tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53349830116374381102024-03-18T02:47:33.376-07:00nostalgiecatIn the pursuit of happiness......a journal of how to enjoy the small things in life: from the first flowers in spring to the joy of making something new from something old!!june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.comBlogger302125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-34185141437960132402017-10-05T01:35:00.001-07:002017-10-05T02:07:06.764-07:00Be brave not fearless<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />You have to keep changing to really be living....</h3>
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This video is my favorite memory of Summer 2017, as I felt brave and free....</div>
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All you ever wanted is on the other side of fear....</div>
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Leaving this here as my last ever post</div>
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with love,</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com126tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-80728245463848376342016-08-24T08:30:00.000-07:002016-08-24T08:30:14.020-07:00living simply<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi....it's been a while, I know...</div>
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Time has flown by and stood still at the same time around here, and blogging has been on the back burner..</div>
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Amidst the chaos and calm of starting a new life for me and my daughter, my priorities has changed: I no longer feel the need to cram a million projects into my day and I am trying to embrace the everyday glimpses of joy that only reveal themselves when we pause...</div>
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Pausing, or taking time out may sound easy and blissful.... and it is, but it has actually taken a lot of hard work to embrace the stillness: Not the break-neck physical kind of work that leave your body and mind aching, but the kind of painful soul searching that makes you re-evaluate everything you thought to be true....creating some kind of inward tornado of chaos that leaves you exhausted....</div>
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So as a reaction to all the chaos on the inside, I think simplifying things on the outside became the antidote....</div>
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Only having what you really need in terms of worldly possessions: A roof over your head, food in the belly and clothes on your back.....those are the essentials....everything else is just spice.</div>
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Don't get me wrong: we have more than we need....plenty of spice: A few treasured belongings that are utterly useless other than to be appreciated for their beauty, or the memories and feelings they induce....but that's OK....this is not about living minimalist , but rather simplistically.</div>
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Visually not much has changed since me and miss moo moved into our little house here on the west coast of Norway, and I think this is a direct result of this newfound mindset.</div>
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As a self proclaimed interior blogger, this has been a huge stumbling block for me....how can I blog about interiors, trends and styling when none of it no longer held any value with me?</div>
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But then I realized that there are some new influences in my life that easily translates to interiors, and is very evident in our little home here by the sea...</div>
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I will divulge more in another post....hopefully soon, although I am not putting any pressure on myself.....but for today I will leave you with some shots I snapped the other day of our little living room:</div>
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Have a beautifully s.implistic day folks</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com63tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-32780763301721501212016-05-09T11:42:00.000-07:002016-05-09T11:42:19.283-07:00housetour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Our new home by the sea....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So, as I showed you our new home last week, as it was <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.no/2016/05/the-old-cottage-by-sea.html">before </a>I spent nearly 3 weeks...blood sweat and tears (yup...there was plenty of tears) , painting and decorating the place, today's post is a picture-heavy-bragging-tour of my decorating efforts so far....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">There is no hocus pocus here....just tonns of white paint....</span><span style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;">and a little grey</span><span style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace;"> (which goes to prove just how much difference a lick....or 4, of fresh paint can make to a place!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">(you can see the before pictures <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.no/2016/05/the-old-cottage-by-sea.html">here</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I'm not going to lie, it was pretty heavy going there for a while, wielding that paint roller long into the night ....Doing up an entire (allbeit little) house on your own is NOT something I would reccomend...But now that it's done, I couldn't be happier with the result!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">There are still plenty of things to sort out around here (to keep me busy) but I snapped these pictures the other week with my phone camera (as my proper camera is still in a box somewhere) hence the sometimes poor picture quality....apologies.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Anyway....here it is: Our new home....in all its imperfect perfection....No styling...just a quick tidy up...a little make shift and slightly bohemian, I think you'll agree:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The kitchen</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">As mentioned in my previous post, the entrance to the house is through the kitchen, and I've updated this room by giving it a thorough clean, a good few coats of paint, white and grey..</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">and I've simply added some marbled sticky back vinyl to the worksurface and splashback by the sink to update these....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I actually love that the old cupboard doors squek a little when they shut....But not so much that the lower cupboard door, seen above doesn`t want to shut at all....like I said: Perfectly imperfect!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The hallway</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It may seem a little odd that we don't use the entrance door to the hallway to get into the house, and come through the kitchen, but without having to explain too much: It just works better that way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But the hallway provides us with a great little landing station, and space to store our coats and shoes...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And of course, it is the perfect place for a full length mirror, (which by the way used to be in the bathroom)....And that lovely old corner cupboard came with the house (I cannot open it as I haven't got the key...hehe)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">In fact there is quite a few little bonus prices like that here....wich is perfect for me, as we didn't bring a lot with us in terms of furniture when we moved from England.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Upstairs</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">From the hallway the stairs go up to a landing strip space that is currently full of boxes and suitcases full of clothes...the plan is to convert one half of this space into a wardrobe area, and the other half into a workspace....but that's all for a future post....</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOiyUyvUK9M/Vytj028N1RI/AAAAAAACm6Q/HpO0A73z0-gMdo3IkEVG5vlOcxdPMe_3ACKgB/s1600/994454cc-bebc-4d61-a73b-a61cad813b1d" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOiyUyvUK9M/Vytj028N1RI/AAAAAAACm6Q/HpO0A73z0-gMdo3IkEVG5vlOcxdPMe_3ACKgB/s640/994454cc-bebc-4d61-a73b-a61cad813b1d" width="466" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">For now I've just painted it white and laid down some cork flooring....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Little Miss Moo's room</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UfpFpVndrXg/VytlG2EKqyI/AAAAAAACm84/buZnw8GngrwAy2_DVk2opfHuw3BVNg7ngCKgB/s1600/a6a83d91-34c1-4b2b-aef6-8aaf0cdd2250" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UfpFpVndrXg/VytlG2EKqyI/AAAAAAACm84/buZnw8GngrwAy2_DVk2opfHuw3BVNg7ngCKgB/s640/a6a83d91-34c1-4b2b-aef6-8aaf0cdd2250" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The main room upstairs, and the largest in the house, is Little Miss Moo's room...</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tY_r3ClIcxY/VytmCPVsKVI/AAAAAAACm-M/jjXghGF5BrcHMsJ4PlosVeyVuaskvdS9wCKgB/s1600/ee4221e5-80e7-4fec-93f3-ebbb97a2b037" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tY_r3ClIcxY/VytmCPVsKVI/AAAAAAACm-M/jjXghGF5BrcHMsJ4PlosVeyVuaskvdS9wCKgB/s640/ee4221e5-80e7-4fec-93f3-ebbb97a2b037" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">A deep clean of the old carpets and a little paint in the eaves is all that I've done to this space ....so far....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Again, those lovely old beds came with the house, providing ample sleepover space for Mia's friends in the future....as did this lovely chest of drawers, below:</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eue4dufn67k/VytmCCS80RI/AAAAAAACm-M/ittf6wzxOOkW1ICt4YpbDwNL1Tu-g3ghgCKgB/s1600/ac3adc2c-9457-4482-8ab4-52a66c76accd" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eue4dufn67k/VytmCCS80RI/AAAAAAACm-M/ittf6wzxOOkW1ICt4YpbDwNL1Tu-g3ghgCKgB/s640/ac3adc2c-9457-4482-8ab4-52a66c76accd" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Mia loves having all that floorspace to play on, and I must admit her room does NOT look this tidy on a daily basis....but I don't mind...this is HER space and she can do what she wants up here!</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mpCWKfvTQ0o/VytmCK6D_GI/AAAAAAACm-M/QHEq9tUc0l8NngDpIC5mQzEGkanpXGD0ACKgB/s1600/43c239d0-4fc2-4f5e-8d8c-5105c5bca863" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mpCWKfvTQ0o/VytmCK6D_GI/AAAAAAACm-M/QHEq9tUc0l8NngDpIC5mQzEGkanpXGD0ACKgB/s640/43c239d0-4fc2-4f5e-8d8c-5105c5bca863" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">She also loves this little den-nook I've very simply created by hanging some curtains from an old broom handle....</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bhm_yl-FT4M/VytmCDkk8vI/AAAAAAACm-M/xkUKttj1YxUTc-3Y32Q7b4qOyqxDbbZKwCKgB/s1600/84c4a279-6537-49b8-b9f0-24edde1b76a4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bhm_yl-FT4M/VytmCDkk8vI/AAAAAAACm-M/xkUKttj1YxUTc-3Y32Q7b4qOyqxDbbZKwCKgB/s640/84c4a279-6537-49b8-b9f0-24edde1b76a4" width="482" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The french-matrass-style floorcushion also came with the house, as a set of 3....just wait till you see how I used the other two....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But first, I want to take you back downstairs and show you my bedroom:</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-slv7hSXmzbk/VydQT4R6shI/AAAAAAACmsY/LQ6U_QeVGf0x1nFa6zxxe6gtpvxM8hEGgCKgB/s1600/8ffb835c-b7b4-4d19-a957-103749c256c1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-slv7hSXmzbk/VydQT4R6shI/AAAAAAACmsY/LQ6U_QeVGf0x1nFa6zxxe6gtpvxM8hEGgCKgB/s640/8ffb835c-b7b4-4d19-a957-103749c256c1" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The bedroom</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GaoAKYg39b0/VydQgxiRL3I/AAAAAAACmtA/ZW8ADOUym_MpZcx02zU6CX-qc_LYmRuYwCKgB/s1600/77cca1cc-968a-4ab3-8127-d904d4af95ea" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GaoAKYg39b0/VydQgxiRL3I/AAAAAAACmtA/ZW8ADOUym_MpZcx02zU6CX-qc_LYmRuYwCKgB/s640/77cca1cc-968a-4ab3-8127-d904d4af95ea" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Again this room has just been painted white...I say "just" with some reluctance as this was by far the worst room to paint...5 coats it took, ceiling AND walls, to cover the previous dirty beige...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">As you can see, it is very much back to basics when it comes to furniture and decoration in our new home, and the bedroom is no exception:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Mum and dad was kind enough to donate me one of their spare beds, and aside from that, the old swing chair (Love it) and dresser came with the house...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">...that's all you need in a bedroom , right??</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7fPi0aQjug/VydQgumNs5I/AAAAAAACmtA/HGI_JsAblCgTHtBTEEoZt2HBam0QTTDaACKgB/s1600/221e8667-aea9-496e-8902-1d86572b4652" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7fPi0aQjug/VydQgumNs5I/AAAAAAACmtA/HGI_JsAblCgTHtBTEEoZt2HBam0QTTDaACKgB/s640/221e8667-aea9-496e-8902-1d86572b4652" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">...well, maybe, except a huge piece of <a href="http://www.roomdesign.no/2015/04/21/the-big-easy-abstract-art-diy/">DIY art</a> and some mismatched rugs on the floor....</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mnLjxm5hKM8/VydQXV3B5gI/AAAAAAACmsY/gzhGbB4Y9aklZmJukPPhN2t_bwHpBKAEACKgB/s1600/e2bc03be-9c1c-484e-ba71-f714bfb34836" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mnLjxm5hKM8/VydQXV3B5gI/AAAAAAACmsY/gzhGbB4Y9aklZmJukPPhN2t_bwHpBKAEACKgB/s640/e2bc03be-9c1c-484e-ba71-f714bfb34836" width="436" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And a mirror and some nice lighting, of course ...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Yes...that is the door to the bathroom you can see in the picture above, and although it looks miles better now than it did before, I unfortunately failed to take some decent photo's of the room, as the light is quite bad in there, and my phone camera just couldn't cope....so I've decided to wait until I dig out my good camera and get some nice photos to show you in a future post....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">...I'm sure you`re all gutted (hehe)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So....my bedroom is located next to the living room, and was probarbly originally meant to be the dining room, so I've simply separated the two by hanging some curtains on the open doorway:</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--0ch1HkM1ng/VydRVrKK5eI/AAAAAAACmt4/jeuMloejWKoM2bcDMED3hpDwcUA2l0IlwCKgB/s1600/f8869276-38ce-4af6-959f-84db8e29397f" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--0ch1HkM1ng/VydRVrKK5eI/AAAAAAACmt4/jeuMloejWKoM2bcDMED3hpDwcUA2l0IlwCKgB/s640/f8869276-38ce-4af6-959f-84db8e29397f" width="478" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The livingroom</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ggSSYf2FPyw/VydRc0aI7QI/AAAAAAACms8/BpmzFUdMoEsoARyEpC2mt2PzDwiqSFEQgCKgB/s1600/caf875f4-93a1-4bb3-b52e-4a3aae19b28d" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ggSSYf2FPyw/VydRc0aI7QI/AAAAAAACms8/BpmzFUdMoEsoARyEpC2mt2PzDwiqSFEQgCKgB/s640/caf875f4-93a1-4bb3-b52e-4a3aae19b28d" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This is my favorite room in the house....mostly because of those windows: Not only do they let in the most amazing light pretty much all day long, but they also have THE MOST AMAZING VIEW OF THE SEA...and face west , so that in evening I can watch the most beautiful sunsets you can imagine...follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nostalgiecat/">instagram</a> to see!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CzvOmVGAS6E/VzDBp6T9VQI/AAAAAAACnKM/G_XelD-B480Ae3SsYoh77p_IQXzXm71xgCKgB/s1600/31123e8b-5166-4c1a-99e2-58f320efd8d0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CzvOmVGAS6E/VzDBp6T9VQI/AAAAAAACnKM/G_XelD-B480Ae3SsYoh77p_IQXzXm71xgCKgB/s640/31123e8b-5166-4c1a-99e2-58f320efd8d0" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">You may recognise my <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.no/2014/10/mid-century-modern-style-coffee-table.html">coffee table</a>, a DIY I did back in England, and one of the few pieces of furniture we took over the pond, sitting pretty ontop of my ONE extravagant (Even if it was a bargain!!) buy for the house: That huge and fantasticly soft and shaggy <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">Boucherouite-style </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;">Beni Ourain rug.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px;"> I've been wanting one for ages, and do not care one bit if they are going out of fashion....</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">As we had next to no furniture, I had to get inventive when it came to seating for the livingroom....but, as simple as it is, I adore my pallet sofa!! 4 pallets,8 wheels, a matrass and some cushions, and voila....a perfectly bohemian sofa! (I also love that I can store magazines and games underneath the seating)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And yes, those are the french matrass-style cushions that was here when we moved in: Perfect for making a comfy sofa back!! Don't you think?</span></div>
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Here's another couple of gems that came with the house:</div>
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That gorgeous vintage teak chair and the floorlamp.... I feel lucky just looking at them!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ynvvt54oug4/VydR8iHyKUI/AAAAAAACmuk/o-hYrseeeWEaQmcb_y_9YSaFxt8VYFqxQCKgB/s1600/73e68a51-c8df-4d46-8581-f294a8ab7b63" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ynvvt54oug4/VydR8iHyKUI/AAAAAAACmuk/o-hYrseeeWEaQmcb_y_9YSaFxt8VYFqxQCKgB/s640/73e68a51-c8df-4d46-8581-f294a8ab7b63" width="448" /></a></div>
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My<a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.no/2015/07/mid-century-modern-style-sideboard.html"> DIY sidebard </a>came across the pond with us, and now serves as a TV and Media console...</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bilXtvfrPhs/VzC93D32sEI/AAAAAAACnJI/8oI3O9qOZ7QSfBVq_xwdKa0wSIr2jqpbQCKgB/s1600/083f365b-6155-41ef-906e-e67fc7e84ee7" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bilXtvfrPhs/VzC93D32sEI/AAAAAAACnJI/8oI3O9qOZ7QSfBVq_xwdKa0wSIr2jqpbQCKgB/s640/083f365b-6155-41ef-906e-e67fc7e84ee7" width="456" /></a></div>
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I actually love that the interior look of our new home is a coincidental mix of styles, naturally eclectic....and the little old fashioned woodburning stove, below, in the livingroom is one of my favourite things about this house....</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RnvshSX-5A/Vyd1eGQhNpI/AAAAAAACmx8/_AMm7FwEt1k_tXZQZphMATrmwAMdiNbDwCKgB/s1600/d4be6331-c223-41b1-979b-9e6b520e5060" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RnvshSX-5A/Vyd1eGQhNpI/AAAAAAACmx8/_AMm7FwEt1k_tXZQZphMATrmwAMdiNbDwCKgB/s640/d4be6331-c223-41b1-979b-9e6b520e5060" width="408" /></a></div>
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Juxtaposed with the modern lines (although probarbly from the same era...?) of my Eames chairs, below, now situated around a dining table (another inhereted piece)....</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JYObi6jCxqE/VzC9G0CfPFI/AAAAAAACnIo/XarWXENmxcog2ns1ZjTL6s7g8buthwGUwCKgB/s1600/7058a259-272d-4c44-b7fc-3e2829a98534" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JYObi6jCxqE/VzC9G0CfPFI/AAAAAAACnIo/XarWXENmxcog2ns1ZjTL6s7g8buthwGUwCKgB/s640/7058a259-272d-4c44-b7fc-3e2829a98534" width="480" /></a></div>
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that also serves as a temporary work space..</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URDCaaXhbEo/Vyd16oOL5xI/AAAAAAACmyw/gfcjzyd1CLYoMONOgjnP7mQRPjwBn3xCgCKgB/s1600/5ac4fcba-85dd-4149-b7c5-e59c9d79b182" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URDCaaXhbEo/Vyd16oOL5xI/AAAAAAACmyw/gfcjzyd1CLYoMONOgjnP7mQRPjwBn3xCgCKgB/s640/5ac4fcba-85dd-4149-b7c5-e59c9d79b182" width="504" /></a></div>
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I was not intentionally searching for a new interior style when I decorated our new little house, and the look has come together quite organically....wich makes it feel authentic and real....</div>
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All I'm lusting after now is some more plants to bring the spaces to life....The one above (I do not know what it's called) was a housewarming gift from my best friend...Thank you Janne;)</div>
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It feels wonderfully bohemian and minimalistic knowing that the stuff in here is either stuff we love or need...no more... no less, all set for a simple life. And I look forward spending loads of time at the nearby beach, the lake in the woods or montains....with this little simple home to come home to in the evening....</div>
