tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12426580434977644432012-02-03T21:36:28.828+11:00Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.comBlogger2281100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-82337129667871802242012-02-02T17:22:00.007+11:002012-02-02T17:45:39.665+11:00

I don't like it when my boat is rocked; when there is a spanner in my works; when there us a hornet in my nest. Things have been going along oh so well. Long summer days, happy (and mostly healthy) children, settling in and feeling at home here in the new-old house. But this home is not ours. When we sold up and moved to Melbourne we decided to rent for a while, find what we like and wait for me

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-58455399576472861242012-02-01T09:54:00.007+11:002012-02-01T10:12:26.927+11:00

The summer holidays are over too soon. With weeks filled with visitors and trips away, the days have disappeared. Our list of things to do still has many lines uncrossed - already waiting for the next holiday. The big girl is in grade 1 this year. Someone heading towards two full steam ahead. When does it slow down?

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-11090955731440329322012-01-10T16:30:00.004+11:002012-01-10T17:55:07.537+11:00

Anyone with children knows that the school holidays are here and well underway. Christmas and New Years are done and the hot weeks spread lazily out in front of us. At the 'new old-house' the holidays seem to be whizzing by already as we have a lot of visitors and visits planned. But, there is no doubt there will be days that will seem to last forever....At the start of every school holidays we

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-57552267506780516392011-11-17T16:26:00.004+11:002011-11-17T16:42:36.977+11:00

21 month old Minnie in Hong Kong - catching a few zzzz'sWe all have stories about travelling with children; the good, the bad and those so ugly that they can never be repeated, ever until the end of time. We have heard many tips and tricks, some of which can backfire in amazing fashion (sedatives that don't sedate). But we all know that even with all the bad bits, travelling with children can

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-62827276134991374982011-11-10T11:11:00.006+11:002011-11-10T11:35:44.241+11:00

Don't worry - you do not need to rush to the news agent or your local news stand. In fact you don't even have to move from where you are reading this now. Follow this link and enjoy the Winter (US) edition of this super little online magazine. The photo above is of some handmade goodies that accompany my story on traveling with children. For more great products and all the who, where, and how to

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-86695202765072902042011-11-02T12:11:00.005+11:002011-11-02T12:34:08.532+11:00

Late one night in Tokyo, Steve captured as all in a content moment of sleep...Sleeping has been a long running issue in our house; about 5 and 3/4 years long in fact. Before that, it was generally great with lots of Sunday mornings spent in bed and pretty much 8 hours solid sleep every night. But with the arrival of the little people it's been problematic to say the very least. And this Mama is

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-81320425025255781392011-09-29T09:47:00.007+10:002011-09-29T10:49:18.418+10:00

It has only taken 5 and a bit months but the machine is out, dusted off and temporarily set up in the dinning/play room. I have been reluctant to get it out, given I no longer have a dedicated sewing room. In the move from Sydney to Melbourne we lost a few rooms along the way and we are still getting used to the different spaces we have. It always seemed like such an effort to get out the sewing

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-89670043206540168092011-09-20T11:24:00.006+10:002011-09-20T11:50:44.400+10:00

We love to eat. We love to eat lots. Don't include Minnie in this - she likes to eat a few things and little amounts of them. You can however include Louis as he is happy to give anything a go. Going to Japan got us super excited about all that we could eat. Here is some of the food that we enjoyed eating and looking at.The empty plate was what was left of the most delicious Yakatori. Yakatori

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-19480981770078998212011-09-13T13:15:00.005+10:002011-09-13T13:27:41.687+10:00

We have been away on holidays and now we are back, a little tired and in some ways, sad to be home. We went away to one of the most vibrant, alluring, enthralling and instantly 'fall-in-love-with' cities in the world. Tokyo. What a place.There will be lots more for you to see but here is the beginning.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-3598354427686371502011-08-05T11:41:00.005+10:002011-08-07T19:00:47.391+10:00

For me, braised red cabbage is winter. It epitomises the cooler months; the months that make us crave warm and comforting food. This dish is sweet and a little sour and full of flavour. And the colour (not captured too well here) is amazing.This dish is a fantastic accompaniment to pork. I make plenty so I can eat it the next day and the day after that, just as it is. I also love red cabbage that

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-3626207854263329572011-08-01T11:37:00.009+10:002011-08-01T16:14:01.296+10:00

(A cute Louis photo, my own modern handmade child)Sometimes when I am organised (hmmm, that's not very often, I hear you say) I write for Modern Handmade Child, a super fabulous digital magazine all about families, making things, parenting and celebrating the 'handmade.'I have been really fortunate to be able to interview some of my all time favourite Australian crafty people and have grand plans

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-15900082045113235802011-06-19T15:14:00.006+10:002011-06-19T15:43:20.991+10:00

Since the move to Melbourne 2 months ago my sewing machine has remained under its cover, hiding away. I think she is starting to feel unloved and not needed. Poor thing. I have gotten close to pulling her out of the shelves and removing her cover, unveiling her. But I can't remember where I have put the woollen suiting I am thinking about and I don't know which box holds the patterns for jackets

