tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63011399688870327382024-03-14T16:56:51.048+13:00Charlotte's WebWendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.comBlogger245125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-69744748948410102172015-10-31T16:21:00.000+13:002015-10-31T16:21:03.608+13:00Natalie's quilt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A couple of weekends ago I decided this quilt had been dragging on and I was in danger of loosing interest. That thought spurred me on to get more blocks done and I am feeling pleased with my progress. I now have only one more large basket block to make and then six mini baskets before I can start piecing it together ... it suddenly feels achievable! The first photo shows the latest blocks I made and then all the blocks together.</div>
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After today another month is finished! Here are some of the happenings for October:</div>
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From three chooks to two, our girls are getting old and not laying</div>
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Josh's team won their 5 aside soccer tournament</div>
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Getting a window seat installed</div>
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After a lazy winter I'm walking again, 40 minutes to get around our local lake</div>
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Our Charlie had a birthday</div>
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Colours of my latest knitting project</div>
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Apple and pear blossoms, hopefully we will have our first fruit this year<br />
And progress made!<br />
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Thanks as always for your visit, happy weekend to you! Wendy xx</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-3082050169768307362015-10-06T16:07:00.000+13:002015-10-06T16:07:20.501+13:00A homemade wardrobe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Akita" height="320" src="https://static.seamworkmag.com/assets/catalog/3020/s3020-akita-12-large-aa0eb52fc305a879cafa12dee6d71f3f.png" width="213" /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e-Qm_tKSCDI/VhIXQA5Y9MI/AAAAAAAAIl4/uFt6Y-ybMB0/s1600/DSC01429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="546" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e-Qm_tKSCDI/VhIXQA5Y9MI/AAAAAAAAIl4/uFt6Y-ybMB0/s640/DSC01429.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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One of the disadvantages of making my own wardrobe is the difficulty photographing the finished clothing in use. Being in front of the camera is not my favourite thing to do however photographs of clothes being worn show better how they fit. I have a backlog of handmade clothes that haven't made it to the blog but I managed to get some photos this week while family are on holiday.</div>
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The first outfit is my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/hetty" target="_blank">Hetty cardigan</a> designed by Andi Satterlund. The yarn is New Zealand made Outlaw yarn in worsted weight and is made of 45% wool, 45% Alpaca and 10% Possum. The possum gives it a soft fuzzy halo and it's really comfy and warm. The dress is actually a top pattern and I extended the length to just below my knees. It's the Akita top designed by Colette from their <a href="https://www.seamworkmag.com/" target="_blank">Seamwork magazine</a>. The fabric is a polyester (I think) from Spotlight and was gifted to me by a friend. I am really happy with this outfit and I'm starting to think that simpler shapes suit me best?! The necklace had cream beads so I bought green nail polish and painted them to match!</div>
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Secondly, I'm wearing an <a href="http://papercutpatterns.com/collections/tops/products/undercover-hood" target="_blank">Undercover Hood</a> by Papercut patterns. I have made the hooded version for Charlotte so I knew the pattern was quick and easy. The back, sleeves and ribbing are made from a really lovely merino I bought from <a href="http://www.thefabricstore.co.nz/" target="_blank">The Fabric Store</a> and then a printed knit for the front. I loved <a href="http://thimblestitch.blogspot.co.nz/" target="_blank">Susan's</a> cowl so I used the same pattern and made one to coordinate with my top, using Cascade 100% wool (ravelry page <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/cotton-seeds-cowl" target="_blank">here</a>.) I tend to wear these with my jeans or a black skirt.</div>
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Well, that's a tiny catch-up! I hope all is well with you, Wendy xx</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-23959792311885792262015-09-11T16:05:00.000+12:002015-09-11T16:05:15.032+12:00Natalie's quilt update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wow, this year just keeps racing by! I can't believe it's been three months since I updated photos of my Natalie's quilt, first started <a href="http://charliendwendysblog.blogspot.co.nz/2015/02/quilting-projects-for-2015.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I didn't get to my quilting class last term hence the slow progress; only three more blocks made. But slow progress is better than no progress, as they say!<br />
Some of my friends have been updating and decorating the foyer at our church, making it look bright and welcoming. My contribution was to make some bunting, one is four meters and one five meters. Unfortunately I haven't got a photo of them hanging but they really help to make the foyer look fresh and fun!<br />
