My Baboo

Christmas Event Dates

2011-11-04T08:44:00.007Z

Thought I'd better let you know where you can buy from me directly this Christmas.

I will be at the Present Event at Hopetoun House, Edinburgh this month, 25th-27th November, 10-4.30pm each day. It's the first time I have exhibited at this show so looking forward to something new. I will have a stand in the lobby at the mian entrance to the house.

I will also have a stand at the Balfron Primary School Winter Fair on the 25th November, 7pm-9.45pm at the McLintock Hall in Balfron. My husband Craig will be manning the stall so please come and quiz him about my products!!

I will not be attending the Country Living Christmas fair at the SECC this year so sorry to those of you who are expecting to see me there. My Baboo will have a presence a the Country Living Christmas Fair in London next week 9th-13th November, at the stand of Bumblebee Toys, located on the Gallery Level at stand E19. Please say hello to Stephen and his lovely collection of traditional toys, including my Bunnies, Sheep, Baas and Highland Coos.

Also remember you can buy directly from me from the My Baboo web site , and I will be offering free postage for the months of November and December, so make the most of this offer now!!

The Angry Pirate

2011-07-13T09:49:00.004+01:00

Yesterday we were waiting in a queue to pay for lunch a a well know blue and yellow furniture store when a lady pushed past my son to get a glass. On her way back to the till point she stood in front of my son, staring at him and waiting for him to move. I had to pull him out of her way.

She didn't even say 'Excuse me' maybe she thought children don't deserve the courtesy of manners.

Last night my boy who has just turned 7 wrote a story, here it is:

The Red Pirate was a deadly curse.
He is very mean and nasty.
He has red eyes and terrible scars.

Once a upon a time there was a pirate. He was very fierce and angry. He was a ghost because he is dead.
One day he was walking on a street and then he saw a cafe. He walked in, budged through the line and got his lunch and the woman said 'Be happy and have good manners'.

It changed his life into a new dimension.

He was very happy now and guess what? He even said 'thank you'.
But he just felt happy.

By Taylor Age 7.

Made me smile!

8 Strangers Saved My Life

2011-06-02T09:37:00.005+01:00

Our beautiful girl is 1 today.

This time last year I was lying in Intensive Care after complications from her delivery.

8 Strangers saved my life - with some help from very talented surgeons and NHS staff who I had the chance to thank later.

What did the Strangers do? They each donated a pint of their blood, so simple.

A huge thank you to all who donate blood, and if you don't already, please do.

You will be saving a life - what a hero!

Lynne & Lexie (age 1)
xx

Little Easter Bunnies

2011-03-25T14:41:00.003Z

The Easter Holidays (early I know) are nearly upon us,
fancy giving something other than chocolate?

Have a look at my web site for some inspiration.
If you e-mail me your order at info@my-baboo.co.uk I'll give you free postage!

Lynne

My Baboo Highland Coo reaches New Zealand

2011-03-13T13:37:00.005Z

Here he is, My Baboo Highland Coo has made it safely to New Zealand. His host is Mandi and she sent this message:

'Hi Lynne

Highland Coo is having a fab holiday! Lazing by the pool (he has brought the sunshine with him!), watching 3500 rubber ducks in a charity river race! Its all go here!

Here he is on his balcony with a view of Young Nick's Head at Gisborne. Young Nick's Head was one of the first sightings of land when New Zealand was discovered by Captain James Cook in 1769.

Still trying to sort out where he is going next so he might stay here for another few days!

Mandi x'

Certainly looks like he is enjoying himself!

He has just traveled 11,237 miles as the crow flies - wonder where he will get to next!

Thanks Mandi for making his stay so enjoyable.

Stay tuned for more World Adventures of My Baboo Highland Coo....

The World Adventures of My Baboo Highland Coo - Part 1

2011-03-04T10:39:00.005Z

The big day has finally arived. I've had my medical, my bags are packed, my passport is at the ready and I'm all set to go on my World Adventure.

My first destination will be....New Zeland! It's going to be a long journey but I have first class seat reservations with plenty of in-flight entertainment so it should be a comfortable trip. Just as long as the cabin crew have plenty of fresh grass for me to eat I will be quite happy.

I can't wait to see where I will end up. You can follow my adventures on Facebook (search for My Baboo) , Twitter (search for Lynnebaboo) and via the My Baboo blog.

Only one thing to do is to say Farewell to Balfron and Hello New Zeland - here I come!

The Highland Coo

The Travelling Adventures of the My Baboo Highland Coo

2011-02-23T14:18:00.002Z

Want to take part in the Travel Adventures of the My Baboo Highland Coo? I'm looking for my first destination....

I noted the other day that I love sending My Baboo goodies all over the world. This got me thinking - to celebrate the launch of the My Baboo Highland Coo why not pack it off on its travels round the world?

The deal:- I will pick someone far flung from my list of Followers and post the Highland Coo to them. In return I would love a picture of the Coo at his new travel destination which I will post on FB. The new owner then has to send it on to someone in a far away land, and so on till the wee coo has hopefully travelled the world. (he is very light so cheap to post!)

In return I will send a little My Baboo goodie to all who send the Coo on his journey.

What do you think?

Lynne

Jenners now stocking My Baboo...

2011-02-16T22:41:00.002Z

What I have been spending all my time on lately - quite exciting, pushed me to the limit but it's amazing what you can achieve when you put your mind (and knitting needles) to it!

The moment has passed

2010-11-19T18:58:00.000Z

I've taken my last post off as the moment is gone, I'm over it.

Thanks for all who commented!

Tis the season...

2010-11-04T08:22:00.005Z

Well I haven't posted on my blog for ages, time has run away from me and all of a sudden there is less than 50 days till Christmas - how did that happen!!!

I'm attending just a few shows this year the first of which is in Kinrossie Village hall, Perthshire this Friday and Saturday
All proceeds will be donated to Help for Heroes, a very worth while charity. Do come along as I'm sure it will be a fab little fair - lots of lovely designers and vintage gifts.

click here for directions Just north of Perth.

Lynne
x

I Like It!

2010-08-26T22:18:00.001+01:00

just realised I'm nearing my first 100 'likes' on Facebook so must be time for a giveaway - a sheep me thinks for the 100th person to like My Baboo - spread the word!

Odds and Ends

2010-08-19T13:27:00.005+01:00

I have taken the opportunity during my maternity down time to sort out my work space.

For the past year I have been using the odd ends of yarn to crochet a 'blanket' of sorts - it has been sitting in a basket in the living room under some magazines for the past 6 months or so.
I decided yesterday in my tidying up frenzy to felt it to see how it would change the open stitches of the crochet and the result was the above slightly squint creation.

I really like the way it has felted, the treble stitches look almost woven together. The colour combination is totally random but I love how the above colours work together.

So I have made a greens and blues square to felt to make a cushion cover for my work room to go with these fab curtains (below) from Habitat I have had for years, and now cover up a more unsavoury corner of my room! You can see how open the unfelted square is.

Watch this space for the finished cushion.

Tweet my Facebook

2010-08-17T11:46:00.005+01:00

I'm trying to get back into cyberspace. Feels like I haven't been blogging properly for ages. Recently I have also got into Twitter and am starting to use my Facebook page to promote my business more.

Click either of the above icons to follow me.

I like the chatty feel to Twitter - you almost don't have to think about what you want to Tweet, makes it a bit more personal and a bit less business like.

I also managed to put a Twitter feed onto my blog (on the left) so you can read what I'm up to.

Now son No 1 is back at school I have a bit more 'free' time to explore Twitter and Facebook - might be a bit addictive!

Will report on Knit Camp soon

Lynne

Heaven or Hell?

2010-08-12T09:40:00.004+01:00

I'm off for a couple of days to Stirling University where this years Knit Camp is taking place. I have a stall in the market place - my first venture into 'work' since Lexie was born. Two whole days without children - how will my husband cope?

Heaven? - All those knitters in one place, tons of yarn and knitting goodies - bliss!
Hell? - Stress levels of being on a stall and not having the chance to have a really good look round everything that is going on!

I didn't really know these types of events existed - just goes to show how knitting really has taken off again in the past few years. It will be interesting to see what the demographics of the visitors will be.

Looking forward to meeting a lot of like minded people (and the competition!)

Time flies when you are having fun.

2010-08-08T21:59:00.004+01:00

The summer holidays are nearly over - only one week left much to my sons disappointment. 7 weeks of school holiday seemed such a long time in June, but it has flown by.

We had a tree removed in the back garden earlier in the year and when I was in hospital the landscapers came to flatten the space it had occupied. We now have a lovely piece of flat lawn (our house is on a slope) and I had visions of paddling pools and my boy running through the sprinkler on long hot summer days. It has rained so much that we haven't even managed to sit and have a cup of tea on it!

I've had to do with looking at it through the bedroom window. We managed to spend some time in the garden today, not because we have been busy, but simply because the weather was good enough. It made me realise how much I have neglected it over the past year or so. Last year because I focused on my business, this year because I am focusing on my baby.

The bambino is now 9 weeks old and is finally getting into a bit of a routine, I'm managing to get a few hours to myself in the evening and tonight has been the first time in months that I have even looked at other blogs. It's made me realise that my business, like my garden, needs a bit of attention and TLC and definitely needs to be put into a routine (that's the hard mother in me). My baby continues to delight me, and I suppose my business has now reached the terrible twos. It's going to be a challenge combining my young family and growing my young business over the next year, but one I am looking forward to, especially now I am getting more sleep!