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-73813653873004556512011-05-17T11:02:00.003+10:002011-05-17T14:49:46.643+10:00

Some mornings this is what we see from the back of the new house. Silently floating across the morning sky. Making us smile.Good morning, Melbourne - I hope you have a lovely day.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-90082351338297468462011-05-10T17:53:00.002+10:002011-05-10T18:16:15.171+10:00

Our baby turned one on Sunday. One whole year of being here, with us. Of course it seems like he has always been here, making us smile. He loves to dance and sing and brings us the remotes to turn the stereo on. He stands in front of the speakers waiting to hear the tunes and starts bopping to the beat. If we talk about dancing, he will dance. He is loves to play chase up the long hall here at

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-55335280435679614842011-04-23T18:15:00.006+10:002011-04-23T18:35:19.831+10:00

The last few months have been crazy. Truly freakin' crazy. We got the house ready for sale, difficult as it was with Steve only home on weekends, but we did it. We listed it on the market and it sold within a few days. It was sad. Sad to say good bye to our Blue House. An exhausting end.So much has happened in this 3 months. Louis started walking just after he turned 10 months. Stella fell in

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-50036069944773832792011-02-22T11:26:00.002+11:002011-02-22T11:28:37.319+11:00

And I can't remember what it was like without him.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-64349672351663853512011-01-29T15:54:00.005+11:002011-01-29T16:14:22.950+11:00

The purge has started. It should have started weeks ago but a non day (and night) sleeping baby means I am a little behind in 'Operation Get this House sorted so we can sell It.'I need to offload a whole lotta stuff and hopefully this is where some of you may be able to help. I need to find a home for our piano (sniff, sniff), some furniture, lots of fabric and a TV. There will be more as this is

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-71975136782174901932011-01-25T21:49:00.004+11:002011-01-25T22:24:33.996+11:00

The days are disappearing so quickly.Before our very surprised eyes the big girl has turned 5.5 years old. Not a baby anymore. Not a pre-schooler for much longer. 1 week away from the most awaited day in her life. She has been wearing her uniform at every available opportunity since November last year. She is bursting at the seams to get there. I am the one who has to stop my self from telling

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-62569211416362211612011-01-06T17:21:00.005+11:002011-01-06T18:10:04.720+11:00

But I am still here. We are all here and well and happy. Back from a cold Christmas on the little island.Some very big changes ahead. Very big indeed. A new year and soon a new place to call home. But not just yet. Time for sorting and renovating and packing. Time for a first day at school. Time to sit on the beach and to miss it already.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-7633871616153247602010-11-12T08:17:00.005+11:002010-11-12T08:26:16.309+11:00

Louis is 6 months. Well now 6 months and 4 days to be exact.He is crawling now in his own special way. It's much like a caterpillar. A very cute caterpillar.He has started eating some purees and isn't really that interested. He will have a little avocado or mango or some veggies or as is the photo, some raspberries and pear. But not much yet as its early days. He still drinks what seems like

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-584687664574651222010-10-19T15:04:00.005+11:002010-10-22T10:01:25.864+11:00

I am very lucky. I know that some women find breastfeeding incredibly difficult to establish and for some, they are never able to get it right. For some women this inability to feed their babies must be devastating. I know that I am lucky.But it wasn't easy for me with Minnie or Louis. I had attachment problems, cracked nipples, thrush, mastitis, pain and discomfort. But I am pig headed. I kept

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-30716747480540207522010-10-15T07:57:00.004+11:002010-10-15T08:17:33.145+11:00

Tonight at 7.00pm there will people be going about their evening. Starting dinner, reading bed time stories, pouring a glass of wine or waiting for their friends at the bar. People will be tidying up, washing up, putting out the rubbish or taking the dog for a walk. People will be surfing the web, ironing their shirts, or nervously waiting for their date to arrive.But at 7.00pm in some houses, in

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-21047734392681060312010-10-13T14:17:00.005+11:002010-10-13T14:32:44.969+11:00

This strange spring. Some days are sunny and warm and perfect for toes in the sand. Others, are grey and cloudy and just right for a cosy hat and a cuddle with Daddy at the beach.Louis is 5 months now. Well 5 and a bit months. He is trying to crawl and loves rolling around the room. He laughs and giggles and thinks that the dog catching the ball is wonderful. But not as wonderful as his

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-14596713086029862542010-09-28T13:15:00.006+10:002010-09-28T13:37:24.996+10:00

Some of you may disagree but we think that cake represents a necessary food group so it rightfully has taken a place on this weeks menu at the Blue House.I always use the recipe from 'Central Cookery Book.' Every true Tasmanian will know about his book written by the wonderful Miss A.C. Irvine, the late former Mistress of Domestic Sciences with the Education Department in Tasmania. Miss Irvine

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-82978840263385714952010-09-24T08:24:00.004+10:002010-09-24T18:12:57.700+10:00

I didn't mean to be gone from here for so long. The 11th and 12th came and went. We had a happy/sad weekend - playing in the sun and the sand, eating great food and enjoying every second of what we have while being very much aware of what was missing. We were sent some beautiful balloons from a lovely friend and we released the great big butterfly balloon. We watched it float away and we kept

