~Gallerie Marie~

Her name is Lola...

2012-01-27T10:45:00.008+11:00

...and I love how her dress turned out! The fabrics I used were from Michael Miller's "Dumb Dot" and Lecien's "Flower Sugar".

...And yeah, she was a showgirl!:-)
Isn't she a beauty?
Enjoy your weekend...more later,
~M ♥

Retro Betty Blythe

2012-01-23T22:44:00.012+11:00

Like I said last time it's amazing how a dress can "dramatically" changed a look! And it's so true!

This is Purple Blythe...she looks "kooky" with her pigtails and purple tights and conservative skirt!

So I created a party dress for her inspired from the 60's retro TV series "Mad Men".
I took off her pigtails and changed her eye color to salmon pink...now she's Betty Draper!

For me her new dress really made a difference and she's beautiful! Sewing her dress is not so easy I tell you, but it was worth it!

Be back soon...
~M xox

It's My Party...American Retro

2012-01-11T08:58:00.007+11:00

Hey there...well, it's show-off time! And today and I want to share with you this little party dress!
I call this "It's My Party", a creation based on my childhood dress when I was 5. The original had a flower on the waist but I added pretty buttons instead.

This is one of my favorites, so is the fabric from American Retro by Windham.

With square neckline and pleated skirt, it features 2 fabric prints.
Noticed the polka dot lining?...it does make a difference doesn't it?

...and no back zippers either, just 3 matching blue pearl button snaps!
So retro and sweet! Just perfect!

...but this one's sold last Christmas for a lucky little girl!
More next time...till later,

~M xox

Lollipop Cakes

2012-01-09T15:31:00.006+11:00

I hope you all had a great New Year's Eve 'coz for me I made sure that I had a great one!
I tried my hand at making these Lollipop Cakes or Cake Pops that's sweeping the cyber and the real world and whoever invented this (Bakerella?) is just so smart!
It's too sweet but way better than the candy lollipops that could damaged "baby tooth!!"

Anyways a friend of mine warned me that it's time consuming 'coz you have to roll them into balls one by one and it really was, but then I never have plans to turn this into another business, this was just for fun!
And my nephews gobbled them away even before the stroke of midnight!

If you want to make some for your kiddos, it's pretty easy! Just goggle "cake pop recipe" and all these cake pop sites will pop out!
And yes, it really is too sweet so I omitted the "dipped on icing" part 'coz I found out that it will harden the pops when refrigerated anyways! It's still sweet but not much, can you imagine the icing???

I can really say my cake pops ended up like...Cake Pops!
If you have a birthday party coming up soon, why not make them yourself! It's simply gratifying!

I'll be back soon...

~M ♥♥♥

Retro Child Sun Hat

2011-12-21T12:13:00.003+11:00

My retro Sun Hats are now available in my Dawanda shop!
Check them out now!

Discovered on DaWanda

By: GallerieMarie

Child Hat "Polka Dot Flower - Blue" Size Age 1-3

Merry Christmas everyone!
All the best in 2012!!

~M xo

Fun Day at the Blue Mountains!

2011-12-05T08:13:00.014+11:00

Anyways, there's this nice little market in the Blue Mountains called The Bluebird Market, my sister heyBoom Shop and I had a stall on the weekend and it was so neat!
The handmade market was set in a vintage hotel atop a hill, overlooking a train station and downhill is the small village of Leura, "an urban village" as it's been known.

...goat's milk soaps are still my best-seller!

heyBoom Shop

This painted face girly girl sure had fun! Check out her headband!

...we hope to go back there soon, and I promise to share more photos of the The Bluebird Market.

For now you all have a great day and thank you for stopping by!

~M xox

Kiki...

2011-08-29T09:30:00.006+10:00

She's a Pom but she looks like a baby fox with those sweet sad eyes!

My favorite shot...here she's actually watching her Mom while she's cooking!

Here she's staring at me...

She looks like a baby lioness here...

She's such a handful! So I ask my sister..."do you have the heart to send her back?"

Enjoy your week...till later,
~M xox

Handmade Collage

2011-08-25T11:26:00.006+10:00

Thought I'd share with you some of my handmade photo collage...

A dream collage is pictures of your goals.
It is like your future photo album.

One I love, Two I love,
Three I love I say...

Turn to the east, and turn to the west,
And choose the one you like the best!

And I give you my heart...

Have a great day!
~M xo

Life is full of Daisies...

2011-07-30T11:33:00.012+10:00

Benjamin: My name is Benjamin Button, and I was born under unusual circumstances. While everyone else was agin', I was gettin' younger... all alone.

Daisy : You're so young.
Benjamin : Only on the outside.

Benjamin : I was thinking how nothing lasts and what a sham that is.
Daisy : Some things last.

Daisy : Would you still love me if I were old and saggy?

Benjamin : Your life is defined by opportunities...even the ones you miss.

***memorable quotes from 'The Curious Life of Benjamin Button'.***

Hope you enjoyed this as much as I did! Have fun on the weekend...

~M xo

Daddy's Stone...

2011-07-21T15:29:00.006+10:00

Birthdays are always wonderful days rain or shine...and today is Daddy's birthday.
The rain never stopped and the weather was gloomy.

We brought some beautiful flowers and for awhile we just stood there in the rain and staring at his stone, I never felt a deeper meaning of those words until today...

On his stone reads..."A golden heart stopped beating, hardworking hands laid to rest...God broke our hearts to prove to us he only takes the best."

We love you too Daddy...I will forever missed you...Happy Birthday!

~M xoxo

"Accidentally Seeking" Ice Cream!

2011-05-15T10:47:00.007+10:00

Hey there! How are you?
A week ago I accidentally drove past this old warehouse, accidentally 'coz it was a wrong turn! And outside this warehouse were bolts of fabrics all lined up in a row, probably to attract passers-by, and it worked!
I checked them out and guessed what? The fabrics were all-cotton duck in retro prints, must be my lucky day!
Those fabrics turned out into an "overnight success"...I called them "Ice Cream Parlour" aprons, 'coz they do remind me of ice cream colors in the 60's!

They really are reminiscent of the 60's ice cream parlour!
I just love how the combinations turned out, I want them all!

They're now available at my GallerieMarie shop!

You're absolutely welcome to check them out, it's $10 off every purchase, just mention this blog!
Now is really the time to shop for Christmas, be like me! It's not too early yet!!

I'll be at the shop...See you soon!
Till later...
~M xoxo

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T10:42:00.004+10:00

Hello there...I hope you're having a great Easter!

Here in Sydney, we have 5 public holidays starting from last Good Friday till Tuesday and I promised myself I won't stop sewing till I drop! ha!ha!

But I got bored with my project so last night I thought I'll stop and make a hat for my nephew Ewan, he's turning one soon! How time really flies...
But oh my gosh!!!... my hat ended up so girlie, so now it belongs to Khadija, my sister's doll!
Here she is... isn't she gorgeous?

"A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous." ~ Coco Chanel

See you next time...love always,
~M xoxo

Ramblin' Hearts ~ Reversible Jacket

2011-04-19T12:12:00.007+10:00

Guessed what's keeping me up these days? Introducing...
"Ramblin' Hearts" line...Reversible Child Jacket...

