Last Day of the Month

I haven't been in here very much. But there's been so much going on lately in my life that I havent had time.

This month, I did the National Novel Writing Month; and smashed it by a day... with 8 words to spare. Last year I had 16 words spare. I really know how to cut it fine, don't I?

Anyway, last night, I was watching 'The X-Files' on Viceland, when an 8-legged young Huntsman took a stroll across my living room floor. He was very young because he stopped under my kitchen table and waited there for me to get my shoes on and grab the bug spray... normally something like that knows to hide. But I came back, and he was still there looking at me as though we were going to be friends. Yeah, me? Friends with a spider - I think not! I don't know who was more freaked out, me or him... but he's dead now.

Today, I got in and started cleaning up the house. First place was my art area next to the back door. I pulled out everything and reorganised everything, throwing out 3 big bags of crap, tossing out a box of sprung pegs I was hanging onto 'just in case' I needed them. And I also threw out picture frames I didn't want anymore as well... you see charity stores aren't going to use them, so I'm saving them the trouble of throwing them out. 

Well, the table easels were sorted, the calendars were too, and the blank canvases got a home too... I'm proud to say that the boxes by the door were gone through and I now have 2 plastic boxes and that's it. This took 3 hours to do and I stopped for a drink or two of water and an ice coffee... now I just want to go to sleep after something to eat. 

Anyway, in between all of this, I went out and bought my Christmas present to myself: a pair of Instep shoes. I've been meaning to get a second pair. They're just so darned comfy.  After I got home, I was back into the cleaning out... and I got it all finished. 

Before this was done, I did 3 loads of laundry, washed up some of the dishes and put out 2 other bags of rubbish. And after the clean-out, the bin outside is now full to the brim. What a great day I've had. 

Tomorrow, I'll be doing other things around the home office to clean up, and working on a Christmas present; so it won't be so hectic. Well, until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

Busy This Month

It's only a week or two into the new year and I'm busy as hell. I've been cleaning out the house on a really major scale - I've thrown out over 5 rubbish bags of just, well, rubbish. And I've gotten together on bag of items to take to the charity store. 

That's so far. 

I've posted off two parcels overseas in the past week or two and have written two letters for overseas as well. One of them is to my late dear friend, Hannah's Mum, Sue. She wants to stay in touch with me via snail mail; and I do as well. She still sees me as her 'overseas daughter' and I still see her as my 'overseas Mum'. 

But the garden is going well, even though we're not getting the amount of rain as we're supposed to be getting. And seeing Brisbane is a little dry right now, I've been doing laundry every moment I get a chance to and putting it out in the extremely hot days; which is good!

My little greenhouse is going so well, and I'm growing herbs and have to get rid of my tomato vine - as once it fruited in December, well, that was it! it flowers, but doesn't fruit anymore. I hate that. But I might try Roma Tomatoes next ... seeing how many I eat of those every year.
The rest of the garden is still a work in progress. I'm forever moving things, repotting things, throwing out plants I no longer need or buying new little ornaments. It's a ever-changing canvas of growth and I love it. It's most definitely not the same garden as it was this time last year.

I've been looking at selling my car and getting another car - one I can use as a camper. You see, I'm really getting into my landscapes and want to be able to get away and paint what I see. My brother and his girlfriend thinks what I want to do is a great idea! But my folks don't. They think I don't know what is involved in setting up a camper... but how do they know if they've never let me do something on my own? I want to do this and nothing will pull me away from what I want to do. I'm in no rush to get my car sold and to get another one; yep I know this will take time to find what I'm looking for. 

I've been working hard on my art series too. And I had a great win lately. I put out into the universe that I needed some big canvases - but I couldn't afford any new ones. So, I've begun saving up for them. The other day, I was contacted by one of my arty friends who offered up some canvases at their place - they were downsizing as they were moving house. When I got there yesterday, I found 2 big canvases! Woah! How cool was that? I told her about what I was visualising for my art and she said that positive thinking really does work! Well, I've now got enough new canvases to complete my series of work. This is one less stress on me now to do with this series. 

Well, that's me up to date. How has your new year started out? Busy like mine? Or humdrum with school holiday fun and pulling it all together for your kids to get back to school? Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

My 45th Birthday!

Woah! I'm 45... jeez, I never thought I'd make it to this age - dunno why, I just didn't. I think it was because when you're 10 years old, being 45 is such a long way into the future, you can't see yourself as that age.

Oh well. I'm here now.

And being this age isn't that bad. 

So far, I've had my art teacher dump me from his class because of his own mental problems - which is totally all him, not me. And believe me, I'm more than happy to bugger off out of his class - I don't care. Couldn't afford to stay in his class anyway.

I've almost completed my Little Garden Facelift - and finally bought myself a Tahitian Lime Tree for the garden! It's a grafted one and will be putting out fruit by Summer - or late in the season - and I'll have so much fruit it'll be something I'll be giving away to people.

And well, I've had a good look around my house and thought 'holy crap, I have so much junk I really need to get rid of it all!' and really I do!

But I had a great birthday. 

