Fairy Goat Mumma

My Creative Space

2010-10-27T14:54:00.000-07:00

Busy trying to 'mow' through my increasing pile of orders !! My little one has just gone to sleep, so Brmm Brmm on the machine I will go, then off to work @ 3pm !!!

Hope everyone has a fabulous day !!!

welcome to Olive & Mabel

2010-10-26T18:54:00.001-07:00

Please meet the delightful OLIVE

I think she is quite gorgeous - I debuted her a few weeks back at the Barn Market, she was such a hit, that I sold out... Here is one I finished for an online order...

My this years Summer A-line dress range will comprise of 4 different colourways.

- my signature Wallflower fabric by Amy butler, avaliable in Cherry & Slate (pictured above) - i have been using it for over 3 years now - and just seem to love it more and more !!

- optic blossom, and retro 'Betty'.

I am still going to be making 'carrie' which I designed up last year, customers seem to like the little carrot!!! - maybe its the only way to get the children near their veggies .....hehehe

Although the above fabrics will be my 'staple' 2011 summer fabrics, I am still able to do custom orders, such as the little apple dot dress I have just completed for a customer.

I have named this one MABEL

Must keep at it - xx

kidstlyefile & fairy goat mumma

2010-10-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to announce that there is a fabulous giveaway happening right now !!!

The lovely Ange from Kidstylefile & Fairy Goat Mumma have teamed up together and are offering ALL kidstylefile facebook 'likers' the chance to win some great prizes!!!

For all the info and competition details CLICK HERE

winners' prize

2010-10-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

I ran a competition through my facebook page a few weeks ago. Yesterday I hand delivered this little parcel and flowers from my garden. The lovely Sarah has a little girl 4, and boy 20 months, so I made a 'Carrie' dress and Zoo in chocolate square bib!!

I DO HOPE THEY LIKES THEM !!!!

NOTE: Kidstylefile are going to be giving away $300 worth of prizes when they reach 4200 (about 60 more needed) 'likes' on their facebook page - make sure you go and check them out!!!!

Cherry Bomb

2010-10-12T04:23:00.001-07:00

This gorgeous fabric is my all time FAVOURITE!!

As long as it is still in print it will feature heavily in all FGM products

This baby bib is suitable from birth - 1 year

I also make larger toddler bibs and funky square bibs

check out my online store for more

Go the SAINTS ...

2010-09-24T17:06:00.000-07:00

Our household is hoping for the Saints to win the AFL grand final today!!!

Billy's Pa bought him a beanie and a scarf to wear - which he proudly did at playgroup on Thursday. Billy started walking last Saturday, be it a little gingerly - but I'm sure the running isn't too far away.

GO THE SAINTS !!!

Funky Homes

2010-09-18T03:48:00.000-07:00

Whilst dropping off some stock at the Uber Cool Funky Homes Store today - I just couldn't resist this wall decor, which now proudly sits on our lounge room wall, just above our couch.

I think its rather chic, and the kids seems to love it (Ava actually wants to make some more birds to put on the branches - she thinks the one bird will be lonely) Bless xx

For more gorgeous products please visit Funky Homes online store or visit Helena in store at 149a Liverpool Street, Hobart.

I'm off to PARTY now....YIPPEE

Nappy Bags

2010-09-16T01:10:00.000-07:00

These fabulous little clutches are super handy to throw into your bag for a quick outing - saving yourself the pain of lugging around your usual baby bag. These clutches hold up to 3 x nappies (all sizes) and a huggies travel wipes case. For more fabric options please check out

www.fairygoatmumma.com.au

Spitting the DUMMY

2010-09-12T14:49:00.001-07:00

Super handy Dummy Straps/Clips, packaged in a durable plastic container for easy storage in your handbag (will also fit most dummies)

Furry Friends

2010-09-03T06:15:00.001-07:00

Our two dogs - eagerly awaiting their morning feed of chicken necks from our neighbour. I took this from her side of the fence..I think its very cute.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away

2010-09-02T05:20:00.000-07:00

A sneeky peek of my new style bibs

Have been making lots of bibs with an apple theme ready for spring and summer. I will be selling my new square bibs for the first time at the market this Sunday - yes!! Fathers Day, would love to see you there..Masonic Temple, 3 Sandy Bay Road

Mini Break

2010-08-24T03:08:00.000-07:00

GREETINGS EVERYONE

I have been on a 'mini break' - actually nowhere really just a break from sewing, blogging and all things creative.

After driving the machine fast and furious in preparation for markets a few months ago - I was left completely buggered and totally burnt out. My creative juices stopped flowing and an overpowering sense to just spend time with the family consumed me. I was feeling a little guilty for my lack of enthusiasm to spend quality time with loved ones - I felt that every waking moment was filled with ways and means to find as many spare minutes in the day to cut, draw, sew etc.

I find that the house seems to be turned 'upside down'( Matt refers to it as a 'brothel on bargain day) when I'm in a creative space - instead of doing a load of washing, vacuuming the floor or changing the sheets, all I want to do is create. I'm sure most of you can relate to this - with two children (8yrs &1yrs) & a part time job - time is the essence!!!

I have really enjoyed my 'mini break' it has allowed me to rejuvenate, clear my head and allow space for new and exciting ideas - which I am now ready to discover and explore.

Great news is in the last week I have put together my little ONLINE STORE its only a temporary one (an invitation to a good friends wedding in Perth, WA has taken the website budget)

.......... Ahh but a REAL mini break will be nice)

Lolly shop

2010-07-22T15:15:00.000-07:00

This is my daughter Ava taken at Richmond a few weeks ago - i guess the saying is correct "as happy as a kid in a lolly shop"

Just saying HELLO...been very busy last few weeks, and not having a camera still... i'm finding my blogs would be all to boring with out photos ( i have my camera phone )but im not a very diligent snapper...

On the sewing side of things, all is looking good, I have some new designs which I am playing around with and will be avaliable at the Barn Market next month

A last minute change of plans...