I'm so obssessed with them right now! Although they only come in 3 pattern pieces, they're not so easy to do! You need to have the patience to attach the peter pan collar and the sleeves, and being that Miss Perfect sometimes I can just lose it!

Noticed the ruffles on the edge?

I added a fabric flower brooch that is fully detachable so it can be worn on both sides!
As usual there's that little swarovski crystal for that elegant touch!

And a heart applique on some, also with swarovski crystals for that added sparkle!

The results are worth it! I can just wear them if it fits me! :-)

A little girl with style would surely love this, and of course it's a "grow-up-with-me" size!

Will be listing all of them soon at my Big Cartel shop.

See you soon!
Love always,
~M xoxo

Retro Lollipops

2011-04-04T09:28:00.008+10:00

Don't you just love these swirl lollipops? They're so retro! They remind me of childhood carnivals! So messy to make but just perfect!
Watch out for them soon at the GallerieMarie shop.

See you soon and have a great week ahead!

~M xo

Sincerely Sweet...

2011-03-15T10:19:00.004+11:00

Today I sold this retro apron from my Dawanda shop to a customer from France named Michelle, and this is what she has to say...

"Hi Marie, ...i am so happy for the apron, i like it, i like it, i like it...
i can feel so much love in your work...you have all my congratulations for the nice things you create.
best regards,Michelle."

These nice words really inspire me and after all there are still appreciative people in this world!
Nice one Michelle!

~M xoxo

The Craft Queen

2011-03-08T23:29:00.007+11:00

I wished I can tell you more about the weekend's craft show but it wasn't exciting! As always I had a great stall, but people weren't coming in, it was so quiet!

But guessed what... I met the Craft Queen!
That's her right there surrounded by her tons and tons of ribbons...

...and her wonderful buttons, lots of them!

But that's not all, check out her website and you'll see what I mean!
It's a one-stop craft shop!

...so I felt I wasted my time at the craft show but I gained a friend, the Craft Queen!

Enjoy your week...till later,

~M xoxo

Retro Angel

2011-02-22T08:48:00.003+11:00

"Let this lady into your past and she'll see to it that it takes on a rosey hue"~Elinor Peace Bailey

Inspired by Elinor Peace Bailey's Retro Angel, this is my version of her.

She's dress in roses retro prints and her body is made from cotton linen and stuff with polyfiber fill.
Everything is handstitched.

I still think I'm keeping her!
~M xoxo

Sunday Best~Ella

2011-02-19T19:01:00.006+11:00

Introducing from my Sunday Best line...Ella.

What better way to call this sweet dress after this adorable and funny girl named Ella.
What happened was she had her tantrums that day, she never wanted her photo taken, let alone try the dress on! But her Mama just put the dress on her and took these shots, and she just love doing all the poses!

This Ella dress has pleated skirt and has 6 buttons that opens up at the front, it's so carefree! It comes with matching shorts.
It does look good with Ella's jeans on!
The arms are fully biased and sweetened with ruffles! Super sweet!
They come in sizes from age 3 to 8.

If you want me to create one for your little girl, just email me!

Talk to you soon...love,
~M xoxo

Sewing Workshop

2011-02-11T11:06:00.009+11:00

Hello there...

Everything is hectic...busy...busy! I even sometimes forget to eat! This is what I had last night, a quickie burger...

with the lot! It's got beef (of course), tomatoes, onions, BBQ sauce and top with rocket leaves! ha!ha! Looks like it's not quickie but it's a healthy burger 'coz it's from my kitchen! Hint!- when you make one, use the turkish bread, it's even tastier! :-)

But anyways...that's not my main story!

Here's the real story...my next upcoming sewing workshop is what's keeping me busy!

It's learning how to make this sweet little number! This keeps me excited 'coz I can't wait to show the practical side of sewing and turn the "workshoppers" into self-taught like me!

This is easy peasy! of course so long as you can run a machine with your foot, then there's nothing to be scared of!
You'll learn everything here from cutting to pinning, buttonhole and even making your own bias! No zippers! I hate them! :-)

So if you want to join the fun, just get in touch with me!

...now back to my projects...till later,

~M x

BFF

2011-02-02T12:36:00.004+11:00

...you're my Friend, my companion,through good times and bad, my buddy through happy and sad, beside me you stand, beside me you walk, you're there to listen, you're there to talk, with happiness, with smiles,with pain and tears,I know you'll be there,throughout the years! xoxo

The Making of Annie...

2011-01-17T15:12:00.005+11:00

I thought I'd share with you how I go about creating my Annie doll.
This is Annie, in all her glory! :-)
Everything is fully attached and stitched, she's now waiting to be dress up!

Here's her dress that's all ready and ironed...

And here she is ...all dressed up! Check out her frog...she believes he'll turn into a prince one day!

She's now available at my BigCartel shop.

You all have a great week! Love always...
~M xoxo

My handmade promise...

2011-01-12T12:59:00.006+11:00

Hey, how are you?

Here's my promised photo of the day, but I have one special promise for you today. One which will truly reflect the sweetness of these daisies! So here goes...
"I promise something handmade to the FIRST 5 people who leave a comment here. However, to be eligible, you must repost this message, offering something handmade to 5 other people. The rules are that it must be handmade by you, and it must be sent to your 5 giftees sometime in 2011. Ready, set, GO!"

This is the promise I made from http://posiepatchworkblog.blogspot.com/, it's kind of a "pay it forward". It doesn't matter what kind of handmade it is, what matters is it's handmade with love!
Now isn't that great?

So the FIRST 5 bloggers who will leave a comment here will receive a handmade from me, wherever you are! As soon as you make this promise on your blog, send me the link here, then I promise you can expect a handmade gift from me soon!
I'll message you to confirm your address details.

Pay it forward...love always,

~M xoxo

Damp rain...

2011-01-03T20:08:00.005+11:00

How time flies! It seemed like we just celebrated the new year, and today's the 3rd!

So I pledge to myself that I'm gonna take one photo a day until the end of the year, this is my first one! So by the end of 2011 I'll then have 363 photos in my file! That's a lot!

This one's taken from our backyard today after the short storm, this isn't the first time it rained since summer so I guessed we're gonna have a wet summer in Sydney!

I just love how this shot turned out, you can clearly see the droplets of rain from the back bench, and the shadow of the daisy that reflected from the damp rain.

Have a great New Year...it's not too late for anything yet! :-)

More next time...love always,
~M xx

Oh what a cutie Kitty Kat!

2010-12-21T08:43:00.005+11:00

Look what I found on Etsy, a softie Kitty Kat!

Such a unique Christmas present and it's not too late yet, nothing's too late for a perfect gift for someone who's got everything! And it's child-friendly!

This is a very well-made cat, it's hand-embroidered and with a soft-feel, you just love hugging her!
And they come in different colors...very cute!
Trust me I know too well...'coz I was at my sister's home when she made it! ha!ha!

There you go! Visit her shop and check it out !

...I hope you all have a joyous Christmas!
Blessings and love always...

