know who you are!

I digress!

OK, first the wee story behind the glass in the pendant....
We were at opposite ends of our favourite beach one day and I could see Paul (sea glass asistant!) in the distance talking to a young lad. I assumed it was someone he knew and didn't pay much attention, by the time I'd caught up he was gone and we didn't see him again. Paul told me the mystery man had come over to ask him what he was looking for, so he explained what Sea Glass was and the stranger said 'you mean like this?' and produced that delicious orange gem from his pocket which he'd found on another beach down the coast.... and gave it to Paul.
So... when Sig offered to make me a custom piece in exchange for some Scottish Sea Glass, you can imagine how excited I became.
I'm already the very proud owner of two 'Signe Lawson' creations, one with a piece of my own black Sea Glass, and another designed around a 'Lucky Stone', both absolutely adorable.

I was one hundred percent confident that Sig would produce something wonderful... and I was a trillion zillion percent right!! After giving a pretty vague indication of the kind of 'thing' I had in my head, Sig carried it off so accurately it's almost spooky!

If you have a special 'stone', that holds happy memories or is maybe of high sentimental value... or simply a gem that you love and want to show off, I can recommend this extremely talented, professional jewellery artist to put it in the unique setting it deserves... and have you leaping over the moon at the same time!!

Just a thought for you boys out there struggling to come up with the gift that says it all... unique, handmade, custom jewellery has got to be the ultimate romantic offering and a treasure from Signetureline would certainly keep you in my good books... pretty much forever!!

Sound good? You can get in touch with Sig here by clicking the contact link on the right of her Etsy shop page.

STOP PRESS...
The biggest granny square in the world is finished... phew!! OK it might not be theeeee biggest one in the whole wide world but it bloomin' well felt like it... next project... that blank canvas that's been leaning against the wall way too long.

Have a good day/night y'all xxx

Look left, look right... look everywhere!!

2010-06-21T20:10:00.021+01:00

Cheers to you all for turning my mouth up the right way tonight, I've had a blooming good laugh catching up on some blogs tonight, it beats me why some of you aren't professional comedians or best selling authors. Holiday blues destroyed and still more reading ahead :) Thank you!

The sea glass assistant and I spent most of last week in beautiful Holland. We've visited regularly over the years and I will never, ever tire of it. From busy, vibrant, lively Amsterdam where trams, bikes and cars come at you from all directions to the peaceful Dutch countryside and beach just a stone's throw away. So much to see and do. I won't bore you by rambling on and on, believe me, I could... just a few pics for now!

Doesn't matter where you go there's no escape from the World Cup....

Park life....

Moo....

You don't want to be knocking this lot over with your backpack...

Houseboat heaven....

Hey, put the road back!!!! Think this might freak out those sampling the whacky backy!

'Breakfast' at the beach...

I'm not too keen on being at the other side of the camera but this one is for a reason. Focus on the beautiful Sea Glass Necklace, custom made by an Etsy artist and friend. I'll introduce her in my next post and tell the story behind the piece of glass she used for my gorgeous pendant!

Ah well, back to reality, bet the weather isn't like this at the other end! Actually it was sunny and warm back in Aberdeen and good to be home even though I can't wait to go back....

Going Dutch......

2010-06-09T14:14:00.004+01:00

We all need to relax sometimes, a change of scene is a great way to recharge and refresh.....

Beautiful people.....
Amazing galleries and museums.....
Delicious food.....
Rather agreeable gin.....
Canals.....
Bicycles.....
Clogs.....
Cheese galore.....

Holland here I come!! See you all soon xxx

Chasing Rainbows.......

2010-05-28T11:25:00.002+01:00

At some stage during our lives we probably all feel like we're chasing rainbows, trying to attain the unattainable, one step forward.... two steps back. It's easy to give up on things in the belief that they just 'can't be done' or will simply 'never happen'.

I'm sure we can all think of someone. People of all ages and stages who overcome fear, disability, poverty and a diverse range of circumstances to achieve the 'impossible'.

