tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27641330017159870622024-03-04T22:14:32.119-08:00DOTTY REDCreative LivingSuzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-49048236813570447552013-04-04T10:25:00.001-07:002013-04-04T10:26:10.999-07:00School is out!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Life in the home of Dotty Red is upside down with the holidays, full of happy chaos. I still have to keep my hours up with working from home but also need and want to spend time with my family. Getting the balance is no easy task. My home has been turned into a full sized play ground and for a couple of weeks I am just letting it go and enjoying my children using their imagination and getting outdoors in the fresh air as much as possible, walking on the moors, playing by the sea or time at the farm. </div>
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I have had some time spent with some special people and as a Mom to boys when my friend came for a few days with her children I made the most of all the 'Hello Kitty Girliness' and took full advantage of all the extra cuddles. Easter itself was such a blessing, I was welcomed into a family to share Easter dinner, in fact Easter proved to be a holiday of lots of yummy food with many meals being cooked for me, a rare treat indeed.</div>
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I have managed to keep the sewing machine purring. With the children on a weekend sleep over I am able to keep up with my work.</div>
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Last week was a week of cases... kindle cases, glasses cases and phone/gadget cases.</div>
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A few personalised cushions and a special order for a baby quilt using her mama's maternity clothes, I love making such personal items for clients.</div>
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Dotty Red as a business is going from strength to strength and my order book is almost full for this month. </div>
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I have made many changes this last few months in all area's of my life, personal, emotional, family and work. It all came from some news I wasn't expecting, something that has made me totally re-evaluate my life and literally forced me to make some changes. </div>
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I have to confess to it being scary but necessary and whilst some of the changes I wish could have gone a different way, the majority of changes are empowering and allowing me to keep my children happy, look after my health and take my cottage industry to a new level.</div>
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So a lot of thinking time has been needed and what better place than sitting on a wild beach watching my children play and enjoying my doggy running and leaping on the sand and playing with other dogs. I took the boys away for an adventure weekend by the sea and we had a blast, the cottage was wonderful, we had the pool to ourselves most days and whilst the boys did a sea scooter and snorkeling session I had a little "Mama SPA time". I had my nail s painted which with the amount of work I do with my hands was not the best decision made but it was lovely to be pampered, we had such a blast we booked our next stay there as soon as we got home. </div>
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With a stay in hospital on the cards I still feel a little nervous about the future but with the love of my family, friends and all the wonderful people and customers 'Dotty Red' is bringing into my life I feel blessed and excited about the future.</div>
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Yes, indeed sitting on the beach, with the hint of spring in the air is such a magical place to be it lifts my soul and makes me feel that the best is yet to come...</div>
Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-71066899108054468032013-03-08T17:00:00.001-08:002013-03-08T17:04:11.178-08:00Mothers day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sunday is Mothers Day, a day we give thanks to the woman that has carried and cares for us all our lives if we are fortunate enough.</div>
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Maybe your a Mum yourself, as I am, and it has a completely different meaning. But as a women we have this amazing gift to create, nurture and grow. We do it in ourselves and we teach it to our children. </div>
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Sometimes the word 'Mum' can be a difficult one, for many reasons, I am adopted and I find this weekend difficult, I find I think a lot about my roots, my birth mother, who and what kind of a person she is now. </div>
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I know people who are hurt by their upbringing, how it effects their day to day life. Being a Mum is difficult job, getting the balance right and especially in today's society. I chose to be a <b><i>stay at home Mum,</i></b> I choice I have never regretted. Personally however you become invisible in society, I am part of a group of women that spend their time just looking after others and I move through my day without anyone telling me I have done a good job, there are no meetings on my progress and their is no promotion. I know its the best job in the world for me.</div>
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With all the emotions of Mothers Day it is still a day of celebration, as a single Mum no one is there to tell my children to buy a gift or send a card to me. Its been a wonderful experience this year as many daughters and sons have bought my homemade<a href="http://www.dottyred.co.uk/"> DOTTY RED</a> creations as a gift to their mothers, I have seen first hand the love and the bond that is created in the place we call <b><i>FAMILY</i></b>.</div>
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I will visit my Mum and me and my children will treat her to lunch, give her presents and a card. But that is not the point, the point is being strong in your role as a mother knowing your doing the best job in the world, your creating individual little people, your a role model, the only thanks I need is to hold my children close every day, to feed them, to put a safe warm and cosy home around them, for them to be secure. Their gift to me is their laughter and their <b><i>LOVE</i></b>.</div>
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So as a women, a daughter and a Mother I am proud of my family each and every day. I count my blessings, some days are easier than others but as I watch my children go from being made and grown within my body, to nursing them as babies, teaching them to walk, talk, love and laugh, the difference between right from wrong, watching them grow in to healthy, happy little people (well not so little, they grow quick) I am so proud to have this title of <b><i><u>MOTHER</u></i></b>. I might not get the accreditation of a promotion, I might not change the world, I have no need to be significant or to be known, I am a naturing soul and never happier than when in the loving fold of my family, sitting around the kitchen table sharing a meal cooked by our own hands and laughing and chatting about our day. My gift to my children is my time. This fulfills me and no thanks is needed. </div>
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Happy Mothers Day</div>
Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-1749172192054992522013-02-24T11:13:00.003-08:002013-02-24T11:13:45.334-08:00TIME OUT.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I realised that there was some negative stuff going on here at the home of Dotty Red and priorities and life in general had swung out of balance and it was time to draw a line under some stuff that had gone very wrong before it caused even more damage. It was time to work on the things that mattered not that didn't.</div>
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It all sounds very serious but sometimes in life you have to reach a low to be able to grow and for the best bits to be given a chance to shine. So with this in mind I scooped my children up and we headed to the East Coast for a few days for some half term family time with no other interruptions but to spend some time laughing, playing in lots of fresh air by the sea and lots of country walks.</div>
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We even managed a day in York city, as you know I am so not a city girl by any stretch of the imagination, I like to be in the fresh air and in wide open spaces, but I can stretch to York as it holds precious memories for me, and you know with Cath Kidston and White Stuff next door to each other in the Shambles it was a little spot of retail therapy I actually enjoyed (detest trawling around mindless shops as a rule unless its fabric).</div>
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Our home for the week was the sweetest of cottages, not me the fancy high life of hotels, no cute and cosy is more more my thing and the boys loved the miss shaped rooms, the two fires that they eagerly built each day and all the squeaky floor boards plus a garden filled with the most prettiest display a carpet of snow drops.</div>
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We laughed so much it was such a wonderful and special time. The sea runs through our veins for sure. To be on a beach with the wind blowing and the sound of the sea lapping up against the sand truly allows my soul to feel happiness to its very core. My teenage son now so grown up from the little surf dude with long hair into a the body of a young man with all the attitude and confidence that goes with teenage years, despite the cold he did 'HIS THING' much the horror of this mama who thought, 'How will he ever warm up again'. But you know he's just in his natural habitat on the beach and I have learnt to trust him.</div>
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I happily beach combed hand in hand with a special one and we laughed watching Rosy my doggy play rough and tumble with the big dogs. My heart just filled to bursting, I actually started to cry, with lots of nurturing comments as I have had a few tears of late, my boys laughed at their mama when I confirmed that these tears came from joy...</div>
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Time was spent with friends, children and doggies, quality time you just don't seem to have time for in your day to day. My art pad was sketched in and my camera took many pictures capturing those moments I didn't want to lose. I felt so blessed to have such super friends that took the time out to care and spend time with us. (Thank you from my heart).</div>
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After the days on the beach we warmed up with Hot Chocolate.</div>
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Little hands clasping the cups for the warmth they offered to frozen little fingers. Once warmed up a little snacks to keep us going through the evenings...</div>
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Seeing how quick my children are growing and as DOTTY RED grows I am aware of the absolute importance of keeping the balance and holding dear to my heart all the important things and protecting them as only a mother can.</div>
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After all the fresh air with full and warm tummies the children soon fell into deep sleeps...</div>
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Then it was my turn to rest and chill a little with some pampering...</div>
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A little bit of grown up time </div>
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As I snuggled up for an evening in front of the fire I counted my blessings, grieved over my losses and let the hurt caused by careless people wash away like the tide and I eagerly looked forward to the next chapter in my little journey through life.</div>
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A time for reflection, a time to gain balance and make plans for the future, a time to spend with those I love and I welcomed new people into my life. </div>
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So after all this precious time new adventures are a head, re branding of Dotty Red, launching my Spring range (which is already in a couple of lovely shops) a few study business days a head also. So what started out as a week with a heavy heart turned into a healing time of throwing away all the negativity and concentrating on my loved ones and out of that came so many lovely possibilities. It was just one of those weeks that had such an impact on everything around me. I returned home counting my many blessings...</div>
Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-35066359141398847152013-01-22T04:41:00.000-08:002013-01-22T04:41:44.611-08:00Don't give up us baby!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Its that time of year, the time of year I wish as a human I could hibernate. The short days and the cold don't suit me. I am longing to feel the suns warming rays shine upon my skin. However I have to confess with the return of the snow I have slipped back in to walking, wearing many layers, the woollen sweaters have once again been pulled out of draws and freshened up and wrapped around my body to keep the chills out. Curling up in the evening, closing the curtains and lighting a candle, snuggling up by the fire under handmade quilts with my children and sipping Hot Chocolate, this year the January blues are a little more bearable.<br />