2010-07-13T05:17:00.000-07:00

Where there is a WILL there is a Way.... I have only TONIGHT confirmed that I will be stallholder at Mathilda's Market this weekend!! After shuffling a few things I had already committed too I have sorted out logistics and will be there will bells on!!

Tho - as I wasn't expecting to be involved 3 days of sewing really isn't much time considering I have to work some of that and look after a baby full time.... Aaah, but I can only do my best and sew as much as I can. Have cut out heaps of things tonight, lots of lovelies for the little one in your life ....but to see them you must come along xx

dress up - my creative space

2010-06-30T17:11:00.000-07:00

Well this is my new 'best friend' - I got her off layby last Saturday and Wow!!! she is so very fast and a dream. This machine is classified as semi industrial and only sews straight stitch BUT 1600 stitches per minute mind you.... tho I have it set on a slower setting until I feel I can handle it. As I sew mostly baby bibs, bags etc I was getting frustrated that my Janome (not very old) wouldn't go any faster, so Jenny Janome has a partner in crime, oh can't forget Travis Toyota (my overlocker) so now there is three....Mmm dining table is an eight seater THANK GOD!!!

This is a pic of my 'creative space' literally, it was once a very organised dining room, but since the arrival of Mr Billy, my sewing room is now his domain.

I made this reversible apron for myself yesterday and is the first thing I made from my new machine (must give her a name)
I wore it out to dinner and the state cinema last night and was tickled pink when asked by 2 women where I got it from....

Happy days all - Im heading off to work x

Led Zeppelin & Sewing....

2010-06-22T19:26:00.001-07:00

I would never of put cross-stitch in the same category as Led Zeppelin, so to find a pattern to make your very own cross stitch logo - Well, I just had to share it !!! If you would like to buy the E - pattern go to jpcrossstitch.etsy.com

Vintage 1996

2010-06-19T00:23:00.001-07:00

Whilst sorting out underneath our house today, I found this random photo amongst paperwork from an old florist I had (thankfully been 9 years so its all ready for the incinerator) This photo is now classified "VINTAGE" Dec 1996... I was a footloose and fancy free 20 year old (turning 21 in the January, I'm the one in the pink & purple jumpsuit) We are celebrating the end of Uni ( I think) the girl with the mini is my longest dearest friend who I quoted as "wong" in my first blog post.
"wong" is one of those nicknames that I honestly can't remember where it stemmed from, but has stuck !!!
It seemed back then that every party I went to had a 70s theme - gee I wonder what they all have now 90s??

Very soon my 7 year old daughter will be going through my closet looking for 'really bad' outfits - but I guarantee she wont find any - as we are all stylish dressers aren't we!!

A fabulous neighbour

2010-06-18T03:54:00.000-07:00

I feel so so very blessed to live next door to a wonderful, loving, giving, warm, funny lady and who is simply a HOOT!! We just shared a bottle of champs together - actually truth be known I scooted off to the supermarket after one glass and came home to an empty bottle...she was a little pickled ( though matt did refill my glass for when I returned )

Pat is 82 years old - but you certainly wouldn't think it!! Not only does she bring my life so much joy, she is what I would define "a gift" - I truly love her, and see her as a part of my immediate family. She not only takes care of my children, feed my dogs chicken necks on a daily basis, she is a fabulous friend to me that I confide in. I would pay 1 million dollars just to live where I do ( actually I'd pay more) so it is without question - even though I said the quilt was for myself that i will sit and hand sew the remaining of this quilt with lots and lots of love and care and proudly give it to her. Pat is OBSESSED with staying up late and watching the tennis ( she had pay tv!!) she once told me it was 'only to perv at Nadals' butt' Hah that is so her!!!

How are our neighbours???

My Creative Space ...

2010-06-16T15:19:00.001-07:00

Its a very simple quilt, that I will piece by machine and then hand quilt - which I LOVE to do, especially all cozy on the couch on a winters night!

Amy Butlers Lotus range is my all time favourite, I love the rich colours and the simplicity of the designs...I hope it never goes out of print!

Its back to basics for me today, I started sewing well over 15 years ago and the first thing I made was a square block quilt from charm squares I bought (well I was young so my Mum would of bought for me) from Laura Ashley. I can remember the prints vividly - I wonder where it is now??

I have some gorgeous Amy Butler scraps, which have been hibenating in a box for far to long, so this little quilt will be a gift to me!! As I swear we never seem to make things for ourselves - do you find the same??

Gorgeous Ava

2010-06-16T01:49:00.001-07:00

And my other 'baby' Miss Ava proudly modelling one of my early Pinafores!!!

Baby Billy

2010-06-16T01:26:00.000-07:00

A little peek at what I was busy doing today...
playing with my gorgeous little man Billy

and the winner is ....

2010-06-02T00:45:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to

RuthiV

Miss Ava drew your name from about 30+ enteries

so well done to you!!

Please send me an email and let me know

1.your childs age & gender

2.your postal address

Once I receive your details I will post of a little suprise gift

...watch out for the postie x

I Won I Won an award....

2010-05-31T02:49:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to ME - I awarded myself

WORLDS WORST BLOGGER!!!

Do I hear three cheers?

I'm serious, its been a month since my last post - which was announcing my giveaway (which I still haven't drawn - how bad is that!!!!)