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-44449610214378135152010-09-11T18:17:00.004+10:002010-09-11T18:45:43.658+10:00

It is 2 years today since our sweet Alice Buttons was born. Tomorrow it will be 2 years since she died.2 years.After 2 years I have nothing profound to say about life and about death. Nothing insightful or all that meaningful. Life can be short. Death can be unexpected and unfair and at the wrong time. I have learned that people don't like talk about death. And when you say you had a baby that

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-81164670398219957682010-09-08T11:55:00.004+10:002010-09-08T12:02:50.650+10:00

A big cloth nappy bum. So cute on a tiny little person. Little legs sticking out from the layers and layers of cotton, bamboo and soft velvety fabrics.Now that the weather is getting warmer and the sun is shinning a little more, I am finally going to start using washable nappies more often. When I was pregnant with Louis I posted about my plans to use modern cloth nappies as I was (and still am)

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-19387999956888125022010-09-03T16:17:00.003+10:002010-09-03T16:45:54.942+10:00

Even with a few tears she looks gorgeous. They all are. Perfect. Even when some of them don't sleep, when one of them snores and when the fluffy yellow one barks. Even when they drive me banana's, when they don't eat their dinner or when the fluffy yellow one eats the babies toys. They are perfect.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-14391133811744985142010-08-31T09:45:00.004+10:002010-08-31T10:18:54.350+10:00

Every Saturday morning I sit down with a pile of cook books and food magazines and work out our menu for the week. I pour over the pages fantasising about long and involved dishes with time consuming sauces or desserts that take hours and many pints of cream to prepare. Then I make the list of practical, fast(ish) and varied meals that we will actually be having. Some meals will be 'Minnie

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-54607675494814705592010-08-29T16:04:00.004+10:002010-08-29T16:24:58.827+10:00

As the sun begins to shine here after what feels like months of rain and grey skies it became quite apparent that the boy needed a hat. The winter beanies were not going to protect those sweet cheeks from the harsh sun. So I found this Purl Bee pattern online and rushed one up. When I say rushed, I mean it. The stitching is all over the place, the bias tape I made is very odd, and I had to trim

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-73324151930258144572010-08-19T09:05:00.007+10:002010-08-19T09:19:52.740+10:00

I stole enough minutes this week to make a very simple appliqued top for baby Louis. It's a profile of our great big golden retriever Molly made using some cotton fabric fit for a boy. I used a straight stitch for the applique this time, rather than my usual zig-zag.Simple. Fast. But not as cute as the boy in it.More creative spaces found here.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-50362781812614994112010-08-18T12:58:00.006+10:002010-08-18T17:18:11.611+10:00

Minnie dotes on her little brother and her adjustment to his arrival has been fairly smooth sailing. I guess that given the age difference, Minnie is old enough to understand why much of my time has been consumed by caring for the baby. Generally she has been OK with this but of course there are days when she really demands time that I just don't have. There have been a few meltdowns but given

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-90712394228706467542010-08-12T15:29:00.008+10:002010-08-12T16:01:32.044+10:00

I am starting to get some major withdrawal symptoms as a result of my lack of sewing. Sewing with an attached 13 week old baby is not that easy. Since Louis' arrival I have literally sewn half a seahorse softie and mended 2 holes. That's it. Only today have I started to unpack my fabric stash. Before Louis was born we did some minor renovations in which I gave up a large sewing room in exchange

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-89154578426174039162010-08-03T14:05:00.003+10:002010-08-03T14:15:57.299+10:00

I know they are called 'cookies' these days but when I was growing up we ate biscuits. We ate homemade ANZAC's, jam drops, afghans, and melting moments. And we ate cornflake and sultana biscuits, kiss biscuits and my mothers outstanding shortbread. Although I loved them all, sometimes I got a little envious of the girls at school with their perfect looking machine made biscuits. In primary

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-16948311510781876672010-07-30T14:41:00.010+10:002010-07-30T15:32:11.125+10:00

Time seems to be going so quickly. I want to stop it, slow it down, bottle it and keep it forever. Louis is growing so quickly and Minnie is about to commence a pre-kinder programme at her future school. I can't believe that Minnie will be at school 5 days a week. It makes me cry thinking that after all this time, we will be apart every day between 9 and 3. She is ready, I am not...I haven't had

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-85467515608204447282010-07-18T14:10:00.004+10:002010-07-18T14:30:53.631+10:00

10 days...And now 10 weeks...A smiling face and those sweet gurgling sounds of a baby talking are perfect days.Watching the big sister and the baby brother together is no doubt some of the most wonderful time of my life.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-62950975395034378242010-07-06T15:48:00.001+10:002010-07-06T15:53:27.817+10:00

I hope your day, your week, and your year is full of smiles. I think ours will be.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-16348546931736619382010-06-09T14:38:00.004+10:002010-06-09T14:49:25.437+10:00

Scenes from the past month...

