My brand new obsession with River Cottage...

For the last week or so, I’ve been sewing into the night; but for a change, I’ve been having a wander online, instead of resorting to the rubbish that we generally watch on the tele. Most nights see me settling in with a big pile of hand sewing, a steaming mug of tea and some kind of sweet treat, and exploring ABC’s iview - and Oh my goodness me! – I’ve discovered the gorgeous, wholesome, homemade world of River Cottage.

Have you watched it before? If not, go for a look here – it was this breakfast episode that had me sewing too slowly for my own good, and salivating at how seriously good and nourishing something as simple as oats can be (and sure, I’ll admit it: I marched off to the shops the next day, stocked up, and I’ll be giving that muesli with orange juice and fresh sliced apple a go this week).

Are you a fan of River Cottage too?

Nat

Right now...

It’s been a busy, flying-out-the-door, need-more-hours-in-the-day start to the week, as it usually is during the lead up to a new market. But I’m putting down my needle and thread this afternoon and stopping for a wee while, to appreciate what it is to be still - to stop, close my eyes, breathe, and relax.

I’m listening to some rainbow lorikeets fussing about in the banksias’ in our back garden, and can just see a baby bearded dragon sitting as still as stone in the fading sunlight. I baked the most moreish oat, honey and sultana slice late last night, and it’s sitting on a saucer before me, along side a fresh cup of coffee; and I’ve just picked up a book I ordered from the library – ‘Home made Vintage’ by the very clever gals at Cabbages and Roses. Perfect afternoon tea reading.

What are you doing right now?

Nat

What are you thankful for today?

We have so much to be grateful for.

I’ve been following the lovely Maxabella for a little while now, and I love her Grateful Saturdays – it always makes me reflect on all the wonderful things in my own life, and helps me to see how I can be a greater blessing in the lives of others.

And because it’s always nicer to focus on the best and brightest bits of our lives, I thought we’d start playing along too.

So today, I’m grateful for:

1. Yellow Roses. They were my darling grandmothers’ favourite flower, and I can’t help but think and remember her whenever I see them. She was truly one of the most beautiful, kind-hearted, gentle-spirited people I’ve ever known, and seeing fresh cut yellow roses in my home reminds me of her, and the things she held dearest – faith, family and love.

2. Lists. I’m a compulsive list maker. I love the orderly-ness of a long list, and the feeling of accomplishment when lots of small things are consistently crossed off. Because I often agree to do too many things and love to procrastinate, lists help me stay organised, focused and on-task. And, if I manage to get through a whole list in one day, there’s always a delicious reward!

3.  A quiet cup of tea. With two very active, loud toddlers constantly on the go, I love the stillness of nap-time, a dainty cup of strong loose-leaf tea, and an opportunity to collect my thoughts.

What are you grateful for today?

Ps. Want to join in too? Grateful is being hosted today by the wonderful MultipleMum at And then there were four (Or you can leave your grateful list below in the comments section).



Nat

Cool, calm and collected in the kitchen

Every time I look at these cards, it makes me feel like baking.
In my imagination, my fake self is baking ridiculously beautiful cakes and tarts, wearing a sweet frilled apron and high heels, and has perfectly coiffed hair. The kitchen is gleaming, the children are clean and sweet as sugar, I'm multi-tasking like a professional, and even manage to sit down (daintily) for a cup of real tea in a china tea cup.
You can see it too, right?

Available in our Etsy shop now!

Nat