5/52 2014

At home, Jarvis is loud...super loud. He is a cheeky show off, some what of a class clown. But, in a large group he goes quiet, and hesitant to approach people.

Today we went to my great-niece's first birthday party. Jarvis and Evie adore each other, with much kissing and a fair bit of hair pulling. But, Jarvis was super shy today, just wanting to be near his sister, or me, not leaving our sides the whole party.

The moment we get in the car, Jarvis is back to his loud self, farting and laughing pointing at his sister blaming her for the smell.

Last year Jodi inspired me to pick up my camera and turn the focus inward. This year I have opted to continue with the series as I feel there are still so many family stories to be told through photos. So I will continue to Link up with Jodi  (the artist formerly known as Che & Fidel now Practising Simplicity) for the 52 Project.

4/52 2014

I always struggle with celebrating Australia Day. It comes with a conflict, a perfect example was when I went to the shops this morning and a guy was wearing a t-shirt with the slogan "If you don't love it f__k off".

So the perfect celebration for me was this evening. Fish and chips at the park followed by a walk along the river.

Photo of our family taken by random stranger...setting thought in motion for something more.

Last year Jodi inspired me to pick up my camera and turn the focus inward. This year I have opted to continue with the series as I feel there are still so many family stories to be told through photos. So I will continue to Link up with Jodi  (the artist formerly known as Che & Fidel now Practising Simplicity) for the 52 Project.

3/52 2014

I thought I had posted these last week... obviously not. Here is my catch up. Justin and his 'Mini Me' eating the left over props from a photoshoot.

Last year Jodi inspired me to pick up my camera and turn the focus inward. This year I have opted to continue with the series as I feel there are still so many family stories to be told through photos. So I will continue to Link up with Jodi  (the artist formerly known as Che & Fidel now Practising Simplicity) for the 52 Project.

WHAT I GROW IN MY GARDEN: BASIL

Basil is a highly fragrant plant whose leaves are used as a seasoning herb for many different types of foods. There are more than 60 varieties of basil, all of which differ somewhat in appearance and taste. While the taste of sweet basil is bright and pungent, other varieties also offer unique tastes: lemon basil, anise basil and cinnamon basil all have flavors that subtly reflect their name. 

Basil now grows in many regions throughout the world, but it was first native to India, Asia and Africa. It is prominently featured in varied cuisines throughout the world including Italian, Thai, Vietnamese and Laotian. The name "basil" is derived from the old Greek word basilikohn, which means "royal," reflecting that ancient culture's attitudes towards an herb that they held to be very noble and sacred. The tradition of reverence of basil has continued in other cultures. In India, basil was cherished as an icon of hospitality, while in Italy, it was a symbol of love.

My main tips for growing basil are:

Well-drained soil is good soil for basil. If you grow yours in containers like I do, the container itself needs to have good drainage holes.

Keep the temperature fairly warm with lots of sunlight (at least six hours a day). Basil likes warmer temperatures, so move your pots to take advantage of the sun.

Fertilize the soil about once a month. Organic or slow-release fertilizers (like compost tea) are best for basil. Just don't fertilize it when it is cold.

Water often in hot weather. I watered once a day when the temperatures got really hot this summer. But in more normal conditions, I water every other day or so. Check your soil to make sure it isn't getting dry either way.

Prune! Then prune it some more! Pruning leads to more basil. Start pruning the top leaves at around six inches tall and continue to prune as it gets bushier. Also, pinch off any flowers that you see so they don't go to seed. That will lead to bland and sparse plants.

Keep insects away. If pests are bugging your plants, I've heard using liquid seaweed as a fertilizer will help.

Basil not only tastes amazing it also has health benefits. The unique array of active constituents called flavonoids found in basil provide protection at the cellular level. Orientin andvicenin are two water-soluble flavonoids that have been of particular interest in basil, and in studies on human white blood cells; these components of basil protect cell structures as well as chromosomes from radiation and oxygen-based damage. In addition, basil has been shown to provide protection against unwanted bacterial growth.

The eugenol component of basil's volatile oils has been the subject of extensive study, since this substance can block the activity of an enzyme in the body called cyclooxygenase. Many non-steriodal over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications including aspirin and ibuprofen, as well as the commonly used medicine acetaminophen, work by inhibiting this same enzyme. This enzyme-inhibiting effect of the eugenol in basil qualifies basil as an "anti-inflammatory" food that can provide important healing benefits along with symptomatic relief for individuals with inflammatory health problems like rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel conditions.

As pretty as the Basil flowers are, PRUNE them!

BEC AND MITCH'S WEDDING JUSTIN MA PHOTOGRAPHY

A photo can say so much. Evoke so many memories and create a depth of emotion that you did not think possible. A glimpse, at the wedding of Bec and Mitch; for more go to Justin's website.

