It’s with a heavy heart and a little reluctance that I sit down to write the final part of my “Nuts About DNA Afghan” journey. For when the final words are written, it’s well and truly over. I’m not often proud of myself but looking at the finished blanket in all it’s glory upon my … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – The Reveal.
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 108-110
As I sat down to write the final part of the “Nuts About DNA Afghan” series, I noticed I hadn’t shared the last few squares so here goes. (Sorry about that, brain fog must have got the better of me) "It's not a Daffodil" by Diana Krenz. Round 1 - Citrine Round 2 - Corundum Ruby … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 108-110
Dreams really do come true.
Our Son Connor, turned 21 the weekend before last. We as a family wanted to give him something a little extra special, some thing that he could treasure for the rest of his life. But what could we get him, that wouldn't get lost over time? Connor has always shown great passion for animals, especially, … Continue reading Dreams really do come true.
Nuts About Dna Afghan – Squares 91 -98
Welcome back to the last of the 110 squares made for the "Nuts About DNA Afghan." Unfortunately my numbers seem to have mixed up a little and I'm missing a few but heres what I have. (I am pretty sure i have posted them all.) 91 - Water Lilly 12" Square by Tatsiana Kupryianchyk. Round … Continue reading Nuts About Dna Afghan – Squares 91 -98
Nuts About Dna Afghan – Squares 82 -90
Hey, hope all is good in your worlds and welcome back. Below you can find all the information for squares 82-90 of the "Nuts About DNA Afghan." I think I must of muddled my numbers up somewhere along the line because I don't seem to have enough squares logged on Ravelry, sorry about that.If I … Continue reading Nuts About Dna Afghan – Squares 82 -90
Nuts About Dna Afghan – Squares 71-80
We are slowly but surely getting there and so very close to the big reveal. I'm so excited I could burst. So without future ado I give give squares 71-80 of the "Nuts About DNA Afghan 71 - "Vinta'licious Cal square 7" by Elle Yarn. Round 1 - Moon Stone Round 2 - Rose Quartz … Continue reading Nuts About Dna Afghan – Squares 71-80
Nuts About Dna Afghan – Squares 61-70
It seems little forever since I posted anything, so I thought it was about time I shared the next 10 squares from Mums "Nuts About DNA Afghan" So here goes. Rebirth by Magdalene Lee. Round 1 - Moon Stone Round 2 - Moon Stone Round 3 - Malachite Round 4 - Moon St Round 5 … Continue reading Nuts About Dna Afghan – Squares 61-70
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
Round Up, Round Up – December 2019
As we head into not only a new year but a new decade I hope that it will be everything we dream of. December is always such a strange month for me emotionally, it’s full of hope, Christmas spirit, sadness and longing. Last month I wrote about what Christmas means to me and why I … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – December 2019
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 51-60
We are slowly but surely getting through the 110 squares made for Mums “Nuts About DNA Afghan.” Here are the next 10 squares. In Treble Afghan Square by Julie Yeager. Rounds 1-5 - Rose Quartz Rounds 6-8 - Moonstone Round 9 - Garnet. Extra Round 9 - hdc across (44 hdc preside) In Treble Afghan … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 51-60
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 41-50
I'm slowly but surely getting through the 110 squares that make up my Mums "Nuts About Dna Afghan. The next 10 squares are all designed by the talented designer, Julie Yeager. If you like her beautiful patterns, you are in luck, she is just about to start her MysteryGhan of 2020 which is starting on … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 41-50
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 36 – 40
Welcome back, I hope all is well, you had a fantastic Christmas and you’re enjoying my “Nuts About DNA Afghan” squares series. Here are Squares 36-40 Saffron by Polly Plum. Round 1 - Moon Stone Round 2 - Rose Quartz Round 3 - Moon Stone Round 4 - Moon Stone Round 5 - Moon Stone … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 36 – 40
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 31-35