I went out to the Hyperdome and spent the day spending my store vouchers from the places I'm a member of... like Ishka (a Turkish store I love) and I bought a journal and 3 pairs of cool socks. They were having a 50% off sale and I used my 10% off for my birthday there too. 
Then I spoiled myself and bought Season 13 of 'Supernatural' - my all-time favourite show on television! It's a great show and I've not missed a single episode since it started in 2005... now that's something, right? I had lunch at Gloria Jeans and scored my free coffee and only had to pay for my vegetarian quiche. 
And then I thought to pop into Riot Art to see if Vanda (an arty friend of mine from the Logan Artists Association) was there. And yes she was! We caught up and had a great chat! 

Before long, it was time for me to go home. I had been at the Hyperdome for almost 3 hours and I had done everything I wanted to do... and I wanted to go and get in some op-shopping and check the mail before anything before going home. 
I arrived at the Slacks Creek Vinnies and found some lovely things for under $15 and then went off and checked the mail and found a huge parcel from my Bookcrossing Birthday Buddy waiting for me! Well... it was time to take off home and unpack everything, wash the socks I had bought and make sure I had the phone on speaker when I called Mum.
You see, when I unpack my Birthday parcel every year from my Bookcrossing Birthday Buddy, I always call Mum and share the experience with her over the phone. It's funny I do this, but she loves it when I do this on my birthday! Well, I received so many things this year from my wonderful Birthday Buddy, Wendy!

Well, that night, my parents took me out to a place on Logan Road called 'Limon'. It's a Turkish restaurant I'd never been to before, but I've driven past hundreds of times. Well, as we sat down, Aunty Helen showed up! She gave me a lovely present and joined us for dinner! It was a great night out of wonderful food, laughs and company! 
I ordered the Fish Tagine - of Barramundi and a side dish of herb rice - absolutely delicious! We had a dessert choice too! I chose the Chocolate Mud Cake and it came out on a large platter with 'Happy Birthday love Limon' in chocolate icing on it and a candle in the ice cream! What a way to celebrate my day! And the cake was so rich I didn't need a cake, just that one slice, which had been heated up and turned warmed and gooey... ooh yummo!

By the time we waddled out of the place, we didn't want to eat anything else, just head back to my parents' house and have a cup of tea. I was exhausted and happy to just sit back and listen to good conversation. 

I arrived home at around 9pm Friday night and felt wide awake but still very tired... if you know what I mean... and I jumped online to find so many of my dear friends had wished me a Happy Birthday! It's been a few days now, and I'm still getting the belated ones showing up - so great to hear from friends on there. I love them all! 

So, another year is gone, and a new one is beginning... I'm looking forward to the new things and happenings which are going to be coming up for the next year. I'll be working on new art, my new garden, new paintings, new exhibitions, driving new places, taking more photographs to get in more work done... and learning more from other artists I've made friends with. Yep, when one door closes, another one opens - no matter where you are in your life or how weird the circumstances are in how it happens. For me, it's another step forwards to get my work exhibited and worked on in my own style. And it all started on my Birthday... not a bad thing, right? Yep... the glass is - and will always be - half-full.

Today ...

I've been so busy lately that I don't know where to start. Over the past few months, I've been decluttering and so, I thought to clean out the bed and make it nice and fresh last month... this meant getting new pillows. And so, I thought to buy feather pillows.

Little did I know, I'm allergic to feathers; so much so that I break out in hives from them!

So, I took them back to K-Mart today while my laundry was on the line and the bi-carb soda was on the bed - again! - and I bought a new mattress protector (just in case mites from the feather pillows got into the protector; and besides, the old one was looking, well, old). 

Anyway, I thought to pop by my local charity store and I found a whole lot of old gear there! But they had put sticky price tags on things that they weren't supposed to - like the paper 'Phantom' comics they had there which would have been worth a lot of money if they hadn't had the $4.00 sticky tag on it. And now it's worth nothing. The same went for the 1950's Women's Monthly Home Journal... I don't know why some places do this, but it just removes so much of the value on the item.
Then, I walked around and found the best item ever! I found a 'Renoir' easel! It's brand new and hadn't been put together properly... but they wanted $40 for it; even when it had missing parts (like its repair kit of Allan Keys). I talked them down to $30 and scored myself a very cool, brand new easel ... yep, it's never been used! But I knew I just couldn't put my finger on what was wrong with it. So, I dropped into Mum and Dad's and asked them to help me with it. Eventually, we figured it out... and I'll be using my new easel for my paintings in future.

When I returned home, I vacuumed the bed, put the new mattress protector on it, pulled in the laundry, put the pillow protectors (new last week) and made up the bed... it looks lovely. I just hope I don't itch from it all now. 

After a well-earned shower, I'm no longer itchy around my neck from hives; and I'm looking forward to a good-night's rest. Tomorrow, I have to do a few more things before I sleep in on Saturday; and do some decluttering over the weekend and throwing out as well. Then, Monday? Well, Monday is my first art class. I just hope I'm prepared for it. Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

Been Busy

I've been meaning to come in here and have a chat with you guys. But every time I want to, something big happens in my life and put it off.

So, here I am, sitting down ready to tell you all what's been going on.

