Well, I am going to have a new grand daughter in December and I have already been told off for not doing any knitting!
So today I have bought myself some wool and fully intend to start knitting this evening if I can find my needles.
I think it will be a pair of bootees to start with!! and we will take it from there.
It has been a very busy weekend with family down for my hubby's birthday, I have also had to make a wedding card for a friend, which I am glad to say was completed last night and posted today but I forgot to take a photo!
I also need to check the rabbit magazines for the show schedules and closing dates as there are a few shows coming up that I want to enter, another busy week ahead I think!
Monday, 1 August 2011
Thursday, 21 July 2011
Rabbits at the Royal Welsh
I took along 3 rabbits to the Royal Welsh 4 star show yesterday and had a really good time. I had actually entered 6 rabbits but due to moult decided it wasn't worth stressing out the other 3 so they were left behind.
I had a mixed result, you could say I was disappointed, and you could say I did rather well!! If you have been watching the TV reports this week I am sure you are aware how hard it is to get placed and receive a card let alone be first in your class, so in that respect I did well.
The Young Siamese sable under 5 months, got a first in its class in the 4 star show and in the 3 star supporting young stock show, it also won a challenge certificate and was 3rd in the under 5 month fur challenge in both shows, this rabbit did better than I expected.
The Ivory Satin Buck did not get a card, this was a strong class and the winning rabbits all deserved there places so not disappointed here either, as he was a little moulty and not of winning standard ( maybe I should have left him at home too)
The Mini Satin -there was no special class for this rabbit as the breed is so new to the fancy that not all shows are laying on special classes, so it had to be shown in the Any Other Fur class,
it won, got the first and a challenge certificate, it also get a 2nd in the doe class and was 3rd in the Fur challenge.
This was my biggest disappointment, although it did well. I was expecting it to do better!!
Maybe my expectations were too high!! but maybe the judge didn't want to put a new breed up!! or simply maybe it just wasn't good enough in his eyes.
Whatever the reason that's showing and you have to take the good with the bad, the judges decision is final at the end of the day and that's that.
But I know that it was a fit rabbit on the day!
The winning rabbit was an Ermine Rex shown by Godolphin Stud and a worthy winner!
Well done, in a show of this standard and with so many rabbits in particular fancy rabbits it did extremely well.
Now all I need to do is make sure I win it next year, back to the planning I think!!
Monday, 13 June 2011
Honey Wedding Favours
We are launching a new business selling Honey.
Our Apiary in North Wales is expanding and we hope to sell our Welsh Honey locally at specialist food shops, the local Honey Fair and on the internet in the form of Wedding Favours.
I have launched some favours on Etsy this weekend, all of which can be personalised or changed to suit your wedding colours or theme.
Our Honey is Pure, nothing added or taken away and is not treated ina any way.
It is extracted from the hive in the most natural way through spining and then left to settle before storing in jars.
Our bees are very busy at the moment collecting nectar and we hope to be extracting more honey very soon.
Please check out my shop on etsy http://www.etsy.com/listing/75811052/wedding-favour-12-mini-jars-welsh-honey
Our Apiary in North Wales is expanding and we hope to sell our Welsh Honey locally at specialist food shops, the local Honey Fair and on the internet in the form of Wedding Favours.
I have launched some favours on Etsy this weekend, all of which can be personalised or changed to suit your wedding colours or theme.
Our Honey is Pure, nothing added or taken away and is not treated ina any way.
It is extracted from the hive in the most natural way through spining and then left to settle before storing in jars.
Our bees are very busy at the moment collecting nectar and we hope to be extracting more honey very soon.
Please check out my shop on etsy http://www.etsy.com/listing/75811052/wedding-favour-12-mini-jars-welsh-honey
Tuesday, 24 May 2011
Welsh Witch -Cast A Spell
I have also had a watercolour printed for a greetings card, which has been left blank for your own personal message.
The welsh witch only casts good magic spells, can she cast one for you!!
The welsh witch only casts good magic spells, can she cast one for you!!
Buy at www.folksy.com/shops/mamoo
New "Home" Print For Sale
Well I finally plucked up the courage to get my "Home" piece of artwork professionally printed as my lovely daughter suggested. It really wasn't as daunting as I first thought it would be.
And the result was much better than I ever imagined, see what you think! The print can be purchased at my Folksy or Etsy shop depending on where you live as the postage may make a difference.
And the result was much better than I ever imagined, see what you think! The print can be purchased at my Folksy or Etsy shop depending on where you live as the postage may make a difference.
It is sold unmounted and unframed to allow you to choose a beautiful frame to fit in with your decor.
I hope you like it!
Thursday, 19 May 2011
Planted
I just had to get into the garden tonight and plant out my carrots,beetroot, swiss chard and lettuce, tomorrow I will tackle the beans as I need an assistant!! to help put up the poles and make them windproof.
I will have to pot on my tomato plants this weekend and pot up my hanging baskets which should have been done by now.
Lots of flower seedlings also showing the need for a larger pot or putting in the garden.
I found a blue tit nest in an old bird house that has never had a nest in it since it was put up about 10 years ago which was lovely to see, I cold hear the chicks chirping away.
And over by the old lofts where a friend has been overwintering his bees, originally 5 hives has now spread to 8. He is showing no signs of moving them, which is frustrating as you cant get even close on a nice sunny day for fear of being stung.
Our bees need checking this weekend and I fully intend on being present. I want to see how my swarm has developed and whether I will get any honey this year from it.
