tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61658013020458985852024-02-19T08:31:02.972-08:00Honey, Honey HiNataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.comBlogger9125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165801302045898585.post-58576143849920030512013-02-09T07:32:00.002-08:002013-11-15T08:25:53.069-08:00Comfy, Deer?<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Having recently put myself through the gruelling task of making
my first set of curtains (a nightmare to say the least, which certainly will
not be followed with a ‘how to’ blog post) I purchased way too much lovely fabric,
consequently finding myself with leftovers that were just too good to for the
local school textile bin.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So I decided to make a cushion! - As you do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These cushions are easy if you have the patience and
although I used a sewing machine, this is not necessarily required, although
additional patience is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What you will need is two pieces of fabric measuring
40cmx40cm (16x16”) if you head to your nearest haberdashery shop they usually
have a remnants bin where you can have a rummage and find the most delightful
cast-offs or end of roll scraps. Alternatively, you could just buy some fabric,
and ½ meter should be more than enough. If you did want to create a silhouette
design on the cushion, proceed to buy some contrasting fabric, as you can see,
I went for black. You will also need a cushion pad, which again you can get from
the haberdashery. You could also remove the current cover off an old cushion
and use that pad instead.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Recap of materials</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">½ meter of fabric or two pieces that will cut to
40x40cm</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One piece of contrasting fabric – use felt if
you’ve not got a sewing machine, or if you’re not that great on one.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Matching cotton to your main fabric</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A template for your chosen design. If you’d like
a stag head, feel free to download my template <a href="http://www.picamatic.com/view/8608189_deerhead-final/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So are you ready? Then Let’s get sewing!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Cut your fabric into two square pieces measuring 40x40cm (16x16”)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Use your template to cut your design out of the
contrasting fabric or felt, then pin into place, centrally onto one of your square
pieces of fabric. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhPNcMhGBviwh6jfrOSW4Ed0rtCTR41X08Hn8DPl245tx9vZnJU4cgmMUZwwoXenx0gxQpurl2k4PkSOfpkXUJ4Evr_HMgB88p1gDMBrFEiGKoM_Qwkeqfyr8WrVMRPezI_Az9zF8KvFU/s1600/IMG_4464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhPNcMhGBviwh6jfrOSW4Ed0rtCTR41X08Hn8DPl245tx9vZnJU4cgmMUZwwoXenx0gxQpurl2k4PkSOfpkXUJ4Evr_HMgB88p1gDMBrFEiGKoM_Qwkeqfyr8WrVMRPezI_Az9zF8KvFU/s640/IMG_4464.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Sew the design onto your fabric using a small zigzag stitch
to prevent fraying. This can be tricky, I’d grab that patience from your list
for this step. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If hand sewing or using felt, you just need to securely hand
sew the design into place using a running straight stitch (weave the needle in
and out of the fabrics in a straight line). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Take the two pieces of fabric, place them on top of each
other (pattern inwards) and pin into place 1cm away from the edge. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want your pillow to be nice and snug if
you’re wondering why it measures smaller than the cushion pad.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIQz6dOSBadZDG7o6VpJN8Vy3SJ8kVHQL6UsVcT_alXqFCG5PM6VNtPsHA0i3ZRrjUt-tOn8qd4tBowicWgN5m1eionOxfhZusUx3SfYMoJAxIG2koUfMeAdtkZLW3BnYCijZgJlab4k/s1600/IMG_4475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIQz6dOSBadZDG7o6VpJN8Vy3SJ8kVHQL6UsVcT_alXqFCG5PM6VNtPsHA0i3ZRrjUt-tOn8qd4tBowicWgN5m1eionOxfhZusUx3SfYMoJAxIG2koUfMeAdtkZLW3BnYCijZgJlab4k/s640/IMG_4475.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Now, take a seat in front of the sewing machine, blast
your favourite tunes and get sewing along the pinned line. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">WAIT. Take it easy as you’re only sewing up 3 of the 4 edges.
