Saturday 26 November 2011

Let's hear it for the Politicians

Well, I'm pleased the Election is over. It was only slightly more entertaining than the World Cup (rugby, that is)...
There must be quite a few campaign leaders and politicians licking their wounds this morning, or fighting exhaustion as they start the new term.

I can't help feeling a bit sorry for Phil Goff; he got the message across and ran a brave campaign. Actually I feel for all of them, winners and losers - what a thankless task! Public office hasn't got any easier with social media, voter apathy, the 'sound-bite' requirements to contend with. I'm glad I don't have to see any more squirming performances on televised debates, billboards, or the old-school guys in suits standing on street corners shouting at a few supporters. They work pretty hard at election time and I admire them for having the balls to put themselves out there for public scrutiny, criticism and snipes.

Now it is over I look forward to seeing what National can achieve in the next three years.

Thursday 24 November 2011

Quilt-Essentials


We went to the Recycling Centre and dived headfirst into the fabrics and linen bin. Found lots of clean, newish sheets, pillow cases and beautiful old tablecloths in good cotton fabrics. I tried to choose retro looking patterns and plain colours and eventually decided on a bag full for only ten dollars.

That was about two months ago; since then I have been crazy-busy washing, ironing, cutting, designing, piecing and quilting them into covers. I haven't used patterns; just ideas that seemed to suit each one. They are all so different, and they each have their own personality. So I have given them names - Aroha, Cosmo, Bella and so on.

The great news is that two local shops want to stock them. Five of my 'babies' have gone to Black Cat Vintage, in Annesbrook Drive, and three have found a nice shelf at Madcat in Founders. (What is it about cats and retro-vintage shop names?) I hope people buy them, because then I can make more...

It's what quilting was supposed to be about - reinventing, or up-cycling fabrics into something new and beautiful. Its fun to be creating again - especially with the lovely view out over my trusty old sewing machine of the mountains and the sea.

Lizzie

Freak Accident Averted


So, its very hot and windy today. I went outside to check what had blown over in the garden - not much as Mario had staked the tomatoes and fruit trees. It was so nice and warm I decided to stretch out on the back lawn and look at the clouds moving across the sky. Dozed off, as you do. My eyes were tired from frenetic quilt making. I woke up eventually and sat up just in time to see the garden seat (yes, its a substantial piece of outdoor furniture, a two-seater) hurtle from the top terrace and land inches away from where I had been sleeping. It must have been caught by a very strong gust. I always knew it was dangerous to spend too much time in the garden!
Lizzie