Mama Wolf

Wedding panic and tablecloths

2012-01-13T13:00:00.000Z

Lately I have become obsessed with tablecloths.

I have only been engaged for a couple of months, yet it feels like I have been planning my wedding for the last 10 years or so. Going to other peoples weddings, including family and close friends have been joyous occasions, but now as a ‘bride-to-be’ I am overwhelmed with thoughts that scream in panic- ‘will mine look and feel that good’. When I think about the fact that I want my wedding to look how I imagined it to be in my dreams, I feel partly shallow and partly guilty for wanting a handsome looking wedding. Surely the fact that I am to wed the love of my life with family and friends close by to witness is enough? The truth is, I feel just as emotional about the creative side of the wedding as I do about the man I am marrying.

Am I alone?

I want my wedding to speak about the type of people Mr. Wolf and I are. I want to be able to look across the wedding hall/marquee/grounds and feel satisfied that I have crafted a wondrous and magical scene for us both. Wanting this and making this happen are, like many things two very different concepts. To think about carving the right look out of scraps of fabric, vintage markets, family textile boxes, piles of card and paper, rolls of ribbon, wedding magazines, wedding blogs, and the list goes on, is incredibly daunting.

I read a piece over on The Natural Wedding Company blog written by its lovely author Charlie. Charlie writes about being a good wife and how hard she finds it, not because she doesn’t love her husband, but because she wants to do the things a ‘good wife’ does. I was in awe of her honesty. I haven’t read something that resonated so much in a long time. Whilst Charlie was talking about the insecurities of being a good wife, I couldn’t help but think about my own situation and being the perfect bride. Even though I don’t believe in perfection in the traditional sense, I do believe in things feeling perfect in your own way (whatever that may be). This is what stood out for me the most;

‘…things seem to be made harder by the world around us giving the appearance that everyone else is living happier, more beautiful and fun lives. There are many days when I would desperately love people to think my life is beautiful and happy everyday…’

That’s just how I feel, I wanted to yelp at the top of my voice, but had to save it for my inside voice as I read this during my lunch break at work. I truly believe there is an insurmountable pressure we put on ourselves to be and live a certain way. If its not ethical its not worth it, if its not handmade then its useless; whoa that’s a lot of pressure right there!

Being a fully fledged crafter myself, you would think that I would be content with the life I have, and yet whilst I am truly madly deeply happy with the life I have, I am often plagued with a gut wrenching pang of envy when I see what others have had the jolly good idea to craft and I think ‘urghh; incredible-why didn’t I think of that!’.

The reality is plain old insecurity. Not only am I just starting out in the craft come trading world, my insecurities about making the big day look like a fantastic snapshot into my wonderfully creative and innovative life (clears throat uncomfortably) will of course go haywire; simply because I am to wed. I am also very quickly learning that those quiet uncertainties you have and deal with on a daily basis, suddenly drown out the rest of your more sane thoughts being in the knowledge that the bridal clock is ticking- and fast!

What is a bride to be to do? I conclude the only thing for me to do right now is to lean on those most important to me. You will often find me ranting to my eldest sister (who is already wed) over the phone, or friends about my wedding anxiety dreams (that seem to be growing weirder by the night) and their words of wisdom usually ease my flustered mind. I am also learning the hard lesson of asking others for help and advise anyone out there who is planning something, anything, to do the same. Swallow that useless pride and just ask, for we cannot do everything ourselves!

Now what was I saying…oh yes tablecloths! I am obsessed. My family home will be one of the focal points during the wedding as we are to marry in our home town of Coventry (bizarrely, we are both from Coventry but met in London…a boring fact for anyone who isn’t me or Mr. Wolf). This entails the additional task of dressing my Ma and Pa’s house. Right now I am obsessed with the following darlings, all of which are perfect to get started on creating a bright and celebratory atmosphere in any room of the house.

What do you do when you feel your creative knickers getting in a twist? How do you keep yourself organised? Any tips for moi?

Thanks for listening cherries.

Mama Wolf

-Owwwww

The Proposal

2012-01-12T13:00:00.000Z

Last November on National Strike Day, I awoke in my bed to the smell of fresh toast accompanied shortly after by an abrupt popping sound as it was no doubt catapulted into the air and caught promptly by a plate.

As my mind began to wake and my vision came into focus, there was a well planned knock at the bedroom door. As it opened I was presented with a figure made up of two legs and the biggest bouquet of flowers I had ever seen! A face began to emerge from amongst the petals and leaves and a mischievous smile followed.

In silence, Mr Wolf, walked into the room and placed the flowers on the floor beside the bed. Barely able to contain his excitement he turned and half walked, almost ran out again. Seconds later he was stood over my bed, tray in hand with my breakfast perched on top. As I sat up and composed myself trying desperately not to shout out ‘Where is it!’, he placed the banquet on to my laps and raised his eyebrows. As my eyes poured over the feast before me I felt like a queen peering over her riches; salmon on toast drizzled in freshly squeezed lemon, mountains of assorted berries with a dollop of Greek yoghurt and 2 bakery fresh croissants guarded by a tiny jar of strawberry jam and a colonel of butter resting on its knife.

In my haste I had failed upon first glance to notice a small leather box sitting amongst the giants that surrounded it. In an almost ‘Carry On’ fashion I performed a comedy double take before gasping over-dramatically. I opened the box and to my utter delight, there looking back at me was the most beautiful ring I had ever seen.

sorry for the rubbish iphone picture!

Mr Wolf took it out of the box, uttered his words and in an instance we were engaged.

We laughed, we cried and we ate.

With our bellies full of breakfast and butterflies, Mr Wolf offered to take me for a drive to the south east countryside. How could I resist? Without realising, he drove me to Devils Dyke; a beautiful bit of green located in South Downs Way, named after the huge dry valley that moves through vast grassland that seems to go on forever.

We stood at what felt like the top of the world. The awesome gusts of wind swept fiercely over us, but we managed to stick out the cold long enough to make out the Isle of Wight in the distance and gasp at the seagulls trying to fly in such gales. We raced each other to the car and we were off again.

It was at this point that I thought we were going home to enjoy the homemade Broccoli and Parsnip soup we had slaved over two nights before and were still enjoying (I cannot tell you how much money that soup saved us!). A well calculated wrong turn by Mr. Wolf led us to the seafront where we enjoyed watching the tremendous waves crashing onto the bank and proposing to each other again and again followed by outbursts of incessant giggling (I guess you just had to be there).

As I walked back to the car, a tug from Mr. Wolf suggested that lunch was not to be had at home today. As I followed behind him curiously, The Ginger Pig came into sight and my eyes widened like a child’s on Christmas morning.

He ate:
Smoked goose & foie gras salad with chicory, pickled cranberries, gingerbread crumb, pecans & truffle dressing.

roast breast of pheasant with pheasant & smoked bacon crumble, roasted root vegetables, walnuts & sherry

I ate:
Crayfish & brown shrimp cocktail with shrimp toastie & confit fennel mayonnaise.

Roast garlic & potato croquettes buttered sprouts, chestnuts, celeriac puree, sweet beetroot relish & red wine vinaigrette

Our bellies were full once more. We waddled back to the car and made our way to the South Laines. After walking off lunch, we marked the end of the day with Cake at Angel Food Bakery and Champagne at Riddle and Finns.

When we arrived home, we sat in silence. Still absorbing the events of the day, Mr. Wolf expressed his sadness that it was over, I then proceeded to remove my ring and told him to ask me again…

I’d love to hear about how you were proposed to. Perhaps you were the one proposing? Either way, do give me a shout!

