The Essess

The Hottie Challenge..

2011-05-12T22:02:00.000+10:00

Well The Essess haven't been blogging much of late! But what better way of getting back into the groove than for a worthwhile cause close to our heart..?

My big sister Curlypops is entering a group entry into the Hottie Challenge.

The Hottie Challenge is organised by Open Drawer-Art Textiles and Learning Centre..

They are raising money for The Margaret Pratt Foundation......

So you've probably never heard of The Margaret Pratt Foundation, but I certainly have.From their website:
The Margaret Pratt Foundation Heart Lung Transplant Trust is a registered charity whose aim is to encourage, develop and maintain Australia’s world class expertise in the field of organ transplantation by supporting research that addresses the problems faced by children and adults after heart and lung transplant.
The aim of the research must be to improve the outcomes for heart and lung transplant recipients.
The Margaret Pratt Foundation has donated $700,000 to date in 2011 to promote research into the causes and prevention of chronic lung rejection. The foundation donates to provide funds for the researchers working at the Alfred Hospital, right here in Melbourne.

Pop on over to Curlypops to sign up.............

Groovy 70's Baby........!!!

2010-12-16T17:49:00.013+11:00

Me way back in 1980? I was the angel in the kinder xmas show...

I'm joining in with my Big Sister's Meme......

Groovy 70's photo's of myself and some of the family.....

Some of my photo's are abit wonky due to the Scanner? Or maybe it's me? Any hoo....... I believe this would be 1979/1980, I am wearing this groovy number! With my favourite 'Happy Shoes', and the knee high socks.. Wish I could remember the picture on the side of my socks...

I picked this photo of My Paternal Grandparents, Parents and sisters... I obviously liked wearing the yellow dress!! Dad has the long sideburns and groovy shirt! And young Curlypops on the right! I think mum was pregnant at this stage with my soon to be little brother who arrived in 1980....

This is a beauty!! I'm the baby, not sure what's happening with mums hair? My older sister on the left has her "school case", used long before backpacks were the norm...

But Curlypops on the right has a fabulous outfit on, with the sandals flared pants and jumper...

I really like this one, Curlypops on the left, me in the middle and my older sister on the right.. I am guessing 1976/1977... My sisters look adorable in their groovy little dresses....

If you would like to join in or see who else is playing along? Pop over here!

The Happy List.....

2010-12-11T21:37:00.007+11:00

My happy list started with the four of us...... circa 1982? I'm the last on the right..funnily enough I think I am wearing my 'happy shoes', little leather shoes with a happy face on them...

My happy List starts with finding Mr S.. I had trouble finding a photo without his face but for some reason I found a photo of his backside!! ha!

Then happiness is the furry companions in our home.........

To join in head over here...

Crafty Artwork.....

2010-10-30T18:11:00.006+11:00

I have decided that the plain office wall needed some colourful wall art......

I found some photo frames from the Op Shop. Found some paint in Mr S's shed and gave the frames a new lick of paint...

I got these fantastic greeting cards from Curlypops! They are original illustrations printed onto cards.........

These are two designs of the flaming Dodo's and my favourite Retro Owl......

Need some greeting cards then head over here... Curlypops..

Little Bird - Kasey Chambers

2010-09-12T21:39:00.001+10:00

My favourite singer Kasey Chambers has a new album released shortly. I bought some tickets to watch her Live in Ballarat at the Regent with Mr S ......

This is the debut single from the album of the same name.....

Afternoon tea and Woollen Blankies...

2010-08-14T20:34:00.005+10:00

Today was more rain... We had the woodfire burning and made some yummy Buttercake for afternoon tea.......... Luckily I took a photo before we ate it all!

Last week we went for a walk down the main street of Clunes as the local Market was on...
There is an elderly lady who sells her craft.....

I got myself this beautiful blanket at a very cheap price! I love it......

We headed back home and then I thought I had better go back and get Curlypops a little blankie also! I found this Brown and Pink blanket for my big sis.. I shall get it to her soon...

Have a great weekend......

The Grand Opening of my Stall@The Mill Market Ballarat Wool Shed

2010-08-02T22:48:00.017+10:00

The Essess has a new stall at the Mill MArket located at the Ballarat Wool Shed, Western Hwy, Ballarat, 3550.
The Market is open 10am to 6pm 7 days a week, and they also have a cafe open from 11am...

I will be stocking some Curlypops Handmade Bags and Brooches also...

Retro Sunbeam Hairdryer.......

Some Curlypops handmade bags....

Retro 1970's Eskies......

Very Collectable Corningware Pots in lots of different sizes...

Retro 1970s Bar.........

Lots of Vintage Books including: Childrens Books, Cooking Books...

Collectable tins, teapots, glassware, tupperware just to name a few...

All of these items are currently available at Stall 49........

Come in for a browse and sit by the open fires with a coffee.....

Also check out www.themillmarketsballarat.blogspot.com/

More Fire King.....

2010-07-31T22:48:00.004+10:00

Although this may be confusing, I recieved this Platter from my Step Mother in Law. She is also an avid Op Shopper and is on the look out for any Fire King for me...

This is not very clear but its Fire King, Made in USA Anchor Hocking....

The Platter has little feet on the bottom of it......

It is Milk Glass with a gold edge.. I have tried to find out more about it but it isn't in my Fire King book and I had no luck on the internet. I have decided it is a 'Fish Platter'... It is another great addition to my collection.

I have finally organised my Market Stall at The Mill Market at the Ballarat Wool Shed. I hope to load some photos monday night. So at Chez Essess all systems are go!

A Little piece of Country Magic....

2010-07-09T20:26:00.004+10:00

I was playing around on You Tube today and found this Classic Country song...

"If I was a Carpenter", sung by June Carter and Johnny Cash.....Enjoy

Op Shop find:

2010-07-07T15:41:00.009+10:00

I have a large quantity of Cooking Books from the 1960's to the 1970's...

Today whilst out Op Shopping I came across a pile of Vintage Books....
I thought I would have a little look through and came across this beauty:

It's the CWA (Country Womens Association) Coronation Cookery Book. Compiled by the CWA of NSW. This must be the last edition but the first copies were printed in 1937, 1938, 1941,1945, 1947 and 1951.....
So after a little detective work on 'Google" this cookery book was published for the Coronation of King George VI,(Queen Elizabeths father)..

There are some great advertising inside including 'Pyrex', 'Davis Gelatine', 'Patons Woolcraft', 'Success Self Raising Flour' to name a few........
(dodgy photo courtesy of dodgy camera!)

A list of Household, medical and Handy Hints.....

There is also a 12 month baby diet for infants which is slightly disturbing..

Entertaining and Table Ettiquette...

How to repair Iron tanks...

Method of Tanning Sheep Skins..

Method of Making Woolly Down..

I guess that shows years ago women really did do everything, thank goodness for some modern conveniences........

Spare Room Curtains.....

2010-07-03T18:56:00.003+10:00

I finally whipped up some curtains for the Spare Room! When we bought the house it had White Lacey Curtains.
I painted the room a retro yellow colour.......
The Curtains have a pretty Flower pattern but they are a really Green Colour! Unfortunately My camera and the 1960's Lamp Shade Combination does not help with taking photo's......

It looks much better in person. And has brightened the very dark room......

Next project will be making sheers for the kitchen! I need to find some material that will hide the blinds and blend in with the red and orange theme...

The kitchen also had White lace curtains when we moved in. I took them down whilst I was painting and the cats managed to rip them to shreds!!!

I think I will wait for Curlypops to be released from the Asylum and take her on a shopping trip to Spotlight to find something appropriate!

New Addition........

2010-06-30T14:52:00.004+10:00

Our new addition to the family...... His name is Sheldon and he is a pure bred Chihuahua! Cuddling up to Mr S........

He is a good little boy, he sleeps through the night and loves snuggling! He was being fed via a syringe as his mum had run out of milk, but now is drinking from the bowl.......

I think we can say "the house is full".................

Ready to Run....

2010-06-29T17:56:00.009+10:00

I've had alot of spare time on my hands, not being able to work just over three months. But I have been busy getting all my Retro/Vintage Furniture and Collectibles ready for sale. Everything must be washed, priced, tagged, recorded and packed ready for the Market..
I have wanted to start my own stall at The Mill Markets for such a long time! Now I'm ready to go! I will have my own stall at The Mill Market at the Ballarat Woolshed, Western Hwy, Ballarat..

I have a large collection of Corningware. Coffee Pots, Tea Pots, Casserole Dishes...

Also alot of quirky serving dishes, Platters, Chip and Dip Plates. All Japanese Design and made in Japan..

Retro Coloured Wine Glasses and Vintage Sherry Glasses to name a few...

I also have alot of Retro/Vintage Furniture. A Retro Bar, Vintage Kitchen Cabinets, Retro Buffets etc........

Iam pleased everything is coming into place. I have a passion and an eye for collecting so I will be holding stall at The Mill Market and keeping my day job!!

You can also check out The Mill Market Blog.......

I've Got a Feeling...

2010-06-27T18:16:00.003+10:00

I don't know about you but things haven't quite been going to plan lately... I won't bore anyone with details but I'm sure everyone goes through these 'Rough Patches'? Well I think I have had more than my fair share over the last 4 months ...

