tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24350673788734251972024-02-07T23:47:00.292+00:00mitenska... a simple blog from the blustery NorthSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.comBlogger437125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-12667855982312115732017-08-05T11:28:00.001+01:002017-08-05T11:28:11.793+01:00New home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-32289310880803250922017-07-11T10:34:00.001+01:002017-07-11T10:34:35.821+01:00Swan song<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So here we are: almost mid July already. The rich, lush green of early summer has given way to golds and purples and pinks. Painterly flowers, too - I've currently got a vase of sunflowers in the window (and the petals above are from a collapsed bunch of peonies, still beautiful after they finally gave up the ghost).</div>
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We've been out and about an awful lot lately. Two or three walks each day on a weekend is pretty routine, particularly when it's dry. Joe wakes very early indeed so those days are long. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2iIm6419Ig5IpaHSNJeOeOGuyocQ2eQti6kK9TrexjqW23-LUTDlKfOsXskIbDks2w2M3BsDBz-VfLLtkzhyyaXBp8NS4j9daOUDk0abPab87xJEMYTW7rbKvUtkvOF8VjiKNhS3jZWA/s1600/4r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2iIm6419Ig5IpaHSNJeOeOGuyocQ2eQti6kK9TrexjqW23-LUTDlKfOsXskIbDks2w2M3BsDBz-VfLLtkzhyyaXBp8NS4j9daOUDk0abPab87xJEMYTW7rbKvUtkvOF8VjiKNhS3jZWA/s1600/4r.jpg" /></a></div>
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But I've had time to think about other things, this blog in particular. It's not the first time I've questioned where I'm going with it. Not that I <i>need</i> to be going anywhere with it, but realistically something has to give. In between caring for Joe, looking after the house, family commitments, a very modest social life, my writing for Creative Countryside and trying to grow a small business - which entails a lot of work - it feels as though <i>Mitenska</i> is becoming increasingly sidelined.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmr3P3lk8io9TPYe3EoYjXvTJWQjOJReqtvSFyUAKvm91C8I7wnwgy4LjF22hCZi-RHxTM3l-lpIL33u0uZKaqkS0IlnkRBBIMv-QvpO3VKMBk4oFjX6Ei4ceLQ9sZQNF8P8v27wZLeg/s1600/5r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmr3P3lk8io9TPYe3EoYjXvTJWQjOJReqtvSFyUAKvm91C8I7wnwgy4LjF22hCZi-RHxTM3l-lpIL33u0uZKaqkS0IlnkRBBIMv-QvpO3VKMBk4oFjX6Ei4ceLQ9sZQNF8P8v27wZLeg/s1600/5r.jpg" /></a></div>
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That makes me feel bad. I'm struggling to get around to reading other blogs, too. Again: bad.</div>
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You see, in the four-and-a-half years I've been writing this blog, over the course of 436 posts, I've met some really wonderful people. Some I've had the joy of meeting in person, others I've got to know through their own blogs and through commenting. It really is a community on here.</div>
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People have helped me out in so many ways: practically, with technical issues. Emotionally too. Back in December 2012 Joe was just three months old. I've written my fair share of angst-ridden posts (and received lots of support from readers and fellow bloggers).</div>
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During this time I've moved house three times, had a few health worries, lost my grandmother and seen my brother struggle to cope after the death of his partner. Of course, the biggest - and toughest - event was my mum being diagnosed with cancer in 2014, and her passing away that September.</div>
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There have been bittersweet experiences and many milestones, such as Joe starting preschool and, last year, <i>actual</i> school. A few weeks ago I wandered around my parent's house (their home for over twenty years) for the last time before it was sold.</div>
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And I've shared so many good things here too. Holidays, family memories, adventures. Starting my own business after rediscovering my love of drawing and painting. Learning how to create prints. Documenting little details: where we've walked, what's growing, what we've been eating and reading and making.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd95XEnSE17jIH2Ck3ZPI-_-fN53n_ydglwDao1DWCL6kC-pZm5MpqkXGxQ98H5nRCoON7bmuugK6DZeGAaffe6urA931ekIOrmmM30kaaNaFCPo_7s1cI9PQ_2s93WFCZdlLaovU7p4/s1600/8r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghd95XEnSE17jIH2Ck3ZPI-_-fN53n_ydglwDao1DWCL6kC-pZm5MpqkXGxQ98H5nRCoON7bmuugK6DZeGAaffe6urA931ekIOrmmM30kaaNaFCPo_7s1cI9PQ_2s93WFCZdlLaovU7p4/s1600/8r.jpg" /></a></div>
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So, what next?</div>
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A lot, as it happens. I'm going to be blogging over at Frond & Feather. I may keep my <i>Mitenska </i>Instagram account as a place I can still record our little goings-on around here. I'm busy working on my business: not just painting, drawing and printmaking but everything else that goes with it. Social media updates, planning, marketing.</div>
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We're putting the house up for sale at the end of August for a big move north of the border. It's a huge leap but we'll do it somehow.</div>
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And <i>Mitenska</i> is actually metamorphosising. It'll be taking an entirely new form, something I've wanted to do for a very long time. One lesson I've learned during these past four years: life's short and can take unexpected turns. So I'm now doing things rather than just dreaming about them.</div>
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Thank you for reading and commenting. I really appreciate it and have loved 'meeting' you all. </div>
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I can still be found on <a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/frondandfeather/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/frondandfeather" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, my other <a href="https://www.instagram.com/frondandfeather/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> account, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/frondandfeather/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.creativecountryside.com/meet-the-team" target="_blank">Creative Countryside</a> and, of course, at <a href="https://www.frond-and-feather.com/" target="_blank">Frond & Feather</a>.</div>
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Sarah x</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-73818833351189354852017-06-22T12:31:00.003+01:002017-06-22T12:31:36.369+01:00Midsummer notes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-sS-Fewi8mJiNJqpd0rm6VQAjF1s5Ferinzx0bTJmGznlp7Jpb_igfhuOCVKah4W-B_oXb8eSU7_hhcr3n1of4Iv7o6IPP0hP2fEK-7DB_QH3MHxpnVpRhgW5IgG1VKc0zL7gxX3n7g/s1600/sorrelr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-sS-Fewi8mJiNJqpd0rm6VQAjF1s5Ferinzx0bTJmGznlp7Jpb_igfhuOCVKah4W-B_oXb8eSU7_hhcr3n1of4Iv7o6IPP0hP2fEK-7DB_QH3MHxpnVpRhgW5IgG1VKc0zL7gxX3n7g/s1600/sorrelr.png" /></a></div>
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As we head towards the end of the school year, there's a lot going on. More birthday parties, summer fairs, village fetes, book fairs, school trips... </div>
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Not to mention that last weekend I lost a large part of a (Joe-free) Sunday. Completely my own fault: the hangover from hell. Cue the whole 'Never again' self-talk alongside the accompanying nausea, pounding headache and light-headedness. It <i>was</i> a good party though.</div>
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We've been trying to complete a job I wish we'd never started: painting the gable end of the house and the kitchen extension. Said gable end and extension are coated in pebbledash. Pebbledash is a nightmare to paint. You have to stipple. And bits of pebble come off so you then have to go back and redo those bits too. It takes a very long time to cover a very small area.</div>
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It was all my idea. I take full responsibility for it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorvye32r4p4H_QVcngZ-UTxup7wvGy3HN6c6tz-bIAabhBJ1Z4CEZVITw8r20uxyi5vRHPJekkQFUKd2T18u7Zm3_aKcdWfVrd6kjr2saGvzTMj0NV-u6Fix7U6jEIZXY9z37WyE28XI/s1600/01r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorvye32r4p4H_QVcngZ-UTxup7wvGy3HN6c6tz-bIAabhBJ1Z4CEZVITw8r20uxyi5vRHPJekkQFUKd2T18u7Zm3_aKcdWfVrd6kjr2saGvzTMj0NV-u6Fix7U6jEIZXY9z37WyE28XI/s1600/01r.png" /></a></div>
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We visited our friend's plant nursery over in Cheshire again, which meant Joe got to collect eggs from the nesting boxes and to play on the old tractor. And we came home with a car boot full of lovely things to put in the garden.</div>
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Speaking of which, now my mum's house is sold I picked up a few of her plants: some big, fleshy geraniums in terracotta pots for the kitchen window and a lavender for the outside steps. I like the idea of continuation - she's gone but the living things she tended are now mine to take care of and enjoy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4l4ZbQTQTOwssGu6B1dA4sgINMLNXce4Vp6gtOJFoo02vRonmVx9WK_qr9bimZQCIz-p6y0bP0sv7zja_xi7xhE5UHcnyirIqHzt7ynLSJFP89co8xG75Fj_A5Lh4luFyL2HYgQWRFdg/s1600/02r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4l4ZbQTQTOwssGu6B1dA4sgINMLNXce4Vp6gtOJFoo02vRonmVx9WK_qr9bimZQCIz-p6y0bP0sv7zja_xi7xhE5UHcnyirIqHzt7ynLSJFP89co8xG75Fj_A5Lh4luFyL2HYgQWRFdg/s1600/02r.png" /></a></div>
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I've been busy printmaking, writing and drawing. Then photographing things for the online shop. I'm planning to go and collect more flowers for pressing, especially now the nearby fields are full of tall grasses and wildflowers. I'm so inspired by them that I wrote a piece for Creative Countryside (<a href="http://www.creativecountryside.com/blog/in-praise-of-the-summer-meadow" target="_blank">here</a>, if you'd like to take a look).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8QdJTuTO4sbmt8Wlzr750OZtVqIa_moOP49usdEL-oFHBG9cFe-1_6xyl5AMJIkgjPV5PPZGO2lL4HoCtQH_aQhsWcphyphenhyphen3oe038dEsocHXJeuDuOteQB0YjsUH2znAihfV_Esp4cP5E/s1600/10r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh8QdJTuTO4sbmt8Wlzr750OZtVqIa_moOP49usdEL-oFHBG9cFe-1_6xyl5AMJIkgjPV5PPZGO2lL4HoCtQH_aQhsWcphyphenhyphen3oe038dEsocHXJeuDuOteQB0YjsUH2znAihfV_Esp4cP5E/s1600/10r.png" /></a></div>
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I've managed the odd little walk alone and am hoping to get out after lunch today. The skies are looking a bit ominous and it's damp out, which is just how I like it - always better for taking photographs when your preference is for the darker side of things.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7s_bzciqJRhTXJF0MFyt2hqoAZicsLhyphenhyphenhAIPuSJbR9ajYdyrtr3hPNOh01cA7EA0kP33mxK2M5XxNmg2II-bAQStiXul93OcjB7mNUvXSMKJ9wzuELAyGu0CVYNB77cuoa7HlBNF7XbU/s1600/jr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7s_bzciqJRhTXJF0MFyt2hqoAZicsLhyphenhyphenhAIPuSJbR9ajYdyrtr3hPNOh01cA7EA0kP33mxK2M5XxNmg2II-bAQStiXul93OcjB7mNUvXSMKJ9wzuELAyGu0CVYNB77cuoa7HlBNF7XbU/s1600/jr.png" /></a></div>
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After the stifling heat of the past few days it's a relief to feel a breeze. We had the gazebo out in the garden so Joe could play without getting burnt (despite his factor 50, super-sticky suncream). He loves getting dirty and the suncream acts as both a magnet and a fixative.</div>
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This week's obsession: making 'stock', 'soup' and ice lollies with water, bark chippings and herbs picked from the borders. Tasty.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Hy8o4c64RzWar1WpTyo5Hjuux42ru-msHbJjMvos7PgAYLkrRliLC-6IUUtVFrGzZyErPk-ifwEFwZT0P569_rQ0qCOA82DVopvb5dzOBonDP8MXIwzUCBrXNMEXa79y0Akw5ds1dnc/s1600/roser.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Hy8o4c64RzWar1WpTyo5Hjuux42ru-msHbJjMvos7PgAYLkrRliLC-6IUUtVFrGzZyErPk-ifwEFwZT0P569_rQ0qCOA82DVopvb5dzOBonDP8MXIwzUCBrXNMEXa79y0Akw5ds1dnc/s1600/roser.png" /></a></div>
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Recently I wrote about being diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. Well, I'll be honest: that diagnosis just didn't feel right to me. After many years of symptoms, from gruelling fatigue to feeling cold all the time, gastritis to brain fog (and so very many things in between: gluten intolerance, suspected coeliac disease, B12 malabsorption to name just a few) I decided to do my own research.</div>
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I looked at some blood results I'd received earlier this year, I read some (reputable) books and articles and I went to see the doctor. I even took Jay with me for a bit of support. And it turns out that I have autoimmune thyroiditis. The condition I've been convinced has been behind all these issues all along.</div>
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Someone finally listened.</div>
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So I had yet more blood tests, and I get the results this afternoon. The doctor wants to start me on medication. It's a relief.</div>
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But I'm also a great believer in functional medicine, and despite being pleased that I'm going to get treatment at last, I also want to address the cause. So I'm currently doing the AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) which aims to calm inflammation and stop the immune system going haywire through eating simple, non-processed foods and taking supplements to heal the gut. It's very restrictive but I'm almost three weeks in and other than the gin-related episode on Saturday night, I'm feeling pretty good. Not to mention I've lost 8 pounds. </div>
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A few things: firstly - if you know something isn't right with your health, be persistent. Find out about things. Make notes. Ask for second opinions if necessary. And going private isn't necessarily going to solve everything (when I spent £250 on a private consultation with an endocrinologist I was sent away having been told to take some vitamins). Spending rather a lot with a herbal practitioner didn't get me very far either. I do prefer this natural approach, but in the end it was a young doctor in my NHS practice who came good.</div>
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Secondly: please don't write any scary comments about thyroid issues! I'm feeling a bit panicky at the moment. That solitary walk after lunch is definitely needed...</div>
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Enjoy these long midsummer days.</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-66727654356696988252017-06-09T11:28:00.000+01:002017-06-09T11:28:41.676+01:00Up in the air<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's almost a week since we returned from our (now annual) week on Skye. Only one rainy day was had - so we lit the fire, took hot baths and did our best to keep Joe occupied - and the rest of the time it was magical.</div>
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Dolphins, seal boat trips, castles, rusty old lighthouses, gardens, forest walks, beautiful beaches, mountains, bluebells, cuckoos... And solitude.</div>
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Things are a bit up in the air at the moment. In small ways and more significant ones.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiY2YtAB-molRnrhLb6demW9SZ_lt26HIXyV3A3jXafxCNkE4vmWST6oVkL9MiK8oQ1S5aN7OTpUukyl4io5wVI65mKwmHnxPSb31AhJL3CMgymjRpa5eSX9ngY9zibNwkmA1zr6oJY8c/s1600/3r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiY2YtAB-molRnrhLb6demW9SZ_lt26HIXyV3A3jXafxCNkE4vmWST6oVkL9MiK8oQ1S5aN7OTpUukyl4io5wVI65mKwmHnxPSb31AhJL3CMgymjRpa5eSX9ngY9zibNwkmA1zr6oJY8c/s1600/3r.png" /></a></div>
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My stepdad has sold the house he and my mum shared. It's far too big for just him so in some ways I feel sad but in others relieved. It just doesn't feel the same there any more. I always picture her waiting for us at the kitchen window, or summoning me upstairs to try on clothes. Visiting that house is hard.</div>
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He's offered me a few pieces of furniture and I'd like to have them. It's just a case now of figuring where they'll go in our little cottage.</div>
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Fortunately one of my friends lives in a house which owned the old village wood yard, so there's an outbuilding where I can store a particularly troublesome desk. The rest... Well, we'll just have to move things around a bit.</div>
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We're also wanting to put our house up for sale soon. There are a few health-related problems I want to deal with first though, so no solid plans just yet.</div>
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What we'd intended to do in terms of moving has shifted a bit, too. This after plenty of research and speaking to lots of people. But we're still keen to get moving and I'll share more once we actually know the details and mobilise ourselves into action!</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Xq5KKlVIiAwAEAxYDS53KZaSptVcwWG0BmMEjAJDfONd5LtNy5D8AThVNNckTnIdURLm1VIIEu0z2PZ5d7tRedehOSJAz7egb0wpJLmCZDQr9xP2ZJic_EMh81uatNCzHiJCIUhPjpI/s1600/7r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Xq5KKlVIiAwAEAxYDS53KZaSptVcwWG0BmMEjAJDfONd5LtNy5D8AThVNNckTnIdURLm1VIIEu0z2PZ5d7tRedehOSJAz7egb0wpJLmCZDQr9xP2ZJic_EMh81uatNCzHiJCIUhPjpI/s1600/7r.png" /></a></div>
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And now we need to replace the hallway carpet (which was only fitted last year). On Tuesday afternoon I pulled the ironing board out of the understairs cupboard and tipped a tub of black masonry paint all over the floor. The resulting slick was an inch thick and about two feet wide.</div>