Make sure that your open edge is the bottom of the cushion so your hand stitching
that you’ll be doing later on will be less noticeable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Again, if you’re hand-stitching this step, use a straight
stitch.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Once your 3 edges are sewn, turn the fabric inside out to reveal your almost complete cushion cover. Stuff the cushion pad comfortably in it’s new home and take a moment to admire. It looks great doesn’t it?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Any patience left? I hope so as the final steps are a tad fiddly and may lead to you using vocabulary that your mother would rather you not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Breathe. You’re almost there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Carefully pinch the seam inwards, around 1cm each side and carefully pin into place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. Using a needle and thread, proceed to oversew the ends together. Make sure your stitches are small close together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9. Once you’ve sewn the final stitch, take your newly
finished cushion and head to a comfiest spot you can find…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It’s nap time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">N x</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165801302045898585.post-3887588028369347362013-02-09T07:19:00.000-08:002013-02-09T07:34:40.335-08:00Isle of Wight Garlic Festival 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This isn't just any Isle of Wight Festival, this is the Isle of Wight Garlic Festival</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Having just about washed the final stench of garlic that clung on to me, I decided it was time to finally post the pictures from last years <a href="http://www.garlic-festival.co.uk/" target="_blank">Garlic Festival</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With live cooking demonstrations, archery, corn on the cob dripping in garlic butter, food tastings in almost every tent, over 70 varieties of garlic on offer, live music, antique stalls and of course practically everything edible was somehow infused with garlic, I'd pick this festival over Glastonbury any day! - Nothing to do with me being unsuccessful getting a Glasto ticket or anything. Ahem.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The only thing I wouldn't recommend is the garlic beer *shiver* that lumpy liquid still makes me a little sick in the mouth at the thought, but other than that, a </span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">stinking</i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> good time was had by all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The 2013 Garlic Festival takes place on the 17th and 18th August 2013</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">http://www.garlic-festival.co.uk/ </span></div>
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<br />Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165801302045898585.post-15341806459073750012012-08-18T14:48:00.001-07:002013-02-09T06:50:02.184-08:00Picnic at Fort Victoria <span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've decided to come the Isle of Wight for
the weekend to stay with my Grandparents. I’ve come here for a bit of rest
& recreation, the finest homemade dinners, sleeps in super comfy beds and conveniently,
the <a href="http://about%20the%20show%20being%20part%20of%20the%20show%20gallery%20visiting%20contact%20us%20www.garlic-festival.co.uk/" target="_blank">Garlic Festival</a> is in town! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We've decided to head the Garlic Festival on
the Sunday, so we could spend Saturday at our leisure. So we packed up our
sandwiches and headed to Fort Victoria for a picnic to enjoy an afternoon
overlooking the Solent under the sun, once it decides to surface.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;">Fort Victoria </span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Lucida Sans";">was built on
the north shore of the Isle of Wight to guard the Solent. The remains of Fort
Victoria now house a Marine Aquarium, an Underwater Archaeology Centre a</span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Lucida Sans";">Planetarium
and a Model Railway. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When we arrived, my Grandad educated me
with points of interest beyond the water. Grandma looked at some photographs
and then together we watched on rather impressively at the dozens of yachts go by and
also as a man water-skied through the strong currents and choppy waves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We ate cheese and chutney mini ciabattas,
fruit and M&S baked goods, all which were washed down flasks of milky
coffee. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Whilst waiting for the sun to come out, my
grandparents read, while I played with the binoculars, </span>painted my nails... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">...and napped.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After over two hours of enjoying the salty
sea breeze and surprisingly pleasant low clouds, we decided to call it a day.
