fede stocking stuffers (candy cane rattles)

These little candy cane rattles are now available online. Perfect for baby's first Christmas, they can chew, slobber and jingle to their hearts content. I've only made a handful so get in quick - they are a bargain at US$14.

rockin' the peg bag

...cause that's what I do.... hang out lots of washing!

I think I missed my call as a peg bag model. Ho Ho Ho...oh so hilarious Fiona! (sleep deprived humour). So anyway, I made myself a new peg bag as the old one disintegrated. Found this plastic coated fabric at Ikea which will hopefully withstand some of the outside elements for at least a season. I'm a big fan of the shoulder peg bag - much easier than using a go to basket. In fact I've even convinced DH to whip it over his shoulder when he's at the line...mmmm...must get a photo of that :)

just because it's not Halloween..

We know it's not Halloween... meh..missed that one (well we don't really celebrate it much here in Australia) but tonight after school we accidentally fell into a ghoulish type theme. Completely impromptu. On walking back to the car from school we passed a school mate's little brother with a Spiderman painted face. During our drive home it was decided that Mum would face paint this evening... and Mum begrudgingly agreed! Admittedly once we got started it was fun and I got into the spirit. I think the painted finger nails just topped it off and kept the customers happy.

On Monday I found out that a friend who I hadn't seen for a couple of years had passed away after being diagnosed with leukaemia only 8 months earlier. Like me, she had 3 children (almost identical ages) who have lost their devoted mother in the saddest of circumstances. She discovered her illness 3 weeks prior to giving birth to her youngest son and was consequently isolated from him for the first 3 months of his life. It has absolutely shocked me beyond belief that this could happen to a beautiful young woman in the prime of her life with so much love to give and receive from her growing family. It seems that almost everything I do throughout the day reminds me of Nicole and the loss that must be felt by her family. It's a reminder that life really must be lived each day to the fullest as you never know if it will be your last. On that note, I decided to take the kids bowling on Monday night after school which is not something we would usually do on a week night. As Nicole would have said, "it was ace!"  Rest in peace lovely lady.

something little | pop up shop

I'm preparing to take part in this adorable new market kicking off in Melbourne at the Clubhouse Canteen on November 27th. Maria and Tiffany are the lovely ladies behind the concept and they have gathered a collection of artists/makers who celebrate childhood, motherhood and sisterhood in their work. Visit the Something Little facebook page or blog for more information about the day and who will be there.

So if you know peoples in Melbourne then please spread the word and tell them all about it!

{ this moment } a day late!

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember

If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments at Soule Mama for all to find and see.

in the mail....

You know I love parcels. Yesterday's mail was exciting.

Firstly I opened an envelope to find this stunning printed fabric so beautifully packaged from Belinda Kemp (aka gretchenmist). My desk is covered in all things blue and green at the moment so these fabrics continue the theme.

The other letter that came in the mail was from the school to say that Sachin is due to start his transition visits in 2 weeks. Awwwww... my little boy going to school! How did that come around so fast? I recall having a conversation a couple of months ago with another mum and saying that I really questioned whether he would be ready to go when he turned five. It's amazing how all of the sudden they develop emotionally and seem so much older in the last term of Kindergarten.

I remember exactly the same thing happening with Ruby before she started school. So young Sachin will be celebrating his 5th birthday in a few weeks and no surprises here, it's going to be a Lego party (remember the t-shirt). No complaints from me. I think it sounds like super fun and there are a stream of ideas running through my head! I've just ordered some of these for the party (favor) bags - aren't they great :)

buying handmade for christmas

Last year I had planned to make Christmas gifts but my pregnancy fatigue had other plans! Just incase that happens again (oh no not the pregnancy bit... but the lack of production) I have a backup plan. Shop handmade.

Here's a couple of links showcasing great handmade gift ideas and beautiful online shops where you will be able to find something for everyone on your list.

Irene of the amazing Bloesem Blogs (seriously good reading) has put together her Bloesem Kids 2011 Gift Guide.

Magdalena Orlik has been curating this gallery of Etsy Designers and their shops on her Design Dot Team blog.


Happy Shopping!