Over the past few weeks, I've been working hard on the Lake Como tapestry, and have gotten far on it. About a quarter of it is completely done since December, but it's the fiddly stuff I'm having problems with, as it's about 30 years old and I really need good natural light to make sure I get the right threads in the right places. Otherwise I'm really pleased with my progress. The main thing is that I'm taking the tapestry to volunteer work at the gallery and to my craft group; and I'm also working on it for about 2 hours a night - every night - to get some of it done. So, this is how I'm getting it done so quickly.

I've been working on my clutter and I'm stoked with how well I'm doing. I've gotten the home office half decluttered and I've paused in cleaning it out so I can catch up with the mess I've accidentally made in the living room. Yeah, moving a box downstairs has backfired into making a mess down there instead of making it tidier. So, I'm saving up money to buy a shredder because there's so many bank statements I need to get rid of that I really can't clean out anymore until I get a new shredder. Tearing them up isn't going to work.

The garden it looking good. The Frangipanni has flowered and I've mowed the lawn, then fed the plants Seasol and watered the lawn heavily; as we're not getting the rain we've been promised over the past week. Such a pity it's been dodging us so much. But at least the plants are going okay. 

I've been learning to bake Apple Tea Cakes. I scored a nice little recipe off Mum and made the mistake of making the whole things in a food processor. Yeah, yeah, stop laughing... I didn't think really. It took the air out of the cake completely; as the recipe did say to 'fold the flour into the mixture', which I didn't read properly. So, next time, I'll read it properly and do it right.
I'm also losing weight - just a little - because the doctors have told me my cholesterol is high. So, out goes the 'Naturals' Chips, high fat things and into the house comes the rice chips and more fruits, a lot more water and less milk-based coffee drinks. I've lost a fair bit of weight throughout the heat wave over Summer, but I am feeling a lot better because of the weight lose I've had to do instead of the weight I've had on over the last few months. I'm also doing weight-based exercises and eating less at night; this is helping me sleep better at night. 

This weekend, I'm taking part in an art opening at the Logan Artists Association at Coral Street, Loganlea. It's called 'Black and White' and it's a collection of art by female artists around Logan City and just in time for International Womens' Day. It starts on 4th, March and the exhibition finishes on 15th, March. I have a piece in it and hope to have a great time on Saturday.
I've also joined the Logan Artists Association this year so I can learn new things in the art world. They have lessons going on how to work with clay - something I've always wanted to know - and art lessons which cost only about $20 or so and lectures from artists from around Logan City.

Anyway, I'm doing well. The heat hasn't done me any favours - as always - and I'm working on a book to get published over the next few months. I hope it works out... there's a lot of editing to be done to it. Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

Haven't Stopped - Until Now

Today is the first day I've stopped for over a week. I've finally stayed home to do nothing but chill out and maybe get in and do a bit of housework and some painting.

But over the last week, I've been busy as hell. 

I've recovered from the laryngitis, but there's a cough that's hanging on from it that's going to be with me for another month or so - from what I've been told. But otherwise I'm good and well. 

Last week, I started on the last part of the three-year garden fix-up. Every three years, I spend some serious dosh on my little garden to make it take a big step forward. I know that sounds like a lot to do, but during the years in between those three years, I care for the garden, prune it, pull the weeds, fertilise it and make sure it's well. I also take notes on what needs to be done, saved for and which plants need new pots, new potting mix and what I can do with the old pots - which other plants can be transferred into the old pots that I have left. 
You see, I don't use plastic pots. I go to the expense and use terra-cotta pots, so they last a long time and not go brittle. But it costs so much money and saving up for them is something I am good at when the time comes. 

So, during last week, I moved a few things around the garden and bought myself a standard Ficus. This plant is related to the Strangler Fig and it's advisable to keep it in a pot. So, I bought a pot and all the fixings to get it into that new pot. By the end of the week, the garden had been changed around. The steps by the side fence were moved to another part o the garden, where the pots there used them, and the Ficus became a focus point in the garden. This is good... and has made the garden fix-up come to an end this year two weeks ahead of schedule. This means I can start saving for other things I would like around the place if I want to.

I then went to Bunnings and found a shelf-splitter. This is a metal shelving unit you install in your pantry - or on top of your benchtop - and you can organise your space better. I have been looking for this for ages; since Bunnings advertised it two weeks before actually. Then, I showed it to Mum and she thought it was a great idea and got me to go and buy her some.

During the weekend, though, I've been doing volunteer work, knitting and at a Birthday Party at my brother's house to celebrate his girlfriend's birthday. So, I baked my famous cream scones and whipped up some cream to take with me. It was a great afternoon and we were home by 7pm. 

This week is going to be just as busy as I have to see the doctors about an x-ray I got done last week, do the grocery shopping (which isn't going to be much by the look of things) and then work on the painting I'm halfway through. Yep, this week - like last week - is going to be busy, busy, busy. Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

It's Back!

My voice, not the laryngitis... and it's so good to be able to talk to people and go out! I had no idea how social I've become since owning a car; and man, I missed driving and getting out and about after a few days stuck at home.

Besides, I didn't really feel all that social when I couldn't talk; I mean, how would I ask for something when all that came out was a whisper - or nothing at all.