I am toying with the idea of making some fruit/vegetable wine this year, I tried it many years ago without success but after reading a novel, where the main character was a bit like me got drunk on pea pod wine I really fancy ago, anyone got a recipe?
I will have to pot on my tomato plants this weekend and pot up my hanging baskets which should have been done by now.
Lots of flower seedlings also showing the need for a larger pot or putting in the garden.
I found a blue tit nest in an old bird house that has never had a nest in it since it was put up about 10 years ago which was lovely to see, I cold hear the chicks chirping away.
And over by the old lofts where a friend has been overwintering his bees, originally 5 hives has now spread to 8. He is showing no signs of moving them, which is frustrating as you cant get even close on a nice sunny day for fear of being stung.
Our bees need checking this weekend and I fully intend on being present. I want to see how my swarm has developed and whether I will get any honey this year from it.
I am toying with the idea of making some fruit/vegetable wine this year, I tried it many years ago without success but after reading a novel, where the main character was a bit like me got drunk on pea pod wine I really fancy ago, anyone got a recipe?
New Greetings Cards
Well I have been extremely busy since my last update, my daughter had been home for the weekend and saw my little gift cards that I had been making. To my surprise she loved them and suggested that I send them to a card company that she buys from.
Later I went onto the Internet and searched the company and found that they were looking for artists, I have always wanted to call myself an artist!! I read the do's and don'ts and thought why not have a go.
So I set about making some new cards (the ones I have for sale on Etsy/Folksy are too small). It was a natural reaction for me to draw and paint cakes, so I tried Wedding Cakes!
Before I sent them I thought I had better get a few opinions and see what people thought, armed with a bit more encouragement I copied them and sent them.
Then I got an email back saying they couldn't open them, so I sent them off again in a different format and waited for a reply, I am still waiting...
Sorry cards removed to protect copyright.
Not to be discouraged I have now made another 3 cards, I think I will send 2 not sure about the third,we'll see what a few people say first. Another card with a play on words Cup -Cake, I was walking down the street thinking about a subject to draw that night when I got home from work and it just came to me!!
The witches also appeared in my head when I was day dreaming at my desk Witch Birthday?
Love to Shop is the one I am not sure about as it is a copy of my flower art cards in paint/ink
If you would like to comment please feel free!!
The other night I also had a call from a lady I had met at a rabbit show she had seen my website and found the link to my craft website and found my flower art. She commissioned me to make 2 cards one each for her daughters here are the results.
Later I went onto the Internet and searched the company and found that they were looking for artists, I have always wanted to call myself an artist!! I read the do's and don'ts and thought why not have a go.
So I set about making some new cards (the ones I have for sale on Etsy/Folksy are too small). It was a natural reaction for me to draw and paint cakes, so I tried Wedding Cakes!
Before I sent them I thought I had better get a few opinions and see what people thought, armed with a bit more encouragement I copied them and sent them.
Then I got an email back saying they couldn't open them, so I sent them off again in a different format and waited for a reply, I am still waiting...
Sorry cards removed to protect copyright.
Not to be discouraged I have now made another 3 cards, I think I will send 2 not sure about the third,we'll see what a few people say first. Another card with a play on words Cup -Cake, I was walking down the street thinking about a subject to draw that night when I got home from work and it just came to me!!
The witches also appeared in my head when I was day dreaming at my desk Witch Birthday?
Love to Shop is the one I am not sure about as it is a copy of my flower art cards in paint/ink
If you would like to comment please feel free!!
The other night I also had a call from a lady I had met at a rabbit show she had seen my website and found the link to my craft website and found my flower art. She commissioned me to make 2 cards one each for her daughters here are the results.
Monday, 2 May 2011
Scrapbook Old Family Recipies
Any one made a family heirloom scrapbook of recipies?? If so I would love to hear from you.
If you have any family recipies that you would like to share with me I would be grateful.
I am looking for any Welsh ones in particular, but will consider any, especially if you have a family story to go with them.
Thanks in anticipation
If you have any family recipies that you would like to share with me I would be grateful.
I am looking for any Welsh ones in particular, but will consider any, especially if you have a family story to go with them.
Thanks in anticipation
Wednesday, 27 April 2011
A walk on the wild side!
Tonight I have made a decision that I must get off my *** and go for a walk every day. Twm and I went down the woods and it was glorious! The evening sun was still shining down through the tree tops onto the floor of the woods. The ground was awash with wild garlic and the smell not overpowering but fragrant was delightful.
I hate to admit how long it is since I have walked down these woods, I am truly ashamed many people come from all over to experience these walks and they are right on my doorstep.
As we walked further into the woods the ground changed from a mass of garlic to pockets of bluebells, and I could hear the sound of the woodpecker knocking at a tree, magic.
We walked deeper into the woods and the bluebells became a little less obvious but now you could see the spotted orchids dotted around along side the paths. Twm was very aware of the squirrels that were darting up the trees as we made our way through.
As we turned to come back home across the fields we were met by the sheep and the lambs, I am so glad I got off my *** and went for a walk.I will be there tomorrow too.
I hate to admit how long it is since I have walked down these woods, I am truly ashamed many people come from all over to experience these walks and they are right on my doorstep.
As we walked further into the woods the ground changed from a mass of garlic to pockets of bluebells, and I could hear the sound of the woodpecker knocking at a tree, magic.
We walked deeper into the woods and the bluebells became a little less obvious but now you could see the spotted orchids dotted around along side the paths. Twm was very aware of the squirrels that were darting up the trees as we made our way through.