I never thought two years ago when I finally gave up being an architect that I would have another baby and would be planning the next year of My Baboo. I had originally given myself 6 months to see if I could make my hobby into a business (probably nowhere near long enough), where does the time go?

It does fly when you are having fun.

Word of Mouth

2010-08-04T15:19:00.005+01:00

Advertising is an expensive mine field to me, I've been lucky so far in that most of my advertising has been generated through magazine articles where I have been approached by a publication who have found my story interesting.

Some articles generate interest, others not so much - it all depends on who reads them I suppose.

One of my new stockist this year is Many Thanks in Mauchline. Carol called me last week to tell me she had used a picture of my sheep in an advert she placed with the Daily Record (one of Scotlands biggest newspapers). She thought she was taking a bit of a risk placing the advert. Naturally she had to pay for it, and would that outlay generate enough interest in her shop that would lead to some sales?

She also mentioned that she will have a stall at the Ayr Flower Show this weekend. My friend Is has a stand there also and she has always done well at it. I haven't been myself, but by all accounts its a great (and busy) show.

In fact I have only attended one 'craft fair' this year, my priorities are elsewhere at the moment with the baby. Selling through stockists like Many Thanks has also meant that I have been busy with wholesale.

And yes I know I need to update my stockist list on my web site - the more shops I supply the more people will see and hopefully buy my work, so I guess it is sort of word of mouth...

Here's hoping Carol does well at Ayr this weekend and she gets some good feedback from her advert - she has plenty of my sheep and sheep knitting kits to sell!

Rip it up and start again...

2010-07-20T18:22:00.005+01:00

One thing I like about knitting is you can so easily personalise a project, from choosing your favourite colour for a pattern, making the size you really want or to taking a pattern and using it as a basic guide to make something unique.

This weekend we are off to a friends baby's Christening, and my girls wardrobe is lacking in cardigans. She was given a beautiful dress from a friend which is a perfect outfit for our day out, but given the current Scottish weather (rain) a 'wee cardy' is definitely needed to keep the chill off.

Obviously clothes manufacturers seem to think that we are all basking in glorious sunshine as I couldn't find a simple cardigan to go with her dress in any of the high street shops - just little summer dresses - not much use for our weather.

I knew I had a long sleeve cardigan pattern as I knitted one for a friends new baby last year, I also (as most knitters do) have a varied selection of odds and ends of yarn that I will never throw out. So a bit of rummaging about in the cupboard under the stairs resulted in me finding some yarn that picked up the colours of her dress perfectly.

Not having the recommended amount of yarn for the pattern I decided to make the cardigan short sleeved, putting in a nice little puff detail to finish the sleeves off.
I'm delighted with the result, particularly as I also found this dress in a well known supermarket for £1 - and the cardigan matches it too.

And as for the title of this post, another good thing about knitting is if you don't like your finished product you can always rip it up and start again!

All For A Good Cause

2010-06-23T09:29:00.004+01:00

I feel a bit like one of the current 'Give Blood' adverts you see on TV. When I was having Lexie, certain complications resulted in me receiving 7 pints of blood. This made me realise how important it is to donate, a simple procedure can go wrong so you never know when you will be relying on the Blood Bank.

I felt great after my transfusion and still do so I guess the blood I received was top quality. A big thank you to whoever it was - certainly more than one person - all of you who donate can feel good about yourself!
Whilst I was in hospital an old school friend decided to cycle from Landsend to John O'Groats (from the bottom to the top of Great Britain) 1000 miles on a bike, sleeping under the stars at night - before the good weather arrived.
His aim is to raise a mere £1000 for CHAS (Childrens Hospice Association Scotland) and Radio Forths Cash for Kids, that's only £1 a mile. Have a look at his donation web site for a bit of background to his story.

If you are feeling generous why not donate a little cash, or a pint of blood -it's all for a good cause.

Lynne
x

My New Creation

2010-06-06T07:40:00.002+01:00

Well here she is, exactly two weeks early -
Lexie Wallace Seaton born 2nd June 2010, 8lbs 11oz.
One of my best creations yet!

Lets Knit!

2010-05-24T10:47:00.003+01:00

I was delighted to receive this months copy of Lets Knit! magazine in the post today (available at all major retailers!!) Especially as the last page is a feature on myself and My Baboo. It's a good article and I think conveys how I feel about changing careers and how satisfying knitting for a living has become for me.

On a personal note, I'm biding my time till Jnr arrives, only a matter of weeks now so I'm trying to put my feet up and enjoy the sunshine whilst it lasts. I remember waiting for my first child to be born, sitting in the garden with my feet in a cool basin of water (the same time of year) and thinking about the long work free months ahead of me on maternity leave.

This time round I seem to have a million ideas swirling around my head, I'm already planning next years shows and wondering how I will strike that work/ baby balance. However I manage it I know that working for myself will allow me to get it right for all my family.

Will keep you informed of any baby news - promise!

Lynne
x

Logierait Country Market returns

2010-04-15T10:02:00.004+01:00

This weekend sees the return of the Logierait Country Market, North of Dunkeld and south of Pitlochry off of the A9.

This year it has been taken over by Fiona and Peter. There is always a great buzz at the market, with lots of local produce, crafts, refreshments and live music.

It is being held on Saturday 17th April from 10am - 2pm.

Although its a bit out of the way for me I love attending as I'm originally from the area, so get a chance to catch up with few old friends and might even squeeze in an evening out (courtesy of grandparents babysitting in Pitlochry!)

Hopefully the weather will remain dry for the weekend. The past few days have been glorious in Balfron, it's hard to believe that at the beginning of the Easter Holidays we had 4" of snow, yesterday we had to slapon the suntan lotion.

I'm still busy getting orders ready for new stcokists, I'll be updating my list of where to buy on my web site soon.

Jnr is busy kicking away and only have 9 weeks to go before he/she arrives. Been busy painting the nursery and 'nesting' which has consisted so far of cleaning my car, I'll get round to the rest of the house soon.....

Hope to see you in Logierait, my first craft market of the year.

Lynne

Think Pink Ladies Lunch, Glasgow

2010-03-17T08:14:00.003Z

I will have a stall at the above event on the 28th March, a fund raising lunch and fashion show for Breast Cancer Scotland. Tickets are £40 each, details for booking are on the poster.

A percentage of all I sell will be donated to the charity, it will be a lovely show to do - being held at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow.

Get a group of your girlfriends together and come along to support a cause that will no doubt affect us all at one point in our lives.

Hope to see you there!

SPECIAL EASTER OFFER

2010-03-13T12:29:00.002Z

Get organised for Easter and knit these adorable Bunny Egg Cosies, usual price £12.95 but now £10 till the end of April 2010 (p&p £2.00)

There is enough wool to knit four cosies, either two red and two blue or two red and two pink.

click HERE to buy!

K.I.Y

2010-03-01T10:47:00.004Z

Knit Your Own!

I have updated my web site with some more knitting kits which I wasn't even aware were missing!

I have been neglecting my web site over the past few months so really need to get back into the swing of updating it regularly.

Why not get organised for Easter now by knitting your own Easter Bunny Egg Cosies or Baby Bunnies - much less fattening than chocolate eggs, longer lasting and all my packaging is 100% recyclable!

I have also sent off an order of sheep, baby bottle holders and sheep tea cosies to a new stockist in Edinburgh - The Cats Miaou, located on Elm Street. They have lots of interesting things so pop in for a browse if you are passing.

I'm off to sew faces onto 60 more sheep, no rest for the wicked as they say.

Jings, Crivvens, Help ma Boab!

2010-02-21T14:13:00.008Z

Some of you may recognise the above title as one often muttered by Oor Wullie, or Ma Broon, some of Scotland's best loved cartoon characters by DC Thomson, seen weekly in the Sunday Post.

I was contacted at the end of last year by one of their journalists to see if they could do a lifestyle feature on My Baboo, of course I said yes. Today saw a full page article on My Baboo and a little bit of background about me. It's still funny to see myself in print, looking more like Ma Broon behind my knitting machine than I would care to mention.The article mentions that I started knitting over 30 years ago, probably around the same time as I started to read the Broons and Oor Wullie annuals.

I also had the opportunity to meet one of the creators, David Donaldson at the Country Living Christmas Fair last year, and purchased a wide selection of the Broons books for presents for my family, all kindly signed by David. I bought my mum 'Ma Broons Cook Book' full of good traditional Scottish recipes, my favourite being a 'Jam piece' where it is forbidden to cut the slice of your 'Mothers Pride' loaf, it has to be folded - of course.

If you haven't read either Oor Wullie or The Broons yet, try and do so, it gives a very funny look into Scottish life and culture, and if anything it will give you a whole new vocabulary.

Keeping in the Scottish theme I have finally put some of the wool I use for sale on my web site. I have a decent amount of 100gm Aran weight balls, and can easily wind some myself off my cones if other colours are needed. I always take some with me to shows I do and it flies out the doors, good pure Scottish wool at a great price. Please have a look!

On my other current production, Jnr is kicking away like mad now and we have decanted the 'study' to become the nursery.

I cant wait to get decorating 'The Bairns' new room!

Scotlands Trade Fair 2010

2010-01-28T13:58:00.009Z

This is what I've been busy getting ready for and now its over for another year. The Trade Fair was held at the SECC in Glasgow early this week and it proved to be another success for My Baboo.

As usual I met lots of lovely people, the girls at the Arran Aromatics stand kept me entertained and well looked after for the three days.