Mama Wolf

-Owwwww

A wife to be....

2012-01-11T12:30:00.000Z

Dearest friends,

I am happy to announce that I am engaged to marry. By Christmas I shall proudly announce myself as Mrs Wolf. Whoop Whoop!

via me, via Pinterest Sandeep Pawar: Mama Wolf

I will, in due course post the details of the proposal. For now, my head is in a bit of a fluster; so much to do in so little time, so many things to plan, book, craft, sew, make, make, make! I anticipate this blog will be leant on quite a bit for reassurance and treated as the perfect resource to keep my thoughts and ramblings organised (to some extent) as the big day approaches.

At the moment, I am in sheer panic as to how I am going to thrift my way to my dream wedding. The only thing keeping me from going completely insane with worry and believing those anxiety dreams (usually where I awake to find that on the morning of my wedding, I have no wedding dress and have forgotten to task myself and others with crafting duties) is Mr Wolf. When we sit together I am calmed by the remembrance of the simple fact that we are to marry, and I am to become his wife.

Holy Flirking Schnit!

Take care loves!

Mama Wolf
-Owwwww

p.s- if you have married, you may be able to help. Did you ever panic? Did you have anxiety dreams-what were they like? If so, how did you deal with them?

New Year musings....

2012-01-01T12:30:00.000Z

Happy New Year my pretties!

Last night I raised my glass to all the good fortune I have been lucky enough to enjoy throughout the year. I have my true love by my side, good friends and an amazing family (as mental as they are).

Although this year has been fraught with the often disheartening realities of work and money, it has been a fortunate one for many reasons none the less.

Today I raise my glass to you; I hope this year is exactly what you hope it to be. Here's to you and yours!

-Mama Wolf

Owwwww

Don't panic, it's just Christmas kids!

2011-12-16T13:00:00.000Z

I praise the day when I can turn around in mid December and say 'Christmas is covered'. Alas this day seems to be somewhere on the Horizon for the time being. Until then, I have been working as hard as Santa's little elves this week and continue to make as many of my own Christmas pressies as I can manage.

The stash so far...

Cotton napkins with Crochet flower.

I basically hemmed 4 evenly sized squares and then attached some red crochet flowers that I had made months ago.

If you're not hot on crocheting, then you can keep a look out at vintage fairs (where I have often seen bags of the tiniest crochet ever!). Failing this, log-on to e-crafter where you can buy 100 mixed tiny crochet flowers...

Mens neckties, complete with Vintage buttons (also available in my Etsy shop soon...)

Cushions

I made these using medium weight cotton to sew these soft to the touch black and white striped cushions. I found a bundle of this fabric in the North Laines where (in my opinion) the best non-vintage fabric shops of Brighton can be found. I love the colour coordination of this fabric; the cushions look like something that would feature in Jack Skellington's home!

Have you been busy making gifts in the name of Thrifty spirit? Does anyone have secret ammunition that they pull out during the festive season? Get in touch loves!

Merry Craftmas Folks!

-Mama Wolf
Owwwww

Friday Favourite: Lazy Oaf

2011-12-16T12:30:00.000Z

I have been a big fan of Lazy Oaf Clothing for some time and I thought it best I share my love for this amazing company with you all, by picking out my favourite pieces from their current collection.

A little History
Lazy Oaf is an East London based creative label famous for it's bright Pop graphic T-Shirts, reversible sweatshirts and accessories. With its staple feature of bold illustration and graphic design, upon entering its doors (real or virtual!), you instantly feel like you have stepped into the mind of some sort of mad hatter! From polka dot hats to hamburger socks there isn't much room for boredom here.

The brains behind the operation is Gemma Shiel, who started in 2001 with hand screen printed Tee's and a market stall in East London. Fast forward 11 years and Lazy Oaf is available in over 120 Stockists worldwide. Preeeety impressive!

My key picks for the festive season.

Lazy Oaf Socks

Instant Iron Ons

Burger Sweatshirts

Mystery Bag: Filled with 3 tee's, but you'll have to wait until purchase before you can see which one!

They used to stock the most awesome Christmas Jumpers, but unfortunately this seems to be but a distant memory as I cannot locate it anywhere online...

see!

Holy Christmas, I do love these prints!

If you already live in London then you can easily visit Lazy Oaf at the address below*. If not then they helpfully deliver via their online store.

Still stuck for Christmas pressies? Surely not cherries!

-Mama Wolf

Owwwww

*LAZY OAF SHOP

19 FOUBERTS PLACE
LONDON
W1F 7QE

T: 020 7287 2060

Amelie

2011-12-15T13:00:00.000Z

Last night when I was trawling through iPhoto to find suitable images to frame, I came across an album that I had completely forgotten about. These are probably my favourite pictures of niece with my dear old Mum taken a couple of years ago in the back garden at home during the peak of summer.

There was nothing particularly special about this day at all. It was just another Sunday, and Amelie had just woken up from a nap. I sat her in front of my mum and my sister casually started snapping away. The result is a set of moments which for me captures a unique bond between two people. There is a real sense of calm and ease that emanates from these images. The expression of pure contentment on my Mum's face is a joy to look at.

Happy Memories Folks

Mama Wolf

-Owwwww

Craftmas part 2: Decorating the Tree

2011-12-14T12:30:00.000Z

Last week, Mr Wolf had been going on and on about getting a Christmas tree for the new flat. I agreed of course, but he seemed a little more excited than I which was a little curious.

After a hard days work, a delayed train and lots of rain on the walk home, I got home and was greeted with this-

It was possibly the biggest tree I had ever seen and possibly the most excited expression from Mr Wolf that I had ever seen! ‘How much did that cost, I yelped’, a look of despair ran over his face and he yelped back ‘it’s Christmas!”. I gave in; it truly was a beautiful tree. Mr Wolf had clearly taken advantage of our incredibly high ceilings and I had to admit, it changed the look of the room entirely- it was bloody Christmas!

As I stood gazing up at it, I began to imagine every which way we could decorate the blighter when a sudden realization dawned upon me....I don’t own any Christmas decorations. Here I am at the ripe old age of 28 and alas I have none to speak of. When I took a moment to think about how this could be so, I realized that since I left home, I have always lived with someone who had Christmas covered.

As you can imagine, I was keen to right this wrong and wanted to get started immediately....

Going to buy the decorations was never really an option as yes I am broke, but I am trying to move toward a more economical and ethical way of life (hence my home made Christmas gifts), so I had to make them from scratch-not really a hardship for me, or anyone reading this I suspect.

I wanted to get some festive bunting round the old girl and had remembered that I had a secret new stash of fabric donated to me from a friend. I measured a 7cm triangle template out of card and got cutting. I used an off white cotton ribbon for the seal at the top, popped it under the foot of my machine and I was off. Once the first part of the bunting was under the machine foot, it was easy enough to place the triangles into the fold of the cotton without using pins and sew them in.

Once the bunting was finished I had flat mate number 2 assist in the wrapping (which involved a step ladder and a broom stick-don’t ask about the second one!). I then took a ball of giant knitting wool and proceeded to drape it

I thought it could still do with a little something and thats when I had the idea to use all of those crocheted motifs sitting in my christmas tin; finally something useful for them to do.

apologies for the rather lopsided photo!

Even though I had all kinds of odd bits of crochet in all kinds of colours, shapes and sizes knocking around, when they were hung up, against the strong green of the tree, it came together perfectly.

some were particularly festive looking by pure coincidence!