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The carpet, by the way, is an oatmeal colour.</div>
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I didn't take it well. Jay had to come home from work early to help.</div>
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Later that evening I learned that Joe needed a bug costume for the following morning. Cue panicked block-printing of an old T-shirt and stitching of muslin into moth wings.</div>
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He came downstairs way after bedtime to see how I was 'getting on' and managed to kick a cup of as-yet untouched tea all over the living room carpet. I may have yelled at him, then issued a grovelling apology shortly afterwards.</div>
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So what with arranging transport (and space) for furniture, needing more masonry paint to finish the gable end, and trying to find a carpet fitter, things are a bit all over the place.</div>
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Let's not even get started on politics.</div>
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And to round off this frankly rather self-indulgent whinge-fest (sorry about that): I just finished a book which had a sort of inconclusive ending. I managed all the way through to stop myself from peeking. I won't name the book (unless you ask) but the whole storyline was leading up to whether (or not) something would happen. And now I'll never know.</div>
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Anyway, there are more pretty pictures from Skye (without the commentary) <a href="https://www.frond-and-feather.com/" target="_blank">here</a>, if you'd like a look.</div>
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Have a great weekend. I've overdone it with the news lately so am hoping to perhaps unplug and do a few more mindful things instead.</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-16327325600004450662017-05-25T12:46:00.001+01:002017-05-25T12:47:14.098+01:00No words, just a sentiment<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Enjoy the little moments with your loved ones. Make more of them. That's what matters the most.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">No hashtags or Facebook picture filters, just thinking of those in Manchester.</span><br />
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-26642373077786978362017-05-19T14:33:00.001+01:002017-05-19T14:33:46.532+01:00A post-birthday post...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiA7L0YyM-Ft8pZN1B9-y6f5dwtp2NpHTMMCukglfIrteOm8ueOAzc47rBABkFtd3ahw5H5K-BsuO9d46lAHLZRUhzOxGgtWQ9ItmmmjEc6e9c9RVffqzqzGrrBG5KV1lGhLB0Ragu6KA/s1600/1r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiA7L0YyM-Ft8pZN1B9-y6f5dwtp2NpHTMMCukglfIrteOm8ueOAzc47rBABkFtd3ahw5H5K-BsuO9d46lAHLZRUhzOxGgtWQ9ItmmmjEc6e9c9RVffqzqzGrrBG5KV1lGhLB0Ragu6KA/s1600/1r.png" /></a></div>
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Yesterday was my birthday. And, as usual, I took myself off for the morning and visited Hebden Bridge. It was a bit of a pain getting there: sheep in the road (there are <i>always</i> sheep in the road), slow-moving tractors and so on. But get there I did.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zyoBzaUYWXSXqqdvoJX0LcP_32yUuZm_mbddGS9i1xx-Hi6qWkikj8R81exQnq4kquD6HSSRlOjgLuQMkJp5TqSYXNKVSO6bw15BaQZr0mkoLjbomYe6oYARje05DozjRPqs9JyvRkA/s1600/5r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zyoBzaUYWXSXqqdvoJX0LcP_32yUuZm_mbddGS9i1xx-Hi6qWkikj8R81exQnq4kquD6HSSRlOjgLuQMkJp5TqSYXNKVSO6bw15BaQZr0mkoLjbomYe6oYARje05DozjRPqs9JyvRkA/s1600/5r.png" /></a></div>
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I didn't take my camera though. And I should have. So many things to photograph, so many missed opportunities... beds full of purple alliums, trees heavy with blossom, rows of terraces with names like 'Thistle Bottom', 'Groudle Glen' and 'Woodland Dell'. </div>
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So instead you have some pictures of our activities these past few weeks, and the May loveliness that's blooming away and perfuming our woodland walks.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaRTWwsh3X4NEyBR-v2AtW3dotHL0PReTmP5QoLPmECyDkOHlZDY70Ri5lAIbcCqQ0BekqUIP84_AVfgFAKEw3-ScCI3JywtEYsBg_jG0eR9hx4Ff9Y0vHnOzkP2mdOD6qAI8GAddc9UQ/s1600/2r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaRTWwsh3X4NEyBR-v2AtW3dotHL0PReTmP5QoLPmECyDkOHlZDY70Ri5lAIbcCqQ0BekqUIP84_AVfgFAKEw3-ScCI3JywtEYsBg_jG0eR9hx4Ff9Y0vHnOzkP2mdOD6qAI8GAddc9UQ/s1600/2r.png" /></a></div>
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Yes, so - Hebden Bridge. We visited a fortnight or so ago. Joe was being a nuisance so I decided to return alone on my birthday for a mooch around in peace, and perhaps to spend some birthday money. But when it came to it, I didn't really feel in the mood. I did, of course, buy Joe something (three books, to be exact). But after an hour and a bit of wandering around, admiring the lovely shops and topping up my vitamin D levels, I headed back home.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Apn56P6qncMEQTY8Hm3AH-xyky_WJRP-zmB0JId0AIqN9AYY0UVSYYKwtw91QqHo-WkFWC7K9QPTGMHXghCQttnaxwIHI7IVk_29rC7e8j2Jh9SXyS-ORDislcTicLh7HUm8DENGiSU/s1600/4r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Apn56P6qncMEQTY8Hm3AH-xyky_WJRP-zmB0JId0AIqN9AYY0UVSYYKwtw91QqHo-WkFWC7K9QPTGMHXghCQttnaxwIHI7IVk_29rC7e8j2Jh9SXyS-ORDislcTicLh7HUm8DENGiSU/s1600/4r.png" /></a></div>
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I did, however, meet up with two of my best friends in the village cafe for lunch. Turned out to be a bit of a panic as I suddenly decided to call in at Ramsbottom beforehand and look in the clothes shop there. And yes, I spent my birthday money. Just like that. On a Seasalt raincoat.</div>
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I already have one like <a href="https://www.seasaltcornwall.co.uk/women/clothing/casual-jackets-in-soft-cord-and-printed-cotton/seafolly-long-length-lightweight-traditional-raincoat_mustard.htm" target="_blank">this</a>, purchased two (or was it three?) birthdays ago. But there's always room for more outdoor clothing in my wardrobe. And I tend to buy the one expensive thing which I wouldn't normally treat myself to at any other time of the year. I go for quality and know it'll last. This particular coat has a lifetime guarantee which is reassuring.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xAKBYOM37nTwS7461QqkJx-1zRea_KZOLaotMbHVA1qrI1Un-MLWRtxhETd5kECV2up4NckGqIaBCKtw3W_R7cFU3lBx1BGTY4pADwadxmrGkXxEdfXcBkxw1GaiH6X8ZRhxrQfavBk/s1600/3r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xAKBYOM37nTwS7461QqkJx-1zRea_KZOLaotMbHVA1qrI1Un-MLWRtxhETd5kECV2up4NckGqIaBCKtw3W_R7cFU3lBx1BGTY4pADwadxmrGkXxEdfXcBkxw1GaiH6X8ZRhxrQfavBk/s1600/3r.png" /></a></div>
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Birthday money gone (it never hangs around), I ate lunch with my lovely friends who had kindly clubbed together and treated me to a voucher for an aromatherapy massage - I can't wait for that - before going to collect Joe from school.</div>
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We ate chocolate and biscuits together in the kitchen and I decided that my birthday had been very nice indeed, if a bit hectic. I suspect a lie-in, a daytime bath and the chance to lounge around with a book all afternoon will happen on a future 18th of May.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL98LdK74hLWqKByOjPOG4jz9May9xtIAaJudn9C97h_eFLiLeht7mtDDnzC2SUaELSdBcO1TiNtssUXcnyHiH0SlVg1dyopJXTI3cWx7ESsBZ92N5PS9F0vXyb7RYyaXc2zNYThqaP44/s1600/6r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL98LdK74hLWqKByOjPOG4jz9May9xtIAaJudn9C97h_eFLiLeht7mtDDnzC2SUaELSdBcO1TiNtssUXcnyHiH0SlVg1dyopJXTI3cWx7ESsBZ92N5PS9F0vXyb7RYyaXc2zNYThqaP44/s1600/6r.png" /></a></div>
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I have been spoilt though. Another lunch last Saturday, lovely gifts, cards and well wishes. It's hard when I think of spending these special times with my mum so I like to imagine she's around somewhere, keeping an eye on proceedings and perhaps guiding me over that sheep-bothered moor road.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVR8CZn2H6sWerz8zlApGF5y4uwi8hGpWp5OZM5iG1rZFf0avVlLMyaVIVyCS4e1UH8yyPDHsB_ItN_VgpFGScwVXZZncWisHZuz8t3DZIlmUS9-M_hLvKCe2U5bZ9w3AgVAv5MZCwYg/s1600/DSC_0043r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVR8CZn2H6sWerz8zlApGF5y4uwi8hGpWp5OZM5iG1rZFf0avVlLMyaVIVyCS4e1UH8yyPDHsB_ItN_VgpFGScwVXZZncWisHZuz8t3DZIlmUS9-M_hLvKCe2U5bZ9w3AgVAv5MZCwYg/s1600/DSC_0043r.png" /></a></div>
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So I'm now 42. It looks older on paper (or screen) than I feel inside. I'm still the same person as I was twenty (twenty five?) years ago. Older, a little bit wiser, definitely more tired, but still as confused and silly. In a good way.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_Sxfc2rw1WWz0E4hD5_6KlsFhlyu5HjD3K2_u8MiJHzAptUy4eXAvQd_PZPK5Y_G0fxvVNtaThlaFCZci_H0LQZesqATWCKV4mDd5vwrD7vCbxsA1MWiY3yH5RHCnjin95SgeRc4U4A/s1600/7r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_Sxfc2rw1WWz0E4hD5_6KlsFhlyu5HjD3K2_u8MiJHzAptUy4eXAvQd_PZPK5Y_G0fxvVNtaThlaFCZci_H0LQZesqATWCKV4mDd5vwrD7vCbxsA1MWiY3yH5RHCnjin95SgeRc4U4A/s1600/7r.png" /></a></div>
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I did go out for a very brisk walk this morning though. In the spirit of taking care of myself and all that. I felt so virtuous that after lunch I finished my birthday chocolate off. Like I said, only a little bit wiser.</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-13519555095817343552017-05-04T14:52:00.000+01:002017-05-04T14:55:33.023+01:00May miscellany - and a confession<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCYHeLLvflcCcRN2lId-6UzKQRUobD5SJA53HqfeCuoFwZAS7WBwE0fMZZBjGR364v4S1GLRUhr1owDT1dCZ0spKPHdLTKf4h_Z8SgtKJSSvCC5vLHtrHL-lvDwBcFqoSXL3jvczJwoo/s1600/1r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCYHeLLvflcCcRN2lId-6UzKQRUobD5SJA53HqfeCuoFwZAS7WBwE0fMZZBjGR364v4S1GLRUhr1owDT1dCZ0spKPHdLTKf4h_Z8SgtKJSSvCC5vLHtrHL-lvDwBcFqoSXL3jvczJwoo/s1600/1r.png" /></a></div>
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This picture makes me laugh. Not because Joe's cute (he is) but because the farmer next door had to wave back. Said farmer isn't the friendliest. But you'd have to be a real misery to ignore a disarmingly smiley four-year-old.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVe6D6P6gnHVVtBsJD6GYUEuYK0UNelRotDfOmKFDUt409eDGz6CggqbuYg709Cs4hyphenhyphenFKsmOpcLsS28bk1-5E-nSJmT-3drstzYlkJPeB2y9nQgntgnLcRja108FmWAN38fZMYwK-FDkc/s1600/2r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVe6D6P6gnHVVtBsJD6GYUEuYK0UNelRotDfOmKFDUt409eDGz6CggqbuYg709Cs4hyphenhyphenFKsmOpcLsS28bk1-5E-nSJmT-3drstzYlkJPeB2y9nQgntgnLcRja108FmWAN38fZMYwK-FDkc/s1600/2r.png" /></a></div>
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I've been a little bit absent lately, at least in an online capacity. Ironically enough it's online stuff that's been keeping me busy. I'm currently doing battle with Squarespace and Squarespace is winning. It's taking a lot of stubbornness to keep going, but I'm determined to build a new blog.</div>
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It doesn't help that everyone I mention it to says how easy Squarespace is to master. But my graphic designer friend came over the other morning and was just as bewildered as me so that somehow made me feel a bit better. In other words, I'm not thick. Just digitally challenged.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TnU6mhgKtsqVlMdlCMoF5FfSMeeiZxhBEuTY2hEOuhvtd-eySQR_3pmAJKWG1xunTom0rIVYApOw-onJq2H4NSPhm4ezJOf4DB1ivXN7JasYiJxFEtdLVpn_XY6vlDwz9I0vge7fP8s/s1600/3r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TnU6mhgKtsqVlMdlCMoF5FfSMeeiZxhBEuTY2hEOuhvtd-eySQR_3pmAJKWG1xunTom0rIVYApOw-onJq2H4NSPhm4ezJOf4DB1ivXN7JasYiJxFEtdLVpn_XY6vlDwz9I0vge7fP8s/s1600/3r.png" /></a></div>
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So the constant tinkering and experimenting has eaten up a lot of my non-Joe time. Which means not much blogging or Instagramming action. </div>
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Still, it's May. </div>
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So plenty of bank holiday stuff going on (mainly walks); we've stayed local and wandered through the woods and near the river. We sometimes take a packed lunch or Joe's bike with us. It's heartening to see everything becoming very green.</div>
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I just wish these winds would die down. Blue skies, bright sunshine and it would be warm were it not for the constant blasting of chilly air. The washing's getting whipped off the line. Bins are being blown over.</div>
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So, what's in the miscellany?</div>
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Books. I've just read <i>Secrets of the Sea House </i>by Elizabeth Gifford. Quite timely as we're off to the Hebrides again in three weeks. I loved the folklore and the way it switched back and forth from current day to the 1860s.</div>
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And now I'm onto Alexander McCall Smith's <i>The Woman Who Walked in Sunshine</i>. The next in the series, <i>Precious and Grace</i>, is already waiting on the bedside table (which is, in actual fact, an old chair). And I'm also dipping in and out of <i>The Sleepyhead's Bedside Companion</i> by Sean Coughlan. It's great; lots of little facts and bits of history about all things sleep-related. His style of writing is light and humorous so nothing too challenging late in the evening.</div>
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All were found at my local library. I love that place. And I was so pleased to see there's a move away from e-books back to actual <i>physical</i> ones.</div>
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Television. I recently discovered <i>Versailles</i> and am completely addicted to it. Praise be for catch-up T.V. We're also watching <i>Second Chance Summer: Tuscany </i>- it seems that BBC2 is the current favourite around here.</div>
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Travels. I went up to the outskirts of Bradford a few weeks ago, to meet up with Susanna who runs this beautiful online <a href="https://www.andmead.co.uk/" target="_blank">shop</a>. We first met last summer at the <a href="http://gather.harvest.feast./">Gather.Harvest.Feast.</a> event in the North East and we're doing a little bit of something together later in the summer.</div>
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We had lunch and a wander around Salt's Mill, Saltaire. I've always wanted to visit and it's only an hour's drive away. It's a fantastic place, particularly if you're a creative type, and I really want to go back and explore the village. Joe would love it - there's a train station - and the architecture looks so imposing. The cobbled roads, the quaintly-named streets with their blue and white signs, the little independent shops...</div>
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Eating. A bit too much. I actually emptied half a jar of Nutella into the bin this morning. Joe (inexplicably) doesn't like it, whereas I do. A lot. There's still chocolate stashed everywhere from Easter and whilst I won't eat anything bought for Joe, anything else is up for grabs. Hence the bin episode. If there's anything tasty and unhealthy knocking around I'm all over it.</div>
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And in the spirit of stating the obvious: fat-free yogurt isn't a patch on the creamy, full-fat Greek stuff. Frozen berries without honey drizzled on are squint-makingly sour. And so on. Being virtuous isn't enjoyable. </div>
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Work. Other than my ongoing Squarespace nightmare, I do have other things on the go. It's plant pressing season. The hedgerows are getting very dense and I'm collecting and squashing like there's no tomorrow. Once I've got plenty of stuff stored I know I can make prints throughout the year.</div>
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I've been writing pieces for Creative Countryside and This is Your Kingdom. There are line drawings and sketches to be done, social media updates, bits of admin. My online shop needs updating. Which means more product photography. And I need to do a lot of making.</div>
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In fact, I'm considering going to <a href="https://festivalofmaking.co.uk/" target="_blank">this</a> in the hope of getting myself going creatively again.</div>
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So, that confession.</div>
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I dyed my hair. After several months of growing the colour our, of watching the grey appear - well, I got tired of it. Because it was taking ages. Because the condition felt rubbish. And because the little flyaways, all silver and pale on top of the (natural) dark brunette underneath, were making me resemble a crazy cat lady.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_wMpOn_Nf3pdsfOT3m9QA1hefvCWzCSEcRqIkgGZeVCeKfYjGwYC45PnnYLt7K_uxoDm7Pjx-mfqxX2Nm5Yr6TwCe8IISFaEHeqHRxeDvV45dLy6rF9I8umI-K3ASzkatq3nFh1eVdeU/s1600/12r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_wMpOn_Nf3pdsfOT3m9QA1hefvCWzCSEcRqIkgGZeVCeKfYjGwYC45PnnYLt7K_uxoDm7Pjx-mfqxX2Nm5Yr6TwCe8IISFaEHeqHRxeDvV45dLy6rF9I8umI-K3ASzkatq3nFh1eVdeU/s1600/12r.png" /></a></div>
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So I bought some dye. A shade too dark, as it turns out. That necessitated a 7am trip to the supermarket for a bottle of Head and Shoulders (which, apparently, lightens things if you've gone a bit too far over to the dark side). In case you're wondering: it doesn't work.</div>
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Joe, however, was delighted to be out food shopping before school. Especially when he got to choose chocolate brioche rolls for breakfast.</div>