After Major Phil Packer suffered serious spinal cord injuries in Iraq he decided to take on several physical challenges to raise funds for charity, raise positive awareness and enthuse others. In 2009 he rowed the Channel with Al Humphreys, walked the London Marathon over 14 days and hauled himself up El Capitan. In 2010 he has climbed the Three Peaks (Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Mount Snowdon) in 72 hours. He recently smashed his fourteen day Marathon time and completed the Virgin London Marathon in 26 hours. A truly brave, inspiring and gutsy human being.

Just over 80 years ago Amy Johnson landed in Darwin, Australia in her Gipsy Moth becoming the first woman to fly the 11,000 miles solo from Britain.

JK Rowling went from living on welfare to multi-millionaire status within five years thanks to her vivid imagination and sheer will. Harry Potter brings her estimated net worth to be $1 billion. She now supports many charities including One Parent Families, Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Children's High Level Group.

In July 1969 Neil Armstrong landed on the moon. Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin spent nearly three hours exploring this far away planet.

All these people, in very different ways, motivate others to realise dreams, however big or small. But it's also the people in 'every day' life, the teachers, nurses, carers, friends, cyber friends........ inspiration is everywhere.

Never stop chasing that rainbow, we all have inside us somewhere, the ability to reach our 'pot of gold'.... whatever it may be.

Making a connection......

2010-05-12T10:21:00.005+01:00

Dear Fellow Bloggers, I hope this finds you all well and heartfelt apologies for the absence of participation lately. Here's why..... the evil, nasty monster in charge of cyberworld has decided to pick on me this month.

First he cuts of my home connection, telling me my 'modem is no longer compatible', so I politely complained to Richard Branson's lot and was promised I'd get a new bit of wireless kit by the weekend.... LAST weekend. Still waiting Sir Richard.

So, I come into work on Monday, ready to catch up with blogland in my breaks as usual and what do I get....... 'sorry, this website is blocked by websense'...... aaaaargh!! Can't blog, can't read any, can't comment.

Thankfully Flickr, my other favourite domain, remains unaffected for now.

After a wee bit of 'sweet talking' the IT boys this morning they have been kind enough to give me half an hour 'unblocked' to say hello, I miss you all and that as soon as Sir Richard gets his act together I'll be back in business.

Bear in mind I'll now be visiting blogland in the evenings, which occasionally could involve a large glass of red or a few G&T's, so things could certainly get a bit more interesting!!

Watch this space ;o)

Gentle On My Mind.....

2010-04-28T13:48:00.004+01:00

The Glen Campbell concert in Aberdeen on Monday night was fantastic.... you can't beat singing along to Rhinestone Cowboy after a few wee G&T's. The only spoiler was being reprimanded by 'security' for getting my camera out... oops... but I did manage to sneak one pic before my wrists were slapped!

At 74 Glen is still full of energy, fun, charisma and boundless talent, with a perfect velvety voice and inspirational guitar playing, it was a truly enjoyable evening.

He was joined on stage by two of his beautiful daughters Debby and Ashley and one of his sons, Nicklaus Caledonia, gave it his all on the drums.... the musical talent is very obviously in those Campbell genes!!

Married four times and the father of eight children, Glen is fiercely proud of his Scots heritage, his dad Wesley Campbell was born in the Borders making a living as a farmer and his mum Karrie Stone came from Tipperary in Ireland.

"I love to visit Scotland because it was my family birthplace and my ancestors all come from there. Scotland gets in your bones - I can feel it every time I go there"

His prolific career has included performing with Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole, The Beach Boys and he also played the guitar on The Monkees' hit 'I'm A Believer'.

In 1969 he made his acting debut with John Wayne in the film True Grit and was nominated for an Oscar for the theme song.

"True Grit was fun to do but I wasn't cut out to be an actor. I made John Wayne look so good he won his only Oscar"

Glen, you are a legend and will be forever 'gentle on my mind'!!!

