Family history research seems to only concentrate on the souls who have passed over, to where ever it may be. But what about your ancestors whom are still alive and kicking, the ones who remember the souls you are desperate to discover. Isn’t it our jobs as budding historians to document not only the deceased … Continue reading Doreen June Willats – The Beginning.
Casablanca
More often than not, a pattern is released that makes you go WOW and there are often times that wow pattern, jumps to the top of your to make this. When Tinna Thórudóttir Thorvaldsdóttir, Casablanca Afghan pattern was released it did just that. Watch this little video and you will see why. Just click here. … Continue reading Casablanca
Crochet Crush – April 2019
Without a shadow of dealt, Vanessa’s from, Hooked on Sunshine, new pattern Phoenix, wins crochet crush of the month. I’m head over heels in love with it and although you can’t get your hands on the first part of the pattern until May 10th 2019, you can download the prelude, either at Hooked On Sunshine … Continue reading Crochet Crush – April 2019
Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – April 2019
A gush of bird-song, a patter of dew, A cloud, and a rainbow's warning, Suddenly sunshine and perfect blue, An April day in the morning. (Harriet Prescott Spofford) Practical Photography Magazine, asking if they could featured one of his photographs in the May issue of the magazine. What a great honour and of course he … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – April 2019
Round Up, Round Up – April 2019
Bittersweet April always brings the horrific memories of my Dad’s death to the forefront of our minds, we relive the horror and the heartbreak over and over again. Tears are shed and the what ifs only grow as the years without him spiral out of control. It seems only yesterday we were sat day in, … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – April 2019
Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – March 2019
In march winter is holding back and spring is pulling forward. Something holds and something pulls inside of us too. (Jean Hersey) 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, Love To Frame or we can have … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – March 2019
Cascading Daisy Lapghan
Whilst scrolling through Pinterest for colour inspiration, I came across the below image and instantly fell for it. I love anything retro and this just sang to me. I knew I had to make a blanket as close to it as possible. I ordered Paintbox Yarns Simply Aran, in Colours, 🧶210 Coffee Bean 🧶212 Tomato … Continue reading Cascading Daisy Lapghan
Passion
Most of us dream that our passion will one day become our jobs, that we can spend our days doing what we love, be it carpentry, quilting, crochet, knitting, photography, fishing, gaming, racing, running, etc, etc. How wonderful that would be. I once had this overwhelming passion for photography, I saw photos everywhere and in … Continue reading Passion
Crochet Crush – March 2019
To be honest I really don’t know, there are so many great patterns out there. But I have been rather smitten with designer Diana Krenz, gorgeous granny squares. I have made a few now and wow, they are stunning. Diana has lots of designs available for free and to purchase, they are truly worth every … Continue reading Crochet Crush – March 2019
Warpspeed Racing – What’s new for 2019
After a very eventful and expensive 10 years in Pro Stock Bike, Mark aka The Punisher, is changing classes to Top Fuel Bike. He has purchased Paul Gast’s Pro Stock/Pro Mod chassis, which has under gone a vast transformation by Stuart Crane at Warpspeed Racing. The off-season was spent making a few modifications to the … Continue reading Warpspeed Racing – What’s new for 2019
Round Up, Round Up – March 2019
With warmer days ahead of us, garden showing signs of spring, winter blues are slowly fading, as our souls enlighten with the early morning rays. I for one am glad to feel the sun warming my icy bones, even though I’ll miss the beauty of crisp frost-bitten mornings. Spring somehow always manages to put a … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – March 2019
The Loopy Stitch Lapghan
One of my most favourite things to crochet are Granny Squares, the only trouble being is which one to make first and what colours to use. I’m a massive fan of monotone blankets, especially in timeless colours, like white or cream. Some times though the beautiful detail in the pattern can get lost, which is … Continue reading The Loopy Stitch Lapghan
Mr and Mrs, Reginald George Wilfred Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52 – Part 3 – Memories
I can’t believe I’m at the end of my “52 Ancestors" challenge. At times I thought I would never get here. It’s been extremely hard work, time-consuming, blooming expensive, but most of all it’s been an absolute pleasure. I’ve also learnt a lot about myself along the way. I’ve learnt that my spelling is still … Continue reading Mr and Mrs, Reginald George Wilfred Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52 – Part 3 – Memories
Solis, Twisted Granny Lapghan
The “Twisted Granny” square, I believe was a designed by the Instagramer, gulag_degirmenci. Unfortunately there wasn’t a pattern available, but she had kindly posted a photo tutorial, which can be found on her Instagram feed. I’m not sure what the square is actually called so when I made my first Lapghan, using the square I named … Continue reading Solis, Twisted Granny Lapghan
Granny Square – Back To Basics.
