Saturday 30 October 2010

Nothing wishi-woshi about washi tape







I have known of washi tape for a while, but it was a ps-mhe kind of thing for me. I have now rediscovered it and think it is so cool! I suddenly appreciate paper stuff, origami, envelope making (which I used to do when little), present wrapping, etc. It is funny how one changes. (Also, years ago I preferred to staple the bottom of my trousers to get close to a needle and look at me now!)




So, I got some of this tape, which not only is great because of its lovely designs, but because it can be used on glass, paper, etc and its low tack means you can take it off if you make a mistake without tearing the paper underneath.

My first project with the tape was to make this rather dull notebook from Muji into something a bit more interesting. Those that know me know how much I like Muji....


And so I put the tapes in rows. And don't you think it is quite an improvement?


Here is a bit more detail. I can think of lots of ideas for using this tape, specially since the time for sending lots of cards and wrapping presents is just round the corner....



Have you done or going to do anything crafty or creative today?

Apple and honey muffins


There is something about this time of the year that makes me want to stay at home and bake. I sometimes follow recipies I know will work, but the other day I tried a new recepie I found on the web.




These muffins a low GI, which is what I was after. I confess I worried they would taste of cardboard because they are wholemeal, that they would be boring and dry. But the ingredients are inexpensive and it was worthwhile giving it a try. They turned out to be very quick to make (bonus!)



The apple bits make the muffins quite moist, and they are perfect for breakfast, or morning or afternoon snack. They were really easy to make, and even R liked them!

So that is another example of how one might be pleasantly surprised trying new things, even if they don't look too convincing at the beginning. So, how about if you come out of your food routine and try a new recipe this week? Being adventurous in the kitchen can be lots of fun and give tremendous rewards - and that is something that my brother knows a lot about!



Saturday 23 October 2010

Yesterday and today


I used to love playing with my Nintendo when I was 12 - 13 years old. I could easily spend a whole weekend doing nothing but making sure that Mario Bros. got as many points as possible.


The game still works, but only when it has batteries in it....

25 years later (ouch! yes, how did that happen?) I still like playing with my Nintendo, although only for a few minutes at a time. Although the new version allows one to play different games on one machine, I cannot help but prefer the aesthetics of the old one.

Have a nice weekend!

Sunday 17 October 2010

Coming back, going back


A couple of people recently commented on the fact that I hadn't posted anything for a long time. I was happy to learn some people actually do read and enjoy my blog. So thanks to my dear fans (ha-ha) for encouraging me by gently kicking my backside. Not only it is a good way for you to know this and that about me, but it helps me get back to using my time in a creative way. Thanks for encouraging me to do so!

The photos here belong to our latest holiday in Spain. The weather was good, the food fabulous, the setting outstanding....what can I say, Spain never disappoints me!

We spent most of our time outdoors, but we did visit a few indoor places. The sun cried for our attention everywhere we went.

And look at the clear water! Perfect for snorkeling!


I now just need to close my eyes, breath deeply and transport myself there. Mallorca, you are beautiful.