It's Christmas Eve! And I'm left with the final three letters of the alphabet. So...
X is for Xmas - a reminder that the Christ in Christmas ended on a cross
Y is for Yule - an old word for Christmas, but one which actually stems from a pagan midwinter festival - which is basically what Christmas has become again - which is why I wrote about Jesus in many of these advent posts
Z is for Zzzz - I'll be offline for a while now. My blog will be moving to a new site soon so I'll be spending a bit of time setting that up, which means I won't be posting as much, if at all, for a while.
So, all that remains is for me to say Happy Christmas, and I hope you will know the peace and grace of Christ this season and in the coming year.
Laura x
Tuesday 24 December 2013
Monday 23 December 2013
W is for Wrap
One of my favourite things about Christmas is wrapping all the gifts. I love all the paper, ribbon, tissue, and tags! This year I have gone for a brown paper theme, with parcel paper and pretty ribbons. I also bought some brown paper sandwich bags to use for the hand-made gifts, as I thought it would give a nice earthy touch.
It's important to me that the wrap that I use can be reused or recycled easily. The brown paper and tissue can go into household recycling, and all the ribbons can be reused for other gifts. I also use a lot of gift bags which get reused until they no longer look the part! Then I take the handles off and put what I can into the recycling. Some of my relatives have been known to iron wrapping paper and reuse it, but I don't go that far!
Happy wrapping, everyone!
Laura x
 |
| Wrapped and ready to go! {Ribbons, Hobbycraft; brown bags and coloured tissue, eBay; brown parcel paper, Rymans; tags, WHSmith} |
It's important to me that the wrap that I use can be reused or recycled easily. The brown paper and tissue can go into household recycling, and all the ribbons can be reused for other gifts. I also use a lot of gift bags which get reused until they no longer look the part! Then I take the handles off and put what I can into the recycling. Some of my relatives have been known to iron wrapping paper and reuse it, but I don't go that far!
Happy wrapping, everyone!
Laura x
Sunday 22 December 2013
V is for Vacation {Recipe: Christmas pudding}
We're off on our vacation today, so this and the rest of the advent posts have been pre-written and will appear as if by magic while I am far away from a computer!
We will be having a French Christmas this year, with family in north Brittany. Oui! I have packed all the essentials: Christmas pudding, brussels sprouts, mince pies, pigs in blankets. How do the French survive without these annual delicacies? (To be fair, they do feast on fruits de mer, foie gras, and a strange ice-cream concoction which they go ga-ga over for dessert, so they've got their own flavours to gloat over.)
I made my Christmas pudding, as is traditional, on stir-up Sunday, the last Sunday before advent. I can't wait to try it!
My Christmas pudding
Serves 8-10
90g self-raising flour
125g chilled butter
30g flaked almonds
125g carrot, grated
250g raisins
125g currants
125g sultanas
125g breadcrumbs
60g Italian mixed peel
90g light muscovado sugar
Zest and juice of a lemon
A whole nutmeg (you'll use half)
2 eggs, beaten
75ml brandy
Grate the butter into the flour and rub together to a breadcrumb texture. Add the almonds, carrot, raisins, currants, sultanas, breadcrumbs, mixed peel, sugar, and lemon zest. Grate in half of the nutmeg. Mix these ingredients together. Add the lemon juice and eggs, and mix well until fully combined.
Butter a 1.25-litre (2-pint) ceramic pudding bowl, or several smaller bowls (this year I used a 1-litre bowl and two mini pudding moulds). If using a large bowl, cut out a circle of baking parchment to fit in the top of the bowl, butter it well, and place it in the bowl. (This helps the pudding to stay together when you are releasing it from the bowl.) Spoon in the pudding mixture almost to the top. Flatten the surface, pressing down well.
Cut out a circle of baking paper and a circle of foil, each two inches bigger than the diameter of the bowl. Butter the baking paper. Make a pleat in the middle of both the baking paper and the foil. Lay the baking paper buttered side down over the bowl, and the foil on top. Tie them tightly with string under the rim of the bowl.
Put the bowl in a steamer or in a pan of simmering water which comes halfway up the side of the bowl. You now have two options:
1. Steam the pudding fully, for 8-9 hours. Afterwards, remove the foil and baking paper. Pierce several holes in the pudding with a skewer and pour over the brandy. Cover the bowl. with clingfilm. Store in a dark place. On the day of eating, replace the clingfilm and pierce it several times. Microwave on full power for 5 minutes, stand for 3 minutes, microwave on low/defrost for 7 minutes, and stand for 5 minutes before unmoulding.
2. Steam the pudding for 6 hours. Afterwards, remove the foil and baking paper. Pierce several holes in the pudding with a skewer and pour over the brandy. Then put on fresh baking paper and foil, buttered and pleated as before. Store in a dark place. On the day of eating, steam the pudding for 2-3 hours, then rest for 3-4 minutes before unmoulding.
Whichever method you use, you must make sure that you keep topping up the steamer/pan with boiling water.
Serve the pudding with traditional brandy butter, custard, or (my favourite) extra thick cream.
We will be having a French Christmas this year, with family in north Brittany. Oui! I have packed all the essentials: Christmas pudding, brussels sprouts, mince pies, pigs in blankets. How do the French survive without these annual delicacies? (To be fair, they do feast on fruits de mer, foie gras, and a strange ice-cream concoction which they go ga-ga over for dessert, so they've got their own flavours to gloat over.)
I made my Christmas pudding, as is traditional, on stir-up Sunday, the last Sunday before advent. I can't wait to try it!
My Christmas pudding
Serves 8-10
90g self-raising flour
125g chilled butter
30g flaked almonds
125g carrot, grated
250g raisins
125g currants
125g sultanas
125g breadcrumbs
60g Italian mixed peel
90g light muscovado sugar
Zest and juice of a lemon
A whole nutmeg (you'll use half)
2 eggs, beaten
75ml brandy
Cut out a circle of baking paper and a circle of foil, each two inches bigger than the diameter of the bowl. Butter the baking paper. Make a pleat in the middle of both the baking paper and the foil. Lay the baking paper buttered side down over the bowl, and the foil on top. Tie them tightly with string under the rim of the bowl.
Put the bowl in a steamer or in a pan of simmering water which comes halfway up the side of the bowl. You now have two options:
1. Steam the pudding fully, for 8-9 hours. Afterwards, remove the foil and baking paper. Pierce several holes in the pudding with a skewer and pour over the brandy. Cover the bowl. with clingfilm. Store in a dark place. On the day of eating, replace the clingfilm and pierce it several times. Microwave on full power for 5 minutes, stand for 3 minutes, microwave on low/defrost for 7 minutes, and stand for 5 minutes before unmoulding.
2. Steam the pudding for 6 hours. Afterwards, remove the foil and baking paper. Pierce several holes in the pudding with a skewer and pour over the brandy. Then put on fresh baking paper and foil, buttered and pleated as before. Store in a dark place. On the day of eating, steam the pudding for 2-3 hours, then rest for 3-4 minutes before unmoulding.
Whichever method you use, you must make sure that you keep topping up the steamer/pan with boiling water.
Serve the pudding with traditional brandy butter, custard, or (my favourite) extra thick cream.
Saturday 21 December 2013
U is for Undeserved
Hello again everyone!
Today, I'm writing on the theme 'Undeserved'.
U was another tricky letter, but in the end I'm pretty pleased I get to talk about this theme!
Before Christmas, we hear so often the idea that children have to be good or 'Santa' won't bring them any presents on Christmas Day. There's even a (slightly creepy) song about it: 'He sees you when you're sleeping, he knows when you're awake, he knows if you've been bad or good...' etc.
The essence of Christianity is the polar opposite to this. Jesus came to the world because humankind turned away from God and had no hope - none whatsoever - of returning to Him. We could not become good enough, and we were not worthy of God's love. But love us He did, and in his grace gave us a truly undeserved and wonderful gift: new life, because Jesus took our sins and overcame death for us.
We give and receive many gifts at this time of year. When we give, we do it because we love the person we are giving to, not because they 'deserve' a gift. It is the same with God: He gives because He loves.
It is up to us whether to accept the gift.
Laura x
Friday 20 December 2013
T is for Tree Decoration
Happy Friday everyone!
Some people have a lot of handmade decorations on their tree. Most of ours have been bought from various shops (though we do have a lovely bauble that Emilie made for Sophie's first Christmas, and a felt star that my Nan made for Sophie this year). I thought it would be a nice idea to start a tradition of making a new decoration for Sophie for the tree each year. So today I quickly made this felt dove inspired by the Christmas special of the Great British Sewing Bee which I watched this week.