Looking forward to catching up with you all when I float back down to earth xx :0)

Rhinestone Birthdayboy.......

2010-04-22T12:10:00.000+01:00

Happy Birthday to Glen 'Travis' Campbell.... 74 years young!!

I'm going to see him on Monday and CAN'T WAIT!!

Ma heed is in the proverbial broth pot this week.... my colleagues and I are training on a new (complicated!) system at work and my middle aged brain cells are finding it taxing to say the least....but.... the weekend will be spent perfecting my Glen Campbell lyrics for a good singalong with the Rhinestone Cowboy himself on Monday... Yeeha!!

And a very happy birthday tomorrow, to my lovely Dad who'll be 83! We're meeting him... and mum of course, for a birthday breakfast, but unfortunately his gift must be caught up in the volcanic backlog in the sky so possibly a bit of panic buying ahead tonight!

Have a fantastic weekend everyone, may the sun shine on you all x

Good things come in small packages........

2010-04-15T09:01:00.017+01:00

First of all.... thank you to my online pals for the lovely, supportive comments on the last post. It's been an emotional week with ups, downs and in betweens.... but hey, let's raise a glass to happier days!

Like a lot of us girls.. (and guys!), I love jewellery... making it, wearing it, giving it or simply just admiring from afar.

Beautiful jewellery doesn't have to be flashy or expensive..... meaning, history and the pure love and talent that artists put into creating it is much more important and fascinating to me.

The latest addition to my somewhat eclectic treasure chest fill me with joy!

A wonderful person and talented jeweller I've had the pleasure of 'meeting' lately is Signe from Signeture Line.

One of the fascinating stones Signe works with are known as 'lucky stones'.

Signe says....
"Lucky stones are a unique skeletal feature of a fish called freshwater drum, also known as sheepshead and grunter. Scientists call these earbones otoliths. They are found on fresh water beaches and are all different sizes. They have an "L" on one of the flattened sides. People collect them and consider them as "Lucky Stones". The otoliths have been found at prehistoric Indian sites used perhaps for good luck charms or as decorations to prevent sickness."

Interesting stuff!!!

I feel lucky to own a beautiful 'lucky stone' piece from Signeture Line (what a great name!) and will wear it often... must make sure it's with me when I get my lottery ticket!!

Signe also works with fused glass and beach glass, wire wrapping in a non traditional, but extremely skillful and attractive way.... you'll find gorgeous rings, bracelets and necklaces using sterling wire and sterling sheet. It really is a fabulous shop!

A couple of my favourites from Signeture Line....

A girl can NEVER have too much jewellery, that's what I say!!

A friend in need......

2010-04-08T11:08:00.006+01:00

My friend's mum has had a traumatic few years between one thing and another, and sadly also became a victim of Alzheimer's disease which has been a hard road for her and the family.
She is finally at peace now and will be laid to rest next week.

There is no quick fix for coping with death. It's difficult accepting you will never see someone you knew and loved again. All I can offer my friend is love, support and a shoulder or two but sometimes that makes all the difference.

I'll be back in a week or so with some fantastic Etsy shops I've come across recently, and the usual random banter and music.... and Billy Joel..OBVIOUSLY!

Take care all xx

You should be dancin'.............

2010-04-02T10:35:00.013+01:00

Have a rockin' n rollin' weekend everyone...... :0)

Wordless Wednesday.....

2010-03-31T14:19:00.004+01:00

Well, no words from me that is....

What music are you loving just now?

Tiger, tiger...

2010-03-30T11:59:00.012+01:00

Och, the sights ye see in the heelans o Scotland!!

Back from a fantastic time buzzing all over the place, but the highlight was not too far from home on an unplanned trip to the Highland Wildlife Park at Kingussie.

I could have watched these guys all day... what a gorgeous family of five Amur Tigers who entertained and delighted the hardy souls who braved the Scottish 'spring' weather!!