As we turned to come back home across the fields we were met by the sheep and the lambs, I am so glad I got off my *** and went for a walk.I will be there tomorrow too.
Monday, 25 April 2011
Easter "Workshops"
What a fantastic Easter weekend we have just had. The sun was shining and most of my family came home for a few days, and we made the most of it!!
The BBQ was cleaned and made ready for the first one of the year, Burgers all around, but not any old burger they had to be M & S!! another family favourite was the spicy chicken wings and potato wedges, not forgetting the beer and wine to help it go down.
On Saturday we made a picnic and all went fishing up to Tan Y Mynedd, it was not particularly nice or warm day but it was good fishing weather we had hoped. Courtney had her own rod we had a spinning rod set up for her so she could take part but she soon got fed up after getting the line well and truly knotted several times, such fun! The boys tried their utmost to be the first to catch but not one of them managed to hook a trout. I on the other hand managed to hook a bigun but no sooner than the hook was taken it also decided to snap the line no way was it coming home with us, so it was off to the Chinese for a take away supper and a few beers to drown our sorrows.
Sunday morning we were awoken to the "Its Easter " shouts from our darling grand daughter, She had several chocolate eggs and this year a goodie bag from us, containing some small toys, a game, T Shirt and Easter sweets , all of which she was delighted with shouting its like Christmas.
After pancakes and bacon for breakfast it was decided that I should teach the boys how to tie flies for fishing with the hope that they may catch a big trout next time they are out on the lakes.The sun was out so we decided to hold the workshops outside.
 |
| Bob making his first fly |
 |
| Mel making frames for the bee hives showing us how its done! |
 |
| Tom trying to make the best fly |
 |
| The game begins |
 |
| Spectators find it so funny |
 |
| 4 all |
 |
| Declared the Winner |
Game over, the animals now need feeding
After a lovely Easter tea of home bred Turkey, roasted garlic potatoes with salads washed down with a glass of Bubbly, the fire was lit in the chimnea and a good time was had by all of us. Courtney decided she wanted to be a fairy after her Taid had told her some stories.
Taidy come up here I can see the fairies!! they live behind the flowers in the rocks.
Taidy come up here, come here and see the sunset with me!
Saturday, 23 April 2011
A Swarm was Caught -FreeBees
What an amazing day! A swarm of honey bees was found hanging from a branch in a hedge in our field. I had the pleasure of removing it -awesome!! With my bee suit on and covered from head to toe a box was placed under the swarm. Hedge cutters were then used to cut the branches and the majority of the swarm fell into the box. There was hundreds of bees flying around me and it was a little un-nerving and at one stage dam frightening but thrilling all the same.
The lid needed to be placed back on the box to keep them in place, so we had to brush them in trying not to kill them. Lid fixed tightly but there was still loads flying about and a large clump on the floor.
Decision made to leave the box were it was in the hope that in half an hour they would also go in after the queen.
One hour later we plugged up the hole and moved it to the apiary. A board was placed on the floor sloping up to the hive entrance and a white bed sheet placed on top. The lid of the box was now removed and the bees tipped out on to the sheet. It was fascinating the bees started to march up the board to the hive entrance, eventually the all went in!!! hived.
That is now hive number 4, where did they come from???
Unfortunately i did not take any photos but I have a link to show you the swarm caught last year.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyuBtNfTHGk
The lid needed to be placed back on the box to keep them in place, so we had to brush them in trying not to kill them. Lid fixed tightly but there was still loads flying about and a large clump on the floor.
Decision made to leave the box were it was in the hope that in half an hour they would also go in after the queen.
One hour later we plugged up the hole and moved it to the apiary. A board was placed on the floor sloping up to the hive entrance and a white bed sheet placed on top. The lid of the box was now removed and the bees tipped out on to the sheet. It was fascinating the bees started to march up the board to the hive entrance, eventually the all went in!!! hived.
That is now hive number 4, where did they come from???
Unfortunately i did not take any photos but I have a link to show you the swarm caught last year.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyuBtNfTHGk
Tuesday, 19 April 2011
Isle of Man Photos
 |
| Colwyn Male Voice Choir |
 |
| The winning Cup |
 |
| Castleford |
 |
| Port Erin |
 |
| Steam Train from Douglas to Port Erin |
 |
| Douglas |
Monday, 18 April 2011
new dresses
Well I have added another 2 new dresses to my card designs, hope you like them, they are being sold at my folksy store www.folksy.com/shops/mamoo
Busy Busy Weekend
The weekend was always going to be busy playing catch up from last week when we were away. Hubby went to check on the bees, he had been busy each night making frames for the supers!! The bees had been extremely busy collecting pollen from the dandelions and the colonies are expanding at such a fast rate. We also got our first taste of 2011 honey straight from the comb, mm delicious.
Whilst he was with the bees I went to sort out the rabbitry. My goodness the babies have really come on, I wanted to check how many coloured satins I had as this is what I am interested in..
Litter #1 Ivory doe she has one coloured satin 2 ivories and 1 sable.
Litter #2 Sable cross doe has 1 coloured satin 2 whites and a normal sable, on inspection I was disappointed the coloured baby was strong with a lovely colour but had a white nose!!! nooo , no good for showing, gutted.
Litter # 3 sable cross doe has 6 sables 2 medium and 4 dark now I am not certain but I am hoping that there is 1 if not 2 satins in there but I cannot tell just yet.
Litter #4 2 whites 2 ivories 3 coloured satins and a normal sale.
So I have have a few to be getting on with, a little early to sex them, I will keep my fingers crossed that we have some does amongst them.