If you would like to make your own bunting then you should try this very helpful tutorial featured on myhomemadehappy.com written by Josie Crafter (nice pseudonym) with lots of pictures-yes!

Feeling delightfully festive, we invited friends round for a festive tipple and one of them not only pointed out that the top of the tree was naked, but also offered and did, make us a beautiful 3-D snowflake out of 6 sheets of paper.

Have you been busy Christmas crafting? If so, do tell, I’d love to see some pictures/links to posts and crafty Christmas ideas in general....

Merry Craftmas Folks!

Mama Wolf

-Owwwww

Merry Craftmas!

2011-12-08T12:00:00.000Z

As its Christmas and I’m probably the most disorganised person in the world I thought I’d try and do something right for a change and get some presents together before Christmas day is slapping me in the face with its hand of shame!

Wait a second, I don’t have any money to buy all these precious gifts I so passionately adore L

via*

via

Never mind hey; am I going to let a little rain ruin Christmas? No way! As I sat at my beloved machine I pondered what I could create with pretty much no budget! I turned to my other love and said, ‘I’ve got no money this is shit’. After making googly eyes at me I managed to crack a smile and get back to work.

I started with a dignified rummage through my drawers…of fabric, and pulled out some delightfully large scraps of Alexander Henry’s Willow Grove. Just thinking about the prints this man creates makes me feel all crafty inside!

I picked out some complimentary colours to match and came up with these:

I love the pattern is identical across all three bags!

I had the idea to make little bags to fill with something instantly, but I went for the lunch paper bag style because I love the idea that my little bags will look like they should contain food in them, only they won’t; mine will be filled with tiny bundles of joy- yarn.

I went to my local yarn outlet and picked up some inexpensive but beautiful bundles of the stuff.

I trotted home with my canvas bag weighing heavy against my hip and I couldn’t help but feel pretty darn festive.

Once the last bag was made and the yarn was carefully placed, I stood back and actually felt kind of pleased that this year my finances didn’t permit a good rummage through all those beautiful craft fairs, where one can find themselves giddy with excitement and eager to spend spend spend!

I just hope my ladies like them….

Merry Craftmas folks!

Mama Wolf
-Owwwww

*apologies for not being able to send you directly to the page in purlbee, but I actually can't find it now, but it is on there somehwere. D'oh!

Don't eat that Oreo!

2011-11-18T12:30:00.000Z

This Friday I am completely obsessed with artist Judith G. Klausner and her exquisite hand embroidered toast and jaw dropping carvings made from the creamy centre of Oreo cookies.

Tell me folks, have you seen anything quite like it???

Inspired!

-Mama Wolf

Owwwww

Uses for Washi Tape

2011-11-17T13:00:00.000Z

Last year on my birthday a dear friend showered me with chocolate and Washi Tape by mt deco.

Until now all I have done is gaze upon both rolls of tape as they glisten unused and new in their packet.

When I received photos of a friends wedding recently, I thought it was time to crack open the Washi...

I have a large photo frame which I haven't used for a long time and which up until now was collecting nothing but dust. As everything is digital these days, it was quite a treat to be handed actual photographs! As these photos were all the 4x6" I new the lucky one I chose would be too small for the frame and that I would have mount it, can you see where this is going...

I used both green and pink Washi tape to fix photo to mount in two corners, made a quick check that the picture was centred and I was done.

Lovely jubbly!

-Mama Wolf

Owwwww

Up at the Lodge

2011-11-17T12:30:00.000Z

As various players (including myself) potter about my virtual etsy shop checking that the stock is ready, the floors are polished and the doors are glistening with anticipation at being opened, I am by no means close to resting. Rather, I have been busy getting ready for Christmas.

An Autumn ritual, which I am finding myself indulging in more and more, is to walk through the South Laines in Brighton on my way home. A diversion yes, but nothing too strenuous I can't handle. On this journey, I pass Farm, a delightful farmers market which specialises in the usual fruit and veg you would expect, but what's more, it offers you a seat at the back in its open air cafe and serves according to season (but more on these delights later). Just walking past its grand doors and peering up the market path inspires me to take a deep breath in and announce to myself as though I had just won a prize on The Generation Game; 'It's Autumn, and you know what that means....its nearly Christmas!'.

The more I think of Autumn, the more I am convinced my love for this season stems from the anticipation and hope it offers for the festive season ahead. Christmas is great, but the crafting and making in preparation for it almost trumps the actual day (almost as though nesting for the arrival of a newborn (not Jesus, although I can see the link)!).

Not that I want to do Winter a disservice by standing it next to Autumn as it's less attractive sibling, far from it. Yet, Autumn has balls of steel and it can single handedly be held responsible for some of my most cherished memories. Furthermore, is there anything more beautiful than a crisp autumn morning or a sunset against the golden brown leaves which, when they're not hanging for dear life onto branches are dancing in sudden gusts of wind?

Feeling all Autumnal and ready to prepare for Santa time, I went in search of some fabric. Almost immediately I locked my eyes upon this idyllic print by Moda on 100% pure cotton.

What I love most about this fabric, is the picturesque scenario it paints for you. As a whole, you are taken away with the concept of a traditional Scandinavian-esque village in Winter. Individually, each house seems to invite you in for a hearty roast or a big mug of hot chocolate no doubt.

Out of all the buildings, my favourite are the big red lodges dotted about the fabric. For me they emit a true sense of escapism and planted in amongst the landscape of snow and trees, this fabric which is aptly named 'winter wonderland' is just that!

It seemed only right then, that I create something that reflected this festive scene created by this print, and what better than a festive tea cosy...

'Up at the Lodge' Tea Cosy

'Up at the Lodge' Tea Cosy will be available to purchase from my etsy store very soon.

Thanks for staying tuned folks!

Mama Wolf
-Owwwww

Helen

2011-10-16T21:34:00.000+01:00

I have a dear friend. It was her birthday a long long time ago. I said I would send her something. I didn't get round to it. I am a bad friend. There's nothing like guilt to encourage productivity.

I hope she likes it....

'helen. b' purse

To all my friends whose birthday presents have ever arrived late or not at all, I hang my head in shame.
Sorry dudes!

-Mama Wolf
Owwwww

Sundays child makes...

2011-10-16T21:13:00.001+01:00

Having spent one and a half glorious days with my very good friend Ray, of ray makes do blog (separate post to follow), I have been musing over what to do with a cut of Anna Maria Horner's fabric from her Innocent Crush range for Free Spirit I purchased with a Sewing Centre voucher given to me by friends as a thank you for constructing the tie for the groom on their wedding day.

As the print is so bold and vibrant, I wanted to make something big so one could really bask in the sight of it. A tie would mean losing the print and I didn't have enough to make a kimono ( a search for fabric which continues...).

In the end I decided to make a cushion cover (with cushion) to add to the stock for my Etsy shop which is steadily growing. To give the cushion an extra little sprinkle of special I hand crocheted a blue motif to add to it. I loved these motif's so much when I first made them (which I still have a set of and still don't know what to do with them!).

The end result was pleasing and I was happy that I was able to put the fabric to good use. I hope that it will end up in a loving home.

Good Sunday to you all.

-Mama Wolf
Owwwww

Friday Favourite: Liberty Rocks!

2011-10-14T12:21:00.004+01:00

Liberty Rocks is an Autumn Winter Arts collection of unique fabrics available at Liberty which have not only been inspired by art and music, but designed by musicians and artists themselves (with a little help from Liberty's design team).