All the signs of spring are here but, to be honest, it is still pretty cold! However, the sunshine and the flowers make up for the cold. In spite of my love of winter, I am ready for spring! Wendy xx <br />
(Ha ha, I just spotted the spider near my little jug!)<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-69335672787407194552015-08-20T08:45:00.000+12:002015-08-20T08:45:21.908+12:00A knitting update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The months are racing by; it is amazing to think we are already well into term 3! My posts are few and far between and most of that is due to the normal family busyness. Today I am catching up with my knitting projects and hopefully I will be back soon with a quilting catch up and a handmade wardrobe catch up!<br />
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I completed two handmade gifts recently. I knitted the gloves for a favourite brother-in-law and this winter has certainly been cold enough to make them an appropriate gift! The pattern is Checkerboard Mitts by Helen Stewart and the link to my ravelry page is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/checkerboard-mitts-2" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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The shawl was part of the 4-ply shawl club. It is the Southern Shawl by <a href="http://www.trulymyrtle.com/" target="_blank">Truly Myrtle</a> and the yarn is by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/happy-go-knitty-silk-merino-4ply-hand-dyed" target="_blank">Happy-go-knitty</a> and is 50% silk and 50% merino. This was such a lovely pattern to knit and progressed quickly as the body of the shawl is quite simple. A very good friend is turning 50 this month so I have decided a hand knitted shawl will be the perfect gift for her. My ravelry page for this pattern is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/southern-shawl" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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I have also knitted a couple of things for myself. These slippers were a fun and quick knit, using size 8mm needles and two strands of yarn. They started off as a strange shape but once sewn up I could see the beginnings of slippers. I first felted them by washing them in the washing machine with a load of towels and then made them even smaller by felting them by hand. The pattern is the Moonkoosa boots and my ravelry page is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/moonkoosa-boots" target="_blank">here</a>. I had some yarn left over so knitted myself fingerless gloves as I tend to have cold hands in winter! The pattern is called Donegal mitts and my details are <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/donegal-fingerless-gloves" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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I'm now working away on a cardigan for myself which will be very welcome as we are having a cold winter this year!!<br />
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Thank you as always for stopping by, I hope you are keeping warm and dry, Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-63920471511550260602015-07-07T15:46:00.001+12:002015-07-07T15:46:47.778+12:00Anemone socks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is wet and cold here today but I am happy: the fire is glowing and I have hand-knitted socks on my feet! These socks were finished in June and are the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/anemone" target="_blank">Anemone</a> pattern by a New Zealand designer, Wei S. Leong. The yarn is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/knitsch-yarns-100-merino-sock" target="_blank">Knitsch</a> 100% merino sock yarn which is from New Zealand merino and hand-dyed in New Zealand too. These are my favourite hand-knitted socks so far because I got the fit just right! <br />
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<b>Lovely things:</b><br />
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I have received my second package for the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Happygoknitty" style="color: #993322; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, FreeSerif, serif; font-size: 13.5240001678467px; line-height: 20.2859992980957px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Happy-go-knitty</a> 4 ply shawl club. This time the yarn I received is a gorgeous plummy colour and I'm making good progress, just working on the lace border. I have been visiting the Retro fair occasionally and I found some lovely handmade project bags (you can see the spotty one with my knitting) and a cute little shelf. I am hoping to get this painted and then find a home for it.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by here and for your comments, I always appreciate them. Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-73478369280479224482015-06-23T10:57:00.003+12:002015-06-23T10:57:57.947+12:00Altitude shawlette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have finished the first shawl for the 4 ply shawl club. It is the Altitude shawlette by Brenda Green, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/altitude-shawlette" target="_blank">here</a> on ravelry. This is such a pretty pattern and was quite quick too once I became familiar with the pattern. The yarn is so soft which is perfect against my neck and face. It is a 50% merino and 50% silk mix, hand dyed by <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/yarns/library/happy-go-knitty-silk-merino-4ply-hand-dyed" target="_blank">Happy-go-knitty</a> and the colour is Midwinter night. I have worn it quite a bit already so that shows I love it!</div>
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Some lovely things:</div>
