Em's Shabby Shack's

Highgate.

2011-02-04T14:00:00.036Z

Yesterday I went to London with my Daughter.

Hannah studies photography and we thought it would be nice to have a day out together fully armed with our cameras.
We ended up in Highgate Cemetery, Yes it was a weird place to go, but I actually find graveyards quite interesting.
We wanted to go into the Catacombs but unfortunately they were closed.

I can't go anywhere without finding a cat.

It was very overgrown in some places.
I don't think I would like to be there in the dark.

Jeremy Beadles grave stood out, bless him.

This caught my eye.
Robert Valentine Mitchell.
Born on the 14th of Feb 1887
Died on the 13th of Feb 1947

We left the Cemetery and walked through the Park in to Highgate Village.

Where I sat down on one of these benches resting my poor feet,
While Hannah took some more photo's.
As I sat waiting I thought about how much I have in my life to be grateful for.
I thought about all the people I have around me that make me happy.
All the things that make me smile.
Gosh how deep...!
This sign made me smile.

After all that walking and thinking I needed a rest, oh ok a cuppa and a cake !
So we head off to find a teashop.
We ended up in here.

Of course we couldn't go to London without nipping in to the centre for a little shopping.
That's when I spotted this display outside Selfridges.
I loved it...!
Yes it made me smile.

If you want to join me by taking a picture and popping it on your blog.
Something or someone who has made you smile or happy, that would be fab.
I would love to see it.
Hope you have a wonderful weekend.
Em xxx

You might be interested to know that there is a book giveaway on Madeliefs lovely blog.

The Power of Flowers

2011-01-27T09:30:00.023Z

Is it me or do you wish it was Spring right now!

Whilst looking outside into my garden this morning, I thought about how dull and grey everything seems to look this time of year.
That made me start thinking about how much nicer my garden looks in the summer.
Which then....made me think how I should go out today and buy lots of fresh flowers to brighten up my house.

Flowers are amazing, we use them in so many ways.
How sad it would be without them?
The don't just look nice, or smell nice.
They even have the power to heal us.
Wow !
Flowers are a real tonic aren't they?
Pure colour therapy, they say so much.
With Valentines coming up, it's all about Love at the moment, using red to say it.

But I seemed to prefer subtler colours, pinks, white and pale blues.
I wondered what your favourite flowers is?

I love these candles.
Tulips are such a great and inexpensive way of adding some much needed colour to your home at this time off year.

Peonies have to be one of my all time favourites.

Now I am sitting here thinking about how when I look around I have so many things with flowers on them, fabrics, wallpapers, bags, pictures, and even the mug I am drinking from has flowers on it.

Right best go get some then!
Oops before I do go...
If you fancy taking part in a "Love" swap Beki is organising one.
Hope you all have a great day.
Em x

Together at last.

2010-12-31T10:35:00.005Z

Look what Santa brought me..!
Winnie my new bike.
She is a little cracker.
Thank you Stu x

We had a rather surprisingly good Christmas this year.
I decided to just go with the flow, not to get too stressed about it all, and wow it worked.
We had one of the nicest, relaxing and happiest Christmases we've had in years.

I hope you had fun and Santa was good to you too?

Today we say goodbye to the year 2010...
A year that has been a little up and down for me.

So I shall bid you all "A Very Happy New Year"
I am looking forward to sharing next year with you all too.
Love Em xxx

Just dropping by to say..!

2010-12-16T23:58:00.004Z

I hope you all have a very
Happy Christmas and Fabulous New Year.....
Love Em x

Worth the trip for a good old Chat "Chatsworth"

2010-10-01T08:49:00.006+01:00

I had a really good day yesterday visiting Chatsworth House
with Claire.
As I approached I was greeted with this stunning view...!
Oh and these chaps, excuse me Mr Bull.

We walked around the house, but I kept looking outside.
longing to look at the gardens.

With all the sculptures, it was quite something.

My favorite sculpture.
A giant head full of butterflies.

Mmm cake and wine.
Yummy.

And of course we checked out the shops.
They have some wonderful shops.
These were in the old stable block.

So there you go, our day out at Chatsworth.
Have a nice weekend what ever you do.
I am off to get another chicken, I have gone chicken mad....Em xxx

A Morning in Oundle.

2010-09-29T15:24:00.012+01:00

When I buy Magazine's I tend to flick through the pages first, just admiring the eye candy, then later I might go back, pick it up again and read through some of the articles.
That's how I came across Foxtail Lilly a wonderful local Florist owned by Tracey Mathieson.
You may have read the same article, it was in Country Living.
Seeing that she also sold hand made gifts and vintage treasures I thought I need to go there and have a peek. So glad I did..!

When we got there we were greet by a pretty garden still full of colour and Tracey's home.
I love the colour of her front door, and sorry Tracey if you ever read this, but I had a little sneaky look while talking to your amazing father through the window, sorry I just couldn't help myself, I am in love your cottage.

Some snaps of the shop.

Tracey also opens her garden several times a year to the public.

Somewhere definitely worth a visit if your anywhere near Oundle.
Tomorrow I am off to visit Chatsworth with my lovely Blogger friend Claire for the day.
I am really looking forward to it, so lets hope the sunshine's for us....Em xxx

All in a flutter...

2010-09-24T10:56:00.014+01:00

Since popping by Sophie's Blog I just can't stop thinking about this..!

I want REALLY really want this wallpaper.
But there is one slight problem, it is £120 per roll from Catkins.
Mmm, and I would need two.
Did you hear that really big sigh?
Hey, maybe I will win the lottery.
Yes I know the chances of that are extremely slim to say the least.

I seem to have a bit of a thing for birds and bird houses.
I am really loving this bed.
How fab would it be to wake up in one of these?
Of course with some of that gorgeous £120 wallpaper adorning the wall behind.

Or maybe I could pop up a little birdhouse light on a wall.
How cute is that?

I did a Google search on birdhouses and found some fabric ones that caught me eye.
How twee are these?

They are by Tamar Mogendorff .

The detail on the ones below is so sweet, I adore the little twig.
They are from RobinsEggBlue.

I rather liked this wallpaper , Ooooo and it's a lot cheaper, haha...!

Oh well off to dream a little more.
Have a fun weekend whatever you do.
Love Em xxx

Willow & Dottie

2010-09-22T13:27:00.017+01:00

Oh my we have Chickens...!
After pondering on whether or not to get some for ages, we finally have two.
I was intending on going somewhere to buy a couple of posh birds, lol.
But after I popped over to Hennypenny's Blog Sunniest Side up
I decided that the right thing to do was to adopted some ex battery hens, which of course Henny was until Elaine rescued her from an impeding fate.
Again, that was what I had intended to do, until last Friday evening when a friend rang asking me if I was still thinking of getting some chickens?
Someone she knew had some that needed homes or would be destine for the cooking pot ........! Eek poor Hens.
So that is how we ended up with these two ladies.

Meet a very scruffy Dottie and a not so scruffy Willow.

Milo has been enjoying stalking them around the garden.

He is actually a little scared of them.
I reckon the chickens will soon be in charge of all four cats, oh and me.