This collection also looks at Liberty archive prints, with Musician Florence Welch of 'Florence and the Machine', selecting her most cherished for the 'Inspired by Musicians Range'.

With prints designed by artists including Graham Coxon (Blur guitarist and solo artist) and Storm Thogerson (artist and creator of the most famous album covers in musical history) you can rest assured that the outcome is by no means underwhelming.

In fact, the result is truly remarkable and from seven original ranges to choose from, I'm more than confident you will find something you like, nay, love.

Florence Welch picked Dancing Ladies on the left, a traditional floral with figures reminiscent of Indian Miniatures. This style was previously popular in the 1920s and 30s. The second print on the right reflects her love of vintage clothing. Grace on the right, is a hand drawn lace print dating back to the 19th Century. Both prints have been bought back for this collection so they won't be around for long....

Graham Coxon (guitarist for Blur and solo artist) submitted beautiful original drawings to the Liberty Art Fabrics design team, who have transformed them into this intricate line print for the 'Inspire by Musicians Range'.

I have to say I felt pretty smug upon discovering that my favourite prints from the Liberty Rocks collection (without knowing who had ownership over them) were those selected and designed by musician's Florence Welch and Edwyn Collins. I never get to be cool you see, and I feel like this is my moment to share an affinity with these very creative people (the fact that I think this has made me cool, only further exemplifies how uncool I am doesn't it.... shit!).

Edwyn Collins created the Ornithology print fabric. What makes his collection even more unique and somewhat touching, is that seven years ago Collins suffered from a stroke, and used illustration as a means of rehabilitation. His intricate drawings of birds, each named and dated, was transformed by the Liberty design team into a range of stunning fabrics.

Edwyn Collins for the 'Inspired by Musicians Range'

Mark Mawston for the 'Inspired by Artists Range'

Dora B Tana Lawn print

Liberty have been good enough to include their best sellers in the 'Liberty's Greatest Hits Collection'

What can I say Liberty, your vision and balls to try something new continues to impress. Well done you!

But I don't live in London, how do I get my paws on this treasure?
No need to worry, as ever you can conveniently order on line with prices starting at £19.95 per metre. It is pretty expensive, but I have to admit, that whilst I love a bargain, you really won't regret a purchase made here, Liberty fabric is so wonderfully unique in its prints, and the quality is to die for; smooth, soft and very easy to work with. Go on, I won't tell anyone!

I do live in London
Get your arse down there! No excuses!

-Mama Wolf
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Mama Wolf

2011-10-11T22:41:00.000+01:00

The first set of items for sale under the Mama Wolf fashion label is nearly ready to go. Here's a sneak peak of what to expect.

'Paris Cushion'

Crochet motif's and mats

'Circus' theme tie

Origami Tea Cosy

Fabric Yo Yo card

More details to follow. More regular posts to keep you all updated-promise.

I'm excited folks. I hope you are too...

-Mama Wolf

Owwwww

Ring Ring

2011-06-17T11:16:00.000+01:00

Sometimes just before bed, I'll sit up, look through my little notebook of ideas and proceed to browse the web for further research. Last night whilst looking for a vintage circus tent, I saw this:

This is a 'Circus De Bango' ring supplied by OldgoldBoutique.com and I was mesmerised instantly.

When I made it to the site, I gasped in awe. I could have listed all of them, but we'd be here all day so I decided on a top 3... better make that 4.

'Fireplace'

'Sugar Shack'

'Sand castle'

'Chocolate Bar'

Don't even get me started on their necklaces. Here's a sneak peak to whet your appetite before shooting over there as all lovers of unique jewels should! When you get there, don't forget to say a little prayer*.

Camera and USB necklace

Happy Friday folks

-Mama Wolf

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*oh lord give me the strength not to go nuts. Thank you Amen

Snoopers Paradise

2011-06-07T17:42:00.000+01:00

Last weekend I caught the end of Brighton Fashion Week. As I couldn't afford to buy anything too extravagant, I felt a little left out of the hustle and bustle of handmade Brighton-and it really was! It felt like every home sewer had used this as the perfect opportunity to get their stock out there (A part of me wishes 'Mama Wolf' was ready to be unleashed now, but its just not....patience Sandeep!).

Following the utterly amazing traveling 'Frock Me' fair, I tucked myself away into Snoopers Paradise where I picked up these tiny treasures.

Now to think of something amazing to do with them...

Old man vintage buttons (£1)

The sprinkles came in the bag-don't ask!

Red Riding Hood buttons (£1)

So beautiful yellow Anchor Embroidery thread (£1)

Simplicity Dress, Shirt and Trouser Pattern

They may be small buys, but all of these were an absolute bargain, and offer a massive range of projects to keep oneself busy! Whilst there are a few over priced items in Snoopers Paradise, most things are reasonably priced and its so vast I often find myself in there for a good hour or so!

If you ever pay Brighton a visit, then Snoopers Paradise should be top of your Vintage Shopping to do list!

Peace out

-Mama Wolf

Owwwww

tea cosy

2011-06-03T15:10:00.000+01:00

During my lunch break I began my daily routine of munching on my mozzarella and sun dried tomato sandwich whilst browsing the news on the web. Usually the Daily Mail is first on my view list. Wait, before you judge me so harshly- I only look at the gossip section but never read the article in full-mmm not sure this is much of a defense, perhaps I'll go with my dads justification which is that if you buy both a left and right wing paper, you get a healthy insight into both sides of the debate. Mmmm, I'm still not convinced!

Second is the BBC where I read about headlining news and then have a browse of the Science/Environment section (I love this category so much, it takes me away from the reality of the ever depressing national news-death, genocide, recession, etc). Don't get me wrong its not always good news (take the many stories about global warning or the demise of the tropics for instance) but most of it is upbeat and interesting enough to avoid feeling so shite after reviewing the worlds current affairs!

Third, but certainly not least is my favourite- The Guardian online. What I love most about this news site is the way in which a story is featured and running alongside the column is a list of related stories, so if for example you don't quite understand the beginning of a big story the Guardian helpfully takes you right back to the first article published by them on the matter- how thoughtful.

It was only on this particular occasion that I notice the 'Craft' section. My heart started pounding and I couldn't seem to get my cursor over this delightful word quick enough. Click Click Click!! Finally in!

Now I thought that the number of craft articles related to sewing were rather limit, but I did appreciate that not all craft is related to fabric (see article 'Taxidermy my dad and me' accompanied to the right by a 'Taxidermy for beginners' video- its quite interesting actually!), so I wasn't too peeved.

I did happen to come across a lovely little article by the wonderfully talented Lisa Stickley on how to make your own tea cosy. The pre-made promo shot was enough to inspire me to make one myself. To my delight, the article featured a set of instructions drafted by Lisa herself (check the top of the article for the link).

The instructions are so easy to use and even though I am trying to learn how to deal with detailed and complicated patterns, it is important for me (and anyone who loves to sew) to take on projects for pure fun, which is exactly what this is. I love the simplicity of this project and feel satisfied that I was able to complete this to a good standard in a short time. Lovely stuff!

I decided to use a crochet motif a friend made for me to attach to the cosy for detail.

I also picked my favourite teapot and best charity find to model the cosy around;

my Ruby Wedding teapot!!

Tip: When drafting your semi circle, go freehand first and then use a compass to make the top as accurately round as possible, then simply use a ruler to make the edges straight.

