tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37344093182100173002012-02-09T10:52:42.676+11:00Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.comBlogger4001100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-46830049472759763572012-02-03T12:30:00.001+11:002012-02-03T12:32:27.780+11:00

Loved this post, and it seems many others did too. It's good to know others in the world have similar ideas to you, she really hits the nail on the head!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-18131792382439729902012-02-02T18:07:00.004+11:002012-02-02T18:18:41.524+11:00

Is now in the shop. Child not included. By the way, she had a fabulous first day of school, and is happy to go back tomorrow :)

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-35100393416115246542012-02-02T11:57:00.004+11:002012-02-02T13:00:38.308+11:00

At schoolBefore schoolShe's been soooo excited about her first day of school, and now it's here. She looked a little overwhelmed with all the kids and parents in the classroom, we'll see how she goes!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-9030401104623035202012-01-26T12:21:00.005+11:002012-01-26T13:32:07.221+11:00

BeforeAfterI've been spending the earlier parts of this week emptying our pantry and cleaning it all down to move it and the fridge out so we could have our kitchen floor sanded and polished. We were a bit sick of the old "terracotta tile" vinyl that was sitting on top of these raw boards, with a big seam line down the middle that we'd trip over, or get slippers caught on.We're pretty happy with

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-57192199411625700752012-01-23T13:32:00.004+11:002012-01-23T14:16:11.276+11:00

What else can you do on a hot day at home with children? Make pesto. So we did. We harvested all the basil we could (not much, barely the 1 1/2 cups required from Thai basil and common? basil), toasted up pinenuts, grated up parmesan cheese, foraged 2 garlic cloves from the garden, and drizzled in some Australian olive oil. This is all that it made, but I will freeze it in the ice cube tray.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-16714574776003726332012-01-12T17:17:00.003+11:002012-01-12T17:23:36.531+11:00

My time at In.cube8r has come to a close, so I'm having a sale from now until Australia Day (26th January). Use coupon code AUS25 to get 25% off your order, not including postage.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-73337779788549814772012-01-11T13:53:00.004+11:002012-01-11T14:11:44.551+11:00

Here's a nice little school holiday activity that doesn't leave bits of cardboard, glue, glitter etc around the house.Roll the sheet of beeswax around the wick, and roll until you have no more beeswax. simple!I only use beeswax candles, as paraffin irritates my airways. No wonder, since it's a petrochemical. Other waxes don't seem to cut it either. Beeswax also gives off negative ions when

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-6266944489269458302012-01-10T16:19:00.005+11:002012-01-10T18:26:31.842+11:00

Special birthday cake from Le Petit Gateau- can't wait for dessert!Flowers from my little familyHave you met Miss Jones Babushka candle holder, from Design Doctor.Seems a little frivolous, but I realised at Christmas that I didn't have candle holders- a plate is fine for a tealight, but when little ones are around, I prefer something a little more closed in. Now I need a candlestick holder for a

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-35160753024181284122012-01-09T14:42:00.002+11:002012-01-09T14:50:24.389+11:00

I made this batch of aniseed soap last week, after some family members said that aniseed was their favourite soap, on Christmas day. I haven't made any for ages, I'd sort of forgotten about it, maybe since I'd run out of aniseed oil. Well here it is with it's sweet licorice scent, coloured with ground cloves. Smells gooood at my place!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-84485467048101434442012-01-06T15:23:00.002+11:002012-01-06T15:35:39.972+11:00

I've been busy making about 8 pairs of quick change trousers, which are reversible, and one dress, as I was a little low on size 5 dresses. I'll be bringing these with me to the Moriac makers and growers market on Sunday, from 9am-2pm.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-9201550282139595842012-01-02T11:57:00.005+11:002012-01-02T17:24:41.840+11:00

Fireworks viewed from our front porchHappy 2012! Just a day late this time, we've been head first in decluttering/ rearranging/ cleaning/ sorting/ painting/ freshening up. Renewal for the new year. I've sorted out the girls wardrobes (out with the too small/too old, in with hand me downs/items put away for later), which leads me to my first goal of 2012:No new clothes for the family- I must

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-87105044774966264692011-12-30T08:57:00.007+11:002011-12-30T09:23:34.711+11:00

Freebie potatoes that grew out of an old compost pile. Kipflers, and maybe sebagos? We had more, but did a big roast up a couple of nights ago.The start of the nectarines- quite a few on the tree this year. I picked this lot a bit hard, but I was worried the birds might get them, or freak weather events destroy them. A steady flow of tomatoes since (before!) Christmas. Might give tomato relish