There was also a new litter born on Friday Ivory doe#2 had 10 babies this was her 2nd litter she didn't attempt to rear the first one and with 5 babies dead I was a bit worried but she is rearing 5 1 coloured and 4 ivories.
Another litter is due tonight from my original sable doe, so we will check her out tomorrow and see what she brings us. Due to the expansion in the shed I have had to do a bit of moving around and now all but 1 of the bucks has been moved out and into the now buck shed. Hubby will now be pressured into making me some new hutches!!
Sunday was another glorious day and I was up with the birds 7am!! on a Sunday my son thought I had gone mad when he found me mopping the floors at 7.45am. I wanted to get into the garden but all the housework needed doing first. Then it was a mad dash to the Pet Place for rabbit food as I don't want to have to go out next weekend with the bank holiday traffic it will be a nightmare.
Quick stop at the garden centre on the way home to pick up my tomato plants, 1 each of moneymaker, alicante, shirley and a small bush variety. I also bought 12 lettuce plants although I have sowed my seeds I am now eager to have my own salads as soon as possible. I have also sown broad beans but decided it was a good idea to get 12 of them to get a good start. I only hope that the wild rabbits leave them alone. The potatoes are also starting to show through the ground.
My attention was then turned to the patio area, my gosh why oh why did I not sort this out at the end of the season last year. It took me 4 hours to clear, dead head, prune, split, water and clear paths and I reckon another few hours needed to do the rockeries. I wont make the same mistake this year. The only problem I have now is 20 empty pots waiting to be planted up.
Whilst he was with the bees I went to sort out the rabbitry. My goodness the babies have really come on, I wanted to check how many coloured satins I had as this is what I am interested in..
Litter #1 Ivory doe she has one coloured satin 2 ivories and 1 sable.
Litter #2 Sable cross doe has 1 coloured satin 2 whites and a normal sable, on inspection I was disappointed the coloured baby was strong with a lovely colour but had a white nose!!! nooo , no good for showing, gutted.
Litter # 3 sable cross doe has 6 sables 2 medium and 4 dark now I am not certain but I am hoping that there is 1 if not 2 satins in there but I cannot tell just yet.
Litter #4 2 whites 2 ivories 3 coloured satins and a normal sale.
So I have have a few to be getting on with, a little early to sex them, I will keep my fingers crossed that we have some does amongst them.
There was also a new litter born on Friday Ivory doe#2 had 10 babies this was her 2nd litter she didn't attempt to rear the first one and with 5 babies dead I was a bit worried but she is rearing 5 1 coloured and 4 ivories.
Another litter is due tonight from my original sable doe, so we will check her out tomorrow and see what she brings us. Due to the expansion in the shed I have had to do a bit of moving around and now all but 1 of the bucks has been moved out and into the now buck shed. Hubby will now be pressured into making me some new hutches!!
Sunday was another glorious day and I was up with the birds 7am!! on a Sunday my son thought I had gone mad when he found me mopping the floors at 7.45am. I wanted to get into the garden but all the housework needed doing first. Then it was a mad dash to the Pet Place for rabbit food as I don't want to have to go out next weekend with the bank holiday traffic it will be a nightmare.
Quick stop at the garden centre on the way home to pick up my tomato plants, 1 each of moneymaker, alicante, shirley and a small bush variety. I also bought 12 lettuce plants although I have sowed my seeds I am now eager to have my own salads as soon as possible. I have also sown broad beans but decided it was a good idea to get 12 of them to get a good start. I only hope that the wild rabbits leave them alone. The potatoes are also starting to show through the ground.
My attention was then turned to the patio area, my gosh why oh why did I not sort this out at the end of the season last year. It took me 4 hours to clear, dead head, prune, split, water and clear paths and I reckon another few hours needed to do the rockeries. I wont make the same mistake this year. The only problem I have now is 20 empty pots waiting to be planted up.
Tuesday, 12 April 2011
Well I am back from my weekend in the Isle of Man and I can say it was a laugh a minute. I did not know what to expect as we were travelling with my hubbies choir Cor Meibion Llanrwst as they were competing in the Manx Music Festival. We have over the years been on many choir trips but this was a first with this choir.
Friday didn't start very well as we had a 5 hour delay, but once we got going on the boat from Liverpool to the Isle of Man we had a great time.
Over the weekend I began to get to know the many faces of the choir and a few of the wives that were also travelling.
Saturday was the day of the competition so off we went from Port Erin to Douglas, the sun was beaming and we all felt positive. The men had a rehearsal first whilst Sue Mary and myself did a ad dash around the shops to find another dress shirt for the Musical Director as he had a stain on his and desperately needed a new one.
Eventually we found one in M & S @£35, what a price but he couldn't go on without one.
They were first up and sounded great, test piece over then another two repertoires quick about turn and the next choir came on, definitely not as good as our boys!! We were proved right the adjudicator gave her verdict and we won a beautiful Silver cup. Photos and rest of story tomorrow!!
Friday didn't start very well as we had a 5 hour delay, but once we got going on the boat from Liverpool to the Isle of Man we had a great time.
Over the weekend I began to get to know the many faces of the choir and a few of the wives that were also travelling.
Saturday was the day of the competition so off we went from Port Erin to Douglas, the sun was beaming and we all felt positive. The men had a rehearsal first whilst Sue Mary and myself did a ad dash around the shops to find another dress shirt for the Musical Director as he had a stain on his and desperately needed a new one.