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My first lovely thing is the pleasure that flowers bring. I am enjoying the last of our iceberg roses before they have their winter prune. <br />
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My second lovely thing is my coffee table. It is an old oak table that belonged to my grandmother and I inherited it many years ago. It has been in a sad state all that time, with a very dark stain and lots of marks and blemishes. Paul recently finished sanding it back and has given it three coats of oil. Although some of the blemishes still show it now has a golden glow and I think it is quite beautiful.<br />
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Wishing you all a wonderful week with time to do what you love, Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-56965431808384031822015-06-13T19:26:00.000+12:002015-06-13T19:26:32.418+12:00Lark and Flutter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Over at <a href="https://themonthlystitch.wordpress.com/indie-pattern-month-2015/" target="_blank">The Monthly Stitch</a> it is Indie Pattern month with weekly challenges and prizes. This week it is all about separates and I have completed a Lark maxi cardigan and a Flutter Tunic, both patterns were already in my stash and on my to-do list.</div>
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The <a href="http://jamiechristina.com/collections/sewing-patterns-1/products/lark-sewing-pattern" target="_blank">Lark maxi cardigan</a> is a Jamie Christina pattern and I thought it would be a versatile piece to add to my wardrobe working just as well over a dress. The fabric I used is a cotton knit with a ribbed pattern. I made the Medium size, view A and made it exactly to the pattern. It was the first time I used fusible hemming tape and it certainly made the hems easier to manage. This was a great pattern to use.</div>
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The top I made is the <a href="http://papercutpatterns.com/collections/dresses/products/flutter-blouse-tunic" target="_blank">Flutter tunic</a> by Papercut patterns. I had bought the fabric in February with the intention to make a blouse and finally decided on this design. It is a sheer polyester I bought from <a href="http://www.thefabricstore.co.nz/" target="_blank">The Fabric Store</a> for $15.96. I had seen this tunic was worn quite baggy which doesn't suit me so I decided to make it a size smaller than my usual and made a muslin to check the fitting. I ended up making the small size in the shoulders and sleeves and the medium size for the darts and side seams and shortened the tunic length slightly. I have a favourite purchased top that is a similar shape and it has ties so I decided to copy that feature. I simply made long ties and then sewed them to the back seam, sewing a cross for extra strength. I really love this tunic and I have worn it quite a lot already, layering a merino top under it on the cold days, of which there have been many lately!</div>
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Thank you for stopping by here and for your comments, I always appreciate them, Wendy xx</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-71701420936990738722015-06-06T18:27:00.000+12:002015-06-06T18:27:02.251+12:00Myrtle and Mary Rebecca<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Let me introduce the two latest additions to my handmade wardrobe: Myrtle and Mary Rebecca.<br />
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Firstly, <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/sewing/myrtle" target="_blank">Myrtle </a>is a Colette Patterns design for knit fabrics. I have had this pattern in my stash since it was released in July last year so I am pleased to have finally used it. The fabric I used is a rayon knit bought on impulse at a Spotlight sale for only $22.48! I am so pleased I got the fabric, it was easy to work with and has such a nice drape. I made the medium size and added a couple of inches to the length of the skirt. I didn't manage to match the stripes on the bodice side seams very well but I am so pleased with the matching on the skirt side and back seams. <br />
The only alteration I made was to omit the elasticated waist. The way the casing for the elastic is made takes length from the skirt and I just didn't want it any shorter plus I wasn't sure the elasticated waistband would suit me. So my dress is more shapeless than the pattern picture but I like it with a belt.<br />
This was a quick and easy make, taking only about 2-3 hours and the instructions were very easy to follow as Colette Patterns always are. I would definitely recommend it.<br />
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Second is my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/mary-rebecca" target="_blank">Mary Rebecca</a> cardigan. This was a quick make too, taking just over 3 weeks, helped by the 10 ply yarn and 5 mm needles. The yarn is 100% wool by Quince and Co. bought from <a href="http://hollandroadyarn.co.nz/" target="_blank">Holland Road Yarn company</a>. It was lovely to knit with and is <u>so</u> warm to wear. I made it exactly as the pattern apart from lengthening the arms by 2.5". I stabilized the button bands with gingham ribbon by using this tutorial <a href="http://lladybird.com/2014/06/20/tutorial-how-to-stablize-a-buttonband-with-petersham/" target="_blank">here</a>. Mary Rebecca is another pattern I would recommend, nice to knit and I love the look and fit.<br />