I'm busy getting my order confirmations just now so will continue to update my stockists which cover most of Scotland and some on Northern England.

My new designs were well received, new home wear, handbags and some new kits too.

And lots of positive comments about my stand which was really no more than a bit of fabric and a roll of wall paper. (I like to be cost effective!)

So 2010 looks like it will be a productive year for me, I've even managed to fill out my first Tax return without too may problems!

My other big production is Jnr No2 will be here Mid June 2010, so it will be interesting to see how I run my business with a new baby in tow - here's hoping the sound of a knitting machine will be able to send it to sleep!

Thanks for keeping an eye on my blog, sorry there haven't been many post recently although trying to get through the past few months (my most hectic by far) has been a bit of an effort especially when struck down with 'morning' (all day) sickness!

Finally Happy New Year for 2010!

Lynne

I'm still here

2010-01-22T21:59:00.002Z

sorry I have been out of blogland for so long - still here, working hard - big trade fair this weekend with lots of new products so look out for them very soon (honest) and some other exciting news too.....

Jingle Bells!

2009-12-24T11:35:00.001Z

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all!

see you in 2010

My Baboo
xx

Food Glorious Food

2009-11-26T11:33:00.003Z

This Saturday (28th Nov) sees the second Annual Food Festival which was held at Glengoyne Distillery last year. This year it will be held at the Edenmill Farm Shop, Stockiemuir Rd just outside Killearn. There will be over 30 stalls with local produce, Christmas trees and makers - including myself.

Last year was a huge success, something for everyone including Santa's Grotto and real reindeer for the children.

Cookery demonstrations will be given throughout the day from TV chef Tom Lewis of Monachyle Mhor and other local infamous chefs.

Well worth a visit and a chance to buy some excellent and unusual Christmas gifts - who needs the high street!?

Hope to see you there.

Lynne

Another Show Down

2009-11-23T14:25:00.004Z

That's the Country Living Christmas Fair over for another year, a great show, met lots of lovely people - thanks to all of you for your kind comments - it just reminds me I made the right move!

Still lots of events to get organised for so I cant even think about getting myself ready for Christmas yet, all I need is a little flutter of snow to get me in the mood!

Country Living Chriatmas Fair

2009-11-18T18:45:00.000Z

Dates for your diary...

2009-11-13T11:19:00.002Z

Being up to my eyes in wool at the moment, it might be easier to come along and see me than expect anything interesting on my Blog!

Here is where I will be over the festive period, hope to see you there:-

November

14th November - Dunkeld PTA Christmas Fair, Duchess Anne Hall, Dunkeld -10am-4pm

14th November p.m - Balfron Nursery Swish Night, McLintock Hall, Balfron 7.30pm-10pm

19th-22nd November - Country Living Christmas Fair, SECC Glasgow

28th November Eden Mill and Glengoyne Distilery Christmas Fair, Eden Mill Farm Shop, Nr Killearn (all day)

DECEMBER
4th-6th December, The Green Gallery Christmas Fair, Buchlyvie (all day)

Country Living

2009-10-22T19:17:00.003+01:00

You can now book your Country Living Tickets for the SECC in Glasgow 19th-22nd Nov.

Call 0844 848 0157 and quote promotional code CC2 to buy your tickets at the discounted price of £7.50 each!

Hope to see you there!

Also have a look at my new web site which now has an online shop so you can simply click to buy.

Web and e-mail

2009-10-10T21:51:00.001+01:00

just to say my new web site is up and running with simple click to buy buttons on the online shop. The My Baboo e-mail is also still info@my-baboo.co.uk.

Thanks for being patient!

New Web Site

2009-10-08T13:54:00.002+01:00

Hi All,

I'm currently changing my web site provider to one that will have an instant click to buy feature. My web site may be down for a few days and e-mails should be sent to lynneseaton1@hotmail.com during this time also.

Thanks for your patience, hopefully it will be a more user friendly site but will no doubt have a few teething problems along the way.

Happy October Holidays!

A quick hello

2009-10-04T08:35:00.002+01:00

Hi All,

just a quick update as I know I have been lacking on the blogging front. Will be trying to get my new 'click to buy' web site up and running this week which means a certain degree of uncertainty as to what will happen with my current e-mail address. If you get any e-mails returned you can contact me at lynneseaton1@hotmail.co.uk over the following week or so.

Returned to the Wee Green Market yesterday which was good. Next big gig is at the end of the month at the SECC, I will post more details later.

Then it is heads down for Country Living! It certainly doesn't feel like a year ago the 'fear' had set in about stock levels. Needless to say my knitting panic has well and truly set in for this year.

The next few months will be hectic so I apologise in advance for lack of blogging. I will try and keep you updated with new products etc and I will also be giving away a pair of tickets for Country Living at Glasgow soon, so it's worth keeping an eye on my blog for that. I will hopefully get a promotional code too so you can book tickets at a reduced price and I will let you know when that arrives.

Sorry no pics today, a reflection on how disorganised I am at the moment!

On the news front I am delighted for Alice who has managed to secure a shop in Balfron, hopefully opening soon!

Have a good weekend,

Lynne

Not Coming to A Shop Near You!

2009-09-14T13:05:00.005+01:00

When is a Coffee Cosy not a Coffee Cosy?

When it's a door stop of course!

This door stop was commissioned by a lady I met at the Edinburgh Festival. She had just decorated her music room and needed a door stop to match. The shape of my coffee cosies did the trick so I made a simple insert which is full of rice and is ready to be posted.

Why write about the door stop? I'm sure I have mentioned before that one of the benefits from buying directly from a maker is you can get exactly what you want, not what the High Street thinks you need. You will not find my door stop on the high street - just in a lovely music room!

The gloves are a result of four very cold and wet days spent in Milngavie at the Book Festival. There is a certain degree of satisfaction from knitting these 'on the spot' whilst I was tending my stall. I'm planning to write up the pattern and make them into a knitting kit.

I have also decided to start putting together a monthly e-mail newsletter with some special offers, sneak peaks of new products and the odd hint and tip. If you would like to receive the My Baboo newsletter please e-mail the word 'News' to info@my-baboo.co.uk

I have finally caught up with myself after Edinburgh and Milngavie so it is now full on knitting for all my Christmas shows. I will be at the Logierait Market this Saturday (19th Sept), which will be my last visit there till next year as I will be elsewhere in October, so come along for some good Christmas Present ideas.

See you soon!

Bearsden and Milngavie Book Festival

2009-09-02T16:52:00.003+01:00

I will have a stall at the Bearsden and Milngavie Book Festival from 3rd - 6th September. You will find me on the main street between Boots and M & S, next to Alice.

There will be lots of events so please come along (whatever the weather!)

Hope to see you there,

L

Who do you think you are?

2009-08-21T09:14:00.004+01:00

Family trees are becoming more and more popular. I am the last of the Mactaggarts in my line, although I am now Seaton by marriage. We have quite a few historical names in the generations immediately above us such as Wallace, Stewart and Brodie - it would be interesting to see where the branches of my Family Tree stretch to, but that is a project for another day.

I get asked often where 'My Baboo' comes from. Its a simple answer so here is the story.

A few years ago I knitted a little bunny for my sister. Our friend Tracey saw it and wanted one. T also happens to be the manager of Homer in Aberfeldy and before I knew it my little bunnies were hopping of their shelves.

When I started selling the handbags I had made I used a different company name which was more relative to handbags. However this just didn't suit a wee bunny. So My Baboo became the name of my bunnies (and chickens and sheep) - here's how:

My first name is Lynne. In the cartoon Charlie Brown there is a little boy called Linus, and my sis used to call me that (and still does). Linus is the object of Charlie Browns sisters affections, and she calls Linus her 'Sweet Baboo'. My Baboo Bunny had a nice ring to it, and has ultimately ended up being my company name.

The picture above is of two Baboo Bunnies that Rene knitted from my pattern. She and her bunnies live in South Africa, where the mountains are currently dusted with snow - hence the scarves. She has knitted them from bamboo and cotton - and I love how they have turned out.

What I like even more is that in her correspondence she doesn't refer to them as bunnies, but as 'Baboo's'. So that's what they are - Baboos - sweet.

I'm off to the Edinburgh Festival West End Fair on Sunday for a weeks trading - Arch 11. I studied, worked and lived in Edinburgh for nearly 15 years so it will be nice to spend a week there, catching up with friends and hopefully meeting some new ones and reliving a little bit of my history.

Hope to see you there.

Lynne

News Update

2009-08-13T21:34:00.003+01:00

I haven't abandoned you, if I could knit socks I would be working them off just now in preparation for my week at the Edinburgh Festivals West End Fair where I have an arch stall from the 24th August for a week.

I'm also at Logierait again this Saturday - 10-2pm.

Jnr has lost a tooth (I thought the Tooth Fairy wouldn't be around for another year yet) and he starts school in five sleeps time!

On top of all this I have a secret project to work on which needs to be completed by the first week of September, but I cant tell you about it till the end of October!

Tomorrow some journalists are coming to the house to do a photo shoot for a possible feature about having a rural business.

Oh and we went to Kirkby Lonsdale for a week and stayed in a Wigwam - cool.

Forgive me for not blogging often enough - I'll get back into the swing of it soon.

Have a happy weekend!

Unraveling at the seams...

2009-07-26T18:45:00.004+01:00

I have been contacted by Ravelry to take part in the UK Ravelry fair at Stirling Uni next year. Not knowing much about them I had a look at their web site and to cut a long story short I am now selling some knitting patterns through them

I've only been on their web site since Friday but it seems to be a mecca for knitters, well worth having a look and registering as they have loads of useful info. You can list all your own knitting projects, things you'd like to make etc, creating your own on-line knitting community, a sort of Facebook for knitters.