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-8621082503767390562010-05-19T10:46:00.004+10:002010-05-19T11:32:34.232+10:00

Louis at 10 days old - double digits already... I have so much to write about his birth and the past 10 days but all I can muster is a sentance or two. Some feeding problems are starting to settle down, which is great news for my nipples. Sleeping, well sleeping comes easy in our arms and snuggled next to me at night. For now that is fine. Who would want to be anywhere else?And a heartfelt

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-19429886465136120162010-05-14T08:25:00.007+10:002010-05-14T08:43:03.249+10:00

Rachael and Steve are overjoyed to announce the arrival of Louis Franz Ashman FritscheA gorgeous baby brother for Minnie and Alice(dec)Born Saturday 8th May at 2.10pmNatural birth, very fast second stage...Perfect in every way. More details and photos in the days to come.(Sorry about the photo quality - I haven't downloaded the photos yet. This an iphone shot taken the day after Louis' birth)

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-80149903600342326732010-05-07T09:09:00.001+10:002010-05-07T09:11:52.028+10:00

Waiting - it's almost too much for all of us...

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-11596186817836421632010-05-04T11:54:00.008+10:002010-05-04T12:55:51.479+10:00

The title is a little misleading as we don't actually have a nursery. We never used one with Minnie as she slept in our room (mostly in our bed) for about 2 years. We, personally, cannot imagine coming home from hospital and putting our tiny, newborn baby in another room in the house. For us, we all sleep better in the one room. The baby is close for feeding and changing and the incessant

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-49172170075426930312010-05-03T07:58:00.005+10:002010-05-03T08:13:55.285+10:00

The waiting is almost too much. Having no control over when this baby will arrive is hard - letting go and 'going with the flow' is not easy for me. I can be impatient. I am being impatient. I need a sign that it will be soon. I know that it will have to be sometime in the next 2 or so weeks. But 2 weeks is a long time when you are overdue and overwrought. 2 weeks is a long time in a pregnancy,

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-41297393857809202742010-04-24T16:49:00.004+10:002010-04-24T17:13:17.107+10:00

I am still here in all my roundness. Still feeling great, albeit increasingly impatient. More restless. And more contemplative. Missing what should have been with our sweet Alice. And wishing with all my heart that in a week or less or a little more we have a healthy 3rd baby. I know that so many people are wishing along with us and that's all we can do. Wishing and waiting.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-20780319604584799812010-04-12T19:54:00.004+10:002010-04-12T20:08:03.149+10:00

Less than 3 weeks to go. Less than 3 weeks to that magic date that often passes without anyone making an appearance. I gave up telling people the actual due dates of my babies long ago. Having that date out there seemed to create an enormous pressure or expectation to perform; to deliver on the day. So I am due sometime in the next 2 to 3 weeks. On a day, any old day that this baby chooses

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-11002489420063173802010-04-05T19:48:00.005+10:002010-04-05T20:02:39.572+10:00

Here is another photo, another shot of the growing bump. I am not sure if it can still be classified as a bump - perhaps more of a hill or a mountain? You can see the bed hair and the half PJ/half street clothes look going on here. It was early(ish) and I am heavily pregnant so I think its OK. The skirt I am wearing, shirred waist and 80s inspired, has been the best 'around the house' article

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-20043182969705015512010-04-01T19:23:00.007+11:002010-04-01T19:55:29.096+11:00

She makes it look so easy, heading out for the day with a newborn. Perhaps if I had pink boots like those and a bag on wheels, the first few weeks out and about with our new baby will be a breeze.And that is a toy newborn, not a real one... Ours is still on the inside, running of space and letting me know about it! 4 and a bit weeks now. Or less or more. Or something like that. Scary when I see

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-49655186516286913642010-03-29T18:23:00.007+11:002010-03-30T07:51:48.011+11:00

Oh not long now! How the weeks and, in particular, the weekends are disappearing. I have not had the chance to upload any photos of the growing bump today as I am still without my laptop. It's a long story...So here is a photo of our new chair. It's very comfortable and once the baby is on the outside, I will look a lot more glamorous getting out of it. I was in the market for a new nursery/

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-30050913193372249742010-03-21T17:57:00.008+11:002010-03-21T21:14:25.907+11:00

I am still here, with my growing tummy and my (some times) very large feet that now resemble some kind of marrow or squash. We have been away to Tasmania and back and have been busy getting some things ticked off the long list. Things moved and sorted and tidied and more plans made. And the weekends 'when were where 3' are fast disappearing...The photos here were taken while in Tasmania, where we

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-84839458048271709512010-02-24T14:54:00.004+11:002010-02-28T10:39:55.819+11:00

Minnie cannot actually read yet. But she does love looking through her novels at the little illustrations. And perhaps at the words and the letters and the beauty of a typed page.We are now reading 'James and the Giant Peach' and 'The BFG,' which Minnie assures us is not too scary. We have finished 'Charlotte's Web' (at which I cried hysterically at the end) and 'Charlie and the Chocolate

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-69533177881042189422010-02-24T14:53:00.002+11:002010-09-08T11:53:59.606+10:00

I have to say again, what an amazing response I had to my questions about washable nappies! Thank you again so much for all your information and links. And this blogging world continues to amaze me. You see I received a lovely email from a mama saying I could have their nappies. A day or so later, a parcel arrived containing 5 wonderful nappies. I got terribly emotional, both over the kindness