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As we slip through January in to February we move into the month of 'LOVE'. A time to show our loved ones how special they are and hold them close, or maybe they don't know you love them and its time to show them a token of your emotion. But you know for some, its also a sad time.<br />
I had mixed feelings when asked to make a small range of Lavender and linen hangers for the Broken Hearted. However, and I giggle to myself, it wasn't that hard to come up with some words, I wanted to use rich fabrics, a sparkle of Diamond to just hint at the lost promise of spending your life with someone you love, the gift of 'forever'.... Yes I was a little daunted by making this range but I have to say, it was lovely to do something a little different. But I am hoping that you will sharing February14th with the person you love.<br />
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With all the snow and the cold my heart skipped a little beat when I rummaged through my fabrics to search out a colour for my Spring cushion commissions.<br />
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Pink seemed the way to go, not a colour I would usually go for and whilst I consider myself a girlie girl I could never say I was a Pink Girl... yet here I am eight cushions down all in pink...of course you cant go wrong with a little bit of frivolous bunting to chase the dark skies away...<br />
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I had to post a snow picture, well you just do, its the rule... it really is so pretty and I am so enjoying my doggy walks this week, but defrosting my little pooches frozed legs when we return home to the welcoming warmth of home is not a part of the snow I can say I enjoy.<br />
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However my children are out in it at every opportunity, sledging and snow balling, they return with excited shouts of "Mom that was ACE! Can we have some Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows". I found myself out in the road with two jugs of Hot Chocolate, squirtie cream and lots of marshmallows as my boys and their friends had a little snow break. Erm might change my name to Dotty Red Cafe!!! Now there's a thought!!!<br />
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I hope you are keeping warm and cosy in this chilly January weather and may be, just maybe your having a little fun!<br />
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<i>(NB: please feel free to email me if your interested in any of the makes on my posts or pop over to my facebook page which is updated daily. )</i>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-10151945064795407412013-01-01T17:34:00.000-08:002013-01-01T17:35:49.643-08:00Making up in 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wishing you a super 2013, full of love, laughter, good health and HAPPINESS!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqOfn4e5VVhhvxPSijzpUQoweu05yyafw6m9OEJSQmaKllhygLYhg4i_YamVaOji26cHp5p_d3aGoxWA-gplOIK6AmHyfxrH3KqapO7IhHtnp3KOhxpcsxMUb6r-USiz3lt8Krt4cQKdU/s1600/IMG_1862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqOfn4e5VVhhvxPSijzpUQoweu05yyafw6m9OEJSQmaKllhygLYhg4i_YamVaOji26cHp5p_d3aGoxWA-gplOIK6AmHyfxrH3KqapO7IhHtnp3KOhxpcsxMUb6r-USiz3lt8Krt4cQKdU/s320/IMG_1862.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
What a year last year was, full of highs and lows on this amazing journey.<br />
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I wanted to share with you a year in photographs, but life is just moving a little fast...<br />
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I took time out to spend with my children over the Festive Season and made some special memories.<br />
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Working from home tho means little time to turn off completely so the sewing machine sung out its usual tune and I managed to make up some stock. But the New Year is here and my order book is open and I have work to be done...<br />
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BUT for just a few days more my time is for 'my' family... then the work begins....<br />
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I hope you have some special memories of this season and you start the New Year of with a blank page full of possibilities.... All the very best from the home of DOTTY REDSuzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-61793177052565681772012-12-07T05:33:00.001-08:002012-12-07T06:14:13.169-08:00Jingle bells Jingle Bells...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At the home of Dotty Red I am just getting to the end of making all things 'Christmas'! </div>
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Lots of lovely delights going out to new homes. I love this idea, the idea that something I have made, that I have put time, effort and love into will be received by someone who will give it a new home and hopefully love it!<br />
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In fact I managed to get on top of my orders last weekend I even had a little bit of free sewing time and started on my spring range, I had plans for lemons and greens with a dash of vintage pink... mmmmmm think I might still be needing to be warm and cosy as the Fox and Rabbit cushion is much more warm and cosy than fresh and uplifting. I rummaged amongst my vintage tin of delights and came up with the doilies and vintage lace and a splattering of buttons. Yes it was fun play session and I am pleased with the results, I had made them to sell but you know they look great in my armchair by the fire...mmmm can I part with them?<br />
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On a night I couldn't sleep I came down in the early hours when the house was silent and made my little Wit Woo Owl pin cushion, just for the joy of it. This goes under the heading of <b>Silly Sewing</b>! Makes me smile!!! I actually got half way through making it and thought a puppy face with a big black nose would be cute!</div>
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Each year I make a Christmas wreath, with my floristry background they are usually big door wreaths with ample amounts of holly and ivy. But this year (whilst I had my vintage box of goodies out) I thought I would make a different one. Actually it started of as part of my spring range, I was going to make one with daffodil felt flowers on it, but my head was still to full of reds and greens and rich tweed fabrics...<br />
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My favourite part to this is the holly, made from some much loved tweed, which I have had for years, backed with some good wool felt for stability and the loveliest (and last of) shell buttons. I used the buttons back to front as I adore the texture of the shell rather than the smooth shiny side. The sparkly button was a button I pinched off a sweater that had a hole in it and I didn't really want to throw it away so I kept this button as a memento...<br />
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I leave you with my Santa's Magic Key, my second best seller at the Christmas fairs, (I can smell the mince pies and mulled wine as I type and cheesy Christmas music which is essential to a good fair). These childhood essentials are such fun to make and every one was different. I added little sleigh bells on so when the children look up in to the sky to see if Santa is on his way, you might just hear those bells jingling!<br />
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It will be a different Christmas here this year, I am a little surprised we are still in the family home, of course my children are delighted as they love their home and so do not want to move. But money is a little tight and I am really going to focus on the meaning of Christmas and keep away from the commercially styled Christmas, I have tried to buy mostly handmade to support other home workers but with a teenage son to buy for I might need to make a small exception. We will be hunkering down for the season and sharing our time with special friends, friends who have been a wonderful support to my family this year who are welcomed into my home with love. So I hope your seasonal plans are making you happy and you to will be sharing this magical time with those you love. I cant wait to see my children's faces the morning of Christmas, those magical moments stay in your heart forever.Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-88922065306705573982012-11-26T04:20:00.000-08:002012-11-26T04:26:50.155-08:00Waiting...Waiting...Waiting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A lot of my time at the moment is spent sitting in the car...waiting! Waiting for school to end. Waiting outside cubs or scouts. Waiting outside a house for a play date to finish. Waiting for band practise to end. Waiting for the Christmas show rehearsals to end... you get the picture...</div>
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It just seems to be such a lot of time is wasted at this time of year with all the preparations for Christmas. We all do it - I see Moms and Dads all waiting... Its hectic and we have only just begun the madness of the run up to Christmas. But to be there to watch each event, to know the children are safe, to know that it is part of their education, learning to communicate to participate, its all part of being 'MOM". I am thankful that I can be there for them, its not easy working from home and no one to share the duties with but the upside is I get to be there for my boys. Only sometimes my head is so full of things...the other day I drove right past school and my littlest one shouted 'MOM SCHOOL!!!' I was so busy thinking of my next appointment I drove to it and forgot school...GUILT!<br />
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In between all the 'Christmas run up Mom duties' I sit at my machine and happily sew...package up and pop to the post office. They know me in the post office now, they usually give my parcels a little squish to release the lavender fragrance within. It makes me smile!<br />
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I have had a little break from all the Christmas red and gold and spent a little time on a gentler shades.<br />
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My sketch book this weekend has been scribbled in and I need to spend a little time on 'colour' this week as I start my design for SPRING!!! Kinda excited...<br />
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So lovely to see you hadn't given up on me, lovely comments and emails from some special people, I thank you, it warms my heart! Have a super week and see you next week...Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-32836312847608495072012-11-23T06:20:00.000-08:002012-11-23T06:23:59.633-08:00Creatively speaking...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My happy place, my ickle blog has so badly been neglected. I have has some very caring emails sent to me and I wish to assure you 'all is well'. Life is just busy and I am forgetting to smell the roses!<br />
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I had hoped to blog about the journey of changing Dotty Red from a life style to a business. That little business set up has rather taken over my life.<br />
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The paperwork is astounding, lots of brown envelopes through my door. As I struggle to manage the life balance of work and children, keeping those things pure and beautiful to me extra close. Being a single mum I have faced some challenges, sometimes I wish I had that extra support and encouragement that seems to behind so many successfully creative people, but you know, its never going to be perfect but I can do this...The don't call me Dotty for nothing!<br />
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But I am pleased to say the rhythm of my life is starting to find its own beat and I am feeling happy about the changes being made to my little families life.<br />
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This space I share with you is special to me. It feels safer, social media I have found, can be sometimes challenging. Maybe I am just the type of gal that would rather pick up the phone for a chat, or pop in to see someone face to face, interacting with another human being is crucial to 'our' well being. Don' get me wrong I have met some wonderful people and very inspiring business's. I have a handful of people I follow how just seem to have it RIGHT, yes inspiring!<br />
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But...I miss it here, I miss reading my fav. blogs, I miss the support and warmth here. It doesn't help that I know its my own fault, I am working on my priorities. I thank you again for your support and caring comments, hang in there for me a little longer, I am getting there, I have a lovely Blog award from a special blogger to accept which if it doesn't run out I will blog about it soon. I thank you all, I wish you only the best in life and soon I will be back here weekly...Its in the diary...For now though I leave you with some of the results of that creative time spent away from you!<br />