Isn't it cute? It was so easy to make. I made a paper template and cut out two pieces of cream felt. Then I cut out some tiny hearts out of red felt, and stitched them on using small running stitches with red embroidery thread. I used the same thread to sew the two doves together with mattress stitch, around the outside and over a small loop of ribbon for hanging the ornament, tucked between the layers. Just before getting to the end, I pushed in some toy stuffing (using a chopstick!), and sewed up the final few stitches. It took less than an hour, and that was alongside entertaining and feeding a baby!
Have a great weekend!
Laura x
Some people have a lot of handmade decorations on their tree. Most of ours have been bought from various shops (though we do have a lovely bauble that Emilie made for Sophie's first Christmas, and a felt star that my Nan made for Sophie this year). I thought it would be a nice idea to start a tradition of making a new decoration for Sophie for the tree each year. So today I quickly made this felt dove inspired by the Christmas special of the Great British Sewing Bee which I watched this week.
Isn't it cute? It was so easy to make. I made a paper template and cut out two pieces of cream felt. Then I cut out some tiny hearts out of red felt, and stitched them on using small running stitches with red embroidery thread. I used the same thread to sew the two doves together with mattress stitch, around the outside and over a small loop of ribbon for hanging the ornament, tucked between the layers. Just before getting to the end, I pushed in some toy stuffing (using a chopstick!), and sewed up the final few stitches. It took less than an hour, and that was alongside entertaining and feeding a baby!
Have a great weekend!
Laura x
Thursday 19 December 2013
S is for Stockings
This year, I decided to make some stockings for our family, so that we have pretty and matching ones to hang up each year before Christmas.
But they're not finished yet, and so neither is this post!
To be continued...
[Update: June 2015 - finished, but not blogged!]
But they're not finished yet, and so neither is this post!
To be continued...
[Update: June 2015 - finished, but not blogged!]
Wednesday 18 December 2013
R is for Redeemer
It's Wednesday, and I'm up to R in my advent alphabet!
In the Bible, God says of himself: 'I, the Lord, am your Saviour, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob' (Isaiah chapter 49, verse 26). After Jesus came, the apostle Paul wrote that 'In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding' (Ephesians chapter 1, verses 7-8).
What does it mean to redeem? It is the act of buying back, of paying something to regain something that was once in your possession. In biblical times it often referred to the act of buying freedom for a slave.
When the Bible says that Jesus redeems, it is saying something incredibly profound. While we may not often feel it, our natural state is as slaves. We are slaves to sin, to the darkness of the world, to a lying enemy who flatters to deceive. The freedom that we think we have - to be our own boss - is actually slavery to untruth. True freedom is being redeemed from this slavery and brought back to God. The Bible tells us that this happens not through our own willpower, or decision, but through Jesus's blood.
At Christmas we celebrate the birth of the Saviour, but I am also so thankful when I remember that he was born to die in our place to redeem us and free us.
Laura x
In the Bible, God says of himself: 'I, the Lord, am your Saviour, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob' (Isaiah chapter 49, verse 26). After Jesus came, the apostle Paul wrote that 'In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding' (Ephesians chapter 1, verses 7-8).
What does it mean to redeem? It is the act of buying back, of paying something to regain something that was once in your possession. In biblical times it often referred to the act of buying freedom for a slave.
When the Bible says that Jesus redeems, it is saying something incredibly profound. While we may not often feel it, our natural state is as slaves. We are slaves to sin, to the darkness of the world, to a lying enemy who flatters to deceive. The freedom that we think we have - to be our own boss - is actually slavery to untruth. True freedom is being redeemed from this slavery and brought back to God. The Bible tells us that this happens not through our own willpower, or decision, but through Jesus's blood.
At Christmas we celebrate the birth of the Saviour, but I am also so thankful when I remember that he was born to die in our place to redeem us and free us.
Laura x
Tuesday 17 December 2013
Q is for Questions
Hello everyone,
I've been posting a lot about the busy joyfulness of making gifts for family members - whether knitted, crafted, or baked. It's been so much fun! I've also posted about the person Christmas celebrates: Jesus, God's Son. However, I've been thinking about Christmas and asking myself: Why do we bother so much about this same day every single year?
Picture this. A family spends a whole month (or perhaps longer) thinking about, preparing for, shopping for, looking forward to, making plans for, buying food for, one day at the end of December. It's overwhelming, expensive, and all-consuming. It can lead to family arguments about who attends which home on which day. It can cause stress for parents who feel under pressure from their children or other parents or the media to buy the most expensive gifts. Then, on the day, people gather together to exchange gifts and eat a lot of food. Why? What is in it for most people? What is the purpose of Christmas?
For some, it's being on holiday with family. For others, it's about cooking, eating, and relaxing. For others, giving presents. For many around the world, it's just a normal day.
I've been a bit saddened by the comments and posts I've seen on social media and in articles the past few weeks. People saying they 'can't be bothered' with Christmas, or they 'don't know what to buy' for people, or inevitably, after the day, 'I'm so sad it's all over' or 'Never again'. Why all the focus on just one day?
A life of grace and giving doesn't stop when the turkey has been eaten and the floor is strewn with crumbs of mince pie and scraps of wrapping paper. Giving is an attitude which puts others ahead of ourselves, doesn't look for glory, and goes beyond mere duty. The poor woman in the temple who gave just two small coins to God gave more than the rich man who put in far more in monetary value, but far less in generosity. This coming year, I'd love to be more like that woman - giving of myself, my time, my gifts, and my money generously, freely, and joyfully.
Just my two cents' worth.
Laura x
I've been posting a lot about the busy joyfulness of making gifts for family members - whether knitted, crafted, or baked. It's been so much fun! I've also posted about the person Christmas celebrates: Jesus, God's Son. However, I've been thinking about Christmas and asking myself: Why do we bother so much about this same day every single year?
Picture this. A family spends a whole month (or perhaps longer) thinking about, preparing for, shopping for, looking forward to, making plans for, buying food for, one day at the end of December. It's overwhelming, expensive, and all-consuming. It can lead to family arguments about who attends which home on which day. It can cause stress for parents who feel under pressure from their children or other parents or the media to buy the most expensive gifts. Then, on the day, people gather together to exchange gifts and eat a lot of food. Why? What is in it for most people? What is the purpose of Christmas?
For some, it's being on holiday with family. For others, it's about cooking, eating, and relaxing. For others, giving presents. For many around the world, it's just a normal day.
I've been a bit saddened by the comments and posts I've seen on social media and in articles the past few weeks. People saying they 'can't be bothered' with Christmas, or they 'don't know what to buy' for people, or inevitably, after the day, 'I'm so sad it's all over' or 'Never again'. Why all the focus on just one day?
A life of grace and giving doesn't stop when the turkey has been eaten and the floor is strewn with crumbs of mince pie and scraps of wrapping paper. Giving is an attitude which puts others ahead of ourselves, doesn't look for glory, and goes beyond mere duty. The poor woman in the temple who gave just two small coins to God gave more than the rich man who put in far more in monetary value, but far less in generosity. This coming year, I'd love to be more like that woman - giving of myself, my time, my gifts, and my money generously, freely, and joyfully.
Just my two cents' worth.
Laura x
Monday 16 December 2013
P is for Pincushion {Tutorial}
Good morning!
Today, I'm going to show you how to make these lovely kilner jar pincushions. They are so easy and would make a wonderful gift. I've made several to give this Christmas.
Materials
A kilner jar with 2-part lid
A piece of cotton fabric about 20x20 cm
A small piece of felt
A small handful of toy stuffing
Craft glue / PVA glue
A spatula
Fabric scissors
A pencil
A ruler
Instructions
1. Unscrew the lid of the jar and draw around the jar plate on the reverse of the cotton fabric.
2. Use a ruler to mark a circle 2.5cm bigger than the jar lid. Cut out the circle.
3. Carefully cut small triangles all around the edge of the fabric. This helps reduce bulk so the lid will still fit on the jar.
4. Cut out a circle of felt to fit inside the jar lid.
5. Take the stuffing and scrunch it into a ball. Place it on the centre of the fabric.
6. Put the jar plate over the stuffing, and push it through the jar rim to form the pincushion.
7. Use craft or PVA glue to stick the fabric to the plate. Use glue underneath and on top of the fabric so it sticks really well and as flat as possible.
8. Glue the felt to the plate to cover the raw edges of the cotton fabric. Screw the lid of the jar on straight away so that the glue sets in place.
(It should look like this.)
8. Have fun with your embellishments! I used some lace trim (£1.39 per metre) and paper flowers on wires (£1.29 for 6) from Hobbycraft.