Welcome back to the, "Nuts About DNA Afghan" series. Way back in September 2017 I started the journey of making 144 squares for a blanket that would fit a double bed floor to floor. This blanket/throw/bedspread would be a present for my wonderful Mum.🎁 On new calculations I only need to make 110 squares and … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 31-35
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 – Squares 21-25
Welcome back to the, Nuts about DNA afghan series. Way back in September 2017 I started the journey of making 144 squares for a blanket that would fit a double bed floor to floor. This blanket/throw/bedspread would be a present for my wonderful Mum.🎁 On new calculations I only need to make 110 squares and … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 21-25
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 16-20
As you may have read, I’m using, Scheepjes Stone Washed for this humungous afghan, in colours, Moon Stone, Garnet, Corundum ruby, Citrine, Malachite, Enstatite, and Rose quartz. I purchased them from Wool Warehouse and Lusciously Loopy Yarn. The 16th square I made was, Frostbloom 12" Afghan Square by Shan Sevcik. Round 1 - Moon Stone Round 2 - Moon … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 16-20
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
Renovating Phillippe – November 2019
Phillippe is half the van it use to be with rip out in full swing. Mark has been working his little butt off every spare weekend filling the 43 holes on his roof, taking out windows and doors and refitting them, making him all lovely and water tight. His roof has been painted with liquid … Continue reading Renovating Phillippe – November 2019
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
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 105 – Hera
Hera is my 105th square, for my Mums “Nuts About DNA Afghan.” Hera is another square design by, Diana Krenz aka koernerklaus. It’s such a cute square and a very calming make. It works up fast and the pattern is very well written. I used the following colour order in my all time favourite yarn, Scheepjes … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 105 – Hera
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 104 – Serenity
My 104th square, for my Mums “Nuts about DNA Afghan, is the beautiful “Serenity Square”. a paid pattern by Diana Krenz aka koernerklaus. What can I say about the Serenity Square? I absolutely love it. The texture is to die for, the details and stitch definition is fabulous. It will look amazing in any colour … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 104 – Serenity
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squar 103.
My all time favourite things to crochet is, Granny Squares. Each one is individual, a masterpiece of possibilities. They work up fast and give you that wonderful feeling of accomplishment. There are hundreds upon hundreds of patterns on line, giving you the opportunity to pick the perfect one and as I come close to the … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squar 103.
Crochet Crush – November 2019
November’s crochet crush, is the gorgeous, “Ivy Green Wrap” by Torun Johansson. Isn’t is just wonderful. The Ivy Green is a snuggly wrap that can easily be adjusted to your preferred size. I’m sure you would turn ahead or two while wearing it in all it’s splender but don’t you agree that it would make … Continue reading Crochet Crush – November 2019
Round Up, Round Up – November 2019
"November comes And November goes, With the last red berries And the first white snows. With night coming early, And dawn coming late, And ice in the bucket And frost by the gate. The fires burn And the kettles sing, And earth sinks to rest Until next spring." - Elizabeth Coatsworth … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – November 2019
Carving Out Some Fun
Sometimes you have to step out of you comfort zone and try something new. After seeing pumpkin photos take over Instagram for the last month or so, I wanted to try and make my own. Of course my first thought was to crochet some, I had seen so many patterns posted over social media but … Continue reading Carving Out Some Fun
Glamping at Oak Apple Lodge.
They say, there is nothing better than sleeping in your own bed. I beg to differ! There is no bed better to sleep in than at, Oak Apple Lodge. We just spent a night away glamping for my hubby Marks birthday. As our camper Phillippe isn’t in any fit state to go on adventures. We … Continue reading Glamping at Oak Apple Lodge.