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-88946607127734427712010-02-17T08:08:00.000+11:002010-02-17T08:08:49.503+11:00

Just another shot of this growing tummy. I do love having a big, round belly. Heading towards 30 weeks. On the downhill run now...And congrats to Kylie (who won my recent giveaway) who I hear has just given birth to a gorgeous little baby named Solomon. There really is nothing sweeter than a new baby.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-16668288592467818612010-02-15T07:00:00.000+11:002010-02-15T07:28:15.292+11:00

For months leading up to Christmas Minnie declared that she really, really wanted a Snow White doll and a Snow White dress. She asked all the shopping centre Santa's and left instructions in her Christmas Eve note to Santa. If she was asked what she was getting, she always replied 'a Snow White dress and a Snow White doll.'I contemplated buying a ready made dress but really couldn't bring my self

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-19833023575293452622010-02-12T06:59:00.008+11:002010-02-13T18:09:16.998+11:00

(a random unrealated Minnie photo found on my husbands laptop...)Apologies for the delay here in announcing the winner of my little giveaway but there have been some technical difficulties here at the Blue House, most significantly the demise of my laptop. I have been relying on my iPhone to stay connected to the world, and although the other Steve may disagree, this little marvel does have it's

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-3754380994078657352010-02-02T11:45:00.007+11:002010-02-02T16:51:55.412+11:00

I am approaching a blog anniversary (200 posts) so I thought I would host a little giveaway. I am not very good at these I have the horrible feeling that something from the past is still waiting to be sent... opps. But this time I promise to be good. You see the giveaway item is sewn, finished and ready to go - all I need if a name and address to put on it. I am happy to post this anywhere in the

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-59776492575353747392010-01-28T08:35:00.000+11:002010-01-28T08:35:58.681+11:00

Thank you for all the great advice on my last post. I am going to buy a few AIO nappies in a few brands you recommended and see what works. And I am currently 'bidding' on some hug a bub ring slings. So off to a good start. Keep the advice coming!I have been 'working' on some of these for months. And months. Well when I say 'working' I mean pushing them to the side and forgetting about them. So

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-71412410061164607652010-01-25T21:07:00.007+11:002010-01-25T21:27:19.572+11:00

The weeks are ticking by here and I am now 26 weeks. Time is moving slowly and quickly all at the same time - I think that strange experience with time only happens when you are pregnant. I have started a little sewing for the baby (some of which I will post this week) and have turned my mind to preparing for the practicalities of the arrival of our baby. And I am after some advice;1. Can

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-45799908311737227822010-01-22T06:32:00.008+11:002010-08-22T20:33:33.402+10:00

I seem to struggle with some aspects of gardening (like spacing and actually facilitating the survival of some plants) but one thing that seems to thrive under my care is basil. Thank goodness then that we all love it. Well not quite all but Minnie will eat a leaf straight from the plant and was a wonderful assistant in out recent pesto making session. I was a very luck girl last birthday and

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-77547889156938166182010-01-20T17:17:00.007+11:002010-08-22T20:33:50.877+10:00

Raspberries are my favourite fruit. Hands down. I love the juicy, sweet/tart combination. I love their colour. I love them, I really do. And I miss living in Tasmania at this time of the year. My mother grows lots of canes in her garden and sadly, her produce doesn't make it here as often as I would like (the berries have arrived, frozen, packed in with her clothes or in her handbag with her

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-57591726275962875892010-01-18T07:20:00.004+11:002010-08-22T20:34:03.533+10:00

A little sweet something for my sweet man. He misses out on many of the treats in this house as they are not always gluten free. So while a batch of 'full of gluten' chocolate chip biscuits were in the oven, I whipped up this apple tea cake just for him.I have had many hit and misses using regular recipes but substituting gluten free flours. Some baked goods do not fare well but others, like

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-7979182698468131662010-01-12T15:13:00.007+11:002010-01-12T15:44:11.195+11:00

Firstly, thank you so much for all of the wonderful comments after my last post, in which I shared our lovely news. Physically I am feeling great, however these hot muggy days are completely zapping. Emotionally, although I am desperate for the day I get to birth our baby, I am trying hard to relax now and enjoy this pregnancy.In other news from the Blue House, we have recently started reading a

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-14798502991484767282010-01-05T15:47:00.003+11:002010-01-05T15:54:39.953+11:00

...a new life. A precious baby to join our family. Our arms wide open, waiting for the day we get to meet you. The day I get to breath again. Scared, overjoyed, nervous and impatient all at once. But I think this is going to be a good year.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-50591725516950639732010-01-04T10:20:00.006+11:002010-01-04T10:48:43.142+11:00

How wonderful life is with you in our world.Happy birthday Minnie. Happy, happy birthdayxxx

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-65362306252973865522009-12-19T19:11:00.001+11:002009-12-19T19:30:51.937+11:00