As you can see I didn't draw my semi-circle onto paper first- so impatient!

Tip: If when stuffing the cosy with lining and wadding, the lining is too big, don't be scared to sew the lining again reducing its size. Only this time inside the original sewing line. Then simply trim off the excess.

Tip: No doubt this is a very fast project, but if you want to reduce the time even further, hem the bottom with ribbon instead of making your own (mwah ha ha ha ha I'm so sneaky!). I also used the same ribbon for the loop at the top. Take that extra sewing!

When sewing, take care to separate the lining- I got a quarter of the way round before realising I had sewn them together. D'oh

Finished!

Have a go yourself, and tell me how it went. If you are new to sewing and need some tips, don't forget that the article has more detailed step by step instructions. If you're still stuck then I'll be happy to try and assist you the best I can-promise!

-Mama Wolf
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Friday Favourite: Ruche

2011-05-20T12:16:00.003+01:00

Last night, whilst I was catching up on Facebook, an advert in the sidebar caught my eye. I never pay any attention to adverts on facebook, as they just never appeal to me and since most of them are for dating agencies and losing weight, I categorize them under my ‘tacky’ and ‘don’t bother even looking at them’ files.

This time, I saw the words ‘vintage style’ and without thinking I clicked on the icon.

A few point seconds later I was in ‘Ruche’.

I’m not sure if anyone knows about Ruche, or if everyone does and I’m just late to catch up (always the way with these things I find), but after seeing Ruche's selection of goods available I had to write about it.

Ruche is an online women's fashion boutique created and designed in 2008 by married couple Mai and Josh Olivo; once a web developer and a engineering manager quit their day jobs to pursue what had already taken over their lives and their garage, their kitchen counter, their lounge...).

Ruche earrings

Today Ruche is run successfully by the Olivo's online and is described by the two as “a vintage inspired boutique with a modern touch” influenced by their greatest loves; fashion, photography, design, and lifestyle.

From graduation dresses, embroidered blouses and wooden key earrings to brass two fingered bird rings and little piggy paper clips, Ruche is full of fantastically beautiful items.

Ruche magnets

Not only is the style of Ruche unique as well as inspiring, you can even rest assured that the company is completely independent and if you want to shop guilt free Ruche also includes many eco-friendly items in its general range of stock, as well as an entire eco-friendly category that doesn’t cost the earth!

Ruche Paperclips

Thank you Facebook advertisement, you certainly have given me more reason to will payday forward!

-Mama Wolf

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feeling good

2011-05-16T20:12:00.002+01:00

On my walk home yesterday eve, I made a last minute decision to walk an old route home and I as I turned the corner I was greeted with this incredible spectacle.

A street lined with fabric bunting.

I couldn't believe my eyes. It looked so beautiful, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that the more I gazed at the silhouettes of bunting against the harsh light of the sunset, the calmer I felt.

Walking up this hill usually gets on my nerves as I'm always a bit hot and flustered by the time I reach the top.

Today was different, I walked slowly and marveled at the sight of hundreds of triangles dangling over me.

under the bunting.

As you can see a curious homage had been paid to British Royalty with the bunting made consistently of red, white and blue. Don't be fooled though, I was later told by a friend that this was hung after Kate and Will were wed and after the Queens birthday but still before her 'official' one (but a little early for June!).

Who knows why the residents of this street decided to decorate its sky with these fabric beauties. To be honest, I didn't think too much about why, but rather enjoyed the tiny mystery to it all.

the top of the hill

-Mama Wolf

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The Abbey

2011-05-07T23:47:00.000+01:00

This morning, started at 4.30am. My neice woke up and asked my sister if she could go downstairs as she couldnt sleep. 'No, its too early, go to sleep'. An hour later and she won; my Mum wiped the sleep from her dreary eyes and escorted her downstairs.

Sweet salvation I thought, with Amelie downstairs there was nothing between me and my slumber. I was soarly mistaken. At 5.30am I woke up to the sound of the tiniest hands patting my face at quick speed 'wake up now', 'massiji are you waking up now'? 'when are you waking up?' 'you have to come downstairs and play with me'. Urghhh, how could I resist? I pulled my head which felt like a medicine ball from my pillow and dragged my body from the bed. 'Why are your eyes closed Sandy Massi?' 'becuase I want to die'. Not the cheeriest of reponses but the little devil had woken the entire house; her Mum (my sister), my Mum and me. It was a rather sorry state of affairs. Whilst my Mum was coping rather well, my sister and I were struggling. We took our duvets down with us and fell asleep amongst the dolls and teddybear picnic.

Come 8am, we had crossed over into madness and were fully awake. 'Lets make a plan' my sister began. 'We should go to the park'. 'Which park?' I grumbled? You see I sort of hate parks. Parks are great when you are strolling around with other adults, taking in the sceneary and basking in its peace, but when you add a child to the equation, its all play areas and other kids and their bastard parents; sorry but so many times I have endured the awkwardness of not knowing what to do when other kids are being mean to my neice-yes of course you be direct but remain polite, but all I want to do is boot them....I should stop.

Where was I? Ah yes, thats it, what park should we attend? I didn't really fancy going to any old park, so suggested the gorgeous Coombe Abbey Park.

Coombe Abbey is a hotel which has been developed from a former country house and is located near, if not in Coventry. The house's original grounds are now a country park known as Coombe Country Park.
With a history dating back to 1150, Coombe Abbey is not only full of exquisite history, but every inch of it is laced with enchantment and one can be forgiven for thinking they have entered a wonderland.

As you enter you are greeted with a spectacular view of the hotel and you can feel the hairs stand up on the back of your neck.

Having woken early, we made sandwiches and were thoughtful for all the mint in the front garden so took a thermos of ice water and a handful of leaves so we could throw it into our drinks and sip our mint, lemon, a pinch of sugar, water concoction under the sun.

As we left the car park and wondered aimlessly, not knowing quite wehre to start, we finally agreed to follow whatever path lay before us.

We approached a row of breathtaking trees. They were lined up like a row domino's and seemed to stand taller than skyscrapers. As we turned the corner, I caught myself gasping at the beginnings of what was a spectacular sight.

And then suddenly there it was. this time there was a united gasp and everyone around us seemed to be whispering the same thing. 'isn't it just gorgeous?'.

It was, it was stunning, and I felt at peace. The scenic views, the ducks in the water, the maze on the grounds, the statues, the faces carved out of stone, the benches- every one complete with it's own plaque in loving memory of someone and of course, the biggest player of them all- nature, in all its glory with a little help from some loving gardeners. I truly believed that I was looking into the imagination of Lewis Carroll when he wrote Alice in Wonderland; I even half expected/hoped desperately to see a white rabbit looking discerningly at me, frantically tapping his foot before jumping into a nearby bush.

I was in heaven. Me and my ladies enjoyed lunch and spent much of the day walking and sitting to bask in the warm delight of the sunshine. All I could do was stand there wishing the world could see what I did.

After a 2 hour walk, lunch, an awesome game of hide and seek, there wasn't anything left to do but pick acrons from the biggest acorn tree I have ever seen!

This tree was so big, my digital camera couldn't cope and so rather unprofessionally had to split it into two pics:

my niece contemplating her next move during an intense game of hide and seek.

All in all, the best day I have had with 3 of my favourite ladies in a very long time.

I also recently found out that Coombe Abbey have started to host Asian weddings with a capacity of up to 500 hundred guests in a Marquee on the grounds....hmmm I wonder....