I've got a feeling things are starting to turn around and get better again!

I love coming across photos of times when everything seemed easy and simple...

But I've got a feeling things are about to go to plan.......Stay tuned.......

buying back.......

2010-05-18T17:41:00.006+10:00

Scheurich Vintage West German Pottery Vase

This little vase was given away from my sister to my mum........

I went to Beeac to visit my mum and whilst browsing the second hand store I spotted this vase..

Mum saw it in my hands and informed me that she gave it to the store to sell as she didn't want it and because the store owners had helped her whilst she had been renovating.....

I quickly informed her that the $4.00 I was about to pay to buy it back was a good investment as it is worth 10 times that?! This pottery is becoming very collectible and hence worth abit of money!

It is now safely stored in my kitchen cabinet..........

Kitchen Workbench...........

2010-04-27T22:40:00.006+10:00

I seem to have forgotten to take a photo of this table rightway up! Oops..

Due to rearranging my kitchen table and chairs to the front room, creating a Dining Room

We have made a portable work bench for the kitchen! Mr S and myself went to the Oppy and found quite a tall table for $40.00.

Off to Bunnings we went to buy some MDF and Castor Wheels which Mr S put together for me!

I then sanded the table and restained it to suit the kitchen more..

Finito! Now I have a workbench and table for use in the kitchen where ever I need it. I have some retro stools to use with it and it has been really handy thus far with moving it as I need to.....

New Piece of Fire King..........

2010-04-15T22:16:00.007+10:00

This book has been my constant companion since recieving it as a gift at Christmas. It is called: Anchor Hocking's Fire King Identification and Value guide Third Edition....

If you have an interest in a certain collectable, its great to have a book to give you the history, identification and values by your side!!!

Todays page was opened at Anniversary Rose 1964-1965....

Obviously they were manufactured with a rose decal and gold trim. The book states they were only manufactured for two years and so are in short supply.

My mum found me this Creamer from a little Op Shop in Inverleigh, it is alittle worn but still has the gold trim which is great.

I love finding new pieces with designs that I have not found previously. If I find and buy one piece then I usually end up with a few pieces of the same design.....

The book is great to identify which design is what and values the pieces in US dollars.....

I love Fire King and am currently filling my second cabinet in my Dining room with more Fire King........

My love....???

2010-04-14T20:14:00.012+10:00

My love is my family... Families come in many forms for us "The Essess" here is our family... Sophie will shortly turn 13! Silky Terrier. She is Curlypops prodigal sons mother! Here she is in her bed, a kids couch from the Op shop that I got for $2. And a donut bed and towel. She sleeps next to me everynight close to the heater... SHe has the cataracts on her eyes and recently began going deaf!

Shelby will be 3 years old in August, black Labrador asleep on her Foldup Trundle bed scored at a Garage Sale for $4.00.... Shes having her afternoon sleep with Snowball and her Teddy Bear..

Snowball is Mr Essess little boy kitteh, he is 5 months old and seems to think that the Labrador is his mother.....

This is my 5 month old kitteh Sparkles... Sleeping.. We went to get one kitten and came home with two because Mr S decided that they would need a friend to play with??

Another photo of Sophie with longer hair, she usually has a haircut in summer to keep her cool...

Shelby with one of her many Teddy Bears in her mouth! I buy a few from the Op Shop when they are cheap so that her and her little friend Mr Socket can play tug of war, usually meaning the Bear becomes demolished..?

My little man Mr Socket turned two on New Years Eve, he is a Chihuahua X Jack Russell...

I went and picked him out myself. Mr S thought I was nutts getting a third dog but Shelby being young needed a young dog to play with.

Mr Socket had bad teeth and an overbite so I took him home fearing no one would want him. His overbite grew out and he has crooked teeth just like me! He is somewhat sooky but gets quite grumpy when moving him whilst he is tired.

We put it down to Little Dog Syndrome.....

Who forms your family? Let me know!

Lounge Room Make Over/Retro Style.................

2010-04-12T22:47:00.010+10:00

You would have read from my last post that I had a special trip to make saturday morning. Mr S and myself took the van to a Monster Garage Sale......We bought quite a few items but I have been looking for a couch/fold out bed similar to one I owned in my early twenties... I found this couch at the Garage Sale for $10.00.................................................

Close up picture of the white vinyl pattern...................................

MAKE OVER TIME.............

My sister Curlypops has been advising me for quite a while to change our front room. When we first bought this house this room was our lounge room but now we use the extension at the back of the house as the loungeroom......

We set up the front room as a sitting room with an extra tv......

But guess what? We never use this room....

Cool coloured blue walls, with a fireplace and mantle that I love. Also love the old mirror that came with the house.......

So today I decided my new kittehs(retro cats) needed a new home...........

I bought this pair at The MAryborough Railway Station Antique Fair for $15 a few months ago!

I love the orange colour as it particularly suits my house.......

$10 Sofa/couch in the corner for any visitors, just need an orange throw rug/quilt to pop over the couch to break up the colour of the couch to the wall....

Moved our dining setting (Mr Esssess great grandfathers originally, when he passed we inherited it) so apart from looking great it has sentimental value for us!

So now the front room has become the dining room, and a place to show my Fire King collectibles in cabinets.....

I think it looks alot better.....

Next we may remove the carpet and stain and varnish the Hardwood floors, but that may happen after winter.

The carpet helps keep the house warm!

Thanks to Curlypops for her advise!

Next may be the kitchen, I am on the look out for a work bench to use in the middle of the room so I can surround it with my collection of retro stools.................................

The Essess Op Shopping Adventures across country Victoria..

2010-04-09T22:23:00.008+10:00

Mr S and myself went on a little road trip, first stop Beaufort, second stop Ararat and last stop Stawell............................ First my favourite Op Shop purchase for the day was this great Orange Cake Platter with Plastic Lid that was in the Bargain Bin for .50c................

Another purchase was $2! This little duck will be going to live with my mum, perfect for her collecting fresh eggs from her chickens.............................

Some Vintage Table Cloths that will be rehomed to Curlypops, I am sure they will make great panels for handbags or something crafty...

We took the Transit VAn luckily because I found a great cabinet to store some of my collectibles.

Mr S purchased some magazines and waited in the van while I shopped, perfect way to get your husbands to join you shopping..

We drove past the Old J Ward Jail for the criminally insane! Entry was $14 for adults, so next time we will make time for a tour. The old Bluestone building was amazing...

The front of J Ward.........

I am guessing the van entry to J Ward to deliver inmates....

Whilst in Beaufort I came across this shop "Beaufort Keepsakes".

Inside was craft supplies and lots of handmade items, quilts, handpainted plates etc..

Also another craft shop in town but ran out of time to check it all out!

Its a nice drive from Clunes along the Western Highway towards the Grampians and well worth a day trip!

Beaufort has one Op Shop,m Ararat has 5 Oppys and Stawell had three that I found although the St Patricks recycle shop in Stawell closed at 2pm so we missed it!

Thanks for a lovely day out Mr S...................

P.S. I am very excited about our trip tomorrow morning, can't tell you too much but I have high hopes of finding some bargains.... Stay Tuned.................

Oh the Memories

2010-04-07T22:16:00.003+10:00

Oh the Memories....................7th April 2006..

It is The Essess 4 year Wedding Anniversary today 7th April.......
This is one of my favourite photos because I was happy and have the photo to prove it!

We met through Curlypops, he moved in within 2 weeks, engaged in 4weeks and married a year later! When you find someone special you don't mess around and you snap them up!

I was extremely worried telling my family that after 4 weeks we were engaged.. I remember thinking they will be saying well she is the crazy one in the family and she has totally lost her mind!!

After spending my twenties convincing myself I never wanted to get married and that I would be happpily single my entire life I met Mr S.....

Curlypops was talking about fate on her blog today and this was fate! I remember Cam laughed and said we should meet because we were the only two people she knew who liked bbq sauce on pizza! Yes this sounds crazy but this is how it happened.....

Curlypops was a big part of the organistaion of our small immediate family only wedding in an old Mariners Chapel in Williamstown....

Here we are four years later and there has never been a dull moment! But I think we have finally found our place in the world where we will remain happy to live in the goldfields area..

The bride (me) wore black? I kept my maiden name and had a small ceremony to make a committment to each other!

Keeping my maiden name was keeping me? Thats who I am and I didn't see why I had to change my name or identity? I am happy with the decision.........

I was happy with our plans although I do wish I was one of those thin brides, but I am me and thats the way it goes..

Happy Anniversary Mr S and heres to many more together!............................................

A Little Birdie..(miss CUrly Pops).....

2010-04-06T19:05:00.004+10:00

A Little Birdie named Curly Pops sent out a little mission for me to recieve a lot of Happy Birthday wishes yesterday!! My big sister can be a little sneaky and only when I read Curlypops Blog that I realised what she was up to?!

I am sure everyone saw those very attractive photos of me in my special Chefs Hat?! The nephews had a good laugh at me, and it fitted my big head really well!

