Thursday 26 November 2020

The Distancing Diaries - 25th & 26th November, 2020


Torrential rain greeted me when I got up on Wednesday morning but the lads insisted on going outside and came back just after I'd finished my Wii Fit. I'd just about caught up with my blog reading when Jon got up and, after a break for fruit and yogurt, I settled back down to reply to comments.

Although the rain had stopped by 10.30 am neither of us were inspired to do a great deal. Jon had bought himself a new mobile phone which arrived the previous day so he spent the morning setting it up and scaring the bejesus out of me with the ring tones. I harvested a crop of winter radishes and more peas for the salad we intended to have for tea and then potted up the cuttings that I'd started in the propagation station a couple of weeks ago.

After lunch Jon did a post office run and I delved into my dressmaking patterns looking for inspiration but sadly didn't have enough fabric in my stash to make what I wanted. I sorted out the dressing table drawers weeding out a vintage polo neck jumper that was a bit itchy and three pairs of TopShop socks I'd bought new from a charity shop but hadn't worn and added them to the donation bag. 



WEDNESDAY: Vintage Kate Beaver hand painted maxi dress (99p, charity shop, 2016), Amulet pendant (Gujarat, 2018)


A delivery from DHL arrived while Jon was out. After my lockdown kitchen post a Swedish design company got in touch saying that they loved our interior style and wondered if we'd be interested in choosing a product from their website in exchange for a review. Like many bloggers I'm often approached about promoting things on my blog & I usually say no as the products are usually totally irreverent to me & my lifestyle (I had an email earlier from a company offering me shapewear!) This invitation couldn't have come at a better time, the overall look of one of our rooms has been niggling me for a while and this offered us the perfect opportunity to tweak it. We have a two week window to get it done and write a blog post. Thank goodness for Jon's DIY skills!


Meanwhile here's today's Swedish clogs with Nordic socks.




I spent a delightful forty minutes listening to 6Music while sorting out my roots. Nothing's a chore when you've got some good tunes to keep you company. 

WEARING: Black satin dragon embossed kimono, given to Jon by a fan when he toured Japan with the band back in 1990 & as it's 30 years old it's officially vintage!

As it was the last box of dye I went along the bathroom shelf to see if we needed anything else before placing an order with Superdrug. Back in the days BC (before Covid) we never bought more than we needed, living so close to town it was no problem if we ran out of anything, we'd walk to the shops and be back within the hour. These days I have to plan. In addition to the hair dye I ordered eye make-up remover, Jon's post-shave balm and some nail varnish remover as we were down to the dregs. Buying toiletries this way saves us money, delivery is free for loyalty card holders spending over £10 and now we can't browse the shelves we only buy what we need rather than being tempted by Barry M cosmetics (me) or nice smelling shower gels (Jon!)

Tea was salad with a bottle of ale. Wednesday night means rum night so we cracked open a new bottle and watched this week's Antiques Road Trip on catch-up having caught up with the entire series of DNA the previous evening.


There was a heavy frost overnight and I had to prise open the wheely bin lid to get Wednesday night's beer bottles in before it was collected. After my Wii Fit workout and our usual breakfast, Jon brought the seed trays in from the greenhouse and we potted up our Mother-of-Thousand babies before repotting the plants themselves as they'd outgrown their pots.

THURSDAY: Vintage Janet Wood for Monsoon afghan blouse (eBay), Crochet maxi skirt (handmade by Liz for my birthday four years ago), patent Doc Martens (charity shop, 2018)

Jon needed to pop out for a few groceries and I braved the bitter cold by filling the garden waste bin with three sacks of leaves, leaving one to mulch down over the winter.


At 11.30am I turned on the TV to find out which tier Walsall would be placed in when lockdown ends on 2nd December. As expected we're in the highest tier, number 3, along with most of the West Midlands. Looks like I won't be celebrating my birthday in the usual way this year - no pubs are open and meeting indoors or in private gardens isn't allowed. 

1970s Indian block print maxi dress by Dagina (eBay, 2017)

When I put this dress on last week the top of the zip snapped off so I unpicked it, replacing it with a another from my stash, sewing it by hand. I could have done it on the machine but I've got all the time in the world at the moment and it's rather satisfying to take ages over something.