-Mama Wolf

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Moving on

2011-05-04T13:41:00.000+01:00

Gearing up to living with the Maths Tutor has sent me into a planning frenzy. All I can think about is the way I want the first of our homes spent together to look and feel.

Living in Brighton means that I have a lot of access to art shops and gallery's which is proving to be an excellent source of inspiration and filtering out what I love the most is also a lot of fun.

At the moment I am transfixed with these prints which I can see going into the kitchen...

Simon Oxley's 'hello sausage' print

(also the guy who designed the original Twitter bird and the iStockphoto.com logo)

'Mother India' Bollywood poster

Living with the MT will mean that we can share everything including money. this is a real relief for me as I truly feel that once we club our money together I will learn to be more responsible with it. Hannah B of the fabulous Seeds and Stitches said something to me that really resonated 'when you're sharing money, you suddenly feel responsible for the other person, and you suddenly think, shit! when I spend money it affects two people, not just me'! My thoughts exactly!

Something I want to re-introduce into our lives is learning about the food we eat and really appreciate what we actually put in our bodies (I was going to put 'what we put inside ourselves but that sounds really rude!). A lot of people I know have vegetable boxes delivered to them, but until now it has always been an expense that I couldn't afford. Although I live with a dear friend, she doesn't really enjoy many vegetables and by her own admission admits that she can't cook and doesn't have much desire to learn (I actually think she can cook, but is set on believing she can't!). Living with someone who isn't as concerned as you are about eating fresh and hopefully fair-trade food, makes it difficult to fulfill your eating desires! Luckily for me the MT has the same ideas about cooking as I do, so we are now looking into finding the perfect vegetable box for us.

Do you have a vegetable box delivered to your house? If so how is it? What is the going rate? Do you have one delivered because of the convenience or because of the values of eating farm foods brings with it? I'd love to know!

We have also discussed living as eco friendly as possible. Granted this is much harder than one would like and I don't believe that any one person lives entirely ethically-it's not a criticism, it's just bloody hard to do.

In line with this ethos I have my eye on 'Nigel's Eco Store' who stock these amazing 'paper bag' lamps (I also just recently found out that Nigel is based in Hove, Sussex-not far from me at all!).

Or how about this Paper Bag Pendant Light...

I am very happy that someone came up with this novel idea and even happier that I can purchase one guilt free as they are made from recycled paper and biodegradable cardboard. Nigel even throw's an energy saving lightbulb in to get you on you eco-friendly way. Whilst £34.99 may seem a little steep for some of us to fork out on what is essentially paper, I see it more as an investment into something unique and inspiring. As someone who in the past has often spent money on things that I am sure have been made by tiny hands and is cheap as chips, spending a little more on something I know has tried to adhere as closely as possible to being ethical in its manufacture and can be described as Nigel calls it 'eco chic' has got to be a good thing. I feel a purchase such as this one takes me one step closer to exorcising those unethical demons of mine!

Buying vintage is another ethical option, and living in Brighton means its super easy to do as charity shops and specialised Vintage outlets line almost every corner I turn.

I love these cushions made by Linda White of 'Handmade to Measure' and member of Seaside Sisters, using vintage fabrics to sit on top of the bed.

I am also keeping my eye out for an antique mirror. This one would do me fine actually!

As I continue my search, do you have any ideas where I can browse some kick ass vintage goods- either in the UK or online stores? I'm keen to hear from you my pretties!

Now what am I going to put in the bathroom...

-Mama Wolf

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xxx

Easter reflections

2011-05-03T19:35:00.001+01:00

Easter was great this year. I went home to visit my Ma and Pa and loved it. All the family were home and with the sun shining as brightly as it did over the Easter weekend, we couldn't help but feel that little bit happier.

Amelie with her detectives magnifying glass and Easter bag in search of some eggs! (notice my Pa behind her holding her 'detective dog' to sniff out the goods!).

Walks in the park, enjoying a barbeque and an Easter Egg hunt in the garden for my niece Amelie, really reminded me of how lovely time with the family can be; and in my experience,family events are not always as peaceful, and for this rare occasion I am thankful.

For me, this picture sums up my Easter in one!

To my british reader: good luck with the journey back to work- urghh, it hurts just writing it!

-Mama Wolf

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Crochet therapy

2011-04-15T11:37:00.003+01:00

Following on from my last post, lately my tolerance for my daily activities has lowered considerably.

Commuting, being a first time manager, grappling with my morning question; 'what would it be like to work somewhere I love?' and fighting to keep my spirits up sitting in an office with no natural light is all getting to me- bah hum bug!

One evening a few weeks ago, a friend showed me her Japanese crochet magazines, along with her incredible collection of crocheted items which she had made with her own fair hands (separate post to follow).

'Why don't you try one? In Japan, crochet is huge and most patterns are in picture form so its really easy'.

I was intrigued but thought these crochet pleasures were only to be had by experienced hands such as hers. 'When would I find time to learn how to follow these intricate patterns? I thought to myself. I felt so fed up with everything I honestly didn't believe that there was anything that could lift my spirits and initially saw this challenge as more of a torturous game-like being infatuated with someone and although you know they are not interested you pursue them anyway! Urgh I thought, no thanks, this just seems like a craft disaster waiting to happen.

I really don't know what it was that made me try and follow the illustrated patterns my friend prodded under my nose, but I am so glad I did. With a little patience and a little practice, I have found myself hypnotised by these books. Despite being written in Japanese, the picture patterns suddenly become a beautiful language which I am slowly, but very surely mastering.

I set my sights on this little gem:

My work situation remains, but whilst I try to figure out what to do about this part of my life, I must not let my heart ache deter me from learning new craft techniques. So, with this new ethos, my Brighton-Croydon commutes are perfectly timed for a little crochet. At the moment, I am transfixed with this motif. I just can't seem to stop making them. My hour in the morning has burst out of its misery and turned into a crochet therapy session. I crochet and listen to my podcasts (thank you for introducing these to me, my lovely Maths Tutor), and I feel my sense of achievement grow bigger and stronger.

What do you think...not entirely sure what to do with them-any ideas?

I'd love to hear about your stories of how you de-stress. Is there something you do on the way to work?

In with anger, out with love!

-Mama Wolf

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In progress

2011-04-04T19:33:00.000+01:00

Alas; I am not a consistent blogger! For this you will have to forgive me. The last three weeks have been jam packed with figuring out a way to leave my awful job and pursue my hearts desires to sew all day long, hosting family and friends, making plans for the future and finally; making my flat look pretty.

I thought I would share with you some of the things I have been making to take my mind away from what sometimes feel like a difficult reality.

Lets begin....

Appliqued crow.

crocheted by my own fair hands.

penguin cover postcards

hand made crochet motif

Ahhh feeling better already.

-Mama Wolf

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Afternoon Tea

2011-03-09T16:24:00.001Z

Today lunchtime was spent browsing e-bay for some top quality crockery. I couldn’t really find what I was looking for so deciding to go over to Etsy…

Just look at what I found!

Matilda says is a delightful Bristol based vintage company run by two friends who in their own words ‘like nothing more than indulging in our guilty pleasure of scouring fairs, boot sales and charity shops to find gorgeous vintage china.

The pair specialises mostly in up-cycled cake stands and heart wrenchingly beautiful teacup candles. Not only does the customer have the option to buy, one can also rent a selection of crockery which has not been re-vamped for any event.

I implore you go to their website and have a butchers, if not to buy, then simply to gaze in awe of the beautifully crisp and elegantly shot photos of their featured products.

