Where to start.. so much happening and so many things on the go

I have returned to work after 10 weeks off with my foot. I had a large screw and a graft in an attempt to heal the fracture. The operation was 2 years and 6 days from the date of the accident. Unfortunately the last x-ray taken six weeks after the surgery didn't show any signs of the bone healing so it's looking like I'll need further surgery on it. I have another x- ray and see the doctor in December so will see how things are going then.

I found this operation and I think the build up to making the decision really took a toll on my body. It wasn't helped by the delay in getting back onto my arthritis injections which meant I had a flare up at the same time. I felt emotionally and physically drained so after talking to my surgeon I decided to get away for a while so was lucky enough to be able to go to Canberra for two weeks which was a fantastic break before returning to work. I loved staying with my niece Ruth and her family, Josh (husband) and the girls, Sarah, Hannah & Olivia. I felt very welcomed and with staying an extended time it meant I got to know everyone much better. It was also great to spend time with my nephew Jonathon and his wife Melanie and my great nephews, Lachlan and Lucas. I also loved meeting Lucas and had lots of cuddles.

I have been working on so many things recently. My time has been spilt between working on Jake's quilt - I only have 1 and a bit more blocks to quilt, Lachlan's quilt, my block of the month, needle felting animals & sewing doggy hats to sell, making a rabbit for a baby's present and preparing another quilt ready to sew by machine.

It's a bit overwhelming when I look at everything but I really do enjoy everything I make - it would be much better if I didn't have to work or do housework as well!

Here are a few snapshots of things I'm working on.

My needle felted 'Little bear'

I finished Little Bear tonight and am really pleased with how he has turned out. He may not be perfect or meet the high standard of bear makers but I really like him.

Little bear measures about 8cm sitting and is made by dry needle felting using a merino wool. I broke three needles making this little guy so will need to keep a supply if I am going to make more things.


I'm enjoying needle felting although it is hard on my hands so I can't do it for too long at a time. I'm now on the look out for my next project. I would love to do some lady bugs so will have to buy some red and black wool.

Dry Needle felting

I had a chance to try dry needle felting last weekend and loved it.

I'd recently seen two people making an old man and a bear by dry needle felting and really wanted to give it a try. I was really excited when I had the opportunity to try it myself.

My first effort is this little angel which started out as a ball and grew as the afternoon went on.

Yesterday I went out and brought the needles and wool and started to make a little bear. I've made the head so far and am pleased that it does resemble a bear's head....