These cats can endure brutally cold temperatures down to 40 degrees below zero..... aye, it's OK for them, brrrr!

Get your claws into these fantastic feline creations on Etsy....

Look into my eyes... Peg Lozier

Look closely, this tiger is made entirely of the typeface Avenir, clever cat... Inkfinger

Hats off to Mary for the creating the cutest headwear... Mary Originals

I have new hours to work this week, much later in the evening than I'm used to... but they do say a change is as good as a rest, so maybe I should look on the bright side and enjoy a few more long lies, until this miserable weather breaks anyway!!

Cyber friends..........

2010-03-18T10:15:00.009Z

I never get TIRED of my cyber friends.....

So before FLYING off for a few days.......

I just wanted to say what a TREE
...mendous community this is.......

And that I very much appreciate all your funny, interesting, kind and WARM comments, both here and on Flickr.......

Lang may yer lums reek!

See you next week, cheerio the noo!!! xxx

B A, B A, please don't spoil my get away...

2010-03-17T11:03:00.004Z

I have holidays coming up....yippee!!!

So I'm off to deepest England to visit friends, children and dogs for a few days.....or am I?

BA's website tells me all is well.... but.... my flights could be 'subject to disruption'... so I'll just have to go with the flow and hope for the best!

Sometimes that's a good place to be......

And hey, if upon return I get stuck for hours in Terminal 5, with all those shops, all those restaurants, all those bars.... so be it!!

I'll be back in 'cyberworld' in a week or so, hopefully with no tales of airport nightmares!

Finally, HAPPY ST. PATRICKS DAY to our Irish friends....

"May the wings of the butterfly kiss the sun
And find your shoulder to light on,
To bring you luck, happiness and riches
Today, tomorrow and beyond."

Irish Blessing

See you all soon xxx

'My soul is in the sky.' - William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night's Dream

Keeping the faith......

2010-03-08T13:31:00.003Z

Remembering Adam Faith (23 June 1940 - 8 March 2003), musician, actor, journalist and all round nice chap.

'Budgie' was my Adam Faith. Cheeky, stunningly handsome, loveable rogue with gorgeous floppy 70's hair. I was lucky enough to meet him several years ago and even as he headed for his 60's he was still just as attractive.... but more importantly he was a down to earth, friendly, modest man who genuinely cared about other people and the world around him. It was an absolute pleasure to spend time in his company and I'll always think of him fondly.

Crazy.......

2010-03-05T12:19:00.006Z

The wonderful Patsy Cline who sadly lost her life in an air accident 47 years ago today. In 1973 Patsy was posthumously entered the Country Music Hall of Fame and is considered one of the major female vocalists of all time.

OK girls, dry those tears and ride on over to Etsy.....

Di's Lil Treasures

Rock This Vintage

Fairyland Bazaar

Have a swell weekend y'all xx

Are You Lonesome Tonight??.............

2010-03-02T09:53:00.011Z

"Hell no, I got all these lovely Ayrshire ladies to keep me company!!"

OK, he didn't actually say that, but I bet he was thinking it ;0)

Nearly 50 years ago, Elvis Presley touched down briefly at Prestwick Airport.

His first words on British soil were.....

"Where am I?"

Well, let me tell you Mr Elvis The Pelvis, you are in one of the most beautiful countries in the world!

What a dream come true for all those fans lucky enough to meet their hero that night.

Elvis certainly isn't dead on Etsy......

Can't help falling in love with.... GROOVEBOWL

This print got me all shook up.... DEAN RUSSO ART

Won't be returning this to sender.... JP CUSTOM CROSS STITCH

Time and tide waits for no man... or woman!

2010-02-23T11:58:00.009Z

Is it really almost the end of February??!

Did my nephew actually turn 16 last week??!

Would that be a hint of a crocus in the garden?

Those can't be easter eggs I see on the shelves!!!!

Time is a most precious thing, try not to let it fly by too fast and enjoy every moment the best you can.