So, yesterday was my first big day out to do things - and I made sure it was a good time. I went to the gallery to look at my work on the walls and chat to everyone. Jillian thought I might be contagious, but I'm not. But I didn't stick around for long; I had places to go and things to do before the weekend was out.
Then, I off to Arndale to pick up some pens (write a book in longhand with) and a few paint brushes. I happened to pick up some other things too while I was there. Once home, I set up the house as a studio and worked on a painting I've been working on since Monday for about 3 hours before putting it all away and watching 'Paper Moon' - a movie I've never seen before - and then got myself some dinner.

It really started to get cold as I put on a dvd and I got into my knitting and watched a few episodes of 'Orange is the New Black' Season 1. My neighbours gave me Seasons 1 and 2 to me saying that they got them all on blueray and thought I'd like them - and I do. It's a great show. I got to bed around 12:30am... and it was freezing! 

This morning, I was away early to the Rochedale Fruit Markets to buy milk, cream and the paper as well as some mushrooms and pumpkin and a plant... it was nice to get those things so early.

Once home, I put on a load of towels in the machine and made coffee and breakfast of pancakes.  It's been a good day, but cold. I'm hoping to warm up more soon to get back into my artwork for the afternoon. Until my next post, take care, stay safe, and remember, I'm always here.

I Got Inked

As my title says, I've been inked... yep, I got my first big tattoo done. My brother's so proud of me. He thought the little tattoo on my wrist was cool, but then he got a photo of my one on my shoulder and thought they were wicked.

I got Angel Wings tattooed to the back of my left shoulder. Now, I've wanted them for a long time - over 6 months - and have saved up money from my shopping since I got home from Brunswick Heads. 

So, now, I'm here at home a week later waiting for it to heal properly. This means I can't go out in the sun, I'm sleeping only on my right side (which isn't easy) and am wearing my strapless bra - which has an underwire and is very uncomfortable. But I'm surviving it. So long I keep applying the Bepanthan/nappy rash cream to it three times a day, I'll be sweet. I've already washed the sheets twice and changed the pillow cases three times because that stuff gets everywhere!

I am enjoying the quieter life of staying indoors - and thank god I am as it's been such a hot week! I'm hoping to be able to get myself dressing better in the coming weeks; once it's healed better. 

The good thing is that the redness is gone, it's not as itchy as it was on Sunday and it's starting to scab up (which is a good thing). It's been so damned hot over the last week, I can't wait for it to heal up and get better so I can dress normally again. Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember I'm always here.

Oh! And here's photo of it the day after it was done: 

Angel Wings - the day after

Birthday Discounts

I went out yesterday to Garden City and had a day to myself - something I haven't done in a long time. Usually I stay home and do some needlepoint or painting. But I wanted to get away from the house instead.

I had some Birthday Discounts I had to cash in at Garden City and when they come around, they usually only last a month; so thought I should jump on them while I had them. I also had to pick up some art gear too... mainly magnets for a new line of work I'm looking at.

Anyway, I packed my handbag, locked up the house and was on my way. I always have fun going out to these places as sometimes I never know what I'll be doing - like yesterday was a bit of a pantser day. I had a fair idea of what I needed to do, but no list of things. I did look at other stores of things I haven't seen before and wanted to just have a look at for a while before Christmas came along (yeah, I suss out stores for presents before I spend my money).

Well, I went to Riot Art and bought some large magnets for a project I'm working on, then was off to Priceline and bought something there as well. And then walked all the way up to the other end to Strand Bags where I had a membership with them and had a Birthday Voucher to use there as well; so I used that. I bought a new purse for myself. It's very cute, green and bigger than my other Roxy purse. It also hides a lot more things than the Roxy purse too; which is good. 

Then, I was off to Gloria Jeans for my free coffee - yep, it was my Birthday coffee. I had that with a piece of orange and almond slice; very lovely and not too sweet. While I was there, I changed over stuff from my old purse to the new one and texted Mum to drop in to see her for a few minutes. 

Well, by the time I got home it was just past 1pm or so.  I jumped on here and looked around the internet and then thought to get offline and start looking at something to eat - by then it was around 3pm. I had had fun yesterday being out and about - something I haven't done in over a month, and should do more often. Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

This Long Weekend

Here in Logan, we're right in the middle of the long weekend for the Royal National Annual Show - better known as The Ekka. 

Personally, I haven't been in over a decade; it just doesn't do anything for me anymore. The place is too expensive and I think I've outgrown it. But many people go each year and love it every time.

The good thing that comes with The Ekka is the public holidays - but they're all over the place. So, this weekend, it's Logan City's turn to have Monday off.  And for us who don't go into the Exhibition in the city, it's a long weekend to sleep in, get into some work or catch up with family (if they don't work or go to school outside of the Logan Area). 

Yesterday, I was out and about at the Hyperdome with The Crew writer's group. We were looking at book blurbs. We had to write our own and send them in.  I did one - a short and sweet one - and it had everyone intrigued, but it does need help with a few things in it; just some rewording.
Others had some good ones there too. One sounded like a synopsis while Shaun started us off with one from a book which had been published already... and tricked us into thinking it was his. Very subtle but very good to get us all thinking about what the public wants.

