Music Mondays - First Aid Kit

Swedish Sisters Johanna and Klara are sisters, the duo making up First Aid Kit.

This recommendation came from my brother last weekend...he watched them do an acoustic session at Glastonbury.

My favourites on the "Lion's Roar" album are 'This Old Routine' and 'I Found a Way'.

http://youtu.be/Y1b2c90hgtI

A female Fleet Foxes

Nice to see you again
Xxx

Music Mondays - Of Monsters and Men

Of Monsters and Men are a fantastic folky pop band from Iceland.  I first heard their fabulously catchy song 'Little Talks' via a FB feed but more recently saw them on the BBC's coverage of this years Glastonbury.

An Interview with - ARTHOUSE Meath

When the Little Master P was born we were inundated with an array of wonderful new baby cards, however, one stood out more than most.

Congratulations on your new baby.  Don't drop him.

This humorous cute card came from my cousin Katie, who volunteers for a wonderful organisation called ARTHOUSE Meath, a social enterprise supporting individual artists with severe epilepsy and learning difficulties to create artworks and products for sale.  I myself work for a local charity who support individuals with Autism, so I completely appreciate the importance of such organisations in raising awareness while empowering individuals within their own skills sets and abilities.  The creative mind behind the ARTHOUSE Meath is incredible, turning simple detailed drawings of dogs, horses, birds, teapots, scissors and lots more into beautiful products which include cards, wrapping paper, tea towels, baby bibs (i got one of those too!) jewellery, mugs, just check out the Online Shop for the full range of products.

I would like to introduce you now to both a volunteer and an artist from ARTHOUSE Meath to tell you all about the service and products.

VOLUNTEER (Katie Abbott)

How long have you been volunteering at ARTHOUSE Meath?

Just over a year now. ARTHOUSE Meath has existed as a service to the clients (artists) for about 8 years but it only evolved into the full blown high street shop last April, which is when I joined.

 How and why did you decide to become a volunteer?

About 6 years ago when I moved to Godalming I fell in love with an ARTHOUSE Meath painting that was in an exhibition in a local pottery shop. It was through that painting that I found out more about the ARTHOUSE and the work they did there.  Over the years I bought a few prints whenever I stumbled across ARTHOUSE Meath selling at local town fairs. Then, when I saw that they had moved into an empty shop in the high street and were advertising for volunteers I rang up straight away and asked if I could get involved.

Can you describe what the ARTHOUSE Meath is?

ARTHOUSE Meath is a social enterprise that celebrates and values the artistic talents of adults with severe epilepsy and learning disabilities. Clients come to the ARTHOUSE both from the Meath Trust, a residential home in Godalming, and from the community. Professional artists run two sessions a day in which the clients sketch, draw and paint under guidance from the artist. The work is then framed and sold in the shop and at art fairs. Often, an element of a painting or sketch will be transferred onto a product. Currently the ARTHOUSE produces hand printed cards, T-shirts, baby ware, as well as wrapping paper, mugs, jugs, tea towels, cushions, notebooks and jewellery. The list is endless and ever growing. These products are then also sold in the shop, online on the ARTHOUSE Meath website, Not on the High Street and Amazon, and in over 80 stockists across the country. All profits go back into sustaining ARTHOUSE Meath and anything beyond that goes back into The Meath Trust itself.

Having read your recent post on the ARTHOUSE Meath blog it is clear that you are very passionate about the service.  What makes it such a wonderful environment to work in?

There are lots and lots of great things about ARTHOUSE Meath.  But for me I would have to say that primarily it is the people that make it such a special place. Not only the team of people who have had the vision and commitment to make the ARTHOUSE Meath exist - from the trustees, to the ARTHOUSE Director, to the volunteers and all the people in between - but the clients themselves. Sitting and chatting with them, watching how much they enjoy creating beautiful art, and being there with them when one of their designs sells - seeing just how much it means to them - all of these things make it a wonderful place to spend time. 

How do you think the clients benefit from ARTHOUSE Meath?

Without doubt the clients benefit from achieving a sense of pride in themselves. For them to be told verbally, but also commercially through the popularity of their work, that they are creating things of beauty and worth is so precious.That sense of pride is a wonderful thing to foster. I know that they all also love feeling part of the community - both in the sense that they are at the heart of a close knit team at ARTHOUSE Meath, but also in the sense that the ARTHOUSE's physical presence in the High Street puts them at the centre of the action in town. Every day customers come in and admire the work, buy the work and chat away to the clients. It is a really rewarding experience for everyone involved.  

Describe your day at ARTHOUSE Meath?