"I live every day to its fullest extent and I don't sweat the small stuff." - Olivia Newton-John

"Don’t count every hour in the day, make every hour in the day count." - Unknown

If you MUST clock watch, keep your eye on those minutes in style......

CyberMoon

Pragmatic Effects

Mass Glass Art

The 'Book' Group.....

2010-02-17T12:05:00.005Z

We had our third 'Book Group' meeting on Saturday, I'll forgive you for assuming I've just recovered.

We all take food/drink along, whatever the nationality of the author, that's the theme.

We've had Colombian and Australian and this weekend was Irish.

So, lots of Guinness, Baileys, Magners... maybe we should be renamed the 'Booze Group'!!

Much to everyone's delight, Saturday's host is the proud owner of a karaoke machine.

We belted out the hits and the climax had to be seven 'mature' women putting everything they've got into 'I Will Survive' by Gloria Gaynor.

I apologise to everyone within five miles.... and to the hosts sixteen year old daughter who looked suitably mortified!!

Book... what book??

Singing the praises of some very talented Etsy artists......

Do the funky chicken at..... Snitterdog

Wise words from..... Studio 3ten

Chirpy, chirpy, cheep, cheep with..... Lisa Stubbs

My Funny Valentine ......

2010-02-12T08:50:00.015Z

It's Friday and, alas, the final day of classic love songs.

Regular readers will be wondering...

Where is he? I haven't heard him yet? Has she dumped him?? We MISS him!!

Don't panic, obviously I've been saving the very best for last!

It's downright impossible to pick favourites from the master of music, the Piano Man, I love them all.

Hope you enjoy the cruise down my river of dreams.....

Honesty - Billy Joel

If I Only Had the Words - Billy Joel

She's Always A Woman - Billy Joel

"As human beings, we need to know that we are not alone, that we are not crazy or completely out of our minds, that there are other people out there who feel as we do, live as we do, love as we do, who are like us." - Billy Joel

"I think music in itself is healing. It's an explosive expression of humanity. It's something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we're from, everyone loves music." - Billy Joel

Have a heart warming weekend, whether you have a 'love' or not, love yourself, love your friends, love life xxx

Love is like heaven but can hurt like hell.......

2010-02-11T11:49:00.006Z

Todays love song is, I suppose, not technically a 'love' song, but it comes straight from the heart none the less.... AND it's the first Scottish offering of the week!

I think a few of us have probaly known and loved someone who 'turned to drifwood'.... sad, but such a great song... enjoy!

Drifwood by Travis

"Musicians want to be the loud voice for so many quiet hearts." - Billy Joel

Heart to Hart....

2010-02-10T08:43:00.012Z

Day three of classic love songs....

Before we get to the tunes, staying on the... erm... 'heart' theme, another wee bit of 80's TV nostalgia...

Ever handsome, Robert Wagner is 80 today.
I love him most as Jonathan Hart in 'Hart to Hart' where he played a self-made millionaire and his wife Jennifer (Stefanie Powers) was a freelance journalist.
The couple spent their free time as amateur detectives usually solving 'moiders', helped out by Max (Lionel Stander), the butler, cook and chauffeur... and don't forget "Freeway" the dog, rescued by the Harts when he was found wandering on the freeway. Awww, great telly!

OK, looks like we're sticking with the 80's thing today.... enjoy!

I Want to Know What Love Is
written by Mick Jones
Foreigner

Hard To Say I'm Sorry
written by Peter Cetera and David Foster.
Chicago

Keep On Loving You
written by Kevin Cronin
Reo Speedwagon

'Music is well said to be the speech of angels.' - Thomas Carlyle

Music is the medicine of the breaking heart......

2010-02-09T09:56:00.006Z

Day two of classic love songs.....

Before we get to the music and while we're on the subject of the heart, February is national heart month over at the British Heart Foundation, whose vision is of a world in which people do not die prematurely of heart disease.

This fabulous organisation is blessed to have many dedicated supporters helping to raise funds for crucial research.