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-36531984198543111092011-12-29T14:40:00.013+11:002011-12-29T17:15:04.854+11:00

Today we went berry picking at Pennyroyal raspberry farm. We picked mostly youngberries and American brambleberries, with a few raspberries thrown in (though we can pick a few of them in our backyard). The farm was in a really pretty setting, it's a shame we didn't get a photo of the resident donkeys. We have about 1kg of berries in our kitchen now, we may have to freeze some, but I prefer

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-50510637855894547782011-12-28T10:38:00.007+11:002011-12-28T11:22:12.560+11:00

mermaid outfits for their Bamboletta dollsnew bike baskets from SantaFairy wands (made by Lisa Leonard Designs), with their names stamped onLiv with her new musical jewellery box at Nana's houseEvie, Liv & Lucy jumping on the trampoline, with water pistols at Lucy's (cousin) houseJust a few photos from Christmas day, not so many photos were taken on the day this year (unusual!). We're just

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-31714060503181931102011-12-21T12:24:00.002+11:002011-12-21T12:32:30.798+11:00

This lady won $5,000 in the Buy Nothing New in October campaign, run by charity and second hand stores, by organising a kids clothes and toys swap in her local town of Lismore. She also has a great blog, and Facebook group.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-20652916721160201972011-12-17T12:53:00.005+11:002011-12-17T13:45:26.472+11:00

Our rainbow banana cakenew Bamboletta doll and doll carrierThis bag looks like funDis many!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-37130579052751922182011-12-17T07:43:00.006+11:002011-12-17T08:15:54.561+11:00

We had a family trip to Melbourne on the train yesterday for Liv's 3rd birthday. We saw the Myer Christmas windows from a distance (the queue was very, very long!), lucky we went to see them at the end of November, when we didn't have to wait long. And we just wandered around, soaking up the Christmas atmosphere, and tried to ignore the hype. We had lunch on the grass in the grounds of a

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-879623487696635462011-12-11T20:12:00.002+11:002011-12-11T20:15:01.080+11:00

To make way for new creative ideas, I'm having a quick sale, from now until midnight Monday 12th of December, 30% off all Etsy orders with the coupon code CHRISTMAS30 at checkout. Merry Christmas!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-49409565699826294522011-12-09T15:00:00.004+11:002011-12-09T15:21:50.612+11:00

I'm a bit slow off the mark with the quick change trousers pattern, I'd admired these cute little reversible pants for a good while. I finally bought a copy of Handmade Beginnings by Anna Maria Horner (I've been on the waiting list at the library for a while), and I whipped these up today. I didn't have many fabrics in my stash that were big enough, or co-ordinated, so I had to just use what I

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-89863653908025720762011-12-07T09:58:00.004+11:002011-12-07T10:05:57.244+11:00

For the funky little men in your life, find them here

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-73399261305140446122011-12-04T15:36:00.005+11:002011-12-04T16:07:08.898+11:00

Brightening up my kitchen, and making it smell ChristmassyJonty the cat, sitting next to some lavenderNew vintage pants in the shop, made from an op shop pillowcase, and some fabric scrapsWe are awaiting Andrew's return from his final business trip this year, Japan this time. He's on the highway back from the airport now. This is his 7th trip away in 6 months. I'd say he's been away from us

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-55961911751959668332011-11-25T13:40:00.002+11:002011-11-25T13:45:01.364+11:00

My good friend Bec is having a Christmas giveaway on her blog, a $30 spend in her gorgeous felted goods shop, as well as offering 10% off purchases in her Etsy shop. Hop to it!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-64346393541868664492011-11-25T08:22:00.003+11:002011-11-25T08:30:43.723+11:00

Balloons dressPinwheels dressGnomeville dress, size 3 onlyWith all the sewing for In.cube8r, and markets, the Etsy shop has been a little neglected. So I've finally been able to add a few new pieces, 2 from the gorgeous Sarah Jane's new fabric line, which can be custom made if I don't have the size you're after.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-47681298582367024702011-11-24T21:16:00.003+11:002011-11-24T21:27:42.561+11:00

Roma tomatoeswhite nectarines with bad leaf fungusRipening raspberryYoung raspberries (autumn fruiting!)baby zucchinisEverything is coming along very early in the garden this year, looks like it won't be long until we can start harvesting, and it's only November. I'm most confused by the autumn fruiting raspberries- they normally start fruiting around the end of January I think, summer hasn't

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-3269246015835657712011-11-13T14:46:00.003+11:002011-11-13T14:58:10.971+11:00