Although my mind is craving to make intrigue complex patterns, sometimes is a good thing to go back to basics, to rest the mind and remember where your journey began. The beginning of my crochet journey was far from plain-sailing, I couldn’t even master a foundation chain. It seriously took me a good weekend, if … Continue reading Granny Square – Back To Basics.
Mr and Mrs, Reginald George Wilfred Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52 – Part 2
Welcome back to the life of Reginald George Wilfred Willats (Reg) and Eileen May Willats Nee O'Connor, my Great-Grandparents. Its the year 1928, in the City of Southampton in Hampshire, England. The city is well paved, sewered and lighted, and has an excellent water supply, a fine sanatorium, a municipal dispensary and a school clinic. … Continue reading Mr and Mrs, Reginald George Wilfred Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52 – Part 2
Crochet Crush – February 2019
There are so many beautiful patterns being released at the moment, the designers are keeping us on our toes and our to do lists are larger than ever. I swear I’ll never be able to complete mine even if I live way into my 100s. I would say there are two that stand out the … Continue reading Crochet Crush – February 2019
Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – February 2019
Late February days, and now, at last, Might you have thought that winter's woe was past, So fair the sky was and so soft the air. 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, Love To Frame or … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – February 2019
Mr Reginald and Mrs Eileen Willats – Part 1 – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52
Have you ever felt really close to someone, So close that you can't understand why you and the other person have two separate bodies, two separate skins? My maternal Great-Grandparents love for each other wasn’t just a love of the heart but a love of the soul, an eternal love, a love unbreakable even through … Continue reading Mr Reginald and Mrs Eileen Willats – Part 1 – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 52
Round Up, Round Up – February 2019
February has been very much like the weather, it’s teased with signs of spring, the blossoming of snowdrops and the smile of daffodil, while the reality of winter festers deep within our bones, it’s cruel, ice-cold winds continue to blow up around us. It’s been pure delight to feel the sun upon our faces as … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – February 2019
Harry Richard Thomas Willats, Aka DICK MONTAGUE – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51, Part 3
Welcome back to the life of We left Harry back in 1944, working as management for The Peacock Hotel, a Grade II Listed Building in Market Harborough, Leicestershire, while he was taking a break from the music halls. Dick aka Harry, first appeared back in the tabloids on, October 24 1947. Sadly, this is where Dicks … Continue reading Harry Richard Thomas Willats, Aka DICK MONTAGUE – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51, Part 3
Harry Richard Thomas Willats, Aka DICK MONTAGUE – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51, Part 2
Welcome back to the life of Harry Richard Thomas Willats, also known as our One Any Only 🎭Dick Montague🎭 Last week I told you all about his life as Harry, this week we travel back in time and see a snippet of his life as Dick Montague, through the tabloids. It may be a little … Continue reading Harry Richard Thomas Willats, Aka DICK MONTAGUE – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51, Part 2
Brett Howard Montague Willats – Update.
Just a little update for you as promised in last weeks 52 Ancestors post about Harry Richard Thomas Willats, which you can find here. I have received his son's birth certificate and can now clarify Brett's date of birth and birth information. Brett Herbert Montague Willats was born on August 9, 1953, at King Edward … Continue reading Brett Howard Montague Willats – Update.