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idyllic, no?</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com65tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-10989678124308533202016-05-02T08:26:00.000-07:002016-05-02T08:26:06.855-07:00The old cottage by the sea....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Our new home.....before redecorating</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-guVZy5C8N00/VwarjJ7fpZI/AAAAAAACmNU/5D_UJfplIj0E4nYBskUkH47_WZVxeLyjwCKgB/s1600/f667226c-3075-4f9f-9993-92fc65d6171c" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-guVZy5C8N00/VwarjJ7fpZI/AAAAAAACmNU/5D_UJfplIj0E4nYBskUkH47_WZVxeLyjwCKgB/s640/f667226c-3075-4f9f-9993-92fc65d6171c" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We are in! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">After months of living out of a suitcase, me and little Miss Moo have now finally moved into our new home here in Norway....in fact we've been here for a couple of weeks now. And we love it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's been a long and hard journey getting here...but now that we are in, it finally feels like we can truly start our new life here in Norway!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I found this little house (No....it's not a "hytte" (Norwegian for cabin or holiday home).....it IS A HOUSE...it may be small, but it's just the right size for us!) to rent back in February....just a 15 minute walk from my mum and dads, on the utmost island here on the west coast of Norway....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Yes, it is in the sticks, and yes, it is small....and YES it is most definitely old!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">In other words: It's Perfect!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I had to spend a lot of blood sweat and tears to get this place up to date and suitable for living, as it had been stood empty for quite a few years....but 7 kettles of paint later,it is now our home and dramatically different from the pictures I'll show you in this post.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I thought I'd share the before pictures of our new home today, so that you can all see just what a difference a few coats of paint can make , when I post the after pictures in my next post next week...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So here it is....our new home in it's unpolished and dated before decorating state:</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7piJ0OKaHU/VwarqxoVO2I/AAAAAAACmN4/8ZZJJjxiRpUmLF-GIDyCJ86p21yLyfQbgCKgB/s1600/a6acd06c-7611-4531-802c-b51dcf7e2ae6" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7piJ0OKaHU/VwarqxoVO2I/AAAAAAACmN4/8ZZJJjxiRpUmLF-GIDyCJ86p21yLyfQbgCKgB/s640/a6acd06c-7611-4531-802c-b51dcf7e2ae6" width="478" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>The Kitchen</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There is actually 3 entrances into the house: One through the bathroom, One that leads into a handy hallway and One that leads straight into the Kitchen, which is the one we have taken to using...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I fell in love with the old fashioned kitchen cupboards straight away, and even though the kitchen is small...(in fact it's so small that there is no room for a standard size cooker and the fridge has to go in the hallway), I could tell that this would be a perfectly cosy little kitchen with just a few modifications and some paint.....</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KUngvOaGyg4/Vwarre_YUrI/AAAAAAACmN4/vdDJjOdfdaYSrn8ougEJuPkEngFnr1vKQCKgB/s1600/9bc96196-25ae-4a2f-b7af-fa824b11889c" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KUngvOaGyg4/Vwarre_YUrI/AAAAAAACmN4/vdDJjOdfdaYSrn8ougEJuPkEngFnr1vKQCKgB/s640/9bc96196-25ae-4a2f-b7af-fa824b11889c" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Little Miss Moo did not share my vision of the cosy little kitchen when we visited the first time, as you can tell by the skeptical look on her face...And I can't say I blame her: it was cold and dirty....definately needed a little tender love and care!</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zCTOrh7nNQc/Vwarzdoqz-I/AAAAAAACmN4/Z5ulRsR4hgYRcUScfHMl4UatstzD27oBwCKgB/s1600/b2735248-e98e-42ca-9bce-cb9c8abf7271" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zCTOrh7nNQc/Vwarzdoqz-I/AAAAAAACmN4/Z5ulRsR4hgYRcUScfHMl4UatstzD27oBwCKgB/s640/b2735248-e98e-42ca-9bce-cb9c8abf7271" width="408" /><span id="goog_1409462078"></span><span id="goog_1409462079"></span></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>The livingroom</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The livingroom also felt a little worn and dirty, but those windows have the most amazing view (See my previous post) and the light in here is amazing....</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C0DCV_PP1nM/Vwar3FwJ0CI/AAAAAAACmN4/M_c-DU4MjtAAgfSnicxW1DCgdPfUifIYQCKgB/s1600/054e1752-3db6-478e-afdd-86b86ceca269" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C0DCV_PP1nM/Vwar3FwJ0CI/AAAAAAACmN4/M_c-DU4MjtAAgfSnicxW1DCgdPfUifIYQCKgB/s640/054e1752-3db6-478e-afdd-86b86ceca269" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It also has those gorgeous beamed ceilings and the retro woodburner in one corner....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Apart from giving the walls a few coats of paint to brighten the room up, the vinyl flooring needed a good on-your-hands-and-knees-scrub-clean!</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaivHIuZFfc/Vwar1-BwXbI/AAAAAAACmN4/o5X_HSJ-M3A78CCMRs66PfMpbw4p7tLowCKgB/s1600/02f25fda-6678-45ae-ae06-a1309b89e616" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaivHIuZFfc/Vwar1-BwXbI/AAAAAAACmN4/o5X_HSJ-M3A78CCMRs66PfMpbw4p7tLowCKgB/s640/02f25fda-6678-45ae-ae06-a1309b89e616" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>My bedroom</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Leading straight off from the livingroom is a room that was probably meant to serve as a dining room, but that now serves the purpose as my bedroom...</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GOJjEk9z_ds/Vwar_2TP0jI/AAAAAAACmO8/ojwZ4rlAzfcbn0o0bQUq2r4rslklt8NSwCKgB/s1600/5019c1f5-064b-4be7-b409-76d35bcebf63" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GOJjEk9z_ds/Vwar_2TP0jI/AAAAAAACmO8/ojwZ4rlAzfcbn0o0bQUq2r4rslklt8NSwCKgB/s640/5019c1f5-064b-4be7-b409-76d35bcebf63" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Again....this room felt a but dark and dingy, especially as the ceilings are quite low in here...but nothing a little paint and some nice lighting couldn't fix...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>The bathroom</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HMqj2yz2AcU/VwasAa71GuI/AAAAAAACmO8/s4kOZXazmKItRLw0G-sz822lcOweMJnbACKgB/s1600/ee17637c-d7c8-4ab9-b229-5a23de8f3e9e" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HMqj2yz2AcU/VwasAa71GuI/AAAAAAACmO8/s4kOZXazmKItRLw0G-sz822lcOweMJnbACKgB/s640/ee17637c-d7c8-4ab9-b229-5a23de8f3e9e" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Leading off from my bedroom is the bathroom....or should I say toilet and shower room...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The old fashioned shower curtains and those pink walls really makes this room look hideous here in these pictures, and although there was not a lot I could do to modernize this room, the way it looks now is a definite improvement, just wait and see...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>The hallway and stairs</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5qLyWu6oAeY/VwarwUiyNKI/AAAAAAACmN4/WVPlyIG3f7wPVJ6dsByg2mUKH05to2kWwCKgB/s1600/e6751b7c-81c9-40c7-bc6f-158c5cc3d233" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5qLyWu6oAeY/VwarwUiyNKI/AAAAAAACmN4/WVPlyIG3f7wPVJ6dsByg2mUKH05to2kWwCKgB/s640/e6751b7c-81c9-40c7-bc6f-158c5cc3d233" width="480" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I kept joking that the hallway felt like walking into a Swedish flag, with yellow walls and blue trim....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But I could tell that this space would be invaluable for storing our coats and shoes....as well as the fridge, wedged under the stairs. LOL.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b>The Upstairs landing</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">As you come up the stairs, there is a landing where I am planning on creating a little office space with a desk on one side, and a wardrobe space on the other under the eaves...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Again, this area needed a lick of paint (or 4 ) pluss some new flooring...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The lovely big room upstairs is Little Miss Moo's new room...A little paint and a thorough carpet clean, and this room was ready for all her toys...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The lovely old-fashioned beds have both stayed, which was handy as I would've had to buy a new one if not. Mia loves her new room and having that big space to spread out in....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So that concludes today's tour of our new home....as it was before I redecorated. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">If you are curious to see how it looks now, tune back in next week for the "After".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It is by no means finished....and there is still the odd job or two to do....But as <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">always, a Home is a constant work In progress....Something that evolves With Life and time, so it'll never be "done" , But then again that is </span>exactly<span style="font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;"> as it should be....perfectly imperfect❤️ </span></span></span></div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-3609053713410063012016-04-12T06:08:00.003-07:002016-04-12T06:08:58.595-07:00A little red house by the sea....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">New home, fresh start</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56_qyBELFiw/Vwarc4pbxbI/AAAAAAACmNU/NCujU05ncl0y1hpl2GcmT-3eZMesjSgFQ/s1600/8ac3b9c6-5dfe-4393-9632-61ec55f97fab" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56_qyBELFiw/Vwarc4pbxbI/AAAAAAACmNU/NCujU05ncl0y1hpl2GcmT-3eZMesjSgFQ/s640/8ac3b9c6-5dfe-4393-9632-61ec55f97fab" width="504" /></a></div>
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So this is my first blogpost since what feels like forever....</div>
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I apologize for my absence here on the blog, but quite frankly I've not had the capacity to share with you all. Getting adjusted to our new life here in Norway has been a rough journey, practically, but even more so on an emotional level...</div>
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Leaving life as I knew it in the UK, my husband and our home was never going to be easy....and it's not! </div>
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It is still an ongoing battle with my conscience, and a steep learning curve as I've been trying to get to grips with what's important in my life...I've been working very hard trying to purge my own negativity and prioritizing life.....the here and now....the moments I share with Little Miss Moo, being present for her and supporting her adjustment into her new life, at the same time as I've been trying to create a life for us here: Getting Mia settled in a new, Norwegian School, starting work, Sorting out finances and medical issues that has not been prioritized over the last few years....and last but not least: Finding a home for the two of us!</div>
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I feel like I am having to be super woman..... with a pocket full of cryptonite...Obstacle after obstacle, there always seem to be something that needs sorting before I can truly start living again. But I have no choice but to keep going and keep battling: I am determined to create an easy life for me and Mia....but it's pretty hard work at the moment, and sometimes I just feel like quitting, roll up in a ball and get off the carousel....until I see Little miss Moo's happy face as she comes home from school all excited about finding an ants nest (or something else equally random, but oh so important) and just a hug from her fills me with renewed energy to tackle yet another day...</div>
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It does help that we now have found our new home....A quaint, little red cottage with a sea view....just the perfect size for the two of us! It's old, and needed a lot of work in terms of general re-decorating and modernizing, but the rent is cheap....and THAT VIEW!!</div>
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So over the last few weeks I've been spending all the time I could spare, in between working, sorting stuff out and being supermum, painting and redecorating the place....It's been exhausting to say the least, and as I write this, every muscle in my body is aching, but I finished the painting today, so bar giving the house a thorough clean it's ready for us to move into.....so I thought I'd celebrate by writing this blogpost! I will share more of my decorating efforts in my next post, I promise, but for now I just thought I'd share this news with you all!</div>
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I've very seldom shared too much of my personal life here on the blog in the past (bar the occasional emotional outburst, LOL) but quitting blogging and sharing on social media over the last few months has made me re-evaluate the focus of Nostalgiecat, and I've decided that I will use the blog to share a bit more about the life that we lead, not just interiors stuff....</div>
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After all a home is more than bricks and mortar.... it is an essential part of life itself....and the base of who we are. I've also on a more personal level become very interested in the concepts of authentic, minimalist living ....maybe as a product of having to choose what to bring with us when e moved, and living out of a suitcase since December , but maybe also out of a deeper need to simplify things in my life. </div>
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If anything, these last few years have taught me that life does not always turn out as you may expect, or even wish, and I guess it's all about grasping onto the little moments that are in themselves perfectly imperfect.....like the other day when I laughed so hard at Mia's cheating at china-chess that I started crying....</div>
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So as far as my plan for the interiors of our new home and the content here on Nostalgiecat, I guess this time around I have a more philosophical approach to creating a authentic living space that hopefully will feed our creativity and happiness as we get settled into our new life here in Norway....</div>
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Thank you to everyone of my followers that has patiently been waiting whilst I've been picking up the pieces of my life, and thank you to YOU, for taking the time to read this...now please follow along our new journey in the pursuit of happiness!</div>
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Lets begin to live again!</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-49684133048991318142016-01-27T06:51:00.000-08:002016-01-27T06:51:28.719-08:00New beginnings....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi all!</div>
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Just a quick update!</div>
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Having moved back to my native childhood village of Steinsland, Norway about a month ago, we are still just trying to get settled into our new life here!</div>
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It is a big change from our life in England, and there is a lot to consider and still to work out, so I am not yet ready to take up blogging again. But I thought I'd give you all a quick update on how we are getting on, as well as share some of my dreams and aspirations for the year ahead:</div>
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I have started working in a music shop, selling instruments and sound equipment, and I love it....there is a lot for me to learn, but I truly enjoy having a "real" job again....</div>
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Mia has started Norwegian school, and although she struggles a bit with the Norwegian language, she is settling in fine, making friends and enjoying the slightly more free atmosphere of the Norwegian school....She's growing in confidence and getting more independent every day, and most importantly: Seems to be genuinely happy in her new surroundings....</div>
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The truth is : I am so proud of her and how she's coping with all the changes in her life....more so than I have, as I have been finding it all a bit overwhelming, especially on a social level, and bar seeing a couple of friends I have kept myself to myself. </div>
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But things are starting to resolve, and although we are still living with my mum and dad, I have started looking for somewhere to live, and as I write this , all our stuff from England is due for delivery today....Yay!!</div>
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So, I am hoping that once me and little miss Moo have our own home, with all our stuff....and all the paperwork and other essentials are sorted, that our everyday life will get a bit less daunting and become easier....</div>
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In fact, my goal for this year is to start embracing a simpler life....to find a calmness in the structure of "normality"....I look forward to brighter days as the winter darkness here up north will disperse into spring and want to spend more time outdoors, in the beautiful nature that surrounds us...the woods and the sea.....Making our new home and life here easy and carefree...</div>
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I dream of late summer nights filled with music, laughter, good company and good food....embracing a healthy and active lifestyle and fully taking advantage of everything coastal living has to offer...</div>
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I guess the blog will evolve a bit with me in these aspects, and hope that you will all follow along in my quest for the simple life, when I'm ready to start blogging again....</div>
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I can finally, after what feels like ages spent in darkness, feel my creativity starting to bubble up under the surface again now, and I am sure that this new beginning will bring lots more creative projects for the blog....</div>
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So until then,</div>
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wish us luck and stay happy people!</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-36525080822700682122015-12-21T06:35:00.000-08:002015-12-21T06:35:00.807-08:00Merry Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnOOcjVlrW8Apa3_JHaDUniED1q_bc9WKfUmjEY1uNRJYIx63sGIsnxEoXwnvYx3B_T6SIAIpJ7kia1Xmv1fuLogWIa-2u58jWs08rLUKsUEKr6GoMG93vBB2UvSdUqYsqppkFxi0byQ/s1600/merry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnOOcjVlrW8Apa3_JHaDUniED1q_bc9WKfUmjEY1uNRJYIx63sGIsnxEoXwnvYx3B_T6SIAIpJ7kia1Xmv1fuLogWIa-2u58jWs08rLUKsUEKr6GoMG93vBB2UvSdUqYsqppkFxi0byQ/s640/merry.jpg" width="632" /></a></div>
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Logging off now for the holidays and taking a much needed break!</center>
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It may be some time before I'm back, but I will be...</center>
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I wish you all a very merry Christmas and want to leave you all with one of my favorite songs for inducing some Christmas spirit:</center>
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See you all in 2016 !</center>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-38937963516385771262015-12-14T05:39:00.000-08:002015-12-14T05:39:02.778-08:00My DIY origami and bead decoration kits...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfMHndz1qEO2KVhx0lNM5OtbU0xiSV3aNHaqaXwhtqIlNEFRfA2TRI3Y91HzVP-tCTic6N8OCLUhIjepEHFLJwY0AHttla6Yq12L6dpuob05YjfCAzD3kd3mltRFsOmLqFeYmpbnTjAsE/s1600/IMG_5180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfMHndz1qEO2KVhx0lNM5OtbU0xiSV3aNHaqaXwhtqIlNEFRfA2TRI3Y91HzVP-tCTic6N8OCLUhIjepEHFLJwY0AHttla6Yq12L6dpuob05YjfCAzD3kd3mltRFsOmLqFeYmpbnTjAsE/s640/IMG_5180.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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I love origami....not just the way it looks, but also the traditions behind the art form and the therapeutic action of folding. I love creating something tangible out of a flat piece of paper.</div>
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As much as I like the vast arrays of shapes you can create with paper folding, I adore the geometric ones the most, so I decided to make some geo-origami decorations for the Christmas tree this year....</div>
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Now I know I usually post my tutorials for my various makes here for free, but I also know that a lot of people are slightly apprehensive of Origami....thinking it is going to be very tricky to achieve. And also there is the issue of getting all the stuff together to make these....especially now , so close to christmas...</div>
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So, I've actually put together some DIY kits that you can buy from my facebook site, to make it easier for you to make these if you fancy having a go....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuHHlLeHd6x-pko6gJ9FRapJb9EmfvjzbZvBiEWWOqxN37UiUS2PRUaTodyntR7zm_HAQogTFydN2yOAQ2Rvc5jYUv1u4xOv59xcjo0cxstXbWtozxDiQvgWjoqz6XQ-lZ3Tu4-V3ArI8/s1600/_DSC0625+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuHHlLeHd6x-pko6gJ9FRapJb9EmfvjzbZvBiEWWOqxN37UiUS2PRUaTodyntR7zm_HAQogTFydN2yOAQ2Rvc5jYUv1u4xOv59xcjo0cxstXbWtozxDiQvgWjoqz6XQ-lZ3Tu4-V3ArI8/s640/_DSC0625+%25282%2529.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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For just £10 + postage I'll send you out these pre-assembled kits with templates to make 6 Origami decorations, as pictured above....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1Dg4e_ueN0ngjJrauprObHkfdKVv-3bsYe-Fu37R-df1Sa6Kz8raYVfw1FCWv3hlOTugHCmHV5AULqXOVSgBd9rl1X9kYtD-tytU1Txw0Fs7FyOlG0Xb4DMi6IpmRiZ0Oe_-Ex47wSU/s1600/_DSC0627+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1Dg4e_ueN0ngjJrauprObHkfdKVv-3bsYe-Fu37R-df1Sa6Kz8raYVfw1FCWv3hlOTugHCmHV5AULqXOVSgBd9rl1X9kYtD-tytU1Txw0Fs7FyOlG0Xb4DMi6IpmRiZ0Oe_-Ex47wSU/s640/_DSC0627+%25282%2529.jpg" width="592" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBeiI4sRox5DGr4NnhlpNlySEuPbF6oQLHKEale-RiR12O4H9Sj-_TAbJG2jP9wwXbNf_IiJQB8GglDRkNVtIGnl1ep3LZI2Vu9o_NmS_SKWh416QjCFWdUIZ2ngOxPi4VuV_xsZD7hbk/s1600/_DSC0628+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBeiI4sRox5DGr4NnhlpNlySEuPbF6oQLHKEale-RiR12O4H9Sj-_TAbJG2jP9wwXbNf_IiJQB8GglDRkNVtIGnl1ep3LZI2Vu9o_NmS_SKWh416QjCFWdUIZ2ngOxPi4VuV_xsZD7hbk/s1600/_DSC0628+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The templates are ready to be cut out and simply folded , and will make up to 4 different shapes...</div>
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The kits also include The wooden beads and the thread, in your choice of colour (I have loads to choose from, so simply message me with your preference, and I am sure I've got something to suit)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWfEdsdMndYNbUiJlI5ArQvXjkQfzeAWx0yLO7QerZMXVc1Lls8RS9seWgegsNOaM-lC8Z7AvTu_OxYi7aF58eVpKEImcbMVy-NoLY1ukIZdtlvElqsWiY7BN31xNkPGDmMaUoGVVQH4/s1600/_DSC0631+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDWfEdsdMndYNbUiJlI5ArQvXjkQfzeAWx0yLO7QerZMXVc1Lls8RS9seWgegsNOaM-lC8Z7AvTu_OxYi7aF58eVpKEImcbMVy-NoLY1ukIZdtlvElqsWiY7BN31xNkPGDmMaUoGVVQH4/s1600/_DSC0631+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DReiFsBIo5zL5CywJO7rXRe5Bfzu_-LeJWWHBwZX1OothIwGiU0p9ZlCvLDuKq0519RADzzdS7kYXqxO5hOy4hyphenhyphen2Cef7zASyIDf4CaC5_lAKxTtL0uizvnaCdViWu1mWHsTWQObj5so/s1600/_DSC0639+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DReiFsBIo5zL5CywJO7rXRe5Bfzu_-LeJWWHBwZX1OothIwGiU0p9ZlCvLDuKq0519RADzzdS7kYXqxO5hOy4hyphenhyphen2Cef7zASyIDf4CaC5_lAKxTtL0uizvnaCdViWu1mWHsTWQObj5so/s640/_DSC0639+%25282%2529.jpg" width="518" /></a></div>