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I hope you are all having a wonderful weekend, Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-15073038008238466382015-05-27T08:54:00.000+12:002015-05-27T08:54:51.803+12:00Natalie's quilt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have three more finished blocks for my Natalie's quilt that I started and blogged about <a href="http://charliendwendysblog.blogspot.co.nz/2015/02/quilting-projects-for-2015.html" target="_blank">here</a>. To be honest these were made before Dad's hospitalization but I got them out today to motivate me to continue with them. Please excuse the wrinkles, they have been packed away for a while.<br />
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Some lovely things:<br />
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I thought I would share some lovely things I have come across or bought recently. The first is a lovely package that came in the mail last week. I joined the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Happygoknitty" target="_blank">Happy-go-knitty</a> 4 ply shawl club which runs May, June and July to expand my knitting skills. Each month I receive a hand-dyed yarn, a shawl pattern and some extra goodies. May's package came last week and as you can see it is on my needles already. The extra treats were these gorgeous cat stitch markers and some yummy Frooze balls which is a healthy but treaty snack (they didn't make it to the photo!)<br />
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My second lovely thing is my new stepladder, an old one that has been given a new lease on life with a gorgeous spotty top. A new shop has opened nearby called Home and it is full of vintage/retro goodies as well as crafts and clothes made by local artisans. I had been thinking we needed a stepladder and this one is just perfect. <br />
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Thank you for all the kind comments about my Dad. It is such a pleasure to see him regaining strength each week.<br />
I hope you all have a wonderful week with plenty of time to do what you love, Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-45149055161142834802015-05-10T17:24:00.000+12:002015-05-10T17:24:27.025+12:00Knitting, knitting, knitting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has been a long seven weeks since my last post. During these weeks I have been kept busy fitting in hospital visits to my dear Dad who has been sick all that time. There have been many difficult times but I am so thankful that Dad is now home and recovering well. I feel blessed by family and friends; I feel blessed by God's mercy.<br />
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Knitting has become my thing to do at the moment; it's so portable and comforting.<br />
A friend had a gorgeous baby girl at the end of March so I knitted the cardigan and hat for her. The cardy is a free pattern on ravelry called the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/puerperium-cardigan" target="_blank">Puerperium cardigan</a> and I knitted it in Outlaw yarn, a NZ yarn made of 90% alpaca and 10% merino. It is so soft and smooth, perfect for a little baby. I had yarn left over so knitted a matching hat using the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/baby-hat-with-top-knot---tegan" target="_blank">Baby Hat with Top Knot</a> pattern which is also free on ravelry. I didn't have quite enough yarn so finished the top knot with cream angora. I waited until my friend's baby girl was born before choosing the pink gingham buttons and purchased the little pink toy to go with it.<br />
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The sock pattern is called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/anemone-22" target="_blank">Anemone socks</a> by Wei S Leong.<br />
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The lavender knitting is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lyttelton" target="_blank">Lyttelton shrug</a>, a pattern by Kate Davies. It is rather unseasonal knitting but it was on my list before the weather turned cold! I am quite close to finishing this one but unfortunately ran out of yarn so am waiting for another ball.<br />
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The last project is a cardigan called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mary-rebecca" target="_blank">Mary Rebecca</a> and I am hoping this will make the perfect winter cardy. I am using a Quince and Co yarn, 100% wool from America which is soft and squishy.<br />
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Thank you so much for stopping here, I am sorry I haven't visited your blogs recently. I am hoping to catch up with that this week. Wishing you all a wonderful Sunday, with much friendship, Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-37670786450359679612015-03-16T19:15:00.002+13:002015-03-16T19:15:48.105+13:00Canopy shawl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is no secret that I love autumn and quite like winter too really! So, even though it's still quite hot here, my thoughts have been turning to my autumn/winter wardrobe. I fell in love with the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/canopy-3" target="_blank">Canopy shawl</a> pattern by Mandarine's and it was a quick knit, taking over just two weeks. I used Alpaca yarn bought from <a href="http://hollandroadyarn.co.nz/" target="_blank">Holland Road Yarn Company</a> and it is so soft with a little bit of fuzz to it. <br />
So there's the first addition to my autumn/winter wardrobe! I am beyond words with how much I love this pattern and how I am really looking forward to wearing it when the weather cools.<br />
Wishing you a wonderful week. Wendy xx<br />
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My ravelry page is <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/canopy" target="_blank">here</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-74717053218919740352015-03-06T15:20:00.001+13:002015-03-06T15:20:38.446+13:00Irish Sampler<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My holiday cross stitch is completed and framed.<br />