Eventually we found one in M & S @£35, what a price but he couldn't go on without one.
They were first up and sounded great, test piece over then another two repertoires quick about turn and the next choir came on, definitely not as good as our boys!! We were proved right the adjudicator gave her verdict and we won a beautiful Silver cup. Photos and rest of story tomorrow!!
Tuesday, 5 April 2011
Mother's Day and the Chainsaw Massacre
I had a lovely mother's day treat from my daughter this year as well as a beautiful bouquet of flowers. She offered to make us Sunday Lunch at her home. This is the first time I have ever been invited to one of my childrens' home's for an occasion because I have four children they all usually come to me and I do the cooking.
How nice it was to have a dinner cooked, a Roast Pork dinner, mind you I did have to lend a hand and make a pudding, lol. But she did very well, we had roast potato, carrots, braised red cabbage and creamed leeks with lovely gravy and sage and onion stuffing. She also passed the test, to get a good crackling, I taught her well!!
My daughter also had an ulterior motive, for asking us over, kill two birds with one stone she said poor Dad had to bring his chain saw and a change of clothed. They are having a conservatory built and they need to lay the footings next week so she need a couple of bushes removing!!
Five minutes and they were all gone, however when the other half has a chain saw in his hands he doesn't want to stop, so he went looking for more bushes to cut down........ Cathryn was consulted and agreed that a few more could be removed.
Thirty minutes later and the garden looked like a chain saw massacre, there was trees, bushes and debris everywhere. I felt so sorry for them the easy work had been done and they were left to clear it, in the end they decided to hire a shredder and then they could reuse the mulch.
I am sure when cleared away it will all have been worth while, she is a keen gardener and is putting me to shame this year all her seeds are coming on nicely in her greenhouse and I hadn't started sowing. Better get my skates on....
Thanks to my sons also for their cards and presents, I dare not mention them as the sibling rivalry still hasn't stopped.
How nice it was to have a dinner cooked, a Roast Pork dinner, mind you I did have to lend a hand and make a pudding, lol. But she did very well, we had roast potato, carrots, braised red cabbage and creamed leeks with lovely gravy and sage and onion stuffing. She also passed the test, to get a good crackling, I taught her well!!
My daughter also had an ulterior motive, for asking us over, kill two birds with one stone she said poor Dad had to bring his chain saw and a change of clothed. They are having a conservatory built and they need to lay the footings next week so she need a couple of bushes removing!!
Five minutes and they were all gone, however when the other half has a chain saw in his hands he doesn't want to stop, so he went looking for more bushes to cut down........ Cathryn was consulted and agreed that a few more could be removed.
Thirty minutes later and the garden looked like a chain saw massacre, there was trees, bushes and debris everywhere. I felt so sorry for them the easy work had been done and they were left to clear it, in the end they decided to hire a shredder and then they could reuse the mulch.
I am sure when cleared away it will all have been worth while, she is a keen gardener and is putting me to shame this year all her seeds are coming on nicely in her greenhouse and I hadn't started sowing. Better get my skates on....
Thanks to my sons also for their cards and presents, I dare not mention them as the sibling rivalry still hasn't stopped.
Friday, 1 April 2011
April Fool -No Joke
No I haven't been involved in any April Fool's yet!! in fact my other half would probably tell you I have no sense of humour. Does that make me too serious!! probably but there is nothing I can do about it, it's my nature. That's my excuse and I am sticking to it.
April is now here and that also means Spring , so I am now thinking of my garden and flowers and then designs for cards and the best way to sell them and have I missed an opportunity to sell them, the list is endless in my head.
I think I am developing COD I cant stop looking at my Folksy site www.folksy.com/shop/mamoo to see if anyone else has had a look at my cards, to see if anyone else is following me, to see if anyone has sent me a message, to see if anyone else is selling cards in my style and Oh and if any have been sold!!
But it doesn't stop there either, I have to check my Blog, and my websites to see if there are any comments or guestbook entries, honestly it is getting like a full time job just checking.
What did I do before I started all this? it is like another job on top of a full time job on top of trying to be an entrepreneur.
I really need to take stock and get a grip, need to slow down a little and smell the roses!!
Oh no why did I say roses?.
April is now here and that also means Spring , so I am now thinking of my garden and flowers and then designs for cards and the best way to sell them and have I missed an opportunity to sell them, the list is endless in my head.
I think I am developing COD I cant stop looking at my Folksy site www.folksy.com/shop/mamoo to see if anyone else has had a look at my cards, to see if anyone else is following me, to see if anyone has sent me a message, to see if anyone else is selling cards in my style and Oh and if any have been sold!!
But it doesn't stop there either, I have to check my Blog, and my websites to see if there are any comments or guestbook entries, honestly it is getting like a full time job just checking.
What did I do before I started all this? it is like another job on top of a full time job on top of trying to be an entrepreneur.
I really need to take stock and get a grip, need to slow down a little and smell the roses!!
Oh no why did I say roses?.
Wednesday, 30 March 2011
Another Dress Card - Do you Like it?
Here is another card, the first dress on a hanger card was met with a lot of approval so I decided to have another go, do you like it??
You can find more at www.folksy.com/shop/mamoo
Monday, 28 March 2011
New Cards
Here are the three new cards that I made at the weekend.
If you would like to see more of my cards, or purchase any please go to www.folksy.com/shop/mamoo
If you would like to leave a comment on my work please feel free to do so, thanks for looking!
 |
| Inspired by fashion - New Dress |
 |
| Inspired by the Prom Season |
 |
| Inspired by love of handbags |
If you would like to leave a comment on my work please feel free to do so, thanks for looking!