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And an easy to follow instruction booklet...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdF6FI2Jsgow2vHyiu1tMyA5r71IjAw5sv8T9BEfuM07XmG-DT1OchI88avYexDpK8rtrN-oRlEkzUWQ5_r-_CfvN-7MfdxY9ikeYkM6Kc9yDyMJHCUY5A2gUWe6iMqu30P7u5nQPAPUw/s1600/_DSC0647+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdF6FI2Jsgow2vHyiu1tMyA5r71IjAw5sv8T9BEfuM07XmG-DT1OchI88avYexDpK8rtrN-oRlEkzUWQ5_r-_CfvN-7MfdxY9ikeYkM6Kc9yDyMJHCUY5A2gUWe6iMqu30P7u5nQPAPUw/s640/_DSC0647+%25282%2529.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
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If you would like to try origami for the first time, this is an easy way to start your new love affair with origami!</div>
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Visit my<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Nostalgiecat"> facebook page </a>and inbox me if you would like to buy one of these kits, and I will send you out one ASAP....but do hurry if you'd like to make these in time for Christmas....</div>
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Although, I think these are nice all year round....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKEiPdOFLDKPbG5vTfKUxZWceCxvjefA5NgqXIBL3vcgUsGZ0B4OKzUXKjF9FYnRYWV0bi6zkqc_OEjYLJ2KtpdqE6CFdOmagNTdeQnaE1XIqMxaX0KyNEd9ZRT14KuyQXFozVdCL5OM/s1600/IMG_5188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVKEiPdOFLDKPbG5vTfKUxZWceCxvjefA5NgqXIBL3vcgUsGZ0B4OKzUXKjF9FYnRYWV0bi6zkqc_OEjYLJ2KtpdqE6CFdOmagNTdeQnaE1XIqMxaX0KyNEd9ZRT14KuyQXFozVdCL5OM/s640/IMG_5188.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUGUKFWCE3qXe2JoqP1xVjKLrACRRNGnSaXpiU03tysLkkgGSVQ8TJMRSM628r4NZqG4OJLRP0XwNx8tgIZO20Mo42ry8IU-Ip2nQAmDZfgS3yEpauqBxyyGzYc9JbsUrAIR4E17Nocs/s1600/IMG_5176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUGUKFWCE3qXe2JoqP1xVjKLrACRRNGnSaXpiU03tysLkkgGSVQ8TJMRSM628r4NZqG4OJLRP0XwNx8tgIZO20Mo42ry8IU-Ip2nQAmDZfgS3yEpauqBxyyGzYc9JbsUrAIR4E17Nocs/s640/IMG_5176.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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And if you should find yourself in the London area this Thursday, you can catch an exclusive, free workshop event at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Lauraleadesign/?fref=ts">the Laura Lea Design</a> boutique in<a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Leytonstone/@51.568238,0.0073677,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x47d8a764da8d50a1:0x4a38ca08f537fd3"> Leytonstone</a> and learn how to make these with the amazingly talented Stacie of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TwoForJoyArt/?fref=ts">Two for joy</a>:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5nNfXzKW-MyyvoHbQo0W24W44nky_jRa1IGqcN4VMfsqPqEpfi27PwOxhh8J15_TjqN2M_hfObWxU7t4Kp1oGFI35-a-ggbygGR4SQoM7Nad1r6GYSxOKqd43dDN7lDIbxZ2yHUpq1qQ/s1600/laura+and+Stacie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="612" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5nNfXzKW-MyyvoHbQo0W24W44nky_jRa1IGqcN4VMfsqPqEpfi27PwOxhh8J15_TjqN2M_hfObWxU7t4Kp1oGFI35-a-ggbygGR4SQoM7Nad1r6GYSxOKqd43dDN7lDIbxZ2yHUpq1qQ/s640/laura+and+Stacie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Due to my personal situation at the moment, I can unfortunately not be there myself, but I am sure the workshop will be loads of fun in the most capable hands of Stacie, and you get to take home your very own Origami decoration free of charge....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibe7GN-QD7RsIa5ZV6cZRHnYKf77RsVqi1Nm_gRc7Vq3jktQB33UCCdYTi-TqZ5SEtFu_6gjj5Y4dYxbhvI8WKzfrts1DBUqnLUvP4GS4qBI5viaOSdhPLWMgtdSU_TwSM22kvxUE31Ro/s1600/LaureLea+shop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibe7GN-QD7RsIa5ZV6cZRHnYKf77RsVqi1Nm_gRc7Vq3jktQB33UCCdYTi-TqZ5SEtFu_6gjj5Y4dYxbhvI8WKzfrts1DBUqnLUvP4GS4qBI5viaOSdhPLWMgtdSU_TwSM22kvxUE31Ro/s640/LaureLea+shop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Plus, of course, you can purchase my DIY origami and bead kits in store, along with loads of other beautiful design in Laura's shop....perfect for any Last minute Christmas pressies, thus supporting local artists and designers in the making!!</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-65603066576932124972015-12-09T21:54:00.000-08:002015-12-09T21:54:39.545-08:00DIY Star garland for the Christmas tree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-skS1UmkD_DkxFAXP0Ra3EfgY0UKTz7v8MtjWtsMA-R8n_bdoWz1c9wniVb7jpIUV4wN7nonpQOIN2OyqdFCgigorTMe6IAn90V8hs8UYcawpSGTyBEJmgvQ8yloHGsh6MgmDaF_E5Q/s1600/mini+star+header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-skS1UmkD_DkxFAXP0Ra3EfgY0UKTz7v8MtjWtsMA-R8n_bdoWz1c9wniVb7jpIUV4wN7nonpQOIN2OyqdFCgigorTMe6IAn90V8hs8UYcawpSGTyBEJmgvQ8yloHGsh6MgmDaF_E5Q/s640/mini+star+header.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you, like me , tend to shy away from tinsel and over the top decorations for your Christmas tree....This cute little garland is just the thing: Adding a subtle touch of sparkle with cute little stars, make this easy , minimal garland to drape all over your tree.</div>
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This is such an easy DIY , requiring very little in terms of both materials, effort and time:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mpGvAYaZqT4/VkGhydrJIiI/AAAAAAACk64/xBivUw54uVc/s1600/2015%2B-%2B2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mpGvAYaZqT4/VkGhydrJIiI/AAAAAAACk64/xBivUw54uVc/s640/2015%2B-%2B2" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used:</div>
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<a href="http://www.gameseek.co.uk/pd/Toys8nrr49taw0c/%7BMW%7D">Plain white polymer clay</a></div>
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rolling pin</div>
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<a href="http://www.johnlewis.com/tala-star-cutters-set-of-3/p783291?sku=232605307&kpid=232605307&s_kenid=0b282605-bedb-4f64-b750-07af38a9e8b2&s_kwcid=404x1280565&tmad=c&tmcampid=73">mini star icing cutter</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.fredaldous.co.uk/lame-thread-8m-300-old-gold.html?gclid=Cj0KEQiAyIayBRDo4vjdqJrgxZ0BEiQAhOYCYGmBsXYR2OHIK0a5--RMphgZ6e5CIbhKhsjlekKywxgaAh-_8P8HAQ">glittery gold string</a></div>
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superglue</div>
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Baking paper</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TV8L3K-LJVw/VkGhyVUfyFI/AAAAAAACk64/qEbkfXB_gWo/s1600/2015%2B-%2B1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TV8L3K-LJVw/VkGhyVUfyFI/AAAAAAACk64/qEbkfXB_gWo/s640/2015%2B-%2B1" width="640" /></a></div>
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Roll out the polymer clay to approx 2-3 ml thick...</div>
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Place the rolled out clay on some baking paper.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Js8_HRAxdAw/VkGhydN8TuI/AAAAAAACk64/emj_y5RIA30/s1600/2015%2B-%2B3" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Js8_HRAxdAw/VkGhydN8TuI/AAAAAAACk64/emj_y5RIA30/s640/2015%2B-%2B3" width="640" /></a></div>
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Use the star cutters (I used the largest size) to punch out loads of little stars in the clay...</div>
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Remove any excess clay</div>
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Transfer the stars on the baking paper to a baking sheet and cook in the oven at 150 degrees for approximately 8-10 minutes (Or according to the instructions on the packet of polymer clay)</div>
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Allow to cool....</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsI7t3JYrd0/VkGhyR4VyKI/AAAAAAACk64/eQdcPGeDv3k/s1600/2015%2B-%2B4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZsI7t3JYrd0/VkGhyR4VyKI/AAAAAAACk64/eQdcPGeDv3k/s640/2015%2B-%2B4" width="640" /></a></div>
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Superglue the stars with regular intervals onto the gold string...</div>
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This may take some time: Do a section at the time, and allow the glue to dry whilst getting on with , so: do the washing up, take a bath or read a magazine.... Then move on to the next section of string....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4rCpgNYhYFzqaAZi4bbvRM0ghB9NJm8LPKF013wC1rVOZSTOcNSL4FSwSBf0-IKanxcYc0jXZwk-B8N8V0WyAepphbWY_hEgQNExVnkVFXLtYYMSapTdI8TesWUcfAIQDh2Cj7ELEwao/s1600/IMG_3424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4rCpgNYhYFzqaAZi4bbvRM0ghB9NJm8LPKF013wC1rVOZSTOcNSL4FSwSBf0-IKanxcYc0jXZwk-B8N8V0WyAepphbWY_hEgQNExVnkVFXLtYYMSapTdI8TesWUcfAIQDh2Cj7ELEwao/s640/IMG_3424.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Don't make your string garland TOO long, or you risk some serious tangling....</div>
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rather make a few 1,5 m long sections....</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iUX76aQKTdU/VkHUsmrVcCI/AAAAAAACk_U/NBjSZKAw_ME/s1600/_DSC0059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iUX76aQKTdU/VkHUsmrVcCI/AAAAAAACk_U/NBjSZKAw_ME/s640/_DSC0059.jpg" width="564" /></a></div>
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Pretty, simple and adding a subtle touch of sparkle with the gold string...a far cry from garish tinsel, but non the less decorative on you Christmas tree!</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-74522960897485228662015-12-04T08:22:00.003-08:002015-12-04T08:22:48.612-08:00Five of the best Christmas decor DIY's from the web<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large; line-height: 20.8px;">A guest post by Old Fashioned Susie</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.8px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hi!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.8px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've got a treat for you guys today!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.8px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Whilst I busy myself sorting out my life at the moment, today's post is a guest post by the lovely Susie from the fabulous blog<a href="http://www.oldfashionedsusie.com/"> Old Fashioned Susie</a>, where she's rounded up her favorite Christmas DIY's from the web!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.8px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And I must say....it's like I could've picked them out myself!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.8px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Anyway, I'll let Susie introduce herself and the amazing festive DIY's she's picked:</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-large;"><i>Five of the Best Christmas Decor DIY's</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><i>Hi I'm Susie from <a href="http://www.oldfashionedsusie.com/">Old Fashioned Susie</a> and today I'll be sharing with you my favorite crafting ideas for the upcoming festive season. I've found the best ones so you don't have to trawl through Pinterest like some crazed Christmas fiend. My blog is a mix of lifestyle and interiors with vintage thrown in for good measure. Hope you enjoy my Christmas Craft Picks!</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><i>Whether you've got kids at home or not, adding the handmade touch to your home at Christmas adds a real personal element, and I especially love the fact that whatever you make can then become a keepsake or mini Christmas tradition.</i></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheL_Tw3W0oh4ALvSWBh39l5t8zgNQMCcp_ZhEVzcDPLdCJXYP81EDV3ov9SnVJ8d4UcYVO4xAQH-HhUdHXLPo5egu_7ZEtnWsuE0yX3UtxB3_4KU-2-kjV_2GZ0iQ5WdiuksSuquBolbM/s640/countryliving.com+salt+christmas.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="556" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Image from <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/tips/g907/craft-ideas-for-christmas-decorations-1209/">Country Living</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><i>First up are these adorable salt shaker snow scenes! They would make excellent place markers at festive dinner parties or just a cute way to Christmas up a shelf in your kitchen. These are like little snow worlds and you could really let you imagination go wild if you find some miniature characters to add.</i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVqBD7v1wnFQpLhObOIetu-wA7__vLVImgcWDqh5LYhwCryDHF6FS5POMj7okG_SuTxeOTNcEDu0ch0-NEKJEciwojiT0-h5IAQksKMcfiBlhRFzcpEHyRvR-e8z3yn6qhHIsU_QI8ibM/s640/womansday+christmas+straw+wreath.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="556" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Image from<a href="http://www.womansday.com/home/crafts-projects/how-to/a6332/craft-how-to-straw-burst/"> Womansday</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><i>This straw burst wreath looks really striking but is actually a really simple DIY. I'd try it with multicoloured paper straws too. This one could also be resized to make smaller wreathes perhaps for the tree.</i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizz7zF0Yy4xgO1oYc3X_A3bIunRcvt5BLNv1sWyHLblEoy8xivtgbRGHpHnNOOuUGglfZ_JWMEv4LlipaEpNuCljneJpMtBShcbrrwrJhSy8Khfvgvu0rylGxzgWZV0RMMCsmZ8fr-5Us/s640/pom+pom+wreath.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Image from<a href="http://villalies.blogspot.co.uk/2011/11/veel-ponponnekes.html"> Villa Lisa</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><i>Who wouldn't want this Pom Pom wreath in their home at Christmas? I love this because, in theory you could add to it each year, or get the kids to make the pom poms... I think this could be one decoration that could be a heirloom piece too. There are lots of versions of these online so find one you like and can follow- finally a great excuse to buy wool! </i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhEcwQE5d5Z6Q1w5IadQlgh810kgvouYJbtkdOHK3orrNPbGCx8NWEVzfqe3apHrGCsdQmPbQSUNQcy78Te96fXvL0j_zNM0_rmxphtJSJjIREBW9OHR0R__LB_gFlHtX8NqoTc1JaLA/s640/critter+advent.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Image from<a href="http://snug-online.blogspot.co.uk/2011/11/advent-advent.html"> Snug Studi</a>o</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><i>I seem to have a thing for the cute this year, but this mini critter advent calendar is adorable! And not just for kids... I found loads more <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/33-clever-and-adorable-diy-advent-calendars#.gaPNqYVWg">here</a></i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Z5MU9BCUJ0QifBaUTLgHyTjB86-PmMzSZDW5-uWREReGeP1fnorfNB-sL4kMwVdYS4ir8pcrh3W3p7zAy82DcZr567Ggdb71MBJ-a1TQN_fN5MeO7yqK-oMpsh1wImvINv70mhxkYwo/s640/pine+cone+decor.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="426" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Image from<a href="http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2013/11/pine-cone-bow-ornament-and-other-dream-tree-challenge-details-for-those-who-asked.html"> Make it-Love it</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><i>Lastly pine cone decorations, incredibly easy. Don't forget to pop your pine cones in the oven first though to get rid of any insects hiding inside. These could be customized even further with name tape as ribbon, or spray painting the cones really bright (or Christmassy) colours.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-small;">Great ideas here, don't you think guys?</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-small;">Thank you so much Susie for guest posting on Nostalgiecat.</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-small;">Make sure you all visit <a href="http://www.oldfashionedsusie.com/">Susie's blog </a>to check out more of her festive blog posts!</span></div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-57674521601971855772015-11-25T23:25:00.000-08:002015-11-25T23:25:17.806-08:00When your heart's not in it...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi guys!</div>
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I've got something to tell you all...</div>
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This post has been very difficult for me to write... in fact I've lost count of how many times I've started writing it, only to discard it and start again...</div>
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There is no easy way to to say this, so I guess I'm just going to have to say it:</div>
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<br /></div>
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There is a BIG change coming...</div>
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For those of you that know me personally, or have been following me for some time on social media, you've probably sensed that something's up in my personal life...</div>
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Well....It's a biggie:</div>
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The last year and a half has been really tough , and without going in to too much detail, things are not working out for me here in the UK on a personal level.</div>
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It's been an accumulation of things...circumstances no one could ever predict, illness, struggles and emotions....it's all been too much. And it's affected my health and happiness to the point where I thought I could not go on...</div>
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So I've made a decision...the toughest decision of my life: </div>
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To end my marriage and relocate to Norway!</div>
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I've been heartbroken for so long now, that finally making this decision feels like a step towards regaining some control over my downward spiraling life...</div>
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I am not going to try to justify my decision, just know that I've got to the point where I could see no other option:</div>
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So I am leaving the UK...life as I know it, my marriage, my husband, my best friend for the last 17 years of my life...the life we've had together and the home we've built for our little family...Everything I've worked for....</div>
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So this Christmas me and Little Miss Moo is moving back to Norway...to start again!</div>
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I'm not going to lie:</div>
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I know it's going to be tough on us all:</div>
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Living with my mum and Dad again, at the age of 38, a single mum, no job, no house....nothing...I'ts not exactly how I envisaged my life turning out....But I really feel like this is the right thing to do for me....and for Mia , at this point...and I know that with the support of my friends and family back home: I CAN DO THIS!!</div>
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Mia will be starting school in Norway in the new year....It's not going to be easy for her: She doesn't speak any Norwegian (One of my biggest regrets) and no doubt she'll miss her old school friends, her home and most importantly: Her dad...her hero!!</div>
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But it's going to be toughest of all for my husband....to be on his own, without his little girl greeting him when he comes home after work each day...</div>
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After more than 17 years together, it is heartbreaking to think about....and even though the decision has been made, I still think to myself : HOW CAN I DO THIS??</div>
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But too much stuff has happened, stuff that's been no-ones fault....a sad set of circumstances, and it has changed the dynamics of our relationship...to the point where there is no going back...</div>
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So as much as I struggle liking myself at the moment, for what I am about to do, at the very least I am true to my feelings, honest and willing to take the fall for my decision... </div>
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And as unfair as this situation is , for everybody, at least I am giving us all a fair chance of something real....a new start and a chance to make it right!</div>
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I don't want Mia to ever think it's OK to settle for anything less than Happiness, and by doing this....this HUGE BIG THING....I am hoping to set an example for my daughter: To always follow your heart and go for Happiness!!</div>
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(Even when your heart is broken and happiness seems an awful long way away...)</div>
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I truly believe that if you don't like what you're doing, how you're feeling or the way you're life's turned out:</div>
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MAKE A CHANGE!!</div>
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DO SOMETHING!</div>
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CHASE THE DREAM!</div>
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BELIEVE THAT YOU CAN!</div>
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At least that's what I tell myself....</div>
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So...</div>
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I don't usually get this personal here on the blog, but I thought you all should know what's going on...</div>
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Because, I am going to struggle keeping up with all the blog stuff in amidst all the stuff going on and the things I need to get organised in the next couple of months....with the move to Norway and settling into our new life there.</div>
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So please bare with me in this difficult and highly emotional time...I am planning on keeping up with the blog, but posts may be a bit sporadic, and I may have to take some time out over Christmas and the new year....</div>
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But here's the exciting bit:</div>
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Imagine all the new and wonderful adventures I'm going to be able to tell you all about once I've landed on my feet in Norway....</div>
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House-hunting, decorating, Scandinavian decor, furnishings and trends....Exciting new collaborations....Not to mention : Lots of new DIY projects!!</div>