Crochet Crush – October 2019
I am hooked, line and sinker, in LOVE with October’s crochet crush. It’s just, right up my street and by one of my favourite designers. Can you guess who it is? I’m sure you guessed it right, Tinna Thórudóttir Thorvaldsdóttir. I adore all her patterns, and to top it off she is such a lovely … Continue reading Crochet Crush – October 2019
Round Up, Round Up – October 2019
I can’t believe we are in November already, that Christmas advertising is everywhere. October has been full on, and pretty exciting. We brought a camper van, whoop, whoop. His name is Phillippe .🚍 He’s a peugeot boxer classique and needs a little tlc. You can read all about him here. Restoration has started, all windows … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – October 2019
This Day, The 21st October
The 21st of October is a date that sticks in my mind more than most, it’s a day that always fills my heart with sadness, fills my eyes with tears but also brings happiness, gratitude and joy to my heart. Today’s date holds some of the most beautiful memories but also some of the saddest. … Continue reading This Day, The 21st October
House To Home
Four years ago we viewed our house, in a sleepy helmet on the border of Hampshire and Wiltshire, for the very first time and OMG it looked like a bomb had hit with full force. It was disgustingly dirty and needed lots and lots of work, to make it anything near the level we were … Continue reading House To Home
Living Life, One Adventure At A Time – Meet Phillippe
Sometimes in life you have to shake things up a little and start a new adventure. With my hubby Mark’s birthday a few days away it gave us the opportunity to do just that. We have been talking for a few months now about getting a camper to renovate and make a cosy place, we … Continue reading Living Life, One Adventure At A Time – Meet Phillippe
Nuts About DNA Afghan, Squares 11-15
Welcome back, I hope all is well and you’re enjoying my “Nuts About DNA Afghan” squares series. Here are Squares 11-15. The Parterre Garden Granny Square by The Loopy Stitch. Round 1 - Moon Stone Round 2 - Garnet Round 3 - Corundum Ruby Round 4 - Moon Stone Round 5 - Malachite Round 6 … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan, Squares 11-15
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 6-10
Welcome back to the “Nuts About DNA Afghan” Square series, where I’ll be sharing links, colour order and modifications for each square I’ve made for my Mums blanket. To recap yourself on what it’s all about, you can find all the information here. As I’ve mentioned before I’ll be keeping these posts short and sweet, … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Squares 6-10
Lily’s Magnificent Masterpiece
You may remember a few months back, I shared my dear friend Lily’s Indiana Afghan, designed by Tinna Thórudóttir Thorvaldsdóttir. It was my June crochet Crush. You can read all about it here. It’s with great honour and excitement that I can now share her finished, jaw dropping, breathtaking, masterpiece with you. Isn’t it just the … Continue reading Lily’s Magnificent Masterpiece
Crochet Crush, September 2019 – Nature’s Walk Cal
I’ve been crushing badly over two patterns throughout September. They are both very different but oh so very beautiful. Both are crochet alongs, one that has started already and one that starts next week. I’ve brought my yarn kit for one and saving like crazy for the other, while secretly hoping that we’ll have a … Continue reading Crochet Crush, September 2019 – Nature’s Walk Cal
Round Up, Round Up – September 2019
Rain hangs about the place, like a friendly ghost. If it's not coming down in delicate droplets, then it's in buckets and if neither, it tends to lurk suspiciously in the atmosphere. It seems like it has rained forever, leaving no evidence of summer just wet soggy leaves and dog paw prints on every floor.🍁 … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – September 2019
Nuts About DNA Afghan -Squares 2-5
As I document my “Nuts About DNA Afghan” journey, I’ve thought long and hard about the best way to do so. I would hate to bore you with 141 individual posts, for one that’s a lot of catching up for me but more importantly I don’t want to scare you away or bore you to … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan -Squares 2-5
Indiana Afghan
A younger sister is someone to use as a guinea-pig in trying sledges and experimental go-carts. Someone to send on messages to Mum. But someone who needs you- who comes to you with bumped heads, grazed knees, tales of persecution. Someone who trusts you to defend her. Someone who thinks you know the answers to … Continue reading Indiana Afghan
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 102 – Mrs. Lukas
My 102nd square, for my Nuts about DNA afghan, is the beautiful, “Mrs. Lukas Square” a paid pattern by Diana Krenz aka koernerklaus. What can I say about the "Mrs. Lukas" square? I love, love, love it. The texture, the detail, the stitch definition, the simplicity of the pattern and how beautiful it looks in any colour.If you … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 102 – Mrs. Lukas
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 101
My 101st Granny Square was the Savannah by Polly Plum. My plan was just to use, Scheepjes Stonewashed in, Rose Quartz, Corundum Ruby and Garnet but after the first few rounds I felt they blended together a little two much, so I threw Moon Stone into the mix. In hindsight I wish I had re-made the … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 101
Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 1
After making the Nuts About Squares Cal by Esther Dijkstra, I couldn’t help but start another. My Nuts About Squares Afghan, was my favourite make up until a few weeks ago. I still love everything about it and I’m so pleased its gone to a good home. Way back in September 2017 I started the … Continue reading Nuts About DNA Afghan – Square 1