Remember I told you my hubby made me a funny little day bed from an old bed?
Well here it is, minus it's nice cushion, nice cushions and Chicken poo just don't go..!

What makes me laugh about the Chickens most is how they go off to bed every night bang on quarter to seven.
Here is their little coop, lovingly sourced from a very good friend ( you know who you are)
Thank you x
I painted it in duck egg blue and popped some spotty oil cloth on the nesting box roof, Dottie approved, Chickens do have standards, don't you know?

On another note I received a lovely little parcel this morning from Justin of SewJustinSew as part of the Pay it Forward.

Thank you so much Justin, I loved the pin cushion it's really sweet, and the fabric is fab.
I shall make something with it and show you at a later date.

I have yet to send my gifts, but I promise they will be on their way soon.
The sun is shinning here and I have to go out in the garden to check up on Willow and Dottie, well that's my excuse, best grab a cuppa and a cake while I am on Hen Patrol.
Hope your all having a lovely day and enjoying this fab weather.

Bye for now.
Em, Willow & Dottie of course !

Well hello there…It’s been a while..!

2010-09-10T15:40:00.004+01:00

Hope you all had a good Summer break. I did, but it’s back to work now, well ok maybe I can’t technically call it work, but doing what I normally do when the children are at school and College.

Thought I would show you this, it’s a little favour I did for a friend who is due to have a baby and needed a little set of draws for her nursery

What do you think of my pretend Joules Wellies?

I call them my “Glampers” hehe.

During the school holidays we went off for a couple of nights camping. Along with my friend Charlotte, her other half Paul, and Claire from “are we nearly there yet” along with her dog Basil and her two little chaps Jacob & Finley.

My Hannah having won a pair of VIP ticket to The Reading festival the day before, decided to nick my nice flowery wellies to go in. Leaving me having to rush into town last minute to find another pair to go camping in ( well it was bound to raining wasn't it?) “Yes it did rain..!”

So I ended up with the above mentioned.

I added the bows and buttons for a bit of a laugh on the way to the campsite.

I “Glamped” Charlottes rather boring looking green wellies too. Ok, so we did get some funny looks whilst buying camping supplies in the supermarket, but who cares?

Before I go, I am going to let you into a little secret, I am in Love, truly, madly and ooh very deeply in Love.

Would you like to meet the man of my dreams?

Of course you would.

We are not together just yet, but I am hoping he will be moving in very shortly, watch this space….!

Have a great day.

Love Em xxx

Courgette Cake Recipe

2010-08-04T12:43:00.007+01:00

For those of you who asked, here it is!

For the Courgette Cake
6 oz Courgettes grated
2 large eggs
5 oz soft brown sugar
8 oz self raising flour
1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1/2 tsp baking powder

I basically popped all of the above in to my mixer and then cooked the cake for 20 minutes on 180 or gas mark 4.

For the topping
7 oz cream cheese
1/2 lime juiced
4 oz caster sugar
Use some of the zest of the lime to decorate.

I also popped this in to the mixer, I actually used a whole lime when I made it, but it came out very runny, so it was more like a sauce. Hey you choose what you want to do.
You could always do a thicker icing for the top and have a bit left over to make runny by adding more lime jucie, which you could then drizzle over the cake when serving it.
Listen to me, I will be calling myself Nigella next.

I am going to make the Lavender Heart Cookies next.
Hope you enjoy the cake?.. Em x

Oooohing and Arrrhing...x

2010-07-30T17:01:00.028+01:00

The reason for all this Ooohing and Arrrhing is..
This little Chap.

Some of you might remember that one of our cat's called Ginger died a few months back, and yes I did say I would never have another cat again!
But when Hannah asked me if she paid for a Ginger Kitten from a rescue home, could she have one? I said....Yes !
Of course being a soft Mummy and a big cat lover I didn't need too much convincing.
So here he is, Milo.
When he first came home to live with us we were all Ooohing and Arrhing at him, saying "oh Milo you're so cute". Now it's "Oh Milo you Little Monster!"
He is mad! He chases all the other cats round, that are nearly ten times bigger than him, picking play fights, he's fallen in the pond, he's running up and down all my curtains, scratching the chairs and eating the carpet? He has even climbed up my hubby's leg when the poor chap was wearing his short, Ouch !!!!
But saying all that we really love him. To tell the truth he suits our, some what, crazy family.

He loves the Garden and hides in the veggie patch waiting for Salem, the big cat, to walk by, then pounces on him.

Can you see in the background my Courgette plants? They are one of the best veggies I have had grow this year, as I don't think the garden's enjoyed this on and off weather very much.
Lots of my plants have struggled. Having had loads of Courgette's, I was beginning to wonder what to do with them, then I came across a recipe for Courgette Cupcakes that was in a book, which Vanessa from Coco Rose sent me called Eat Me.
I thought if it's Yucky then at least I have tried something different.

I made a large cake instead of cupcakes, Surprisingly it's really good, a little unusual maybe, but I am definitely making it again.

Talking of cakes, there was a lot of cake eating at the coffee morning I went too last Friday.
Here is a snap of us all.

Jenny from Winningbriggs organised it, and gave everyone a little gift each, a really sweet little tape measure which she had covered, each one was different and had a little flower and a button on it.
I love mine Jenny thank you x
That's me in the blue cardi (I hate having my photo taken), Jenny is sat next to me, there's Karen & Gill, and the other lady was Anjalee and her daughter. Anjalee has just started a blog called Yarn Lover, go and have a peek.
It was really nice meeting up with everyone.

Gill from Dosie Rosie & Karen from Tilly Rose.

I am leaving you with a photo I took from the Country Living Mag.
It was a piece they did about outdoor escapes and my favourite was this one.

The hideaway would be absolutely perfect in my garden, as all my fences are painted that colour.
I spend endless hours in my garden, so I would just love something like that to sit in, hey I could have a wood burning stove too, bliss.
Definitely something to look in to for next year.
Right I am off now, I am in the middle of painting a bed that my Hubby has made in to a Bench/Daybed. I shall show you once it's all finished.
Hope all is good with everyone, have a lovely weekend...Em xxx

Lovely Bloggers

2010-07-15T15:35:00.008+01:00

Well who would have thought by writing a blog I would have ended up with a small on-line community of friends?
But that is was is happening.
Last week I even went on a blind date haha..with Claire from are we nearly there yet.
We have become quite friendly since doing the Good Enough to Eat swap, and after spending many an hour chatting on the phone we decided to meet up.
We choose the small town of Bakewell in Derbyshire as the location and believe it or not we both forget to take our cameras....! What are we like?
I had a great day with Claire wandering round the little shops and we enjoyed a good old natter over a few cuppa's

This is a lovely little court yard full of nice shops that we wandered down, one of the shops sold quirky felt hats, which of course Claire and I had fun with being rather silly by trying them on, and if you pop over to her blog you'll find a terrible picture of us both in them that I actually took on my phone, where I am pulling the most bazaar face!
But hey when you are laughing and enjoying yourself who cares? Life is too short!

Now another lovely lady whose blog I really enjoy is Jenny from Winningbriggs.
Jenny has decided to organise a bloggers coffee morning in my home town of Peterborough.
It is planned for July the 23rd at 11 am, everyone is meeting up in Harriet's Tearoom in Cumbergate.
I am really looking forward to this, so if any of you fancy coming along?
Well that would be great!