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I'm back to brown again. I have to say, despite the iffy shade, my hair feels much sleeker and softer. Probably something to do with nasty chemicals so moving swiftly on: that horrid, demonic doll peering out of an empty house (above) the other day scared the living daylights out of me.</div>
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I do like her hair though. It's what I was going for in the first place. How come she managed it and I didn't?</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-39102331854894976062017-04-20T12:54:00.001+01:002017-04-20T16:52:41.966+01:00Easter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeZZHhT9eIr400H9A-TgmrBGDDA2FkQ4DuYd-jBqGcEHld5qd3RGWjuWKtHRB8wpXYTGGTdf8gT79EHb8cJygREp1dRYUbfR3lK0ttYXUSSeE-NV7uPib-HTWrvTH2sp1cWPIAPqHRMaI/s1600/57r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeZZHhT9eIr400H9A-TgmrBGDDA2FkQ4DuYd-jBqGcEHld5qd3RGWjuWKtHRB8wpXYTGGTdf8gT79EHb8cJygREp1dRYUbfR3lK0ttYXUSSeE-NV7uPib-HTWrvTH2sp1cWPIAPqHRMaI/s1600/57r.png" /></a></div>
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It's been a while.</div>
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It's been Easter. Two and a bit weeks off school and (for the most part) away from the digital world.</div>
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School actually finished very early for Easter. Most of the others in the locality are still off this week. But Joe went back on Tuesday (wearing shorts). The warm weather didn't last though. We're back to grey skies and chilly winds.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkV2CM1v31ExWXGtZWqskRTQQDEHvKs3lV5mdCXl_k7Whs9cY4Yf8h3d4J02lVETzPx8X_sQ75KhMU9fVsYCUjTPqjgYn-KxwunJ5BbewcF6fpI7qW9UOc2PmAI1HVwwn073fgKxfQTo/s1600/1r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkV2CM1v31ExWXGtZWqskRTQQDEHvKs3lV5mdCXl_k7Whs9cY4Yf8h3d4J02lVETzPx8X_sQ75KhMU9fVsYCUjTPqjgYn-KxwunJ5BbewcF6fpI7qW9UOc2PmAI1HVwwn073fgKxfQTo/s1600/1r.png" /></a></div>
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It was gloriously warm and sunny at the beginning of the holidays; Joe went to stay with his grandparents for a few nights so we took a walk, ate lunch outdoors and got on with some DIY. It had to be done.</div>
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Still, those two days of painting and repairs were quite relaxed. It always helps when the sun's shining and the windows are open and the washing's out on the line. Even sanding and undercoating doesn't seem too bad.</div>
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Joe came home having ridden on trains and zip wires. He was very excited.</div>
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Meanwhile, the Easter eggs continued to accumulate.</div>
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It was good fun, actually. Jay rattled the letterbox and Joe ran out to find a letter from the 'Easter Bunny' (me), telling him to go on a hunt for the eggs. So he did. It broke my heart a little bit, I'll be honest, to witness just how gullible he is. But the intentions were honourable.</div>
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We went to a birthday party a few days later with another egg hunt. So there's a lot of chocolate around at the moment.</div>
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The garden's starting to fill out now. Fruit is - well, fruiting. The Honesty plant I put in last year has shot up and is smothered in white flowers. The Dicentras are dripping with inverted pink hearts.</div>
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The forget-me-nots, not so much. I thought they were supposed to spread everywhere...<br />
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Joe and I have been out hunting for bluebells, picking nettles and wild garlic, paddling in the river and playing in the park with friends. We've made things with clay, built with empty boxes and baked Garibaldi biscuits. We've drawn and coloured, visited the cafe and walked, cycled and taken little excursions in the car.</div>
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But we like the woods best.</div>
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I actually prefer being there when it's a bit damp and overcast. </div>
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It's getting very green under the trees. I need to head out next week to collect plants for pressing, ready to make prints, and maybe I'll do some sketches too.</div>
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It's a lovely time of year. Next we'll have hawthorn blossom and cow parsley, so maybe we'll head back over to Cheshire to visit family and walk among the hedgerows.</div>
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The first cuckoo flowers (or Lady's Smock) are out. They always remind me of being little, and of picking them for my mum from the field across the road.</div>
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The blossoms are in full swing. </div>
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But I think the herbs in the garden might need replacing. They've gone a bit woody and bedraggled-looking. Joe enjoys picking them to make 'spells' with. We stirred them up with some empty snail shells and pebbles, and made little brooms too with the prunings from our birch tree.</div>
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In the spirit of spring I'm trying to like the fact that, again, the sparrows have built a nest right outside our bedroom window. Let's face it though, they're noisy little buggers. Especially first thing in the morning.</div>
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Still, it's a good feeling to finally emerge from the dark winter days and see everything coming to life. I've even painted my toenails (silver). </div>
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And now Joe's back at school I'm trying my best to catch up with work, blogging and all those things that get shelved when term ends. I'm glad that I've accepted 'doing it all' isn't the way to go. While he's little, my work is strictly term time only. That way I can just accept that our days are spent doing things together and I can relax and enjoy that. The to-do list can wait.</div>
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I hope you had a great Easter.</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-12020090190162305822017-03-29T10:50:00.000+01:002017-03-29T10:50:19.272+01:00Spring <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The clocks have gone forward. The blue, hazy days have arrived (apart from this morning, when it's distinctly grey and wet outside).</div>
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We had a lovely weekend outdoors. On Saturday we went to put flowers on my mum's grave for Mother's Day, and sat for a while by the pond in the cemetery. It may sound odd to say it was nice, but it was. I don't feel particularly close to my mum when I'm there; I don't feel she's present in any way at her final resting place. Strange as it may seem, I always feel closest to her when I'm out walking or when I'm bustling about in the kitchen.</div>
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But it's a beautiful cemetery with meandering paths and mature trees and wild areas around the edges. </div>
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I went to my friend's house that night and four of us had a takeaway. She only lives by the village school, maybe a hundred yards from our house. Good job as I didn't get home until 3am. So I took full advantage of my Mother's Day lie in the following morning...</div>
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Not for too long though. I didn't drink the night before, so no hangover to contend with. And the sun was shining. So we packed a picnic lunch and went for a little wander.</div>
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Joe had a great time, climbing on the sculptures and watching the trains going by.</div>
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We soaked up the warmth and had a lovely slow Sunday.</div>
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Joe didn't complain too much about climbing the hills either. We usually take a snack out as he lives to eat, so it's the perfect incentive for him to keep going. Today's treat: a piece of chocolate birthday cake from a party he'd been to on Friday.</div>
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It felt very spring-like. We spotted the first lambs of the year in the village (but the sheep in the field behind our house are still at the heavily pregnant stage). Joe, ever the gannet, started talking about rosemary and suggested a roast lamb dinner. I'm not convinced he understands the link just yet between fluffy animals and meat on a plate.</div>
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Either that or he's completely lacking in sentiment. But he does have a conscience, so I suspect it's the former.</div>
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I think Sunday was possibly the bluest, warmest day of the year; at least it was if you kept out of the shade.</div>
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There are plenty of things growing. I love butterburs, they're so prehistoric-looking.</div>
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And our mock currant in the back garden is in full flower.</div>
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The dandelions are not in our garden. Joe enjoys weeding. I have to point out what has to stay and what needs to go. He doesn't always get it right...</div>
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Monday was a lovely day too, so after some printmaking I went out collecting ferns. They're my favourite thing to make prints from as the shapes are so graphic and they're pretty robust. </div>
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I press them before doing any printmaking, so I've been using last year's plants and they finally crumbled away so it was time to restock. </div>
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There are plenty of places nearby to find ferns, and many types to collect. But I wanted to stay as close to home as possible because I had a lot to do so I went up a little lane which has nice views and shady banks. </div>
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I prefer to use the 'Deer fern' (<i>Blechnum spicant</i>) because I love the shape. So I plucked a handful and whilst I was collecting, I noticed all the other growth that's happening.</div>
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Things are definitely getting more green. And although I haven's photographed any, the wild garlic is appearing too so Joe and I can go picking next week during the school holidays.</div>
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The forecast is good so I'm looking forward to spending a few weeks with him. I've got lots planned - mainly little adventures nearby - with making and reading and meeting up with friends too. Perhaps even an egg hunt.</div>
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I'll hopefully post during the next couple of weeks but if not, it'll be because we're enjoying a well-earned break from the crazy school and workday routine!</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-48243216087373307782017-03-15T15:07:00.001+00:002017-03-15T15:07:22.125+00:00Mid March meanderings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's mid March already.</div>
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And I'd just like to thank everyone who commented on my previous post. Sometimes these more 'personal' stories prompt people to share, and it's a good thing. It's good because they can offer experiences and knowledge, and know there are others out there who are in the same boat. </div>
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As I said though, I'm aware that I'm far more fortunate than many. I can walk a good distance - I do get aches and pains, particularly in my Achilles tendons, after a long trek. But I still go.</div>
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At the weekend, Joe had a few hours with his grandad. Jay stayed at home and enjoyed the rare peace and quiet. I went out for a wander. </div>
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Wellies may not be the most supportive of footwear but they're definitely worth their weight in gold when traversing churned-up cow fields. I was ankle-deep in mud within minutes of leaving the house, but I know what a mire this particular field is and went for it anyway.</div>
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There are all kinds of things coming to life now. Wild garlic's appearing under the trees and the stone walls are green with ferns, mosses and... well, whatever this is. </div>
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Ghosts of last summer, too - in the churchyard, amongst the graves.</div>
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After the floods of 2016 people are refurbishing and improving their houses and gardens. Some are extending, too. Nice to see that even in a conservation area with very strict planning guidelines, there's room for modernity. I'm a bit of a one for timber cladding.</div>
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I suspect that in time this will weather to a silvery grey. And the view from those windows is a lovely one, across the river to farmland and woods.</div>
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Early blossom's appearing here and there. Candyfloss pink isn't a colour I'd usually go for, but at this time of year... Well, yes.</div>
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Apparently these are woodbine. I like how the light comes through them. More pink - and I don't think new leaves and fat buds would be quite the same without those rosy tinges to them.</div>
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Naturally, it started to rain before very long. But it was only the lightest of drizzle which soon cleared. It's been very breezy this past week but we've had some beautiful blue days too. Right now, as I type, the sun's shining. </div>
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Perfect for Joe's class today. They're having a Papua, New Guinea wedding in the woodland area. He'll be wearing a headdress and face paint when I collect him shortly. And we're heading straight to the village cafe. But he often goes in there with some kind of glue-and-glitter-smeared hat or crown on after school.</div>
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Anyway, back to my walk. I had a steep uphill climb to get home and it was a bit tiring but no more than it should have been. Apparently with CFS you have to pace yourself and schedule in rest, but it's also very important to stay active.</div>
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And getting out there, seeing spring emerge, is as good a pick-me-up as anything else I can think of. Other than a few weeks in the Maldives, of course.</div>
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But we're off to Grasmere on Friday, Jay and me, for a few nights. Again, walking and exploring mixed with rest: reading and lounging in the hotel spa. I'm looking forward to it very much!</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-47496125102611481652017-03-02T12:43:00.000+00:002017-03-02T12:43:33.834+00:00Ups and downs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, we've reached March.</div>
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I always see it as a pivotal time of the year; I feel that spring's almost upon us as the long, dark days of winter are slowly retreating. The garden's gradually awakening and so are we.</div>
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Well, sort of.</div>
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I had an appointment with an endocrinologist on Tuesday. It was a Big Deal. I'll tell you why: I've waited for over four years to see someone on the NHS after literally two decades of feeling unwell. Having chased my tail by seeing lots of doctors, undergoing numerous blood tests, paying to see someone privately (I could only afford the one appointment), and desperately trying to figure out what was going on: websites, books, a herbal practitioner... Let's just say I went along well prepared.</div>
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The lovely consultant I saw told me I've got Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). I cried. Not out of fear or despair or anything like that. It was a relief that after so long, I had an answer, and that it isn't normal to feel so exhausted and be plagued by many, many symptoms.</div>
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Apparently it takes 3-5 years to feel properly better. But you can feel better.</div>
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And, ever the optimist, I'm already working on that. It'll be a combination of diet, physiotherapy, CBT and - most challenging for me - pacing myself and working more balance into my life. I can do it. I <i>will</i> do it. For Joe as much as for myself.</div>
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And I'm grateful that I can function pretty well: getting up in the morning, getting Joe off to school, running the house, building this little business of mine. We've had some pretty severe knocks over the past few years (which have no doubt exacerbated the CFS) but the fact is, there are many people who <i>can't</i> do the things they'd like to.</div>
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Gratitude is important.</div>
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So, without wanting to dwell on that: March. Days of bright sunshine, sleet showers, blackening skies and everything in between, all thrown at us seemingly at once. The house is either sea bed gloomy or bathed in dazzling 'golden hour' light.</div>
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Our days seem to follow the same crazy mix of extremes: quiet moments when I can read or get work done sandwiched between the mad morning rush and Joe's return home again, when it's all about the endless questions (still), baking, planting seedlings, making bird feeders, reading school books, requests for dens and jigsaw tournaments.</div>
