Your light has shone since life begun.

In the heart's embrace, where love resides,A mother's touch, a gentle guide.Through trials faced and battles won,Your light has shone since life begun.You've held my dreams with gentle care,Encouraged me to reach, to dare.Your wisdom whispers in the breeze,Guiding me through life's vast seas.In every laugh, in every tear,Your presence soothes, dispels all fear.With tenderness, … Continue reading Your light has shone since life begun.

“Echoes Of Elegance In Victorian Marylebone – The Life Of Edith Cameron Willats 1861-1938, The Early Years.”

In the heart of Victorian Marylebone, amidst the grandeur of cobblestone streets and the rustle of silk skirts, a luminous soul graced the world with her presence. Born into a tapestry of opulence and boundless love, Edith Cameron Willats emerged as a jewel in the crown of a family both large in number and steeped … Continue reading “Echoes Of Elegance In Victorian Marylebone – The Life Of Edith Cameron Willats 1861-1938, The Early Years.”

Dear My Valentine

To my dearest Mark, my love so true,On this day of hearts, I pen for you.With every beat, my heart does swell,For you, my darling, I'd gladly tell.In your arms, I've found my home,A sanctuary where I'm never alone.Your love, a melody sweet and pure,In your embrace, I feel secure.Through life's storms and gentle breeze,With … Continue reading Dear My Valentine

Navigating Loss, Grief, and Self-Care In the vast tapestry of life, loss is an inevitable thread that weaves its way into our existence. Whether it be the departure of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a dream, the experience of grief is a profound and deeply personal journey. It … Continue reading

We lay her down in slumber’s sheet – Doreen June Townsend Nee Willats, 21st May 1930 – 25th December 2023.

In solemn hush, we gather near,Beneath the sky so vast and clear,To bid farewell, with hearts so heavy,To a soul cherished, steady, and merry.She was a beacon, a guiding light,A source of warmth in darkest night,Her song echoed, her wisdom pure,A presence that forever will endure.With gentle hands and loving gaze,She filled our lives in … Continue reading We lay her down in slumber’s sheet – Doreen June Townsend Nee Willats, 21st May 1930 – 25th December 2023.

Amidst the vibrant hues of others’ light, I’m the shadow that lingers, out of sight.

In the quiet echoes of my soul's embrace,A melody unfolds, a poignant trace.Through the corridors of self-doubt I roam,A tale unfolds of feeling second, never home.In the tapestry of life, woven and spun,I stand as a thread, a muted one.Amidst the vibrant hues of others light,I'm the shadow that lingers, out of sight.Faces gleam with … Continue reading Amidst the vibrant hues of others’ light, I’m the shadow that lingers, out of sight.

Rest In Peace, Doreen June Townsend Nee Willats 1930 – 2023

In the gentle folds of time's embrace,A cherished soul now finds its resting place.Gone from our sight, yet forever in our hearts,Our Mother, our Nan, a beacon, from which love won't depart.Her song danced like petals in the breeze,Kindness flowed, a river through the trees.In every moment, her warmth did reside,A gentle spirit, a constant, … Continue reading Rest In Peace, Doreen June Townsend Nee Willats 1930 – 2023

We Bid Adieu, To The Year That Tested us, Through And Through.

In shadows deep, we bid adieu,To a year that tested us, through and through.2023, with its trials and pain,Now fades away, like a passing rain. Through every struggle, we stood tall,We faced your challenges, big and small. Though wounds may ache, we start to heal,But now it's time to seek a new, And leave behind … Continue reading We Bid Adieu, To The Year That Tested us, Through And Through.