Today, I read in the paper that remote towns are going to pull Vegemite off their shelves because people are making booze out of it; and these people's kids are drinking the home-brew their folks are making. Jeez, the next thing you know, they'll be taking potatoes and rice off the shelves because people are making Gin and Rice Wine and their kids are getting into that too! Stupid!

Also today, I'm going to work on more of my stuff for the stall next month. I have a commissioned work to get done and then there's other paintings I have to get done too - I have only 3 of the miniatures happening at the moment; and I have yet to find a box to display them in. 

So, a lot is going to be done and I have only a few weeks for some things, a few months for other and a few days for yet other work. Yeah, never a dull moment here. What is your weekend like? Filled up like mine? Or chilled out and relaxed? Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

August Already!

This year is flying by so fast!

This is a funny time of year with the weather and everything happening so strangely. I've been working on a huge collection of things over the last few months that the flu caught up with me and I was forced to slow down over the last few weeks; and this was good.

Very good in fact.

I'm glad I did because I could catch up on my sleep and other things around the place - like my housework and listening to my body. Yeah, gotta do that.

And as you read in my last post, I got a tattoo. It's just starting to scab over and heal - and that's what it's supposed to do; but I have a long way to go, up to about a month of healing to go with it all.

I've been to my tattooist today to see him about a few questions I have about it; and he's impressed at how well it's healing. And that's the one thing I love about 'Old Skool Tattoo & Barber Shop' they are a family business who are friendly and great to people who want their first tattoo. I talked to Jarrod and he said my first little tattoo is healing really well... I'm so pleased!

Anyway, we got talking about the area and how long his business has been in Springwood and he was amazed that I've lived in this area longer than he thought... and just around the corner too! He was equally amazed at how much stigma Epilepsy and mental illness really does carry; seeing nobody will give me a job - so I created my own.

Well, soon afterwards, I was off to my volunteer work at the gallery where the doors were kept open all day. I thought they were stuck; but was told that a possum had died in the roof and stunk the place out! Eeeww! And they have an opening tomorrow night; which I hope the smell doesn't affect.

Well, I better be going. I did some work tonight of a few coathangers and other things around the place - as well as colouring in the first page or so of my new little colouring in book for adults. Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

This Week of Illnesses

This week, I've been trying to shake the bug that's gone around a good percentage of Brisbane. Yep, I caught it and now the cough is the only thing I need to shake... damned thing.

It's been a good week though. 

I got my large painting finished, found an Ankh at Life Line - and fixed it up in a new frame - and then sorted out some photos today at K-Mart for a new line of work I'm hoping to get out there next year to sell at my Crafty Pegs stall.

Yes, I'm constantly planning and working on new things for my stall; and they are things to keep the money coming in and people looking at new things I've made from one year to the next.

This year, I have made the table clothes six months ahead of schedule and gotten in a Lucky Dip box.  I'm really happy about this and so I'm saving up money for the next markets in September at Logan Village - which should be good.

Otherwise, this past Wednesday I learned the intricate art of Sand Art at the Logan Art Gallery.  It was lovely to learn something which is from India... I just hope I remember how to do it while I'm demonstrating it at the Arts in the Park Festival in 2 month's time. I'm also reading again and writing again too - which I'm really pleased about, as you can well imagine.

So, how's your week going? Good I hope. Mine has been okay. I just hope I can get rid of this cough before next weekend. Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

Busiest Few Days

I haven't been on here too much; and I have a good reason - so much has been going on!

This week was also a shopping week and I got a lot done there as well.  With all my bills showing up all at once (as they do sometimes) I've been kept on my toes and life has been anything but boring.

So, I'll start at the beginning of the past week...

We've had some rain and cold weather and so I have been doing my laundry and hanging it up inside the house, making my place look like it's never tidy. And even when I do get the laundry down, there's always more to hang up.

Last Monday, I scored myself a cool mug-holder for my counter and some tiny colourful cups at my craft group. Then, afterwards, I went out and bought a large canvas to paint on later that week at the cheap bargain store down the road. Seeing it rained for a good part of the day, I went straight home and vegged out in front of the television.

By 1st, June, I had organised all my paint, ideas and photos for the painting I was going to do for my piece for my bedroom.  I even got in and packed my work bag to leave... you see I was off to Geoff and Viv's place to spend the day and night there to work on it.
The next morning, I did just that and worked on the painting from around 11am until the same time that night. Man, did I crash! It was amazing to wake up the next day and find how much I had gotten done in one day!
While I was there that morning, I cooked pancakes for breakfast and their daughter, Zoe loved them!  She hoovered down 5 of those things and a lot of fruit, and still wanted more. After that, Geoff, Zoe and I went for a good long walk around some of the walking paths through Thorneside. This area is so pretty, and nothing like Woodridge; and the parks! I love this area, and feel so safe.  Well, before long, it was almost midday and I packed up my gear and the car and drove off home. 