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Photos: Little Laura Ashley fabric owls. One of the many Rosettes. Autumn range-fox cub cushion in velvet. Lots of hearts. Lavender and linen pillow hangers. Christmas hangers.Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-13159611737764075292012-10-15T16:23:00.000-07:002012-10-15T16:26:35.298-07:00Just foxing around!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Busy... ha! Life is going at a fast pace at the moment and the 'to do' list is just getting longer but I am really finding my rhythm. For the first time in a while I feel in control, yet realistically my security is far from - well secure. Since I last popped in here big changes have taken place at the home of Dotty Red. Very exciting changes. Dotty Red is now a full time business. The seed was planted here over a year ago and over the months that seed has shooted and grown in to an exciting venture.<br />
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I long to have my own little shop, I know just how I would have it, down to the wall paper, the window display and a big bucket of fresh flowers on the counter (this is something from my past, as I qualified as a florist many many years ago I have a need for fresh flowers around me) but this is just a dream at the moment, as a single Mom, I still need to around for my children or at least earn enough to pay for childcare, so this is my option and right now, in this moment, its thrilling.<br />
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I have had support from a business adviser and after many hours of sums and speculation we got to the stage of 'Just why are you not doing it'? I have to admit to being a little intimidated by all the paper work and lots of brown envelopes arrive through my door at the moment.<br />
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Well here I am and I have to thank you. For the lack of my posting and you still stick by me, I appreciate that so much. The emails I have had have really helped me on my journey. Blog land is just the most supportive community. Its a great place to share and inspire. I have watched a few of my favourite bloggers move from hobby to business and it has been wonderful to watch the challenges they over come but mostly the life balance it offers.<br />
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But here I am at my computer gone mid night, with a bowl of porridge to stop my late night tummy rumbles and I still have an hour of sewing a head of me. I guess no one said it would be easy!!!<br />
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<i>PHOTO'S: Fox and Owl autumnal cushions, using vintage fabrics and buttons collected throughout the summer at various vintage fairs. A big fluffy feather pillow inner to give it that extra 'squish' appeal.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-65950433846110198252012-09-20T17:19:00.001-07:002012-09-20T17:20:12.008-07:00What you been doing...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Utter madness here, I have neglected you so much and I am ashamed, ashamed I said...Because I am still not back, just popping by to have a cuppa with you and a quick catch up. Funny I have noticed a lot of bloggers really slow down this summer. Maybe its the lack of sunshine we have had.<br />
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Anyway I have been, and in fact still on, a path of discover and I am stretching myself more than I have done in years, its scary but also kinda exciting and along the way I have met some fabulous people. Also some not so nice people but the least said about that the better. All those plans made last year, well its happening now.<br />
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I have found new beaches to walk along, great big stretches of beach filled with pebbles that go on and on for miles, and indeed I and my little family (my boys and the doggy) walked them...The summer has given us some precious memories despite all the changes and challenges but discovering a new beach is such a gift.<br />
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Managing a business at home around the children is no easy task, but we are doing well, and the boys are my biggest fans, which is such a great feeling.<br />
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My home is still up for sale which gives us all an unsettled feeling but we are blessed, we are warm and cosy and life is good. As the leaves turn and fall as we move into another season, we are closer now as a family than ever.<br />
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Oh yes...Its CHRISTMAS!!! I know its not, we still have three months but on the sewing front, its happening right now in my studio and every other room my sewing travels into.</div>
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I miss this place so much, I love the friendliness of it all, the support and the beautiful inspiration. The top of my to do list is to get back to regular blogging, my space the space I am me! Soon... soon.</div>
<br />Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-28509909932592582892012-08-16T03:02:00.003-07:002012-08-16T03:02:42.504-07:00Excuses Excuses...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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How many times is it decent to excuse yourself for not blogging. My only saving grace is I have noticed there are many of my fav. bloggers slowing down the posts whilst the little people are on holiday.<br />
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This is my first summer as a Mom with her children at home trying to work, getting the balance between play, family, entertaining, eating and work is no easy task. No day up on day at the beach this year, as soon as I start to get finished I have more to do, oh don't get me wrong this is not a complaint, but some beach time would be fun.<br />
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The boys and I are getting our rhythm, Mom works in the morning whilst they play, then its a family brunch and out for the afternoon. Yummy food and play time in the evening. Once the guys are in bed its time for some more work.<br />
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Yes indeed we have found a happy flow to this little family life and some sunshine has meant meals outside and splashing in the paddling pool.<br />
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So I just wanted to say hello and explain my lack of interaction, its busy here and my little business is nearly on its feet, a few more bits to organise and I will be ready for 'full on work' mode just in time for the children retuning to school. I thank you for sharing this venture with me, its scary and some big lifestyle changes have had to take place. Life moves on and changes are always part of life, I struggle now to take time out to smell the coffee but I always have time to listen to what my kids have to say to me and always have time for a cuddle with them. </div>
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I hope your summer is fabulous and the rain isn't spoiling it to much. Thanks for popping by and normal blogging will resume in just a couple of weeks, which is just as well as I have so much to share, I have met some really lovely people over the weeks and been very inspired, its been an exciting time.</div>
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Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-53548442126126964652012-07-20T15:47:00.000-07:002012-07-20T15:50:50.444-07:00To Do...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Its happened again, what is going on, the rain comes and I just seem to hunker down in my little sewing studio and lose track of time. Actually getting a little business off the ground is maybe taking up a lot more of my time than planed. No sooner did I pass my exams the school year ended and I was jobless, so here I am...with a list of 'TO DO's' like I have never had before. My sewing studio is in need of a good tidy as its getting hard to find things...<br />
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One of the 'To do' points was to sort out a desk area for laptop and Dotty Red paperwork. Would you believe it no sooner was it typed up in the business plan a friend offered me this beautiful desk, it looks like it has always been there, I love it, am sat at it now typing away, best of all at the end of the day I roll the top down and no one but me knows the mess inside...<br />
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I have been working on numerous things ranging from Elephants (picture of their tails). Through to many of these little pretties...<br />
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and some more...<br />
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and would you believe it, I am working on some idea's for Christmas...<br />
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My fabulous boys are now off school and this week has been spent working on getting all my orders completed, just one more to finish, burning the midnight oil here, then its time to close up DOTTY RED for a week and spend some quality family time. Some great county walks with Rosy the dog, some time with friends and I am sure we will manage a few days to at the beach...<br />
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My blog is on the to do list, I have a half written post to finish, so many pictures to share...I feel I have neglected you badly and for that I apologise. I am struggling a little with blogger, with all its new singing and dancing gizmo's. However I just don't have the time to learn what does what and how do I do what I usually do... I will get there but for now I bid you goodnight and for a week - Goodbye. I hope you have a fabulous week and manage to make some very happy memories, apparently the sun is going to SHINE!!!<br />
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<br />Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-88144654068258367102012-07-03T14:34:00.001-07:002012-07-03T14:34:38.474-07:00Going Dotty...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What can I say...</div>
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Time is passing by so quick...</div>
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So much to do and so little time to do it it... and what suffers,? My Dotty Red bloggy home...<br />
Trying to establish a good routine of work and family, not balanced at the moment but I will get there. So I am preparing a post following on from my award...Still smiling at this and grateful. But rather than neglect you further I thought I would write a few lines and show what I have been up to.<br />
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Thank you for the warm comments and emails with love and support for my venture... couldn't do it with out you. Thank you.Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-21059464420079694042012-06-17T06:06:00.000-07:002012-06-17T06:06:09.574-07:00needles and pins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What an incredible couple of weeks, my main focus has been Dotty Red and here at the home of Dotty Red its been none stop sewing, needles and pins, pretty fabric and the sweet smell of lavender.<br />
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Each day brings a new design to the lavender hangers and as I match up the ribbon and fabrics I bask in my love of colour.<br />
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But its not all play, my book keeping has had to have some attention, trying to make myself more organised and I am revising like mad for my Math GCSE exam. To be taken on Tuesday!<br />
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Fortunately the week away at the sea side was the place and time I needed to rest and recharge my batteries.</div>
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To be able to feel the warm sand between my toes, lie back and let the sun shine on my body and listen to the waves gently lapping in whilst my giddy children run in and out of the sea until they eventually get so wet they give into the water and swim... yes swim, you wouldn't catch me in the sea without my wetsuit on at this time of year....<br />
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We spent all the sunny days at the beach and on the less, more wet, days we walked through the beautiful countryside.<br />
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A celebration party for the Jubilee with friends and family in true British style sitting out with our BBQ food trying to shelter from the rain!!!<br />
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Our little pup had her little legs walked off and was indeed a truly wet dog after many an impromptu run into the sea as she chased seagulls. Yes a great, if somewhat wet, week.<br />
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This was the first school week in six years I have not gone into school, oh how I missed it, but life moves on and as much as this makes me sad I guess I have to admit the career path of a teachers assistant has now ended for now and I am concentrating on Dotty Red.<br />
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I am a bit behind in my blogging duties, I have a wonderful interview to share with you and a fabulous award to accept. Will be back later in the week, just need to get through my exam...<br />