~M xx

Eye Candy Lollipop Headband

2010-12-07T16:32:00.007+11:00

Oh my! Christmas is coming and we can't stop it that's for sure! Everyone's busy I can tell just like me! :-)

I thought in order to be fully organised this festive season, I need to prioritise and do one thing at a time or my world will be a crazy mess!

So today I just finished making these eye-candy headbands, they just look so sweet like lollipops! They're my christmas pressies for my niece-in-laws! Is there such thing? Oh there must be 'coz they're not my actual nieces, they're my sister-in-law's kids, so that's what they are! ha!ha!

They're just too cute to give away! With my gazillions of fabric scraps, I'm just having a great time making these lollipops!!
Make someone happy these holidays, check them out from here.

More next time...my coffee break is up, now back to my craft room!

love always...

~M xx

Back to Soaping!

2010-08-27T17:26:00.006+10:00

...yeah, I'm back to soaping and it's been awhile since my last soapmaking!
I can't believed time has passed so quickly, I went through my old notes and the date says March 2005, the very first time I made a batch of soap! And this was no ordinary melt-and-pour soap, it's the good old-fashioned cold processed.
So I've been making them, day in, day out until my cupboard was full and our house smells of soaps!
So then it was time to sell them! But at the same time me and my family used them, and of course family comes first, so I stopped selling before we ran out!

...my craft room is closed, for now you'll find me in my kitchen...pouring soaps!
I'm so glad it's the weekend soon!
love always...
~M xx

The Biggest Mess!

2010-08-06T02:15:00.003+10:00

If this kind of mess makes you happy...then be thankful! Nothing can be perfect all the time!
...you all have a great day!
love always.~M

"Click" Purse

2010-07-26T11:14:00.004+10:00

Hey! I just thought I'd share with you my new metal frame purse, this is just a small coin purse size 4 inches. I used a wale cord fabric, it's not too soft and so easy to handle!
I remember when we were little, my sisters and I used to have each one handmade by our mom, we call them "click" purse 'coz it close and clicks! And mine was in polka dots as always!
As I watched my mother make them, it was so difficult for me to understand how she can even do it so perfectly, now that I'm hands-on it's so easy after all!
But then again I was only 6 years old! :-)

Looking back makes me smile...till later...

~M xx

Trees

2010-07-04T21:27:00.007+10:00

I just love trees, who doesn't? There's something about them that reminds me of my childhood.
This shot was taken from my son's school grounds, an Anglican School situated in the outskirts of Sydney, far from the madding crowd...one cold foggy morning.

...and I love these trees that surrounds our village...originally shot in black and white.

...Alone with myself
The trees bend to caress me
The shade hugs my heart.
~Candy Polgar

...more next time,love always...
~M xx

Self-Portrait

2010-06-30T00:33:00.003+10:00

Hey! So why do you think I've been quiet for awhile??...You guessed it...I've been crazy with my camera!

I believed photography is an art itself.
Whether you have a P and S camera (that stands for "point and shoot") or an expensive DSLR, you can still take gorgeous photos so long as you've mastered the skill.

Like always, I consider myself as self-taught on this one. I take my camera everywhere with me and just keep shooting, then delete the over/under-exposed.
And that's the beauty of digital these days, we don't waste any film!

That's my "self-portrait" up there, I took that photo inside my car's mirror, not bad ha?

I promised to post some more photos soon...till later...
love always,
~M xx

Trying to be perfect...but can't!

2010-06-08T16:40:00.005+10:00

Yeah...that's what I thought!

Anyways, I was at the school carpark waiting for my son today, and I thought I'd just take random photos from my camera...and this is one of those I took!
Can you guess what this is?...well of course!
Just trying to be perfect but can't!

...I've been away too long, I know that and I'm so glad you came by!
Till later...love always,

~M xox

...now where are those eggs??

2010-04-04T09:38:00.002+10:00

Hey Boom!

2010-02-16T10:23:00.004+11:00

Hello one and all! I've been long time no hear!
Can you forgive me?
So I'm back...and today I'm sharing with you my sister's talents!
She's so talented in everything she puts her hands on especially making just about anything!
And she's good in business too, well, she's sold a lot of her handmade bags at her Dawanda shop, check her out when you can!

And she does mosaics too and teach local kids how to make them...these are some of her works...

Aren't they lovely? I've always wanted to make one but can't seem to get the chance, so instead she's making one for me!
Then maybe I can copy them! ha!ha!

Well, this is all my news for now, I hope you'll come back soon and never give up on me, I've got some new pics from my handmades coming soon.
And although my next show will be in August yet, time is so fast I can't seem to keep up!
I'm sure you all agree!

You all have a great day!
Till later...

~M xxoo

It's My Lucky Day!

2009-11-20T16:48:00.008+11:00

...so I went to the post today to collect my parcel, they were the fabrics I've ordered last time or so I thought, and to my surprised I didn't only have one but there were 3 parcels all for me!!

First was my fabrics, as always I was like a child opening a christmas present! That's how I always feel when I open my fabric parcel!

Then there's this big box of goodies from my high school friend Chely, I just can't stop this smile on my face! :-)
She handmade these all, I don't think I can even make all these crafty stuff! I just love them all and she's just so talented!

And then to my surprised, I didn't expect I'd get my apron swap sooner than I think!
My apron swap partner is Kathie from Utah. I thought she's cute being a kindergarten teacher, and she can sew too!
The apron she especially made for me was so dainty and neat, it's even reversible! How did she know I love roses prints? Maybe I'll just keep it on the mannequin, it's too nice to wear it!

She also included a pair of glam gloves fit for a glam mom like me! ha!ha! And a box of chocolate, she's so sweet! Just can't get enough! It sure is my lucky day!

For more about the apron swap, visit their website here!

...you all enjoy your weekend 'coz i'm looking forward to mine!
~ M xx

Can't seem to have the courage...

2009-10-30T10:48:00.003+11:00

...to cut these fabrics! How can I? They're all so gorgeous!
Just by staring at them makes me happy...to all fabric addicts, you know how I feel!

You all have a fabulous weekend...looking forward to mine,
~M xx

Meet Maggie...and the Passionately Pink Apron Swap!

2009-10-23T00:59:00.006+11:00

Here she is...my new jersey mannequin named Maggie!

I'm actually enjoying dressing her up with my new apron creations.

Here she's dress in this 50's version apron I especially made for that special someone for the Passionately Pink Apron Swap in honor of Pink Ribbon.
I really hope she'll love this one!

And here's my sexy hostess apron made for the other special someone who's Mom was my Mom's best friend, she lost her fight a long time ago.

They will both be going out soon to these lucky ladies!

In the meantime...I just can't help sharing with you my new Maggie! She's just right there in the corner of my studio, standing still and looking so professional!
Love those legs, they're too frenchy!

For all of you "dressmakers" like me, I encourage you to get one of her, displaying your finished project will just be so easy!
Enjoy your day...Till later...
~M xx

Aprons Galore!

2009-10-12T14:09:00.010+11:00

Phew! You guessed it!
I've been sewing like crazy lately and this is no longer funny! :-)
But no pain, no gain like what my sister always say!

That means I'll be sewing non-stop till January 2010...
So I gotta hold my horses... Stitches and Craft show here I come!

