tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45421470425218312392024-03-16T11:53:13.094-07:00Mamas Mercantilemamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.comBlogger864125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-13563335856184671632023-01-27T00:40:00.000-08:002023-01-27T00:40:23.485-08:00Lorraine Brierley 09.04.1958 - 25.01.2023<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5ezoYRhIwHjm65g6UUbHEy6bmUUt1zBOD7Aoxy0Qy_4S88lHfHk3uKxy8clkqbgO13bZwMZsrr0EGlSOgO9_s3F7agzb1XJj7IKgmIqLWX5vto-0yn6HTCPLRIuKMDPQMwzKqcksQ1Vs8zUMbZPKqxi5wpQqpzcTBuJfbOqgNKfZ4CDSwUnG7glBbA/s1024/mum%20and%20dad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5ezoYRhIwHjm65g6UUbHEy6bmUUt1zBOD7Aoxy0Qy_4S88lHfHk3uKxy8clkqbgO13bZwMZsrr0EGlSOgO9_s3F7agzb1XJj7IKgmIqLWX5vto-0yn6HTCPLRIuKMDPQMwzKqcksQ1Vs8zUMbZPKqxi5wpQqpzcTBuJfbOqgNKfZ4CDSwUnG7glBbA/s320/mum%20and%20dad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It is with a heavy heart that we share that Lorraine lost her battle with cancer this week. She was brave and strong to the very end, and is now safe in the arms and comfort of the Lord. <p></p><p>Beloved wife to Ged. </p><p>Beloved mum to Victoria, Amie, and Lucy. </p><p>Beloved granny to Lily, Bertie, Wilbur, Daisy, Hector, and Honey. </p><p>Her loss is felt deeply but she will always be loved. </p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com57tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-47534757392911210572023-01-02T12:15:00.000-08:002023-01-02T12:15:00.958-08:00Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year<p>This post is written by Lorraine's daughter. She has asked me to wish you all a blessed New Year. </p><p>Mum has been busy crafting, starting her projects for Christmas in October and completing at least one task every day. Some examples of her projects are included below: </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwVIZzZo-341de_lC5CkB3u1rPjebvSn65rmFyPTHj3py5084_A90G-w7AdDUUZGDZZxqq_dZWHN_XpQK9e_ABwCTgI7LWcTi6UHXJwVbZ9F8v0XYLK-ZMB0ABHe3UfmZXvaHHjRz3HkHCGC8YCgNZs8iDsEd5_EByuWu0LEqwY52TLCoUP0h4lj_wkQ/s1280/c1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwVIZzZo-341de_lC5CkB3u1rPjebvSn65rmFyPTHj3py5084_A90G-w7AdDUUZGDZZxqq_dZWHN_XpQK9e_ABwCTgI7LWcTi6UHXJwVbZ9F8v0XYLK-ZMB0ABHe3UfmZXvaHHjRz3HkHCGC8YCgNZs8iDsEd5_EByuWu0LEqwY52TLCoUP0h4lj_wkQ/s320/c1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbFdEuKnMKGUETAa0PxWrT1XSnbRW9GgMOr29xkYxlKiTDvHXRO_hxR0yDDjYjgs2HUunsZQ1SonLbypsKm1iRWmZFjQjsxGepcI5l3E6nWdHI_yZk6Syt15lIcy1ncRu3UrsSF1SuZG-EZUbaY6G215Ih4ikHZ8C0uIo7KNazpH7pkdGklX1BtBPrA/s1280/c2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbFdEuKnMKGUETAa0PxWrT1XSnbRW9GgMOr29xkYxlKiTDvHXRO_hxR0yDDjYjgs2HUunsZQ1SonLbypsKm1iRWmZFjQjsxGepcI5l3E6nWdHI_yZk6Syt15lIcy1ncRu3UrsSF1SuZG-EZUbaY6G215Ih4ikHZ8C0uIo7KNazpH7pkdGklX1BtBPrA/s320/c2.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSpGS7pHcpAjKxTTJJvAGex2ZENIzPVC59luhSnoAk74tambWQkTDL_TFu5iCd9M-R_8pgA8fQEXCfUH6kTgOuBJk5dTlTwlr0duNVEMpHCcggOlcTvK9ITSSpXXPpEV2VD9mJTCuqCMMhzF-FpG7llxAdR6stzLgV9fdjrLHspeOva_fLwCF1BmDFhg/s1920/c3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSpGS7pHcpAjKxTTJJvAGex2ZENIzPVC59luhSnoAk74tambWQkTDL_TFu5iCd9M-R_8pgA8fQEXCfUH6kTgOuBJk5dTlTwlr0duNVEMpHCcggOlcTvK9ITSSpXXPpEV2VD9mJTCuqCMMhzF-FpG7llxAdR6stzLgV9fdjrLHspeOva_fLwCF1BmDFhg/s320/c3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInW-N5uzRUhPp-9rzoM_-VIq6uJd9GvGMeDuylvXGQRG7yFU7ZhMKor0y3hPOOh00xFH_-g55tDAx49RS6e_abjG38BZRRllWpGBQAV6DQ3FgOQMsyrgTLPOphsXGMVgAPjWihlmoRoluACsTlJHZbddxQSJXCdIDXGd4WNiFknjoD3xWF5MAd-DMkw/s1280/c4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInW-N5uzRUhPp-9rzoM_-VIq6uJd9GvGMeDuylvXGQRG7yFU7ZhMKor0y3hPOOh00xFH_-g55tDAx49RS6e_abjG38BZRRllWpGBQAV6DQ3FgOQMsyrgTLPOphsXGMVgAPjWihlmoRoluACsTlJHZbddxQSJXCdIDXGd4WNiFknjoD3xWF5MAd-DMkw/s320/c4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2tgUA_EUf0L1HBOP40JBsg0OdshED7paFuLEy9PhhNVKwn-ktYrh2_xYbdmwJEQo14RmISg0Q0l1HVmEhBSPgEQ019CyBMhkLcjxOkZNIJD6QtPmGMQ9QDWP571At9zrd35j-E_ejFQ2HHri733fY48N2xwb-h0xCoNTQPkfTLnkit02-PC8P7dwQw/s1920/c5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2tgUA_EUf0L1HBOP40JBsg0OdshED7paFuLEy9PhhNVKwn-ktYrh2_xYbdmwJEQo14RmISg0Q0l1HVmEhBSPgEQ019CyBMhkLcjxOkZNIJD6QtPmGMQ9QDWP571At9zrd35j-E_ejFQ2HHri733fY48N2xwb-h0xCoNTQPkfTLnkit02-PC8P7dwQw/s320/c5.JPG" width="180" /></a></div><br /><p>Mum has made some wonderful memories in the past few months, visiting the mainland for Christmas shopping and to enjoy the Christmas decorations, and has also had the opportunity to spend time with all of her family and friends. Christmas was as amazing as ever, thanks to all of her hard work and the heart that she puts into everything! She has spent the Christmas and New Year period with all of her family. </p><p>Mum is now very tired, and at the final stage of her adventure. But she has been incredibly strong, amazing everyone, and fighting every step of the way. </p><p>She wishes you all a wonderful 2023, full of joy, hope and blessings. </p><p><br /></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-44269382702311981672022-08-29T02:01:00.002-07:002022-08-29T02:01:35.374-07:00My Craft Journey Continues<p>I have been working for some time on seven wreaths, one for each of the Church windows. I have finally finished them, filling each one with love and prayer.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiklpnNuJjLWdKNx_g16sorqunoIz3ozBAqhl4tcP5CSKHo0-xT0uA3JvtHO0zK_-dj9o4O87Xn7f79dyJYDGiUJ5fGaFrJRbndPan_4y5QtEptvu1pNXyBT3kk_93HUB3AJU7M8KDXRpSKp3mKe_eTwYOsmWr0gqO43ORKSRTRGzdQXaBF3KICfRI2_w/s5184/IMG_5867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiklpnNuJjLWdKNx_g16sorqunoIz3ozBAqhl4tcP5CSKHo0-xT0uA3JvtHO0zK_-dj9o4O87Xn7f79dyJYDGiUJ5fGaFrJRbndPan_4y5QtEptvu1pNXyBT3kk_93HUB3AJU7M8KDXRpSKp3mKe_eTwYOsmWr0gqO43ORKSRTRGzdQXaBF3KICfRI2_w/w266-h400/IMG_5867.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVN0_KGIAdyaHtG4S8Kw-5PdQYdSODpiP2e_evjSYt0XO6rsBzBus-rRA2mCrIGtyK6lbYHeKwkD4rqt1ahGx2ifDBCea1j1snY8PNJ8hVOIRco8fPb-1S_Jo1QLZIL989XTpAoBRiInxHEGRw0HiZWUrhNKB-jSrc68a_cl5aCWWoFIUD8iJyNnwe-g/s5184/IMG_5868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVN0_KGIAdyaHtG4S8Kw-5PdQYdSODpiP2e_evjSYt0XO6rsBzBus-rRA2mCrIGtyK6lbYHeKwkD4rqt1ahGx2ifDBCea1j1snY8PNJ8hVOIRco8fPb-1S_Jo1QLZIL989XTpAoBRiInxHEGRw0HiZWUrhNKB-jSrc68a_cl5aCWWoFIUD8iJyNnwe-g/w266-h400/IMG_5868.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubovugJ4n3VQm5Wk2OOU6i_n_OXW2WU_Js0tiYqAg1qBGa5XXkjVqrKgAaJQGMNM5yLHEtNJuhac0v1iGVtPAdYs_6502-HZe0oViwmMMHsbnx1msnGklbgOpBC56Y0HHQeSvo8iU4C8FO3yaz0cngLQYuH4_2E3EeXlreMNmbGnplOoqGOmxPoU4dw/s5184/IMG_5869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubovugJ4n3VQm5Wk2OOU6i_n_OXW2WU_Js0tiYqAg1qBGa5XXkjVqrKgAaJQGMNM5yLHEtNJuhac0v1iGVtPAdYs_6502-HZe0oViwmMMHsbnx1msnGklbgOpBC56Y0HHQeSvo8iU4C8FO3yaz0cngLQYuH4_2E3EeXlreMNmbGnplOoqGOmxPoU4dw/w400-h266/IMG_5869.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HTYhigYlolhRYwv60X9hdBwuSpLEPeqHBqE2NkF3IGARjD4anG0NsW8vyFRo_WRzKw5M0NLpfKSZNThv8RaYuOjxJUMA2w0D-owZncTEJyl9KL7txa9-bc0RpnYFUJInniItkIipGLnvDwVh0mG4VCk7tB71byEWPJfhN4xTun3Mw5bI2W5-ik2_MA/s5184/IMG_5870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HTYhigYlolhRYwv60X9hdBwuSpLEPeqHBqE2NkF3IGARjD4anG0NsW8vyFRo_WRzKw5M0NLpfKSZNThv8RaYuOjxJUMA2w0D-owZncTEJyl9KL7txa9-bc0RpnYFUJInniItkIipGLnvDwVh0mG4VCk7tB71byEWPJfhN4xTun3Mw5bI2W5-ik2_MA/w640-h426/IMG_5870.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYC36kWM7kbetv0WTE3diOyFiXjt7uxLEl0sF0GD-e-tG6Ph932Zf_pCUujCKJobu0gg6N2LpC4IZe5i1R_liyghyL1T9CbZ5mJUQq85wG27E7yOESNuGAoQJUJ7Wa0m9wri2qbV9r8oh9l64GCH-i2M12sozLbNEu7gdo5_mikkJHXf6VUwFPnkkd9Q/s5184/IMG_5871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYC36kWM7kbetv0WTE3diOyFiXjt7uxLEl0sF0GD-e-tG6Ph932Zf_pCUujCKJobu0gg6N2LpC4IZe5i1R_liyghyL1T9CbZ5mJUQq85wG27E7yOESNuGAoQJUJ7Wa0m9wri2qbV9r8oh9l64GCH-i2M12sozLbNEu7gdo5_mikkJHXf6VUwFPnkkd9Q/w426-h640/IMG_5871.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9WMIOXxLHXWIZG1iE5bboPS8EN4lqpXFWzN1Vw2PAvlZXwX_sPTiLZcAiPLauiv1_Lm5xFCxTmGfeSQL2krX5ZYz6wKuqXgpA9NakDoQ_o-c5Ncev4IRkr7hoqvhuX5eAd3mHREQcDsl06uDwQn02M033VmeoSqpFGAzaX0QRuQ44a2hnG9tgaG7-Q/s5184/IMG_5872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ9WMIOXxLHXWIZG1iE5bboPS8EN4lqpXFWzN1Vw2PAvlZXwX_sPTiLZcAiPLauiv1_Lm5xFCxTmGfeSQL2krX5ZYz6wKuqXgpA9NakDoQ_o-c5Ncev4IRkr7hoqvhuX5eAd3mHREQcDsl06uDwQn02M033VmeoSqpFGAzaX0QRuQ44a2hnG9tgaG7-Q/w640-h426/IMG_5872.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXED0ViicjOrxKLpuGZIg7kGjYDBwPf3FW_aOD3qwVTAmJPw7ri4IsYDWtTiwAr7rkxRcS0QdUjXAlrqLUuHnZ6xyZ9diPfM5Yvs7_9qbsb5VLkY4__FvHt8QsAkqOJfo7Fd7lAFDjFA7cMlbObA1Az43j5oeW2aoAS4BbD7o6k5iceEOORIgz40rt-A/s5184/IMG_5873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXED0ViicjOrxKLpuGZIg7kGjYDBwPf3FW_aOD3qwVTAmJPw7ri4IsYDWtTiwAr7rkxRcS0QdUjXAlrqLUuHnZ6xyZ9diPfM5Yvs7_9qbsb5VLkY4__FvHt8QsAkqOJfo7Fd7lAFDjFA7cMlbObA1Az43j5oeW2aoAS4BbD7o6k5iceEOORIgz40rt-A/w640-h426/IMG_5873.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozHmRMIVsxQPwZ6DUkUmzMOjfwSDbTzpLRkZmkAbD2dY71D5m_zij5mjs9tyCRXAenhzCdZiTLkHepyRUqGUf0YepFLigkgJ6SOnRfk_g7ZonRF4NTzHBPt1HNAo3zHN6DSv2swMPMEJ_TVA4VvdNSHyq29UrVR2bnIzP5DOlX1ntxPvzfesZuyz3QA/s5184/IMG_5874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozHmRMIVsxQPwZ6DUkUmzMOjfwSDbTzpLRkZmkAbD2dY71D5m_zij5mjs9tyCRXAenhzCdZiTLkHepyRUqGUf0YepFLigkgJ6SOnRfk_g7ZonRF4NTzHBPt1HNAo3zHN6DSv2swMPMEJ_TVA4VvdNSHyq29UrVR2bnIzP5DOlX1ntxPvzfesZuyz3QA/w640-h426/IMG_5874.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsZt6vVk8i3_PZQn3cXDAxZvdm0pRhSWVFXOXv_XPIGU8pqXxp3ZfNeQvaPMznAY8mSkwMcIVViY4-Hu_4vbjWWamHwwHXUFPv6ML7K0VywAZi2413cIhfxouICy2RPbjvASkdRd87hUNKLxKaHVHzY-JP2l5VnzPKLdWA8lN7VW-FM3kQem0OvvwHA/s5184/IMG_5875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIsZt6vVk8i3_PZQn3cXDAxZvdm0pRhSWVFXOXv_XPIGU8pqXxp3ZfNeQvaPMznAY8mSkwMcIVViY4-Hu_4vbjWWamHwwHXUFPv6ML7K0VywAZi2413cIhfxouICy2RPbjvASkdRd87hUNKLxKaHVHzY-JP2l5VnzPKLdWA8lN7VW-FM3kQem0OvvwHA/w640-h426/IMG_5875.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjrevHmNxKcceoBde5wscGwD7ZWSkVsR2m3vFKWpzU7heHsd5j_IrfhyhEDXNVDoH4FfhyX9o0J_8AtrYxY5umfyBZrrdJ2eUXLm4ALll3_TuAXSG5T6_046OdkYCd05vXOEz00S3oSs0IflIyDmIp70D0raS2y6ockL39z8zzusUfS2Dc4dtBDcHuw/s5184/IMG_5876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjrevHmNxKcceoBde5wscGwD7ZWSkVsR2m3vFKWpzU7heHsd5j_IrfhyhEDXNVDoH4FfhyX9o0J_8AtrYxY5umfyBZrrdJ2eUXLm4ALll3_TuAXSG5T6_046OdkYCd05vXOEz00S3oSs0IflIyDmIp70D0raS2y6ockL39z8zzusUfS2Dc4dtBDcHuw/w426-h640/IMG_5876.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><p>I had so much fun making them, each one different from the next. I painted each a label and then choose a verse from the bible which gave it so much meaning. Writing the verse on the back so that everyone is aware of the thought process of it in the making. There are lots of local elements included in the making, such as wool which I hand dyed and Harris Tweed. Made with love.</p><p>I have also spend some time making soap, which is something that I enjoy. I love adding the scents and getting just the right smell. This batch was a simple lavender that I added some dried lavender too. It added to the visual look of the soap as well as the smell.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2DBRV8rgSgVdfNR0C2n9bMW9ddTx0zpzr5GaW8PcPwvVtRoH-clMngdZNT4TqLhmBMQwqjoZrVq1XQTik3ryzjHuhxa1KthHJYn9qmP1Nz2B6qNMzVeiD5_qHjNQv1HrjagLkgpLmNwzQFx5MuFTn3B9B_PksBsdGWbeBfrKLtck4BaEtBXh-j_tVA/s5184/IMG_5856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2DBRV8rgSgVdfNR0C2n9bMW9ddTx0zpzr5GaW8PcPwvVtRoH-clMngdZNT4TqLhmBMQwqjoZrVq1XQTik3ryzjHuhxa1KthHJYn9qmP1Nz2B6qNMzVeiD5_qHjNQv1HrjagLkgpLmNwzQFx5MuFTn3B9B_PksBsdGWbeBfrKLtck4BaEtBXh-j_tVA/w640-h426/IMG_5856.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cs-pbEh6EQea6iAXAbtKlWzheANlk_D4ZYWKiIV6YHecQ8e2EfArZqPaPXOH337X4KZqK2wc7Z8wAXjpSNV0FlULoA2qrgJvK4LqL9qwE8fZuhnM6tCA-yP_wz3qlUcw4-i9ULwUNHdnz0cxHdZuHksnyW_E_c0hSC8JYE7DH1vXQgz5MEYpdEEqfg/s5184/IMG_5857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cs-pbEh6EQea6iAXAbtKlWzheANlk_D4ZYWKiIV6YHecQ8e2EfArZqPaPXOH337X4KZqK2wc7Z8wAXjpSNV0FlULoA2qrgJvK4LqL9qwE8fZuhnM6tCA-yP_wz3qlUcw4-i9ULwUNHdnz0cxHdZuHksnyW_E_c0hSC8JYE7DH1vXQgz5MEYpdEEqfg/w640-h426/IMG_5857.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPovE6dZxfMLiaibjyn2KY5TVCpcal-zjCqX7xiJ8RNffUn8NwxSha9HvZ_u3qC0yRW0YCTz4rEtpzYXJawBnNlheAzA2_IL_QRIGECunHnD2OU81yPeGr7z2ptynfd71gJMfInNfGjZhHCz9gngxNNUX8L4npmYCdHYnh1i_kLeb2ydu6V12phswNg/s5184/IMG_5858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPovE6dZxfMLiaibjyn2KY5TVCpcal-zjCqX7xiJ8RNffUn8NwxSha9HvZ_u3qC0yRW0YCTz4rEtpzYXJawBnNlheAzA2_IL_QRIGECunHnD2OU81yPeGr7z2ptynfd71gJMfInNfGjZhHCz9gngxNNUX8L4npmYCdHYnh1i_kLeb2ydu6V12phswNg/w640-h426/IMG_5858.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsm9W3LjbAaV45cVmYOTlZzeTvzuQIP2LzR9XtdRLNJpz4shBurHQKiLvIC8aeZIgPtQXE4HDsosyIFw0X6YznvFvU09LkGb4KDwTbfFHjb2CdCqjoVlHfxvPtzrI5HhKGqWh-WpuCF694y5BxiXE1AQ7XDctRssa0Op7DxU9N-8cWXTmSKoBP1p8Dw/s5184/IMG_5859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsm9W3LjbAaV45cVmYOTlZzeTvzuQIP2LzR9XtdRLNJpz4shBurHQKiLvIC8aeZIgPtQXE4HDsosyIFw0X6YznvFvU09LkGb4KDwTbfFHjb2CdCqjoVlHfxvPtzrI5HhKGqWh-WpuCF694y5BxiXE1AQ7XDctRssa0Op7DxU9N-8cWXTmSKoBP1p8Dw/w640-h426/IMG_5859.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLaMM9qiboqr8Mv_JrOp9dOT36yaI7g0hy9aDi2UK2-Zl0Tcz8zdW1Z7yeV-cKVVxoe1ZwvVMMbv1fJgXYWQ6_fBeWsk2pywPUSzO4ILAKMy_9vtuYygsSCqbwkgvCdIB44rhI5oMuveGX7Z6mdhRr7e_hSLWbmGWo0-3g0_4S2yZ9qx35LylvQis5w/s5184/IMG_5877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLaMM9qiboqr8Mv_JrOp9dOT36yaI7g0hy9aDi2UK2-Zl0Tcz8zdW1Z7yeV-cKVVxoe1ZwvVMMbv1fJgXYWQ6_fBeWsk2pywPUSzO4ILAKMy_9vtuYygsSCqbwkgvCdIB44rhI5oMuveGX7Z6mdhRr7e_hSLWbmGWo0-3g0_4S2yZ9qx35LylvQis5w/w426-h640/IMG_5877.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />I will close for now and thank you for your visit, your uplifting comments and your love. We did wonder about our decision to remain here on this amazing Island but we are surrounded by so much beauty it would be impossible to leave. I continue to do well, although tire very easily. I have to allow double the time to do something these days but I am thankful. Take care.<p></p><p>See you soon.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-78478059092176207682022-08-23T02:48:00.000-07:002022-08-23T02:48:49.664-07:00You Are All A Blessing<p> My goodness, how time flies! I hadn't realised how long it had been since my last post. I can with joy report I am still doing well and living a very comfortable life, surrounded by love. I have had 4 rounds of chemo, whilst it is not a cure for me but it is helping to slow the growth. I have an oncologist appointment next week to discuss a further 2 rounds of chemo, we shall see. I now take slow release morphine which helps with the pain, so all in all I am living life to the full the best way that I can.</p><p>Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your wonderful messages, cards and gifts. You are all a great blessing to me. I am so glad that I started on this blogging journey and was able to connect in so many ways to some amazing people from all over the world. It is humbling to know that so many people are praying for me and gives me strength.</p><p>I am still working on journaling my bible, it is a great comfort. Along with some pictures, cards and bookmarks for friends, helping to fill my day.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_TrxFKYmd9wcqRnM0OZVpw-sK5-TnXfuRq0_BFk2jSpktRbxhLkXdZ2C6W14dyvI9gR-ExjwCitqrkJv-bBL4hlVGOoggonwOrm3PoeGKdWT-L0TcmBti2jG-q1bVxljcVRC43qZOBWZQCUVtEVg3_oMXYBwokWtbWHi2t02EQX2ULhwMcceBa73kg/s5184/IMG_5845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_TrxFKYmd9wcqRnM0OZVpw-sK5-TnXfuRq0_BFk2jSpktRbxhLkXdZ2C6W14dyvI9gR-ExjwCitqrkJv-bBL4hlVGOoggonwOrm3PoeGKdWT-L0TcmBti2jG-q1bVxljcVRC43qZOBWZQCUVtEVg3_oMXYBwokWtbWHi2t02EQX2ULhwMcceBa73kg/w266-h400/IMG_5845.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4t-QUpcyoniL1W8FhOMZn7F2a3QcRfJUPInO8AjTlQJeUsEr0p_OE40bHprUvNhFO4H1qPQZs706auF9URql-di0DVwTFHUDk1r8lI8sZWfpWSrCp2OzvOBISGn-fgwdjLnxsz5kog5e66BiLpxWWflpMNf2Y_lthLOnxyS4a9FVPDYFQkOhIMkFew/s5184/IMG_5846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4t-QUpcyoniL1W8FhOMZn7F2a3QcRfJUPInO8AjTlQJeUsEr0p_OE40bHprUvNhFO4H1qPQZs706auF9URql-di0DVwTFHUDk1r8lI8sZWfpWSrCp2OzvOBISGn-fgwdjLnxsz5kog5e66BiLpxWWflpMNf2Y_lthLOnxyS4a9FVPDYFQkOhIMkFew/w266-h400/IMG_5846.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tY8upOnNTlaeU8kTt6pvIA5sGMmezegisw0d_pHm3deku_9JZNY3oovk1sOAOd2uIHI-hGN49h6a7HbDconaUBZyags-mI6mwZJtXX38vEDaTHVfd1glolYSM_XaaTTZYXGaqF06dq3PVb6iqjAsmJ1YQZ0RSnuuybh_UAnz_qR-mT300xrWoiq73Q/s5184/IMG_5847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tY8upOnNTlaeU8kTt6pvIA5sGMmezegisw0d_pHm3deku_9JZNY3oovk1sOAOd2uIHI-hGN49h6a7HbDconaUBZyags-mI6mwZJtXX38vEDaTHVfd1glolYSM_XaaTTZYXGaqF06dq3PVb6iqjAsmJ1YQZ0RSnuuybh_UAnz_qR-mT300xrWoiq73Q/w266-h400/IMG_5847.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAqO7aHeBq0FwoWnqPh-gm20FHzp8kGdu2B98r5l9XRQz9lsvo5daG_erj16xQcFA9sdMwxkiqxWJ3NwkDbXlmEFlFzpp5_WkrGTCChKeu44rheP99-dwfHhtY9krdpZu4bMQyfdURmreCrIPUlKm253u2mKr36afW4WVik94DexQiboiVhc-4SImrg/s5184/IMG_5848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAqO7aHeBq0FwoWnqPh-gm20FHzp8kGdu2B98r5l9XRQz9lsvo5daG_erj16xQcFA9sdMwxkiqxWJ3NwkDbXlmEFlFzpp5_WkrGTCChKeu44rheP99-dwfHhtY9krdpZu4bMQyfdURmreCrIPUlKm253u2mKr36afW4WVik94DexQiboiVhc-4SImrg/w266-h400/IMG_5848.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><p>The church pew has finally been finished and is now in place in our little cottage. It brings me such joy to look at it and think about the many stories that it could tell. We do have to move the cushions about when we have company but it is worth it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJci-dwB0OBp8JcLAzh7xL_yfuzAtT0o8djiC_KZ46cHOfgA-soABkEGrkCCqiSC8XY2bZWPkv6euyObXlRSAWV4U8XHs8HXOcLqo7aqj_CucOQ9Iei8ndaM-csVPrkdI2t_QS80fUp49XTMZ2Ocg4iRFYCJ-x8D2C_uYM4TZD3CbYLCPhhc0sp8a_Ww/s5184/IMG_5840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJci-dwB0OBp8JcLAzh7xL_yfuzAtT0o8djiC_KZ46cHOfgA-soABkEGrkCCqiSC8XY2bZWPkv6euyObXlRSAWV4U8XHs8HXOcLqo7aqj_CucOQ9Iei8ndaM-csVPrkdI2t_QS80fUp49XTMZ2Ocg4iRFYCJ-x8D2C_uYM4TZD3CbYLCPhhc0sp8a_Ww/w426-h640/IMG_5840.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qU2a48lOdU57qq8LJqDlnvJYLeQ3naF14OVRw9QUppoQynMUzYOgdLY1QwxUyyGIJ_9_d1bRb0MghKxqOfmYbAu-ET6IIw1fFytjDsBhAHUG87fT1e1ecd4DfQuhNTKYjq4fB3sZTSmJVTGu6ItxeBY_Sb3zwSJKQKwkMRv61hZAosPCfCcw7fKR_w/s5184/IMG_5841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qU2a48lOdU57qq8LJqDlnvJYLeQ3naF14OVRw9QUppoQynMUzYOgdLY1QwxUyyGIJ_9_d1bRb0MghKxqOfmYbAu-ET6IIw1fFytjDsBhAHUG87fT1e1ecd4DfQuhNTKYjq4fB3sZTSmJVTGu6ItxeBY_Sb3zwSJKQKwkMRv61hZAosPCfCcw7fKR_w/w640-h426/IMG_5841.