KLEPTOMANIA? SHOPAHOLIC?

I lost my credit card the other day, after the initial panic, I cancelled it. Pain in the butt, no card for three to four working days, but no big deal. The main thing I was concerned about was... had the card fallen out of my pocket and did someone now have it?

Someone once skimmed my card, and bought up huge in the USA. My card clocked up almost five grand worth off Apple appliances. I got the call from the bank when I was at work asking if I was in the States shopping.

So the fear was trying to, yet again, prove that it was not me shopping. But then last night when I went to get Jarvis's pjs out from under his pillow, I found my card. He has a long history of putting any shoes left laying around in the bin, putting Justin clothes (that Justin leaves laying around) in the wash, and once before he put my glasses on the bookcase. But this is the first time he has taken a liking to a credit card, not even sure if he knows what they are used for.

Has anyone else, ever had their child, their two year old child, take their credit card?

WHAT I GROW IN MY GARDEN: ALOE VERA

One of my first steps in becoming a gardener was to establish a herb garden on my old veranda. Dad gave me a heap of old plastic pots he had in the shed and I got dirt and seedlings from my local garden centre.

At first, it was all hit and miss, I had no idea what I was doing. I think I killed all of the first lot with over attention, too much water and too much pruning. But now I feel I have got it down pat. All I need to do now is expand on my collection.

Aloe Vera, though technically not a herb, is one of my favourites. With last week's burnt arm proving how good it is to have a pot of aloe on hand.

Aloe should be planted where there is the most sun in the garden. Or grown in a pot, and moved seasonally to take advantage of the sun. Aloe vera love the heat and hate cold, wet, and frosts so if your area is prone to cold and wet winters only grow in pots as aloe roots may rot off during their dormant period.

Aloe Vera is really quite an incredible plant. It is a succulent plant and part of the lily family (Liliaceae), the same family that garlic and onions belong to. Different parts of the plant are used for different effects on the body and Aloe Vera has both internal and external applications.

I am yet to use the plant for internal benefits so I won't comment on those however, externally I love this plant.

Because of aloe’s well-known healing properties for the skin, aloe is one of the primary compounds used in the cosmetic industry. It is a known vulnerary, (meaning it helps heal wounds) and is great for applying topically to burns, abrasions, psoriasis and even to bug bites. Aloe acts as an analgesic, acting to help relieve pain of wounds. It’s feels especially good to cut a stem of aloe, place it in the fridge and rub it on sun burnt skin – the immediate soothing effect feels like an absolute lifesaver. Aloe is also an antipruritic: A substance that relieves or prevents itching. Aloe Vera is an astringent: which causes the contraction of body tissues, typically used to reduce bleeding from minor abrasions.

Due to aloe’s high water content (over 99% water) it is a great way to hydrate, moisturize and rejuvenate the skin. Aloe increases the elasticity of the skin making it more flexible through collagen and elastin repair. Aloe is an emollient, helping to soften and soothe the skin. It helps supply oxygen to the skin cells, increasing the strength and synthesis of skin tissue and induces improved blood flow to the skin through capillary dilation.

Aloe is disinfectant, anti-biotic, anti-microbial, germicidal, anti-bacterial, anti-septic, anti-fungal and anti-viral: yes I learnt most of these ones though google. But after using aloe for years on burns, cuts and abrasions, I know this natural option is better on my skin, and my kids than any product I can buy at a chemist.

 This plant is only three months old, and look how many new suckers it has grown!

I THINK I HAVE FORGOTTEN HOW TO (RETAIL) SHOP

I do believe, I have forgotten how to retail shop. .

Now, set me free in a hardware store, garden centre, fabric store, or op shop I always 'find' something I love. But it was a different story when I went shopping on Saturday. I was given a voucher for Christmas, so we were going to spend it. After two hours, with an hour off for lunch, I was over it, and just wanted to go home. I had a great time hanging out and talking with Susie and Tamika, and my little side kick Jarvis. But would have had the same fun if we had have hung out in the backyard. Everything just seemed so trite, so expensive, such bad quality.

I was also given vouchers for my birthday and came home with a set of new bath towels in September. But, because there was nothing I needed, it was hard to find something I wanted. I will definitely not waste the card, as it has twelve months to use it, but I think Saturday showed me, after not buying anything for the last two years, I have taught myself to only shop for things I need, rather than want

I came home with a 2014 diary, a box of pins for my cork board and a DVD for Jarvis.

But then, after we got home, I went shopping again. This time, I came home with two pieces of wood, three new packets of seeds, three seedlings, and a new garden hose head. More my kind of shopping. 