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So, please bare with me, and wish us luck in our new adventure in Norway....I will keep blogging, with a little help from some awesome blogger friends of mine.... until the BIG MOVE, but then I may go quiet for a while....Don't forget me....</div>
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I'LL BE BACK!!</div>
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All images via <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/junemidttveit/word/">Pinterest</a></center>
june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-81846035841666062032015-11-23T23:16:00.000-08:002015-11-23T23:16:52.803-08:006 super simple last minute DIY advent calendar ideas<center>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0gwTUisVnD7SBQpXMKgMr6XCQwGfIeRj-jlowT5QVtefAFpkuDtYq2KJdKFCDAtskfk6AC6E9Do_htnMm7CLDhg9YPzL-yA6SCaN2MCBnOXiV8FRA08jBpi_oKeEPuKemNwkhavXu9o/s1600/advent+calendar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0gwTUisVnD7SBQpXMKgMr6XCQwGfIeRj-jlowT5QVtefAFpkuDtYq2KJdKFCDAtskfk6AC6E9Do_htnMm7CLDhg9YPzL-yA6SCaN2MCBnOXiV8FRA08jBpi_oKeEPuKemNwkhavXu9o/s640/advent+calendar.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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It is less than a week until the 1st of December....Can you believe it!??</div>
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This last month of the year can be very hectic, and the pressures, anticipations and preparations for Christmas can soon become overwhelming. But Advent time can also be a lovely time to re-assess and slow down, and I hope you all will find some time to enjoy it!</div>
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One of the things I love about this time of the year is spending the darker evenings getting creative and making things for our holiday decor...and it always starts with the essential ADVENT CALENDAR.</div>
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Don't get me wrong, those generic supermarket chocolate advent calendars serves their purpose, but I like to create something that is a bit more of a feature in my home decor to set the mood for the season...and every year I do something different: You can see last years kirigami advent calendar <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/paper-kirigami-gem-advent-calendar.html">here</a>, but this year I've made <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/this-years-advent-calendar.html">This simple alternative</a>.</div>
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It really doesn't need to be anything complicated, as the simplicity of the ideas in this post will show you....I love the idea from<a href="http://myscandinavianhome.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/my-home-advent-calendar.html"> My Scandinavian home</a>, above, where notes, simply taped on to a blackboard wall, with clues to a hidden present in the home will not only encourage a fun daily game of hide and seek, but also help take the pressure off having it all ready on the 1st of December....</div>
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As mentioned in before, this year I am taking a very simplistic and laid back approach to my Christmas decorating, and all the ideas for an alternative advent calendar in this post reflects this.....They are all very pretty, but also pretty easy to make, so that YOU can still find the time to create your own before December....</div>
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This idea from<a href="http://www.arrowhouse.ca/blogs/news/18083991-d-i-y-christmas-advent-calendar"> Arrow House</a> is as simple as attaching 24<a href="https://thecleverbaggers.co.uk/white-smaller-drawstring-bag?color=White&size=X+Small&gclid=Cj0KEQiAycCyBRDss-D2yIWd_tgBEiQAL-9RksZzeWIYKPGB5AzHiA6DLmzno_ylX0XWCXjoYO4-8NgaAmCB8P8HAQ"> small drawstring bags</a> to some strung up <a href="http://www.hobbycraft.co.uk/round-wooden-beads-18-pack/568138-1000">Large wooden beads</a>....Stamp or draw numbers onto the bags and add some fairy lights to set the seasonal mood...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovDJG8QtdxycLBBbgWSFUcv6WxoJQrRRwn8jMFnEzP0HOY42UGNkQJTWXakWRKhohFAurjGNUhDlV0zJgr2jqmjc5irMxPfN5SEJoEx9nQ5l1OgGxMyt9FJNsKqozWWZTYkQkEXTFbBQ/s1600/advent+note.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovDJG8QtdxycLBBbgWSFUcv6WxoJQrRRwn8jMFnEzP0HOY42UGNkQJTWXakWRKhohFAurjGNUhDlV0zJgr2jqmjc5irMxPfN5SEJoEx9nQ5l1OgGxMyt9FJNsKqozWWZTYkQkEXTFbBQ/s640/advent+note.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love this simple idea from<a href="http://minikunst.blogspot.co.uk/"> MINIKUNST</a>: Just drill 24 holes in a piece of wood, then write little life affirming or inspirational notes on small pieces of paper, roll up and place in the holes....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87AUT3JiA9YoD6oYPyA_100VrXL5iP7cUbHssLq_uxofWTQyv8xnE7wFdrAO5WadOzBbMyet3KGlExS68Vyq6alwsD59KuWEZTXFDr9tcydOw1mpbNIZDvy37Cam3JMgQlIgSyh9pHNLd/s1600/kalender1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87AUT3JiA9YoD6oYPyA_100VrXL5iP7cUbHssLq_uxofWTQyv8xnE7wFdrAO5WadOzBbMyet3KGlExS68Vyq6alwsD59KuWEZTXFDr9tcydOw1mpbNIZDvy37Cam3JMgQlIgSyh9pHNLd/s640/kalender1.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
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It doesn't get much simpler than this idea from <a href="http://annaleenashem.blogspot.dk/2011/11/that-calendar.html">Annaleena's hem</a> : Wrap up a little treats in white paper for each day of advent....stamp or draw on the numbers then simply tape them all to the wall....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhXa3pajwcnVeybXF6QUro5ojRqCPyhEbHIqZ1Se1nEFSegO-cujRFWFwxfrDlNulltMDk7gl80SI1kXr6XQDv6Jdd7HY4IunioKK5SDFzl1lXoaWKwZP5UthlINmJJEox5QfZsR5-2LM/s1600/adv+felt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhXa3pajwcnVeybXF6QUro5ojRqCPyhEbHIqZ1Se1nEFSegO-cujRFWFwxfrDlNulltMDk7gl80SI1kXr6XQDv6Jdd7HY4IunioKK5SDFzl1lXoaWKwZP5UthlINmJJEox5QfZsR5-2LM/s640/adv+felt.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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Kjersti from<a href="http://kjerstislykke.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Advent"> Kjersti's lykke</a> also used the simple white parcel for each day approach to her advent calendar, but she attached them to a piece of numbered grey felt....and most ingeniously filled her parcels with pieces of play mobile set, so that each day her son could add to building the kit...</center>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtNZlLcOBrcMnkGrYzGpNVo_A4KpWLBZmlBno-5ZWNAByTO08Rr1_bvSoqzcuf127hvFj44KWy97Jnq8BjLx1LCvUxNKTZDBLjWQocQLviK-Fe_irW0rK3oCOHFQlHVideU4oxydq5gqg/s1600/JULRAK%257E1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtNZlLcOBrcMnkGrYzGpNVo_A4KpWLBZmlBno-5ZWNAByTO08Rr1_bvSoqzcuf127hvFj44KWy97Jnq8BjLx1LCvUxNKTZDBLjWQocQLviK-Fe_irW0rK3oCOHFQlHVideU4oxydq5gqg/s640/JULRAK%257E1.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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This last one, from<a href="http://stipje.blogspot.co.uk/2011/11/adventskalender.html"> Stipje</a>, may not hold any surprise treats, and may therefore not appeal to children, but for a stylishly adult way to countdown to Christmas, I love it....</div>
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A simple twig with painted numbers , add some wooden beads on elasticated string, then move the beads up the twig as the days pass...</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-17380276306749292602015-11-18T22:14:00.000-08:002015-11-18T22:14:09.832-08:00Supporting Oxfam : Advent calendar box for Parcelhero<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tizO4FYmuo0/ViDn88zFEVI/AAAAAAACjgk/usovoFH0JSA/s1600/_DSC0051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tizO4FYmuo0/ViDn88zFEVI/AAAAAAACjgk/usovoFH0JSA/s640/_DSC0051.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">A few weeks back I jazzed up a plain wooden box for a very good cause...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Oxfam and <a href="https://www.parcelhero.com/">parcel hero</a> have this year collaborated with 24 bloggers, myself included, to produce an advent calendar unlike any other...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">and this is my contribution:</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PoZ15Qtj_Ao/ViDoAH58WqI/AAAAAAACkfw/QexxQT6fnXw/s1600/_DSC0040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PoZ15Qtj_Ao/ViDoAH58WqI/AAAAAAACkfw/QexxQT6fnXw/s640/_DSC0040.jpg" width="460" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">All us bloggers were given a plain wooden box with the instructions to customize it , in any way we liked, then add a little handmade gift to go inside... The idea being that each unique box would be part of an advent calendar that is being auctioned off to raise money for Oxfam's work to help end poverty on their <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/-/221942692275?&autorefresh=true&clk_rvr_id=932486864517&rmvSB=true">e-bay page.</a></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>"We will always act, we will speak out, and we won't live with poverty"</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Oxfam works tirelessly all over the world, tackling the root causes of poverty with the aim to help enforce life changing solutions and with the goal to end extreme poverty within 15 years....</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">But their work also has an impact a bit closer to home, where one in five of the UK population lives below the poverty line...</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 24.48px;">And in the time running up to Christmas the issue of poverty can sadly become even more apparent, and for families living on the breadline, the jolly season can become an even harder struggle to keep up with essential bills... Oxfam works to help these families and individuals, and the money raised from the auction of the Advent calendar will be much appreciated:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">A word from Peter Hall at Oxfam: </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><em style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 26px; text-align: start;">“A massive thanks to the Parcel Hero’s blogging community. Your creations will help change lives. We are so impressed with the amount of effort and creativity that has gone into the calendar boxes. Let’s hope they raise loads of funds to help Oxfam end poverty sooner! Happy bidding!”</em><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700; line-height: 26px; text-align: start;"><em style="box-sizing: border-box;"> </em></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Of course my entry is in true Nostalgiecat style, with geometric shapes, a touch of copper and a handmade origami tree decoration inside...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I am so proud to have been a little part of this project, and alongside all the other fabulous entries from some fantastically creative bloggers, we all hope that someone...maybe YOU ....will put in a good bid to win this extraordinary advent calendar and help this worthy cause...</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BtO94pB1qzg/ViDoHVGKfwI/AAAAAAACkg4/p3NRRxjwcRo/s1600/_DSC0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BtO94pB1qzg/ViDoHVGKfwI/AAAAAAACkg4/p3NRRxjwcRo/s640/_DSC0016.jpg" width="424" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">To see more of the other entries from my fellow bloggers, and even a few sneaky peeks inside some of the boxes, head to the <a href="https://www.parcelhero.com/blog/christmas/bid-to-win-this-incredible-advent-calendar">Parcel Hero Blog</a>, where you can also read a little more about the project....</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And if you're feeling charitable...or simply lust after an advent calendar with a difference, do put in a bid for the whole shebang on the<a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/-/221942692275?&autorefresh=true&clk_rvr_id=932486864517&rmvSB=true"> Oxfam E-bay page</a>....</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The auction will close on the 26th of November!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Thank you and happy bidding!</span></div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-84074007175312968532015-11-17T05:06:00.001-08:002015-11-17T05:06:32.131-08:00This years advent calendar...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Simple and stylish</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wafzSrH9lyI/VkNcQpLjCOI/AAAAAAAClK0/_9BD1LT6XgM/s1600/_DSC0031%2B%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wafzSrH9lyI/VkNcQpLjCOI/AAAAAAAClK0/_9BD1LT6XgM/s640/_DSC0031%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I love being a <a href="http://www.roseandgrey.co.uk/">Rose&Grey</a> Style ambassador....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">it means that every now and then , I'll get sent an item from their beautiful collection of eclectic home wares and given free reins to style it how I'd like...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This time they sent out one of my favorite items...ever: This super useful <a href="http://www.roseandgrey.co.uk/pegboard-in-white">Pegboard</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Now my love for pegboard is well known, as I used some when I made my <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.co.uk/2015/07/mid-century-modern-style-sideboard.html">DIY sideboard</a> this summer....So this sits perfectly in my interiors...</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rG5p4mamrCE/VkNcR6GMjII/AAAAAAAClLA/No5jOhkPJ0E/s1600/_DSC0023%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rG5p4mamrCE/VkNcR6GMjII/AAAAAAAClLA/No5jOhkPJ0E/s640/_DSC0023%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="405" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I had a few different ideas for how I wanted to style it up for Christmas...I mean: it is so useful!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But in the end I decided it would be perfect to use to hang little advent parcels for Mia Moo from!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-am30CvjjcPs/VkNcU6OWHNI/AAAAAAAClLg/PNApqK-3Dj4/s1600/_DSC0016%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-am30CvjjcPs/VkNcU6OWHNI/AAAAAAAClLg/PNApqK-3Dj4/s1600/_DSC0016%2B%25282%2529.jpg" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I simply stretched some string between the pegs, then attached some <a href="http://www.partypuffin.co.uk/party-supplies/Paper-White-Bags-pack-quantity-12/194664/viewDetail?gclid=CjwKEAiA64uyBRCVmKyT2vuAjzgSJADfINB6WoWu29BZALpFQDwYU0z11AcXXTbL5HWyHXwha4odGhoCnHzw_wcB">plain paper bags</a>, that I'd numbered using a <a href="https://www.chalkboardsuk.co.uk/product/p394g/?utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=shop&utm_content=froogle&utm_campaign=froogle&utm_term=P394G&gclid=CjwKEAiA64uyBRCVmKyT2vuAjzgSJADfINB66uxkRekFVHj70dgF16ShvEGjbdh5ag6IQmkG6PlCBRoCevPw_wcB">stencil</a> with some <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/like/291267445603?adgroupid=13585920426&hlpht=true&hlpv=2&rlsatarget=kwd-131843261346&adtype=pla&ff3=1&lpid=122&poi=&ul_noapp=true&limghlpsr=true&ff19=0&device=c&chn=ps&campaignid=207297426&crdt=0&ff12=67&ff11=ICEP3.0.0-L&ff14=122&viphx=1&ops=true&ff13=80">small wooden pegs</a>..</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r_0jUFvxM6U/VkNcdSslpNI/AAAAAAAClL4/xec9OaazoKI/s1600/_DSC0013%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r_0jUFvxM6U/VkNcdSslpNI/AAAAAAAClL4/xec9OaazoKI/s640/_DSC0013%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And of course the little bags will be filled with daily treats for Mia to open each day in the countdown to Christmas....</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i4GIL0swG70/VkNcVrBjX4I/AAAAAAAClLo/ZU-waNEMDkA/s1600/_DSC0011%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i4GIL0swG70/VkNcVrBjX4I/AAAAAAAClLo/ZU-waNEMDkA/s640/_DSC0011%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It fits perfectly in with my simplistic Christmas decor look that I am going for this year...</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0-k2-_1bhH4/VkNcZaP2arI/AAAAAAAClLw/9j-9mMECeCc/s1600/_DSC0022%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0-k2-_1bhH4/VkNcZaP2arI/AAAAAAAClLw/9j-9mMECeCc/s640/_DSC0022%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Have you started planning the countdown to Christmas yet?</div>
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If not , I'm posting some inspirational ideas from the web for this years advent calendar next week...so stay tuned for that!</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-33346028729317948752015-11-13T08:18:00.001-08:002015-11-13T08:18:59.391-08:00This years Christmas inspiration<center>
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">minimal and simplistic</span></center>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCFwbq26zf7ezfO8YWuOICxxr69lZOYMHKY9vqyd91L5AFCd49up9lu4Htcq3Khdau6nVonfn4tp4dFKQz9OEnxtC5fAtVG9uBE_pKxlOzBcmrs7Xbr5zCo1JQXY0h7j73Usud8bXaP_U/s1600/christ1-triangle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCFwbq26zf7ezfO8YWuOICxxr69lZOYMHKY9vqyd91L5AFCd49up9lu4Htcq3Khdau6nVonfn4tp4dFKQz9OEnxtC5fAtVG9uBE_pKxlOzBcmrs7Xbr5zCo1JQXY0h7j73Usud8bXaP_U/s640/christ1-triangle.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from<a href="http://www.byfryd.com/"> By Fryd</a><br /><br />This year I feel like simplifying everything....including Christmas!<br />Less is more, and I am feeling inspired by these wonderfully simple , yet Christmassy decor touches found on Pinterest...</td></tr>
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<a href="http://nohomewithoutyou.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/ip40.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://nohomewithoutyou.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/ip40.png" height="640" width="410" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from<a href="http://www.nohomewithoutyou.com/2013/12/winter-table-setting-talven-tunnelmaa-ruokapoydassa/"> no home without you</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a8/60/7d/a8607da6abb7f6490f293665fc96a60f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a8/60/7d/a8607da6abb7f6490f293665fc96a60f.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from<a href="http://www.fairynuf.blogspot.no/"> Fairynuf</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjLPPIKqy_sCWJJtccgCNnVzkTf1zZDEGjOsGaVYlGnagNsVy0Cc75t-et2v8brPKXstSrgPoXKEN2AVCBASLP4Sxuga88ebvnX4tMYtlZyOLpQEhyphenhyphenHZWNKYh0RwdwKruKNZcHj1vMPc/s1600/1_december.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjLPPIKqy_sCWJJtccgCNnVzkTf1zZDEGjOsGaVYlGnagNsVy0Cc75t-et2v8brPKXstSrgPoXKEN2AVCBASLP4Sxuga88ebvnX4tMYtlZyOLpQEhyphenhyphenHZWNKYh0RwdwKruKNZcHj1vMPc/s1600/1_december.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://annixen.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/forsta-helgen-i-december.html">Annixen</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a9/73/27/a97327cb5dce7027a0a49399c539ed10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a9/73/27/a97327cb5dce7027a0a49399c539ed10.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://blog.segretofinishes.com/segreto/2012/12/8/festive-fun-holiday-decor.html">Segreto secrets</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://40.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_md9r5i6MXf1r6y3u1o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://40.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_md9r5i6MXf1r6y3u1o1_500.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source : <a href="http://expensivelife.tumblr.com/post/35949879262">Expensive life</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/32/d8/0f/32d80f342e9f668906c141da4af8a63d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/32/d8/0f/32d80f342e9f668906c141da4af8a63d.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image<a href="http://daniella.femina.se/veckans-stilleben-jul-uppat-vaggen/"> Daniella witte</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3b/a3/96/3ba396aded5a8b43ce3b3183218cf3cc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/3b/a3/96/3ba396aded5a8b43ce3b3183218cf3cc.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via<a href="http://www.husohem.se/"> Hus og Hem</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/97/90/e4/9790e42cf60d62158acc72f27ebd468f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/97/90/e4/9790e42cf60d62158acc72f27ebd468f.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via<a href="http://lovenordic.blogspot.de/"> Love Nordic</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRDV_fyxv1wPY5FmZBQ_DgNMCZz34g08UZRsNkDK9mfvME6vwhNYXLA-x83qk9chJ-rhHpkWtkbtzHVNrynur9c4N4tLjNK6KXX2LxcPfPFPvHSRi4_hmgBIJ76i0IDq0TdJKsXsaMxE/s640/johanna-vintage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRDV_fyxv1wPY5FmZBQ_DgNMCZz34g08UZRsNkDK9mfvME6vwhNYXLA-x83qk9chJ-rhHpkWtkbtzHVNrynur9c4N4tLjNK6KXX2LxcPfPFPvHSRi4_hmgBIJ76i0IDq0TdJKsXsaMxE/s640/johanna-vintage.JPG" height="640" width="394" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via<a href="http://basiclabelsweden.blogspot.co.uk/search?updated-max=2011-12-03T09:13:00%2B01:00&max-results=7&start=140&by-date=false"> Basic label Sweden</a></td></tr>
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Short and sweet today...in tone with my simplistic Christmas inspiration I am going to let these images speak for themselves....</center>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepem7891AHh1Tf0sXX2wPAGJXJhvxQKt0MxEWHiGq065JapjKYEMV-psoTq8nioj8cBg4yGA6AMsMIVyUS1EoPmj4wk-AXSzoQNNM1JoQHsyjx5qJHsGHEp4_KMezJUob7VG3AD8nhCu5/s1600/signature1.jpg" /></center>
june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-8700472409886753222015-11-10T00:12:00.000-08:002015-11-10T00:12:31.128-08:00#PlantShelfie with a DIY plant pot...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Urban jungle bloggers</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">November Challenge</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtj2eAce7FxURlK_QwqxeBtNWUj5Jeaes87dSY-GpiCt3FdqeyGaRQsbbNZS3RHatSkS25ON1JTKjv82MnQTkSP6ncN-YmZ1uyKAa2nolVaWpWmr69HaOxj5BY2orEtUyXMK7uNdoTucU/s1600/urban+j+b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtj2eAce7FxURlK_QwqxeBtNWUj5Jeaes87dSY-GpiCt3FdqeyGaRQsbbNZS3RHatSkS25ON1JTKjv82MnQTkSP6ncN-YmZ1uyKAa2nolVaWpWmr69HaOxj5BY2orEtUyXMK7uNdoTucU/s640/urban+j+b.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The November <a href="http://www.urbanjunglebloggers.com/">Urban Jungle Bloggers</a> challenge is #PlantShelfie</div>
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So today I am sharing some pictures of my kitchen shelves....</div>