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I thank you all for your wonderful words of support and encouragement on my last post, it means so much to me and I feel very blessed, thank you form my heart.Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-80273747160956472622012-05-31T16:23:00.001-07:002012-05-31T16:32:45.917-07:00Introducing ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The busy thing I talked about, well its still happening, but its turned slightly, its gone from stressful to really kind of exciting. Its complicated, 'what isn't' I hear you say! So I have just about completed my Level three Teachers Assistant course, but heck... there are are no jobs out there, a couple of vacancies advertised but when I went to college I found that the trainees in the schools had already got the job but the positions had to advertise. How frustrating is that. So whilst I still want very much to get a career in school I have to face the reality that the jobs are just not available.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUrEbd897MjyFAnByMQir9a1Ffqyhb8E5BgmdSWD4tixSbC2OlyMXsW4wjhrnndyq7LIs3GFIOBsKngAHvYixWpzmp-nTFzH5y8oXvBWiquqtDwYzK1wVGu3dQYOu7nV8hsIxhZKkayI/s1600/DSC_3050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpUrEbd897MjyFAnByMQir9a1Ffqyhb8E5BgmdSWD4tixSbC2OlyMXsW4wjhrnndyq7LIs3GFIOBsKngAHvYixWpzmp-nTFzH5y8oXvBWiquqtDwYzK1wVGu3dQYOu7nV8hsIxhZKkayI/s320/DSC_3050.JPG" width="214" /></a></div>
But I have to feed and dress my children... EK!!! So here is the exciting part... I have taken the rather scary decision to make<b><i> DOTTY RED</i></b> my career. I have been working with a business adviser to make sure everything is as it should be and I am walked through all the details that scare me, registering, tax, insurance etc... but its all good, did you hear that, its all good!<br />
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I had to pitch my business idea and write a big and ever evolving business plan, it all felt a bit Dragons Den-ish, but here I am launching my new line of textiles. Lavender hearts have been a big part of Dotty Red and I will always make them, but I wanted something a little more designer in feel, with my passion for free form embroidery I designed these hangers. Hangers as in you can hang them, on your coat hangers, on the wall, in your bathroom, add it to a gift or as these ones are filled with lavender you can pop them in your smalls draw and let the lavender smell waft out and do its magic. Pop one under your pillow for a sleep filled night!<br />
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I loved making these, I drew and sketched, used my colour pencils and then once I had enough ideas, I started to put them together.<br />
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A huge fan and collector of ribbon, modern and vintage not to mention my passion for buttons and a little liking for wool felt...<br />
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Each day I designed a different hanger, I have to confess I have a pad filled with many more ideas, I have been asked to make Love Heart ones to, oh the possibilities...<br />
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each one could be personalised, a babies name or date of birth...<br />
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These Happy Birthday Bunting have been the most popular today, I think the country has gone bunting mad at the moment and long may it carry on, love a bit of 'smile inducing' bunting.<br />
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But by far my favourite and I have a couple for myself, are the 'Beach Life' ones, designed after a fabulous weekend at the beach, (see previous post) they hold a memory for me, a special time that keeps me going when the rain falls.<br />
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So its been busy, but good busy, it saddens me more than I can share with you that after two years of serious study and over six years voluntary work in school my plans for the future have had to change, but with great support around me I am following my heart, something not many people actually will do, its scary and gives me butterflies, but it is thrilling and exciting and you know... I am going to give it my best shot because I don't want to say... if only!<br />
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After all the planning and the designing and making... I have my beautiful, funny and ever growing boys for a full week, so we are packing our bags, buckets and spades, picnic basket and the odd waterproof jacket and we are heading out for a beach week. I am <b><i>longing</i></b> for long walks with 'Rosy the pup' on big open beaches, popping into the best beach cafe for a tempting bacon butty and a side of chips, pottering around the art shops and beachy places, there will be nights snuggling around the camp fire and the toasting of marshmallows. The diary is full on my return so this week, no watch, no meetings, no school runs... its all about family, play, relaxing, friendships and being in love with life... Then the work begins...<br />
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Have a fabulous Jubilee weekend, smile and as I keep being told by numerous people, you gotta role with it. Have a blast!Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-73890171282722131582012-05-16T01:57:00.003-07:002012-05-16T02:14:23.496-07:00Beach life...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You know when things just go mad... super busy... actually a little stressful. Well that's the place I am in right now. My little business is doing really well and I am trying to get my stock updated with the all the summer lines, yes a lesson to be learnt here and that's start it earlier, its all a learning curve.</div>
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The house viewing did not result in a sale, very disappointed and seriously out of pocket having spent money on preparing the house, redecorating a room and summer planting in the garden, still its nice to enjoy it. The people viewing viewed my house and a neighbours, I was too small and my neighbours too big, it is the same house with two more rooms...Hey ho!!! Looks like we will be here for a little longer, the children are overjoyed, they get so upset about this process, its their home they want to stay and they are not afraid to let me know about it... Oh the guilt!!!<br />
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Add into the pot my final assessment at college and sitting my Math GCSE... Oh help!!! Setting up the legal side of the business is daunting but I have a great mentor who is helping me through, oh my when did the liability insurance get so high! When you cant see it getting more complicated... a letter arrives with the news that my ex husband is returning to the solicitor, yet more pennies to be spent. <br />
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So someone very kind took me away for a weekend away from it all at the beach. Bliss Bliss Bliss...<br />
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We met up with friends, took a couple of chairs, wine and nibbles and spent the day on the sand soaking up the warmth from the sunshine. The first evening fire of the season as we pitched up as close to the flames as possible on a cloudless night, the doggies had a ball playing together...and <b>balance was brought back</b> in to perspective. Sometimes this single parenting thing gets a little overwhelming especially when three years on I am still fighting my corner, but you know, when you take time out and see the big picture...<b><u> Life is good!</u></b><br />
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So what do you do when you have found the house you want and you cant move until yours sells, me and how many other I am sure... But I can dream cant I...<br />
<a href="http://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-22866378.html">http://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-22866378.html</a><br />
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PHOTOS... Lavender Hangers...part of the summer range! Making me smile!Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-56423898144992124792012-05-07T16:10:00.002-07:002012-05-08T06:43:21.557-07:00Jubilee...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So here I sit at nearly midnight, with my cup of Lady Grey and a very nice fried egg buttie, oh yes tonight I am all about class... seriously though its been a hectic few days... and I am a believer in going with the flow and that flow is pretty fast at the moment so it calls for a late night unhealthy snack to keep me going whilst I finish my post and prepare for the day ahead...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuboDx28r1ieWXm2VWSmujSRKkdd4cTFlZGEHe8tiDWSCM0at2ehyphenhyphensJ8NubHECNgwoKYVzZiTwrBugy6D_xQyoy0v95chObkjgFsuFggotS2TGuCtT-unYaZMeOpAXV0KiGMXK7ut6UwM/s1600/DSC_3031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuboDx28r1ieWXm2VWSmujSRKkdd4cTFlZGEHe8tiDWSCM0at2ehyphenhyphensJ8NubHECNgwoKYVzZiTwrBugy6D_xQyoy0v95chObkjgFsuFggotS2TGuCtT-unYaZMeOpAXV0KiGMXK7ut6UwM/s320/DSC_3031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
School uniforms to iron, pack lunches to make, dishes to wash, meetings to prepare for and dogs to feed etc. Usual Mum stuff.<br />
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Who said the Bank Holiday was a time to relax and catch up... get 'behind' more like... Actually its been a time shared with friends and eating far too much whilst hours have passed by and important conversation of 'putting the world to rights' have taken place while wine was sipped. My kids have also had all their friends round to play at some stage of the three days and I have had very little time to spend in my sewing room. A play date sleep over which settled down to sleep at eleven and started again at five the next morning! More coffee please.<br />
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However, I was inspired to put together a few Jubilee lines when I sneaked off for a few moments in my sewing room, I wasn't going to work on anything linked to the jubilee but I was asked what I had...<br />
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So a few ideas have come together and a few ideas still need to be tried out. The nice thing about this weekend was I had a viewing on my home, so I gave up two days to do housework, 'stuff' was hidden away in boxes, bags taken to the charity shop and a day spent in the garden with some new plants needing homes. The house was clean and homely. The viewing lasted twenty minutes, oddly the agent did the viewing and it all felt a bit uncomfortable being asked to step aside while these people went through my home, mind you I disliked poking around other peoples home, it feels very invasive. The viewers seemed really nice but the house isn't for them but it took five days to find that out, oh the stress. The rush of house hunting for me has slowed down now with great relief, the advantage to it all was I had a lovely clean and tidy house all weekend and all the housework was done... A TREAT!<br />
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I could almost hear the intake of breath as they stepped into my dinning room, which of course is my sewing room/studio.<br />
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Hope your weekend was filled with fun and laughter and you surrounded yourself with nice people.<br />