What a busy busy last month. Had 3 extremely successful markets, The Barn, The Masonic and took a trip on the weekend to Mathilda's Market in Melbourne...and what a trip it was. I went over with two full suitcases of stock and came home with just one suitcase half empty - so it was great!!!

carrot denim slip

The market was held at the Malvern Town Hall, which is a gorgeous old building and in a fabulous location. There was a total of 70 stall holders and a majority of them were selling clothing of some description, there was also some fabulous toys, homewares and colourful eclectic goodies all made with love, care and pride. When I finally thought and found time to take some photos it was pack up time... see I told you I'm the WORLDS WORST BLOGGER... The day went so fast and I found it amusing in the last hour when stock was dwindling down seeing customers reaching out and grabbing the last of certain products. Towards the end they were even yelling from the side of the table 'I'll have the red and white spot one", referring to bibs, bags etc. I would definitely do another market, though it really is a hard task and leaving my family (considering still feeding by bubs) for two nights. The hardest obstacle I found was trying to fit what I needed into two cases (I thought i was so clever not taking any carry on luggage) but when I got to the airport late on Friday night I was SHOCKED to be fined $170 - for extra baggage (i was 17kg over and its $10 per kg) NOT HAPPY JAN... So I will certainly aim to pack a little wiser. I also encountered many hiccups - a kids washing line I bought over from Tas in its unopened box, was missing the screw - so my stall lacked height, if I'm totally honest my display looked pretty ordinary - it was hard to be creative with limited resources... I was just pleased my Mum was there for the last 10 minutes, as I was able to have a quick wonder. Wow....what talent there is in Melbourne! fabulous products and the workmanship was exquisite! I loved wondering in bewilderment through the aisles, salivating over the fabrics, colours and textures - it really was a crafters, mothers, child's HEAVEN.... Finally big kisses to my Mummy for helping me pack away and for the yummy lunch afterwards - shes staying on in Melbourne for a week!!

One of my only photos - Mum helping me pack up!!

Some of my stock ready to be packed

I participated in The Masonic Market earlier this month and was surprised just how busy I was, considering it was the week before Mothers Day (thought everyone would be spending their money on Mummy pressies) - had a fabulous spot right inside the front door, its really encouraging to have so many repeat customers - big thank you to all of you x

Well that's it for now - just wanted to give you all a little 'low down' on whats been happening and inform you all of my new Title (don't forget) WORLDS WORST BLOGGER...

Talk to you all tomorrow with some pictures and winner of competition....

It was also lovely to meet Angela the wizard behind Kids Style File - check out the link I'm sure you'll all become addicted!

Till then - xx

GIVEAWAY GIVEAWAY GIVEAWAY

2010-05-04T23:14:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves a good freebie don't they?...I sure do!

Its been a while since posts...sorry about that, I had planned to announce my competition once my facebook fans had reached the BIG 100 - but I just didn't seem to find that spare moment to sit down and type...and when I did have the time, i usually just went to bed as it was too late... The week just gone has been a fabulous one...., lots to fill you in on - but for now lets get this freebie underway!

GIVEAWAY

choice of boy/girl pack

(winner to let me know gender & age)

examples of what might be there...bibs, pinafore, pants, nappy clutch etc

Easy peasy competition guidelines

step 1: Read my first ever blog post titled 'once upon a time' (hint under month of Feb)

step 2: Send me an email to fairygoatmumma@gmail.com explaining how I came up with the name 'fairy goat mumma' (i don't care how its written, copy & paste, note form...whatever (make sure you leave your FULL NAME)

That's pretty much it - however if you want an extra entry leave a comment under this post (can be just a 'Hello')

The winner will be drawn the 'old fashioned way' of pulling a name out of a hat by my miss Ava (i will post a video link of her doing it)

All entries must be received by 9pm Wednesday 19th May THAT'S 2 WEEKS

Winner will be announced on Thursday 2oth May on facebook & blog

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE

remember ......

1 x entry - send me an email

2 x entries - send email & leave comment under this post

INVITE ALL YOUR FRIENDS TO BECOME A FAN AND ENTER COMPETITION

Winter Piggy Pinnie

2010-04-29T04:39:00.000-07:00

TO MARKET TO MARKET TO BUY A WINTER PIGGY PINNIE

I got a fabulous response from putting my 'piggy pinnie' on facebook a few months back, and have since sold out of the pink fabric...but my friend Mr Postie delivered the delightful Cherry fabric (see pic)...I think its quite delicious!! Fabulous for Winter teamed with warm leggings and boots...

The pictured pinnie I have just completed and is going to a gorgeous little girl called Lucia... (sorry about the quality of photos - but was excited to share !!!)

I will be making these for upcoming markets and same red fabric with a latte cotton drill and a gorgeous felt and designer fabric cherry embellishment. Ooooh its all just such fun - I do love being creative... GOODNIGHT ALL XX

My Creative space today is ...

2010-04-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

bibs, bibs & MORE bibs

lots of bibs need to be cut out, sewn with double layer flannel/toweling ready for sale at the Masonic Market on Sunday. I am also cutting out extra of everything so I'll have plenty of stock for Mathildas in Melbourne....better book my flight quick smart...

Lots of dots for bibs, especially the smaller sizes in unisex colours (green, orange & red) I find alot of my customers are buying gifts for friends expecting a baby and they are unsure what the sex will be.... The bibs on the flannel to the left are an order for Em, who bought some at Mathildas in Hobart - loved them so much has ordered 4 more and some for a friend...

Thanks Em - will be in the post tomorrow am

Gotta love the postie

2010-04-28T02:13:00.000-07:00

Oh I do like the days when I see the Postie contractor slowing down when he nears my house. Today he delivered 2 lovely parcels filled with 16 yards of gorgeous Amy Butler Fabric. Usually I like to change my fabrics regularly but have decided to stick to a mostly Amy Butlers' Lotus range. I have all of her disco dot fabrics in stock, as well as all available colourways in wallflower and of course the lovely morning glory in linen. All fabric today will be converted into pinafores, bibs, nappy clutches, hair clips etc... Why is it that I find it so hard to cut the fabric? i love to see it all neatly folded away (well sometimes neatly) I think it is safe to say I am a FABRICOHOLIC..is there such a word?

Mondo Mumma Market Menu

2010-04-27T21:26:00.001-07:00

Phew...talk about a few Ms in the blog title.

Mondo Mamas Market Menu

The ultra spunky Bree from Mondo mumma tantalizes everyones tastesbuds with her fresh, mouthwatering delights every month at the ever popular The Market.

I know I'll be there with a empty tummy to taste ALL of the above!

To Market To Market to buy a ....

2010-04-27T01:49:00.000-07:00

PIGGY PINNIE?

I will have a great selection of new designs and fabrics on show this Sunday at

The Market - Masonic Temple Hobart. I will also be showcasing my popluar nappy clutches, hair accessories, bibs, burp cloths, slip dresses, dummy straps, little boy pants etc

BE SURE TO COME & VISIT IF OUT & ABOUT

Wouldn't it be nice...