It varies from week to week, but usually I'll arrive and take over in the shop from the volunteer who worked the morning shift. Then I'll find out if there are any jobs that need doing, for example folding and packing cards or packaging up internet orders ready to send out. Whilst I'm doing this I'll chat to the professional artist that will be running the afternoon session, and often talk to other members of the team about ways to market ARTHOUSE Meath to more people in more ways.  Then the afternoon group arrive and work starts. Sarah, one of the clients, is always up in the front of the shop with me and she'll help me with the jobs I'm doing. And of course, we'll be chatting to and serving customers whenever they come in. It's a very lively place with music on in the background and a constant stream of coming and goings. There's always several topics of conversation going on at any one time and lots of different distractions at regular intervals. Sometimes we'll all stop working and help the Art Director title and price paintings; sometimes we'll help to rearrange window displays and studio space; other times we'll be chatting about the latest boy band or holidays we're taking. It is a vibrant and varied day and it's wonderful. 

Are you a creative person and have the ARTHOUSE Meath artists inspired you in anyway to be more creative?

I enjoy how things look and and have always been particularly drawn to art brings together strong colours and a naive style . One of the reasons I wanted to work at the ARTHOUSE was to be surrounded by art that I loved -  not just because of it's provenance but because in itself it is just stunning work. Absolutely, I'm inspired by the work every week but have to admit that I haven't yet done anything about it.

Do you have any personal favourites from the collection available in the shop and online? 

I love the Garden jugs, they make great gifts. Practically everyone I know has one now! And the Relationship jug is a favourite as Sarah, who works with me in the shop on a Thursday, created that design.  All of the cards are so funny and poignant that I find myself wanting to buy them just in case the right occasion arises. The perennial best sellers are anything with the unique dogs, birds or cats designs on them. They fly off the shelves.

What’s next for you at ARTHOUSE Meath?

 I'd just love to continue to be involved in the evolution of ARTHOUSE Meath for as long as I can. 

ARTIST (Grace Oakley)

What do you enjoy most about your day at ARTHOUSE Meath?

There's a nice atmosphere and nice people to work with. It's relaxing and fun. And it's nice to have your work appreciated. It's nice being part of a team.

Is it hard work?

 No, not at all. Especially if you know what you're doing. But it can be complicated and it can take a while. 

What do you do at ARTHOUSE Meath?

Painting and drawing and we sit and chat. The artist tells us how it needs to be done and then we do it. 

If you could draw anything what would it be?

 A horse. I love horses. I have done since I was a little girl. I never used to be good at drawing horses or figures but I've got good through lots of practice. 

Have you been a part of any product drawings?

Yes, I drew the Dancers (which are another best seller and feature on cards and wrapping paper).

Why should people buy products from ARTHOUSE Meath?

Because we're raising money for The Meath and that's a good thing.

Thank you so much to Katie and Grace for taking the time to tell us all about the very inspiring ARTHOUSE Meath.

If you would like to find out more about ARTHOUSE Meath or buy any of their beautiful products then please visit the website.

Nice to see you again.

Xxx

Music Mondays - Tom Odell

This week I am listening to Sussex boy (he's from Chichester) and BRITs Critics Choice Award Winner Tom Odell.  I love his voice.

His album Long Way Down is out now and I am certainly tempted, despite the poor review it recently received from NME.  It made me chuckle when I read Tom's dad phoned the magazine as he was not amused when he saw that they had only given his son's a 0 out o 10 review for the recent release.  how embarrassing!!! 

If you want you can see Tom perform at the HMV in Chichester this Thursday at 5pm.  Check out his blog.

You Complete Me - You Complete Us

Where oh where have the last 11 weeks gone!  My oh my!

Well to say I have been a little bit busy is an understatement.  But what an 11 weeks they have been.

On the 5th April Little Master P was born, a very healthy 8lb 14oz.  Apart from an extra level of pain and a bit more time I can't complain.  I have been really quite lucky in labour, both times.

I have been thinking quite a bit recently about the differences between no.1 and no.2, and having 2 now compared to 1.

So many things were immediately easier.  As soon as I held my baby boy I knew he was safe, he wasn't as fragile as Little Miss P, I wasn't so fragile.  I think the first time you give birth you are in a state of shock - how did this happen, is she ok, is she breathing, does she have 10 fingers and 10 toes, why is she crying, why is she blue, her eyes are puffy, help, what am I suppose to do now!  With the second, I felt like I knew Little Master P straight away, he was our son, he was his big sisters, little brother.  The new member of our family, the 3 little pigs had become 4.  I felt very complete, we all felt complete.