You can fill the jar with whatever you would like. I included a tape measure, some ribbons, cotton thread, a needle (safely tucked inside the thread), some cute buttons, some safety pins, and a needle threader.
Laura x
Today, I'm going to show you how to make these lovely kilner jar pincushions. They are so easy and would make a wonderful gift. I've made several to give this Christmas.
Materials
A piece of cotton fabric about 20x20 cm
A small piece of felt
A small handful of toy stuffing
Craft glue / PVA glue
A spatula
Fabric scissors
A pencil
A ruler
Instructions
You can fill the jar with whatever you would like. I included a tape measure, some ribbons, cotton thread, a needle (safely tucked inside the thread), some cute buttons, some safety pins, and a needle threader.
Laura x
Sunday 15 December 2013
O is for Origami
O - such a tricky letter! So, O is for Origami. During holidays or weekends, Nick and I sometimes enjoy puzzling over books instructing us on how to make a fish/crane/rabbit/rose out of squares of patterned paper. He has much more perseverance than me!
I wonder if we will do any origami this holiday.
What are your favourite holiday pastimes? We also enjoy board games. I will probably insist on a family game of Articulate at some point, to the disappointment of my long-suffering parents!
Laura x
I wonder if we will do any origami this holiday.
What are your favourite holiday pastimes? We also enjoy board games. I will probably insist on a family game of Articulate at some point, to the disappointment of my long-suffering parents!
Laura x
Saturday 14 December 2013
N is for Nuts {Recipe: Honey-Roasted Almonds}
Have you noticed how everyone goes nuts over nuts at Christmas?
The supermarkets roll out platters of lovely mixed fruit and nuts which you couldn't find any other time of the year. Why do we eat so many nuts at Christmas?
My favourite kind of nuts are the roasted, sweet kind. Mmmm. Today, I decided to make my own honey-roasted almonds. It was so easy and they are so delicious!
Laura x
 |
| Sweet and salty goodness |
Honey-roasted almonds
400g whole almonds
115g runny honey
A pinch of salt
100g granulated sugar
1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees. Line a baking tray with baking parchment.
2. Heat the honey in the microwave on full power for 30 seconds.
3. Put the almonds in a large bowl and pour over the honey. Add the salt and half the sugar. Mix well.
4. Place the coated almonds on the baking tray in a single layer. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes. Make sure to stir the whole tray, so the nuts on the edges don't burn.
5. Remove from the oven and leave to cool for 2-3 minutes.
6. Sprinkle over half the sugar and mix well. It is a good idea to move them to new baking parchment at this stage, so that they don't clump together so much. Then sprinkle over the remaining sugar and allow to cool.
You can put them in pretty bags or boxes to give as presents!
Friday 13 December 2013
M is for Mincemeat
Hi everyone!
I made my own mincemeat this year. My lovely husband looked after Sophie while I chopped up a whole bunch of stuff in the food processor and spooned into sterilised jars. It has yet to make its way into mince pies, but that will follow... I adore mince pies!
What is your favourite Christmas treat?
Laura x
I made my own mincemeat this year. My lovely husband looked after Sophie while I chopped up a whole bunch of stuff in the food processor and spooned into sterilised jars. It has yet to make its way into mince pies, but that will follow... I adore mince pies!
 |
| Jars of Christmas deliciousness |
What is your favourite Christmas treat?
Laura x
Thursday 12 December 2013
L is for Love
'God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.'
The Bible, book of John, chapter 3, verses 16-18
'This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.'
The Bible, John's first letter, chapter 3, verse 16
The world has hijacked Christmas. Alright, some will argue that Christianity hijacked a pagan festival (Saturnalia, way back in the 4th Century) as a means to convert the masses, but really, if you had the best news in the world - ever - wouldn't you want to share it with others?
To return to my point: The world has hijacked Christmas. Most children (and many adults) today believe that Christmas is about a mythical big man in a red suit who lives at the north pole and delivers presents to millions of children one night each year. Well, here's the thing: Christmas is about God's Son, Jesus.
The Bible tells us exactly why Jesus was born as a baby and lived on this earth: because of God's love for humankind. There was no way that we humans could find our way back to God by ourselves. And truthfully, we didn't really want to. So God, in his love, sent Jesus to die in our place, so that those who believe in Him as God's Son and as the saving lamb who makes us right with God, can live eternally with God.
I think it's wonderful that we take time every year to celebrate, and be with our families, at Christmas. It's a haven at the end of our year, whether our year has been busy, quiet, happy, sad, or a mixture. It celebrates the most wonderful love in all existence: God's love. It celebrates Jesus.
(Not Santa.)
Much love, dear friends, from a cold and dreary Oxford.
Laura x
The Bible, book of John, chapter 3, verses 16-18
'This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.'
The Bible, John's first letter, chapter 3, verse 16
The world has hijacked Christmas. Alright, some will argue that Christianity hijacked a pagan festival (Saturnalia, way back in the 4th Century) as a means to convert the masses, but really, if you had the best news in the world - ever - wouldn't you want to share it with others?
To return to my point: The world has hijacked Christmas. Most children (and many adults) today believe that Christmas is about a mythical big man in a red suit who lives at the north pole and delivers presents to millions of children one night each year. Well, here's the thing: Christmas is about God's Son, Jesus.
The Bible tells us exactly why Jesus was born as a baby and lived on this earth: because of God's love for humankind. There was no way that we humans could find our way back to God by ourselves. And truthfully, we didn't really want to. So God, in his love, sent Jesus to die in our place, so that those who believe in Him as God's Son and as the saving lamb who makes us right with God, can live eternally with God.
I think it's wonderful that we take time every year to celebrate, and be with our families, at Christmas. It's a haven at the end of our year, whether our year has been busy, quiet, happy, sad, or a mixture. It celebrates the most wonderful love in all existence: God's love. It celebrates Jesus.
(Not Santa.)
Much love, dear friends, from a cold and dreary Oxford.
Laura x
Wednesday 11 December 2013
K is for Knitting
Hello everyone!
As you know, I {heart} crafts. I've been doing a lot of knitting recently. It's the perfect winter occupation for a person like me who has to stay home in the evenings while baby sleeps, has no TV, and doesn't enjoy computer games (my husband's favourite pastime!)
I'm quite slow (read: very slow) at knitting. But that doesn't bother me. It took me until Sophie was almost out of her carrycot to finish the pram blanket! So, I decided to knit her another one. I used a pattern online that I'd been wanting to try for ages. It was actually quite quick to knit because it was on big needles. We use it to keep Sophie warm in her cot at night.
The wool I used is a soft baby double knit wool by Sirdar. In the past I've not usually been too fussy about wool, but I'm getting increasingly 'into' it - oh dear. The trouble is, it can be so expensive! However, if I'm going to spend a lot of time making something, I should use quality materials, right?
Anyway, as a result of all this knitting, I've got a stack of hats, hairbands, and hot water bottle covers ready to give as Christmas gifts. When will I find the time to make something for myself?!
Laura x
As you know, I {heart} crafts. I've been doing a lot of knitting recently. It's the perfect winter occupation for a person like me who has to stay home in the evenings while baby sleeps, has no TV, and doesn't enjoy computer games (my husband's favourite pastime!)
I'm quite slow (read: very slow) at knitting. But that doesn't bother me. It took me until Sophie was almost out of her carrycot to finish the pram blanket! So, I decided to knit her another one. I used a pattern online that I'd been wanting to try for ages. It was actually quite quick to knit because it was on big needles. We use it to keep Sophie warm in her cot at night.
 |
| Lovely wavy stripes |
 |
| Happy baby! |
The wool I used is a soft baby double knit wool by Sirdar. In the past I've not usually been too fussy about wool, but I'm getting increasingly 'into' it - oh dear. The trouble is, it can be so expensive! However, if I'm going to spend a lot of time making something, I should use quality materials, right?
Anyway, as a result of all this knitting, I've got a stack of hats, hairbands, and hot water bottle covers ready to give as Christmas gifts. When will I find the time to make something for myself?!
Laura x
Tuesday 10 December 2013
J is for Jesus
J is for Jesus. Obviously.
He's the 'reason for the season', the Alpha and Omega, the Son of God, the eternal King.
Each year we gather our families and friends to celebrate the birth of a baby in an obscure town in Palestine more than 2000 years ago. To be honest, if I were an alien coming to Earth for the first time, I think I'd find the whole thing a bit weird. But it's not weird. Not a bit. It's a celebration of the King, who came to save us from death and to win our hearts for God. We were lost in self-worship, putting ourselves at the centre of all and rejecting God. He wanted us to love Him and worship Him and have all the life that comes from knowing He is, well, God. So He sent His Son, to die in our place, to take God's wrath, and to open the path to life. It's for anyone - anyone - who believes that Jesus is God's Son and the Saviour of the world.