Not only did Curlypops make me a Chefs Hat she also gave me this bag that I have had my eye on for quite a while! Anyone who knows me knows I love purple and I love this purple fabric, although my camera does not do it justice it is DIVINE!!! Thanks big sis!!

After I read all of my wonderful birthday wishes I realised I have not blogged for a very long time, so here is an update photo of my cabinet from my last post.. Retro Canisters, Corningware Pots and lots of cool stuff I love!

RAMBLING AHEAD!!

I would really like to say thanks to Cam for my suprise from blog land and every single blogger who sent me good wishes, just goes to show you never know how you may affect someones day with a good wish or a good deed?

I had a wonderful morning, slept in, Mr S made me coffee in bed then back to sleep with my three dogs on their beds inside...

Mr S bought me a beautiful set of White gold and diamond earrings that match my wedding rings. Firstly great present and secondly he managed to keep a secret...

Birthdays are a funny thing, you get excited about little cards and gifts and the you realise you are 34 and haven't quite done everything that you may have thought you would by this age...

We had a car accident 4 weeks ago and since then I have thought about the what ifs??

Did I do what I love! Who would look after our dogs etc..

What I love about crafty bloggers is that these people do what they love, they may never get rich from selling handmade but they are following their crafty hearts and doing what makes them happy!

After the initial excitement of my bday I was a little sad thinking about a few things I should be changing in my life. When I opened up my blog and saw so many wishes from people I may or may not know it warmed my heart and I may never meet you but I am ever grateful for well wishes....

So I am really going to organise myself this year:

Should anything happen, then Sophie my Silky Terrier is going to live with Curlypops!

Shelby our black Labrador and Socket my Chihuahua cross goes to my inlaws..

We never think about these things but now I have written it I feel better knowing there is aplan should anything ever happen......Whoa thats hard to write..

I work in a job I don't really like in the same industry since I was 15 years old. Having Curlypops find her love for craft over the past few years I always thought what is my passion? Will I ever work it out??

I enjoy some craft and sewing etc but really my passion is Op Shops and collecting retro items for my house!

So here it goes, my back should be better soon from the Car accident and I have been talking about holding a stall at the Mill Market for quite while. But I think its time, I need to just do it!

So over the next few weeks, back to blogging and reading blogs, organise my stall of collectibles, get a tattoo(I want to get THE ESSESS tattooed somewhere?)

And time to put my self first, do what I want to do! I am sure other people get the pressure of looking after family and spending time with them when it doesnt suit you and keeping the peace etc..

My family is fine but certain inlaws have been pushing the boundaries! Mr S and myself will be saying NO for now on and living and doing what we want.....

This may seem like rambling and I apologise but I feel much better writing this down and relieving myself from the pressure!

Thanks for my birthday wishes they really did arrive when I needed it most! And stay tuned, someone is celebrating a birthday very soon!! I have a couple of weeks to think of a plan for Miss Curlypops! Very lucky to have a good sister and great people in the land of Bloggers...........

More Op Shop purchases...

2010-01-15T17:39:00.011+11:00

Last week Curlypops and I were galavanting around the countryside, visiting Op Shops when I found this Retro Kitchen Cabinet. I paid the nana at the counter and then Mr S and I headed back a few days later to pick it up with the trailer.

I love the orange laminate, the white pressed plasticy back...

The drawers are still in the van so I couldn't get a picture of them...

This was to be sold on but I have fallen in love with it so it stays and another cabinet I have in the lounge room will be sold instead..

I also find The Womens Weekly Cookbooks at the Oppy, this one set me back $1.00 at an Op Shop in Daylesford.....

I confess! I was at the Op shops again today....

2010-01-07T21:51:00.010+11:00

Ihave already spent my days off work this week at Op Shops with my big sister Curlypops, but considering my favourite Oppy was closed early in the week, I though it best to drop by today after work...
I found this sheet of Calico I believe with these great prints. This is heading to the House of Pops, I am sure she will find a way to use it!

The great thing about having a sister who hits the Op shops is that she finds treasures for me and I for her!

Today I also found a local recipe book......

But my favourite find is this Vintage Mirror! The lovely green colour with the metal inlay. It says Made in England...

I just need to find somewhere to hang it so I can admire it! Head on over to Curlypops to check out another of our Op shop trips....

Op Shop Adventure in the country.....

2010-01-05T22:11:00.004+11:00

This is the aftermath of Op Shopping with Curlypops the last two days.....

We set out yesterday Op Shopping around Ballarat, then today we Op Shopped from Clunes to Beaufort(quick stop for coffee) then on to 4 shops in Ararat... If that wasn't enough we went on to Avoca and found another Op shop!

I decided I will unpack all my purchases tomorrow......

Alfred Meakin Dinner Set...

2010-01-04T09:32:00.004+11:00

My mum has a dinner set made by Alfred Meakin, England...

Under the plates it says "Tally-Ho"...

I have been searching the internet trying to find out more about when it was made and its value. The print is of a Fox Hunt, and mum believes it was given to her mother in the late 1950s...

She has aset of plates cups etc for ten plus a sugar bowl..

Maybe someone in Blogland may have some ideas of where to find more info???

Anyhoo I am heading into town to hit the Op Shops with my sister, hope we find some goodies!!!

Fire King (Love it...)

2009-12-31T15:05:00.005+11:00

This is my Favourite Cabinet in my front Loungeroom, filled with my Fire King (Anchor Hocking U.S.A.) collection thus far!! Mostly Peach Lustre and some Milk glass... Four Clear glass Fire King jugs...

This is by far my favourite item to collect, and hopefully 2010 will be great for finding more pieces...

I recieved this book for Xmas from Mr S's Aunt. It is a great read and hopefully I will be able to find some Jadeite pieces..?

I have been busy this year and haven't blogged as much as I would like... But New Year brings new possibilities so fingers crossed I will be more organised!

I have been busy collecting all sorts of pieces from the 50s 60s and 70s, planning on having a stall at the Mill Market at the Ballarat Woolshed. Its full of antiques and collectibles.....

Mr S even bought me a van for transporting the retro furniture I have to the market.

When I am set up I will be able to tell you more... But this is my priority for 2010.... Heres hoping it all works out...

Happy New Year to everyone!!!!

Sweet Sewing Basket...

2009-11-22T21:46:00.005+11:00

I found this lovely sewing basket from a local Op Shop a few weeks back for the low price of $2.00...

Inside its a cute green silk.....

My sister has a similar one that I admired while growing up, it only took me to the age of 33 to get one for myself! I guess better late than never!!

Now I just need to fill it with some sewing goodies....

Vintage Brooch.....

2009-11-21T16:38:00.002+11:00

I found this georgous Purple Vintage Brooch at a new store in Ballarat. Mr S's former work colleague has opened a store in Sturt St Ballarat, next to G.C.s.... Its called Vintage Blonde and there are some great items for sale!

We called in to say hello and I saw this Brooch and it was only $8.00. Right in my price range...

Yes some husbands can sew....

2009-11-18T21:13:00.004+11:00

I found some black work pants at the Op Shop in Ballarat for $5.00. They fit really well except for the length..

I suffer from lack of height, hence all pants I buy are too long...

Finally tonight I set up my sewing machine after we jimmied the cabinet open?! Seems we lost the key in the move...

Mr S did a sewing course for automotive upholestry a few years back! He quickly got in the seat to adjust and re-hem my work pants....

Yes some husbands are extra handy!!!

The Super Pops Challenge..

2009-10-29T20:41:00.005+11:00

Curlypops my sister is having a competition..Its called the Super Pops Challenge, head on over and check it out.......... This is my Super Pops creation......

There have been some great entries so far so I thought I would add my own entry!!! Who thought I would have a Super hero for a sister???....

Finally I am back.....

2009-10-26T15:09:00.003+11:00

( I really missed my kitchen! Its nice to be back!)

The Essess have been without the internet for quite a while, and moving back and forth from Clunes to Melbourne and back to Clunes.... A very long story!!

But finally we are back in our house in Clunes.......

Now we are home there is alot of work to be done around the house, painting inside and out. I need new curtains for the back lounge room....

I have unpacked the sewing machine and now just need to get to Spotlight to buy some fabric this week.....

I hope to post at least every 2 days, and have alot of blogreading to catch up on!!!

Mill Market.......

2009-01-27T15:57:00.005+11:00

Mr S and I went for a drive to Geelong on sunday.... Some big yacht race was on so there were boats everywhere and alot of traffic trying to cope with the long weekend...... We went to both Mill Markets in Geelong. The first mostly had furniture......

But the second one near the Bellarine Hwy was set up like stalls inside and was full of collectables... I found the Orange Set of Recliners X4 and Foot stool that I sold on ebay before we moved back to Melbourne.

I knew they would be sale for alot more than I sold them for but the most heartbreaking thing I saw...... The guy was selling them seperately!!!!??? He obviously sold one already leaving three recliners and the foot stool. A set like that should never be seperated!!! He will have bad karma for sure!!!

All the collectables were just what I liked but although they were reasonably priced I am sure I can find then cheaper at the Op Shop so I came home empty handed?!

Up stairs was full of Vintage material, vintage jeans and clothes.... The Mill Markets are also located in Warrnambool and Daylesford so I would say well worth a look!!!