Sunday, 27 March 2011
Another busy day
Having lost an hour this morning due to the clock changes, it has felt like I have been playing catch up all day. Hubby hasn't helped either as he wants his Sunday Roast early today as he needs to go to choir practise early tonight.
Spent a lot of time today in the rabbitry, checking all the babies and stock. I am glad to say all are doing very well and it is so amazing how quickly they grow. I am really pleased with the does they are doing a great job of rearing their young.
Unfortunately it was necessary to say good bye to two of the old bucks, to make room for the younger generation, not something I enjoy having to do (although its not me that does it thank goodness), It is a shame that people don't want adult rabbits as pets but I cannot find anyone to take them of my hands.
No time in the garden today either, I will try and get back in there tomorrow. After dinner was cleared away I decided to go to my work room and make another three cards to replace the three that I sold last week. I am quite pleased with the results so I will post the photos tomorrow when they have dried.
Spent a lot of time today in the rabbitry, checking all the babies and stock. I am glad to say all are doing very well and it is so amazing how quickly they grow. I am really pleased with the does they are doing a great job of rearing their young.
Unfortunately it was necessary to say good bye to two of the old bucks, to make room for the younger generation, not something I enjoy having to do (although its not me that does it thank goodness), It is a shame that people don't want adult rabbits as pets but I cannot find anyone to take them of my hands.
No time in the garden today either, I will try and get back in there tomorrow. After dinner was cleared away I decided to go to my work room and make another three cards to replace the three that I sold last week. I am quite pleased with the results so I will post the photos tomorrow when they have dried.
Saturday, 26 March 2011
First of many days in the Garden
The first of many days to come spent in the garden, the clocks change tonight which means I will be able to do a bit more in the evenings as the days start to lengthen. Normally I am a little more ahead of myself than this year, but never mind I've had a good day today at least I have made a start!!
Hubby rotavated the veg patch so the spuds can go in tomorrow, and I have sown the salad crops along with cabbage, cauli, broccoli, spinach, Swiss chard and leeks. I have tried some carrots although they never seem to work for me and yet my daughter has a great crop each year.
Now tomorrow is cleaning the rabbit shed day and having a bit of a sort out!! if I have time I might go and prune the raspberries and currant bushes. The patio and the pots will have to wait I am afraid there is only so many hours in a day even if it is lighter.
Tonight I have resurrected an old favourite for breakfast tomorrow morning, instead of bacon and eggs we are going to have pukkola (this is what I call it not sure if the spelling is right). Basically it is muesli in a bowl with a grated apple a whole orange squeezed and natural plain yogurt mixed until all the muesli is incorporated. It is then covered with cling film and put in the fridge overnight. That with a fresh coffee will be delicious!!
As I put the yogurt back in the fridge I also remembered how I used to make my own many many years ago, as there wasn't much left i thought why not!! so I heated up some milk in the microwave until blood warm and added it to the natural yogurt which acts as a starter culture. Place this in a thermos flask and leave overnight.
I will let you know if they both work tomorrow!!
Hubby rotavated the veg patch so the spuds can go in tomorrow, and I have sown the salad crops along with cabbage, cauli, broccoli, spinach, Swiss chard and leeks. I have tried some carrots although they never seem to work for me and yet my daughter has a great crop each year.
Now tomorrow is cleaning the rabbit shed day and having a bit of a sort out!! if I have time I might go and prune the raspberries and currant bushes. The patio and the pots will have to wait I am afraid there is only so many hours in a day even if it is lighter.
Tonight I have resurrected an old favourite for breakfast tomorrow morning, instead of bacon and eggs we are going to have pukkola (this is what I call it not sure if the spelling is right). Basically it is muesli in a bowl with a grated apple a whole orange squeezed and natural plain yogurt mixed until all the muesli is incorporated. It is then covered with cling film and put in the fridge overnight. That with a fresh coffee will be delicious!!
As I put the yogurt back in the fridge I also remembered how I used to make my own many many years ago, as there wasn't much left i thought why not!! so I heated up some milk in the microwave until blood warm and added it to the natural yogurt which acts as a starter culture. Place this in a thermos flask and leave overnight.
I will let you know if they both work tomorrow!!
Friday, 25 March 2011
Struggling
I am struggling today to believe that I can succeed in marking out a place for myself, selling my greetings cards. Don't get me wrong, I am not going to give up, anyone who knows me would tell you I am a fighter and very contrary, say I can't do something and I will prove you wrong! That's good isn't it?
My problem at the moment is, I want it all to happen quickly like yesterday or at least some feedback/criticism would be nice so I know I am onto something or a little encouragement would be even better.
I was so enthusiastic at the beginning of the week, having been on my marketing course, I then set up this Blog, my websites where done a few weeks ago, I still have to do my facebook page which I hope to do this weekend.
My products have been listed on Folksy and I am like an idiot checking them several times a day to see if any of them have sold. I am getting people to look at them but as yet no sales.
I have asked for feedback but not received any, then this morning I read an article about niche products for niche markets . This sounded great, as I believe I do have a niche product, but what it didn' say was how long to expect your first sale, or how to make people know it was different from the rest.
I think I need some sort of strategy or plan to keep me focused as there are so many things whirling around inside my head, I think about one and off I go like a train full steam ahead into that thought, and forget what I was supposed to be concentrating on.
I will take a few minutes sometime today in my busy schedule to organise my thoughts and write out my strategy, I will let you know later how it is going!!