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3BMfAU2G5GR8ojl-dmnEYKAMR5eES4eFpFAmAFokwf7dI_0bLnOeB0JDJ8Z5u3gsawIaaMdeMhLbwBc_mNBrJ1dyfJ5V5yDQH-oQaTEURNx8cQffcLouWFOupVw7lhMavsjnueNVitPWV_T_fuZSs6dOyf3VMozqbHJ1cTJkedxv-uW5ULxjB9IZEGQ/s5184/IMG_5842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3BMfAU2G5GR8ojl-dmnEYKAMR5eES4eFpFAmAFokwf7dI_0bLnOeB0JDJ8Z5u3gsawIaaMdeMhLbwBc_mNBrJ1dyfJ5V5yDQH-oQaTEURNx8cQffcLouWFOupVw7lhMavsjnueNVitPWV_T_fuZSs6dOyf3VMozqbHJ1cTJkedxv-uW5ULxjB9IZEGQ/w640-h426/IMG_5842.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcBCFWIj_483YDmmut_pcSOID9rHFWnmp1RlGts-xLmQ8LaYrMObx1i-fQjMAdOlSirtNKMHwHtAeGt6LCgzwe3uJLo4W-Nz-rQebBKxvkvLNgdTIMVolq1lTSGl61fY21ymDmGsOEbI3lhbfcN5ZO75Xmga782AjM-DZqu2gIUJY1LLAV3DEJJGeBtQ/s5184/IMG_5843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcBCFWIj_483YDmmut_pcSOID9rHFWnmp1RlGts-xLmQ8LaYrMObx1i-fQjMAdOlSirtNKMHwHtAeGt6LCgzwe3uJLo4W-Nz-rQebBKxvkvLNgdTIMVolq1lTSGl61fY21ymDmGsOEbI3lhbfcN5ZO75Xmga782AjM-DZqu2gIUJY1LLAV3DEJJGeBtQ/w640-h426/IMG_5843.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>I am not going to make promises that I can't keep but I do want you to know that you are in my thoughts often.</p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-53927277647703388112022-06-07T02:22:00.000-07:002022-06-07T02:22:25.421-07:00Weekend Break<p> I have had some very special visitors, who have been a real tonic. Our youngest daughter and her little family have been to stay for a few days. The weather was glorious for which I was truly thankful. Whilst we were unable to get out and about due to extreme side effects of the chemo. The garden became a safe haven and a great place to gather for gymnastics, games, picnics and general chit chat. The girls certainly loved the chickens and loved to collect and indeed use the eggs collected daily.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQgzdWMwkfI5M4B-venXbfQEa2Ofl9CgTUeWjvqjopDJwwSRrW1Gita6BqjzcliUvyPmkVywm2u14ctC67K-MnxTRMzPusCEgRlrxo7XKC507CKuOkOptO28XAmMjQDJz2PRicrNtTZ8OqIuTVhb-78mNiDo80F8seh6zLEQeG8830bbDJS2kbfmzMw/s5184/IMG_5811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQgzdWMwkfI5M4B-venXbfQEa2Ofl9CgTUeWjvqjopDJwwSRrW1Gita6BqjzcliUvyPmkVywm2u14ctC67K-MnxTRMzPusCEgRlrxo7XKC507CKuOkOptO28XAmMjQDJz2PRicrNtTZ8OqIuTVhb-78mNiDo80F8seh6zLEQeG8830bbDJS2kbfmzMw/w400-h266/IMG_5811.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZGUZ5tI1kUfaeVLItP4rFrWJ4uCGr0aevLe8M_B7DY7Df0INvY9ZyoMldz8L8bmUayihOFSL0280P9mHSYN4A0vpQHCoYUtzMjc2ow15uaXZDQgTUpUlYj4Q0A9nhECYS_74tL_OfRoXysD7RGh_GoBgQhJveA5APa59ttbT9JAxSetHpCmUsZn1iug/s5184/IMG_5812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZGUZ5tI1kUfaeVLItP4rFrWJ4uCGr0aevLe8M_B7DY7Df0INvY9ZyoMldz8L8bmUayihOFSL0280P9mHSYN4A0vpQHCoYUtzMjc2ow15uaXZDQgTUpUlYj4Q0A9nhECYS_74tL_OfRoXysD7RGh_GoBgQhJveA5APa59ttbT9JAxSetHpCmUsZn1iug/w400-h266/IMG_5812.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj77-Ptv_9XUQkLoXMTSR2q0hK9df_Wt8hn00aiYi2pNJplFYf7cZUMiVSKhW45EE0YoZ83E4dmPRYb4HF8cVpfDZ2hNHoFu7p45pyQ0E5Jry10RBFyLEd9b9rhF2t8jfKJmuXd1hF8iWJqD4FkH1iMaodk4w5BpCLElMCUYa2wwAjYbHfCQbBccj2AYg/s5184/IMG_5816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj77-Ptv_9XUQkLoXMTSR2q0hK9df_Wt8hn00aiYi2pNJplFYf7cZUMiVSKhW45EE0YoZ83E4dmPRYb4HF8cVpfDZ2hNHoFu7p45pyQ0E5Jry10RBFyLEd9b9rhF2t8jfKJmuXd1hF8iWJqD4FkH1iMaodk4w5BpCLElMCUYa2wwAjYbHfCQbBccj2AYg/w400-h266/IMG_5816.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>The Queens Jubilee highlights were watched on the TV and we donned our fancy hats for a very nice afternoon tea. The girls had a whale of a time making scones and cakes for the event.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1CvEFD8cBVYtBo1CsKLOJw4D2S37WH3ZyOy819RPpi6cqYQC53_HPSSmJQezak2n1z9YX-mhgtEO7_KTDTlXh_6uN1GqSsyh2wT2gwxprnGqH0IJzOCFIW9pQxZyV_wmmD3MocoejZKcLri_ipqGXbZj5IOmNq5-ucSx9bnUqVBCb6G5hhOcvMs6sw/s5184/IMG_5836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1CvEFD8cBVYtBo1CsKLOJw4D2S37WH3ZyOy819RPpi6cqYQC53_HPSSmJQezak2n1z9YX-mhgtEO7_KTDTlXh_6uN1GqSsyh2wT2gwxprnGqH0IJzOCFIW9pQxZyV_wmmD3MocoejZKcLri_ipqGXbZj5IOmNq5-ucSx9bnUqVBCb6G5hhOcvMs6sw/w400-h266/IMG_5836.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCB_S12HwyIK2sjSthV9dttuywKzWPNNCqfv-_FsVeocM877ZKUD6OCOwLw97mS_uPIQJJgBmfHJzqGyfweeF9i2WBEC8ZSY8UDbuJ1HHpsL8HaxFfKFvQfa-PHL8lz44jzesBIKWgPH6FGtd8f4XMUTKmmy87PaSTsIp3BAzkmLUG3Xo0L71Zi8l0w/s5184/IMG_5839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCB_S12HwyIK2sjSthV9dttuywKzWPNNCqfv-_FsVeocM877ZKUD6OCOwLw97mS_uPIQJJgBmfHJzqGyfweeF9i2WBEC8ZSY8UDbuJ1HHpsL8HaxFfKFvQfa-PHL8lz44jzesBIKWgPH6FGtd8f4XMUTKmmy87PaSTsIp3BAzkmLUG3Xo0L71Zi8l0w/w426-h640/IMG_5839.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><p>We did manage a little crafting too, some button sorting and the inevitable button picture.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYmjacNzzdAU1sF60pwnaqqDeIevrIGpqhv4i7aEQjj5RIUnQLekWeIjXE2s3WqW-J_lHFchkt4BMxSbx42Ia8Ko0eMNxRjWgMP6j4vwyacyutHsv2ksHjh-vEKLaNHcJchWPOBZdTi8NY-dB9XBQspFIXqQneUBsuF0KwkJP__8Wjo5QEX40cuTb1A/s5184/IMG_5829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYmjacNzzdAU1sF60pwnaqqDeIevrIGpqhv4i7aEQjj5RIUnQLekWeIjXE2s3WqW-J_lHFchkt4BMxSbx42Ia8Ko0eMNxRjWgMP6j4vwyacyutHsv2ksHjh-vEKLaNHcJchWPOBZdTi8NY-dB9XBQspFIXqQneUBsuF0KwkJP__8Wjo5QEX40cuTb1A/w426-h640/IMG_5829.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5eQ83l8lnHyC6IOlMvpdR_lmga3mck02yGmed5GbVm9kmZblL0ilE12AKgBO_It5Uj5v3hdq9nVq2nyxrQCx6yLzxNZIxQsU67R6lwJZjeSJ9ijQRmqJYtoqr6fxcAYNwahHQytQz71HlE1-kZlju5tZUBJTqD0ZkjNhh-gbLG53-lY_SmslWXCy5IQ/s5184/IMG_5833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5eQ83l8lnHyC6IOlMvpdR_lmga3mck02yGmed5GbVm9kmZblL0ilE12AKgBO_It5Uj5v3hdq9nVq2nyxrQCx6yLzxNZIxQsU67R6lwJZjeSJ9ijQRmqJYtoqr6fxcAYNwahHQytQz71HlE1-kZlju5tZUBJTqD0ZkjNhh-gbLG53-lY_SmslWXCy5IQ/w640-h426/IMG_5833.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>They were dab hands at weighing out the ingredients. They were a real joy to spend time with making many memories to treasure. The sound of laughter filling our little cottage is a joy to behold and will be greatly missed now that they have left.</p><p>Back to reality, as I am still on antibiotics I am unable to have the next round of chemo due today. Hopefully I will be well enough to have it next Tuesday, time will tell. Hope all is well with you. I am afraid I have been a little remiss visiting your blogs but hopefully will catch up with you all soon.</p><p>See you soon.</p><p><br /></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-59529828996223157712022-06-01T04:38:00.000-07:002022-06-01T04:38:18.672-07:00Every Day Matters<p> Missing in action, once again! This time...hospital. I was admitted late Thursday evening with some form of infection and a raging temperature. Antibiotic IV drips, along with several other medications did help. The white blood cell count dropped dramatically. Then, as they rose to some normality with the help of injections there was an issue with the platelets. A blood transfusion seems to have corrected that. I now have a picc line fitted as taking blood was becoming an issue. Thankfully I am now at home with the Hospital at Home Service. This means that I am still under the care of the hospital who will provide and supervise any treatment I need. I am so thankful. I was looked after by some amazing people with compassion and respect but nothing beats your own home and the love that is in it.</p><p>My journey both experimenting with mixed media and my prayer book continues. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih0Rn0lCgEXNBDS-aoRbxaiIc53ujNzNfnbhm7IJ8zI54BgBhzVLDoDJv8172_wytYuYmvjKFrvuLXKqKSyXBcUxpwpYmNfEkDkNWCCwWZm7siKHvskDpreidHjO_rDnIuOttcsK183EnvsluXnSiiYatd3vc8L23k5PArlrU93LCAeCehCY99ncWEhQ/s5184/IMG_5803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih0Rn0lCgEXNBDS-aoRbxaiIc53ujNzNfnbhm7IJ8zI54BgBhzVLDoDJv8172_wytYuYmvjKFrvuLXKqKSyXBcUxpwpYmNfEkDkNWCCwWZm7siKHvskDpreidHjO_rDnIuOttcsK183EnvsluXnSiiYatd3vc8L23k5PArlrU93LCAeCehCY99ncWEhQ/w400-h266/IMG_5803.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQaOrxFJ1Fm8C1EesTvI9jBN4eWfsHF6hBo_Uoq6NMFdjwnn-it-N84K6R8HcixrcH_rlDSjaKOfEBVvUoYPaCVRLtFT8E-BBrqaSc5zGVfSQ99RJPS66I9q8SoBMRYCMNII2DB2DWKreQlrXfE0Oe3Ugzvrje2jqZHugkAV_S7Q7Li1PlIbeXPzXLGA/s5184/IMG_5804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQaOrxFJ1Fm8C1EesTvI9jBN4eWfsHF6hBo_Uoq6NMFdjwnn-it-N84K6R8HcixrcH_rlDSjaKOfEBVvUoYPaCVRLtFT8E-BBrqaSc5zGVfSQ99RJPS66I9q8SoBMRYCMNII2DB2DWKreQlrXfE0Oe3Ugzvrje2jqZHugkAV_S7Q7Li1PlIbeXPzXLGA/w400-h266/IMG_5804.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The fun I am having, just sketching the various flowers fills me with joy. Such simple things.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWuYk7fNibcKXWA1onWh_7dwgRNu2oAF85wTSidVouPN5zy3CYUUKMWFLEv-9Quin4lE3x06HFAlQExTkDGvQwrVEstrREJgIJzifUs2x5RLptw_lqDqWO59D9LLwSkA2053IEs1KcE0XYZ03DJzeEGKYMhUJZtvN8TqwnnehxYG_YgkenlzbE8HAFqg/s5184/IMG_5808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWuYk7fNibcKXWA1onWh_7dwgRNu2oAF85wTSidVouPN5zy3CYUUKMWFLEv-9Quin4lE3x06HFAlQExTkDGvQwrVEstrREJgIJzifUs2x5RLptw_lqDqWO59D9LLwSkA2053IEs1KcE0XYZ03DJzeEGKYMhUJZtvN8TqwnnehxYG_YgkenlzbE8HAFqg/w266-h400/IMG_5808.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><p>I have changed the order, mixed things up a little. Decoupage first then sketching the outline, watercolour, ink and finally a letter stamp. The focus of course is on the word, rejoicing and receiving Gods love. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFA1HT2Lc2yug5gaz4llSUx8DtsdA5RYuuLUNQfrnUSOIc8hAIZ_uuqVdMtGLeQqX7x6j5zNdn05VaYOdco3IEdHRu4roafmG-ITHeuVthu27R9WV89e10ObV6yZE98IIPHy3UieB3GHpK3c1OkncwMcgxgSXHT-NEsZf6MHse10JxGjgJT4XcEsk2rw/s5184/IMG_5806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFA1HT2Lc2yug5gaz4llSUx8DtsdA5RYuuLUNQfrnUSOIc8hAIZ_uuqVdMtGLeQqX7x6j5zNdn05VaYOdco3IEdHRu4roafmG-ITHeuVthu27R9WV89e10ObV6yZE98IIPHy3UieB3GHpK3c1OkncwMcgxgSXHT-NEsZf6MHse10JxGjgJT4XcEsk2rw/w426-h640/IMG_5806.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZne_L311YdoDvRSmlUsoVwgXnpEYDBsMz77SPH_kSa48ctWxyE1fMbD9232ILqC1lgb6qOteqgLCnpsASixylJydippL1-22XvwhFDvdtaZq9dytZ4UcvGf6_htvvvHRbU2XkTYc9qu5Amud2t_LqltkBah0n7ycJEFVWJQrNt5DlhQP6oYev8shOA/s5184/IMG_5807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZne_L311YdoDvRSmlUsoVwgXnpEYDBsMz77SPH_kSa48ctWxyE1fMbD9232ILqC1lgb6qOteqgLCnpsASixylJydippL1-22XvwhFDvdtaZq9dytZ4UcvGf6_htvvvHRbU2XkTYc9qu5Amud2t_LqltkBah0n7ycJEFVWJQrNt5DlhQP6oYev8shOA/w426-h640/IMG_5807.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><p>I am so thankful and feel blessed that we were able to fulfil our dreams of living on this beautiful Island. The views and the beauty that I am surrounded by is spectacular, a gift from God. As I arrived home from hospital yesterday I was given a special welcome home a incredible rainbow.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-YeBACFlZ8knvbQWox8YsliqEFe-F_luI_i8uFdFP4yU6ABLMwrQJca1sL71tgGmIuUkjoEf5kMspdy_bczzhNRnnMjeg9JRZ5sxT00OrFKlOLDL60fdStDzDxjOKsiwnqHmGcmuwPj8S9WKXQ8-ra4-nnic7R_ujk-IYsJdnmxYSyyw0LjIlZhDAQ/s5184/IMG_5805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-YeBACFlZ8knvbQWox8YsliqEFe-F_luI_i8uFdFP4yU6ABLMwrQJca1sL71tgGmIuUkjoEf5kMspdy_bczzhNRnnMjeg9JRZ5sxT00OrFKlOLDL60fdStDzDxjOKsiwnqHmGcmuwPj8S9WKXQ8-ra4-nnic7R_ujk-IYsJdnmxYSyyw0LjIlZhDAQ/w640-h426/IMG_5805.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>I will close for now and wish you all a bright and beautiful day. Make every moment matter and fulfil your dreams.</p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-55059719555383532652022-05-21T09:23:00.001-07:002022-05-21T09:23:16.324-07:00Blessed With Hobbies<p> My original thoughts on this cancer journey that I am on was to ignore it!!! It certainly seemed like a good idea at the time. With hindsight, always a wonderful thing I have had time to reconsider and think that it is a major journey. Whilst I don't want it to consume my every thought, which it could quite easily. I do think that there are so many positives that it should be part of my story.</p><p>Treatment has started. I was given the penthouse suite (a side ward) so that Gerard could sit with me. A answer to prayer as I was so nervous about going. 7 bags of fluid via a drip later and all was well. I was waited on hand and foot with tea and a choice of lunch. There was lots of chatter as staff kept coming in to check on me, laughter and lots of information. Thankfully no side effects, early days I suppose.</p><p>Day 2/3/4 more chemotherapy drugs this time in tablet form, along with steroids, anti sickness and umpteen others. Injections now for the next 9 days. They are throwing the chemistry lab at me and I am thankful. So far, so good. I remain positive and thankful. A little brain fog but no real side effects...God is good.</p><p>Work on my prayer book continues, along with mixed media pictures. I am so enjoying the process of mixing different mediums. This time watercolour, ink and once again stitching the verse. The end results are not always good but the process is so enjoyable, I don't think it matters.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbcsLn-AIew7DG4vYf3_qiw_0m1qp6mPi-aW05XhMCDH89a82AGpUTDb4Ha4qfR2_z0v4bcf-tmwtqjw7bzCNkeK6AkMKqpfIF04_4-KMhKTTS-vhEbqncGRuHADTMfZuLno3Sl_e_Tb_mFIuoeQhAmczufVAJRjocsundgS4gdcfMhO7LFupruAAZw/s5184/IMG_5788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbcsLn-AIew7DG4vYf3_qiw_0m1qp6mPi-aW05XhMCDH89a82AGpUTDb4Ha4qfR2_z0v4bcf-tmwtqjw7bzCNkeK6AkMKqpfIF04_4-KMhKTTS-vhEbqncGRuHADTMfZuLno3Sl_e_Tb_mFIuoeQhAmczufVAJRjocsundgS4gdcfMhO7LFupruAAZw/w400-h266/IMG_5788.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QT1dGCrRWNYMJrLl0q31rTTOmz8JTOLMKWi_L3xybG1uWqNqPBwiL6JKC3ypA_XeYnOI180J88TC0WHZiJATMFFPUwOZSCD8Aoi4ZsdlnyEdl0QZgP7bEIv6cH99PL_QwBfWd-ZR6C4McZ3NVs2D0_ks5B2yhrSAjK0_gymnEwB6qFfglyd6REpOOw/s5184/IMG_5787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QT1dGCrRWNYMJrLl0q31rTTOmz8JTOLMKWi_L3xybG1uWqNqPBwiL6JKC3ypA_XeYnOI180J88TC0WHZiJATMFFPUwOZSCD8Aoi4ZsdlnyEdl0QZgP7bEIv6cH99PL_QwBfWd-ZR6C4McZ3NVs2D0_ks5B2yhrSAjK0_gymnEwB6qFfglyd6REpOOw/w266-h400/IMG_5787.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0UI-d72Y-wKuBHBIBmdUSQVIjWtV1YpgYJSR3DJQ5iO7X9EfgiK7i9KkDv8k261Hd8YYZok1n10ub4vmws6CSqFMJBBDPKRbDNMGlg8kHvs2L3d748D2nGGIjcJWlRIVXg69OVoM6hp4K1aDQQH06Ate3J48zzYVgKmEav7ldVR6uzNQVxqz7Q6wKhQ/s5184/IMG_5786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0UI-d72Y-wKuBHBIBmdUSQVIjWtV1YpgYJSR3DJQ5iO7X9EfgiK7i9KkDv8k261Hd8YYZok1n10ub4vmws6CSqFMJBBDPKRbDNMGlg8kHvs2L3d748D2nGGIjcJWlRIVXg69OVoM6hp4K1aDQQH06Ate3J48zzYVgKmEav7ldVR6uzNQVxqz7Q6wKhQ/w266-h400/IMG_5786.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8C-49aT3t97X0qRRzOnwU00KtlBDjgZExHN1tzZLRlY2sZsa-lwM2tMcp-W_yH-f_oXXYILTQFQu8J93rEVimdg4SegC2snvLQA_R2w_JmmpkYsJ0qjSC-688YfWCAi_N8Vrn0DahJ9MgJSCopHOiXXJP5XL7ioj3xPXI62L_iuNLWDAVJblgD6l2Bg/s5184/IMG_5785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8C-49aT3t97X0qRRzOnwU00KtlBDjgZExHN1tzZLRlY2sZsa-lwM2tMcp-W_yH-f_oXXYILTQFQu8J93rEVimdg4SegC2snvLQA_R2w_JmmpkYsJ0qjSC-688YfWCAi_N8Vrn0DahJ9MgJSCopHOiXXJP5XL7ioj3xPXI62L_iuNLWDAVJblgD6l2Bg/w426-h640/IMG_5785.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>With God all things are possible Matthew 19:26 I am clinging to that hope. That he will guide me and sustain me as he walks me along the path that he has chosen for me.</p><p>I have finally tried my hand at felting and once again really enjoyed the process. I did stab my finger a few times and made myself bleed but no real harm done thankfully. It did take a lot longer than I thought it would but well worth the time spent on it. It was quite the experience stabbing the fibres into features. I had made a couple of cashmere cushions from cashmere fabric that I bought from Elgin whilst away. It was offcuts, that were affordable and yet were such a luxury fabric. Once the cushions were made I made the felted buttons/pins.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhssP61Uh-y9tDkGHTK2Kzv7a8gqaDH-x5dSIZx_mG9auLsGmf2YRAT0BHN4Fw6LTHjYqphB8nPV2g43QRObXcK3Vw8EdOuCv1a5YpwUia6NLkIhlxPronlicbQ6M-foY6_YZbVhNRndF1fP1-IrZrJ65lhki1XFZcuqRV8udbXtPx0yuCl_t7xyTdQ/s5184/IMG_5796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhssP61Uh-y9tDkGHTK2Kzv7a8gqaDH-x5dSIZx_mG9auLsGmf2YRAT0BHN4Fw6LTHjYqphB8nPV2g43QRObXcK3Vw8EdOuCv1a5YpwUia6NLkIhlxPronlicbQ6M-foY6_YZbVhNRndF1fP1-IrZrJ65lhki1XFZcuqRV8udbXtPx0yuCl_t7xyTdQ/w640-h426/IMG_5796.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJeYyyBTucnFD115_JJbvgDqvrikHMd5zltLYyw_zFxYhJ1z8lXdJ8YSZ1AUsmXreiEbLbyj3DyWEi4FowuPoBPov2Tp41kEd7ZPKXBrwgxd7xNwvBB3KGI3_ggQ3Q6NfGlt8DlkFhZFxZcJfWxzd4Hot_nYvZdvnCfAl4IAyKpvhcQrIi4pvo-JX4w/s5184/IMG_5797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJeYyyBTucnFD115_JJbvgDqvrikHMd5zltLYyw_zFxYhJ1z8lXdJ8YSZ1AUsmXreiEbLbyj3DyWEi4FowuPoBPov2Tp41kEd7ZPKXBrwgxd7xNwvBB3KGI3_ggQ3Q6NfGlt8DlkFhZFxZcJfWxzd4Hot_nYvZdvnCfAl4IAyKpvhcQrIi4pvo-JX4w/w640-h426/IMG_5797.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0ExoYIAC1ptNYeBdDVSUagpI__1H-XXqRvlA196vQpZw-wzWhzYIpxSjxXpq7qfrIkzBFcQov4DR_PA_YV0SQKTZ2qKCg9mjC-BKS0DE1G-EeN_M32VStr-DWDmxFCiTaOm35BS8fhKNHjGKrtdtjrsXyfCEr-lG9bfMGAMOsSnfTnu53eK81efpgA/s5184/IMG_5798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0ExoYIAC1ptNYeBdDVSUagpI__1H-XXqRvlA196vQpZw-wzWhzYIpxSjxXpq7qfrIkzBFcQov4DR_PA_YV0SQKTZ2qKCg9mjC-BKS0DE1G-EeN_M32VStr-DWDmxFCiTaOm35BS8fhKNHjGKrtdtjrsXyfCEr-lG9bfMGAMOsSnfTnu53eK81efpgA/w640-h426/IMG_5798.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgiUtvlSqMvrlrsJMWx5k0Xv5mlkhQudegflQiky9h5nOTDKUttnM9M8utHXJ4wlx2DZ4-vk5a8WAs8WB6_5tRgId8_jgmE1Uyp0XBtCRyF6IVNYxsM5BrXQI_DWiOUB180S8lBpInlYcM5sW2snf9yQnOg8iwXuHwcOgupnLotjWvgNS2BqIvZi8zfg/s5184/IMG_5799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgiUtvlSqMvrlrsJMWx5k0Xv5mlkhQudegflQiky9h5nOTDKUttnM9M8utHXJ4wlx2DZ4-vk5a8WAs8WB6_5tRgId8_jgmE1Uyp0XBtCRyF6IVNYxsM5BrXQI_DWiOUB180S8lBpInlYcM5sW2snf9yQnOg8iwXuHwcOgupnLotjWvgNS2BqIvZi8zfg/w640-h426/IMG_5799.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7yBaU53Mg7bB6BGUZGiOvsNeyAcbmk4wb9xJzEkzM_SVfk88eyIc2GbIw7bUXz9K418VrXggFUvFC4N4wgxnmoNcgUIsxw3iTPly0wctZSYjh3E7cplQkgo_SijxrZmu9QojCr7-acWBh6Fv6SGQpbr9ysOLwBIHMBRMHUgvR0Q-sn4BWhljhGgoEqg/s5184/IMG_5800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7yBaU53Mg7bB6BGUZGiOvsNeyAcbmk4wb9xJzEkzM_SVfk88eyIc2GbIw7bUXz9K418VrXggFUvFC4N4wgxnmoNcgUIsxw3iTPly0wctZSYjh3E7cplQkgo_SijxrZmu9QojCr7-acWBh6Fv6SGQpbr9ysOLwBIHMBRMHUgvR0Q-sn4BWhljhGgoEqg/w640-h426/IMG_5800.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>I have a feeling that more animals will be added to the menagerie. </p><p>Day 5 not a good day. The chemistry lab appears to be reacting. Dizziness, nausea...sleep appears to be the answer.</p><p>I will close for now with thanks for your visit and catch up with you later.</p><p>See you soon.