The Orange Recliners in their former glory as a complete set!!!

Picture of the bay along the Esplanade, geelong.....

LOVE FRIDAYS........................

2009-01-23T18:55:00.005+11:00

I Love Fridays this week because:

I finished work on time!
I had a nana nap!
I have this sunday off from work so I can go to the Mill Market in Geelong!
And we just ordered Pizza for tea!

This may not sound very exciting, but this is great for me this week......

To see who else is playing check out Tinnie Girl..

Here is one of my Favourite Kasey Chambers songs, enjoy!

Op Shopping Tuesday......

2009-01-20T18:12:00.003+11:00

Yes another day at the Op shops for myself and CurlyPops, yes it was very hot! Around 40oc, I am starting to believe that maybe we are addicted???

The first Op shop we visited, Curlypops turned and said" Don't let me buy anything I don't need".??? Well what is the point of going then???

I came home with a stash of Vintage Sugar bowls to add to my ever growing collection. I actually walked away from some at the last shop because I was worried that Mr S would think I was nutts........

I picked up some more Fire King to add to my set, a mug and 3 bowls.

I found another five Vintage sugar bowls....

And this set of bowls, cups and milk jug made by Bessemer....

Last but not least I found this full Cutlery Set. We still had more shops to visit but it was too hot so we retreated back home to the airconditioning.......

More Retro Items from the Op Shop...

2009-01-17T17:05:00.004+11:00

Here are a few more items I picked up on my Op Shop travels this week.......

The Wooden Spoon and Fork that hang on the wall, I picked up for $1.50...

Two Hand Egg beaters that have bakelite handles, one I bought for $1.00 and the other I paid $4.00......

I am hoping to find more cool stuff on Tuesday when I take Ms CurlyPops and our mum Op shopping........ Have nice weekend......................

Vintage Thingy Thursday!!!!

2009-01-15T20:44:00.005+11:00

This weeks Vintage Thingy Thursday is hosted by the lovely Colorado Lady...

On my travels to the Op Shops monday I found two sugar bowls and what looks like a Jam Bowl...

If you have seen some of my earlier posts I seem to have a Sugar bowl collection happening...

These were all $4.00 each at different Op Shops, but there is something about them that makes me buy them...

My ten year old nephew calls my collection "My Museum", well since the move I have downsized in Cabinets to keep the museum. I find I am running out of space?....

But that won't stop me... If I find some more tomorrow I will post them too... Even if I find a piece here and there, I am hoping one day they will be full sets.....

To see who else is playing along check out Colorado Lady..

Im Back.......

2009-01-14T20:02:00.006+11:00

I went on a Op Shopping trip to Melton, Bacchus Marsh and Gisborne with my big sister Ms CurlyPops on monday.....
We discussed in the car which items we were both searching for. Ms CurlyPops wanted some vintage tea towels for her fabulous new Aprons...

And I was searching for a make up case. The Case Ive had for nearly ten years that was picked up in an op shop in Bendigo had finally broken...

I found this case at an Op shop in Bacchus Marsh. It was behind the counter at the shop so I had to ask if if was for sale? The lady replied that it was for sale. I then took a deep breath and asked how much as I have seen similar cases all above $20... But this case was only $4.00...

Another bargain.. I have many more pics to come of some very cool retro items I picked up on this trip that I will post soon..

The Esses have moved..............................................

Mr S and I have moved from the country back to the big city. We have both started new jobs and been busy moving and unpacking. This is why I have been slack posting since december... But now we are organised again and I am hoping to get stuck into some projects...

Sophie is happy in her new home, this poor dog has moved more times than I care to remember. As soon as she notices any sort of packing up she will not leave my side for fear of being left behind...

Smiling Socket is happy in his new home also. He celebrated his frist birthday on New Years and this liitle boy is now in his third house....

Shelby on the other hand has been somewhat destructive for the first few weeks of moving... She could have easily been fostered out because Mr S was quite frustrated with her behaviour. But luckily she has calmed down and enjoying dragging her teddy bears around her new backyard!!!

Hopefully over the next week I will get around and read some blogs and have a little catch up....

Love Fridays

2008-12-05T21:28:00.003+11:00

Well a few reasons to Love Friday today:

* I started my new job yesterday!

* I had today off thankfully so I could recover from yesterday!

* My new job is back in an Aged Care kitchen, after 18 months I was somewhat nervous as to wether I would remember anything, but it all came flooding back!

* I thoroughly cleaned the house today ready for photos on the internet so it can be rented, after all my work the realestate agent was in the house for less than 2 minutes..

* I've started packing for the big move back to Melbourne.

* It was a beautiful, sunny and very warm day here today....

* Now I am organised in the house I am going to start packing more and culling alot more crap we have here so I don't have to move it, I think we are both hoarders?

I haven't been posting much because I've been busy getting ready for the new job, sorting the house and travelling quite abit back and forth to Melbourne! Hopefully in the next week or so I hope to post more often and make some crafty stuff ready for xmas!
If I haven't visited you in a while I will catch up agin soon!!!!

On my Fridge...

2008-11-26T12:02:00.009+11:00

On my fridge is some photos, some magnets, some business cards etc...

I have some kiddy magnets that have been on the fridge from when I lived with my sister and nephew( She kept the child and Freezer and I got the Cat and Fridge!)...

This magnet was a gift from CurlyPops to MrS... He hates Pork and Lamb and basically survives on chicken, I think it was a birthday gift!

This magnet says (A Kitchen Angel to watch over you), this was also a gift from my mum over ten years ago!

MrS and I went through a phase of collecting magnets from each city we visited, this one is from Sydney when his work paid for us to spend the weekend at the Hyatt next to the Harbour Bridge! It was a very beautiful hotel but we were like fish out of water....

This magnet although abit blurry is from lakes Entrance where we stayed via our Honeymoon camping trip! Note to anyone planning a honeymoon, go on the trip overseas, camping is not particularly romantic!

I also have some photos of my eldest nephew that came with the fridge, he was very young in the photos because he is turning ten in a week! Also is the same invite for another nephews birthday, Niko recently turned one!

On my fridge is hosted today by Amy at Badskirt!! With quite a few memes finishing I've been somewhat lost as what to post! Some days I don't have any crafty things happening so memes are great for me...

What to Write????

2008-11-23T22:06:00.002+11:00

Well I feel abit lost tonight without THIS IS..... Sometimes its good to have a theme....
This is a picture of my trusty Vintage dog Sophie..... Shes 12..

Sophie spent most of today watching us taking out the old vegie garden from the backyard to make more space for the dogs to run around. Also today we tidied up the yard ready for the hot season......

By early evening the Chihuahua Mr Socket was asleep on our bed. Sophie was asleep on the couch and Shelby the Labrador was asleep in the loungeroom, obviously it was hard work watching all the gardening today.....

Hopefully they have a nice sleep ready for more excitement tomorrow...

Love Fridays..........................

2008-11-21T15:04:00.005+11:00

This is my little Chef Pastry Brush! Today I have a few reasons to Love Friday:

#1. I got a job! After quite a while realaxing in the country I have a job back in the kitchen of an Aged Care Facility in Melbourne.

#2. Mr S and I have found a way to stay in Melbourne for work and still come home to the country house at weekends.

#3. Once I start work I will have more cash to seek out some treasures from the Ballarat Op Shops...

#4. Our 3 dogs will be able to stay with us in Melbourne and come back to the country on weekends too!!

#5. Mr S will start a new job at a Dealership in Melbourne in the next few weeks..

We originally moved to the country because Mr S had a new job working for a friend! Any hoo that didn't eventuate! Lesson is unfortunately never take people at their word....
After a few months of mayhem it looks like our life is finally going to get back to normal, thankfully...

I just remembered another reason!!! We just went to the Supermarket for shopping and found a Packet of Bertie Beetles, I'm enjoying one now!

For more Love Fridays tootle on over to Big Cat..

Vintage Thingy Thursday.................

2008-11-20T06:58:00.004+11:00

This weeks Vintage Thingy Thursday is this First Aid Kit......

The Aspirin box still has the original tablets...

I chose this First Aid Kit for Vintage Thingy Thursday that was in our house when we bought it. The old tin has all the original bandages, tablets etc....

Does anyone know what year this is from??? I am guessing 60s??

For more Vintage Goodness check out Confessions of an Apron Queen..

THIS IS...My favourite thing from Nature.........

2008-11-16T16:07:00.005+11:00

Thiis is...My favourite thing from nature...... I took these photos 2 weeks ago from my front verandah! The photos don't really show just how red the sky was! It was amazing to look at!

Also two weeks ago Mr S and I went for a drive out bush between Clunes and Talbot on the 4WD tracks... I noticed this Echidna near the track. I took a few photos but it was hard to get a photo of the head because it was balled up in protection mode! It knew i was there... As soon as we slowly drove off the Echidna walked back in to the bush. Friday along the same track we saw 5 Wallabies and a baby Wallaby. (Overseas bloggers Wallabies are like smaller kangaroos!)

This weeks Theme came from Cloth and Fodder. Great theme, it finally gave me a reason to post these photos!