I decided, at the very last minute, that I needed another small gift for a very special little girl cousin. So I grabbed my copy of 'More Softies' for inspiration and whipped up this little owl pillow/softie. I based it on a pattern in the book but as it was for a little one, I appliqued rather than hand sewed all the features (of course I appliqued - what else would I do?) I didn't use buttons

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-21680603221536611372009-12-15T10:52:00.006+11:002010-08-22T20:30:19.351+10:00

It's starting to look a little bit like Christmas here at the Blue House. Still more to do but getting there, one fruit mince tart at a time... Edith the Elf - completed Christmas stocking for MinnieGingerbread and Bauble Christmas garland from here

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-56883442078350727202009-12-01T13:55:00.007+11:002010-08-22T20:30:36.692+10:00

As it is the First day of December I thought it was time to get the Christmas craft ball rolling. Minnie is very excited about Christmas this year, which in turn has made the Blue House feel a little Christmas crazy - its hard not to get drawn into the high excitement and anticipation oozed by an almost 4 year old.So to start the festive season off, here is Edith the Helpful Elf.Edith is one of

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-37873937693926300562009-11-18T20:08:00.005+11:002009-11-18T20:44:02.541+11:00

This had been the long awaited break. The break that my little family really needed. Sometime away, just the three of us, without a mad dog or a demanding cat. Its been a busy time here with Steve off abroad on a regular basis so some sun and sand was appealing for all. We set off early Sunday morning planning to drive to Coffs Harbour for the night, before continuing on to the Sunshine Coast in

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-51511969250115664912009-11-15T17:51:00.004+11:002009-11-15T18:03:24.777+11:00

We arrived back today from 8 days away from the Blue House. 8 days and about 2,500km's of driving. We headed to the Sunshine Coast in Queensland for a week of sun and sea. Not quite as much sun and sea as we would have hoped. But more on the weather and natural disaster areas after I have finished unpacking...

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-80756111610686164512009-11-05T16:30:00.004+11:002009-11-05T16:47:17.096+11:00

that we had some of these in the garden! Henny Penny recently visited Minnie's preschool and flapped around, sitting on the children's laps and having a lovely time. We would love to have hens here at the Blue House but I think the mad Golden Retriever/cute little Hen mix is not a good one. I think any additions to this family need to wait until the dog has calmed down (please, let this happen)

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-55683774166493416052009-10-15T15:38:00.000+11:002009-10-15T15:44:49.919+11:00

I know Soule Mama writes these lists, as does my friend Jessica, so I am borrowing from them - I don't think they will mind. Here is my right now list. Right now for this day as we all know that tomorrow is another day...Right now I am;watching - well waiting for Saturday night for 'The Bill' - all slick and smick in its new formatsmelling - the jasmine from our gardenreading - anything about

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-85466390375425557082009-10-13T12:33:00.006+11:002009-10-13T12:54:04.699+11:00

The lounge room at the Blue House is perhaps the smallest lounge room in the world. Well not quite but very tiny. It reminds me of living in our flat in London, huddled near the radiator, hot tea in hand, rug on our laps. Its that kind of room. Perfect for winters and chilly evenings as it heats up in a few minutes. But its small. Only about 4m by 4m. Its full with the people of the house in here

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-43646150069340081832009-10-06T12:25:00.007+11:002009-10-06T15:19:26.215+11:00

Molly, photo byMinnieOh boy. That dog. That great big fluffy yellow cyclone. She is mad, stark raving mad. If you ever call at the blue house, on the phone or in person, you will hear the following;'What has she got NOW?'You see Molly is a handful. 24kgs of trouble. Oh, yes she looks all sweet with those big brown sad eyes and that cute face. But, in her veins pumps 100% naughtiness. Her trouble

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-22747345220703425462009-09-15T18:21:00.004+10:002009-09-15T18:33:28.860+10:00

This past year has been a difficult time for us all in the Blue House. That's the simple truth. It may not always look like that here. Last week was the anniversary of the birth and death of our sweet, precious daughter Alice Buttons. In this surreal year, the year in which the clocks didn't stop, time has rolled on. The rawness of the loss is now fading but, the underlying pain and sadness will

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-12899127235548573952009-09-07T08:21:00.004+10:002009-09-07T08:41:31.552+10:00

I am back. The flu's and colds seem to be easing and hopefully will not be back this way for a decade or two.Something new for the shop. A little late for our cooler months but, still sweet on a chilly spring morning.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-24246758002985197682009-08-24T13:02:00.010+10:002010-08-22T20:36:11.786+10:00

'Rima' by tushtushI know its not Friday but, my little series about the Blue House was missing the last day. 'Friday - Flu' would have been a much better title as I have some evil lurgy thing. Perhaps not flu but, a very mean cold that has left me speechless. Not in that sexy, deep voiced way that some men find irresistible but, more in the all over the place squeaky screech that sounds like a

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-72459376989674629012009-08-17T08:40:00.000+10:002009-08-17T09:04:05.704+10:00

A couple of treasures from the Blue House. Some treasures other than the most important two treasures in my world... The two gentlemen (L&H) below belonged to my grandparents, Joan and Basil. When they died, we were all allowed to choose something from their estate. This was my choice. Entirely a sentimental choice.When I lived in London, I missed those guys as they had stayed safely behind in