Lastly on my post about you wonderful bloggers...
Is Amanda from Amanda makes an extremely talented and very thoughtful lady.
I was very lucky the other day to receive a gift from her, I had commented on a bag she had made using a jumper which I thought was really clever and looked fab, and bless her she has sent it to me! How nice is that?

Hope you are all having a good week?
Well I shall look forward to meeting up with some of you at the coffee morning..
Em xxx

Pay it Forward

2010-06-21T13:56:00.008+01:00

I am taking part in the Pay it Forward kindness chain.

I was lucky enough to be one of the 3 people

that Justine from "Sew Justine Sew" has promised to send a handmade gift to.

If you would like to join in with the Pay it forward and receive a gift from me, just pop a comment on this post saying you want to take part.

Remember it is a kindness chain, you will also have to write a post and offer to send 3 people a gift.

I believe it should be handmade, but I may have to cheat a little on that part.

When I know who the 3 people I am sending to, I will let you know.

I hope to send your gifts by the end of August.

Just Before I go...

Thanks to everyone for all your lovely kind and some really amusing comments and e-mails on the loss of my "Va Va Voom.

I think it might be on it's way back now..!

With the help of my wonderful Hubby and a humongous list, which is slowly getting done, I am actually feeling a whole lot more positive. I have even got a nice things I would like to do list now. Cheers Jenny from "Winningbriggs" for inspiring that idea to come about.

So thanks lovely ladies your all Stars....xxx

Missing...Va Va Voom..! If found please return to owner.

2010-06-15T16:41:00.007+01:00

Oh my I seem to have lost my Va Va Voom...!

I am a little bit fed up, a little bit bored actually.

I have been waking up lately and thinking how I really can't be bothered to cook, clean, wash and iron clothes, or do any general housework.

In fact, I am finding it all plain dull and in deed rather mundane...!

I can't even be bother to Paint.

Although saying that I did finish this today for my eBay.

Do you ever have days or even weeks like this? and if so, how do you get your Voom back?

If only I was rich.

I would have a live in housekeeper, I could forget all this dull cleaning malarkey, just go have some fun...!

Jet off to Paris in the private jet for a spot of lunch, a little shopping.

Go cruising round the Caribbean on my private Yacht, sip delicious cocktail whilst sunning my super slim, extremely sexy body on the top deck....... "Yoooohoooooo Wakey Wakey Em" Your dreaming again.

Gosh look at the time, best go!

Off to clean the loo's, iron the uniforms, cook the tea. feed the cats ..........................................hehe.

Hope you all have lots of "Va Va Voom" this week..!

Maybe I could pinch a bit from you?

Em xxx

Boy did it rain..!

2010-06-07T08:38:00.023+01:00

I was having a look through the photo's of my little trip to London and thought I would show you what else I did.

Yes that is me, and I do apologise about the horrible grey Jumper, Long story...!

The Chelsea Pensioner was Bill Wright, look at me chatting up the fellas.
After we had seen enough of the show we decided to walk back to our Hotel as it wasn't far and it was a lovely evening.

Some of the shops around Sloane Square had dressed their windows for Chelsea.

This one caught my eye. Mmmm I wonder why?

Nice Pumps

With such Gorgeous houses to nosey at on our way back it was really quite pleasant.

These put my front door to shame.

After having a lovely sleep.

The next day off we went, off out into the rain and boy did it rain.

Max's and I have a thing for sign's.

I spy lots of Brolly's.

Had a wander round the Allsaints shop.

Look at all those Sewing machines.
They were everywhere, all the clothes stands were old pieces of sewing equipment.

Time I think for a nice Cuppa.

Yummy the Hummingbird Bakery.

Not a great piccie.

But the cakes were extremely scrummy.

We checked out the local Ck, sorry didn't buy anything, just got a wallpaper sample, the cowboy one. Thought of putting it on a wall in Max's little games room.

Well he took one look at it, and I was told No...!

In no uncertain terms was I going to put that on the wall. Oh well can't win them all.

That is the problem when they grow up, they start to have their own opinion's.

Well we were worn out now and rather wet, so we popped back to the Hotel, had a quick drink and collected our bags.

Thought my primark's best looked rather nice on the pink chair, so took a snap, I think my sister was concerned at this point when I said I was taking the picture to show my blogger pals, she is not a blogger..!

Right best go now, have to do the daily chores.

I have to use the trades men's entrance don't you know....x

Chelsea 2010

2010-06-02T22:25:00.049+01:00

My Favourite bits from my day at Chelsea

Arrrh he is as nice in the flesh as he is on the box.
His whole aura is fab, what a lovely smile.
I had a little chat with him, bless him, he must have thought oh no another crazy women chatting me up, hehe!

Laughing as I type this , I said I thought he deserved a Gold.
Well he did, didn't he ?
His garden was beautiful and unique. He did a little bow and then smiled at me.

Oh look it's God himself and hey it's Boyce from only Fools and Horses having a little chat.

I really liked these.

The Eden Projects garden, now let me think why do I like this hmmmm, oh yes it has a burning contraption..lol.

The Eden project brought a painted dresser from me recently for a display they are doing, not sure what for, but I was quite pleased about that, being a little Eco friendly myself.

Loved this as much when I saw it for real as I did on the box.

If I was a rich man lalalala, I would have this transported to my garden, yes and the union jack cushion would have to come too.

Thought this was very tranquil.

The Provence garden, I was a little disappointed with this garden, it did look beautiful and as if it had been there for years, but I felt it lacked something.

My Favourite flower this year was this Iris, I don't know what it is, need to look it up, it was actually in a court yard garden selling very posh conservatory's. The colour was just gorgeous, it was almost like velvet... I do love velvet.

This was my favourite garden, the colours were simply stunning, on the box it didn't look much, but boy it packed a punch in real life.

The blues and purples really worked love love love..

Well there you go my day at Chelsea, I could go on and on, I have a ton of snaps, but I am sure you have had enough.

Part two is going to be the next day, haha..

Hope the weekend is going well for you all?

Its hot and sunny here..xxx

A day amongst the Flowers..

2010-05-26T16:06:00.012+01:00

Mr Titchmarsh the God of Gardening, what a little Petal.

On Friday I am off to The Big City, Yes London.

To the Chelsea flower show. "Well I do live a rather sheltered life"

My Lovely Sister got us some tickets, which is actually my birthday prezzie.

I was the big 40 last month. Gosh did you hear that?...Sigh

I have been to Chelsea before, I love garden shows.

Last year I went to The Malvern Show, which was very good, and watched Chelsea on the box at home, but by the end of the week I wished I had gone, and there was one particular garden that kept catching my eye.

I loved everything about it, especially the symmetry, I like things to be in order.

I also liked the willow edging, it looked really neat. I used to prefer the modern, contemporary gardens with white walls and grasses, now I seem to go for the softer, pretty cottage garden's that have a more homely feel to them. Hey must be my age, I will be getting hot flushes next!

This year so far I really like the look of L'Occitane Garden.

It is based on an idea of a garden somewhere in Provence.

