Say hi

Meet Theo,
He is a cute little fellow who loves to smile and coo. Enjoys late nights and drinking copious amounts of milk, only the good stuff mind you! He can be stinky (like most boys), but does enjoy a good splash in the bath. Favourite hobbies included drinking milk, sleeping and just being damn well gorgeous. He says hi by the way... Oh and he melts his mummy's heart as soon as he looks at her.
Babies hey, just too cute for words!

What a difference a YEAR makes

Wow I can't quite believe a whole year exactly has passed since my last post. This past year has seen some huge changes, filled with utter delight and heart breaking sadness.

In December 2011 my best friend lost her two year battle breast cancer, just writing this makes me cry. I miss her so, so much and hate the fact that I can't just phone or text her with some random silly thing, we knew each other so well, we just understood and supported each other wholeheartedly, a friendship like ours will never be forgotten and always treasured. I miss you Tracey with all my heart, your here with me always in those wonderful memories we had. So many things Tracey spoke with me about have made a real difference to my life. She tought me to live in the moment, to achieve my real dreams and to stay focused on what makes me happy. For these words I am eternally grateful.

Now to the other huge change in my life, well let's just say our family of three became a family of four. In early August I gave birth to a gorgeous little boy. To say I'm in total love would be a severe understatement. My little boy is truely amazing and completes our little family in so many ways.

The strange thing was that I always knew I would have a little boy, strange I know but I just did. I had previously spent the last few years with a growing feeling the my work, life balance was way out and that I would reach a certain age and be filled with regret, regret that I could of done xyz, instead of working constantly, so I decided to make a change. And xyz are just so much better!

Here's to life and enjoying it, treasuring every moment, living the life you want and doing whatever makes you happy. A life without regrets!

xFaye

Joules and Christmas

It's no good, I have spent the majority of September planning and organising our Christmas range, but this has then rubbed off onto me, I have now purchased most of my families Christmas gifts, and now have my eye on what I would really like.

The books shown on my previous post are, of course on my list, but now I have found yet more delightful things to feast my eyes on, and yes I am becoming slightly obsessed with them.

Joules... I just LOVE their clothes, the quality and attention to detail is gorgeous, but alas when they joined forces with Boots to create their own gift range, I squealed for joy! And guess what, their toiletries are just as amazing as the clothes. In fact, as I was lucky to have received quite a lot of Joules toiletries for Christmas last year, I have used little else, and I would defiantly recommend them 100% (my skin was so soft and smelt gorgeous in the run up to my wedding, thanks to my regular relaxing baths with their products). So as I have now practically ran out, I decided that it must be time I hunted on the Boots website to see if they have a range available again this year and...

Yes they do! Not only do they have the gorgeous body ranges, but look Baking heaven too. Just look at all of these goodies :)

Joules Gift Collection For Boots

Joules Brilliant Baking Hamper

This Hamper has now been put at the top of my list.
Oh decisions, decisions... I just love how pretty they all are!

What do you think? Do you have your eye on a special treat for Christmas?

I will show you soon, some of the lovely new stock we have, I have also been busy sorting the new Christmas stock, so will give you a sneaky peak of that before it is added to the website.

Hugs,
xFaye

Books

Its that time of year again when I scourer book shops (online for this purpose), for new titles which are due to be released. Back a few months ago I ordered the following books, ready to store away for Christmas... (Yes I am that organised lol)

Rachel Aswell's Shabby Chic Inspirations

I just LOVE, LOVE her style!


Cath Kidston The Crochet Book



I have wanted to learn to crochet for the last few years, so I thought this would give me the perfect opportunity to have ago over Christmas.


Cath Kidston The Knitting Tin Book


Such a lovely gift don't you think!

There are so many books I am in love with, but these were my firm favourites for the minute.

Oh how I just love books! They inspire, let you dream and most of all encourage you to relax and enjoy :) I can't wait!

What are your favourites?

Warm wishes
xFaye

I thought you may like...

I received this email from Liberty the other day and was rather impressed with the contents...
Sorry, I cant copy it full, due to the size, But if you click here ' Sew Liberty' you will be directed to the full Liberty Page