2010-04-24T04:50:00.000-07:00

OMG!! - wouldn't it be nice to have our own little sanctuary away from daily life to live, breathe and engage in our creativity... I found this little piece of bliss whilst looking through flikr (only just discoverd it) for pics of Amy Butler fabric. I personally would like a little less colour in my studio - but hey...beats the end of the dining table any day!

For more pictures of this amazing creative space click on link below

http://www.flickr.com/photos/47582661@N00/3311100967/

Happy Saturday night everyone x

Postie Girl

2010-04-22T04:02:00.000-07:00

My lovely daughter Ava is the BEST help... She is always willing to lend a hand 'creating' and is very enthusiasitc in telling me 'how I should do things & what is 'cool'. She even manages to see all the 'runaway pins' under the table , even though Ive sworn to have got them all.

Tuesday she mailed off a few orders BLESS x

I can reach

Tippy Toes

A trip down Memory Lane

2010-04-20T20:06:00.000-07:00

A gorgeous bride and bridesmaids

Last Friday night, I took a trip down memory lane... I went to my good friends' family home and did the tulip bouquets above for her youngest sisters wedding. I say memory lane, as so many pivotal times were spent in that house and I did the flowers in my friends old room (she had her own lounge room, bathroom etc) Many a time was spent there gossiping over the previous nights antics, watching dvds, crying over 'lost loves', smiling over 'new loves' - if only those walls could talk - probably good they don't actually!! I really enjoyed doing the flowers and my trip down memory lane, especailly time spent with my friend and her family - though its so frightening to think that we all left school 17 years ago. My my.... how time goes by ...

A sticky night

2010-04-20T05:50:00.000-07:00

Oozy, gooey, sticky date pudding....that was our dessert tonight!!! Usually I am only compelled to make a dessert when I am procrastinating over something - but for some reason I had a lamb casserole baking away in the oven by 11am this morning ( meat was well and truly away from the bone at tea time tonight) - which by the way was the 'nanna' time of 5.30pm... followed by a rather large serve of pudding with extra rich toffee sauce (3 healthy ingredients of butter, cream and dark brown sugar) and a generous dollop (good word.. dollop!!) of king island cream...If I may take one comfort for all tonights gorging it would be that dietitians say "eat before 7pm so that you are not going to bed with a belly full of food"- therefore not using any energy and waking up a little heavier than you did 8 hours prior ( though can't remember when I last had an uninterrupted sleep...thank you William) So I guess that means I can eat whatever I like as long its by say - 6pm each night!!! Ooh tomorrow night.... let me think...banana fritters, pavlova, trifle, self saucing pudding, chocolate ripple cake, donuts, maggie beer icecream (have some in the freezer delicious!), tiramasu, lemon delicious, pancakes, choc mouse...actually going to opening of Rebecca Roth, Cube art and design in Salamanca tomorrow night... think I'll grab a double header ice-cream from cargo on the way home...YUMMO x

BIRTH & DAYS

2010-04-14T02:11:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BILLY

Pics a little 'IRISH' - in wrong order need to start at the bottom and work your way UP...

More??

Now thats what I'm talking about...

Not to bad..

Bit sticky tho..

Green one looks good

Well today was very special within its self. My little man William turned 1 - with that of course comes a day of reflection...where were we this time a year ago? Most of us Mothers will ALWAYS remember our thoughts and emotions on our Children's birthdays, for it was a huge milestone for us and for me personally I have never felt so empowered.

I set off to work happy and in good spirits, mostly due to the joyful morning spent singing endless versions of 'Happy Birthday' (Ava thought it was hilarious to sing "you live in a zoo, you act like a monkey and you smell like one too')...so you can probably gather that the trip over the Derwent Bridge at 8:15am this morning was lively, loud and full of laughter. Also pretty pumped that I recieved an email early am, congratulating me on a successful application into Mathildas Market Melbourne... Dropped Ava off to school (she insisted in holding Bills hand the whole way into the classroom , even though I was holding him, cute, cute..) Met Mum at retro in Salamanca and then drove her and William home to the Glebe, put William into bed and said a bye to all and off to Kingston to work with flowers. Finished work, picked up William (Mum picked up Ava) and home to greet some 'merry visitors' to sing more happy birthdays and games of chasing Oh - and of course more pressies to open... most of them with lots of NOISE... thanks everyone!!! (guess its Karma for all the really annoying gifts I have given to friends children - lawnmover hasn't been a hit - sorry Dusty xx ...NOT)

I was feeling on top of the world, having all my family and loved ones around until......yes it only takes a simple thing to bring you back down...

Well my reaction to it is - let it slide, run with what it is you are comfortable with, believe and know what is right and wrong. I have spent a lot of my years worried with what 'other people think, say and do' and I am first to admit that I hold my heart 'directly' on my sleeve for all to see. And unfortunately that can be my undoing - should you follow your head or heart??? Mmmm now I think that's a tough one. But in reality I find that my 'Heart' is too emotional - that's where I sense things first and my 'Head' well unfortunately I tend to go there last, and 'think' and 'react' with my gut/heart.

So a new 'mantra' is born tonight - I will 'feel' the emotion, but then 'pause' evaluate 'then react'...

For I am certainly a creature of 'habit' and 'habit' is very hard to change...

BARN BLISS

2010-04-11T04:52:00.000-07:00

It was a gorgeous market day yesterday...what a little hidden treasure the barn is, tucked away behind Eastlands. I have 'played' golf at that course a couple of times in my Uni days - which was really just a group of us walking 9 holes, losing a few balls along the way, whilst pulling a golf bag full of beer!

Seriously it was great, Miriam and Helen have done a fabulous job in organising the event and it was fantastic to see the public support it as well as they did considering it was only the second time it had been held! Well done to you both!! Miriam is due for her first bub anytime soon - and she worked like an absolute Trojan on Saturday (my hats off to her) I wish her all the best for the birth of her little boy ...and writing the 300+ reports that need finalising before the bundle arrives. I personally had a wonderful day of sales and feedback - from a quick talk to other stallholders they too found the market to be not only fabulous in way of sales, but generally the overall 'feel' was warm, inviting and friendly.

