Microwave dinner

A month ago, I posted about some new packets of grains that I found at Aldi. The first one I tried was lentils, spelt, and quinoa. It was ok, but the strange aroma coming from the packet when I opened it was not very nice. A bit off putting if I tell the truth, I wont be getting it again. 

I have just opened this one and it is lovely. No smell and very tasty. Couldn't be bothered to cook tonight, because I had a big lunch, so I warmed some of these green lentils in the microwave, one minute, and added some cheddar cheese with garlic. And that's it, nothing else. They are very nice, I shall be getting them again. 

Sewing today. Finally made a start on the church window. Toodle pip.  ilona

Let's make some brooches

Hello peeps. I've been making Suffolk Puff brooches to sell at the Christmas Fair. Easy to do if you want to give it a go.  

Looking in my bit box for small items to put on the front.

 Colourful cotton fabric works best, trying some satins and silks.

I've run out of clasps, need to buy some more, 18p each.

Keeps me busy, weather not too good again.

I've been pondering about my next art project, had a bit of a creative blockage, today it suddenly hit me what I have to do. It's the wire church window which I was going to use for the lollipop trees, but didn't. I was thinking about the view I might see if I was looking out through a church window, countryside, trees, garden, flowers. I had three pieces of fabric which might be suitable, now I have chosen the one I am going to use. I can see what I want to achieve. Best make a start.
Toodle pip.  ilona

Lucky

I don't very often make plans, I am a spur of the moment kind of person. If I do something with other people then I only plan a week or so ahead, but if I do something on my own and an idea pops into my head, I do it. Like yesterday, it was a nice day, I had been busy in the house, had lunch, then put my boots on and went out. Got to get the fresh air while I can. A five mile walk takes two hours. If I didn't go I wouldn't see our beautiful countryside. 

Almost back now and the sun is going down behind the clouds. It looks very dramatic. 

We are very lucky to live here. Toodle pip.  ilona 

I didn't forget.

Remembering all those who have fallen.

ilona xxx

Another little weaving finished.

The little weaving is done. It went from this, small home made loom. . . . . 

 . . . . to this . . . .

 . . . . . and finished up like this. It is 11cm from side to side, 20 cm from top to bottom.

Loose French knots, wool wrapped round needle 5 or 6 times, more like messy bullion knots.

Red crayon to hang it with.

Small tighter French knots.

Tidy up the back by covering it with a piece of felt.

I previously made this one, it was a practice piece. Although ok, I thought it could be better, so I made some changes. Made on the same loom, it is a bit smaller.

I used string for the warps, now think it works better using wool. I quite like the fluffed up fringes. It also has a felt back on it.

It's quite enjoyable making these, it doesn't take long, three days at most. Now need to get on with other stuff. The sun is shining, I will go out after lunch. In the meantime I need to get a few things ready for Crafty Club tomorrow. Someone wants to make a Suffolk Puff brooch so I will take enough materials in case anyone else wants to join in. Now to look through my stash for suitable fabric. 

Toodle pip.  ilona