tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86310827017399190322024-03-13T23:06:59.314-07:00Life is Peachy Creative Lifestyle: Crafts. Kitchen. Homemaking. Style Conscious. Human ConsciousAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-10882009891388654322014-01-13T12:03:00.001-08:002014-01-13T12:03:42.761-08:00Hello Frugally Peachy....<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Hi there...oooh you made it here...but I've sorta left! You can find me blogging all my creativity, money-saving, consumer psychological-ly life over at <a href="http://www.frugallypeachy.co.uk/">Frugally Peachy </a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">2014 is the year I say goodbye to High Street shopping and hone my creativity to make a fabulous life with a handmade price tag! Why not come and join me???</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Looking forward to seeing you... x</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-13290291141412554482013-12-24T03:25:00.000-08:002013-12-24T03:25:02.362-08:00Merry Christmas!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I just wanted to say a huge Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of you who have read my blog and supported Life is Peachy, since its conception in June. 2013 has been one of the best, most topsy turvy years of my life - with the arrival of Little D and a huge lifestyle change for us all!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I've met some amazing small businesses, fellow bloggers and wonderful people and Life is Peachy has become more of a success than I could have imagined. I have loved challenging myself in the creative departments, setting up #CraftBlogClub for fellow crafty-minded tweeples and I hope I've created something interesting for you all to read! It's been such a pleasure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I've learnt so much from setting up Life is Peachy, but over the past few weeks I've been putting together an idea for a new blog - based on my Frugally Fabulous Year Challenge. I feel I've done all I can with LIP, but my new venture Frugally Peachy, launches in January and promises to be a creative haven for people whose tastes veer less to the consumerist. I hope you'll join me as I sack off the high street, in favour of developing my creativity and honing those upcycling, charity-shop rummaging skills for the Frugally Fabulous Year! I'm excited to share my ideas and projects with you - it's a new direction for my blog, but the same old love for a handmade lifestyle!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">There isn't much more to say at this stage - other than look out for the link to my new and exciting venture AND, of course, wishing you a very Merry Christmas indeed!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Lots of love and Stay Crafty </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Big E, Little D and all at Peachy HQ! </span>X<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-10767791784104100432013-12-24T03:24:00.001-08:002013-12-24T03:24:10.724-08:00Review: Forever Living Aloe Cosmetics<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In recent years, I've become increasingly interested in using environmentally-friendly cosmetics. It must be something to do with almost the tipping the 30-point, but I'm always on the look out for cosmetics and brands that are non-abrasive on both the skin AND the environment!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So I was really excited to receive some products from <a href="http://www.simplyforeverliving.com/">Forever Living</a> who, founded in 1978, are the largest grower and manufacturer of aloe vera and beehive products in the world. Just taking a look at their website, they offer a whole range of products, from make-up, skincare and aromatherapy to supplements and products for your wellbeing. Their aloe vera products all fall under the seal of approval from the International Aloe Science Council and their products are all grown using ecologically responsible procedures, that keep the aloe gel as pure as possible; from the leaf to the body. Even before trialling the products, I knew I was in safe hands.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I received some great skincare products to try, as well as some aloe shampoo and toothgel - which promised whitening without the use of bleaching products. Now for someone who guzzles as much tea as I do, this was potentially the Godsend I'd been dreaming of. I was intrigued and excited to try all the products, but the toothgel was the first I tried. The gel itself had a familiar toothpaste-mint taste and really freshened as a 'normal' fluoride toothpaste would. I didn't see any immediate whitening effects, but I would definitely be willing to swap my regular paste, for this one.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I received some great skincare products from Forever Living, also, in my little selection. The moisturisers left my skin feeling really soft and I loved the 'freshly scrubbed' feeling it gave me. Unlike other skin products, the fragrance is pretty 'natural' and unperfumed, but I felt really fresh and healthy using these products and, whilst I'm very lucky with my skin hardly ever reacting unfavourably to products; I felt as if I was doing my skin some good using natural products. The Aloe Vera Gelly, which you apply once you have cleansed, is a great product for sensitive skin and particularly recommended for conditions such as ezcema and psoriasis. The gelly felt like an incredibly soft lubricant on my skin and was probably my stand out product of the ones I tried. In my eyes, you can't beat a good moisturiser!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Overall, my trial of some of the Forever Living products on sale really heightened my interest in looking into more of the available range. I loved the natural feeling of each product and, with issues such as chemicals, pesticide interference and, of course, animal-testing high on the tackling agenda in the beauty industry, it was lovely to work with a brand that is cruelty-free and quality-assured. I was really impressed with each product and would be keen to use each one on a more permanent basis. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A huge thank you to Nicola from Forever Living - who sent the products and who provided such great information about the company. If you want to know more, why not check out the <a href="http://www.simplyforeverliving.com/">Website</a> for yourself and treat yourself to some wonderful products for a healthier you in 2014? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Disclaimer: I was sent these Forever Living products to review for the purpose of this blog post, but all views and opinions are my own and are unbiased.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-67141303095722914032013-12-22T15:40:00.002-08:002013-12-22T15:45:26.831-08:00#CraftBlogClub: Christmas Secret Santa Challenge<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well patience really is a virtue! I can't tell you how busy I've been throughout December; gnome-ing, present-ing, generally tearing my hair out and driving the little one away from things she shouldn't touch/eat/look at. It's been absolutely lovely but, as I'm sure everyone else has felt, December has run away with me and I'm now sat here, 3 days before Christmas, slightly disappointed at the lack of Christmas baking I've managed to do this year - but thankful for everything I HAVE managed to do!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I ran #CraftBlogClub pretty much every week throughout December - though everyone seemed to be rushed off their feet with work and projects (us crafty types like to put a lot on ourselves this time of year, don't we)?! We talked a little about moving #CraftBlogClub forward and I'm so excited to start putting things in place - we have such a lovely community and I can't wait to see what 2014 brings for us all! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In the meantime, I just HAD to share with you, the lovely gift I received from my Secret Santa! The absolutely gorgeous Tamsyn from <a href="http://tamsynmorgans.blogspot.co.uk/">The Villa On Mount Pleasant</a> was my Crafty Secret Buddy and I was OVER THE MOON to receive this absolutely gorgeous bag, complete with personalised tag! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If you're not familiar with Tamsyn's blog, I strongly suggest you take a look at her innately gorgeous style, her taste for vintage and her eye for upcycling. My lovely bag has all the stampings of Tamsyn's gorgeous work; I love the pastel colours she uses and I can't wait to traipse off for a cheeky coffee and a book-read with my lovely new bag! Thank you so much - I hope my Secret Santa gift is as much loved as mine is! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Have you received your #CraftBlogClub Secret Santa gift yet? Why not link up your post below - I have really enjoyed hearing about some of the lovely crafty gifts that people have received and would love to share them with my readers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Here's hoping everyone has a wonderful Christmas!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Stay Crafty!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">E x </span>
Come Join Us
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<!-- end LinkyTools script -->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-19031785127180821392013-12-09T01:00:00.002-08:002013-12-09T01:00:45.839-08:00Exciting Announcement: Midlands Bloggers Meet Up!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well I'm making a brief return from my gnome-induced hiatus to tell you about a little meet-up I am organising with the fabulous Kelly from <a href="http://tobecomemum.blogspot.co.uk/">To Become Mum</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Last month, I responded to one of Kelly's tweets asking about a blog meet up for Midlands Lifestyle and Mummy Bloggers, as this was something I had been on the look out for. Well in true Emma-fashion, we decided to mastermind a meet-up ourselves AND I am proud to introduce the Midlands Bloggers Meet Up, which will be happening on <b>Saturday February 22nd 2014</b>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy19jqFwBZzYmZ2g0Kmj7_pMFpH6HCksZwqH5VfxVqXIOybjRplSFGmDV7s742eVy1srW4eMP3jzurFcChDBF3TqPKG_mYWh5BOG7uWn6s2dRrTXWwjYTe_Ei633HpkDMcR-M_TtGQN1ES/s1600/blogger-image-1904540230.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy19jqFwBZzYmZ2g0Kmj7_pMFpH6HCksZwqH5VfxVqXIOybjRplSFGmDV7s742eVy1srW4eMP3jzurFcChDBF3TqPKG_mYWh5BOG7uWn6s2dRrTXWwjYTe_Ei633HpkDMcR-M_TtGQN1ES/s400/blogger-image-1904540230.jpg" width="400" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The finer details are still to be confirmed, but it will take place in <b>Nottingham </b>and we will be updating attendees nearer the time. The meet up will run from<b> 11-3pm</b> and will be a wonderful chance to meet other bloggers, enjoy a few treats and share ideas and discussions. You are welcome bring your baby or come alone, we are working on a suitable event that will cater for lots of us and will be child-friendly also.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">There will be goody bags for all attendees - so if you are reading this and are a fabulous Midlands-based brand, or know one who might want to get involved, we would love to have you on board!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If you would like to attend our meet up, please email either Kelly or myself to confirm and we will keep you updated with further info. We are also using the hashtag <b>#midsblogmeet </b>on Twitter and would LOVE you to share this event with your followers - the more the merrier!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It will be a lovely way to make new friends and something to look forward to in the New Year, Kelly and I are hoping to put on a fantastic event and if you are Midlands-based, you'd be mad to miss out! What are you waiting for? Give myself (missemmaberry@gmail.com) or Kelly (tobecomemum@gmail.com) an email and reserve your place now! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We look forward to seeing you in February!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">x </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-38441119807681822013-11-19T15:51:00.002-08:002013-11-19T15:51:59.305-08:00NaBloPoNO - A Little Ode to Blogger Burnout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So, I've been a little off grid recently, I'm sorry! I hope this post goes some way to explain why. When I decided to take on the #NaBloPoMo challenge, throughout November, I was excited to see if it would reignite some fresh ideas and exciting challenges for Life is Peachy. Bloggers across the world enjoy taking part in a month long challenge of posting a blog everyday - aided by set prompts or using their own ideas. Why not join in the fun? So thought I...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In truth, I am in awe of anyone who can post on their blog every day! I set about scheduling posts, following prompts and eager to write new and exciting posts about me. I hope you've enjoyed reading little tidbits about my life, my past and my Bucket List! But, whilst I think the spirit of the challenge is wonderful - I don't feel I can carry it on.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm writing this at the end of a very difficult week. There have been very late nights, very early mornings, lots of knitting deadlines and a case of mild conjunctivitis for Little D which, as any parent will know, is most distressing. So, perhaps, it wasn't really great timing to be throwing myself into posting every day - but then again, when is there ever a good time to do it? I'm forever trying to catch up with emails, research, crafts, #CraftBlogClub, orders, Little D, Mr Peachy and, somewhere in there, a little bit of 'me' time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Then again, I think perhaps partaking in this challenge has made me accept the very real existence of Blogger Burnout. It is real, it is out there and I've finally had to accept that no person is capable of running a blog 365 days a year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm a list maker, an organiser, a forward-planner and I get incredibly excited about new ideas and projects to start. It's been a real eye-opener of a year, having to adjust to the wondrous unpredictability of a baby; so dealing with day to day tasks can be somewhat testing. And when I didn't quite get that scheduled daily post out on time, or didn't have something planned for the following day - I started to panic. Which took the fun out of my blog. I worried that people would stop reading, I worried that my content wasn't as engaging as it should be, muted amongst other topics that I wouldn't perhaps have chosen to write about. Then I worried that my worrying was coming across on my blog. Then I stopped and had a sudden epiphany - who and what was I really writing this blog for??