The benefit of selling my patterns on their site is you can download them directly once you have paid. Nice and easy.

I would say their site does come across as a little complicated to begin with but it has only taken me a couple of days to get to grips with it, and the Ravelry staff do seem to be very helpful (as you would expect knitters to be!). You do have to register before you can access any of the information but that can be done in a few simple steps.

Have a look here and let me know what you think. To find my patterns for sale simply search for 'Lynne Seaton' or 'My Baboo' under the designer or pattern tabs.

Happy knitting!

Happy Birthday to Me

2009-07-24T09:47:00.005+01:00

A year ago today I hung up my hard hat and officially declared My Baboo as my new business. It has been an extremely quick year and I have often been asked if I'm glad that I gave up my career in architecture - most definitely YES!

I have celebrated by putting up some shelves in my workroom to house stock, yarn and the like, giving me more space and also displaying some of my work.

So what have I achieved?

I have learnt loads about running your own business and that there is always somebody who can advise and help
I've made money (thankfully)
I've discovered working for myself isn't as scary as I first thought
I have met some wonderful people
I've had the chance to spend more time with my son and husband
The list could go on and on but most importantly I have enjoyed it immensely.

I'm really looking forward to the coming year, planing ahead and being able to get My Baboo securely fixed to the map.

Thanks to everybody who has supported me over the past year - I really appreciate it.

I wonder if my hubby will think of buying me a birthday cake.......?

For Folk Sake

2009-07-16T22:02:00.005+01:00

Just trying out a wee Folksy shop - view here.....

It's the UK version of Etsy, everything is in pounds and pence, let me know what you think.

Venturing out this weekend to Rothiemurchus - hoping for some sunshine.

Will post in length next week about Inver Cottage - suffice to say it was fab!

Have a good weekend!

Craft Fair or Not Craft Fair? - that is the question.....

2009-07-06T15:23:00.007+01:00

I don't do a lot of craft fairs. I keep up the local one at Killearn and the rest I am beginning to be a bit choosy about. There is nothing worse than turning up to an event and not even selling enough to cover your table cost - it's soul destroying and always casts the seed of doubt - why does no one want to buy my wares - are they not good enough???! Don't you know how much effort I put into knitting a sheep!!

We (fellow makers) have deliberated numerous times as to what makes a good fair, how to get the right people through the door.

Since taking a stall at the Wee Green Market in Killearn, I have managed to strike up some solid friendships with a bunch of lovely and like minded girls. One question we have asked ourselves is what would be our ideal 'fair', and long have we pondered and wished our crafting time away on what would be our perfect day.

So we have decided to take our Craft Fair Future firmly in our hands. This Saturday sees some of us going West to Inver Cottage near Loch Fyne. I met Jasmine and Joe at the Scottish Trade Fair in January and they are now one of my stockists. I managed to persuade my husband to take a drive to Inver Cottage for a wee day out with the family a couple of months ago, and I was simply delighted with the whole experience.

Firstly the drive is spectacular, the location stunning and the food - well our clean plates said it all. Jasmine and Joe have a huge amount of enthusiasm for their business, and it shows. And as usual I came away thinking 'This would be a good place to have an event'.

As I have mentioned before - if you don't ask, you don't get, so we did and we got. We hope that Saturday will bring a slightly different experience to visitors. Only a few designers who have the time to tell you about their craft, the chance to sit back and enjoy lunch whilst looking out over the castle ruins. And if me and my friends 'happen' to enjoy ourselves into the bargain then all the better. When I think about it, it might just be an elaborate excuse for us all to have a day out...

Come along and meet myself, Caireen, Suzanne and Isobel.

Hope to see you there!

Oh Deer

2009-07-05T08:26:00.002+01:00

My Husband caught this on his phone this morning on his walk home from work (6.45am). The deer jumped out in front of him and he managed a few seconds of footage as it bounded away - just thought I'd share!

I really like the colours, the blue sky contrasting with the grass. I also like how quiet and peaceful it is. We are lucky to live where we do :o)

I can see clearly now the rain has gone...

2009-07-03T21:27:00.006+01:00

Finally the rain has come (and hopefully gone), the air has cleared and it's all a bit cooler inside and out . I've had a hectic couple of weeks (I seem to write that a lot) so here is a quick summary:-

Attended the Logierait Market which was a good day, very well attended by locals and visitors from further afield. I also caught up with some old school friends (from Aberfeldy). I met Judith and Karen who are readers of my blog and hail from Pitlochry. Turns out they know my in-laws, it's a small world. It was lovely to meet them, it's always interesting to find out who takes the time to read the nonsense I type.

We had the last week of nursery and I managed four nights out! This must be a record for me since becoming a parent. Now that my social life has calmed down I've managed to get a fair bit of making done. The tea cosies hanging on the line are for Homer, which I will be sending up soon along with some knitting kits and sheep. I never thought 20 years ago walking down the main street of Aberfeldy during my school lunch hour that I'd be making sheep to sell in one of the local shops! (Crikey that makes me sound a bit old)

I was also contacted by Alicia this week who I met at the Country Living Fair in November. She is opening a shop with her husband in Aberfoyle - hopefully tomorrow - called Cabin Collectives. It's located next to the Wool Centre in a cabin, hence the name. They will be stocking hand crafted items made in Scotland, including My Baboo and their own glass work. Please pop in and say hello if you are in the area.

I'll write about my impending outing to Inver Cottage over the weekend, but you can also get all the info you need from Is - July 11th, 11-5pm.

Ice Age 3 beckons tomorrow and then maybe a trip to the Botanic Gardens in Glasgow. Have a good weekend!

Oh and I almost forgot to mention, Take That on Sunday night might have just been the greatest day of my life.....

Time for Tea (and coffee)

2009-06-18T13:16:00.005+01:00

I've finally had the time to work on some new products - coming your way soon is the new My Baboo Tea Beanie (because it looks like a beanie hat!) and Coffee Cosy in the form of knitting kits... just have to write the instructions and get the boxes sorted, hopefully within the next two weeks. (also available in blue)

The Kippen street fair was a success, even the weather pulled through. I'm annoyed with myself though as I left my knitted bunting attached to the stall, never to be seen again. I'll just have to make some more.

This weekend I'm off to the Logierait Market (10-2pm), coupled with a trip to the in-laws in Pitlcohry. Then on Sunday I'm off to Glasgow to see Take That with my sister. I don't know if my life will ever be the same again.

I met up with a few of my Wee Green Market friends this week - Is, Suzanne and Caireen - we are planning a small fair at Inver Cottage on the 11th July, a bit of an excuse for a nice day out to a fab restaurant and location.

Happy Knitting!

...and...relax

2009-06-08T21:28:00.004+01:00

I feel like I've been off the map for the past couple of weeks. Lots of things have been happening, most importantly my boys 5th birthday this weekend. we had a great party at Briarlands Farm, just next to Blairdrummond Safari Park - a great place to take your kids during the impending summer holidays.

Work wise has been a bit odd, I'm starting to find more time to make things for myself as my shop orders are finally calming down. I've discovered I have been putting away lots of half finished items that need labels/ faces etc sewn on, so I have I bit more personal stock than I thought.

I have also been working on a small Baboo Book with all the items I have on my web page listed like a mini catalogue. Last year when visiting family in London it became apparent that the catalogue was not just for us country dwellers. I like the idea of having something lying about coffee tables that you can flick through whilst having a cup of tea. It's also very portable, not everyone has a lap top...

Unfortunately just as I was printing off copy no. 7 my printer decided to go on the blink (I get very angry when technology doesn't co-operate with me). However printing and cutting each page myself is a luxury and totally cost prohibitive so I must find a printer who would be happy to run off a few to get me started - a good lesson in not having to do everything myself.

I have four spare little Baboo Books, if you would like one drop me your name and address to info@my-baboo.co.uk. The first four e-mails will receive one. Don't get too excited - its my first attempt at publishing so no doubt the graphics/ spelling/ quality leaves a lot to be desired so any feedback will be gratefully received.

Hope the sun is still shining where you are!

Lynne

PS I have taken a last minute stall at the Kippen Street Fayre on Saturday 13th June 2009, 10am-4pm. Hope to see you there.

Video Killed the Radio Star...

2009-05-23T16:35:00.004+01:00

Last week I attended a workshop by Step to discuss how to use the Internet

You might have noticed the video for my prise draw - using You Tube to get a wider audience was one of Colin and Jane's suggestions to promote and grow more business.

So I decided to give it a go - I've been thinking of making some 'How to Knit' videos for a while now to go hand in hand with my knitting kits. The videos I have done so far are most definitely practice runs, but good fun - even if it's just to make myself cringe when I hear my voice! I think you can see my production values are pretty low, but it's quite nice to think of different ways to show off my work. I can see how with a bit more effort I could put together some decent 'adverts'.

My new video is showing my ever increasing flock of sheep, this lot are trotting off (do sheep trot?) to the Soap Co on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh next week. I've also had a go at making some key rings - these are very tactile and good worry balls too!

I went to the Step workshop with Claudia of 4D Organising - she has just started her blog (again as a result of the workshop) so pop over and have a read - guaranteed to get you organised.

Have a good weekend.

And The Winner Is....

2009-05-15T12:49:00.005+01:00

Drum roll please.....