For more action check out Three Buttons...

World Diabetes Day

2008-11-15T10:50:00.002+11:00

Yesterday was World Diabetes Day, I am abit behind schedule but any hoo!

Click here http://worlddiabetesday.org/ to go to the website.

Some of the worlds biggest landmarks were lit up in blue to mark the day....

Most people assume Diabetes only occurs in the older population, but it is now believed to be the next epidemic for children and young people...
Check out the website so you are aware of the warning signs, for yourself or maybe you will notice the signs in someone you know!

*Excessive Thirst
*Frequent Urination
*Weight loss
*Lack of Energy

Diabetes in children and adolescent
Know the diabetes warning signs!
Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases to affect children. It can strike children of any age, even toddlers and babies. If not detected early enough in a child, the disease can be fatal or result in serious brain damage. Yet diabetes in a child is often completely overlooked: it is often misdiagnosed as the flu or it is not diagnosed at all.
Every parent, school teacher, school nurse, doctor and anyone involved in the care of children should be familiar with the warning signs and alert to the diabetes threat.

Late Vintage Thingy Thursday....Love Fridays!!!!

2008-11-14T20:28:00.005+11:00

I didn't post this yesterday. I spent the last few days gardening in very hot weather and ended up with a Cold??? Go figure, but feeling much better today! I posted this jam bowl, sugar bowl and milk jug last week. As you can see from the pics the jam bowl doesn't match the rest!

I stopped at Vinnies Op Shop in Ballarat on wednesday and found this Jam Bowl for $5.00.

When I got home Mr S pointed out the fact that the bowl matches the rest of the set!! Yipee!!!

How Freaky!?! Staring at the matching set makes me really Love a Friday!!

I stopped at another Op Shop today but my newest goodies are still in the car, I will get them out tomorrow and show what i found!!!

More Vintage Goodness go to Confessions of a an apron Queen

And to see who Loves Fridays check out Big Cats Emporium

On my desk on a Wednesday.................

2008-11-12T09:25:00.005+11:00

Not much on my desk today, just some xmas wrapping paper and a couple of t shirts to be wrapped for xmas......

My mum has been staying for the last few days so we can fix the Garden and lawns. She made these garden beds and has been busy planting. The fence was finished on the weekend and today I am hoping to start painting the Steel work on the verandah and front fence....

Yesterday was extremely hot and today will be 32oc and same tomorrow..... Now to remember to water the garden using the tank water of course..........

Saturday Retro Buys!!!!

2008-11-08T22:26:00.006+11:00

I have been busy painting the house so we can sell up and move back to Melbourne! I have a few items on Ebay that are RETRO, so if you like Retro then take a look... Some items I am selling are:

Junghans Starburst Clock, Set of four Recliners Retro Orange, Retro Coffee tables etc... Check out the link http://myworld.ebay.com.au/purpleflare/

Some photos up the top of the page plus more so check out Ebay and tell your friends to bid!! HE! he!

Vintage Thingy Thursday

2008-11-06T18:57:00.003+11:00

Vintage Thingy Thursday...My favourite piece of furniture is my 60s Dressing Table that I found in an Op Shop many years ago for around $30.00.
I like the shape of the mirror and the blue coloured glass top!

I'm busy painting all the bedrooms at the moment so I won't be in blogland very much over the next few days, so if I haven't visited your blog I will be catching up again next week!

For more Vintage Action check out Confessions of an Apron Queen..................

Monday.......

2008-11-03T14:32:00.001+11:00

This is why I love dogs.......... They are always happy to see you.....

Last Day of Blogtoberfest! Love Fridays....

2008-10-31T16:01:00.011+11:00

First of all I want to thank all the peeps out there who have made me feel welcome to Blogland!!! All the people who have read my blog and left me comments, thanks for your effort!
I have really enjoyed Blogging thus far, although I haven't completed too many projects it has been fun reading all the blogs and seeing what great things other crafty people accomplish each day!

Today is the last day of Blogtober fest so here is a quick glimpse of what I have done this month! I bought a new sewing machine, reorganised the backroom and set up the sewing desk..

I made my first card using my glue gun and vintage buttons. I realised I really like making cards...

We had two uninvited guests during Blogtober! Two Blue Tongue Lizards who had to be relocated so the puppies wouldn't eat them! Oh alright, yes they scared me?? I dislike scaly reptiles OK!

Using some remnants from Spotlight I made a little mat for my repainted cabinet!

I posted this string Doll for Vintage Thursday and I think she creeped out alot of people!!! I also picked up the craft book in the background at the local market!

I won my first ever prize! This Gingerbreadman Potholder specially made for Blogtoberfest by the very talented Hoppo Bumpo!

I actually did quite abit of baking, these Fairy Cupcakes, I also made scones and cakes for my weekend visitors!

That is just a few things I posted this month!

A big thanks to Big Cats Emporium for Blogtoberfest, it has been great to find and read more blogs and make bloggy friends!

Oh I nearly forgot why I Love Friday? It's the last day of Blogtoberfest!

And if a miss a post I won't be stressing out! He! He!

Vintage Thing Thursday.....Blogtoberfest Day 30..

2008-10-30T08:55:00.005+11:00

Todays Vintage Thingy Thursday items are a set of Sugar bowl, milk jug and Jam bowl. I really like the Blue Glass in them. Looks like the Sugar bowl and Milk Jug are a set, the Jam Bowl is a different design. I recieved these as a gift on the weekend........
They have been added to my display cupboard, and I may use them for afternoon tea one day!!

For more Vintage Goodness visit Confessions of an Apron Queen..

To see more Blogtoberfest pop on over to Big CAts Emporium....

To enter lots of giveaways tootle on over to Curly Pops.....

On my desk..On a Wednesday..

2008-10-29T21:32:00.001+11:00

On my desk today is a batch of Vintage Buttons, bought from the Antique Store down the road for $3.00....

I made my first handcrafted card! I used different cardboards and a vintage button to give it a flower look... I also got to use my glue gun that I got for $7.00.

Next project on my desk is a photo of my dad from 1946, he was less than a year old. The photo is a bit small for the frame so I want to make a nice background to fill in the space in the frame!

For more On My Desk tootle on over to Kootoyoo...

Blogtoberfest Day 28...

2008-10-28T18:41:00.002+11:00

I don't have anything exciting to post today, but being a participant in Blogtoberfest I must post something...

So here is my second fave singers the Dixie Chicks with Top Of The World.......

Organisation...................

2008-10-27T17:02:00.002+11:00

Last week I mentioned on my blog the untidy state of my desk! Well I actually have a sewing desk that also came with the house! So I have arranged the back room so that the desk can remain open, Mr S moved the sewing machine for me and I neatly put the cotton on the door. The top drawer has been arranged neatly with all the pins and tape etc... Just don't look in the other three drawers, they are still messy!

This is..What I'm suprised I like....

2008-10-26T21:29:00.005+11:00

This is ...WHat I'm suprised I like..... I'm not a big spender so when it comes to perfume I try to buy something on special. I never thought I would like this perfume, Britney Spears In Control, but I do...Yes I did say Britney Spears???
Quite a few times I've been complimented on my perfume and then asked what it is! I usually ignore the question because I don't want to tell anyone.......
But for some reason this one smells good on me????
To see who else is playing This is head over to Three Buttons and thanks to Earl and Cookie for this weeks theme....

It was a very hot day, I spent most of the day outside watching Mr S and my brother building a fence to keep the dogs in... The holes were dug and the water pipe was cut...THen that was repaired and the posts were cemented in and next weekend the colourbond sheets and gates will be done....

My eldest nephew came to visit for the day and spent alot of time on his motorbike riding around town. He also spent alot of time on the BMX.... I sent him home all dirty so I'm sure he had fun... :-)

Saturday Baking...................

2008-10-25T14:12:00.006+11:00

As I have visitors today I made some cupcakes.. I got the tray from the oven using my new Potholders from Hoppo Bumpo!!!

I also made Cinnamon Tea Cake.....

I used a packet of Aldi Vanilla Cake mix and added sugar, butter and Cinnamon on top..

For the cupcakes I used Greens Fairy Cake mix, it came with the cake mix, icing, patty papers and edible glitter. But I also used 100s & 1000s....

Now I must not eat any until the visitors arrive........ Have a nice Saturday!!!!

Love Fridays..... New package..

2008-10-24T19:17:00.011+11:00

Today I recieved a post parcel!! Very exciting, as I opened it I told Mr S to hurry and grab the camera before I ripped it open! I won Liesl's giveaway for Blogtoberfest and here it is: It was wrapped in Purple my favourite colour!!! And came with a beautiful card attached!

I read the card and opened the package, it was the georgous Gingerbread Men Pot Holder and the generous Liesl also made me a special Pot Holder to match my kitchen! What a wonderful suprise.......

I love the Gingerbread Men it is very original!

One side of the extra Potholder Liesl made me is a retro black and white..

And the other side is a funky Red!!!

Thanks to the Lovely Liesl at Hoppo Bumpo for going to so much trouble just for me! I wasn't having the best friday so timing of this parcel was perfecto!!!!