</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">For those of you who have read my blog from the start, Life is Peachy was originally set up to encourage and inspire new parents with finding their identities. I feel so strongly about this and have forged my way into my new role as 'Mummy' whilst keeping an alarming amount of my own personality intact (alarming, only, as I was assured this wouldn't happen)! But, it seems, in the 6 short months that I've been religiously writing this blog, it has grown and developed at such a pace, that I almost feel it is time to acknowledge a new direction and re-vamp my entire little web space to accommodate for something new.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXO0xPjWpn3gKJ0oiMjISagxcZaPC2f2le4ezg8M2HtLZi9mhvHHlASKOXmbg_TNMheuvhOBul5F94t6sdnoqVI7NsjaZ8u2E7FhxchGt9VtogOVTVIvY70Cw0IJwZ_rt9CRExAQEBZ9Dg/s1600/IMG_20131110_212501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXO0xPjWpn3gKJ0oiMjISagxcZaPC2f2le4ezg8M2HtLZi9mhvHHlASKOXmbg_TNMheuvhOBul5F94t6sdnoqVI7NsjaZ8u2E7FhxchGt9VtogOVTVIvY70Cw0IJwZ_rt9CRExAQEBZ9Dg/s320/IMG_20131110_212501.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm positive, always, but I'm also a worrier. I worry that I don't craft enough right now to warrant running #CraftBlogClub, I worry that I'm running out of ideas and I worry that I have so little time to dedicate to each of my little projects at the moment that I am, sadly, suffering from an incredible case of burnout. I have spent the last few days catching up with my gnomes, staying with my parents and nursing D back to fighting fit, but I can't ignore the constant whirring in my mind - when will I post this? What will become of Life is Peachy? Do I need to migrate to something newer, a clearer direction? The answer to that last one is, yes. I need to. And I want everyone who enjoys reading my blog to continue following me as I am about to undertake some big changes and focus, A LOT MORE on my Frugally Fabulous Year Challenge.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I hope you don't mind, I'm breaking all the sacred blogging rules, I'm taking a little break - just 2 weeks, to get things straight and plan ahead for Christmas and beyond. I wanted you to be the first to know this. I'll be back, brimming and beaming again - but right now I need to think, research, be brave and be innovative. And I guess, despite its difficulties, I have the wonder of #NaBloPoMo to thank for bringing it all to my attention!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Life is Peachy will return.....I look forward to seeing you then!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">E x </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-33026561690041695912013-11-14T15:12:00.001-08:002013-11-14T15:14:41.742-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 14th: The Big 30 Bucket List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">There is absolutely no use in denying that next year, 2014, I will be turning 30! T.H.I.R.T.Y. Strangely, though, I am quite looking forward to hitting the next decade. When I think back to my early twenties, I shudder at the indecisiveness and the years I spent babbling through insecurities and finding my way in the big bad world! There is something to be said for a contented nature, that really only comes with age (and some kind of strange wisdom), I hope to be even more of the person I am today when I hit my thirties.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Wistful musing aside, I thought I would write a bucket list of '30 Things to do Before I Turn 30'. I have less than one year, that really isn't very long - but when have I ever been one to turn a challenge down?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1. Finish the first draft of my <b>Novel</b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">2. Learn to <b>Dress Make</b> - one of the bigger challenges in my Frugally Fabulous Year</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">3. Feature my work in a <b>National Publication</b>!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">4. Bake an unrivalled cake for <b>Daisy's First Birthday</b>!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">5. Take up <b>driving lessons</b> - of sorts - again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">6. Take Daisy to the<b> beach</b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">7. Visit <b>Whitby</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">8. Take a trip to <b>Berlin</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">9. NAIL baking <b>Mince Pies</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">10. Complete one month of <b>Blogging Every Day</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">11. Watch<b> Doctor Zhivago</b> (it's been sat in its cellophane wrapper for over a year)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">12. Visit <b>Sheffield</b> (other than passing through, I've never stopped for a shop)!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">13. Add to my <b>Tattoo Collection</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">14. Design and make my <b>Dream Garden Space</b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">15. Organise<b> #CraftBlogClub</b> meet up</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">16. Take a <b>Family Camping Trip</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">17. Draw a <b>Self Portrait</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">18. Finally go to see <b>Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake</b> LIVE!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">19. Learn <b>Amigurumi Crochet</b>...hell, just learn to <b>Crochet</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">20. Visit the<b> Bronte House</b> in <b>Yorkshire</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">21. Collect and read the final books in <b>Anne Rice's Vampire Chronicles</b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">22. Have a <b>Vampire Marathon</b> - watch all my favourite Vamps in one day! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">23. Enter a <b>short story competition</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">24. Re-visit my old stomping grounds in <b>London</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">25. Learn to <b>Knit In The Round</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">26. Make <b>Memory Bears</b> from Daisy's first outfits</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">27. Take Daisy to <b>White Post Farm</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">28. Upcycle my first<b> BIG</b> piece of <b>Furniture</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">29. Organise a <b>Twisted Tea Party</b> for my <b>30th</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">30. Learn to make something with <b>Polymer Clay</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Have I missed anything? What's on your bucket list?? </b></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-13760742095613772792013-11-14T14:36:00.000-08:002013-11-14T14:36:22.692-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 13th: #CraftBlogClub 'Countdown to Festivities'<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well this is incredibly late going out...but here, I have a valid reason! I've been juggling some of my gnome orders with a bit of a poorly babes this week - winter truly is hitting us hard, it seems! It really is incredible what you can do with limited sleep and a lot of determination isn't it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So Tuesday night, we had a rather relaxed #CraftBlogClub chat, where I decided it was high time that we talked about THE BIG C! What with the names and addresses now officially out for our Secret Santa challenge, it's been at the forefront of our minds!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It was so lovely to see some new people joining in the tweets and we mostly chatted about our plans for homemade Christmas gifts and our 'staple' products! I'm quite accustomed to making shortbread for family and friends and I'm clearly not the only one who enjoys making yummy treats to give as gifts. We shared some amazing ideas for delicious fudge and treat hampers. It seems us crafty lot are, as ever, in a quandry with what to make, how to make and just how much we can fit in between now and the big day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So how do we manage our time??</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> Well, if you're like me, then pretty badly, it seems at times! There were some great ideas flying around - calendars and lists are always favourite, but t'is the season to be busy and at this time of the year, particularly for those crafters who run a business too, there simply are not enough hours in the week!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I think we left the conversation (which now officially runs from <b>7</b>-<b>8.30pm</b>), feeling a little festive and excited for the upcoming season! I hope you're all excited about our Secret Santa challenge and I am sorry to those who missed out - if enough people decide they want to be involved, I'm happy to pair more people up! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Right...just a quick one this week, I'm off to catch up with everything else and start planning my Secret Santa surprise!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Stay Crafty!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">E x </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-88738228793122543322013-11-12T04:25:00.001-08:002013-11-12T04:25:26.684-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 12th: Pumpkin and Pepper Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It's been a while since I posted a new recipe...so how about a nice warming recipe to use up a few ingredients in your fridge. I had a little bit of pumpkin left over from Halloween, so I decided to whip up one of Mr Peachy's favourite soup flavours - Pumpkin and Pepper.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A lovely, spicy soup that I served up with some lovely, crusty onion bread; </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Pumpkin and Pepper soup is one of the easiest recipes that uses just a few simple ingredients that you will have lying around. Soup is a great way of using up those few veggie stubs and stock that would otherwise go to waste - food waste is a huge problem faced by UK households at the moment and this is a way of making sure you are not throwing food away unnecessarily.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients (to serve 2):</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">400g Pumpkin - chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">500ml Vegetable Stock</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">4 Shallots (chopped and halved)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1 Leek (chopped)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1 Red Pepper (halved)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1 tsp Lazy Chillies/Half Fresh Red Chilli </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Salt and Pepper to taste</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Method</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Under the grill on a medium heat, place the two halves of pepper face up and cook for about 15 minutes until<b> </b>the edges are slightly blackened. Remove from the grill and place in a bowl to cool - covering the bowl with clingfilm will also keep the flavour ripe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat your shallots and leak in a bit of olive oil, cover and cook on a medium heat until softened and slightly browned. Add your pumpkin, chilli and seasoning and continue to cook for a further 2 minutes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Add your vegetable stock and bring to the boil. Cover and allow to simmer for about 20 minutes until the pumpkin is tender.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Whilst the soup mixture is simmering, cut the red peppers into small pieces and, when the soup mixture is ready, using a hand blender, add the peppers and blend until the soup is smooth with a little texture.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Serve with crusty bread and butter for a cosy, winter treat! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b> </b> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-10816350557462218382013-11-11T07:33:00.001-08:002013-11-11T07:33:24.138-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 11th: How Does Your Garden Grow?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghbymnXQUTEB7MI9r8eJyeCPrLk1jeYOeYrLSICKhThHaJcVNP5fK6X1ILaNmlLX67BTXrgpmiv2j0kyclNvX4ta4lggFFD0S21G5FOYmyUNFYwnoevavg6vMH3qpGefaLANIYDGDp8iuH/s1600/IMG_20131006_194039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghbymnXQUTEB7MI9r8eJyeCPrLk1jeYOeYrLSICKhThHaJcVNP5fK6X1ILaNmlLX67BTXrgpmiv2j0kyclNvX4ta4lggFFD0S21G5FOYmyUNFYwnoevavg6vMH3qpGefaLANIYDGDp8iuH/s400/IMG_20131006_194039.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first fruits of our labour this Summer!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So I've given myself the weekend off from #NaBloPoMo...I figured a blog a day, five days a week, was probably the best way forward. A little like full-time blogging!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Today, I thought I would share some of my ideas for growing, maintaining and keeping a garden, in a very small space!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Our little house is absolutely lovely! We moved into the terrace in September 2012 and have been extremely happy here. But, like most projects, our house is always a work in progress and there are still bare walls and unfinished works of art to be getting on with! Our garden, is something of a bugbear of mine, a cute but small and concrete space that have never looked anything other than 'pokey' to me! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This year, we have harvested our first batch of lovely homegrown tomatoes and have also started growing herbs and flowers - with some success! With winter drawing in, we are tidying up our garden, ready for the cold weather; but I've started thinking about what I'd like to do to our garden, ready for next Summer. So if you, like me, have a small garden space to work with, here are some great ideas for sprucing up a small space into a growing haven!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Plant Pot Pond</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This idea really appeals to me - a pretty, rockery style pool built inside a simple terracotta pot, with layers and greenery to give it a 'miniature pond' effect.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhZHEsdkjBtbLENW14hpbDDikxHcmV1HXZWGyDn3tFSSE8sUponB-qqmrbgCkduA3l8EhMXCXMXF0ctn1ySSaPrDPHciEHvxMIPnL1mZdUkiNDwr63Z7_HriYi5TKT1-63SXv_vaOevbw/s1600/mini+pond.