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....but in true Nostalgiecat style, I have a DIY plant pot tutorial thrown in....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZ6Rw7p0ETNaVxhJsG_NWDRjZcBs-ecuiP6seg7I28Fu69yik_nze19LEK69WRqTXBoYCyGMGHjuyWoAOgU9ZIf3vpkGeFcD-zJRT-R2ZK3ewcHU2YS5ymJNYSZKEnQyyQ0vFRH0uFmI/s1600/IMG_5198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZ6Rw7p0ETNaVxhJsG_NWDRjZcBs-ecuiP6seg7I28Fu69yik_nze19LEK69WRqTXBoYCyGMGHjuyWoAOgU9ZIf3vpkGeFcD-zJRT-R2ZK3ewcHU2YS5ymJNYSZKEnQyyQ0vFRH0uFmI/s640/IMG_5198.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I made this plant pot this summer, and I love how it looks with some autumnal heather in on my kitchen shelf...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgq4HEqeU1FrqjU2nsDBZZT1DxYH-_bzqBlquOkBHK0Or-BGg6pYc1VuCbWCUV0fOEMV66YDIpc0VE0jZioQU_cV-7hYCE5iGcJ9MfLRgfTLlpWC49LDeRXoZiMiYl3XiRhNfMkv2x74/s1600/IMG_5204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEgq4HEqeU1FrqjU2nsDBZZT1DxYH-_bzqBlquOkBHK0Or-BGg6pYc1VuCbWCUV0fOEMV66YDIpc0VE0jZioQU_cV-7hYCE5iGcJ9MfLRgfTLlpWC49LDeRXoZiMiYl3XiRhNfMkv2x74/s640/IMG_5204.JPG" width="568" /></a></div>
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Of course this is not the only DIY you can spot on my kitchen shelves...I shared these cute <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/green-and-yellow-easter-at-nostalgiecat.html">DIY hand drawn faces egg cups</a> back at Easter (There is no tutorial, but you can find lots of great advice on drawing with marker pens on ceramics <a href="http://www.craftaholicsanonymous.net/21-tips-for-diy-sharpie-marker-mugs">here</a>)...and I love how some simple cactus' add to their personality...</div>
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And all though my "string of pearls" are looking a bit neglected, they are still one of my favorite greens...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9rITZJhDGPrGdDZLrcV8hHGp6JMdx5SSXA_cKpQ2c_5r2lSRrIM8IxuKkcOQw-YTOeSgzhbXBgW0t1ek6tvsohixCI1j1Anq2B1AfpHVgrHvKhAGHfRec-x6S0UZp0EurTXTxz0xPIQ/s1600/IMG_5199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9rITZJhDGPrGdDZLrcV8hHGp6JMdx5SSXA_cKpQ2c_5r2lSRrIM8IxuKkcOQw-YTOeSgzhbXBgW0t1ek6tvsohixCI1j1Anq2B1AfpHVgrHvKhAGHfRec-x6S0UZp0EurTXTxz0xPIQ/s640/IMG_5199.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here's a little tutorial on how I made my Triangle plant pot:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-OM6aZWoB67WaYo2xaEzGBbU1DsnwZ1w4TNlHYL1UrATwou6Xgjax_eP2fd7E8xZ76Uk4qZK-RxsJf7aoql4x2MxtW_DV4H8LOGk3r9yp0Mqbc-_7t9eNde2uA5FW7UVAYYcLBFUtss/s1600/IMG_1020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-OM6aZWoB67WaYo2xaEzGBbU1DsnwZ1w4TNlHYL1UrATwou6Xgjax_eP2fd7E8xZ76Uk4qZK-RxsJf7aoql4x2MxtW_DV4H8LOGk3r9yp0Mqbc-_7t9eNde2uA5FW7UVAYYcLBFUtss/s640/IMG_1020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used:</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/250230924/super-sculpey-medium-blend-1-pound-454gr?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_uk_en_gb_a-craft_supplies_and_tools-glass_and_clay_supplies-ceramics_and_sculpture&utm_custom1=0b282605-bedb-4f64-b750-07af38a9e8b2&gclid=CjwKEAiApYGyBRC-g_jIstuduV8SJABCEzhZo9mSDoOX55FbBxNQbx6v6Mmbxbil55piOuuXeVxFRhoCUtXw_wcB">Plain white polymer clay</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.google.co.uk/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=polymer+clay&tbm=shop&spd=1581507405700419071">Black polymer clay</a></div>
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You will also need:</div>
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Rolling pin</div>
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<a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Kitchen-Craft-Set-of-Two-Stainless-Steel-Cooking-Rings/231307970046?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D34571%26meid%3D515dfe40d0de47cbb6a5d26547cf519a%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D4%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D291507380838">2 Large Cooking rings</a></div>
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tool for cutting (a sharp knife will do)</div>
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Baking paper</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M5dSisQ7Alk/VkGbRZZGvDI/AAAAAAACk44/HUBBZVk1q4s/s1600/2015%2B-%2B1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M5dSisQ7Alk/VkGbRZZGvDI/AAAAAAACk44/HUBBZVk1q4s/s640/2015%2B-%2B1" width="640" /></a></div>
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Roll out the white polymer clay...just long and wide enough to fit around the cooking rings, approximately 5 mm thick + an extra bit to form the bottom of the plant pot</div>
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Use the Cooking rings to measure out the rolled out clay. Cut out a rectangle shape and a circle shape for your plant pot....</div>
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Next up, I rolled out the black oven bake clay, approximately 2mm thick this time.</div>
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Then I cut out some triangle shapes to place along the length of my white clay rectangle.</div>
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I used the rolling pin to press the triangles into the white clay....</div>
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I placed one of the cooking rings on top of the bottom piece of clay, before wrapping the rectangular piece around the two cooking rings stacked on top of each other to form the pot.</div>
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NOTE!</div>
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I didn't get my cooking rings back out from the clay after cooking, but if YOU wrap some baking paper around yours, you should be able to....Learn from my mistake here peeps!!;)</div>
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Where the clay meets, use a knife to merge the clay together, and again to push the clay around the bottom of the pot together....then trim off any excess clay to neaten up around the base and along the top....</div>
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Cook in the oven for approximately 15 minutes at 150 degrees (or according to the instructions on you polymer clay)</div>
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If you are worried about using your kitchen oven for polymer clay, the clay manufacturers assures me that it's OK, as long as you cook out any left over fumes at high temperatures, then air out your oven for an hour or so...</div>
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So, there you have it. a DIY plant pot....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGf9O_DnLEz-W4ybMSSwCn7UDYOt1Sgg6Cvm_r17pKK2o0T1yvancNOgTRTCWosu40MCmQ5EjR72jfzT7DAZBKN0DmW1SFe4x3TKHWVZls5kye7QM0N17MtpIySQNR7lgqURxyRD9B4xo/s1600/IMG_5193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGf9O_DnLEz-W4ybMSSwCn7UDYOt1Sgg6Cvm_r17pKK2o0T1yvancNOgTRTCWosu40MCmQ5EjR72jfzT7DAZBKN0DmW1SFe4x3TKHWVZls5kye7QM0N17MtpIySQNR7lgqURxyRD9B4xo/s640/IMG_5193.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I love making my own decorative home wares....</div>
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Yes: I love being creative and making things....that's kind of my thing....but more than that I love how DIY-ing things means that you can make it how YOU want....and this technique is definitely custom-able to whatever shapes and patterns YOU would like to create....that way you end up with something unique and personal to you and your home decor...</div>
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And as for the plants....The perfect way to liven up a kitchen shelf....</div>
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Don't you think??</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepem7891AHh1Tf0sXX2wPAGJXJhvxQKt0MxEWHiGq065JapjKYEMV-psoTq8nioj8cBg4yGA6AMsMIVyUS1EoPmj4wk-AXSzoQNNM1JoQHsyjx5qJHsGHEp4_KMezJUob7VG3AD8nhCu5/s1600/signature1.jpg" /><span id="goog_1618220559"></span><span id="goog_1618220560"></span></center>
june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-87300293543286369902015-11-05T03:53:00.001-08:002015-11-05T09:33:41.124-08:00I'm a cover girl!<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">My home , all decked for Christmas, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">featured in HomeStyle magazine</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjykgoYjzHoNoDIEXFsLZoHvSzNc90ZK6GPQevQC351RBdOJZKCM4Ph0ERB23tBlLRCZU0k5iDGgaNRrInO9kVNBWXI99rfUthoSALyhAkxRaL9LGc4GFQxPbBn1fATqdHTsQ9XpvYl68w/s1600/cover+girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjykgoYjzHoNoDIEXFsLZoHvSzNc90ZK6GPQevQC351RBdOJZKCM4Ph0ERB23tBlLRCZU0k5iDGgaNRrInO9kVNBWXI99rfUthoSALyhAkxRaL9LGc4GFQxPbBn1fATqdHTsQ9XpvYl68w/s640/cover+girl.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Photo credit :</span><a href="http://olivergordon.co.uk/index.html" style="font-size: medium;"> Olly Gordon </a><span style="font-size: small;"> f</span><span style="font-size: small;">or Homestyle magazine</span></td></tr>
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EEEEEk!!</div>
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How exciting...I can finally tell you all!! </div>
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I've been featured in <a href="http://www.homestylemag.co.uk/">Homestyle magazine</a>, and I even made the front cover of their December issue!!</div>
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I can't tell you how hard it's been to keep this a secret....</div>
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But way back in july, I had the wonderful people from Homestyle magazine around to shoot the house for their Christmas issue!</div>
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Yes...That's right: Christmas in July!!</div>
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With a tree and mince pies and all!!</div>
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To say it was a bizarre experience would be an understatement, but a thoroughly enjoyable one at that!!</div>
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But even more bizarre, was the feeling of seeing myself on the front cover of a magazine!!</div>
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And of course seeing pictures of our home in print and reading about myself....Oddly fascinating!!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zmceOiNlOiA/VjszuDVFkZI/AAAAAAACkvQ/bBL14bw3A1Q/s1600/2015%2B-%2B5" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="554" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zmceOiNlOiA/VjszuDVFkZI/AAAAAAACkvQ/bBL14bw3A1Q/s640/2015%2B-%2B5" width="640" /></a><br />
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Sitting in my kitchen with a cup of coffee, whilst reading about my kitchen....</div>
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I have to tell you, as odd as it feels, that t was a truly enjoyable experience having the team from HomeStyle around, and as nervous as I was on the day, having spent the week putting up all my Christmas decorations, they soon made me feel totally at ease....Although the posing for the cover shot felt utterly awkward!</div>
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I was fascinated to see how they worked, with the stylists and photographer deciding on each shot, then spending ages tweaking the frames...</div>
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I learned a lot about styling and interior photography that day, and I am still trying to incorporate these lessons when I shoot my own photo's...although not quite to Olly Gordon's levels...</div>
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In the article the focus is, as it has been here on the blog, about the creative solutions I've had to come up with to achieve the kind of home that I wanted on a budget....I even share a couple of DIY's in the magazine:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pStI8iSeUpA/VjszuI3YYYI/AAAAAAACkvw/dPnZMTzVhR0/s1600/2015%2B-%2B9" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pStI8iSeUpA/VjszuI3YYYI/AAAAAAACkvw/dPnZMTzVhR0/s640/2015%2B-%2B9" width="496" /></a></div>
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The December HomeStyle issue, with me on the cover, is now for sale in the shops, so if you'd like to see more from my Christmassy home, run and buy!!</div>
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Or you can see a little preview<a href="http://www.homestylemag.co.uk/article/198/issue-6-is-on-sale-now!"> here</a>!!</div>
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And you can read more about my experience of being the HomeStyle cover girl and see more pictures from my home <a href="http://www.homestylemag.co.uk/page/covergirl">here</a></div>
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I guess this means ....yep Christmas is coming, and there is no denying it now!</div>
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Expect more Christmassy stuff on the blog in the coming weeks!</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-8697975996129286022015-11-03T04:21:00.001-08:002015-11-03T05:41:11.027-08:00Small shop focus: T&Shop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Continuing on with my mini series of posts putting small, independent shops in focus, to encourage you all to shunt the big chains for your Christmas shopping this year, and instead choose to support local, creative and alternative businesses , I am today putting the spotlight on one of my stockist, Emily Grace wright's little lifestyle shop:</span></div>
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<a href="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5463b69ae4b0827082f15fdf/t/54aa9a11e4b0d88dbdbb8de2/1445440769745/?format=original" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5463b69ae4b0827082f15fdf/t/54aa9a11e4b0d88dbdbb8de2/1445440769745/?format=original" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: "pxgroteskregular" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; line-height: 24px;">Emily serves loose leaf teas, locally roasted CARAVAN coffee, nutritious & delicious food & home baked cakes in her <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/T%26SHOP/@51.5540024,-0.0906834,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xfdea873014080b1d">Newington Green</a> premises situated in the stretch between Highbury, Dalston and Stoke Newington...But more than that she also sells homeware, jewellery, textiles, ceramics, furniture & accessories sourced from emerging British based designers/makers who celebrate craftsmanship & share a minimal functional aesthetic in store and on her online website <a href="http://www.tandshop.com/shop/">T&shop.</a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.5px; text-transform: lowercase;"> emily is passionate about </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 19.5px; text-transform: lowercase;">sourcing hand crafted items, by emerging designers and UK based artisans producing small batches of unique and hand made products for the home. She has formed a collective of creative people, showcasing emerging design talent and in this way supporting small independent makers like myself.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Her carefully curated collection of products display her minimal functional aesthetic,with a slight bohemian feel, as well as her keen eye for unusual and unique design.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I am so proud to be part of Emily's stellar line up of start up designers and artisans, and her commitment to supporting creative people was cemented when she took her eclectic collection to <a href="http://thedesignjunction.co.uk/">Design junction </a>in September this year...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">All the images in this post is from <a href="http://thedesignjunction.co.uk/brands/tand-shop/">her stall</a> at the exhibition in Victoria House.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This is just a small selection of her eclectic mix of home wares and lifestyle products available in her <a href="http://www.tandshop.com/">East London tea-store</a> and <a href="http://www.tandshop.com/shop/">her online shop</a>:</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5KSkc0UzneU/VgfrXnLgR1I/AAAAAAAChB0/TPiW-RzZhUw/s1600/2015%2B-%2B5" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5KSkc0UzneU/VgfrXnLgR1I/AAAAAAAChB0/TPiW-RzZhUw/s640/2015%2B-%2B5" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">From the unique hand crafted ceramic organic vessels by <a href="http://www.daisycooperceramics.com/home">Daisy Cooper </a>, inspired by the Scottish wilderness,lovingly hand carved kitchen utensils made from reclaimed timber by<a href="http://www.grainandknot.com/"> Grain and Knot</a>, and</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">the organic, yet modern laminated birch ply plates designed by print maker <a href="http://www.krystabatryn.com/">Krysta Batryn</a>...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">....the quirky and unique, multi functional hand thrown Diamond pots from London based Swedish ceramicist Stine Dulong of <a href="http://www.skandihus.co.uk/">ScandiHus</a>, inspired by a love for Scandinavian design in which beauty is radiated through light colours,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">to the elegant and functional,charmingly tactile handmade hardwood contemporary homewares by Cotswold based artisan </span><a href="http://www.watsonwrightoriginals.co.uk/" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Brian Watson Wright </a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">marrying the natural beauty of hardwoods with the warmth of copper. ...</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PYONDHdChkg/Vged9yx1_oI/AAAAAAACg48/aYiNhmKtv28/s1600/_DSC0146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="604" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PYONDHdChkg/Vged9yx1_oI/AAAAAAACg48/aYiNhmKtv28/s640/_DSC0146.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I adore the playful and fun design of the Clack! candle sticks in hand turned wood with copper from <a href="http://www.nice-to-be-nice.com/">Nice to be Nice</a> ,a London based design studio, (pictured below with my own Hand cast Origami Concrete candlesticks)...</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uuW58bnKyJ4/VgfrXpC2f6I/AAAAAAAChC4/Hi5EPblQUV0/s1600/2015%2B-%2B1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="518" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uuW58bnKyJ4/VgfrXpC2f6I/AAAAAAAChC4/Hi5EPblQUV0/s640/2015%2B-%2B1" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Hackney based Sophie and Gemma , the design duo behind <a href="http://www.nice-to-be-nice.com/">Nice to be Nice</a> also designed the gorgeous Stacklet modular shelving system Emily used to display her goods at design junction, cleverly combining <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">Oak, Powder Coated Steel, Marble, Copper....</span> </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6x8_UlrwAgs/Vged4H1qw7I/AAAAAAACg4U/iKoDEpsU2LM/s1600/_DSC0140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6x8_UlrwAgs/Vged4H1qw7I/AAAAAAACg4U/iKoDEpsU2LM/s640/_DSC0140.jpg" width="618" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Perfect for displaying the gorgeously luxurious Cashmere knitwear Emily stocks from <a href="http://makedamatheson.com/"> Makeda Matheson</a> . Responsibly & ethically made with locally sourced cashmere wool , then machine or hand knitted, but always finished by hand...</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OaslkX9nck/VgfrXllzPNI/AAAAAAAChB8/cjnu3hwlHjg/s1600/2015%2B-%2B2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OaslkX9nck/VgfrXllzPNI/AAAAAAAChB8/cjnu3hwlHjg/s640/2015%2B-%2B2" width="492" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And Emily's beautifully eclectic range of jewelry from designers and makers such as <a href="http://wearenodo.com/">NODO</a>, <a href="http://www.custommadeuk.com/">Custom made</a> and <a href="http://www.wildfawnjewellery.com/blog">Wild Fawn</a>.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DbvRgTMfMFo/VgfrXjdA1XI/AAAAAAAChCw/WZQCRJQGXXg/s1600/2015%2B-%2B6" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DbvRgTMfMFo/VgfrXjdA1XI/AAAAAAAChCw/WZQCRJQGXXg/s640/2015%2B-%2B6" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">As well as knitted, functional design accessories from <a href="http://www.pluckddesigns.com/">Pluckd</a>, Their Urban Wear hats and mittens made from innovative reflective wool, sourced from British makers, mills and suppliers.... </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g7ql5ji7MX4/VgfrXuwuP6I/AAAAAAAChDY/g7aDJJ0NiCY/s1600/2015%2B-%2B8" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g7ql5ji7MX4/VgfrXuwuP6I/AAAAAAAChDY/g7aDJJ0NiCY/s640/2015%2B-%2B8" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://www.tandshop.com/">T&Shop</a> also sells handmade natural vegetable oil soaps from <a href="http://londonfieldssoap.com/">London Fields Soap company</a>, natural scented soy candles from <a href="http://www.earlofeastlondon.com/">Earl of East London</a>....</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi6B_xfQqD8/VgfrXquQ0wI/AAAAAAAChDA/JlubaPMyxNA/s1600/2015%2B-%2B4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi6B_xfQqD8/VgfrXquQ0wI/AAAAAAAChDA/JlubaPMyxNA/s640/2015%2B-%2B4" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">...as well as these funky geometric glass plant display's by<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MontibyMonti"> Monti By Monti</a> (shown above with cacti and succulents in marbled concrete planters by <a href="http://www.danielarubino.co.uk/">Daniela Rubino</a>, and above again). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> Each piece is designed & made by Dee Monti in Hackney using locally sourced materials. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ywwZUIEgQ1M/VgfrXnBedeI/AAAAAAAChCE/KlG-yH1vy4c/s1600/2015%2B-%2B3" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ywwZUIEgQ1M/VgfrXnBedeI/AAAAAAAChCE/KlG-yH1vy4c/s640/2015%2B-%2B3" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://www.danielarubino.co.uk/">Daniela Rubino</a> designs concrete & metal products, such as the beautifully simplistic wall shelf pictured, above.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Daniela's choice of materials is based on their high compressive strength, sustainability & of course industrial aesthetics. Her designs are simple & bold, focusing on the beauty of the material. . </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The minimalist wall clock, above, is from<a href="http://jollysmithdesign.co.uk/"> JollySmith Design</a>, a creative brand based in the North of England offering well designed British made gifts for any home or occasion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This is just a small selection of Emily's beautifully curated collection of decorative, unique home wares and functional lifestyle products for sale at<a href="http://www.tandshop.com/"> T&shop</a>...Please visit her <a href="http://www.tandshop.com/shop/">web shop</a> for more inspiring Christmas gift ideas...or maybe just to treat yourself to something special..