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-32176836736865632102009-08-13T08:55:00.009+10:002009-08-13T09:51:38.070+10:00

Some walls from the Blue House for you today. Let me tell you that there is lots of work to be done on our walls. Some need new plasterboard, some need riping out, some need to be finished (um, I went mad with the undercoating but have kinda not gotten back to them - at least they look like something is about to happen).This old house needs a lot of work, like the extension I have planned so

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-533813651054474242009-08-12T11:26:00.005+10:002009-08-12T11:42:49.340+10:00

Somewhat inspired by this lovely post from this lovely blogger, I thought I would share some of my tea cups with you. There are many in the Blue House - these is just a few that I really love. I especially love these little tiny ones.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-55905051404542999502009-08-10T16:04:00.005+10:002009-08-10T19:32:55.991+10:00

This week I thought I would blog along the theme of 'our house.' Is that just being really lazy, showing you a few snaps of the Blue House? I think perhaps in my case it is. Anyway, here are a couple of shots of Minnie's room. Look at that un-ironed doona cover! What a house keeper I am! You may also notice that you are only seeing a very small part of the room. Although it's a big room, the play

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-72341463082609083382009-08-09T18:51:00.005+10:002009-08-09T19:23:34.147+10:00

I know its been a while since this post about knitting. I am pleased to say that there have been some minor successes. I can cast on (mum never thought that this day would arrive). I can knit garter and stocking stitch without dropping too many stitches. I can pick up the dropped stitches (mostly) and I can cast off. So that's basic knitting, I guess. But, I cannot follow a pattern so its all

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-5483777144103243652009-08-04T12:13:00.004+10:002009-08-04T12:30:24.102+10:00

I am back. Not that I have been away. Just away from this little place for a few days. Out enjoying the sunny days. August is here. Spring is on its way. Trying to get the soil ready for planting. Scouring the roadsides for organic poultry manure that is not from battery hens. Pruning things like a crazy woman. Lots of standing and planning and dreaming of my Diggers catalogue. Lots of empty

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-38786107767403344022009-07-24T14:33:00.006+10:002009-07-24T15:19:13.013+10:00

Enough of all that stuff in the previous posts. Thank you for your comments and points of view - I do really value all the feedback I get here.We were out last weekend and given it was sunny and unseasonally warm, Minnie had an ice cream. What am I saying - Minnie would eat ice cream in any weather. She had to go to the loo and asked her Daddy to hold the ice cream while I took her. (Some of you

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-41956165274015020182009-07-23T08:13:00.011+10:002009-07-23T21:53:09.008+10:00

Yes, I was a little worked up yesterday. I was cross and surprised by all this 'word' fuss. And although I should not talk about the situation regarding the 'word', I will fill you in, the best I can.Like hundreds of other sellers on a well known website for handmade goods, I described my babies all in one bodysuits by a typically American term. This well known website for handmade goods also

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-78020316084584643652009-07-22T11:38:00.010+10:002009-07-22T14:40:17.820+10:00

just a non controversial picture (I hope)Apparently there are places where you are not allowed to use a certain 'word.' And no, its not a rude or disrespectful word. Its a fairly inane, harmless little word. If you use this word, as hundreds of other people do, you may get a letter from a big legal firm, via another party, advising you to no longer use this word. You may also get an email

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-81774089780177727192009-07-15T16:36:00.006+10:002009-07-15T17:34:01.865+10:00

I have spent the last few days cleaning, sorting, tidying and purging the enormous piles of stuff in my sewing room. I have folded seemingly endless piles of fabric, now neatly displayed. I have picked up stray buttons and returned them to the giant button jars. And I have sorted though all my designs and patterns and found, new neat homes for them all. And I tided out draws and boxes and

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-25906704620216657382009-07-09T09:46:00.005+10:002009-07-09T10:05:07.742+10:00

Just a little of what has been going on in, around, and out of the Blue House... Bushwalking with the gang Visiting this amazing place (thankfully without that sponge character...)A little sewingWatching this little puppy grow into a great big puppy Loving Minnie's wonderful photos And wishing I had more time to lay in bed and look out at this

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-76342651215813045102009-07-01T15:04:00.007+10:002009-07-01T17:48:09.952+10:00

This is Joan as a little girl. Joan was my grandmother. Joan grew up on a big farm and lived in a grand old house. My mother grew up in the same house. Joan spent a lot of time with the cows and the sheep and perhaps not enough time studying. When Joan was a grown up, she still lived in the country but I think she dreamed of being a film star as she never was one for cooking or doing the

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-59191295046882669812009-06-26T16:06:00.003+10:002009-06-26T16:14:23.218+10:00

My husband's Nana died on Tuesday. She was Minnie's (little) Big Nana, my Shirley and Mummy to her daughters. She had been a wife. She was a friend to everyone. She was a nurse and a teacher. She was a delight. She was wonderful company. She was funny and smart and nothing got past her. She loved candied ginger. She was not a big fan of chocolate. She was sweet and genuine and entertaining.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-73351659760971188532009-06-19T09:12:00.000+10:002009-06-19T09:13:00.604+10:00