I really couldn't do the products justice in this post as I couldn't get hold of the right pictures. I promise you'll be impressed when you look at the website and the etsy shop.

link link link

Matilda Says website

Matilda Says etsy shop

-Mama Wolf

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White Rabbit ( a quick tutorial)

2011-03-08T21:45:00.006Z

A couple of weeks ago I stumbled across a little charity shop with no name in my local area. As I made my way past the '4 items for a £1' basket outside the front door, I truly felt like I was in Aladdin's Cave. The shop, which really doesn't look like much was full of tiny gems everywhere.

Full of excitement, I flitted from one bit of the shop to the next with the feeling that I could take everything home with me, so much so that I had to take myself to one side and have a word with my hands and wallet in an attempt to keep them away from one another for as long as possible! Agreeing a compromise of a £10 limit I ended up only spending £8.50 in the end on a handsome pile of goodies; a skirt, 3 glass jars, a School Days Memory book (separate post to follow), two plates and a lovely little frame for 50p.

What I love most about this shop is that it is cheap with most items priced between 10p and £4, and it is open everyday from an often ridiculous 7:30am right through to a whopping 9:30pm-don't ask!!

With altered plans, I suddenly found myself with a free Sunday. I spent much of it pottering about the flat, cleaning, organising drawers and stopping every so often to look out on to my green view of the communal garden and the park opposite, sighing at the sight of the sun and sound of the birds. In the middle of sorting jumpers from tops, I caught myself staring at a pile of old birthday cards I had just taken down. I am very lucky in that I not only have wonderful friends, I have wonderful friends with incredible taste which in turn means I get fabulous birthday cards, which in turn makes it so hard to take them down when the party's over. What could I do to keep them alive and away from being hidden in a dusty old drawer...

Then it struck me. Something easy and quick to whet the onset of my crafty appetite!

Step 1

I unwrapped my 50p frame.

Step 2

I picked one of my favourite birthday cards.

Step 3

After taking the frame pieces apart, I gave the glass a good clean.

(As I was taking the back away, I found this lovely picture inside. The thought of this picture being looked and loved really touched me. I mean it could have just been one of those Argos inlay pictures you get in frames but for the 1940's, but either way it made me feel all funny.

Step 4

I placed the frame over the picture and drew around it.

Tip: If you would like to do this, make sure that when you are measuring the picture against the frame, you draw around the widest part of the frame. This is to ensure that you do not trim too much. If your picture is still too big to fit inside the frame you can just trim to fit. If you trim too much you're screwed as there is little you can do to stop it from sliding around inside the frame.

Step 5

Place your picture inside the frame and replace all the fittings.

Step 6

Sit with the picture in front of you and ponder where to put it....

I'll certainly follow up with a post about where this little beauty goes.

All my love

-Mama Wolf

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A dollop of mustard please

2011-03-03T12:11:00.001Z

Not exactly the most thrilling post in terms of words (sorry but this week is quickly running away from me!), but rather a quick rant and lots of pictures!!!

During my teenage years I stubbornly rejected a lot of colours I found to be typically Indian; Mustard was one of them! To wear this colour reminded me of the 70's and my mum which as an adolescent put me right off!

As the years progressed I found myself cooing and reminiscing whenever I would see someone one sporting rich mustard. When I eventually left home my soft spot for the colour increased. I just love it, and came to fully accept it when I found myself telling a work colleague that she reminded me of my mum when I was young becuase of her cardigan- a little strange for the workplace I fear!

I'm still not sure what it is about this colour that gets me. I guess its the fact that whenever I catch a glimpse of it, I am transported back to my childhood when my Mum would dress in bold colours and mustard is the one that stands out the most in my memories of this time.

It also makes me think of my Mum as a young woman who made this incredible jounrney across the world to start a new life in England with my dad. What is even stranger for me, is the fact that none of the photos of her feature mustard anywhere, yet here I am reminiscing about it! I guess you'll just have to trust me when I say that this colour seemed to be everywhere for me when I was growing up and when I see it now, I see my Mum!

Coming back to the present I find myself feeling excited at the prospect of recreating a bit of my mothers vintage past by seeking out bits and pieces that feature this wonderful and rather sentimental colour!!

Check out these beauties...

link

oh my lord, wedding table beauty

link

So there you have it, my mustard lust laid bare. Do you have a favourite colour of the moment, if so do tell, and if theres a story to go with it-even better!

xx Happy Spring to you all xx

-Mama Wolf

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The Oscars? Nailed it!

2011-03-02T18:41:00.001Z

I ask you folks, is this not the best dress in the world?!

What I love most is how relaxed and elegant she looks in this stunning outfit. She always makes everything look so easy!

I do love you Cate!

-Mama Wolf

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Foodie license continued...

2011-02-27T20:45:00.000Z

So my first week of better eating has come and gone. I am happy to report that it has been quite an incredible success! Not because I only ate the healthiest foods and freshest vegetables- I didn't, I assure you(there were some biscuits that I just couldn't resist!), more because of the effect better eating had on me. I didn't feel sick from snacking and looking forward to a home cooked lunch and dinner made my belly rumble with humble joy! That sluggish feeling as a result from eating shite, suddenly ceased; pretty darn obvious I know, but so hard for me to put into practice!

I would be lying if I said making the effort to get this week to work was easy- it was not. It was bloody hard work. Not the cooking itself (that was rather fun), but the gathering of ingredients and following the recipes (sorry Rachel Alllen, but some of your recipes don't include all of the ingredients you have stated in your otherwise fabulous book 'bake'). There were a few moments when all I wanted to do was eat the entire pack of biscuits sat in front of me, or pop into the local chippy, but something made me resist this temptation. Perhaps it was the sinking thought of feeling rubbish about food forever, or the fact that I don't really know how to cook, but expect to feed my future kids meals as awesome as the ones my Mum fed me when I was growing up. Whatever it was I'm grateful for it, and hope it's enough to keep me going and help me get my foodie license.

I tried to take photos of my meals, but they just weren't pretty enough so i stole some from the internet, but I promise promise promise these are all dishes I made, or had made for me (I told you that was allowed right...)

Monday (dinner-I cooked)

Sausage and lentil casserole

Tuesday (dinner- The Maths Tutor cooked)

tuna noodle casserole

Wednesday: Dessert. Made by me

Rachel Allen's Lava Cakes

Thursday: lunch

Thai Satay stir fry

Friday: Dinner (made by my mum)

Saag and roti (spinach and chapatti)*

So there you have it, a rather exciting selection of meals and certainly enough to improve my mood and inspire me to take up cycling frantically away on my exercise bike again (it has been collecting dust in a lonely corner of my room for some 2 years now!.

Something for you

Sticking to the true blogging code, I thought I would provide some tasty links for some tasty recipe websites and books I own or want to own...

Jamie Oliver' s 30 minute meals

If you have any recipes/Rocky style food hardship/triumph stories you can share, then drop me a line, I'd love to hear from you!

Get your pie on!

Mama Wolf
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* -minus the dollop of ghee(butter);this was the only pic that looked like my mums!

Best meal of the week- hands down!

Love or it Hate it

2011-02-14T15:15:00.001Z

Happy Valentines Day my pretties.

Whether you love it or hate it, think of something saucy and have a giggle!

All my love (puke)

-Mama Wolf Owwww

A little craft

2011-02-14T13:49:00.000Z

Sunday was a good day. I spent it organising my sewing desk (a picture soon to follow when it is finished), and in turn- rediscovering fabrics I had since forgotten I had. It was like me from the past treating me from now with a pile of beautiful delights.

