A-line Skirt

I finished my A-lined skirt just in time for the end of the month.  You may recall CurlyPops had a sew-along this month, details are here http://www.curlypops.blogspot.com.au/2012/04/make-it-in-may-skirt-sew-along.html and I found the perfect retro material for my skirt. 

I found Curlypops' pattern extremely easy to follow (thanks) and even managed to do an invisible zip (I think this is probably a first for me, as I tend to avoid zips).

Rosebud

I did some experimenting recently with my new Nikon D7000 and 18-200mm lens, trying to think "outside the suare" and do different compositions.   This rosebud, which was actually very small and I could get in very close with my lens, was in the picturesque Maddingley Park, Bacchus Marsh.

Skirt Sew-along

I'm going to participate in a skirt sew-along.  I found some retro fabric which I fell in love with, so thought the synchronicity of finding the sew-along and fabric was speaking to me loud and clear.   Stay tuned for the progress.....

Smartie Biscuits

My youngest made some scrumptious smartie biscuits on the weekend using a recipe from the well-known http://down---to---earth.blogspot.com.au/.  Surprisingly the recipe called for one tin of condensed milk and both my daughter & myself restrained ourselves and didn't succumb to temptation to scoff down the contents of the tin before it made the mixing bowl.  There was plenty biscuit mixture left so we also made some jam biscuits for lunches during the week.

Recipe
(Makes 7-8 dozen, cook 10 min at 180C)

500 grams butter (approx 1.1 lb)
1 can condensed milk (390-400 gram)
1 cup sugar
5 cups wholemeal self raising flour (or plain flour and paking powder)
toppings like choc chips, smarties, jam, cinnamon and sugar

Cream butter and sugar, add condensed milk. stir in flour.  Roll into balls and flatten. top with choc chips etc, or thumbprint and add jam for jam drops.

Cool on racks     .

Amiga Neck Cowl

Another Ravelry KAL and CAL completed using the loveliest of wool - Socks That Rock (Superwash Merino/Silk) in "Walking on the Wild Tide".   This pattern combines both knitting and crochet, and I think it is probably the first time I have made the one article using both processes. 

Cleaning Stainless Steel

I "discovered" an effective way of cleaning my stainless steel appliances (who in their right mind decided SS ovens, refrigerators and dishwashers look good in a kitchen).   I used vinegar with warm water and used a cloth over the appliances.   Vinegar isn't a new regime in my homemade cleaning supplies, but I wasn't sure how it would react with stainless steel, but I am pleased to report my appliances sparkle (until grubby fingers get all over them again).  For the stubborn stains I used a mixture of biacarb of soda and warm water, and with a soft cloth I rubbed in a circular motion and then cleaned off with the vinegar and water spray.

Cupcake

My daughter made some yummy-looking cupcakes on the weekend, and whilst I don't really eat them (well, at least I am trying to be "good") I couldn't resist a photo opportunity - those who know me, know darn well I will take a photo of virtually anything (much to the annoyance of my children).