Blossoming Briar Rose
The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. (Rajneesh) I remember the moment by babies were born, love like no other floods your heart and soul, a love so very powerful it’s indescribable and indestructible. … Continue reading Blossoming Briar Rose
Harry Richard Thomas Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51
I’m sure you may recognise the name, "Harry Richard Thomas Willats," by now, his name has popped up a good few times over my "52 week challenge" and this week I finally get to tell you a little about him. I’m not going to go into the history of the name "Willats" as you can … Continue reading Harry Richard Thomas Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 51
Jesse Townsend – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 50
Peace is the beauty of life. It is sunshine. It is the smile of a child, the love of a mother, the joy of a father, the togetherness of a family. (Menachem Begin) Ever since I saw this photograph of my four maternal Great-Grandparents, Reginald George Wilfred Willats, Jesse Edward Townsend, Bessie Eva Annie Sweet … Continue reading Jesse Townsend – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 50
Photography – The Beauty Of Life Captured – January 2019
In winter the stars seem to have rekindled their fires, the moon achieves a fuller triumph, and the heavens wear a look of a more exalted simplicity. (John Burroughs) 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, Love … Continue reading Photography – The Beauty Of Life Captured – January 2019
Crochet Crush – January 2019
This month is such an easy one. Hands down, Bonnie Barker, Celtic Diamond Wrap, has my tummy turning with excitement. The Celtic Diamond Wrap will be hosted as a crochet along. The Crochet Along will be 3 weeks long and will be available on the Crochet World Facebook page beginning on January 23. Videos will be posted on, January … Continue reading Crochet Crush – January 2019
Andrew Porter – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 49
It's funny how as you grow older, your history becomes so much more important. Those small details hold greater meaning and you begin to relate your own life and personality to the ones that came before you. As I have mentioned in other posts, our family have always had a passion and deep love for … Continue reading Andrew Porter – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 49
Round Up, Round Up – January 2019
With a new year ahead of us, I was hoping it was going to be a great one, after years of stress, bad luck, bad health and fear, that has consumed our lives for as long as I can remember. With a positive mindset and goals in place, I was more than ready to face … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – January 2019
Framed Lilliana Square
Last year, I started making the Lilliana Afghan by Vanessa at Hooked on Sunshine. I only completed part one of the crochet along, for some unknown reason I didn’t complete it. It’s so pretty I wanted to do something with the part one centre mandala, so I decided to try and square it up and … Continue reading Framed Lilliana Square
Kate Withers – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 48
I am the first to admit, I knew very little about my Dad’s family. It’s the reason I started researching my family history. The December of 1996, my hero, my Dad was in a horrific accident which would end his life the following April of 1997. Little did we know he had left, us three … Continue reading Kate Withers – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 48
Eliza Cameron – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 47
The Mysteries are gateways, thresholds between this world and the Otherworld, the meeting place of gods and people. Family history is just a gigantic mystery waiting to be solved and this weeks ancestor has a good few, well hidden, missing pieces to her puzzle. 🧩 Although I know a great deal about her family, her … Continue reading Eliza Cameron – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 47
Alfred Wheeler – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 46
We may all wish, that we came from royalty or some famous hero, but I am pretty happy to say I come from, hard-working humble roots. Ancestors whom worked the land, the mines and helped build our towns or cities, roads etc. This weeks ancestor made a working class, honest living, and that’s just fine … Continue reading Alfred Wheeler – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 46
Harry Herbert Money/Willats – Part 3
Welcome back to the life of, Harry Herbert Willats (Money). We left Harry back in 1911, Margate, were he was performing with his “White Stars Concert Party,” married to Eleanor Willats Nee Kirby. They have had three children, Harry, Doris and Reginald. Baby Doris, passed away leaving a family of four, living the life of … Continue reading Harry Herbert Money/Willats – Part 3
Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – December 2018
The sun that brief December day Rose cheerless over hills of gray, And, darkly circled, gave at noon A sadder light than waning moon. (John Greenleaf Whittier) All images are for sale, please contact me for prices. You can order just a print, have an image put on canvas or we can have … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – December 2018
Crochet Crush – December 2018
There are so many crush worthy patterns out there, it’s incredibly hard to choose just one. This month I’ve gone googly-eyed over, Carnival Of Flowers CAL by Buttonnose Crochet. It’s so very pretty and gives you that summer feeling. I especially love Instagramer, rafsweetheart version, her colours are right up my street. It’s definitely eye … Continue reading Crochet Crush – December 2018
Round Up, Round Up – December 2018
Christmas is forever, not for just one day, for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf. The good you do for others is good you do yourself. (Norman W Brooks) Christmas is more than presents, good food and too much alcohol, it’s … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – December 2018
Harry Herbert Money/Willats – Part Two.