Just a quick mention to the lovely Nell from Ruby Victoria Letterpress I sincerely hope that not only your concussion has subsided - but also your marquee has gathered itself from it 'holiday' in the wind xxx

Well I'm already tucked up in bed with a very warm hottie (that would be of the bottle kind) at my feet... I have had a 'no sew' night, which has been fabulous!! Back on the 'peddle' tomorrow night to get under way on a few orders, then into the kitchen to make a very special birthday cake!!! My little man William is turning 1 on Wednesday.

So with a tummy full of Homemade pumpkin soup (coupled with bread rolls 'prince charming' baked yesterday...yes yes he bakes) and the HOTTIE..to me its a recipe for a good nights sleep...Mmmm hope Billy feels the same!!!!

nite nite xx

My favourite sewing accessory

2010-04-07T00:15:00.000-07:00

My darling Ava made this for me at school last year and gave it to me on Mothers Day!! I have it placed on my sewing machine and use it everyday. Everytime I look at it is warms my heart...

Raspberry Wedding Bouquet

2010-04-01T14:41:00.001-07:00

As you know I am a florist by trade and with this comes the lovely task of assisting the Bride to Be in making her wedding everything she dreamed it would be and more. For those of us who have 'walked the aisle' - oops that sounds like walked the plank..... Brides tend to have very short fuses, especially as the date draws near and emotions are running high! and it certainly doesn't help when the florist is unable to give a guarantee of colour and availability of specific flowers partially due to flowers being subjected to all of natures elements (tho - not so much these days) as a majority of flowers available in today's market are grown in highly controlled environments. Although the positives of this, is that MOST flowers are available all year round, I feel that the downside is far greater.

Firstly I use to get so excited when spring was just around the corner, knowing that all the bulbs would soon be available like, freesias, tulips, hyacinth, jonquils etc. NOW - all are basically available all year round. I honestly wouldn't recommend using say tulips for bouquets throughout the months of November to March. Mainly because they are a winter/spring flower and do not withstand the heat of the warm summer months, they tend to wilt and the blooms 'blow' almost instantly. I also love the smell of flowers, as I;m sure everyone does. IF you take note of someones reaction when they are given a flower, be it a single or large bunch the first thing they do is place it to their nose and smell...but, these days with all the intervention from commercial growers, the once longed for scent is put to the wayside in favour of colour, stem length and longevity. A rose was always deemed so lovely as their fragrance was so sweet, these days when ordering a dozen roses, you will pay according to stem length. A 'typical' bunch of a dozen long stemmed red roses will give you minimal if any change from $100...and Valentines Day well....that's a total blog on its own!!! I guarantee that only 20% of all roses sold in a florist have a smell so - if it is a fragrant rose you are after, best bet is to pick from on old rambling garden, or specifically request a perfumed rose. David Austinroses are one of the most popular and fragrant varieties.

Something that really p****s me off is the wholesale price we as florists are compelled to pay for flowers - a majority of all cut flowers used in Tasmania are imported from the flower markets and private growers in Melbourne and Sydney. We do have a few successful bulb growers here in Tasmania, that export both nationally and internationally... but get this.... you or I can walk into the flower markets or worse still a grocer in Melbourne and buy a bunch of Tassie grown flowers cheaper than what we can buy here...I know that wholesalers in these places buy huge quanties and therefore get a much less individual bunch price, but to think of the logistics to get them there (road, air etc), plus they have to be fumigated and put through quarantine - how can they possibly sell at such a lower price?? I think that Taswiegans need to band together and rally the price we all pay for locally grown produce (be that flowers, fruit, veg, meat, dairy etc)

I have had the honour of collaborating together with hundreds and hundreds of 'blushing and not so blushing' brides in designing and constructing their 'dream' bouquet, reception flowers, table centrepieces etc. From the small and intimate to the extravagant and lavish all weddings The gorgeous flowers below (if I do say so myself) I designed up in early January for a friend who coincidentally designed and configured my little 'fairy goat mumma' logo. I love the simplicity of these bouquets, yet it is filled with different colours and textures. I love natural 'posy style' wedding bouquets, simple, elegant and in neutral hues,. I love to add a slight twist to the classic with the use of kiwi fruit, limes, seedpods, berries, feathers etc.

The first photo is of the Bridesmaids Bouquets and the next photo are all the flowers that the Brides bouquet comprised of - how gorgeous are the Vanilla roses.

My darling Ava was flower girl and wore a textured head circlet of roses, blackberries, hydrangea, freesias, Brunei berry, seedpods etc. I have tried to find the photos - I'll upload when I find xx Ooh, she did look so cute!!

A little joke about a florist

A new business was opening and one of the owner''s friends wanted to send flowers for the occasion. They arrived at the new business site and the owner read the card; it said "Rest in Peace".

The owner was angry and called the florist to complain. After he had told the florist of the obvious mistake and how angry he was, the florist said:

"Sir, I''m really sorry for the mistake, but rather than getting angry you should imagine this: somewhere there is a funeral taking place today, and they have flowers with a note saying ''Congratulations on your new location''."

Well, enough of my 'random' blog tonight. This Easter Bunny was woken every half hour after midnight by a certain 7 year old wondering "can I go and look now" "is it time to get up"...I finally gave in at 3am...

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE xx

and the winner is ........

2010-03-30T02:47:00.000-07:00

252

two hundred & fifty two

252

A huge congratulations to NETTI !!!!

I'm really pleased that she has won...Netti has been an ever vigilant viewer on facebook, always leaving comments and 'thumbs up' . Netti guessed 230 and just pipped Melanie O'Brien by 2 ...As I don't have your email address Netti, please e-mail me to organise what you may like!!

To all those who missed out - NEVER FEAR - as I will be announcing another giveaway in April!