Congratulations to Lesley at Sea Blue Sky & Abstract, and thank you to everyone who left a comment.

Lynne
x

(I sound really Scottish in the video!)

Happy 100 Giveaway

2009-05-07T10:42:00.006+01:00

So I've finally made it - my 100th post. I haven't looked back at my first one, all I know is I was very nervous when I started blogging as I didn't know if anyone would read it. SO a big thank you to all of you that have and everybody that has left such lovely comments over the past year.

I mentioned a while ago that I would be giving away one of my Bunting Knitting Kits and a new My Baboo Flower brooch (see below) to celebrate - getting the flags out seems appropriate. If you fancy winning one please leave a comment - just your name, doesn't need to be anything witty. I'll put all your names in a hat and get my boy to choose the winner - deadline is Friday 15th May @ 12noon (GMT).

If you don't fancy knitting yourself then still enter as I'm sure you will know someone who would like it as a gift.

Good Luck!

I have also been tagged by Sarah, who I met at Scotland's Trade Fair in January. I have admired her work from afar for some time so it was very nice of her to think about me.

Here are my questions and answers:-

What are your current obsessions?

Getting fit again, enough said about that the better, and Facebook which is totally wasting my time.

What are you currently reading?

Lamb to the Slaughter - Aline Templeton. 'Death delivered to your door...' I always love a good murder in a book

Where do you plan to travel to next?

Don't have may travel plans at the moment that aren't linked to the daily grind. However I am looking forward to staying here later in the year.

What’s the best thing you ate or drank lately?

I have a new stockist in the west - Inver Cottage. We managed to visit a month or so ago and had a fantastic lunch, the children's food was well appreciated too. Well worth a day trip.

What is your dream career?

I think I've finally found it by taking the leap from architect to My Baboo.

What is your favourite film ever?

There can be only one - Dirty Dancing - every girl needs a Johnny....

Care to share some wisdom?

You can do anything if you really want to.

Where would you rather be right now?

Same place but much warmer.

What is your desert island disc?

Too difficult, but probably some cheesy soft rock hits of the 80's and 90's, and anything by U2

If you could be any animal other than human, what would you be?

Something water related - probably a whale so I can explore the seven seas...

And my new question - if you had super powers what would they be?

Having a four year old boy means I need to answer this question a lot, so in no particular order - instant time travel (so I can nip over to Oz when I want) and the ability to make lots of snow at Christmas - I could go on and on.

The rules are to answer the questions, replacing one and adding another, and then to tag eight other bloggers to do the same.

Here are my eight who have all been very encouraging and people I would never probably have met had it not been for blogging and my career change :

Caireen, Suzanne, Isobelle, Rebecca, Aileen, Caroline, Frances and Pipanny.

Thanks again for taking the time to read my blog.

Lynne

Come on down, the price is right....

2009-05-01T10:53:00.005+01:00

For a long time I have been asked to sell the flowers I use on my bags separately as brooches. The only thing that has been putting me off is the length of time they take to make, I just couldn't sell them at a reasonable price.

I'm also aware I need to have a good range of designs that will suit most pockets.

I have been 'footering' about (a good Scottish word) with crocheted flowers in a bid to make one that looks good and is value for money and I have designed the above (and below).

These brooches measure about 5cm across and I think they would look good on any jacket or a bag of your own. I also enjoyed thinking of a different way to display and package them that would carry through the My Baboo logo, without being a tie on tag, so I designed these individual cardboard stands - simple and effective.

Its the Wee Green Market in Killearn this weekend so I will try the flowers out on the public to get some feedback on colours and cost, I aim to sell them for £7 each.

It has also been a week of sheep and every where I turn there are some flocks in varying stages of completion, a bit like Hitchcock's 'The Birds'

Hope to see you tomorrow at the Market!

Old Bags and Beans....

2009-04-20T16:48:00.006+01:00

My good deed for last week was making a new bean bag cover for the Balfron Nursery outdoor classroom, or the 'Jolly Coup' as it was officially named (by my son!)

The previous couple of years have been focused on raising funds to build the shed and to develop the Nursery Garden. Last year saw the fruition of all the hard work when the children were able to make their own tattie soup and eat plums of their new fruit trees, the flowers survived the odd football and scooter rolling over them.
As the main layout of the garden has now been achieved, instead of raising funds for more plants we are having a Plant Donation Day on Friday 24th April (all day). So if like most people I have spoken with, you have spent the last few days enjoying the sunshine in your garden, and have noticed a few plants that could do with dividing, or some stray seedlings please feel free to pop them into the Nursery ( if you live locally!).

They will be very much appreciated and the children will no doubt enjoy getting their hands dirty.

The fabric for the bean bag was a pair of curtains donated by Alice. The old bean bag contained three smaller 'bags' so rather than making another round bag I made a rectangular one which is much bigger and will accommodate a few more little people.

I simply folded it in three and sewed down either side and slipped the bean bags in - like a giant pillow case - then closed it with a red ribbon. This means the bean bags will be easy to remove so the cover can be washed. I also made a pair of curtains for the shed and some bunting with the left overs.

I couldn't resist hanging them in my garden yesterday to celebrate our first barbecue of the year!

As my 100th post will be due soon I will be giving away a My Baboo Bunting Kit to knit - watch this space...

Sand , sea and sunshine

2009-04-16T21:24:00.008+01:00

We've just returned from spending five fabulous days in Firdhorn on the Moray Coast. It will be nearly twenty years ago that I first visited with my boyfriend - who is now my husband - and every time we stay it seems as if the sun shines just for us.

This Easter was no exception, it was so warm our boy managed a few dips in the sea - the above picture was before he threw caution - and his shorts - to the wind whilst shouting 'This is totally awesome - woohoo'. Very cute and funny for a four year old - but it summed it up what we were thinking too.

Have a look at Karons blog for some lovely pictures of the village itself.

If you ever have a weekend to spare it is certainly worth the visit.

My Baboo on Facebook

2009-04-15T16:58:00.003+01:00

I have created a My Baboo Facebook page for those of you that are interested.....just do a search for My Baboo on your Facebook page and become a fan!

A Wedding Bag for Kirsty

2009-04-09T07:20:00.013+01:00

The Finished Bag

Last year at the Country Living Fair I met Brenda who enthused about my Cup Cake Tea Cosies. She mentioned her daughter Kirsty was getting married in 2009 and that her wedding cake was being made up of lots of little fairy cakes. Brenda asked if I would consider making a wedding bag for Kirsty with a Fairy cake on the front, of course I said yes.

The Happy Couple - look at those fab shoes!

Brenda contacted me in February this year and confirmed that Kirsty wanted me to make her a handbag for her wedding. She sent me a picture of Kirsty from the waist down with her dress and amazing red shoes on and a picture of one of the Butterfly cakes she was going to use as the wedding cake, sitting in a little red polka dot cake case.

I could see right away this wasn't to be a traditional white wedding so after some discussion about colours I set to work.

Kirsty

Once I had the bag made - which was the easy part - I spent a while trying to create a knitted fairy cake - the kind with the 'butterfly' wings, which was not as easy as it looks! A cup cake is simple - put a cherry on top and every one knows instantly what it is to be. Kirstys cakes had butter icing so I knitted a tube and layered it to look like it had been squeezed out of an icing bag. The little butterfly wings were simple enough as was the cake case. I finished it of with lots of little clear glass beads to represent a dusting of icing sugar, and the polka dots to the case were red sequins.

I then put a brooch clasp on the back so that Kirsty could take it off the bag as she wanted to be able to use the handbag after the wedding - although I think the cake is sightly abstract so wouldn't look too out of place as a daytime brooch.

Kirsty also bought some of my Bunnies as favours and made them all little handbags from some of the material she had left over from her bunting then put Thank you notes in them - so sweet and such a good idea.I really enjoyed making the handbag, even more so because it was for Kirstys wedding. It's so nice to think I have been part of such a special day.

I often make on-off handbags (look out for a bag for Tracey soon) as commissions, they are such good fun to make as it's nice to deviate from my main range. And when the bag is made, you know there wont be another like it. Being the designer and maker allows me to offer this service, something you wont find on the high street.

We are off up to Findhorn tomorrow for the Easter break - back on Wednesday. Hope you enjoy the Easter weekend!

Is there anybody there?

2009-04-01T21:18:00.004+01:00

not a very crafty photograph, but special none the less - Centy the Centipede, my boys 'first real pet'

I feel like I am out of touch from my blogging world it's been so long since I last posted. Thankfully it has been because I have been so busy getting orders out the door. I am delighted with the response I received from Scotland's Trade Fair and I am even seeing some stockists re-order already. You can get an updated list of my stockists here.

I have lots to write about but I think I will do it in bite sized pieces to get me back into the swing of blogging.

The most recent being My Baboo's trip to London (although my feet have stayed firmly in Balfron). I will be stocking Inver Cottage soon and Jasmine passed my information onto Carole who does a wonderful job in prompting the West of Scotland with her Seafood Trail.

Carole has just been down to London to promote Scotland at the Best of Britain and Ireland tourism show. She kindly took a selection of my work to exhibit along side other treasures you can find on her trail. I haven't quite had the full 'debriefing' from Carole but all in all the show was very successful. Although as it was held at ExCel, and all the undergrounds were closed over the weekend due to the security for the G20 summit that is now being held there. I wonder if all the world leaders had a chance to visit to see what we have to offer?

What struck me the most is the fact that someone thought enough of my work to want to use it in a show case for Scotland. Very flattering indeed.