When I stumbled across a fat quarter of blue print cottons I sat back and cooed over them for a while. As a treat, I took a break from my happy chores and browsed Martha Stewart's craft pages. There I stumbled across a set of instructions on how to make fabric pumpkins.

I was intrigued, but didn't think much of them (dull looking really). I typed 'fabric pumpkins' into google images and had a look. There I found a picture of an amazing set made by Amy of Keep'n The Sunny Side.

link

A wonderful set of instructions and a curious link to the originator of them; ThompsonFamily. Wow! This was the first thing that came to mind when I saw this incredibly vibrant blog. Amazingly kitsch and full of colour with the most awesome images, I was besotted immediately!

ThompsonFamiy is a creative blog written by the fabulous Danielle Thomspon. Thompson designs lovely things such as digital and printable kits, paper goods, clear polymer stamps, embroidery patterns, unique vinyl wall decals, accessories for Blythe and if that wasn't enough then she also offer's prints of her photography.

Seriously- go check it out!

Right where was I...oh right pumkpins. So take a look at these bad boys From Danielle's blog:

I thought I would give it a go for myself...

I only made one for now, and couldn't think what to do with it until I made it some friends. So, I used it for my naughty pins that are always getting away!

Great. Done. Very pleased.

Having read the full set of instructions on ThompsonFamily you can understand why I found the fact that Danielle got her idea from Martha Stewart quite amusing. Now that we have come full circle, I implore you to take a look at this blog which I found so inspiring and spent almost an hour gazing at it, following links she had recommended, discovering new blogs and so on and so on.

Thanks Danielle!

-Mama Wolf Owwwww

Foodie License

2011-02-12T20:34:00.005Z

Okay, I am fully aware that we are fast approaching Mid February if not March and to post about my new years resolutions seems a bit out of date and a bit misplaced for this time of year. After a few doubtful thoughts as to whether or not I should bother, I decided to bother. New Years resolutions has such a bad rep that we often can’t think of them without slapping a big ol’ sell by date on; you make them at New Years…you usually forget about them post New Years! I wanted my new years resolutions to last so instead of writing a definitive one, I created an open ended one, which I can add to as I go about my year.

There were some big ones on there –career change, spend less, shop more ethically, make my flat completely energy efficient (which is almost impossible if you don’t own your crib). Then there were some smaller ones- meet friends and loved ones more often, crochet more, start exercising again, go out more, sew more etc... you get the general vibe!

Last week I decided to tackle my food. I love food. I love junk food, vegetables, fruit, Thai, Indian, Turkish-everything! The only problem is I am not very good at cooking; I love baking, absolutely love it and can do it reasonably well. Cooking a stew, baking a pie, making soup however- no. It almost always goes wrong. As a British Indian I feel embarrassed that I can’t really make proper Punjabi food. Sure I know how to make it, what to put in, when to add what but does it taste like the curry my sister’s produce which often taste like my mums food- hell no! To be honest I feel pretty crumby about it. Maybe I am doing myself an injustice, but out of the ten years I have been trying to cook like my mum I can only remember about 3 times I have been pleased with what I have concocted. It doesn’t help that the Maths Tutor is a good cook, but hates following recipes (don’t ask-he has this thing about making it unique?!).

So now? Well I have had enough! Enough of bodged pasta dishes where the ingredients I have added, taste of nothing and so resort to sprinkling a shit load of cheese onto it and then serving in the hope no one will notice. Enough of pining over the skills of friends who bake fish pies so bloody well that all anyone can talk about throughout dinner is how brilliant they are! Enough of looking at a sympathetic boyfriend and hearing the words ‘it tastes lovely darling, maybe just add a few spices for taste’. ARGGHHHHH!

I thought it sensible to start by asking myself a crucial question- why does my food suck? Then it came to me, my light bulb moment; because I always try and cook low fat meals. Even when the recipe doesn’t require you to use low fat this or low fat that, I always tend to anyway. Now, don’t get me wrong I am all for healthy living (trying to do it plagues my mind daily), but when it comes to cooking I just can't cook something low fat and tasty- I am not good enough-yet anyway. I asked myself why I did this, and if I am honest it’s because I got lazy. When I stopped exercising I suddenly started to feel really guilty about everything else I wasn’t doing so trying to cook low fat healthy meals went into overdrive. When I was active, I ate what I wanted- I’m not saying I sat down to a plate of 20 thick chocolate coated biscuits that when you bite in to make a satisfying ‘snap’ sound for dinner. Rather the guilt of eating a good wholesome meal with potatoes and a fat pie followed by a mars bar and banana loaf dessert didn’t really exist.

My ex-flatmate and dear friend is an amazing cook. He can do low fat and tasty without any trouble and describes cooking as ‘a soothing experience’ (little s**t!). I on the other hand find it to be fraught with an impending doom that it won’t taste of anything.

This mindset has a ripple effect for me- I don’t have confidence in cooking so I tend to find myself in a strange cycle of bad eating. I buy vegetables and cook some of them (boiled usually to the point of nothing), leave the rest in the pot to die (which is then thrown away- not very eco-friendly), feeling fed up I then don’t bother making my lunch for the next day and I end up buying it on my lunch break-a habit I have come to loathe as it goes against my ‘less packaging at lunch’ morals (I couldn’t find the statistic, but most of London’s waste comes about from sandwich/pasta/cake packaging at lunch time during the week. Exacerbated by the fact that people don’t put their rubbish in recycling bins- or there just aren’t any about to use!), not to mention my ‘less spending during the week’ deal I made with myself so so long ago now.

The conclusion I have come to having rambled like a loon is to get back on the cookery horse and try again. Instead of turning to over-complicated meals with a never ending shopping list of ingredients I shall instead treat myself.

Jamie Oliver, Nigella Lawson and the like had better watch out, because I am about to hit their books-hard! I want to start enjoying cooking so instead of panic buying I will try* to sit at my dining table with a pen and a make shift recipe book and pick and choose what meals I want to eat, regardless of the calories. I will try* and enjoy the food I eat by not going crazy with guilt. I will try* and go running more often and play badminton because these are the things I love doing as much as eating. I will try* not to eat so many sweets to the point that I have a headache and can feel my mood dropping. I will try* and make my lunch for at least one whole week without any exceptions. I will not deprive myself treats because life is hard enough and sometimes a big fat biscuit covered in chocolate so thick that when you bite into makes a satisfying 'snap' sound is the only thing that can feel like a reward after a poo day.

Wow this has turned into a pretty big resolution…one step at a time my friends; I’ll get my Foodie license yet!

Okay…go!

Week 1. Sunday :Jamie Oliver's Superb Chicken.

chicken breast with mushrooms and herbs in the middle wrapped in pastry.

spinach and broccoli salad with peas and slices of orange. Olive oil drizzled.

the chicken is served with a white wine mustard sauce. (I'm beginning to dribble as I reminisce!).

I loved making this. It was easy and oh so tasty!

It was so filling that I didn't need any dessert. I went to sleep full and happy!

If you have any food related disasters come dilemma's that you have overcome, I would love to hear about them! Perhaps you have some simple but scrummy recipes to share with this rather unorganised and uneducated foodie wannabe? If so, do tell...

I'll let you know how my weekly home made lunches go. Eap!

All my love

-Mama Wolf Owwwww

*will try try try not to break!