Plus better sun-tans could be achieved from their garden, where
apparently the sun shone all afternoon!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">N x</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165801302045898585.post-5370101731554203092012-01-23T07:17:00.000-08:002013-02-09T06:50:29.116-08:00The Python Pedicure - (Although mine's a Mani)<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There's not many a beauty treatment that I wont try, if it promises to give me flawless skin like Penelope Cruz or beautiful, glossy hair to rival Kate Middleton's then sign me up. This new treatment, however seemed to come with no beauty promises, other than plenty of bizarre and possible looks of disgust from strangers and a risk of pissing off animal rights group, PETA. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sure! Where do I sign?</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I first heard about this unique concept when I was nestled in the back of a New York taxi last year with my sister. We were fixated on the tv screen in-bedded in the back of the cab, rolling footage of a Botox pumped American woman speaking of this latest 'celeb nail craze'. Naturally, we were gobsmacked at the idea and presumed it would never take off. 'Crazy Americans' we whispered to one-another (the New Yorker ferrying us up front looked a little too scary for us to risk him overhearing such comments!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But it's slithered its way across the pond, Ladies and Gentlemen, let me introduce to you... REAL Snakeskin nails!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Having heard that this bespoke treatment had exclusively hit a spa in Chelsea, I nearly fell off my chair when I was offered the chance to go for a treatment! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Too experimental to opt for the just two nails applied and way too embarrassed to put my unattractive feet forward for the pedi, I decided on the manicure. The Hand and Foot Spa in Chelsea is currently the only salon in the UK offering this treatment, I was also hoping that being in such a prestigious area I would inevitably be sandwiched in-between Caggie and Milly where would giggle and gossip at how Hugo is like, not even hot and how we totes prefer Spencer with his new, relaxed hair and plaid shirts yarh. - No such luck, I had the first appointment of the day, meaning I was the only one in the salon. Nevermind. My Chelsea drink of choice (Super Skinny Soy, Chai Tea Latte, hold the cream, hold the taste) would be a great companion. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sitting comfortably, my technician whipped out a sandwich bag where slept the shedded snakeskin. Yikes, maybe this <i>is</i> a bit gross. Not being one to back out of a challenge, I continued to sit still whilst each nail was crafted and painted then pieces of the Snakeskin (which is sterile and sourced from a nature reserve FYI) were individually cut to fit each nail. Once the nails were painted with product, the Snakeskin individuals were stuck to the residue left behind on the base colour. A clear BioSculpture gel was then applied and set under a UV light. And that's pretty much it! - Oh, and did I mention that this treatment takes just over two hours? Wow, my technician had some serious patience, especially with me firing questions at her with every buff.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The nails are fairly thick, due to the layers of gel encasing the Snakeskin and the manicure can last up to six weeks if nails are looked after, but the average life span is around two. If you're interested in giving it a go, its a pretty pricey procedure coming in at £62 per nail or £160 for a full manicure, making it an expensive experiment, although a interesting conversation piece.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I waved my newly adorned talons along the Fulham Road as I skipped back to my car, of course stopping to press my nose against the beautiful boutique windows as frequently as possible. Still no signs of Cags or Mills, maybe they'll find me next time I'm in town. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Natalie x</span><br />