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhZHEsdkjBtbLENW14hpbDDikxHcmV1HXZWGyDn3tFSSE8sUponB-qqmrbgCkduA3l8EhMXCXMXF0ctn1ySSaPrDPHciEHvxMIPnL1mZdUkiNDwr63Z7_HriYi5TKT1-63SXv_vaOevbw/s320/mini+pond.JPG" width="215" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> I'm not sure I would go as far as putting fish in there, but one or two of these pond babes would sit really well in our garden space!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Hanging Bottle Garden</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I love this idea of using wall space to grow small flowers and plants, even herbs, without sacrificing ground space to move around. The bottles in this image have all been corded together and screwed in to the walls. If I were to do this, in my garden, I would most probably paint the bottles to disguise their, well, 'bottley-ness', but this is a great space saver and would look so pretty with the addition of some colourful flowers.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEmFhqb77c1qlWoCLkuHokB6Hq5uoBEyFSz_OoSyojDfewn5GXozhk1YVQWQqRCpidVVn4B2pOtLgPdqqMwI7IBCF__PYjeKDYsxOI_3EkU-yJcRf42zrWGADzjWozO3uMyT-vawRH7P5/s1600/bottle+hanging.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpEmFhqb77c1qlWoCLkuHokB6Hq5uoBEyFSz_OoSyojDfewn5GXozhk1YVQWQqRCpidVVn4B2pOtLgPdqqMwI7IBCF__PYjeKDYsxOI_3EkU-yJcRf42zrWGADzjWozO3uMyT-vawRH7P5/s400/bottle+hanging.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>A Window Sill Greenhouse</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As I mentioned, we have had some success growing herbs throughout the summer, most of which were grown on our kitchen window sill. They thrived in the natural light and we were able to keep them fed and watered - plus picking fresh herbs straight from the plant made for some very flavoursome sauces! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The start-up materials for growing herbs are really very small. We used old tomato trays for growing seedlings and egg boxes work really well too. If you find you have lots of herbage leftover - why not chop and separate into ice cube trays, fill with water and freeze. These are great for adding straight into sauces and prevents waste.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Upcycled Garden Furniture </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I LOVE antique garden furniture and I am always on the look out for an old garden furniture that I could restore to its former glory! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRROD3Qr2b9TKYAAsOk8i0gyA5_vLOcd9ErXj6Z-A7hCHZ88yD0BrYIuIYNbojIblVRjNKlEvkBcfnGu1_GQKp82gyXHk9oNP0he3KgFGwiBbV35Qh9yUP5lNqGeDH0KxEUu_aI6PODkDt/s1600/snow+fairy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRROD3Qr2b9TKYAAsOk8i0gyA5_vLOcd9ErXj6Z-A7hCHZ88yD0BrYIuIYNbojIblVRjNKlEvkBcfnGu1_GQKp82gyXHk9oNP0he3KgFGwiBbV35Qh9yUP5lNqGeDH0KxEUu_aI6PODkDt/s320/snow+fairy.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Right from my childhood love of films such as The Secret Garden or Moondial, I have loved antique furniture and statues and have inherited two garden statues that belonged to my Nan - this little angel sits pride of place with her broken wing in our garden!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Jam Jar Tealights</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I would love to use our garden space for entertaining and have seen some lovely ideas for jam jar tealights to light up your garden on a Summer's evening. Simply place your tealights or candles inside an empty jam jar, cover with a thin gauze or mesh and Bob's your uncle! A very cost effective way of lighting your garden space - but be careful to keep these out of the reach of children!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Just writing and researching a little about this, I'm really excited to get my garden up together next year - and we haven't even had snow yet! There are plenty of other things you can do - if you have time, simple plant pots and colourful arrangements can brighten up a dull outside space and also encourage pollination!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Do you have any hints or tips for a small outside space? I can't wait to get started!</b></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-39112991310380280892013-11-07T23:12:00.000-08:002013-11-08T00:10:50.358-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 8th: A Picture Says A Thousand Words...<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We are nearly one whole week into the #NaBloPoMo challenge - to blog every day throughout November - and I'm already surprised at how much I've shared using some lovely prompts from BlogHer and the lovely Vonnie over at <a href="http://nowtspecial.wordpress.com/">Nowt Special.</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Today's prompt has been no different - to write about your picture on your 'About Me' PIcture.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBrDidcl339_Fn-mIQUYuStts_aypxYtTYBxvqqWo544Sn5FD1sc4iqk7mNuvkLBlG4dOQiGhz0OPY9a5MYOStxkjdL6KGz7g_KEuBN2XvJSrG_t8RjHl7_YBlX0Vpdi3WFfObrRXqCS5/s1600/IMG_20130823_181326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBrDidcl339_Fn-mIQUYuStts_aypxYtTYBxvqqWo544Sn5FD1sc4iqk7mNuvkLBlG4dOQiGhz0OPY9a5MYOStxkjdL6KGz7g_KEuBN2XvJSrG_t8RjHl7_YBlX0Vpdi3WFfObrRXqCS5/s400/IMG_20130823_181326.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This photo was taken back in August, just before I headed out for an incredibly rare night out with one of my best friends. It was the first night out I had had alone since Daisy had been born and I was going to the cinema to see What Maisie Knew; a film I had been ridiculously excited to see for months. I chose the photo as I think it's a pretty clear representation of me, my style and one of the rare photos I genuinely quite like! It was a turning point for me and my blog, I had dreamt up a whole bunch of new blog projects, including the early stages of The Frugally Fabulous Year AND I was giving this lovely old Whistles blouse it's first post-pregnancy outing! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Positive Image</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I love uploading the odd picture of me and Little D onto my blog and, like most mums out there, I take endless photos of each outfit she wears and each change she makes, but as my blog has developed over the last few months</span>, <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have realised the importance of showing more of 'me' than of 'us' - to reflect the 'lifestyle' nature of my blog, rather than the fact that I'm a parent. Gorgeous as she is...of course! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3AGFCxIct9UpbfA1C2_CKsBUaCt1R8bAUIxsFwW68VKVb4zoisY6VdxEFMHovW-Mp0bhoGRP2rdpcHBWxjIBzP6opdEv6FdGmlB3tjANqLqqNqZSYQAlwvp8W9CPxJZZGw4wug-1LH5p/s1600/daisy+and+me+funny.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3AGFCxIct9UpbfA1C2_CKsBUaCt1R8bAUIxsFwW68VKVb4zoisY6VdxEFMHovW-Mp0bhoGRP2rdpcHBWxjIBzP6opdEv6FdGmlB3tjANqLqqNqZSYQAlwvp8W9CPxJZZGw4wug-1LH5p/s320/daisy+and+me+funny.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I like to think my readers can absorb themselves in my fashion and craft posts and get a glimpse of my life, my interests and my inspiration. I guess I could be seen as confident, lots of people have said they wouldn't have the guts to 'pull off' my style. I can't really be any other way - Mum or not, I don't care enough about what other people think and I'm not so much confident as positive; I believe in learning to see the very best in your beautiful self, without comparison. As a Mum to a daughter too, I feel I have a moral responsibility to set an example of strength and positivity when it comes to body image.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The truth is, like pretty much everyone else who has ever given birth, I have found it hard to get used to a new body and a new way of thinking - something I've talked about in my <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/outfit-post-ditching-jeans.html">Ditching The Jeans</a> post and in a guest blog I did for <a href="http://www.vintageshopper.com/vintage-hoarder-seeks-post-pregnancy-wardrobe/">Vintage Shopper</a>. My post-pregnancy body isn't quite shrinking back as quickly as I would like and my post-pregnancy 'treat outfit' (a 1960s vintage leather pencil skirt) is sat, gathering dust in my wardrobe. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOK3r5029DS8oUshtdVlfAc4Q2MY2_rEAWLweN-EYP91FaFvgJcT1GRctJrlnSJ76lwicGDi_X_K4Xh9bRwvqskiUC_S6fmu9Uqj8ZUPYir2LdkXFUH3xvRM43pJtd2tOyZYmAKnoFO4ES/s1600/pregnant+wednesday+addams.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOK3r5029DS8oUshtdVlfAc4Q2MY2_rEAWLweN-EYP91FaFvgJcT1GRctJrlnSJ76lwicGDi_X_K4Xh9bRwvqskiUC_S6fmu9Uqj8ZUPYir2LdkXFUH3xvRM43pJtd2tOyZYmAKnoFO4ES/s320/pregnant+wednesday+addams.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Those last few days...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I eat well, I walk pretty much everywhere with the pram and I'm desperate to get back into an exercise regime, that my lifestyle doesn't allow for right now. So why beat myself up? Hey, there is a big reason I stopped buying women's magazines - it's because the fairer sex are, indeed, not always fair at all.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Why Be Positive, When You Could Be Normal?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In an article in the <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2013/nov/03/thigh-gap-pressure-point-women-self-esteem?CMP=fb_gu">Guardian</a><b> </b>recently, one writer discussed yet another epidemic sweeping the nation - a new obsession with the 'thigh gap' and the absurd suggestion that there should be one. 24 year old model, Robyn Lawley, graced the coveted cover of Vogue magazine, only to be condemned through various social media sites, for not having a 'thigh gap' to speak of. So why, after years and years of mixed messages in the media and new 'imperfect' body parts to be paranoid about, from muffin tops to cankles, are we STILL turning on each other?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We know that airbrushing exists, we know that even the world's most beautiful, most esteemed females have off days and spots and yet, there still seems to be enough put-downs and imaginary beauty standards that all women MUST adhere to. Nowa days, it's the norm to be bombarded with 'picture-perfect' photo sets and red circles of doom, adorning the hundred of magazines available to us. It is normal to see most girls under the age of 18 try and copycat the styles of oversexed, under-stimulating pop stars and it is normal, somewhat sadly, to look for imperfection in everyday beauty.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">But it shouldn't be.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Life is Peachy is my haven to showcase who I am, what I do and what I believe in. I don't believe that women should compare themselves to plastic, processed images any more than I believe Miley Cyrus is flying the flag for modern-day feminism. I want to reach a goal weight for ME, to wear my precious vintage skirt for ME, to dress to suit my shape and size for ME and I don't want to be forced to conform to unrealistic 'ideals'. I choose to look, dress and feel the way that I do, because I have spent far too much time worrying about the size of my arms, my straight eyelashes and God only knows what else. I choose to be positive about how I look, in the hope that I can inspire others to feel the same about themselves, whether carrying a little extra baby weight or not. My body isn't the body it was, but it's the body that I'm in for now and I want to be positive about it, even if it takes a little longer to push the 'publish' button on those selfies! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh9Q2SoOzZDtem2cKThmPxi7PzsUG1kFdlJISaoGUb_KjNLayWy2ia6zRQQWumI6CaPjsKR3QjiOg6cgFzarHq86bSP5prFKkUxOg_BtoHT3tJBhk2q3mopHQUX0ubtFsakgQL74m6cFn1/s1600/me+blue+dress.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh9Q2SoOzZDtem2cKThmPxi7PzsUG1kFdlJISaoGUb_KjNLayWy2ia6zRQQWumI6CaPjsKR3QjiOg6cgFzarHq86bSP5prFKkUxOg_BtoHT3tJBhk2q3mopHQUX0ubtFsakgQL74m6cFn1/s320/me+blue+dress.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b> </b> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-43872138052927537992013-11-07T08:40:00.001-08:002013-11-07T08:40:33.602-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 7th: Social Media Trollhunters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirPnE73vRLpYNR-P15XI882Z-bNDGkdvAP69HqAcenAHFhzUX5Ephrp5tlQbXqp4JWsSaNGG9by2FDbYnX0uUB8egw6SNbh2qDAMTFylh-9UuGxFXE9jI0HMYggw50sxSnZ1WDgA7R3TdD/s1600/IMG_20130811_222351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirPnE73vRLpYNR-P15XI882Z-bNDGkdvAP69HqAcenAHFhzUX5Ephrp5tlQbXqp4JWsSaNGG9by2FDbYnX0uUB8egw6SNbh2qDAMTFylh-9UuGxFXE9jI0HMYggw50sxSnZ1WDgA7R3TdD/s320/IMG_20130811_222351.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I wasn't going to use today's prompt, about how much you share on social media, but I decided to share an experience that completely rocked me last week!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I've always considered myself a very positive and happy person, which translates to my blog, I love writing Life is Peachy and I'm particularly proud of my latest project; The Frugally Fabulous Year. But, last Monday, I was the victim of my first trolling incident. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Having had some amazing responses about my new project, in which I have resolved to stop buying clothes from high street stores for one year for both financial AND ethical reasons, I sought out some other sharing sites to really hone my message to the 'masses'. I've had some lovely feedback from fellow bloggers and followers, even people who want to join in themselves. Raising awareness of ethical shopping is something I feel very strongly about, it wasn't easy to write a rounded, consistent, non-ranty post that stated my reasons behind setting up the challenge, but I was pleased with the outcome and, as any blogger knows, the comments and reactions were even better!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">To try and further my reach with The Frugally Fabulous Year, I decided to share the link on Reddit; a site that allows you to share posts and articles. Having not shared anything on this site before, I wasn't sure what to expect, but it's safe to say I got much more than I bargained for! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQP6p1eq3bsnRmVMoabBfnVkcJs174WlI-tERHDIPQLZT38VGVPqRIK2ZbLqfDJKAl7yNTBo7iTQiBiONB9qNf_twFxb-dIBCS2EkaI6dAOvl19W5iKgw3baV6bIP8SLjM6j2RCuaj1Fc/s1600/IMG_20131008_233807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQP6p1eq3bsnRmVMoabBfnVkcJs174WlI-tERHDIPQLZT38VGVPqRIK2ZbLqfDJKAl7yNTBo7iTQiBiONB9qNf_twFxb-dIBCS2EkaI6dAOvl19W5iKgw3baV6bIP8SLjM6j2RCuaj1Fc/s320/IMG_20131008_233807.