Walking for charity

Back from a few days break in lovely Wales, I'm taking this opportunity to publicise this event - Shine Manchester 2011 - which my hubby and I are taking part in very soon.  The event involves us walking thirteen miles around Manchester in the middle of the night, in aid of Cancer Research UK.

My 'training' which started several weeks ago in preparation for the big event, has involved lots of long walks with my other half and my daughter.  Some have been leisurely, some a bit more challenging, but somewhat surprisingly, for someone who doesn't like exercise much, all have been incredibly enjoyable, giving me a new perspective on the beauty of this country's landscape.  Recent walks have taken in Watergrove and Dovestones Reservoirs in Rochdale and Oldham, Stoodley Pike in Hebden Bridge, and Robin Hood's Bed at Blackstone Edge in Littleborough, while in Anglesey, our walk through the Newborough Forest was, at times, almost spiritual in its peace and tranquility.

It's been fascinating to delve into the history of some of these places.  Particularly fascinating was the story of Watergrove, previously a village developed in the mid 19th century, but developed into a reservoir during the 1930s.  During periods of drought, the foundations and cobbled roads can still be seen.

Please support the Shine event in any way you can.  In the meantime, have a great week!

Watergrove Village

Watergrove Reservoir today

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vintage loveliness

Apologies for lack of recent blogging activity.  Health and family matters, work commitments, and the demands of a 7 year old daughter during the school holidays have all overtaken me, and knocked me temporarily off-balance.  (By the way, avoid the local swimming baths during the school hols - unless your idea of entertainment is being repeatedly splashed by overweight dive-bombing teenagers, and exhibitionist canoodling couples...but that's another story...)  But I'm gradually getting back on track, and attempting to devote more time to my craft. 

My most recent project was inspired by a lifelong love of 1950s fashion.  I've made up some single signature (pamphlet-style) case-bound notebooks, and covered them in bookcloth, skivertex, or plain coloured fabric, backed with paper.  The frocks on the front were adapted from old 1950s dressmaking patterns, onto which I've added my own embellishments - a touch of fabric here, a gemstone or ribbon there.  Some of them were coated with crystal resin - purely because I had some left over from another project and was curious to find out how they would turn out.  I'm hoping to take part in the Altrincham Vintage and Craft Fair on Sunday - would be great to see you there.
Have a great week!