Definitely going to have a good nosey at that one.

The next one is the The Children's Society Garden.

It has a fab plunge pool, which I wouldn't say no to having in my garden.

Have you spotted the Union Jack Cushion yet?

Arrrh ...This is Andy Sturgeon's Garden, which he did for the Telegraph.

He got a gold for it and Best in show.

But the really sad things is I just read about him, and it said that his wife, who was only 37 died last year in her sleep, leaving three little people behind, how Sad is that?

The M&G garden, another one I will seek out.

Hopefully the sun will do it's best to shine on Friday, or a more likely story it will pour down.

So tell me, where has that lovely weather gone?

OK, my only dilemma now is what to wear!

Today I went shopping, as I fancied wearing a dress, I can forget last years clothes as my body has grown, quite a lot actually, and nothing seems to want to fit me.

Obviously this is a very good excuse for a shopping trip, but it does not fill me with feelings of great joy, rather the opposite, actually more feelings of dread, pure dread!

I hate trying clothes on at the best of times, but today I nearly had a fit, my God where has that fat women come from?

Hello this is my cubicle! Oh my it's not a big fat women taking over the whole mirror, it is in fact ME...!

I think that they must have installed magnified mirrors in all the shops, for my body seems to have doubled.

So needless least to say I am going on a diet, well OK, when I return from my weekend in London.

Yes, I will be on a mission, and the juicer will be back in action, it won't know what has hit it.

Woah..Sorry about that rant, where did that came from???

Right off to make the din dins, best make mine a tinsey wincey portion then.

I am Laughing here now, Hannah has just come in, home from a shopping trip and is showing me her purchases, "Oh that's a nice top Hannah " "No mum it's a dress...!"

Good Enough to Eat Swap.

2010-05-21T11:05:00.011+01:00

Hello Ladies, Gosh I am back..!
It feels like I have been gone such a long time.
Anyway not to worry, why worry? when you have received theses tasty treats..!

My lovely swap partner was Vanessa from Coco Rose Textiles and she sent me the most gorgeous parcel, when I was opening it, It felt like it was my birthday.

I loved it all, although I have to tell you, there are some things missing from the pictures, like the lovely smellies from Lush and the cute Muffin shape flannel, I am sorry to say, but these were nicked by Hannah before I managed to take some snaps.

Look isn't that sweet?
Vanessa very cleverly made the strawberry along with the doughnut and the delicious slice of chocolate cake, when my Hubby saw the cake slice, he said that it was making him really hungry and want to eat some cake, bless him, so I made him a cake.

Now "The Piece Dela Resistance" has to be the Chocolate and Raspberry Torte Vanessa made for me, which in my opinion is oh so Beautiful and truly rather Scrumptious.

Mmm..Isn't it cute?
I love it..It is definitely Good Enough to Eat..!
Thank you so much Vanessa you have been a fab swap partner and I loved everything you sent me..x

Now I am back on line properly I am off to have a look at what everyone else received.
I have thoroughly enjoyed doing the swap and it has been so nice to meet some new people because of it. I have even became very friendly with Claire, who is a little star x
It is absolutely beautiful outside and I cant wait to get out there and potter around in the garden, so as Alan Titchmarsh says, "Enjoy your garden this weekend, whatever the weather"..lol xxx

Naughty old Bt ....

2010-05-06T14:31:00.003+01:00

Hello Ladies,
I have fallen out with Bt and ended up telling them to push off, so I now have no Internet until the 17th of May when we go with Virgin.
Because of this I am having to use my blackberry, which is not the best way to blog, so please forgive me for not leaving comments on the swaps you are all sending and receiving.
When I am back up and running I will have a good old look.
I can still receive comments, so please if you want to tell me about receiving your swap I would love to hear from you.
Have a lovely day Em x

I wanted to keep it.

2010-04-26T14:16:00.007+01:00

Look what I found in Sid's mouth!
Poor thing.

I have three cat's, one is called Salem, he is an nice old boy and is the boss, then there is Freya and Sidney, both are from ferrel backgrounds and are little terrors, they regularly bring me gifts, like frogs, worms, birds and now a baby bunny.
I actually think Sid has fallen out with me for rescuing it.
Luckily for the bunny it got a way with just slobber marks, and has now gone back to the little wood where it belongs, although it was rather sweet and I did want to keep it..x

Sarah Raven's new catalogue

2010-04-22T15:08:00.012+01:00

Sarah Ravens catalogue dropped on my door mat this morning.

She is definitely a girl after my own heart, Ok granted with lots more money then me.

I love the scene above, I want one of those little hut's, I love the colour.

Look here is Sarah modeling her new cooker, haha love it, back to the good old ways.

Oh ok, well maybe she does have one of these babys tucked up nicely in her kitchen.

God I want that too...

Now I liked the look of this deck chair, then spotted the price, Wait for it ....£125.00 each, cor blimey missus!

So you know what I am on the look out for now? Yes a couple of old deck chairs and some nice fabric, with a lick of paint I reckon I could recreate that for a lot less.

Did you spot the funny metal thing next to the deckchair, well I was lucky enough to get one of those for my birthday last year.

It's called a kelly or Storm kettle, you pop bits of twigs and things in to the bottom, then fill up the container with water, then light it up and hey presto, not only do you create fire, but boiling hot water for a nice cuppa on the go, Fab!

Today was the first time I have used mine this year, I tend to live in the garden from now till , well when I start to freeze to death.

The table was made by my Dad, bless him he's a good old boy.

Right off to start a fire, dying for a brew...Em xx

Good Enough to Eat Swap

2010-04-19T08:53:00.008+01:00

Morning Ladies,

Just in case you've missed who your swapping with.

Please check out my last post to find out who your swap partner is.

Have a fab day...Em x

"Good Enough to Eat" Swap Partner's

2010-04-16T18:32:00.013+01:00

I am sorry I didn't manage to get every one's e-mail addresses, so please contact your partner on their blog's to say hello and to exchange addresses.

If anyone has been forgotten or you are having difficulties contacting your partner, please just let me know and I will do my best to sort it out.

Knowing me, I will have done something wrong.!

Maryannlucy & Sewjustinesew

Kissed by an Angel & Handmade in Gibraltar

Rubyred & Bekimarie

The Vintage Gardener & The Mad House

Cocorosetextiles & Ems Shabby Shack

The Felt Fairy & Sew Vanilla

Funky Fairy & Hookin with Laalaa

Chez Sophie & Vintage Girl

Love to Craft & Rice Babies

Florence and Mary & Rose&Bird

Country Heart and Home & Postcards from the P.P.

Kelly's recipes for life & Planet Penny

Blingablonga & Alexandra Mason

Mad about Bags & A Country Girl

What's Happening at my house & T Cakes

Victoria Plum & Sew Special Bears

Vintage Vicki & At home With Mel Mel

Nana-go-go & Mrs Yappy Dog

Ginger Cat & Hapi-ness

Are we nearly there yet? & Tilly Rose

Garden peas and Fleas & Vanilla Press

Please send your gifts by the 16th of May.

~This is what we would like you to included~

A handmade item that looks or smells good enough to eat.

An item that is Green~Fair trade.