Next will be the wedding bag......

Word of mouth

2009-03-13T21:32:00.004Z

Pictured above are My Baboo Bottle Bags - big enough to carry a baby's 8oz bottle and can be strapped onto a buggy by thier ears!

The past few weeks have been a bit strange - definitely a time of change. We have had the decorators in so the inside of my house now looks great (to me at least). I resigned myself to the fact I would never have the time to do all the painting myself - many years ago it would have been a pass time I relished - now its a necessary evil to be fitted in between every day life.

It has resulted in a major decluttering and reshuffle of the spaces in our home, I love moving furniture about as it can really change the way we live. I now feel that my house it starting to reflect me and my family - such an important thing for an architect!!

The decorators we used were great, and did a top job even under my beady eye. They were recommended to us - word of mouth is so important.

This week has seen me finish a bag for a bride, I met her mother at the Country Living Fair. A great project for me to work on and such a nice feeling I will be part of her big day. No pictures till after the event - wouldn't want to spoil the surprise.

I've had even more enquiries from people wanting to stock my goods - a lot of which has been word of mouth. I always find it amazing that people think enough of My Baboo to recommend me - long may it continue.

I've also had an odd request from an company in London - I think I need to keep it under my hat just now as it may not amount to anything, but again such a thrill to be approached.

Tomorrow sees the kick off of the Wee Green Market's monthly sale of goods in Killearn. I haven't a clue what stock I have to sell, some new knitting kits and a few other new items. If you are in the area please pop in and say hello. 10am-1pm.

I'm watching Comic Relief just now and realising how lucky I am - if you do one thing this weekend donate some money to the cause - and ask your friends to. Word of mouth can make such a difference.

Spring is in the air...

2009-03-05T19:32:00.003Z

This weekend sees the preview of the Spring Exhibition at the Green Gallery in Buchlyvie - 7th & 8th March 2-5pm. I am showing and hopefully selling some new bags and home wear, please pop in if you have a chance.

Also some new stockists are:

Gifts and Gardens, Braemar
Gallery 1, Bathgate
Seahorse, Port Appin

Please click on their names to be redirected to their websites and shop information.

I continue to be a busy girl but tomorrow I am travelling North to Dunkeld to meet my sister and friend Julie for morning coffee at the Birnam Institute, then further north still for a spot of lunch. Who knows where the day will take us as we will all be without children for the first time in what seems like years - all I know is we will put the world to rights. We may just sit and stare at each other and enjoy the silence!

Have a good weekend.

Pandora's Box

2009-02-23T10:18:00.005Z

More and more of my old friends are joining Facebook, I love catching up with them but the one thing I'm not too keen on is all the free 'tests' that get passed about like 'Find your true name' all geared to revealing your true personality, which either leaves you elated or deflated.

This morning I have been lining some handbags and tea cosies. Standard kit required: sewing machine, scissors and sewing box.

So here is my Personality Test - What does your sewing box say about you?

. To start with my box is actually a tool box, lots of handy compartments to keep me organised.
. The picture above is a small selection of the more bizarre things I keep in my box:
. Thread colours - I have no idea what I have used some of those colours for over the years. The bright orange was for a holiday dress I hand sewed, which would no doubt look more like a hankie now. The green thread was for a new cover I made for the sofa that was left in my first flat in Edinburgh. The other colours - well?!
. Spare light bulbs for my Disco Ball
. A plectrum - one day I will strum away again on my guitars...
. An odd earring from a pair I used to wear constantly - probably now about 20 years old.
. Little ruby beads that I tied into my hair for my wedding reception.
. An eraser shield, for precisely correcting all the little mistakes I made when drafting architectural drawings by hand - again nearing 20 years old.

Make up your own mind what my personality is like. My sewing box is an every day time capsule of my past. Every time I use it the little things inside make me smile.

What's in your box?

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-14T09:31:00.004Z

OK, this post isn't about Valentines day, but why ignore it?

This week saw the first of my orders being delivered to Hammerton Store in Aberdeen. I met Susan at the Trade Fair and she is lovely, so enthusiastic. Hammertons is a deli on Great Western Road, if you are in the area please pop in and say hello. They are stocking my knitting kits; egg cosies and baby bootees. Susan has bought some vintage Vogue knitting books for the display so I assume you can pop in and be inspired - what a nice idea - my perfect deli - food and knitting!

I'm also exhibiting at an arts and craft evening at Dobbies Garden Centre in Stirling on Thursday 19th, 6-8pm. Please call the store for further information - 01786 458860

I have been busy putting together two new knitting kits. Baboo Sheep and Baboo Bunting.

I've been asked a lot if my sheep come in kit form so I thought why not give it a go. The pattern is pretty simple, I've made the legs etc for you, so its just a bit of basic garter stitch ans stocking stitch.

The Bunting kit gives you enough wool to knit 9 flags, with a 2m length of cord for hanging, the perfect pattern for using up all those oddments of wool you have lying around, the more colours the merrier.

Hope the postman brings you a surprise!

Patience is a virtue

2009-02-06T09:33:00.005Z

This week has been a week of waiting.

Waiting for my test results for my bunnies and sheep to say they meet all the toy safety standards, certificates were received yesterday.

Waiting for my husband to finish his day shifts so I can get some much needed work done - I've had three glorious uninterrupted hours this morning so far, not a Spiderman or Batman in sight.

Waiting for a quotation to get our house decorated, cause I've finally realised I'm not going to get it done myself.

Waiting for some decent snow to sledge in - hasn't happened.

Waiting for our new baby niece to be born - yesterday at last, Ellie made a long awaited appearance.
Pictured are my Little Feet, felted slippers to keep toes toasty, I know who will be getting a pair shortly.....

2B or not 2B.....

2009-01-29T09:17:00.009Z

So, here it is, the My Baboo 2B collection

A selection of home wares

Designed 2B stylish

Designed 2B practical

I decided after Christmas to make a core group of items that can be mixed and matched and free from too much embellishment. The idea being I am more efficient at making them which is reflected in their price.

The 5 colours I have used also appear in the rest of my designs, making them a collection you can build from.

This week saw me exhibiting at Scotland's Trade Fair at the SECC in Glasgow. Its the first time I have sold wholesale to retailers and all I can say is it was certainly worth it.

I met some lovely people, both exhibitors and new stockists and you will shortly be able to find My Baboo across Scotland and into the North of England.

I have lots of lovely new photographs so please be patient whilst I get them onto my web site with prices etc (photos courtesy of Michael ferns)

Cant type for too long as I now have loads of orders to fulfill!!

Read All About it!

2009-01-23T14:11:00.002Z

Oh how exciting, I've just picked up a copy of the Stirling Observer and the Milngavie and Bearsden Herald only to see my face and products staring out at me - I've made the news (for the right reasons)!

Out with the old and in with the new...

2009-01-22T11:08:00.004Z

I'm starting to get really excited about the Trade Fair this weekend, our neighbours son Michael was over last night with his professional camera and we got lots of nice shots of my new products - even some action ones! I cant wait to see them so I can start to tinker and get them on my web site.

Above is a wee play with one of my own pictures of my new Baby Bootees, I must admit I quite like my photos to be 'clean' and almost graphical - it suits my style.

The next few days will be spent finishing off a couple of samples and getting price lists etc printed out. Being so focused has really helped my collection of work become more refined, the 'one offs' I used to make have been put on the back burner just now, I'll reserve them for special occasions and commissions.

I met Caireen last week for a coffee and it was great to just indulge ourselves in craft chat, what we were hoping to achieve this year and so on. I think it will be a good year for a lot of people I know. The sense of the unknown coupled with the freedom of being in charge of your own destiny should make for some interesting reading over the next 11 months.

This year seems to be one for trying new things, and having the confidence to do it.

I've just added this pic to the post, can you see what it is? I sent it to Caireen as it remided me of her love of patchwork.

Two sheep walk into a baaaaar....

2009-01-16T20:32:00.004Z

The barman says "What would ewe like"

Here's the Baboo Sheep tea and coffee cosy. The best word I can find to describe them is 'glaikit' - a good Scottish word meaning 'silly' and 'vacant'. One on-line dictionary also lists 'glazed expression' as a meaning. I defy anyone who gets up on the wrong side of the bed not to smile when they see these faces in the morning.

Here's a good tip for those of you who worry about copyright and how to prove a design is yours. Once you have completed your design, take a photograph of it and write a brief description, including what materials you have used, date and sign it etc. Pop it in an envelope and send it to yourself. When you get the letter, don't open it - keep it on file. If you ever have a dispute you will have a franked sealed envelope which can prove the date you designed that particular item. A simple, cheap method that can help to prove a design is yours!

I'm just about sorted with all my samples, only a few bits and bobs to finish off. Next week I will be focusing on price lists and paper work for the trade show. What I really need to get my head round is how much I can physically make. What if I have to turn orders down?

One range I have developed has made me focus on how I am making things, how I can make products that are affordable to the buyer and profitable to the seller. It will be interesting to see how well it does. (don't worry, pictures soon!)

I've taken the view that if I don't get orders for things because of cost, at least I can sell them myself at a more affordable price as you aren't having to pay for the 'middle man'. It will be interesting to see what the trading public will consider to be my best sellers.

Crikey, its amazing how you change your attitude to business when you have to make a living from it!

I'm off to do a bit of hand knitting from the comfort of my sofa.

Have a good weekend!