I am making Cup cakes tomorrow for my visitors so they will be straight to work tomorrow morning..........

For more Love Fridays go to Big Cats Emporium...

Vintage Thing Thursday...............

2008-10-23T17:34:00.007+11:00

I have been in Melbourne today and just got home in time to post! Phew!! I called in to Curlypops and took a look at her great production line of bags. If you would like to have a look, I'm sure they will be added to The CurlyPops shop very soon... Vintage Thingy Thursady Presents: Fire King Made in the USA...

This is the first piece I got. It's a jug that I bought I think at a market for $2...

Then I was given this Sugar bowl...

And then 6 Mugs...

Although they aren't an exact match, they are all Fire King which I believe were made in the 1970s. Put them all together and I have a set for afternoon teas....

If you would like to see more vintage thingys ona Thursday then tootle on over to Confessions of an Apron Queen..

On my desk..On a Wednesday..

2008-10-22T10:38:00.003+11:00

My desk is covered with bits and pieces, because I changed the back room around on saturday. When we bought our house it came with a Pool table, and although it seemed like a great idea to keep the table it took up most of the room. We decided to sell it and turn the backroom into another lounge area, along with the computer desk, craft desk and sewing desk! The rest of the room looks neat and tidy but everything was piled on top of my desk.

My aim is to put all the sewing stuff inside the sewing cupboard! That would make sense wouldn't it? And I want to keep my eye out for an old bookcase to stack all my bits and pieces inside! Thus clearing my desk so I can actually use it for its intended use!

If you would like to join in On my Desk tootle on over to Kootoyoo..

ARIAS...Country Album of the Year 2008

2008-10-21T14:53:00.003+11:00

I was very excited that Kasey Chambers and Shane Nicholson won Country Album of the year at the ARIAS.. For their Album Rattlin Bones.... They were also nominated for Album of the year but they lost to crappy rave music types...

Tuesday Blogtoberfest Day 21...Animals

2008-10-21T14:17:00.006+11:00

Well I have been abit slack, there is nothing crafty happening today so I am posting some pics instead! Here is Dorothy sitting behind the computer screen, watching the dogs through the safety of the window. What is with cats always hanging around computers???

This Is Shelby the Labrador and Mr Socket the Chihuahua X Jack Russell with their latest Op shop present, a blue bunny! Whenever I go to the op shops I usually grab them a teddy to play with because they love tug of war!

Shelby drags bears around the house and she sleeps with them! I have found they love bunnys because they find it easier to grab hold of the ears! So far this bunny has his ears intact but for sure sooner or later they will be torn off! This bunny only cost me a $1.00. Great investment!

More Tug of War! Hopefully tomorrows post maybe more interesting!!!

Happy Blogtoberfest!!!

Moday... Blogtoberfest Day 20.

2008-10-20T09:40:00.003+11:00

On Sunday we had family staying with us so we took a drive to the Talbot Farmers Market. Talbot is approx 15 mins from Maryborough or 35 mins from Ballarat! I only came home with one bargain, this bowl which is made in England and is the same as Pyrex. It has a cute design and was only $1.60.....Nice and Cheap!!!

I cleaned the fish tank on Sauturday and added some more greenery for Slide to hide in. He is a very happy fish and he is quite durable with the Bore Water!

This is... My Favourite Movie....

2008-10-19T14:04:00.003+11:00

The answer to this question would be the same as Curlypops, but my second choice would be Ferris Buellers Day Off...

I have probably lost count of how many times I have seen this movie also! And its also very easy to remember the words..

I always wished my days of wagging school could have been this fun.....

There are alot of great movies from the 1980s that are classics, I just don't think they make memorable movies like this anymore!

"Life moves pretty fast, if you don't stop and look once in a while, you could miss it"!

Classic Ferris Quote....

Thanks to Hokey for this weeks theme, and to see who else is playing check out Three buttons..

Another one for CurlyPops....

2008-10-19T13:54:00.001+11:00

You tube video for The Breakfast Club, check out Curlypops...

Scones

2008-10-18T18:37:00.004+11:00

I did remember to take pics afterall! Here is a batch of Scones I made, served with jam and cream for todays visitors!

Saturday Blogtoberfest Day 18....

2008-10-18T14:22:00.002+11:00

Last sunday I bought three little jars to make candles with, and 5 rolls of cotton for $1.00. A little bargain I forgot to share last week! I have visitors arriving soon so Im off to the cupboard to see what ingredients I have to whip something up for afternoon tea. Hopefully I will remember to take a photo before we eat so I can post later today!
Oh and its very warm and muggy here today in the goldfields, summer is approaching...

Friday Fave Music...Yeh I uploaded a video..

2008-10-17T15:37:00.002+11:00

As below, this is my fave clip many thanks to the lovely Drewzel for giving me directions to upload the clip! Its great to get so much help in Bloggy land from kind people!

Slight delay when you click on video, please be patient!

Kasey Chambers

2008-10-17T13:50:00.002+11:00

Friday Fave Music,

I don't know how to upload a video..:(
So go to this link to see one of my favourite songs.
Kasey Chambers and Paul Kelly I still Pray..

This song was recently played on Underbelly around the third episode when the ex bikie chick gets murdered.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4QBTot7ObM

Love Fridays..And Blogtoberfest Day 17...

2008-10-17T12:55:00.004+11:00

Why do I love Friday this week Hhhmmm..Let me find 10 reasons!

No:1 Its a beautiful Sunny Day once again...

No:2 We have visitors coming to visit this weekend..

No:3 My brother is coming to build a side fence to keep the dogs in..

No:4 I worked today and finished at 10am..

No:5 The missing Lizard turned up again yesterday and the Widlife rescue came and picked it up to release it back to the bush, so the dogs are not barking anymore and are playing happily in the back yard...

No:6 Mr S has a job interview this afternoon. So he is happy!

No:7 Most of the housework is done so I can relax...

No:8 Mr S picked me up from work and we stopped at Vinnies and I found an old Stick Pony. He asked what the hell I was going to do with it and I told him I would paint it and leave it in the spare room for when my nephews visit!

No:9 The ride on Stick Pony thing was only $2.00 BARGAIN.....

No:10 When I was at work this morning at the shopping centre, I heard Kasey Chambers singing through the speaker system. Aaahh. I love Kasey!...............

I was thinking of making a fringe and mane for this pony would wool be alright? ANy suggestions for his makeover more than welcome! Have a great weekend!

If you would like to see who is joining in Love Fridays then pop on over to this lovely lady!

Vintage Thingy Thursday...

2008-10-16T11:05:00.005+11:00

I went to the Ballarat Market on Sunday and found this craft book for $3.00.

Inside is instructions of how to make a Doll Face String Holder along with lots of other fun projects! This book was printed in 1972.

Later that Day I recieved a Doll Face String Holder from a friend! What a coincidence!

The string ball is put in the back of the head and tied, then the string is accessed from the Dolls mouth. A clever way of accessing string in a Pretty doll...

If you would like to join in or see who else is joining in Vintage Thingy Thursday then tootle on over to Confessions of an Apron Queen...

On my desk on a Wednesday! Blogtoberfest Day 15...

2008-10-15T10:09:00.004+11:00

On my desk today is a stash of stuff I found in shopping bags last night that I forget to unpack last week. OOopps! I got myself some cardboard, textas, glue gun, ruler cutter, beads, pliers and green cordoruay remnants.. I intend to use most of it for cards. I want to take on a challenge of making some earrings but I will probably have to ask Curlypops for some help..

And on my kitchen table I have some Chocolate and Caramel Muffins!

I packet of Aldi Muffin Mix and some extra choc chips! Cheating I know....

If you would like to see who else is playing today then tootle on over to Kootoyoo!

Haircuts............Blogtobering along!

2008-10-14T19:56:00.003+11:00

Today I went to the hairdresser to get a cut, colour and a few random foils. I always have the same problem when I leave? They always dry and straighten your hair to make you look ten years older!
I had a great hairdresser in Melbourne who I could trust to do whatever she thought would suit me and I always walked away happy!!! Since our move there is only one hairdresser in town who works on her own. I came to the realisation today that most of her clients are probably over 60yrs old!
Today I thought I would straighten my hair before I went, so the Hairdresser would get an idea of my style...
Oh dear, it was dryed and poofed and straightened to curl around the back of my head! I dont spend alot of time doing my hair every day, I like abit of a shake and its done look! Im pretty sure I look around 40 to 50 today instead of 32!
To top things off Mr S who never really comments on my hair, had a comment! He said it looks really nice! I said "Are you kidding, I look like an old lady!".
Anyway I'm heading to the shower to wash out the hairspray, I never use hairspray, I'm a wax girl!!!!!!

Kitchen Revamp.....Blogtoberfest Tuesday Day 14...And I won..

2008-10-13T23:51:00.010+11:00

If you check out my earlier posts, my kitchen was all cream with green cupboards and drawers. When we bought this house in April the kitchen floor was green carpet squares! When we moved in we pulled up the carpet squares to discover the original Lino which has specs of green, blue and silver in it and dispite the age of the Lino its in great condition!