Jon returned from his mission bearing my Shaw's order which Izzy the postman had just dropped off. In addition to my wool they'd sent me a free (and very cute) tote bag. After our noodles Dave came round to check his work and gave the paintwork a tickle knowing Jon's fear of heights. When he'd finished we went for a walk around the block and armed with a posh coffee I tuned into YouTube and followed the tutorial for my latest crochet project. A few hours later and I'm getting there. I might be able to finish it off in front of the TV later as long as we're not planning to watch anything subtitled!


Tea was some homemade potato wedges, curried veg and an onion bhaji eaten whilst watching BoJo's latest missive. 

Stay safe and Happy Thanksgiving to all my friends in the USA!


70 comments:

  1. We are in the same tier as you Vix and feeling sad for our local pubs and cafes. Let’s hope they can survive this latest blow.
    The photos of the lads are really good. I’ll have to try and get a picture of Rosie from next door, she’s such a pretty thing with her four white socks. I’d really love her life.
    Your house is looking even nicer now with the new kitchen colour. I’m looking forward to when we can all meet up again.
    Christmas in our house will be different this year, we are staying put so that other family members can get together. It’ll be the first time me and Philip have spent it in our house. We’re already planning what we are going to do. It’s a proper bittersweet event.
    Take care you two. Lots of love xxxx

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    1. Let's hope the government deliver on their promise to offer financial support to all hospitality venues affected. I must admit that considering how much time we spend in pubs I haven't missed not visiting since March, what has happened to us?
      I remember Rose in your greenhouse when we came to visit, you must capture her, she's gorgeous.
      It'll be a very different Xmas day for you pair this year. I expect we'll just bumble around as we usually do, noodles and a walk around the block.
      We cannot wait to catch up with you & Philip when things return to normal! xxx

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  2. I have been impressed with Superdrug's delivery service, very prompt and their website is easy to navigate. They also do deals on vitamins. I needed some Vitamin D and got a buy two get one free offer. Saving me £5. Sorry to hear that you will be in tier 3 for your birthday, hopefully you can still celebrate. Your maxi dress for 99p is a beauty!

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    1. Hello Carole! I hadn't thought of Superdrug for vitamins. Jon's insisted we take vitamin D and stocked up from another company, I shall bear them in mind when stocks run low.
      I did suggest we drive to the clearance charity shop - which should reopen next week and eat sandwiches on the car park outside - it'd be a different birthday! xxx

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  3. Evening Vix. I seem to remember that you used some Farrow and Ball paint not so long ago. Thought you might be interested to know that Johnstones who make their own paint also mix the F&B ones. I met a painter this week who uses the Johnstone's ones in his own home in lieu of F&B as he said the quality is just as good, but they are cheaper. Arilx

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    1. How interesting! Farrow and Ball were the only company with paint availability back in April and, anxious to get the kitchen started, we splurged and didn't regret it one bit. xxx

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  4. Exciting to get spotted for a Scandinavian product - I love Scandi style - minimalist, mostly white - christmassy? can't wait to see what it is.

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    1. No to all three of your suggestions! White, Christmassy and minimalist aren't our thing. We've chosen something in-keeping with the overall look of Stonecroft, maximalist and slightly shabby around the edges!All will be revealed soon. xxx

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  5. Dear Vix,
    I can't begin to express to you how much joy your blog brings to me but it surely does. Absolutely, love the granny square skirt that Liz made for you and it is so you. I am anxiously waiting to see what you make with the new yarn. Love the colors.
    I do have a couple of questions and I hope they aren't being to nosey and I apologize for asking if they have already been answered on you blog somewhere.
    1. How long are your Wii sessions?
    2. What routine do you follow?
    Thank You.
    Karon
    Paso Robles, CA USA

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    1. Hello Karon! Thanks so much for your kind and very touching words.
      You aren't being nosy at all and I'm not offended in the slightest by your questions!
      1. My Wi Fit sessions are 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
      2. I do 10 minutes of yoga which usually consists of five different postures but, if my score is less than 90 I redo the pose until I'm happy! I then do a twenty minutes step class with a pair of hand weights (0.5kg) to tone my arms at the same time.
      Much love to you. xxx