On Saturday, I went out to an InHouse Publishers Open Day event. This was when they opened their doors to writers who want to get published and wish to see inside their place for one day.  It was a great few hours to hang out there and see how they worked.
I then was off to my folks' house where they were unpacking from their holiday up north. Mum gave me a lovely necklace and we talked and had some drinks and they had a late lunch.  Then, just before I left, we saved a dog from being hit by a car on their road. His name was Reg and he had run away from home on Thornhill Street - only one street away - and he didn't know his way home. So, we called the number on his collar and his owners came and picked him up. Man, was he so happy to see her when she arrived; as they had been driving around looking for him. 

Well, I went home after that and made myself dinner, worked on my new painting and then settled in for a relaxing night of watching a dvd while I knitted. Very cool... actually it was very cold last night. It's definitely a nice cold Winter here in Brisbane. Well, Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here. 

Sleepless In Logan

Yep, you read right... I am having a huge bout of insomnia, and I hate it.

I'm okay during the day. I'm eating well, doing all my normal things, but when night falls, I just can't sleep well.

I'm not drinking too much caffeine or sugar before bed. Nor am I doing anything too much that'll keep me awake either... I'm not really sure what's going on, but I really hope I can get back to my normal sleeping patterns before too long.

Honestly I think it started a few days ago when my Reading Chair didn't show up on the day it was supposed to. I had rung the place and asked them when to expect its delivery and they told its work hadn't even been started yet. 

I was so disappointed! I was told that it was to be delivered to the upholstery place by last Thursday so they'd get working on it the next day... then it would be ready for me the following Friday (29th, May). But when I called up, they said the job had been moved to this coming week. I explained what I had been told and the man said he was really sorry and that he'd put my chair ahead of the next job; that it wasn't right that I was kept waiting for an extra week.

This was the first night I couldn't sleep... I think it was because I really wanted my chair here at home. I know that sounds silly to be so possessive about a chair, but I worked really hard on it to make it look wonderful. And now, it's being held up at the upholsterers because of a jobsheet. Well, that just shits me off... excuse my language, but it does.

Anyway, this month, I've been cleaning out the home office, knitting bigger dishcloths, madly finding more crochet yarn and doing commission work as well. I also have had a reading slump which feels more like a decade-long drought! I have only read three books this year - three! I'm usually onto my eighth or ninth book... not my third. And as for my writing?  Well, it sucks.  There's no new books.  I finished 'Fry Nelson' and 'Angel Love' in December and .. well... that's been it, no more ideas since. That sucks too.

So, when I found the chair, I was happy.  I'm also working on other things to fix up too.  But with this week a bust - as it's a week before the markets, shopping week and me organising what needs to be taken to the markets and what stays home - nothing will be done in the way of working on the wash table or magazine rack I found for the office.

Yes, this month has been busy.  I'm not sleeping well, but I'm eating okay.  I'm not writing or reading much, but I'm buying books (how's that for irony!) and yet life still goes on... and my office remains tidy.  Now, that's an accomplishment within itself, don't you think?  Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here. 

Home Office Clean Out - Yet Again!

Now, how many times have I cleaned out the office here at home? Um... (counts on her fingers)... I don't keep track, but I know it's the one room which quickly turns into a junk room in my house.

Well, not anymore!

I have had the great fortune to have found a gorgeous chair in my unit complex and I'm currently fixing it up. It's taken me two days already, and three coats of stain, and the chair looks almost brand new.

Exactly why people throw out good furniture which only needs a touch-up of stain and a bit of polish is beyond me.  I saw its potential and loved the style of it - and have always wanted a chair just like this one in my home - and pounced on it immediately!

Now, the office is undergoing some very permanent changes. I've moved things around in the wardrobe so my vacuum cleaner, ladder and other things will fit completely (and yes, the doors close on it).  Around 15 handbags are destined to be given away at Vinnies, with a few going to some relatives, while another few are going to still find a home with me. I've emptied out two tiny milk crates and I'm happy to report I've rediscovered a piece of floor which hasn't been seen in around five years.

Five years!

Now, that's progress!

I also found a piece of artwork I made called 'Opening Night' which I have yet to hang on the walls here.  I'll have to find some more hooks for the walls here and hang it by the window hopefully... it ought to be good; as my office isn't only for books, it's also an art gallery for book-related art.  This will make this room very quirky and unusual, and this is what I want it to be.

I'm so happy this is happening the way I have been hoping.  It's been a busy day with a bit of work on the chair this morning, and work here at home this afternoon.  Dad's proud of me and how I'm dedicating myself to the chair; however, once that chair is finished - over the next few weeks - I'll be working on the bath table I've had at their place for the bedroom.  Once that's done, I'll bring that little thing home, set it up in my bedroom, get rid of the chair in there and put it where the chair used to be. It will be the first thing you see when you walk into my room by the window... it will set the feel of my room.

So, after this room is clean and tidy, and I have cleaned the carpet here properly, the chair will have returned.  Then, I'll return to my parent's house to work on the next thing that I've left there in the laundry to bring it home.  I have the jug and basin kit... and soon it will be all put together. Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

At Long Last!

Autumn has arrived to Australia - at long last!  The shorter days, cooler nights and unusual weather has begun to show its face.

And I love it!

I have been looking forward to our Wintery days as I can get my butt into the garden really start working on it as I save my money for new pots, start to divide up my plants that need dividing and enjoy the colder weather - this means I don't sweat as much I do in Summer.