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It is the Irish Sampler by Nostalgic Needle, designed by Sharon Cohen.<br />
Stitched with DMC threads on raw linen.<br />
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I enjoyed learning some new stitches for this one, particularly the queen stitch for the large flowers under the letters. Now to find a home for it, at the moment it's sitting on top of the piano until I decide. I'm wondering about beside my woodland sampler in my bedroom ... what do you think?<br />
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Wishing you a beautiful weekend, Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-6288312278889570962015-02-23T14:53:00.000+13:002015-02-23T14:53:00.103+13:00Quilting projects for 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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2015 quilting. The first project is Natalie's quilt from the Simply Vintage magazine, volume number 3. I am mostly using French General fabrics I have collected with extra greens added to the mix. The pattern gets you to applique the basket bottom and handle but I am piecing the bottom and just appliqueing the handle. I am loving how these blocks are looking, especially the one with a flower.<br />
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The second project is The Vintage Kitchen, a free BOM by Jenny of Elefantz <a href="http://www.elefantz.com/2015/01/the-free-bom-begins.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I think these beautiful little stitcheries will look perfect in my kitchen.<br />
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It's been very quiet in here lately as February is always busy. Thank you for your visits and comments though, I really do appreciate them. Shirley F, I want to especially thank you for your lovely comments as I am unable to email you.<br />
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I hope you all have a wonderful week with plenty of time to do what you love, Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-39500230440026068082015-01-26T21:10:00.000+13:002015-01-26T21:10:59.491+13:00Summer holiday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We have just returned from our summer holiday at Papamoa beach and it was one of the best holidays ever. The weather was perfect, the water was warm and I had a swim every day (that hasn't happened for years!) We spent time walking, snorkeling, catching up with friends and playing games; "Rage" is our favourite. I also had time to start stitching a new cross stitch and got lots of knitting done. Knitting is so transportable and perfect for all the time spent travelling in the car. <br />
The first finish is the Reminisce hat (ravelry link <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/reminisce-hat" target="_blank">here</a>). This hat is designed by Libby at <a href="http://www.trulymyrtle.com/" target="_blank">Truly Myrtle</a> and I was able to test knit it which was pretty special for me. I used a beautiful merino and possum yarn, made in New Zealand, which has a very soft feel. The hat was blocked on a dinnerplate which gives it the slightly slouchy beret look. The pattern is released now and is a gorgeous design.<br />
The sock pattern is Dancetty (ravelry link <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/dancetty" target="_blank">here</a>) and is an Abbey Morris design. I used yarn left over from the <a href="http://charliendwendysblog.blogspot.co.nz/2014/10/a-shawl-and-dress.html" target="_blank">shawl</a> I made last year. I love these socks and especially love the stitch used on the heel which makes it feel reinforced.<br />
I knitted the Checkerboard mitts (ravelry page <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Charlieandwendy/checkerboard-mitts" target="_blank">here</a>) for Josh (15 year old) as I wasn't very happy with the ones I knitted for him last year. These feel comfy and warm and have plenty of room for my growing boy.<br />
I love all three of these knits. It's almost enough to get me looking forward to winter (Yeah Right!) Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-41352152181418167192015-01-07T16:53:00.000+13:002015-01-07T16:53:01.713+13:00Chateau hexagon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love the week between Christmas and New Year. Suddenly the city becomes hushed and empty and all my responsibilities and work quiet for a little while. I have taken advantage of the quiet and worked away on my Chateau Hexagon quilt. First I stitched on the last row of hexagons, pieced the border and sewed them on the quilt. Then came the quilting which is not the easiest for me. I know I need to learn and practice machine quilting but do not seem to have the time at this stage. I tell myself that wonky quilting adds to the naive appeal of the quilt :) Holly gave the quilt her seal of approval and interrupted my sewing more than once. On Sunday I was ready to make a scrappy binding, attach it and sew it down. The final step was to sew the beautiful wooden buttons to each block. And hang it ... and step back ... and enjoy! I get to enjoy it each time I leave my bedroom :)<br />