My problem at the moment is, I want it all to happen quickly like yesterday or at least some feedback/criticism would be nice so I know I am onto something or a little encouragement would be even better.
I was so enthusiastic at the beginning of the week, having been on my marketing course, I then set up this Blog, my websites where done a few weeks ago, I still have to do my facebook page which I hope to do this weekend.
My products have been listed on Folksy and I am like an idiot checking them several times a day to see if any of them have sold. I am getting people to look at them but as yet no sales.
I have asked for feedback but not received any, then this morning I read an article about niche products for niche markets . This sounded great, as I believe I do have a niche product, but what it didn' say was how long to expect your first sale, or how to make people know it was different from the rest.
I think I need some sort of strategy or plan to keep me focused as there are so many things whirling around inside my head, I think about one and off I go like a train full steam ahead into that thought, and forget what I was supposed to be concentrating on.
I will take a few minutes sometime today in my busy schedule to organise my thoughts and write out my strategy, I will let you know later how it is going!!
Thursday, 24 March 2011
Call yourself a Farmer?
Well I had a lovely surprise when I got home tonight, hubby and I where feeding the livestock when he shouted me over to come and take a look!!
I followed him across the field to the adjoining fence and I could see to 2 ewes but there was something extra, 2 lambs. Where on earth did they come from? Call yourself a farmer!!
Apparently the ewes where taken to a ram the otherside of the village last autumn but the farmer told him that they had not been served. He had taken him at his word and hadn't bothered to check, so they had litterarlly taken us by surprise.
It is all happening now, litters of rabbits, chicks hatching and now 2 lambs, the family expands! what next?
I followed him across the field to the adjoining fence and I could see to 2 ewes but there was something extra, 2 lambs. Where on earth did they come from? Call yourself a farmer!!
Apparently the ewes where taken to a ram the otherside of the village last autumn but the farmer told him that they had not been served. He had taken him at his word and hadn't bothered to check, so they had litterarlly taken us by surprise.
It is all happening now, litters of rabbits, chicks hatching and now 2 lambs, the family expands! what next?
 |
| new arrivals |
 |
| new chicks |
 |
| one of the litter |
 |
| Baby rabbits |
Beautiful Day
What a beautiful day it has been here in North Wales, glorious sunshine and mild weather just what we need to make us feel so much better and blow the winter blues away.
Spring is definitely in the air, last night my other half put 12 goose eggs in the incubator, these were given to him by a friend as our own goose has decided she doesn't want to produce any more!! All though she should try telling that to the ganders who guard her so protectively at the moment. Anytime you go near them they come at you with their necks wound out as far as they will go. You can't count your chickens (or goose in this case) before they hatch as they say but it would be very nice to have goose for Christmas dinner this year as a change from turkey, mmm I can taste it now.
The bees are also doing well and are so so busy in the sunshine, we decided last year to keep a hive, i repeat a hive, but ended up with three.!! as it was our first year we were very worried that they wouldn't come through the cold winter. I am glad to report all three hives are very active at the moment and are developing their colonies well. I for one am hoping for some lovely honey this year, we had a small taster at the end of last year but couldn't take to much away from them in our first year so fingers crossed.
I had given one of my home made cards to a friend for her birthday very recently and she immediately asked me to make one for her to give to her son. So last night I decided I had better get on with it, 3 attempts later I finished at 12 o clock. The deed was done but being very critical of my own work, I was not 100% happy with it, so this morning armed with my cards already made and my new one I decided to get some feedback from the girls in work.
Everyone was so encouraging and loved my designs, I even sold 2 and had to remove them from my folksy site. However if anyone gets the chance to look at my site I would really like some honest feedback especially in answer to the following questions.
My cards are all individual due to the material used to make them, pressed flowers, grasses, bark and now feathers they cannot be massed produced. They take time to make from gathering and pressing the flowers to then design and finishing touches. I don't think you will find anything else like them especially on the high street.
Would you buy? if not why not?
In relation to the price, do you think it a fair price? if not what price would you choose to pay for one of my cards?
Are the subjects relevant to what you would look for in a card? if not what would you like to see?
Any other comments would be gratefully received, Thank you in anticipation for taking the time to respond.
I will post the pictures here later but in the meantime you can see them at www.folksy.com/shop/mamoo
Spring is definitely in the air, last night my other half put 12 goose eggs in the incubator, these were given to him by a friend as our own goose has decided she doesn't want to produce any more!! All though she should try telling that to the ganders who guard her so protectively at the moment. Anytime you go near them they come at you with their necks wound out as far as they will go. You can't count your chickens (or goose in this case) before they hatch as they say but it would be very nice to have goose for Christmas dinner this year as a change from turkey, mmm I can taste it now.
The bees are also doing well and are so so busy in the sunshine, we decided last year to keep a hive, i repeat a hive, but ended up with three.!! as it was our first year we were very worried that they wouldn't come through the cold winter. I am glad to report all three hives are very active at the moment and are developing their colonies well. I for one am hoping for some lovely honey this year, we had a small taster at the end of last year but couldn't take to much away from them in our first year so fingers crossed.
I had given one of my home made cards to a friend for her birthday very recently and she immediately asked me to make one for her to give to her son. So last night I decided I had better get on with it, 3 attempts later I finished at 12 o clock. The deed was done but being very critical of my own work, I was not 100% happy with it, so this morning armed with my cards already made and my new one I decided to get some feedback from the girls in work.