THE WOOL ISSUE Welcome to a special edition of Sew Liberty, celebrating our continued support of The Campaign for Wool. Our love of wool at Liberty spans all five floors, from rare oriental rugs and Welsh wool blankets to high fashion from the likes of Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Paul Smith. Not to mention our world renowned Haberdashery department; a veritable treasure trove of irresistible products and raw materials. LIBERTY ROCKS WOOL COLLECTION This year Liberty Rocks! The Autumn Winter 2011 Liberty Art Fabrics wool collection is inspired by music and art. Available now in store or online at Liberty.co.uk. ROWAN WOOL Liberty has teamed up with Rowan Yarns to challenge Royal College of Art students to use wool in exciting and unexpected new ways. The wining design will have pride of place in a Liberty window for the duration of wool week, and you can take a look at the competition highlights on our Facebook page. Knit your own winter accessories! If you’re a knitting novice join Rowan Yarns expert Sarah Hatton in her Learn to Knit class for all the help and guidance you need. Attendees will simply need to purchase a £7 starter kit. Saturday 10th September from 10.30am – 5pm To book please call: 020 7734 1234 You can also purchase Rowan’s collection of British wool available in store. Get knitting! Download this fantastic Union Jack knitting pattern free here. GRAFFITI–KNITTING: CHANGING THE WORLD ONE STITCH AT A TIME Two knitting needles and a ball of wool: choice weapons of the patient pensioner, the intrepid crafter and now also the radical revolutionary. On lamp posts, trees, bridges, statues and park benches around the globe, a colourful revolution is slowly gathering momentum. Welcome to the wonderful world of graffiti-knitting. Read more. HOW TO MAKE... A LIBERTY PRINT OVEN MITT! WINNER! Make baking a real treat with a sensational Liberty Print oven mitt. Our step-by-step guide makes it easy to add a handmade touch to your home, or to give someone a personal gift guaranteed to make them smile. Watch the video tutorial Read the instructions Download the pattern Last issue we asked you to send in your own Liberty print designs to win three metres of Liberty Art Fabric. We’re delighted to congratulate Shiamin Kwa Roses who created this lovely Liberty print dress for her beautiful daughter Elly. THE LIBERTY BOOK OF HOME SEWING If you’d like to create more gorgeous Liberty print designs then be sure to invest in The Liberty Book of Home Sewing. Using iconic Liberty print fabrics you can create unique home accessories with a handmade touch. This highly anticipated book will be available from 3rd October. Pre-Order your copy now. Sneak Preview: Click here to download a free round cushion pattern taken from the book. Liberty Retail Limited is registered in England and Wales. Registered Company Number: 42342. Registered Address: Liberty Retail Limited, Regent Street, London W1B 5AH. Saturday 17th September Blanket Squares with Erica Pask 10.30 – 16.30 Sunday 25th September Make a Frilly Pinny with Nicole Wilson 12.30 - 16.30 Saturday 15th October Patchwork Upcycling with Katherine May 10.30 – 16.30 Saturday 22nd October Patchwork Upcycling with Katherine May 10.30 – 16.30 Saturday 5 November Christmas Knitted Stockings with Sarah Hazell 10.30 – 16.30 Saturday 19 November Moving on from learn to Knit with Margaret Rowan 10.30 – 16.30 Saturday 26 November Christmas themed Moving on from Learn to Crochet 10.30 – 16.30

So much to say and show...

Oh how I have missed blogging, well not any more, as here's to a new start. I feel like a new chapter in my life is beginning, so what better way to start it, than to write.

So many lovely (and sad) things have happened since my last post, yet it is rather embarrassing when I look at the date of my last post, but as I am focusing on living in the here and now. There is no point worrying.

I don't have any picture to show you yet, but alas there will be plenty!

Below is a quote that evoked a lot of emotion and really did make me think, some times it can be the little things that can mean the most...

Whilst sitting and watching one of our favourite films, the following quote was heard, I instantly wrote in down in my note book and have felt compelled by it ever since...

'All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us' Gandalf, Lord of the Rings

I don't know about you , but I spend an awful lot of my time feeling like there are never enough hours in the day, and that there is always far to much to be done... in short overwhelmed!

'I don't have enough time' (if you have read previous post, you will understand) Has been one of the main issues that has bothered me ever since having my daughter, when you have children, it really does mark how quick time goes by. I have been feeling up until this year, that the last three years have flown by, but I have still not done things which I love or wanted to achieve, so here goes.

After hearing this quote, it just struck a chord with me and made me really think about my life. Living in the now, not the past or future but cherishing every day. Life can be so hectic, it is always the simple things that often bring the most amount of pleasure, but these are the things that are often neglected. So I have STARTED doing the things I want and love to do.


This year, I got married to the love of my life. It was truly one of the most magical and emotion days for us ever! (Long blog post and pictures will come asap) After 17, yes 17 years together we finally decided to get married, and wow, it was so worth it!

Today, we put our names down for an allotment plot, something I have been dreaming about for the last four years, but realised could be a dream which can happen.

Going abroad on our honeymoon, which was amazing in so many ways, especially as it was my first holiday abroad and my first time on an aeroplane lol. Total relaxation and quality time to think was just what we needed.