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</span>Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165801302045898585.post-3222062440334513032011-12-09T11:09:00.000-08:002013-02-09T06:50:44.958-08:00A Christmas Jumper that Yule love<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It’s <i>snow</i> lie that this year has flown by, I can’t quite believe that in a few short weeks we will be tucking into a plate of the finest <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Turkey</st1:place></st1:country-region> with all the trimmings, minus the Brussel Sprouts, hopefully. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Like most people I struggle to come up with creative ideas at Christmas, but for the past few years I have created my very own Christmas jumpers. One of my favourites is a somewhat beautiful Christmas tree design. Whenever I’ve worn this jumper people always comment. Whether they are genuinely complimenting my Christmas costume or openly taking the piss, I don’t care. It got them talking and I know I look good wearing it. These jumpers are great if you like to adorn yourself in tat, or alternatively, they make a wonderful gift for a loved-one (or not so-loved, depending on how superior your sewing abilities are). They are surprisingly easy to make, and most importantly are easy on the purse. We all know that things always seem to be a little <i>‘Deer</i> over the festive season, so it makes perfect <i>Frankin’sense</i> to get creative and make one of your own! (Sorry, I will stop with the terrible puns soon, promise).</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What you will need:</span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">An old sweatshirt, or buy a cheap one. I’m using a childs school jumper. No, not their current school jumper, even if it is for a good <i>Clause</i>.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1/2 Metre of green felt (avoid the felt squares if possible, they are not quite big enough!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Beaded string (1/2 a metre should be plenty)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Any other tacky attachables - Glittery pom poms look amazing and are easy to attach. Don’t forget a star for the top of the tree too!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mince pies and mulled wine, these are very important materials.</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt_7MYYdgJWi9xsy-H5skBmk8-ZIBk-HKraro-e0PHSP_woJRKpCAO5_0SHrXqkHSqcoM1sQ0ODYVMknNtBs0FPbklzRzNvwfTTMToZV_T1zIz7Q6IR2vkZrATCbXwjNA_oLgaLJ4dhg/s1600/photo+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt_7MYYdgJWi9xsy-H5skBmk8-ZIBk-HKraro-e0PHSP_woJRKpCAO5_0SHrXqkHSqcoM1sQ0ODYVMknNtBs0FPbklzRzNvwfTTMToZV_T1zIz7Q6IR2vkZrATCbXwjNA_oLgaLJ4dhg/s320/photo+%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Step 1: On a piece of card, ideally an old Christmas card to tie in with the festive theme, draw out half a Christmas tree, fold and cut so you have the perfect symmetrical tree. Position on the felt, draw around and cut out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Step 2: Relocate to the kitchen, crack open the mulled wine and gently begin to heat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Step 3: Arrange your decorations onto your felt tree and pin into place. The wine should be almost ready now, so grab a mince pie and pour yourself a glass. Double up some green thread and get stitching! The Pom Poms will be secure with approximately 5 stitches and the beaded string usually needs about two. (Hold off on the star, like a real tree, this will be the last step.)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjkVbW-yKYMklLreAVo9H5OTvhOtg69HyZZ16ZnVLiX5d8LeJ1V3ww7__AtiYpX_jkXtLJSA9ruLZUzdHfjExSi0vZwj57ifL-ToAUQxvyq0uMEwfi313v-O55nRXv3Sb97CMOFAuT6k/s1600/photo+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjkVbW-yKYMklLreAVo9H5OTvhOtg69HyZZ16ZnVLiX5d8LeJ1V3ww7__AtiYpX_jkXtLJSA9ruLZUzdHfjExSi0vZwj57ifL-ToAUQxvyq0uMEwfi313v-O55nRXv3Sb97CMOFAuT6k/s320/photo+%25284%2529.jpg" width="239" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4uoDBAjYxqWwO_i9QoFIb_GhfwUJ9DEFlK5i_6zoR6mwZQg3HLi0Nm1TAPx8BHxL-O0DRZNf_p2e7_m9cEXnloC4h_K6frmNxDhF8I3VpvuPxIAFL7RTIvJksPi0vYkEgWs1HregRKU/s1600/photo+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4uoDBAjYxqWwO_i9QoFIb_GhfwUJ9DEFlK5i_6zoR6mwZQg3HLi0Nm1TAPx8BHxL-O0DRZNf_p2e7_m9cEXnloC4h_K6frmNxDhF8I3VpvuPxIAFL7RTIvJksPi0vYkEgWs1HregRKU/s320/photo+%25285%2529.jpg" width="239" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Step 4: When all tat is securely sewn, lay your newly embellished tree onto your sweatshirt and loosely pin down. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Step 5: Turn up your Cliff Richard Christmas hits and sew the tree onto your jumper. If you have a sewing machine, use it. If not, then give it your best hand stitching a go. - It doesn’t have to be perfect, believe me, the stitching is the last thing people will look at. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBc62nOMt3AANYAIaWMv1vjCyLoeYiTZWMDcRjtKurhSlm7KanCpa_mTd7peS1CnI7fNzv8_SgkFo21sS01wdb8JjjCyvfEg0ic5sDgHzB6054uHVuy0Pvp3kmW2u0SkxxbiOTGxtuqY/s1600/photo+%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBc62nOMt3AANYAIaWMv1vjCyLoeYiTZWMDcRjtKurhSlm7KanCpa_mTd7peS1CnI7fNzv8_SgkFo21sS01wdb8JjjCyvfEg0ic5sDgHzB6054uHVuy0Pvp3kmW2u0SkxxbiOTGxtuqY/s320/photo+%25286%2529.jpg" width="239" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Step 6: Sit back, breathe and maybe have another mince pie. This sewing is a fiddly business, especially after 3 glasses of mulled wine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Step 7: Grab the star, pin into position at the top of the tree and sew. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmziWdqfoxvURCiYqq1biUwY6602X6fJ8bmffynVkOPk3x3MOSbSI9TdUengts5XHHhq2QyWINkd7F7XLC7VpKLTbl17wNjfmsJhhQVVsKD8zFDEhEjAZfLmSDh79yNJfD0za16_5H04/s1600/photo+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmziWdqfoxvURCiYqq1biUwY6602X6fJ8bmffynVkOPk3x3MOSbSI9TdUengts5XHHhq2QyWINkd7F7XLC7VpKLTbl17wNjfmsJhhQVVsKD8zFDEhEjAZfLmSDh79yNJfD0za16_5H04/s320/photo+%25287%2529.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">...Congratulations, you should now hopefully have finished the first piece in your very own Festive Fashion line. If you’re lucky enough to have anymore wine left in the pan, treat yourself to a celebratory glass and admire your efforts! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopcQ0NqRdeEmNpYDYKTx7GjsBn1yI14o5qRl14GdFqFbjtzR6TrMgWGmZUEP0v8ArM3ygPkk8jn7QQ3EOOz8OI_k3IMpGGUCpML8zmH-pOOUIxwFB0tcTkUGVeP0nkrwRN0NLT6WzHMQ/s1600/photo+%25288%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopcQ0NqRdeEmNpYDYKTx7GjsBn1yI14o5qRl14GdFqFbjtzR6TrMgWGmZUEP0v8ArM3ygPkk8jn7QQ3EOOz8OI_k3IMpGGUCpML8zmH-pOOUIxwFB0tcTkUGVeP0nkrwRN0NLT6WzHMQ/s320/photo+%25288%2529.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I guess that just about <i>wraps</i> things up for now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Natalie x</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-QMv_4mITr10Yf1C_aGOpJ0BXoNWmHCGYnvaUlauxJ49iepdIYu59yCpLfzPdL7ViXVM24-2_fRQguvAC54yFOBcrzyEZJdzi0RdmV7ishVON57B3i7AQWuUfjduXlblTixto3g8wUvU/s1600/photo+%25289%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-QMv_4mITr10Yf1C_aGOpJ0BXoNWmHCGYnvaUlauxJ49iepdIYu59yCpLfzPdL7ViXVM24-2_fRQguvAC54yFOBcrzyEZJdzi0RdmV7ishVON57B3i7AQWuUfjduXlblTixto3g8wUvU/s320/photo+%25289%2529.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fabric Land, my favourite shop hidden away in Kingston. I'm pretty certain a Drag Queen once went in and threw up everywhere, making it the perfect treasure trove for choosing your favorite Christmas Jumper accessories!</span></div>
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Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165801302045898585.post-37242231271155354742011-11-04T09:03:00.000-07:002013-02-09T06:51:01.120-08:00Unhappy Birthday<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So we have made it to November. Guy Fawkes be burnin', winter coats hang on the closest peg to the door, Christmas lights flicker on the high street and it’s the month of ...my birthday. My *cough cough* 24th birthday. How did I get so old, so soon? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I was younger, (ahh those were the days!) I had this big life plan. I dreamt that by the time I reached 24, I would be living in some swanky pad in <city w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Richmond</place></city>, married to the most gorgeous specimen of a man and have at least one sprog, and ideally up the duff with another. Disappointedly, I am none of the above. My life at the moment reads a lot different to how I had hoped it would currently be. I am still living at home, with my mother (in Stoneleigh, not <city w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Richmond</place></city>), I am very much single, and unfortunately diamonds have not even come close to reaching my marital finger. Finally, I am most definitely, 100% not pregnant. – Well, at least I hope I'm not!? That would be a cruel joke, Angel Gabriel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think I have reached that dreaded stage in life where I no longer look forward to my birthday. I did not want this time to come, but its too late, the days are whizzing by and my <place w:st="on"><placename w:st="on">Freedom</placename> <placetype w:st="on">Pass</placetype></place> is another sleep closer. I simply do not want to turn 24! Okay, maybe there are some benefits to growing older. Sure, my car insurance with go down as I go up in age, <span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">in a hostage situation, it would be likely that I would be released first,</span><span lang="EN-GB"> </span>and great, I can legally drive in Europe now.<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span>But even taking all benefits into consideration, 24 is still 6 years to 30, almost a quarter of a century gone, and (oh no) nearly half way to 50!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yep, I have sadly turned into one of those people who no longer get excited about their birthdays. My wish list clearly demonstrates my lack of enthusiasm. This year I am asking for: (don't worry, you'll only need a postage stamp to scribble this lot down, Mum) new bathroom towels and bumper packs of tights and socks. How boring, maybe I am boring? Maybe this is why I am still childless, single and the only daughter left living at home with my mother. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As of yet, no plans have been confirmed for the dreaded day. I’m sure it will involve some sort of wild night, unintentionally playing half-woman, half-vodka, wearing my bank card out until it’s paper thin and attempting to prevent toppling over in my heels. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In an ideal world, I’d quite happily celebrate by sitting in with a pack of Opal Fruits, a nice mug of mint tea and <span style="color: black;">moan about the rising price of petrol. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maybe next year...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Natalie x</span></div>