Y'all have a great week!

~M xo

Who Has Seen The Wind?

2009-09-26T09:31:00.004+10:00

I thought I'd share one of my favorite poems in 4th grade...I loved it so much I memorised it aloud even while playing hopscotch...many years later I still remember it by heart!
Here goes...

Who has seen the wind? by Christina Georgina Rosetti

Who has seen the wind
Neither I nor you.
But when the leaves hang trembling,
The wind is passing through.
Who has seen the wind?
Neither you nor I.
But when the trees bow down their heads,
The wind is passing by.

...enjoy your perfect weekend!
xxM

Apron On The Loose!

2009-09-23T09:04:00.006+10:00

My set of aprons are almost ready and taking photos without a model is a bit hard so I thought I'll hang it on my fence, but geez, it's been so windy and looks like a dust storm was coming!

...guessed I have to cancel this photo shoot!
For now let me enjoy the windy day...indoors!
x M

Pink Ribbon Annies

2009-09-15T09:52:00.005+10:00

October is Pink Ribbon month and that's only a couple of weeks away!

These Pink Ribbon Hope Annies have all been adopted now to some lucky women but if you want me to create one for you, I'll be honored, so don't hesitate.

Each one of them is different!
...they are all dressed in Pink Ribbon fabrics from Timeless Treasures.

...enjoy your perfect day!!
~M xx

Cherry for a Friend!

2009-09-05T02:12:00.005+10:00

Meet Cherry Chely, named after a high school classmate I haven't seen for nearly 35 years! Thanks to facebook, I found her again!
Gosh! Does that give my age away?? :-)

I'm so pleased she turned out sweeter than I thought, with all those large cherry prints on her dress.
Perfectly right for my high school mate who just can't get enough of cherries!
Soon enough this cherry raggedy will be on her way to Chicago where my friend now lives, and I'm gonna see her again one day, that's for sure!

Bon Voyage Cherry Chely!

~M xx

Welcome Spring!

2009-09-01T11:40:00.005+10:00

First of September...the first day of Spring!
Flowers blooming
In the fresh morning dew...
Birds are singing...
and the sky so blue...

Spring...Spring...we welcome you!!!

~M xx

60's Blythe

2009-08-28T16:40:00.012+10:00

Look at Blythe in her 1960's dress!

It's amazing how a fabric print can change a look, and here Blythe looks very 1960's in her vintage print dress trimmed with brown polka dots print!
I added a paper rose on her top for that elegant touch and a hairband to complete the look!

I hope you enjoyed looking at her new dress as much as I enjoyed sewing it for her!
...enjoy your weekend...

love, Marie ~

Another Bag Bites The Dust!

2009-08-26T14:13:00.005+10:00

This is my third hobo bag version and probably the last of the series!

This one's in vintage roses print, and I added a felt flower just to add more pizzazz!!

I love how it turned out but I must admit attaching the zipper can be quite difficult to tackle.
You need to have the utmost patience! :-)

This is now up for sale in my shop!

...have a great day!
~M xxoo

Who Stole The Cookie?

2009-08-19T01:13:00.008+10:00

So we all gathered at the memorial park last weekend as it was my father's 2nd anniversary, and really how time flies!
But it wasn't a sad one, instead we all had fun!
Of course we brought him flowers, mine were australian natives, they last longer!

and Daddy's favorite...my own homemade cookies!
There's my choc-chip with white chocolate chips...

...then my Cookie Coconut...these are so yummy!!

...and oopps!...who's this kiddo? :-)

Enjoy your day 'coz I will!
~Marie xxoo

Blythe In Her New Vintage Dress!

2009-08-12T07:27:00.007+10:00

Phew! What a challenging dress to make, it took me half an hour to make it and of course I was impressed with myself! Who wouldn't?

I've never made a doll dress before, I went through my scraps and I have this vintage reproduction of roses and polka dots, not realizing that Blythe can change to green eyes.

When I dress her up it was just perfect!
I'm pretty sure you'd noticed her eyes first...then I just couldn't find a rubber band to tie her hair so I ended up with a strip of the polka dot!
I think she's getting to be a boho! :-)
But isn't she a beauty?

...enjoy your day!
~M xx

Introducing...La Boheme

2009-08-07T10:49:00.007+10:00

I call this 'La Boheme', my version of a Hobo Shoulder Bag.

Why 'La Boheme'? Simply because Boheme itself resonates art.
I believe it best describe my bags, fully handmade and not so perfect!

This is now listed in my shop .
Check it out now!
And enjoy your day!

~M xxoo

Goodbye Alana...I'm Not Going To Miss You!

2009-08-03T14:14:00.007+10:00

I sat down with Alana yesterday for the last time and then off she went with her new owner!
And yes, I sold her on the weekend to a nice man who was on a new venture, sewing canvas and tents! I believed he was the best person for Alana and she'll be look after well.
I did looked after her, don't take me wrong but I never gave her too much attention simply because I couldn't handle her temperaments!
So getting rid of her was the best decision!
I'm sure she'll be happy with her new owner for a long, long time!
Now on to my new friend...:-)

~Marie xxoo

Hello Dolly!

2009-07-30T23:17:00.008+10:00

My sister asked me to make a doll for her friend's little girl who's turning one this weekend.
Hmmm... my dolls are not meant to be toys, they are collectible dolls so I thought maybe I can make one this time but it has to be "child-friendly", a dolly that can be tossed and turned! What do you expect from a one year old?

This is what I ended up with...meet Ollie!

Ollie is made from soft-cotton knit fabric and her dress is pure cotton. I handstitched her face including her eyes, her hair is 100% acrylic, stitched on and glued. So then she is washable!

I also made a pouch for her, so when Olivia goes to bed Ollie can sleep next to her!
She's just too perfect and I had fun making her!
...Thank you for dropping by...have a great weekend!
~M xxoo

You Don't Have To Be A Woman!

2009-07-28T09:17:00.005+10:00

I was window shopping at Etsy today and I found a shop that really struck me!

You don't have to be a woman to be able to produce these handmade gorgeous bags!

Again that's what you call Raw Talent! Check him out here!

Have a great day...
~GM xxoo

If you are looking for an inspiration...

2009-07-24T11:24:00.014+10:00

...then let me tell you about Kikay Designs, she is the most talented person I've ever met!

I'm not saying this just because she featured me this week but believe me she is an inspiration to all those aspiring artists and crafters out there!
How do I know that? Because she is my sister, that's why!

And it's true, she never planned to be a crafter! So many times I keep telling her to make something crafty and her answer is always "no way, crafting is not my cup of tea!".

The one day she rang me and said she just purchased a sewing machine for her 15 year old daughter, but my niece changed her mind! So what to do?
She ended up sitting on that sewing machine and just started sewing! It was just like she has been sewing all her life!
And she paints in canvas too! Now that's what you call 'raw' talent!
And like I always believe...each one of us has our own talent, we just have to find it!

Thank you Kikay for the nice feature of me, I very much appreciate it!
Why don't you check out her shop too!

Looking forward to a nice weekend...

~Marie xoxo

Lucky Guests!