 Seed Packets are so pretty

SEWING GOALS FOR 2014

I have opted to list my sewing goals on here to try to keep myself accountable. This list is simple.

* Sew one item a week post it online

* Practice one new sewing skill per month

* Sew one item per month for someone other (more on this later)

*Sew items from my vintage pattern collection (what is the point in having them if I do not use them?)

I have kept the list as simple as possible, as some weeks finding time for myself does not happen, and this includes sewing. Last week was one of those weeks, with extra hours at work and a long list of injuries- chest, toe, burnt arm, twisted ankle, I had very little time at the machine.

Though, I did get to complete a skirt for Jarvis's bed. This was to hide the trundle/spare bed underneath. Justin's pick of fabric was orange with white stars on a black base. Which as you can see coordinates perfectly with the rest of his room.

Jarvis has a beautiful handcrafted patchwork quilt (in black and white), once he stops co-sleeping and transfers into his room, the quilt will go on this bed. 

Note to self: At least attempt to tidy ruffle before taking a photo

I also got another pair of boxer shorts completed for Jarvis. So that ticks off list item one for this week :)

2/52 2014

I look at Jarvis and Justin together and cannot separate them, they are so connected. There are tiny glimpses of me in Jarvis, however, he is definitely a mini Justin. He adores his Daddy so much.

After a morning at the movies, both boys had an afternoon nap. I thought I would take the time to get some sewing done. Nup! Discovered Jarvis has been using my overlocker again.

Last year Jodi inspired me to pick up my camera and turn the focus inward. This year I have opted to continue with the series as I feel there are still so many family stories to be told through photos. So I will continue to Link up with Jodi  (the artist formerly known as Che & Fidel now Practising Simplicity) for the 52 Project.

BECOMING A GARDENER

Not having my own home in years and years I did not know what it was like to tend to the soil. To have the desire to establish and grow a garden. When Justin, Tamika and I moved into our first home together, when I was six months pregnant with Jarvis, I faced an overgrown unmanageable yard that was basically inaccessible.

In the two years we lived at Burn Street I fought that yard, I fought... until I leant to yield. It was then I learnt how to become a gardener.

When we moved into this house the backyard was just a large dirt strip. In the three and a half months we have lived here I have been working with the earth to grow a sustainable garden. One that is aesthetically pleasing, yet more importantly, one that provides us with food.

Each time I plant, I learn new things. New things about food I have not grown before. New things about old favourites. But more importantly new things about myself.

I have landscaped this yard with the knowledge it is a rental and one day we will have to move. But I also plant it for the now, knowing it provides a haven for Jarvis and food for our bellies.

Anyone can do this. Yes, even renters. Obviously I have go to the furthest point a renter can go, but most, if not all of my food can also be grown in large tubs or containers.

My financial outlay has been minimal in regards to the food side of the garden. Bar for seeds, seedlings and a few wooden stakes, all has been scourged and recycled.

The image you see below may not be the most interesting image. But for me it is the highlight of my garden. Grass clippings dried and used as bedding in the chicken pen. Then when the pen is cleaned out each morning the clippings, and poo, go onto the garden bed as mulch. Mulch that keep the soil moist, the weeds at bay and the poo nourished the dirt. Which in turn then will grow tomatoes.

You do not need much 'stuff' to grow a garden, just the desire. Oh and chicken poo helps as well!

 

25 MONTHS

  

Growth & Appearance:

According to the doctor you are in the 90 percentile for height and 50 percentile for weight. Not sure what that means bar for you are 91 cm high and 13kgs heavy.

Even though you are pretty, so many people tell me this, you are all boy. The way you sit, walk, and act. Okay, all boy bar for your long hair and insistence on wearing nail polish. Also not sure where your obsession with moisturising falls either? At least this should mean you will keep your gorgeous soft skin.

Eating:

You are a hungry, hungry hippo. Constantly gobbling up food. Over Christmas Justin and I relaxed a bit and let you eat more junk food that you ever have. I made a batch of chocolate balls (Rumballs without the rum) and you were in heaven.

You are still particular about your foods touching. Justin put sauce on your food the other day, instead of beside your food, and it caused a melt down. I have to wipe it clean and put it on another plate.

Eggs from our chicken with a side of cars. 

Talking: 

Finally! Yay, you say Mumum. It melts my heart to hear you call me Mummum. Not sure how you got the double up, Tamika calls me Mumma and Justin refers to me as Mum.

Over all you are still not saying much at all. Some people express concern, but not me so much. You are loud with your singing and screaming so I know there is nothing wrong with your vocal cords. I guess we will just wait and see.

Sleeping: 

Not a great month as far as sleep. You are back to naps in your 'big boy bed', however we are still having really bad nights on the days that I work.