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Within one hour of posting my blog post I was surprised to check my stats, to see that I had already received lots of referrals from Reddit. Even better than that, when I signed in to the site, I had 3 comments waiting for me! Sadly, unlike the positive and empowering comments I have been used to from my lovely readers; these were nasty, belittling and picked apart just about every aspect of my project.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I was accused of being pointless, endlessly ranting about sweatshops, didn't understand the meaning of the word 'frugal' and had not considered that not buying from high street stores would have the same impact as buying from them (say, what?). In hindsight, I think it was highly unlikely that these people had even read the post further than the first paragraph. I responded to the two culprits in a polite manner, but was met with belittling replies, simply suggesting that, as middle aged men, they were over the 'fashion phase' and didn't need to prove a point like I seemed to. These trollers had entirely missed the point of my post. Not only that, why were two middle-aged keyboard warriors so concerned with my new project, if it weren't something they were interested in?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The thing I was most angry with, was how I had allowed these thoughtless men to make me feel. I lost a lot of confidence in what I had written and how I felt about my work AND it was instilled by two people who were not regular readers or even in my supposed target audience. I would never choose to write mindless comments on a blog or article that didn't interest me; I think it is unproductive to fill someone else's blog with negativity, even if you don't share their opinion. I'm all for freedom of speech, found in the brilliance of blogging, of all places, but petty comments do nothing to help or encourage someone, who puts their heart into their writing and, in my case, simply wants to raise awareness, create interesting and inspiring posts and learn something along the way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thank God for wonderful friends and followers is all I can really say - not one to want to put a dampener on anyone's day, I took my frustration out on Twitter - only to be met with some lovely and encouraging messages. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEUisLyHgUDEzC2UOi4GKFDM5YDwJXoBeXz4_DqNSmuKMfmUDV5Mp8lp1_im41gc1sgljUsYv1Fa11_VAWsgxOWFhmU72NOxb3fuZ5D6w99M7b10G1Vwm16ESCQYogB-erHs-5NW9HK0Dz/s1600/IMG_20130814_110155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEUisLyHgUDEzC2UOi4GKFDM5YDwJXoBeXz4_DqNSmuKMfmUDV5Mp8lp1_im41gc1sgljUsYv1Fa11_VAWsgxOWFhmU72NOxb3fuZ5D6w99M7b10G1Vwm16ESCQYogB-erHs-5NW9HK0Dz/s320/IMG_20130814_110155.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> The more I delved into it, the more I found that there seems to be a lot of hatred for bloggers right now - we have to stick together. Bloggers are, as Martha Stewart reportedly said last week, often uneducated in what they are writing about. But, we are so much more than that - we have the freedom to write what we want, when we want, members of society who can help, encourage or just share an articulated opinion. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I guess I've learnt, from this rather painful experience that trolling is, sadly, part and parcel of one's decision to blog. It shouldn't be, I still think my project is a good idea, I still think I've thought about it and produced a well-rounded reason for wanting to raise this awareness and I very much doubt that this will be the last time I'm on the receiving end of something like this. Slowly, but surely, my confidence is coming back, I even look at it as a test for later, something to toughen me up when I'm putting my novel out there!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I suppose as the lovely Dita Von Teese once said, 'you can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, but there will still be someone who doesn't like peaches.' Never has this made more sense to me than now - and I'm determined to carry on with my Peachy Life, leaving the trolls where they belong - lost under a bridge! </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-66475640389973594722013-11-06T07:27:00.002-08:002013-11-06T07:27:34.981-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 6th: GreenEarth, A Greener Look at Dry Cleaning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Today, I thought I would share a little post on an exciting development in the world of...dry cleaning!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I was recently contacted about a new national campaign from Johnsons, The Dry Cleaners. Recently, Johnsons have launched a new dry cleaning service called GreenEarth, which is both innovative in its technology and much kinder to the environment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As one of the best known dry cleaning companies UK, Johnsons provides a one-stop shop for dry cleaning and clothing maintenance needs; but they are also a founding member of the latest dry cleaning campaign, GreenEarth, and are the only national dry cleaning company that is licensed to offer the GreenEarth technology in its stores across the UK. The technology, a process that uses a bi-product of sand that doesn't chemically interact with fabrics, is not only greener and safer for the environment, it is also proven to be softer and kinder on skin and clothes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I was really excited to hear about this new technology, which is available for consumers to use RIGHT NOW! Dry cleaning has always been something of a concern for me, as the harsh chemicals used to dry clean clothes, are harmful to the environment and can also be tough on the clothes themselves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm lucky to own some beautiful garments, which I have preciously maintained and looked after since my days in fashion retail. I believe in keeping these items in mint condition - which often comes with a hefty dry cleaning bill! Through experimentation, Johnsons have discovered that the new GreenEarth process has proven to keep clothes looking newer for much longer, with little abrasion to other components such as zips and buttons. Not only that, but GreenEarth technology breaks down into natural elements if released into the environment which, in turn, makes it much safer for the environment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Recent trend research, commissioned by Johnsons, has suggested that consumers are, thankfully, changing the way in which they buy their clothes - research that has really interested me, specifically since the launch of my <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/peachy-challenge-frugally-fabulous-year.html">Frugally Fabulous Year Challenge</a>. It seems that, in light of tough economic times and with less disposable income, more and more people are beginning to put their hard earned cash into higher priced, classic clothing that will stand the test of time, as opposed to fast fashion pieces that will, no doubt, be thrown out in a matter of months. With more expensive fabrics, the need to maintain and care for them can often mean more trips to the dry cleaners - which is why Johnsons are so pleased to be able to offer a service such as GreenEarth that supports this change in consumer behaviour, emphasising the importance of durability and sustainability in their wardrobes; whilst not compromising our environment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Why not drop in your local Johnsons to test out the new service and do something for the environment today? Your clothes may just thank you for it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Disclaimer</b>: I am not affiliated with Johnsons and have not been paid for this post. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-57225098606056430672013-11-05T14:19:00.002-08:002013-11-05T14:19:21.312-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 5th: #CraftBlogClub The Big Pricing Debate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So, for those of you who are new to Life is Peachy, each week I run #CraftBlogClub on Twitter; a twitter chat hour for craft bloggers and lovers of craft to talk about all things, well, craft and blogging!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This week, we stepped slightly out of our #CraftBlogClub comfort zone and, for the first time, started to discuss the difficult subject of pricing your crafty work and, more importantly valuing your time!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I think tonight's #CraftBlogClub crew will agree this was definitely a more difficult topic to discuss - not least a difficult thing to work out, when taking the leap from hobby crafter to professional crafts purveyor! As usual though, we had some amazing advice and tips and I've pulled together just a few for you here!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>1. Do Not Underestimate Your Skill As A Crafter: </b>The first issue we came across during our Twitter chat, was the issue we all have in believing in ourselves, our talents and our ability to produce something really special for a potential customer. I can completely empathise with this sentiment BUT, if you do decide to make the leap from hobbyist to professional, you have to believe in what you are creating and your skills, before you learn to charge fairly and accordingly for your crafting and your time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>2. Work Out A Daily Rate: </b>Are you charging per hour? Are you charging for a few hours work? Whether you're providing workshops like <a href="http://giftfrippery.co.uk/">Gift Frippery's</a> wrapping wonders or selling by the product; it is advisable to work out what your ideal daily rate would be and then use this as a pointer for working out your charges. This will give you a great idea of what you can charge per hour for workshop services etc, whilst an hourly rate will help you to decide what to charge for individual products. This is, undoubtedly, one of the hardest things to do, but the lovely Anthea who sells her lovely products on Folksy, under the name <a href="https://beta.folksy.com/shops/ForestFlower">Forest Flower</a> , reiterated the importance of working out a daily rate for yourself and STICKING TO IT!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>3. Do Not Allow Your Work To Be Undervalued: </b>Your work is representative of hours of hard work, sourcing materials and fabrics and painstakingly creating something individual and special for your customers. The handmade arena can be so hard, with craft merchants battling against the cheap and cheerful wonders of the High Street. It may be difficult at times, but you must never allow your work to be undervalued by potential customers who don't want to pay for something unique. It seems a fairly obvious point, but this can be one of the hardest hurdles to overcome in the crafting world. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> I experienced this quite a bit in my previous life in the professional baking industry and it can be really tough to convey how much time, effort, blood, sweat and tears goes into each handmade item. But stay strong, do not work below your asking price and be sure to regularly review your prices versus your costs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>4. If In Doubt, Aim High: </b>Verity, furniture upcycler and glue-queen over at <a href="http://www.rascalandroses.blogspot.co.uk/">Rascal and Roses</a> put forward an ingenious idea her husband suggested. If you struggle to decide on a price, why not aim high and charge more than you planned - the price is not ridiculous if you can find a customer who is willing to purchase it. A strong, if slightly risky idea, which raises the point of finding the right market for your product and the amount it really is worth!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As ever - thank you for sharing your thoughts tonight, I think we have managed to discuss a tricky subject and if you have any more topics you would like to suggest, please drop me an email or a tweet over at @LivePeachy - I would love to hear from you!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>In Other News...</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We have had a couple of call outs for crafty types who might be able to knit or crochet some display items for newborn babies. Are you interested? Could you put something together? Please let me know and I'll forward your details for more information!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Claire from <a href="http://www.gisforgingers.com/">G is for Gingers</a> is also on the look out for people who craft parts for doll houses - why not check out her blog and let her know if you can help?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And finally...last week I launched our latest #CraftBlogClub challenge! A Secret Santa that will run over November and December - all the details are at bottom of <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/craftblogclub-halloween-challenge.html">last week's post</a> and there is still time to get involved! If you would like to take part, please email me at missemmaberry@gmail.com with your name and postal address - I have had lots of entries already and I am planning to get everyone's Secret Santas sent out to them by the end of this coming weekend! So you have until then to enter, if you have not yet emailed!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thanks again for this week's chat - it was lovely to tackle something a little meatier and I hope you all enjoyed taking part - as ever I love hearing your feedback!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Stay Crafty!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-38926906586781286152013-11-04T01:07:00.000-08:002013-11-04T01:07:01.073-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 4th: Hello Winter!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Winter, despite its unpredictable weather and turn of bad bugs tearing around the place, is my absolute favourite time of year. As you can probably guess from my photos, I'm no sun-worshipper, for me, there is nothing better than cosying up on the sofa with a spicy chai latte, or taking trudging walks through the snow. I have always loved Winter and, of course, Christmas, and this year I am really looking forward to the holiday season; as it's my first with Miss D AND for the first time in about ten years, I won't be at work for it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So what does November hold for me at Life is Peachy towers this month...