A little bit of this and a little bit of that

It's been a long time between posts. Time and inclination don't always coincide. But I'm a haven't-posted-for-ages blogger and participant in Chookyblue's global Secret Santa Christmas swap and Chooky is cracking the whip, so here goes. No photos, unfortunately, because my photo system thingy isn't working. This is the third SSCS swap I've taken part in and it's always so enjoyable. Last year I made for a lady in Norway and received from the USA; this year I'm sending to ?? The parcel is wrapped and ready to go tomorrow, along with a few cute gifts for my new great-nephew in Queensland - that's NEW as in just over a week old. How exciting. Apart from that swap, there's been some Christmas crafting, mainly decorations (a gorgeous one by Marg Low, who is one of my favourite Australian designers, and the cutest little bird, framed in an embroidery hoop and designed by Aneela Hoey). I'm hoping to make more Christmas gifts but am not going to let it stress me if it doesn't happen. I've made myself a handbag and appliqued some T-shirts for my little niece and nephew in NZ. And it's way past time to come to grips with the mess in my sewing room. Isn't it amazing how little space you can craft in when there's stuff all over the place! And there have been lots of fun times playing with the dogs, enjoying our garden - lots of lovely scented blooms and the veges in the new plot are doing all the right things - and good times with friends. The highlight of the past few months was Emmylou Harris' concert at St Kilda on Saturday night; she was just wonderful in concert and we had to keep pinching ourselves; listening to her was a dream come true.