Everyone was so encouraging and loved my designs, I even sold 2 and had to remove them from my folksy site. However if anyone gets the chance to look at my site I would really like some honest feedback especially in answer to the following questions.
My cards are all individual due to the material used to make them, pressed flowers, grasses, bark and now feathers they cannot be massed produced. They take time to make from gathering and pressing the flowers to then design and finishing touches. I don't think you will find anything else like them especially on the high street.
Would you buy? if not why not?
In relation to the price, do you think it a fair price? if not what price would you choose to pay for one of my cards?
Are the subjects relevant to what you would look for in a card? if not what would you like to see?
Any other comments would be gratefully received, Thank you in anticipation for taking the time to respond.
I will post the pictures here later but in the meantime you can see them at www.folksy.com/shop/mamoo
 |
| Love Heart |
 |
| Shughes |
 |
| Shughes 3 |
 |
| Love to Shop |
 |
| Shughes 4 |
 |
| Feathers |
 |
| Scarecrow |
Wednesday, 23 March 2011
How yellow is that?
I don't like waste, so when I was faced with a fruit bowl that had 6 lemons that were passed their best I decided it was time to do something about them. So I had a family recipe book somewhere I just needed to find it.
Found hidden underneath a pile of other cook books that only get an airing from time to time. The recipe I was looking for was Lemon Curd a firm favourite in the family. Unlike jam I don't make to much as it doesn't keep as long, however once the family knows its in the fridge it doesn't last anyway. Now all I needed was to go and collect some free range eggs from the hen shed. If you don't have your own hens please buy free range eggs, they do make a difference to the finished colour of your curd.
I have added the recipe for you to have a go, it never fails to please, it is not difficult to do but does take a little patience stirring!!
Lemon Curd- Makes about 3lb
4 Lemons -zest and juice
8 oz Butter
4 Large Free Range Eggs
12 oz Castor Sugar
Place a saucepan on the stove with some boiling water in the bottom, then place a bowl that fits the saucepan on top and make sure the water does not come into contact with the bowl otherwise you will have scrambled eggs.
In the bowl add all the ingredients, and using a balloon whisk, slowly stir until butter is melted and sugar dissolved. Keep stirring until mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon - approx 10 minutes. It will thicken more as it cools down.
Place the mixture whilst hot into clean sterilised jars, cover with a greaseproof disc and seal. Label when cold. Will keep for approx 2 months if stored in a cool place (mine never lasts that long)
Mmm delicious on toast, crumpets or just plain bread and butter. Can also be used as a filling for cupcakes, lemon victoria sponge or a swiss roll, go on have a go.... I know you will like it.
Found hidden underneath a pile of other cook books that only get an airing from time to time. The recipe I was looking for was Lemon Curd a firm favourite in the family. Unlike jam I don't make to much as it doesn't keep as long, however once the family knows its in the fridge it doesn't last anyway. Now all I needed was to go and collect some free range eggs from the hen shed. If you don't have your own hens please buy free range eggs, they do make a difference to the finished colour of your curd.
I have added the recipe for you to have a go, it never fails to please, it is not difficult to do but does take a little patience stirring!!
Lemon Curd- Makes about 3lb
4 Lemons -zest and juice
8 oz Butter
4 Large Free Range Eggs
12 oz Castor Sugar
Place a saucepan on the stove with some boiling water in the bottom, then place a bowl that fits the saucepan on top and make sure the water does not come into contact with the bowl otherwise you will have scrambled eggs.
In the bowl add all the ingredients, and using a balloon whisk, slowly stir until butter is melted and sugar dissolved. Keep stirring until mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon - approx 10 minutes. It will thicken more as it cools down.
Place the mixture whilst hot into clean sterilised jars, cover with a greaseproof disc and seal. Label when cold. Will keep for approx 2 months if stored in a cool place (mine never lasts that long)
Mmm delicious on toast, crumpets or just plain bread and butter. Can also be used as a filling for cupcakes, lemon victoria sponge or a swiss roll, go on have a go.... I know you will like it.
Tuesday, 22 March 2011
New Start
Well, having been on a training course today about social networking and websites, I have decided to re-launch my Blog not that it really got started!!
I have recently been blogging on my website www.maelgwyn.webs.com which was primarily about my rabbits, but I have so much more I want to ramble on about. So here goes!!
In the rabbitry, spring has definately sprung, I have lots of new bunnies born this last few days and another doe due to kindle tonight, fingers crossed. The Ivory doe is now doing well, she has 5 babies, I was a little concerned about the mother as she was looking a little thin and stressed, the pregnancy obviously taking a lot out of her. I have now increased her food giving her double portion of my feeding mix along with an extra bowl of pellets, fresh water and hay. A tip I was given a long time ago was to feed whole milk to a doe that was stressed so I tried it yesterday and hey, it was all gone this morning and she was waiting for more!!
The 2 sable rabbits that are my does for making the coloured satins have also got litters, the first one had 10 babies 2 died leaving 8 but on checking them tonight I decided to cull another 2, now i know you may think this is cruel but it is to help the doe rear strong babies that will all get a good share of her milk. These babies in comparison to the other 2 does are considerably smaller and therefore weaker.
The second sable had a litter of 5 big strong babies and has not needed any interferance from me.
I love this time of year when you see the rabbits kindle, you hope and pray they will be good mums and you keep all your fingers and toes crossed hoping that you will have a little gem growing in one of those nests.
 |
| 2 out of 5 can just be seen from Sable doe |
 |
| Larger litter see how small they are? |
 |
| 7 days old Mum is the Ivory Doe |
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)