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Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165801302045898585.post-26851712809277388142011-10-26T14:33:00.000-07:002013-02-09T06:51:18.579-08:00A Bon Nuit<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last Sunday, Hammersmith Apollo (or the HMV Apollo which I believe is it's latest, official name) played host to American Indie-Folk Band, Bon Iver. Heard of them? No?... Well you should have! Okay, brief summary: Fronted by singer/songwriter Justin Vernon, Bon Iver have been on the musical scene for 4 years. In that time, they have built up a worldwide fan base. The first album 'For Emma, Forever ago' penned by Justin, was written whilst he hibernated for 3 months in his fathers log cabin in Wisconsin. Some of the tracks suggest his time spent there was to mend a broken heart, others speculate that it because he had been through some tough years, including the split of his previous band (and possible girlfriend?), which resulted in his world crashing down. Whatever the story, the three months were well spent. His life spun into song made the guy an incredible first album and I'm sure, an awful lot of money. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Anyway, we're back in Hammersmith and word had begun to spread that tickets were being snapped up outside for £200. I was one of the lucky ones who parted with my £23.50 when the tickets first went on sale a few months ago. I also over heard whispers that this could potentially be one of the best live shows of 2011. Bon Iver better not let me down. Don't get me wrong, I was excited and had high expectations, but also could have really done with the £200 and an early night. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The performance opened with 'Perth' which just so happens to be one of my favourite tracks from the latest, self-titled album. It was a good start. I couldn't help but feel a little shocked when I counted the 8 musicians alongside Justin. For a guy that could carry a crowd on his delicate voice alone, surely didn't require a mini orchestra, especially one including two thunderously large drum kits and what can only be described as the worlds biggest saxophone!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a few spine tingling tracks filled the air, the band stood to one side and allowed Justin to perform a track off the iconic first album. At this point, the room fell deathly silent. The only other sound that could be heard was a light tapping on my shoulder. My friend decided to remind me that it was my round at the bar.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During that performance, my eyes scanned the room. No, not in search of my friend bringing me my cider. But to do the mandatory people watch. It was clear to see that the majority of Bon Iver's followers were either couples that lovingly hung off each others necks, or were male, mid-twenties sporting a perfectly planned 7-day stubble. Sadly, I didn't fall into either of these cult categories. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The musicians continued to capture the crowd, taking them on a magical, musical journey and if I closed my eyes, ignored the thick, sticky, musk of body odor that hung in the air, I could have almost been transported to his fathers log cabin. When he begun to serenade the virtually still crowd with one of my favourite tracks 'Wash', I couldn't help but whip out my camera phone to capture the moment on film. I've since posted this video online and I have become somewhat of a YouTube sensation. Last time I checked I had 90+ views within 48 hours of posting the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9h-bNEJwig"><span style="color: blue;">clip</span></a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bon Iver of course had to perform their biggest, most popular hit 'Skinny Love'. A beautiful song which has been covered by many artists much to my disapproval. (I'm not a fan of artists covering already fantastic songs, I think its a cheap shot to ride on anothers success). Anyway, this was the penultimate track in the 1hr 45min set, and when the first strum of his guitar sounded, the room suddenly lit up. No, not with lighters waving in the air or some fancy stage neons. The venue simply lit up with...camera phones. As much as I too wanted to capture this beauty of a song on my phone, I was certain that one of the crowd would inevitably post the clip online for me to steal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's fair to say that Bon Iver have developed into a bigger, better ensemble, full of percussion and life with the ability to hold such an on stage presence it was virtually impossible to focus on anything else. - Other than the surprisingly attractive beaded men of course.