Do It Youself

2009-01-13T09:50:00.005Z

Here is a picture of 'Wussell Wabbit' by Pennie from Horam, East Sussex knitted last week from a My Baboo Baby Bunny Knitting Kit. I love the way she has him sitting.

I put together some kits last year and they have proved very popular so I am going to expand my range, and have two new kits to launch at the end of the month.

I've also been busy with a few other new designs and am just waiting for some decent weather and light so I can photograph them properly (or as best as I can). I mentioned many posts ago about my Sheep tea and coffee cosies. I have made lots, but they sold before I had the chance to take any photographs. So now I have two sitting looking up at me ready for some action - come back soon for some pics.

I received some beautiful 4ply Shetland wool from my husbands great aunt who has just celebrated her 65th wedding anniversary! She was having a clear out and though of me - so kind. The wool is beautiful shades of light green, grey and a dark blue. I'm racking my brains what to make with it but I think it will be probably be a garment for myself.

Having Scotland's Trade Fair at the end of this month has really made me focus on my business. It's good to feel sort of organised so early on in the year. Here's hoping the orders roll in.....

Oh Happy Days

2009-01-09T19:32:00.004Z

I'm feeling pretty darn pleased with myself today, here's why:

1: I've had my first Etsy sale- yipee!
2: I've managed to obtain three pretty swish display 'things' for the 2009 Country Living Christmas fair - all for the price of £0.00 (its a secret, you'll have to wait till November to find out)
3: I popped into Ikea today to have a look at shelving for my display at Scotlands Trade Fair at the end of the month. I needed something easy to put up/ take down and the particular unit I had my eye on looked like it would do the job. Lucky me when I found one in their Bargain Corner, ex display. I bartered a little more and got 53% off!!! A few small cosmetic scrapes, but a strategically placed tea cosy will soon cover them up.

Motto for today - if you don't ask you don't get.

So a good day for the wallet and an even better day for getting organised. I also listened to Jeremy Vine on Radio 2 on the way home about starting a business during the credit crunch. Lots of people calling in with their new business ideas were saying that starting up at this time will stand them in good stead for the future. If the next couple of years are going to be as bad as it gets for a long time that can only mean the future is bright. (my thoughts exactly)

Happy Days indeed!

Oh by the way I have been a bit sneaky - the '4th year student' is in his fourth year of life and is currently studying at Balfron Nursery - it was my boy that did the drawing - although it does look more exciting than anything I ever came up with during my uni years! Sorry for fooling you.

Straight lines and shadows

2009-01-07T18:43:00.003Z

I use a free 3D modeling package called Sketchup (by Google) for architecture and stand design. Its great for visualising concepts and the better you get the more realistic the image gets.

Above is a students 4th year architectural model - what do you think it represents?

Happy New Year!

2009-01-06T16:40:00.002Z

I hope you all had a wonderful festive break. Ours was filled with Santa and wrapping paper, food, friends and the occasional sip of wine.

I always hate how it feels so 'over' especially when we took our Christmas tree down, the living room looks so bare now.

So a new year is upon us and I have hit the ground running. I've cleaned out all my cupboards, made a start on putting down a new floor in the bathroom and have even bought wallpaper for the dining room (eco paper from B&Q - I'm quite impressed)

We have made a 'to do' list for the house, most of which have been carried over from last year, a lot of which have the word 'paint' in the sentence. Since I am the DIYer in the house, it looks like the majority of the tasks will fall to me, so expect them to be be on the 2010 list!

Business wise I have created a few new designs in preparation for Scotlands Trade Fair (the SECC) at the end of the month. I quickly realised by mid December that I wouldn't have the high of Christmas sales every month of the year so I have decided to try and get more stockists to get my products out there and hopefully become more established in my first real year of trading.

I've had my stand position confirmed for the Country Living Christmas Fair 2009 so I can start to plan for that also. Coupled with the fact our son starts school in August I will have lots more free time to dedicate to building up stock.

It's hard to describe how excited I am by this year. I was on a bit of a honeymoon period after I gave up work last year so I really need to get stuck in.

To start off a gentile reminder of my Love Heart knitting kits, buy now and you could have it finished in plenty of time for Valentines Day. I'm also making some up myself and will be putting them in boxes if you don't fancy the hard work of knitting.

Also just to confirm that my e-mail address is info@my-baboo.co.uk. Please be careful and remember to include the '-' to ensure any mail gets to me.

So many ideas, so little time to type.....see you soon!

SALE

2008-12-27T14:16:00.003Z

SALE

Just a wee note to say I have put a few one-off handbags on sale on my web site and Etsy - click the links on the right for more details and keep popping back as I sort out more sale stock - time for a clear out!

Christmas Advent - Christmas Eve

2008-12-23T22:09:00.004Z

Pom Poms

This is my last Advent post, I hope you have enjoyed seeing some of my Christmas creations - new and old. I have certainly enjoyed making them. If you look close enough you can see my reflection in the bauble.

So it just remains for me to say thank you for taking the time to read my blog and for leaving all your kind comments, I really appreciate them.

I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
I'll be back in 2009!

Lynne

My Baboo

Christmas Advent - Day 23

2008-12-23T22:06:00.006Z

Old Santas

We're on the move for Christmas so these pictures have been taken at my parents house. These wee Santa's are as old as I can remember, the red glitter is a bit patchy and some of the white fur is gone. I still think they are magical.

Christmas Advent - Day 22

2008-12-23T22:02:00.003Z

Santa

Christmas Advent - Day 21

2008-12-21T20:43:00.003Z

We're walking in the air...

This is who hangs above my parents Christmas tree, the Snowman I knitted for my mum a couple of years ago. Yes, he really can fly.

Had a lovely day today visiting Santa at Glengoyne, our boy said his legs were shaking with excitement. We also had a lovely lunch in Glasgow as we celebrated me being another year older. Now I can start to think about Christmas....

Christmas Advent - Day 20

2008-12-20T16:16:00.004Z

Christmas Past

Here are a couple of slightly dodgy characters from my past - some of the first toys I ever knitted, and as tradition dictates they are put under my mum and dads Christmas tree each year. I was thinking of using them in a post and it just so happens my dad sent me an e-mail today with the above picture attached.

I never was happy with the snowman's carrot nose or the fact Santa only has a beard and no moustache. I'm my own harshest critic, but then again they aren't bad for 10 year old.....

Christmas Advent - Day 19

2008-12-19T13:58:00.001Z

Christmas Stocking

Christmas Advent - Day 18

2008-12-18T19:08:00.002Z

Little Elfy Hat

Christmas Advent - Day 17

2008-12-17T15:54:00.006Z

Sweets For My SweetThis wee sweety was supposed to be a Christmas cracker, but I think it looks better like this - a little glass bowl full of them would be nice.

I've also been making this - a bunny to replace a much loved and very thread bear comforter belonging to a friends wee girl. We have been sweating over how to make it as like the original as possible. This is my best shot, not quite the spitting image, but hopefully he will be just as special

(the original)

Christmas Advent - Day 15 & 16

2008-12-16T13:20:00.002Z

Balls

Christmas Advent - Day 13 & 14

2008-12-14T20:06:00.002Z

Bah Humbug

What a miserable couple of days I have had. Apologies for not posting yesterday, I thought I was being big and clever going to the Wee Green Market, but by the time I got home I was floored with the flu.

To top it all our boy has been a poor wee soul with his chicken pox, his throws of 'Help me mummy I'm dying and turning in to a big spotty monster' were an Oscar winning performance for any four year old last night, nothing that a dose of Calpol couldn't sort out, but still very distressing for me, especially as I was feeling so sorry for myself!.

My poor husband finished work on Tuesday (he's an ambulance man) and has been on a bus mans holiday ever since nursing us both back to health - Bah Humbug indeed.

We have just finished watching 'Elf' on the telly so that has lifted my spirits and I'm starting to feel almost human again.

The film premier on Friday night was fab, fair makes you proud that a group of local(young) talented people have the drive to produce such excellent work. As usual the story was pretty morbid, but you could have heard a pin drop in the theatre all the way through the film. Thankfully the 'bloopers' at the end lightened every ones mood again.

The Wee Green Market was a success yesterday, and a nice way to finish off the fair year. Now I really need to get my thinking cap on for next year, and I am excited by the prospect of being able to indulge myself in my business. Who knows what next year will bring but I cant wait to start trying out new ideas.

Above is a picture of one of my knitted Christmas Trees. I still have some for sale, £7 each (+p&p). Email me at info@my-baboo.co.uk if you would like to buy one.

I'm off to have another Lemsip and another early night.
L
x

Christmas Advent - Day 12

2008-12-12T12:04:00.004Z

My First Decorations

Above are some Christmas decorations I made for my first flat I bought in Edinburgh, made from some garden wire, I still like their simplicity. Bit of a cop out today I know as I have the flu and the boy has Chicken Pox - it never rains but it pours!

Woke up to a smattering of snow this morning though.

Off to the premier of 'When I grow Up' tonight at Balfron High School. It's the new film release of our increasingly talented neighbour/ Baby sitter Michael Ferns (17)

Big News:- I managed to get tickets to see Take That next June in Glasgow, my life is now complete.

Christmas Advent - Day 11

2008-12-11T14:39:00.002Z

Christmas Pud

Some of the gift tags I made yesterday from last years Christmas Cards.

Christmas Advent - Day 10

2008-12-10T18:58:00.004Z

Stop Mucking About

I've been playing with my Adobe Photoshop and I quite liked this effect, distorting one of my little knitted Christmas trees.