A Delicious cake recipe.

A couple of items which you would consider look good enough to eat !

Happy Swapping Ladies, Enjoy.....Em & Claire xx

A little jolly to Cambridge..

2010-04-15T08:24:00.017+01:00

Yesterday I went to Cambridge shopping with some friends.
Now I don't normally take photo's when I go shopping, lol
But I wanted to show you something.
Here take a peek..

Have you ever fantasised about owning your own shop?
Well If so, then you may understand when I say, I have fallen in love.
Yes with a shop!
It has just recently opened and is called CallyCo, they also have another one in Stamford. Although it is a lot smaller it is still as charming, and the lady that works in the Stamford one, is so helpful and friendly. If your ever in the area you should definitely pop in.
I asked the girls in the Cambridge one if I could take some pictures to show you, and they were more than happy for me to do so, as long as they weren't in them, bless them, they were camera shy, actually I don't blame them.!
Here, just take a peek.

It sells lovely fabric, cushions and ribbons.

Patterns and buttons.

Bunting, hearts and well lots of other lovely goodies.
With the shop being painted all in white, it makes all the colours in the fabric's stands out.
It has such a lovely bright, light and friendly feel, prefect!

Oh how I wish I owned a shop just like this...

Well there you go my dream shop..Arhhh if only!

Tomorrow
I will do a post with every ones partners for the "Good Enough to Eat" swap.
Em xxx

Secret swap and Karen's wonderful book..

2010-04-07T13:15:00.009+01:00

Last month I started taking part in the Secret swap.

I received my parcel of goodies from notSupermum and as you do took some snaps to post about it. But unfortunately I deleted the format on my camera by mistake.

If you have ever done this you will know what I mean, if not, it is where you basically deleted everything and it goes back to factory settings.

A bit of a bummer really, I was rather cross to say the least.

Here is what I received, a lovely soup recipe, a little note book, a bar of choccie and some seeds. The recipe I have yet to try, but I will soon, the notebook as shown in a new photo above is being used to write done notes for the garden, and the choccie, well sorry but it was scrummy and is long gone, I started to use the seeds yesterday... So thank you very much it was a lovely well thought out gift.

Yesterday I spent all day in the garden as the weather was lovely and even managed to plant some potatoes. I have left it later than normal to start planting and growing seeds for my humble veggie patch this year, as it has just felt to cold and grey out. We ended the day with a chimney and made homemade pizzas. Today it seems Mr Sunshine has gone off on his hols and we are left with grey skies yet again. So I have decided to have a very lazy day by just pottering round and reading a book.

The book is called "A love that makes life drunk" by Karen Roderick aha yes aka The English Writer.

It is sort of a chick-litish based book, but with a really raunchy kick, if you read it you'll know what I mean. Oh to be as talent as Karen.

Got to go now to read the rest of the book, oh look I have some company...x

P.s don't forget it's not to late to join in with the "Good Enough to Eat" swap.

Anyone fancy a doing a Swap ?

2010-03-31T21:53:00.012+01:00

Claire and I have decided to organise a swap together.
Claire has come up with the wonderful idea to do it based around things that look or smell good enough to eat. Mmmm.

If you think this sounds like a scrummy idea and would like to take part then please post a comment, along with your e-mail address to myself or Claire's blog are wenearlythereyet? by the 16th of April.
Please state if you are not happy to send abroad.
You will need to send your gifts to your swap partner by the 14th of May.

~This is what we would like you to included~
A handmade item that looks or smell good enough to eat.
An item that is Green~Fair trade.
A Delicious cake recipe.
A couple of items which you would consider look good enough to eat !

There are so many things that look and smell so delicious, that they could actually be..

"Good Enough To Eat!"

Knitted cupcake pin cushions spring to mind, Humbug hair slides and cherry bath bombs!
Lotions and potions, fabrics and buttons.
Your all clever girls, you'll enjoy getting carried away no doubt!

Oh and don't forget to pop the Cupcake Logo with a link to either of us on your blog please......x

Have a wonderful day, the sun is out here... Em x

CAR BOOTY

2010-03-29T14:23:00.010+01:00

Yesterday the weather here was so nice I decided to get up early and go to a local car boot.

I am pleased I did, as I found some goodies.

I got this pretty jug and wash bowl for £4.

Not bad I thought as it has no chips and is in great condition.

I also bagged this little baby.

I recently went in to Habitat where they had some black floor lamps in this style, they were selling them for £160 without a shade.

So when I saw this I was quite chuffed, and after haggling the poor chap down to £8 I was even happier.

I thought I could paint it and pop a large shade on it to recreate the look of the Habitat one. Mmmmm now I am wondering whether I should leave the wood as it is.

Well lastly I got this.

Now I am not to sure what it is? Yes I know it's a desk, but it has a little tray that slides out, almost like somewhere for a computer mouse to go on, and at the other end there is a piece of wood that slides out.

Any ideas Ladies ? Max said "Is it an ironing table?" hehe, bless him....

Claire from are we nearly there yet? and I are thinking of organising a swap together, she has come up with a fab theme, we will be doing a post on it by the end of the week, Hopefully you will all want to join in.

Have a fab day, I am off now to do some painting, before Hubby comes home and see me on here again.

Em xx

Treasures and Trinkets Thursday

2010-03-25T13:38:00.011Z

I was asked by Melissa from My Cottage Charm

If I would like to take part in her Treasures and Trinkets Thursday.

Basically you have to take a picture of something you love or treasure and do a post on it.

My loved item for this Thursday

is going to be my old GPO Telephone.

I actually have a couple of these, I love old phones. I especially like the way they ring, it always reminds me of very happy times spent at my Grandparents house. There is something about this sound to me, like the noise of a kettle whistling on the hob, or the sound in the background of an old ticking clock when the house is still.

When I was little I remember we had a trim phone, that had a great ring too. Lately I have been looking for one of these, I know you can get them on eBay, but I would really like a two tone purple one just like we had years ago.

I find these kind of phones stylish and yet functional, my favourite one is the black one, my other one is cream and lives in my bedroom.

What is your favourite treasure?

Maybe you could do a link on Melissa's blog and share it with us.

Oh is that the phone ringing, must dash, haha....!

Hope the day has been good to you?

Em x

Flower swap goodies Etc....

2010-03-24T08:29:00.018Z

Morning, it's raining here.

But Lorraine's flower swap has certainly brighten up my day.

I received a lovely fat quarter of fabric with little flowers on it that looked like Forget-me-not's. I had a packet of Sweet peas seeds which I shall pot up very soon.

A lovely Lavender bag, a nice flowery cup in one of my favourite colour's duck egg blue.

Lastly but definitely not least, some of Lorraine's handmade jewellery.

Both the earring's and necklace have little flowers on them which look just like the flowers on the fabric. A well thought out gift that is very appreciated. Thank you Lorraine x

FairlyGirly

I really wanted to show you this.

It is a little peek of a fellow blogger's house I have fallen in love with...

Her style is so up my street.

Linda has loving restored her house in Holland in to a stunning, white, calm and beautifully stylish home.

No wonder her blog is called ilovemyhouse Oh so do I Linda x

Well best go now to do the daily chores whilst dreaming of clean white walls, floors and beautiful spaces, did anyone hear that BIG sigh....... Have a lovely day.