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I left Hammersmith feeling musically fulfilled, fuzzy headed, happy and trembling, slightly. It was a cocktail of powerful music, a few too many ciders and lack of winter jacket. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Natalie x</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Unfortunately I left my camera at home, so you will have to make do with the grainy pictures off my phone.</span></div>
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Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165801302045898585.post-59043015376644122002011-10-18T04:51:00.000-07:002013-02-09T06:51:36.383-08:00Hot-tober<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I couldn’t quite believe my eyes a couple of weeks ago when I did the routine weather check on my phone. The week read; blistering hot sunshine with temperatures peaking at 30 degrees. What! EXCUSE ME?! 30 degrees! - But that's hotter than the <country-region w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Bahamas</place></country-region> (as the radio later tells me). As I rubbed my eyes in disbelief and double checked my phone again, the orange sunshine icon beaming back at me never looked so bright, and I am sure if I tilted my head to the left and squinted ever so slightly, the symbol was smiling back at me. No, of course that bit was a lie, but it might as well have been true! It was going to be a good week. <br />
But wait. This is October isn't it? We should be experiencing grey skies, rain and cold mornings with the occasional whisper of frost. I am so confused, too confused to care, all I could think about was rapidly topping up what was left of my almost invisible Spanish tan. So I slipped on my favourite summer dress, rested my shades on my nose and stepped into my flip flops. These summer clothes were not ready for the storage box just yet. <br />
Agghh wait. BIG problem. I haven't shaved my legs! Okay, I'll substitute the dress for leggings and a floral top, just for the day. I will dig the razors out later.<br />
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So other than trotting around in wedges (just because I could) and eating my lunch in the garden at work, I probably wasn't taking advantage of the glorious weather as much as I thought I should. When it was over, I couldn't help but feel a bit disappointed, I should have done <em>something</em>. So when I heard that we were in for some more sun after the brief spell that kissed early October, I knew I had to partake in something outdoorsy and quintessentially British - that didn’t involve me sitting in the garden downing jugs of Pimms! The Friday night before the second blast of sunshine was due, my friend requested my company whilst walking her puppy in the morning. Sure, good idea! I don't ever recall walking a dog before, this was new, exciting and most importantly, outdoors. Now providing I didn't have to pick up any doggy droppings (I had just painted my nails) I knew I was in for a pleasant morning. So I headed out on my first dog walk. It was so nice, the fresh air, the green grass, the bluest sky. Part of me wished I had a dog so I could do this more often, hang on, we're only in for two days of sunshine. I don't fancy walking in the cold weather regardless of how cute or possibly overweight my dream dog would be. Plus picking up shit would be mandatory if the dog was my own. Scrap that. Looks like this dog walk is a one off! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Whilst walking the dog, which clearly wasn’t enjoying the walk as much as us. - Have you ever known a dog who likes to be carried on a walk? Is this normal? Anyway...my friend and I decided that we should dust off our bicycles and head somewhere in the afternoon for a mini adventure. We quickly deposited the lazy dog back home and enthusiastically set out on what would turn out to be one of my favourite days of the whole summer...in October!?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So we cycled and cycled until our legs couldn't spin any more. We went from Ewell to Surbiton, Surbiton to Thames Ditton, through Thames Ditton to Hampton Court, a quick photo op on the bridge then it was back on the bikes. <city w:st="on">Hampton</city> Court to <city w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Kingston</place></city>, ouch! legs.were.beginning.to.hurt. Let's stop. Okay, <place w:st="on"><city w:st="on">Kingston</city></place> to Harts Boatyard for a glass of some well earned sunshine cider. Two pints later, although 3 would have been ideal but we are classy girls and to be honest, didn't know the drink driving rules when it came to push bikes. So we slowly cycled back, I think we did around 15 miles! Wow. Go team sunshine!