Having been inspired by Caireen, I unearthed a load of previous years Christmas Cards and I have been chopping them up today to make gift tags, I'll take some pictures tomorrow.

Remember it's the Christmas Wee Green Market this weekend in Killearn, come along for some top quality Christmas fare and a glass of mulled wine.

Christmas Advent - Day 9

2008-12-09T12:58:00.011Z

Oh Christmas Tree..

Ok, so these are not knitted, but I did make them all last year at a ceramics class at Balfron High School. We've just put our Christmas Tree up, the CD has been found and I have a new Christmas jumper on (see below)- I'm feeling very festive indeed.

Am I the only mother who gets stressed out when their helpful child doesn't place the decorations as tastefully as I could? I will adjust a few when Jnr has gone to bed.

I have also added a few more things including bags into my Etsy shop so please have a look.

Jingle Jingle!

Etsy

2008-12-08T16:17:00.003Z

I have (finally) started to list some items on my Etsy shop, please go and have a look - click the link on my side bar, The US dollar rates are correct as of today's date.

I'm going to try and get as much on as possible over the next week - please excuse spelling!!

Christmas Advent - Day 8

2008-12-08T14:55:00.003Z

Reindeer and Bunny

The Christmas Bunnies are available to buy at £11 each (P&P free). Available in red, pink, blue and cream. Please e-mail me at info@my-baboo.co.uk for more details.

Sorry, reindeer sold out.

The Simple Things In Life...

2008-12-08T09:45:00.007Z

...are the best. Last night my sister and I went to see Simple Minds live at the ABC in Glasgow (the one with the big mirror ball). Only 1200 tickets were sold and all the money went to Cash For Kids (Radio Clyde). The concert was AMAZING. Simple Minds Live in The City of Light was the first album I ever bought from a wee record shop in Perth many moons ago. I have always loved them and to see them live for the first time at such an intimate venue was fantastic. I couldn't have asked for anything better.

It must be said though Jim Kerr does dance like your dad a wee bit.

The concert finished off a good weekend spent at the Green Gallery for their Christmas Fair. The Ladies night on Friday was a big success, and Saturday was busy however Sunday was very quiet. Those who had a stall last year did very well so I went along full of expectations, however I think this year we all struggled a bit. That's the credit crunch for you I suppose.

All money raised and proceeds from our tables is being donated to CHAS, so my Charity hat has been well tipped this weekend so I'm feeling pretty good.

My crisis now is finding my Christmas CD - another day can not pass without it!

Christmas Advent - Day 7

2008-12-07T09:20:00.002Z

Kiss Me Quick
A little sprig of Mistletoe
xx

Christmas Advent - Day 6

2008-12-06T07:45:00.003Z

Little Robin

Christmas Advent - Day 5

2008-12-05T11:27:00.004Z

Christmas Heart

This little heart is hand knitted first then felted.

I'm just about ready to go and set up at the Green Gallery Christmas Fair in Buchlyvie. There is a ladies evening and tonight from 7-9pm, come along and fill out your 'Wish List' whilst enjoying a glass of bubbly. Entrance is £3 and all money raised over the weekend is donated to CHAS, including 10% of my sales.

The rest of the fair is on from 10-4pm Saturday and Sunday with a Men Only evening on Sunday night - 7-9pm, where you can send your partner along to enjoy some beer and pizza and hopefully buy all those things you put on your wish list.

There will also be raffles, home baking/ tea and coffee and lunch from Berits & Browns each day. There is a superb collection of art and gifts to choose from, so take the opportunity to come and see some unique products from talented makers. Why get stressed going into the city when you can enjoy a relaxed Christmas atmosphere locally?

My friend Val will also be selling my wares at the Killearn PTA Market on Saturday 6th December 10.30-1pm at Killearn Village Hall. Go along and ask her some obscure questions about wool - she wont thank me for it!

Look forward to seeing you!

Christmas Advent - Day 4

2008-12-04T10:33:00.002Z

Candy Cane

Getting ready for the Green Gallery Christmas Fair this weekend, I've made some more reindeer and tea cosies. Also need to post out some orders I received from the Country Living Fair.

I've got a couple of quiet hours while the boy is in nursery so I'm off to work, work, work!

Christmas Advent - Day 3

2008-12-03T09:28:00.003Z

The Snowman

Simply because I love The Snowman!

Christmas Advent - Day 2

2008-12-02T17:43:00.003Z

Little Star

Sorry it's a bit late, ended up spending the day in Glasgow after visiting the Tron with Nursery to see Rudi - listened to 'The Snowman' on the bus into town this morning, looking at all the snow at Strathblane - ahhhh.

Christmas Advent - Day 1

2008-12-01T09:16:00.005Z

Holly

My first knitted holly leaves and berries - turned out quite well I think! The beauty of felting the leaves means I can shape them how I like and they stay in the same position once dry.

I also knitted myself a new scarf yesterday after a cold neck walking round Loch Lomond Shores.

Knitted from Twilleys of Stamford Freedom Spirit wool, with some Donegal Silk Tweed mix to the ends which gives it a bit of weight. I love the Freedom wool, it looks a bit like Fair Isle once knitted up.

I'm off to start getting organised for the Green Gallery Christmas Fair this weekend.

Come back tomorrow for Day 2 of my Advent!

Jingle Jingle

2008-11-30T14:17:00.002Z

It's soooo Christmassy today I have decided to knit an advent calender, come back each day for a new surprise.

Bright Lights, River City

2008-11-26T23:02:00.002Z

Some girls and I from the Wee Green Market had a mini fair at the studios of River City today which proved quite profitable for all of us.

I confess to having watched it on the telly last night for the first time and I was still none the wiser as to who most of the actors were, although I did recognise a lady that used to be in Take The High Road (much more my scene during my student years).

It was lovely meeting new people of a creative persuasion - and lots more positive feed back.

As usual I spent most of my time chatting with Caireen about potential ways to develop business and how to stay true to your dream/ goal. It's a balance I think, and the clever thing is creating new products and ideas that I love and that people want. As the saying goes you can please most of the people all of the time, etc...

I always thought when practicing architecture that selling ideas to clients was an art. I do think that the way to a good design is to understand the client fully, from how they open a door to how they sit and drink their coffee. Little details that make up their whole, and a very intimate exercise.

So how can I use those skills when designing new products and developing my business when I don't really know who my 'client' (customer) is yet?

The feedback I've had over the past month has been amazing - I must be doing something right, however I'm sure there are lots of things I need to improve on. Blogs are a great way of getting feedback, so please keep reading and leaving your comments (all constructive criticism welcome)

Also having the opportunity to spend time with like minded and talented people helps - not many of the builders I worked with were too interested in knitting!

So today was a good day, relatively simple and understated, I've also managed to knit some more tea cosies tonight - look out for my sheep ones on the web site soon, maybe I know my customers better than I think!

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

2008-11-24T09:51:00.009Z

Well, that's it over for this year. I've managed to survive my first big show without too many battle scars so here is how it went.....

(apologies for not very good pictures!)

The Good What can I say, not so much good, more like fantastic. Obviously the icing on the cake was winning the Best Stand Award out of all those amazing exhibitors, but even better were all the lovely comments I got from visitors, exhibitors and customers.

Giving up being an architect to concentrate on My Baboo was a bit of a leap into the unknown for me, this weekend has just confirmed that I have done the right thing. The hard work starts now though as next year will really be make or break. I wont be doing a show like Country Living every month so I really have to start making the pennies to see me through the year, as I cant rely on Christmas trade alone.

I received lots of trade enquiries, although I am still unsure how to develop this. I would love the time to dedicate to building up my own customer base, and being flooded with wholesale orders may not allow me the time to do so. I'm being a bit cautious just now, but watch this space.

The Bad... Not much was bad about the show, the only real glitch being the power failure on Saturday morning which meant exhibitors and visitor had to wait in the cold till the doors opened at 11am. We stayed open for an hour longer to compensate. Well done to the organisers who managed to pacify thousands of women, tickets in hand who had been queuing since 9.30am - it's not a job I would have liked!

I also learned very quickly on Thursday that any shoes with the slightest heel were a bad idea, especially as I almost had to crawl out of the car when I got home on Thursday night as my feet were so sore.

The Ugly.... The ugly is simply the people who stole a clutch bag, bunny and reindeer from me. The reindeer was stolen from the press office, and the green bunny and red bow clutch bag are the only ones of their kind out there in the big bad world, so if you have them or receive them as a present then I hope you are shamed into never being able to use them. Thanks, you made my day - not.
(please don't get confused by all of you lovely people who did buy reindeer's from me!)

Ah well, you learn by your mistakes as they say. Next year is flat shoes all the way, and a keen eye for those who prefer not to pay. My mind is nearly functioning again and I'm already thinking of new designs , I'm off to get my PA to organise a press release...OK I'm really off to tidy up the garage and sort out my stock - reality bites.

Last but not least the biggest thanks goes to my mum, dad and big sis for all the help they gave me before/ during and after the show - I couldn't have done it without them!

A Happy Bunny

2008-11-22T19:00:00.005Z

Just a quick post to say Country Living is going well and today................

...............I WON BEST STAND AT THE COUNTRY LIVING FAIR!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YIPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

Thanks to all who took the time to visit me and for all the wonderful comments I have received.

Lynne
x

Country Living...

2008-11-18T20:12:00.002Z

....is go!

Just about organised for the set up tomorrow. Really looking forward to meeting you all, please come by and say hello.

I'm off to fold some tissue paper - all those little jobs mount up!

Lynne x