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<br />Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-24398802539130284072012-04-19T13:37:00.004-07:002012-04-19T16:17:21.291-07:00The elephants came by two by two...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iFgjjUa3rWmfjS8BB2io_yJPI0BGhY0-oDBIIdbW3iM7KHulqJhLXHYpWLO-kvGcvSNMl7igTQGRWrTGgeM7BnFJIgnyuh_-oojoyOayZN9jLxWL8aph87qvyLDTJFiqm8TrvOz58gU/s1600/IMG_1152.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 101px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5iFgjjUa3rWmfjS8BB2io_yJPI0BGhY0-oDBIIdbW3iM7KHulqJhLXHYpWLO-kvGcvSNMl7igTQGRWrTGgeM7BnFJIgnyuh_-oojoyOayZN9jLxWL8aph87qvyLDTJFiqm8TrvOz58gU/s400/IMG_1152.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733233043126637890" /></a>A little break from the norm. Two weeks to kick back, find a new groove and just go with it. How I love holidays, I ignore time... completely! No appointments, no rushing around, no time waiting for things... I love the way my body just adjusts to this rhythm, waking up when I want to not when my alarm clock tells me (well maybe when my children choose to start playing) to eat when hungry not grabbing a sandwich between appointments, walking the dog as long a we like instead of rushing her around before we fly out again, which made for some super long walks.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaiw8LVEWUA-E_3qA7RHbKwKtkWApd64aDBFA64nOI37saA6s1YXhIjMK4SCy3Or7mRzP8PhOnVofEXXCVK17e5DXJp3Q6hau3SiC8W4Dx2He9Sd27X5QNHiJn83taPyoLesybObiqKz0/s1600/IMG_1155.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaiw8LVEWUA-E_3qA7RHbKwKtkWApd64aDBFA64nOI37saA6s1YXhIjMK4SCy3Or7mRzP8PhOnVofEXXCVK17e5DXJp3Q6hau3SiC8W4Dx2He9Sd27X5QNHiJn83taPyoLesybObiqKz0/s400/IMG_1155.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733233035689261922" /></a> All Dotty Red orders had been made up and posted so that meant some time without committing to my sewing room... which meant play time... Oh my and I so love my play time, these little family of Elephants just kept getting bigger as I wanted to use all my fabrics... It all started whilst I was surfing the net with my little one, we had a peek at the Retro Mama blog and my wee one got very animated and wanted an elephant just like he saw on her blog... the joy, <a href="http://www.retromama.etsey.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#ff0000;">Retro Mama</span></a> sells the patterns, so we ordered it there and then and we popped off to my fabric stash and he picked the colours he wanted... the next he thing he knew he didn't know which one he wanted... too many to choose from. Oh Happy sewing momma!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihb8Ggylj618hChwjRXA5VHcoqqrqAWR1KXGbNm_6_HMZk0Zr1DSNHHNcQocGuiHTTDUU-rbiONlKbTMh-MotFBB5FJLvA2uWSe40Cg_9Uh2ZG7AOEdRXj7jTCNwtf3VTpZAwGuawnFBM/s1600/IMG_1118.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 149px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihb8Ggylj618hChwjRXA5VHcoqqrqAWR1KXGbNm_6_HMZk0Zr1DSNHHNcQocGuiHTTDUU-rbiONlKbTMh-MotFBB5FJLvA2uWSe40Cg_9Uh2ZG7AOEdRXj7jTCNwtf3VTpZAwGuawnFBM/s400/IMG_1118.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733233026974111570" /></a>We took off for a few days and the weather for the first and last day was SUPERB!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxQb8PA11lx8HhzJ3FXGeCObUuTkkTNI9HOu8zPPDMIaNZai5O4FgNb9s5Kx5BXjvszSNt_938ftPHCZoyM6fr9Q1-8ULNUGuQwGsyQihnX88gmO1zn0d_jXfhFRV16zwUR04nWhyphenhyphenxqM/s1600/IMG_1096.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxQb8PA11lx8HhzJ3FXGeCObUuTkkTNI9HOu8zPPDMIaNZai5O4FgNb9s5Kx5BXjvszSNt_938ftPHCZoyM6fr9Q1-8ULNUGuQwGsyQihnX88gmO1zn0d_jXfhFRV16zwUR04nWhyphenhyphenxqM/s400/IMG_1096.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733215008575039634" /></a>Oh how I have longed to feel the sand between my toes and the sea breeze through my hair.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDef5f3N4prKUl40LENlzNv75wGGczC6cx8rpVY_EM1Lj4HnPt8QVmy0tATlXwrh0gJkwoIdnmC_eD9ozaMCsr-Z4KkKE2arwzpWuzfSITClpCOkEVVc62EQH69xEMscqGoQHQlSYO1Y/s1600/IMG_1102.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDef5f3N4prKUl40LENlzNv75wGGczC6cx8rpVY_EM1Lj4HnPt8QVmy0tATlXwrh0gJkwoIdnmC_eD9ozaMCsr-Z4KkKE2arwzpWuzfSITClpCOkEVVc62EQH69xEMscqGoQHQlSYO1Y/s400/IMG_1102.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733214995934386402" /></a>Bliss Bliss Bliss...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_t5422PXSBFXfN_T__i4FRgCxRAcb7B_QIgPmz4DRHQvJnaXQdYTLIphVbBjrFcmQa_Xm5rfDhueC2-yipKaJaW1jZ11E7zGrPaY9y5MJ59_ZrhNybChqEmzqBNATpx2LEWBM1e536M/s1600/IMG_1120.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_t5422PXSBFXfN_T__i4FRgCxRAcb7B_QIgPmz4DRHQvJnaXQdYTLIphVbBjrFcmQa_Xm5rfDhueC2-yipKaJaW1jZ11E7zGrPaY9y5MJ59_ZrhNybChqEmzqBNATpx2LEWBM1e536M/s400/IMG_1120.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733214985773729250" /></a>I went to bed at the end of that beautiful day and a storm blew up and it rained, hailed, the wind blew and the snow fell...<div>Not to be put off by the weather we still had our fish and chips on the beach, however due to the howling storm taking your very breath straight out your lungs and the sand whipping at your skin like razors, we sat in the car, with our favourite music on and sipped our hot chocolate. Do you remember the advert with the girl who sat in her car listening to 'I can see clearly now the rain has gone' making herself a cuppa with the heater element you could plug into the lighter socket for a mug of hot water? Oh how I loved that advert... I was in that happy place!!!</div><div>So we hunkered down for the next few days and chilled out, chatting, playing board games, watching movies and this Mom got to sew... a little spare of the moment hand sewing... Oh happy days!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCwqZvOxRSZDjYD3B3qk329E1jMMXytsQmXs-5iVOhSqY4b62tirNHrez1UvYYaRWEM1BCjbbnqi5_jfl0q7yRtuRa6G9HyUSyEIyANSfY5Q6lJj-HNIGHqqd8xsJbfOGLstIqrO0bjI/s1600/IMG_1138.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrCwqZvOxRSZDjYD3B3qk329E1jMMXytsQmXs-5iVOhSqY4b62tirNHrez1UvYYaRWEM1BCjbbnqi5_jfl0q7yRtuRa6G9HyUSyEIyANSfY5Q6lJj-HNIGHqqd8xsJbfOGLstIqrO0bjI/s400/IMG_1138.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733214981434503938" /></a>We returned home as some special friends joined us to celebrate Easter. So with the house full of mischievous laughter from the five children running around having the best time and us grown ups chatting, cooking and generally catching up, I was reminded of New Year, my home full of people I loved, I adore cooking and looking after friends it warms my heart and is so good for my sole as it really balances me. Cooking to me is a big part of how I show I care for someone.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXcjIlQl7oKOf2tEDfesz1jZuU0Rhz8Wn8tY9eq7OEM085G8xQzh7vkNt1jhXWhmBtYVEOlAF1M-9wWQt-Vu6GFOjl-7ILOcJWJ9kw-KL7m-S9qVg8UwQ2DcukuFVkPAXaXPq74Pvcvg/s1600/IMG_1093.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 390px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXcjIlQl7oKOf2tEDfesz1jZuU0Rhz8Wn8tY9eq7OEM085G8xQzh7vkNt1jhXWhmBtYVEOlAF1M-9wWQt-Vu6GFOjl-7ILOcJWJ9kw-KL7m-S9qVg8UwQ2DcukuFVkPAXaXPq74Pvcvg/s400/IMG_1093.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733214968194712018" /></a>Eater day was started by the children hunting the eggs (thanks Caroline. Er I forgot to buy the eggs). We sat and worked out the meal plan and how long we had before dinner needed to be started and we all pulled on our walking boots and went for a walk... my version of a walk and my friends is slightly different, I would have called it a hike!!! </div><div>The meal was cooked in a relaxed way, all doing our bit in the kitchen and then we all sat round for a somewhat 'chaotic' meal, not enough chairs etc... it had a real feel of Christmas day, but without the stress!!!</div><div>Sadly I had to say goodbye to my mate and her super family once again. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then before I had time to get all miserable and sad about them leaving the boys and I had an invited to share a birthday meal... a delicious family Chinese banquet. An honour to share this family event.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yes this Easter holiday has made me count my blessing... surrounded by friends I care about, laughing, the children happy, good food, beautiful walks with the Rosy the pup and lots of sleep...</div><div><br /></div><div>After my divorce I lost so much confidence I found it so hard to relax and just couldn't ever imagine being in a position again when laughter filled the house and the people I was with I felt loved by. Yet this week has taught me, if you hang on in there the good stuff happens...</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-19576207627945921772012-03-31T14:04:00.003-07:002012-03-31T14:34:11.153-07:00Stocking up and reflection....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYTr5u0lWDU8YjmvBlSVhhSd2hwvTprCOBD_CAMNISdSuHXeuPjTPvnXdEygit-lQN3u8wv2mdX9X2vLt_LRxPDvPvKnd_c-Z_k-tDmhv1EaMf22rpIl8ThTl_QCCPW5QBtpgHSAzU3k/s1600/DSC_3024.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYTr5u0lWDU8YjmvBlSVhhSd2hwvTprCOBD_CAMNISdSuHXeuPjTPvnXdEygit-lQN3u8wv2mdX9X2vLt_LRxPDvPvKnd_c-Z_k-tDmhv1EaMf22rpIl8ThTl_QCCPW5QBtpgHSAzU3k/s400/DSC_3024.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726172235498151826" /></a>So we are fast approaching the Easter holiday's and while I have had some child free time I have been busy stocking up. I made some more fabric boxes having had a small order in from some Easter boxes for egg hunts with some cute little chicks on the front...what a great idea, wish it was mine!!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0R9KvRrgOauh587NmjQJ3bbMBsOlVuAoajcJhsA5uC7m48i5dTJBC64fMF-iKzDo7UXNCHt-6RBHcPPrrdVhfbA0-AR0-d2G42INeLy6XOmZphdP7fmfYQGJHYYeGtlnpxl-iYCEaUo/s1600/DSC_3029.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0R9KvRrgOauh587NmjQJ3bbMBsOlVuAoajcJhsA5uC7m48i5dTJBC64fMF-iKzDo7UXNCHt-6RBHcPPrrdVhfbA0-AR0-d2G42INeLy6XOmZphdP7fmfYQGJHYYeGtlnpxl-iYCEaUo/s400/DSC_3029.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726172228710941138" /></a>My little fabric lavender filled boats... always great to be making as the sun comes out and I dream of long sunny days by the beach...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexEECIrhaWhS1iPFsK2dppwdqcBng9_1Ut1d09AJ7wibjgF6zcmBgEwo4BvvOmmrMRMEdj_QZ4TzdEh714jZi8P0LtomdTLeDqwL8uWnFoNtiZTIRTFPEdzlnBjSKWtRURgncuUfQQSM/s1600/DSC_3030.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexEECIrhaWhS1iPFsK2dppwdqcBng9_1Ut1d09AJ7wibjgF6zcmBgEwo4BvvOmmrMRMEdj_QZ4TzdEh714jZi8P0LtomdTLeDqwL8uWnFoNtiZTIRTFPEdzlnBjSKWtRURgncuUfQQSM/s400/DSC_3030.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726172218114105218" /></a>Oh how I love selecting the fabric for these, I usually use linen as I like the way it drapes but this time I have used some different cotton's having done a little fabric shopping... you know how it is you have to use the fabric you just got... right... or is that just me!!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kRXrniknTGLXbU_y2qA3F23kAIuuhe1BDLGKvkIWDgwRds2RTHxqJTJ0pB0uER6pU65NcJks8CBYMDyT34UmRAQ4z7t7imd-QTgtl8GV4liYT__8UHodDNNpRot8DvbnfGhtoRp-Z8A/s1600/DSC_2894.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kRXrniknTGLXbU_y2qA3F23kAIuuhe1BDLGKvkIWDgwRds2RTHxqJTJ0pB0uER6pU65NcJks8CBYMDyT34UmRAQ4z7t7imd-QTgtl8GV4liYT__8UHodDNNpRot8DvbnfGhtoRp-Z8A/s400/DSC_2894.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726172210228100882" /></a>My seaside bunting makeup bags have sold so well, I am really pleased with these and thankful that I took the time to pay attention to detail when placing the zip in these and the pretty lining, you just can not go wrong with spotty dotty fabric...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSayrkZOW12-JZqm2MNhvabDGRzDWM7j4FaUkPYIMBRSkzPfmMTWCUfzhO4k9gpCybvigdomT7L8lsFTWpM98rpm5hgt4RJvoVrAYP1ygqQmcax73xGEGwKHlI6QqxzGEM9zHBZBXYisE/s1600/DSC_3023.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 276px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSayrkZOW12-JZqm2MNhvabDGRzDWM7j4FaUkPYIMBRSkzPfmMTWCUfzhO4k9gpCybvigdomT7L8lsFTWpM98rpm5hgt4RJvoVrAYP1ygqQmcax73xGEGwKHlI6QqxzGEM9zHBZBXYisE/s400/DSC_3023.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726170947782714722" /></a>With the sun coming out we are back to using the garden as our new room and eating as many meals out as possible, when we awoke to a super hot day on Sunday we treated ourselves to some tasty treats for breakfast whilst we soaked up the sun, still our PJs!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKH4HIO5AyadtMVwBcL3Cj6dIhinKDceHHssv1K32Wo2PcS7qgxIte8rvlZYgnyPVicJh-_yMOZvljqAVUM2SCWKsDOMcnlUTQ3_nLM8sp0JenoduKBbSgbcD8tx_EppagQqglgzO24k/s1600/DSCN0239.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKH4HIO5AyadtMVwBcL3Cj6dIhinKDceHHssv1K32Wo2PcS7qgxIte8rvlZYgnyPVicJh-_yMOZvljqAVUM2SCWKsDOMcnlUTQ3_nLM8sp0JenoduKBbSgbcD8tx_EppagQqglgzO24k/s400/DSCN0239.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726170945780350610" /></a>Can you tell I am typing in a hurry, busy I am, getting ready for a break, taking the boys to the place they love best... you guessed... we are off to the beach for a few days to our little beach shack, eating ice cream, long walks down the beach and evenings around the fire with friends...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAw4tGuU2VSZuH4rf71A_S6_0FfqIi8SI4t-IAEU6jFKcMWSoOVh4eXRnWy_-aiVrBiSgK0Ih5aXJ0V6MncO3ALnLH3t934JpijthJ4Xb6b6irc7z6-7TPBoKP3ho8DLIYIbJZ_QhVHI/s1600/DSC_0570.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAw4tGuU2VSZuH4rf71A_S6_0FfqIi8SI4t-IAEU6jFKcMWSoOVh4eXRnWy_-aiVrBiSgK0Ih5aXJ0V6MncO3ALnLH3t934JpijthJ4Xb6b6irc7z6-7TPBoKP3ho8DLIYIbJZ_QhVHI/s400/DSC_0570.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5726170935483465138" /></a>So I leave you for a week, my camera is packed and I cant wait to capture some memories. My knitting bag is stuffed with more projects than I can possibly manage, and as I have done so much sewing this past week I am not going to take my sewing machine with me, but I look forward to coming back and making up all the beach inspired creations. <div><br /></div><div>I leave you with a photo, a photo I love, it holds so many memories for me, the place and time it is taken, of course who the picture is of, its my youngest, my little long haired surf dude... sadly for Mom the curls are all gone now, I miss them so, but I have to admit the squeals of pain as I combed out the sand filled locks was something close to torture, which might explain the rather annoyed look...</div><div><br /></div><div>What ever you are up to this Easter, I wish you only the best, a time spent being with your family, surrounded by those that you love and love you back, and maybe you to will be blessed with some time in your favourite place....May the sun shine...please! </div>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-77712789879519193692012-03-21T03:33:00.004-07:002012-03-21T04:37:52.504-07:00Baby Doll...Out of my comfort zone this week. I have been asked about fabric dolls, not for children to play with more of a nice thing to have on display, its news to me but apparently fabric dolls are the 'in' thing. Following on from the sock monkey trend little fabric dolls with lots of attitude are very desired. I live near<a href="http://hebdonbridge.co.uk/"> </a><a href="http://www.hebdenbridge.co.uk">Hebden Bridge</a> which is a lovely market town filled with lots of beautiful individual small shops with a very arty bohemian feel to it. I love the place. A shop has asked about dolls...