Reading, yep such a simple thing, I always used to say, I don't have time, but now I make time. I love nothing more than reading a lovely book, pure escapism. So as of my honeymoon, (two weeks ago) I started reading again. Just picking up a book makes me feel so relaxed. In fact, I went to the library only last week and found six books from two of my favourite authors, so it's a must to read :)

And, so, so many other things which I will write about every week. I know our wedding was the pinnacle for so many changes in our life and with that I am so much more happier!

So for now, I must stop, but I will be back to show and tell you so much more. Thank you for taking the time to read, I wonder if my quote above, or any other has made a difference to how you think?

Hugs

xFaye

Hi I'm Back!!!!!!

Well that is from our holiday in Norfolk and back into blogging.

(Only images of our new stock for the moment)

I will not bore you with my usual 'I have been busy' as that is just a part of my life that will never change but better to be busy than board hehe!

We are currently surrounded by stock and clutter. We are at last in the process of sorting the bathroom. Getting Ella's room ready for her cabin bed... very exciting indeed and oh yes, yet more and more Christmas stock is arriving for the business.

On the personal front my mum and dad have moved to Norfolk and the location is gorgeous, not far from Felbrig hall (Amazing National Trust property). More on that another day.



Well not much creativity going on I'm afraid. I actually spent the whole holiday relaxing, reading and having fun, which for me felt really strange. No note book aloud (I did sneak it to our favourite country pub on the last day to plan the house).

We currently have these featured in Cosmopolitan Bride magazine :)

Oh and a bit of great news which I had completely forgotten to blog about... my company was asked back in June to feature some products in the TV programme Sixty minute make over. I received an email the other day to say the new show started on 7th September and the show that will feature the house with our products will air on ITV1 on 28th September. Rather exciting don't you think.



Well I do hope you have all been keeping well. It feels good to be back!!!!



xFaye

New Book

Just a quick post to see if any one else is aware of the new Cath Kidston book. Its not published until October, but I have pre ordered my copy already

Here is a little review courtesy of good old Amazon...

'Cath Kidston has now put together a treasure trove of fabulous simple projects for stitchers to get their needles into - bags, clothes, soft toys and many more - and all designed to be made with her popular printed fabrics. As an inspirational kick-start, Cath is giving away with the book a length of a unique fabric specially printed for the book, together with handles, a label and button to make up into a bag. The book itself is packed with 48 projects with full instructions to make a range of fun and useful things, divided into sections on Home, Babies, Bags, Clothes, Accessories and Gifts. All the sewing techniques are clearly explained in an introductory section so that even an absolute beginner can be sure of success, together with details of how to embroider, applique and adorn your items in other ways. Stunning photographs, colourful contemporary design and step-by-step pictures make everything absolutely clear and user-friendly. The book also contains trace paper with cut-out patterns'.

Click here for the best price...

I don't know about you but I cant wait!!!

Still no chance to leave any messages to say hello again. Ella has had a horrific stomach bug and has spent the entire week (four whole days) with severe sickness and diarrhea. Thankfully our little sweat pea is on the mend. Fingers crossed she will have her energy back to normal for our Easter hunt on Sunday then on Monday we are all off to Vina Cooks dolls museum.

If you live in the Lincolnshire/Nottinghamshire area is is a place I would highly recommend! Full to the brim of vintage dolls, toys and costumes all in Vina's Georgian house. Monday will mark her 25th anniversary of running the museum and we can't wait. I used to visit regularly as a child as she was a family friend. I have the most delightful porcelain doll which she made for me as a child, a very treasured item indeed.

Click here for her website and more details.

Wishing you all a happy and fun filled Easter.

xFaye

A belated HELLO again...

I will try and be a better blogger!!!

The business has now grown so much that it is taking over ever spare minute of my life... work life balance, what's that I ask!

Just a quick post to say I have missed you all and that I will try and post little and often.

I am so pleased the Easter Holidays are here, chance for a much needed rest and creative play with Ella.

Only pictures of Stock I'm afraid, but if your a visual person like me they always make a post more tempting.

I will drop in and say HELLO to all of my blogging friends this week, sorry for such a long break!

Hope you are all well and loving the Spring sun shine :)

xFaye

Wishing you all a belated Merry Christmas and a very happy and healthy New Year!

Pictures and more to follow... I just wanted to get in a blog before the new year :)

We have been having a fantastic time relaxing, it has been utter bliss, I had forgotten what it felt like to relax in the evenings.

Big hugs to all my blogging friends and those who pop by. Hope you have all had a lovely Christmas!

I just had to show you all these...

I Love Mushrooms!