Calamity Jane from Apron Stringz and her Quiet Riot, thoughts on Fair Trade, and responsible consumption.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-4866949282076362572011-11-11T20:22:00.002+11:002011-11-11T20:31:28.320+11:00

I think I've sort of recovered from last weekend's (and last week's) busy market schedule! I've had a niggling cold this week, and generally felt tired, must learn to take it easy. Also, my Nana has come through a very risky heart surgery (yesterday), but has a long road to recovery ahead of her, it's a bit all over the place around here. So I'm having an Early Christmas sale in my Etsy shop

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-88425923585841397282011-11-04T07:12:00.003+11:002011-11-04T07:19:15.474+11:00

...until Ecofest. There have been some crazy amounts of sewing going on here lately, what with In.cube8r, Ecofest, and then 2 weeks ago I signed up for a market stall at our kinder's family fun day, which is on Sunday. So Ecofest tomorrow, and another market the day after- exciting, but I'll be glad when it's all over! I made 6 skirts on Tuesday (Melbourne Cup day- Andrew was home), and

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-4027461605934763572011-10-29T17:07:00.002+11:002011-10-29T17:23:00.381+11:00

So the girls have been laying their eggs under the passionfruit vine every morning. That's fine, but you have to twist your body around a bit to get them out, and it's not inside their run, so I have to let them free range until they lay, then herd them (or catch them), and put them back into their run. I'd heard that you could use old lawn mower catchers as nesting boxes, as they are nice and

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-34011512852592756012011-10-24T11:25:00.002+11:002011-10-24T11:32:01.387+11:00

Andrew spent yesterday afternoon constructing a chicken run, so we can have them confined to the back corner of our garden, but it appears they can get out of the gate- it's expanding bamboo trellis. I thought I might have to put a second one over it so the gaps at the bottom weren't too big. Anyway, it's a rainy old day here at the moment, so I don't mind that they escaped, and all 3 sat under

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-47258144772703820372011-10-23T17:21:00.004+11:002011-10-23T17:55:42.419+11:00

These packs of soap will be coming with me to Ecofest on Saturday the 5th of November. I packaged these up today with my little helper Evie, into biodegradable cellophane bags and jute string. There is only 10 packs, so if you're a handmade soap lover, you'd better get in early. I completely sold out last year. They make great Christmas presents, and of course, lovely treats for yourself. In

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-2528903006839467542011-10-23T13:43:00.006+11:002011-10-23T14:08:17.325+11:00

A lovely day again at the Freshwater Creek Steiner school's spring fair. A bit of an overcast rainy day didn't dampen enthusiasm, and we brought home a few handmade treats. Bec, your mushroom baby seems to have gone a little broody. Bec's bee brooch is in the background there too. Very cute!We also brought home a cat

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-84961246712486578712011-10-18T15:10:00.003+11:002011-10-18T15:28:48.056+11:00

We let the chookies out this afternoon, and while 2 of them came pretty much straight down near the back door and gate to have a feast on an aphid plagued nasturtium patch, one stayed up the back. Went down to see where she was, and I could hear her but not see her. On Sunday she hid behind the passionfruit vine, away from the wind, and that's where she was again today. I thought to myself

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-8334453441976272902011-10-18T08:07:00.003+11:002011-10-18T08:09:24.710+11:00

For those interested in such things, another egg was laid this morning, outside of the nesting box. It was already squashed, but I could see it was thin shelled, so progress I guess. Must get out earlier tomorrow.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-56897689698464543912011-10-17T08:41:00.003+11:002011-10-17T08:46:47.803+11:00

I got a bit excited when I saw a little egg in the nesting box this morning, so I grabbed my camera. Evie came out with me to have a look, but alas, when we pulled it out, it had no shell. You can see by the little indent that it only has the membrane. Apparently this can happen early on in egg laying. Hopefully we're close to some "proper" eggs.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-31446708022472830912011-10-14T16:55:00.008+11:002011-10-15T09:27:43.664+11:00

I don't know how many times this week Evie has said "I just love having chickens in our backyard." Liv's not so sure when they come close to her, but they're fine when they're in their house. 2 of them had a bit of a sit on the chair in the backyard today while they were free ranging, so we had a little photo shoot. Love those fluffy bums. They are named Henny Penny, Lola, and Star.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-38108060758735730132011-10-12T09:29:00.003+11:002011-10-12T09:36:14.161+11:00

It's so nice to hear positive feedback about the garments I make, a lady from Norway who bought two of my upcycled blanket dresses had this to say:Thank you for the lovely dresses you made. I am getting so many nice comments about them. Today one of the teachers in my daughters kindergarden said to me, " That dress with the buttons, that Kristine wore the other day, was amazing."And this from