Twas the night before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas, a comical sight,Elves wrapping gifts in a merry delight.Santa practiced yoga to fit down the flue,While Rudolph tried salsa, antlers askew.The snowmen were sculpting a snowball brigade,Competing to see who'd roll the best grade.The gingerbread men ran off with the cake,Leaving frosting footprints, a sugary wake.The tree in the corner, … Continue reading Twas the night before Christmas

Meet Athena. 🐾

In the cozy corners of our hearts, where love finds its purest abode, a new chapter unfolds, a furry, lively addition named Athena, our enchanting Husky puppy. With every playful bound and mischievous glance, she has imprinting her paw prints on the fabric of our hearts.Welcoming Athena into our home felt like unlocking a treasure … Continue reading Meet Athena. 🐾

The Life Of Charlotte Ellen Crosbie Nee Willats 1859-1924, Part 2, Embracing Forever

In the gentle embrace of love, our dear Charlotte Ellen Crosbie stepped into the enchanting second act of her life. A bride with stars in her eyes and dreams woven into her heart, she embarked on a new chapter hand in hand with destiny. The promises exchanged, the vows spoken, marked not only the union … Continue reading The Life Of Charlotte Ellen Crosbie Nee Willats 1859-1924, Part 2, Embracing Forever

Run Free.

In the vast expanse where memories roam. Your spirit dances, finding its home.Amidst the ache of a love profound,Your absence echoes, an echoing sound.Oh, how our hearts in pieces lies,Amidst the tears, amidst the cries.The devastation of a bond so true,Lost in the void of saying adieu.Run free, dear friend, beyond this pain,Where skies are … Continue reading Run Free.

The Life Of Charlotte Ellen Willats 1859-1924, The Early Years, Through Documentation.

In the heart of bustling St Pancras, London, amidst the cobbled streets and whispers of a bygone era, a tale of resilience and tenacity unfolded. This is the story of Charlotte Ellen Willats, a name that resonates through the annals of history as a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Born in the … Continue reading The Life Of Charlotte Ellen Willats 1859-1924, The Early Years, Through Documentation.

Their Footsteps Echo.

In the attic's quiet, dusty air,Lies a chest of tales, a lineage fair.Bound in yellowed parchment, memories entwined,A chronicle of kin, an ancestry defined. Each heirloom holds a whispered trace,Of ancestors' valor, their enduring grace.In fading photographs, faces stare,A legacy preserved, beyond compare. From humble beginnings to triumph's cheer,Their footsteps echo, crystal clear.Through epochs danced, … Continue reading Their Footsteps Echo.

The Life Of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920 – Until Death Do Us Part.

In the hallowed pages of history, there are chapters that demand to be revisited, stories that beckon us back for another glimpse into a life lived with purpose and heart. As we turn the page to Part 2 of "The Life of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920 - Until Death Do Us Part," we step … Continue reading The Life Of Francis Montague Allen Willats, 1857-1920 – Until Death Do Us Part.

In fields of poppies, crimson and bold, A tale of valor and sacrifice, untold.

In fields of poppies, crimson and bold,A tale of valor and sacrifice, untold.Remembrance Day, a solemn grace,A day to honour, in a hallowed space. Silent whispers echo in the breeze,Of heroes standing 'neath tall trees.In Flanders' fields, where poppies sway,A tribute to those who paved the way. They marched through trenches, cold and deep,Where tears … Continue reading In fields of poppies, crimson and bold, A tale of valor and sacrifice, untold.

The Life Of, Henry Richard Willats, 1856-1922, Through Documentation.

In the dimly lit corners of history, where memories fade and stories are left untold, there exists an extraordinary life that has been hidden from the world for far too long. Today, I invite you to step back in time and embark on a poignant journey through the life of my 3rd Great-Granduncle, Henry Richard … Continue reading The Life Of, Henry Richard Willats, 1856-1922, Through Documentation.

Dancing Letters, The Gift Of Unique Perception.

In a world that often celebrates uniformity, there exists a beautiful mosaic of minds, each with its own distinct way of perceiving and interpreting the world. Among these unique perspectives lies dyslexia, a neurological variation that gifts individuals with a truly special lens through which they experience life. For those of us living with dyslexia, … Continue reading Dancing Letters, The Gift Of Unique Perception.