</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">You Used To Be My Gnomeo.... </span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This month sees the final batch of my handmade knitted gnomes going out to their new homes, ready to see in the festive season, Swedish Yuletide style! I have been so overwhelmed with the response to these little guys and I'm looking forward to making more in the future. November will also see me start to finalise and make some more products ready to launch, finally, Peach and Daisy, my craft store. Expect traditional gifts with a twist, a nod to the gothic, the macabre and the cute! Watch this space for more information!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Frugally Fabulous Festivities</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Having spent the last few months, scouting out some projects to make for Christmas presents, I'm planning to handmake many of my Christmas presents for </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">family and friend-folk this year - and I plan to share some of my successes on my Creative Fridays! This month I am really hoping to get to grips with my sewing machine! Wish me luck!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Music for the Soul</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I don't know about you, but I go through phases with my music collection - catching up with old and forgotten CDs is something I love to do and if I'm not finding new and exciting music to listen to,<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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you'll find me going Mad about Marilyn Manson, Loving Lana or Dotty for Duran Duran. This month, I've really stripped back my listening pleasure and I've become pretty obsessed with 'The King' himself, the gorgeous Mr Elvis Presley. There is something so soothing about his slower numbers - there is nothing quite like the beauty of 'Love Me Tender' played against the sounds of battering wind and rain against your window! Elvis, this month, you are Always On My Mind!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>Winter Wardrobe</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As usual, I'm dazzled by gorgeous winter jewel colours (which sit so well with my penchant for black) and I have some great staple pieces that come out each and every year. I'm looking forward to sharing these with you in an upcoming post</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">, as I prepare to NOT spend any money for The Frugally Fabulous Year!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Aside from taking part in the #NaBloPoMo challenge, I want to slow down a little and see out the end of the year with Little D. Christmas is always such a special time for our family and, this year, I plan to really enjoy every moment of it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>A Handlebar Boyfriend...</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">For the first time, my OH has decided to enter the world of Movember! I'm quite excited about this - partly because I've always said facial hair would suit him AND it's all for a great cause! Why not check out his progress <a href="http://uk.movember.com/mospace/8160801">HERE</a><b> </b>I shall be donating to change the face of men's health this month, will you?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>This Month You Might Well Find Me...</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Curled up with a chai latte, hopefully dipping into 'The Ghost Hunters', a fantastic debut novel from Neil Spring, which centres around the legendary paranormal investigator Harry Price and his investigation of the infamous Borley Rectory.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvZwqeuQ-QhC3281aHg8Wi3UK9MrmPahNS0fZkyRugep_t4J6g8eUnJpyuJz00OTRycjHb1dr-fzyS8N4gDLgEi3EecbtSFspYfI3A1oeFwlSQpNoFnlOC1QGYDVipc009v7P3dK8xq1i/s1600/IMG_20131026_135848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvZwqeuQ-QhC3281aHg8Wi3UK9MrmPahNS0fZkyRugep_t4J6g8eUnJpyuJz00OTRycjHb1dr-fzyS8N4gDLgEi3EecbtSFspYfI3A1oeFwlSQpNoFnlOC1QGYDVipc009v7P3dK8xq1i/s320/IMG_20131026_135848.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have some amazing reviews coming up on the blog - I can't wait to get stuck in to my copy of The Sewing Manual by the amazing Laura Strutt (who blogs over at <a href="http://www.madepeachy.com/">Made Peachy</a>) and tell you all about it. PLUS I shall be divulging a few beauty posts over the coming weeks too, as I get to grips with some environmentally friendly cosmetics!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>You Definitely Won't Find Me...</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Complaining about the weather OR watching X Factor!! Sorry!<b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">What are you most looking forward to about November?</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-36363861242163334472013-11-03T09:26:00.000-08:002013-11-03T09:26:13.063-08:00#NaBloPoMo November 3rd: Danishes and Dracula<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well, we are onto day 3 of #NaBloPoMo and this post is VERY late today! Partly because I wasn't sure what to write about or how to interpret the prompt in pure 'Life is Peachy' style. But partly because my 8 month old is now crawling...and anyone who has a crawling baby will know, most of my day is spent removing her from areas she shouldn't be in, around things she shouldn't touch!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The lovely Vonnie over at <a href="http://nowtspecial.wordpress.com/">Nowt Special</a> set a suitably autumnal prompt about jumping in puddles or leaf piles; so I thought I would do The Week That Was Instagrammed - the first of this post theme for me and, as a great form of social media, also a HUGE guilty pleasure. I hope you enjoy!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNkhRapIKjjlynNPWvp9U_OHSRcVlMJ9Nlxfvg4o3hA1i8ZFzBhRpWUCjD8DKXEjL21LZQ4gzlsXH8UYFA6Q6ok1xI7bqlDlYPGHC9PgJlxF2RYxDowL1U9PSqyVFzdb2AjdXclk06_lEk/s1600/IMG_20131031_115413.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNkhRapIKjjlynNPWvp9U_OHSRcVlMJ9Nlxfvg4o3hA1i8ZFzBhRpWUCjD8DKXEjL21LZQ4gzlsXH8UYFA6Q6ok1xI7bqlDlYPGHC9PgJlxF2RYxDowL1U9PSqyVFzdb2AjdXclk06_lEk/s320/IMG_20131031_115413.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This week I've really noticed a lot of changes in Daisy's developments. She is now fully crawling and, with that, her interraction is getting stronger and her strong-willed nature is really starting to show through! We spent Wednesday with Daisy's Nana and Aunty Debbie and she was enthralled with the birds on show at a local garden centre!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTSFPxZuF4O6iRB_GJP9qIfSFcwt9IOdsh7fGsY11r7iyxV-BZcOEEHuOWkPY6i_sQ1G3PeleKzCjnM-OEHBNl2y9AvHZC4HOJskxRNpqzgz3yaAEB11-WsbdpmPOGRnu_3R4CLaiJHUw/s1600/IMG_20131030_144758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTSFPxZuF4O6iRB_GJP9qIfSFcwt9IOdsh7fGsY11r7iyxV-BZcOEEHuOWkPY6i_sQ1G3PeleKzCjnM-OEHBNl2y9AvHZC4HOJskxRNpqzgz3yaAEB11-WsbdpmPOGRnu_3R4CLaiJHUw/s320/IMG_20131030_144758.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEYcC4-aATH-t3jvyeREqHu0aeXBOnRzIhmeenRBsgWi8YdS7hH69ez5T1qqa3e95gevs_YvZJUmFhRJ1-wslXphgWN-z32k-P1iZ7IT8giL1LBlPW2Q3EIzXTcibPAyA4DuxNNUAHK4e/s1600/IMG_20131028_143924.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEYcC4-aATH-t3jvyeREqHu0aeXBOnRzIhmeenRBsgWi8YdS7hH69ez5T1qqa3e95gevs_YvZJUmFhRJ1-wslXphgWN-z32k-P1iZ7IT8giL1LBlPW2Q3EIzXTcibPAyA4DuxNNUAHK4e/s320/IMG_20131028_143924.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It's been a great
week for creativity too - I've been beavering away with my gnome orders
and on Monday, I made my first batch of Lamingtons, an Australian
delight made from vanilla sponge, chocolate and coconut. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> They were
gorgeous, but slipped a little too easily into the mouth too! I used a simple recipe from Fay Ripley's book - they were quick to make and take about 45 minutes in the oven to bake. They got the official seal of approval from My OH (chief-taster) and my bestie!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We also launched our Halloween projects over at #CraftBlogClub - and I introduced Lestat the Bat!</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> A little felt creature I managed to put together, with amazing help from my boyfriend - when I had to admit defeat with teaching myself crochet! </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span> There have been some amazing projects linked up this week and the link is open for another couple of days - so please join in and link your #CraftBlogClub challenges up!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfitYhByDQRAWdsai4Aia5kkdkYTGfxyGC0257qU0ysih7n0bZQFb4K3YobPCXBtobP6mgToKDtRK94nkNISV4Dm8ezWdkbkMiQqm9UoMxvBGQMsiQ5sDYVpAzXU6Q_tIqzO75AvF_hCtV/s1600/IMG_20131029_164616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfitYhByDQRAWdsai4Aia5kkdkYTGfxyGC0257qU0ysih7n0bZQFb4K3YobPCXBtobP6mgToKDtRK94nkNISV4Dm8ezWdkbkMiQqm9UoMxvBGQMsiQ5sDYVpAzXU6Q_tIqzO75AvF_hCtV/s320/IMG_20131029_164616.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lestat the Bat!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Our Halloween was quiet this year - Mr P was out playing a gig and Daisy seems a little too young for trick or treating (something I never did as a child). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We took a lovely walk to our park - it was wonderful to see the seasons changing again and I didn't dress up, though from some of the looks we got, you'd have thought I had! By the way - I'm sporting my new velvet dress - a mere 99p from eBay and a new plum lipstick purchase! A change from my staple red - but I like this darker lip for winter !<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimIBPzmvsdvmXyTi3biUpkMdUdMIlhhiTgKYnqm5i6MSqD8NiROyKlidgqu9oiUL3FeG3nqIkYSLYRc4YQd7rdB0iPbcf7DKVaAlz1RQXWjNdiUgRL4LkDS-Ri4HAEoxl-QzabjwCteYSO/s1600/IMG_20131031_111015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimIBPzmvsdvmXyTi3biUpkMdUdMIlhhiTgKYnqm5i6MSqD8NiROyKlidgqu9oiUL3FeG3nqIkYSLYRc4YQd7rdB0iPbcf7DKVaAlz1RQXWjNdiUgRL4LkDS-Ri4HAEoxl-QzabjwCteYSO/s200/IMG_20131031_111015.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
I spent the evening with my friend's Amanda's pumpkin carving, my knitting bag, some yummy pastries and even yummier
Jonathan Rhys Meyers in the new Dracula programme! I'm undecided on the
programme, as I'm a die-hard Stoker fan, but I'm willing to keep
watching - can't imagine why!!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZvqZbu-0-3LqkAMIpD6yFdk9BJbrImPbfJkrbbsmcmHGMMS9jHqx0MUKpIBopaCEFQK1z3sJnPlvlXCVGlpMjpXZsq7Z4cJdgfA8x9V_yNINPwgbNY5_UOdCjMygscuN2w0S10TKeygI/s1600/IMG_20131102_211312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZvqZbu-0-3LqkAMIpD6yFdk9BJbrImPbfJkrbbsmcmHGMMS9jHqx0MUKpIBopaCEFQK1z3sJnPlvlXCVGlpMjpXZsq7Z4cJdgfA8x9V_yNINPwgbNY5_UOdCjMygscuN2w0S10TKeygI/s400/IMG_20131102_211312.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fancy a bite, Baby?</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-19717243437939050992013-11-02T01:54:00.000-07:002013-11-02T01:54:17.282-07:00#NaBloPoMo November 2nd - Your Favourite Recipe<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If you're a regular reader of my blog, you will know that there isn't much I don't love about tinkering around in my little kitchen, concocting new recipes! I started off posting a new recipe every week but, sadly, have had less time as I have had so many other projects on the go with the blog - and otherwise!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So, today, I thought I would share two of my favourite go-to recipes, which are perfect for the chilly winter months ahead!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The first, is my recipe for <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/fridays-kitchen-change-one-thing-sugar.html">Chai Lattes</a> which I posted as part of my 'Change One Thing' recipe theme, in August. This recipe is absolutely delicious and so versatile - I used agave nectar syrup and almond milk, so the chai lattes in this recipe are both sugar and dairy free; but you can 'fatten' it up with milk and honey if you prefer! Chai Lattes are one of my absolute favourite winter treats and, controversially, I love this flavour a lot more than the coveted 'Pumpkin Spice Latte' from Starbucks. Once you have the various spices you need for this recipe, it's really cheap and easy to make - and involves absolutely no long queues!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDchXqNFiTxaW9_mr_ydlBRfqSMY13HQ8Ndo3GzhIxxHrl36R9SZfEmyRwJvmsL_rv68-0UWJwW3XiRETp4_BO6eOYLuGEHa0DLiFIE1JufBqqHXJm4drNtOpGM9Wj98DsfyNjNzJh6kk/s1600/IMG_20130912_163603.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDchXqNFiTxaW9_mr_ydlBRfqSMY13HQ8Ndo3GzhIxxHrl36R9SZfEmyRwJvmsL_rv68-0UWJwW3XiRETp4_BO6eOYLuGEHa0DLiFIE1JufBqqHXJm4drNtOpGM9Wj98DsfyNjNzJh6kk/s400/IMG_20130912_163603.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My second, is a more recent recipe for <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/fridays-kitchen-frugal-fall-pumpkin.html">Spicy Pumpkin Bread and Butter Pudding</a> which could do with a bit of blog loving! This is one of my favourite original recipes and it's perfect for when you're entertaining in the winter! A lovely dessert with spicy pumpkin, hints of orange and cranberry and lovely served warm with custard! If you have leftovers from pumpkin carving - look no further than this recipe!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Finally - I thought I would share my latest published article - a recipe for Berry and White Chocolate Ganache Cake, which I published as my 'Indulgent Winter Recipe' over on Yahoo! It's a great versatile cake, which you can add almost any berries to depending on the time of year - the ganache is great and surprisingly easy to make too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I hope you enjoy checking out my recipes and I always say - if you have a go yourself, why not head over to my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lifeispeachytales">Facebook Page</a> and upload the results? I love to see them!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm really enjoying linking up with Vonnie over at <a href="http://nowtspecial.wordpress.com/">Nowt Special</a></span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">for #NaBloMoPo (National Blog Posting Month) why not head over to check out some more lovely bloggers who are taking part?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-32692714368192619452013-11-01T01:14:00.000-07:002013-11-01T01:14:02.497-07:00#NaBloPoMo November 1st: 5 Things You Don't Know About Me...<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>#NaBloPoMo...A Little Introduction</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Hi there...If you're new to Life is Peachy...then a very warm welcome to you indeed! Here at LIP HQ, we are all about lifestyle - crafting, trying new things, frugal fashion, interesting recipes, quirky gothic-ness, wonderful start ups and small British businesses. My name is Emma, I am 29 and new mum to Daisy - now nearly 8 months old! I suppose I am now officially a WAHM - in the early stages of a fledgling freelance writing career and working on my first novel. I am also in the process of setting up my first craft shop. The most important thing you need to know about me, is that being busy is like second nature to me! Things I love include; My Babe, My OH, Music (some appropriate, some very inappropriate), Reading, Writing, Homemaking, Knitting, Gnomes, Vampires (Anne Rice and Bram Stoker - I'm no faddy Twi-hard), Heavy Metal, Vintage Fashion, Matthew Bourne, Sweden, Tattoos and Sustainable Chic!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Things I hate include; Mass Consumerism, Bad Hair Days, Misogyny and most modern music!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It's here! November's