</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Or if you are in East London, visit her <a href="http://www.tandshop.com/">tea shop </a>for a coffee with a delicious treat whilst perusing her eclectic stock....you could even end up buying the chair you sit on...because EVERYTHING is for sale, so that you can have Emily's lifestyle and aesthetics in your own home...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">How is that for a unique selling point??</span></div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-73643934624477375302015-10-30T03:01:00.000-07:002015-10-30T03:01:16.392-07:00Small shop focus: The Future Kept<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">With only 8 more weeks until Christmas (!!!) I am starting to turn my thoughts to organizing this years holidays...And a big part of this is obviously planning my Christmas present purchases...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And this year I've decided to, as much as possible, shunt the big retailers, and buy my presents from small, local and independent shops. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Being a self employed maker myself, I know how important every sale is to me, and without the people who buy my stuff, I would not be able to keep going...So I think it is so important to support all those little shops and makers that have been brave enough to follow their passions and set up a business in a world dominated by corporate consumerism.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So I urge you all to support your local shops: The fantastic local florist down the high street, The bakers who sells homemade cakes, the markets and fairs... and the neighbor that sells handcrafted jewelry online....lets give our hard earned money to individual people, and not feed the multi national companies money making machines...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Of course I realize that in this day and age, a lot of us (my self included) , with our hectic working , everyday lives, will be buying most of our Christmas presents online. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But we can still apply this principle and support the little people, and with this thought in mind I thought I'd do a mini series of blog posts in the run up to Christmas, and put the spotlight on some of my favorite small independent online shops, that offers hand made, locally sourced and unique products...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">....in my mind the perfect, out of the ordinary Christmas gifts!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So, I am going to kick it off today, by introducing you all to an online shop that I feel empitomises this ethic entirely:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLno5yU-VnE-zx6U2Buy5l8NOd_ehF25RyZjUYQXdAqDxtP5m-WkrBA1tdhYA9p6mbNpR2UGDuJTQrUfihdwVo9M5_mYCS1YZAbeXYE0M6HQQ0pTTxqC2d3nt66w-NBfCTZaNZGgdEDI/s1600/the+future+Kept.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="56" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLno5yU-VnE-zx6U2Buy5l8NOd_ehF25RyZjUYQXdAqDxtP5m-WkrBA1tdhYA9p6mbNpR2UGDuJTQrUfihdwVo9M5_mYCS1YZAbeXYE0M6HQQ0pTTxqC2d3nt66w-NBfCTZaNZGgdEDI/s320/the+future+Kept.png" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4rbCdnkMoFA/VjJmKdd2z9I/AAAAAAACkD8/GNoxPula4Y0/s1600/_DSC0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4rbCdnkMoFA/VjJmKdd2z9I/AAAAAAACkD8/GNoxPula4Y0/s640/_DSC0013.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #555555; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 27px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;"><a href="http://thefuturekept.com/">The Future Kept</a></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-size: 15px; line-height: 27px; text-align: start;"> is an online purveyor of well designed, durable, meticulously chosen goods for you to cherish and keep, run by husband and wife duo Jeska and Dean Herne.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #555555; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: 27px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Based on the south coast of England,they design and carefully source items from independent designers, makers, artisans and entrepreneurs who are creating products that are better for our world, becoming part of your life story, forming an intimacy between you and your belongings. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Jeska and Dean, image courtesy of <a href="http://thefuturekept.com/pages/about-us">The future Kept</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #444444;">I met Jeska and Dean yesterday, as they are currently to be found at <a href="http://www.westelm.co.uk/we-uk-store-locations">West Elm, Tottenham court road</a>, where they are having a 4 day residency<a href="http://thefuturekept.com/blogs/news/70457155-the-future-kept-pop-up-shop-west-elm-london"> pop up shop</a>. So if you find yourself in the London area over the weekend I highly recommend that you visit them there to see their lovely curated collection of lifestyle products... </span><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6zSoNxS-nJk/VjJlYtxAfDI/AAAAAAACkDA/O23bC8EISXA/s1600/_DSC0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6zSoNxS-nJk/VjJlYtxAfDI/AAAAAAACkDA/O23bC8EISXA/s640/_DSC0004.jpg" width="424" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">With beautiful and unique products such as the hand thrown ceramic mug and coffee dripper, made exclusively for TFK by Scottish ceramist <a href="http://www.juliasmithceramics.com/">Julia Smith</a> (Top picture), the gorgeous smelling , naturally crafted perfume oils from Swedish company <a href="http://thefuturekept.com/collections/beauty/products/vilda-vaxter-perfume-berg-mountain">Vilda vexter</a> (pictured above) and Hand crafted wooden kitchen accessories from London based <a href="http://www.forest-and-found.com/">Forest and Found</a> (pictured , below)....</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The Future Kept's range of products focuses on creating a simpler life....where the quality of the product we surround ourselves with on a daily basis adds to our lives in a more meaningful way...<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 27px;"> Things that are lovingly </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 27px;">made to last, and will not fuel the throwaway nature of the modern world.....Things that you are proud to own.... heirlooms of the future!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-size: 15px; line-height: 27px;"><i><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">"Our primary goal with The Future Kept is to lead and inspire more people to think carefully about the items they have in their lives, by putting together a collection of best in class products all with a story to tell."*</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">With beautiful British handmade throws, (two pics above),vintage pottery (pictured above), eco friendly , washable paper storage bags (above and below) , hand printed bags by French artist<a href="http://www.ameliemancini.com/"> Amelie Mancini</a> (below)<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 27px;">....</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">...recycled vintage china necklaces by British designer <a href="http://www.staygoldmaryrose.com/">Stay Gold Mary Rose</a> and quirkily pretty little limpit shell dishes made by Oxford based ceramist <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 27px;">Katie Coston of<a href="http://illyriapottery.co.uk/"> </a></span><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://illyriapottery.co.uk/" style="line-height: 27px;">Illyria Pottery</a> (Both pictured, below) <span style="line-height: 27px;">...there is a unique gift for anyone available on </span><a href="http://thefuturekept.com/" style="line-height: 27px;">The Future Kept website</a>....</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;">But the Future Kept is much more than just a quirky online shop...They promote the kind of slow paced life championed by the<a href="http://thefuturekept.com/collections/magazines"> lifestyle magazines</a> they stock, such as<a href="http://www.kinfolk.com/"> Kinfolk</a> , focusing on life quality and enjoying each moment....</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="https://instagram.com/thefuturekept/">A Future Kept on instagram</a></td></tr>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><i>"Creating and seeking beautifully considered, functional items for others to enjoy is our passion, by sharing these items that we celebrate, we aim to connect and form relationships with like-minded folk, whilst having a positive impact on the environment.</i></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><i>We hope to inspire a curiosity and desire within people to make more sustainable and ethical choices. "*</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Have a look at their<a href="http://thefuturekept.com/collections/gifts"> gift collection </a>for more inspiration for your Christmas gift shopping this year, and make this the Christmas where your gift choices really makes a difference!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">*Extract from the <a href="http://thefuturekept.com/">Future Kept website</a></span></center>
june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-72117484717414861342015-10-27T10:56:00.000-07:002015-10-27T10:56:01.520-07:00Urban jungle bloggers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">"The soul needs Autumn.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Let what's dead fall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Let the wind sweep it up and blow it away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Your colors are changing; it's so beautiful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Don't be sad, it was a part of you and now it's gone.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">some things have to die. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's their season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You can't hold on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This is your season to let it all fall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Shed what's dead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Be free, Stand tall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There will be a time to bloom again...."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Unknown</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm keeping it short and sweet this week and this is my entry for the <a href="http://www.urbanjunglebloggers.com/">Urban Jungle bloggers</a> October challenge...This months topic was Plants and Flowers...Make sure you check out the other entries here, for some blooming beautiful plant inspiration... </span></div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-52083999011184948662015-10-22T10:06:00.000-07:002015-10-22T10:06:19.813-07:00Easy Halloween DIY: Cat eyes string light<center>
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Here's a quick and easy DIY for Halloween for you all...</center>
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Jazz up some string lights with some black card Cat faces to create some Spookily cute Cat Eyes to set the mood in your home this Halloween...</center>
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All you'll need is some A4 black card, some scissors and of course some String lights...</div>
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I've made up a FREE pattern for you, that you can simply download then print out on your black card.</div>
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Download the <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/rh3xelvwa6cwbpk/black%20cat%20string%20light%20template.pdf?dl=0">black cat string light template here.</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_vblluM7q2k/Vii6l_h4F1I/AAAAAAACjsI/7xiN2kcz9PE/s1600/2015%2B-%2B1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_vblluM7q2k/Vii6l_h4F1I/AAAAAAACjsI/7xiN2kcz9PE/s640/2015%2B-%2B1" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then you just cut out the cat faces....</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dg6P0EJgCJs/Vii6lyvWjoI/AAAAAAACjsI/5jOksfZvIsk/s1600/2015%2B-%2B2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dg6P0EJgCJs/Vii6lyvWjoI/AAAAAAACjsI/5jOksfZvIsk/s640/2015%2B-%2B2" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pierce where the eyes are indicated on the template (I used a sharp craft knife for this).</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QiQ0UtLdvjs/Vii79jvZYiI/AAAAAAACjs8/UBHLRDnjSCI/s1600/2015-10-22%2B09.54.30%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QiQ0UtLdvjs/Vii79jvZYiI/AAAAAAACjs8/UBHLRDnjSCI/s640/2015-10-22%2B09.54.30%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then simply push the bulbs on your string light through the holes.</div>
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C'est ca!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dBoEUnG4DT8/Vii7SJNkKRI/AAAAAAACjso/_8OuV6nDigM/s1600/2015-10-22%2B09.55.09%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dBoEUnG4DT8/Vii7SJNkKRI/AAAAAAACjso/_8OuV6nDigM/s640/2015-10-22%2B09.55.09%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love how simple these are to make...and don't they look great??</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5oOzJAmuCFk/Vii7NvIboFI/AAAAAAACjsg/gdJMdG7eSOY/s1600/2015-10-22%2B10.04.44%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5oOzJAmuCFk/Vii7NvIboFI/AAAAAAACjsg/gdJMdG7eSOY/s640/2015-10-22%2B10.04.44%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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This will probably be my last DIY post this year, as I have some big news to tell you all about very soon... but you can see more of my previous Halloween makes in my <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/diy-tutorials-gallery.html">DIY Tutorials gallery </a>or you can have a look at my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/junemidttveit/halloween/">Halloween Pinterest board </a>for more inspiration...</div>
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...And of course, if you're planning a Halloween party, You should really check out my <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/classy-halloween-party-ideas.html">Classy Halloween Party ideas post</a> , to see my picks of quick and easy creative ways to hold a sophisticated but spooky party...</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-51971550202369472502015-10-19T09:26:00.000-07:002015-10-19T09:26:51.680-07:00Classy Halloween party ideas.....<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from<a href="http://stylizimoblog.com/halloween-table-setting-3/"> StylizimoBlog</a></td></tr>
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Are you thinking of having a Halloween party next week?</div>
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Or do you think celebrating Halloween is a bit macabre and worry a party will be a bit brash?</div>
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Personally, I love Halloween, and in today's post I have curated some freakishly stylish ideas for holding a classy, grown up but fun Halloween party from the web...</div>
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I've put this post together as a guide to creating a gorgeously grown up Halloween Party....I've got it all covered: From printable invitations, classy decoration ideas, dressing up, partyfood, of course there is also something for the kids...and some gorgeous pumpkins...</div>
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Everything featured in this post is either free or cheap to make....AND with minimum effort!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmh_tIPWJAcoIek7iNfX_0voryhULCH52NqoO37D7tdgQqtHJlrmoqs5pBF8IDQWUyQ-5PvQeyj5YzPajEuTfGWAf1VkIEujv3jE2r1f6Y67aaJA-Ip-2bdW5JccPPuV9CEajRQVuyks/s1600/INVITA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmh_tIPWJAcoIek7iNfX_0voryhULCH52NqoO37D7tdgQqtHJlrmoqs5pBF8IDQWUyQ-5PvQeyj5YzPajEuTfGWAf1VkIEujv3jE2r1f6Y67aaJA-Ip-2bdW5JccPPuV9CEajRQVuyks/s320/INVITA.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Let's start at the beginning....You'll want to invite people to your party...How about these fun "bag-o-bones" invitations from <a href="http://mr.printables/">Mr.Printables</a>? Head to<a href="http://mrprintables.com/printable-halloween-invitation-bag-o-bones.html"> the website</a> to download these printable invitations for FREE , and to see the instructions on how to make them...Easy!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from<a href="http://mrprintables.com/printable-halloween-invitation-bag-o-bones.html"> Mr.Printables</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-ETHvJlHBiiYM2iQXe8fGfV2JftHACrXHNwfsnYe5Kas3y99Wqd_0-G0V2bWWkCVXyhALZtS_Q25ZN9BuMZk03nznH_VIC9WhsRzPUjOF5DmDDcB-wDtlsKdo33IqGdF_J_VQb3CxLg/s1600/SETTING+THE+SCENE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-ETHvJlHBiiYM2iQXe8fGfV2JftHACrXHNwfsnYe5Kas3y99Wqd_0-G0V2bWWkCVXyhALZtS_Q25ZN9BuMZk03nznH_VIC9WhsRzPUjOF5DmDDcB-wDtlsKdo33IqGdF_J_VQb3CxLg/s320/SETTING+THE+SCENE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Next up, here's some simple ideas for setting the scene for your spookily classy Halloween party:</div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://inventorspot.com/files/images/Halloween_Snake_Wreath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://inventorspot.com/files/images/Halloween_Snake_Wreath.jpg" height="640" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/854499/wriggling-snake-wreath?xsc=eml_crd_2011_08&om_rid=NsgLzu&om_mid=_BOkD2bB8V6OU16">Martha Stewart</a></td></tr>
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First impressions count for a lot when it comes to setting the mood for your party, so let's start with your front door....</div>
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How about making this creepy snake wreath for the door? This is such an easy make, see how on the <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/854499/wriggling-snake-wreath?xsc=eml_crd_2011_08&om_rid=NsgLzu&om_mid=_BOkD2bB8V6OU16">Martha Stewart website.</a></div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://clv.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/09/54eb52fccd84b_-_halloween-crafts-spiderweb-doormat-1011-lgn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://clv.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/09/54eb52fccd84b_-_halloween-crafts-spiderweb-doormat-1011-lgn.jpg" height="430" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g1189/best-halloween-crafts-ever/?slide=18">Country living crafts</a></td></tr>
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And why not welcome your guests with a spiderweb doormat, like this one? Again , very quick and easy to make! Find the full instructions<a href="http://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g1189/best-halloween-crafts-ever/?slide=18"> here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bmfIdOCzxO7_8jAT-NnXiThRw4-EgcEhaRdFZEeX_JB8ecyLhsKyYCMQFbtRfwOYvimZ-1CtTUm9hKZT4JTdKs08WBCa_i1ybuVtTuIQSAFaqximXw2Ca9amYW409KB1b7Huhf9C7Dg/s1600/Pumpkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bmfIdOCzxO7_8jAT-NnXiThRw4-EgcEhaRdFZEeX_JB8ecyLhsKyYCMQFbtRfwOYvimZ-1CtTUm9hKZT4JTdKs08WBCa_i1ybuVtTuIQSAFaqximXw2Ca9amYW409KB1b7Huhf9C7Dg/s320/Pumpkins.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Pumpkins are undoubtedly THE symbol of Halloween, and a must-have for setting the scene, both indoors and out...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2014/7/10/102166961.jpg.rendition.largest.550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.meredith.com/content/dam/bhg/Images/2014/7/10/102166961.jpg.rendition.largest.550.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from<a href="http://www.bhg.com/halloween/pumpkin-carving/printable-pumpkin-stencils/ombre-cutout-pumpkin-stencil/"> BHG</a></td></tr>
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Displaying some carved pumpkins at the front of your house for Halloween, not only helps set the scene for your party, but also works as a sign to Trick or treater's that there is treats to be had at your residence...<br />
I love these simply carved ombre ones, pictured above, but you can find tonnes of carving ideas and patterns<a href="http://www.bhg.com/halloween/pumpkin-carving/#page=4"> here</a><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.lilblueboo.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/owlpumpkins9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.lilblueboo.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/owlpumpkins9.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://www.lilblueboo.com/2014/10/how-to-make-sharpie-owl-pumpkins.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:+LilBlueBoo+(Lil+Blue+Boo)&crlt.pid=camp.O1FgF2QEqIkr">Lil Blue Boo</a></td></tr>
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If pumpkin carving is not your thing, how about simply decorating your pumpkins with paint and pens? There is a tutorial from<a href="http://www.lilblueboo.com/2014/10/how-to-make-sharpie-owl-pumpkins.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:+LilBlueBoo+(Lil+Blue+Boo)&crlt.pid=camp.O1FgF2QEqIkr"> Lil Blue Boo</a> on how to make the beautiful Owl patterned ones pictured above...</div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQoXUx6SOCbvzexg6-f2DUu_2rhGf8xDC8x98hXSfIAO55gTBGHFDEKI3p4bdxNKVQtSqhh3oh8nqTEpvJvgdzxjJh0c3IEfQF0Vrbep-a1YabXLdABgVQrdBpVzJjrrQiWd2AiHk2bfc/s1600/southwest+inspired+pumpkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="588" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQoXUx6SOCbvzexg6-f2DUu_2rhGf8xDC8x98hXSfIAO55gTBGHFDEKI3p4bdxNKVQtSqhh3oh8nqTEpvJvgdzxjJh0c3IEfQF0Vrbep-a1YabXLdABgVQrdBpVzJjrrQiWd2AiHk2bfc/s640/southwest+inspired+pumpkins.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from<a href="http://www.oleanderandpalm.com/2013/10/southwest-inspired-pumpkins.html"> Oleander and Palm</a></td></tr>
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Or how about these trendy tribal patterned ones from <a href="http://www.oleanderandpalm.com/2013/10/southwest-inspired-pumpkins.html">Oleander and Palm</a>?</div>
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ea/22/3a/ea223aca02405b5da43b664747b638da.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ea/22/3a/ea223aca02405b5da43b664747b638da.jpg" width="418" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://www.crdecoration.com/blog-decoration/decoration/idees-deco-halloween" rel="nofollow">CR decoration</a></td></tr>