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Of course, this week is a celebration of books and reading. I went into school this morning to read with Joe (it was actually supposed to be for grandparents but he had to make do with me). It's lovely to be in the classroom. We got through three fairy tales and the little ones sang a song about the story they've been reading in class.</div>
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After lunch I'm planning a little walk around the village with my camera. Although it's just started lashing down again, so who knows? </div>
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I'm so glad it's Friday tomorrow. Between car problems (too dull to go into, but it's been very annoying), seemingly endless school requests (themed costumes for tomorrow, sponsor forms, drawing competitions, toast money, homework etc), getting to the hospital and back in time for Joe and all the other stuff - well a few days off the treadmill will be most welcome. I'll have my work cut out trying to slow things down. But this time it's not really optional.</div>
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I need to find a new way of getting these things done which doesn't compromise my health and wellbeing. I can do it. Somehow.</div>
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Finally, my first article (and photo) for Creative Countryside is now in the <a href="http://www.creativecountryside.com/blog/bringing-the-outdoors-in" target="_blank">online journal</a>.</div>
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Wishing you a restful weekend once it arrives!</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-34140760944771388062017-02-23T10:50:00.000+00:002017-02-23T10:50:25.855+00:00Wild Thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sadly, I'm referring to the weather and not the goings-on inside the house.</div>
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Yet again the wind's howling and the rain's hammering at the windows. At night I listen to it, battering the roof and making the trees creak. This morning we set off to school dressed in full storm regalia. There's water running down from the hills, huge splashy puddles on the pavements and muddy ponds have suddenly appeared in the hollows.</div>
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Before we proceed, just a quick explanation: the photographs in this post bear little or no relation whatsoever to the written content. Although the 'Cake' one is perhaps a bit ironic, considering I'm currently on a 30-day 'reset' plan. I'm doing OK. Cake would be good. Instead I'm improvising with the odd Medjool date. They're kind of fudgy, if you use your imagination.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKrkRISIu-yx9btu4YI77q8t5NbxnnbzzITn7cfCybifyV5_9669DeGJJXmonm4iS3FX2ATgp88c7qtMg1edI3ekr8Z1POaQPjVjKCf6C0N3Z1cRdbrsiisn7wXhECmUrkH5RpYWav0A/s1600/brickr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKrkRISIu-yx9btu4YI77q8t5NbxnnbzzITn7cfCybifyV5_9669DeGJJXmonm4iS3FX2ATgp88c7qtMg1edI3ekr8Z1POaQPjVjKCf6C0N3Z1cRdbrsiisn7wXhECmUrkH5RpYWav0A/s1600/brickr.png" /></a></div>
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The camera hasn't seen much action due to the gloominess that seems to have settled, blanket-like, in the house. Downstairs is particularly murky.</div>
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So instead I've found and used some of my old pictures - 'curated' (now there's a trendy word). And realised that I really do need to have a photo cull. There are thousands of the things sitting on my desktop and threatening to slow the computer right down. Maybe I'll even break out the external hard drive.</div>
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Most of the photos are from around this time last year. I think.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQ30b_YvJdV3nYpq7jooYvrfzZqHP70AwzjS16Ut1PHHrjnJqbmuKJI8ZnMplFDidUiDDNxJ2zSPZsk4jMl3VnrXDE_zrmJCCzjYBzwcn4B25AurVYirotmOVFFPDa4KHxuOA1su9NA8/s1600/babar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQ30b_YvJdV3nYpq7jooYvrfzZqHP70AwzjS16Ut1PHHrjnJqbmuKJI8ZnMplFDidUiDDNxJ2zSPZsk4jMl3VnrXDE_zrmJCCzjYBzwcn4B25AurVYirotmOVFFPDa4KHxuOA1su9NA8/s1600/babar.png" /></a></div>
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So, a catch-up post. Again.</div>
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Joe's back at school after a half term week of baking, walking, adventuring, doing jigsaws and playing with Lego. He's very much into card-making at the moment. Felt tips make me nervous, I must admit, but he seems to get most of the ink on his hands rather than the carpet.</div>
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He is enjoying school despite one or two peeves (a few kids in his class - Joe can hold a grudge for years; jacket potatoes for lunch; standing out in the windswept yard until the morning bell goes; the dinner lady promising him a sticker then forgetting to give it to him etc.)</div>
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He did spend a few nights with his grandparents during the holiday week. The house felt very tidy and very quiet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifzh6f_5q8hCjb8XZMm1MXyyKuD6iKtua7_v_6r2zlvi74WoOkD41nts7LGitePv5gYFfnJhGZ_eZCG2xjXpue176l8pDuKs2h84XCr0nSZMGujYvRYMG76oVpHfDC9eZ2MxBs30ZI1w/s1600/greenr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifzh6f_5q8hCjb8XZMm1MXyyKuD6iKtua7_v_6r2zlvi74WoOkD41nts7LGitePv5gYFfnJhGZ_eZCG2xjXpue176l8pDuKs2h84XCr0nSZMGujYvRYMG76oVpHfDC9eZ2MxBs30ZI1w/s1600/greenr.png" /></a></div>
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He'll be going there again next month. We don't actually get much time with just Jay and me; it just happens that we've booked a weekend in Grasmere in a lovely hotel and I can't wait. I don't care if it rains because there's a spa with a sauna and pool. We'll do a few walks locally and I'll take a good book or two.</div>
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In other words: we plan to do very little indeed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgrZuH5B2vR2LrYU_YWgLcIw__y2j2WvSvDzF0mtdiwd9p1x1-ms5yJVDTRmhF2LIxduyVKbIlyHDxG0mXVOv1NikWb9rN6CsAr1D39pjaIyORAgZ6C60WscwXJXXMrQ5Fr70ZR4aX1M/s1600/twigsr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgrZuH5B2vR2LrYU_YWgLcIw__y2j2WvSvDzF0mtdiwd9p1x1-ms5yJVDTRmhF2LIxduyVKbIlyHDxG0mXVOv1NikWb9rN6CsAr1D39pjaIyORAgZ6C60WscwXJXXMrQ5Fr70ZR4aX1M/s1600/twigsr.png" /></a></div>
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Speaking of books, I'm currently reading 'Jump!' by Jilly Cooper. Yes, I am. And thoroughly enjoying it too. Sometimes I just need a bit of Cotswolds-based silliness and there's nothing wrong with that.</div>
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So, sitting here on this wild Thursday, I'll be messing around with my Frond & Feather site (trying to link my new Etsy <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/FrondandFeather?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">shop</a> to it). After that I'm working my way through an online 5 Day Challenge about approaching potential stockists for my prints. And if I get it all done, that leaves a bit of time tomorrow to sort out all those photos.</div>
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If I don't find something better to do. Which I will.</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-26201744748005893242017-02-10T12:55:00.000+00:002017-02-10T12:55:36.701+00:00A this-and-that kind of morning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've mentioned before (maybe here, maybe over at <a href="http://www.frond-and-feather.com/" target="_blank">Frond & Feather</a>) that I've been trying to be a bit more structured in my approach to work. I'm currently working my way through the <a href="http://makersbusinesstoolkit.com/" target="_blank">Maker's Business Toolkit</a> and it's really helping. No, this isn't a sponsored post or anything. But it's been great to be part of an online community and to have a framework.</div>
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I plan out my working week and it's so much better than my previous scatter gun approach.</div>
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However.</div>
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Today has been a little bit... <i>un</i>structured.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgr6Uvr_zOmBwkn2PCqK3xIkC1DuzCyuiI8_WIpBwdXa6ZqPCKUwpdM5DkvmMbQBz3E5X3PAWQXHSb1CnxSSlwf4kCF09x9mM-KYnAmpDSpmlfIduq8TEW3Nb9XmMZ8sCNfJcCiC9DPn8/s1600/DSC_0043r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgr6Uvr_zOmBwkn2PCqK3xIkC1DuzCyuiI8_WIpBwdXa6ZqPCKUwpdM5DkvmMbQBz3E5X3PAWQXHSb1CnxSSlwf4kCF09x9mM-KYnAmpDSpmlfIduq8TEW3Nb9XmMZ8sCNfJcCiC9DPn8/s1600/DSC_0043r.png" /></a></div>
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Maybe I'm just preparing myself for next week - half term - when any semblance of being organised will be straight out of the window. I'm looking forward to it, actually. Yesterday morning we were in such a hurry to leave the house, I locked the front door and as we walked Joe was crying. 'Mummy! You haven't put my shoes on!' Sure enough, I looked down and there he was in just his socks. I felt pretty awful about that one.</div>
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After dropping Joe at school today I went out of the side gate from the playground (you have to be quick once the bell's been rung or they lock you in and the only means of escape is via Reception and the wrath of the headteacher) and off up the hill for a little walk. Firstly, because it's been trying to snow for days and we've had just the lightest dusting and I wanted to enjoy it. Secondly, because I wanted to play with my camera.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Bv5_tHQzzjKVEI_JdSCdS1XbdGGBl91xJbRut-3HFVIxKHL1U5tnuQ0ymFUVpg1W4ANqAjoIleSzOjIUpbMk3iinTEZeVPSsOdFaYpQZLEiPfCTiyi3OIU3R9jaipeX_a8PqD1qq9Hw/s1600/DSC_0036r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Bv5_tHQzzjKVEI_JdSCdS1XbdGGBl91xJbRut-3HFVIxKHL1U5tnuQ0ymFUVpg1W4ANqAjoIleSzOjIUpbMk3iinTEZeVPSsOdFaYpQZLEiPfCTiyi3OIU3R9jaipeX_a8PqD1qq9Hw/s1600/DSC_0036r.png" /></a></div>
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You see: My name's Sarah and I'm an Autoholic. </div>
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I've owned a DSLR for probably eight years now and am completely stuck in the point-and-shoot mode. In some ways it's served me well; I have some really lovely photos to show for it. And I tend to play with images later on, thanks to some nice editing software. Being a creative type I actually enjoy the whole messing around with effects process. Although it can be very time-consuming.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihVH4H3sfYhDbCouFcH-WFPByHHN5s8hD5qXG2DAfKRRCf1qzpTN-qQyyHeV4whYZiWX7BZ5De8FFgFsoPuoNgJoJPGsa7Nx5ZoIaLseMq4ge7ET4RU6YjS-6l33zoSEIj16ImVdqMNd4/s1600/DSC_0051r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihVH4H3sfYhDbCouFcH-WFPByHHN5s8hD5qXG2DAfKRRCf1qzpTN-qQyyHeV4whYZiWX7BZ5De8FFgFsoPuoNgJoJPGsa7Nx5ZoIaLseMq4ge7ET4RU6YjS-6l33zoSEIj16ImVdqMNd4/s1600/DSC_0051r.png" /></a></div>
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But I know I can get so much more from my camera. We're now a two-DSLR household, and I keep using Jay's camera with the kit lens rather than my own with a 35mm. I rely way too much on auto-focus.</div>
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A good friend of mine is a professional photographer and she couldn't believe I never move out of Auto mode. So yesterday I made lots of notes from my 'Photo' Pinterest board and had a go. </div>
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Many, many horribly underexposed photos later I realised I was trying to run before I could walk. So instead of leaping straight into Manual, I decided that today I'd make a start with Aperture Priority instead. I know the basics - kind of - so off I went.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBccpTw1QlHD22JZvTavlrTUFds3e3LhIHsLLZR-WCL0PjZBcQOSr4hX5GeJKHSic1yV5NnrMJ1IQOEV7lJPqxvWdyH7dRhhzQmToa7vYMT93wBpMGQGTK8WzzybMm7d2vYmLWP05UAg/s1600/04r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBccpTw1QlHD22JZvTavlrTUFds3e3LhIHsLLZR-WCL0PjZBcQOSr4hX5GeJKHSic1yV5NnrMJ1IQOEV7lJPqxvWdyH7dRhhzQmToa7vYMT93wBpMGQGTK8WzzybMm7d2vYmLWP05UAg/s1600/04r.png" /></a></div>
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The photos in this post are all SOOC (Straight Out Of Camera). Other than the black and white ones. And, to be honest, I only did that to try and improve them as I wasn't too happy with them in their unadulterated state.</div>
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Still, onwards and upwards. Apparently using Manual mode becomes second nature. Just like riding a bike or driving a car. Well I can drive a car <i>and</i> a tractor - complete with a trailer full of hay - so I'm going to keep on persevering.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg740Mnd4Iiiy8kDRTLaQ8uyMpsnwMTSSAVQ7_9h4pXOI4q_6GxQgHLMF3rPT1tcJe6m48NZJRNfTOjVWLw5p7I1TeIcXpa9FMripCbJEoZUOVTL0h1VO71fEI8RVookbneFM-UB0wWKZI/s1600/DSC_0078r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg740Mnd4Iiiy8kDRTLaQ8uyMpsnwMTSSAVQ7_9h4pXOI4q_6GxQgHLMF3rPT1tcJe6m48NZJRNfTOjVWLw5p7I1TeIcXpa9FMripCbJEoZUOVTL0h1VO71fEI8RVookbneFM-UB0wWKZI/s1600/DSC_0078r.png" /></a></div>
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I didn't stay out too long, just half an hour or so, because today's to-do list is a long one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgry3IUkuJ8CNjaQxCaXSV1DHaGIQfcoD5Zu_OWpfJtLNZ2hFMV2Y0qp__jCbMKZCVOrnQ9gdEs4ddKCL5vH9XAWIvsY55o-XWDg1kQuLRhe-GSD9UknMDY6BCvvY4J0UfW3uOS-dONm7I/s1600/09r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgry3IUkuJ8CNjaQxCaXSV1DHaGIQfcoD5Zu_OWpfJtLNZ2hFMV2Y0qp__jCbMKZCVOrnQ9gdEs4ddKCL5vH9XAWIvsY55o-XWDg1kQuLRhe-GSD9UknMDY6BCvvY4J0UfW3uOS-dONm7I/s1600/09r.png" /></a></div>
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So I returned home, swapped my wellies for shoes, and ran a few errands in town before heading home for a restorative mug of hot chocolate.</div>
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I'm also planning to send off my first article for Creative Countryside this afternoon (the accompanying picture will be taken later next week. Who knows, I may be an ace photographer by then). And I need to do a bit of a social media catch-up. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3elsYqmVW5wSJmsaD3hBSQI3wGdVHhyrSUXFBICWeb7P21RwTrUgmWIN8RXcq8wAikVSvrsxjw_naWxdS99HPYAEuj_bK1uG3uxoZED0eWlCpgXmrnLKmnLbcS8wnYuP3m5BycvXv2p8/s1600/011r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3elsYqmVW5wSJmsaD3hBSQI3wGdVHhyrSUXFBICWeb7P21RwTrUgmWIN8RXcq8wAikVSvrsxjw_naWxdS99HPYAEuj_bK1uG3uxoZED0eWlCpgXmrnLKmnLbcS8wnYuP3m5BycvXv2p8/s1600/011r.png" /></a></div>
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Joe and I enjoy a bit of colouring. He does these huge, weird and wonderful felt tip drawings with the most surreal stories attached to them. I sit opposite him trying to ignore the marks on the table and use one of those 'colouring for grown-ups' books (<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Secret-Paris-Color-Your-Calm/dp/0316265829" target="_blank">this</a> one, a T.K. Maxx bargain). Having read the reviews it would appear that some people take their grown-up colouring very seriously indeed. I'm not one of them. However, it's very absorbing and a nice way to de-stress.</div>
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This story <i>is</i> going somewhere, I promise... You see, I recently made some more plant monoprints. Being the most picky of perfectionists, I wasn't entirely happy with the fern (above). I'm also very resourceful and hate throwing out my artwork - especially when it's done using expensive paper - so I thought I'd colour it in with green pencil. It actually looks quite good propped up on the mantel.</div>
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I like the idea of hand-tinting my monoprints, so plan to have a go at that after lunch. Whether the watercolour paint will cause the (water-based) printing ink to run is anyone's guess.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYUEnB3W7CkDDJ4jq1ygwkpu_tD0sijF_gbKL1NV_Dsk0VM795UDR24D-R8XSeVhoOGRLfS7JFjwCcvFZy_n31J2x5WtWxJMnV29IsQO-XICm-w2r9DlaVsLtYkzpigdbdeY90bSgssg/s1600/012r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYUEnB3W7CkDDJ4jq1ygwkpu_tD0sijF_gbKL1NV_Dsk0VM795UDR24D-R8XSeVhoOGRLfS7JFjwCcvFZy_n31J2x5WtWxJMnV29IsQO-XICm-w2r9DlaVsLtYkzpigdbdeY90bSgssg/s1600/012r.png" /></a></div>
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And now the sun's gone in, it's trying to snow again and I'm heading downstairs and away from my messy work table. I didn't photograph all of it. A little section tells you all you need to know.</div>
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Perhaps a straighten-up later on then, before I collect the little tornado from school.</div>
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Have a great weekend, and stay warm.</div>
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P.S. I've been re-reading the first two 'Adrian Mole' books (it's probably twenty years since I last read them). I'd forgotten how funny they are...</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-8747340125141204822017-02-01T09:36:00.001+00:002017-02-01T09:36:44.528+00:00A new (ad)venture...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinGsvdzmekYyjp0J7FJjE3f9J6V8G69d2vRcTY5i5VlpgVbAmSsJWUNgZNA5TB3tQD1kowfwIsn9apaAX3R269jYuYHOVM4NRLw9ltoaeb0dHQoMi3IqpcrYPJLbR81MCTFB1t6ovT5PM/s1600/wallr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinGsvdzmekYyjp0J7FJjE3f9J6V8G69d2vRcTY5i5VlpgVbAmSsJWUNgZNA5TB3tQD1kowfwIsn9apaAX3R269jYuYHOVM4NRLw9ltoaeb0dHQoMi3IqpcrYPJLbR81MCTFB1t6ovT5PM/s1600/wallr.png" /></a><br />
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New year, new month, new (ad)venture:</div>