Blog A Day challenge begins today and what a beginning it is! Today's
prompt was to write about something your readers wouldn't know about
you...here, have 5!! I look forward to getting to know you all a little better!</span> </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I used to blog about my dating nightmares when I lived in London!</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Yup, when I was young, free and single, I started writing a blog about my life, loves and general dating hilarity called <b>The Skinny Mocha Musings</b>. Strangely, I never really thought about using this blog to aid my writing career, I was very wrapped up in my new and exciting job and lifestyle in London. It does make some funny, if slightly emotional reading, remembering the bumbling mishaps of a twenty-something, who mostly spent her time wishing and hoping on (an) oblivious boys (boy)! I had some great readers (not just my Mum and best mates) who used to read The Skinny Mocha Musings avidly! If you ever have 5 minutes - take a read of it <a href="http://skinnymochamusings.blogspot.co.uk/">HERE</a>, I hardly even recognise myself!! Highlights include, a fight with an Evening Standard Newspaper unit, the closeted ex and an entire post about my love of ginger beards!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I once sang at the Royal Albert Hall!</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I was a performing arts girly through and through - I studied Dance as a degree and originally wanted to be a choreographer when I graduated. When I was 15, I sang and danced solo in a huge show at the Royal Albert Hall and, to this day, this remains one of my greatest memories and achievements!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I was a member of the Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles Fan Club - Aged 6 (ish)!</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I bloody loved that show and my Mum's friend signed me up to the fanclub! Of course this was in the days before the Internet, so I struggle to remember exactly what I GOT for being in the fanclub - except perhaps for a keyring - but I wore my badge with pride. And no, I won't be going to see the film re-make, some things are better left untouched!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm a loyal, but terribly slow fan of old-fashioned Snail Mail!</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I love penpalling - and I have a fantastic penpal in America, whom I connected with through the International Geek Girls Pen Pal Club, earlier this year. Sadly, time is never really on my side and it seems to take me an age to write back to her! But letter-writing is something I feel really shouldn't die out, it's a lovely form of keeping in touch and I have a stack of letters from people I used to write to during my school years! Including letters from old school friends adorned with stickers from Smash Hits magazine!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If I decided to retrain in a new career...I would be....</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A florist. No, a teacher. No, a make-up artist! The trouble with me, is I have too many hobbies and interests and not enough discipline to choose one career path!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">After pursuing my dance dreams for a while, I fell into a job I loved in retail - and so began years of the industry finally grinding me down, whilst I found myself in my sideline projects and interests. And gin, I found myself in gin too! <span id="goog_439167937"></span><span id="goog_439167938"></span> I think, if I did decide to re-train in the future, something creative would be wonderful and I could perhaps use my natural flair for cake-decorating or make-up. But, really, something a little more unusual like floristry really interests me! You never know, I could be the next Eliza Doolittle! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I guess, for those if you who haven't read my blog before, my latest <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/a-not-so-creative-friday.html">Friday Round Up</a> post gives you a little insight into the various projects I have on the go. Last month I also launched my <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/peachy-challenge-frugally-fabulous-year.html">Frugally Fabulous Year</a> challenge - in a big to learn dressmaking, save more money and promote ethical shopping! I would love you to join in! Yesterday I also shared my love of the paranormal with a true ghost story - have a read <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/happy-halloween-inquisitive-spirit.html">HERE</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So there we go, a little peek into my life!! Do you have 5 things people don't know about you? What would you share? </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-79368161045752132152013-10-31T01:27:00.000-07:002013-10-31T01:27:51.489-07:00Happy Halloween: The Inquisitive Spirit<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm not usually one to post on a Thursday, but this month I've decided to give my LIP readers an extra spooky little treat! As some of you know, I write fiction and have plans to publish my work in the future. I have, however, never written about my own experiences in story form - other than on the blog of course! So I thought I would take the opportunity, this Hallow's Eve, to recall a truly terrifying tale. Truly terrifying...because it is TRUE and it happened to ME! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have always been fascinated with the paranormal, from a morbidly young age! I could write about lots of experiences I've had through the years, from ghost hunts to angels, spooky photos from a school sleepover to baffling dreams about someone I've never met, but I have only ever seen one 'apparition' and it was in the most unlikely of circumstances. I hope you enjoy....</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> " The Inquisitive Spirit"</b></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">November had fallen in 2007. The last days of bright sun were upon us, as it battled against a chill wind and threats of winter storms. I had woken up that morning, full of cold. My eyes were puffed and my throat swollen, this was not going to be a fun journey, driving from Bath to Aldershot in my then-boyfriend's near-dead Fiesta. Little did I know, at the time, our waning relationship would be over in less than two months. But, we had decided, that weekend, that we would pay a visit to his cousin and cousin's fiancee, for a change of scenery and a chance to spend some time with his family.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The drive there was long and boring, I was snuffling my way through half-conversations and insisted on playing the most annoying CDs I had in my collection. It was nearing dark when we arrived at the house we would be staying in, owned by the parents of 'The Fiancee', who were away at the time. The house was a beautiful building that stood on a corner in a leafy residential suburb. Not being very apt with my architectural knowledge, I would perhaps have dated it back fifty years, but it had had a fair amount of extension work done. We were greeted by 'The Cousin' and 'The Fiancee' and a lovely, bounding labrador.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The interiors were stunning too, a gorgeous traditional kitchen and spacious lounge, though I was surprised when we were led to a ground-floor bedroom winding back to the front of the house, with an en-suite bathroom. This was to be our bedroom for the weekend, it was small in size, beautifully decorated with floral patterns and a huge wall of built-in mirrored wardrobes faced a double bed. It reminded me of an traditional guestroom, cosy and comfortable for our stay.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The night continued to draw in as we had dinner and caught up around the table. The Couple were due to get married the following year abroad, so much of the evening was spent talking wedding plans. We retired to watch a film in the lounge, my cold had started to clear, but I was feeling tired from the long journey. Much of the later evening remains hazy in my mind, but I do remember catching a glimpse of the news. The tragic, horrific murder of Meredith Kurcher had just been released to British press and there was talk of her roommates being implemented in the murder. It was an unsettling story to go to bed thinking about but, around midnight, we said our goodnights and headed to the cosy guestroom.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I don't think I actually fell asleep between then and the disturbance that ensued. I think I just dozed against the backdrop of my then-boyfriend's snoring and the quiet of a strange street in a strange place. Not even the dog barked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My eyes adjusted to the room in the pitch black, the dense reflection from the mirrored wardrobes, the fabrics and colours now all draped in shadow. As my eyes moved round to the small, curtained, bay window, on my side of the bed, I saw something. A shape, incomprehensible at first but, what looked like something poking out from behind the curtains.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I had woken up before, countless times, and had mistaken a misplaced dressing gown for a slumped intruder, or a hanging dress for a supernatural visitor. My rational mind came into play and I closed my eyes and opened them again. The shape was still there. It had begun to take the form of a head, peeping in at us and, as I continued to fight with my imposed logic and the scene being placed in front of me, the figure stepped out from behind the curtain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I could only make out the shadow of a man, no features, no face, just a shadow with short lighter hair. Perhaps an older man, I couldn't be sure, but I knew there was somebody in the room with us and I was frozen to the spot, paralysed with fear. Had someone broken in? Was this figure an intruder? Should I scream? These thoughts were racing through my mind as I tried to make sense of what I was seeing. I could tell the figure was watching me and, as I tried to nudge my boyfriend awake, with the tiniest nudges of my left hand, the figure began to move across the room. Not so much a stride, a walk, nothing human, a silent glide across the bottom of the bed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Still, I tried to wake up my boyfriend to warn him of our silent intruder, unable to speak. Feeling unseen eyes staring at us, I finally managed to nudge my boyfriend awake, aware of the figure's presence at the end of the bed, his silence was almost deafening, a spectral onlooker - this time opposite my boyfriend. He gave a grudging, 'what?' Before I whispered 'there's somebody in the room.'</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">'WHAT?' he had heard me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I didn't know what else to do, so I just said, panicked, 'there's somebody in the room' over and over again until he sat up and switched the light on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The figure had gone, the room was as we had left it, even the curtains were closed. But he had been there. I knew I had seen a third person in the bedroom. I told my boyfriend about what had happened and we sat up for a few hours, trying to calm down, before drifting back to sleep.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I welcomed the bright morning sunshine, still shaken from the night before and the appearance of the figure at the bay window. I asked my boyfriend to keep quiet about the experience; I didn't really know his Cousin (lovely as they were) and, didn't want to upset them. Obviously, he went to them straight away to tell them the story over breakfast.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In the end I was glad he did, The Cousin regaled us with a similar story that had happened to him a few months before. Not only that, it seemed we were staying at the family home on the anniversary of The Cousin's Fiancee's Grandfather's death and he had made several appearances to other guests staying in the house. It seemed to trigger a visit from him, when there were strangers staying in the house. He liked to make his presence known and find out a little bit about them! The Cousin's Fiancee made a joke about her Grandfather visiting me and not her, safe to say I was still quite shaken to have considered it an honour!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">That was the first and only full apparition I've seen, my relationship ended soon after that, so I never ventured back to Aldershot. The experience has stayed with me and, at the time, reignited my interest in the paranormal. So I suppose, for that, I'm very thankful the inquisitive spirit made his presence known to me!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Have you had any scary experiences? I would absolutely love to hear from you! </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-31657916992343050802013-10-29T09:50:00.001-07:002013-10-29T11:58:27.145-07:00#CraftBlogClub The Halloween Challenge...<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well, the big day is here - the next reveal of our challenge projects and, my God, what a tough month it's been over at Life is Peachy towers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I hope you have all enjoyed this month's challenge - which was to create a Halloween decoration, using a craft method you have not used before (or, in some cases, haven't used for a very long time)! I've seen a few of the results already and they are looking FAB! Please please link up your post below - I will RT these all this time, I WILL!