Rhubarb & Elderflowers - a sweet treat!

After my delicious Elderflower Cordial last year I was unable to buy the Citric Acid that I needed to make it again (it seems that everyone's making it this year!!!), so I had to search for new and exciting ways to use the sweet-smelling flowers.

I have a fantastic book called 'From Mother to Daughter' which has some simple ideas for country living, including a recipe for Rhubarb & Elderflower Jam.

This was perfect, as whilst the elderflowers were blooming along the hedgerows around us our farm box also arrived with freshly picked rhubarb!

This jam is superb, especially on warmed scones and cream!!

What a treat!

I love Bread and Jam!

I have completely fallen in love with the lovely, little dresses from Bread and Jam. I recently bought one for my daughter to wear for her 4th birthday party. Just gorgeous!

Country Living Spring Fair

I'm looking forward to visiting the Country Living Spring Fair on Friday, so if you'd like to get together for a cuppa and a chat to see how I can help your business, please let me know.

Have a great fair everyone!!

My new 'handmade' cushions!

Anyone who knows me will be more than aware that I recently became obsessed with decorating my lounge, in particular the choice of fabric for my new cushions! I'll be honest, I almost confused myself!!!

But, after choosing some wonderful fabric printed by England-based, Vanessa Arbuthnott, I got out my sewing machine and got busy making my eight new cushions!

Although I studied textiles many years ago, it had been a while since I'd started such a big project, but sewing is like riding a bike... you never forget!!!

So here they are, my beloved pride and joy!!!

Hmm, what will I make next?

Me & my scarf - made by me

It may be a beautiful, sunny morning, but it's chilly in the shed... but no need to worry I have my handmade scarf to wear and a cup of coffee to keep me warm.

Wedded bliss and beautiful cakes!

I went to the National Wedding Fair at Olympia with my sister, who owns Crafty Wedding Essentials, yesterday. We thought it would be fun to have look at what trends are coming through and all I can say is that there was lots of loveliness.

Both of us are already married, so we resisted the temptation to try on dresses, and instead took a great interest in the cakes and gorgeous trimmings.

Here are just a few photos. If in the meantime you're planning your wedding and designing your own stationery, please visit my sister's Facebook page.

Happy planning!

Time to get crafting!

One of my new year's resolutions has been to make more time for crafts as up until now it just hasn't happened.

So after being inspired by all things Allsopp and this fabulous website www.grannyknits.co.uk I'm getting ready to knit, sew and hopefully cross-stitch.

And how am I going to find the time?

Well, some friends and I have decided to meet on a regular basis for 'Make and Be Merry' evenings, which will no doubt involve something refreshing to drink too - even if it's just a cup of tea!

Wish me luck!