PS - sorry for my tardiness I know I said 8pm, but the kids had ideas to stay up late....

Yipee Yipee 25 followers.....$100 voucher coming someones way TONIGHT

2010-03-29T20:03:00.000-07:00

Competition ends tonight 8pm

This is the last chance to enter my first competition for $100 voucher to spend on ANYTHING you like from Fairy Goat Mumma. I will be announcing the winner at 8pm tonight. So that's 6 hours to get your answer listed under the comments section.... Remember if you haven't become a follower then you are NOT eligible..... I wonder who will win!!!!! very exciting....... send an email to any friends that you think might like to enter too...only 6 more hours left xxx

From little things big things grow ....

2010-03-28T04:00:00.000-07:00

'Gather round people gonna tell you a story. 'bout .......

Some of you might be able to have picked that my blog heading and above line is from the wonderful song 'from little things, big thing grow' a collaboration of talents by renown Australia singer and story/song writers Paul Kelly and Kev Carmody. Not only is this a 'song protest' but the title bears a simple message to all. Nothing in life can be what you strive for, unless you are willing to undertake a journey which will only come into fruition by courage ,commitment and of course 'PASSION"
All journeys begin with trepidation, self doubt, nerves, excitement, laughter, joy and to some point success!!! Success is only determined by ones ability to understand ones journey from beginning (little things) to to the end(big things). This can be applied to everything we do. Before we start a 'journey' we need to give ourselves a pat on the back and congratulate ourselves for taking the first step - that step in itself is a 'success' - having the guts to give it a go.

Please take the time to read this famous speech by Theodore Roosevelt

"It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat."

"Citizenship in a Republic,"Speech at the Sorbonne, Paris, April 23, 1910

Right - obviously feeling extremely TIRED and philosophical when I began blogging last night!!
I truly love the above speech as well as the Poem ' If ' by Rudyard Kipling
http://www.kipling.org.uk/poems_if.htm please read if you have a few minutes...

MARKET DAY

First off, apologises for the lack of photos on the post (well actually NONE) my camera has gone to "heaven" and as I have been flat out with sewing for the Market which was on last Saturday and work at Hill Street, I haven't had a chance to moosey into town and scout around for a newbie... But tomorrow I have the day off - So excited, plan to spend time with my little man, buy a camera and begin the task of filling all the orders I took at Mathilda's on Saturday. For those who didn't check out the first inaugural market, make sure you don't miss the next one in June or is it July??
I was a great venue and a solid crowd right from the start at 9am. I was lucky enough to score 2 trestle tables to display my wares (stall holder next to me cancelled) so when I arrive Anne informed me I had 2 trestles. Lucky really, as the allnighters ( well 5am bedtime on Friday up at 7am and bed around 3.30am Saturday up at 6) I did on Thursday and Friday well and truly paid off. I was inundated with customer from the start, and was overwhelmed by the positive feedback and number of sales. What has surprised me more is the number of orders I have since received via e-mail since Saturday!!! Which is GREAT - I did say I would get all orders sent out by end of next week - I still hope to achieve this. It was a fun and busy market day and my only two regrets are

1. I didn't have anyone helping me serve and was unable to see ANY of the other stallholders and I really wish I could have - though my wallet is probably thanking me as I'm sure I would have burnt a hole in it...and that I was unable to give all customers 'good service' a few got tired of waiting and walked away...but I simply could not of done anymore

2. I didn't get my a**e into gear and cut all the wonderful boys fabrics I had bought and made into my groovy pants and long shorts (i had full intentions) so to all Mums with little boys I promise to have lots next time!

The market I participated in previously I 'debuted' my nappy clutches and sold out of them. So I was committed to making at least 20 for Mathilda's - but I sold only 1!! I did find that the 'punters' we defiantly a different bunch that would normally attend other markets, certainly they were buying products that aren't as popular elsewhere. i think that's great as it keeps stallholders and fellow crafters on our toes to try new and exciting things concepts.

"one mans trash is another mans treasure" - saying so true, as a florist I used to HATE making bouquets of carnations and gyp (even thinking about it makes me want to puke) but everyone tastes are different and we the suppliers, need to remember that there is no point designing/creating only things that we like, as its no good to us if it doesn't sell.

I was so happy to get home to my family on Saturday afternoon and was so glad to see Ava who was busking at the school fair the same day (i was so sad to have missed her, but mum informs me she was a HIT!!!) she sang songs by Taylor swift and Abba - too cute.

Ive managed to fill this post with not much really - just my usual blah blah blah. Its 11pm and I'm ready for a nap so goodnight to all and I'll update you tomorrow with some great recipes I cooked up tonight - think porcupines and layered choc banana cake xx'

Click on link below to hear Missy Higgins acoustic version of (you can always leave) your shoes under my bed
http://www.paulkelly.com.au/index.php?page=Home

PS - tried to upload some photos of Ava busking but no joy!!! Kept placing at top of page and I couldn't move it - TOO FRUSTRATING which so much that I knew my way around a computer better, can anyone tell me how you can highlight certain words that once licked directs to relevant websites etc??? ( I'm blonde remember)

Its now Tuesday morning and I have just returned from school drop off and a trip to purchase a few items to get started on my orders - all this achieved in the comfort of my ugg boots.... a bit i looked a sight pushing the pram with jeans, cardi and ugg boots (perhaps I even fitted in to the mall scene quite well)...that comment was a bit snobby - sorry!!! Still without camera - couldn't make a decision. little bit more thought into which one yet.

GIVEAWAY COMPETITION

By the looks of it I will be announcing the winner of a $100 voucher sometime today (only need one more follower) so please everyone who has either made a guess without following blog OR followed blog but not made a guess, you must do so to be eligible to win.

Stay tuned for the winner to be announced TONIGHT thats presuming I get another follower between time.

Wallflower pillowcase dress

2010-03-14T05:06:00.000-07:00

This little dress is fabulous for any season. Modelled here in size 4 by little Lily. It can be worn in Winter with footless tights, leggings and teamed with a long-sleeve tee or skivvy. I will be making them in size 1-4. The dress ties at the side with a handmade matching ribbon tie in co-ordinationg designer fabric.