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxvdRNpc9FGvMr08J3dd5PbwswvVvn2UrPOy5CuzEA8cEGQ3bnfVnBdG5mRV6-LHCbVkA6ovxZvGo2Va1RDr0jqJEWA-bl3jrdtVh2ZgDaH7l8YG1gemwybTK0zsoB0P5y7GdnD0_I1s/s1600/DSC_3017.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxvdRNpc9FGvMr08J3dd5PbwswvVvn2UrPOy5CuzEA8cEGQ3bnfVnBdG5mRV6-LHCbVkA6ovxZvGo2Va1RDr0jqJEWA-bl3jrdtVh2ZgDaH7l8YG1gemwybTK0zsoB0P5y7GdnD0_I1s/s400/DSC_3017.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722298124529436514" /></a>Mmmmm not to be beaten by this I had a play, I researched the net I read my book from the lovely <a href="http://www.weewonderfuls.com/">Wee Wonderfuls</a> and thought... I can do this... SO I drew up a pattern, which has been redrawn many times now, nearly there I think... oh lots of cursing went on and seams ripped and re-sewn. Finally I would like to introduce you to JENNY. She is a very happy doll and really likes the simple things in life, she is especially enjoying the warmer days and finding time to sip tea in the garden...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsuXB2qwLz1bCSWNBfwN_4SzXot9G-aoGQl6t8Foq_L0VLTqsObaP0YygBmgX5KzBP1zZpuFtPD2LNhxqZ2FXgephjF6w80DBOQOIiO4Q_uZTRa6j2h8FlM-C8P1lWu4Vn4XBRnfcjf4/s1600/DSC_3018.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsuXB2qwLz1bCSWNBfwN_4SzXot9G-aoGQl6t8Foq_L0VLTqsObaP0YygBmgX5KzBP1zZpuFtPD2LNhxqZ2FXgephjF6w80DBOQOIiO4Q_uZTRa6j2h8FlM-C8P1lWu4Vn4XBRnfcjf4/s400/DSC_3018.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722298117367689586" /></a>She is a bit shy of those long skinny legs and likes to put on pretty dresses to cover them up a little, a vintage girl so her clothes have lots of lace and pretty buttons on them.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZSEBQ18KzaUoEE57XsUb28zUNC_8F6RqQenYuzq1aXx52gthCVASHh_kMLd6AT0aIh8sA3P3qZKo-mc_BldtoMs_4ZfIXPY4ybJ8x0SQHVvRABQM-OAHJaRW9iT9LlLQ-ymG_7hyphenhyphenzfs/s1600/DSC_3020.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 313px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZSEBQ18KzaUoEE57XsUb28zUNC_8F6RqQenYuzq1aXx52gthCVASHh_kMLd6AT0aIh8sA3P3qZKo-mc_BldtoMs_4ZfIXPY4ybJ8x0SQHVvRABQM-OAHJaRW9iT9LlLQ-ymG_7hyphenhyphenzfs/s400/DSC_3020.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722298101437008434" /></a>Jenny's best friend is her little felt dog called Scotty. After a day of walking her dog through the daffodils she likes to relax in the evening, she is a bit 'saucy' as she lounges around in her ribbon undies... after all her pretty dress is only worn for best!!!<div><br /></div><div>A little more work is needed I think. I think I need to enlarge the pattern a little so the turning of the body with all those skinny arms and legs is a little easier and I need to change (once again) the position of her arms, a little higher and at more of an angle. Ideally I would like to give her a more defined neck, but this is proving near on impossible and on looking at other doll designers this is something that is a case of 'that's how it is' well if its good enough for them it is for me too. All in all I am pleased with Jenny. But she is a little shy and I am a little scared to show her off.<div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1_fn5TMucU77CFtoTEQ-JWea64j29xiy7-Zh9HtshyNqocs4Rf277Nk1hldBW81nVwOL6tT7orGEvQ8AEbV1R-c9bQhOUZXKHEdKbuOZvMzmMV3Z536ypLmkP2-dkt8F1mBXHXm8xO8/s1600/DSC_3022.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1_fn5TMucU77CFtoTEQ-JWea64j29xiy7-Zh9HtshyNqocs4Rf277Nk1hldBW81nVwOL6tT7orGEvQ8AEbV1R-c9bQhOUZXKHEdKbuOZvMzmMV3Z536ypLmkP2-dkt8F1mBXHXm8xO8/s400/DSC_3022.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722298092496209778" /></a>I hope Mothers Day was a good day. I sadly did not have my boys with me, but after a week of birthday celebrations we have had lots of fun this week. We went to see '<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Rf55GTEZ_E">John Carter</a>' a great fantasy film, I think I enjoyed it more than my children. Rosy the pup is not speaking to us after we had her spayed, she looks so sorry for herself at the moment.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc645ileRzK2lriEm9d8Rb8gldbe6ABBxSJs3Wtj_XGO_IlLXwBkz6KsOcWz27SSRL0I2fuTxLPAWhEnnc2sKZInUITVYadMEd6SuXJhncGnVO0OAYxczaTSTDWC7O31doy1Y1cWjpQ_o/s1600/DSC_3021.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 292px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc645ileRzK2lriEm9d8Rb8gldbe6ABBxSJs3Wtj_XGO_IlLXwBkz6KsOcWz27SSRL0I2fuTxLPAWhEnnc2sKZInUITVYadMEd6SuXJhncGnVO0OAYxczaTSTDWC7O31doy1Y1cWjpQ_o/s400/DSC_3021.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722298091920147890" /></a>I leave you with a beautiful picture of my Mothers Day flowers (actually they had been bought for my Mum but she didn't have time to see me, so they are now on my kitchen window looking stunning and the smell is filling my home beautifully.</div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you for all your positive comments last week, I am very touched by them, My meetings came to nothing due to a waiting list to get on a college course for small business/start up advice... I have been given another date, in four weeks!</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Dog pattern came form the very talented <a href="http://www.allsorts.typepad.com/">All Sorts</a>. </i></div>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-70573879651024643782012-03-09T16:25:00.006-08:002012-03-10T02:36:59.497-08:00put the kettle on and catch up...cup of tea?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrnn3b5IE9OuXU5nzhckwWrumANNQ2_JfliBl4QmxSF2EYQVe1Z22N19APTKJ1LDLq2Ww0HoFjTvSFJ34SPitxeuTllvBUrfNnkeY03nSKfjiImp7yHOJY-9nbCBfADgBl_gqlMYV9Fec/s1600/DSC_3021.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrnn3b5IE9OuXU5nzhckwWrumANNQ2_JfliBl4QmxSF2EYQVe1Z22N19APTKJ1LDLq2Ww0HoFjTvSFJ34SPitxeuTllvBUrfNnkeY03nSKfjiImp7yHOJY-9nbCBfADgBl_gqlMYV9Fec/s400/DSC_3021.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718064681494815682" /></a>Its one in the morning here and the house is all silent except for the gentle hum of the freezer... my puppy sleeps at my feet ensuring they are cosy and warm. Its been a busy week here at the Dotty Red Household and I am pleased we are now on to the weekend. As I sit at my kitchen table with my big mug of Lady Grey sporting my rather posh new Cath Kidston apron, which was a treat to myself having wanted one for over four years and is making me HAPPY! My thoughts run through the week past and start to plan the week ahead...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmpIG9AvH-6_g-bVouOJ2oDBS1GvbTuuhIzKNLfyswAWrFwvhZhZi6nbr1AuQhNgYTneqK0riO4IprawduU9yntlVBVXTu2diEJyT1HwV1h-GjXxcxr6AJTUAj0i1Eiw-0hyphenhyphenXg8qHQVg/s1600/DSC_3026.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmpIG9AvH-6_g-bVouOJ2oDBS1GvbTuuhIzKNLfyswAWrFwvhZhZi6nbr1AuQhNgYTneqK0riO4IprawduU9yntlVBVXTu2diEJyT1HwV1h-GjXxcxr6AJTUAj0i1Eiw-0hyphenhyphenXg8qHQVg/s400/DSC_3026.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718064675208737922" /></a>At the moment my life is full of plans for the future and its direction. A lot of a planning and research is going on at the moment and seeing if things finally come off and next week some meetings take place to take this research onto the next level. Its exciting and full of anxiety all at the same time. Next to this is completing my studies and my time spent working as a teaching assistant. I adore my hours in school and I am working with a teacher who is allowing me to concentrate on the creative side with the children and I come home very happy and covered in paint. How can I explain the thrill I get as I watch these very little people learn to draw and paint, mix colours and see their excitement when they turn red and white into pink, the work is truly inspiring...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYo_pc8wsC9vczZx3EYcCVPHztFzO0yVDyW4bu9vTZHmnyfhojkRz51H1i8r6QZAmkKmsXOrK5M12aND6Z12gebefoNR_0ZZ4gu8hWaQy73gL3gCowbNuNVgIGrO1RqiVjpqIv_5Ev3s/s1600/DSC_3025.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYo_pc8wsC9vczZx3EYcCVPHztFzO0yVDyW4bu9vTZHmnyfhojkRz51H1i8r6QZAmkKmsXOrK5M12aND6Z12gebefoNR_0ZZ4gu8hWaQy73gL3gCowbNuNVgIGrO1RqiVjpqIv_5Ev3s/s400/DSC_3025.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718064663949663554" /></a>So I have a decision to make in the coming months, do I sew for a living and come away from being a hobby and actually make it my family way of life that puts food on the table or do I follow the teaching assistant path. The decision I think will be made for me as due to all the education cuts its the Teachers Assistants jobs that have been cut. My college have talked to me about continuing my studies to a foundation degree, whilst I would love to commit to this on so many levels MONEY and CHILDCARE stop me. I have to put that food on the table NOW not in four years, the advantage of the course... a stable and secure career in teaching, if there are any jobs at the end of it!!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-jbHkbrx_WLhPNL2Ue8pFX3qvXkAIMrH7wfwPT0XtMq0NQtEh85a2yfmbRon02Hv954taZ_9_8HKZ6U-MV0vxZ9L-TtGzsVbMtr3hjMfg0aIPwYEboEgF1mNIB_eeDxBSbHSBEUJ5bs/s1600/DSC_3017.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-jbHkbrx_WLhPNL2Ue8pFX3qvXkAIMrH7wfwPT0XtMq0NQtEh85a2yfmbRon02Hv954taZ_9_8HKZ6U-MV0vxZ9L-TtGzsVbMtr3hjMfg0aIPwYEboEgF1mNIB_eeDxBSbHSBEUJ5bs/s400/DSC_3017.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718063217251624818" /></a>Its a dilemma for sure and far to serious for this small hour in the morning. The reflection of the past week is a good one, it was a week of success and getting things done...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqaeQjX7AqzywzP_sXxQowJkxwCfWnV980YDfXLq-_PRNKSq-artfI5KhdSiN2SwywLTiD-BYxkeCWzkI2kyfS_7Jctq8uoFkuFOkKhIFKzKJlu0UGJ8sMJbjh8ua8XMU8DZOwo1o19bM/s1600/DSC_3018.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqaeQjX7AqzywzP_sXxQowJkxwCfWnV980YDfXLq-_PRNKSq-artfI5KhdSiN2SwywLTiD-BYxkeCWzkI2kyfS_7Jctq8uoFkuFOkKhIFKzKJlu0UGJ8sMJbjh8ua8XMU8DZOwo1o19bM/s400/DSC_3018.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718063207852986706" /></a>Working on a new range of tea pot cosies, watching them grow from the idea of a friend of mine who wanted one to making a lovely pile of them, selecting all the fabrics and matching them up, cutting out little bits and putting it all together...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Rct32O3BZsiy-OGJbemp8MdkPtBilk2iD5nTSUitA6tqpNJfQrD1jRKpnQRR3oOpBMtiaKVlqryfS_B0074MWeLmXE3n8ivLm9enjVwWiEWhADGHjPH5KILPvfO8xjuSGQWBMb5YG9c/s1600/DSC_3019.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Rct32O3BZsiy-OGJbemp8MdkPtBilk2iD5nTSUitA6tqpNJfQrD1jRKpnQRR3oOpBMtiaKVlqryfS_B0074MWeLmXE3n8ivLm9enjVwWiEWhADGHjPH5KILPvfO8xjuSGQWBMb5YG9c/s400/DSC_3019.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718063199408260738" /></a>The joy this brings never stops making me smile, tweaking out any little problems, finding the right wadding and how big or small to make the loop... then suddenly it all falls in place and satisfaction is bliss...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCfTHkst5GKGcFzitMHyJqKPrefnbMSjkXaa1L2BpptAFxbXAmBeZ7UhaFD7SECNtnof2O8-YDzzDIfS2X2FE7c0ldlNc45IXPrqcSowGm5-I8O9BMs8KAzWzPi6BgKUZgdrQmy21M5o/s1600/DSC_3020.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 344px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCfTHkst5GKGcFzitMHyJqKPrefnbMSjkXaa1L2BpptAFxbXAmBeZ7UhaFD7SECNtnof2O8-YDzzDIfS2X2FE7c0ldlNc45IXPrqcSowGm5-I8O9BMs8KAzWzPi6BgKUZgdrQmy21M5o/s400/DSC_3020.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718063193488986306" /></a>Whilst I have sewn I have allowed my thoughts to wonder back to my holiday...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6nG9YUzADb4bRFVVExYDPS5dwY5KtjObi9875NLVw4SgCg_J2RSJN1QdiOroGKLTv3HGZQaWN7g8-uCXZbHhLpKN3_tn-SupIn7xKcDAvRcoEs-rLhKLZ9sD6uCxtrn8aLU5LAT5cv0/s1600/DSC_2964.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6nG9YUzADb4bRFVVExYDPS5dwY5KtjObi9875NLVw4SgCg_J2RSJN1QdiOroGKLTv3HGZQaWN7g8-uCXZbHhLpKN3_tn-SupIn7xKcDAvRcoEs-rLhKLZ9sD6uCxtrn8aLU5LAT5cv0/s400/DSC_2964.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718063177490746946" /></a>I am still carrying the feeling of contentment this week brought to my family. A few new little routines have been put in place and we rediscovered our time together, the boys and me, so much more enjoyable without all the modern stuff, the computer games and the Nintendo. Drawing and reading an hour before bedtime, long walks with the dog, family bath times full of silliness and of course cookie making....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-I0dGQA3lrUsMsUJNI5Es4GOCuM-zEdX9GytpQI3TEJcw62dO7rCEsOCH_s70FM_SNmP9_Gb2j2JW12ZGvQ46GKYpmJAT5UKnA5Gvx6yy68xmLKa6TpLhB1_VRaREFYhMp3HhkHQZ_c/s1600/DSC_2906.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR-I0dGQA3lrUsMsUJNI5Es4GOCuM-zEdX9GytpQI3TEJcw62dO7rCEsOCH_s70FM_SNmP9_Gb2j2JW12ZGvQ46GKYpmJAT5UKnA5Gvx6yy68xmLKa6TpLhB1_VRaREFYhMp3HhkHQZ_c/s400/DSC_2906.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718060422552148178" /></a>COOKIE MAKING. I always used to bake cookies for my kids, but life changes and things stop, to rediscover this simple pleasure enriched now as the kids do most of the baking, and it is me that sits tapping my fingers waiting for the cookie to come out the oven and be the first to eat one.