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-59406257632167363552011-10-08T17:02:00.004+11:002011-10-08T17:15:46.189+11:00

Three 18 week old Isa Browns moved into the chicken house today. What a jam packed morning it was! Andrew played tennis this afternoon, and I had to stock In.cube8r this morning. So I went and bought the newspaper early this morning, so we could see what sort of chickens were available this weekend, pretty slim pickings. After I stocked the shop, it was a quick trip out to Mt. Duneed to buy 3

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-89753394242955253612011-10-06T13:49:00.007+11:002011-10-06T14:26:18.934+11:00

This is what Andrew's been up to while he's been off work for the last 2 weeks (back to work today)He has made a fabulous chicken house! And a batch of ginger beer, and other jobs around the house that we never find time to finish. It is bigger than it looks, another photo wouldn't load for me, but it showed the length a bit better. With any luck, there may be 2 or 3 residents for the chook

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-47422176429263997642011-10-04T15:06:00.004+11:002011-10-04T15:22:09.295+11:00

Some of the little cuties going to In.cube8r for next week's opening. I love the balloon and pinwheel fabrics, so cute and girly. I'll have 2-3 of each design in the shop, in different sizes.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-12759989482978027012011-10-02T14:48:00.005+11:002011-10-02T14:56:26.012+11:00

I'm sewing up a storm at the moment as I have signed up for In.cube8r, which is opening in Geelong on the 12th of October. In.cube8r is a shop space that rents out glass cubes and clothing racks to artists and makers for a weekly fee, and takes no commissions on sales. It's kind of like having a market all the time, without having to be there, they do the selling for you. I might give you a

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-45116917457626848712011-09-26T14:48:00.003+10:002011-09-26T14:53:11.686+10:00

Outfit- model's own, styled by herself. All hand-me-downs, very eco chicClose runner up

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-90346064470511653742011-09-23T20:06:00.013+10:002011-09-23T21:32:13.506+10:00

Today we went up to Ceres environment park and Collingwood children's farm- Andrew is on 2 weeks annual leave (yay- he's been travelling so much lately!), and we thought we'd beat the school holiday crowds, as today is the last day of term 3 in Victoria. It's been at least 6 years since we went to Ceres (pre kids), and it has changed a bit. The nursery has moved, and there is a dedicated area

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-32533415981923908462011-09-20T13:31:00.003+10:002011-09-20T13:53:52.680+10:00

So Reflex Paper was stripped of its FSC (forest stewardship council) certification, because they are using trees from Victorian old growth forests rather than plantations and recycled paper. This is also a major threat to endangered species. There's a pledge you can make, to stop buying Reflex paper and stop shopping at Officeworks until they stop stocking reflex paper. Have a look here for

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-49536072037281604542011-09-16T10:17:00.002+10:002011-09-16T10:47:43.691+10:00

Sideways guacamole pictureMy second batch of guacamole for the week, it is sooo good, especially on organic sourdough ciabatta. With a massive amounts of coriander in the garden, I had to find some ways to use it up, it will bolt to seed as soon as the weather heats up. I wonder how long our avocado trees will take to bear fruit? We'll be able to use our own tomatoes and chillies in it soon.3

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-22484430406299010022011-09-09T16:23:00.006+10:002011-09-09T17:02:06.081+10:00

Rainbow chard, coriander, lettuce, strawberries. Will be making guacamole tomorrow with the coriander, and some limes given to us. Can't wait!Rainbow chard, garlic, leeks, lettuce, chives, oregano, nasturtiums, avocado tree, dwarf apple & pear trees.Raspberries, passionfruit behind. Everything looks better with a fresh layer of mulch.Rainbow chard, strawberries, lettuce, coriander,

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-49114185221883591522011-09-02T09:22:00.002+10:002011-09-02T09:29:12.897+10:00

"Spring is, spring is, spring is here at last!" - Charlie & Lola Welcome, my second favourite time of year

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-66695830679136569482011-09-01T10:11:00.002+10:002011-09-01T10:13:17.862+10:00

Drumroll please.... Bec is the lucky winner of $30 to spend in my shop! I have emailed you, now you can make your choice of prize. Thanks to all who entered, it was lovely to read all those comments.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-61316251559308397562011-08-25T10:50:00.002+10:002011-08-25T10:56:09.507+10:00

In winter! Grapevines are bud bursting already. Can't blame climate change can we? Must be another freak weather event.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-49315496796210452112011-08-24T11:18:00.006+10:002011-08-24T11:31:57.734+10:00