Em x

Seven ~ Proberbly not so very interesting things about me!

2010-03-19T17:52:00.012Z

Many Thanks Vanessa from Coco Rose Textiles for awarding me with a Beautiful Blogger Award.

It has been gratefully received x

Now I am meant to pass this award on to Seven other bloggers.

But actually I am going to pass it on to everyone who left me a kind and thoughtful comment about the loss of my dear cat Ginger.

Also part of accepting this award, I have to tell you 7 interesting facts about me.

OK, I have sat here for a while thinking of what to write, I have even pop into the kitchen to make a cuppa or two, as I am at a loss of what to say!

But here goes, forgive me if it bores you......

No.1 ~ When I left school I trained as a Hairdresser, but hated it! So after a while I left and went into retail which I really enjoyed. Then I got married to Stu and stayed at home for 11 years bringing up the children, until I was offered a job in the local Estate Agents.

I stayed there for 5 years loving every minute of it. Only leaving when I decided I wanted to work for myself.

No.2 ~ I seem to move quite a lot. I have lived in 7 different houses during the 17 years I have been married. I plan to choose more wisely next time we buy a house, as it will hopefully be the last time we move. Hmmmm that sounds familiar.

No.3 ~ My dream is to end up living in a house with a view.

Either a sea view or a woodland view, although maybe I could be greedy and have both.

I don't want direct neighbours, the local wildlife will do. It will need to be somewhere with a large garden, So I can wander round wearing my Pj's and wellies whilst I potter around in the day or the night.

I actually think I could became a Hermit quite easily given half the chance.

No.4~ Strange but true, I love burning things and making fires to cook on!

NO... I am not an arsonist, but wish I had a wood burning stove in my house.

At present I live in a modern three storey house with both the kitchen and living room on the middle floor, which makes it in possible for us to install one here. Maybe in my dream home I will get lucky.

I do however have a chimney outside, which I love to cook on, Ooh and Burn thing's in !!!!!

No.5~ My favourite place to go for a long weekend with friends and family is Featherdown Farm.

I simply love them.

OK it may also have something to do with the fact that they have wood burning stove in the tent's. We have been a few times and it's brilliant, even Hannah loves it there and she is 16.

Max spends most of his time making dens and climbing trees.

No.6 ~ I spent most of my childhood in Wales, spending every school Holiday in Tenby as my Grandparent's lived there. Now we take my children every summer.

No.7~ Whilst doing this post I have eaten nearly half a chocolate chip brioche tear n share and drunk two lattes. It has again slipped my attention that I said I was starting a diet today, but hey it just never seems to happens.....Mmmmm this brioche bread is scrummy.

Well there you go! If you are still awake and are reading this bit, bless you...

Have a lovely day.

Em xx

Thank you x

2010-03-11T20:03:00.003Z

I just wanted to say a huge Thank You to everyone who left a kind comment on my last post.

You are all such lovely people x

Goodbye my dear old Friend x

2010-03-10T21:46:00.010Z

Yesterday evening I took my cat Ginger to the vets, where he was sadly put to sleep.

Today I am feeling absolutely devastated to say the least. Even though we knew in our hearts it was time, as he was eighteen and suffering, it didnt make the heartbreaking decision any easier. Ginger was Hannah's best friend and she has taken it quite badly. I feel guilty because I made the final decision and feel responsible for him having to leave us.

This has made me decided not to have any more furry friends, as it is far to upsetting when you have to say goodbye.

I am going to plant a cherry tree in the garden for Ging, that way we can remember him whenever it blossoms. He was truly amazing full of life little character who will be sorely missed.

Sorry to post such sad news, My lovely other half is away for two weeks, and I really wish he was home to do the, "Oh come here you all need a cuddle"...x

Thank you for the award..

2010-03-09T21:37:00.007Z

Thank you so much to The Felt Fairy for giving me my first

ever award.

~The Sunshine Blog award~

The rules for accepting the award are -

Place the logo within your blog or post.

Pass the award on to 12 blogger's.

Link the nominees within the post.

Let the nominees know they have received the award by commenting on their blog.

Share the love and link to the person from whom you received the award.

~My nominees, in no particular order, are as follows~

1. Coco rose textiles

2. Kissed by an Angel

3. Roses and Peonies

4. Little Birds Fly

5. The Blueberry patch

6. Country in the town

7. Chez Sophie

8. The Hen House

9. A Bun Can Dance
10. Winnibriggs

11. Itch2stitch

12. Serendipitylovesnewyork

The winner of the Fab Bag !

2010-03-09T17:07:00.013Z

Firstly I would like to say a BIG thank you to everyone who came up with a suggestion for a new name for my little revamp business, you are all stars..

I have decided to stick with Ems Shabby Shack for my blog name as you all know me by that now.

As for my little Business & Ebay name, well I am still thinking about that one.

"Where is the Gate" was a real contender from Penny at The Hen House.

I know you meant "The Gate " but whilst my friend Charlotte and I were looking through the suggestions we thought that by adding "The where is it" it would be rather quirky...

If I did ever use it, I would of course honour my agreement Penny by sending you something...!

But hey Ladies, I did promised to give away the bag.

So I have decided to just get on with it!

"Today"

But no name in the hat Jobbie.

Oh no....The winner is going to be the first person to write a comment on this post.

So on your marks, get set, Goooooooo.....

The winner's of the Motherhood DVD's are...

2010-03-08T06:46:00.006Z

Morning Ladies.
The winners are...

D from ~A Bun Can Dance

Jolly from ~ Jollyjimjams

And Last but not least
Laura from~ Cloud Fishing.

Well done and thank you to Max for doing the honours.
If you e-mail me your addresses Alex will send the DVDs directly to you.

Have a great day!

Em x

I have 3 Uma Thurman "Motherhood" DVD's to Give Away !

2010-03-04T17:14:00.007Z

Would you like a copy of the new film Motherhood starring Uma Thurman?

I did! hehe, so I said I would do a give away for a lady called Alex who is promoting the release of this new film.

I had a peek at the preview...

The film is all about a woman who starts a blog whilst running around looking after her family, bit like us girls.

If you want to watch the film preview & sign up to win some more goodies go on the link below.

www.motherhoodmovie.com

They are also doing a promotion called Mother's Day Eve check that out !

Ok for the chance to win one of the 3 films I have to give away!
All you need to do is post a comment on my blog by Sunday 6th March.

It's name's in a hat jobbie, Max my son will do the honours on Monday morning. Once he has picked the three names I will ask for your addresses so Alex can send the winners the film's directly to them.

Good Luck...Em x

P.s Don't forget to comment on my last post to get a chance to win a Beautiful handmade bag by Hen at Henhouse.

Oh just a little bit excited & Great Give away !!

2010-03-02T13:51:00.023Z

Ooh I am quite excited!
Why ?
Well let me tell you..
Yesterday while out shopping I nipped into a shop that sells painted furniture and little nick knacks etc which is not far from where I live, whilst I was there the owner got chatting to me.