So today, I'm full of praise for God's greatest gift of all: knowing Him eternally and truly through faith in Jesus.
He's the 'reason for the season', the Alpha and Omega, the Son of God, the eternal King.
Each year we gather our families and friends to celebrate the birth of a baby in an obscure town in Palestine more than 2000 years ago. To be honest, if I were an alien coming to Earth for the first time, I think I'd find the whole thing a bit weird. But it's not weird. Not a bit. It's a celebration of the King, who came to save us from death and to win our hearts for God. We were lost in self-worship, putting ourselves at the centre of all and rejecting God. He wanted us to love Him and worship Him and have all the life that comes from knowing He is, well, God. So He sent His Son, to die in our place, to take God's wrath, and to open the path to life. It's for anyone - anyone - who believes that Jesus is God's Son and the Saviour of the world.
So today, I'm full of praise for God's greatest gift of all: knowing Him eternally and truly through faith in Jesus.
Monday 9 December 2013
I is for Icing
Hello everyone!
This past weekend, I packed up all my cake decorating gear and headed (with husband and baby) to a friend's house for a cake decorating bonanza! It was great fun!
As per usual, I've made four small cakes this year: one to keep and three to give as presents. I've been scoffing the offcuts of the cakes and they are delicious! I think I did well with the brandy this year!
My method for icing cakes is quite easy, but it does take time. Firstly, cut the domed top off the cake, and turn it upside down on a piece of baking parchment, so that the bottom of the cake is facing upwards. The bottom is usually flatter so it gives a better finish on the marzipan and icing. I try to feed the cake at least once 'upside down', so that the alcohol isn't all concentrated on the bit of the cake that gets cut off.
Secondly, fill in all the pits, nooks and crannies all over the cake with blobs of marzipan. The smoother the surface before applying the marzipan layer, the better. If it's an extra special cake, roll a thin sausage of marzipan to smooth into the base of the cake, where the icing will meet the board.
Thirdly, roll out a strip of marzipan reasonably thick and wide enough to go up the sides of the cake. Then cut off the ends and stick it to the sides of the cake with sieved apricot jam. Then roll out a disc for the top of the cake, stick it on with jam, and smooth the join of the marzipan. It needs to be left to dry for 24 hours, ideally.
Next goes on the icing. I normally use ready-to-roll or fondant icing (although this year I tried royal icing for the first time, with mixed results!). Roll it out quite thick in a circle big enough to go over the top and sides of the cake, but not too big. Use gin (or another clear alcohol) to wet the marzipan and make it sticky, then gently place the icing over the marzipan, smoothing it out carefully over the top and sides of the cake. In theory doing this carefully should avoid air bubbles forming, but I usually lose patience and cover up any bubbles with decorations instead! Then trim off the excess around the bottom. I always use a ribbon around the base of the cake, so it looks neat. Again, it needs 24 hours to dry before being carefully placed on a cake board (avoiding touching the icing) and decorated.
Here are this year's efforts!
The ones with red ribbons aren't quite finished because they'll be garnished with rosemary sprigs and red fondant hearts, closer to the time of gifting. I'm pretty pleased with them!
Laura x
This past weekend, I packed up all my cake decorating gear and headed (with husband and baby) to a friend's house for a cake decorating bonanza! It was great fun!
As per usual, I've made four small cakes this year: one to keep and three to give as presents. I've been scoffing the offcuts of the cakes and they are delicious! I think I did well with the brandy this year!
My method for icing cakes is quite easy, but it does take time. Firstly, cut the domed top off the cake, and turn it upside down on a piece of baking parchment, so that the bottom of the cake is facing upwards. The bottom is usually flatter so it gives a better finish on the marzipan and icing. I try to feed the cake at least once 'upside down', so that the alcohol isn't all concentrated on the bit of the cake that gets cut off.
Secondly, fill in all the pits, nooks and crannies all over the cake with blobs of marzipan. The smoother the surface before applying the marzipan layer, the better. If it's an extra special cake, roll a thin sausage of marzipan to smooth into the base of the cake, where the icing will meet the board.
Thirdly, roll out a strip of marzipan reasonably thick and wide enough to go up the sides of the cake. Then cut off the ends and stick it to the sides of the cake with sieved apricot jam. Then roll out a disc for the top of the cake, stick it on with jam, and smooth the join of the marzipan. It needs to be left to dry for 24 hours, ideally.
Next goes on the icing. I normally use ready-to-roll or fondant icing (although this year I tried royal icing for the first time, with mixed results!). Roll it out quite thick in a circle big enough to go over the top and sides of the cake, but not too big. Use gin (or another clear alcohol) to wet the marzipan and make it sticky, then gently place the icing over the marzipan, smoothing it out carefully over the top and sides of the cake. In theory doing this carefully should avoid air bubbles forming, but I usually lose patience and cover up any bubbles with decorations instead! Then trim off the excess around the bottom. I always use a ribbon around the base of the cake, so it looks neat. Again, it needs 24 hours to dry before being carefully placed on a cake board (avoiding touching the icing) and decorated.
Here are this year's efforts!
The ones with red ribbons aren't quite finished because they'll be garnished with rosemary sprigs and red fondant hearts, closer to the time of gifting. I'm pretty pleased with them!
Laura x
Sunday 8 December 2013
H is for Hot Toddy {Recipe}
Hi everyone,
It's turned very chilly here in Oxford this weekend. This afternoon we went for a walk to the local duck pond, armed with bread. Half an hour is more than enough time outside in the cold weather!
So, this evening I'm making warming mugs of hot toddy for us to enjoy while snuggled on the sofa. My recipe is very simple and great for people, like me, who like to cheat or take shortcuts when it comes to cooking!
Hot toddy
Serves 2
Put a measure of whisky, a teaspoon of honey, two or three cloves, a dash of lemon juice, and a slice of lemon in two small mugs. Top up with freshly boiled water.
Note: don't drink this if you have to drive, or if you are taking prescribed medication!
Laura x
It's turned very chilly here in Oxford this weekend. This afternoon we went for a walk to the local duck pond, armed with bread. Half an hour is more than enough time outside in the cold weather!
So, this evening I'm making warming mugs of hot toddy for us to enjoy while snuggled on the sofa. My recipe is very simple and great for people, like me, who like to cheat or take shortcuts when it comes to cooking!
Hot toddy
Serves 2
Put a measure of whisky, a teaspoon of honey, two or three cloves, a dash of lemon juice, and a slice of lemon in two small mugs. Top up with freshly boiled water.
Note: don't drink this if you have to drive, or if you are taking prescribed medication!
Laura x
Saturday 7 December 2013
G is for Good News
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find the baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
"Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests."
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
Luke 2:8-15
This is one of my favourite Christmas readings. Imagine how the shepherds must have felt! There they are, quietly watching their sheep, when an angel appears! Then, to make it even more incredible, the angel tells them that the Christ - the long-awaited Messiah - has been born! Then, as if that wasn't enough, the sky is filled with angels praising God! Indeed, it was a moment for praise, as the Saviour and King of God's people had come.
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
"Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests."
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
Luke 2:8-15
This is one of my favourite Christmas readings. Imagine how the shepherds must have felt! There they are, quietly watching their sheep, when an angel appears! Then, to make it even more incredible, the angel tells them that the Christ - the long-awaited Messiah - has been born! Then, as if that wasn't enough, the sky is filled with angels praising God! Indeed, it was a moment for praise, as the Saviour and King of God's people had come.
Friday 6 December 2013
F is for Family
Happy Friday, everyone! Nick's term finishes today and although there's plenty of research and writing to do during the 'vacation', he'll have no tutoring for six weeks - hooray!
Advent is a time of looking forward but also a time of looking back over the year that's just gone. In our family, it's been both happy and sad. We said goodbye to my Nan. My other Nan suffered through eight rounds of chemotherapy, which was horrible, but is now doing really well, which is great. Our little Sophie has brought us such joy and happiness.
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| Sophie in January |
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| Sophie in December |
She's changed so much this year!
Family is such a wonderful thing. People to share life with. People who support you in tough times.
Today, I'm really thankful for my family.
Thursday 5 December 2013
E is for Emmanuel
The name Emmanuel is one of the many names given to Jesus in the Bible. It means 'God with us'. What does that mean in everyday life?
It means that we can have assurance that our life is in Christ.
It means that God will never leave us.
It means that Jesus was literally here on earth and that he has full empathy with human experience.
It means that Jesus was God himself.
It means a lot. It's amazing that God himself would come to be with us and to die in our place.