</p><p><br /></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-56127534428176432652022-05-11T10:31:00.000-07:002022-05-11T10:31:41.672-07:00Photo Update The Ritz<p> Sadly I am still unable to upload the photos from The Ritz . On a more positive note I received a beautiful record of the occasion from my daughter. A beautiful album of precious photos in one place, treasured memories. So that I could share with you I have taken some photos of the photos. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBszk55vfYHVgHIvTpKEKD6jOOAOPtoTdyweiQkbwAsimlMgIzasnSZwzk218KL1rf7fbGoo56OI1WIn_b2mEoBkbbYmTKHkmJLUR1BBpRgqj4pdysDS3K-ytwd-6wP1oPjf_5uqdhmkByAMADALG6OqawRyYI8FyV7aYGCqzSdxXeYrKWd4iAbYIFIg/s5184/IMG_5771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBszk55vfYHVgHIvTpKEKD6jOOAOPtoTdyweiQkbwAsimlMgIzasnSZwzk218KL1rf7fbGoo56OI1WIn_b2mEoBkbbYmTKHkmJLUR1BBpRgqj4pdysDS3K-ytwd-6wP1oPjf_5uqdhmkByAMADALG6OqawRyYI8FyV7aYGCqzSdxXeYrKWd4iAbYIFIg/w400-h266/IMG_5771.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiskCDPd0WhCTHk-vAFEJkO3Pfzye4F13exkDYcsMVmpi7IHtAoZ17YAP2RhVs1Ayd5jJF4olQEP8Wy9CnfblocmH8WO3UAL0EgB9vWlp_twuFbIYjyMR7tqtH-mqsxqMfgncXiYZJBlVFtNnnDZgoG-mz9btnqCaVyG201UptYenVneTzh8_v1SBBN0g/s5184/IMG_5772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiskCDPd0WhCTHk-vAFEJkO3Pfzye4F13exkDYcsMVmpi7IHtAoZ17YAP2RhVs1Ayd5jJF4olQEP8Wy9CnfblocmH8WO3UAL0EgB9vWlp_twuFbIYjyMR7tqtH-mqsxqMfgncXiYZJBlVFtNnnDZgoG-mz9btnqCaVyG201UptYenVneTzh8_v1SBBN0g/w266-h400/IMG_5772.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHNl4AGWeVM1t2muuR4lgiP0ZP9t0U9b3UG5hJLGtwVKXs65Xk22LRTEMiGQaT1yAnm7p7yIjZkC-IU_BoYCeRg0GenEKTr6cmZn486XdZHcyPz8IMqWep8cn7v1IckESIhFJD38edFEQVZAxNPDhG-Cvgc3LAljM0yVmlgEJoNB9OSE1Ng-OBoCqaA/s5184/IMG_5773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHNl4AGWeVM1t2muuR4lgiP0ZP9t0U9b3UG5hJLGtwVKXs65Xk22LRTEMiGQaT1yAnm7p7yIjZkC-IU_BoYCeRg0GenEKTr6cmZn486XdZHcyPz8IMqWep8cn7v1IckESIhFJD38edFEQVZAxNPDhG-Cvgc3LAljM0yVmlgEJoNB9OSE1Ng-OBoCqaA/w400-h266/IMG_5773.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAFpYXmOYM5wlP7jzlqLgaTJyBZ_9D5aYUCwRWYLm0Klxws5Lu_lGekfadNhvuO5ZHhOhC7kZOGgHVbvbbi64yCtRLQFCYvTEATM5tyttt3qjsmDtakFfF_e2hqBbV7YqihEFQSXMDvIyMzQPPPDWYMIVPWHGnMb4RCCfKJm7DAc9pf7ceqbHf4kQPTQ/s5184/IMG_5774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAFpYXmOYM5wlP7jzlqLgaTJyBZ_9D5aYUCwRWYLm0Klxws5Lu_lGekfadNhvuO5ZHhOhC7kZOGgHVbvbbi64yCtRLQFCYvTEATM5tyttt3qjsmDtakFfF_e2hqBbV7YqihEFQSXMDvIyMzQPPPDWYMIVPWHGnMb4RCCfKJm7DAc9pf7ceqbHf4kQPTQ/w400-h266/IMG_5774.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIT64qnzREMCTvvcgJO61zhFqLdsaH4avx6BuEr77q3IT5PhESNEdAEh_v8oLIHSGiq9xYFDNH5uOiwYCDNFnRvG0wS0VaLdH7MW_eJBfy28Y1HqawBR1XBCcFOmm2_9re8vCrhvhPqscD-OGh7p4NWIGXTA4VNC5cpcBvxfPry8_M1D_drDIRQ2noQ/s5184/IMG_5775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIT64qnzREMCTvvcgJO61zhFqLdsaH4avx6BuEr77q3IT5PhESNEdAEh_v8oLIHSGiq9xYFDNH5uOiwYCDNFnRvG0wS0VaLdH7MW_eJBfy28Y1HqawBR1XBCcFOmm2_9re8vCrhvhPqscD-OGh7p4NWIGXTA4VNC5cpcBvxfPry8_M1D_drDIRQ2noQ/w400-h266/IMG_5775.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbvvLPmIrnnAJ8aKsz1rX2nDmnTvk8WlTY21B6BIN1-aeYnGBcna7yCHmnZLDjuWEGacmxPe_dGXZZB59bSxh9gv56Mc4lZR44yci8hy_D97hoLWv---POaxNdK0k6eOR26ircWu0VkvZ_xj7kW7xgWbwPEEjIJ2kK9a7XSTfgI10gytJzpycFF4mMxg/s5184/IMG_5777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbvvLPmIrnnAJ8aKsz1rX2nDmnTvk8WlTY21B6BIN1-aeYnGBcna7yCHmnZLDjuWEGacmxPe_dGXZZB59bSxh9gv56Mc4lZR44yci8hy_D97hoLWv---POaxNdK0k6eOR26ircWu0VkvZ_xj7kW7xgWbwPEEjIJ2kK9a7XSTfgI10gytJzpycFF4mMxg/s320/IMG_5777.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YRCgpGHX1pfetPoYj0sxyvpGZiOC5uudyqJnMjnGXT2ouyBUqWWNMNJf6SK6TwnAWU-6uqCWJl_mqmjqSNTwEhN-VH0XYion-25zBl-uc0UiLW-Z2GLK14RHGzYvO_9C1PxeqN8dCLvLmylyh08BYgp2h7tJkDKBuYdJ79-aNM3tCGKnR3HhNu7Q-A/s5184/IMG_5776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1YRCgpGHX1pfetPoYj0sxyvpGZiOC5uudyqJnMjnGXT2ouyBUqWWNMNJf6SK6TwnAWU-6uqCWJl_mqmjqSNTwEhN-VH0XYion-25zBl-uc0UiLW-Z2GLK14RHGzYvO_9C1PxeqN8dCLvLmylyh08BYgp2h7tJkDKBuYdJ79-aNM3tCGKnR3HhNu7Q-A/w640-h426/IMG_5776.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It was certainly an event that will evoke some lovely memories for a long time to come, cherished memories of a gift given with love.<p></p><p>The pots at the front of the cottage have been refreshed, giving the stone walls a little hug. A patch of colour added to the white painted wall with solar lights added here and there. A cottage that gives us so much protection from the elements and is so loved in return.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEU-ZE7eGgM9LIykg8nnY615xRQwgYJChJQUVu31qlJ1SD4qBd-eH04o2bGWbdG41xX_GLUNB5AGxSyPj9fozjMAXU-gX4Gg8fq_1l6dOw8lFzG4UjCiZ1it7i9Dtb5KXZ4tPGTeULp4IpvU1dtqRJahSsdZp5l1LrH266G6dF5tddgYefCD9JTdgS0g/s5184/IMG_5750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEU-ZE7eGgM9LIykg8nnY615xRQwgYJChJQUVu31qlJ1SD4qBd-eH04o2bGWbdG41xX_GLUNB5AGxSyPj9fozjMAXU-gX4Gg8fq_1l6dOw8lFzG4UjCiZ1it7i9Dtb5KXZ4tPGTeULp4IpvU1dtqRJahSsdZp5l1LrH266G6dF5tddgYefCD9JTdgS0g/w640-h426/IMG_5750.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-LTtHXZtz6XtStiZii3xExSNcGqCdiuM_rEgGHtn922alN5jZefJ1d4NpX3cPq1u1cttKHiK81PgL1gjs80vuYrs6xrbGBe-e2en3gkbKW6VqA2z5wjzWMTuKTEE852jfBY-qrkH3AVWVKTZl9duL5Gm5n_FqkrCuUt1qZrK_YO-xZonQxpKPSNTQrQ/s5184/IMG_5751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFsNIwRA0TBW5QIYf6AHFakhfxZ8rt4cm-7XVQ_lXdh6h2dXWaOcujfDUPHXC4utgpELGmKEJpnXvsObh7Rj0mK7mdLW6qovTqNypM3Q2wZqH0G6R9wAFY8uGTjwsWmjELRxjhL_PdT3lX5ewqWZXfe0mR_KhP_IyHEV5iD3MzjXVgG2zOS_tLj5_pw/s5184/IMG_5756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFsNIwRA0TBW5QIYf6AHFakhfxZ8rt4cm-7XVQ_lXdh6h2dXWaOcujfDUPHXC4utgpELGmKEJpnXvsObh7Rj0mK7mdLW6qovTqNypM3Q2wZqH0G6R9wAFY8uGTjwsWmjELRxjhL_PdT3lX5ewqWZXfe0mR_KhP_IyHEV5iD3MzjXVgG2zOS_tLj5_pw/w640-h426/IMG_5756.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>The herbs are starting there journey, poking through the soil and re-emerging after a stormy few months of dormant sleep. We have started some extra ones off from seed that are almost ready to be planted into the herb garden tyres. I love to grow, cut and dry these versatile plants for Winter soups and casseroles. The vegetable garden is looking a little sorry at the moment but I am hoping Gerard will be able to potter a little more now that a treatment plan is in place for me. I will start palliative chemotherapy treatment next Tuesday. This should help to keep me comfortable, it is not a cure. I am thankful and certainly hopeful that it may give me some extra time with my beautiful family.</p><p>As always I feel blessed by your visit and your uplifting comments.</p><p>See you soon.<br /> </p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-71433180521102331952022-05-09T10:50:00.000-07:002022-05-09T10:50:30.008-07:00Magical Moments<p> It has been a dream from when my three daughters were at university that we would one day meet up and a have afternoon tea at The Ritz. Last week the dream came true, the family flew me down to London where we had the celebration tea. We were treated like royalty, the decedent surroundings, gold plate everything and silver tea settings were a true feast for the senses. I have many photos that I can look back on to relive such an amazing experience. It was a joy to share with my three very loved daughters my excitement for such a simple pleasure. Afternoon tea...who knew that a simple sandwich could taste so good. Each sandwich, a different bread adding to how the stand looked visually as each piece was a different colour. Each tiny morsel melting in your mouth. The waiters in all there finery/livery were so attentive which just added to the experience. Next came the scones plain and fruit with jam and clotted cream. I am a great fan of a scone and these did not disappoint. They were light and delicious just what you would expect from such an establishment, yummy! Onto the top tier of the cake stand and those cakes and pastries were a delight. Finally out came a celebration cake where a fruit cake was delivered to the table with such pomp and ceremony. To finish the cake trolley delivered another selection of cake. It was an afternoon that I will never forget and fulfilled a dream for our little family. Simple pleasures, surrounded by love and very happy. Magical moments.</p><p>Sadly I am unable to upload the photos for some reason but I will try again. I would love to share them with you.</p><p>We did laugh when it was back to earth with a bump...travelling back using easy jet ( a budget airline)!</p><p>On the crafting front I am keeping myself busy. Today I made a start on one of the project bags that I had prepared, making Christmas napkins ready for each of the girls.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrc0q0V8UYD40vEDDY4JFJd2XEgDbfm5pfn-pVxepn6DyIHoKM4wficlHKHEjJTJz5giACdx2mjtFxsMYIEPcI6Jv55R75RZ7Re_elenNnZ9ID8gOZgQIm1EouHOMzWr4X1OOGl6Te7cYgeTV749BawJgNc8tr8E8QQZTAxIBRb2ezObeC5TpBAQ6eTQ/s5184/IMG_5766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrc0q0V8UYD40vEDDY4JFJd2XEgDbfm5pfn-pVxepn6DyIHoKM4wficlHKHEjJTJz5giACdx2mjtFxsMYIEPcI6Jv55R75RZ7Re_elenNnZ9ID8gOZgQIm1EouHOMzWr4X1OOGl6Te7cYgeTV749BawJgNc8tr8E8QQZTAxIBRb2ezObeC5TpBAQ6eTQ/w400-h266/IMG_5766.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUo0iJe6v1ItHLMe105SYJfv1lBpINZm09vXrHV15YWxLv_h4Y99MUt8l8iKBEM9DnSzuiG7N-cI0hjM2Hg4IvX3OyHfR7YFv3YvI8IVGChjxBvxyxvEB3LCQP0Wk8WqI0gNveiZsFnsSYPXFWxTsdR17v9R5Lpe8W2eZeXDr_aWAsNp9PsM2YTBoWFQ/s5184/IMG_5757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUo0iJe6v1ItHLMe105SYJfv1lBpINZm09vXrHV15YWxLv_h4Y99MUt8l8iKBEM9DnSzuiG7N-cI0hjM2Hg4IvX3OyHfR7YFv3YvI8IVGChjxBvxyxvEB3LCQP0Wk8WqI0gNveiZsFnsSYPXFWxTsdR17v9R5Lpe8W2eZeXDr_aWAsNp9PsM2YTBoWFQ/w400-h266/IMG_5757.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvHPXpqxS9fNJciD2nXzQR-8MVuQgn_ee3QF8Vl5WlP5s_klj2bDoUqSFY8xdXwFajvpj2UCsznbAo-DEnQvfdWRO7WTdXqdc0oRVw9zswjHR7S31cu7adFq9n5U5oNeZB-CRL3G8LCuba-VyGZppLmonShMT9kNW7CAD9Nml0BVuE6xQY-VgVoGHNg/s5184/IMG_5758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvHPXpqxS9fNJciD2nXzQR-8MVuQgn_ee3QF8Vl5WlP5s_klj2bDoUqSFY8xdXwFajvpj2UCsznbAo-DEnQvfdWRO7WTdXqdc0oRVw9zswjHR7S31cu7adFq9n5U5oNeZB-CRL3G8LCuba-VyGZppLmonShMT9kNW7CAD9Nml0BVuE6xQY-VgVoGHNg/w400-h266/IMG_5758.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZK6hNLSfvrlPzOeeXf6UlPyYXX6dU-wGMRotLsl6JgS5kflQZh2R_gTSGzjcVnkjPn97TvNJFv54kbOkk8HeIzFql35S9bjRAlWEjSy2J1UOPLZ0Kc88kmpkSCg0xabWoOgdMc1DQdxqauR5d_o7K6yX2KbjkhT6ly2jBX918jB5CJDzPpHO3-UNoNQ/s5184/IMG_5759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZK6hNLSfvrlPzOeeXf6UlPyYXX6dU-wGMRotLsl6JgS5kflQZh2R_gTSGzjcVnkjPn97TvNJFv54kbOkk8HeIzFql35S9bjRAlWEjSy2J1UOPLZ0Kc88kmpkSCg0xabWoOgdMc1DQdxqauR5d_o7K6yX2KbjkhT6ly2jBX918jB5CJDzPpHO3-UNoNQ/w400-h266/IMG_5759.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqxtVTLMhdReX1gmhvbY76DZ3Fy1SGbIIMuQUKOrpjg-u6pVXxquC65bvOOaSyR9CUHEr6Qo6MNnapxvtynDZsbhFZhOZGIInzIkoMqQx-eVRnOBN4Weigg4QemOOC442CeKvD-Gcto8wAvD_jTY68pwgXlYcMtME9K-ZE1Ev_6JLGqmQZ-09VFW4xw/s5184/IMG_5763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqxtVTLMhdReX1gmhvbY76DZ3Fy1SGbIIMuQUKOrpjg-u6pVXxquC65bvOOaSyR9CUHEr6Qo6MNnapxvtynDZsbhFZhOZGIInzIkoMqQx-eVRnOBN4Weigg4QemOOC442CeKvD-Gcto8wAvD_jTY68pwgXlYcMtME9K-ZE1Ev_6JLGqmQZ-09VFW4xw/w400-h266/IMG_5763.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmgSrFlerVYo8qvNSLk8hHY-hqNqp2bVOXADIyD1M9F0T2rhV0iBkjHdbWrvh2-UA10afbPGHgshv48qNpeKmBEkmIL7XdjidsA3pOqIQ_birvQi6LXgzehEGMCHQLsFjWJHbqgVpkT2MjzDMK9NL3KzYcsjILMVVQEHhJ3RvIHEutaxAYSnFKu1JIuQ/s5184/IMG_5764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmgSrFlerVYo8qvNSLk8hHY-hqNqp2bVOXADIyD1M9F0T2rhV0iBkjHdbWrvh2-UA10afbPGHgshv48qNpeKmBEkmIL7XdjidsA3pOqIQ_birvQi6LXgzehEGMCHQLsFjWJHbqgVpkT2MjzDMK9NL3KzYcsjILMVVQEHhJ3RvIHEutaxAYSnFKu1JIuQ/w400-h266/IMG_5764.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>I found the napkin rings in a little shop in Inverness, which I am sure will add to their story. Such an attentive lady who wanted to please.</p><p>Another magical moment was a visit to the local craft fair, held in Sporsnis (Ness Sports Centre). I met a beautiful lady called Charlotte who had a wonderful stall. I fell in love with a hat that she had made and bought it on impulse. It was her first sale, she was quite emotional and told me that any other hat of that design would be called Lorraine. Under the circumstances, that was quite the legacy especially as I have such a love for hats. That young lady will never know how much this means to me but I certainly wish her well in hew new venture and hope she does well.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMJVLfbvuLa9HG-Re_s0kxDg2YhbvXe7gPhT4x1Mut8TlQG1Y158Qih0hxaR3UM2Kk_t9bR6LopJEnIpHcbV0Rd1AdEOAXdU2An1Rsx44AJ_lO18lCubws0DCMd0fVABrjBWqNUyf0uUQ1KZ3WF5V0wo7yTXZWqloPaihqOyGqL-27DBVTOnFSxmm5Tg/s5184/IMG_5767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMJVLfbvuLa9HG-Re_s0kxDg2YhbvXe7gPhT4x1Mut8TlQG1Y158Qih0hxaR3UM2Kk_t9bR6LopJEnIpHcbV0Rd1AdEOAXdU2An1Rsx44AJ_lO18lCubws0DCMd0fVABrjBWqNUyf0uUQ1KZ3WF5V0wo7yTXZWqloPaihqOyGqL-27DBVTOnFSxmm5Tg/w640-h426/IMG_5767.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>I will close for now with a warm welcome to new followers. I hope you find love and hope in some of my adventures through life.</p><p>As always I thank you for your visit and your supportive and uplifting comments.</p><p>See you soon.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-85354893513991046022022-05-03T11:02:00.003-07:002022-05-03T11:02:41.073-07:00Blessed By Friendship<p> Your love and support has overwhelmed me. Not an occurrence that happens often but I am at a loss for words...and I truly thank you from the bottom of my heart. Reading through the numerous comments has uplifted and sustained me both emotionally and spiritually. I also thank you for the private emails, ecards, notes and little gifts.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMMUPGeStAkW2pmPSxy986FmJck9feVZUnhCnC7hucrd-k40-J9sNFzkfp0Gz0s8oppL2umGiaq8nyOPYGu4UlpR0sjyflwdF0kJ3sS3oJ9hphEN4UBF8xjRpxVzZt601xoP18hUBV-Lpf3SLnrbbn_hO8olCe4gFYRe4osqfbkpuFqI7z_qCPlJl1A/s5184/IMG_5745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMMUPGeStAkW2pmPSxy986FmJck9feVZUnhCnC7hucrd-k40-J9sNFzkfp0Gz0s8oppL2umGiaq8nyOPYGu4UlpR0sjyflwdF0kJ3sS3oJ9hphEN4UBF8xjRpxVzZt601xoP18hUBV-Lpf3SLnrbbn_hO8olCe4gFYRe4osqfbkpuFqI7z_qCPlJl1A/w266-h400/IMG_5745.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><p>I have been surrounded by loved ones for the past few weeks, spending quality time with each daughter and their little family. Creating memories that will hopefully be cherished. Memories of us as a family together and the beauty of this stunning Island. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI50Wjs4lHPhU0parObcSsRu1B3SFKRvy7HQqM5yCQuQ4ZCBvHd3l2qdkq1_1b_x13Fc9AMLBggvWVQ72IZnsxokR2zWOHFfnclZuLtvIDA_rlrr6ahcZhRfvy7Jkhu5oGbQbKZixVfSPohnAjXeaqWkrfaUhFG4D4oPyn48mePyViiQHhodjxtXeJBA/s5184/IMG_5737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI50Wjs4lHPhU0parObcSsRu1B3SFKRvy7HQqM5yCQuQ4ZCBvHd3l2qdkq1_1b_x13Fc9AMLBggvWVQ72IZnsxokR2zWOHFfnclZuLtvIDA_rlrr6ahcZhRfvy7Jkhu5oGbQbKZixVfSPohnAjXeaqWkrfaUhFG4D4oPyn48mePyViiQHhodjxtXeJBA/w400-h266/IMG_5737.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Each sunset/sunrise a stunning array of colour emitted through the sky.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIMTBSDhVXBrPojVKlhlLc8JQTQ2qsrNrvYT35p_Xlk3VPOlJaxUpuNVvkuOteVoRyBp6LJunCnl9HGcrZ9GE1x5jgMt9nRMXNwvG_mw-_UTgwT4-F2tRrpTIX56y1SaBJOOSQTHLkeHL_s-Epc_8dvRzjTlJuEh9m6LmyOt3px9TYQEbs57hlZtc7Q/s5184/IMG_5741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIMTBSDhVXBrPojVKlhlLc8JQTQ2qsrNrvYT35p_Xlk3VPOlJaxUpuNVvkuOteVoRyBp6LJunCnl9HGcrZ9GE1x5jgMt9nRMXNwvG_mw-_UTgwT4-F2tRrpTIX56y1SaBJOOSQTHLkeHL_s-Epc_8dvRzjTlJuEh9m6LmyOt3px9TYQEbs57hlZtc7Q/w400-h266/IMG_5741.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A stop for a cuppa and another spectacular view. The sea tempting us with its beauty, with its gentle swell as it hits the harbour wall.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiX3ZqgKtJYE-6sJduGomssM1Pgrby99vidkVbN2iuQnEFyd7yxLn89aSxK72_Gw6CisUCbZHVseozH-IIa8UT61AFMwUOq8ijRj-RYIJJtRA542VrSrc7GoqmzRnVcUFj0qD1YIFjSlIUpMlSNS7cbDxzj3a_bp9hnJKfRlYBIF1mMFSd1VsvtXQZxA/s5184/IMG_5735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiX3ZqgKtJYE-6sJduGomssM1Pgrby99vidkVbN2iuQnEFyd7yxLn89aSxK72_Gw6CisUCbZHVseozH-IIa8UT61AFMwUOq8ijRj-RYIJJtRA542VrSrc7GoqmzRnVcUFj0qD1YIFjSlIUpMlSNS7cbDxzj3a_bp9hnJKfRlYBIF1mMFSd1VsvtXQZxA/w400-h266/IMG_5735.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sheep lambing and geese looking for a place to land. Nature at its finest, spectacular and breath taking. I feel so blessed to be living the dream. I am at peace and happy to end my days here. I have decided to take each day as it comes and look for the beauty. A start as been made on the garden, albeit slowly. Wild flower seeds have been thrown in the fenced area by the outbuilding. I am hopeful that it will give a pop of colour and bring butterflies to that patch, we shall see. The pots at the front of the cottage are looking a little forlorn but we have plants ready to be added. A job for another day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the crafting front I have been keeping myself busy experimenting with watercolour, decoupage and sewing a mixed media picture. I must admit I am really enjoying the process.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMNPIIp9t6nEm138GaT_Vw07Ux-nTGUaDoiAr5drBz4OzQIpu-azKgnMkm0KNxOgmMPmZkn_iu3NLI7Dc-GTF2D0-WsEcS94iYMcJc29m0EMQqNPdqkEv7IY_bZzt0aJpxSSIRXKzTCnqtM4w7eqW8S80TJB6-DrsdAKJpM_gx-4eoHbVjW0giDzVNg/s5184/IMG_5663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMNPIIp9t6nEm138GaT_Vw07Ux-nTGUaDoiAr5drBz4OzQIpu-azKgnMkm0KNxOgmMPmZkn_iu3NLI7Dc-GTF2D0-WsEcS94iYMcJc29m0EMQqNPdqkEv7IY_bZzt0aJpxSSIRXKzTCnqtM4w7eqW8S80TJB6-DrsdAKJpM_gx-4eoHbVjW0giDzVNg/w426-h640/IMG_5663.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9IVYXzHIlJ69XlIdb2xzCHVQu3nhQSErOJLCfHUoIA5mUT2z3yREar5EQYv_pEwd7KYsxOFPl5z5xW2uxFGjSbGkAPyYAdR5SaKm3SenG_5Vy4-sVy23luy3ZZx1KICio4zR1nOuBNM9vwZP9384sFXjKeZ2aTIUf_yFXqOcPubESkSyUmSYfi5dbSQ/s5184/IMG_5665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9IVYXzHIlJ69XlIdb2xzCHVQu3nhQSErOJLCfHUoIA5mUT2z3yREar5EQYv_pEwd7KYsxOFPl5z5xW2uxFGjSbGkAPyYAdR5SaKm3SenG_5Vy4-sVy23luy3ZZx1KICio4zR1nOuBNM9vwZP9384sFXjKeZ2aTIUf_yFXqOcPubESkSyUmSYfi5dbSQ/w426-h640/IMG_5665.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXg7IDuyzAx222jpVjcgLAPws_XVb5Vo6arJJtQHC2juw9Ep5v0oLl0XtXrpvtmOygIPCKgvphbhkTTa35OalTMynkRYf7QV7QGhT6EGbscCu_Xw4ab4_vNnfooAaTf0Lph2xzNDZCFdtbTPXyEl8UrRPTZ_qf5hmKMDp0B_W1A2W0BXUQV5DxMRK4qA/s5184/IMG_5666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXg7IDuyzAx222jpVjcgLAPws_XVb5Vo6arJJtQHC2juw9Ep5v0oLl0XtXrpvtmOygIPCKgvphbhkTTa35OalTMynkRYf7QV7QGhT6EGbscCu_Xw4ab4_vNnfooAaTf0Lph2xzNDZCFdtbTPXyEl8UrRPTZ_qf5hmKMDp0B_W1A2W0BXUQV5DxMRK4qA/w426-h640/IMG_5666.