While I have been sewing away we have also been enjoying time with family and friends, welcoming the New Year in with a barbeque and fireworks. I love the New Year just like I love Mondays; the start of a new year or a new week is a chance to start fresh, putting any mistakes behind and trying again. Wishing you all a Happy New Year, dear friends! Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-83983613547511590822014-12-22T21:58:00.001+13:002014-12-23T05:57:13.901+13:00Christmas week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Just a couple of little makes this week: a Scandi bird that was a kit with the <a href="http://www.simplycrochetmag.co.uk/2014/09/18/get-hook-issue-23/" target="_blank">Simply Crochet magazine</a>, at home on my mini white tree with my other handmade ornaments; and a pair of boot cuffs for my niece (free pattern <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rebekahs-boot-cuffs" target="_blank">here</a>). Our days are filled up with last minute Christmas shopping, preparations and baking, and a bit of movie watching. Wishing you all a peaceful and joyous Christmas, filled with everything and everyone you love. With much love and best wishes, Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-28089872884825728632014-12-14T17:17:00.002+13:002014-12-14T17:17:47.841+13:00Catching up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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December already, where did November go? </div>
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I have been working on my summer-wardrobe sewing but this was interrupted when Colette Patterns released their new pattern, the <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/sewing/dahlia" target="_blank">Dahlia</a> dress. I had some red fabric from years ago and I thought it would make a perfect Dahlia. It is a polyester crepe I think, it has no give to it at all but it drapes nicely. I made an American size 10 and graded up to size 12 at the waist and hips although ended up trimming this off again. I also added 5" to the length. This was the first time I used my dressmakers dummy properly, fitting the bodice to it as I went along. I have narrow shoulders so I ended up adding a dart on the shoulder and removed some of the fullness from the raglan seams. I realized later that the top of the bodice was meant to be gathered (somehow I missed that step) and this would have taken up some of the fullness that I removed. I finished the neckline and sleeves with a purchased bias binding in a maroon colour and I quite like the little contrast it gives. I really love this dress and I think it will be great under layers for autumn and winter too.</div>
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Charlie had requested a crochet bunting when she saw the one I made for my room <a href="http://charliendwendysblog.blogspot.co.nz/2014/11/beautiful-spring.html" target="_blank">here</a>. It is finished and the cream looks pretty against her pink walls. By the way, why do cats insist on sitting on wool when it's blocking?</div>
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I have also been keeping at my Chateau Hexagon, stitching away on the last block. </div>
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The tree is trimmed, the house is decorated. Just some last minute gift-making and shopping to go ... it's beginning to feel like Christmas! Wendy xx</div>
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In truth spring has been cold and wet so far but today the sun shone and it was nice to get outside. The flowers don't seem to mind the weather and are looking their best; spring is the prettiest time in our garden before the summer sun dries everything out. I haven't had too much time for crafting lately but I did finish a little crochet project, a half lotus bunting which is a free pattern <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/half-lotus-bunting" target="_blank">here</a>. It looks pretty hanging at our bedroom window with the morning sun shining through it, although Paul thinks it is perhaps too pretty since it is his room as well! I finally have my Chateau Hexagon out again and have started the applique. There are sixteen windows to stitch in place and then quite a bit of embroidery. But it is starting to feel like I am on the home stretch! Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-42673731351424625762014-10-26T18:44:00.001+13:002014-10-26T18:44:24.052+13:00A shawl and a dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I think this would have to be my prettiest knit ever. It is the first shawl and lace knitting I have done; the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/settler-shawl" target="_blank">Settler shawl</a> designed by Libby Jonson. I used Fyberspates Vivacious 4ply yarn, a gorgeous merino. The magic of the shawl comes once it's blocked; when the knitting is complete. Blocking stretches the lace open and it becomes a thing of beauty, such a lovely pattern.<br />
The dress I am wearing with it is a <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/sewing/moneta" target="_blank">Moneta</a> by Colette Patterns. I made the medium size and the only alteration was to add 5" to the length. The fabric is a knit viscose from <a href="http://www.thefabricstore.co.nz/" target="_blank">The Fabric Store</a> in Auckland and it has the most beautiful drape. It feels very soft and flowing. I think the dress also goes well with my Myrna cardigan that I made last month. I actually made the dress in July but it has been just too cold to wear, even today it's still a little too cold. Our spring has certainly been changeable so far, in fact I've just finished lighting the fire! Despite the cool temperatures I am pushing on with making my summer wardrobe in the hope that warmer weather is on the way. Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-20126118472961344852014-10-13T19:13:00.000+13:002014-10-13T19:13:21.142+13:00The holiday table topper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week <a href="http://www.elefantz.com/" target="_blank">Jenny of Elefantz</a> kindly offered a free pattern and a daily tutorial to make the Holiday Hostess table topper. I had been feeling in a bit of a slump with my quilting but this project was just the inspiration I needed. The instructions included finding a fabric that lent itself to being fussy cut; I didn't have much to choose from and in the end settled on a vintage Christmas postcard fabric. Jenny's tutorial was excellent and easy to follow along; my only difficulty being when my cat decided to fall asleep on the topper as I was trying to quilt it! I really appreciate <a href="http://www.elefantz.com/" target="_blank">Jenny</a>'s generosity in sharing this pattern, I am sure the tutorial must have taken lot of time to prepare! Thank you. Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-48775386616774271872014-10-07T08:20:00.001+13:002014-10-07T08:20:19.796+13:00Happy 18th<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>"To my sweet daughter,</i><br />