One of my favourite advent carols is 'O come, O come, Emmanuel'. The first verse talks about a redeemer coming to save Israel (God's people).
O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.
Before Christ came to be with us, we were in exile. We had no hope of life and we were cut off from God. Jesus came to rescue us, appearing as a baby, living as a man, and dying on a cross, paying the ransom for our rejection of God, so that those who believe in him as God's King can have eternal life.
The chorus of that carol reminds us that Christ has come and will come again:
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.
We wait for our returning King.
What is your favourite advent carol?
Wednesday 4 December 2013
D is for Decorations
Our Christmas tree is up! I'm super excited about this, as it is our first Christmas tree in six years of marriage (how my husband managed to deter me this long is a mystery to me).
We've opted for a 'living' Christmas tree, with roots, in a pot (£30 from Homebase for a tree about 1 metre tall). I stuck the pot in a bucket and wrapped it with some red gingham fabric and a white ribbon. It looked pretty cute just as it was, but then I got so excited about putting up all the tree decorations, so I went a bit mad and covered nearly every branch!
I had so much fun shopping for decorations. The wooden hearts came from Marks and Spencer (£3 each, in 3-for-2 offer). The sparkly snowflakes are from Primark (£2 for nine - my favourite bargain!). The snowflake garland came from Dunelm (£4.99) The red painted heart you can see in the main photo is part of a set of three from Poundland. The star at the top is from Hobbycraft (£4).
These candles are just tea lights and holders from Ikea, with epsom salts as the snow!
I love decorating the house for Christmas. It just looks so festive and it's wonderful bringing the outdoors inside.
Did I mention how excited I am?!
Laura x
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| Looking pretty awesome |
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| Cute woodland/outdoors theme |
We've opted for a 'living' Christmas tree, with roots, in a pot (£30 from Homebase for a tree about 1 metre tall). I stuck the pot in a bucket and wrapped it with some red gingham fabric and a white ribbon. It looked pretty cute just as it was, but then I got so excited about putting up all the tree decorations, so I went a bit mad and covered nearly every branch!
I had so much fun shopping for decorations. The wooden hearts came from Marks and Spencer (£3 each, in 3-for-2 offer). The sparkly snowflakes are from Primark (£2 for nine - my favourite bargain!). The snowflake garland came from Dunelm (£4.99) The red painted heart you can see in the main photo is part of a set of three from Poundland. The star at the top is from Hobbycraft (£4).
 |
| Candles in the snow |
These candles are just tea lights and holders from Ikea, with epsom salts as the snow!
I love decorating the house for Christmas. It just looks so festive and it's wonderful bringing the outdoors inside.
Did I mention how excited I am?!
Laura x
Tuesday 3 December 2013
C is also for Cupboards
Recent visitors to our house will have noticed a change. The long unfinished cupboards in our hallway have doors! My brilliant husband crafted them himself and they look great!
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| Beautiful white doors - thank you Nick! |
C is for Cards
I've been writing all my Christmas cards to send to friends and family around the world. I love remembering everyone at this time of year and sending a 'hello', even if we don't see each other or speak that often the rest of the year. Our circle of friends is always growing, as we meet new people and get to know them a little or a lot, and I hope that everyone we meet knows that they'll always have a warm welcome at our house if they happen to be nearby.
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| A warming cup of hot chocolate helped the card-writing process! |
Monday 2 December 2013
B is for Baby
Before having Sophie, I didn't really consider how amazing it is that God himself would come as a baby. Jesus was born the same way that Sophie was, did all the baby things that she does, and had everything to learn. Babies are so vulnerable and need everything done for them - how incredible that God would humble himself like that!
The Bible talks about this when it says that Jesus 'made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death--even death on a cross!' (Philippians 2:7-8). Christmas is a celebration of this birth, this amazing birth of King Jesus, who is called Emmanuel, God with us.
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| Sophie's first day |
The Bible talks about this when it says that Jesus 'made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death--even death on a cross!' (Philippians 2:7-8). Christmas is a celebration of this birth, this amazing birth of King Jesus, who is called Emmanuel, God with us.
Sunday 1 December 2013
A is for Advent
Good evening!
It's been in the works for a few days and isn't quite finished but it looks good hanging on the back of our dining room door!
It's the first day of December, which means that Advent has arrived!
I put up Sophie's advent calendar this evening.
It's been in the works for a few days and isn't quite finished but it looks good hanging on the back of our dining room door!
During advent, I'll be posting each day about the happenings around here in the run-up to Christmas, and about the Christmas story and its true meaning.
Advent is a season of waiting. It leads up to the celebration of the birth of Jesus, God himself coming into the world. We have a whole month each year to remember and reflect on this amazing act.
In John 2:49, Nathaniel says to Jesus: 'Rabbi, you are the Son of God, you are the King of Israel'. Advent reminds us that, as the Jewish people were waiting and watching for their Messiah to appear, we are also waiting for our King to reappear.
I wish you a blessed advent season.
Laura x
Friday 29 November 2013
Saying goodbye
This week we said a sad farewell to my dear Nan. It really is horrible saying goodbye to someone you love who has died. Her funeral remembered her kindness, generosity, green fingers, delicious stews, long and happy marriage, and delight in her family.
Goodbye Nan. I love you, I will never forget you and I will miss you always.
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| Four generations together, Christmas 2012 |
Friday 22 November 2013
Little knitted hairbands
How cute are these knitted headbands that I've been making over the past few days?
They are so simple to make and I can't wait to gift them!
I've been busy making lots of other gifts for family members and will post about those in January. I'm keeping going and staying busy, even though I think about my dear Nan and my grieving Grandad almost constantly.
Laura x
They are so simple to make and I can't wait to gift them!
I've been busy making lots of other gifts for family members and will post about those in January. I'm keeping going and staying busy, even though I think about my dear Nan and my grieving Grandad almost constantly.
Laura x
Wednesday 20 November 2013
My lovely Nan 27/04/1930 - 14/11/2013
Hello everyone,
We have had sadness in my family for the past few days, as my dear Nan died last Thursday. Although she had been unwell for a while, it has still been hard for us all. I have found moments of peace in between the grief and sadness, but at the moment I just feel as if a part of me / our family has been amputated.
She was a wonderful Nan. I will miss her so much.
Please pray for my family.
Laura x
We have had sadness in my family for the past few days, as my dear Nan died last Thursday. Although she had been unwell for a while, it has still been hard for us all. I have found moments of peace in between the grief and sadness, but at the moment I just feel as if a part of me / our family has been amputated.
She was a wonderful Nan. I will miss her so much.
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| Nan (Granny-Nanny) with Sophie and Molly, two of her three great-granddaughters |
Please pray for my family.
Laura x
Sunday 10 November 2013
How to have a clean house without really trying - Part 7
Here's what I probably should have said at the very beginning.
Don't worry
Having a clean house isn't the goal of life. It helps free up time and energy for other things, and provides a nice environment to enjoy with others, but it doesn't provide true fulfilment. After all, things get messy just as soon as they've been tidied.
Ultimately, a welcoming home isn't a matter of how clean it is, but a matter of the heart. The hardest thing for me, given that I'm house-proud, is choosing to put achieving a clean before being loving, acting with kindness, and growing as a Christian. My home is a helpful tool but all too often it dominates my entire life.
I started this series because I've been challenged recently that worth and value aren't to be found in the material things of life, or in having a clean house. Those things don't ultimately satisfy. The state of my heart is much more important. If I have a clean house but an empty, broken, evil heart, what good is that? Thankfully, I I believe in a God who can give us new hearts and new life. That's amazing!
Don't worry
Having a clean house isn't the goal of life. It helps free up time and energy for other things, and provides a nice environment to enjoy with others, but it doesn't provide true fulfilment. After all, things get messy just as soon as they've been tidied.
Ultimately, a welcoming home isn't a matter of how clean it is, but a matter of the heart. The hardest thing for me, given that I'm house-proud, is choosing to put achieving a clean before being loving, acting with kindness, and growing as a Christian. My home is a helpful tool but all too often it dominates my entire life.
I started this series because I've been challenged recently that worth and value aren't to be found in the material things of life, or in having a clean house. Those things don't ultimately satisfy. The state of my heart is much more important. If I have a clean house but an empty, broken, evil heart, what good is that? Thankfully, I I believe in a God who can give us new hearts and new life. That's amazing!
So, if you visit my home, you'll probably find it's quite clean and tidy, but I hope you'll also find a place where kindness, truth, and grace are scattered all over the place.
Laura x
Thursday 7 November 2013
How to have a clean house without really trying - Part 6
Unfortunately, sometimes you just need to take a bit more time over it.
