some seasonal books to share

A trip to the library this week surprised us with some wonderful new Christmas books, just to get us in the mood for the forthcoming festivities:

Christmas Trolls by Jan Brett :: we have read a couple of other books of hers but I had never heard of this one before. A favourite of Adrien's now, I think he particularly loved the naughty Trolls.

Kingfisher Christmas Book :: A selection of Christmas stories, poems and carols for the twelve days of Christmas. Includes classics such as The Nutcracker (one of my favourites) and The Little Fir Tree, as well as traditional stories from Scandinavia and Russia.

The Magic Sleigh by Cynthia & Brian Paterson :: Part of the Foxwood Tales. An enchanting story of woodland animals discovering Father Christmas's magic sleigh that whisks them off to his castle. Beautiful illustrations together with such a sweet tale just makes you want to jump into the book with them.

Lucy & Tom's Christmas by Shirley Hughes :: I am a big Shirley Hughes fan. I adore her nostalgic stories & illustrations that seem to represent the perfect childhood. Was not disappointed with this book.

This book, A Day on Skates by Hilda Van Stockum, I have purchased as a gift for Alex for Christmas but I couldn't resist showing a sneaky peek inside the book. Bear in mind I have not read the story yet to myself or the children so the verdict on that is still out until after Christmas, but just look at the illustrations-

I have managed to get another sewing project finished. A little tote bag with embroidered hedgehogs and toadstool on linen fabric. Lining is re purposed polka dot cotton fabric. One less Christmas gift to worry about.

Talking of handmade gifts, I am so eager to pick up my knitting needles I need to find some ideas for knitted gifts to make. Any ideas?

sewing therapy

I have not been by here in a little while because I simply haven't felt like I wanted to. The past couple of weeks have been sad and stressful; the sudden tragic death of a friend and sickness with the children which brings a lot of extra stress.

However, I have been channelling my energies to get long overdue projects completed for Adrien's birthday in a couple of weeks. The cowboy quilt which I started ages ago is finally finished. It is supposed to take on a crinkly kind of effect once washed, but unfortunately we have not had a dry day for weeks, so that will have to wait.

I have also started (but not finished yet) a bunny too from this pattern, and a birthday crown for him.