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If you are very short of time, simply just spray-painting your pumpkins white, then arranging them among a cluster of fairy lights looks really atmospheric...as seen in the image above...</div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a8/ec/4d/a8ec4dec93f069eaf86a39093c6bca01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a8/ec/4d/a8ec4dec93f069eaf86a39093c6bca01.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from<a href="http://www.sweetpaulmag.com/crafts/big-and-black-pumpkin"> Sweet Paul Mag</a></td></tr>
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And a couple of coats of matte black paint looks eerily spooky. You can some useful find tips on painting your pumpkins at <a href="http://www.sweetpaulmag.com/crafts/big-and-black-pumpkin">Sweet Paul Mag</a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://clv.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/09/480x552/54eb52fd2bc17_-_famous-last-words-pumpkin-1013-xln.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://clv.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/09/480x552/54eb52fd2bc17_-_famous-last-words-pumpkin-1013-xln.jpg" height="640" width="556" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from</span><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g1189/best-halloween-crafts-ever/?slide=1" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> Country living</a></td></tr>
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If you have some time , and want something a little more unusual....a showstopper, then how about creating a spooky diorama inside your carved out pumpkin?</div>
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Find the full instructions how<a href="http://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g1189/best-halloween-crafts-ever/?slide=1"> here</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaW3oD5s9aerYupP_5NdnNOwZlvXuYvMSUfx8YKBvgT2EB4Zwvdwe7aGakjSTow-1cCqeartC9FVQeXBNhEbwTEVbQRRxSrM6Eu1dmCmMgmTLYh3cTh9eZlNokfwFrrsMYnMyEYm_f0Os/s1600/drama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaW3oD5s9aerYupP_5NdnNOwZlvXuYvMSUfx8YKBvgT2EB4Zwvdwe7aGakjSTow-1cCqeartC9FVQeXBNhEbwTEVbQRRxSrM6Eu1dmCmMgmTLYh3cTh9eZlNokfwFrrsMYnMyEYm_f0Os/s320/drama.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Creating the right atmosphere in your home for a sophisticated Halloween party is paramount!</div>
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Striking the right balance between classy and spooky is not as hard as it sounds...</div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/sites/files/marthastewart.com/styles/wmax-520-highdpi/public/d34/cloth-ghosts-phobias-1011mld107647/cloth-ghosts-phobias-1011mld107647_vert.jpg?itok=ETe1dFo2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.marthastewart.com/sites/files/marthastewart.com/styles/wmax-520-highdpi/public/d34/cloth-ghosts-phobias-1011mld107647/cloth-ghosts-phobias-1011mld107647_vert.jpg?itok=ETe1dFo2" height="640" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from</span><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/858108/cheesecloth-spirits" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> Martha Stewart</a><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />THE SHOWSTOPPER: Making these eerie ghostly figures to display in your home, is surprisingly easy. See the how to<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/858108/cheesecloth-spirits"> here</a></span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.sweetpaulmag.com/OldBlogMedia/cropped/6a00e54ef2be2d88330162fbfaa54d970d.jpg?Action=thumbnail&Width=512&Height=640&algorithm=fill_proportional" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.sweetpaulmag.com/OldBlogMedia/cropped/6a00e54ef2be2d88330162fbfaa54d970d.jpg?Action=thumbnail&Width=512&Height=640&algorithm=fill_proportional" height="640" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://www.sweetpaulmag.com/crafts/scary-walls">Sweet Paul Mag</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">THE DETAILS: Make this embroidered wall art in an evening whilst watching a horror film, and display in distressed frames...Voila: Halloween decorations you can bring out year after year... See how <a href="http://www.sweetpaulmag.com/crafts/scary-walls">here</a>.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://cf.ellaclaireinspired.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_2041-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="http://cf.ellaclaireinspired.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/IMG_2041-copy.jpg" height="640" width="464" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Image from<a href="http://www.ellaclaireinspired.com/haunted-halloween-tree-free-printable-bats/"> Ella Claire inspired</a></span></td></tr>
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Visit <a href="http://www.ellaclaireinspired.com/haunted-halloween-tree-free-printable-bats/">Ella Claire Inspired</a> to download these free printable bats, print on black card and cut out....then cover your entire house with them if you'd like....or simply use then to decorate some twigs for a Creepy Halloween tree , like Ella did!<br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2013/6/7/1/original_Brian-Patrick-Flynn-Halloween-Whats-Your-Poison_3x4.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.1707.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2013/6/7/1/original_Brian-Patrick-Flynn-Halloween-Whats-Your-Poison_3x4.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.1707.jpeg" height="640" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image via</span><a href="http://www.hgtv.com/design/make-and-celebrate/handmade/our-55-favorite-halloween-decorating-ideas-pictures" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> HGTV</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Another simple way to add some drama, is to display old vintage bottles with spooky witches potion labels. If you haven't got any vintage bottles, just spray-paint some wine bottles black for that spooky look! Looks great when used as candlesticks as well!!<br />You can find loads of spooky labels, free to download and print out<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?rs=ac&len=2&q=halloween+bottles+labels&term_meta%5B%5D=halloween%7Cautocomplete%7C3&term_meta%5B%5D=bottles%7Cautocomplete%7C3&term_meta%5B%5D=labels%7Cautocomplete%7C3"> here</a></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv79fppqkshv0OnH7cLweT5bSFo-kXpY9npQJmIunSdkLt-2r5PVbGz72LyWsOGpMGoSgWBFtcooD20Ktff26KkfSafCsd6yn0owYrLOujaoTx8dMgMPCaZtqPrJTRm2omXDtLat-JLOE/s1600/candles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv79fppqkshv0OnH7cLweT5bSFo-kXpY9npQJmIunSdkLt-2r5PVbGz72LyWsOGpMGoSgWBFtcooD20Ktff26KkfSafCsd6yn0owYrLOujaoTx8dMgMPCaZtqPrJTRm2omXDtLat-JLOE/s320/candles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Using candles is a surefire way to set the mood of any party...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g1189/best-halloween-crafts-ever/?slide=14">Country Living </a></td></tr>
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Try customising plain white candles by "wrapping" them in black lace for a more Halloweeny look...See how they made the ones above<a href="http://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g1189/best-halloween-crafts-ever/?slide=14"> here</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/aa/b1/57/aab15729365018e9e5d8a1ba4ef843ea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/aa/b1/57/aab15729365018e9e5d8a1ba4ef843ea.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://www.popsugar.com/smart-living/Bleeding-Halloween-Candles-31560981?crlt.pid=camp.ZkthYO8ks9fh">Popsugar</a></td></tr>
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Or make your candles "bleed" by dripping wax from a red candle onto a plain one....add some rusty nails or pins for an even more gore-ishly freaky look, like they did in<a href="http://www.popsugar.com/smart-living/Bleeding-Halloween-Candles-31560981"> this tutorial</a>...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://stylizimoblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Halloween-table-setting.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://stylizimoblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Halloween-table-setting.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from<a href="http://stylizimoblog.com/halloween-table-setting-3/"> Stylizimo Blog</a></td></tr>
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Or for a totally sophisticated look....simply use plain black ones, like Lisa Holt from <a href="http://stylizimoblog.com/halloween-table-setting-3/">Stylizimo Blog </a>has doe here, when she decked her dinner table for her Halloween Party.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.i-do-it-yourself.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/clear-bottle-candle-holders-happymundane.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.i-do-it-yourself.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/clear-bottle-candle-holders-happymundane.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.happymundane.com/">Happy Mundan</a>e</td></tr>
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Using props ,like pumpkins and candles to set the table for your Halloween party...whether it's a spooky centerpiece or simple details, like the one's below, will make your guests feel in the mood:</div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://media.colincowieweddings.com/media/bl/a3/5lwpjkh/5lwpjkh.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://media.colincowieweddings.com/media/bl/a3/5lwpjkh/5lwpjkh.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from</span><a href="http://stylizimoblog.com/halloween-table-setting-3/" style="font-size: 12.8px;"> Stylizimo blog</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I also love how she's used small cut out paper bats to display in the forks...and I've created <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/fy7jyrf1py7l4c2/bats.jpg?dl=0">THIS TEMPLATE</a> for you to download and print out to create similar for your party..</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://www.mybiscoto.com/2013/10/roasted-pumpkin-with-cottage-cheese.html">My Biscoto</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://ak-hdl.buzzfed.com/static/2013-09/enhanced/webdr06/27/10/enhanced-buzz-31910-1380293845-0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://ak-hdl.buzzfed.com/static/2013-09/enhanced/webdr06/27/10/enhanced-buzz-31910-1380293845-0.jpg" height="640" width="502" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from </span><a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/beautiful-and-stylish-ways-to-decorate-for-halloween#.yq1KRgkX3" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Buzzfeed</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Here's another cool idea for a Halloween party dinner table setting...rubber toy bats: spray-painted white for a chic look...</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPooNtvDEOaBpArb-tOrR851npO3DqNXx1ErvzkIqDdmvYS7Sjv1LLm6tg_29SD_r_88LwnIly8nDVGjyn7lzggM6_kMtDRsi3cuDgVUTh0r4yes6NpaK0_gMd_O7heaoB5GxtWQ5miFA/s1600/food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPooNtvDEOaBpArb-tOrR851npO3DqNXx1ErvzkIqDdmvYS7Sjv1LLm6tg_29SD_r_88LwnIly8nDVGjyn7lzggM6_kMtDRsi3cuDgVUTh0r4yes6NpaK0_gMd_O7heaoB5GxtWQ5miFA/s320/food.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Serving up a few seasonal dishes at your sophisticated Halloween party is a must!</span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRnY7uLxeyQQSRidLsuElWKf1N6LYd8TQ3aO6XjGhtTpGnzSTeaokFXERXalpFCJc3tNnN2QFA4u1A_z0a0nXpVAvB2eBgMuyqFeJ8nt0J2oBE4HVrnHpfbjjqe7MvsiyxhNIiqN_EaoG/s1600/roasted-pumpkin-bruschetta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRnY7uLxeyQQSRidLsuElWKf1N6LYd8TQ3aO6XjGhtTpGnzSTeaokFXERXalpFCJc3tNnN2QFA4u1A_z0a0nXpVAvB2eBgMuyqFeJ8nt0J2oBE4HVrnHpfbjjqe7MvsiyxhNIiqN_EaoG/s640/roasted-pumpkin-bruschetta.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://www.mybiscoto.com/2013/10/roasted-pumpkin-with-cottage-cheese.html">My Biscoto</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;">And if you've gone to the trouble of carving a pumpkin or two for your decoration, why not make use of the flesh and create some tasty Pumpkin party food, like the <span style="background-color: white; letter-spacing: 0.91px; line-height: 22.1px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Bruschetta with roasted pumpkin, cottage cheese and arugula, pictured above. Go to <a href="http://www.mybiscoto.com/2013/10/roasted-pumpkin-with-cottage-cheese.html">My Biscoto</a> for the recipe</span></span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b2/89/be/b289be509d0b56ecdecb6193e6183285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/b2/89/be/b289be509d0b56ecdecb6193e6183285.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from <a href="http://simply-delicious-food.com/2013/10/29/poison-toffee-apples-halloween/">Simply delicious Food</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">And what screams Halloween more than some Poison Toffee Apples?<br />Moodily beautiful ...find the recipe at <a href="http://simply-delicious-food.com/2013/10/29/poison-toffee-apples-halloween/">Simply delicious food</a></span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://i1.wp.com/sugarandcloth.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/halloween-projects-140.jpg?resize=540%2C810" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1.wp.com/sugarandcloth.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/halloween-projects-140.jpg?resize=540%2C810" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from<a href="http://sugarandcloth.com/2014/10/ghouls-guts-ice-cream-cake-shot-recipe/#comments"> Sugar and Cloth</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">And serve some freakishly delicious drinks , like these <a href="http://sugarandcloth.com/2014/10/ghouls-guts-ice-cream-cake-shot-recipe/#comments">Ghoul's guts ice cream shots</a> by Sugar and cloths to get people in the party spirit...</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivUUa9duWjfap2Fy8Koga3WLBM_XQMlC4xpvi0alvCw8bMtnXjgJFdEMtXcJyHNejpgjx8tuQukmeR5XGgWvtXCBzoCnwt34upWjVafnCNRyj0y8lius8IcVqLgGM_3t3NFinA3ydEWmE/s1600/dress+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivUUa9duWjfap2Fy8Koga3WLBM_XQMlC4xpvi0alvCw8bMtnXjgJFdEMtXcJyHNejpgjx8tuQukmeR5XGgWvtXCBzoCnwt34upWjVafnCNRyj0y8lius8IcVqLgGM_3t3NFinA3ydEWmE/s320/dress+up.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />So...You've sent out the invitations, decorated your home, set the table and made the party food....now all that remains is to dress up, put on some <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Halloween-Party-Music-Various-Artists/dp/B000005VFQ">Halloween Party music</a> and let loose:</span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="http://ak-hdl.buzzfed.com/static/2013-10/enhanced/webdr02/7/12/enhanced-buzz-4954-1381163707-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://ak-hdl.buzzfed.com/static/2013-10/enhanced/webdr02/7/12/enhanced-buzz-4954-1381163707-26.jpg" height="614" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image via<a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/leonoraepstein/fantastic-halloween-costume-ideas-for-90s-girls#.mfd0LP5r2"> Buzzfeed</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;">How about dressing up as Wednesday Addams...just wear black and scowl...</span></td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pixel.brit.co/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/38-Bandits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://pixel.brit.co/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/38-Bandits.jpg" height="640" width="550" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from </span><a href="http://sayyes.com/2012/10/easy-and-last-minute-couples-costumes-pt-1.html" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Say Yes </a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Or theme up with your partner in crime: Throw on a bretan striped top, a woolly hat and make your own robber mask using <a href="https://liagriffith.com/homemade-halloween-costumes-running-bandit/?crlt.pid=camp.sl6wqATV2FKA">THIS</a> free download.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/sites/files/marthastewart.com/styles/wmax-520-highdpi/public/d31/stephanie-tamez-0456-r-md110411/stephanie-tamez-0456-r-md110411_vert.jpg?itok=No3ABdhB" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.marthastewart.com/sites/files/marthastewart.com/styles/wmax-520-highdpi/public/d31/stephanie-tamez-0456-r-md110411/stephanie-tamez-0456-r-md110411_vert.jpg?itok=No3ABdhB" height="640" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Image from </span><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/1015071/halloween-ink-jet-tattoos" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Martha Stewart</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Or how about simply accessorizing your LBD with these DIY Creepy crawley inkjet tattoos...Get the free download and see how <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/1015071/halloween-ink-jet-tattoos">here</a></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoysgKGADiUWkrRPq4zGEQ_pYH_yZqMgx3zWG3Ldj8ekghn-Zn2XVNWbl3sUSsFvQl_TTCtacTJvxh9u15m9UcSsd0pAm6AE5ngMWbvO2VQrwlX-L8zAFDXdtd7JAAEZq9pdygJeJ9D8g/s1600/little.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoysgKGADiUWkrRPq4zGEQ_pYH_yZqMgx3zWG3Ldj8ekghn-Zn2XVNWbl3sUSsFvQl_TTCtacTJvxh9u15m9UcSsd0pAm6AE5ngMWbvO2VQrwlX-L8zAFDXdtd7JAAEZq9pdygJeJ9D8g/s320/little.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Finally...Let's not forget the little ones...<br />You may be planning a Sophisticated grown up Halloween Party, but maybe there's a few little ones that'll tag along?</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/mypoppetshop/tutorials%20blog/batwing2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://i1013.photobucket.com/albums/af252/mypoppetshop/tutorials%20blog/batwing2.jpg" height="530" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://mypoppet.com.au/makes/2011/10/how-to-easy-bat-wings-for-halloween-or-dress-ups.html">My Poppet</a></td></tr>
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How about making them an easy Bat cape to dance around in? <a href="http://mypoppet.com.au/makes/2011/10/how-to-easy-bat-wings-for-halloween-or-dress-ups.html">This tutorial from My Poppet </a> shows you how you can whip one up in next to no time....</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVLk52dNb1YyGXSo_S3DxNyKdtBtom6f1FkUZx9XopEUlyOKOxR3Aka3AZ9jxB4bbVugf-Ww1PCLqVYnz_juwjg18Up4kU1fQWbDVJwrMy9Z8bVVTKdx_Wu3PikUpafoLyZpBSCT60Tis/s1600/armommy-tirck-or-treat-pillowcase-bag-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVLk52dNb1YyGXSo_S3DxNyKdtBtom6f1FkUZx9XopEUlyOKOxR3Aka3AZ9jxB4bbVugf-Ww1PCLqVYnz_juwjg18Up4kU1fQWbDVJwrMy9Z8bVVTKdx_Wu3PikUpafoLyZpBSCT60Tis/s640/armommy-tirck-or-treat-pillowcase-bag-10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.armommy.com/holidays/throwback-halloween/">Armommy</a></td></tr>
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And visit<a href="http://www.armommy.com/holidays/throwback-halloween/"> Armummy </a> to download the free pattern, to use to stencil up a plain pillowcase to make this super cool trick or treat bag....sure to be a hit for years to come...</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/88/1c/62/881c62304e59900debd0b8a83ac73e95.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/88/1c/62/881c62304e59900debd0b8a83ac73e95.jpg" width="494" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://bloomdesignsonline.com/2014/09/trick-or-treat-something-sweet.html">bloom designs onlin</a>e</td></tr>
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And dont forget to prepare some sweets for all those little trick or treaters knocking on your door this Halloween... Get some paper bags,fill with sweets, then download and print out these free tags from <a href="http://bloomdesignsonline.com/2014/09/trick-or-treat-something-sweet.html">Bloom Designs</a> and attach....</div>
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....You don't want to risk getting your sophisticated Halloween party ruined by some little brats egging your house because you did't have any treats in the house....now do you??</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepem7891AHh1Tf0sXX2wPAGJXJhvxQKt0MxEWHiGq065JapjKYEMV-psoTq8nioj8cBg4yGA6AMsMIVyUS1EoPmj4wk-AXSzoQNNM1JoQHsyjx5qJHsGHEp4_KMezJUob7VG3AD8nhCu5/s1600/signature1.jpg" /></center>
june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-52012959398739206202015-10-16T04:18:00.000-07:002015-10-21T23:30:20.789-07:00George Clarke's Amazing Spaces GIVEAWAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzpIkuLGwxJdEV16ggkew4_SgM-JGCLBgkamw9fAECy2go1C17fhYlSooKY72OOAYAenQjI2Q6zQBHJvsmPk4vr0ZnPOg_R1zZ0qEbkp7g81DSXV3hXSdKX2CubJG2_WeGkVEf7bZ0cY/s1600/amazing+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjzpIkuLGwxJdEV16ggkew4_SgM-JGCLBgkamw9fAECy2go1C17fhYlSooKY72OOAYAenQjI2Q6zQBHJvsmPk4vr0ZnPOg_R1zZ0qEbkp7g81DSXV3hXSdKX2CubJG2_WeGkVEf7bZ0cY/s640/amazing+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love watching telly.....I like watching late night murder mysteries, Scandinavian Noir's and silly comedy's...but most of all I love watching programs about interiors and design...go figure!!</div>
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I've really enjoyed watching the last season of George Clarke's Amazing spaces....seeing how creative people can be with the teeniest and most unusual spaces, making them into little retreats, workshops or actual homes...</div>
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So when George Clarke's publishers got in touch about writing a review of his book from the series, it was a no brainer! Of course I wanted to see all those amazing spaces in print!!</div>
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And even better...they've given me an extra copy that YOU could win!!</div>
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More details on the giveaway further down the post...</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0PG4wLqW-IQ/Vh-QLvqhSRI/AAAAAAACjeQ/Qlk7zyIHTkQ/s1600/IMG_4931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="568" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0PG4wLqW-IQ/Vh-QLvqhSRI/AAAAAAACjeQ/Qlk7zyIHTkQ/s640/IMG_4931.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So...George Clarke's Amazing Spaces series has mesmerized me with the wide array of small scale builds, from the quaint and quirky to the avant-guard and ambitious... The creativity and ingenuity of peoples visions, often achieved on very limited budgets and timescales are most impressive....and inspiring... </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7NvA3oY-vvI/Vh-QLlpq3sI/AAAAAAACjeQ/oFaJxQtjLrQ/s1600/IMG_4933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7NvA3oY-vvI/Vh-QLlpq3sI/AAAAAAACjeQ/oFaJxQtjLrQ/s640/IMG_4933.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The book , illustrated beautifully with pictures from the various projects featured, goes further in depth of each build, and showcases the ideas, the plans and the trial and tribulations overcome to achieve the finished results...</div>