Set aside time for deep cleaning
I can only do this when I have babysitting from either Nick or another family member. But occasionally, I'll take an hour or two or a half or whole day to tackle a big job, like cleaning the fridge (my absolute least favourite household chore), washing the windows, cleaning the oven (I use an amazing paint-on gel from Lakeland), a deep clean of the bathroom, or dusting underneath and behind furniture.
My whole cleaning mantra doesn't work for a house that isn't already reasonably clean and tidy, because it focuses on upkeep rather than turning around a previously messy place! Normally, that can be done in only a few minutes each day (as I've previously described), but without getting into the nooks and crannies (and the back of the fridge), it won't be really clean.
It's not that onerous though! I tackle my fridge/freezer, for example, probably once a quarter - because I wipe up spills as I go and it doesn't really get that dirty that quickly. My windows? - once or twice a year. Underneath and behind furniture? - once a year, in the spring. By keeping up with the routine cleaning, I don't need to do deep cleans that often, so it pays off doubly.
Set aside time for deep cleaning
I can only do this when I have babysitting from either Nick or another family member. But occasionally, I'll take an hour or two or a half or whole day to tackle a big job, like cleaning the fridge (my absolute least favourite household chore), washing the windows, cleaning the oven (I use an amazing paint-on gel from Lakeland), a deep clean of the bathroom, or dusting underneath and behind furniture.
My whole cleaning mantra doesn't work for a house that isn't already reasonably clean and tidy, because it focuses on upkeep rather than turning around a previously messy place! Normally, that can be done in only a few minutes each day (as I've previously described), but without getting into the nooks and crannies (and the back of the fridge), it won't be really clean.
It's not that onerous though! I tackle my fridge/freezer, for example, probably once a quarter - because I wipe up spills as I go and it doesn't really get that dirty that quickly. My windows? - once or twice a year. Underneath and behind furniture? - once a year, in the spring. By keeping up with the routine cleaning, I don't need to do deep cleans that often, so it pays off doubly.
Wednesday 6 November 2013
How to have a clean house without really trying - Part 5
My next pearls of cleaning wisdom:
Keep the floors clean
People coming to your house aren't going to run their finger along the dusty shelf, but they will notice if bits of food or dirt are sticking to their socks. With a baby in the house, that means I vacuum downstairs about every other day, but for some people once a week might be enough.
Clean as you go
Spills and such are much easier to clean if you do it right away (or soon after) than left for a long time. Sophie drops a lot of food when she's eating, so I clear it up after each meal, which is very little effort.
Keep the floors clean
People coming to your house aren't going to run their finger along the dusty shelf, but they will notice if bits of food or dirt are sticking to their socks. With a baby in the house, that means I vacuum downstairs about every other day, but for some people once a week might be enough.
Clean as you go
Spills and such are much easier to clean if you do it right away (or soon after) than left for a long time. Sophie drops a lot of food when she's eating, so I clear it up after each meal, which is very little effort.
Monday 4 November 2013
How to have a clean house without really trying - Part 4
When it comes to cleaning, a little goes a long way. By which I mean 15 minutes of cleaning a day is (unless you have a huge house) sufficient to keep up the cleanness of the house.
I have a schedule of what I tackle each day, and I don't do any routine cleaning on weekends.
I have a schedule of what I tackle each day, and I don't do any routine cleaning on weekends.
- Monday - Bathroom: clean bath, tiles, sink and toilet, and wash floor
- Tuesday - Kitchen: clean counters, sink, hob, window, and sweep floor
- Wednesday - Lounge (and Office on alternate weeks): dust and polish
- Thursday - Vacuum and mop downstairs
- Friday - Bedrooms: change beds, dust and polish, vacuum
Woohoo - only 15 minutes - that's a win as far as I'm concerned!
Laura x
Friday 1 November 2013
How to have a clean house without really trying - Part 3
In my last post, I talked about keeping things tidy. Here's something that I try to do to mean it's easier to achieve that:
Have less stuff
Having a lot of stuff is endemic to modern day life. We have piles of books, DVDs, kitchen equipment, photos, and clothes in our homes. These things aren't bad in and of themselves, but the more we have of them, the more upkeep there is to do, the more space is needed, and the more there is to tidy.
I've been consciously decluttering for a year or so now. We did a car boot sale the other day and it was a great way to make a little bit of money from things that we genuinely don't need or use. Most of the stuff in our house is now there for a purpose (either we use it or we find it beautiful). Yes, there's some stuff that's still there because we don't quite know what to do with it (old computers and the like), but in general, it's quite streamlined nowadays.
The second part of this is:
Have homes for the stuff that you do have
Personally, I think t's fine to have a 'junk drawer', but if there's junk in all the drawers and cupboards of the house, that's a problem. It's really hard to keep a house comfortable and attractive if there's stuff spilling out everywhere.
The third part of it is:
Don't put it down, put it away
Once you've got homes for your stuff, use them!
Have less stuff
Having a lot of stuff is endemic to modern day life. We have piles of books, DVDs, kitchen equipment, photos, and clothes in our homes. These things aren't bad in and of themselves, but the more we have of them, the more upkeep there is to do, the more space is needed, and the more there is to tidy.
I've been consciously decluttering for a year or so now. We did a car boot sale the other day and it was a great way to make a little bit of money from things that we genuinely don't need or use. Most of the stuff in our house is now there for a purpose (either we use it or we find it beautiful). Yes, there's some stuff that's still there because we don't quite know what to do with it (old computers and the like), but in general, it's quite streamlined nowadays.
The second part of this is:
Have homes for the stuff that you do have
Personally, I think t's fine to have a 'junk drawer', but if there's junk in all the drawers and cupboards of the house, that's a problem. It's really hard to keep a house comfortable and attractive if there's stuff spilling out everywhere.
The third part of it is:
Don't put it down, put it away
Once you've got homes for your stuff, use them!
November
In other news... it's November!
The end of autumn is here and soon my favourite season will run into my least favourite. Happily there is the fun of the holidays to look forward to, but really, who likes January, February or March?
I've got a lot - and I mean a lot - of craft projects in mind for November before cooking and baking takes over in December. Now that the clocks have gone back the evenings are dark and perfect for cosying up with knitting or sewing - if baby co-operates and goes to bed at a reasonable time!
The end of autumn is here and soon my favourite season will run into my least favourite. Happily there is the fun of the holidays to look forward to, but really, who likes January, February or March?
I've got a lot - and I mean a lot - of craft projects in mind for November before cooking and baking takes over in December. Now that the clocks have gone back the evenings are dark and perfect for cosying up with knitting or sewing - if baby co-operates and goes to bed at a reasonable time!
Reflections on Psalm 139
Good morning everyone.
I'm having a bit of a low day. We were up in the night with a crying Sophie and now she's exhausted, I'm exhausted, and I have sent an exhausted husband to work as well.
I feel overwhelmed and guilty for not having enough patience, for not being strong enough to protect my husband from sleepless nights, and for not really knowing how to help my daughter or what the matter is. I feel weak and inferior compared to other mums who run businesses, study for degrees, home school their children, and still get dinner on the table.
This morning I rushed around the house doing little bits and bobs but eventually I decided to turn to the Bible and see what wisdom I could find in there. I felt led to Psalm 139, which is one of my favourite chapters in the Bible, probably because I'm feeling low and it offers comfort.
Today, I saw something new in it that spoke to me.
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
I've always read those words negatively, as in, the writer wants to run away from God and finds he cannot, even though he tries. Today, God gave me a positive message: wherever I go and whatever I do, God's Spirit will be with me. In my tiredness, frustration, and feelings of failure, He is with me.
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
God knows the state of my heart and knows all my worries, anxieties, and emotions. He is moulding me and using all the circumstances, upsets, and joys of my life as lessons to shape my character and to help me understand His goodness and grace. His way is the way everlasting.
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.' (Isaiah 30:21)
The God who made this also made this also made me, and Sophie.
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
Thursday 31 October 2013
How to have a clean house without really trying - Part 2
Here goes. My number 1 tip for faking a clean house?
Keep it tidy
The number one enemy of a clean house is an untidy house. That means I tidy the toys every evening, put mail in the in-tray or the bin, keep the kitchen counters clear, and put things away in their home, where they belong. If I'm going upstairs, I see if anything needs to be taken along.
The reason this is important is because it's really hard to actually clean if there's stuff everywhere. It gets in the way and makes the cleaning itself take a lot longer, which as you've discovered is not part of the game - the aim is to get the house clean in as little time as possible! I don't have the time to spend an entire day cleaning each week, so I need to do it fast. Having a generally tidy house helps me to do that.