It's about time I had a giveaway... So one lucky person will win $30 to spend in my shop. All you have to do is have a look at my shop, and tell me which item is your favourite, and comment on this post. To gain additional entries, you can tell your facebook or twitter friends, or mention it in your own blog post with a link to my blog. So that's up to 4 entries per person. Just in time

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-87789629457433493922011-08-18T15:53:00.005+10:002011-08-18T20:48:40.136+10:00

I found a gorgeous blanket in an op shop this week, perfect for another blanket dress. It's now available for custom order in my shop. 100% Australian wool, Australian made blanket and dress. Again, it looks much better in real life, the camera flash has washed it out a little.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-12823752507925984712011-08-14T16:45:00.008+10:002011-08-14T17:14:38.187+10:00

Swallows in my kitchen from Love Mae Removable birch wall paper from the Wall Sticker Company Both of my parents have asked (separately) if I'm doing the whole wall, so it obviously looks funny as just one section. I plan to hang something on the hook on the right hand side, might make it look less bizarre hopefully. Haunted Houses from Wendy June Poppy's Puddle by Belle & Boo Whale by Bride &

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-72565315008283938982011-08-13T15:38:00.002+10:002011-08-13T16:06:34.725+10:00

So I baked my first sourdough loaf yesterday. A bit of a dense pancake. It had the sourdough taste, but was not great. It is now in the compost bin. The starter bubbled away nicely, maybe I need more practice. The starter is sitting in my fridge now, while I decide whether to have another go.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-52902986455867612562011-08-13T12:33:00.006+10:002011-08-13T15:25:22.491+10:00

Owl & baby from Bride & Wolfe "I wish I was a real girl" wall hanging by LoveHate, from Design Doctor Flying ducks from Delilah Devine I've been doing a little decorating around the house (hopefully Andrew will see this before he boards a plane to come home so he won't be shocked!), there is also a small section of wall paper behind the TV that I'm not sure how to photograph well (not that the

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-84435522498273483852011-08-08T10:47:00.003+10:002011-08-08T11:18:14.956+10:00

Day 3 of making a sourdough starterI've decided to try sourdough bread baking, so here's the beginnings of my starter- organic spelt flour and pure water, in a pottery bowl on the kitchen bench. I'm using the method as described in Frugavore, but with spelt flour instead of organic rye, as I read a few people's experiences using rye, and having it not work for them. It should take about 6 days,

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-70893283832359571682011-08-03T10:51:00.002+10:002011-08-03T10:56:54.238+10:00

until Sunday 7th August at midnight, use the code Freeship11 at checkout in my shop. Thanks for looking!This code is for Australian buyers only.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-39649089145421847592011-08-02T15:30:00.006+10:002011-08-02T15:44:44.402+10:00

This fabric was too cute, so I had to make a few dresses for the shopI'm just restocking after Maia's Market, and freshening up the shop a bit for Spring. Feels like it's already here, 20 degrees today!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-2821266509412701352011-08-02T14:43:00.004+10:002011-08-02T14:52:52.199+10:00

A group of us from church/ Ecofest went out to the Dog Rocks at Batesford for National Tree Day on Sunday.But alas, by the time we got there, all the tree planting had been done.So we had a play on the Dog Rocks insteadThis is all we planted on national tree day, an acacia "limelight", to replace one that died last summer.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-81061500831872997652011-07-25T15:11:00.003+10:002011-07-25T15:24:46.829+10:00

The other week I won a blog giveaway over at Softearth's World, a gorgeous little sweetpea fairy on a swing. Evie has claimed her for her bedroom, she loves sweetpeas in the garden. She hangs up next to Evie's bed, thanks Marie!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-36536615259257759752011-07-24T14:37:00.002+10:002011-07-24T14:54:11.294+10:00

Wow, what a busy, and very successful day yesterday at Maia's Market! This photo doesn't show my whole stall very well, with the rack you can only see part of in the front there, but it was the busiest partof my stall, and I came home with only about half of it left! It was the most sales I've ever done in a day, with lots of positive feedback. This market had a really nice vibe to it, and I

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-86793217585216933032011-07-14T10:21:00.003+10:002011-07-14T10:35:45.466+10:00

A new couch arrived this morning. It's a bit bigger than I thought it would be! We bought it with vouchers that Andrew is given at work when he does a really good job (or something), it's nice to be able to put all the vouchers together and get something big that we can all share. It was getting a little cramped with all 4 of us squished onto the 2 seater (the new one is a 2.5 seater), and the