We were home the same night, returning to some sort of normality quite quickly.  Little Miss P, took to the big sister role with ease if not a little eager!  All the small tasks didn't seem so big this time and certainly took less time.  Who knew changing nappies and baby grows was so easy, I don't remember this being the case the first time round.  On day 3 Little Master P and his family were on a long walk along the seafront, eating ice creams, followed by a quick pitstop in a local pub.  Day 4 a visit to the Sea Life Centre, day 11 all on the 8am nursery run, on day 12 I was in the gym.  I know madness.!!!  The first time I don't remember going anywhere on my own for at least two weeks.

Without sounding like super mum and making all other new mums out there want to throw all their dirty nappies at me, you will be pleased to know that there have been as many challenges, many of which are because I now have the pleasure of 2 not 1.  Boy oh boy, how do you wake up in the morning for nursery when you have had very little sleep.  How do you get yourself, your 4 year old and your baby, dressed, fed and out the door in time.  How do you breastfeed and wipe a Little Misses bottom at the same time, what happens when either one of them nearly falls down the toilet, and you find yourself asking 'which one shall I save'.  How quick can you get out the shower when your 4 year old decides to poke her little brother (whom she adores) in the eye.  How much should you swear when your 4 year old daughter and one of her best friends cover themselves, the carpet, clothes and toys in lipgloss, while enjoying a playdate.  I can't even talk about the worst time of the day, tea and bath time.  No wonder so many mums are reaching for the wine bottle as soon as the kids are in bed.  Thank god for breast feeding, it has kept me from early alcoholism!

Now I am very well aware that I am not the first mum to have 2 children, I have many friends close to me who have more.  I also know a friend of my brother, who has baby twins alongside a 5 year old (she deserves a medal in my opinion), another friend of mine, whose sister did this all on her own, right from the beginning!  I must add that I have not done this alone, I have a fantastic husband who is a very hands on dad, I would not be sane without him.

However, to conclude this first blog back after a long time away, I am pleased to say I have survived and I am still surviving!  I only have 6 months off on maternity and I plan on making the most of it.  And this smile certainly makes it all worth while.

Life is most certainly complete now.

I have to admit I feel great, life is pretty good at the moment and I am ready to take on the world.  I am mothering, exercising, crafting, socialising, gardening, home-making, baking, enjoying life and now blogging!

I will not burn out!  Oh I already did that!!!

So glad to be back.

Nice to see you again.
XXX

Iggle Piggle - Nursery Additions

So while I keep myself occupied before the big day, whenever that might be, I continue to work my way through projects to add to the nursery.  What better way than to prepare.  Every minute I spend on a project, taking photo's or sharing this experience, I feel a step closer to meeting him.

When I had Little Miss P, it was so rewarding to create, make and personalise bits for her.  I always thought when it came to having a boy this would be much harder to do.  I have proved myself wrong.

I have gradually advanced the nursery overtime, at each stage considering, creating and including as many handmade projects as I have had the time and ability to consider.  I did spend a lot of time searching and sourcing ideas through pinterest and the like, however, I am now very proud of 'Iggle Piggles' room as  I feel I have incorporated the strong personal and individual stamp we set out to achieve.

One of the last and most important contributions to the nursery has to be the art work of Little Miss P.  This fantastic idea followed the first Nursery post, from one of my fellow S&B friends, the very artistic Mrs W.  (I have to confess I stole the Navy colour for the chimney breast after falling in love with her's when we went for dinner.)  So the idea for a splitter, splatter piece of wall art was born.

After a visit to Hobby Craft for the canvas' and a trip to Wickes to purchase a selection of coordinating tester pots, we set up in the kitchen.  (I strongly recommend waiting for a dry day and doing this outside, I underestimated the mess we would make, especially with Little Miss P's fly fishing technique to splattering!!!)

The best bit is that she is so proud!
She wouldn't sign them though as she said they were 'Iggle Piggles' not hers!  

As I mentioned in my last post I was also keen to include some bunting and a cushion for the latest edition of Simply Crochet and I did it!

The only job I have left now is the cot bumper, which I shall be covering in the lovely spotted fabric from Kids Fabric, same as the blind.

The final addition is obviously 'Iggle Piggle' himself.  Hurry up babes.  We can not wait to show you your new bedroom.  We hope you like it as much as we do.  

Nice to see you again.

Xxx

All Things PP @ MArKEt - Old Palace

A big thank you to those of you who came to see us at MArKEt @ the fabulous West Street Loft at the beginning of the month.  This weekend we have round 2.  MArKEt @ Old Palace, Tarring, West Sussex.

Well time really is flying by at the moment, I wonder why that might be.  Now as many of you know I have another pending appointment in 10 days or so, baby no. 2 "Iggle Piggle" .  So if you are in the area on Saturday 23rd March, I would very much appreciate seeing some friendly faces.  The MArKEt will be open from 10-2pm.  I will be the heavily pregnant one, stuck behind her table, panting!!!