Also, people coming over probably won't notice a bit of dirt, but they will notice if there's stuff everywhere!
What this doesn't mean is that I pounce on things out of place and put them back before whoever's using them has finished! That wouldn't be fun, for them or for me.
In my next post, I'll tell you some more specific things that help me to keep it tidy!
See you soon!
Laura x
Keep it tidy
The number one enemy of a clean house is an untidy house. That means I tidy the toys every evening, put mail in the in-tray or the bin, keep the kitchen counters clear, and put things away in their home, where they belong. If I'm going upstairs, I see if anything needs to be taken along.
The reason this is important is because it's really hard to actually clean if there's stuff everywhere. It gets in the way and makes the cleaning itself take a lot longer, which as you've discovered is not part of the game - the aim is to get the house clean in as little time as possible! I don't have the time to spend an entire day cleaning each week, so I need to do it fast. Having a generally tidy house helps me to do that.
Also, people coming over probably won't notice a bit of dirt, but they will notice if there's stuff everywhere!
What this doesn't mean is that I pounce on things out of place and put them back before whoever's using them has finished! That wouldn't be fun, for them or for me.
In my next post, I'll tell you some more specific things that help me to keep it tidy!
See you soon!
Laura x
Tuesday 29 October 2013
How to have a clean house without really trying - Part 1
Hi everyone!
Anyone who knows me well knows that I love to have a clean house. However, I don't really like cleaning. Conundrum?!
Normally, our house looks pretty clean and tidy, even though we have a small child at home. People sometimes seem genuinely shocked when they come round. I recall one instance when the four-year-old son of some friends of ours asked, on entering the living room, 'Why is it so tidy in here?'!
So, I thought I'd share, over the next few days, a few things that help me along in my mission to have a (fake) immaculate house without a lot of elbow grease.
But why, you may be wondering, do I enjoy having a clean house quite as much as I do? Let me tell you. I enjoy making my home an environment where my family can thrive and where guests feel warm and welcome. For me, that means not always tripping over stuff, not worrying about whether there's toothpaste all over the taps, and not having to apologise to visitors. I have a low threshold for dirt but it's not just because I'm picky, it's because I want to create a place of warmth, fellowship, and fun for everyone who lives or visits here. It doesn't mean that my home is actually immaculate - it does, after all, house two adults and a baby - but it does mean that I take a little time to look after it and make it as welcoming as possible.
I don't have a lot of time to do this, with a small baby, a family to feed, and piles of laundry to get through each week, not to mention going places, taking Sophie to playgroups, and having fun! - which obviously, given my aversion to actually cleaning, suits me fine. So, this series is about doing it in the most cut-corner fashion possible!
More to come!
Laura x
Anyone who knows me well knows that I love to have a clean house. However, I don't really like cleaning. Conundrum?!
Normally, our house looks pretty clean and tidy, even though we have a small child at home. People sometimes seem genuinely shocked when they come round. I recall one instance when the four-year-old son of some friends of ours asked, on entering the living room, 'Why is it so tidy in here?'!
So, I thought I'd share, over the next few days, a few things that help me along in my mission to have a (fake) immaculate house without a lot of elbow grease.
But why, you may be wondering, do I enjoy having a clean house quite as much as I do? Let me tell you. I enjoy making my home an environment where my family can thrive and where guests feel warm and welcome. For me, that means not always tripping over stuff, not worrying about whether there's toothpaste all over the taps, and not having to apologise to visitors. I have a low threshold for dirt but it's not just because I'm picky, it's because I want to create a place of warmth, fellowship, and fun for everyone who lives or visits here. It doesn't mean that my home is actually immaculate - it does, after all, house two adults and a baby - but it does mean that I take a little time to look after it and make it as welcoming as possible.
I don't have a lot of time to do this, with a small baby, a family to feed, and piles of laundry to get through each week, not to mention going places, taking Sophie to playgroups, and having fun! - which obviously, given my aversion to actually cleaning, suits me fine. So, this series is about doing it in the most cut-corner fashion possible!
More to come!
Laura x
Thursday 24 October 2013
Blackberry jam
Last weekend was jam making weekend! I had already made a batch of cherry jam with the fruit from my parents' garden earlier in the year (yet to be tasted), now it was the turn of the blackberries picked from our local area. There were just so many this year! Big ones too!
Because I knew I wouldn't be able to use them straight away, and wild blackberries don't keep long at all, I froze them in bags, waiting for the day when they would meet their destiny.
Jam is so easy to make at home. It tastes so much better than supermarket stuff. It doesn't necessarily cost less though, unless you recycle jars. I sometimes do, but generally I buy jars from Lakeland because I like giving jams and preserves as gifts and they look nice in a fresh jar.
It takes about 30 minutes to make a basic jam, and about 45 minutes if you want a smooth, pip-free jam (which is what I made this time). Here's the basic version:
Blackberry jam
A quantity of blackberries (or raspberries, hulled and chopped strawberries, stoned cherries, or a mixture)
Jam sugar
Weigh your berries. You need the same weight of jam sugar to berries.
Put a saucer in the freezer.
Put the berries in your largest pan on a low heat. Cook them until soft and liquid. Mine started out like this
and I cooked them until they were like this. I used a potato masher to help speed things along.
Next, add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Then raise the heat, and bring it to a fast boil. Keep it boiling rapidly for five minutes, like this
After five minutes, take the saucer from the freezer, and carefully drop a spoonful of jam onto it. Wait a few seconds, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles up, the jam is ready. If it's still runny, boil for another minute, then test again.
Pour the hot jam into sterilised jars (see my page on How to sterilise jars).
To make a smooth, pip-free version
You don't need to weigh the berries before starting, as the weight will reduce when the pips are strained out. Before adding the sugar, set a bowl on your weighing scales, and a coarse sieve over the bowl. Set the scales to zero. Then spoon the hot berries into the sieve. Press them to get as much juice out as possible.
It's best to do this in batches. Eventually, you will have a pile of discarded pips, a bowl of juice, and a scale that tells you how much juice there is. This measurement is the quantity of sugar you need. Pour the juice back into the pan, and continue with the recipe above.
You get a lot more jam if you don't strain out the pips (almost double the quantity with the berries I used), but it does taste really nice!
What is your favourite flavour of jam?
See you soon!
Laura x
Jam is so easy to make at home. It tastes so much better than supermarket stuff. It doesn't necessarily cost less though, unless you recycle jars. I sometimes do, but generally I buy jars from Lakeland because I like giving jams and preserves as gifts and they look nice in a fresh jar.
It takes about 30 minutes to make a basic jam, and about 45 minutes if you want a smooth, pip-free jam (which is what I made this time). Here's the basic version:
Blackberry jam
A quantity of blackberries (or raspberries, hulled and chopped strawberries, stoned cherries, or a mixture)
Jam sugar
Weigh your berries. You need the same weight of jam sugar to berries.
Put a saucer in the freezer.
Put the berries in your largest pan on a low heat. Cook them until soft and liquid. Mine started out like this
and I cooked them until they were like this. I used a potato masher to help speed things along.
Next, add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Then raise the heat, and bring it to a fast boil. Keep it boiling rapidly for five minutes, like this
After five minutes, take the saucer from the freezer, and carefully drop a spoonful of jam onto it. Wait a few seconds, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles up, the jam is ready. If it's still runny, boil for another minute, then test again.
Pour the hot jam into sterilised jars (see my page on How to sterilise jars).
To make a smooth, pip-free version
You don't need to weigh the berries before starting, as the weight will reduce when the pips are strained out. Before adding the sugar, set a bowl on your weighing scales, and a coarse sieve over the bowl. Set the scales to zero. Then spoon the hot berries into the sieve. Press them to get as much juice out as possible.
It's best to do this in batches. Eventually, you will have a pile of discarded pips, a bowl of juice, and a scale that tells you how much juice there is. This measurement is the quantity of sugar you need. Pour the juice back into the pan, and continue with the recipe above.
You get a lot more jam if you don't strain out the pips (almost double the quantity with the berries I used), but it does taste really nice!
What is your favourite flavour of jam?
See you soon!
Laura x
How to sterilise jars
My method for sterilising jars is quite easy and takes about the same time as a batch of jam does to prepare. Alternative methods include washing the jars and lids in an otherwise-empty dishwasher, or using sterilising tablets (the kind you would use for a baby's bottle).
Here's how I do it:
Wash the jars and lids in hot soapy water and rinse in hot water.
Stand the jars upside-down on a rack set on a baking sheet (I use the grill tray from my oven). Put the jars in an oven heated at 100C for at least 10 minutes (they can be left in there longer).