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFfTpznuSu1q8vZGP-PMvhLXl3T0C2I4ptjWqTEmwQalIKIsT9ChNJa1K-xO1M8FIKWGtwaDkvR0PiBQ5CN4GO-iuMFoF2bojkncmKzJo7B2tsvcttRCMHzE0nREDsx8Bynd1B0gscHkivQ_3_baeThv3O6QsY_4J9kBONAQipuzO8-5w4TJ9OgWPDYQ/s5184/IMG_5668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFfTpznuSu1q8vZGP-PMvhLXl3T0C2I4ptjWqTEmwQalIKIsT9ChNJa1K-xO1M8FIKWGtwaDkvR0PiBQ5CN4GO-iuMFoF2bojkncmKzJo7B2tsvcttRCMHzE0nREDsx8Bynd1B0gscHkivQ_3_baeThv3O6QsY_4J9kBONAQipuzO8-5w4TJ9OgWPDYQ/w426-h640/IMG_5668.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There is a ladies Flourish conference here locally on Saturday at the Comunn Eachdraidh Nis, a day of praise and worship. I have made bookmarks for each attendee. Again I enjoyed the process filling each piece with love.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkYguaBrqGiU9_SgWTN-SNj4g8yaCYTzJcp4zUUn5a76oA8ZEwKq7XNl4zqKJIjWFmv8I0WMMOxp-QW0HILT8xN7jgmItzUeW3szdrKquhiMA4R26e9TJ1eRxgyqARvYzoYK8K3WyCM2mmFsKYSI5LCA8RINRsv11m3EqAnkDYR2m8clfrtKIrWHoMw/s5184/IMG_5681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkYguaBrqGiU9_SgWTN-SNj4g8yaCYTzJcp4zUUn5a76oA8ZEwKq7XNl4zqKJIjWFmv8I0WMMOxp-QW0HILT8xN7jgmItzUeW3szdrKquhiMA4R26e9TJ1eRxgyqARvYzoYK8K3WyCM2mmFsKYSI5LCA8RINRsv11m3EqAnkDYR2m8clfrtKIrWHoMw/w640-h426/IMG_5681.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally, I have added a few cards. There is always an event that I need a card for and I though it prudent to have a couple ready.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPjHjOnfZkhIiSTNHy_wj-qVbYPW82mbNBzFziSlNi_qjDpS387EO6Q01NOglKPArxbGHSGvBquk70KC5XMWsIpA-FFlRI6viApAyUXzxrSPgLfaM2PeF38nC_HSXv4qoUqsV194hDHt8IQx58dEEPc1-JW54BkZBzmtBF8ChiD67USSyuCsFjdLHkw/s5184/IMG_5683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwPjHjOnfZkhIiSTNHy_wj-qVbYPW82mbNBzFziSlNi_qjDpS387EO6Q01NOglKPArxbGHSGvBquk70KC5XMWsIpA-FFlRI6viApAyUXzxrSPgLfaM2PeF38nC_HSXv4qoUqsV194hDHt8IQx58dEEPc1-JW54BkZBzmtBF8ChiD67USSyuCsFjdLHkw/w640-h426/IMG_5683.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvakaUHNlEWExmIYe9_4zYL3eVOpDAT9LxlytWWf0ijJcWCc7V-5x8W1QHF1c6n1tjzrCRey6hn9HyJi3Bvw7vrOoVGncY5OcK92pjPEJy7GD5p3LY_Sav_rM88SriCKgz-pKBInyVwj-cqjd-OoOpR26JW5jpZnUlf1sw7P-5JVOsHqRdgBBBOccjQg/s5184/IMG_5685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvakaUHNlEWExmIYe9_4zYL3eVOpDAT9LxlytWWf0ijJcWCc7V-5x8W1QHF1c6n1tjzrCRey6hn9HyJi3Bvw7vrOoVGncY5OcK92pjPEJy7GD5p3LY_Sav_rM88SriCKgz-pKBInyVwj-cqjd-OoOpR26JW5jpZnUlf1sw7P-5JVOsHqRdgBBBOccjQg/w640-h426/IMG_5685.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>I will close for now as I need to pack a bag once again. I am travelling to the mainland tomorrow on the early ferry, heading for the hospital for another biopsy Thursday, this time the lung. I am thankful for your love and support and feel blessed by so many hands of friendship. The blogging world is a joy to behold.<div><br /></div><div>See you soon.<br /><p><br /></p></div>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-25552742421861945852022-04-29T01:15:00.000-07:002022-04-29T01:15:53.433-07:00A Sad Update<p> I have been missing in action once again. This time I have been lost in medical jargon. Long story very short I have not been at my best of late, not feeling myself. After a visit to the GP, a few tests, scan and finally we heard the dreaded words..."you have cancer". Another scan revealed I have lung cancer which has spread to the liver, lymph nodes and pelvis. What is crazy is there is a second cancer of the kidney, which it quite unusual I am led to believe. There is no cure, I have been given just months to live. I have already had a biopsy of the liver and go over to the mainland next week for a biopsy of the lung to determine some form of treatment plan. It is palliative care.</p><p>I am living each day as it comes, trying to enjoy each moment. Savouring each magical minute and spectacular view that I see. Enjoying the beauty that surrounds us and the everchanging landscapes. I am trying to remain as positive as I can and most of the time have an inner sense of peace. I have my moments and struggles but for now I am strong.</p><p>This blog has been a lifeline at times and I thank you for your company, friendship and love along the way. I don't want it to end as a medical diary so will not be recording my journey. However I am not ready to give up on it just yet. I will pop in now and again and carry on recording my makes and little adventures. </p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com57tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-1778643505706062132022-03-19T04:42:00.002-07:002022-03-19T04:42:30.981-07:00Magical Tour<p> Its a beautiful day, the sun is shining and the temperatures have improved it was reading 11 degrees C in the car. There is a little breeze which makes it feel cooler so grab your jacket and I will take you on a little adventure. You have been here before but each visit is different, it is an everchanging land/seascape. The constant movement of the sea and clouds in the sky make for a different picture each time you take a photo. First stop Port of Ness. The road down to the port is still closed so we parked near the Breakwater, a lovely restaurant/cafe overlooking the port.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJr-r6Ri68XNmfQnb6kdwulRZr7yvaGc3z6uJ4aMiiOvQuYT503p-wgkKU_C6fHPg3Eu21cu963_G7JGhkajL5l_O077UM6wCVlJfD4B9s2qEKn_Qu8AyfXjn9Ly7LePoKOmcMyvkcFxr9f32pxIvVX-ma6b1cZ_gkikD_naETdWtCDbAmmmGQ3jzxHA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJr-r6Ri68XNmfQnb6kdwulRZr7yvaGc3z6uJ4aMiiOvQuYT503p-wgkKU_C6fHPg3Eu21cu963_G7JGhkajL5l_O077UM6wCVlJfD4B9s2qEKn_Qu8AyfXjn9Ly7LePoKOmcMyvkcFxr9f32pxIvVX-ma6b1cZ_gkikD_naETdWtCDbAmmmGQ3jzxHA=w266-h400" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWf3qIjryBYRm8FJMDL7bmW1oJqUHkJymfG9aK8ifi8zhoZaDyVQx-rN5OYwWH1r2O71zSReqrpP6ICUzPAymoFwQa2nUrcP4Btid9FrPL5lYdU67l0zUJyyAkBTWLpnrmFHI43wFsk9jf-OuPGv-qAeyFZcZ6CEzn_9SUModFVyT_4_ebhWJBuVzPvQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWf3qIjryBYRm8FJMDL7bmW1oJqUHkJymfG9aK8ifi8zhoZaDyVQx-rN5OYwWH1r2O71zSReqrpP6ICUzPAymoFwQa2nUrcP4Btid9FrPL5lYdU67l0zUJyyAkBTWLpnrmFHI43wFsk9jf-OuPGv-qAeyFZcZ6CEzn_9SUModFVyT_4_ebhWJBuVzPvQ=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWOJOHIgC_xlFnkFN55xYX0BfCyBMqt3aW4Wnrh8oWBgHqNEuMGtPBBMDOoxVb3KGSvUz14fdnotsBTafnLTOcFcAsPzgfxiVeY0ZmUlSbD6R4839vj4xQI3D_Ry_Fnh21DobufrvePVdEC6LQ-J_b-95t4p3wBApOwnN51WnyghMJLbit4xJQLrlrcg=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWOJOHIgC_xlFnkFN55xYX0BfCyBMqt3aW4Wnrh8oWBgHqNEuMGtPBBMDOoxVb3KGSvUz14fdnotsBTafnLTOcFcAsPzgfxiVeY0ZmUlSbD6R4839vj4xQI3D_Ry_Fnh21DobufrvePVdEC6LQ-J_b-95t4p3wBApOwnN51WnyghMJLbit4xJQLrlrcg=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgcVE6KB85lmG6rX7LSB9YoQ2PPt6P5JjVQMtOvcQcRoHGV32lzV44cjdMhFWs9PQwqmn9PShxuppbrty6MwvaGRd9fOxKCG8FsPqEEoDixei7w4AVbfP3lXBRHLvQCznhAX-kJiT-4BvvFwUFk1BtD-08Mf-4GxTq52rKUvuRulaZyuV_Hi4Ua54jcXg=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgcVE6KB85lmG6rX7LSB9YoQ2PPt6P5JjVQMtOvcQcRoHGV32lzV44cjdMhFWs9PQwqmn9PShxuppbrty6MwvaGRd9fOxKCG8FsPqEEoDixei7w4AVbfP3lXBRHLvQCznhAX-kJiT-4BvvFwUFk1BtD-08Mf-4GxTq52rKUvuRulaZyuV_Hi4Ua54jcXg=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiG7sMNG58ucRo3h0njYWB9fTQbWOa0CNL7zgJm0FB0pzsuupRFIJRqzSZS8L72gyuQHKrF4StuzxnwnZh65ySqT3Ir4RezoO9yk4vdWDQHNalv3EkcftfB7P5_EteuubiMc_RKLUl2dLV5L01idieS5IkPChnGGYpiCm6hrxXyNbZwjsARKPuTcZLtWw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiG7sMNG58ucRo3h0njYWB9fTQbWOa0CNL7zgJm0FB0pzsuupRFIJRqzSZS8L72gyuQHKrF4StuzxnwnZh65ySqT3Ir4RezoO9yk4vdWDQHNalv3EkcftfB7P5_EteuubiMc_RKLUl2dLV5L01idieS5IkPChnGGYpiCm6hrxXyNbZwjsARKPuTcZLtWw=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj75z2deD8yxVq4vAsP8UbsPm9KMRZkrlICcUmX3ifvU7rnSkJ_DYabFGiy64Wk0iNRuzwcVvI_fFEBKMeapJ4OhrpWiPgM5DgOLlzJserUay2k6RyCGfK_v83TjpgKZK7qqccrbIFbH6aXLRb9HRMGOV2QBkgRQkO3lNhyRZpJfh3uVrFXRkjh7hhLAw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj75z2deD8yxVq4vAsP8UbsPm9KMRZkrlICcUmX3ifvU7rnSkJ_DYabFGiy64Wk0iNRuzwcVvI_fFEBKMeapJ4OhrpWiPgM5DgOLlzJserUay2k6RyCGfK_v83TjpgKZK7qqccrbIFbH6aXLRb9HRMGOV2QBkgRQkO3lNhyRZpJfh3uVrFXRkjh7hhLAw=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjlqqzlprfzvfLWO5azKgod5v-Y2X3zmtfbzK7rGDOlc9H9W9q0ISzP7lYmz6peUDJnBX1SPl3xVzCK2MtzSZAyXnseezRq0ehjrbWiqWpwHtvLqu_SrNkaVe4M1TBSmYG1KqTqKBbaiJ-YdC9qgBh03br04IkVgxLEqxrnkrKjvewfL8r51bao_Rv5Ng=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjlqqzlprfzvfLWO5azKgod5v-Y2X3zmtfbzK7rGDOlc9H9W9q0ISzP7lYmz6peUDJnBX1SPl3xVzCK2MtzSZAyXnseezRq0ehjrbWiqWpwHtvLqu_SrNkaVe4M1TBSmYG1KqTqKBbaiJ-YdC9qgBh03br04IkVgxLEqxrnkrKjvewfL8r51bao_Rv5Ng=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Back into the car for a short drive to Stoth beach, one of the family favourites for when the children visit. It is a small cove with steep cliffs on either side, it has a few caves so perfect for pirates and boisterous boys to wear themselves out. Today we just stood at the top and didn't venture down, but it was a joy to marvel at the beauty. We also had the feeling of being watched...<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEheqG__YpHm59apxIchgSmJrlpqviMhOaljy-41payHv-qIYzaUbjR4DftPjdhJOuPF_SGdhmFQ47IR_4Kh3NNXC7lOtRhYiYmuM_ZkJbOPsBauG1jO9GrTdm2J4Ej29atalO6MUPNvC44HawuReZ5vnBaBGh9u4BCTnJtn7HF7RI1iQ0URWwZOmnMNnQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEheqG__YpHm59apxIchgSmJrlpqviMhOaljy-41payHv-qIYzaUbjR4DftPjdhJOuPF_SGdhmFQ47IR_4Kh3NNXC7lOtRhYiYmuM_ZkJbOPsBauG1jO9GrTdm2J4Ej29atalO6MUPNvC44HawuReZ5vnBaBGh9u4BCTnJtn7HF7RI1iQ0URWwZOmnMNnQ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSamvHxEfU3Sy5A8VFnYbm3J_q8RMTN4YmWnfrsWzEc964M4y5MmM3pEEeLdNYY2RBzQSytgRM3gFwMqojM6_p5_oARcgzxzYjiB1dM6wl--9pynAa7kc8cMNYRuEUvGVNaXiWaaoNWey42vW0TZulDpFcQ5R5gknaGACcMGgXD4gneHINs4uCzCAV6A=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSamvHxEfU3Sy5A8VFnYbm3J_q8RMTN4YmWnfrsWzEc964M4y5MmM3pEEeLdNYY2RBzQSytgRM3gFwMqojM6_p5_oARcgzxzYjiB1dM6wl--9pynAa7kc8cMNYRuEUvGVNaXiWaaoNWey42vW0TZulDpFcQ5R5gknaGACcMGgXD4gneHINs4uCzCAV6A=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Watching me, watching you!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5Wy-jb2oM_EkFOQlVMRDmthEqeBig_wkUoSCT9L3eGmorqLqV-i6q0u6IBAVI8QLolOm8Z6WMFH8wLKrRHxfJ_R0h_0ssgEkKYiiBB_7HHOsBm1cc2FBQIp_rS8aD-c6K0qyhqRDEgatisDbxriz2BMhENwSEpX7IDBSCZGJ4Eq1YKVgTOF2yTQNRZA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5Wy-jb2oM_EkFOQlVMRDmthEqeBig_wkUoSCT9L3eGmorqLqV-i6q0u6IBAVI8QLolOm8Z6WMFH8wLKrRHxfJ_R0h_0ssgEkKYiiBB_7HHOsBm1cc2FBQIp_rS8aD-c6K0qyhqRDEgatisDbxriz2BMhENwSEpX7IDBSCZGJ4Eq1YKVgTOF2yTQNRZA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAnCAGmvLjflo_jwWvFGd9xTtUojgAneqR6wpXvJYoVxR1dnWIUR_vyVuKSnzAsoVyLJsCmFSKagEGmk_0RlSb9C0J4pBBt13SeaP8jsjTwJbuWf_2-wnoYRtpwZcRy4cCVRk5rUJFeGRIIDreHjp-nPQGfuPRDKUKeSp0zK6mKl5d5q9bvbe82e-sVQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAnCAGmvLjflo_jwWvFGd9xTtUojgAneqR6wpXvJYoVxR1dnWIUR_vyVuKSnzAsoVyLJsCmFSKagEGmk_0RlSb9C0J4pBBt13SeaP8jsjTwJbuWf_2-wnoYRtpwZcRy4cCVRk5rUJFeGRIIDreHjp-nPQGfuPRDKUKeSp0zK6mKl5d5q9bvbe82e-sVQ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj9wm4GNcjEcXf69f0AEBA1wgcXWemJf9rCxP7tS1JF1aZH24IyTfCvRF57JIFROR5V8-8qVHSt06dLs5-NEkgDbV-zGd6qkuTfxi6KaRqpIVSRq-TRsBP3xGrLxMpp-wkKuWzrlkDD6PkXUspj8b8wIu6nmSLN9pIeVm2_lC1XsY42Qf_57stvif03-g=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj9wm4GNcjEcXf69f0AEBA1wgcXWemJf9rCxP7tS1JF1aZH24IyTfCvRF57JIFROR5V8-8qVHSt06dLs5-NEkgDbV-zGd6qkuTfxi6KaRqpIVSRq-TRsBP3xGrLxMpp-wkKuWzrlkDD6PkXUspj8b8wIu6nmSLN9pIeVm2_lC1XsY42Qf_57stvif03-g=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgRZCWJb6YSIteSAN5WZwi_4baaW02Wpl_RZtCPpyyP_gCnyHwXE-3mWiT3jhRNGNy7ACLrb9XSu_s6DWgvQfcfir05k1qNW_ydYNlDYPfJOC9Y-6s-ubBEeBTH3OJrqv08mFWirTkP68BItMPJrc8iaWBWnSEU6x1Kj6Ar8hnHCax_eElJ8MwHjnUvvA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgRZCWJb6YSIteSAN5WZwi_4baaW02Wpl_RZtCPpyyP_gCnyHwXE-3mWiT3jhRNGNy7ACLrb9XSu_s6DWgvQfcfir05k1qNW_ydYNlDYPfJOC9Y-6s-ubBEeBTH3OJrqv08mFWirTkP68BItMPJrc8iaWBWnSEU6x1Kj6Ar8hnHCax_eElJ8MwHjnUvvA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><p>Our final stop before heading home is the Butt of Lewis and the magnificent lighthouse.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhvrFp_qsGbOLF4UJCoaFjXxbRyJLvSmyQWTb4BOR_VkJCOUXlfbWrqS2zCjaqi6Iqcdu3dzOIhmJv19HPaZN1O82oT_CjXwF4I4Xlb7lX9xdmaX2sttWT-ckOFH4seSglNnCZKKEYQDhru4ICuvg2WUWgYz0tKWXtU7JfH3jNZJJPMyV49S6Uoo_G-tg=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhvrFp_qsGbOLF4UJCoaFjXxbRyJLvSmyQWTb4BOR_VkJCOUXlfbWrqS2zCjaqi6Iqcdu3dzOIhmJv19HPaZN1O82oT_CjXwF4I4Xlb7lX9xdmaX2sttWT-ckOFH4seSglNnCZKKEYQDhru4ICuvg2WUWgYz0tKWXtU7JfH3jNZJJPMyV49S6Uoo_G-tg=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><p>Let me take you nearer the edge of the cliff, make sure you have a firm foothold its a long way down. I marvel at the beauty that we are surrounded by and feel blessed to live on this beautiful Island with it's unique beauty and splendour.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiwQ4Oio-bIvjFPY9lurWVgdxW6722er8gE0z2JsveCVf_K1h4XmJKnwe8Ah0_s2-u8blv7qj2jkiKY5-GIewz-34w4EdxfAHfs9cYzOlsapCKdf73cC2PKHIi7r52FgECkWo71trj2l0ezhPPb54vy6pwC0pq7jAo9b9Joxcb38QYFOnMpzyUjbzpWJg=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiwQ4Oio-bIvjFPY9lurWVgdxW6722er8gE0z2JsveCVf_K1h4XmJKnwe8Ah0_s2-u8blv7qj2jkiKY5-GIewz-34w4EdxfAHfs9cYzOlsapCKdf73cC2PKHIi7r52FgECkWo71trj2l0ezhPPb54vy6pwC0pq7jAo9b9Joxcb38QYFOnMpzyUjbzpWJg=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQp-5PLdy2M3HT2mVN_eZgp-CJocXofIzUe-VIZSBmYeIKu01Feg1aO4IAysJHVqlvqiOpHNoFJcz2dzyY4ms7UmHleRSnr2_VoiNOx4dSxXQ45bGwgwZ-K6YDYSyfFYndH4OTQfxSMp9KUiSg2tlAa3Yg-DHYxCgny68XiaU4DqJ8YC4LJGDu-QaG7g=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQp-5PLdy2M3HT2mVN_eZgp-CJocXofIzUe-VIZSBmYeIKu01Feg1aO4IAysJHVqlvqiOpHNoFJcz2dzyY4ms7UmHleRSnr2_VoiNOx4dSxXQ45bGwgwZ-K6YDYSyfFYndH4OTQfxSMp9KUiSg2tlAa3Yg-DHYxCgny68XiaU4DqJ8YC4LJGDu-QaG7g=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6mtdgy3GqlTwyoOJN7gXkL2HX4Y-vWxYjJMoXMqf_5nqAYtfysq0cZATXM_hI3-NJbxNozEPZ5ANJV1zEvNxdP-TEu3pD2JlCxXg4U-SxTpe1eEUc4JUyqyV0ygWYiJXi7cXhGARXIHpUECYQ2vFLvorcB5W0YAwc0hj_bhbXAFTSHNd6dxm4uf0C0A=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6mtdgy3GqlTwyoOJN7gXkL2HX4Y-vWxYjJMoXMqf_5nqAYtfysq0cZATXM_hI3-NJbxNozEPZ5ANJV1zEvNxdP-TEu3pD2JlCxXg4U-SxTpe1eEUc4JUyqyV0ygWYiJXi7cXhGARXIHpUECYQ2vFLvorcB5W0YAwc0hj_bhbXAFTSHNd6dxm4uf0C0A=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmJ8PM-h9At4OOcu0NaolOasbEVJivb4JT687s4htleHNvGhzDwjBinJDmhPJ8r_xrxg_vuWinW6NbeFXAYbFADdkkv6zRv7wTPsb-xa7mFGKmOojorinx8r62iKE0vZr1ILfM8NEJ3z_1kR3c76nyMS0ZIw0S7T4l7uiqe9eCXMgiQYT96g7kqRPnzQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmJ8PM-h9At4OOcu0NaolOasbEVJivb4JT687s4htleHNvGhzDwjBinJDmhPJ8r_xrxg_vuWinW6NbeFXAYbFADdkkv6zRv7wTPsb-xa7mFGKmOojorinx8r62iKE0vZr1ILfM8NEJ3z_1kR3c76nyMS0ZIw0S7T4l7uiqe9eCXMgiQYT96g7kqRPnzQ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrV9U4K0m4r3tPWwfgEeD5cbpjjSN9MSrIPQ6uXYtYOcB5Hd9cevO8a81ORaUC9SiEAUXH9HfV7B0lUcyVw332mPWGK4i1HsxiskL-DHtFd0eb30r79gDfHhbB_ehliOX1Nfwz4gNJul3VLOFI98LJdh5BOnBRsdjbQvIdYNIlIWuiccpXlR7yPFNxwA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrV9U4K0m4r3tPWwfgEeD5cbpjjSN9MSrIPQ6uXYtYOcB5Hd9cevO8a81ORaUC9SiEAUXH9HfV7B0lUcyVw332mPWGK4i1HsxiskL-DHtFd0eb30r79gDfHhbB_ehliOX1Nfwz4gNJul3VLOFI98LJdh5BOnBRsdjbQvIdYNIlIWuiccpXlR7yPFNxwA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>Back to the cottage for coffee and crumpets, hope you enjoyed this little adventure just as much as I did.</p><p>See you soon.</p></div>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-71600103823138072402022-03-16T08:13:00.001-07:002022-03-16T08:13:54.923-07:00Fun In All Weathers<p> What a mixed bag we have had with the weather, storms one day bright sunshine the next a typical day in the Outer Hebrides. A start has been made in the garden, a few moments at a time the bright sun lulls you into a false sense of security it is still quite cold. The tyres have been cleared and are ready for future growth. The rhubarb is already starting to unfurl its rich red stalks and pale green leaves, a lovely welcome to a sign of Spring a change of season and a shift in the weather cycle. The mint is starting to poke through the soil, along with some of the other herbs. We are making plans for the garden, always an exciting time of year.</p><p>Saturday saw me in the kitchen doing a mammoth bake for the freezer, a quiche, sausage rolls, egg custards to use up an abundance of eggs. I also prepared a bolognaise sauce and a curry ready for the days we have hospital appointments.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPwTVQEAx_cI7jTeeaJVeOnnpMt41TXJ3AhHPdkvf5FxhMxzS21PDWsiFG4NW_Gk7vk1VpD3Icir_UpQj8RVcaZK7h_s2wybraULVtYKV6h7gZBz4Yd4YjCEWpHzsGOgV76mrpRH_THYtWkU_qtG-tOcj9LcucCHjak1Qhl7F4EZ7pMvuGh17Oq9ChSA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPwTVQEAx_cI7jTeeaJVeOnnpMt41TXJ3AhHPdkvf5FxhMxzS21PDWsiFG4NW_Gk7vk1VpD3Icir_UpQj8RVcaZK7h_s2wybraULVtYKV6h7gZBz4Yd4YjCEWpHzsGOgV76mrpRH_THYtWkU_qtG-tOcj9LcucCHjak1Qhl7F4EZ7pMvuGh17Oq9ChSA=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHuCh08diwIwMVaiky0fFwY9O4mKmLn9dyGdOFng8YF6Db5FfD9Z3IMGV1TsXkPx9-6uSAz_RsNmiAuIbUfYAy-V8MARNNdeSunjJKU4TPyfBbQqKYFZ3IN_7-FDTCE5m0ku1FpRog7WshC2GO3Hc6Sv0g7LBjQ-rNib86I2M5Fgq_wnW-QYcpAdre1Q=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHuCh08diwIwMVaiky0fFwY9O4mKmLn9dyGdOFng8YF6Db5FfD9Z3IMGV1TsXkPx9-6uSAz_RsNmiAuIbUfYAy-V8MARNNdeSunjJKU4TPyfBbQqKYFZ3IN_7-FDTCE5m0ku1FpRog7WshC2GO3Hc6Sv0g7LBjQ-rNib86I2M5Fgq_wnW-QYcpAdre1Q=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVTY-SNvTMB7vm1xsjFGysV4szaC5ewhbNuJpJaVSKctgYTwYdLTPwiW6Tyv-PSX4l3CpRG_AzGUtx4qb4Peb0SnPRYAHmhrSyHP4eVPdCgMSJJaRJdqyOyCnyeNjSaDC3-bTsti0lyW10nCSEPP0QwMAYrWdaMo3hfCNAimn9i2OKd_Sz9IlmShm_-A=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjVTY-SNvTMB7vm1xsjFGysV4szaC5ewhbNuJpJaVSKctgYTwYdLTPwiW6Tyv-PSX4l3CpRG_AzGUtx4qb4Peb0SnPRYAHmhrSyHP4eVPdCgMSJJaRJdqyOyCnyeNjSaDC3-bTsti0lyW10nCSEPP0QwMAYrWdaMo3hfCNAimn9i2OKd_Sz9IlmShm_-A=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>I spent a few hours immersed in a project of dying some wool, what fun I have had. I intend to crochet some flowers to make wreaths and a twig arrangement and needed some extra colours. I want to use all Hebridean wool so dying some wool made this possible.