Welcome back to the life of our one and only Harry Herbert Willats and the year 1899, in the southeast town, Margate, known for its sandy beach and entertainment on the pier. Harry Herbert Willats, performed there, at the Hall by the sea, for the annual benefit of the manager, Mr Wm. Sanger (Documented in … Continue reading Harry Herbert Money/Willats – Part Two.
Harry Herbert Money/Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 45 – Part 1
A while ago, I told you all the story of, one of my favourite ancestors, Eleanor Mary Kirby aka Nellie Montague. Since childhood I’ve had a magical picture of how wonderful Eleanor and her husband's life would have been, how much in love they were, you know one of those unbreakable loves, that no matter … Continue reading Harry Herbert Money/Willats – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 45 – Part 1
Beautiful Shell
Have you ever made a project that you absolutely love the out come but the journey was a challenge and a half? I started making the Beautiful Shells Blanket by Lahoma Jayne Nally months and months ago. I was excited to get started and enjoyed watching this beautiful pattern come alive. Everyone seemed to loved … Continue reading Beautiful Shell
Havana
A blazing flame of passion often dwindles to a flicker even though the passion never initially fades, it’s there patiently waiting for something to spark the flames back to a roar. The Havana Afghan, was the spark I needed to relight my crojo. As soon a saw a preview of this blanket many months ago, … Continue reading Havana
Eliza Stockwell – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 44
This weeks ancestor, is truly a tricky one, but very enjoyable to research. I've still not 100% cracked her puzzle but I'm getting close. I'm very lucky to have a photo of her, which unfortunately I can't really share with you as I was given it by a very kind, distant relative Hazel. It's funny … Continue reading Eliza Stockwell – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 44
Little Prince Charming
Where there’s a Prince, there is always a Knight, a Knight in shining armour. I am very lucky to have a friend who has been my knight in shining amor, while researching your material Grandfathers family history. Those of you that have been following my 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks, challenge, will probably remember my … Continue reading Little Prince Charming
Beneath These Stones
Death is a very cruel part of life, it comes to us all, we can't outrun it, hide from it or avoid it. When our numbers up, it's up. Grief has many levels, levels that we all have to live through, adapt and conquer. Some of us will never get over the pain of losing … Continue reading Beneath These Stones
Catherine Fielder – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 44
From the beginning of my research, I have been fascinated with this weeks ancestor, as very little is known about her family. Her parents are a frustrating puzzle that never seems to let up and give me clues. Her Husband also fascinates me because his life before the age of six is a complete mystery … Continue reading Catherine Fielder – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 44
Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – November 2018
So dull and dark are the November days. The lazy mist high up the evening curled, And now the morn quite hides in smoke and haze, The place we occupy seems all the world. John Clare All images are for sale, please contact me for prices. You can order just a print, have an image … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – November 2018
Round Up, Round Up – November 2018
November has been a month of change. Unfortunately I was diagnosed with, type two diabetes and after a long wait I managed to see my diabetic nurse. She basically told I need to change my lifestyle. Diabetes is one scary mofo, I knew it was dangerous through my beauty therapy training, but never really understood … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – November 2018
Moses Luke – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 43
I'll never forget where I'm from. It's essential to remain humble and evolving. I feel incredibly humble and proud of my roots. Although I wish my ancestors hadn’t lived through hard times, I wouldn’t wish for them to have come from Lords and Ladies. Those amazingly strong people worked incredibly hard, they held their heads … Continue reading Moses Luke – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 43
Catherine Southwell/Sutherell – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 42
Southwell is a locational surname of Olde English and Anglo-Saxon pre 9th century origins. It derives from former residence at the town of Southwell in Nottinghamshire, or possibly from a place or places called originally 'sud waella', translating as the spring to the south. More interesting it’s the surname of my Husband maternal Great-Grandmother, Edith … Continue reading Catherine Southwell/Sutherell – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 42
Sarah Scarrott, Update.