<i>Your wee little life has changed me.</i><br />
<i>The day you were born was like a new beginning for me too;</i><br />
<i>A change that will forever lay soft upon my heart.</i><br />
<i>Everything in my life is sweeter because of you.</i><br />
<i>The days and fleeting moments with you are only a breath in time.</i><br />
<i>They linger briefly and fly away on the wings of tomorrow.</i><br />
<i>You are precious in every way;</i><br />
<i>The sunshine in my day, the joy in my soul, and the love of my life." Patsy Gaut</i><br />
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I had such fun planning a surprise 18th party for Charlie and boy was she surprised when four of her friends turned up at the same shopping mall. While they had manicures I was racing around at home setting up a lolly buffet and decorating. It was worth it to see Charlie's face when they came back to our place for dinner, homemade ice-cream cake and girly movies. Happy 18th Charlie, love you forever, Mum. xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-85470277507902900792014-09-29T08:42:00.000+13:002014-09-29T08:42:15.759+13:00Around the world blog hopToday I'm partaking in a bit of a blog hop after being nominated to play by Julie from <a href="http://mythreadbearlife.blogspot.co.nz/" target="_blank">My Threadbear Life</a>. Julie's blog is one of my favourite to visit, she creates beautiful projects and has a talent for up-cycling her vintage finds. I am spoilt having Julie living in my region and I have loved my visits to her gorgeous house and craft cottage. <br />
The premise of the blog hop is nice and simple with just four questions to answer:<br />
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<b>How does my writing/creative process work?</b><br />
I started writing this blog in 2011 to keep track of my stitching progress. I had just rediscovered my love of quilting and part of my inspiration was all the wonderful sewing and quilting blogs so I was excited to connect with that community. I see my blog as a way of recording not only my projects but also snippets of our life here in New Zealand, including family, pets, home, garden and baking. I tend to jump around projects a bit; I still love quilting but there is just something so satisfying about a quick finish!! Since last year I have also fallen in love again with knitting and clothes sewing.<br />
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<b>Why do I create what I do?</b><br />
Like most crafters, I create because I love it. Making things is part of my normal. I love to make things for our home, for the children and for myself! I am also loving the process of planning and making my own wardrobe.<br />
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<b>How does my work differ from others of its genre?</b><br />
I could never claim that my work is special or unique in any way because there are so many talented and creative people out there making wonderful things. And as <a href="http://mythreadbearlife.blogspot.co.nz/" target="_blank">Julie</a> said I don't think I really belong to any genre because of the jumping around of projects that I do! <br />
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<b>What am I working on now?</b></div>
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My current quilting project is the Chateau Hexagon quilt, you can see from the crease marks that I have been ignoring it lately. I must get back to it!</div>
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I wanted to challenge myself with my knitting so I am working on my very first shawl. Thankfully with the long trip to Napier last weekend I had plenty of knitting time so I am getting quite close to finishing.</div>
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As for my wardrobe, I am starting to think of spring and summer. First up is a black skirt which was actually part of my winter planning that I didn't get to. Then I have a few fabrics I bought in the beginning of the year waiting to be made up into some summer tops. </div>
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Now, rather than passing the blog hop onto three friends, I saw a different idea at <a href="http://www.sewusefuldesigns.com.au/" target="_blank">Sew Useful Designs</a>: I am passing it onto YOU if you'd like to participate! I'd love to learn more about you, just answer the four questions and post about them on next Monday the 6th October. And please let me know if you decide to participate, I would love to come and read your post. <span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 11pt;">J </span>Wendy xx</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-85480990066185580472014-09-22T19:33:00.001+12:002015-01-06T08:25:46.704+13:00A weekend away<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh, it's been more like winter than spring here lately. In the weekend we traveled 4 hours each way to Napier to attend a family wedding. Thankfully I bought my latest knitting which helped the time pass. It was a pretty wedding but unfortunately outside so we were rather frozen by the end. Sunday dawned brighter so we had a look around the city before traveling home, Napier is such a pretty spot.<br />