As part of Red Heart Day on 26th February, artist, blogger and top notch human being, Linda from Ae Fond Kis, is going to raffle handcrafted art and crafts at work and give the proceeds to the BHF.

I know some of you talented, creative people would love to help Linda out with some raffle prizes, so let's..... BE A PART OF RED HEART!

Hope you like my choices today, some have said my music taste can be slightly 'cheesy', you can make your own minds up!! ;)

Glory Of Love
written by Peter Cetera, David Foster and Diane Nini, recorded by Peter Cetera shortly after he left the band Chicago to pursue a solo career.

Back For Good
written by Gary Barlow, performed by Take That

(I Just) Died in Your Arms
written by Nick Van Eede and sung by his band, Cutting Crew.

'Music is moonlight in the gloomy night of life.' - Jean Paul Richter

Music is what feelings sound like.....

2010-02-08T11:36:00.006Z

Leading up to Valentines Day, a whole week of classic love songs.... hope you enjoy xx

We've Got Tonight
(written in 1978 by Bob Seger)

Kenny Rogers and Sheena Easton doing a great version.....

Sharing The Night Together
(written by Ava Aldridge & Eddie Struzick)

Performed by Dr Hook.....

Can't Keep It In
(written by Cat Stevens)

Sorry no video but lyrics so you can sing along!!.....

A skeleton in the closet.........

2010-02-05T14:41:00.008Z

A wee update on my first life drawing class..... OK, so the model lovely Linda 'arranged' was a bit busy with his other job (if you've know idea what I'm talking about click here), so, we just had to make do with his slimmer cousin on the left!

Seriously, even though it was slightly overwhelming, I really enjoyed it. I'm a complete beginner at this, I draw and I paint but mainly from imagination and am definitely not technically correct, this is what I want to learn, proportion etc!! The class is huge at 25 and several of the pupils are established artists, one is an art teacher!! At first I felt a bit out of my depth, but thinking about it, I reckon it's all the more people to learn from!

We do have a model, a lovely girl called Anushka, but us beginners got Billy Bones to start with. Bloomin eck it's difficult drawing a skeleton at a funny angle, my first attempt looked a bit alien like, but I'm looking forward to next week and hopefully making a bit of progress!

Watch this space!

Obviously I couldn't end the week without a bit of 'Billy Love', enjoy, and have a great weekend everyone!

The Importance of Friendship

2010-02-04T14:13:00.004Z

"In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit." - Albert Schweitzer

'Friendly' Etsy delights...

dzn Q

Ruby Rabbit

Snippet Fairy

"A good friend is cheaper than therapy." - Author Unknown

The Fairy Godmother Cometh!

2010-02-01T11:00:00.008Z

Just before Christmas I had a minor disaster with a sketch book.

I'd started carrying it with me wherever I went, you know, just in case!

Unfortunately I got caught in a VERY heavy rainstorm which managed to permeate my trusty haversack and turn my book into a sodden mush!

Luckily I hadn't had time to produce too many masterpieces (lol!) so not much harm done in that respect.

Anyway, I'd been thinking about ways to prevent a repeat performance and reckoned a big make-up/toiletry bag, the kind that have a vinyl, waterproof finish, would be the ideal solution.

Then something magical happened.....

I arrived home, after spending Christmas with the family, to find a treasure filled package from my dear friend Linda!

Along with the most gorgeous bracelet in the world and some stunning handmade cards..... there they were..... my new 'pencil case' and 'sketch book holder', adorned with beautiful butterflies and fully rainproof (and snowproof!)

Just perfect.

I start an evening class in 'Figure and Life Drawing' at the local college tonight, so, I'll be armed with my lovely new 'kit' and reckon I can't go wrong with an angel like Linda sitting on my shoulder!

Don't suppose you could 'magic' up a cute model for us Linda ;)

Some super sketch books on Etsy.....

IVY LANE DESIGNS

ELIS COOKE

DOTI

Calm down ladies!!!