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-28464197983971149232011-07-11T15:58:00.007+10:002011-07-11T16:13:00.166+10:00

I've been making up a few Echino pants for Maia's Market (less than 2 weeks to go now). I love Echino fabric, and I think the linen/cotton blend is perfect for little pants and I will have a few skirts too. They are all sized 2+, being full length at about 2 years of age, and becoming cropped as the child grows.Don't you love the colours?I found Evie giving her doll a go on a flying fox. Kids

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-64991740818479037412011-07-04T15:47:00.003+10:002011-07-04T15:53:13.847+10:00

This ad has been blocked from airing on TV, so you'll just have to go here to watch it:http://noharveyno.net/I don't shop there anyway, but definitely won't be now!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-81123947830207988162011-07-02T14:14:00.002+10:002011-07-02T19:45:39.853+10:00

Size 5/6

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-75655069239092315232011-07-02T12:28:00.000+10:002011-07-02T12:28:56.385+10:00

Powerful Video of Bill McKibben's Extreme Weather Oped

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-41863420066358436132011-07-01T17:57:00.004+10:002011-07-01T18:21:23.346+10:00

Evie turned 5 on Wednesday. Only now have I been able to upload photos from the 'good' camera, I always have problems uploading from the DSLR.New Quadrilla "Try Me" set. (Marble run)Pass the parcel with besties Cerise & GusA little party with friends before kinder in the afternoon.She wanted a cat fairy party. This is desert with Nana & PaMiaow!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-12205869892425802422011-06-27T09:55:00.003+10:002011-06-27T10:01:09.492+10:00

This new series, Made By Hand sounds fantastic, I think chanel 31 is 44 on the digital numbers now. The Ink & Spindle girls will be on it, and it features Melbourne crafts people, a very talented and creative bunch. Can't wait!Wednesdays at 8:30pm, ch 31

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-4547768895400381622011-06-24T11:05:00.004+10:002011-06-24T11:39:58.277+10:00

Here's a little tunic dress that mum knitted for Evie, I bought the Noro (Aya) wool and Noro Kids book. I love how the colours turn out, you never quite know what you're going to get. Mum didn't like the wool though, she said it kept breaking. The dress is called Eva.Excuse the pasty face, she's recovering from a nasty cold.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-50123699423416135122011-06-23T09:00:00.002+10:002011-06-23T09:12:28.244+10:00

A candle for yesterday's winter solstice. Last night was spent hovering over Evie with a high temperature, as she slept on and off, and mostly refused water. Kiddie medicine did not help the temperature, which was a bit unnerving. She's a bit flat this morning, but eating potato chips/crisps for breakfast- terrible, but she wasn't going to eat anything else, I don't normally have them in the

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-31096941792042500302011-06-22T08:24:00.005+10:002011-06-22T09:05:48.808+10:00

So here's our bathroom vanity unit in its almost finished state. Andrew has toiled away in the shed over the last few months (not every day of course!) making this vanity for our bathroom, out of recycled timber. Those white moulded plasticky looking ones just weren't doing it for me, I wanted something a little more organic, so Andrew rose to the challenge, testing out his woodworking skills.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-54907241300983283162011-06-18T08:47:00.001+10:002011-06-18T08:47:52.818+10:00

IMG_1377, a photo by anryan3215 on Flickr.We had planned to go down to Lorne last Monday (public holiday), but after much threatening to spew from Evie, we decided to abandon the windy road and go to Anglesea instead. We went to Coogarah park, where there is a fantastic playground, and waterway with ducks, frogs and fish. The girls enjoyed being in the great outdoors on this fine winter's day.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-80505800560432412822011-06-11T13:00:00.004+10:002011-06-11T13:11:33.452+10:00

My first time using Umbrella Prints screen printed fabric, these elephants are a bit of fun. The pants are upcycled from a women's pair of Mountain Designs canvas pants, and are now in the shop.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-4630564191143165892011-06-05T16:41:00.004+10:002011-06-05T16:52:39.239+10:00

Today we were part of a 10,000 strong crowd rallying for action on climate change, outside the state library in Melbourne.The rain held off for us, and it was a nice winter's day.I hope it makes a difference...