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Soo....what did I do?? Well, originally I wanted to learn crochet, I absolutely love the little amigurumi crochet toys that you see about, so I wanted to make a little bat. I started to learn...on Saturday! I found a perfectly clear, concise YouTube video and learnt how to make a Chain and a Single Crochet. I had been warned that it can take knitters longer to learn crochet and, I must admit, it felt so strange just using one hook; but I felt I was slowly getting the hang of it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Sadly, though, my getting the hang of it, in amongst everything else I have to start/finish/do at the moment, was not going to create a beautiful bat in time so...after much deliberation and with the #CraftBlogClub clock ticking....I decided to sew a felt bat for Tuesday's challenge, aided by my ever helpful Mr Peachy. And whilst we may be chalk and cheese in many departments, it seems we mould well like Crafty Power Rangers, when it comes to sewing projects. Introducing...Lestat The Bat!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Made from two pieces of light and dark brown felt, Lestat is handstitched with a vibrant orange thread and lightly filled with toy stuffing. His eyes are two buttons from a very old mac I used to own and his wings are attached with simple threading at the back. The only disclaimer is that he is most definitely NOT a flanimal, though were watching the Ricky Gervais film Ghost Town, when he was conceived!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I hope you like him - I've not given up on the crochet and I'm a little sad I didn't manage to get it together in time; but when I'm feeling more confident with crochet, I'm planning to pop out a little animal friend, which might just be when you least expect it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Have fun this Halloween, whatever you're doing - I shall be curling up with some freshly baked Pumpkin Bread and Butter Pudding and getting my teeth stuck into the new programme, Dracula, starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, who looks rather delicious in the ad!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Don't forget to link up your Halloween craft posts below - the link is open for one week and I cannot WAIT to see what everyone has come up with!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The Next #CraftBlogClub Challenge</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well, without further ado, let's unveil the next challenge! I would like to introduce The #CraftBlogClub Secret Santa Challenge!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Now I have mentioned some Christmas ideas before and lovely Laura from <a href="http://www.madepeachy.com/">Made Peachy</a> suggested a Secret Santa for us lot. So I thought; Hey, why not turn Christmas into a challenge!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The rules are, you make a Christmas gift for someone and send it to them - you have free reign to do what you like, it can be something you know you excel at, one of your familiar products, the only thing is - it has to be in some way personalised! And, as I know us crafty lot are going to be ridiculously busy in the lead up to Christmas - I have decided to run this challenge from now up until Christmas Eve, giving everyone plenty of time to get involved and get making.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I will be in charge of pairing up and emailing so IF you want to take part in this challenge, PLEASE email me your name, email address and postal address (missemmaberry@gmail.com) and I will start listing and pairing. I will keep the listing open until next week and will email your Secret Santa recipient by the end of next week. As ever, I will open up a linky in the lead up to Christmas and it would be great if you could write a post about the gift you made AND the gift you received!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I hope everyone wants to take part, I think it will be a lovely way to end the year with the #CraftBlogClub community and I'm hopeful that next year will bring some even more exciting things for us! Now get emailing and get thinking!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Stay Crafty!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">E x </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-32985536356251119812013-10-28T02:44:00.001-07:002013-10-28T02:44:41.961-07:00Let Me Introduce....Naisy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdU57tkAz7uAbDaC4hNVhbu2xtSHy4gLuBh44frhps9tG1gzd3VtAiKR22PJkNfh8u-etuyiDDc5HalKRHXAdSudv9Bx7UR84f38tqUMA4Yd725sSak5Q3rn9l72Jk0G14WBEGWnoBaSBe/s1600/Naisy+Shop+Banner.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdU57tkAz7uAbDaC4hNVhbu2xtSHy4gLuBh44frhps9tG1gzd3VtAiKR22PJkNfh8u-etuyiDDc5HalKRHXAdSudv9Bx7UR84f38tqUMA4Yd725sSak5Q3rn9l72Jk0G14WBEGWnoBaSBe/s400/Naisy+Shop+Banner.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This month, we seem to have had a bit of an 'interiors theme', with Old Farm Interiors featured at the beginning of the month, followed by today's fantastic small business feature. Ladies and Gentlemen allow me to introduce, Naisy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Naisy, a handmade interiors brand, is the alias of it's crafty creator Nai Lodge. Her wonderfully bright and happy brand, named after her nickname since forever </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytqVfYBEW1nvQadvUd_s6wVRP1VpgfUGhysfE5c6aPdVyHpJvUQ1A59gM4QYykAJ4n3VXV2Ik1t4kcAJZb_r3Dk0G_eGrYBFSpUxcFQwiw0AcJYISmqVRxyTlBCdfdeNaEtNIqm8DHPr7/s1600/Naisy+Greetings+Cards.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytqVfYBEW1nvQadvUd_s6wVRP1VpgfUGhysfE5c6aPdVyHpJvUQ1A59gM4QYykAJ4n3VXV2Ik1t4kcAJZb_r3Dk0G_eGrYBFSpUxcFQwiw0AcJYISmqVRxyTlBCdfdeNaEtNIqm8DHPr7/s400/Naisy+Greetings+Cards.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">(she loves Daisies - a wise choice), was born from a love of making cards for friends and family ever since she could pick up a pencil. After some cajoling from impressed friends, including the lovely Vicky from <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/let-me-introducethis-is-lullaby.html">This is Lullaby</a>, and in her final year at Music college, Nai set to work on the sewing machine, creating some of the Naisy masterpieces she is selling today!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Just one look at Naisy's website, you can spot her main source of inspiration immediately. Houses. Lots of houses! Naomi uses collage and applique techniques to create cute, house-shaped decor such as these gorgeous keyrings and doorstops. As a proud home-maker herself, Nai remains very inspired by her upbringing in the Cotswolds, where no two houses are the same to look at. In Naisy's designs, the attention really is in the detail, she wants to provide something that will brighten up your home in a unique way.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If you live in and around the Manchester area, you may well have seen Naisy's goods at local craft markets, though you can find Nai on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/naisyhomemade">Etsy</a> too. Naisy's best sellers, at the moment, are these lovely handmade greetings cards; their simple sewn designs are really special. Nai's favourite products to make are her custom embroidered house pictures; to order, you simply send a picture of the house in question and Nai does her thing to transform it into a beautiful replica.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrS1feZr8lW4gAlz2JxhJUmEpByaUw0tAi2T06YQ8FueT-RFruIPRwpi7-6zxOA1wTKEc9kwshsM5sz3XHd-jizswkvBj_7jSYHz7C10AyCMrX6cZeX4R_hMi9vHcMjsMpJ9jQYOStd719/s1600/Naisy+Red+New+Home+Pack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrS1feZr8lW4gAlz2JxhJUmEpByaUw0tAi2T06YQ8FueT-RFruIPRwpi7-6zxOA1wTKEc9kwshsM5sz3XHd-jizswkvBj_7jSYHz7C10AyCMrX6cZeX4R_hMi9vHcMjsMpJ9jQYOStd719/s400/Naisy+Red+New+Home+Pack.JPG" width="298" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> One of Naisy's real stand-out products, for me, is the 'New Home' gift pack - the customer can choose a card and house keyring to be sent to the new home owner's abode, with a personalised message. These make perfect, unique gifts for friends and family and Naomi's even had lovely customer feedback, saying they had trouble parting with her lovely items.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As a start-up business, Nai's short term plans are to expand her collection with new product ideas and work with introducing a new technique she has mastered, free-motion embroidery. She loves the thought of creating embroidered artwork to sit in the homes of many. For now, Nai is happy building a customer base for Naisy and continuing to sell through her online shop and at local events.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In short, if you are looking for a unique or bespoke gift, Naisy's products are perfect for all occasions. Everything has been created with such care and attention, that it seems as if a little bit of Nai's bright personality comes with her products! Don't delay in taking a peek at what she has to offer today!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Why not follow Naisy on <a href="https://twitter.com/NaisyHomemade">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NaisyHomemade">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/naisyhomemade/">Pinterest</a></span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-20140178931884256032013-10-25T14:16:00.001-07:002013-10-25T14:46:28.382-07:00A Not-So Creative Friday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDjQpNDpQX9Vb_rnVPTEt3CJuzBej3UdGJedXOtXOLAAyZ9doTdj2LDNbaXf5Cvb04h3do3qzUJqTVUFv7NpRCeXYv1NmhenhzUO9qtc8VopNFkJCXSrDihdiMnZqwRklcT9ng64eVPEK5/s1600/IMG_20131024_160335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDjQpNDpQX9Vb_rnVPTEt3CJuzBej3UdGJedXOtXOLAAyZ9doTdj2LDNbaXf5Cvb04h3do3qzUJqTVUFv7NpRCeXYv1NmhenhzUO9qtc8VopNFkJCXSrDihdiMnZqwRklcT9ng64eVPEK5/s400/IMG_20131024_160335.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well, if someone would like to tell me where they hid October, I would be entirely grateful! Seriously, where has this month gone? It only seems like yesterday I was moaning about an 'official Indian Summer' and basking in the aftermath of my anniversary with Mr Peachy! Now, Halloween is fast approaching, I've got about three days to do my challenge project for #CraftBlogClub and I have been forced to accept that Christmas really is just around the corner!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">My tutorials and Creative Fridays have been a little quiet of late - not intentionally, of course, I've just been so busy with EVERYTHING! I'm currently sat in bed with the laptop, enveloped in a very welcome quiet, whilst my poorly little girl sleeps her sore throat off next door - bless her! Sometimes, for everyone, things just get a little too much and you need to take stock of what you are doing and HOW you are getting it done! I spoke to one of my absolute favourite people in the world today and she said 'I don't know how you do it all.' The trouble is, neither do I!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This month has been a whirlwind of knitting up some lovely <b>gnome orders</b> for some lovely people and deciding on the best way to package them! These dudes are coming along nicely and, rest assured, I've been working my little behind off to finish them all - I can't wait to get them sent out to their new homes for Christmas, once they are all ready, of course!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I've also set myself the task of learning to crochet, ready for<b> Tuesday's BIG CHALLENGE REVEAL</b> at #CraftBlogClub - I can't wait to post the results (unless it all goes horribly wrong) as I've had this idea since I launched the challenge. I'm really excited to see everyone's finished results - judging from last month, the standard will be spectacular, I'm sure!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I've taken to the kitchen again and created a wonderfully indulgent winter recipe, which will be published in the coming days over on Yahoo - I can't wait to share it with you guys, here's a sneaky pic to whet the appetite!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I was also really lucky to spend a little bit of time back at home, with my Mum, after a short bout of illness and a little bit of teething pain with Miss Daisy. Home comforts are just what you need when you're feeling a little weak and, as my parents live all the way down in Somerset, I don't get to see them as much as I would like! But it was lovely to have a short break and I can't wait to spend Christmas down South again this year!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So What Now??</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well...I mentioned I would do my first <b>Handmade Giveaway</b>, when I reached 100 followers on Bloglovin'...and I've since crept up to 126 followers, so a HUGE thank you to my followers new and old. I'm currently designing a special little something to make and giveaway and this will be up on the site as soon as possible! Don't worry - I'll tweet the hell out of it so you won't miss a chance to enter!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have also decided to sign up for<b> November's Blog A Day challenge</b> - where I shall be posting a blog each day!! I've decided to use some of the set prompts, but have also come up with a few of my own, with the help from a few Twitter friends! I see November as a real chance to write about a few more personal things - as well as the usual concoction of #CraftBlogClub, recipe, crafty goodness there will be a few more unusual posts thrown in. Is there anything you would like to ask me?? Go ahead...I might just write about it in November!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Things are also going great with the<b> Frugally Fabulous Year </b>and I'm so excited that so many people want to take part - button to follow guys (remember I'm practically a technophobe, aside from typing)! I've spent the last week thinking about posts and things I want to try and discuss - frugal is our name, sustainability and saving are our game! </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'VE DUSTED OFF MY NOVEL!</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">That's right, my little novel has been sat, half finished, for about two years and, after dreaming about it, I have decided now is the time to set to work finishing this piece! I am keeping it all under wraps for now - but I'm so excited to be writing it again! This book is my (other) baby - I hope to be able to share it with you all in the not-so-distant future!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And Finally...</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I am very excited to reveal I have been nominated for Blogger of the Month over at the wonderful site, Vintage Shopper. I have been nominated for my post about searching for a vintage-inspired post-pregnancy wardrobe and I NEED YOUR VOTES!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I would absolutely love it, if you could pop over and <a href="http://www.vintageshopper.com/blogger-month-october-2013/">VOTE HERE</a> for me if you have a spare minute! I loved writing this post and Vintage Shopper is such a great site to be affiliated with! Thank you so much! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well, I think that's about it from me...I'm off to plan, dream and hopefully CROCHET!