We made the most of time with family and got some up to date family photos, Josh wanted one that showed that he is now the tallest!<br />
The wedding was just the push I needed to finish my <a href="http://papercutpatterns.com/collections/constellation/products/bellatrix-blazer" target="_blank">Bellatrix blazer</a>. I had previously made a muslin and had started the real version, taking my time trying to get the best finish I could. Normally I make the medium size but realised as I started sewing I had cut the small. Thankfully it fits perfectly with just the sleeves being a tiny bit short. I made the blazer exactly as per the pattern and it was a surprisingly easy make, even the welt pockets went together easily which I think is credit to the great instructions. The outer fabric is a cotton polyester mix with an embossed pattern and the lining is silk. The cost was about $97.00 which I think is pretty good for a tailored blazer.<br />
I also got a bit carried away and sewed my dress using <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-7502-misses-miss-petite-dresses-project-runway-collection.aspx" target="_blank">Simplicity 1803</a>. The fabric was a summer buy from Spotlight and is a cotton silk blend I got for $21.00. I made size 14 with some alterations: removed darts from back bodice, added 6" to length and removed fullness from the skirt at the side seams. I did french seams throughout and used interfacing on the facings, the zip edges and the hems. This really helped the fabric behave. I'm not sure about this dress though, I think perhaps it looks a bit young although I do like it with the blazer.<br />
And finally, I have also finished my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/myrna-3" target="_blank">Myrna cardigan</a> which goes with the dress. This is a pretty pattern and a quick easy make. Now I just need some warmer weather. Wendy xx<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-46792938910604539782014-09-14T19:43:00.001+12:002014-09-14T19:43:08.852+12:00Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlie in the middle with her two friends, Amberley and Karen</td></tr>
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Spring has truly arrived and the garden is starting to look it's prettiest. In typical spring fashion we are having a mixture of sunshine and rain. We make the most of the sunshine and have managed some gardening; weeding and planting for me, pruning and mulching for Paul.<br />
Oranges are delicious and plentiful at the moment and a recipe I keep making is Never Fail Orange Cake which I found <a href="http://www.onecraftymumma.com/2013/06/never-fail-orange-cake-recipe.html" target="_blank">here</a>. It is easy to make and has been very popular in our house.<br />
I'm playing catch up with blogging again and am finally posting a photo of Charlie at her banquet. All the girls looked beautiful and they had a wonderful time.<br />
Josh's quilt is finished and finally in use on his bigger bed; at 6'2" he really needed it. I haven't managed to get very good photos but you get the idea <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> It was quilted by my quilting class leader in an all over pattern of leaves and has a nice masculine look I think which is what I was hoping for.<br />
And finally, I was very fortunate to win <a href="http://thimblestitch.blogspot.co.nz/" target="_blank">Susan's</a> giveaway recently and love the cross stitch pincushion she made and the lovely bundle of fabric. My photo does not really do justice to the pincushion, it is really beautiful, thanks Susan! Wendy xx<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6301139968887032738.post-46266129228271572302014-08-24T19:50:00.000+12:002014-08-24T19:50:08.928+12:00August<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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August has almost come and gone and this is my first post for the month! Life with two teenagers seems to fly by at a rapid pace. It has been in my mind often to blog a post but have never quite got the photos (and myself) organised. So here is a catch-up of some August things: one of the major tasks we completed was doing up the piano stool and the woodbox that we had been gifted. Paul did all the painting and we did the upholstery together, using a laminated cotton for durability. I am really happy with how they look especially when I compare them now with the 'before' photos. I must thank <a href="http://mythreadbearlife.blogspot.co.nz/" target="_blank">Julie</a> for her helpful advice and paint recommendation <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">. </span><br />
Josh had requested some gloves so I finally finished them for him. They are not my best knit, I think they look quite rough but he didn't notice and is getting lots of wear out of them. Once they were finished I started a cardy for myself in a gorgeous blue. I do find knitting easier to fit in if I am feeling tired or busy and when we are travelling about it is great to have in the car. My clothes sewing has slowed down despite my plans. I would like to make myself a jacket but have only got as far as making the muslin which you can see on my dress form. <br />
In between times Charlie had her school banquet and looked beautiful all dressed up. Well, that's enough of a catch up, next time I will show you Charlie in her dress and Josh's finished quilt! Wendy xx<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">charliendwendysblog@blogger.com</div>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485385130786077543noreply@blogger.com20