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-73279805688231937272011-06-04T16:46:00.003+10:002011-06-04T17:01:51.068+10:00

New pants in the shop, a colour combination I haven't done before, but I quite like it.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-60952303071269825952011-06-01T16:15:00.004+10:002011-06-01T16:22:59.367+10:00

Evie gave herself a haircut today for the FIRST TIME! I think we've done well to get this far without a DIY haircut, and she did a pretty good job, I only had to even it up a little bit. So now she has a fringe.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-43363119091407467842011-05-30T11:25:00.005+10:002011-05-30T11:33:21.246+10:00

...is wafting though my house. This batch of lavender and almond meal soap is 3 weeks old tomorrow, almost ready to use.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-64207816668677115002011-05-28T15:15:00.003+10:002011-05-28T15:24:32.970+10:00

I just love this coat from Belle & Boo, it really suits Evie, and she loves it too. She needed it on this cool late autumn afternoon.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-51121762455283536342011-05-23T15:00:00.004+10:002011-05-23T15:05:05.671+10:00

From now until the end of May, you can use the code MAY15 in my Etsy shop to get 15% off your order.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-40898062653649344452011-05-21T09:08:00.002+10:002011-05-21T09:11:16.882+10:00

My smock top made with Belle & Boo fabric was featured on the Belle & Boo blog yesterday, very exciting. Evie is modelling it, but the photo is just the back of her. Scroll down to the end of this post. Thanks Mandy!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-9941161945378406742011-05-19T11:03:00.002+10:002011-05-19T11:07:23.084+10:00

Will be held on Sunday the 5th of June at the State Library (Melbourne) at 11am. The battle is not yet won, I plan to be there to show my support.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-49192039918182271122011-05-16T15:41:00.007+10:002011-05-16T15:59:51.208+10:00

Red riding hood dressEchino Grassy Plains dressI've been able to do a little bit of sewing over the last few days- the bathroom had taken over my laundry (sewing) room while it was being renovated, things are slowly getting back to normal. I've sold quite a few pieces from my Etsy shop over the last few weeks, so I thought a little restock was in order. 2 new dresses in size 5, and there's also

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-23154969802130155752011-05-14T13:08:00.004+10:002011-05-14T13:34:15.840+10:00

Slowly getting there, the vanity is there for show at the moment, nothing is plumbed yet, and doors/shelves still to go in. This week the floor grouting was finished, and the shower screen was installed. Like my Country Road mosaic towels? $15 for the set at the op shop. It only had one bath towel though, but was able to buy another matching one at Myer for $40 (!) Ah well, complete set for

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-91087223184485066322011-05-09T15:26:00.004+10:002011-05-09T15:35:05.835+10:00

I got to spend the morning with my girls before we had a wedding in Melbourne yesterday, a stroll down to the local shopping strip to buy a newspaper, before packing bags so the girls could have a sleep over at nana and pa's house. We got home after midnight, waaaay past my bed time. My eyes are feeling a little heavy right now. I'm amazed at how solidly I slept for 5 hours before the sun came

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-53926736775580484022011-05-04T10:38:00.003+10:002011-05-04T10:51:21.560+10:00

Liv's new Chook Leaf shoesInk & Spindle birch forest lamp shadeLots of people like the combination of red and aqua, it's bright, happy, and has a bit of a retro vibe about it I guess. There's a flickr group dedicated to this colour combination. The shoes are pretty sweet too.Yesterday, we were in Melbourne for my uncle's funeral. On the way home, we stopped in the city to pick up this lamp

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-16733554152649756812011-05-02T10:55:00.005+10:002011-05-02T11:05:59.965+10:00

I completed this little project over the Easter weekend whilst the bathroom renovations was going on. I have been meaning to reupholster this for about 3 years or so, but was inspired by this one by Patch Andi, so set about cutting up my Ink & Spindle (and a few Yardage design) fabrics. Apart from a few wrinkles, I'm pretty happy with the outcome. I made a cushion to match, but I plan to make

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-26996227115880030792011-04-28T17:58:00.001+10:002011-04-28T17:58:26.270+10:00

Bathroom Reno - Day 7 or 8 or something, a photo by anryan3215 on Flickr.Slowly but surely getting there. I tried my hand at grouting today, got half a wall done. Not a fun job!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-35419930162473514532011-04-25T08:00:00.001+10:002011-04-25T08:00:37.973+10:00

Bathroom Reno - Day 5, a photo by anryan3215 on Flickr.The tiling began at about 5:30pm yesterday! A full day of tiling today I think!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-79791071573559577682011-04-24T16:50:00.002+10:002011-04-24T16:54:08.355+10:00

Ours has been full of children vomiting and continuing bathroom renovations. What a fun mix. Evie discovered the Easter bunny had been at about 11pm last night- very excited, even after a spew. 4 or 5 loads of washing later, I'm ready to call it a day. Takeaway tonight please.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-13541037794910506092011-04-22T15:52:00.000+10:002011-04-22T15:54:17.692+10:00