Embracing The Shadows, Navigating Anxiety, Depression, And Loneliness

It's been a while since I wrote anything personal and heartfelt, other than writing about my deeply respective ancestors lives. Today, I'm going to step outside my norm as I need to talk about something that has been a constant unwanted companion in my life: anxiety. It's a word that carries a weight, an invisible … Continue reading Embracing The Shadows, Navigating Anxiety, Depression, And Loneliness

The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897 – Life As A Married Man, Through Documentation.

Welcome back to the enthralling chronicles of the life story of my third great-grandfather. In Part 1, we delved into the early years of his existence, tracing his humble beginnings and the undoubtable challenges he must have encountered along the way. From those formative experiences, I am sure he developed a resilient spirit and an … Continue reading The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897 – Life As A Married Man, Through Documentation.

The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897, The Early Years, Through Documentation.

In the annuals of our family history lies a tale, a story that resonates across time, traversing generations to touch our hearts today.  As I continue to embark on my journey of discovery, I find myself drawn to the life of a remarkable individual, my third great-grandfather William George Willats, aka Biggun. He was more … Continue reading The Life Of William George Willats (Biggun), 1853-1897, The Early Years, Through Documentation.

The Life Of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937 – Navigating Life’s Journey As A Widow.

Every life story weaves together a unique blend of joy, sorrow, triumphs, and challenges. It is within these intricate threads that we discover the resilience and indomitable spirit of individuals who have faced life's trials head-on, leaving an indelible mark on their family's history. Life's unexpected twists can alter the course we had once envisioned, … Continue reading The Life Of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937 – Navigating Life’s Journey As A Widow.

The Life of Susan Mary Lagden 1858-1937 – Life Goes On Regardless.

We live a world where change is constant, the unexpected lurks around every corner, and life never fails to surprise us. Throughout our lives, we often find ourselves entangled in the ebb and flow of circumstances beyond our control.  As human beings, we strive for stability, seeking solace in the familiar and predictable. But deep … Continue reading The Life of Susan Mary Lagden 1858-1937 – Life Goes On Regardless.

The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Life As Mrs Susan Mary Kirby.

Welcome back, to the captivating journey through time and heritage as we continue to unravel the intricate puzzle of my ancestral legacy. In this second instalment, we delve deeper into the remarkable life of my third great-grandmother Susan Mary Kirby nee Lagden, and explore the documents and challenges she faced as a married women. As … Continue reading The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Life As Mrs Susan Mary Kirby.

The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Discovering the Missing Piece Of The Puzzle, The Early Years.

Have you ever found yourself captivated by the allure of solving a mystery? The irresistible sensation that accompanies the search for truth, like assembling the scattered fragments of a puzzle until the bigger picture emerges? We as humans are natural seekers, forever yearning to understand and make sense of the world around us. In this … Continue reading The Life of Susan Mary Lagden, 1858-1937, Discovering the Missing Piece Of The Puzzle, The Early Years.

Exploring the Famous Legends of Irish History

Traveling through the annals of Irish history is an incredible journey, full of captivating legends, stories, and myths. From the heroic tales of Cú Chulainn and Fionn mac Cumhaill to the devastating potato famine, Ireland has a rich history that is both fascinating and heartbreaking. I’ve been exploring some of the most famous legends of … Continue reading Exploring the Famous Legends of Irish History

The Life Of Richard Henry Willats 1834 – 1923, Through Documentation.

Old things are more beautifulthan many things brand newBecause they bring fond memoriesof things we used to do.Old photographs in albums,love letters tied with lace,Recapture those old feelingsthat new ones can't replace.Baby shoes, a teddy bear,a ring that grandma wore,Are treasures waiting there behinda door marked "Nevermore".Old things are more beautiful,more precious day by dayBecause … Continue reading The Life Of Richard Henry Willats 1834 – 1923, Through Documentation.