"We'll all be rooned"

2010-03-14T01:51:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking and wanting to blog for so so long, but as I have just started a second part- time job, 'free hours' are pretty few and very far between. I have began working a few shifts back at Hill Street in West Hobart http://www.blogger.com/www.hillstreetgrocer.com I got to know the proprietors, Marco and Nick from when I basically 'lived' at their Augusta Road Store (now sold) in Lenah Valley, they are two hard working brothers who have custom built and launched what I believe to be the best 'one stop shop'. After I sold my florist True Colors in 2003 I began supplying their two stores with fresh Bunches of flowers from home .When I returned back to to Hobart from Perth, Western Australia almost 3 years ago, I was lucky enough to continue supplying them with flowers. As I was working from home I began to really miss the interaction and conversations with the public - so I began doing a couple of shifts a week behind the counter. For people who know me personally I'm pretty well known for talking flat out, some people refer to me as 'have a chat', which says it all... I can actually get quite caught up in conversations with customers at Hill Street and forget that there is a line a mile long 'patiently' and 'not so patiently' waiting to be served. I'm often reminded to 'stop talking so much' ( sorry Marco) and serve faster.. It is a great place to work, lovely colleagues and customers and of course being surrounded by gorgeous fresh produce, deliciously sweet homemade cakes, biscuits etc, wines, moo beer Ahhhhh the list is endless... Did I mention simply stunning flowers??? If you are lucky to live in Hobart and haven't been to Hill Street - please do so and I guarantee that you will soon become one of their many loyal customers. But, I'll give you a hint don't come with an 'empty tummy' - as you WILL go home with an 'empty wallet'.

I basically only have Saturdays and Tuesdays free as of last week, and between 2 jobs, housework and kids, I simply know something will have to 'give' and unfortunately my sewing is suffering. I have however managed to design some new pillowcase dresses for winter. I had some gorgeous fabrics delivered early last week and have plans to make bibs, dummy clips, nappy clutches, pinafores, dresses, hair clips, shorts, grow suits and finally boys trousers by the end of next week - ready for Mathilda's on the 27th of this Month. Deep breath - total tally I have made from new fabric is 4 x dresses..... think I better stay up late tonight, but then again I'm so tired from staring work at 7am this morning. Matt's' cricket team are in to the Grand Final this Saturday, so our BIG plan for our monster garage sale has gone out the window... We had been planning this from the time the election was called (as our house is 4 doors up from the Lindisfarne polling station) so I guess we will have to wait a few weeks. Let hope that the SVC old boys become victors, instead of being the usual bridesmaids. I'm not expecting a sober and well behaved 'better half' next weekend regardless of the outcome...gotta love boys sports teams... just thought...Bugger!! I guess I won't have much support this weekend to look after the kids sew I can sew - what with cricket and the boozy day to follow - ahh well, if there is one thing I know ( but not always, well..generally NEVER but in to practise is you 'can only do what you can do'..... why is it us girls are great 'preachers' and hopeless in 'practise'

My biggest decision is trying to decide what to concentrate on making for Mathilda's. I had planned on making lots of reversible pinafores which I have been 'creating' for almost 2 years, but have since found out a while ago that someone is 'designing' the exact same...( the pinafore design is not my own, nor have i ever claimed it to be. I bought it online from America) so I'm thinking I might diversify and use it as a great opportunity to do something new... so that's great!!! I will include some pinafores due to their popularity but look out for some other beauties too...

With all that I'm going to put in an hour or two before bed tonight (its 10.35pm) then tomorrow will bring work, school drop off, and little gorgeous (but teething) Billy to his Grandmas (bit of Mother guilt there) but we all have to do what we have to do, and I have to look at the positive that I have been lucky enough to have lots of time up until now at home with him.

I should be seeing "the glass half full"...but generally ONLY see "glass half empty"

Take the time to have a read of this poem below, Matt gave it to me a few years ago now and still refers to me at times as HANRAHAN

SAID HANRAHAN by John O'Brien

"We'll all be rooned," said Hanrahan,
In accents most forlorn,
Outside the church, ere Mass began,
One frosty Sunday morn.
The congregation stood about,
Coat-collars to the ears,
And talked of stock, and crops, and drought,
As it had done for years.
"It's looking crook," said Daniel Croke;
"Bedad, it's cruke, me lad,
For never since the banks went broke
Has seasons been so bad."
"It's dry, all right," said young O'Neil,
With which astute remark
He squatted down upon his heel
And chewed a piece of bark.
And so around the chorus ran
"It's keepin' dry, no doubt."
"We'll all be rooned," said Hanrahan,
"Before the year is out."
"The crops are done; ye'll have your work
To save one bag of grain;
From here way out to Back-o'-Bourke
They're singin' out for rain.
"They're singin' out for rain," he said,
"And all the tanks are dry."
The congregation scratched its head,
And gazed around the sky.
"There won't be grass, in any case,
Enough to feed an ass;
There's not a blade on Casey's place
As I came down to Mass."
"If rain don't come this month," said Dan,
And cleared his throat to speak -
"We'll all be rooned," said Hanrahan,
"If rain don't come this week."
A heavy silence seemed to steal
On all at this remark;
And each man squatted on his heel,
And chewed a piece of bark.
"We want an inch of rain, we do,"
O'Neil observed at last;
But Croke "maintained" we wanted two
To put the danger past.
"If we don't get three inches, man,
Or four to break this drought,
We'll all be rooned," said Hanrahan,
"Before the year is out."
In God's good time down came the rain;
And all the afternoon
On iron roof and window-pane
It drummed a homely tune.
And through the night it pattered still,
And lightsome, gladsome elves
On dripping spout and window-sill
Kept talking to themselves.
It pelted, pelted all day long,
A-singing at its work,
Till every heart took up the song
Way out to Back-o'-Bourke.
And every creek a banker ran,
And dams filled overtop;
"We'll all be rooned," said Hanrahan,
"If this rain doesn't stop."
And stop it did, in God's good time;
And spring came in to fold
A mantle o'er the hills sublime
Of green and pink and gold.
And days went by on dancing feet,
With harvest-hopes immense,
And laughing eyes beheld the wheat
Nid-nodding o'er the fence.
And, oh, the smiles on every face,
As happy lad and lass
Through grass knee-deep on Casey's place
Went riding down to Mass.
While round the church in clothes genteel
Discoursed the men of mark,
And each man squatted on his heel,
And chewed his piece of bark.
"There'll be bush-fires for sure, me man,
There will, without a doubt;
We'll all be rooned," said Hanrahan,
"Before the year is out."
Around the Boree Log and Other Verses, 1921
Return to the John O'Brien page. Return to the Around the Boree Log and Other Verses page.