After a short wait and checking my inbox every two minutes, Sarah’s death certificate arrived. In truth I wasn’t convinced it was going to be the right one, so I was pleasantly surprised when it turned out to be correct. I can happily now tell you, how and when, Sarah's journey through life ended. Sarah … Continue reading Sarah Scarrott, Update.
Sarah Scarrott – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 41
When researching your family history you are limited to certain resources on-line, census returns, birth, marriage and death indexes, court and wills, immigration and emigration records, parish records, military records and newspaper articles. All that you pay through the nose for. It’s very expensive and time-consuming. Mistakes are made constantly, so unfortunately its better to … Continue reading Sarah Scarrott – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 41
Briar Rose Of Friendship
“It is the time you have spent on your rose that makes her so important.” The same can be said about friendship. Through trust, loyalty, kindness and time, friendship blossoms, love grows and bonds become unbreakable. So when my youngest Son, ask me to make his best friend Pippa, a blanket, I knew it had … Continue reading Briar Rose Of Friendship
Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – October 2018
The trees are in their autumn beauty, The woodland paths are dry, Under the October twilight the water Mirrors a still sky. All images are for sale, please contact me for prices. You can order just a print, have an image put on canvas or we can have your chosen image framed for you … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – October 2018
Lest We Forget
🎖Frank Milward Newell 1899-1918 Pas-de-Calais 🎖Harry Pearce 1874-1916 Beaumont Hamel, France 🎖Walter Pearce 1883-1916 France and Flanders 🎖Horace Lennan Willats 1894-1916 Rugeley, Staffordshire. 🎖Alton Henry Willats 1889-1917 Pas-de-Calais, France. 🎖Harry Ashley Willats 1889-1917 Battle, Sussex. 🎖David James E Willats 1898-1917 France and Flanders. 🎖James O’Connor 25 Oct 1915 The Royal Victoria Hospital, Netley Marsh, Hampshire, … Continue reading Lest We Forget
Charles Frederick Joseph Townsend – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 40
Tradition lives because young people come along who catch its romance and add new glories to it. (Michael Novak) Gone are the days of what I call real craftsmanship, when everything was done/made by hand and not pumped out by the billions from a factory or huge machinery cutting the corps and ploughing the fields, … Continue reading Charles Frederick Joseph Townsend – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 40
William Lye – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 39.
A man who works with his hands is a labourer, a man who works with his hands and his brain is a craftsman, but a man who works with his hands and his brain and his heart is an artist. ~Louis Nizer (1902–1994) A few of my male ancestors were artists, their paper, wood and … Continue reading William Lye – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 39.
Round Up, Round Up – October 2018
The single most important thing in life is what it all means to you. Life doesn’t come prepackaged with this meaning either.. you create it. Doing so is rarely easy, but it’s always within your power and well worth the effort. Ultimately, the secret is to LOVE, love the people who love you, share advantages … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – October 2018
Isaac Porter – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 38
Our family has always had a love for the ocean, from the calm before the storm, to the waves crashing upon the shore, to the tranquility of the open waters. It’s almost like a pull, a pull from deep within our souls. Just to sit and listen as the ocean waters ripple as it mees … Continue reading Isaac Porter – 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 38
Twisted Granny
I have very mixed views about social media, it can be a huge platform for cyber bullying, judgment, over sharing and damn right rudeness but it can also be a place where you can find inspiration, talk to like minded people who share the same passions, follow designers, photographers etc, etc. Facebook groups are great … Continue reading Twisted Granny
Alice Maria Money – Update.
Me again, just a small update for you. The two certificates I was waiting for have arrived, unfortunately it seems the yet again, it’s the wrong birth for, Alice Maria Money. The hunt will have to continue. However the death certificate for, Mary Ann Money nee Skeleton, Alice's mother is correct and I can confirm … Continue reading Alice Maria Money – Update.
Alice Maria Money – 52Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 37
I often talk about those tricky ancestors whom like to play a good old game of hide and seek, well this weeks ancestor is one of them, from different dates of birth to places of birth, and constant name changes, she’s not the easiest to pinpoint. And even though I can’t be 100% certain about … Continue reading Alice Maria Money – 52Ancestors In 52 Weeks – Week 37
Joseph Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 36
“When someone you love dies, and you’re not expecting it, you don’t lose them all at once; you lose them in pieces over a long time — the way the mail stops coming, and their scent fades from the pillows and even from the clothes in the closet and drawers. Gradually, you accumulate the parts … Continue reading Joseph Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 36
Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – September 2018
Autumn, the year's last, loveliest smile. All images are for sale, please contact me for prices. You can order just a print, have an image put on canvas or we can have your chosen image framed for you by the very talented guys at, The Picture Framing Shop, who go above and beyond, to … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – September 2018
More than just a name.