2009-07-20T15:32:00.005+10:00

I had an open house last weekend and for me it was a success!
I gave out nearly 50 invitations and 28 showed up, that really wasn't so bad!
My soaps and candles were popular as always and I did sold a couple of my handmade bags and dolls, but guess who got lucky?

All of my guests received one of these candles!
Boy! Were they thrilled! :-)

Thank you for coming by today...
~M xx

Daddy's 90th ~ In Loving Memory

2009-07-17T13:26:00.005+10:00

My alarm clock went off this morning at 4am! It made me jump off the bed and first thing came into my mind was I thought it was the 21st of July!
Phew! I'm glad it's only the 17th, I would have missed my Dad's birthday on the 21st, he would be 90 years old!

I remember setting my alarm at 7.15am which I usually do when I'm off work, and how did my alarm went off at 4am?
I realized I must have set it at 4am while I was too sleepy to care!
But I'm glad I did 'coz it was a 'wake-up' call for me, I've been too busy lately with my sewing and for sure I will forget Daddy's birthday!

Happy Birthday Daddy...I'm still missing you!

Love,
~M xxoo

What Is Your Greatest Fear?

2009-07-14T09:00:00.012+10:00

A friend of mine ask me that question the other day and my answer was, 'I don't have any fears!'.
If you have fears in life then where is your faith in Him?

Then my 15 year old son who was listening (after all! I thought he had his ipod ear phones on!) interrupted the conversation, 'But Mama, if you have a gun pointed to your head wouldn't you have that fear?'
OMG!!! Yeah, he has a point there but I wouldn't think of fear that way! That will be so awful!

But really we all have fears in life, deep inside me of course I do, and my son knows me too well when he said it out loud that "mama's greatest fear is the mouse!"
Come to think of it, I would surely die!
And I must admit... so shallow but true! :-)

Have a great week everyone...
xx Marie

How To Make Your Own Handmade Banner

2009-07-10T18:10:00.006+10:00

It's the weekend already? Gosh...well...
A lot of my craft friends have asked me how I made my banner, so I thought I'll show you how...

First I printed the alphabets that I found from a google site, you can search the word 'alphabets' and there's lots of results to choose from!
Then I cut them just like in a pattern on a fabric of my choice, I used my fabric stash.
I then slightly glued them on a natural broadcloth fabric, I used this fabric 'coz I wanted to have that handmade look! Gluing them on before sewing makes it easier as the letters will keep it on while you stitch. I handstitch each letter, and zig-zag over it. I also added a bit of ric-rac to sort of highlight the name.
If you click on that photo, it will give you a close-up view.
And that's it, there goes my banner!

Have a great weekend!

~Marie xxoo

How To Sew Zipper In Hobo Bag~The Easier Way!

2009-07-07T12:20:00.013+10:00

From my previous post about making a hobo bag , I have actually followed a pattern but it didn’t make it any easier for me!
You will noticed that in most hobo bag patterns, the instructions will tell you to attach the zipper first as well as the handle, then handstitch the lining in the last step, well not for me! Here I will show you how…

So I’d assume that you have all the necessary ‘ingredients’ to your hobo bag, and you have now sewn them all together.
This time make sure that you have left an opening on both sides of the bag, no handles yet!
Now depending on the size of your hobo bag, make sure you have a very long zipper, and don’t cut it yet!

Step 1 – Turn the lining right side out and pin the zipper on both sides of the opening with it’s zipper teeth facing down. Start the pin from the side where the zipper ends when close. Stitch using a zipper foot to guide you right up to the edge.
It should then look like this...

Invert and check what you’ve sewn and iron to flatten.
Zip inside should look like this...

Step 2 – Invert the main bag inside out and place the lining inside. This time both main bag and lining are right sides together.

Now pin the zipper in between the main bag and the lining, that is, zipper should be sandwich in between.
Of course make sure the zip is open all the time!
Using the zipper foot, stitch again right through, this time should be easier as all you have to do is go over the stitch line from the lining, that will be your easy guide!

Step 3 – Invert the bag by going through any one of the two openings on the side. (this opening is meant to be for the handles that you will attach as your last step).
It should turn out like this...

You will noticed I have done a topstitch on the edge, you can do that too.
You can then cut the zipper and adjust the length from both ends.

Hope that was easy as much as it was for me! If you have any questions, just jot down a comment!
Happy sewing and enjoy your day...
~GM xxoo

On Top Of Spaghetti...

2009-07-04T11:09:00.003+10:00

...all covered with cheese, I lost my poor meatball when somebody sneezed!!

You all have a great weekend :-)

~GallerieMarie xxoo

Green, Green Grass Of Home...

2009-06-30T14:48:00.009+10:00

Well, the above photo speaks for itself, I know we have the ugliest grass ever in our entire neighborhood!
Then one day a nice lawnmower man named Martin was introduced to us by my sister-in-law. He said he would like to looked after our ugly grass.
“Just give me a month or so and your grass will be the same as your neighbor’s lawn across the road, all I asked is for you to water it everyday!”
Deep inside me I didn’t believe him!
But no problem, sure you may look after our grass for $20 a week, I replied.
Not bad, and my husband was more than happy! He doesn’t have to get up early on the weekend and mow the lawn.
Weeks have passed, and one summer morning while I was watering the grass my next door neighbor gave me a smirked at the same time telling me that my grass has no hope of reviving. Yes, she had the nerve to say that on my face! We'll soon see, I thought.
Autumn came and went, I still can’t see any signs of our grass turning green.
Then winter came and guessed what…

...our grass just kept on turning green as ever, gone were the ugly patches, lush green grass took over!
While the entire neighborhood’s lawns turned brown from the winter cold!
We had the last laugh…the green, green grass of home!
Thanks to the lawmower man!

xxoo Have a joyful day!

Banana Bread, Anyone?

2009-06-28T19:37:00.006+10:00

I love banana bread and mind you, they're so expensive in coffee shops! So I thought I'd bake instead!
I can never make it perfect. One batch was over-bake, the next one was under-bake, but I never gave up!
Then I thought I'll changed the way I mix them. Usually I just add them altogether in one go and mix. But this time I beat the mashed bananas first, then I added all the wet ingredients - eggs, sour cream, melted butter and vanilla extract, beating them in each addition. I then added the flour mixture, beat slow and poured in the tin, bake for an hour and voila!

Perfect banana bread at last!!
Now I'm happy...Patience is virtue!
xxoo

Why I Love Washing Dishes!

2009-06-26T10:58:00.008+10:00

Who loves washing dishes? I do! ha!ha! I'll tell you why.
While washing the dishes I get all these beautiful views from my kitchen window...
bright skies...

cloudy skies...

horses grazing...

my backyard stall last christmas...

and most of all, the beautiful sunset!

Can you beat that? So now you understand why washing dishes is one of my favorite thing to do!
Have a joyful day and thank you for dropping by today!
xxoo

A Bit Sad...But thought I'd Share...Life Is Too Short Indeed!