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I'm really excited to share that I was recently appointed as Nature Editor for <a href="http://www.creativecountryside.com/" target="_blank">Creative Countryside</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhtxqn0sjHbm9IRTxZ48YUTVE_PnrFh50zAYLzeD5AhEULj4f4rJ8mJhgESiW-xU8ndHPG20yzOGoL3OmFuipwSd_hSCQ9jmoKX6EvImtXB5rCfdiWKzHcqk9wdOwDCqc9qpYo5nuuuME/s1600/02r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhtxqn0sjHbm9IRTxZ48YUTVE_PnrFh50zAYLzeD5AhEULj4f4rJ8mJhgESiW-xU8ndHPG20yzOGoL3OmFuipwSd_hSCQ9jmoKX6EvImtXB5rCfdiWKzHcqk9wdOwDCqc9qpYo5nuuuME/s1600/02r.png" /></a></div>
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When I first heard they were hiring, I knew I'd love to be one of the new editors. And, as you know, I'm passionate about nature and seasonality. What better than to research and write articles, to find contributors, and to work alongside a team of great fellow writers and bloggers?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbaiu034DKfMOKf3A-joXdOkb9iQjLGY-k_uhLZTHBBR9iPDcWl5Uz7JFlOhW05xaQTf4RY-zXecdDYkAtSdREyHbAhfwuRdvYF5GqQz5UyBKDnQcIYwsfqDzv8jBSgoC-z3bmG1R7KY/s1600/03r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbaiu034DKfMOKf3A-joXdOkb9iQjLGY-k_uhLZTHBBR9iPDcWl5Uz7JFlOhW05xaQTf4RY-zXecdDYkAtSdREyHbAhfwuRdvYF5GqQz5UyBKDnQcIYwsfqDzv8jBSgoC-z3bmG1R7KY/s1600/03r.png" /></a></div>
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My fellow editors are:</div>
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Sarah from <a href="http://thesaltyseablog.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Salty Sea Blog</a> (Folklore)</div>
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Kayte from <a href="http://simpleandseason.com/" target="_blank">Simple and Season</a> (Stories)</div>
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Chelsea from <a href="https://lovinglifeinwelliesblog.com/" target="_blank">Loving Life in Wellies</a> (Adventure).</div>
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Three lovely blogs well worth a visit. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqQc_ylnk_iqrbPqP6tQ46YQHc4E0u864zaH6gNn6PV-7J6cxNBSFLpNwJa9rpgxBTF2XeRXEtJy6Hu-1cF7U74Vb7FL3pHSQJUbFjGETBGMBDo8mfZvEca0jalNNArF2pyflxzrwIm8/s1600/boatr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhqQc_ylnk_iqrbPqP6tQ46YQHc4E0u864zaH6gNn6PV-7J6cxNBSFLpNwJa9rpgxBTF2XeRXEtJy6Hu-1cF7U74Vb7FL3pHSQJUbFjGETBGMBDo8mfZvEca0jalNNArF2pyflxzrwIm8/s1600/boatr.png" /></a></div>
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I thought I'd use a selection of old and new photographs to accompany this post. You may recognise a few - some are from around our village, others from further afield: the Lakes, Lindisfarne, Scotland... And I think they represent what I'm hoping to do with this new opportunity.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgns5DVvR0tnel5O-VYbmaXvmPmzWw-h0J_lLMHJuZQN8fRaWFbJetLlC0V7s14EKZkfInSZrhb5yEV9tqi3haq_3vZUqdvAF78yKjVmlre6zQCBB2xEQxeogfMN97zj4LX9QmjiySep0U/s1600/fernr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgns5DVvR0tnel5O-VYbmaXvmPmzWw-h0J_lLMHJuZQN8fRaWFbJetLlC0V7s14EKZkfInSZrhb5yEV9tqi3haq_3vZUqdvAF78yKjVmlre6zQCBB2xEQxeogfMN97zj4LX9QmjiySep0U/s1600/fernr.png" /></a></div>
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To get outdoors and explore and get inspired. To think about nature and how we can learn about and celebrate it. And, of course, to share all that with others.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEE1k0sQ26zg-RCPliiVgznfsZh7FeuxfUrKNBa6BBY2r8K2WM09nSj30iAJzm70qXfiC-KkzUmI0OuNlgEQeiZaOSXFl9JE7WOnyDFzQWfK-T2kcRH6Md8jigBsHCaLmNDJlAYZVmTAU/s1600/lindisfarner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEE1k0sQ26zg-RCPliiVgznfsZh7FeuxfUrKNBa6BBY2r8K2WM09nSj30iAJzm70qXfiC-KkzUmI0OuNlgEQeiZaOSXFl9JE7WOnyDFzQWfK-T2kcRH6Md8jigBsHCaLmNDJlAYZVmTAU/s1600/lindisfarner.png" /></a></div>
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Am I still an artist? Of course. I'm a writer too. And a taker of photographs. I'm not swapping any one of those things for another. Because, in terms of what I've always wanted to do, art and writing - together - well, they're <i>it</i>. And I think they'll complement each other perfectly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7by_gdabHoMfvBMVHwHnjbesDjr1pV4QWEANgThyphenhyphenPG454Ma5pMa4gHID-bUbBPegUIXwcoSATd-UGiycWsVemQVPGE2sF-0UmyxJBCwNE2VNI-wj4A32kATHW7GIFy9pm6L5abOUSKiQ/s1600/lochr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7by_gdabHoMfvBMVHwHnjbesDjr1pV4QWEANgThyphenhyphenPG454Ma5pMa4gHID-bUbBPegUIXwcoSATd-UGiycWsVemQVPGE2sF-0UmyxJBCwNE2VNI-wj4A32kATHW7GIFy9pm6L5abOUSKiQ/s1600/lochr.png" /></a></div>
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The subject matter and the inspiration are one and the same: nature.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5caZh20nmBjSbS4woL9_cVpCnK_8axRh8sp0V7HKj3smKL5QQrr-RUbnC6vmGFXsFMg1x0SCd2FgXccwjnFYHx7wkMftDda-jUfETLPpHsPelix8WpRyseqiHQpfv-8ESXp3fIHtfM98/s1600/reflectionr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5caZh20nmBjSbS4woL9_cVpCnK_8axRh8sp0V7HKj3smKL5QQrr-RUbnC6vmGFXsFMg1x0SCd2FgXccwjnFYHx7wkMftDda-jUfETLPpHsPelix8WpRyseqiHQpfv-8ESXp3fIHtfM98/s1600/reflectionr.png" /></a></div>
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Funnily enough, Jay bought me a diary last week. It's a really lovely one. And I'm going to use it only for my creative notes, plans and dates. As opposed to the more mundane (but still necessary) stuff that ends up in my not-very-pretty, scrawled-in, everyday diary.<br />
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Those little seeds of ideas have already started to take root. I suspect the as yet pristine pages will soon be criss-crossed with all kinds of jottings and thoughts, just as they should be.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL-ls4secP6MtawOQk-kv3ljiGo-8A9rHK9-J0I0Sd5-yBoOpS-UIk0JNTWuhd-P4-kTCOk4csqTzKENU5oSsKdYqKv5j6qgAp7wwCawcBu9a_HkC3YUlQz5LYpPRKqeCP9Qe0GzQIqWs/s1600/diaryr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL-ls4secP6MtawOQk-kv3ljiGo-8A9rHK9-J0I0Sd5-yBoOpS-UIk0JNTWuhd-P4-kTCOk4csqTzKENU5oSsKdYqKv5j6qgAp7wwCawcBu9a_HkC3YUlQz5LYpPRKqeCP9Qe0GzQIqWs/s1600/diaryr.png" /></a></div>
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I really hope you'll visit Creative Countryside and that you'll enjoy what you read there.</div>
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Wish me luck!</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-57461758930672309612017-01-28T15:52:00.003+00:002017-01-28T15:52:48.856+00:00The Week that Was<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFubBVbi2EkWhx7nVd4HjaomMGL6yDfM_JtnRr44eiOc-rYEJsJ0yJtv6Ve76xx_MVXrGoZPxERHvjeYGOXHm3QIf39wPHLm40sno5rEJrJUGlHtMLM8p3GxfdeO2PX9qmOb5_n9KygM/s1600/1r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFubBVbi2EkWhx7nVd4HjaomMGL6yDfM_JtnRr44eiOc-rYEJsJ0yJtv6Ve76xx_MVXrGoZPxERHvjeYGOXHm3QIf39wPHLm40sno5rEJrJUGlHtMLM8p3GxfdeO2PX9qmOb5_n9KygM/s1600/1r.png" /></a></div>
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It's strange - I usually dislike January and almost dread it: New Year (I much prefer Christmas), the feeling of having overindulged and overspent, the dark, grey days... but if you actually embrace it... well, it can actually be a comforting and (whisper it) enjoyable month. Who knew?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEs2P5eSue4le083oSjdmgpjjtlfYUNgdIhyphenhyphen02_sik59bcLYuMpepz22VjUAOAItTb3QpVFr-JLmXHraWdH9VtoGAnrawAcMsLyvu538nM6FFisgMlnLtuFcZQ2cGI6YInoL1cn-x1aJE/s1600/11r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEs2P5eSue4le083oSjdmgpjjtlfYUNgdIhyphenhyphen02_sik59bcLYuMpepz22VjUAOAItTb3QpVFr-JLmXHraWdH9VtoGAnrawAcMsLyvu538nM6FFisgMlnLtuFcZQ2cGI6YInoL1cn-x1aJE/s1600/11r.png" /></a></div>
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I've been allowing things to unfold in accordance with the weather. Walks on bright, take-your-breath-away freezing cold days. Staying home and warm on wet, dark afternoons. Today (Saturday) we headed into town. Not something I usually relish at all but it was necessary - my mobile phone needed looking at - and we stopped in at Waterstones on the way back to the car. </div>
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Of course, with Joe in tow any dreams of whiling away a couple of hours amongst the books was just that. A dream. But I still got to look at all that lovely stationery, the volumes of poetry, those piles of books with beautiful covers.</div>
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Needless to say that Joe came away the winner. A set of Gruffalo matching game cards and an Usborne Rainy Day activity book. I love Usborne books for little ones.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBrrarMonF391lvgKxWSRFMC08PtXTKia5hZDfeClgkFvf0aJmlMIY9v_1EalrTZVmusoHdz_ahQFH8CE88VbgO6WgpBT8-zy2nGudJLK-sxR-LayivmNC06g_aBaaLSPit-aRqfx8y0/s1600/4r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBrrarMonF391lvgKxWSRFMC08PtXTKia5hZDfeClgkFvf0aJmlMIY9v_1EalrTZVmusoHdz_ahQFH8CE88VbgO6WgpBT8-zy2nGudJLK-sxR-LayivmNC06g_aBaaLSPit-aRqfx8y0/s1600/4r.png" /></a><br />
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The matching game went well until he lost. You'd have thought the world had ended. He also insisted on trying a game of Monopoly last night. I hastily made up a very simplified version. And when he landed in jail... The tears, the tantrum! 'Chance' cards angrily scattered all over the floor (needless to say, he was made to pick them all up again, despite my struggling to keep a straight face). I suspect Monopoly will be remaining in its usual spot, gathering dust on top of the dresser, for a long time to come.</div>
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Or at least until Joe learns about being a gracious loser.</div>
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The Rainy Day book didn't provoke a meltdown. You can always rely on books. Especially books with stickers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNdib1qkBVkCVkM4Mc-pGCbjlrdP2AyjgUvx_oY8i4bh9CXKodQLvEtEibszBBdK6K-jHYxH2QLAgG4aIbsPhPwB5oLcYqDrnLVVzMSwxjxLQs4t-C_dtx27Em0lQnUKrO4GgA6X1DKE/s1600/3r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNdib1qkBVkCVkM4Mc-pGCbjlrdP2AyjgUvx_oY8i4bh9CXKodQLvEtEibszBBdK6K-jHYxH2QLAgG4aIbsPhPwB5oLcYqDrnLVVzMSwxjxLQs4t-C_dtx27Em0lQnUKrO4GgA6X1DKE/s1600/3r.png" /></a></div>
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There have been the usual domestic pursuits this month. And organising. I sorted through a lot of old paperwork this afternoon. My calendar and diary are up to date. Other indoor activities: watching <i>Lucan</i>, reading an old favourite (<i>Thornyhold</i> by Mary Stewart), making endless bird feeders with Joe from bird seed and lard. He's going through yogurts like nobody's business so we can save the pots. The garden's a-flap with jackdaws, robins and a now quite hefty-looking blackbird.</div>
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Those of you who follow me on Instagram will know I've been printmaking too. I added a few new designs (Bluebell and Fritillary) to my <a href="http://frondandfeather.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">Frond & Feather shop</a>. One good thing about the printmaking process is that there are always those which are initially printed onto scrap paper, and some which aren't quite right for one reason or another. So I get to stick them up on the walls. And my spring designs are quite cheering.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhu2NriVFJbQVadm5xU2rYJMcAt6Lz6IeunRWIAXPXNTeqggKgx_y7S4Y5AgPTwOmAeVpSGwyAzbBTGAyB4fmWStFXgNO3IeDMGGgF2Czs58Tg4qYuG5M37TggEjOd8k893o5wOrKia9Q/s1600/6r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhu2NriVFJbQVadm5xU2rYJMcAt6Lz6IeunRWIAXPXNTeqggKgx_y7S4Y5AgPTwOmAeVpSGwyAzbBTGAyB4fmWStFXgNO3IeDMGGgF2Czs58Tg4qYuG5M37TggEjOd8k893o5wOrKia9Q/s1600/6r.png" /></a></div>
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Today's been horrible and wet and dark but we have seen some sunshine during the past week. I met up with my stepdad for a walk around the local reservoir and then lunch at the nearby antiques place. It was incredibly cold, particularly on the high spots. But when the sun came out it was lovely.</div>
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Closer to home, I've been nipping out with the camera after dropping Joe off at school in the mornings. I run across the road to the churchyard, or up the little lane next to the school to capture the frost before the sun gets to it.</div>
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Everything's still bare and quite dead-looking, but there are a few signs of spring approaching. The magnolia trees in the churchyard are covered in fat, fuzzy buds. And there are lots of green shoots poking through the earth.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7Ch7k1hvHygWjN2tgK1Wxhrx5BPQIT_w4Z2kTGL1GPaqd1Gudd5aq6PIL0eoK2ERs-jn_Er0VMcdaWtsCN-ClTJ64Lv8r8fXmOb7EdnxVCNeJjulO7i9akOeRKH2k8gSu1ikiSrM8N0/s1600/9r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7Ch7k1hvHygWjN2tgK1Wxhrx5BPQIT_w4Z2kTGL1GPaqd1Gudd5aq6PIL0eoK2ERs-jn_Er0VMcdaWtsCN-ClTJ64Lv8r8fXmOb7EdnxVCNeJjulO7i9akOeRKH2k8gSu1ikiSrM8N0/s1600/9r.png" /></a></div>
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The antiques place I mentioned earlier is near a cemetery. I do like cemeteries and graveyards. Nothing morbid about it: I just like walking through, reading inscriptions and enjoying the quiet. You find some wonderful old names too. There were primroses growing all over the place when I went on Wednesday and the afternoon sun was really uplifting. You can feel optimistic in the most unlikely of places sometimes.</div>
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We're trying to get the chores done today in readiness for a slow Sunday. That's how the week often pans out: Monday to Friday I do artwork, admin and anything business-related. Evenings are spent cooking, eating, doing things with Joe then once he's bathed, read to and put to bed, we tend to just collapse in front of the T.V.</div>
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Saturdays we shop, clean, do the laundry etc. (around Joe). We try and get outside too. And by the time Sunday rolls around we can take it *easy: a late breakfast, a walk, afternoon baths, a roast dinner. Sundays are for home and family. </div>
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*As easy as it gets with a four-year-old early-riser.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNChMCFBKK6sJumT6mRhhtta_FZhyphenhyphenFEK7WcgwsAqlbfh0iAREhnMSYxX32c_ZbOLzErCEisONkpeU5FiiZFv4g_n7RY4s1WEu8n2NhK_biWEAJiTixB7xciNbNewJpBom5zZaOU2l8MRI/s1600/yr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNChMCFBKK6sJumT6mRhhtta_FZhyphenhyphenFEK7WcgwsAqlbfh0iAREhnMSYxX32c_ZbOLzErCEisONkpeU5FiiZFv4g_n7RY4s1WEu8n2NhK_biWEAJiTixB7xciNbNewJpBom5zZaOU2l8MRI/s1600/yr.png" /></a></div>
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So, that's my little update of my week. I hope you're enjoying your weekend. And that the rain stops tomorrow, even if it's just for a while.</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-21056713614998886002017-01-18T11:02:00.000+00:002017-01-18T11:02:08.296+00:00On eating my way to better health <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPfrEwrigQeMqkp_RwSlrNEsEUODNYix8SBrYJcJxHttx4yrxc7V7m22ftoMV03k_NbF_JAM0QMSLQgsLwf1sMDedqa2iND4HYSq53S8YxjOyxskgzJRRdxHkEMl8JhJ357IUK4ULbJ88/s1600/1r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPfrEwrigQeMqkp_RwSlrNEsEUODNYix8SBrYJcJxHttx4yrxc7V7m22ftoMV03k_NbF_JAM0QMSLQgsLwf1sMDedqa2iND4HYSq53S8YxjOyxskgzJRRdxHkEMl8JhJ357IUK4ULbJ88/s1600/1r.png" /></a></div>
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The photos I've used in this post bear absolutely no relation to the subject. Because today I'm mostly writing about food. I tried to think of a snappy title but failed. Sorry. Hopefully the content will be more inspiring.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tWQeSikntfxa5HKYOl8GO4dz4MOIGN5auY2YyB5_s5JW-X5WPAXkyVHoKyaaOPlIyUV9AvzqxBqMmg65f3DNSGvga1NAeBBFoz_q4_51ymWjJdlCM81mjwOfL2fS_KoViQEahQy9N-8/s1600/4r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7tWQeSikntfxa5HKYOl8GO4dz4MOIGN5auY2YyB5_s5JW-X5WPAXkyVHoKyaaOPlIyUV9AvzqxBqMmg65f3DNSGvga1NAeBBFoz_q4_51ymWjJdlCM81mjwOfL2fS_KoViQEahQy9N-8/s1600/4r.png" /></a><br />
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I'd love to share photos of my dresser, filled as it is with baking paraphernalia and jars of dry goods. Or beautifully-styled shots of my cookery book collection, artfully strewn with flour and bunches of herbs and so on. But with the light being what it is (dim) you'd have got a lot of grainy, blurry pictures. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCbWujHEjAvYnYHSMbhlFytKHAXixC5XEeQLm5ZWBDuRopt3KMx4C-Fi-EGVgkoLzIZ20qKcNDv6m4qVPxs3ja2PCBpuXhBrarxaPmIqMq7F8jEc35YySB73arxLSO9ntKWe9ITsf2R4/s1600/12r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCbWujHEjAvYnYHSMbhlFytKHAXixC5XEeQLm5ZWBDuRopt3KMx4C-Fi-EGVgkoLzIZ20qKcNDv6m4qVPxs3ja2PCBpuXhBrarxaPmIqMq7F8jEc35YySB73arxLSO9ntKWe9ITsf2R4/s1600/12r.png" /></a><br />
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So instead it's the usual little visual journal of our recent wanderings. I hope the disparity between the words and images doesn't prove to be too off putting.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMFUfcb2IAtEUSCGoWJhX_eOp04M2x2jhLYdTPTcvEekyTqqc9visGsK_MXYT18buwNPjLzfm2ojen_umclIULSe9djDwe5tpcdthKunfDNRzjTPDHl3UUu8aXsEmWEYqa1vVotI2ezA/s1600/2r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMFUfcb2IAtEUSCGoWJhX_eOp04M2x2jhLYdTPTcvEekyTqqc9visGsK_MXYT18buwNPjLzfm2ojen_umclIULSe9djDwe5tpcdthKunfDNRzjTPDHl3UUu8aXsEmWEYqa1vVotI2ezA/s1600/2r.png" /></a></div>
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I'm always a bit unsure about these type of posts; I'd hate to come across as preachy or sanctimonious. It's just that once I start thinking about things, and these things start to form a bit of a thread, they can end up here on <i>Mitenska</i>. So, without (hopefully) coming across as a bit of a bore, here goes.</div>
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I've written before about food being medicine (and medicine being food, as Hippocrates wisely said). I truly believe this. So I'm trying to get healthier. It's not a 'New Year, New Me' type of thing - which, let's be honest, would probably fall by the wayside after a few weeks.</div>