I discovered these items back in September (that feels like it was a long time ago now) and have been patiently waiting until they were available to buy. You can imagine my excitement when they were in stock and my order arrived the next day :)


:

I can't decide which one I love most so will have to keep one of each :)

They will all be available to buy on the website from next week, that is when I have some time to add them.


My lovely white business room resembles a cardboard house at the moment. Full to the brim with stock and orders waiting to go out. So still no pictures for you all. I have my eye on a few bits to finish it off but who knows when I will get the time.




Any spare moments I can grab are being spent with my little girl, she will start full time school in January and I'm going to miss her terribly, but I know she is ready to go, it's lovely to see what a social little butterfly she is growing into and she just loves school.





I have decided to start a book now of ideas of all the things I want to do with her before Christmas and that includes lots of creative stuff. She is a very creative little thing who is desperate to be able to knit and sow like her mummy. She is for ever making clothes for her dolls from scrap pieces of paper, balloons or plastic, I'm trying to think of a little creative kit I could make for her. We have tried fabric but she gets disappointed when she is unable to manipulate it. Maybe felt would be a good idea... any suggestions would be of great help!

Bye for now ;)

xFaye

I am still here... well only just!

That is if you look very closely under hoards of stock, cardboard and bubble wrap. Business is VERY busy, stock is piratically flying out, our feature in the not on the high street Christmas catalogue is fantastic and very productive. I felt very proud when I received the catalogue :)




The business room is finished and thankfully it happened just in time. It works a treat and is so organised, in fact as I am spending so much time in it it's a good job really. No time for pictures I'm afraid. The room is a real pleasure to work in and is exactly how I planned... which made me very happy, the control freak that I am hehe.





I have decided I want lots of books to read over the Christmas holiday break, I came across this one via Amazon. I had it pre ordered and have been very good and not read it yet. I wanted to add it to my post to just inform anyone who is interested in it that The Book People are selling it for £4.99, I have already bought another copy for my mum from them, plus another lovely book Cherry Cake & Ginger Beer.

Ceramic dove

We have also launched our Christmas collection early this year, there is still more coming and lots of lovely new stock to add to the website (that is when I get a spare hour or two).

Ella loved making these paper chains up.

Thank you again for your lovely comments on my previous post, no news on the moving front but with the current climate we are not surprised.

Hopefully I will have chance to resume normal blogging in the new year but sadly it will carry on being rather sporadic in the run up to Christmas.

P.S We have a free UK postage offer on at the moment, but it end this Friday.

Bye for now.

xFaye

Erm... where did summer go?

I'm not ready for Autumn!

Loads has been going on in our house hold/family so I will try to edit it to a few brief paragraphs.

1. My mum and dad have put their house up for sale and have fallen in love with a house in Norfolk. Mixed emotions on this one, my mum and dad have always been within a 5 minute drive from me and the thought of not just being able to nip in is making me feel rather sad and anxious. Not to mention how much Ella totally dotes on them and will miss them immensely. But on the plus side which is how I normally look at life, they will be moving to Cromer, a place we all love and one where we can go to the seaside any time of the year plus when I do see them it will be quality time that I spend with them. Most importantly of all is how important this is for my mum and dad... it's been a dream for a very long time.

2. The business is going to go into overdrive... We have been selected by Not on the high street to be featured in the Christmas magazine; a whole page. As you can imagine the amount of work has doubled and that is even before the catalogue goes out. I am currently surrounded in every room by stock and this brings me to number 3.

3. Why oh why oh why did I start... I have decided that it was about time that the business come craft room was organised and suitable for my needs. This has now equated to having to move everything out so we can decorate. The list is endless and I have to have it all done by the end of September. Not an easy job. We have stripped all the nasty wallpaper and fixed the sash windows. Now we need to paint everything, the bit I am truly excited about is painting the floor boards white, yes I am rather sad but they are the original Victorian ones so I'm really excited. The whole room will be white :) I can't wait. I have every area planned out in detail so lots of pictures will be coming soon of how we got on.

As you can tell this is why my blogging is still very pathetic to say the least. On a good note I did have a break for a day to do some creative stuff for my mums birthday. I always love to make her some sort of handmade personal gift and these two were just perfect.

I didn't really know where it was going but just went with the flow and I was really pleased with the end results. It was a great success... she cried with happiness:)

Heart filled with lavender from our garden.

I have been intending to write a post for ages but have a to do list that is verging on ridiculous. so I threw caution to the wind and decided instead of editing the photographs for some of my Christmas stock I would do some blogging... I miss it sooo much.



I am currently surrounded by Christmas stock, our Christmas collection this year is about three times the size of normal so as you can imagine it is very mad here.



I hope you are all well, please accept my sincere apologies for the lack of comments on your blog posts, I do keep having a quick peek but will try harder to leave a message.

Hugs,

xFaye