2009-06-23T11:33:00.011+10:00

Count your blessings…
Today, at 7am as usual, I drove my son to school. As we reached the middle of the winding road, I noticed police cars everywhere and the road blocked with detour signs ahead. Darn! I thought, I can’t afford to go all the way round since I don’t have enough gas! So we decided to go back home. Obviously my son didn’t go to school today, but never mind!
As soon as we arrived home I immediately rang the police to find out the reason for the road blocked, I was ready to sound angry for the inconvenience but the police on the other line calmly said that there was a fatal accident and that a family in a van had all died on the spot!
My heart sanked, I felt goosebumps all over my body! I felt so sad and at the same time I felt so unreasonable! Then it hit me, why was I so affected with the news? Why am I crying? I don’t even know that family, they were just complete strangers, just one of those tragic news!
But it kept me wondering… what their morning was like before they even all got together in the van? Were they all happy that morning? Were there fights that morning like we all do sometimes with our kids, hurrying them up with their breakfast or they’ll be late for school?
The saddest part was, that family probably didn’t even have the chance to kiss each other goodbye!
Of course not knowing what lies ahead of them!
Really life is too short. We should always be thankful for each day…we must never forget to count our blessings!
Here's a word from Og Mandino...
“Count your blessings. Once you realize how valuable you are and how much you have going for you, the smiles will return, the sun will break out, the music will play, and you will finally be able to move forward the life that God intended for you with grace, strength, courage, and confidence.”
Have a joyful day and thank you for dropping by!
~M xxoo

Adopted Girls

2009-06-20T11:50:00.007+10:00

These girls have all been adopted by one lady! I asked what was she going to do with them, is she giving them away as gifts? And she said no, she is keeping them all to herself!
She actually has a scrapbooking studio and all these sweet girls just sits around, admired by her scrapbooking ladies and it makes them smile everyday!
That makes me happy too!
For more of these girls ready for adoption, visit my shop here!
You all enjoy your day and thank you for visiting today...
~M xoxo

Ode to 'Not Just A Bus Driver'~In Loving Memory

2009-06-17T13:39:00.009+10:00

I first met him in 1990
He had a funny accent
He couldn’t even pronounced my daughter’s name well
He calls my daughter Shine-Shine
He calls my son ‘the kid’
All his kids on the bus loved him
‘Cause he makes them laugh on the long drive home
Every Christmas each child on the bus gets a christmas present
He never fails, when he couldn’t pick them up he allows
for a time in advance so we can make other arrangements
He also drives on long excursions
We rode with him on a fun trip to the beach
While the kids are at school he delivers flowers to special people
At exactly 2.45pm you will find him at the school gate
He picks up a new child from the classroom
and walks him safely to the bus…
He wasn't just a Bus Driver
He was also a trusted friend.
...You will surely be missed Uncle George...
Here’s to you!!
xxoo

Here's Hope Kitty!

2009-06-16T11:47:00.005+10:00

Hope Kitty, the Rag Cat is full of love! She is also a Cool Cat!
She is made from natural broadcloth and cinnamon dyed for an old rag look, her body is a TimelessTreasures pink ribbon fabric. She has button eyes and stitched face.
Her tail and ears are painted with water-based acrylics.
She is nearly 11" tall from the top of her head and 8" wide and snugly filled with polyester fiber.

Hope Kitty will surely make that special someone smile. She is filled with love hearts, she even has a heart under her tail!
Hearts are made of felt in dark fuschia.
She will look great sitting in one corner of your lounge or any favorite spot.
Hope Kitty is very special, the butterfly ribbon around her neck looks good on her!
Absolutely handmade by me!

You will find her in my shop right here! Waiting for you to take her home!
Enjoy your day...
xxoo

No Wonder I Love Polka Dots!

2009-06-14T14:47:00.010+10:00

Ever since I began making my Raggedy Annie dolls, for some reason I love dressing them up in polka dots, sometimes a mixture of other prints but there's got to be those dots!
When I shop for fabrics, I always go straight to polka dot sections!
Then one day my sister and I went through some old photographs and we noticed that my dress in every family photos were in polka dots!
There you go...no wonder!

Give smiles...
~Marie xxoo

Phew! At last...I'm done with my new bag!

2009-06-10T12:21:00.013+10:00

Introducing...my Hippie Hobo Bag!

I've always wanted to learn how to make a hobo bag, I've searched for patterns but all the patterns out there will not teach you how to machine-stitch the lining with the zipper! Yes, that's the dreaded part!
So I tossed the pattern away and decided to carefully work out my own. And so I did! I'm pleased how it turned out, attaching the zip with the lining was easy peasy!

If you have the patience like I do, you will find your own way!
It took me till the wee hours of the morning to worked it out, believed me literally I did!
And when I was done, I tiptoed to bed, hubby woke up to go to the bathroom and I pretended to sleep under the covers! ha!ha!
But it was worth it!
Now on to my next one, this time I will take pictures step-by-step so I can show you how, so follow me! :-)
Till later...
xxoo

A Gift Box for Les

2009-06-08T23:26:00.010+10:00

My friend Les will turn 50 tomorrow, 9th of June. She is such a nice and cheery lady, we became friends for only around six months now. When I applied for a job at this company, she took me in without even asking for references. She said she knew we'd get along the first time she saw me and I felt the same way. Although I only worked on Thursdays, she never forgets my coffee, it's ready on my desk when I arrive! So sweet of her!
Have you ever met someone the first time and you feel so easy with each other, and without even thinking you just start talking non-stop, like as if you've known each other for a long time? That's how I felt with Les!
So for her big 50, I made a gift box filled with my handmade goodies.

Inside there's sugar scrub, a bar of goat's milk soap, a soy candle and a lavender bag. She will surely love this! And yes, I handmade them all!
I should write about these handmades next time. For now I can't wait to drop this off to surprise her on her big day!
Happy birthday Les! :-)
xxoo from your friend who appreciates your kindness...

Believing in Yourself...My Last Craft Market

2009-06-03T16:12:00.012+10:00

There are nice craft markets here in Sydney but most of them are in the open, you need to set up your own gazebo and that is a big problem for me, simply because I don't have a gazebo and there's no one to help me set it up! Oh well..
So the last market I had was in October 2008, my very last one!
It was held for two days on the last weekend of October inside a large hall. The tables were all ready to set up our things the day before, so on the big day, all I did was make ready for the market to open its doors.
Looking back at the photos I took, I can't believed I've made all those craft on display, and I can't believed I've made that banner! That banner in fact was hurriedly done the night before the big day and it did turn out nice! (for me!)
The banner is made from natural broadcloth and I handstitched those letters one by one!
A lot of customers admired the banner and I was so proud to say I made it!
The table was set up nicely and I did sold a lot of my soaps, my dolls were so popular too so with my rag cats! No one has ever seen a rag cat before and I overheard some customers saying it made them smile!
One lady came by on Saturday and she bought one doll, then she came back the next day with her Mom. Her Mom loves cats, and she had hard time choosing which one she would love to keep!
She ended up bringing home Sammie, this vintage cat!

I sure missed doing craft markets. At the end of the day, it is one big accomplishment, simply believing in yourself that you can do it!
That last market in October was the best one of all!

By the way, you will find more of my Rag Cats from my shop!
Catch you later...
xxoo

Lucky follower deserves the freebie happy giveaway!!