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I'm not ditching any major food groups (I believe carbohydrates are completely necessary). And I'm not following any 'trends', despite what I read about or see on Pinterest and the like. Matcha this, chia that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCyETIppBfCjGMNU3IQtQrp6lSnAgb-yjxD7V9oZGmU-gY41wvk1bDqR4mgrvNYzJfEY1HotaQBUg8K1zDwwV8h2d4tO95vhSn7MuEgDlAOWXW4Mzt-IE8CZDVc9JTMew_9KZWYOa5IQ/s1600/8r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfCyETIppBfCjGMNU3IQtQrp6lSnAgb-yjxD7V9oZGmU-gY41wvk1bDqR4mgrvNYzJfEY1HotaQBUg8K1zDwwV8h2d4tO95vhSn7MuEgDlAOWXW4Mzt-IE8CZDVc9JTMew_9KZWYOa5IQ/s1600/8r.png" /></a><br />
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But the whole idea of healing is really important to me. I have an autoimmune condition: nothing scary, but it's there and it needs controlling. And rather than dealing with the symptoms using prescription drugs (as I have for the past almost 30 years) I've decided to try and address the actual cause, to treat the reason it's there in the first place.</div>
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Nutrition fascinates me. I love reading about it; surprising, considering my complete aversion to anything even vaguely scientific. And I've read about some really compelling, if grim-sounding, stuff like leaky gut syndrome, adrenal fatigue and food sensitivities. Much of it I can identify with. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMt4Z7Io_dPBH3Y4lwHB63rXsK83x4MDKXLzPQ5WealG1brlpTbYVpoWY3V6baDc1Daum9yU3RUmLF9n-KloBBpM45A2HLLPq_wp-WFKUC9Dz4_1bPVBU6qc81az7FyEkt4qGCJtJGiGA/s1600/14r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMt4Z7Io_dPBH3Y4lwHB63rXsK83x4MDKXLzPQ5WealG1brlpTbYVpoWY3V6baDc1Daum9yU3RUmLF9n-KloBBpM45A2HLLPq_wp-WFKUC9Dz4_1bPVBU6qc81az7FyEkt4qGCJtJGiGA/s1600/14r.png" /></a><br />
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I know for a fact that I have a real problem with gluten. I struggle to avoid it because I love bread, cake, biscuits, dumplings... the list goes on. And on. But when I've given it up for reasonable amounts of time I've felt well again. My fingernails stop flaking. My stomach stops hurting. My 'brain fog' disappears. The aches and pains in my joints go away.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB33pURhB8MOP-mWlqoZIzeboaeZD3Gp9nKt-txG-NJ9FcW2ztYOYgNtdjV67rfAQgMLzBwDCIbx2m8Pam20sR1ddx3slFWSmzp6G6z_lA8SbNvfXvuip3i1_Vg7tPbrDo5FYWwxSDSJo/s1600/3r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB33pURhB8MOP-mWlqoZIzeboaeZD3Gp9nKt-txG-NJ9FcW2ztYOYgNtdjV67rfAQgMLzBwDCIbx2m8Pam20sR1ddx3slFWSmzp6G6z_lA8SbNvfXvuip3i1_Vg7tPbrDo5FYWwxSDSJo/s1600/3r.png" /></a></div>
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So I'm now absolutely determined to avoid it for good. And, ideally, to avoid the gluten free snacks and 'treats' you see on the supermarket shelves. Because they're full of sugar and all kinds of additives and ingredients I don't even recognise.</div>
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I now make my own bread and pancakes and sweet things using buckwheat flour, ground almonds, psyllium husks and whatever else works. I play around with recipes. Brown rice pasta tastes just like the usual stuff. As do gluten free porridge oats and oatcakes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebpjvn6p5r-VD9E58gBiypLxLOjK6t-hOnlpyYUDZ9wah-5r5VJX2IUfN11PWQDSNVO60bY5CBCLTWWuRndVAr5Q2k-I1k3rN9n5c9HoUhUnk9GWdHca9RAvvCRLOPNoeS6eR5LZpx-c/s1600/9r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjebpjvn6p5r-VD9E58gBiypLxLOjK6t-hOnlpyYUDZ9wah-5r5VJX2IUfN11PWQDSNVO60bY5CBCLTWWuRndVAr5Q2k-I1k3rN9n5c9HoUhUnk9GWdHca9RAvvCRLOPNoeS6eR5LZpx-c/s1600/9r.png" /></a><br />
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I've also cut right back on the dairy. No, my bones aren't about to crumble. I eat a lot of leafy greens and other good sources of calcium. And I made a truly beautiful discovery the other day: that hazelnut milk makes the most incredible-tasting cocoa.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignNO9vIqJztKQcGJ0NmTclQsmOa_S0u-vaP86q4vMhzZIpYhBOTIyAA9nAUFBcO1hCwHuGJkzijy3ERJdj8FE8n43j1HEOuVb9dJ6V4WNyVNnGZaKmpUj1EFsRvwArdngoApd0En6Hww/s1600/13r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignNO9vIqJztKQcGJ0NmTclQsmOa_S0u-vaP86q4vMhzZIpYhBOTIyAA9nAUFBcO1hCwHuGJkzijy3ERJdj8FE8n43j1HEOuVb9dJ6V4WNyVNnGZaKmpUj1EFsRvwArdngoApd0En6Hww/s1600/13r.png" /></a><br />
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I've ditched the booze (for now) and am going low-sugar. I avoid processed food, which isn't really a hardship as we cook from scratch anyway. Yes it pains me to hear what Joe eats for his school dinners sometimes, but he's four. I'm not going to impose any kind of regime on him. We don't have sweets in the house but chocolate is fine. He doesn't have crisps or fizzy drinks but we do bake biscuits together. He has toast with jam and the odd portion of trashy stuff if we're having something that's a bit out-there for him.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIHdHppzPBbYQTWB6WJMLZb5alBGcZriazbTZlQBk1Qf_GFBo9KJz4QHfh-FhnyivkWlbmTtm-3COrwEp-d7ldINvcITTwHPlk4PdouAQzTqyuhy3a1dc6O0wNXSl1eGtaELXZUPLeIU/s1600/11r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIHdHppzPBbYQTWB6WJMLZb5alBGcZriazbTZlQBk1Qf_GFBo9KJz4QHfh-FhnyivkWlbmTtm-3COrwEp-d7ldINvcITTwHPlk4PdouAQzTqyuhy3a1dc6O0wNXSl1eGtaELXZUPLeIU/s1600/11r.png" /></a></div>
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So, what <i>do</i> I eat?<br />
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Fresh fruit and vegetables. Juices and smoothies. Beans and pulses, brown rice, certain grains. Nuts. Eggs, avocados, fish, chicken, the odd bit of lamb or beef. Nut milks. Vegetable crisps. Hummus, nut butters, olives, artichokes in oil, coconut. Stuff I bake myself. Honey, herbal teas, (very) dark chocolate. Herbs and spices, soups and stews. Interesting recipes I find online and in books.</div>
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It's far from the old image of wholefoods, with everything looking and tasting like sawdust. Well, apart from those psyllium husks. I love a good health food shop, but most of our provisions come from the local weekly market and little supermarket. A very small proportion comes from M&S Food (we don't have a Waitrose in these Northern climes, and Booths is a bit of a way away). That's mainly organic meat - not that we eat a lot of it - and dairy, for Joe.</div>
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I'm determined to feel better than I have in a long time. So by ditching the food that bothers me, and by adding that which is nourishing, coupled with brisk walks and supplements, good sleep and the odd bit of precious downtime, maybe I'll get it right.</div>
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The mug of cocoa has become a daily thing, by the way. And you can never underestimate the healing power of a good novel...</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-22617604162338239672017-01-11T13:39:00.000+00:002017-01-11T13:39:04.046+00:00The Quiet Winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthYEkt_f6x1gRBxeoEUCS_cdDB-pUmmzBrz_0qXEnoemjBxOi7CFey3emDZWi0l_pPl5gNThVCKlnKygQBIAZQRsEwWU5hQDvFmCST693UThzNVKA6zEnqHjDkw2nKA1mOqJY17DBIak/s1600/1r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthYEkt_f6x1gRBxeoEUCS_cdDB-pUmmzBrz_0qXEnoemjBxOi7CFey3emDZWi0l_pPl5gNThVCKlnKygQBIAZQRsEwWU5hQDvFmCST693UThzNVKA6zEnqHjDkw2nKA1mOqJY17DBIak/s1600/1r.png" /></a></div>
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I saw that as a hashtag and liked the idea of it. January here so far has been fairly quiet; a few flurries on the work front and the whole back to school whirlwind but other than that... </div>
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Actually, no. They're resurfacing the road outside. Yesterday there were four hi-visibility clad men standing outside for over an hour. When I say outside, I mean two of them were actually sitting on my living room windowsill, backsides pressed firmly up against the glass, smoking endless fags and shouting expletives at their colleagues. Some piece of machinery was on the blink. So was I.</div>
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I'm no prude (and enjoy a bit of colourful language myself, I'll be honest). But Joe was due to be collected from school and I didn't want him to hear it. So in between getting annoyed, and the house literally shaking as they finally got back to work with their steamrollers or whatever they were using, yesterday afternoon was about as far from quiet as you can get.</div>
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Still. They've since moved further down the road and I'm calm once more. It's almost peaceful. I'd love a deep snowfall to deaden everything - there's nothing like that feeling of feeling warm indoors, looking out at a layer of white snow.</div>
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Christmas still remains in some ways. I forgot to take my string of bells down and can't be bothered dragging a chair across to climb onto and get them. And I had a mild allergic reaction to the tree again. Silly me. I just hate the thought of not having a real one, and conveniently forgetting each year about the problems they cause me.</div>
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There are still some fairy lights up. I don't see them as necessarily Christmassy. A bit of twinkle during the darker months never hurt anybody. And it's often gloomy in here in winter - which is why I've taken some 'interesting' indoor photos instead, reflected in the glass doors. Above: note the dead daffodils on the mantel shelf.</div>
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But there's a matching bunch on the opposite end at least.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEobyN-ew80_8A0HoOSuIRMIr_VVR7ubeeO8lcnkGzx3Nt6W9XTMkzCJDK8mu_cYUQDlVL0WdJxgQIxQjriR_soIOhvhYCRbf_PTL4ISvzStE9dOPciO1GhzGNXrLX8oHWEVbW57vrdB4/s1600/DSC_0039r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEobyN-ew80_8A0HoOSuIRMIr_VVR7ubeeO8lcnkGzx3Nt6W9XTMkzCJDK8mu_cYUQDlVL0WdJxgQIxQjriR_soIOhvhYCRbf_PTL4ISvzStE9dOPciO1GhzGNXrLX8oHWEVbW57vrdB4/s1600/DSC_0039r.png" /></a></div>
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I haven't seen any more to buy yet. Maybe I'll empty the dead ones out this afternoon...</div>
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The holly in the jug on the landing window has decided to flower, which is quite sweet.</div>
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Yes - this is one of those 'miscellany' posts again. I just felt like writing one, so please bear with me as I jump from one subject to the next. So: my amber necklace. I sent it down to Cornwall to be re-strung and it's now safely back. I've worn it already. I'm very happy with it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNlxXLXKMqrHoKOGDg3SN2_fLnkczT1m51D9IH-LX0duUPeH3-nyU2QF10AoqsWPtMqW0h6rUmxHN8YLw85X3y4dX1L1zVopgFaBcj8PJZ6YZ02R99bPAQkga2Dse-TSXnY5fTqn2uG4w/s1600/4r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNlxXLXKMqrHoKOGDg3SN2_fLnkczT1m51D9IH-LX0duUPeH3-nyU2QF10AoqsWPtMqW0h6rUmxHN8YLw85X3y4dX1L1zVopgFaBcj8PJZ6YZ02R99bPAQkga2Dse-TSXnY5fTqn2uG4w/s1600/4r.png" /></a></div>
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And another change of direction: my hair. I really hope this doesn't come across as vain or in any way self-indulgent. You know I hate having my picture taken. But in the interests of Mitenska, I thought you might be interested to see how my going grey is progressing. Cue more badly-taken selfies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhFjwKjRFW5PJnDtu8dQQ4154RXb1Sr2UWEaqwpZGh-8ktDheEhDSuNJivewqZyPMnPkuSSvEb8zJ10Q8bUEAg85lsaF8jvAWw934nTJHfPc0dBGj-3mKu8WHQtnxTfaqqdG__mK-lXq0/s1600/5r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhFjwKjRFW5PJnDtu8dQQ4154RXb1Sr2UWEaqwpZGh-8ktDheEhDSuNJivewqZyPMnPkuSSvEb8zJ10Q8bUEAg85lsaF8jvAWw934nTJHfPc0dBGj-3mKu8WHQtnxTfaqqdG__mK-lXq0/s1600/5r.png" /></a></div>
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I actually took the dressmaking scissors to it just before Christmas. This is something I do occasionally in a fit of - what? Boredom? I don't know. The ends were getting a bit ratty, and I thought if I could get rid of a bit more of they dyed stuff I might as well. So I did.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2ToXLG4vWOQ7t8GTTeuTTV1XJjmjyHOVtmA7Mz2avcjNZ9uE0yNK3KWZWVUZrYO2b8PfFbTg0TiXfjFSBMr1IWLElNmDYIu3ns-5sNQUz1LuwOxuhjNX7G4ivhtX_LTuV0a_KW6kVhc/s1600/6r.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE2ToXLG4vWOQ7t8GTTeuTTV1XJjmjyHOVtmA7Mz2avcjNZ9uE0yNK3KWZWVUZrYO2b8PfFbTg0TiXfjFSBMr1IWLElNmDYIu3ns-5sNQUz1LuwOxuhjNX7G4ivhtX_LTuV0a_KW6kVhc/s1600/6r.png" /></a></div>
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I told you the house was gloomy. I have to take these incredibly unglamorous shots in the bathroom because it's just about the brightest spot in the house with a mirror.</div>
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Selfies using my phone aren't an option. I'm not 15.</div>
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Anyway, hopefully you can see the grey coming through more. I clipped the sides back as it's more obvious at my temples and hairline. I quite like it too.</div>
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Even though there's a lack of light at the moment, Joe's suddenly into creating big, splashy paintings. They brighten up the kitchen no end and he does love me exhibiting his work. </div>
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Speaking of the kitchen, I've been eating a really healthy diet and am feeling pretty good. I tried <a href="http://katieatthekitchendoor.com/2015/06/02/a-house-sweet-potato-and-coconut-milk-soup-with-brown-rice-and-lentils/" target="_blank">this </a>recipe last week and it was delicious. I omitted the orange juice and yogurt, but it was so good I'll definitely be making it again. The coconut and sweet potato soup would be great with chicken added, and the lentils weren't really a necessity.</div>
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Elsewhere, my house plants seem to be waking up. I love rose and lemon-scented geraniums and they're doing very nicely so perhaps it'll be time for cuttings soon.</div>
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I'm trying to keep the next few months as slow and simple as possible: home-based pursuits, local walks, no spending. The blouse was a purchase made before Christmas but I'm really pleased with it, especially for the price (£11.99). Yes, really. H&M.</div>
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I've been working through my Maker's Toolkit, reviewing 2016 and planning 2017 for Frond & Feather. It's been really useful so far.</div>
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Sometimes you need to have a bit of a treat, don't you? I know, I know - no spending. I'm trying. I just can't resist sometimes. I've been reading a lot lately (mainly in bed) and enjoying short stories, but the lure of the magazine gets me every time.</div>
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Finally: This. Lego. Still everywhere. I'm surprised I haven't killed the hoover with it yet. I have knelt on the odd piece (and suddenly my language matches that of the road workers). I sit down in the evenings and spot little half-built vehicles positioned on shelves, under the fire or behind the TV. The best approach is to shove it out of sight or to join in and make something.</div>
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They've forecast heavy snow for tomorrow. I'm crossing my fingers. Who needs Lego when you can build a snowman?</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-61853864936743738152017-01-02T20:03:00.001+00:002017-01-12T10:14:30.279+00:00January<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Christmas has happened. We're on the other side.</div>
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I've had a break from blogging, from Instagram and have only dabbled occasionally as far as Facebook's concerned. There's been no printmaking, drawing or painting. Just home comforts, good food and friends and family.</div>
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But we're starting to venture out again to greet the new year.</div>
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Despite <b>still</b> eating leftover turkey we're now back onto the healthy, non-festive fare. I think I overindulged early on and by Boxing Day was feeling pretty sluggish and tired of chocolate, crisps, mince pies, cheese, pate and all the rest of it.</div>
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I was ill so often last year, I'm determined to eat well. I truly believe that food plays a huge part in your health and wellbeing. Not just in terms of weight, but in the effect it has on our mood, our ability to resist illness and so many other aspects of our health. I'd much rather eat fresh, nourishing food and supplement it well than take antibiotics and anti-inflammatories (both of which I'm all too familiar with).</div>
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So, I'm actually enjoying herbal teas and warming broths.</div>
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<a href="https://deliciouslyella.com/almond-quinoa-pumpkin-seed-bread/" target="_blank">This</a> bread: well, it's filling if not particularly tasty. I may tweak the recipe and include walnuts and perhaps a few dates or something. <i>Anything</i>. </div>
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It's now 7.28pm on the second day of 2017. And the tree's down. So are the decorations.</div>
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Much as I love ritual and tradition I'm not going to worry about bad luck. Once Christmas is over, that's it for me. I want a fresh start.</div>
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Of course, we haven't even had a real winter yet. The sun's low in the sky. There are hard frosts. But there will be snow and the temperatures will drop much further. So I like to keep the house looking pretty with seasonal things: pinecones and spruce branches are still out. My felt snowflake garlands too. But there are additions, a nod to the fact that the days are (gradually) lengthening. Earthenware pots filled with daffodils. Green vases and glass. White candles.</div>