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Stay Crafty! x</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-75367667586319214992013-10-22T13:07:00.000-07:002013-10-22T13:07:02.015-07:00#CraftBlogClub: Crafty DIY SOS #Mk2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So, here we are, another #CraftBlogClub done and dusted and it seems we are getting busier again! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It's been lovely to watch our Twitter chat hour grow and so nice to see everyone joining in and helping out this evening with retweets and advice. As I always say, one of the main reasons I set up #CraftBlogClub was to create a hub of creatives, who could all encourage and support each other. It's lovely to see that taking shape - I hope you all enjoy joining in as much as I do!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As we are just one week away from our HALLOWEEN CHALLENGE REVEAL; I thought it would be good to do another Crafty DIY SOS! We did one of these a few weeks ago, before our September Challenge reveal and it was nice to get some great feedback and help on issues our crafty creatives were having. This week, however, it seems the main issues lies with your truly!!! Yup, as host of #CraftBlogClub, I'm yet to get my behind in gear to get to grips with crochet and create my Halloween challenge! Needless to say, help was very much out there tonight - so thank you for your help, it's off to YouTube I head in a bit!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Aside from that - we had bunting and binding issues and even started to touch on Etsy selling and pricing your goods. This is a topic suggested to me to cover - although I still stress that #CraftBlogClub isn't about selling your wares, it seems inevitable that we want to talk about pricing your handmade items and getting out into the big bad handmade marketplace! I've scheduled this in to talk about at the start of November - I hope you will all join in with your queries and advice!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In Other News... </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The lovely Sonia from <a href="http://www.layoutlines.blogspot.co.uk/">LAYOUTLINES </a>is hosting a fabulous giveaway this month with some fab Halloween prizes! All you need to do is tweet a picture of a pumpkin you have carved by Thursday 31st October, to be in with a chance of winning - and the competition is open internationally too! Don't delay - get your carving knives out! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Amanda from <a href="http://giftfrippery.co.uk/">Gift Frippery</a> is also still hosting her #FripperyFriday competition weekly, up until Christmas - with prizes up for grabs! Simply tweet a picture of a gift you have wrapped and she will pick out a winner! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">A while back, I mentioned an idea Amanda Frippery and myself had discussed about swapping 'virtual' Christmas presents between members of the #CraftBlogClub. I didn't hear much feedback about this, but wondered if anyone would be up for a Christmassy challenge to see us through November and December?? We could even do a handmade Secret Santa?? Let me know if you are interested and we will look further into what would work! </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Bloglovin' </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As ever, I love reading your blogs and like to highlight a few each week that I have really enjoyed reading!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">First off...Emma over at <a href="http://itsemmamade.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/handmade-monday-ripple-blanket.html">Emma Made</a> makes some incredible projects on her lovely blog - but this Ripple Blanket completely blew me away. Amazing work by a very talented lady! Take a look! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Not that I'm name-biased or anything, but I am in awe of the skills of the lovely Emma Ross over at <a href="http://girlinknitscrafts.wordpress.com/2013/10/06/t-shirt-yarn-clutch/">Girl In Knits</a> and this is the cutest little clutch I have seen! Check out Emma's lovely work! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Finally, for this week, I wanted to give a shout out to the wonderful Tamsyn over at <a href="http://tamsynmorgans.blogspot.co.uk/">The Villa on Mount Pleasant</a>, who was recently featured in Homemaker magazine. Tamsyn's blog is really beautiful and inspires lots of creativity on the interiors front - her notebook on our challenge was really beautiful too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I think that's about it from me this week, next week is THE BIG REVEAL! I'm so excited to see everyone's posts and results! I'm off to amaze you all with my Halloween project!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Stay Crafty! E x</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-80835062755278946882013-10-16T13:19:00.000-07:002013-10-16T13:19:56.541-07:00#CraftBlogClub: Learning A New Craft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I should definitely start by apologising for how late this post is going out - multi-tasking is actually a forte of mine, being that I held last night's #CraftBlogClub in the midst of packing up a car in a power cut - but I had to deal with the unpredictability of putting the babe to bed in an unfamiliar surrounding last night and, safe to say, it did not go too well!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">As usual, #CraftBlogClub was full of interesting conversations and some sneak peeks of WIPs for this month's project! I decided we should discuss learning new craft methods as, after all, the aim is to try something shiny and new for October and create a Halloween themed decoration from it! Learning a new craft can be quite the challenge...here's what the #CraftBlogClub massive thought!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">1. <strong>Worship At The Altar of YouTube - </strong>Most of us confessed that, when it came to the mots efficient method of learning a new craft, YouTube always came out on top. It seems we are a very visually-stimulated crafty bunch who like nothing more than trawling through the thousands of useful tutorials, to get us started on new projects and methods. The power of learning through video, in my opinion, is the ability to film some of the intricate and complicated stages that picture books and written paragraphs couldn't explain so easily - plus the pause button always helps!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">2. <strong>Don't Underestimate The Power of Tradition - </strong>Having said that, many of us seemed to agree that you can't beat a bit of tradition, when you're searching for new craft methods to learn - a lot of us looked to old craft books for both inspiration and tutorials. A few of us also seemed to hoard the most AMAZING amount of craft books - @BeekneeHoonies I'm talking about you and your wonderful stash! I'm a huge fan of craft books and, even if I don't tend to follow patterns directly, they can be a great source of inspiration for upcoming projects. Not to mention some of the older books are great at giving clearly written and simply put tutorials.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">3. <strong>If In Doubt...Ask -</strong> Part of the reason behind forming the #CraftBlogClub network, for me, was to form a group of individuals who could help, encourage and support each other, in a crafting sense. It's great to be able to ask someone for help or clarity if you can. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">4. <strong>Learn Traditionally...Blog Unique - </strong>We raised the really interesting point of creating unique items from the methods you have taught yourself, but never be afraid to show something new or even try an amalgamation of techniques to keep things fresh on your craft blog - thinking outside the box can really set you apart from everyone else!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">5. <strong>Self-Teaching RULES - </strong>As much as it can be great to go and join a class to learn something new, not to mention great to meet new and exciting, like-minded crafty types; expense can often mean we look to the discipline of self-teaching to help us learn and develop our skills. Why not utilise the plethora of free videos and wondrous internet crafty caverns to teach yourself something new?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Just a short one this week...I'm keen to get this published and am running on my parents' gerbil-powered internet! Next week, we shall have a second Crafty DIY SOS - a chance to run through any issues we might be having with our projects before THE BIG REVEAL of our October challenge the week after!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Until next week...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Stay Crafty!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">E x
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8631082701739919032.post-4577572096048333212013-10-13T23:36:00.000-07:002013-10-13T23:36:26.886-07:00Peachy Challenge: The Frugally Fabulous Year!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well, we are nearly into the middle of October and my 30-day spending ban has officially come to an end! I did pretty well, really well actually, I managed to save a little towards my 'Wellies' fund - an I am no longer lusting over Hunters (but that's another post, for another time).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The spending ban really got me thinking recently about our spending habits in the UK and I don't make it any secret that I'm a little anti-mass consumerism, when it comes to shopping. So I got to thinking (in a very Carrie Bradshaw manner), could I do a whole year without buying clothes from mass global conglomerates?? Here's why I think I should, let alone could....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>1. Lifestyle Change</b> - Having undergone a HUGE lifestyle change since having Daisy, FRUGAL really is FABULOUS in our world at the moment - a combined love of vintage and moving ahead in these economic times, means we love creating a beautiful but simple life over here at Peachy Towers. No, babies don't cost the earth but, in November, I officially become an at-home Mum, Freelancing Wordsmith and a seller of quirky crafty wares - what better time than now to relish in the art of being frugally fabulous?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>2. Personal tastes</b> - Last month I wrote a little post about <a href="http://lifeispeachytales.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/outfit-post-ditching-jeans.html">Ditching the Jeans</a> and finding my own personal style again. I totally coin my unique look as 'The Modern Gothic Librarian' and I take great inspiration from people women such as Dita Von Teese in my style. I am heavily influenced by the 1930s and 1940s, which can invariably mean I find it hard to find anything that I like or I feel comfortable in, in high street stores (a common problem faced by us on the cusp of the thirties I feel). Neither do I want to look like every other person walking down the street. I've often relied on wondrous charity shop caverns and eBay to shape my image - so why not make more of a statement about it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>3. Ethics vs Purse Strings</b> - It really bothers me that most people pay little or no attention to where their clothes are made or who by. We are incredibly lucky, in the UK, to be reasonably sheltered from some of the hideous truths about how our clothes are made. But that doesn't mean these problems don't exist - Primark may well be winning awards left, right and centre for bringing affordable fashion to the masses; but it doesn't change the fact that they use sweatshops and, if you remember the coincidentally under-reported fire in a Bangladesh factory this year</span>, <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">their staff are poorly treated (figures suggest that a Bangladeshi employee for Primark makes less than half a living wage each month). I think it is important, as a consumer, to be able to make informed choices about how we shop and where our clothes come from. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>4. Make, Do and Mend</b> - As a huge fan of all things craft, I am really keen to learn how to dress-make. I think it would be amazing to become self-sufficient in creating my own wardrobe, so the Frugally Fabulous Year challenge would be a great way of developing my sewing skills and learning to create some truly unique clothes! Customising and upcycling are also such great ways of breathing new life into things, without having to spend hundreds! For a while, I have been really keen to explore how to create a more sustainable way of life and blog about it - I can't wait to start putting more of it into practice.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b>5. Wardrobe vs Wants </b>- As an ex-employee of the fashion retail world, I do have some fantastic dresses in my closet that I am slowly starting to fit back into! It is a truth universally acknowledged, that most women only wear 10% of their wardrobe. So when it comes to finding that special outfit - can I root something out that I've worn in a while? Can I upcycle a beloved old garment or find a new way to wear it? Wardrobe vs Wants challenge accepted! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So here it is....my challenge, The Frugally Fabulous Year. And here are the rules</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1. In the Frugally Fabulous Year, I am aiming not to purchase any new clothes for myself from the high street. This is strictly for MYSELF, clothes for Daisy do not count, neither do gifts!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">2. Tights and underwear are not included - but will still buy from more 'responsibly sourced' outlets.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">3. Throughout the Frugally Fabulous year - posts will include Wardrobes vs Wants and Looks for Less updates. I want to show how great you can look on a very frugal budget.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">4. At the end I will tot up a total annual saving from not purchasing from high street stores, not to mention what I will do with the saved cash! Kerching!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm surprisingly quite excited about this challenge and would love to hear your feedback about it! Better still - if you are feeling frugal why not join me for a month or two and see how you go? Interested? Comment below with your email address and I'll get in touch!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Here's to being Frugally Fabulous </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">E x </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18266143191849507640noreply@blogger.com25