Nuts About Squares
It suddenly dawned on me, after I shared my “Nuts About DNA” 100th square, that I haven’t told you all about my inspiration for the blanket. Back in 2017, Esther Dijkstra from It's all in a Nutshell Crochet, ran a Crochet Along called, “Nuts about Squares” Millions of crocheters from around the world joined in … Continue reading Nuts About Squares
Imagine – Nuts About Dna Afghan, Square 100
I’m sure you’ve read about the double sized bed throw I’m making my mum, which I’ve called "Nuts About DNA Afghan" It’s been a while since I’ve made a Granny Square for it but yesterday I found a little time and made one. Polly Plum from “Every Trick On The Hook” releases a free square … Continue reading Imagine – Nuts About Dna Afghan, Square 100
Changes
As my baby boy Calum, headed out the door for his first day at college studying all the ologys, my heart couldn’t be more proud. While he takes the next stage of his life with passion and determination, it’s made me look at my life and focus and made me realise I’m failing badly. So … Continue reading Changes
Crochet Crush – August 2019
Crochet land seems to be moving at full speed. There are beautiful patterns popping up all over the show, each one with its own beauty and jaw dropping moments. It makes life more than difficult as I want to make them all but life won’t play ball and give this crazy hooker a chance to … Continue reading Crochet Crush – August 2019
Round Up, Round Up – August 2019
August, the summer of Sundays. Sunbeams dancing over our sun kissed skin, the glorious smell of bbq’s, care free days, lovely warm evenings. And with one turn of a page on our calendars, it’s over. As we all desperately try to hold onto summer, the evenings drunken, the morning dew twinkles as the late morning … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – August 2019
Hockenheimring, FIM European Championships 2019
As you know, the Warpspeed Racing, team took a little road trip to Germany’s Hockenheimring to compete in the 2019 FIM European championships. The team left on the 11th August and made their way to Dover, on to Calais, France and then spent a few days chilling at Camping Intel, Winningen, Germany. Feeling rather refreshed … Continue reading Hockenheimring, FIM European Championships 2019
Hockenheim Here We Come.
So, we embark on round two for the Warpspeed Racing team. We are currently on route to Hockenheim. It's been a frantic few weeks to the build up, but we are finally on our way. Smithy had relatively few issues to sort on his Pro mod, but a rather Expensive, full engine rebuild was required … Continue reading Hockenheim Here We Come.
Phoenix Has Risen
Back in early April 2019, Vanessa from, Hooked on Sunshine, teased us with beautiful photos of her up and coming crochet along. My oh my what a beauty it was, I couldn’t wait to hear more, see more and plan my own. Vanessa finally anoused that was was hosting a free crochet along starting on … Continue reading Phoenix Has Risen
Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – July 2019
“A little bit of summer is what the whole year is all about.” – John Mayer 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 your chosen image framed for you by … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – July 2019
Waffle Locust
A few months ago I started making myself a waffle stitch blanket for our newly renovated utility room. I wanted something thick, snuggly and textured to wrap over my legs while I drink my morning coffee, I just had to find the right pattern and yarn. After a quick look through one of my Pinterest … Continue reading Waffle Locust
Crochet Crush – July 2019
Without a shadow of a dealt, July’s Crochet Crush, has to be Arabella by Polly Plum. Isn’t she beautiful! Arabella is as a Crochet Along event, that began on July 26, 2019. The pattern is released in parts and everyone will work on it over the course of 9 weeks. Week one was released last … Continue reading Crochet Crush – July 2019
Round Up, Round Up – July 2019
This time last month I was sat in the glorious sunshine by the pool in beautiful Cyprus. I can’t even begin to tell you how amazing our week spent there was and how magical it was to spend a week just chilling with my favourite people in the whole world. We ate way to much, … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – July 2019
Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – June 2019
If a June night could talk, it would probably boast it invented romance. (Bernard Williams) 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 your chosen image framed for you by the … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life Captured – June 2019
Crochet Crush – June 2019
To be honest I’m still crushing over Indiana Afghan by Tinna Thorudottir Thorvaldar, which was my crochet crush a few months ago. As soon as I’m home, I plan to start mine but I just have to share with you my friend Lily's amazing version of Tinna’s, Indiana Afghan. Lily and I became Instagram friends … Continue reading Crochet Crush – June 2019
Round Up, Round Up, June 2019
Good morning from the beautiful country of Cyprus. I’m currently having my morning coffee sat my the pool in the glorious sun, it’s already 28 degrees and it’s only 9am. I can’t tell you how truly wonderful it is to feel warm, to have the sun rays dance across my skin but more importantly to … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up, June 2019
Tea Flower
How wonderful is it to finally feel the warmth of the sun upon your face, to see the beauty of the clear blue sky’s, the calmness of the summer breeze, and the mouthwatering smell of a neighbours bbq. Summer days are a little slice of heaven, which hopefully will stay a while longer. Summer has … Continue reading Tea Flower
Staring Back At Me.