Just after we moved in

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-64752825231073220402011-04-22T15:26:00.001+10:002011-04-22T15:26:01.072+10:00

00012, a photo by anryan3215 on Flickr.Part of the original bathroom

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-57942606645910759512011-04-22T15:20:00.001+10:002011-04-22T15:20:37.647+10:00

Bathroom Reno - End of Day 2, a photo by anryan3215 on Flickr.What en exciting way to spend your Easter weekend- renovating your bathroom! It was high time to pull out the terrazzo, in favour of something shiny and new (and waterproof!) You can see above the newly installed bath some dark areas where water was damaging the walls, through to the kitchen on the other side. We'll be tiling up to

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-55813901520711103852011-04-19T13:32:00.005+10:002011-04-19T13:42:52.111+10:00

I was inspired by Lara's new door snake that she made from her screen printed (Ink & Spindle) fabrics, and whipped this up before lunch today. My old door snake I hastily made just after we moved in here in Winter 2008, I have had to fix many times- it was made of quilter's cotton, and I didn't double stitch it (rice explosions were frequent!). So this new one is made from hemp/cotton fabrics,

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-52417397177653185562011-04-15T15:51:00.003+10:002011-04-15T16:04:37.191+10:00

Upcycled pants with Ink & Spindle pocketEchino Perch skirtEchino Story skirtJust a few items I've been making over the last few weeks, finally had some time and nice weather to photograph and upload to Etsy. I had to have a play with my favourites from the new Echino range, and I've sold a few pairs of upcycled pants lately, so I need to make a few more pairs. Evie thinks she'd like to keep all

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-73656031988724411012011-04-13T11:50:00.004+10:002011-04-13T12:31:30.988+10:00

I chose ink & spindle's kangaroo paw print in red, and it arrived yesterday. I immediately set to work recovering this old beauty. I removed the old fabric Sunday night, sanded and beeswax polished the wood on Monday, and spent most of the day yesterday reupholstering, finishing the hand stitched back piece before going to bed last night. I'm quite happy with the result, though I don't think

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-50223522547210797442011-04-07T22:02:00.004+10:002011-04-07T22:20:01.823+10:00

Today I found this chair for free in someone's front yard not far from my house, on the way home from kinder. And old lady's house had recently been sold, and today was moving day. They left a few things in the front yard with a 'Free' sign on them. I saw this chair and knew it was coming home with me, so I lifted it on top of the pusher, and kept walking home. I've been wanting a nice chair

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-69085990379344074312011-03-14T10:51:00.009+11:002011-03-14T11:12:31.878+11:00

Evie's first rallyClever placardsMeWhat a buzz to be one of 7,000 odd people coming together to show support for a price on carbon. This was a counter rally to an anti-carbon tax protest held outside our prime minister's office in her electorate. They only drew a crowd of 400. We caught the train to Melbourne with my mum & dad and our girls, caught a tram to Treasury Gardens where the rally

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-7626559761323134662011-03-09T09:48:00.003+11:002011-03-09T10:16:33.450+11:00

I bought some fabric on Etsy, and it arrived in a different colour way than I ordered, but I think it's quite cute, so I made a couple pairs of pants/long shorts- they fit at around 2 years old, and become long shorts as the child grows. You can find them here.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-35076487279223857722011-03-07T12:09:00.002+11:002011-03-07T12:20:34.085+11:00

We'll be heading to Melbourne on Saturday for a peaceful gathering, to show our country that we support a carbon tax to help combat climate change. There's a lot of scare mongering going on, focusing on how much everything is going to cost with a carbon tax, yet if people change their ways, they may actually save some money, whilst polluting less = the main aim of a carbon tax.This is from GetUp

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-88861476912714616622011-02-26T18:57:00.002+11:002011-02-26T20:33:49.044+11:00

Am I boring you yet? And here's another treasury from yesterday- Autumn in Australia

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-87781042091436941892011-02-25T14:03:00.006+11:002011-02-25T14:10:59.827+11:00

Here's a little sneak peak at what I'm working on, some little pinafores for winter/trans-seasonal wear. They are made with Echino fabric on the front, and upcycled denim from women's skirts on the back.Looks like there have been some little fingers on the camera lens, need to clean it!

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3734409318210017300.post-59330413196560853572011-02-23T14:37:00.002+11:002011-02-23T14:46:31.395+11:00

This is the rose Evie is named after, smells beautiful, just like a rose should.

Aliciahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09184380133870047046noreply@blogger.com0