Put the lids in a clean saucepan. Pour boiling water over the lids, add a dash of vinegar, and let them simmer away on the hob for at least 10 minutes. The vinegar stops any residue forming on them.
When the jam/chutney is ready and still hot, use oven gloves to help you fill the jars using a jam funnel, and then put the lids straight away. Use caution and avoid burns!
Wednesday 23 October 2013
Great British Bake Off 2013
Well, everyone, the Bake Off is over, for this year at least. What fun! It's been a source of escapism, frustration and inspiration for me and, judging by the online furore, for lots of others as well.
The final, alas, was sadly disappointing. I felt that none of the three bakers really shone as the clear winner. Frances's wedding cake was beautiful, but her pretzels were disastrous. Ruby's pie was a clear favourite, but her wedding cake wasn't finished. Kimberley's pretzels were good, but her wedding cake looked a mess. Not that I can really judge - I certainly wouldn't be able to produce a three-tier wedding cake in only six hours!
What I love about the Bake Off is that it takes something so simple that so many people do and makes it into a form of light-hearted yet competitive entertainment for the masses. I don't think many TV shows achieve that. Everyone knows it's a bit of fun, but everyone takes it so seriously! Is it a British thing to do that? Oh and I love Mel and Sue. Whoever got them on board as the hosts was a genius.
The bakers had to tackle so many different types of baking, some of which I've never even contemplated. Bread and cakes were only the beginning - there were biscuits, meringues, pies, and patisseries too. It's inspired me, though. I may well be getting my bake on in the coming weeks. Although now I'm not running any more (too cold and dark now that the clocks have gone back, boo), I can't exactly excuse myself for eating all the pies. Ahem.
A bientot!
Laura x
The final, alas, was sadly disappointing. I felt that none of the three bakers really shone as the clear winner. Frances's wedding cake was beautiful, but her pretzels were disastrous. Ruby's pie was a clear favourite, but her wedding cake wasn't finished. Kimberley's pretzels were good, but her wedding cake looked a mess. Not that I can really judge - I certainly wouldn't be able to produce a three-tier wedding cake in only six hours!
What I love about the Bake Off is that it takes something so simple that so many people do and makes it into a form of light-hearted yet competitive entertainment for the masses. I don't think many TV shows achieve that. Everyone knows it's a bit of fun, but everyone takes it so seriously! Is it a British thing to do that? Oh and I love Mel and Sue. Whoever got them on board as the hosts was a genius.
The bakers had to tackle so many different types of baking, some of which I've never even contemplated. Bread and cakes were only the beginning - there were biscuits, meringues, pies, and patisseries too. It's inspired me, though. I may well be getting my bake on in the coming weeks. Although now I'm not running any more (too cold and dark now that the clocks have gone back, boo), I can't exactly excuse myself for eating all the pies. Ahem.
A bientot!
Laura x
Thursday 10 October 2013
A (half) marathon effort
Hi everyone!
It's breezy and blustery here today and it feels as if autumn is finally getting going. Quite a change from the weekend just gone, when we were on the beach in sunny Bournemouth! After months of training, half marathon day had arrived! The many, many runs that had taken place over the summer finally paid off for both me and my dad. We both finished, we were both very happy with our times, and we both had sore legs the day after! Actually, today is the first day that I can walk up and down stairs normally again!
It was a brilliant day. Two non-sporty people running 13.1 miles in less than 2.5 hours! I was so proud of both of us!
I couldn't have done this run without Nick's amazing support in staying at home while I went running three times a week. In the end, he says he's been inspired and wants to do something similar. A marathon maybe?!
Here are some photos of the day!
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| All smiles before... |
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| and after! |
Wednesday 11 September 2013
Bunting and buttercream - Sophie's second 1st birthday party
Hi everyone!
We had a lovely family gathering at the weekend for Sophie's second 1st birthday party. The birthday girl was very happy and good the whole time, though I think she was a little overwhelmed by all the attention. She certainly slept well that night!
Having two birthday parties was a necessity for us, as our home is not large enough for a lot of people, and I didn't want to miss out on celebrating with the friends that Sophie and I have made this year. The first birthday party involved babies crawling everywhere; the second was a bit more sophisticated! We had afternoon tea with champagne. The room was decorated with bunting and there was a lot of buttercream!
Sophie's first birthday afternoon tea party
Finger sandwiches
Birthday cake
Rose macarons
Scones, clotted cream and jam
Chocolate cupcakes
Fruit and crisps
The birthday cake was an iced lemon madeira sponge, and in keeping with the bunting theme I decorated with little sugar flags, and some simple sugar flowers. I made the cake in advance and froze it, iced it two days before and decorated it the evening before. It worked well! I was really pleased with how the cake turned out.
My macarons were flavoured with rose water and rose extract. I had to add way more than the recipe asked for to get the floral flavour. I'm still practising my macaron technique. I saw some on the Great British Bake Off the day after and felt how inferior mine were! They tasted good though.
I didn't take many photos at the party because I was busy encouraging everyone to eat (the British can be so reticent about going up to a buffet, even when they're hungry!) and enjoying the champagne. And admiring my little girl. She's grown up so fast.
Congratulations Sophie on turning one. Thank you for all that you are. We love you and we are so proud and thankful to be your parents.
We had a lovely family gathering at the weekend for Sophie's second 1st birthday party. The birthday girl was very happy and good the whole time, though I think she was a little overwhelmed by all the attention. She certainly slept well that night!
Having two birthday parties was a necessity for us, as our home is not large enough for a lot of people, and I didn't want to miss out on celebrating with the friends that Sophie and I have made this year. The first birthday party involved babies crawling everywhere; the second was a bit more sophisticated! We had afternoon tea with champagne. The room was decorated with bunting and there was a lot of buttercream!
Sophie's first birthday afternoon tea party
Finger sandwiches
Birthday cake
Rose macarons
Scones, clotted cream and jam
Chocolate cupcakes
Fruit and crisps
The birthday cake was an iced lemon madeira sponge, and in keeping with the bunting theme I decorated with little sugar flags, and some simple sugar flowers. I made the cake in advance and froze it, iced it two days before and decorated it the evening before. It worked well! I was really pleased with how the cake turned out.
My macarons were flavoured with rose water and rose extract. I had to add way more than the recipe asked for to get the floral flavour. I'm still practising my macaron technique. I saw some on the Great British Bake Off the day after and felt how inferior mine were! They tasted good though.
I didn't take many photos at the party because I was busy encouraging everyone to eat (the British can be so reticent about going up to a buffet, even when they're hungry!) and enjoying the champagne. And admiring my little girl. She's grown up so fast.
Congratulations Sophie on turning one. Thank you for all that you are. We love you and we are so proud and thankful to be your parents.
Friday 6 September 2013
Sophie's first 1st birthday party
This week, my baby girl turned one! How did the year go so quickly? I feel as if I blinked and missed it. It's been a truly wonderful year. We're so thankful for our sweet darling Sophie.
We celebrated on her birthday with a little tea, cake and Pimms' party with some of her baby friends and their mums and dads. It was chaotic! So many little people crawling around on our living room floor with toys everywhere! So much fun!
I made vanilla cupcakes in advance, froze them and then defrosted the day before and iced them with vanilla buttercream and pink sprinkles. The other party food was a simple all-in-one chocolate sponge cake with buttercream filling, baby snacks, fruit, and limoncello macarons, also prepared in advance and stored in the freezer. I'm still practising my macaron technique! And for drinks we had iced tea, fruit juice, and Pimms' with lemonade. I was happy I had done so much in advance, thanks to my lovely husband who looked after Sophie while I baked!
Here are some snaps from the day.
Happy birthday Sophie!
We celebrated on her birthday with a little tea, cake and Pimms' party with some of her baby friends and their mums and dads. It was chaotic! So many little people crawling around on our living room floor with toys everywhere! So much fun!
I made vanilla cupcakes in advance, froze them and then defrosted the day before and iced them with vanilla buttercream and pink sprinkles. The other party food was a simple all-in-one chocolate sponge cake with buttercream filling, baby snacks, fruit, and limoncello macarons, also prepared in advance and stored in the freezer. I'm still practising my macaron technique! And for drinks we had iced tea, fruit juice, and Pimms' with lemonade. I was happy I had done so much in advance, thanks to my lovely husband who looked after Sophie while I baked!
Here are some snaps from the day.
Happy birthday Sophie!
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| Proud mummy... |
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| ...and papa! |
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| Pink! |
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| Buttercream everywhere! Cupcakes, chocolate sponge and macarons |
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| Baby line-up |
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| Enjoying the packaging more than the present |
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| Oh my! (NB. It's actually cream cheese on her face, though her papa did let her eat a cupcake while I wasn't looking!) |
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