Yes, I'm a Winter person, I hate Summer.  I hate Summer with a passion... it's too hot, too sweaty.  I get sunburned too easily and the days are too long, the nights are too steamy.  I do love the Winters of cooler days and nights.

Well, over the last week, I sold an old Singer Sewing Machine to a friend of mine who was looking for something like it.  When Will saw it in my car port, he took to it with a screwdriver and pulled it apart immediately!  He kept on saying that he was eager to get into working on it; and he did once he got it home!  He bought it off me for around $50 - which made me happy too!  I have put that away so I can start saving up for something I've wanted for the house for a while now: a Ryobi 30+ kit.  It's two large rechargeable lithium batteries that can run drills, torches, whipper-snippers, lawn mowers and other such appliances around the garden and house and the most expensive part is the battery and charger.  I started saving about two weeks ago, and now I have the extra money, I'm looking at getting this for myself for Christmas.

Anyway, on Wednesday or so, I was at a workshop I took part in the previous week, and on the way I picked up my mail.  In the PO Box I found a parcel pick-up card, and I went inside and found a 3kg bag waiting for me!  It was filled with crochet yarn for my dishcloths!  Yay!  I finished off my other  dishcloths within about a day and then started on the bigger dishcloths with two different yarns from the ones in the mail.  
Now, this week, I've got to post off some of my gear from my work of Crafty Pegs to the lady who sent me the yarn as payment.  And we'll do it again in about three months or so, or once I need more.  

Tomorrow, I have the antenna people coming out to look at the reception on my television.  Over the last few years, it's been getting progressively worse.  I told my landlord and he's getting it fixed.  So, today, I'm clearing a space in next to the television for tomorrow morning.

So, what have you all been up to?  I have had a busy time over the last few weeks; thus why I haven't kept up with my blog as much as I'd like.  Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.

Wow! What A Week!

It's been very busy this week.

Really busy.  Busier than usual.  But that's a good thing really.

I had my craft day on Monday where I sat and knitted my dish cloths and looked at a few things brought in by the ladies.  I scored myself a very cool utensil holder from Bendigo Pottery... and I've been to the place where it was made; which made it even better to own.

Then, on Tuesday, a friend of mine dropped around and picked up the old Singer Sewing Machine he offered to buy off me.  Will was tickled pink about it!  He loved how aged it was, how easy it was to pull apart and he and Viv (another friend of ours) stuck around for lunch.  They left around 3pm... a great day spent with two wonderful friends.

Wednesday was spent at the Logan Art Gallery for 6 hours... I was working on a plaster cast torso.  I sat down and worked wet plaster into the shape of a book.  This wasn't easy, but it worked - especially when I got some paint onto it and then got the shading done on the book!  It really started to take shape!
But before long, it was time to go home; and we all have to go back tomorrow to finish up our work.

Today, I paid the car insurance and the RACQ.  I went to the doctors for blood test results and to have a few things looked at on my head (it's so much easier now my hair is so much shorter!).  Then, I was off to Mum and Dad's place for a few hours of knitting and lunch before they took off to Greenslopes to visit my Dad's brother in hospital.  

Yep, this week has been busy.  I'll be happy to just kick back this Saturday and do nothing until Monday... when I have to wait for the antenna guy to show up and fix the reception on my television.

How's your week been?  Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here!

A Spare Month... Busy As Hell!

I thought having a month without a market to go to would be relaxing... boy was I wrong!  This week I have had almost every day out and about.  

On Sunday, I went to a friends' house to cook them Easter Lunch and to catch up with them - as I hadn't seen them in ages, along with Will Cornivus.  I didn't get home until around 9pm!  But my stir-fry was wonderful!

Then Monday was a public holiday.  I slept in, and caught up with a few things around the house.  Then, on Tuesday, I checked the mail, bought some antihistamines and went to the Logan Art Gallery to pick up a copy of my roster.  Well!  That turned into an afternoon of me being up to my elbows in plaster!  I seriously didn't mean it to be, but it did.  I found myself making a plaster torso with some teenagers and a couple of adults.  It was so much fun!

That night, I was out and about at the Logan North Library learning how to write a memoir at Karen Tyrrell's course there.  It was only about an hour or so long but I scored some great information on what to do and what not to do; and I have some good ideas on how to write mine... well, okay, a couple of them.

Wednesday was the longest day out shopping ever!  I left the house at 8:45am and arrived home at around midday or so.  I had over-spent - and in a good way too!  I bought new pillows for my bed, found some great clothes at Life Line and then bought a couple of badges for ANZAC Day for Mum, Dad and myself.  Then, I was off to Coles for a top-up shop.  I had to buy a few things I needed for the house and around the place... and before I knew it, I was off home.  But I did spend a lot of money... more than I was supposed to, but then, I guess that happens sometimes.