Throughout my "52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks" challenge, I am writing about my ancestors, below are links to each family member I have written about so far. Carr - Frederick Earnest Henry Carr Forhead - Emily Freak - Rosa Alice Gibbs Porter - Elizabeth Grace Hatcher - Caleb George Eva Kate Kirby - Alfred Eleanor … Continue reading More than just a name.
Gillian Mary Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 35
Although I love researching our family history, I also find it very upsetting. The lives my ancestors lived were far from easy. Most lived humble poor or working class lives, living only to pay the bills, a way of life most of us in modern times still live by. While the rich, get richer, the … Continue reading Gillian Mary Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 35
Stockwell Angels – Elizabeth Wren, 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks, Week 34 Update.
Certificates have been floating in, in dribs and drabs throughout the last few days, all apart from one which I was refunded for. My 3rd Great Grandmothers, Eliza Stockwell, original birth record is in too poor condition to be sent as a pdf, which is such a shame, as I am slowly buying all my … Continue reading Stockwell Angels – Elizabeth Wren, 52 Ancestors In 52 Weeks, Week 34 Update.
Round Up, Round Up – September 2018
September is the month of new beginnings, fresh starts and earthly changes. As the sun cools, the morning chill try’s its hardest to make summer days a distant memory, as children step into their new oversized uniforms and shiny shoes. September sees every mother cry, while fathers, fight hard not to show the lump in their throats … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – September 2018
Elizabeth Wren – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 34
Through dusty documentation, census records, birth marriage and death indexes we are incredibly lucky to be able to trace, the one whom gave us life, whom fought battles, faces heartbreak and struggled through life. This weeks ancestor one of the saddest, heartbreaking lives, of my ancestors. She’s pretty incredible as is her husband. How they … Continue reading Elizabeth Wren – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 34
Mary Ann, Charlotte & Tom Pointer – 52 Ancestor In 52 Weeks Update.
The long-awaited birth and death certificates, arrived in my inbox yesterday and I can now share the information with you. Mary Ann Pointer, was born on the 29th January 1840 at Sherfield English, Hampshire, England. Her birth was registered on the 15th February 1840, by her Mother, Harriet Pointer nee Brown. Harriet signed with an … Continue reading Mary Ann, Charlotte & Tom Pointer – 52 Ancestor In 52 Weeks Update.
Be The Change
I read something, this morning and felt I had to share, mainly because I have an ever-growing passion for the dislike (not a strong enough word) for plastic. We as humans are destroying this beautiful world, not only with our constant use of plastic, that is filling our oceans, destroying our beaches, filling the land … Continue reading Be The Change
Mary Ann Pointer – 52 Ancestors, 52 Weeks – Week 33
It’s been a while since I’ve wrote about this line of my paternal tree. This side always fascinates me as I have made so many new family connections. Throughout these connections I have made some wonderful friends, one in particular, I’m extremely grateful for the friendship that has formed. It’s uncanny how alike we are, … Continue reading Mary Ann Pointer – 52 Ancestors, 52 Weeks – Week 33
Feeling Groovy 2
To rule self and subdue our passions is the more praiseworthy because so few know how to do it. I’m definitely one whom has no control when it comes to crochet and my passion for it. I try to set goals, I try really hard to not start anything new but it’s tough when there … Continue reading Feeling Groovy 2
Alfred Kirby – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks -Week 32
Throughout my family research, so many of my ancestors have kept me on my toes, they’ve loved to play a good old game of hide and seek. The Kirby family especially like to play. I have big gaps in their history and a family rumour to clarify. My Nan Doreen Townsend nee Willats, was told … Continue reading Alfred Kirby – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks -Week 32
Feeling Groovy
I’ve been a little googly-eyed over, Vanessa from Hooked on Sunshine, “Feeling Groovy Blanket” since I first saw her preview post on her Facebook group, Hooked on Sunshine Patterns and Cals. I’ve struggled at keeping my hooks down and I finally cracked. I knew it would be perfect for a blanket I was planning on … Continue reading Feeling Groovy
Charles Ridgeley/Rudge/Rudgely – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 31
Some say, your life is already planned out for you, on the day of your birth as is your death. If this is true, why do some skip happily through and other face heartbreak, misery and struggle. Why do some deserve the easy road and others the near on impossible roads? I don’t get it. … Continue reading Charles Ridgeley/Rudge/Rudgely – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 31
Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – August 2018
August has passed, and yet summer continues by force to grow days. They sprout secretly between the chapters of the year, covertly included between its pages. All images are for sale, please contact me for prices. You can order just a print, have an image put on canvas or we can have your chosen … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – August 2018
Round Up, Round Up – August 2018
August has shown me how lucky I am, even though we don’t have much in the materiel aspect and we live in a house that desperately needs work, we are lucky to have each other, our little family. Every August my hubby takes a trip to Germany with the drag racing team he crews for, … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – August 2018
Nellie Montague / Eleanor Mary Kirby – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 30 – Part 2
The Music Hall, which is in no thing, but makes use of everything gestures, sounds, words, screams, light, darkness, rediscovers itself at precisely the point where the mind requires a language to express its manifestations. To break through language in order to touch life is to create or recreate the Music Hall. How I would … Continue reading Nellie Montague / Eleanor Mary Kirby – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 30 – Part 2
Eleanor Mary Kirby – Update
Whoop, Whoop, Whoop, Whoop. It’s been a long time coming but FINALLY I broke down Eleanor’s brick wall and I’m chuffed to bits. Seriously I’m doing a massive victory dance. The lady that mesmerises me, finally has an end to her story and I can even say that it looks like a “Happy Ever After.” … Continue reading Eleanor Mary Kirby – Update
Eleanor Mary Kirby / Nellie Montague – 52 Ancestors in 52 Week – Week 29 – Part 1
I’m so excited to finally be able to tell you all about my Great, Great Granny, Eleanor Mary Kirby. She is probably my favourite ancestor. She’s intrigues me, even fascinates me. She’s also one of my hardest ancestors to research, even though as you’ll find out, she should be one of the easiest. Eleanor, is … Continue reading Eleanor Mary Kirby / Nellie Montague – 52 Ancestors in 52 Week – Week 29 – Part 1
Hope And Home
As our children/grandchildren enjoy their summer holidays, school is far from our minds but could you imagine a life without school, without education, without knowledge? As we chill out in our homes, cooling by the fan, wishing we had air conditioning, can you imagine, having no escape from the rays and warmth of the sun, … Continue reading Hope And Home
Doris Eleanor Poppy Willats – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 28
I always thought that my Great-Grandad, Reginald Willats, only had one sibling, Harry. How wrong was I. I’ve since discovered that he had a Sister called, Doris, and eight half siblings, who have given me endless questions, the need to know more and an overwhelming sadness for my Great, Great-Granny Eleanor. I will shed light … Continue reading Doris Eleanor Poppy Willats – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 28
Andrew Rudgley/Rudge – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 27
Your name You got it from your father It was all he had to give So it's yours to use and cherish For as long as you may live If you lost the watch he gave you It can always be replaced; But a black mark on your name Can never be erased It was … Continue reading Andrew Rudgley/Rudge – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 27
Photograph, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – July 2018
A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken. ~James Dent All images are for sale, please contact me for prices. You can order just a print, have an image put on canvas or we can have your chosen … Continue reading Photograph, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – July 2018
Round Up, Round Up – July 2018
It’s funny how with your first born, you want them to hurry to the next milestone, to watch them blossom and achieve as much as possible, all the while, you stress over the smallest things, you wrap them tightly in cotton wool and you question yourself twenty-four seven, as to if you are doing motherhood … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – July 2018
Autumn Briar Rose
Coming out of your comfort zone is tough in the beginning, chaotic in the middle, and awesome in the end…because in the end, it shows you a whole new world. I wasn’t planning on starting something new, but while I was in my summerhouse aka my craft room/husband and kids dumping ground, four brightly coloured … Continue reading Autumn Briar Rose
Frank Rudgley/Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 26
In life we warm to some more than others, family research is no different. This weeks ancestor, holds a huge part of my heart, and even though I never met him, for some unknown reason he pulls on my heartstrings. He intrigues me and I just can’t help but love him. Maybe it’s the love, my Dad … Continue reading Frank Rudgley/Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 26