When you look at yourself, what do you see? Do you love the person staring back at you in the mirror? Or do you loathe the reflection staring back at you? I know my reflection needs a good old slap for all my flaws, self loathing and frustrating ways. I’m far from perfect, I’m short, … Continue reading Staring Back At Me.
John Cornelius O’Connor – The Hunt Continues.
If you read Stacey’s guest blog, “Your feet will bring you where your heart is”, you may remember that she has been in contact with Co. Kerry library and they have kindly been looking into our, John Cornelius O’Connor, for us, in hopes of tracking his roots down. Stacey and I were extremely excited when … Continue reading John Cornelius O’Connor – The Hunt Continues.
V For Vintage
I normally don’t make New Years resolutions, instead I set myself silent goals. This year may goal was to step away from making blanket (my favourite thing to make) and venture into the world of making items that can be worn or practical items such as bags. My first attempt at making a garment was … Continue reading V For Vintage
Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – May 2019
Among the changing months, May stands confest The sweetest, and in fairest colors dressed. (James Thomson) 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 your chosen image framed for you by … Continue reading Photography, The Beauty Of Life, Captured – May 2019
The Main Event 2019
The Main Event at Santa Pod Raceway, tested the Warpspeed boys but they had an awesome time. The weekend was mainly a test run for them, with Smith’s (aka Father Christmas, check out those leathers) new Pro Mod bike and with the modifications made to Stuart’s and Dales bikes. You can read all about that … Continue reading The Main Event 2019
Crochet Crush – May 2019
It’s an easy one this month. "High Tide Waves" by Daiga, from BebaBlanket, is beyond breathtaking. The High Tide Waves Blanket, is running as a crochet along on, BebaBlanket Facebook group or if you are not on Facebook, you can buy the pattern on Ravelry here. The CAL started on May 10, 2019 on the Crochet … Continue reading Crochet Crush – May 2019
Round Up, Round Up – May 2019
May has been hard, it’s thrown every emotion possible at us. It’s GCSE’s and boy the pressure the children are under is horrendous. They have so many exams, too many, even our family doctor was saying how wrong it is and that the pressure the children are under is ridiculous, that there are too many … Continue reading Round Up, Round Up – May 2019
Your feet will bring you where your heart is.
My life time dream, has always been to visit Ireland, if possible to move there. I’m extremely proud of my Irish roots, even though so little is known about them. Each year that passes the ache to connect with my irish ancestry grows, unfortunately life always seems to take me down different roads and I … Continue reading Your feet will bring you where your heart is.
John Cornelius O’Connor -Update
When I first started my blog back in January 2018, its main purpose was to document my family history, through completing a 52 week challenge, about my ancestors. A year on, I’ve done just that and boy I’m glad I did. I feel pretty pleased and a little proud that I managed to complete it … Continue reading John Cornelius O’Connor -Update
Let’s Go Racing
First day of race season has finally arrived for the Warpspeed Racing team. 😊 Well testing at least! After a lot of hard work, modification over the off season it was time to see how the bikes would run. It was a beautiful warm day with a slight breeze, more shorts and t-shirt weather than leathers … Continue reading Let’s Go Racing
Doreen June Willats – Part 2 – Growing
Welcome back to the life of my maternal Grandmother, Doreen June Willats. Today we visit the second part of the series, the school years but if you missed the first part, you can find it here. Let’s get straight to it, shall we. Do you remember any holidays or special outings from your younger years? … Continue reading Doreen June Willats – Part 2 – Growing
Doreen June Willats – The Beginning.
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
Intwined 