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjUJsjs6paVDYZggNeutGs4xY0eKsaZwzDe8P96wwhUhxh_sZXJgS59FkZLMRWph6gQKjHwfVnC7CbistL8HiFQwkof2pIRmEnEAaCtbPtYq41db3iz0ThbKRxzxePjsuJxRVlE89KB4Ob-zPPb_lRY1E5dh2-h0smoaZhEWyD30U91N83-nTy0Hnj-A=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjUJsjs6paVDYZggNeutGs4xY0eKsaZwzDe8P96wwhUhxh_sZXJgS59FkZLMRWph6gQKjHwfVnC7CbistL8HiFQwkof2pIRmEnEAaCtbPtYq41db3iz0ThbKRxzxePjsuJxRVlE89KB4Ob-zPPb_lRY1E5dh2-h0smoaZhEWyD30U91N83-nTy0Hnj-A=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg1J6Vmf7Z8eOgQTLjD_ud4uAe8gp-3QSMtSBGIZuCwys6CU4-E0b87n3DZ9j9raL9NvYX7oyGl_WYnzvMwb07-ef0-zKqqwYPyk2VGl11uBd89k0p6igjnoFfDF4bCAq7vpBrfxpGTPK6RITx75FHaIjQf7s26lqpuVuOvTCTPgIin02hqGSE3C8K8rQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg1J6Vmf7Z8eOgQTLjD_ud4uAe8gp-3QSMtSBGIZuCwys6CU4-E0b87n3DZ9j9raL9NvYX7oyGl_WYnzvMwb07-ef0-zKqqwYPyk2VGl11uBd89k0p6igjnoFfDF4bCAq7vpBrfxpGTPK6RITx75FHaIjQf7s26lqpuVuOvTCTPgIin02hqGSE3C8K8rQ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>It was soaked in cold water along with vinegar for 20 minutes prior to adding the dye. This was then heated until just before boiling and left to cool to room temperature.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3y2fZgPGUb9cgKv20SaNmilQfG2r65zjSzqq1uCViFVXubKZzRnaZTDKSgomuiyZOHMAX0kO4uZpkoiH4X56cwSqJgntul4_avZkWMkPAk60YNWkY4FNYtmgNpSt-UwcOPFkR737yH0BdU4dC42AMQygcQhN0XxnJ_7XVJlNvrgMxKMBDTFJh9KTivQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3y2fZgPGUb9cgKv20SaNmilQfG2r65zjSzqq1uCViFVXubKZzRnaZTDKSgomuiyZOHMAX0kO4uZpkoiH4X56cwSqJgntul4_avZkWMkPAk60YNWkY4FNYtmgNpSt-UwcOPFkR737yH0BdU4dC42AMQygcQhN0XxnJ_7XVJlNvrgMxKMBDTFJh9KTivQ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjiyMmJhP5IrAbuql1yRysrEOLrvMvSEIqY_YEy6wU7HpxeWEIULFvozyX6VaRMJihG4R2AlC3A0Wlzc5bqsnjJvHGcLlfs27TdZwxn-V72iPjjSygFPQHtHhjOhUmNIe3ERfOPOlC7521qe9HolA9vhKcq5zF9yWwT4QGHcyLZVot5s6-uiSjBpIvI1w=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjiyMmJhP5IrAbuql1yRysrEOLrvMvSEIqY_YEy6wU7HpxeWEIULFvozyX6VaRMJihG4R2AlC3A0Wlzc5bqsnjJvHGcLlfs27TdZwxn-V72iPjjSygFPQHtHhjOhUmNIe3ERfOPOlC7521qe9HolA9vhKcq5zF9yWwT4QGHcyLZVot5s6-uiSjBpIvI1w=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A good rinse before it was hung up to dry. I am looking forward to seeing the end result once it is crocheted up. The colours are good with an even spread so I am quite pleased with it. The bonus I had so much fun with and enjoyed the process.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh1pgztx3EyP5E_uhC2bJzTa3BiJe7xQv41lfDyaPp9SkAg88o2SfE47bgtItUiOs9oe_-0G25KGZ2yzE25FCPj7UdfKXsJy5xIrZaWDrf4hHmRBlIA8z2l5bXn4L76o6_P2S7D0X7fyzmZCY2QAq2A-DW-AqRtkdoAtlRswA6bMEeWcteM1YG_5eqIgA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh1pgztx3EyP5E_uhC2bJzTa3BiJe7xQv41lfDyaPp9SkAg88o2SfE47bgtItUiOs9oe_-0G25KGZ2yzE25FCPj7UdfKXsJy5xIrZaWDrf4hHmRBlIA8z2l5bXn4L76o6_P2S7D0X7fyzmZCY2QAq2A-DW-AqRtkdoAtlRswA6bMEeWcteM1YG_5eqIgA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>I have once again pursued the experimenting with water colour paint. This time a mixed media approach of painting, decoupage and sewing. I had so much fun with it and will certainly be doing this style of art work again.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHY2Hi5AneezQApfUuIuErqvzH5lG1J7oCOYDJxPtBgQWOXMaaYX5i8x_IgP5e6sVaqoMvhHa4hY2DQtjPrZNmcUeNY3oj2uxcVwbpGqywf_4TfEWikt9ULVXh-2i2hNoflHPPpelO_D5EFF8qq7ykCBR8Z5O7_3Tp_U1KrcEYAjpvmfZsX6Uc-zDQNg=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHY2Hi5AneezQApfUuIuErqvzH5lG1J7oCOYDJxPtBgQWOXMaaYX5i8x_IgP5e6sVaqoMvhHa4hY2DQtjPrZNmcUeNY3oj2uxcVwbpGqywf_4TfEWikt9ULVXh-2i2hNoflHPPpelO_D5EFF8qq7ykCBR8Z5O7_3Tp_U1KrcEYAjpvmfZsX6Uc-zDQNg=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPNX9peFMMZ-BU3v5fvvNl1eBXy0Tr5kz4xnmh1HWRMXIVudViNeqzDSzSMfcvGeqau4OD0Xl7qzFsro5dodAsSweLS3h6rtW-3u79kIVZw84b0LmF9WCHfzv_L5DfJIA_kORy3TQBsXhh0IOvPMtHz9SkuPYmIzLoYbGWo5DOkfnYYEJK6smaWWWY9w=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPNX9peFMMZ-BU3v5fvvNl1eBXy0Tr5kz4xnmh1HWRMXIVudViNeqzDSzSMfcvGeqau4OD0Xl7qzFsro5dodAsSweLS3h6rtW-3u79kIVZw84b0LmF9WCHfzv_L5DfJIA_kORy3TQBsXhh0IOvPMtHz9SkuPYmIzLoYbGWo5DOkfnYYEJK6smaWWWY9w=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvZYDO-KBZ_B7hIey3c_7_mzkbW38VpztX3HB_PhR1wAHOqTjc7WeUT1V6_31WbHFCJvPZLIdNjnBx2WfhS8Mdo3ub4ttUcCwhV_yGAhXLFYnKKq_rijRmyPjQVRviYI9GL4SAFWyvGVPPjqC6Ht5b5Rc0_UzslwgqpCiVo2FJlJBRl8eJ_a7xujrrrg=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvZYDO-KBZ_B7hIey3c_7_mzkbW38VpztX3HB_PhR1wAHOqTjc7WeUT1V6_31WbHFCJvPZLIdNjnBx2WfhS8Mdo3ub4ttUcCwhV_yGAhXLFYnKKq_rijRmyPjQVRviYI9GL4SAFWyvGVPPjqC6Ht5b5Rc0_UzslwgqpCiVo2FJlJBRl8eJ_a7xujrrrg=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiTu6Wn9jeFM5cP066Z579T2_t2wztj110FyHVvWLrC1_FDHv_fnN5dYuNeu4i-ML-zMg1B6VLS3mLwK-LR0siEct8v0jO6FjQlVn6Ho8Hoq091hwdVOWQNz0ljU4xt3iKogBfaui9u9h6WIEvKngubWkp5x_q5Jtu5bFCcrGexu9vYjl8ztomkhlGgsQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiTu6Wn9jeFM5cP066Z579T2_t2wztj110FyHVvWLrC1_FDHv_fnN5dYuNeu4i-ML-zMg1B6VLS3mLwK-LR0siEct8v0jO6FjQlVn6Ho8Hoq091hwdVOWQNz0ljU4xt3iKogBfaui9u9h6WIEvKngubWkp5x_q5Jtu5bFCcrGexu9vYjl8ztomkhlGgsQ=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCZ13j9-75AdEpIwCsBkOnx2g_6Hvh3vb0ET7X9k-emIkKG3xS-8J9FbDX6jPhHByO_wn_T8nAUT0diydHKp9UDIyE6BSHrUiWa_Ru2nIXo3A37PujguMMKUcxEmbnKCN52yUBvVmfSbqKxsU9ttsIZnnIBtRpusu7Qln4hAsWbLT8bKSOt5kWU5PmHg=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCZ13j9-75AdEpIwCsBkOnx2g_6Hvh3vb0ET7X9k-emIkKG3xS-8J9FbDX6jPhHByO_wn_T8nAUT0diydHKp9UDIyE6BSHrUiWa_Ru2nIXo3A37PujguMMKUcxEmbnKCN52yUBvVmfSbqKxsU9ttsIZnnIBtRpusu7Qln4hAsWbLT8bKSOt5kWU5PmHg=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibLh9h7h3M8SUdIyRZsPzL30IpfFr_On7SuFR0qfy7x-vSQP6FJiXyhUEtZINIpaDZalr0wGC0sxFXW373NsE74cMYDadeIMWJ2cVP6_SrJ4ECX7gv8lPmxsjA4gPOuH_QVYsbCTjJpAEoqtE6n-Q4P0yRMpsdeeaxMnkZv1RXHVMbFI8EL6jtCe6HCQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibLh9h7h3M8SUdIyRZsPzL30IpfFr_On7SuFR0qfy7x-vSQP6FJiXyhUEtZINIpaDZalr0wGC0sxFXW373NsE74cMYDadeIMWJ2cVP6_SrJ4ECX7gv8lPmxsjA4gPOuH_QVYsbCTjJpAEoqtE6n-Q4P0yRMpsdeeaxMnkZv1RXHVMbFI8EL6jtCe6HCQ=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><p>This is the back of one of them to highlight where I have used the sewing machine to stitch an outline. I have been looking at other forms of mixed media and will let you know how I get on. As always I thank you for your visit, support and comments.</p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-45624375795382739582022-03-10T09:55:00.000-08:002022-03-10T09:55:56.683-08:00Bible Journaling<p> Once again storms have hit the Outer Hebrides meaning more rain and wind not conducive for the great outdoors. I can easily entertain myself indoors so I set up a little studio in the corner of the lounge. This means that I didn't have to heat another room and that the stove was the main source of heat. We have just had our oil tank filled and the bill was eye watering. We are so thankful for the stove and as it is multi fuel it does make it easy but it only keeps one room warm. I am trying to keep hopeful that the hike in oil won't last forever...</p><p>Anyway back to my cosy corner to share with you what has kept me busy. This is Psalm 117 the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. I did prepare the page using clear Gesso and I was pleased that the paint didn't leak through. I am not sure if I painted it on a little too thick as the page wrinkled a little. A round brush and watercolour was used.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrTm2Ze4uCAKzV4_QHUAcLTwKM4OzhEJUu9jLPED72sJfwe6ia08RNpP2ekKOpPyLdYtFvyalAOvx60E_S8Iz5QIIHqYOU92ohMcvqv6KMQrVt-C94aoWHuJD14LYkTkpZ0WHEOzCse_PdYJ_a_2bpRgbikSxmtGl0RIofR8M0az3HDRUqhYjlomQHOQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrTm2Ze4uCAKzV4_QHUAcLTwKM4OzhEJUu9jLPED72sJfwe6ia08RNpP2ekKOpPyLdYtFvyalAOvx60E_S8Iz5QIIHqYOU92ohMcvqv6KMQrVt-C94aoWHuJD14LYkTkpZ0WHEOzCse_PdYJ_a_2bpRgbikSxmtGl0RIofR8M0az3HDRUqhYjlomQHOQ=w266-h400" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next up was Numbers 6:25 May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. I tried watercolour pencils for this which I quite enjoyed. They did take a little getting used to it was hard to not using them as colouring pencils and just colour in the the lines but after a few attempts it got easier.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhlfo4x9A2gl5aClrWJoBCdSmpV8iwzUPiKls3H4OmdcYWX5tPZNJP8s6DuOOPVv_5GGh5MvJGjCB4TbAWZoLbMB4VOSK7c3ro1fUzfzsTkuEeSgzZ2eKy2m0wNpaCZPO6dCjQ4Xlg7lKfGvVAGBSCuadqgMxR_UVi3OFN5TAe0H9-k9zH1DKVCbx3Y7Q=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhlfo4x9A2gl5aClrWJoBCdSmpV8iwzUPiKls3H4OmdcYWX5tPZNJP8s6DuOOPVv_5GGh5MvJGjCB4TbAWZoLbMB4VOSK7c3ro1fUzfzsTkuEeSgzZ2eKy2m0wNpaCZPO6dCjQ4Xlg7lKfGvVAGBSCuadqgMxR_UVi3OFN5TAe0H9-k9zH1DKVCbx3Y7Q=w266-h400" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Romans 8:28 A simple crayon drawing. I intend to go over the lettering as it is not standing out as much as I had hoped.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZv6Kv4jnPucKCtpCOJnuvv4quFNimJO8R81pWN-5QAosAw0DBva0Q11EYTi84KVmalXfedzldjydUCxeYVsgJUiZJyigVbhJwSyrT4HRNHbNC0POoDQH64QJtRx80yEazPkVR2FsFyzPnfV5Ggb4WcMeBEMIXlPOuL0cW_gEWzW0Uz0U53QEnSeieqA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhZv6Kv4jnPucKCtpCOJnuvv4quFNimJO8R81pWN-5QAosAw0DBva0Q11EYTi84KVmalXfedzldjydUCxeYVsgJUiZJyigVbhJwSyrT4HRNHbNC0POoDQH64QJtRx80yEazPkVR2FsFyzPnfV5Ggb4WcMeBEMIXlPOuL0cW_gEWzW0Uz0U53QEnSeieqA=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The next example is Romans 12:9-10 and was done using acrylic paint and a baby bud/Q tip it was fun experimenting with colour and how much pressure was needed.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLe9Dsbg_vh5h26RIDF0LvIp4izLKMNvtgJD-UVqzZ8PwX7tx-LU5p3bYatGGInoq3iGrdtB-j20qoIlMo2AQcMoFZwsgw0O6btHULJDrRh-pZAd3mVYXVArccL-1nL5VVmveY6f9NUK9OJAuEXrAu8U8FDZQr5ijbwyJZ06gFs6jTwVZP_0MY1yF50g=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLe9Dsbg_vh5h26RIDF0LvIp4izLKMNvtgJD-UVqzZ8PwX7tx-LU5p3bYatGGInoq3iGrdtB-j20qoIlMo2AQcMoFZwsgw0O6btHULJDrRh-pZAd3mVYXVArccL-1nL5VVmveY6f9NUK9OJAuEXrAu8U8FDZQr5ijbwyJZ06gFs6jTwVZP_0MY1yF50g=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was a mixed media example Luke 18:14 Those who humble themselves will be exalted. Both water colour paints and pencils. I am never going to to be a great artist but I do like the process of Bible journaling and indeed studying the word. It has been fun experimenting with different process's without having to spend a fortune on supplies.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgEcwWOfve0AV980wr6HM71EJUmy0HxGFi1eNXwdTHVS2_SEh6Wn8n_vgssVi3yOutnvbysrju11sVsRCFGOZa54Ajh9VZOa7cO5ybNcXxrfF65LYOnEvesakH8uS4opWXzocrAbE3JzGL1UgF7VPwA9972_6nwDnBPQgjBvf5VtdknYwneCSVLWAetbA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgEcwWOfve0AV980wr6HM71EJUmy0HxGFi1eNXwdTHVS2_SEh6Wn8n_vgssVi3yOutnvbysrju11sVsRCFGOZa54Ajh9VZOa7cO5ybNcXxrfF65LYOnEvesakH8uS4opWXzocrAbE3JzGL1UgF7VPwA9972_6nwDnBPQgjBvf5VtdknYwneCSVLWAetbA=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally another watercolour paint with once again a layer of clear Gesso used to prepare the page prior to adhering the paint. I really added lots of water so that I could paint without erasing the words. Once again the page has creased a little so I do need to do some research to see why this is happening. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEixfN4IxXI2CY4LeV4Ezcfi_TmlsoxXcSHeOH_K3QXk8fTRpj2oeJBbddFzskypNReIt-3u1tv0MAtlK1Ep8Vz1ZPI1Wvdk5Lh_JnP94sssnc3b16O7chj_9MfXx4Un-_5P1rVN-DA0kVhYJOiY1wQMY-Dvc13o2heIUDsGrc-xkgGg0_67gEP_vyAa6g=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEixfN4IxXI2CY4LeV4Ezcfi_TmlsoxXcSHeOH_K3QXk8fTRpj2oeJBbddFzskypNReIt-3u1tv0MAtlK1Ep8Vz1ZPI1Wvdk5Lh_JnP94sssnc3b16O7chj_9MfXx4Un-_5P1rVN-DA0kVhYJOiY1wQMY-Dvc13o2heIUDsGrc-xkgGg0_67gEP_vyAa6g=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I really have enjoyed the process and will certainly be eager to have another go. The art element kept me focused on the study so was certainly worthwhile. I intend to have a go with other mediums to see what else I can enjoy. Thankfully the weather forecast is looking better for the weekend. The numbers of Covid on the Island are increasing rapidly which is a little disconcerting. We were so lucky throughout the pandemic that there were so few cases but it is certainly making up for it now. Whilst we are not staying indoors we are still trying to stay as safe as possible and staying away from large groups once again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See you soon.</div><br /><p><br /></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-37520618300346426322022-03-07T01:40:00.000-08:002022-03-07T01:40:09.593-08:00A Break In The Weather Means A Mini Tour<p> The majority of the time I have been back on the Island we have been blasted with wind and rain, making the most of the stove and getting the cottage into shape. Finally we have had a reprieve and the weather, dare I say it, has improved. The sun has been shining, the wind has slowed down and not a sight of a rain cloud to be seen. Long may this last...but just in case it didn't we made the most of it and had a drive into Stornoway for a walk around the harbour and town. It is still a little chilly, you will need your coat but make yourself comfortable and come along for a stroll.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh_dHtfDccdasD9T3DYK912rH1rhlX2noWJ2IJO0mTFcfkxn9af5naxwzcfWZ5fN7qncUB3FLL2nzSc5nU0rL_IjEYW3X3V1x3H80hsypcL8u7bWh2znxXVyvzzlFUYXaDMXwev8d3bphlRLh7xB9T0kfA8e2L0ICdxTixMRh44TkZg5hdocz-BbxFotA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh_dHtfDccdasD9T3DYK912rH1rhlX2noWJ2IJO0mTFcfkxn9af5naxwzcfWZ5fN7qncUB3FLL2nzSc5nU0rL_IjEYW3X3V1x3H80hsypcL8u7bWh2znxXVyvzzlFUYXaDMXwev8d3bphlRLh7xB9T0kfA8e2L0ICdxTixMRh44TkZg5hdocz-BbxFotA=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><p>The name on this vessel certainly made me smile, Gratitude and prompted a conversation of how much we had to be grateful for in the grand scheme of things.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7XAZrSW5JfyatnRgI3pvK3PWalHpZkEJ4q-rQMwmloWsy_udZ9LQXC6UMqEQc1yn25vQrB34gbJG4CHksLvi31Zg1DXyWc3-nBAB94GiSNHMog489U25wlffpu1X2dZ3yM8FjFOSiz_PTJP6eMLPgwuyEJcr6zOmq8p1F9qI2OoPczAF081t5B86vjA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7XAZrSW5JfyatnRgI3pvK3PWalHpZkEJ4q-rQMwmloWsy_udZ9LQXC6UMqEQc1yn25vQrB34gbJG4CHksLvi31Zg1DXyWc3-nBAB94GiSNHMog489U25wlffpu1X2dZ3yM8FjFOSiz_PTJP6eMLPgwuyEJcr6zOmq8p1F9qI2OoPczAF081t5B86vjA=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The reflections in the water were a delight to see and had me thinking of some of the amazing artists that we have locally. We decided once we had worked up an appetite we would go to An Lanntair for lunch and to see if there was an exhibition.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDuQ1dBg51yCpJuuNojqRwoVqytJravjLlJ68Ve_Hy31l6uDyYXQBALkpwI9_Y95RDMz19TCMcOc1D_WegbPk0VkFNOHvYzKXkj0eVF1DhSAvjIfY5HkueIEZd2z7EORml-d2Z9QpqLgKayHk1wWBQ_foMr1YRHnTXPnu1ayLlR-7q3c3vO4hDPTNPaw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDuQ1dBg51yCpJuuNojqRwoVqytJravjLlJ68Ve_Hy31l6uDyYXQBALkpwI9_Y95RDMz19TCMcOc1D_WegbPk0VkFNOHvYzKXkj0eVF1DhSAvjIfY5HkueIEZd2z7EORml-d2Z9QpqLgKayHk1wWBQ_foMr1YRHnTXPnu1ayLlR-7q3c3vO4hDPTNPaw=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj464r-bHaHEjOf5cHrJABa68cr60xvGgSgJOrrFz3SoyHn96YUY9ykXqaSSr4yOlq6R7YHXzEcvCi6gnMipaiuW3GK4FlXqOyVQ5XMzltru23j6RMF6GGo7uMIY5h6hNHw06ur5Wg0epDUZ4xRM7c61AUtOAqHXO2ZJReXvTfgK1uHemrDJiW2YkK4vw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj464r-bHaHEjOf5cHrJABa68cr60xvGgSgJOrrFz3SoyHn96YUY9ykXqaSSr4yOlq6R7YHXzEcvCi6gnMipaiuW3GK4FlXqOyVQ5XMzltru23j6RMF6GGo7uMIY5h6hNHw06ur5Wg0epDUZ4xRM7c61AUtOAqHXO2ZJReXvTfgK1uHemrDJiW2YkK4vw=w266-h400" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFWGsz9C6HuZuKahgL4DoIgl1gsbNmIBOwYVZXttJP5dE21PIsPZHe_bkD8PO9lP8YcGefOS8PmCkBdRx7v2uEhNC3rIpsAh1eikW3daIDERcFZsy3xB9r8jQyRvZ011QPYea16qyPHtwOy0G4ltgxZQ13RQnPVwr9KovBRERbghp95Azf49wxsBrbeQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFWGsz9C6HuZuKahgL4DoIgl1gsbNmIBOwYVZXttJP5dE21PIsPZHe_bkD8PO9lP8YcGefOS8PmCkBdRx7v2uEhNC3rIpsAh1eikW3daIDERcFZsy3xB9r8jQyRvZ011QPYea16qyPHtwOy0G4ltgxZQ13RQnPVwr9KovBRERbghp95Azf49wxsBrbeQ=w266-h400" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhADoBUtGuKXu1A5mZ1gJ0ECne6DrGhUy6rTvZTWu_UqQujE7ytRHZSH8gvCY4XK1Yv71aWlx8-t5qIBhm5iwUo0m8mC2y_YfHPP87By5BfhJbN3UaeJ912BQ_O5aeYdZcF41DEXXeM-27GPxD4FokjGmiHztA9u6m6ymTsABL-4LZbglYQy5CJb4d6vA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhADoBUtGuKXu1A5mZ1gJ0ECne6DrGhUy6rTvZTWu_UqQujE7ytRHZSH8gvCY4XK1Yv71aWlx8-t5qIBhm5iwUo0m8mC2y_YfHPP87By5BfhJbN3UaeJ912BQ_O5aeYdZcF41DEXXeM-27GPxD4FokjGmiHztA9u6m6ymTsABL-4LZbglYQy5CJb4d6vA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><p>The naked trees gave us the opportunity to see the castle through the branches, a glimpse here and there teasing us with a promise of things to come. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh00sJQeFwUuWGwm7D6wK0RjvDp8T1WENZVg6B9mOxbo-XFURoczbHS4gXRY-j3W-ReN5jdNH0XJZ8NAhcDHfh-_4msgSgeb2Ugsj8pf3S9MPQ8BXFVwuX4FdxzdkK8brR6Rhw0Uwn1m37wBenYfAKV3UJ96wvV_kgKbpLakhCcpUds9CSBsgjBLG7kFg=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh00sJQeFwUuWGwm7D6wK0RjvDp8T1WENZVg6B9mOxbo-XFURoczbHS4gXRY-j3W-ReN5jdNH0XJZ8NAhcDHfh-_4msgSgeb2Ugsj8pf3S9MPQ8BXFVwuX4FdxzdkK8brR6Rhw0Uwn1m37wBenYfAKV3UJ96wvV_kgKbpLakhCcpUds9CSBsgjBLG7kFg=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiHfxdFgZXbLZRSjwJBfBjlkLJq-i4YQ3YxMVK0xpQMzGFubQbCUHD6O3bskhShGp35LNiHC6q68ZEhGqQsvy4a-q7X1vJxl_zybJJUudFxOCHa5EHpVXOzo2DjhDEAgHnGIkJ6EYTu5bubjkT3gx-qUwRHkEQrU9fRcOXeDwKVbqov6l8r32KDSA-LCw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiHfxdFgZXbLZRSjwJBfBjlkLJq-i4YQ3YxMVK0xpQMzGFubQbCUHD6O3bskhShGp35LNiHC6q68ZEhGqQsvy4a-q7X1vJxl_zybJJUudFxOCHa5EHpVXOzo2DjhDEAgHnGIkJ6EYTu5bubjkT3gx-qUwRHkEQrU9fRcOXeDwKVbqov6l8r32KDSA-LCw=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhX4Ya0S56nXYQ2DHxq2g2ykRj6lpOeS0e_zIye_uKdi0INUT36j4Km0jscvtm68nTtKO18JtnfwuabfN1Wgf-N5c7nAubbK8G0OdHQSl9yOAbks3G7zgQ0UJDc98XGE0wcrIf5d7CeNfe4_leYeNzOS6O_qneA1HfY2VjFtY5i4gZjWIkVtYNBK2tv7A=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhX4Ya0S56nXYQ2DHxq2g2ykRj6lpOeS0e_zIye_uKdi0INUT36j4Km0jscvtm68nTtKO18JtnfwuabfN1Wgf-N5c7nAubbK8G0OdHQSl9yOAbks3G7zgQ0UJDc98XGE0wcrIf5d7CeNfe4_leYeNzOS6O_qneA1HfY2VjFtY5i4gZjWIkVtYNBK2tv7A=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGv4l8geRQFVW_aeFru0Y0d8_byo959DxE_scQAWLIwG2B9IqDs_5wFHY0qngHhQk6V3bzjISG4UbCI6Sqvz1f3IMagkbE_ud-clHL70Ps177_vh9ikkjUbnAejo4u9WFsH89vD9KZfmSj1tG_oJZNhutPkpCwXKD2Y8rjF_QM8-7tOY6__lKJAxuCZw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGv4l8geRQFVW_aeFru0Y0d8_byo959DxE_scQAWLIwG2B9IqDs_5wFHY0qngHhQk6V3bzjISG4UbCI6Sqvz1f3IMagkbE_ud-clHL70Ps177_vh9ikkjUbnAejo4u9WFsH89vD9KZfmSj1tG_oJZNhutPkpCwXKD2Y8rjF_QM8-7tOY6__lKJAxuCZw=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>By the time we had walked around the harbour, we had certainly worked up an appetite and inspired by the beauty wanted to check out Ann Lanntair. We were not disappointed.