Once upon a time......

Nothing fascinated me more when I was a child than the sight of something miniature. I looked for the smallness in everything. It somehow gave me comfort. It was always magical. I remember reading an article about an old toy carpenter in England. He looked like his name could have been 'Giuseppe' who created area's in his home for children to experience the magic of wonder. So, when I look at areas in my home, I try to create moments that my children can suddenly spot and get transported to the world of wonder...Imagination is a gift. I encourage dreaming. Moments to escape reality...just for a short while~

I continue to work on my Christmas decorations. Here I have photographed some hanging ornaments for our tree. Daily I have ideas popping into my head that have to be made..Its a special time when I create. Its a simple time where I can work with color, fibre and hands. A connecting time in a favoured spot somewhere in my home. Just lovely~

A huge thank you to my special Mother..she knows how much I love Village life, flowers and English country gardens. She found this set of vintage postcards made in England.

Something magical happened today. A 'solar halo' appeared around the sun. We watched in awe at this wonderful sight...

A red and white homemade Christmas for us

Care to join us 'Down in the meadow' for a red and white gingham homemade Christmas this year... My love for country living has brought me to just love this theme. I start this early because I really want everything to be homemade. I love natural fibres and cottons. So ,the house is abuzz with Christmas craft. I hope to place all my idea's in this space for all to make and see. I went to a thrift store and brought some plain round wooden curtain rings. I cut some fabric into long strips and wound it around the ring. Glued the last piece at the top. I then cut out some felt stars, circles, hearts and mushrooms. I also felted mushrooms. These I sewed into place with some thin natural jute. Each little item needs to hang from the ring. The start of the Christmas trees dressing has already begun.

When we were in Knysna this year on holiday, I was walking through this lovely little village and got lured into a gorgeous shop by its smell. I was surprised to see that the shop owner had placed some vanilla essence into a burner . I must have been hungry! Anyway, I have taken to adding this little tradition to my home. Please try it you will LOVE it.. I brought these lovely trays and I think they are gorgeous! Just perfect for my veranda..

A happy weekend to you all~!