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4uDkTu8GJbNLR-gnOJebxkTPsR9443fusNvaiXMM0U4vig_5mi0-nY2xx85XlGXUa2r8e0bTFtKmwKZTI4VgAvpuYGrVnM2pacT8854F-2VbbtJOGIL5cqq78iUYuYcLFzmFPKM0_SME/s1600/DSC_2963.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4uDkTu8GJbNLR-gnOJebxkTPsR9443fusNvaiXMM0U4vig_5mi0-nY2xx85XlGXUa2r8e0bTFtKmwKZTI4VgAvpuYGrVnM2pacT8854F-2VbbtJOGIL5cqq78iUYuYcLFzmFPKM0_SME/s400/DSC_2963.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718060414535656594" /></a>Memories of the beautiful cottage, sweet and pretty have made me take time to clear and tidy up my own home. It was a break that made me slow down and take stock and see things for what they are instead of thundering through life, its left not just me but the boys too with a new rhythm and new appreciation of what we know is important to us and that is our precious time together.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHuQv3dFs_N8rIVs6CzAOzbJmIOft_38q3tVCQkFtsVOsSPXKDp2LVslxSxV7EjUkUOAE9Z4J4HDav7MGiKGX__yGQ8Ev-UWM08cA7eJWKszr29BY_g8Wa85p2UVKbV35TuBxXQe0ZlPg/s1600/DSC_2953.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHuQv3dFs_N8rIVs6CzAOzbJmIOft_38q3tVCQkFtsVOsSPXKDp2LVslxSxV7EjUkUOAE9Z4J4HDav7MGiKGX__yGQ8Ev-UWM08cA7eJWKszr29BY_g8Wa85p2UVKbV35TuBxXQe0ZlPg/s400/DSC_2953.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718060409343420274" /></a>So the thoughts to the week ahead... well its birthday week here, both boys a day apart (plus four years and two minutes) so plans are being made, presents being bought and made secretly in the evenings...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4ARxGUBb2ozw7thewiLc5WnKLtixPOhQLCpuseiJkyDeaDqZbxm-hisSAWoV7fB3pJgnpduz36blr7bluGJzaH9lQOSP_NjFUV69gafO6xPKOB5_1pMpJS7lLyNrgy0lIdkR3LRMMQI/s1600/DSC_2991.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4ARxGUBb2ozw7thewiLc5WnKLtixPOhQLCpuseiJkyDeaDqZbxm-hisSAWoV7fB3pJgnpduz36blr7bluGJzaH9lQOSP_NjFUV69gafO6xPKOB5_1pMpJS7lLyNrgy0lIdkR3LRMMQI/s400/DSC_2991.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718060401704700514" /></a>Birthdays are such special times, I think for the children it is filled with great excitement but for the Moms its a time when you stop and look at the stage your child is at. One birthday marks a change...as my little boy, my first born, turns into a teenager. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeGOJTiNAoeOC6o6eGidSIBisnYLbJEU-LIDwiuWmUChFIHCknqmEfVkCVlR0H9E11DV8t0uqf0GSx3T-KVSdBPPXZ0PRPXqGtzocwAqR0iZRfvDcx7FdVlBNi1W7xJ28Y7uL9ZadUeM/s1600/DSC_2931.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeGOJTiNAoeOC6o6eGidSIBisnYLbJEU-LIDwiuWmUChFIHCknqmEfVkCVlR0H9E11DV8t0uqf0GSx3T-KVSdBPPXZ0PRPXqGtzocwAqR0iZRfvDcx7FdVlBNi1W7xJ28Y7uL9ZadUeM/s400/DSC_2931.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718060398295151170" /></a>As we sit together in the evenings when the littlest one is asleep, I know now that this is not a time to fear, it enriches us, he doesn't need me as much as he did, he is capable and balanced. (Most of the time)! Our time is now spent talking, as he questions everything, he laughs too at his silly Mom who gets her knickers in a twist and he helps me see the funny side of our life. He is a support, a helper and my friend. Sometimes when the going gets tough it is him that gives out the hugs and that fills my heart to bursting...<div><br /></div><div>Have a fabulous weekend.<br /><div><br /></div><div>Pictures: (1-7) tea pot cosies and a small selection of my china cups, yes I am a collector!!! (7-13) pictures from our holiday away in our cosy cottage with a sprinkling of snow on top...oh yes and the flying dog!!!</div></div><div><br /></div><div>NB: All cosies gone to new homes. Thank you :)</div>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-47942691549966978232012-02-28T01:57:00.004-08:002012-02-28T02:21:19.953-08:00Missing...Missing...Blogger who has not blogged for two weeks...<div><br /></div><div>I am right here, but very busy and adjusting to life after my lovely relaxing break away with my children at this<a href="http://www.castlegatecottages.co.uk"> beautiful cottage</a>, ah what bliss, photo's to follow, time just chilling, no thought to clock watching and lots of our day spent outdoors playing in the snow and then warming up in the evening in front of a fire with yummy food from the local deli. Sleeping was a big feature of the week, lots of reading, a little bit of knitting and a couple of lovely visits to see a friends...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPiw74YFP7KWPYYbb53u9kkMhqN72x9mD929GUi1_zjUGcR7h-BUqXvj2TvgIN1vtQux8QpNEBWRbKE6pvpa8UKUdB3b2OJUxkLxnFzPGsAnMDiIMXkQm2-OlbqrWW3Lcy2F9Fnxrf1bs/s1600/DSC_3001.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPiw74YFP7KWPYYbb53u9kkMhqN72x9mD929GUi1_zjUGcR7h-BUqXvj2TvgIN1vtQux8QpNEBWRbKE6pvpa8UKUdB3b2OJUxkLxnFzPGsAnMDiIMXkQm2-OlbqrWW3Lcy2F9Fnxrf1bs/s400/DSC_3001.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714124016897463746" /></a>Returning back home to the usual madness and juggling too many things at once. I am getting there, there is light at the end of the tunnel... struggling with the reality of the return back to normality but helped along with a few very positive signs of spring, oh the snow drops look fabulous and cheer me up and make my heart lighter.</div><div><br /></div><div>On the kitchen table, the heart of this home, life is busy and a bit messy, but results are on the way, working on a couple of orders, pre paring for being assessed in school and getting as much study done as possible.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am very excited to announce I have won a couple of blogging awards from some special bloggers, I will reveal all in my next post. For now though I wanted to thank you for taking the time out to keep coming back to my hectic home, a place that shows how reality of day to day living and dreams can mix on a daily basis. </div><div><br /></div><div>Feeling humble and thankful and a little bit excited about the lighter evenings that promise longer, brighter and warmer days ahead.</div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-69611690582896739262012-02-09T08:09:00.000-08:002012-02-09T16:13:55.910-08:00Stocking up...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIgwEP_H9T4L4s6Nd9dH7Vy1pYzioWiYK4644aE9WyluUWi7gHUmzrLQoGXfygkmBvl0QLlxAIZDguV3ltVY7oR3EaqymY7wXUw-Qf3cwFeypBMDpWYpvFcM9M-EhT0gdLqxEtDtf9QUE/s1600/DSC_2914.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIgwEP_H9T4L4s6Nd9dH7Vy1pYzioWiYK4644aE9WyluUWi7gHUmzrLQoGXfygkmBvl0QLlxAIZDguV3ltVY7oR3EaqymY7wXUw-Qf3cwFeypBMDpWYpvFcM9M-EhT0gdLqxEtDtf9QUE/s400/DSC_2914.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707173189500802450" /></a>The cold winter weather is taking its toll on my little family...My wee one is curled up on the sofa feeling very sorry for himself, even the promise of a movie with popcorn snuggling up in a big Mommy cuddle does not raise a smile... cough cough cough... poor little poppet.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4onVEE0M5M33AkKFR1RP3UPxpekRunN-kw1GEhwEYu0un7vr26GsziHuSAXDOcZJ9QrmLHWa0SWhQ3GMNLywsHwUzlvYq_4jROY2xZY8SJSpG4VULQfW96TCk16ctzvaw48GPyJuLMto/s1600/DSC_2927.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 226px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4onVEE0M5M33AkKFR1RP3UPxpekRunN-kw1GEhwEYu0un7vr26GsziHuSAXDOcZJ9QrmLHWa0SWhQ3GMNLywsHwUzlvYq_4jROY2xZY8SJSpG4VULQfW96TCk16ctzvaw48GPyJuLMto/s400/DSC_2927.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707173187861262066" /></a>I too am still under the weather, with a cold that will not let go of me. So with the snow turning to treacherous ice on the roads, I am hunkering down and playing nurse with my littlest one and in the moments he sleeps all curled up snoring gently I have been either sitting at my desk studying or in my sewing room working on stock.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-WTAD8urxT7WiP9FcM1GGOsEgYhnRh6vJk4AuE84j0bzbMOwXlAfGOzbNW2s9Hs01UM2GVPx4DfuOtCdGLulWIQzkoyRYoCbmpCSTB3UuqI_1-Bk7MAUQMoy7PHinFDaiBjm3_9z4uE/s1600/DSC_2917.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-WTAD8urxT7WiP9FcM1GGOsEgYhnRh6vJk4AuE84j0bzbMOwXlAfGOzbNW2s9Hs01UM2GVPx4DfuOtCdGLulWIQzkoyRYoCbmpCSTB3UuqI_1-Bk7MAUQMoy7PHinFDaiBjm3_9z4uE/s400/DSC_2917.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707173169629348434" /></a>Having attending various craft fairs and shows over the holiday season I have really thought about what I make and what is worth me making. I have noticed a big trend at fairs for small but cute things, so with this in mind I have been making cute button hairbands in Japanese fabric and little fabric button earrings.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQKCZNIAhuyMFDemEKoYjyBuz_RP8kCV5A9EFNYDfV7dEhstscE6fQEL7c2N2I9xyLYrsAaA94QEsAfcYtp6VdBRJCtDxsV8ATh6RgDvC28RhXbuGBWT51oxNt75mQ9JeCOZf7EeS-X6Q/s1600/DSC_2920.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 284px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQKCZNIAhuyMFDemEKoYjyBuz_RP8kCV5A9EFNYDfV7dEhstscE6fQEL7c2N2I9xyLYrsAaA94QEsAfcYtp6VdBRJCtDxsV8ATh6RgDvC28RhXbuGBWT51oxNt75mQ9JeCOZf7EeS-X6Q/s400/DSC_2920.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707173166268162546" /></a>Not to mention normal button earrings, with of course the dotty red buttons.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYIci18zN7mHHyeVY4c1Vv7e-s_X2C6Tcz4iXKWux21l4teTH7Z-1N_lI1bOTIPG-9m0Mox6Oz1cPplwB2QHnvA_mQlAQB-xCcMNq7IMRo5tz-KRYOW5Qzovw6JSHfiecVmeCga7KjDC0/s1600/DSC_2925.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYIci18zN7mHHyeVY4c1Vv7e-s_X2C6Tcz4iXKWux21l4teTH7Z-1N_lI1bOTIPG-9m0Mox6Oz1cPplwB2QHnvA_mQlAQB-xCcMNq7IMRo5tz-KRYOW5Qzovw6JSHfiecVmeCga7KjDC0/s400/DSC_2925.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707170499458665234" /></a>I have really enjoyed designing the packaging and think they go very well in the fabric boxes. My packaging is rather rustic and simple so this sewn card keeps in with my Dotty Red style.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-o-K0MWJdorOQr5WqoXPSDlDThk_WgExi7nnA3BSim9NBwP9td622OfIJiBEN_JZnVH-YCEfIqLYyzZ4BA8hIkow_MnP5TC0tihi1vMlT4AIc9BWZcmeSzB_AUduoZFRUrwlUiGhOlGs/s1600/DSC_2921.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-o-K0MWJdorOQr5WqoXPSDlDThk_WgExi7nnA3BSim9NBwP9td622OfIJiBEN_JZnVH-YCEfIqLYyzZ4BA8hIkow_MnP5TC0tihi1vMlT4AIc9BWZcmeSzB_AUduoZFRUrwlUiGhOlGs/s400/DSC_2921.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707170490412360642" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; ">With Spring on its way (oh please please come soon) you couldn't ignore the Easter Bunny so I have made a little twist on the lavender hearts and made ickle lavender bunnies....</span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-edqwZpb0e_ay6BElEB_gDNNJST6Rl4ViyDMazeCXvriOK96z6HFLpU1MU0Zmc3HFqkGFrrcH8I8c2EIF9bro3lmQGg-hEy6N25cHY6FSyelrJhfxaptkVLeRQqmE0W9ZZqrWVYhsIr0/s1600/DSC_2928.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-edqwZpb0e_ay6BElEB_gDNNJST6Rl4ViyDMazeCXvriOK96z6HFLpU1MU0Zmc3HFqkGFrrcH8I8c2EIF9bro3lmQGg-hEy6N25cHY6FSyelrJhfxaptkVLeRQqmE0W9ZZqrWVYhsIr0/s400/DSC_2928.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707170467917478386" /></a>A treat to inhale all that lavender goodness...cute cute ears!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIygP3mD-F6oO2e7T7UYkMn-IXP2qhDm6OSrRWASKs_ERra8jeHYqNBrguq2tOKaox0PGdWPdDkkbz3K2smv7geS7ajvg9ZrtuKPkwZniRT2sq6eB5cpuraF2MjaewO2hLT4W0kX2R1Q4/s1600/DSC_2930.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIygP3mD-F6oO2e7T7UYkMn-IXP2qhDm6OSrRWASKs_ERra8jeHYqNBrguq2tOKaox0PGdWPdDkkbz3K2smv7geS7ajvg9ZrtuKPkwZniRT2sq6eB5cpuraF2MjaewO2hLT4W0kX2R1Q4/s400/DSC_2930.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707170453049704418" /></a>Oh and of course everyone favourite... bunting and lots of it!!! So I feel I have some stock now, this time last year it was cushions, I have finally found a supplier for my feather pads which really helps on the price front for me.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy_T4NdkC7IXX44OZvZneFP0XCEsmcNNW2hNJxljtrBFN4LPh3gpAozoFsqIryBpHu4yswzlvse8UDxILoL812NakqlsEIBDkZzJigVihF1L6Oac6RoQrRRPklu-RaJ-aUW661I2MtpM/s1600/DSC_2931.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy_T4NdkC7IXX44OZvZneFP0XCEsmcNNW2hNJxljtrBFN4LPh3gpAozoFsqIryBpHu4yswzlvse8UDxILoL812NakqlsEIBDkZzJigVihF1L6Oac6RoQrRRPklu-RaJ-aUW661I2MtpM/s400/DSC_2931.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707170448448094402" /></a>So I carry on looking after the little one and half term approaches, I am going to sign off for the week and spend time with my family, we are off to a place with people we have not seen for a while, a big old log fire and lots of fields and woods to explore oh and I am sure we will visit the odd beach. As we escape the real world for a week I hope what ever you are doing this next week it will be a blessed time, a time of good health and laughter...and lots of it.<div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-80708641159091322452012-01-30T01:24:00.000-08:002012-01-30T02:24:18.030-08:00Snowy days...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8L94rEl0eu-4JUpB6JbK9DGvXDu3VXsygPi-SavIEkGTM1XWTcUyhY0zG4iXONCM9KBj1mhql5RheDp-sizsLW8FxexJOCV316MelGoVz24sCIYT76BP0DAnCS0UZfZ88Y3LVvWgVWI/s1600/DSC_2002.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 228px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8L94rEl0eu-4JUpB6JbK9DGvXDu3VXsygPi-SavIEkGTM1XWTcUyhY0zG4iXONCM9KBj1mhql5RheDp-sizsLW8FxexJOCV316MelGoVz24sCIYT76BP0DAnCS0UZfZ88Y3LVvWgVWI/s400/DSC_2002.