2010-01-29T10:57:00.007Z

Extremely swoonable actor, writer, producer... the man with the moustache... Tom Selleck, is 65 today.

Happy birthday Tom!!

Love him or hate him, you can't fail to be impressed by that terrific tuft on his top lip.

What do you buy for a man with a moustache of such proportions??.....

He may need a good waxing before he takes you out to dinner..... SCODIOLI

I bet he likes to get comfy when whispering sweet nothings in your ear..... JACK AND TILL

Eh...looks like he's staying the night then..... CYANIDE STITCHES

Well that's the Friday fantasy over, have a great weekend everyone ;0)

Bring Me Sunshine...

2010-01-29T09:02:00.001Z

BIG Scottish hugs go to Leigh Shepherd from Leigh Shepherd Designs for my Sunshine Award, I am honoured! Leigh is a very talented artist from Yorkshire who, amongst other things, creates beautiful Tiny Tile Paintings, one of which I'm lucky enough to have adorning my wall!

The Sunshine Award is awarded to bloggers whose positivity and creativity inspires others in the blog world.
The rules for accepting the Sunshine Award..... put the logo on your blog or within your post.... pass the award on to 12 bloggers linking to the nominees within your post....let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.... share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award.

I do understand that not everyone will have time for this, that's ok, I love you anyway xx

So, here goes, in no order of preference, the blogging rays of sunshine I nominate are.....

Ae Fond Kis
The Garden Bell
Mimilove Forever
For Love or Funny
Pengulosh
Marigold Jam
Menopausal Musing
Living Glass Art
Sea Blue Sky Abstracts
Soul Reader
Sassy Glass Designs
Snowbell Jewelry

Don't make me angry........

2010-01-22T10:36:00.008Z

No really... you wouldn't like me when I'm angry!

So I'm having another wee 'TV nostalgia' moment, I LOVED 'The Incredible Hulk', I LOVED Bill Bixby, I LOVED the theme tune, and yes, I really thought they were the same person. In fact, I was pretty disappointed to discover that the hulk was actually Lou Ferrigno!

Interestingly, Larry Hagman turned down the part of Dr. David Banner in the two-hour pilot film, I'm glad, he will only ever be JR Ewing to me!

Bill Bixby (January 22, 1934 - November 21, 1993)

After being diagnosed, Bixby became an outspoken advocate for research into prostate cancer. Sadly, he lost his life to the disease in 1993 but will live forever in the memories of us 70's kids.

Some GREEN fun on Etsy.....

Mad Hulk.... 3D Monster Art Store

Sad Hulk.... Todd Webb

Glad Hulk.... Lady Lindsay's Creations

Have a great weekend everyone, remember, don't get angry, you might turn green! ;)

Life is a great big canvas..........

2010-01-18T09:14:00.007Z

"Life is a great big canvas, and you should throw all the paint you can on it."

Danny Kaye (January 18, 1913 - March 3, 1987) actor, singer, comedian, humanitarian.

Since watching 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty' with Dad when I was wee, I've loved Danny Kaye. He came across as a genuinely nice, warm, funny human being who would be a joy to know. As well as his impressive film & TV career, Danny loved and respected children and played a very important role in 'real' life, serving as goodwill ambassador for UNICEF from 1954 until his death in 1987.

As UNICEF spokesman, he was relentless in his efforts to raise money for the fund and is quoted as once saying, "I believe deeply that children are more powerful than oil, more beautiful than rivers, more precious than any other natural resource a country can have. I feel that the most rewarding thing I have ever done in my life is to be associated with UNICEF."

"To travel is to take a journey into yourself."
Danny Kaye

"I wasn't born a fool. It took work to get this way."
Danny Kaye

Top man!

If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?

2010-01-14T11:57:00.010Z

When it's cold, dark and bleak outside and we're not feeling in peak condition, it's sometimes a challenge to get motivated.

I need sunshine for jewellery pics, I need my daily hike, I need to get out and about with my camera, I need to get the house tidied up (some men just don't cut it when it comes to domestic chores!!)