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgSJP09QP2rLMLmKeQWDI6ZGSvvQXDnv_zvgI9mmKWHj2iJ1ljweMNmv9-tol35LeaE4-zltCJV7BCiEpIXBnt-kehMPdntrDbSx7yP5qlxDmMEUaJqZLcWczTRzMBPyVrHd1_Jvo3K7kVH0O4GVR8gl_oxBlPENFm_kdR7Y5pTN6Vd9eZgBgPT5sjNHA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgSJP09QP2rLMLmKeQWDI6ZGSvvQXDnv_zvgI9mmKWHj2iJ1ljweMNmv9-tol35LeaE4-zltCJV7BCiEpIXBnt-kehMPdntrDbSx7yP5qlxDmMEUaJqZLcWczTRzMBPyVrHd1_Jvo3K7kVH0O4GVR8gl_oxBlPENFm_kdR7Y5pTN6Vd9eZgBgPT5sjNHA=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimttDMk_j2kArc2YBBMbmRw_wiv6yH8cmAs1ZlslYmD_TxwpyXajiDtkuVyWOJd6hWX8cQ36PjiHJF82C9BqL-RTMuWg_eQw5C0RJIezd2WN5BGNjoc9xDsdvk-h6TKCvUiwuUB2cHBmXS69u9PyCpahjacc2BY4-cPnmQKtTuEz3QPSvtysKPVwlarQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimttDMk_j2kArc2YBBMbmRw_wiv6yH8cmAs1ZlslYmD_TxwpyXajiDtkuVyWOJd6hWX8cQ36PjiHJF82C9BqL-RTMuWg_eQw5C0RJIezd2WN5BGNjoc9xDsdvk-h6TKCvUiwuUB2cHBmXS69u9PyCpahjacc2BY4-cPnmQKtTuEz3QPSvtysKPVwlarQ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjj_LCU6aIaHEeBdNE-QKNOdK1695JJCWdcEimDDiJGCTDyxXE2H_tyocIznK3HV_zHKDyul75SWAMyC02XfGF_HlTMCOW0kb_c7cbwNgrDZEakwcxPdRm5QtRCz6LJkw1Jgbkx_07-VAdDZn3u_g-WBuhLo9ss8OAe1_n0nO6UdBISbY0TO3-5ejOgPw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjj_LCU6aIaHEeBdNE-QKNOdK1695JJCWdcEimDDiJGCTDyxXE2H_tyocIznK3HV_zHKDyul75SWAMyC02XfGF_HlTMCOW0kb_c7cbwNgrDZEakwcxPdRm5QtRCz6LJkw1Jgbkx_07-VAdDZn3u_g-WBuhLo9ss8OAe1_n0nO6UdBISbY0TO3-5ejOgPw=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFltfxKxH7IBOZ7O3dJEbvyy7YlzITZtsvjwfLjDWI00e4NMJJpkZFQww3Y04py0t_DQc4nsB0iA9e4Borg3RfLiBomrfTZHaqgEUy2DKHgi6PVXRMumCBJWgnTKDUUd8kvk0wvqkSKidb-InDMfk55xffF381JHnbc92KLvXUjhgk7djxEbMxZDSskA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiFltfxKxH7IBOZ7O3dJEbvyy7YlzITZtsvjwfLjDWI00e4NMJJpkZFQww3Y04py0t_DQc4nsB0iA9e4Borg3RfLiBomrfTZHaqgEUy2DKHgi6PVXRMumCBJWgnTKDUUd8kvk0wvqkSKidb-InDMfk55xffF381JHnbc92KLvXUjhgk7djxEbMxZDSskA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKLiCKFBGyYhAWImZLlzxoONnceKWu1CIRLLXKi_FXs0I6WwLg37t3t-34U67NB5v2FJ5RrrEt-XfE6HvhPM7guYMsc6df6aHgT2ddgK-Lpd0b_DTfWFP4-cc42CoyGtliT60OqpUIVMwxc5t4Bnm6uIovBeIS1pcPZdyLP-tt1i-lllnWj68HiTLuGw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKLiCKFBGyYhAWImZLlzxoONnceKWu1CIRLLXKi_FXs0I6WwLg37t3t-34U67NB5v2FJ5RrrEt-XfE6HvhPM7guYMsc6df6aHgT2ddgK-Lpd0b_DTfWFP4-cc42CoyGtliT60OqpUIVMwxc5t4Bnm6uIovBeIS1pcPZdyLP-tt1i-lllnWj68HiTLuGw=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBKc5BsVjpD7OhzSaQDRAUdHy6cu3DZjOiuTHNHpp_1d-ba9A3z7U_BIMyNafWmT3wJg2ZCtoucCrNwCKSRJBo4R1tPEN86gLB4heSi7TyVDa7Av2EeAES3MPCxLW5nhgl4ZALHtEdwf11n5a9-2fa1H275Fk9hFjxMPefdkbnQoVwFKW7JIVwZmNCJA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBKc5BsVjpD7OhzSaQDRAUdHy6cu3DZjOiuTHNHpp_1d-ba9A3z7U_BIMyNafWmT3wJg2ZCtoucCrNwCKSRJBo4R1tPEN86gLB4heSi7TyVDa7Av2EeAES3MPCxLW5nhgl4ZALHtEdwf11n5a9-2fa1H275Fk9hFjxMPefdkbnQoVwFKW7JIVwZmNCJA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>A interesting exhibition thought provoking but well worth the visit. We did of course enjoy lunch in the restaurant, it was so nice to be out and about again. Back to the car and then a whistle stop drive to the sea at Baile an Truiseil. It was a joy to have a few moments looking at the beautiful walls and thinking about the generations before us that have spent the time collecting the stones and making them. We are surrounded by so much history, tradition and beauty and don't always see it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiz4rgMYJ4yVgtd8Txz7bA1wLLQr33qYYo7rYz4EUcZXIMgx3h5oITnek3y7NdBD1H7iqetS2XHma_xUa1mGx6TU85PmpSyFi_JzWKeP2XYAQ98luQrPQh9AgOrOyAlMsrKNvxIYiNmXVMs-U_NMZE846Me5AaXzi5t4IQy9WtafRBBq_fM7m9KNBNrLw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiz4rgMYJ4yVgtd8Txz7bA1wLLQr33qYYo7rYz4EUcZXIMgx3h5oITnek3y7NdBD1H7iqetS2XHma_xUa1mGx6TU85PmpSyFi_JzWKeP2XYAQ98luQrPQh9AgOrOyAlMsrKNvxIYiNmXVMs-U_NMZE846Me5AaXzi5t4IQy9WtafRBBq_fM7m9KNBNrLw=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaun0bYUMreLITeGAahAeUu3DzyQ6d5F6zjp4oM9FfWmr2TSPandS1NOmc7emfDIldzqoMrczQmwptpRei_ltEz9RDmgIuoHD8CahkvT--JkAzomGLqx-BcFbFOFf0qOqJmgJrIIe4fWK2lpGdwUot_SWNJ5MDwwJYbYy7ocq9x80qEwVjk8Y6CrGBWA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaun0bYUMreLITeGAahAeUu3DzyQ6d5F6zjp4oM9FfWmr2TSPandS1NOmc7emfDIldzqoMrczQmwptpRei_ltEz9RDmgIuoHD8CahkvT--JkAzomGLqx-BcFbFOFf0qOqJmgJrIIe4fWK2lpGdwUot_SWNJ5MDwwJYbYy7ocq9x80qEwVjk8Y6CrGBWA=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEheMlQ0Mr0e8L2dTEOXGl27VXmUvedOi4Ph9Vt2sdcrgl1wUDCAYjxv3e5XZSjj9ZS8yOFlrVPZzXKtynM76UBMQhjA5Eq6bkZIddkAp8Xpg_f0jh2orxOc43YGRfP_dgudoQCq961Qbqph2LP4sJ3p_FAmwd1A_gHtTWIgnX2XS4pRZXAcdU5jUovv-g=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEheMlQ0Mr0e8L2dTEOXGl27VXmUvedOi4Ph9Vt2sdcrgl1wUDCAYjxv3e5XZSjj9ZS8yOFlrVPZzXKtynM76UBMQhjA5Eq6bkZIddkAp8Xpg_f0jh2orxOc43YGRfP_dgudoQCq961Qbqph2LP4sJ3p_FAmwd1A_gHtTWIgnX2XS4pRZXAcdU5jUovv-g=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>I hope you have enjoyed this mini tour whilst we had a break in the weather. I was hopeful that this was a sign of things to come but the wind has picked up and it is a dreary overcast day today. Hopefully this will blow over very quickly and we will get out for another tour soon. Hope all is well with you, I am visiting but not commenting on your blogs for the time been until I get back into a routine.</p><p>Take care.</p><p>See you soon.</p><p><br /></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-40432614245625741112022-02-26T02:38:00.000-08:002022-02-26T02:38:18.942-08:00Filling My Days<p> In the past week we have endured 3 named storms that pale into significance now that Russia has invaded Ukraine. My heart goes out to all those affected by this senseless invasion, of course it is dominating the news and I am glued to the TV. This simple act of awaiting news has taken me back so many times to when my hubby served in the Army and I was constantly sat waiting for news. It is heart rendering and will only get worse as more and more people will become displaced and the senseless bloodshed and loss of life goes on. All I can do is pray, not only for the people but for the leaders around the World to make some sense of this horrendous situation.</p><p>At the other end of the scale I have some amazing neighbours and friends who have visited since my return to the Island with gifts. Each visitor wanting me to know that we were in their thoughts, it was a great comfort. Soup and scones was one of the first offerings, closely followed by several variations of delicious cake, yummy! Hand knitted wash/dish cloths were a delight, along with a beautiful card which really lifted my spirits.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgRVqSY8tDSpoNByyI34uBCBHU8iuQD94P--gaGIwNW2N1r0SS4rkfqUdfwQ9JbBNiHMzS8DvdgbKZfgPXe-arHAWQnbcbU5fwqHBbVNCNSd2pzcjJEIBpKs-MMZOlnqhk0seNLQ-hblzRmRYW8sxbqQSFpa2g0UiVkSEa8K49zUAt8YA80iNVI5ZUX6Q=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgRVqSY8tDSpoNByyI34uBCBHU8iuQD94P--gaGIwNW2N1r0SS4rkfqUdfwQ9JbBNiHMzS8DvdgbKZfgPXe-arHAWQnbcbU5fwqHBbVNCNSd2pzcjJEIBpKs-MMZOlnqhk0seNLQ-hblzRmRYW8sxbqQSFpa2g0UiVkSEa8K49zUAt8YA80iNVI5ZUX6Q=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj5A9_cBqdTKFQoZDP2C50me_PuRGu8UI6D8T2orOFj19elrEirjvYY0foy_M59wU0IgMg_itmAWeiWLtS4IZuSXx4QlXxsdUJC_szyfOQD3ygkwOLKQBIHgHaSDwVBKIuLsw35NhazyIyqhW8Cz-fNfQeumOFT8VGpEnrr60vsscOj1ZyuvIQD4n1mhA=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj5A9_cBqdTKFQoZDP2C50me_PuRGu8UI6D8T2orOFj19elrEirjvYY0foy_M59wU0IgMg_itmAWeiWLtS4IZuSXx4QlXxsdUJC_szyfOQD3ygkwOLKQBIHgHaSDwVBKIuLsw35NhazyIyqhW8Cz-fNfQeumOFT8VGpEnrr60vsscOj1ZyuvIQD4n1mhA=w266-h400" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On Monday I followed my usual routine and went along to my aerobics class where this vintage box holding this amazing silk was awaiting me. What a wonderful surprise, my heart skipped a beat as I was opening it. I have so many ideas but time will tell what it will be used for.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjb_6tEirpYgo-oEf4_w_J5IohhgcH6GetngUVj1CPeveozGmJRPjBAWmVQg5gUE8miTR5knDHdF3JHBuKeP4Vs_WjDB5DXLGjs-yNfiTawFTJImczyCYhycTERsT-pf119YOexd02gZcd1DPxpzeVMVP2tgKKdo1e3jau4mboFtfu1J9uI5qlRZvIsNw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjb_6tEirpYgo-oEf4_w_J5IohhgcH6GetngUVj1CPeveozGmJRPjBAWmVQg5gUE8miTR5knDHdF3JHBuKeP4Vs_WjDB5DXLGjs-yNfiTawFTJImczyCYhycTERsT-pf119YOexd02gZcd1DPxpzeVMVP2tgKKdo1e3jau4mboFtfu1J9uI5qlRZvIsNw=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrW_expSZA80y_eoDcIJUaYVQyQUaJIyRRzkNtCmWK774HUQUfOYJSBTkeRTn8kiiKr3ODgAhQg9e14xC4drdPS3RmGGL23weEkGYZHGmOlRUwGHl9AKuUch2OfV6QjBw3Kbxcg9QkQ7QQ788t__P9rPToOykanbdwd6JoE3eNyUL-Q3B2u716z2U1Hw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrW_expSZA80y_eoDcIJUaYVQyQUaJIyRRzkNtCmWK774HUQUfOYJSBTkeRTn8kiiKr3ODgAhQg9e14xC4drdPS3RmGGL23weEkGYZHGmOlRUwGHl9AKuUch2OfV6QjBw3Kbxcg9QkQ7QQ788t__P9rPToOykanbdwd6JoE3eNyUL-Q3B2u716z2U1Hw=w266-h400" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am filling my days easily and whilst I appreciate I am not a great artist I do enjoy the process of painting. I am still using watercolours but intend to have a go with acrylic and oil paints as time goes on. I am still writing a poem here and there and adding them to my journal, the most recent ones about the weather.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7tb-sY0TiBLk8rZJ6sti8s-3Q_EtnBtCwQVPvOba6-mmuT04y5t_Hnrbm79NKeZQLk9gQYNoNbQsDyuwsKWmB9dkP2vJVAyWTV4n_0DPnX6__AkO6YYlqdt4p-L1jgRIkHZPIw-QPt4W8AUuU-MDePEcybqVkkcU_wiJCl_nh1fn-FOGTExLNLzUT6A=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7tb-sY0TiBLk8rZJ6sti8s-3Q_EtnBtCwQVPvOba6-mmuT04y5t_Hnrbm79NKeZQLk9gQYNoNbQsDyuwsKWmB9dkP2vJVAyWTV4n_0DPnX6__AkO6YYlqdt4p-L1jgRIkHZPIw-QPt4W8AUuU-MDePEcybqVkkcU_wiJCl_nh1fn-FOGTExLNLzUT6A=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The ferry remains an issue with so many cancellations and delays due to the weather and repairs. Thankfully we have a good store cupboard and have the sense to check that the ferry was running before venturing into town. We made that simple mistake a week or so ago...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As always I thank you for your visit and your comments. Hope all is well with you.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See you soon.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-11831678969233487422022-02-16T02:47:00.001-08:002022-02-16T02:47:41.683-08:00This And That<p> Although I have been away for several weeks I am told despite the Winter having been mild there has been several damaging storms. The winds have been extreme which does affect the running of the ferry...lots of delays and cancellations. We did go to town last Thursday for a very disappointing shopping experience. The fresh food aisles were empty both in Tesco and the Co-op, I hadn't checked that the freight ferry was running. Big mistake to make. Thankfully we had enough to make do. I went into town once again yesterday and this time we had plenty of choice and I was able to stock up once more, prior to the arrival of storm Dudley which should hit later today early tomorrow. There was a little storm damage from a previous storm whilst we were away to the outbuilding which as yet to be repaired properly. Here's hoping it won't be as bad as predicted. We are as ready as we can be with torches/blankets/fuel to hand along with batteries/radio and snacks. </p><p>At the moment I am working on a crochet throw, which I want to drape over the pew. This has been a project on my list to do for sometime so as soon as the storm passes a start will be made on the pew.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikAjZW1s67ob8J1SNioM91vjx0boe8eKhY79lvPY1ddudLgQYr2lwRyQQotDbDjoo5MVqjje6sVgbhDwSIw1MxOEXjCh3X90nJrWCylWQfVpnSYB7RfSFAE09XlA8EivSyQtkkWnP4ctroMxX36E4ykCK5COuH-qyO2Q8gLIxm0prOEdlEcvEG03RCaw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikAjZW1s67ob8J1SNioM91vjx0boe8eKhY79lvPY1ddudLgQYr2lwRyQQotDbDjoo5MVqjje6sVgbhDwSIw1MxOEXjCh3X90nJrWCylWQfVpnSYB7RfSFAE09XlA8EivSyQtkkWnP4ctroMxX36E4ykCK5COuH-qyO2Q8gLIxm0prOEdlEcvEG03RCaw=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCsr8LkWLdPPR5_fmojA3grwyYvvkUS1zXu7R1AompoqZnRw9me1hrcVmHAkg9WEK1FbnPPlV6z5KQ0O1F_paBGGwKLyqqwyNMTADwTbUlFCjZI6_LuX6qy-Hf1Q0oniJKx0eDn6Sh4sETJIvdrb8qrSCLkNW506kx4bxwJps6T_KW4XcwwKq7sEmWkQ=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCsr8LkWLdPPR5_fmojA3grwyYvvkUS1zXu7R1AompoqZnRw9me1hrcVmHAkg9WEK1FbnPPlV6z5KQ0O1F_paBGGwKLyqqwyNMTADwTbUlFCjZI6_LuX6qy-Hf1Q0oniJKx0eDn6Sh4sETJIvdrb8qrSCLkNW506kx4bxwJps6T_KW4XcwwKq7sEmWkQ=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEht3ycVyDc5ASQ4bauJo5vODaOrNokjybF_oWfZSkuPOAgEVbW8rGhSZ2itWPCMqFL551loAVfeeD9ormjfiRNJw9I55BLUYyutGlXEAy5h0NZl5FOd6MD4e6EkLTnAiptk_F7vX_PKfCSuy_WI_Y2QkwvShykgQJon857mQu9jDcuPy8kHVP3aR091bg=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEht3ycVyDc5ASQ4bauJo5vODaOrNokjybF_oWfZSkuPOAgEVbW8rGhSZ2itWPCMqFL551loAVfeeD9ormjfiRNJw9I55BLUYyutGlXEAy5h0NZl5FOd6MD4e6EkLTnAiptk_F7vX_PKfCSuy_WI_Y2QkwvShykgQJon857mQu9jDcuPy8kHVP3aR091bg=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>I have been using Aran wool in the main with pockets of oddments used for the stripes to add texture. I am enjoying the process.</p><p>I am also working on a few small projects that I can carry with me and always have a project ready for on the go. A dear blogging friend sent me this stunning project bag a couple of years ago and it has become a constant companion.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMRWLe42bArG7Mwu1mSlA9hEiAt5ECdbPROND9NoJQHucRhoQU2XRWsofj1o1UYsPVHaZHMlxwdMIT6rz8N-DSn3vplq7J3-TXnICiWlSchDljg5QMFC5eoWe-C0rHde3Kx7Ua1gTv-LyJ5GRtGL2Mt5qncKlFfOxTyvxKVx-mT5kM8pWzyoK2zY4Wkw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMRWLe42bArG7Mwu1mSlA9hEiAt5ECdbPROND9NoJQHucRhoQU2XRWsofj1o1UYsPVHaZHMlxwdMIT6rz8N-DSn3vplq7J3-TXnICiWlSchDljg5QMFC5eoWe-C0rHde3Kx7Ua1gTv-LyJ5GRtGL2Mt5qncKlFfOxTyvxKVx-mT5kM8pWzyoK2zY4Wkw=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am working on a few gifts for my gift drawer and found this adorable pattern for a brooch which uses oddments of yarn.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPa77k046qMMTi5yB-RtATXrM-sNjUWm2JxJIFgMue4GcFdHzWg1rmduTPAnoxeN-E2gvXNpchtgB1sC2BO1lTbXc88oPyQGoWFTBVcN_YnO4BPXVv-nHNifIMrHl5OEJi1qn5_60yIfJmWnJkHZROL9c1tvyGLecm7qSxtrPZWExAFPEPNSeV2S1sLw=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPa77k046qMMTi5yB-RtATXrM-sNjUWm2JxJIFgMue4GcFdHzWg1rmduTPAnoxeN-E2gvXNpchtgB1sC2BO1lTbXc88oPyQGoWFTBVcN_YnO4BPXVv-nHNifIMrHl5OEJi1qn5_60yIfJmWnJkHZROL9c1tvyGLecm7qSxtrPZWExAFPEPNSeV2S1sLw=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was gifted this amazing crochet wreath book for Christmas and have had so much fun with it already browsing the pages. The one on the front cover is succulents in a wonderful array of colour. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgm5FTFJMZwxBbDotd0_CAUH3J0EU1sU66h3zqd06FvtvqlpgR9DS1X-auWNd5WKoKEVzHhxZfCUb-eHO0QIhVWQEPdJ7iYIXCT9_UuJJoSms804XcfuVrayemtopttTsvDcJrLFmv5C6OF0N1e8BmxmEtgj1MY048Qg7IEksZwxqiAkRJPOb9jtoKJ6w=s5184" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgm5FTFJMZwxBbDotd0_CAUH3J0EU1sU66h3zqd06FvtvqlpgR9DS1X-auWNd5WKoKEVzHhxZfCUb-eHO0QIhVWQEPdJ7iYIXCT9_UuJJoSms804XcfuVrayemtopttTsvDcJrLFmv5C6OF0N1e8BmxmEtgj1MY048Qg7IEksZwxqiAkRJPOb9jtoKJ6w=w426-h640" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My intention is to sort out all of my yarn stash and see what I have without having to buy too much. Another job to add to the never ending list.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am also working and experimenting with the joy of watercolours. I am not a great artist but I am enjoying the process.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I must admit to been overwhelmed by all your comments, your love and support means so much. I have made a start on visiting your blogs and will continue to try and catch up. The household tasks have now all been caught up with, although realistically it is a constant cycle.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See you soon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-7491648628159781072022-02-10T02:59:00.000-08:002022-02-10T02:59:11.603-08:00Return To Blogging<p>I am back here in the fold of such amazing blogging friends. Your messages in the comments, emails cards and gifts have been wonderful to read as I return from my travels. My sincere apologies for not keeping you in the picture but I have been down in England helping to take care of my dear Dad. As you all know he has been ill for some time but his wish was to die at home. The family made that possible...he died on 12th January at home where he wanted to be. It was quite the wait for the funeral but I am now back on my beloved Island, taking life slowly and trying to return to some normality.</p><p>It was with great sadness that we also lost our dear friend and companion Mickey our dog just before Christmas. He went to bed/sleep as normal and never woke up. He had a good life and I am so glad that he didn't suffer in any way. It is very strange in the cottage without him, he has left a big hole. </p><p>It is my intention to return to blogging as soon as I have caught up with household tasks, mainly washing and ironing. There is quite the list of tasks actually but I am avoiding the dreaded list...</p><p>Hope all is well with you. Belated New Year wishes to you all!</p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-54315592486103934452021-09-22T03:07:00.001-07:002021-09-22T03:07:13.261-07:00Autumn Arrival<p> Autumn has come in with a vengeance, it has been blowing a gale here all yesterday and through the night. It has finally slowed down a little this morning but is still quite a strong wind. Thankfully there is no damage that I can see. I am so glad that I started my Winter preparations early and have harvested the majority of the veg from the garden. I have dried herbs, frozen beans and made several batches of tomato sauces both for the freezer and chutneys. Rhubarb has also been put in the freezer for a taste of Summer in the Winter months, along with braised red cabbage with pears and several packages of parsnips. We still have ample pork from the pig slaughtered earlier in the year and traded some of it for lamb with a neighbour. If the headlines are to be believed regarding the shortages we certainly won't be going hungry. We might not necessarily have exactly what we want but we have plenty of food.</p><p>We have a great supply of peat, thanks to neighbours, logs, coal and kindling. We have a good supply of candles and batteries for torches and a radio in the event of power loss. We do feel blessed that we are in credit with the oil supply which makes it easier as fuel prices are set to reach an all time high if the media is to be believed. My craft supplies have been replenished and I have been enjoying the process of choosing projects to do. A start has been made on Christmas crafting but I have yet to put the Christmas music on, but it will happen soon! A start has been made on gift toppers using Harris Tweed which I love.