A collage of Products

2010-02-27T15:16:00.000-08:00

Just playing around with Picasa and thought this was pretty cool!! Anyway off to organise the kids - Other half has cricket all day today ( i think he chose his prefered spot as cricket so he is away from home a full day....his little bit of R&R.

GIVEAWAY - COMPETITION

2010-02-27T04:00:00.000-08:00

nappy & wipes clutch

muslin wrap, long- sleeve tee, onesie & yo yo headband

reversible pinafore top

yo yo headbands

Giveaway $100 worth of Fairy Goat Mumma Product (your choice)

chose from, bibs, burp cloths, onesies, t-shirts, shorts, skirts, reversible pinafores, nappy & wipes clutch, dummy clips, hair accessories, muslin wraps, grow suits, handbags.

As my blog has only been in 'cyberspace' for about 24hours, I am wanting to have a few followers. I have 2 whoot whoot...but to you both THANK YOU. I guess there is not point putting in so much time and energy into my blog if no one is going to read it... Boo Hoo. So, to drum up some followers I am holding a 'Guessing Competition' (bit like the old school comp - how many jellybeans in the jar) or the prank calls we made as kids "hi this ..... from 7HT we're holding a competition how many holes in a crumpet"...we all did that didn't we????

HOW TO WIN

At the top and bottom of the page will see a collage of photos from my previous post. The person to guess the exact or closest number of individual photos I used to create the collage WINS (no photo is repeated)

1. Become a follower of this blog. Click on the FOLLOW button on the right hand toolbar. In the next page, click the GOOGLE button (to sign in using an existing account or easily create a new one for free). Then just follow the prompts and you are done!
2. Leave a comment on this posting. Click on the COMMENTS section at the bottom of this post and leave a message (you may need to sign in again using your google account). Make sure to include your email address so I can contact you of you are the lucky winner.

I will announce the winner when I have 25 followers. SO HURRY UP... send my blog link below to a friend, so that they can enter too.

http://www.blogger.com/www.fairygoatmumma.blogspot.com

Remember to be eligible for the prize - you MUST register to follow the blog AND leave your 'guesstimate' in the comments section To those who have left a guess either via e-mail or facebook no need to leave guess again, however you still need to be a follower of this blog to be eligable.

So come on all you Mums, Dads, Aunts, Uncles, Brothers, Sisters etc get on board!!!

NOTE: Don't worry if you don't have children or know anyone with children, as I make great bags in fabulous fabrics that are ideal for us 'big chicks'.

GOOD LUCK x

Once apon a time ....

2010-02-26T04:29:00.000-08:00

Who can remember in Walt Disney's 'Cinderella' when the 'Fairy God Mother' granted poor Cinderella her wishes to go to the ball? A beautiful gown, a pumpkin coach, horsemen and the infamous glass slippers? Arriving at the ball at just one look the Prince fell in love with Cinderella and danced with no one but her. Could she have found her one true love? It seemed that time stood still, but alas - at the stroke of Midnight Cinderellas shimmering ballgown faded to her everyday rags so reminiscent of the only life she knew. Running so fast from the ballroom grand doors a slight trip left one single perfect glass slipper to which the prince held close. Who was this striking beauty, who's tiny glass slipper? The following day whilst Cinderella was compounded with her daily chores a knock at the door, an overpowering sense of excitement followed by a surge of goosebumps captured her. The large heavy doors' keyhole provided a glimpse of the glass slipper, accompanied by the distinctive deep voice of Prince Charming - Her Prince Charming = HER PASSION. The rest is History

A gorgeous lady once told me "you will never succeed in anything unless you have PASSION"

I have tried to follow this belief for nearly 6 years now and it has certainly changed my life thus far!! I have gone from being a small business owner of two stores (I am a florist by trade) married, mother of one. To divorced, tho now very happily partnered and mother of two. I realised that my passion was no longer to strive for individual success, but to delve into what it is I am truly passionate about. I am totally passionate towards my family- my ever patient and truly wonderful 'Darl' and my two children Ava (7) and Bill (10 mths), my closest and dearest girlfriends (you three know who you are ... but if you don't - wong, kuko & dusty) , my ever supportive parents and of course 'CREATING' all things - my life, my craft (flowers, sewing the later I'd actually call it an addiction) well to fabric anyway!!

I guess this 'gorgeous lady' was my 'Fairy God Mother' for she gave me the gift to believe and find my PASSION

FAIRY GOAT MUMMA

Fairy - My daughter Ava has always been fascinated by all things magical 'she believes in fairies'

Goat - My son William (Billy, Bill) used to make the most astonishing bleating noises from birth

Mumma - well that's just me and I love being one

This analogy has come to me by sheer thoughts - it was nothing planned I just sat and wrote. To many it is probably 'gibberish' but to me writing my thoughts in a nightly journal has always helped me decongest my ever thinking brain. How can one have so many thoughts, ideas and contain them? I certainly can't! So instead of exercise books and diaries strewn over the bedroom floor and tossed under the bed. I hope I will find not only a means to express, but an outlet to inspire and heal.

I plan to just go with the flow and blog what it is that I need to let go, nothing in particular - lets just see what the day brings.

With that its almost 1am and time for shut eye and lets see what tomorrow brings?

It might be Prince Charming - Oh yeah hes already here xx (now lets all vomit - bit too sickly sweet)