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I love that there is little text boxes headlined "Lessons learnt" alongside each amazing space showcased, so that we, the readers , get a feel for the amount of planning, work and thought that has gone into each build... and it is inspiring to see that although it may not have been all plain sailing...the results are still impressive, and sometimes it is the compromises that's had to be made along the way that makes it a success...</div>
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Some of the most ingenious solutions for small space living is also explained in depth throughout the book, and serves as true inspiration, a reminder that where there's a will there is a way....nothing is impossible...</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JmFyDsixAA/Vh-QLrnRkUI/AAAAAAACjew/FKJVRFiqmMM/s1600/2015%2B-%2B10" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="574" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JmFyDsixAA/Vh-QLrnRkUI/AAAAAAACjew/FKJVRFiqmMM/s640/2015%2B-%2B10" width="640" /></a></div>
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With beautifully illustrated floor plans accompanied by gorgeous images of the finished spaces, shows peoples visions come to life...</div>
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And of course some of these Amazing spaces makes you dream of that simple life, in rural settings with nothing but the bare essentials...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mu6FtJTK3fA/Vh-QLk8buOI/AAAAAAACjeQ/IfiMOybE5Tk/s1600/IMG_4939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mu6FtJTK3fA/Vh-QLk8buOI/AAAAAAACjeQ/IfiMOybE5Tk/s640/IMG_4939.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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...Or a space-age modern , urban retreat, where the design is so well thought out that it'll leave you free to just relax....</div>
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As with the series, this book is a true inspiration, and makes you want to create your very own Amazing space...</div>
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With plenty of tips and lessons from people who've already taken the plunge....ordinary people, like you and me, who have achieved their dream, by having a vision, hard graft and determination...</div>
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IF THEY CAN DO IT, SO CAN YOU....AND I!!<br />
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Courtesy of<a href="http://www.truedor.co.uk/"> Truedor</a> , I have a spare copy of George Clarke's Amazing spaces to give away</div>
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So if you'd like to get inspired and see more of the fantastically creative builds featured, simply comment below this post to win a copy of George Clarke's book...just make sure you leave your e-mail address or other means of contact...</div>
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The winner will be announced at the end of the month!</div>
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Amazing spaces is truly Amazing, and a lovely book to chill out with this autumn, whilst dreaming of that simple life!</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-52763160741351965972015-10-14T03:31:00.000-07:002015-10-14T03:31:23.616-07:00design junction 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Over two weeks ago, one of the most innovative and creative design shows in the world, <a href="http://thedesignjunction.co.uk/">Design junction </a>took place in central London. A specially curated design platform that exhibits commercial and cultural design within the unusual and industrial spaces of the old <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;">Central Saint Martins <b>college</b></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;"> of Art and Design and Victoria House.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">With "26,000 visitors through the doors over 5 days during the London Design Festival. With more than 180 cutting-edge brands and shops, a host of striking installations, 10 mouth-watering eateries and flash factories across two Central London locations, design junction 2015 was the most ambitious, challenging and successful edition to date."*</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">Of course I was there....albeit on a flying visit before heading off to Norway for the <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.co.uk/2015/09/what-will-world-do-now_27.html">WHAT WILL THE WORLD DO NOW charity event</a>...I mean: I had to, not only did I have my <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/my-concrete-home-accessories.html">own concrete home wares</a> exhibited there (more on that next week) but, with it's reputation for displaying the most innovative of design, I was curious to see what it was all about!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It seems like a lifetime ago now, but better late than never...right? So I am finally sharing the bits and pieces that caught my eye....and maybe some of these will be THE next big thing??</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">From the wonderfully bizarre sculptural lighting by award winning<a href="http://www.arturo-alvarez.com/en/"> Arturo-Alvarez</a>, that makes bespoke, handmade lighting ,using handcraft techniques to create a new language with innovative materials....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">To the more retro, industrial lighting, so fitting for the old college building by British home ware store <a href="http://www.dykeanddean.com/">Dyke and Dean</a>...I love that their <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">own brand products encourage British manufacturing and small creative based industry...</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IfNTeLYXE2A/Vged1gLw3tI/AAAAAAACg4E/_K9q7I-bffI/s1600/_DSC0135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IfNTeLYXE2A/Vged1gLw3tI/AAAAAAACg4E/_K9q7I-bffI/s640/_DSC0135.jpg" width="424" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Then there was the super modern and super stylish furniture from French label<a href="http://www.lachance.fr/en/"> La Chance</a></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.6); line-height: 16px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">La Chance’s ambitious purpose is to provide a contemporary interpretation of the French ornamental and decorative furniture tradition. And I loved how the modern design juxtaposed with the industrial settings....</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">One of my favourite displays in the old college was the <a href="http://string.se/#">String Shelving</a>....<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">Swedish company String has built its brand around an ingenious but simple modular shelving concept that has long been top of my lust list for the home...</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_jEw3orcrcA/Vged0c2iZ1I/AAAAAAACg38/HxD1n5cmrfw/s1600/_DSC0132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_jEw3orcrcA/Vged0c2iZ1I/AAAAAAACg38/HxD1n5cmrfw/s640/_DSC0132.jpg" width="354" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">...And of course it helped that the String display was styled by one of my favourite interior stylists of all time, Swedish <a href="http://www.lottaagaton.se/" style="line-height: 24px;"> Lotta Agaton</a>...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Fun an quirky, and most definitely different from anything else, I also loved the colourful collaboration between UK doodle artist <a href="jonburgerman.comhttps://www.kirkbydesign.com/">Jon Burgerman</a> and modern textile brand <a href="https://www.kirkbydesign.com/">Kirkby Design </a> for the contemporary design company <span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.ligne-roset.co.uk/" style="line-height: 12px;">Ligne Roset</a>....</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 12px;">Known for its </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 12px;">Ligne Roset is a creative and innovative brand after my own heart...and wouldn't these cool designs look great in a teenage bedroom??</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Over at the Victoria House location of this years Design Junction, where more than 80 independent retailers and designers was exhibiting , there was also a lot of inspiration to be had...</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pt9Ds8AHkps/Vged6XIFSpI/AAAAAAACg4k/H-0adEadp08/s1600/_DSC0142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pt9Ds8AHkps/Vged6XIFSpI/AAAAAAACg4k/H-0adEadp08/s640/_DSC0142.jpg" width="562" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">...Of course I have to briefly mention T&Shop, a lifestyle concept shop based in Newington Green, who also happens to be a stockist of my own <a href="http://nostalgiecat.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/my-concrete-home-accessories.html">Concrete home ware range</a>..</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I adore founder, E<span style="background-color: white;">mily<span style="line-height: 24px;"> Grace Wright's functional and minimalistic </span></span><span style="line-height: 24px;">aesthetically curated products...but more on that next week....</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There was plenty of things to catch my eye, and the geometric handcrafted wooden home ware designs by <a href="http://www.another-studio.com/">Another studio</a>, was definitely one of my favourites, displaying just the sort of quirky creativeness that I adore...</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aFzZ06DtR7E/Vged_8XyhgI/AAAAAAACg5M/zeA3aEUu7cI/s1600/_DSC0149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aFzZ06DtR7E/Vged_8XyhgI/AAAAAAACg5M/zeA3aEUu7cI/s640/_DSC0149.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've been a fan of UK based home ware company<a href="https://www.hammade.com/"> HAM</a>'s cute rabbit and pig illustrations for some time...and was pleased to see their range exhibited at DJ.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It wasn't all home wares and furniture at DJ's market hall in Victoria House...and I fell head over heals with <a href="http://www.tompigeon.com/">Tom Pigeon</a>'s simple and geometric jewelry designs (I also adore his prints)...</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O1F7XAx3kJM/VgeeEydH2iI/AAAAAAACg5s/jZZhIknKpIQ/s1600/_DSC0156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O1F7XAx3kJM/VgeeEydH2iI/AAAAAAACg5s/jZZhIknKpIQ/s640/_DSC0156.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And these graphic, mixed media necklaces by<a href="http://www.nylon-sky.com/"> Nylon Sky</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My love for the Danish brand HAY is no secret , and I just had to share this super-cool tool caddy I spotted at <a href="http://www.nest.co.uk/">Nest</a>, who's entire collection would fit nicely in my dream home ....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Lastly, I wanted to show you these ingenious ceramic planters from London based home ware shop <a href="http://www.onandondesigns.com/">On and On</a>...aren't they just the coolest?? On and On curates <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">products like ceramics, glassware, contemporary furniture, modern lighting and bespoke commissions, among others.</span> But they also <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">strive to find new ways to promote design and are passionate about introducing new creative talents to brands, the retail industry, interior architects and culture initiatives, providing </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">support for creatives through exhibitions, presentations, sponsored events and publications... A company after my own heart!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">There was so much stuff at Design junction that I loved, and would've loved to feature here, but for now, this was my highlights...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.4px;">I have discovered new brands and shops, makers and designers, found loads of inspiration and got to know some people I just know is going to be the next big thing...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 22.4px;">Visiting Design Junction is now a definite MUST for next year!!</span></span></span></div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5334983011637438110.post-74670931365174544442015-10-08T03:29:00.000-07:002015-10-10T09:04:27.329-07:00What Autumn means to me...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Qvegic9YVhvwr8XqkCFYDvjdDqbRE3v73Gwjji9YGgh_-LGbVdO15ecA5sYCBokkERqweGYBMmrhVF17jmN3tGdMGual4O-Ve8MkJDHHHlmbKMObGVT_IhPu5THCEXt63-sPBBHmSlw/s1600/autumn+style.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Qvegic9YVhvwr8XqkCFYDvjdDqbRE3v73Gwjji9YGgh_-LGbVdO15ecA5sYCBokkERqweGYBMmrhVF17jmN3tGdMGual4O-Ve8MkJDHHHlmbKMObGVT_IhPu5THCEXt63-sPBBHmSlw/s640/autumn+style.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I thought I'd share a little post about what Autumn means to me, and the things I'd like to add to my home and life when the weather turns and the days get shorter....</div>
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I always get a bit melancholy this time of year...I find that my energy levels drops and the high octane full throttle creativity that defines my summer routines ebbs a bit..</div>
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In the words of one of my favorite singer's Ane Brun...maybe I'm just "too Scandinavian".</div>
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So I tend to revel a bit in the ascending darkness of Autumn, and instead of fighting it, this year I'd like to surround my self with cosyness...or "hygge" as the Danish say!</div>
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Being Norwegian, I like to live with the mantra: "There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes"...so although it may be getting wet and windy outside, I'll still brave the elements and head outdoors:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WyfbhTNcOBE/VhJeWhMq-TI/AAAAAAACjKY/VNGfoc8qv40/s1600/2015%2B-%2B2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WyfbhTNcOBE/VhJeWhMq-TI/AAAAAAACjKY/VNGfoc8qv40/s640/2015%2B-%2B2" width="640" /></a></div>
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Wellies, waterproofs and woolly jumpers at the ready...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUmfBhOne-ZKheUsUprqacep1oDdbwCk2MFUYyrDrENAP2sq6vbq3AfqRBjfc6_NreLosZannoKWf_yNmdQkCdA_sP-VH9DU4e5GFcW-TqhdGitisFibkzPG2uvRmoLlL34vXUI5g-Mk/s1600/IMG_4584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUmfBhOne-ZKheUsUprqacep1oDdbwCk2MFUYyrDrENAP2sq6vbq3AfqRBjfc6_NreLosZannoKWf_yNmdQkCdA_sP-VH9DU4e5GFcW-TqhdGitisFibkzPG2uvRmoLlL34vXUI5g-Mk/s640/IMG_4584.JPG" width="410" /></a></div>
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Makes it all the more nicer when you finally get inside, shivering, wet and cheeks red from the blistering rain.....</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KT2t_jwhyXU/VhJeWoCd0zI/AAAAAAACjKY/Z1Pnma2G-1E/s1600/2015%2B-%2B10" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KT2t_jwhyXU/VhJeWoCd0zI/AAAAAAACjKY/Z1Pnma2G-1E/s640/2015%2B-%2B10" width="480" /></a></div>
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Experience has taught me that nothing clears my melancholy head like a brisk walk...</div>
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In Norway they have a therm for people who like to enjoy life to the max: "Livs nyter" (:leaves neeter), and I recently realized that I am a "livs nyter" trapped in a workaholic's body....</div>
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This Autumn I am planning on working on this, and start living the life I actually want...</div>
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So I welcome Autumn, with all it's melancholy and darkness: This time I'll be ready!!</div>
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There is beauty and joy to be found in all seasons...and on cold, clear Autumn evenings, I'd love to spend some time in the garden , lighting the fire pit and using the storm kettle to boil up water for a cowboy brew in my Chemex, cuddling up on my sheepskin covered garden chair with Little Miss Moo , trying to spot bats flying around in the dark, eating freshly baked cinnamon muffins....these are the things memories are made of...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-rkTG6VdOc/VfUdLRIGqxI/AAAAAAACe5s/TklQdAZIsDQ/s1600/DSC_0736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-rkTG6VdOc/VfUdLRIGqxI/AAAAAAACe5s/TklQdAZIsDQ/s640/DSC_0736.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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So, here's a few of my outdoors Autumn essentials:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPPhfiRTj4y1NWe_h5ljmd8ppGC2lSd7TVYLXD2CBMWYP3442RYCwVW-pQrGcYJxuqbv6A3S4uu8AG6gYITKoXG1XG6blq_1YEZw5P5bHo5gkHz_8LrngW_1JwbimuOO3JA-Z7EeRF2N4/s1600/autumn+outdoors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPPhfiRTj4y1NWe_h5ljmd8ppGC2lSd7TVYLXD2CBMWYP3442RYCwVW-pQrGcYJxuqbv6A3S4uu8AG6gYITKoXG1XG6blq_1YEZw5P5bHo5gkHz_8LrngW_1JwbimuOO3JA-Z7EeRF2N4/s640/autumn+outdoors.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Hunter-ORIGINAL-Womens-Ladies-Wellington-Boots-Navy-Blue-Wellies-Size-3-9-/270875691281">Hunter wellies</a>,<a href="http://www.harveynichols.com/127623-stockholm-black-rubberised-raincoat/?istCompanyId=c721e458-728e-4a28-bc83-6a1d2abf7708&istItemId=lqlrwpmlw&istBid=tzwr&_$ja=tsid:73439%7ccid:279902193%7cagid:23569990353%7ctid:kwd-68097239227%7ccrid:76078461873%7cnw:g%7crnd:11352696416477310311%7cdvc:c%7cadp:1o6&gclid=CjwKEAjwv8iwBRC35-"> rain coat</a> and a <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/fjallraven-kanken-no-2-backpack/3603946?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=UNCLE+BLUE&resultback=1351&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-3_5_D">back pack</a> for Autumnal countryside walks....</div>
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And <a href="http://www.ellos.no/ellos-home/lysslynge-glodepaerer/410727">Outdoor party lights</a>, <a href="http://outdoorlearningresources.co.uk/product/storm-kettle/">storm kettle</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00ISRUYL2/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_3?pf_rd_p=569136327&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B00O25UAWM&pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_r=06PPDMC3C9X1ZBF0Z8GG">Sheepskin</a> and <a href="https://www.worm.co.uk/products/cast-iron-firepit?gclid=CjwKEAjwv8iwBRC35-_e8aPqwCESJAB8khP9rYSYf8C_VsUWip4V2OfBpD6fyBIDYtRtPiFogBTa9BoCYzXw_wcB">firepit</a> for cosy evenings outdoors.</div>
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I find that the chilly darkness of Autumn is tangible to my senses, preparing me for the even darker winter months ahead...and I hope that actually acknowledging these changes in me ,will help me find a comfort and happiness .....in a way that only Autumn can...</div>
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And that spending time outdoors, will me appreciate, all the more ,the comfy confinements of our home...</div>
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So I am stocking up on Blankets and throws...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6bV8aD_lmU/VhJeWot-uyI/AAAAAAACjKY/TOoJ08RdBRM/s1600/2015%2B-%2B2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6bV8aD_lmU/VhJeWot-uyI/AAAAAAACjKY/TOoJ08RdBRM/s640/2015%2B-%2B2" width="640" /></a></div>
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...candles and books..</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wIPj0xi9t2w/VhOfYwclu3I/AAAAAAACjME/HA8By3_IW1Q/s1600/2015%2B-%2B1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wIPj0xi9t2w/VhOfYwclu3I/AAAAAAACjME/HA8By3_IW1Q/s640/2015%2B-%2B1" width="436" /></a></div>
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To set the mood for cosy evenings spent with music and a warm cup of Chai Latte...(or wine..LOL)...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKcl1TzmGIrVcfIZU4liVycHl-px4c5BtTUmsojlua9WLUZNkGVNphkwdzvr4tEBkVI2FEStA9-aDlW-ZmvFuYH5QVtJTvLnFtdlMDrEgdxcToEhoKPpBe6MofyYS1_X7BT5jXsEuQsug/s1600/autumn+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKcl1TzmGIrVcfIZU4liVycHl-px4c5BtTUmsojlua9WLUZNkGVNphkwdzvr4tEBkVI2FEStA9-aDlW-ZmvFuYH5QVtJTvLnFtdlMDrEgdxcToEhoKPpBe6MofyYS1_X7BT5jXsEuQsug/s640/autumn+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I would love one of these<a href="http://www.parachutehome.com/products/striped-cashmere-throw?variant=970654781"> Cashmere throws</a> to snuggle up in with one of my favorite authors'<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Shadow-In-River/dp/0349120838"> Frode Grytten's book "The shadow in the river"</a> ...Sipping a cup of <a href="http://minimalistbaker.com/vegan-chai-latte/">homemade chai latte</a> on a stormy Autumn evening, by the soft glow of traditionally handmade <a href="http://www.wattsandco.com/church-supplies/church-candles/7-8-x-10-church-candles-pack-of-12.html">bees wax church candles</a> from <a href="http://www.wattsandco.com/church-supplies/church-candles.html">Watts and co.</a>..pulling on some <a href="https://wanelo.com/threebirdnest">slipper socks</a> before heading to a bed with freshly washed sheets...</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CDMrPzm7-9M/VhJeWuNXLfI/AAAAAAACjKY/zk2SGzj9NvM/s1600/2015%2B-%2B1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CDMrPzm7-9M/VhJeWuNXLfI/AAAAAAACjKY/zk2SGzj9NvM/s640/2015%2B-%2B1" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then waking up on a blustering Autumnal Sunday morning, drinking copious amounts of fresh coffee and reading in bed for hours...</div>
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But the truth is, it doesn't always pan out like that, and I very rarely find the time to live this idyllic life I set myself up for....but at least I'm all set should the moment arrive and I should ever get an opportunity to spend a day in bed...</div>
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Autumn...I'm ready!</div>
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june olsenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00955146070639145582noreply@blogger.com7