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85hwvl0-IwRBuo9wkurMbiADYbnwWkBPuUJTto6SU0eDvevQ7IDg2Y5HezvQI-vPTBKtqInzlNLszDQY1EAQV5SBNmG0vTO-8I6sqpUmzBp2YdYf2PVHAwwWNzkyAKIJi6yLWEG4U9k43/s2048/IMG_5490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85hwvl0-IwRBuo9wkurMbiADYbnwWkBPuUJTto6SU0eDvevQ7IDg2Y5HezvQI-vPTBKtqInzlNLszDQY1EAQV5SBNmG0vTO-8I6sqpUmzBp2YdYf2PVHAwwWNzkyAKIJi6yLWEG4U9k43/w400-h266/IMG_5490.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-SrZj1e9by60sejuTS6vu6dQyY3TTD9q-_XjPn_k3Pc-0O4uGa5wK_o70Xuu-HAXlFdL3omC07lxiNI7lycbGtCoo5Go8vh0LtU4Lu-YF3IcnOP0fH-KNXuCvz4apL-4JNw10uowZdJI/s2048/IMG_5491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-SrZj1e9by60sejuTS6vu6dQyY3TTD9q-_XjPn_k3Pc-0O4uGa5wK_o70Xuu-HAXlFdL3omC07lxiNI7lycbGtCoo5Go8vh0LtU4Lu-YF3IcnOP0fH-KNXuCvz4apL-4JNw10uowZdJI/w400-h266/IMG_5491.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsvVBN1KB2PGHdKoG_cAbN3bfmVME9llJyXoK5uR03HtxiygvTOBHc6YxkQ7_A8OkYWsIUtOpr6OPW1M_vsToDy4S7zDfl8RQPu7xQlxsUcneaEhS003FLPkw_kq-IvZW3rjwSAF9jsnq/s2048/IMG_5492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsvVBN1KB2PGHdKoG_cAbN3bfmVME9llJyXoK5uR03HtxiygvTOBHc6YxkQ7_A8OkYWsIUtOpr6OPW1M_vsToDy4S7zDfl8RQPu7xQlxsUcneaEhS003FLPkw_kq-IvZW3rjwSAF9jsnq/w400-h266/IMG_5492.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1JfKyf71rs6yKQobFHJvys-zf_IeWanrahb3_-DlCiTyF2A7E-UxYocJOaBFe3pOhZ2FXasf3j5agWlWI2OGmWe_tpglkcJOJi16IfycTK0x_MehsD3EXN6OGtpoBzBjZ9ZBgrAhUdVj/s2048/IMG_5494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo1JfKyf71rs6yKQobFHJvys-zf_IeWanrahb3_-DlCiTyF2A7E-UxYocJOaBFe3pOhZ2FXasf3j5agWlWI2OGmWe_tpglkcJOJi16IfycTK0x_MehsD3EXN6OGtpoBzBjZ9ZBgrAhUdVj/w640-h426/IMG_5494.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2Ed6Orj_MVlQ6kerVd025IyPovFlXWefjXpBhJDo6lMS7C6TEIPHavVXkCS6I9yhTtdJJFy-aW7rlDkoIuXPkF80WhUnOcaawJ6WKdhh7478Wb8xpR0iQNBWvv1OW2yB3dtPaPy9iLVj/s2048/IMG_5496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2Ed6Orj_MVlQ6kerVd025IyPovFlXWefjXpBhJDo6lMS7C6TEIPHavVXkCS6I9yhTtdJJFy-aW7rlDkoIuXPkF80WhUnOcaawJ6WKdhh7478Wb8xpR0iQNBWvv1OW2yB3dtPaPy9iLVj/w640-h426/IMG_5496.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>They will be used to top gifts but will then make a lovely tree decoration. A couple of pictures using embroidery frames have been made for my Grandaughter, she will be in bunny heaven.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAFRmMegK_C5zJjelfUfmLM6f74AE7G9yH5MQoLUbQ4ukUhAym6Hl73pOK1I1yb0CPDFn84l4-pe85fgPE6OEZ5Arce9vx2U-IWbyaA2i_Whxk-kUdFBTVXFcI95_CwaFitRvGtmcr_e9r/s2048/IMG_5473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAFRmMegK_C5zJjelfUfmLM6f74AE7G9yH5MQoLUbQ4ukUhAym6Hl73pOK1I1yb0CPDFn84l4-pe85fgPE6OEZ5Arce9vx2U-IWbyaA2i_Whxk-kUdFBTVXFcI95_CwaFitRvGtmcr_e9r/w640-h426/IMG_5473.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxjCzVyeoOWmXKOJPtSl0iv9OnjojkCALnusoMe2HONvIfUo2PbfqxLqng3PuxvnnqG4LwNod4VIyKLVydcDkqwPPh-TAdhhFn6rgPm8ZZaEftnlPvOolV5D2jutKjbWVhSfu1Q4EshxE/s2048/IMG_5472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxjCzVyeoOWmXKOJPtSl0iv9OnjojkCALnusoMe2HONvIfUo2PbfqxLqng3PuxvnnqG4LwNod4VIyKLVydcDkqwPPh-TAdhhFn6rgPm8ZZaEftnlPvOolV5D2jutKjbWVhSfu1Q4EshxE/w640-h426/IMG_5472.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLQuX8gdpIWEnswS7aCiA4Lrx0iaLFzPsi9tAL8ZsfKwA6_JstBI-27zZggLxu7XZQogmHPOECxT_ivJ3W6BiudDhmpKg5p1rMnF-CoSTZ4Nt703_qgR2I4qIVJ-hZbCyKLW5QTHu5dVW/s2048/IMG_5471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLQuX8gdpIWEnswS7aCiA4Lrx0iaLFzPsi9tAL8ZsfKwA6_JstBI-27zZggLxu7XZQogmHPOECxT_ivJ3W6BiudDhmpKg5p1rMnF-CoSTZ4Nt703_qgR2I4qIVJ-hZbCyKLW5QTHu5dVW/w640-h426/IMG_5471.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I had a lot of fun making the pom pom as it took me a couple of times to get the white patch in the right place, but it worked out in the end.</p><p>A pillowcase has been added to the menagerie, again a bunny rabbit.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNpnbahjuFMq8sZCdQjm5xHojG7NISNX2WrDLdKCdl13IzPKBeAKkUoLcvwKgKGF6DHS5WTv0DervlTwBGgscnBDitJxwFNMx_9hl7NVJGIskMo6rMpk_hqBTBJ6YkRch86R9f7FtM0oaw/s2048/IMG_5469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNpnbahjuFMq8sZCdQjm5xHojG7NISNX2WrDLdKCdl13IzPKBeAKkUoLcvwKgKGF6DHS5WTv0DervlTwBGgscnBDitJxwFNMx_9hl7NVJGIskMo6rMpk_hqBTBJ6YkRch86R9f7FtM0oaw/w640-h426/IMG_5469.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>I just need to embroider the facial features on but it is looking good. I am enjoying the process a little each day. What are you working on?</p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-34283584528380671692021-09-14T05:34:00.002-07:002021-09-14T05:34:47.403-07:00Blogging Routine<p> It has been a few weeks since my last post I have gone to the computer several times and attempted to write a post but to no avail. For some reason I am unable to upload photos from my phone to my computer so I keep walking away. I have decided to give in and write a post using my camera, as opposed to the camera on my phone I know what I am doing with that.</p><p>Gerard had quite the flare up of RA whilst away and it has continued since our return. We are still waiting for a consultants appointment as he is need of a change of medication. Waiting for appointments is the worst, patience is certainly needed.</p><p>Anyway, all is well here and we seem to be enjoying the last of the Summer as the days start to shorten and the temperature starts to drop. We are hopeful that we will be able to get out and cut the grass one more time but time will tell. We are still enjoying some of the harvest from the garden and the garden room but we do need to start thinking about clearing some of the beds. We have rhubarb and several varieties of beans in the freezer in readiness for a taste of Summer in the Winter. </p><p>I was blessed last week with a beautiful bouquet of flowers from our neighbours, a thankyou for help with their and house and garden whilst they are away. It was a wonderful surprise and one which was greatly appreciated.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKtW1HPST41aEEwz7eUHqqiNGSMS9Xh9_oU2iqwvEGZR7wmCtYh9GeSdgJv7uE-OoS07nRT1pqY66AQfAVbYEbBszbYYaz9ta9ZdrFFkl1jWSQLcfUxb3Y6KOrPmgZkJBlzvzSBHJCmMB/s2048/IMG_5477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoKtW1HPST41aEEwz7eUHqqiNGSMS9Xh9_oU2iqwvEGZR7wmCtYh9GeSdgJv7uE-OoS07nRT1pqY66AQfAVbYEbBszbYYaz9ta9ZdrFFkl1jWSQLcfUxb3Y6KOrPmgZkJBlzvzSBHJCmMB/w266-h400/IMG_5477.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpG87LLOIF9rUPL_FEo-_VaKP0NbFLMi-KxEXS7Pf69ShSgJhCOQLSRmN2G_Qb-OD0vR6Mpm04bHCd_tLFtYiUfTS4MMwunLCnQSISwRlDpBQBZ6u4kGfNibCM1pYuFgqqVX6unfvrtdKk/s2048/IMG_5476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpG87LLOIF9rUPL_FEo-_VaKP0NbFLMi-KxEXS7Pf69ShSgJhCOQLSRmN2G_Qb-OD0vR6Mpm04bHCd_tLFtYiUfTS4MMwunLCnQSISwRlDpBQBZ6u4kGfNibCM1pYuFgqqVX6unfvrtdKk/w400-h266/IMG_5476.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG9dAGFLDyiVHj1OjPkeV6enPJGbkIt11G0ZR1XFuOQE0zMWLe3HuDZKmUCdqil3x3CPtd5eRpYqAm0DFDEN833gJilEfqUHDj9fcgq5At1_KGcO9Rn4kGyghgOB5z0h5ual4wVV1mJQvd/s2048/IMG_5475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG9dAGFLDyiVHj1OjPkeV6enPJGbkIt11G0ZR1XFuOQE0zMWLe3HuDZKmUCdqil3x3CPtd5eRpYqAm0DFDEN833gJilEfqUHDj9fcgq5At1_KGcO9Rn4kGyghgOB5z0h5ual4wVV1mJQvd/w400-h266/IMG_5475.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have been keeping myself busy with craft projects here and there. I have turned an old T Shirt of Hector's into a little cushion for his bedroom he is a great fan of a pig.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho8gwWzAYyOQr6KgfKIdwq5O0C_WPjAao23_A5BT28P7C5s4tieHtNEMweTLO52cXDD2Ave_KL3lYVPpTu5CJ4uIdG7lOWkhgYikgmECoZ0TbOKY5dEWc7FzH2noMvXPArN9IlR9Z0Bipp/s2048/IMG_5468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho8gwWzAYyOQr6KgfKIdwq5O0C_WPjAao23_A5BT28P7C5s4tieHtNEMweTLO52cXDD2Ave_KL3lYVPpTu5CJ4uIdG7lOWkhgYikgmECoZ0TbOKY5dEWc7FzH2noMvXPArN9IlR9Z0Bipp/w640-h426/IMG_5468.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Christmas projects have also been started but I will share them with you in another post. I am ever hopeful that I will get back into some sort of routine with blogging once again but life keeps taking over. I do thank you for your patience.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See you soon.</div><br /><p></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-41806650332138944662021-08-28T02:48:00.000-07:002021-08-28T02:48:10.651-07:00A Quick Catch Up<p> I am back from my adventures in England, back in our cosy cottage on the Isle of Lewis. We have been back since late Tuesday but we needed a rest after our travels. There was also a lot of laundry to catch up on and a lot of goodies in the garden to harvest and prepare for the freezer. We now have a selection of beans to keep us going for several months. It is a good feeling.</p><p>Sadly the spammers have been having quite the time of it whilst I have been away. I am saddened that this goes on and have managed to delete the majority of the comments.</p><p>We have had quite the adventure visiting with my parents and our three daughters and their little families. How those grandchildren of ours have grown and grown up but still wanted to have fun with Granny. We visited many parks in all their guises and enjoyed a couple of farms. Although mask wearing is not compulsory now in England we found that most people still observed both the mask wearing and social distancing so we felt very safe. We did test a couple of times a week as a precaution and have tested twice since our return to protect our neighbours. So far we have all negative results and are thankful.</p><p>I did manage a little shopping too, so have topped up on the craft supplies particularly the card making things that I wanted in readiness for Christmas. It was a delight to be browsing the aisles in the stores although I did notice a big difference in the prices. My goodness the prices have shot up since my last visit to the mainland. There is also a lot of talk about shortages, which is a worry. I am glad that I have a large store cupboard and freezer.</p><p>A highlight of our time away was meeting up with Betsy and her husband Dennis in London, a blogger friend from America. We had such a lovely time together, it was as if we known each other all our lives. The time we spent together just flew by with no awkward silences, it was a real joy to meet up with them. Betsy was over attending the wedding of her son so it was a wonderful chance for us to catch up.</p><p>This is a quick catch up post to let you know that I am back and well, so I will close for now and start sorting through the hundreds of photos so that I can make a scrap book of our adventures. The memories will keep me going for quite a while.</p><p>As always I thank you for your uplifting comments and support. I will be around to visit and catch up as soon as I can.</p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-28993570125896492252021-07-26T10:49:00.003-07:002021-07-26T10:49:53.686-07:00Annual Charity Tractor Run<p> Thankfully I have managed to finish the quilt all ready with the tepee to go to Honey for the garden. I am sure as we prepare to leave on our adventures that the grandchildren will be getting ready for many crafting adventures together. We have worked out our route and where we will stay, there is quite the list of people to visit. We are all excited and are hopeful for some good weather. With the help of a neighbour we have managed to replace the gate to the back garden, there is also a grid on it to stop the chickens wandering. They have behaved themselves so far. The enormous egg was indeed a double yolker and we have had several since. They are certainly content.</p><p>Saturday saw the annual charity tractor run drive around Ness. It was such fun to see them go by, the proceeds going to local families who are in need of a helping hand at the moment due to illness. It was wonderful to sit out and watch them go by and chat with friends and neighbours. It felt so good to sit in the sunshine and interact with others, it has been a long time coming. I thought you might like to see some of the tractors and croft vehicles...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoX00aDOGceM8uLRMzLUy0Q9ws283GAxAn1JfUjT_MgZCmoN1quanWbGo07u1eK3elqGCQ01jjD279r3S8sqN--cdJMAljze4YA-HWIq2V-h6AeExJll7VBQO0olcq87wgIBVzLYxN80Ag/s2048/IMG_5002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoX00aDOGceM8uLRMzLUy0Q9ws283GAxAn1JfUjT_MgZCmoN1quanWbGo07u1eK3elqGCQ01jjD279r3S8sqN--cdJMAljze4YA-HWIq2V-h6AeExJll7VBQO0olcq87wgIBVzLYxN80Ag/w400-h266/IMG_5002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some cards that I made that have appeared and I am unable to remove the picture. Blogger is been selective with the photos and not doing it in the order that I select them.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-8u9axY9tT9dESc-1EGIgeNTZgL-oty61c1mGiWqno_IJxIahvMSi6-t974xEBYI244UeyD-oVp-rjzPrNRbubcsLVY5aGc_zpr3V8Srmhn8M8EGhFTkO1nZzbm-NU2TvY-dsnjDAfIY/s2048/IMG_5437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-8u9axY9tT9dESc-1EGIgeNTZgL-oty61c1mGiWqno_IJxIahvMSi6-t974xEBYI244UeyD-oVp-rjzPrNRbubcsLVY5aGc_zpr3V8Srmhn8M8EGhFTkO1nZzbm-NU2TvY-dsnjDAfIY/w400-h266/IMG_5437.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZFs3E97Xc_dSXoybGYuXa4RsnpK2ueE6dOQHgn1YZu3FPTYlzfVcP8gLgiTD1OQ_YDwGR-GcVNNHP2QAClqCnX6PUAIUJ1GvppJV14YSMaXNZp6Q1_fOV-JGlkKSOeTwwLxAuoPpwj1U/s2048/IMG_5438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwZFs3E97Xc_dSXoybGYuXa4RsnpK2ueE6dOQHgn1YZu3FPTYlzfVcP8gLgiTD1OQ_YDwGR-GcVNNHP2QAClqCnX6PUAIUJ1GvppJV14YSMaXNZp6Q1_fOV-JGlkKSOeTwwLxAuoPpwj1U/w400-h266/IMG_5438.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQi7YK2nSua0VufW_S4RQ1oCjcZrwkyphUi2-9J-mHJob3E14hQB8RWhYR7PMhhJ_GA5KUMKgyJgEfIMrp9qw8DDRkA5Mn4_XFseNemBvsokxnmbL1PXBLPkmp9HpDhLGF1k7x_Q2wv8BF/s2048/IMG_5439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQi7YK2nSua0VufW_S4RQ1oCjcZrwkyphUi2-9J-mHJob3E14hQB8RWhYR7PMhhJ_GA5KUMKgyJgEfIMrp9qw8DDRkA5Mn4_XFseNemBvsokxnmbL1PXBLPkmp9HpDhLGF1k7x_Q2wv8BF/w400-h266/IMG_5439.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2k3WIVGFBy3Nz2qhXIsqEJZXSN6fTmUDdNtgmvzTlN7ZwBw_I7_rUT-_MyZcM-fHol4OwZNvGhpV2hsJB_OK3nU7NQ1Gv-2zmRkyOWQXXozlWX0x2INDUODFGVueGzvFpVR2e1FxzBHhQ/s2048/IMG_5440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2k3WIVGFBy3Nz2qhXIsqEJZXSN6fTmUDdNtgmvzTlN7ZwBw_I7_rUT-_MyZcM-fHol4OwZNvGhpV2hsJB_OK3nU7NQ1Gv-2zmRkyOWQXXozlWX0x2INDUODFGVueGzvFpVR2e1FxzBHhQ/w426-h640/IMG_5440.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcFdatxwe-OsgID7cpDM8ELUl9iIYBhyc5CTdGaKlYAiNe3x2hcTrTQVEE_I9jQKy1aMiJPFKzYYFQQOT3qbBL-eEwYwwaQn-fICCvmLoZwYpJzYtAkvXaMjWQRHSXQprA7A4fu2P7dln/s2048/IMG_5442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcFdatxwe-OsgID7cpDM8ELUl9iIYBhyc5CTdGaKlYAiNe3x2hcTrTQVEE_I9jQKy1aMiJPFKzYYFQQOT3qbBL-eEwYwwaQn-fICCvmLoZwYpJzYtAkvXaMjWQRHSXQprA7A4fu2P7dln/w640-h426/IMG_5442.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-dpb1jPlnFWTD0IJkn5POAzKT0tIriIg5C2Vv6dEq5cafxwTwSsjzewjRFnz9YDo0-71pgqdU91eHmzHA1Kluui_DbW64Ov8eDpLEsfxUd7PwJyLaQJn1fJENGcoMStzxklO9U5V_lRr/s2048/IMG_5444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-dpb1jPlnFWTD0IJkn5POAzKT0tIriIg5C2Vv6dEq5cafxwTwSsjzewjRFnz9YDo0-71pgqdU91eHmzHA1Kluui_DbW64Ov8eDpLEsfxUd7PwJyLaQJn1fJENGcoMStzxklO9U5V_lRr/w640-h426/IMG_5444.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-1wx-JMkuMBQzZaR1w_HCyqsq4qyFdHPOd1dRJjmFHaaDw-PJMXHNSVs8qLv2oiGhNIsbt9d9ATpMEPOtHvFeXhLJWwTNZwAxNitiSdV-XbRrTvXqcrc5lxxsXOoQO-hY4_lZJdoGOiL/s2048/IMG_5445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7-1wx-JMkuMBQzZaR1w_HCyqsq4qyFdHPOd1dRJjmFHaaDw-PJMXHNSVs8qLv2oiGhNIsbt9d9ATpMEPOtHvFeXhLJWwTNZwAxNitiSdV-XbRrTvXqcrc5lxxsXOoQO-hY4_lZJdoGOiL/w640-h426/IMG_5445.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8-9rOp9zLl8Hg651t0Ur0BudW9a58x1I4uoe1UT3_7tkkoCOP6rkcKZzDiwaTL4sdqUGjTVAwismxYflT97f4NbgM4lyjl92frphqwr081XfSI5rV81MG7L_kuNpd1DTsjMfE9ovxiT-3/s2048/IMG_5446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8-9rOp9zLl8Hg651t0Ur0BudW9a58x1I4uoe1UT3_7tkkoCOP6rkcKZzDiwaTL4sdqUGjTVAwismxYflT97f4NbgM4lyjl92frphqwr081XfSI5rV81MG7L_kuNpd1DTsjMfE9ovxiT-3/w640-h426/IMG_5446.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhDj2XBnu9x9Bx-ENzV1gufdG9fIAhxVfinKtr1U4OAGF5WVWt_vNWCpYpts97J8KI_R-Os24eEhkmdrnzDo_sfFypprjd35x8UCsl6A_JSqThfsMDd7SUAikku1xx_3E1vY9DzhZidFc/s2048/IMG_5447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhDj2XBnu9x9Bx-ENzV1gufdG9fIAhxVfinKtr1U4OAGF5WVWt_vNWCpYpts97J8KI_R-Os24eEhkmdrnzDo_sfFypprjd35x8UCsl6A_JSqThfsMDd7SUAikku1xx_3E1vY9DzhZidFc/w640-h426/IMG_5447.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNewY4inUvWbjUJ99Ta5wfyXk28LIt8H2AQsUaSaLp65skkYQSdH66h8mlXLlcxs6l3yki-MUaR99r-k0DmeG3RRXJh9tqR3CDy61v594ipkP6DVdLqdsqDqLC3HuSWwQgkgOEfz75Ty-8/s2048/IMG_5449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNewY4inUvWbjUJ99Ta5wfyXk28LIt8H2AQsUaSaLp65skkYQSdH66h8mlXLlcxs6l3yki-MUaR99r-k0DmeG3RRXJh9tqR3CDy61v594ipkP6DVdLqdsqDqLC3HuSWwQgkgOEfz75Ty-8/w640-h426/IMG_5449.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p>Such a fun event and for such a deserving cause.</p><p>I won't be around for awhile as we are off on our adventures and for all you budding house breakers, we have got house sitters lol!!!</p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-10281636894565478262021-07-19T02:31:00.001-07:002021-07-19T02:31:37.465-07:00Summer Crafting<p> Good Morning, another week has flown by I am seriously wondering where the time goes? The weather has not been anywhere near the same as the mainland with lower temperatures and some days rain, like today. Saturday saw quite a lot of wind which has damaged quite a few plants. Island living...I wouldn't change it. </p><p>The chickens had a little adventure this week and escaped from the garden, they were found walking down the road. Fences have since been repaired and they are back in a pen safe! We are blessed with good size brown eggs daily but I thought I would share this particularly large egg from late last week. I don't think I have ever seen one so large.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3p2RaacwVXYh6GVd_0Dk8P9gJXSoS0KyQqG-qHruOYSm7TTIfQcUID83wFZ_r6z6Z3r6miSbK6nZie7kEy_WTMjH5o6AeoB1IerodfrM46S1Bj0H3fBIBAHiZ-z-_uj4fa8jxuuYh0yEz/s2048/IMG_5430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3p2RaacwVXYh6GVd_0Dk8P9gJXSoS0KyQqG-qHruOYSm7TTIfQcUID83wFZ_r6z6Z3r6miSbK6nZie7kEy_WTMjH5o6AeoB1IerodfrM46S1Bj0H3fBIBAHiZ-z-_uj4fa8jxuuYh0yEz/w266-h400/IMG_5430.