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During our bike trip, we saw some really beautiful scenes. Families enjoying trips on boats, the sun glistening on the <place w:st="on">Thames</place>, old ladies chowing down 99's, those welcoming smiles from strangers that only sunshine can bring out. It was such a GOOD day. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But as I type this, the weather seems to be retuning back to the seasonal norm. I even slept with the heating on last night. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All because of my day, I can honestly say the weather was so good while it lasted, and I feel that I certainly made up for the lack of activity earlier in the month. <br />
I can't wait to see what surprises November brings! <br />
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Natalie x<br />
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P.S. there are two things that I have learnt from my day in the October sun: <br />
1. Walking a dog makes you loads of friends. <br />
2. Riding a bike for 4 hours seriously hurts your arse.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Hampton Court!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hanging out - (terrible caption effort, I know)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Celebratory Ciders and snacks</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Watching the sun go down on Kingston River</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Home again, jiggity jig. </span></div>
Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6165801302045898585.post-80606817718477641142011-10-14T07:33:00.000-07:002013-02-09T06:51:51.174-08:00Welcome Home<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last weekend, I got something back that had been missing in my life for a while. No, not my Topshop store card or my small appetite (both I've accepted have dissappeared forever). I had something return that money can't buy, something that smells sweeter than Grandmas kitchen, something that I treasure more than my Jaeger coat. Well, almost. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";">My little sister. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";">Okay, at 20 years old she is not so little, but her waist is considerably smaller than mine and I can just about peer over her head when she stands near me. She returned from a 3 month internship across the pond. It was a fantastic opportunity for her, and she took full advantage of it. I was of course beyond excited about my playmate heading home, but part of me felt sad. She had a taste of 'the good life' and I'm pretty sure that my TV broadcasting re-runs of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Come Dine with Me</i> could never match the bright lights of <city w:st="on"><place w:st="on">New York City</place></city>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";">Since her return, her diary has been packed out with work, socialising and of course, sleeping. In fact, I probably spoke to her more whilst she was away than now she's back in the motherland.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";">Regardless of her not being within arms reach of me everyday, I still sleep better at night knowing she is back on British soil. Primarily because my slumber will no longer be interrupted by a 3am Skype call. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";">I am one of three sisters, the middle one to be precise, and yes, it is true what they say about middle child syndrome, which according to the Urban Dictionary (an invaluable source) is described as ‘an emotional scarring condition’. I wholeheartedly agree. My eldest sister, quite easily the most hardworking woman I have ever known, no longer lives under the same roof as myself and the small waisted one, but we try to meet up as often as possible. Collectively, the three of us go together better than a bacon, lettuce and tomato bap. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";">I have decided that there is no better companion (not even a <place w:st="on">Labrador</place>) that is better than a sister, and I am lucky to have two of the best! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";">...Wow, on a cheese scale, that was definitely a Parmesan. I better stop grating.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";">Natalie x</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Franklin Gothic Medium";"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The deliciously nutty, white chocolate brownies I baked to thank my sister for coming back to me.</span></span></div>
Nataliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00303007331903920018noreply@blogger.com0