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The glitter and sparkle has been boxed up for another year.</div>
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I have plans for 2017. Some are huge (and I'll no doubt be posting about them in due course). All are exciting. Work, home, family.</div>
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Speaking of family: Joe had a wonderful Christmas. It does look as though our whole festive season was sponsored by Lego, but he received some really lovely gifts. Books, a baking set, colouring things, a camera, an endless supply of chocolate, clothes, toys... And my favourite (which we bought him): a globe which plugs in. At night it shows the constellations.</div>
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He was so excited to find a stocking on Christmas morning, and to see the empty plate and glass by the fireplace.</div>
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I've managed to do plenty of reading. Several of the books I received were inspired by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BNgqQO6Dy1Q/?taken-by=thequincetree" target="_blank">Sue's</a> Christmas reading list. I'm currently relishing short stories and 'Little House in the Big Woods'. Looks like I've finally got around to reading Laura Ingalls Wilder, and the rest of the 'Little House' series is now on my wish list.</div>
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I haven't actually watched a great deal of TV. But I did like 'Murder on the Home Front'. </div>
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On New Year's eve we went to the zoo. It's up in the South Lakes, not too far for us, but it was chilly. Joe loved the giraffe; we stood very close to him whilst he drank water and slobbered it all over the place. Naturally, this appealed to a four-year-old. As did watching the snow leopards eating chicken carcasses nailed to a post.</div>
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We've been feeding the birds at home in the garden. They're very punctual: 10.30am every day. Bluetits, goldfinches, sparrows, starlings, blackbirds, a little wren and a robin. Then the thugs arrive in the shape of magpies and jackdaws.</div>
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There are shoots appearing too. And buds. But for now I'm perfectly content to stay home and keep warm. I'm liking this gradual re-emergence. Unfortunately, Jay's back in work tomorrow and is dreading the commute.</div>
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But one of our Christmas presents was enough money to book ourselves a weekend away, along with a voucher for childcare (courtesy of the grandparents). We're thinking perhaps late February or March, somewhere not too far away. Rural rather than a city break. It's exciting to plan.</div>
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Anyway - after that rather lengthy catch-up, I'd like to wish you a happy and healthy New Year. I'll be back in a week or so...</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-74200735744078314902016-12-17T14:46:00.001+00:002016-12-17T14:46:13.004+00:00Merry Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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No, it isn't too early to be sending Christmas greetings. We all do it round about now in the form of cards, so why not write a little post too?</div>
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I'm officially closed for business until the New Year. A few little bits over the weekend, perhaps a Frond & Feather post, then that's it. The past month or so has been a swirling snow globe of activity. School things (including the Nativity), parties, planning, making, socialising, decking the halls...</div>
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And there's still much to do. This morning we went to see a shadow puppet show with Joe: 'The Magic Lantern'. He <i>almost</i> managed to sit still throughout the performance. This afternoon - in an hour, in fact - we're heading over to Cheshire for a 60th birthday party. </div>
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Tomorrow we're going out early to buy all the nice Christmas treats to eat. Fizzy things, smoked things, sugared things.</div>
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And. of course, a copy of the <i>Radio Times</i>.</div>
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We're pretty much done in terms of gift buying. There are parcels and paper galore, so a night of wrapping awaits. I still have cards to write and deliver. And I'm going to the carol service at the little church across from school on Thursday.</div>
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It's all been exhausting, December so far. Joe's worn out and crying at the slightest thing (saying goodbye to a ladybird I freed from the house/my throwing out a past-it's-use-by-date yogurt/not letting him eat breakfast sitting on the worktop etc. etc.)</div>
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At yesterday's Nativity one of his little classmates was literally falling asleep in her chair then repeatedly waking up to do dance movements before nodding off again. It was cute but I really felt for her. They don't finish school until the 22nd. I can't wait for term to end.</div>
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Neither can Joe. He's desperate to make mince pies. I told him my mum made the best ones, so he had a chat with a photo of her, making a request for help in the kitchen. He ended with 'Amen'. Bless him.</div>
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Anyway: I'd just like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Thank you for reading <i>Mitenska</i>, for leaving lovely thoughtful comments and for taking an interest in our little household. Thank you too to those of you who've ordered personalised paintings from me. Things are taking off nicely and I intend to focus more on Frond & Feather next year, particularly in being a bit more organised and learning about how to run a business properly.</div>
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<span id="goog_1538664523"></span><span id="goog_1538664524"></span>But for now - it's all about the festive season. Food, family, friends and all the other good things. Have a restful Christmas. See you in 2017!</div>
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Sarah x</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-46514685954543034982016-12-12T14:51:00.002+00:002016-12-13T09:22:24.065+00:00Wintry days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I say 'wintry' as it's not officially winter yet. There's are still remnants of autumn clinging on, in the form of fungi and crisp leaves, but it's feeling decidedly colder and Christmas is almost here.</div>
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The gift fair is, thankfully, over. I did reasonably well and sold artwork, cards and stationery. Just as importantly for a fledgling business such as Frond & Feather: I met lots of people and made some new contacts. It's always heartening when people show an interest in what you do and ask lots of questions.</div>
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It was a long day (and evening). When I got home I had a drink of cherry liqueur and ate Joe's stash of chocolate coins. Must remember to replace them before he notices.</div>
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On the work front, things are actually pretty busy. And it's here where I promise to respond to any emails I received last week. Hopefully I'll get a little more time this evening to deal with that.</div>
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As I've mentioned before, this time of year is all about home comforts, introspection, planning, evaluation, hibernation. The days are short and we try and get out at the weekend for some fresh air before heading back to the warmth and the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree. It all looks very pretty and festive. Of course, there are still things to do: a few more presents to find, food to be bought. But I've decided that next week I'll stop.</div>
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Today I met up with my old boss, who's here on a flying visit from his new home in Spain. We went out for tea and cake and a catch-up. It was good. We hadn't seen one another for almost three years, and we just fell into conversation and jokes as though it was only a few weeks since we last saw one another.</div>
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I have plans with more friends tomorrow, then on Thursday and Friday I'm going to see Joe in his Nativity: once with my stepdad, once with Jay.</div>
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Yesterday we engaged in that most festive of activities: grouting the kitchen tiles.</div>
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On Saturday we've got a family birthday celebration. And before that I have to brave Ikea for a couple of picture frames.</div>
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Why am I listing all this stuff? </div>
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Because it's all too easy to fall into the trap of 'busyness', particularly at this time of year. So I've decided on a cut-off point. It'll give me a few days to myself before Joe finishes school for Christmas. A few precious days to wind down and savour the little rituals and pleasures: watching The Box of Delights. Reading winter poetry. Going for solitary walks.</div>
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I cried yesterday. I cried for my mum, for the thought of another Christmas without her. </div>
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But I also thought about the comfort to be had from our yearly rituals. Friends and family. My brother coming over for Christmas dinner. Little things, like opening a present on Christmas Eve. Storing all the treats in the dresser. Buying those foods - even the slightly naff ones - which remind us of Christmases past.</div>
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There are new rituals too. I've bought a stocking for Joe so he wakes up to see it hanging on his bedpost. And we'll be putting mince pies and carrots out for Santa and Rudolph.</div>
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I'm looking forward to a slow Christmas and a slow winter too. I've requested books and books alone. No vouchers, no perfume or clothes or jewellery. Just plenty to read. A pile of books, a warm house, peace and quiet (when Joe's out): that's enough to keep me happy.</div>
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So once this week's done, with it's long list of to-dos, I'm going to make an effort to switch off: both figuratively and literally. It's something I struggle with but I'm hopeful that if I can ease into a new mindset over the weekend, by the time term ends I'll be ready to welcome the festive season with open arms.</div>
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I hope your December isn't proving to be too frantic (unless, of course, that's the way you like it)!<br />
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-72047690333360262722016-12-01T12:46:00.000+00:002016-12-01T12:46:01.281+00:00December<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, it's here. And December is definitely chilly. Although that could also be because, as I'm typing, the joiner is in and out of the house sawing and lugging bits of wood about. The back door's been wide open for the past three hours.</div>
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And the dust. The. Dust.</div>
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I'm having a desk and shelves built into the tiny, awkwardly-shaped workroom. It'll all need painting next. </div>
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This week has been pretty tough. I accompanied my brother to the inquest for his partner's death and it affected me deeply. The verdict was that it could have been avoided had she received the correct medical care. I haven't slept for two nights - last night was spent on the sofa (so as not to wake Jay). My mind's been jumping from one thought to the next.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYM5mhKZY_L4fyuyzU4ko7Fg8hoINx8Rqo3iSPocwTYZjY8uCzReRFtp7DAmG5YPD5sUMEJqY82314KLP0ul9zzX-eTjz0yyD9dCjwQfbdoOInxORHjy_3MCsrG423HI7xJQZSCXeFd4/s1600/dahliar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYM5mhKZY_L4fyuyzU4ko7Fg8hoINx8Rqo3iSPocwTYZjY8uCzReRFtp7DAmG5YPD5sUMEJqY82314KLP0ul9zzX-eTjz0yyD9dCjwQfbdoOInxORHjy_3MCsrG423HI7xJQZSCXeFd4/s1600/dahliar.png" /></a></div>
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Sleep will come. But usually this pattern takes several days to dissipate.</div>
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On a brighter note (there are many), Joe is delighting us with his rather odd renditions of Christmas carols. He's going to be a shepherd in the school Nativity. I'm attending two showings: one with Jay, the other with my stepdad.</div>
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And to add to the dust: glitter. This was the best card. The other trees resemble pylons. I'm just happy he's holding a pen properly...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGODAT36paznSdbEwJLJS7pD8Ele2Uoy2JpelhGgkoznywPwAV1ET9RC_4rmp6BrLjGKpTPEkAQMt0mdAF05ufGefkGsPQQfwE3v7g-9yOIEAXUBYw2W8G7QM_TZrcslo8ftGNc2xJal4/s1600/dropsr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGODAT36paznSdbEwJLJS7pD8Ele2Uoy2JpelhGgkoznywPwAV1ET9RC_4rmp6BrLjGKpTPEkAQMt0mdAF05ufGefkGsPQQfwE3v7g-9yOIEAXUBYw2W8G7QM_TZrcslo8ftGNc2xJal4/s1600/dropsr.png" /></a></div>
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I've been very busy with work, sending out commissions and printmaking in readiness for the Christmas gift fair next week. After that I'll be able to slow down a bit. And maybe do the grouting in the kitchen.</div>
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There's a trip to Hebden Bridge coming up with some of my fellow creative business ladies. We thought it might make a nice change from eating cake around each other's kitchen tables (although that's nice too).</div>
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And I've got a few exciting things coming up writing-wise, too, including an interview about my artwork and creative process. More on that in a future post.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUAyvrocK9jGYS8aLNhxMCRQKKowFT5wrYRdXzzoU7nvxEXSSUU8fQPFiQV-jZcfhXxCSlLdfxIOctgPTj5hzzmZtMovN2Jmwel_eKuUKsQojbvk3P-BFMRwb-bdQwI20DY5DIyKgx8P4/s1600/reedsr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUAyvrocK9jGYS8aLNhxMCRQKKowFT5wrYRdXzzoU7nvxEXSSUU8fQPFiQV-jZcfhXxCSlLdfxIOctgPTj5hzzmZtMovN2Jmwel_eKuUKsQojbvk3P-BFMRwb-bdQwI20DY5DIyKgx8P4/s1600/reedsr.png" /></a></div>
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The joiner's just clearing up. I'm going to thaw out with a bowl of soup then tackle the cleaning. Damp cloths and the hoover nozzle are the way to go. I hate mess and tried not to show my dismay just now when I noticed a dustsheet had slithered off my bookshelf and everything underneath is now a pale gingery colour. And my recently-fitted carpet looks suspiciously frayed at the edges. A bit like me.</div>
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I'll feel better once everything's back where it should be and the dust has been banished.</div>
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Wish me luck.</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-61575995420269030262016-11-16T11:00:00.000+00:002016-11-16T11:00:13.867+00:00Dull November...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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...brings the blast;</div>
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Then the leaves are swirling fast.</div>
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I always loved that poem (by R. L. Stevenson) and it perfectly describes what's going on outside my window right now.</div>
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Autumn and winter are my favourite seasons, but it's always sad to see the leaves being whipped from the trees. All those bright colours giving way to bare branches.</div>
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But there are good things to come. And for all those people who are determined not to mention the 'C' word just yet: look away now.</div>
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You see, when you're a maker of one kind or another, Christmas is something which must be prepared for early. There are fairs to attend where you (hopefully) sell your wares. It's no good leaving it until December, unless you enjoy a bit of panic. So I've been printing cards and doing line drawings of pine cones and mistletoe.</div>
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Of course, I'm not in favour of the shops playing carols in October. Or the endless TV adverts aimed at children. In fact, Joe's pretty confused by it all. He's convinced Christmas is going to be upon us within the next 24 hours.</div>
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School is a whirlwind of activity: non-uniform days, PTA fundraisers, birthday parties (sometimes two in a single day), numerous performances and services and early bird sessions.</div>
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Busy, busy, busy.</div>
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One thing I've realised, though - stress is not good for you. In fact, I've been reading about it. I'm tired of succumbing to each and every infection/virus/bug that comes my way. Of lying awake in the early hours while my mind jumps from one thing to another. Of worrying about things that are far beyond my control.</div>
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I've always been an anxious person, ever since childhood. It's usually pretty manageable, if unpleasant. I envy those people who are laid-back and able to just let life wash over them.</div>
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Accepting I'll never be one of them is important. So is getting a handle on things. </div>