I kind of know the owner because he has brought one of my table and chair sets from eBay, which he then put in his shop charging a lot more than he gave me ha ha!
Anyway the funny thing was apparently he has been watching what I have been selling.

"Sorry Ladies my head is going to get a little big here" but he said he was very impressed with my revamps and was going to contact me, and would I like to supply him with furniture to sell in his shop!
I am so chuffed, would you like to see what is going to the shop first?
I had just finished revamping it.

As for the new name, thank you so much for all your ideas so far, you have all been fantastic. I love the way you are all so kind, helpful and encouraging about everything!

Although as yet I have not found a new name, I do agree with those of you who said about losing the shabby and the shack.
So to encourage you lovely ladies out there, and because I do need some help with this, I am going to tell you what I have decided to send as a gift to the person who comes up with the perfect new name.

Some of you probably follow the lovely Hen from Henhouse you may even have seen the beautiful bags she creates?

Well this is the prize!

So this does not just drag on and on, I will set a dead line for suggestions by the 28th of March.
You will need to post your name idea on my blog by then. You can suggest as many as you like, the more the merry.

If I don't pick your name or any ones for that matter, please don't be cross with me it has to be the right one, as I am sure you will agree..x

But what I will do if that does happen and you have made a suggestion is to put your name in a hat and the winner will receive the gorgeous Henhouse bag, or I could just keep it he he..
Have a great week.

Em x

A Before & After.. dare I show you ?

2010-02-25T11:17:00.009Z

I woke up one Sunday morning, which just so happened to be Valentines day and decided that I couldn't stand the horrible tiles in my bath any more!!!So after much deliberation I decided that it would be a great idea to paint them... aha shock horror I know!

I said I would never ever paint over tiles. I have even poo pooed that idea to others, I hang my head in the shame...Well it was either that or nothing as I was on a mission to create an all white bathroom right there and then! With a hubby who was feeling some what guilty at the rather pathetic attempts of a valentines gift, I thought it was the prefect opportunity to just go for it. ( Hubby is unfortunately not a lover of DIY and tends to run for the hills at the mere mention of it ) Guilt works it's magic again he he.
Anyway where was I..? Oh yes painting the tiles.
Please ladies of the jury see below for a picture of the offending article's in question.

Horrible tiles "Pre tile paint"

Hmmm do you see my point ?

The builders put them in, not my choice, why don't they just put white in to start with ? It makes more sense, well to me it does. So I painted the tiles, Hubby painted the walls woodwork and ceiling. A new flooring was put down and a blind was made.....

OK are you ready, are you sitting down?? ha ha...

So what's the verdict am I Guilty or not Guilty for crimes of "tile painting"

My next mission is my bedroom which I keep putting off.
Still haven't managed to get hold of those curtains I liked in Ikea.

Also before I go I would like to ask you Ladies for some help!!!

As you are aware I go by the blogger name of ems shabby shack, I also use this as my eBay name having recently registered as a business doing up furniture that I find.

Well yesterday I was talking to a friend who said shabby shack sounded wrong for what I was doing, She feels I needed a more suitable name, something nicer !

I have thought long and hard about this, but I can't think of what to called myself !

So I thought I would ask you all to suggest a name, as a thank you to who's name I choose to use, I will send you a gift as a way of saying thank you.

Please get your thinking hats on.

It will also be my blogger name & It needs to be something that explains that I revamp furniture giving it a new life.

I look forward to your reading ideas.

Have a lovely day Ladies xxx

Wow what a nice surprise!

2010-02-11T18:45:00.008Z

I won the TG Green Cornishware "for the boys mugs"
Vanessa from Coco rose Textiles had a give away and yes my name was pulled out of her fab cornishware jug.
I am so pleased, it was such a lovely surprise, It made my day!
I had actually felt a little sad, this may sound silly but I went to a new garden centre today, where they had some lovely concessions, Joules, Emma Bridgewater, good old Cath Kidston and but then I saw it, the cushion of my dreams!!
A beautiful Jan Constantina cushion.
I have fallen truly madly deeply in LOVE with it, but as I drooled over it I happen to glance down at the price tag, after a quick in take of breath, a deep sigh came it was £76. Anyway whilst having a coffee and a chat with my friend Ali, we decided it was too much to spend on one cushion, but I can't stop thinking about it and wondering should I rush back and get it.

So you see to come home and win the mugs was just what I needed.
Thank you Vanessa you may have saved my life he he x

I will leave you with a few piccies of some more scrummy rooms.

2010-02-03T22:51:00.020Z

Since doing this blog and looking at all the pictures of other people's beautiful homes & pictures,
"I really really would like a white unfitted Scandinavian style kitchen"

Creativity Guides

2010-02-03T09:02:00.006Z

For Christmas my Sister brought me a set of Angel cards, she is a very Holistic person with a good heart and has a great belief in Angel guides.
I admit I was skeptical at first thinking it a little wacky, but lately I have been reading books about them and using the Angel cards she gave me.
You are suppose to randomly pick out a card each day,and then apply the wisdom from your guides throughout the day.
This is today's card, I think you'll see why I put it on here with so many of us
blogger's having such creative lifestyles..

The card was Creativity, it read..
Your Creativity Guides are advising you that there's no way to avoid risk if you wish to live a creative life. Stop worrying about making right and wrong choices, and view all of them as creative opportunities. Be glad you have the freedom to make all the choices at all, and realize that no matter what you choose, you'll create something. If you don't like the result, then simply go back to the drawing board and make new and hopefully better choices.
Your Creativity Guides remind you not to look at life in terms of black and white, me against you, all or nothing. You're a creative spirit regardless of what else is going on in your life. Asses your creations with appreciation and respect. Whether good, bad or indifferent, they all reflect your creativity. Celebrate everything you enjoy, don't fret over the rest. See your less desirable creations as interesting rough drafts, and follow your Creativity Guides advice "go back to the drawing board."

After such encouraging comments about Laura's cake loving nicknamed "La La" by me. This card struck a cord and now I am wondering if sometimes we can be a little too hard on ourselves xxx

A little piece of Cake..

2010-02-01T16:39:00.007Z

Well this is what I have been doing since yesterday morning, and boy I am glad I have finished it.
I was asked to make a cake for my friends daughter, she is 21 tomorrow, yes I think I can just about remember that far back..
She asked for a bright pink cake with coloured candles so that's what I gave her.
I do hope she likes it as I have never done this before, got to say icing a cake is a real skill, a skill I have yet to master.
I found the idea on flicker, Mmmm they did look some what better than mine, but hey you can only do your best.
Tomorrow it's back to what I know I can do, yes painting!

Oh but before I go, I follow a really nice blogger called Coco Rose Textiles and today she is doing a cracker of a give away "have a peek" you never know you might get to win, below is the prize. Yes these wonderful mugs by a company called TG Green.
I rather fancy a set of these.

If I don't get to be the lucky winner of the mugs, I will be dropping humongous hints to Hubby for these as my Valentines gift.

The Sun has got his hat on...

2010-01-30T21:56:00.010Z

Oh for just the briefest of moments this morning the sun peeked out from behind one of those horrid grey clouds.
It made me wanted to run out into the garden, start digging and planting..
Ok and then it disappeared.
But now it has left me itching to get out there.
Most years I like to go to a garden show, last year it was Malvern which I really enjoyed and I made do with watching Chelsea on the telly, by the Friday of watching Chelsea I wish I had gone as I fell in awe of The Daily Mail's garden by Daylesford Organic.