Stephen Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 25
The weeks seem to be moving so fast, I don’t get time to think, let alone research. With that in mind this week 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks, post is going to be more than a little different. For one this ancestor is living, which throws up lots of issues to do with privacy and … Continue reading Stephen Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 25
Alfred Newell – Update
Just a little update as promised. Alfred Newell and Sarah Watts nee Tigg, marriage certificate, finally arrived. It took its time that’s for sure but I can now confirm that Alfred Newell married his second wife Sarah Emily, on the 13th March 1915, at The Abbey Congregational Church, Romsey Hampshire, England, now known as the … Continue reading Alfred Newell – Update
Moonstone
When I first learnt to crochet, all I was really interested in was making a simple classic granny square blankets, just like the one my mum had made for me as a child. I loved it, not only it’s softness and comfort but the bright rainbow colours that lifted spirits. I wanted to recreate those … Continue reading Moonstone
Ellen Tilley – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 24
Family history research isn’t easy, with one brick wall after another, it’s a little like life and all its challenges. So I thought this week I would do something a little different and share with you one of my hardest ancestors, a women who I am desperately trying to find out about, and unfortunately not … Continue reading Ellen Tilley – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 24
Lotus Moon
The Lotus flower has so many meanings, mostly it is associated with purity and beauty. To me it’s more than that, it’s strength, wisdom, hope, determination and of course beauty. It’s a symbol of life struggles and the doubts we have about ourselves throughout life. We all question if we are good enough, worthy enough, … Continue reading Lotus Moon
Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – June 2018
If a June nights could talk, it would probably boast it invented romance. All images are for sale, please contact me for prices. You can order just a print, have an image put on canvas or we can have your chosen image framed for you by the very talented guys at, … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – June 2018
Blanket of hugs – Briar Rose II
There is nothing more precious than a new baby boy. He will fill a space in your heart, that you never knew existed until that moment, a void filled with love so strong, it has no words. An unbreakable love only a parent understands. As his tiny hand, grips your finger, your hopes and dreams … Continue reading Blanket of hugs – Briar Rose II
Alfred Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 23
In life some people go well and beyond what is expected, some love whole heartedly and some are our own personal heroes, that knight in shining armour whom we all dreamed about as children. I’m extremely lucky and proud to have an ancestor who gave all he could, loved with every inch of his heart … Continue reading Alfred Newell – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 23
Round Up, Round Up – June 2018
It’s been a bittersweet month. The holiday blues took hold, the stresses of life came crashing back after a week of feeling free, freedom of the mind and freedom of the body. I was totally and utterly shocked at how well I felt on our little holiday in Spain, while the sun warmed my blood … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – June 2018
Frederick Earnest Carr – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 22
Yesterday we said our final goodbyes to my Grandmother, Mollie Joan Newell nee Carr. Tears were shed, a life time of memories were remembered, our family brought together, in respect for a wonderful Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Although seeing my families hearts break at our loss, it was lovely to see them all and … Continue reading Frederick Earnest Carr – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 22
Susan Mary Lagden, Update.
Just a quick update for you. Last Friday I told you all about, Susan Mary Kirby nee Lagden but I was waiting on four certificates, for two of Susan’s and Alfred’s angel baby’s, Alice Maud Olive Kirby and Richard Arthur Kirby. Their birth and death certificates finally arrived in my inbox this morning. As promised here … Continue reading Susan Mary Lagden, Update.
Susan Mary Lagden – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 21
Family researching can at times be easy, everything falling into place with out to much trouble. At others times it can leave you pulling your hair out, steam oozing from your ears and your computer heading at full speed towards the window. I have a good few branches of my tree, that leave me feeling … Continue reading Susan Mary Lagden – 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks – Week 21
