Sweet Sixteen !

Today my little sister turns 16. I can't believe how quickly the last 16 years have gone, and I can still remember the first time I met her all those years ago! It has made me feel very old today, but also very proud, She is a now growing into a beautiful young woman and I feel very privileged to be her sister. I remember being very jealous of my friends who had sisters when I was growing up, even though I had a younger brother who I did actually spend a lot of time with. I did get my sister in the end, but it took 24 years!

In celebration of her birthday I made her card and a couple of her presents. I really didn't know what to buy her this year, so she got a few little things instead. A knitting bag with wool and needles (I have promised to teach her - what have I let myself in for with that one!) some funky jewellery (and a confession here, Cathy, you nearly didn't get the bracelet, I was tempted to keep it for myself! It was a lucky find on a market stall and I liked it straight away!) a brooch and a journal/notebook.

Cathy's birthday card

and an ATC made just for her.



I made the notebook from a plain notebook, with some card stock and embellishments. I glued a ribbon to it to fasten together, and inside I put two handmade and matching bookmarks too. I'm told the notebook is already in use, which I am pleased about!

You were wondering what I had done with my old jeans and my Big Shot, well here is the answer. My Tattered Florals die was put to use once again on a square of fabric from a pair of jeans that, thanks to my two gorgeous girls, I am unlikely to get back into again. I glued them together and added the button and a brooch back. I did consider adding some blue glitter glue I have but decided in the end that understated was better than bling. I might experiment with it however. There's still a fair bit of fabric left for me to use!

And yesterday saw another *first* for me, in the form of my first ever attempt at Yorkshire Puddings. I have no clue how I got to 40 and have never made them before, especially as I really do like them. I was most impressed with myself as I fully expected them not to rise at all. But here they are in all their glory:



I inherited the Yorkshire tin and it's been sitting in my cupboard for a long time. I thought it was time I actually used it!

As it's Monday, don't forget to head over to see Wendy for Handmade Monday, and see all the lovely blogs, and what other crafty type people have been up to this week. As soon as I get a few minutes to myself when the girls are in bed, and the hubby is packed off to work, that is exactly what I'll be doing!

And just before I sign off, I'd like to wish a Happy and Peaceful Samhain to all. Don't forget to remember your loved ones who have gone before you tonight as you enjoy your evening meal.

Til next time.