Other sellers include Justine Kimmer Illustrations, The Yarn Bunny, Angela Wright Photography, Handmade Unique Gifts, Min Cooper Prints, Karen Mayger, Amy Madge Jewellery, Loulou and Gill, Sewgirl, Lorraine Heaysman Landscape Photography, Naturally Silver, Fledging Crafts, Little Threads,, Kireina Jewellery, Incey Wincey Studio, Oranges and Orchids and I made these Little Mouses.

There will be cheese again from the very popular Dave's Deli.  Yummy Cakes from Honeycomb Cakes and a fabulous refreshment from a very retro Lui Creperie.

There will also be Easter workshops for children, provided by the brilliant Banana Pancakes.

Here's a sneaky peak at some of the items All Things PP will have available on sale.  Many of the items will be reduced.

Boy's Aprons

Girl's Aprons

Needle Books and Pin Cushions  was £3 now £2

Set of 4 Patchwork Coasters was £6 now £4

Kindle Covers

I Phone Covers

Sewing Themed I Pad Covers 

Baking Themed IPad Covers

3 Word Stack Hessian Signs was £10 now £6

3 Word Hessian Signs £8 now £5
2 Word Hessian Signs was £6 now £4

1 Word Hessian Signs was £4 now £2

Crayon Rolls was £6 now £4

Car Rolls was £8 now £6

I look forward to seeing you.

Nice to see you again

Xxx.

Iggle Piggle & The Nursery

Well we are now officially on countdown, with less than 3 weeks to go to our D-Date.  

I thought we were prepared the last time as we waited for Little Miss P to arrive, but somehow we feel even more prepared this time round, I expect it feels more so as as we found out the sex at the 20 week scan!   

The nursery used to be Little Miss P's bedroom and it is at this point that I would really like to show you the classic before and after shots but I haven't been that organised (so many things to do so little time).  Part of the nursery preparation has included redecorating Little Miss P's new room as well as carefully planning a smooth transition.  Her new room has worked out perfectly and she loves it.  I have to admit I completely underestimated how well she would cope with the move and had no consideration for how upset I would get, my baby suddenly seemed so grown up.  Where does the time go?  

Little Miss P's room was without doubt a very girlie room, however, we had never decorated it, so once stripped of all things that filled it, all those pretty bits that come with having a girl, pink, pink and some more pink (it doesn't matter how much you try to avoid it), it was returned to a blank white canvas.

I know this sounds silly but I did not want 'Iggle Piggles' (temporary name chosen by Little Miss P) nursery to look like a nursery.  My first priority was to inject as much and as many colours as possible.  So I started putting together a board Pinterest.  

The first job was to make a bold statement that made the room say 'this is a boys room'.  So we painted the chimney breast Navy Blue and I love it.  I would like to put something above the fireplace, but I haven't decided what yet.  Any ideas welcome.

A couple of weeks ago I spent the day with my mum, making the roman blind, I was so pleased to have remembered the basics from our S&B tutorial.  I really wanted to make this by myself, but I had to accept I needed help, not only because I am a little large, just fitting in front of a sewing machine is an impossible task alone, also it is a big window and I wanted it lined this time (guarantees deep sleep).

Here it is, the fabric is from Kids Fabric,  I just love all the colours.  I have just ordered some more fabric for the cot bumper and the striped version for the rocking chair.  Good job I finish work this week, i am running out of time (again!)  

The curtains were a bargain from Ikea.  

Here are some other bits I am particularly pleased with.

In the nursing corner I have framed some fabulous nursery rhyme pictures from my very talented friend Justine Kimmer.

The Owl and the Pussy Cat

Hey Diddle Diddle (Little Miss P's Favourite nursery rhyme, she sings it to my bump all the time)

I decided I didn't want a baby shower, but my dear S&B members all got together and planned an afternoon making these beautiful hand made Skittles for 'Iggle Piggle', while they created I had a pedicure!  Pure luxury for me and I feel so lucky to have such thoughtful and creative friends.

The Socky Dolls are my favourite addition.  They are full of life, lavender and can be heated in the microwave.  I have collected Boo, Wag and Mr Hooty so far.  I am sure (due to OCD) I will have to get the complete set very soon.

And finally Eeeeeeeeek!!!! Check out his beautiful Orla Keily covered lampshade from the very talented and exceptionally helpful Shady Lady.

I have also just ordered some Rico Cotton Aran Wool as I want to crochet some bunting as seen in this months Simply Crochet.

I would love to know your thoughts and if you have additional ideas.  I stil have plenty of white wall space to fill!

Nice to see you again.
Xxx