I started with taking off all the drawers and doors(Curlypops reminded me to number them due to an earlier incident with 20+ plus Full sized doors at another house that I didn't number, long story).

I took the handles off each one, they were chrome with cream painted circles. Mr S wiped the handles with paint stripper and we kept them entirely chrome!

I spent many hours with the electric sander! I painted the doors and drawers first with one coat of grey tinted primer then two coats of Fire Engine Red.

Then I sanded the inside and outside of the cupboards and painted those with two coats of White Gloss. Then Mr S reassembled the doors and drawers and attached the handles. I thought this would take me 2 days but probably took me over a week!

The free standing Cabinet was also featured in an earlier post and was painted Chrome and Fire Engine Red. I needed extra room to display the retro stuff I collect.

My table and chairs were originally my husbands great Grandfathers who passed away earlier this year. The set has an Extendable laminate table, six chairs and a step stool! Under the table it has Pa's name written from where he ordered it back in the sixties. So its a nice heirloom and perfect for a 60s kitchen!

Thanks to Curlypops and Mr S who both encouraged me to go with Fire Engine Red, it has worked out well!

Next plan will be to paint the kitchen walls and make some new curtains..

PLUS to add to my excitement I joined in Hoppo Bumpos giveaway last week to celebrate Blogtoberfest, and I WON!!! I was very excited when I saw the Gingerbread men on the Pot Holder and it was truly love at first sight! I never win anything so it adds to my excitement so the lovely Liesl is sending the Gingerbread men my way! Yipee!!!!

Blogtoberfest Day 13......

2008-10-13T14:48:00.004+11:00

I don't have alot to report today! I am working on the finishing touches to my kitchen cupboards which hopefully tomorrow I can unveil.

Yesterday I went to the Ballarat Market and the Clunes market, although I bought a couple of things I am keeping them secret for later in the week. I think I will share them for Vintage Thingy Thursday...

So heres a photo of Sophie, Shelby and Socket taking a last look at the Ugly Green kitchen cupboards. I think they will be pleased with the end result!

If you would like to see who else is participating in Blogtoberfest head on over to

Big Cats Emporium...

This is.....My reading..

2008-10-12T13:56:00.006+11:00

Alright time to come clean.. I don't really read books! Many years ago when I caught public transport I read a lot of novels but now I get easily distracted and usually would only read the first few pages. But every day I get online to read the Herald Sun news! Does that count as reading???

Also ever since I started blogging a couple of weeks ago I find myself reading blogs for hours and I still haven't got to them all!

Mr S has a subscription to Caravan World. He is obsessed with buying a caravan when we retire and travel around Australia. I figure at the moment its cheaper to amuse him with the magazine subscription than purchasing a van!

I must admit though I always pick it up and flick through the pages and if a caravan stands out then I will read about its features etc. Very importantly I told him when we make that purchase the caravan will need a shower and toilet! I have spent a lot of time camping over the years and I decided I am too old to be getting up and walking in the dark to communal amenities anymore.

So this is a pic of the November 08 issue and it features the new Windsor Royale which has everything to make camping comfy! So if I wan tattslotto this is what I would like. The heading states fit for a king but I figure it would be fit for a queen too!

If you would like to see who else is joining in check out Three Buttons and thanks goes to
My Champagne Dreams for hosting this weeks This Is..

Blogtoberfest! Day 12.....Meme....

2008-10-12T12:28:00.003+11:00

The lovely Drewzel tagged me for this meme...
I have to list 6 Quirky, yet Boring unspectacular details about myself! This should be easy but I actually needed a few days to think about it. So here we go:

6 unique things about me ~
1) Link to the person who tagged you
2) Mention the rules
3) Tell six quirky yet boring, unspectacular details about yourself
4) Tag six other bloggers by linking to them
5) Go to each person’s blog and leave a comment that lets them know they’ve been tagged

No1: When I walk on paths or concrete I count in my head how many steps in between the lines and it has to be an even number! I think I've got OCD....?

No2: When I'm shopping I will only spend a maximum of $20 per item, even if I find a nice shirt thats $25 I wont buy it because its not cheap enough? Frugal or Tight?

No3: My name starts with S and my husbands name starts with S, so his family dubbed us the Essess... My 12 year old Silky Terrier is named Sophie.. So all our animals now start with an S. Theres Sophie, Shelby, Socket and Slide the fish. All but the cat I inherited from my nephew whos named Dorothy.(After the Wiggles!)

No4: I hated School Sports! One year I was made to attend and participate in Swimming when I was around 14. I was about half way down the pool when I was told just to get out so they could start the next race! I came last.. It was bad enough I had to wear bathers! I refused to go to any other swimming sports days.

No5: I find it really hard to clean the house during the day! I seem to get motivated by about 9pm then I get stuck in to the cleaning and washing and manage to get it done in a couple of hours.

No6: I bought my first car a 1976 Datsun Coupe when I was 17 for $400. My little brother and I would drive around Flora Hill in Bendigo before I even got a license.
When I went for my license I knocked over the witches hats when I tried to parallel park. When we got back to Vicroads they had already cancelled my Ls license so they took me out again and I managed to get the parking right and got my license!

My little Sophie, her eyes are abit green because of the cataracts!..

So now I am going to tag some of my daily reads:

Curly Pops

Coloradolady

Two Cheese Please

Two Peas in a Pod

Snailblazer

If you have already done this meme, then skip 6 times..

Uninvited Visitors!! Blogtoberfest Day 11.....

2008-10-11T13:13:00.005+11:00

EEEEKKKK!!!!! Yesterday my chihuahua was barking outside so I went to investigate! Usually he barks at air, I think he suffers from little dog syndrome. But I saw a scaly head pop up and basically freaked out. So then the labrador went for a look. I called the dogs inside and quickly closed the door!

Of course this would happen when Mr S wasn't home so I called him on his mobile and he said he was on his way home. Mr S arrived home and called Wildlife and was told not to worry it would move on in a few hours! Meanwhile watching from the window we realised there was 2 Lizards! This morning we got up and looked out the window to see them still there and basking in the sunlight! I told Mr S to call someone asap, we pay the mortgage not these reptiles so they need to leave! Finally we have Badger Rescue 1800 BADGER, on their way to catch the lizards and relocate them in the bush.

I hate creepy crawlies and reptiles and dogs are very inquisitive so they need to go before the dogs eat them. Plus I dont want the dogs to get hurt either.

And to top things off, yesterday when we realised there were 2 Lizards. One was biting the other and they were humping! Apparently its mating season. Now I think I will need therapy!

Since I posted the Badger volunteer and his kids came out and found one of the lizards, he said the other one has probably left already! He even commented that this lizard was a big one. He said it is a Blue Tongue. His kids werent scared of the lizard either but Mr S and I were standing right back because they still creep me out!

Our house is situated across the road from a creek so he said they have probably wandered from the creek and lost their way, hence deciding to hide out in a pipe in our back yard! Now we are going to demolish the pipe and the surrounding concrete so nothing invites and reptiles to our yard!

Love Fridays and Blogtoberfest Day 10.......

2008-10-10T11:19:00.002+11:00

I have a couple of reasons to Love Friday this week!

No 1: Its beautiful and Sunny outside.
No2: The bakery reopens today! ( Its been closed for renovations)
No3: Great weather means grest markets to check out this weekend.
No4: I'm doing the last coat of paint to my kitchen cupboards.
No5: When Mr S gets home from work he will be putting the kitchen drawers and doors back together and I will NEVER have to look at this Ugly Green kitchen again!

If you would like to join in Love Fridays then tootle on over to Big Cats Emporium to sign up or check out who else is playing...

Vintage Thingy Thursday!!!!!

2008-10-09T14:24:00.006+11:00

Vintage Thingy Thursday!!!!! I love thursdays because I get to share some of my favourite things..

I was given these glasses, I think they are 50s or 60s. They are a set of six, different colours with gold rims.. They are sitting in my refurbished cabinet so that I can gaze at them!!!

Ive had a busy day today with food shopping, Spotlight Shopping and I even found a Salvos Thrift shop where I picked up some specials.... I need more time to go back and have a better look through what they have!!! Maybe tomorrow??? Thanks to Confessions of an Apron Queen for hosting Vintage thingy Thursday, head on over and see who else is playing!!!

On my desk on a wednesday! Blogtoberfest Day 8...

2008-10-08T10:18:00.008+11:00

On my desk on a wednesday, I have my new sewing machine, a little case that I am storing my sewing stuff in (tape,cotton etc). Some material left from lastnights project. Some new glue and tape that I took out of the packaging, now to find somewhere to keep it! hmm..

Floral print remnant from Spotlight $1.00..

I made a small mat? to cover the rust stain on the Cabinet I painted last week. Muchos Better..

If you would like to join in On my Desk head on over to Kootoyoo! If you would like to join in Blogtoberfest then check out Bigcats Emporium...

Blogtoberfest Tuesday Day 7!!!!