This is Daisy. (Not the other Daisy, who is the cat that likes sleeping).Daisy was my great-great Aunt who lived next door to us, up in our old houses on the hill. We had a gate between our houses so we could go back and forth as we pleased. Aunt Daisy was the grandmother I always wanted. She was kind and gentle and had a big soft lap for sitting on. She always wore an apron and loved to cook. I

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-18583407080901846052009-06-18T08:33:00.005+10:002009-06-18T08:48:01.897+10:00

I had wanted to post some shots of some new sewing I have done but this gloomy wet weather is playing havoc with my photography (that sounded really pretentious but a blurry dress or a over-flashed out applique is not that pretty).So instead here are some photos of the luckiest member of this household. Oh, to spend 23 hours a day snuggled under those white sheets and most probably the warmest

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-89657194502957168422009-06-10T11:05:00.004+10:002009-06-10T11:44:57.335+10:00

I have a cold so I can't manage many words today. So in place of my usual ramblings, some photos of some new(ish) skirts. The brown floral skirt and matching bag were made by the Easter Bunny, who oddly uses the same grandy and baa labels that I do... And a new skirt for 'school.' Another skirt that the Easter Bunny left, featuring a self portrait. This gorgeous skirt below was made my Mother.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-48334152373399068832009-06-04T21:54:00.003+10:002009-06-04T21:59:15.001+10:00

From a beautiful friend from the other side of the world. I blogged this elsewhere but wanted to share it here. Its just perfect. Something I will treasure for ever and always.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-91373196849175696672009-06-02T11:43:00.005+10:002009-06-02T12:05:11.976+10:00

I have been trying to get a photo of Minnie in this gorgeous smock for weeks now. Sorry, she was not compliant again today. So here it is, removed from her little body.At the Matilda's Market earlier this year I considered some rough play in order to get my hands on one of these adorable linen smocks made by Sophie of 'Barefoot Babies' (and of 'Her Heart, My Hands' blog). Sophie took pity on

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-63735638108988061072009-05-28T08:00:00.004+10:002009-05-28T08:36:03.622+10:00

Well it was nothing really exciting. Oh the mystery and the intrigue - it must have sounded all so interesting. Far less exciting is how we all really ended up in the middle of the night.Wednesday AM - Minnie woke with a slight temperature. Cat needed to be taken to boarding. Cat ran off. Could not be found. Minnie needed to get ready for pre-school. Minnie not allowed to wear singlet and tiny

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-39585738097293650912009-05-21T03:46:00.002+10:002009-05-21T03:52:32.015+10:00

More on that later...Thank you all so much for your sweet comments about my knitting! I am about ready for the 3rd ball of wool for the green scarf so you should soon see it finished.Some more stitching of Minnie's drawing - a gift for a very special Big Nana.Will be back next week to tell you why its 3.46am and I am wide awake and blogging.Have a lovely weekend.

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-37944925561280073282009-05-15T14:37:00.006+10:002009-05-15T15:24:13.760+10:00

I promised my self that I would learn to knit. I have banged on about it now for so long that I really had to do something about it. And I have. My mother, who is good at absolutely everything crafty, was here for a little over a week and she has the most amazing patience. She teaches a craft group, which I think is easier then just teaching just one of me. But she has done well.I am knitting my

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-62280976042006277472009-05-10T18:55:00.004+10:002009-05-11T09:04:48.729+10:00

Wishing you all a very happy Mother's Day.Especially thinking of all my new friends, my wonderful dear friends that I met after Alice died. The other baby lost mama's. The women I never wanted to meet. But now could not imagine getting through the days and the weeks without them.And thinking of all our babies that are not here for us to see, to hold, to hear, to smell, and to watch grow.Of course

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-1324070194350530822009-05-07T15:29:00.006+10:002009-05-07T15:44:21.338+10:00

It has been a bit quiet here at the Blue House in terms of craft and blogging as I am spending a lot of days (and nights) parenting alone. Husbands that travel overseas for work are a real pain. A right pain in the bum. But given the current economic climate, we are of course happy that he has a job to go to every day, even if it does take him all over the Asia Pacific area...Before Steve leaves

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-43415204872750665992009-04-29T17:20:00.009+10:002009-04-30T07:46:32.224+10:00

You may recall this fabric stack...I love it when you are doing a rather mundane task and life delights you. You know, when you least expect to find something wonderful, and you do just that. It doesn't often happen to me but a few weeks back it did. I had just finished stocking up at the pet food suppliers that is located in a semi industrial area on the outskirts of my town. As I reversed out

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1242658043497764443.post-2578325699171311052009-04-28T19:42:00.007+10:002009-04-28T20:28:18.864+10:00

Don't expect to ever find matching shoes. Yes, I wore them like this today (only in the garden) much to the delight of Minnie. Don't buy any new furniture for about 1o years. Oh she's good when we are in the lounge room, sitting sweetly on the rug but as soon as we are out of sight, Molly is up on the leather lounge wuffling for things.You will never have a tidy mantle piece - ours is covered in

Rachaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08573991998853561283noreply@blogger.com4