I love the huge willow baskets and the Symmetry.

Great Sheds

Lets hope the sun comes out again very soon.

My little contribution for Haiti

2010-01-29T22:54:00.005Z

I have decided to donate a percentage of the
profit I make from my latest revamp to the Haiti Appeal.
So lets hope I get lots of bids on it.
Now Sold...

Hope you all have a super weekend.
I am really looking forward to a nice lie in
and a peacefully couple of days x

Am I frightened of colour ?

2010-01-22T22:26:00.000Z

This may sound a silly but I have just realised I have a fear of coloured paint!
Nearly all the walls in my house are white, although saying that I have gone to the other extreme by painting the odd wall black. So why is it I am sitting here still umming and arrhing over painting my front room Lamp Room Grey?
I keep seeing it in magazine's, it looks so stylish and calm, but I just can't seem to bring myself to go out and get the paint.. It's just not white.

Plumping up the cushions.

2010-01-19T23:02:00.001Z

How charming are these?

Iconic.

All the cushions above can be found at Rockett St George.

Yes they do all say Love and yes I do love them.

I saw this on Etsy.

Again from "Cushlab"

A little thing called room envy...

2010-01-19T16:55:00.000Z

Do you ever get one of those days when you would like nothing more than to pop a large skip outside your house and chuck everything in it and start a fresh. Well today I am having one of those days.

I really do love the black velvet seat.

So they say "The Folk Style" is the new trend for 2010

2010-01-18T20:21:00.000Z

I seem to have a thing about trees and birds at the moment.
Love this duvet cover from John Lewis
it looks so pretty and fresh.

Can you believe this is all from Bhs ?
Such happy colours. I think I am going to rather like this "Folk style"

Decorating & Design: Interior Trends For 2010 | 4Homes | Channel4.com

2010-01-18T20:15:00.000Z

Decorating & Design: Interior Trends For 2010 | 4Homes | Channel4.com

It's growing on me.

2010-01-11T22:26:00.000Z

I have just finished putting this up
Hmmm not to sure yet!

Inspiration or Motivation ?

2010-01-11T21:30:00.000Z

Well it seems to me that I have a case of the post Holiday blues, I can't seem to be bother to get back in to the work mode, although saying that I have noticed I am not the only one! and I have been rather busy reading a book, it was one of those that you just can't bear to put down, sod the tea I have a chapter to read "One hundred shades of white" by Preethi Nair, if you get the time a definite must.

New Year ~ New decor...!!!

2010-01-07T01:08:00.000Z

Whilst enjoying a break over the Christmas holidays, I have had a chance to sit down and explore all the great blog's that I have been joining, I must say I have throughly enjoyed looking at them all, not only do people post beautiful inspiring picture's & photo's, they also seem to be like a little on-line community, which I think is wonderful x

I have recently put up some Laura Ashley's Summer Palace wallpaper in my bedroom, which I think looks lovely, but the rest of the room is now looking a little boring and needs some depth, so when I was in Ikea the other day I was chuffed to spot some pale blue duck egg velvet curtains, I thought fab that will help to spruce up my dull bedroom, but guess what ? none in stock!! I came home a little disappointed.

So the next day I made it my mission to find a pair, I rang Ikea to be told there was only 1 pair of these curtains in the whole of the UK and they were to be found in Manchester, which is a six hour round trip for me. I have to laugh I told my friend Charlotte my dilemma and bless her she was prepared to come with me all that way even in this weather, Now that is a true friend !!

All done !

2009-12-15T18:46:00.000Z

Well here it is!
All finished the little Narnia wardrode.

Homemade Felt bags..

2009-12-14T17:11:00.000Z

Just thought I would show you the felt bags I made for Hannah and Max.

I wanted to make something to put their stocking gifts in, something other than a stocking.

I basically used five pieces of black felt and sewed them together.

I really loved making these I may even make a few more for my little nephews.

Better get the paint brush back out.

2009-12-08T20:59:00.000Z

Ooh I am a very happy little bee, just sold my last item of furniture on ebay today. I am pleased because I was rather worried leaving my job and starting up a little business of my own, but I think it's going to be fine. I had better get cracking on with the next project which is a small wardrobe~armoire.

Max my son has nick named it mini Narnia. I thought it would be interesting for you to see it before and after. So I have added a picture, I will post another one once it has been given the shabby chic treatment !
Your comments are always welcome.
Hope you all have had a lovely day too x

Starting to put up the Deckies!!

2009-12-08T15:44:00.000Z

This is Freya one of my cat's she was
helping me to put up the Hall deckies.

And that's Ginger,

he's another of my cats.

Pretty little Blackboard.

2009-11-27T17:15:00.000Z

I am really pleased with this little blackboard.

I think it looks so nice.

It was an old frame and I sprayed it white.

Having a good day.

2009-11-23T21:19:00.000Z

Had a really nice day today!
Sold the pretty table and chairs.

Started to makeover a lovely Shabby Chic tv~coffee table for someone I know.
Will post some picture's when it's been beautified.

Tomorrow I am off to scource some more furniture.
I have my eye on a very pretty dresser. Watch this space !

If you would like to visit my ebay please type in
emsshabbyshack on Google and go on my world...

This was a great little find.

2009-11-22T14:45:00.000Z

I found this in a charity shop,

it had peeling gold paint on it,

I sprayed it with a nice matt black,

Much better...

2009-11-22T13:19:00.000Z

Ohh I like this !
Still wishing I had that large bathroom.

How to Create Shabby Chic Painted Furniture | eHow.com

2009-11-22T13:00:00.000Z

How to Create Shabby Chic Painted Furniture | eHow.com

2009-11-21T17:39:00.000Z

Just sold the corner unit.

I have listed this lovely white table and chairs on Ebay.
Which I painted it with White tie Farrow and Ball
and popped some nice fresh looking Oil cloth from Laura Ashley on the chairs.
Now Sold

Another one Sold..

2009-11-21T14:02:00.000Z

2009-11-21T00:42:00.000Z

I am really please how nice and fresh looking this dresser has turned out, can't wait to find another one, think I will paint the next one in Farrow & Ball French grey.

Dresser which I painted using Farrow and Ball white tie. Listed on Ebay

2009-11-20T23:44:00.000Z

A busy week

2009-11-20T23:15:00.000Z

Welcome to my blog....

I have created this to show you all the lovely Shabby Chic furniture that I have been giving a new bespoke lease of life too.

This week I have been really busy sanding, priming and painting, but the hard work has paid off, as I have now started listing finished items on to eBay which thankfully has been getting a lot of interest.

I am so pleased now as I can do something I love whilst getting to work around the hours to fit in with my children Hannah and Max.

I really enjoy looking at blogs with stylish interiors and love recreating the same kind of look with a budget that I can relate to, so doing this is also a great way of helping other obtain an affordable Chic style of furniture that I think would look Fantastic in any home x
P.s it's also great for the environment.....

please have a look at my photo's, "what do you think?"