The Life of Mary O’Connor, 1831-1895, Through Documentation.

We’ve got a family albumLike a family treeA thrill to turn the pagesThe pictures we can see Starting off with grands and greatsThen slowly down the lineLike a book of historyA journey through the time Fashions start to alterMustaches come and goLadies skirts skip up and downA proper fashion show Top hats change to boatersTo caps … Continue reading The Life of Mary O’Connor, 1831-1895, Through Documentation.

Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – February 2023

“For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me want to dream.” - Vincent Van Gogh Durdle Door, Dorset, England. © Mark_MG_Photography. Durdle Door is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and is an extremely popular beauty spot. It is located on the Lulworth Estate … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – February 2023

John Cornelius O’Connor – The Hunt Takes An Unexpected Turn, As His Truth Unfolds.

History is a mighty drama, enacted upon the theatre of times, with suns for lamps and eternity for a background. As I delve into the past, revisiting the lives of names written upon dusty documents, those names capture my soul and pull fondly on my heartstrings.  They no longer are just random names scribbled on … Continue reading John Cornelius O’Connor – The Hunt Takes An Unexpected Turn, As His Truth Unfolds.

Meet The O’Connors – The Bairns of, John Cornelius O’Connor.

My love for genealogy is fuelled by my determination to discover the truth behind our mysterious O’Connors.  My passion is at its fullest when it comes to them. They are my biggest headache and my greatest love. I’m not entirely sure what fuels that passion, was it the incredibly kind, loving heart of my, Great … Continue reading Meet The O’Connors – The Bairns of, John Cornelius O’Connor.

The Hunt For, John Cornelius O’Connors, Birth Index And Birth Certificate, 1872.

Even though I still very much believe that our, John Cornelius O’Connor, was born in County Kerry, Ireland, I have been following a possible paper trail for the, O’Connor family. After trolling the birth index’s I came across two birth index’s, one for, John’s brother, Thomas, and another for John.  Both give the mothers maiden … Continue reading The Hunt For, John Cornelius O’Connors, Birth Index And Birth Certificate, 1872.

The Life of Christian Luke, 1808-1895- Part Three, The Bigamist. 

Welcome back to the life of Christian, now known as Christian Kemish nee Collins nee Luke. Let’s have a recap of what we know about her life so far. Christian was born in Lockerley, Hampshire, in the year, 1808, to Moses Luke, son of Moses Luke and Hannah Luke nee Grey and Catherine Kitty Mason, daughter of Jonathan Mason and Catherine Southwell. She was … Continue reading The Life of Christian Luke, 1808-1895- Part Three, The Bigamist. 

The Life Of Alice Southwell, 1861 – 1915, Part 3 – The Final Chapter.

Welcome back to the life of, Alice Southwell.  Before we begin, let’s have a little recap of her life so far. Or you can read part 1 here and part 2 here.Alice was born at, East Wellow, on Thursday the 19th of December 1861. From the age of 9, Alice worked for her maternal uncle, William Reeves, at the Angel Inn, … Continue reading The Life Of Alice Southwell, 1861 – 1915, Part 3 – The Final Chapter.

Frost

“A CROCHETED PIECE IS THE LOVELY MANIFESTATION OF A THOUGHT, EXPRESSED THROUGH HAND, HEART, HOOK, AND YARN.” – FRANCINE TOUKOU.  When Tinna Thórudóttir Thorvaldsdóttir designs, it’s plain to see, she gives her soul to creativity. Her love and exceptional talent shines through in every single masterpieces she manifests. And her new pattern “FROST”, is no exception.  It’s … Continue reading Frost

Crochet Crush, September 2021 – AMMA CAL

A CROCHETED PIECE IS THE LOVELY MANIFESTATION OF A THOUGHT, EXPRESSED THROUGH HAND, HEART, HOOK, AND YARN.” – FRANCINE TOUKOU Tinna Thórudóttir Thorvaldsdóttir from Tinna Crochets is the mistress/master of the art of crochet and craftsmanship.  With each and every loop a stitch is made. With each stitch made, her creativity flows. That creativity turns … Continue reading Crochet Crush, September 2021 – AMMA CAL

Lets Go Turbo!