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7Kb5BRgUXmnG-lcWyZyUJLan2JRLXyZo6a6LaFo7FEF-8iwYvMBCIEFfbqMsvJwnPEcSAbEg4M2njLBpKWVCIIQ22HbSJ3_uvuO_rpkVz5jOUUFgJF4bP_weYzA8Q3LX6PlcYuotBacM/s2048/IMG_5431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7Kb5BRgUXmnG-lcWyZyUJLan2JRLXyZo6a6LaFo7FEF-8iwYvMBCIEFfbqMsvJwnPEcSAbEg4M2njLBpKWVCIIQ22HbSJ3_uvuO_rpkVz5jOUUFgJF4bP_weYzA8Q3LX6PlcYuotBacM/w400-h266/IMG_5431.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>I have made time to craft this week as a friend from Church wanted me to make a brooch/corsage to match a dress. I actually had fun making three so that she could choose which one she favoured. Two crochet ones which were a very quick make and a Harris Tweed one.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjj9GbK9lHS2XvPcHelqUVrgcnSk1GN9tOiHMZsaXuQxXusyppCEOdApphCfZKONx5cKZaewOjjBTLapNTYBA56ndnvYq1rWKpmwrk4GLiNZ3P8U0WU177uX6LTotu68vLwaZe_nTdr1ry/s2048/IMG_5424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjj9GbK9lHS2XvPcHelqUVrgcnSk1GN9tOiHMZsaXuQxXusyppCEOdApphCfZKONx5cKZaewOjjBTLapNTYBA56ndnvYq1rWKpmwrk4GLiNZ3P8U0WU177uX6LTotu68vLwaZe_nTdr1ry/w400-h266/IMG_5424.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUarl4VQPeVtzENqOF3ILUFB3zyJ9imdgIcIFRzVxSBP78_YPnrghHmqtz2EjtimgJStViMBMi1qC6YK8A-vhlDX_T905rdJIlfL1yBcNSJ1F8MVxfIMHBd3WYm3GbAr_ev4mFjrQqcOh/s2048/IMG_5425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUarl4VQPeVtzENqOF3ILUFB3zyJ9imdgIcIFRzVxSBP78_YPnrghHmqtz2EjtimgJStViMBMi1qC6YK8A-vhlDX_T905rdJIlfL1yBcNSJ1F8MVxfIMHBd3WYm3GbAr_ev4mFjrQqcOh/w266-h400/IMG_5425.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PILT1YmnCPpxf2pPGishJhSx7lRDqKpVbbD-f1O_AZWmKa-Fw9sRMMuCLYK_7V0O3rB3t9MhjTm7rNoYFoZpzoUGPkCWkkudce-AujMDdY_Bu7YJuQKX7Mj-o_xi1XvfCw9BIoXsl6VJ/s2048/IMG_5426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PILT1YmnCPpxf2pPGishJhSx7lRDqKpVbbD-f1O_AZWmKa-Fw9sRMMuCLYK_7V0O3rB3t9MhjTm7rNoYFoZpzoUGPkCWkkudce-AujMDdY_Bu7YJuQKX7Mj-o_xi1XvfCw9BIoXsl6VJ/w426-h640/IMG_5426.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdho7Rh3MLz9QitJ-qbCG3nESbK0v6yZDIFkBsMHN_oJjAsL9fhE4RwHRNUYb531WV9AsDPu9KX45jkbwbELP2TxOisJrKxfm6T6TuNqj3VHZLOEfbO2fFyao-HdPo6TQuFRi9HOa11YO-/s2048/IMG_5427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdho7Rh3MLz9QitJ-qbCG3nESbK0v6yZDIFkBsMHN_oJjAsL9fhE4RwHRNUYb531WV9AsDPu9KX45jkbwbELP2TxOisJrKxfm6T6TuNqj3VHZLOEfbO2fFyao-HdPo6TQuFRi9HOa11YO-/w640-h426/IMG_5427.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>The craft room has had a good sort out and some areas rearranged, making it easier to find and indeed get to materials needed for a project. Storage is a lot better and much more effective. During the clearout I did come across a project languishing in a basket which I have retrieved and am now working on. It is a picnic throw that I started several years ago and for some reason never finished. It is so bright and cheerful and perfect for a gift for my grand daughter who we have a tepee ready to take when we visit. I am hoping to either sew her name into the tepee or paint her name on it using fabric paint. I am hoping to start it later today, when I return from aerobics.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR4yUBHks1VGjGOmK7r3hSVyccYnkJiCVTvIi8tJVhJz9kA6CUCP74kIe5pKdEDpYaksuw-P_NHRUnOs-uqoNxsT9abGy7qlwdYw6gfQP5JY10878Q7xttPr86m7AIY_lnPLxSL1WAa7xp/s2048/IMG_5432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR4yUBHks1VGjGOmK7r3hSVyccYnkJiCVTvIi8tJVhJz9kA6CUCP74kIe5pKdEDpYaksuw-P_NHRUnOs-uqoNxsT9abGy7qlwdYw6gfQP5JY10878Q7xttPr86m7AIY_lnPLxSL1WAa7xp/w640-h426/IMG_5432.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwp9ccCyEFzPXSzXccjtEvt9EczzBA-yG8rsE1YPsKh189w8uE9codsLk4QGt3Vsg9c0iE4dA0h6XMVqfSd_mqKIGaQt9zjXUmkHLjMlvrQkeFuvvUe3rAwbPR4KFpcCa66T6Fru1Uc9Ia/s2048/IMG_5433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwp9ccCyEFzPXSzXccjtEvt9EczzBA-yG8rsE1YPsKh189w8uE9codsLk4QGt3Vsg9c0iE4dA0h6XMVqfSd_mqKIGaQt9zjXUmkHLjMlvrQkeFuvvUe3rAwbPR4KFpcCa66T6Fru1Uc9Ia/w426-h640/IMG_5433.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><p>We intend to spend a few hours this afternoon working in the garden room, this area has been such an asset to us and enables us to grow a little food for ourselves. The winds here are not conducive to growing some things outside. We are enjoying strawberries, which for me are a beautiful taste of Summer. I made a trifle yesterday out of about 6, such a luscious Sunday treat.</p><p>As always I do thank you for your visit and your uplifting comments. Cherie asked if I was a shawl person. Yes I am, they are a comfort item for the climate we live. Crafty in the med asked about the yarn used for the shawl. it was Paintbox Yarns simply DK. Grandmadbeckyl asked about Debenhams, sadly the whole chain has closed the store will certainly be missed by me. Mrs Tiggywinkle asked about Church, yes I am thankful that we are back in Church and are now allowed to sing but still have to wear masks and sit 2 metres apart. Apparently from next week it is 1 metre apart. Hope this helps.</p><p>I am also busy making lists as we intend to visit family and help with childcare during the Summer holidays. We have had quite the issue booking ferries as they are all fully booked as so many people are having staycations and the Islands are a beautiful place to visit. Tourism is indeed a great source of income for the Island so is certainly welcomed. However, the added number of visitors is making it very difficult for Islanders to travel particularly with the reduced numbers allowed on board. We are thankful that we have finally been able to get ferry bookings so we can now visit family. I am also thankful for such good neighbours who will look after the cottage and chickens whilst we are away.</p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-79035827893277490582021-07-12T01:38:00.000-07:002021-07-12T01:38:02.018-07:00Summer Pastimes<p> I have been missing in action once again and for that I do apologise. It is a busy time of year with the garden and cottage. We have been trying to get as many outside jobs done as possible before the weather changes and we once again are confined inside. We have also had a trip to the mainland for a few days to trade in our old car and pick up a new one. We drove up to Inverness and enjoyed a wonderful city break staying at The Royal Highland next to the station. It is a Victorian building, with quite the grand entrance. The rooms are a little tired these days but the service was exceptional. The breakfast was mediocre but the afternoon tea and evening meal were a delight. We booked a package which also included a free cocktail, so that was quite the treat sat in the lounge prior to our dinner. I managed to get most of the shopping that I needed which we both really enjoyed, it has been a long time since we did any real shopping. I must admit it was quite sad to see so many empty shops and a real gap now that Debenhams has gone.</p><p>In other news, my nieces children are now recovered from Covid and are doing well. Thankfully it did not spread through the family. They have been vigilant with the hand washing and testing. I thank you for all your well wishes, they were appreciated.</p><p>I continue to dry herbs in readiness for the Winter months. I have done extra this year so that I can include some in my little hampers. There is a lovely smell of mint in the kitchen which I am loving.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY76XMZUKwOwMdg9hbC_I48Gi6LoDPhNH2OyMED-zFjfp0O0bSHZhEtJGhDTyydpCn9BOaDP2LywhkMmm5A6DO43cd3_l-OvR106vuIaX55DE8qc2_xK-0Wd2vjT4215c_AcuXJnWKfZ-F/s2048/IMG_5422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY76XMZUKwOwMdg9hbC_I48Gi6LoDPhNH2OyMED-zFjfp0O0bSHZhEtJGhDTyydpCn9BOaDP2LywhkMmm5A6DO43cd3_l-OvR106vuIaX55DE8qc2_xK-0Wd2vjT4215c_AcuXJnWKfZ-F/w266-h400/IMG_5422.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2RnPN0R5Nl-jzUDQA-Fksry51hLT4cEINWTCQpkjeH38rzuuembWs_UUoPeamtOWYwJ5YtTHwHgQT-IQOdRiCQf2gADPtPKw9zIegFuVha_G9FBLEyYL-E9wQauMTfjvzOVDY4SvwbaW/s2048/IMG_5421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2RnPN0R5Nl-jzUDQA-Fksry51hLT4cEINWTCQpkjeH38rzuuembWs_UUoPeamtOWYwJ5YtTHwHgQT-IQOdRiCQf2gADPtPKw9zIegFuVha_G9FBLEyYL-E9wQauMTfjvzOVDY4SvwbaW/w266-h400/IMG_5421.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLbb5KjzAtbn_rmqjiNUob33NNDgJn-3HusvDl1dc2RjTCUN5GeRuo-QmB-osbndPQ8p6y3D0U21j5a0pdMfryCHr4ID973z_kH99uMRZYPvQg3a8ApPzh4rUGdxY0CtQv6RpNr7hp0tO/s2048/IMG_5420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLbb5KjzAtbn_rmqjiNUob33NNDgJn-3HusvDl1dc2RjTCUN5GeRuo-QmB-osbndPQ8p6y3D0U21j5a0pdMfryCHr4ID973z_kH99uMRZYPvQg3a8ApPzh4rUGdxY0CtQv6RpNr7hp0tO/w266-h400/IMG_5420.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW3gnUwc5Z0NlnXMDOb8hUMRt65zbvFNTqABACxbBzaSyOZM9lwV2sgPDtzBCrIkh_w8iRRLH8D2aYe_7rA3pHHkEZMr9lE4t2aXX3nG1my-KojAfuhgK1KtQ_FCooZlh0FZ0HBHdgMA4D/s2048/IMG_5419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW3gnUwc5Z0NlnXMDOb8hUMRt65zbvFNTqABACxbBzaSyOZM9lwV2sgPDtzBCrIkh_w8iRRLH8D2aYe_7rA3pHHkEZMr9lE4t2aXX3nG1my-KojAfuhgK1KtQ_FCooZlh0FZ0HBHdgMA4D/w266-h400/IMG_5419.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>I am always amazed how much is needed to fill a small jar, copious amounts are required. I am thankful for the very large plant which is spreading rapidly and needs to be curtailed. We are still enjoying rhubarb and also have loads in the freezer. Lettuce/spring onions/rocket have been amazing and are regulars on our plates.</p><p>I have finally finished a shawl that I have been working on. The final row seemed to take an age but was worth the effort as it cools down some of the bright colours.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoE7JGT1-AqvyrvSdfQGstTUNVNV2rAmXSlru8sqnV47o2lW7VWX6xgnju4ffjzJsBXK8S1-de0vlDqSND69xdJYNpRovVd3GqR_HKQvkBYjA8PAGt79kZK9CXLftkJn06C9DRWjLo9KCx/s2048/IMG_5412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoE7JGT1-AqvyrvSdfQGstTUNVNV2rAmXSlru8sqnV47o2lW7VWX6xgnju4ffjzJsBXK8S1-de0vlDqSND69xdJYNpRovVd3GqR_HKQvkBYjA8PAGt79kZK9CXLftkJn06C9DRWjLo9KCx/w640-h426/IMG_5412.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgecsapLLCt5JYEyq-f8LcyNs0qJfESntRHA9-Ph_qXx85hExIL6ngq6tgQ100Yb0a6f0N0kkrfY9HP6CiLZ9Pdut0SF42v4y1AJqp9-937EJh4ynAYHqoneCLXhWKNFQ9Kzw_lNRLjDM0W/s2048/IMG_5413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgecsapLLCt5JYEyq-f8LcyNs0qJfESntRHA9-Ph_qXx85hExIL6ngq6tgQ100Yb0a6f0N0kkrfY9HP6CiLZ9Pdut0SF42v4y1AJqp9-937EJh4ynAYHqoneCLXhWKNFQ9Kzw_lNRLjDM0W/w640-h426/IMG_5413.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJIebrMIihyR_glkz3Ch87Yqneh0m0_mOlqNYK8VWkJXSYUsuN-0UA40k-I4dENcsGVDXVXbrYpNi130Beulftqvdlc4SBedisPsL_5Uq2M0w7-98BWa64lW1GBejpsTF_63CpowCtsw4/s2048/IMG_5414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJIebrMIihyR_glkz3Ch87Yqneh0m0_mOlqNYK8VWkJXSYUsuN-0UA40k-I4dENcsGVDXVXbrYpNi130Beulftqvdlc4SBedisPsL_5Uq2M0w7-98BWa64lW1GBejpsTF_63CpowCtsw4/w640-h426/IMG_5414.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJZePaECqJya1z3krRZuwM6Q8nrQwxJN1SsbjgyZupboRI0ZT_zNBmJ0fs7nNGArs3eOGsPsBgtS39ibh5zHtsiTYX2EnvUkgnFCeOvedC-237q4gEXqfylRHOZvrV-9gvfxxD0yCt9fb/s2048/IMG_5415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJZePaECqJya1z3krRZuwM6Q8nrQwxJN1SsbjgyZupboRI0ZT_zNBmJ0fs7nNGArs3eOGsPsBgtS39ibh5zHtsiTYX2EnvUkgnFCeOvedC-237q4gEXqfylRHOZvrV-9gvfxxD0yCt9fb/w640-h426/IMG_5415.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLO79N_Xyu6FmmDO5PvqN1IjQh1yzo4RTmf3OrTLXFRjyA1L1xSV4_puOLrT3ibTWxtVe9UK-P0YHVo6HdqUApeb-b1mFOSwyPyC1ZmP2yEJDTOazNj-iTD3A7VRXj2tWot57gHe5YUflz/s2048/IMG_5416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLO79N_Xyu6FmmDO5PvqN1IjQh1yzo4RTmf3OrTLXFRjyA1L1xSV4_puOLrT3ibTWxtVe9UK-P0YHVo6HdqUApeb-b1mFOSwyPyC1ZmP2yEJDTOazNj-iTD3A7VRXj2tWot57gHe5YUflz/w426-h640/IMG_5416.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><p>These lazy hazy days of Summer are just flying by and a joyful reminder of why we moved here. Each view/ landscape/seascape etched into my mind so that I can enjoy them time and time again. The moorland is alight with colour and so my adventures with dying wool will begin. I am eager to try some of the traditional methods. Time will tell, but I am hopeful.</p><p>I am also enjoying getting back into the swing of mixing with neighbours and friends. It has been a delight to once again chat and enjoy each others company, after the long separation of Covid restrictions.</p><p>I am going to close for now as I must get ready for my aerobics class, another step in the recovery to normality. I will catch up with you all on my return.</p><p>See you soon.</p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4542147042521831239.post-30410075134105201712021-06-28T13:07:00.001-07:002021-06-28T13:07:38.372-07:00This And That<p> A week of mixed blessings regarding the weather, but finally a beautiful day today with the sun shining brightly. It really does make a difference to my mood and has already lifted my spirits. It is wonderful to be able to get out into the garden and not feel cold. I was able to hang the washing out on the line, a real bonus. Nothing beats the smell of line dried washing, particularly when it is bedding and towels. Let me give you a quick tour of the pots at the front of the house. Be prepared once again for a photo heavy post.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsTM5M8rFSdJeww8cTL5aK1S4YHXAw2JjSxeWBqYBJ1GmOVMRVjl1aV9HVJv58z1Ay2ENeyqSXyNlAd90lrXttc7t6jVbBVGX2uMdU5URr0A-GP4XymT4gExs7TKwp5GeR_1WvoFjbdq0/s2048/IMG_5392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsTM5M8rFSdJeww8cTL5aK1S4YHXAw2JjSxeWBqYBJ1GmOVMRVjl1aV9HVJv58z1Ay2ENeyqSXyNlAd90lrXttc7t6jVbBVGX2uMdU5URr0A-GP4XymT4gExs7TKwp5GeR_1WvoFjbdq0/w266-h400/IMG_5392.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD5hHGNOFkTHPO4pd5mv1JmjCnRubdqIjuhaqeqF2qlDXCxCowF0630JlBAXvqsq9JSywwgt6Zza7k76ppgeZ0S9vVUzarLyzgc7SgV_TEUivmoGcKWPaaFC9fdT93qW9809jraDGAmWe/s2048/IMG_5393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD5hHGNOFkTHPO4pd5mv1JmjCnRubdqIjuhaqeqF2qlDXCxCowF0630JlBAXvqsq9JSywwgt6Zza7k76ppgeZ0S9vVUzarLyzgc7SgV_TEUivmoGcKWPaaFC9fdT93qW9809jraDGAmWe/w400-h266/IMG_5393.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>Each side of the side entrance door. Painted rocks from the beach and plants in a pair of old wellies.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglChlfIxHv9LAJoKhMrF4o_V9no7ZQflgOOqIbjoUsVpAtv3v6bi0yQe6WeE91p3EEeeUz_LzXsVJRYfW98_teHTwuIn9UCd4_YiA3c5_LpZjjKy9jhdzm7wEy32ge_t5sbTa3sITuPeT2/s2048/IMG_5394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglChlfIxHv9LAJoKhMrF4o_V9no7ZQflgOOqIbjoUsVpAtv3v6bi0yQe6WeE91p3EEeeUz_LzXsVJRYfW98_teHTwuIn9UCd4_YiA3c5_LpZjjKy9jhdzm7wEy32ge_t5sbTa3sITuPeT2/w400-h266/IMG_5394.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-g6t-B6cxQA5xUBq_CjyPCVpI-pnpOxxQj5QaoraiU6i04n4twjCM3mxSBLnEkXCiVBn514UcuBlRo6NSei-br7VlCKDyzkqaaTjSGL7XgWuXWSfvrhlfyonP2MmPs84Ep9PD7JQhPHaJ/s2048/IMG_5395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-g6t-B6cxQA5xUBq_CjyPCVpI-pnpOxxQj5QaoraiU6i04n4twjCM3mxSBLnEkXCiVBn514UcuBlRo6NSei-br7VlCKDyzkqaaTjSGL7XgWuXWSfvrhlfyonP2MmPs84Ep9PD7JQhPHaJ/w400-h266/IMG_5395.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNg60WSLB-EXS4zd_h9Vo6TR6-bPEhf6orMqgX0TZa5LsDaNgbONKCNv3YlF3LON8oEetxajt7UC6Rqsi7o-tamuVm_hUZHIVLsJT-9LoSIw62MiDxALoWhM81ujK8GdVNUHgRqYW_UOH/s2048/IMG_5396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNg60WSLB-EXS4zd_h9Vo6TR6-bPEhf6orMqgX0TZa5LsDaNgbONKCNv3YlF3LON8oEetxajt7UC6Rqsi7o-tamuVm_hUZHIVLsJT-9LoSIw62MiDxALoWhM81ujK8GdVNUHgRqYW_UOH/w640-h426/IMG_5396.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJkl6SYKMrZOgNvycDxJiNk9dUKGgfmq7e51_2V9mcjNr8ZxFPyWmuAAk0TdXIN-QKFcD46t6wLrpaD9leuBeBhN7PmBcQqUQROGCeIQ_PoHd3_DKG3iDm9Cr69dJcr44ny09YnGibsJl/s2048/IMG_5397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJkl6SYKMrZOgNvycDxJiNk9dUKGgfmq7e51_2V9mcjNr8ZxFPyWmuAAk0TdXIN-QKFcD46t6wLrpaD9leuBeBhN7PmBcQqUQROGCeIQ_PoHd3_DKG3iDm9Cr69dJcr44ny09YnGibsJl/w640-h426/IMG_5397.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dX6Q2qq93vYSlWFcles6xE6m0gD5f4HWJZJH-t13K9tej7Ys116_feJCdkXYaLpwCkGXi06Z8hq9FXhqf3ASuTnSlfzoSoYAI1tRYXjXdvSPyXWINH155MbazZUVYLVvP0d59yfcP2oq/s2048/IMG_5399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dX6Q2qq93vYSlWFcles6xE6m0gD5f4HWJZJH-t13K9tej7Ys116_feJCdkXYaLpwCkGXi06Z8hq9FXhqf3ASuTnSlfzoSoYAI1tRYXjXdvSPyXWINH155MbazZUVYLVvP0d59yfcP2oq/w640-h426/IMG_5399.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2tN3MhebFdDkpyA_EcPk4NViZJHcP63E2CTIT9o4btZus3WL446ZuU_B4v2PXakOj58QDncqYjKkb_iCVreHQtH5125zwfPUpTOpaES2xqR-rXfi9PvwwmT8Xy39YLL9aQUUlz-c9mRh/s2048/IMG_5400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2tN3MhebFdDkpyA_EcPk4NViZJHcP63E2CTIT9o4btZus3WL446ZuU_B4v2PXakOj58QDncqYjKkb_iCVreHQtH5125zwfPUpTOpaES2xqR-rXfi9PvwwmT8Xy39YLL9aQUUlz-c9mRh/w426-h640/IMG_5400.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEwM-OyVsZ-OWG0BdNu6LuDvrUCctKeEewIA4HFEAyyXdVN3adO33UpgXJCr5AAw2PmHQWwDfu-EJa8X9-jUacMl8hvlUWLH7-MseFKd26smDH50sl5bVrKE2oEkqjIl0g1cPltqosc39v/s2048/IMG_5403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEwM-OyVsZ-OWG0BdNu6LuDvrUCctKeEewIA4HFEAyyXdVN3adO33UpgXJCr5AAw2PmHQWwDfu-EJa8X9-jUacMl8hvlUWLH7-MseFKd26smDH50sl5bVrKE2oEkqjIl0g1cPltqosc39v/w640-h426/IMG_5403.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLv5TeNI0XNZvthn_7TqP6gxHKfAFaGayqHjTU4lKY6Oz5vSgXDVsMt9jfDglq-ze7vmYUQnTMaEZuHD-u5SlZFifOY-Sfe-7qINeww4rrUHES7nLjGNg_sHXtVLEW3dbTk2aLJ9hslR1/s2048/IMG_5404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLv5TeNI0XNZvthn_7TqP6gxHKfAFaGayqHjTU4lKY6Oz5vSgXDVsMt9jfDglq-ze7vmYUQnTMaEZuHD-u5SlZFifOY-Sfe-7qINeww4rrUHES7nLjGNg_sHXtVLEW3dbTk2aLJ9hslR1/w640-h426/IMG_5404.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>Now that we have an improvement in the weather it is my intention to sort the pots out and add a few more from the collection of plants we have been growing from seed to give the front of the cottage a lift and some colour. I love some of the cheery plant pots, they make me smile.</p><p>In other news, Gerard is a big football fan so is enjoying the football on the TV. He is having a wonderful time with the banter from the grandsons, it is a joy to listen to them. Two of my nieces children have Covid with very mild symptoms but still a worry. The whole family are in quarantine together so it will be interesting to see how many of them get it and indeed how long it takes.</p><p>We have been spending time looking at holidays but as yet are unwilling to take the risk with travel. We have decided to take advantage of the Summer and catch up with family and then relook at going away at a later date. There are so many mixed messages from government, it makes it difficult to know what the best thing to do is. Have you made any plans for the Summer?</p><p>I will love you and leave you for now, wishing you a beautiful Summer/Winter where ever you are in the world.</p><p>See you soon.</p><p><br /></p>mamasmercantilehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14011278973985658118noreply@blogger.com39