Yesterday, I did a lot of laundry and hung it out.  I did so much laundry that I had to pull out the clothes horse and use it outside... yeah there wasn't enough room on the clothes line.  But most of it got dry.  I had to use the clothes horse inside and put the jeans and skirts on it overnight.  Otherwise the rest of the all was dried. 
I did go out yesterday to look at a jacket in 'Rivers' at Springwood.  They were having a sale of coatigans - these are long cardigans - and I had my eye on a burgundy one which was only $18 down from $30... not a bad price if you ask me.  However when I arrived there, they only had them in XXL and not Small... and the size would have been massive in Small anyway.  So, I looked around and found the other styles were nice, but in colours which made me looked either washed out or enormous.  So, I did gave up on looking at the jackets and looked at underwear and socks (because I do need to buy new pairs in each).  I found a cool pair of knickers and a nice pair of socks and then there were some scarves which I could throw into the car this Winter just in case I needed them.  they weren't too long and could pack away in the boot of the car; and the scarves were only $1.00 each!  So, I sorted through them and found the colours I loved and grabbed them.
I got to Mum and Dad's place - eventually - put the ANZAC badges on the counter and sat down and did some knitting with a cup of tea next to me.  I thought they would arrive home within the next hour or so.  However, they didn't.  Time marched on, and I looked at my watch... I needed to get home and pull in the laundry.  So, I texted Mum and told her I had to head off home.  It ended up that they were hanging out at an Aunt and Uncle's place in Holland Park.
I arrived home, pulled in the laundry - like I said - and then made a pizza dough just as 'Mork & Mindy' came on the television.  It turned out to be a good evening of pizza, finishing off my Easter chocolate.  

I've had sinus lately, and it feels like a cold; but it's not really.  And everyone I've spoken to has had the same thing this week or last week!  So, it's been going around really quickly.  Anyway, I'm getting over mine pretty fast... I've been taking the antihistamines, Horse Radish and Garlic pills twice a day and sleeping like a log at night on new pillows (speaking of which, I have to give Mum and Dad the old ones for the van).  

Today, I'm home again for most of the day.  I have a chiropractor's appointment this afternoon, so I will be hopefully staying here at home and taking it easy until then.  Tomorrow, I have another full day out and on Sunday I'm hanging out here to see how it all goes with my house again... so how was your week?  Busy like mine?  Or SSDD (same shit, different day)... Stephen King has come up with some wonderful quotes hasn't he?  Well until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here. 

Creatively Wonderful Things ...

The internet is a wonderful thing, isn't it? 

Well, okay, it depends on how you look at it.

I've found some great things to do with left over milk bottles and drinking bottles you can easily make without too much - well, a bit of glue, a little paint and a drill and string and it's all done.  I'm thinking of looking into working on something tomorrow. 

Here's the link I was looking at:

Recycling Your Unwanted Bottles

Busy Weekend!

Woah... what a weekend I've had; and it started on Friday for me and has only slowed down this arvo.  

I was supposed to put up my Christmas Tree on Friday, but I received a reminder phone call that I had signed up for a Hebel Sculpture workshop that afternoon... so there went that plan.  Anyway, after I got stung by a black mud wasp, I wasn't all that interested in irritating my bite too much.
So, I went and enjoyed myself.  I made a great piece all about my past... it looks great!  It's called 'Bittersweet Tears'.  It doesn't look perfect, but to me it's finished.  And I also made a second piece from the corner I cut off; very cool... I'll be putting that around the house when I get the jewels glued in.
I ran into Doug Cartright and we chatted at the front desk.  I haven't seen him in a long time and he's lost a lot of weight... and he invited me to his place for a visit.  I'll go and see him on Tuesday; as his partner, Peter, passed away last year (I didn't know until recently) and he's really feeling the loss greatly.

But earlier than we'd usually do, we had to pack up as a storm threatened to close in on us.  So, I took photos of my piece - and others - and wrapped it up and took it home.  That night, we got a lot of rain, a bit of thunder and lightning but that was it... and I was very tired.

On Saturday morning, I was up bright and early to get back to the Logan Art Gallery for the Volunteer's Morning Tea.  This is where we were given our Christmas presents and certificates and badges (if we were supposed to get them).  Last year, my 15 year badge was forgotten as they thought I hadn't been there for as long as I have.  This year, they made sure I got it - in my 16th year of service.  I received a lovely certificate and a gorgeous painting card.  I loved it!  Now, there's only 4 years to go until I've been there for 20 years and I get my 20 year badge and certificate.  After that?  I'm not sure... might stick around and see what goes on.
However, I ran into our old curator - Annette - and she had heard I was going to see Doug.  She discouraged me from seeing him alone, saying he wasn't in his right mind.  I don't think she realises that I'll be okay; that he's grieving and I know what's happened.  I said would take on board what she's told me, but still I'll go and see him.  He wanted to tell me something; and I want to know what it was.

Today, I was up before my alarms went off... I did try to sleep in a bit, but it was impossible with the day heating up quickly.  So, I was up and off to get the paper at around 8am.  Before I knew it, Geoff Treagus was here to have some pancakes with me and I sat for him to do a sketch on a canvas for me to paint.  He thought my pancakes were delicious and the coffee was too strong (oops on my part, I didn't read the packet... oh well, know better next time).  Well, I'm now kicking back and catching up with what online.  I'm hoping to get my butt into painting and reading again over the holidays.  How has your weekend been?  Busy?  Slow?  Or just the same stuff going on?  Until my next post, take care, stay safe and remember, I'm always here.