Since Warpspeeds last meet at the Greenlight Nationals, Mark Smith aka Smithy and Stuart Crane from Warpspeed Racing, have been very busy turning Smithys nitrous Pro-mod  bike into a turbo. As you may know it has been a tough season running nitrous, mainly down to electrical issues, however running turbo has started out rather well. It … Continue reading Lets Go Turbo!

Crochet Crush May/June 2021 – Viking Knot

Tinna does it again, with her new mosaic crochet pattern! 😍🥰😍 Viking Knot. To me there really couldn’t be a more perfect pattern. Not only does it represent strength, eternal love, unity and loyalty between friends, family and lovers. It’s endless loop, with no end or beginning, represents everlasting love while the knot image represents an … Continue reading Crochet Crush May/June 2021 – Viking Knot

Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – April 2021

“Our spring has come at last  with the soft laughter of April suns  and shadow of April showers.”  Byron Caldwell Smith. Hengisbury Head, Dorset. Hengistbury Head, Dorset. All images are for sale, please contact me for prices. You can order just a print, have an image put on canvas, by Russ at, "https://lovetoframe.com" or we … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – April 2021

Crochet Crush – March 2021 – Whatcha-ma-call-it.

Vanessa aka Nesspot, from Hooked On Sunshine, has done it again.  No surprise there really.Her new blanket pattern Whatcha-ma-call-it is Scrumdiddlyumptious. It oozes beauty. Vanessa never disappoints, her patterns are some of the best out there and she’s definitely in my top three designers. I’ve said it before many times, not only are her designs outstandingly beautiful … Continue reading Crochet Crush – March 2021 – Whatcha-ma-call-it.

Know the satisfaction and pride that comes from using your hands – Our take on a Apothecary Cabinet.

Woodworking matters. It's more than a pastime or hobby being a woodworker means that you know the satisfaction and pride that comes from using your hands and mind to build beautiful, functional objects, and that you're as interested in the process as the outcome. Amid the speed and chaos of the modern world, woodworking gives … Continue reading Know the satisfaction and pride that comes from using your hands – Our take on a Apothecary Cabinet.

Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – January 2021

A new year is unfolding, like a blossom with petals curled tightly concealing the beauty within.       (All taken on a Samsung S20.)📸📷📸 Copyright to all of the photographs displayed are owned by,Mark_MG_Photography.You may not download, publish, sell, license or distribute any of these photographs without the written permission from the photographer.Photographs have been uploaded in … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – January 2021

Round Up, Round Up – November 2020

Christmas gift suggestions -To your enemy, forgiveness.To an opponent, tolerance.To a friend, your heart.To a customer, service.To all, charity.To every child, a good example.To yourself, respect.     (Oren Arnold) Frost covered mornings, roaring fires, shimmering trees and houses alight with twinkly light, it’s beginning to feel like Christmas. Is it just me, didn’t November seem long, it dragged and … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – November 2020

Arabia

It’s seems an age since I sat down to write a blog. In truth lockdown has taken the norm out of my normal and my everyday routine has totally flown the nest. Mornings of housework and afternoons of crochet have truly and utterly disappeared. It been such a nice change and even though the world … Continue reading Arabia

I Remember

💝Happy 70th Birthday Dad💝 When I think of you, sometimes I cry, sometimes I laugh at your awesome sense of humour, sometimes I remember your ability to succeed at everything you tried. I remember your strength and determination, I remember how proud I felt/feel when you gave your all competing for you County as an … Continue reading I Remember