Why is it? When you sleep you seem so young?

Development:

You started swimming lesson again, and boy do you love the water. You are a fearless child and will jump and swim under water. You swam so much at Susie's over Christmas you got 'pool fingers' (where the skin rubs of from holding onto the edges. You are about a hand reach off doing a width of the pool on your own. You also love jumping in the pool and sitting on the bottom.

You are set in your ways. Oh so stubborn. Things have to be done a certain way. Only I can help you clean your teeth and only Justin can sit and talk to you while you poo. (Justin sits on the bathtub, while you sit on the toilet talking) I know! I got the better option. It even seems as if you will wait to poo until Justin is home.

You know the whole alphabet and will only miss up the cue cards if being cheeky or over tired.

You have had a few tantrums this month, but they are connected to you trying to explain stuff to us. Such as, I took off your nail polish and you cried. Then followed me around with a new polish until I re-did your toes. You like things done a certain way and if Justin, or I, forget this will upset you. Other than that you are such a happy, easy going child. Your nature is a combination of sweet and adventurous.

You hold your head under water for so long you freak all of the adults out.

Favourites: 

Water, water, water. Could coincide with the hot summer we have been having, but you love anything to do with water. Swimming, playing with the hose, wetting Daddy with the hose, you even love showers and baths.

You other great love this month is your "Ducks", you love going out to play with the chickens, you will even help clean out their pen and give them food. The white girl now sits at you  feet and lets you pat her. 

Of course your obsession with cars has continued.

How I am thinking/Feeling

You are not just a two year old any more! I am scared how quickly the time has passed. In my heart I wished I could have given you a sibling close in age for you to grow up and play with. But the time has escaped me, and so I try to treasure every last moment with you knowing I will never get to experience this again.

This past month has been amazing, wonderful and exhausting. With your birthday, Tamika's 21st, Christmas, the New Year, and me going back to work  I am finding it hard to find the balance between wanting to spend as much time with you as possible and having any 'me' time. But then you constantly do the most loving things and I think who needs to have me time when I have a little man who loves cuddles and gives me flowers when we go on adventures?  

I adore this photo Justin took of Jarvis and I watching the sunset at Mt Gravatt lookout.

SIMPLE THINGS

EGGS FOR CHRISTMAS AND WAYS ON HOW TO DRAFT A PATTERN

No I did not give them eggs for Christmas. I gave them matching boxers shorts. Tamika and Guy got matching robots. Guy is the robot fan, so poor Bubby got robots as well. Justin and Jarvis got vintage cars and caravans, which was Jarvis's choice of fabric.

Love Tamika's face in this image, she is like "what the? Mum gave me an egg carton?"

I have done a lot of sewing for Jarvis, but it was the first time I have done any for men. I drafted a boxer short pattern off one I already had, and adjusted Justin's to a 30 inch waist and Guy's to a 32 inch waist. Justin's fit perfectly. I could of added a touch of length to Guy's pair. Something to keep in mind when going up a size.

Drafting patterns can be relatively simple. Some different ways to draft a pattern are as follows:

1: The "cut and spread" option is one method for pattern grading. Begin by tracing your original pattern. I trace my pattern on to white paper (I have a large roll of this).

2: You can also cover the original pattern with transparent paper and trace that way.

3: Fusible interfacing will also do, but it is my least favourite way of drafting a pattern.

4: If you have an uncut pattern to grade, you can use dressmaker's carbon and a tracing wheel to transfer the pattern to paper.

Note: Be sure to transfer all markings, darts and grain lines. Labelling your pattern pieces as you go will help you keep things straight.

All of these methods are suitable when drafting straight from a pattern, if alterations are needed you will need further steps.

 Does Guy's face mean he wants the cars and not the robots?

 

1/52 2014

I did not think I was going to possible for me to start this year's 52 Project on time, after working too many days full time this week. But then I thought I would cheat and show off my one of my favourite gifts that I received for Christmas this, what? Last year. (Wow, that feels weird typing last year)

This week's portraits come via Justin. I am so lucky to have a photographer as a partner. The first image was given to me enlarged and framed. The second, as you can see by the third image was given to me in a snow globe. I loved them so much!

This got me thinking, I would like to share my good fortune. I am going to do my first give away on my blog. I am going to offer a portrait taken by Justin. I will do a proper post on it soon explaining the details. But for now you can pop over and have a look at Justin's website and give him some love on Facebook.

Last year Jodi inspired me to pick up my camera and turn the focus inward. This year I have opted to continue with the series as I feel there are still so many family stories to be told through photos. So I will continue to Link up with Jodi  (the artist formerly known as Che & Fidel now Practising Simplicity) for the 52 Project.