• Pretty Fabrics and Trims Advent Box
    Monday Happy List

    Five Happy Things {Week 531}

    December 22, 2024 - By 

    Starting the week by writing the Happy List is something I’ve been doing for the last few years. It’s my chance to sit down and reflect on the things that made me happy in the previous week, as well as to record some of the adventures we have as a family. Five Happy Things {Week 531} I know that I am making my Pretty Fabrics and Trims Advent Box in the wrong order but I don’t care. The main project was too much for me so I’ve been stitching the smaller projects, including this English Paper Pieced tree decoration. It’s really fiddly…

  • Lets Hit Each Other with Fake Swords by Exploding Kittens
    Family Life

    Lets Hit Each Other with Fake Swords by Exploding Kittens

    December 20, 2024 - By 

    We were recently gifted Lets Hit Each Other with Fake Swords by Exploding Kittens. We have a huge collection of Exploding Kittens games as a) the rules are simple to learn and b) the games are quick and easy to play. As our kids get older they like games which we can play after dinner and we all enjoy their card games. Today we wanted to share Lets Hit Each Other with Fake Swords which is a card game, with fake swords. Lets Hit Each Other with Fake Swords There is an instruction booklet in the game box but also…

  • metallic decorations
    Christmas

    Creating Metallic Christmas Decorations Using Metallic Sheets

    December 19, 2024 - By 

    Metallic sheets are an incredibly versatile material for crafting elegant, shimmering Christmas decorations. These thin, flexible sheets—often made from aluminium, copper, or foil-based materials—can be cut, shaped, and manipulated to create stunning holiday ornaments, centrepieces, and other festive accents. The reflective surface of metallic sheets adds a touch of sophistication, catching the light and creating an eye-catching glow. We’ve crafted with them before but I wanted to share some creative ideas for using metallic sheets in your DIY Christmas decorations. Creating Metallic Christmas Decorations Using Metallic Sheets Materials You’ll Need: Metallic sheets: Available in a range of colours like gold,…

  • days out - Haringey

    Horrible Histories Live on Stage! With Horrible Christmas

    December 17, 2024 - By 

    Horrible Histories Live on Stage is back, bringing holiday cheer with a fabulous twist in their fan-favourite show, Horrible Christmas! Kicking off December 12th and running until January 4th, this extended version of the hit show takes the stage at the beautifully restored Victorian gem, Alexandra Palace Theatre, in London. Horrible Histories Live on Stage! With Horrible Christmas Have you ever wondered why you get together with your family – or put up a Christmas tree – or send a Christmas card – or buy presents – or eat a turkey? Horrible Christmas goes on an amazing journey to discover the answers…

  • Pretty Fabrics and Trims Advent Box
    Monday Happy List

    Five Happy Things {Week 530}

    December 16, 2024 - By 

    Starting the week by writing the Happy List is something I’ve been doing for the last few years. It’s my chance to sit down and reflect on the things that made me happy in the previous week, as well as to record some of the adventures we have as a family. Five Happy Things {Week 530} Last week our new sofa arrived. We ordered it a few weeks ago so it was lovely to finally have it delivered. It’s a lovely dark blue colour. Unfortunately we haven’t been able to get rid of our old sofa so the living room is feeling…

  • Family Life

    How to Handle Divorce Proceedings as a Single Parent

    December 13, 2024 - By 

    The last thing you expect to happen when having children together is your marriage failing. However, it’s an unfortunate reality that some marriages simply don’t last the course of steering your kids through childhood. Navigating divorce proceedings as a single parent comes with its unique challenges. You’ll have to balance your kids’ needs while controlling your legal matters and saving time for your own self-care. It’s an overwhelming prospect. Nevertheless, with a positive mindset, family and professional support and a clear focus on the best interests of your children, it’s possible to negotiate the process and come out the other…

  • homestyle - interiors

    Creating a Cosy Home: Essentials for Comfort and Style

    December 11, 2024 - By 

    Your home is your sanctuary, the place where you relax, recharge, and feel most like yourself.  A cosy home doesn’t just look inviting; it makes you feel at ease from the moment you walk in. Creating that perfect balance of comfort and style can be simple with the right touches. Let’s explore the essentials for transforming your space into a haven you’ll love coming back to. Start with Soft Furnishings Nothing says comfort quite like soft, plush textures. Cushions, throws, and rugs can instantly add warmth and cosiness to any room. Choose fabrics like velvet, chenille, or faux fur for…

  • Crafts for adults

    How to crochet holly berries

    December 10, 2024 - By 

    We love our handmade decorations and have already shared our crochet mini wreaths. They are not only easy to crochet, but they also have so many uses from napkins to adding to a gift. These crochet holly berries can be used in the same way – add them to napkins on Christmas Day, or make a garland to decorate your mantle. Let me know if you try it! List of supplies to make crochet holly berries Yarn Crochet hook Scissors Tapestry needle   Stitches used for this project Chain – CH Magic Ring – MR Single Crochet – SC Slip…

  • felt Father Christmas decoration from Pretty Fabrics and Trims
    Monday Happy List

    Five Happy Things {Week 529}

    December 8, 2024 - By 

    Starting the week by writing the Happy List is something I’ve been doing for the last few years. It’s my chance to sit down and reflect on the things that made me happy in the previous week, as well as to record some of the adventures we have as a family. Five Happy Things {Week 529} Last week I finished reading A Christmas Murder by Mary Grand. The story was set on the Isle of Wight, where I grew up, and it was a great cosy murder mystery. I’ve featured Simba products before. You’ve probably heard of them and know they make…