Isolation

Corona lockdown is hard on everyone but imagine being locked down on your own with only yourself for company. I imagine you can’t even keep yourself busy by cleaning your home because isn’t everyone else that makes the mess.😂 Throughout the Covid-19 lockdown my gorgeous Sister In-laws Rache, has been home alone, so my other … Continue reading Isolation

Crochet Crush – February/March 2020 – Marnie’s Garden

You may have guessed that Vanessa Smith, from Hooked on Sunshine’s patterns are some of my absolute favourites. Her patterns are just an absolute pleasure to make. Her pattern writing skills are second to none, very easy to follow and beautifully presented. Her Afghans are beyond breathtaking. I just love, love, love them. Vanessa has … Continue reading Crochet Crush – February/March 2020 – Marnie’s Garden

Strippy Neons.

You all know that crochet is my passion, my love and my sanity, lately tho it’s become increasingly hard to crochet due to arthritis and brain fog. I feel as if I’m walking through sinking sand constantly. Concentration  has been near on impossible so I’ve had to put all my current wips aside for the … Continue reading Strippy Neons.

Sacred Space

Sometimes you see a new crochet blanket design and just know that you have to make it and who for. When Helen Shrimpton released her, “Sacred Space” pattern, I got that feeling, I just had to make it and when Ineke, one of Helens testers and designer in her own right, showcased her stunning blanket, … Continue reading Sacred Space

Fiesta

When a crochet pattern is previewed it’s not often I know exactly how I want mine to end up, what colours and yarn to use. When Tinna first showed the preview of her, Fiesta CAL, I knew instantly what colours and yarn I would use. I really believe my gut instinct was a good one … Continue reading Fiesta

Crochet Crush January 2020 – The Weldy Shawl

I’ve been pretty excited about sharing, December/January’s crochet crush with you. This months crochet crush is a little different, because it hasn’t actually been released yet. It’s a new shawl pattern by, Dragana Savkov Bajic, from “Dadas Place  Called “The Weldy Shawl” Isn’t  it just dreamy. I haven’t really got much more information about it … Continue reading Crochet Crush January 2020 – The Weldy Shawl

Looking Back

Happy New Year. May 2020 be full of love, laughter and lots and lots of what your heart desires, not forgetting numerous amounts of crochet and crafts. Looking back at what I’ve achieved/made in 2019, I made 10 Afghan, finished the Nuts About DNA Afghan, made 43 granny squares, 3 bags, 8 hats and 6 … Continue reading Looking Back

Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 26-30

You may have read that, I’m using, Scheepjes Stone Washed, in Mums chosen colours, Moon Stone, Garnet, Corundum ruby, Citrine, Malachite, Enstatite, and Rose quartz, for Mum's  "Nuts About DNA Afghan". I purchased them from Wool Warehouse and Lusciously Loopy Yarn. Squares 26-30 details are below with the colour order I used. Sally by Polly Plum. Round 1 … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 26-30

We will be

Christmas day is nearly here, the tree shimmers in the background, nearly as bright as the excitement on our children's faces. As Snow falls outside my window, the world transforms into a magical place, where dreams just may come true. Even though Christmas joy fills our hearts, a sad tear trickles down my cheek for … Continue reading We will be

Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 107 – Gwendolyn

Gwendolyn is my 107th square, for my  Mums “Nuts about DNA Afghan” Gwendolyn is a beautiful square by Polly Plum of Every trick on the hook. Polly’s designs the most amazing squares and blankets, she has been one of my all time favourite designers since I first started to crochet. Her patterns are exceptionally well written … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 107 – Gwendolyn

Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 106 – Starflower

“Starflower Afghan Square” is my 106th square, for my Mums “Nuts about DNA afghan.” Starflower Afghan Square, is another one of Diana Krenz’s squares and isn’t it just the prettiest. I absolutely loved making this one. I even played around a little with tapestry crochet to make certain parts certain colours. I think it worked out … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 106 – Starflower