2008-10-07T13:38:00.003+11:00

As I am still amidst my painting project, its taking a little longer than expected!
I am asking all of the crafty people out there for suggestions of what I can make from the Elvis material that I posted a few days back. I bought it from Spotlight in the remnants bin for a $1.00 a piece! I have two pieces approxiamately 115cm X 63cm. I am abit of a novice so needs to be something I would be able to tackle...
Leave me a message with any thoughts you may have. And head on over to Bellgirl she generously put a link on her blog and came up with this idea fro me! So thankyou bellgirl!! x
If you would like to join in Blogtoberfest head on over to Bigcats Emporium or if you have any giveaways for blogtoberfest head on over to Big cats assistant Curlypops...

Blogtoberfest Monday... Day 6

2008-10-06T21:50:00.003+11:00

I spent today in Melbourne so I didnt get anything crafty done... But I found this Artwork Stationery Assembly that I am going to use to make cards etc at Sams Warehouse. It usually sells for $19.99 but it was on sale for $9.97...yeah!! I love getting things on special.
Anyway we just got home from Melbourne but as we got just near Creswick we had a very close encounter with a Wallaby on the road... Mr S tooted and swerved (we were towing a trailer too) and lucky the wallaby got scared and ran off the road.. I think Mr S got a very big fright!! The poor wallaby probably got scared aswell...

This Is......My Favourite Kitchen Gadget

2008-10-05T15:24:00.004+11:00

This my Favourite Kitchen Gadget, Well maybe not really a gadget but I use this Sunbeam Electric Frypan most days... Because I live in a small town without any Gas, we only have an electric stove and oven.. Electric stove tops are quite difficult at times to regulate the heat so I pretty well just use the frypan.... And yes I am for real there is no gas in this town unless you get bottled gas???

Whilst looking through my cupboards I found what must become my favourite gadget.. Its a brand new mini food processor that I bought before I moved house. I didnt unpack it when I got it because I figured I would just have to repack it etc... Any Hoo now that I remembered I have it I shall unpack it and make some use of it, maybe by chopping some vegies to hide in my food? Just like Curly Pops does....

Thanks to handmaiden for hosting this is and if you would like to join in head over to three buttons!!!

Blogtober Sunday... Day 5..

2008-10-05T15:03:00.005+11:00

On the way back hom from the market we stopped at a Garage Sale in Clunes... I picked up this 70s tin made by Willow for .50c and these vintage pillowcases for .50c each.. Great bargain.

They also had a cool retro telephone table for only $5 but Mr S said "where are you going to put it? We have no room.", I thought for a moment and although it was a bargain I had to leave it behind because we really are over furnished...

Sunday Market.........

2008-10-05T14:45:00.002+11:00

Today we went to the Maryborough Market, located about 45 mins from Ballarat, Victoria.. It was a beautiful, sunny day and lots of Crafty goods, Retro Items, Old books and Glassware...
It is run by the Lions Club at the Carisbrook Trotting Complex, Maryborough. It is on the First Sunday of the month and well worth a look.

Fabric...

2008-10-04T12:33:00.004+10:00

Blogtoberfest Day4.

I bought some remnants from Spotlight for $1.00. The first piece is a pretty floral and the second piece is blue Elvis Print... I really dont know what Im going to do with the Elvis print but it looks pretty cool.......

Lastnight I stayed up very late in the shed and sanded all of my kitchen doors and drawers, they were an ugly green colour so hopefully by tomorrow they will be fire engine red to match my kitchen cabinet that I painted earlier in the week...

So stay tuned..............................................

Love Fridays..............

2008-10-03T10:41:00.001+10:00

What better reason to Love Friday than my first sewing accomplishment in a very long time.

My bathroom wall has Pink paneling in the wet areas, because its an old house.

Photo doesnt quite do the colours justice its a lot brighter pink. I had a Pink Voile curtain hanging there that came with the house so I wanted to add some other colours so I have more choice for different coloured towels etc... The new sewing machine worked a treat, I only had to unpick once because I had a problem with the bobbin......

Check out Bigcats Emporium if you would like to join in Love Fridays..

New Pressie for me.......

2008-10-02T15:26:00.000+10:00

Well where do I start?? Im something of a novice when it comes to sewing, over the years Ive made some curtains and shorts but thats about it...
I originally had an old sewing machine but I decided to sell it on Ebay because I wasnt using it at all. Then when I moved I realised I still need a sewing machine to make more curtains for my new house...Anyway I got given a mini sewing machine which I fooloishly thought would do the job...
Yesterday I bought some lovely fabric from Spotlight so I could make some curtains for my bathroom because I cant stand the ugly ones that came with the house. Yes it was a disaster trying to get the mini sewing machine to work. Lets just say its a piece of C#*P!
Lucky for me Mr S took me to Lincraft in Ballarat today and got me a new one! Yipee!!! But Im going to unpack it later today because its beautiful day outside and we have alot of lawn to cut!! Dont worry I do the fun part on the rideon mower and Mr S does the edges etc...
I hope this sewing machine will be nice to use, and maybe I can get abit more crafty like my Big Sis Curly Pops or maybe not...........................
I will be back tomorrow with some new curtains, hopefully!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Vintage thingy Thursday................

2008-10-02T09:26:00.001+10:00

This is my 60s Glamaware Tea Set. It includes Tea Pot, Hot Water Pot and Sugar bowl. Its a very cool anodised Blue colour. The handles are made from Bakelite. It even comes with its own tray.

The whistling kettle isnt part of the set but its also Anodised Blue...........So it matches in...

Thanks to Confessions of an Apron Queen for letting me join the fun...

Project Finished!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-01T12:50:00.000+10:00

Spray Gun for can sprays, makes it alot easier to spray evenly..............

Using the heater to get the primer to dry quicker....

This is what it looked like before......

And now.....

I saw this Kitchen cupboard at my mums house, it was originally in Curly pops house at that time it was painted pink and purple..When mum got it she painted it orange and white...

So now it has been sanded, the silver is actually chrome paint in a can. The red trim and doors were sanded and primed, then painted Fire Engine Red. Unfortunately the pics are not great from the shed.

Mr S polished the chrome handles on the buffer for me and helped put the hinges back on the door.

I have alot of collectibles that I want to put in the glass display, because the built in glass display in my kitchen doesnt have enough room?

So next I need to move a cupboard out of the kitchen so I can put this one in......

On my desk...

2008-10-01T10:37:00.001+10:00

On my desk........Abit of a mess, I have been wrapping alot of presents for several nephews upcoming birthdays. I have a wooden spice rack that I bought at a Garage Sale for .50c. Im thinking of lightly sanding it and painting it to match the kitchen..

The Purple Container is where I keep all of my wrapping paper and gifts that I purchase ahead of time so that I can find them..I also have some photo frames that I bought for $2 that I want to add some pizazz to before I use them...

Thanks to Kootoyoo for letting me join in!!!!!

Project Supervisors...

2008-09-30T19:33:00.000+10:00

Mr S and myself were in the shed until very late last night. Mr S was doing some work on a Early XK falcon he is restoring and I was painting my project..It got so late that the supervisors needed a nap while waiting for us to finish...

I have a couple of final touches to make tomorrow and then I will be posting before and after pictures of my Project!!! Yipee.....

Head on over to Curly Pops to see her fabric stashes!!!

Off to the shed..

2008-09-29T16:26:00.000+10:00

Mr S and I went to Bunnings today to buy some paint for my next project. So Im off to the cold shed to start it!! Stay tuned..................................

2008-09-28T22:12:00.000+10:00

This is.......my favourite piece of furniture!!

2008-09-28T20:23:00.000+10:00

Im joining in this weeks this is.....Its a 60s style dressing table that I bought a few years ago for $35 from an op shop... I fell in love with the coloured glass top and have moved a few times with it and had it in houses it didnt suit...Until now!! A few months ago I moved in to a 60s house and I was very happy to be able to show off the dressing table in the right house....
For more of This is, check out Angela's blog...and of course you should go and visit the lovely Sharon who has been doing a fabulous job filling in while Angela has been away.

Where I would like to be...............

2008-09-27T21:48:00.000+10:00

This is where I would have liked to be today!
It was a beautiful sunny day, great for the beach. But I was dealing with broken down cars, picking up car parts and driving no faster than 85km on a highway that has a speed limit of 110km.....
But its nice to look at pictures and dream of somewhere nice...:(

Friday Tea, Grilled Bacon and Cheese Chips..Yum...

2008-09-26T21:51:00.000+10:00

Tonights tea was just a simple snack.....

1 packet Oven fried Chips

4 rashers bacon

2 cups shredded cheese

Oven roast the chips for 20 min on 160oc

Fry the bacon in frypan..

Sprinkle the cheese and bacon on top of the chips and bake 180oc for a further 10-15 minutes..

Vintage Tablecloth

2008-09-26T21:43:00.000+10:00

I bought this tablecloth a few weeks ago from Ebay, Its basically brandnew. I gave it a wash and today I finally ironed it and put it on the kitchen table...

Bargain

2008-09-26T19:30:00.000+10:00

This is a BARGAIN I picked up last weekend at the Talbot Market in Country Victoria... It is a Farmers Market and its on the last sunday every month.

Eachtime we go there is an older man selling glassware and collectables. This time I picked up this Caraffe thats Orange looks 70s for the bargain price of $1.80 yes I know its cheap I gave the guy $2.00 and told him to keep the change.......