2009-06-02T10:16:00.003+10:00

These collectible Tag-Art goes to Miera, one lucky follower!
Read about the giveaway here!

There will be more giveaways soon from my handmades!
So why don't you follow me?
Thank you for dropping by and enjoy your day!
xxoo

Strawberry Annie on a Billboard!

2009-05-31T22:47:00.009+10:00

Introducing Strawberry Annie Doll...

Here she is on a billboard! How did I do that?
You too can enjoy creating this fun photos!
It's called Photofunia, check it out here and have fun!
Have a great day and thank you for stopping by my blog today!
xxoo

Hug Cakes for Breakfast

2009-05-30T21:15:00.006+10:00

Yes, hotcakes but I call them hug cakes 'coz they remind me when my son was little, he was just learning how to talk when each morning he goes, "hug cakes Mama!"
So this Saturday morning was hug cakes!
I make them from scratch, although ready-mix would have been easier but I find that when you mix your own, it's richer! And you know what's in it of course! It's just so easy, here's my recipe -
2 cups of self-raising flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 3 eggs, 3 tablespoon melted butter and 1 cup milk. That's it! So simple!
And topped it with pure canadian maple syrup!
But I don't have syrup with mine 'coz it's sweet enough!
My nephews Josh and Liam are taking turns making their own!

And that is our Saturday morning!

The Notebook

2009-05-28T23:50:00.007+10:00

Phew! What a tearjerker this movie! I've watched this so many times and even before the story begins, just as the music starts playing I start crying. :-)
I just loved this movie so much and last night I watch it again for the 5th time, this time with my 15 year old son. So we snuggled ourselves under the blanket and he knew I was going to cry so he included some tissues on the side!
I've been known in the family for having this "sudden outburst of emotion", and I don't deny it. As soon as a certain "sad" scene comes up, they turn their heads towards me and see if I'm crying and I don't even try to hide it! Who cares? I'm just having a good cry and enjoying it!

"The Notebook" is a one-of-a-kind love story and of course I fell for Noah, who wouldn't? :-) He goes...Summer romances begin for all kinds of reasons, but when all is said and done, they have one thing in common. They're shooting stars, a spectacular moment of light in the heavens, fleeting glimpse of eternity, and in a flash they're gone.
Sweet dreams for now...
xxoo

P.S. My son is getting the book, he must have loved it!

The Secret is in the SUGAR!!

2009-05-27T09:04:00.005+10:00

You must know by now that we can actually have a beauty treatment everyday right in our own home! Sure you can!
For years I have been using expensive over-the-counter-french-products for my daily beauty routine and I thought they were the best! But through my research I have found that all these products are plain gimmicks, it will not take you anywhere! I know "beauty is only skin deep" if you take that literally but still...
Anyways, so I made my own facial scrub from brown sugar and avocado oils, and you will never go wrong with these two combinations, brown sugar to exfoliate and avocado oils to nourish our skin... I have simply experience that "kiss my face" feel everyday! Plus I have added lavender oils for a great scent!
It does not leave a greasy feel and leaves your face feeling smooth and silky!
You'll be surprised! This sugar scrub is creamy and bubbly, but there is nothing of those SLS and other chemical ingredients that we don't understand! I know 'coz I made them!
Hush!..The secret is in the sugar!!!
Say goodbye to dead skin!
xxxoo

We have a winner! Happy Giveaway! Freebie! Whatchamacallit!

2009-05-24T19:33:00.016+10:00

This collectible Tag-Art goes to Miera!
Miera has nice life stories in her blog, check her out!
You deserve it girl! I hope you'll have fun with these Tag-Art! You can blog your scrapbook using these tags when you're done!
Thank you all for dropping by!

Once upon my life, and this was a couple of years ago, I went "tag" crazy! So again like always I "hoard" myself with everything you would need in Scrapbooking, but never got to do it except this tag-art! I did had fun making them and gave them all away and these are all of what's left! And I'm giving them away too!
YES! THEY ARE A HAPPY GIVE-AWAY! FREEBIE! WHATCHAMACALLIT!

NOW HERE'S THE DEAL...to qualify for this Freebie you need to do the following -

1- Leave a comment on this post and tell me why you deserve to have these Tags!
2 - Become my friend by following my Blog! I will be giving more giveaways every now and then so you're better off to know first hand!
3- Whoever is the lucky one will have to post these tags and blog something about it in their blog, show off a scrapbook if you have created one using these tags and share my blog link!
THAT'S ALL YOU NEED TO DO!

There is no deadline but for a better chance I only require up to 6 response comments.
Then I can start the ball rolling!!
Will hear from you soon!!!
xxoo

Girls will be girls!

2009-05-24T19:07:00.005+10:00

My sister emailed this to me today and I have to share it with you!

A little girl asked her mother, 'Can I go outside and play with the boys?'
Her mother replied, 'No, you can't play with the boys, they're too rough.'
The little girl thought about it for a few moments and asked, 'If I can find a smooth one, can I play with him?'

So cute, I love to pinch them! Give your little girl a big hug tonight! :-)
xxoo

Dark horse, Underdog, AI & my broken sewing machine

2009-05-22T20:16:00.011+10:00

Now what the heck is the connection there? :-) Well, that's Priscilla and she suddenly stopped moving last night, so instead I had a ball watching American Idol finals! That was the best finals ever yet! Hubby and I enjoyed it, his favorite was Adam but mine was the dark horse, the underdog and OAO Kris Allen! Can you tell I'm a big fan? Well, no matter what some people say I still believed Kris was destined to win! Americans love the underdogs! He was the genuine dark horse!
As for me? All's well that ends well, I took Priscilla early this morning to the sewing mechanic and now she's back to work!

As if I don't have Alana, my vintage one. But I couldn't have a better excuse, still I'm so glad she gave way last night and I had a good break! That too was destined! Goodnight for now...
xxxoo

We are allergic to cats!

2009-05-21T23:04:00.010+10:00

My family is allergic to cats most especially my son, so this is the most we can have. a rag cat! :-)
I'm proud of this cat, this was my first attempt from my own design. He is a male cat called NimNim, named after my sister's real cat!
His face is handstitched and I handpainted his ears and tail in acrylics.
He has since been adopted!
You will find more of my Rag Cats from my shop!

His back with my signature and felt heart!