I need, I need, I need..... gets tedious doesn't it?!

Anyway, none of these things have been on the agenda for the last couple of weeks and 'I have, I have, I have' seems to me a better attitude to adopt.

I HAVE made some progress with Scotland's biggest granny square!

I HAVE mastered the crocheted heart from the wonderful BeaG (well, nearly, but hey, whose heart isn't wonky from time to time!)

I HAVE enjoyed Notting Hill (yet again!)

Gratitude for what we CAN do and already HAVE is priceless.

"If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?" Percy Bysshe Shelley (Ode To The West Wind)

Here's hoping not too far :)

Love, Peace, Friendship and Butterflies......

2010-01-13T10:30:00.009Z

Love...

Well you all know about me and my Billy Joel obsession, so this custom wooden sign from Holly and Ivy Designs caught my eye somewhat!

On further investigation I realised what a treasure trove of a shop this is, stocked and run by two very creative girls.

Holly is a diverse and unique self taught artist with originality, enthusiasm and oodles of ideas to share.

Ivy is an extremely talented and inspirational 8 year old artist who loves to get involved in the whole creative process. The tile necklaces featuring her original artworks are absolutely adorable.

Celebrity snippet from Holly..... "That original sign was designed to be Tom Arnold's wedding present for his recent wedding."....Oh I do love a bit of name dropping! :)

Along with being art buddies and partners in business, Holly and Ivy are also mother and daughter!

Peace...

Friendship...
Butterflies...

Holly and Ivy Designs love CUSTOM ORDERS and will be happy to help with any ideas you might have!

Hirple on over to Twenty Ten......

2010-01-07T09:57:00.009Z

I hope everyone had a warm and cozy festive season and you're all refreshed and ready to take on 2010!

We have a family meal on Christmas Eve and Mum always makes it special for everyone. This year she had lots of help in the kitchen from my nephew, the 'budding chef'.

Us girls had our traditional pub crawl of the village, all two pubs that is!

The non pub goers snoozed off the lashings of food and browsed through Christmas books. Oh... and somehow all the dishes seemed to miraculously get washed and put away, poor Dad!

I recieved top class gifts from everyone and hope I chose well for them! And an extra special surprise package was waiting for me when I got home (more about that later!) What a lucky girl.

Thank you all :0)

For the last few years, on Christmas Day, Mum, Dad and I visit the graves of my grandparents and theirs, then we head to Crieff Hydro for a bracing walk then a relaxing, informal soup and sandwich lunch in the Winter Garden, just watching the world go by.

The picture shows the beautiful view from my seat, it's colder than it looks out there!!!

Activities over new year have been curbed by damaged ribs, courtesy of the ice rink that is my street, and I hate to say, I've been feeling blooming sorry for myself for the last week or so! The proverbial 'bear with a sore head', I am TERRIBLE at being hurt and have know idea how to do nothing all day. Medically, not a lot can be done for ribs, they just have to heal all by themselves and it can take a while. At first I couldn't even get in a pain free position to crochet, never mind anything else, frustrating!

Finally got outdoors on Monday, to the beach of course, where I hobbled along pointing out sea glass to be picked up... see the first treasure of 2010 here!

Movement is improving every day though and, for once in my life, getting back to work was very welcome!

Anyway, totally inspired by the first blog I read this morning, my positive head is tightly screwed back on and it's time to look on the bright side and get on with it.... after all....

I CAN'T walk to work, so, I get an extra half hour under the duvet!
I CAN'T go traipsing round the sales so am saving a fortune :)
I (definitely!) CAN'T do any housework, say no more!

Maybe I'll milk this for all it's worth, lol!

Happy New Year..........

2010-01-05T10:18:00.007Z

Happy New Year and heartfelt thanks to all the lovely people who lighten up my life with love, kindness and understanding.

How beautiful a day can be
When kindness touches it!
- George Elliston