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I know that the concept of 'Hygge' is all the rage. But there's something to be said for it, even if it's just my interpretation. Like taking pleasure from little things. Being warm indoors. Seeing friends. Reading books.</div>
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I've made a conscious effort, these past few weeks, to relax more and worry less. To try and feel physically well too and not be so susceptible to illness. Here's what I've been doing:</div>
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Curbing the social media (it's full of negativity and sensationalism) and just looking at the things I find enjoyable (mostly pretty pictures on Pinterest).</div>
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Organising my time better. I now have a 'day off' during the week to catch up with friends and deal with chores, or to batch cook meals.</div>
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Keeping lists and staying on top of potential causes of worry (finances, appointments etc.)</div>
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Eating better. Avoiding caffeine, cutting down on sugar and processed carbohydrates.</div>
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Accepting that my business is new, that I have a lot to learn, and that things take time.</div>
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Avoiding comparing myself to others, and 'how well' they're doing.</div>
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Going to bed at a reasonable hour.</div>
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Enjoying small treats: a magazine, a scented candle, a film.</div>
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Removing myself from situations where I feel helpless or taken advantage of, and instead prioritising Joe, Jay and myself.</div>
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Learning not to feel guilty.</div>
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Fighting perfectionism (not easy!) and realising I can't be all things to all people, that there are only so many hours in a day, and 'multi-tasking' really isn't the be all and end all.</div>
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So, dull November. I did say it was a time of introspection, of evaluation, this winter of ours. I know it isn't here just yet but it's cold and dark and wet. Time to make plans and hibernate and enjoy what's closest to us: hearth, home, family, friends.</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-91112728047674899592016-11-08T14:19:00.001+00:002016-11-08T14:19:10.556+00:00Return<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zyQ9SGyUyZDsYPwFsyTxqzT5KXBYYP2PxFIBU6m0ixKt0hVvRTklmGGLDJwy_TBkFdjJ5YTHkPc0A8ByNL2_Suw_SSss3GhV0bAM9Awsh2jCA1Q17JE66wPJNQcSc2cRQPjgOFqK1ik/s1600/07..png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zyQ9SGyUyZDsYPwFsyTxqzT5KXBYYP2PxFIBU6m0ixKt0hVvRTklmGGLDJwy_TBkFdjJ5YTHkPc0A8ByNL2_Suw_SSss3GhV0bAM9Awsh2jCA1Q17JE66wPJNQcSc2cRQPjgOFqK1ik/s1600/07..png" /></a></div>
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I've just checked. It's going on for three weeks since my last post.</div>
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It's also a while since I managed to get any work done. That's because Joe was ill with croup and an ear infection for a week so was off school. The following week I started with a sinus infection. And the week after that the sinus infection developed into a chest infection, just in time for half term.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsH8U6fBA3-FFGwaVeaIWUWD6MB0fodZM2pmPvcsnStaiyv3J4MVowH-lwOsi4N-gbwXnY8jdmtN0K6CJ5vU6b9YmuoH7zFYJVDWd-lvO7WGtfJu6c8vZkFcKV95iw5oIhPt7er0i90vg/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsH8U6fBA3-FFGwaVeaIWUWD6MB0fodZM2pmPvcsnStaiyv3J4MVowH-lwOsi4N-gbwXnY8jdmtN0K6CJ5vU6b9YmuoH7zFYJVDWd-lvO7WGtfJu6c8vZkFcKV95iw5oIhPt7er0i90vg/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage1.png" /></a></div>
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But now we're on the mend and I've finished a course of the dreaded antibiotics. Life can begin again. Although to be honest, it never really stopped. Or even paused.</div>
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You just have to get on with it when children are part of - or the whole of - the equation. So we did. And we actually had a pretty great week, illnesses aside.</div>
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It's amazing how three weeks can see such changes. We've gone from mild sunshine to temperatures well below freezing. The woollen blankets are out, the lamps are lit and the soup pan is regularly bubbling away.</div>
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We've had some lovely adventures. Picnics in the woods near the house, family walks around the reservoir. And a trip to the Yorkshire Dales (bitterly cold, but breathtaking scenery and some very welcome bacon sandwiches in a little cafe in Malham).</div>
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We've been to Halloween parties and Joe went trick-or-treating. </div>
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He also suddenly stopped being scared of fireworks and decided that they're possibly the most exciting thing ever. The bonfire was a small affair with mulled wine and ginger cake. The photo further up this post actually shows his old preschool's piano being devoured by the flames. That's quite a sad thought, actually. I'm surprised we couldn't hear ghostly songs from days gone by, escaping as it burned.</div>
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School started again today (I'm assuming yesterday was a training day). I had mixed emotions - we've had a really nice half term. But I also have commissions to work on, and a Christmas fair isn't too far off.</div>
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It's interesting when you're unable to get on with creative endeavours, work-related or otherwise. You have lots of ideas and sometimes it's useful to utilise these enforced breaks - to rethink, to plan. I'd really love to take <i>Mitenska </i>in a different direction; to write considered posts about things which are important to me. Sometimes maybe just some ponderings. Occasionally a catch-up like this one.</div>
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Anyway - winter approaches. It's in the air. A season of introspection. I like that.</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-18697317007609270732016-10-19T11:55:00.000+01:002016-10-19T11:55:31.276+01:00Stops and starts<br />
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We had a great weekend, heading out to see the Flying Scotsman and taking plenty of walks. Better still, coming home to cheese and onion pie and other warming comfort eats.</div>
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A visit to the local animal sanctuary to see Wallace the goat and buy snacks in the cafe, too - followed by a bit of trampolining in the little park nearby.</div>
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I have to say: I was pleasantly surprised by the cafe. It's very basic and utilitarian but the cakes (obviously baked by kindly volunteers) looked fantastic. Home-made Bakewell tart, lemon and lime drizzle, coffee and walnut. A return visit is most definitely on the cards.</div>
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Joe started with a cough too, and it's not improving. On Monday he woke up early and was very upset because of a painful ear. Some ibuprofen seemed to mend things but I was called into school at lunchtime to collect him. He has an ear infection, 'probably viral', so it's all about ice lollies at the moment.</div>
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He's even been snoozing on the couch in the afternoons. That tells me he is indeed poorly. That and him being off his food. Everyone who knows him will be aware of that legendary appetite. I still made chicken noodle soup for him though, hoping that its restorative and healing properties will help a bit. </div>
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He's back in school today. The reception class are taking an 'I spy' walk around the village and posting letters to themselves. They just walked past the house in their little high-visibility vests and puddle suits, with Joe leading the way and pointing at our house.</div>
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We're back at the surgery later to check out his cough. But we're taking the bus as a special treat.</div>
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Any work plans I had for Monday and Tuesday went out of the window... And school have just called again. He needs collecting.</div>
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Got to go!</div>
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I'll be back - sometime.</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2435067378873425197.post-86003724862086558182016-10-11T13:45:00.000+01:002016-10-11T13:45:49.301+01:00Changes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMkZr3Pg_v7_KO0U5jbsymuOu3gdXRKpdCep8FGDl-HhrP0mVwcSKVxsTRwntG-jYZbZnovichgR5deCtLJoVM3S-iBbCTCOsjZAXINDtndlVVwFVr0g4nMRonbYnhYU5lFIWq3ogu3G0/s1600/3p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMkZr3Pg_v7_KO0U5jbsymuOu3gdXRKpdCep8FGDl-HhrP0mVwcSKVxsTRwntG-jYZbZnovichgR5deCtLJoVM3S-iBbCTCOsjZAXINDtndlVVwFVr0g4nMRonbYnhYU5lFIWq3ogu3G0/s1600/3p.png" /></a></div>
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I don't just mean the creeping progression of autumn. </div>
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On the work front, I finally faced two of my least favourite things: product photography and wrangling with setting up an online shop. The latter was actually quite simple; it was the PayPal bit that had me flummoxed.</div>
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Luckily, the ever-patient and rational Jay came to the rescue.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_09zt2Ynz31nkBaw6RNAcnH0uGSn-2zazvfKnDnDuqXCk5SRD-ovodFd6mTb309wxTIDRvVk15t0y2QsZdTMIJSqr9ikJTiJ0uOjuQiAi_DffCrn6FY9f_iaRfdGUJ2SjvYHfvX-OKE/s1600/9p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_09zt2Ynz31nkBaw6RNAcnH0uGSn-2zazvfKnDnDuqXCk5SRD-ovodFd6mTb309wxTIDRvVk15t0y2QsZdTMIJSqr9ikJTiJ0uOjuQiAi_DffCrn6FY9f_iaRfdGUJ2SjvYHfvX-OKE/s1600/9p.png" /></a><br />
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So now I'm open for business, with a grand total of five products as yet in stock. There will be more.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjLPTc9gjHNaQWL8nirdrlA10S_3fdjzTFJjfupSO1FDRoOKgqfluhG39BiziMMQAt6VbqalVp9Uu6nZ0aRJVwbM9GnlQe-DkBOeKpsA_wCAOs17l1iAQDjndswMgFeScone9D8fMifs/s1600/1p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjLPTc9gjHNaQWL8nirdrlA10S_3fdjzTFJjfupSO1FDRoOKgqfluhG39BiziMMQAt6VbqalVp9Uu6nZ0aRJVwbM9GnlQe-DkBOeKpsA_wCAOs17l1iAQDjndswMgFeScone9D8fMifs/s1600/1p.png" /></a></div>
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I've put a link to my Frond & Feather site and shop at the top of this blog. Please feel free to visit and browse. It won't take long ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MoCb4pV921fHsqaraJw6xC9Sf1k1MXV7jpW9yyQgxz7RFKahlhOChVVWxQ7nUoqylyxWzZD3iFJA1LmBT1QYYuRKnhwIDxtVugzJAe9arbhU8XTb3ZdmR1P-FA42qDStMOh1dfJh-Ow/s1600/7p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8MoCb4pV921fHsqaraJw6xC9Sf1k1MXV7jpW9yyQgxz7RFKahlhOChVVWxQ7nUoqylyxWzZD3iFJA1LmBT1QYYuRKnhwIDxtVugzJAe9arbhU8XTb3ZdmR1P-FA42qDStMOh1dfJh-Ow/s1600/7p.png" /></a><br />
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Of course, all this stuff requires a lot of input on the social media front. I'm not too skilled at that kind of thing but need to be. It would be nice to do a giveaway or two.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5WRLzG0y_NFtXHQVeQO_joWwQ1yP0Et8WpGsx8OuYfQ1Rsqs9CjteOhGNrqLP6OMH3q2R9PqpWMPyIZH8xSE7-wh1-43jEQNoHV9AKGGhBiIAcK99I9AAuTnpXliXp0YA2YHqjp7VEI/s1600/12p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5WRLzG0y_NFtXHQVeQO_joWwQ1yP0Et8WpGsx8OuYfQ1Rsqs9CjteOhGNrqLP6OMH3q2R9PqpWMPyIZH8xSE7-wh1-43jEQNoHV9AKGGhBiIAcK99I9AAuTnpXliXp0YA2YHqjp7VEI/s1600/12p.png" /></a><br />
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Other changes: Joe's being at school has brought a whole new slew of diary dates. Parties, assemblies, church services, plays, events, pantomimes, homework and reading diaries, school photographer, things to bring in. I'm suddenly P.A. to a four-year-old. Good job he's worth it.</div>
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The growing-out of my dyed hair continues. I won't pretend I haven't wavered a few times but I'm managing to keep my resolve. The palest silver bits are my favourites: nature's highlights. There will be photos soon.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcVrAp8YCiUU6x0q1AZLpSBLZWlWe27hE_D2xMSZi0rxC9w48x5sNp1QuF3IcPY1iUyR4vivEIrT1njcNMbHZNnIEHfDxBFzIkbzOLoOgkl0HC-js77kzsGfKXo07cFhZfSTGrKDUxzTg/s1600/14p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcVrAp8YCiUU6x0q1AZLpSBLZWlWe27hE_D2xMSZi0rxC9w48x5sNp1QuF3IcPY1iUyR4vivEIrT1njcNMbHZNnIEHfDxBFzIkbzOLoOgkl0HC-js77kzsGfKXo07cFhZfSTGrKDUxzTg/s1600/14p.png" /></a><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The get-togethers with my fellow creatives are proving to be really valuable. We're coming up with all kind of ideas, and it's also nice to pass on my (limited) blogging knowledge to others. The blogging community really is a great one. Competitiveness isn't much of a Thing. In my experience, people are always happy to help and are very friendly and inclusive. </span><br />
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Which means paying it forward is always a pleasure.</div>
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Bloggers are a great example of kindness making the world a better place. Sounds silly maybe, but little things make a difference - the value of being part of a network is a great thing.</div>
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More changes: Jay's old workhorse of a car is going to the scrapyard next week. It's going to be sad to say goodbye to it. We've travelled many miles (and eaten many picnics) in that now juddery, tired Santa Fe. But the noises it emits are starting to be quite alarming. Each week there seems to be another. I call it The Orchestra of Potential Expense.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszejm0a42zzqSba_sjODNo33SP6oREBZD22Yc8e5TFr7n_rXx6kBPBB_fk2PUoiWwbGB6wYTH1s-aKt_X3NX_scf1OBiw3J6BxXg3nL6Lz9XegDtlWLATso1Eju_4sKRfxlfG7a8-uco/s1600/13p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszejm0a42zzqSba_sjODNo33SP6oREBZD22Yc8e5TFr7n_rXx6kBPBB_fk2PUoiWwbGB6wYTH1s-aKt_X3NX_scf1OBiw3J6BxXg3nL6Lz9XegDtlWLATso1Eju_4sKRfxlfG7a8-uco/s1600/13p.png" /></a><br />
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In totally unrelated news: I've been alerted to a printmaking course which begins in January. I'm sorely tempted. It's one morning a week, with extra access to the studio and equipment. It also costs £1200. If it wasn't for the big fee I'd probably sign up.</div>
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It's also in Salford, which would probably take around 45 minutes to get to. So another potential negative.</div>
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But it's the equivalent to the first year of a Fine Art degree in print. And the hours would fit in with Joe's being at school. Hmm. Perhaps I should just stay home and try different techniques using YouTube and the like. But... I'd REALLY love to do that course!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJ68Ynla5Z4JSNpEQoujv85eHfQksb34abJcJrsSofKF_KUs-JhFgnIizRRYhgTKtMZ7n_AiuEuibzcOd5KuknRhe4cxmQ_yhqTELsT_ISXd6gb25xJHiwUnKjOcHmuQNAuq3bZrFSJg/s1600/11p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrJ68Ynla5Z4JSNpEQoujv85eHfQksb34abJcJrsSofKF_KUs-JhFgnIizRRYhgTKtMZ7n_AiuEuibzcOd5KuknRhe4cxmQ_yhqTELsT_ISXd6gb25xJHiwUnKjOcHmuQNAuq3bZrFSJg/s1600/11p.png" /></a><br />
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As it is, I'm trying a few different approaches to my artwork. The printmaking has been put to one side for a while as I make simple sketches - line drawings in ink - of the bits and pieces I bring home from our walks.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn5YjZnvQkMxwJL-lT9VDhyP-PCQ7bYhEFRGjqY4L5Dd4IcNWoi7bxK29ixLigJ_Skvt3Wi7MA-SxFhcOel4pF0nvNhAcyhCQMGycphipBHkXvh0_ffamaofCn7OW4t3XVk25NKELQt5c/s1600/16p.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn5YjZnvQkMxwJL-lT9VDhyP-PCQ7bYhEFRGjqY4L5Dd4IcNWoi7bxK29ixLigJ_Skvt3Wi7MA-SxFhcOel4pF0nvNhAcyhCQMGycphipBHkXvh0_ffamaofCn7OW4t3XVk25NKELQt5c/s1600/16p.png" /></a><br />
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I've signed up to do the Christmas fair at Joe's school. Which means putting some things together which I think will sell. Usually that means smaller items - cards and little prints - as people want to buy something for a few pounds. </div>
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So no lugging heavy boxes into the school hall and back home again. </div>
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Work aside, I've been doing a lot of reading lately. A quick visit to the library last week (I'm always at the mercy of that imaginary tick, tick, tick in my head) resulted in my picking up two novels by Margaret Forster. I'm almost at the end of <i>The Forgotten Bridesmaid</i> and I've really enjoyed it. </div>
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Even better: there was a good selection of her other books on the shelf too. This is the kind of thing I find comforting.</div>
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Today is Jay's birthday. He's insisted he doesn't really care, that he only enjoys other people's (i.e. Joe's and my) birthdays. But there will still be cards and presents and a few surprises waiting for him when he gets home from work. I won't divulge any more as he's usually one of the first to read the blog as soon as I post...</div>
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Have a great week. </div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08038836502384520598noreply@blogger.com5