River, the Poet ~ age,15

2009-05-20T01:40:00.007+10:00

Rule No.1 -
Mothers are not allowed to read their child's blog! :-)
But I must say I'm a proud Mom, so I'm sharing this one,
To Write, Breathe and Love... Check it out!
xxoo

21 Sept 2005 Journal Entry ~ My Mother, A Strong Woman

2009-05-20T01:26:00.007+10:00

My mother had suffered depression when my sisters and I were still young, we never knew until we were older.
My Mom was so good at hiding her emotions and feelings, looking back I can’t imagine her suffering. She must have been so lonely.
She once told me that whenever she had panic attacks, she’d ask my dad to drive her to our doctor, and that alone will make her feel better.
My mother’s depression was triggered by fear, the fear of dying. She was afraid that if anything happens to her we will all be left behind, and we were all very young then.
Who would look after us when she’s gone? Little did she know that depression was sinking in.
But my mother is a very strong woman. Inspite of it all, she was always there for us.
Recently my Mom and I were talking about her past, and I realised that I also have that same kind of fear now that I’m a Mom with a young child.
Is this normal? I’m sure I’m not alone...
xxoo

Happy Hope Annie

2009-05-19T11:01:00.009+10:00

This is my Happy Hope Annie again inspired from Cotton Picken Prims Angel Annie of Hope.
A customer, now a friend wanted me to make one for her sister-in-law but this time she wants Annie's face to be happy! Still dress in a Timeless Treasure pink ribbon fabric and of course she holds a heart, I used a vintage rose print fabric on this one. I also added pink wool streaks on her hair but she's not an angel this time. I'm so glad I made someone happy! Hope she made you smile today!
Visit more of these Sweet Annies in my shop.
xxxoo

Angel Annie of Hope

2009-05-18T22:48:00.014+10:00

Angel Annie of Hope is an original design E-Pattern by Cotton Picken Prims
This is her original version. Angel Annie is holding a pink ribbon ornie, so sweet and sad!

And this Angel Annie here is my version. This is my first one that I made for a daughter whose Mom passed from breast cancer. Her dress is a Timeless Treasure Pink Ribbon fabric and her ornie is in pink mini polka dot. She's coffee-dyed too and her hair is red wool yarn. This is one of my best-sellers so far!

This is Annie without her wings, this time she's holding a heart, so I call her Hope Annie Heart. She's also dressed in a Timeless Treasure Pink Ribbon fabric. These fabrics are now hard to find but I still have them in my stash! Let me know if you want me to make one for that special someone!
Thanks to Cotton Picken Prims!
xxoo

Jumper for Bianca

2009-05-18T14:17:00.011+10:00

I've always wanted to sew a child's dress and although my daughter is now grown-up (she's 29 mind you! :-) I have a "jumpin-jack-flash" niece that can model around! So here she is, little Bianca with her new jumper dress!

I did ran out of polka dot fabric on this one so I thought I'd use a different print on one side and match it with the pockets. Then I added rick-rack on the bodice (arm).
She loved it! Now she's ready to run around!!
xxoo

Happy Day!

2009-05-17T16:32:00.010+10:00

My son came home from school last friday with these daisies in his hand, so I asked "where did these daisies come from?", he goes, "it's happy day today Mama, some girls gave them to me" but with a frown! He hates me asking!. "Oh, some kind of happy day!! :-)
xxoo

Mom's make-up bag

2009-05-16T18:05:00.010+10:00

I made this make-up bag for my Mom but she didn't like it, she thought I used my fabric scraps! So I explained that it's just the style but still "I don't like it" she said! But she took it anyways but never used it! Oh well...Moms are moms! :-)

It even has mirror inside! This was from her old make-up bag! Do you like it? I do!
So I called this "jolly nellies" bag, from my mom's name Jolly Nelly.
xxxoo

8 Jan 2003 -Journal Entry - My Best Friend Seeti

2009-05-15T14:59:00.006+10:00

When I was 7 years old I used to play with a girl of my age living next door and she became my best friend.
Back then when the world was different, and having a friend means having someone you can trust. That was how I was with my friend Seeti.
We always looked forward to summer vacations because that was when we can play together the whole day. We play in the park all to ourselves without any fears that bad guys might come along.
I was a Christian and she was a Moslem. But we didn’t care about anything except us!
Then we moved to another city, she cried when I left. I’ll never forget the look on her face.
But that was the last and we never saw each other again.
Oftentimes I wonder about her, where she is now and could she also be a Mom like me? I wonder what she thinks of the world today? Does she ever wonder about me too?
Looking back, that was one of my most unforgettable childhood ever.
xxoo

I love how Witchy Annie turned out!

2009-05-15T09:39:00.014+10:00

I just love how this new Annie turned out, I worked overtime for her!
She is well-dressed in her "Sunday Best"! I made her a tag that says 'Witch Upon A Star' with a swarovski crystal.
A close-up of her star...

And I'm thinking you don't have to wait for halloween to have her!
You can see more of her and the rest of her friends in my shop
She's waiting for you to take her home!
xxxoo

Wicked Candy Apple

2009-05-14T00:34:00.005+10:00

I love making these candy apples!
I first saw them in Disneyland and just couldn't resist having one! They are expensive, $7 for an apple!
I couldn't wait to get home and make my own! This is my version.
So I dipped the green apples (it's got to be granny smith) in gooey caramel, then smothered with dark chocolate and rolled in marshmallows, nuts and candies!
Great for those party giveaways but very wicked! :-)
xxoo

I love Blythe!

2009-05-13T11:13:00.009+10:00

I'm Blythe crazy! Here she is in a polka dot dress and brown boots! No, I didn't make this dress but I should make a new dress for her soon! Keep watch!
xxoo

13 May 2006 Journal Entry ~ My Dad

2009-05-13T10:14:00.013+10:00

Today I went to see my Daddy, and each time he sees me, he looks so happy, all dressed up and ready to go out, or so he thinks. And it always makes me sad whenever I see him since he no longer recognised me.
Dementia is a scary and terrible disorder. It eats out your brain until nothing is left. Daddy's memory sometimes just snaps, in one split second he's back to his old self again and then gone!
On a funny note, he thinks I'm his nurse. And I often tell him that I really am his nurse just to make him happy. He's always wanted me to be a nurse but I failed him, and now here I am, his very own special nurse!
As always Mommy is grumpy, I don't blame her 'coz she's been caring for Daddy ever since he got sick, and now she's been asking me if I've found a nursing home yet. She said she has fully decided to place Daddy in nursing care.
It hurts thinking about it, I can't imagine, but sometimes when I look at myself in the mirror, I ask myself, who am I to say 'no', why, is there anything more I can do to ease their pain?
I don't know how my sisters feel about it, do they care? or am I the one who's selfish?
I know Mommy needs a life. Its been years since she had a good night's sleep. Daddy doesn't sleep, he keeps waking up in the middle of the night, walks around the house in the dark and Mommy just have to stay awake and watch him over.
Tomorrow I should hear from this nursing home if there is a vacancy or not. I'm tempted not to tell her if ever it's available, on second thought I don't think I can lie to her about this!
Maybe I just have to let her know, if a room is available she's lucky, unlucky for Daddy, but if there's no vacancy, I'm afraid I have to say I'm happy!
How can I be so selfish? I know I am.

Postscript ...Our daddy passed away peacefully on 15 August 2007. God bless him.

My Daily Journal from 2001

2009-05-12T16:23:00.012+10:00

So I goggled the word BLOG, and it simply means, "read, write, or edit a shared on-line journal"... I used to keep a daily journal since 2001 when hubby gave me one for Christmas. The front of the journal says "Day Dreams", and the back was "Night Dreams".
I hid it under my car's seat, and in the afternoons when I wait in the school car park for my son, I then reached out to it and write. It's been awhile since then, the pages are full but it's still right there under the car seat. I went through the pages the other day and I felt happy and sad reading through it all. I must say they were all written from the heart!
First page entry says...the sun shines brightest after the rain, today is a new day!

~Marie xxoo