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703356719918353938" /></a>Brrrrrrrr.... its so cold at the moment. The snow has finally arrived here and bringing with it my winter cold. So feeling a little sorry for myself with all my aches and pains, tissues at the ready and revolting cough medicine at my side. I struggled on for a few days, running the children back and forth, filling the fridge up, cooking up some meals in case I got worse, so I could just pop them in the oven. I managed to get my study done and my time in school. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInlHQ63P8Oz330cobBpf2uuiIXwXmcjvo8CYv1QZczMp-JA1aATmBkAyumgE7iq2vpXRNbo89lcCwOzT6WAOumIrD6ScRcTaYq6bMlB5Fc1TNvV7xQDJ4CJpNywk5WPktUp8J03sNn_g/s1600/DSC_2920.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiInlHQ63P8Oz330cobBpf2uuiIXwXmcjvo8CYv1QZczMp-JA1aATmBkAyumgE7iq2vpXRNbo89lcCwOzT6WAOumIrD6ScRcTaYq6bMlB5Fc1TNvV7xQDJ4CJpNywk5WPktUp8J03sNn_g/s400/DSC_2920.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703356693437616546" /></a>Then it just floored me, this little cold of mine, I gave in, I watched the weather change and turned up the heating, pulled out my favourite quilt and hit the sofa...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEI5VuMTTi5betWqxNMYLgheHWm21tfPSLeTWz_KNUVP_ZgDdJK4NUJIRwuhbpSVFmeoHThGdogJG-EkxubRUkESNoToNk3E5JNYah66BSmAPbgtKwYLou6TV5Kcx7r5VpzgYAdTttzx8/s1600/DSC_2922.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEI5VuMTTi5betWqxNMYLgheHWm21tfPSLeTWz_KNUVP_ZgDdJK4NUJIRwuhbpSVFmeoHThGdogJG-EkxubRUkESNoToNk3E5JNYah66BSmAPbgtKwYLou6TV5Kcx7r5VpzgYAdTttzx8/s400/DSC_2922.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703356678394909858" /></a>I managed a couple of hours, all cosy and sleepy, the puppy curled up at my feet like a little hot water bottle...I even watched a movie, well I sleepily watched a movie, the guilt I felt of lying down, even thou I was ill, overtook me. What is it about us mothers, why do we not allow ourselves the time to heal ourselves? <div>If our children or loved ones got ill, we would make a warm nest for them to hunker down in and feed them healing chicken soup, read to them and hug them until the illness has passed by. However when we are ill, the caretaker, the cook, the provider, we soldier on, making ourselves worse and grumpy in the process. No use to anyone really and the example we give the children is not a good one, we should take care of ourselves and drop this silly guilt.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggz05kUeFjs1b44nH34Nv7b33mIsTx-s8MV1IxUE9Smla7qoj2n35Q995BomwcOFL8BYW3Xt8s1EKAUZT49JlOf1H1YN6lVnpEIsA64dFhxF4GUb_SqiK-xw9Ea5iboXVdFrR7W5-D3hA/s1600/DSC_2912.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggz05kUeFjs1b44nH34Nv7b33mIsTx-s8MV1IxUE9Smla7qoj2n35Q995BomwcOFL8BYW3Xt8s1EKAUZT49JlOf1H1YN6lVnpEIsA64dFhxF4GUb_SqiK-xw9Ea5iboXVdFrR7W5-D3hA/s400/DSC_2912.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703356664285119330" /></a>So for the first time in years I let this guilt go...It was not easy...I looked after myself, I fed myself and <b>allowed</b> myself to be<b> looked after</b>. I slept when I needed to, I had long hot steamy baths in the evening when the boys had fallen deeply asleep, I stayed in my PJs and the sofa became my cosy place.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYT8cE6OY4IeP98uVO-LnJF1rst5jWVMFUxgKEJpdjqHXPsjAtKw9w-xfGAfv_XjDQIHxZtkQeBvk-cvd9hR4dd3Yyxs4gOS8u8ATegNCfuXgGgDlk1S_jdMGQrBUHkBTwXoq4QWG-RE/s1600/DSC_2914.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYT8cE6OY4IeP98uVO-LnJF1rst5jWVMFUxgKEJpdjqHXPsjAtKw9w-xfGAfv_XjDQIHxZtkQeBvk-cvd9hR4dd3Yyxs4gOS8u8ATegNCfuXgGgDlk1S_jdMGQrBUHkBTwXoq4QWG-RE/s400/DSC_2914.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703356651295238274" /></a>So after a weekend being fed nice food, being given the time to fall asleep when tiredness overtook me, managing a little hand sewing and some knitting time whilst curled up next to the fire, letting go of this guilt has been good for all of us, the children are happy and whilst I am still sniffing and coughing I do not feel angry and frustrated, I feel rested. <div><br /></div><div>I believe guilt is such a curse for us mothers and I want to always let it go, I know I cant, but a little bit at a time, well it helps...</div><div><br /></div><div>PHOTO'S 1) View from the Kitchen window, all snowy hills. 2)Lap tray of hand sewing, little corsages in the making. 3) Finished spring corsage. 4) Cutting out Spring Bunnies 5) Easter Book Covers.</div></div>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2764133001715987062.post-24522645721756003092012-01-17T03:28:00.000-08:002012-01-17T12:54:11.813-08:00Sunsets and upsets...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Y3x4CfBTMuPtQ_HKcpW783gy5Ug7oLtPWemrLpdXo6B2S9_GXkGkavMPZJNvWr7U5gwAuuYHq08HldM9ncvJCjapBh5pRanru8UM3N-QzBcpdCQDu618Sj-3CcKsDQXhMoZkgrb5kj4/s1600/DSC_2883.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Y3x4CfBTMuPtQ_HKcpW783gy5Ug7oLtPWemrLpdXo6B2S9_GXkGkavMPZJNvWr7U5gwAuuYHq08HldM9ncvJCjapBh5pRanru8UM3N-QzBcpdCQDu618Sj-3CcKsDQXhMoZkgrb5kj4/s400/DSC_2883.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698568114992541250" /></a>The sun at this time of year is weak, there are no rays of warmth to bask in, the ice on the ground remains all day as the strength in the suns brightness is just not strong enough to melt it all away. When you awake and throw open your curtains and your morning greeting is the sight of a pink and orange sky with jet stripes, when you get out in the fresh air and you walk with the crunch under foot, I think the lack of warmth can be forgiven and replaced with many layers of hand knitted sweaters, hats, scarfs and even mittens, only to return home to a warm and cosy home, light up the cooker, get the water boiling and indulge in some hot chocolate and marshmallows...oh the January diet!!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EGt_0juSDzGkCg8q3XytPNvsn4MtQJnzhDtd5w2FPAPsMh3ZAN5aLiLIu0MUiIxUgXDaOaq-SvnOmrsZkUlBCUZnKgiSS2BhWwf4pMWT-kWzE-5HOw3147jUN7ybiQ_OMPu-q-FH44o/s1600/DSC_2891.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EGt_0juSDzGkCg8q3XytPNvsn4MtQJnzhDtd5w2FPAPsMh3ZAN5aLiLIu0MUiIxUgXDaOaq-SvnOmrsZkUlBCUZnKgiSS2BhWwf4pMWT-kWzE-5HOw3147jUN7ybiQ_OMPu-q-FH44o/s400/DSC_2891.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698568099302625154" /></a>Yes indeed, the weather has been sunny and crisp under foot so the Dotty Red family have been out and about enjoying the break from the rain. The rhythm of family life continues even though life keeps throwing those curved balls at us. Whilst the orders are quiet at this time of year I am busy upping my stock.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtmb2ToHTxnnSHGAdaUvBV4KohOmCfYiHvkk5qfCD3Vpo0mNjUdozcFeZc8BE9Foqao-YjjBaeib6OVA-8aKi6gJjy5Ccm-77k_Sk6uZ_LP8q1nfXDyAZYsMDMaZxAwq7373R3YVVs_Wc/s1600/DSC_2894.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtmb2ToHTxnnSHGAdaUvBV4KohOmCfYiHvkk5qfCD3Vpo0mNjUdozcFeZc8BE9Foqao-YjjBaeib6OVA-8aKi6gJjy5Ccm-77k_Sk6uZ_LP8q1nfXDyAZYsMDMaZxAwq7373R3YVVs_Wc/s400/DSC_2894.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698568094977520914" /></a>Its funny back in September when the sun was shining and the beach called, I found it very hard to work on Christmas goodies, all that red, green and gold. Yet here I am in the depth of winter, snow threatening to fall any day now on the moors and the fabric I am holding is beach huts, sailing boats and bunting, bright and light colours.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3-sabWyLRk6-gVO2PBpqrkWWCs9AdKDIi6jCe9yLOQ2gzjs0PpAxTvZOxbhWqJzoN0zbnEuNEEN_H88vFLMqubbx5fvjEDqVJaUJOaeFQdJt__1by_pdFbDrvjrJfdEvZmPIxFe0AiOI/s1600/DSC_2895.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3-sabWyLRk6-gVO2PBpqrkWWCs9AdKDIi6jCe9yLOQ2gzjs0PpAxTvZOxbhWqJzoN0zbnEuNEEN_H88vFLMqubbx5fvjEDqVJaUJOaeFQdJt__1by_pdFbDrvjrJfdEvZmPIxFe0AiOI/s400/DSC_2895.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698568087203304594" /></a> No I find no difficulty thinking about my spring and summer collection, even if I hand sew by the fire in the evening when the little ones sleep off their days business. When I cut out patterns on the table in the kitchen to get the warmth from the soup cooking on the hob in the day, or even sit in my sewing room next to the heater, which saves me putting the heating on throughout the day and warming my hands up on hot mugs of spiced tea just to keep my hands able to move...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpztF4BH1fiPUkX9kGTObzTT2JDTamnPbJfJ0ZpfgS2q5HOoXuWzcmDRRMcJrZSGOGZBnv4q7-OzNzJLFNgoNmNetn8v7_30tpgKki1yeXkHS7wWl15JBxepKX90hP1pH7Ad4-CUXCOdY/s1600/DSC_2896.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 333px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpztF4BH1fiPUkX9kGTObzTT2JDTamnPbJfJ0ZpfgS2q5HOoXuWzcmDRRMcJrZSGOGZBnv4q7-OzNzJLFNgoNmNetn8v7_30tpgKki1yeXkHS7wWl15JBxepKX90hP1pH7Ad4-CUXCOdY/s400/DSC_2896.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698568081436983954" /></a>...my head swims with ideas, of fish, boats, little houses, caravans and or course bunting!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibov-yZlGmk4IoTdu4DIa0vQG5ucftHxnytKhWpkcw_kzMX76svUDD2Dx0IGKTiHOIrydSXJc5b9_VPzGAmGuDJSoUApZvOn2YUwO6FBJjQHrjtMI06vzGn0Od3ZaSbGBYmqwHWkJxDwA/s1600/DSC_2899.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 157px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibov-yZlGmk4IoTdu4DIa0vQG5ucftHxnytKhWpkcw_kzMX76svUDD2Dx0IGKTiHOIrydSXJc5b9_VPzGAmGuDJSoUApZvOn2YUwO6FBJjQHrjtMI06vzGn0Od3ZaSbGBYmqwHWkJxDwA/s400/DSC_2899.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698562125317757586" /></a>Ah...did I tell you I treated myself this Christmas to a little pile of felt from the lovely Sarah at <a href="http://paper-and-string.blogspot.com/">Paper and String</a>. Just in case I managed to get a few moments to myself over the busy holiday to have a play, just for fun, just for me. So when it all got a bit frantic, a bit too emotional, I snook into my room and shut the door, threaded up Chloe (my sewing machine) in some black thread and changed over my needle and foot then I played...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBegFrwPVZQu9C8D3fAvpyQJDiLJQXMzKTeBMWjBDWdO8JzE-SorFRrNV3ghOSxKvYHi3NdZ1tjRVg_TpOuUaCaabljH66KQKyNAZuOIDtMZbohaYaVUIxVQ-GpBS4wq8hCQpDR67N6o/s1600/DSC_2901.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 330px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBegFrwPVZQu9C8D3fAvpyQJDiLJQXMzKTeBMWjBDWdO8JzE-SorFRrNV3ghOSxKvYHi3NdZ1tjRVg_TpOuUaCaabljH66KQKyNAZuOIDtMZbohaYaVUIxVQ-GpBS4wq8hCQpDR67N6o/s400/DSC_2901.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698562115952010466" /></a>I made houses, boxes, glasses cases (cases all sold over December) key rings and my completely new venture... bookmarks.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitU5SXi377RSGt4mZKGAEKs5qtrwGYEL9PAc55mdsvhw322jTmy24nhb0KBu2bnDzdoSvIYcDvwKwSw5qHNlnV5rrCL2JBaR5jpPS18NibNsz1tBkaRNP677y3mwjwKqcD0ddfvxpgqv4/s1600/DSC_2902.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitU5SXi377RSGt4mZKGAEKs5qtrwGYEL9PAc55mdsvhw322jTmy24nhb0KBu2bnDzdoSvIYcDvwKwSw5qHNlnV5rrCL2JBaR5jpPS18NibNsz1tBkaRNP677y3mwjwKqcD0ddfvxpgqv4/s400/DSC_2902.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698562110121155474" /></a>Due to the amount of books I have this is something that I can not understand why I have not made some sooner, I was given a bookmark years ago, you know one of the laminated ones with this design drawn (without the flowers) so I used it for my inspiration. One is being used and it marks my place in my storybook right here next to me now.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlApp1BlHZ9-pACy94LLwvAZ4guwv2TE9JBPKDbHLwS0rZwgXlT7_S7Atwx1MLOI8IbMirqY8hiQc2HQ-8FfDxuUVy99TGfyQ1DyD-DLUULI_XY1Ki7KrEtJ4bXrwIwP-IcmQ5-vpqmOI/s1600/DSC_2897.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 371px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlApp1BlHZ9-pACy94LLwvAZ4guwv2TE9JBPKDbHLwS0rZwgXlT7_S7Atwx1MLOI8IbMirqY8hiQc2HQ-8FfDxuUVy99TGfyQ1DyD-DLUULI_XY1Ki7KrEtJ4bXrwIwP-IcmQ5-vpqmOI/s400/DSC_2897.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698562101679174066" /></a>Oh and books, I have got some fabulous books over the holidays, brimming with ideas and lots of lovely pictures. I was also lucky enough to get a years subscription to the amazing Mollie Makes magazine. This makes me very happy indeed.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJzVX1aCfixWMBwfu8xjWpNVeZupC18QFOe3eoPqyZxAl5BmihSUCIpfUbwqax9xJjhyphenhypheneMonaFix0W_VQcaAn_tQMA2j11XFgrm4k3tG3ot99tNtwXx8AOiALOxEpoNk2EkSFIFwluiw/s1600/DSC_2888.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJzVX1aCfixWMBwfu8xjWpNVeZupC18QFOe3eoPqyZxAl5BmihSUCIpfUbwqax9xJjhyphenhypheneMonaFix0W_VQcaAn_tQMA2j11XFgrm4k3tG3ot99tNtwXx8AOiALOxEpoNk2EkSFIFwluiw/s400/DSC_2888.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698562099678472674" /></a>Of course with the decorations down now the house looks a little empty (surly not possible here) but this lovely vase of tulips is brightening my day and helping me hold on to the thought that spring is on its way so when those upsets and curve balls come my way, I can feel the inner glow that reminds me that its the simple things in life that matter...<div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Suzie Sews At DOTTY REDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08315491316461177952noreply@blogger.com10