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    2. Thank You so very much for answering my question regarding the Wii session. No wonder you are in just wonderful shape.
      Karon
      Paso Robles, CA USA

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  6. Thanks for the Thanksgiving greetings. This year instead driving 6-7 hours to visit are bestfriend, we're staying home and having a prepared meal from our local grocery store. (it's really good and for 2 a traditional turkey day dinner is too much) I do believe I have some of those patterns. But instead of keeping them in a cute vintage suitcase, I have them in 5 filing cabinets. I have way too many, but it's what I do. Take care!

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    1. That sounds like a very chilled and stress-free day with no driving and someone else preparing the food. xxx

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  7. Your kitchen just looks great, Vix. Another project? Fabulous for me that lives vicariously through your blog! I'll enjoy reading about it! I have totally lost my mojo and everything feels like just too much trouble. Hope I'll shake out of that soon. My birthday was in May when we were in full lockdown. I was resigned to a birthday alone but my lovely sisters managed to make it special from a distance via Zoom! Just have to keep counting our blessings in these difficult times. All the poor families who have lost loved ones to this plague. Yes, be thankful for what we've got.

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    1. Hello Catmac, I hope you find your mojo soon. I must admit that knowing I've got a blog to write forces me to stay active, there's some days where I'm sorely tempted to slob around in my dressing gown all day and watch Place in the Sun marathons on the settee!
      I'm glad you were able to have a remote birthday celebration. I'm got a feeling we'll all be going mad next year and making up for lost time! xxx

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  8. Happy Thursday, Vix! Sounds like a chill couple of days for your fam. Love your suitcase of vintage patterns - it reminds me of my mom's old stash. I also get approached all the time with offers, and it's like, "Did you even look at my blog?" I still haven't had one I'd consider, but I would if the right one came along - I'm excited to see what your design project will be! I'm envious of Jon's handyman skills (I'm the handyperson in our fam).

    I need to find some wool - I'm feeling the crochet itch, seeing all the fun stuff you and other bloggers are getting up to!

    Lovely shots of the lads - Stephen is so over it, ha ha! We've been hit hard after months of nothing, with security guards at the grocery store, tickets and fines being issued for non-maskers. We're likely looking at a solo Christmas, which is why I'm in ultra-Christmas decorating mode! It's so good for my mental health.

    Take care - looking lovely, as always!

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    1. There's been quite a few lazy days here, the weather has been so damp and dreary!
      I absolutely love old patterns, I did have a massive declutter last year and sold a hundred on ebay but the illustrations on some of the envelopes, even if i have absolutely no intention of ever making them up, are just too cute o part with.
      Those Dear Blogger emails! If they can't even be bothered to write my name I won't even dignify them with an answer. Jonny-Boy needs to get the tool kit out!
      Your home is looking absolutely magical. xxx

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  9. Do you celebrate Christmas Vix? I bet your home would look fabulous with a very blinged up Christmas tree.

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    1. I don't do Xmas, Cherie! We do exchange presents with friends and in normal times we go for a curry on 25th December. Stonecroft remains a tinsel-free zone! xxx

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  10. Fantastic about the renovation thingey. Sounds great. Looking forward to seeing how it unfolds with your and Jon's unique and enviable style.

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    1. Thanks, Ratnamurti! I hope it turns out okay! x

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  11. Sorry to hear about Tier 3- I am amazed that we are tier 2 AND where my school is is Tier 2 also- they've got LOADS of cases there! Bizarre. When is your birthday?
    I do like that dress that was hanging up! Wish I lived near and could have some house plant cuttings? Ooh, I am jealous of the peas- what variety are they?
    xx

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    1. I've gone eight months without dining out or visiting a pub (except when we went to Crete) that I don't think being in tier 3 will make much difference. It's tricky not having friends over to sit in the garden but from Wednesday we can go for walks in groups of up to six so we can sort of socialise - I'm glad I've stocked up on thermals!
      Jon can't remember the species of pea but they are self supporting, if that's any help?
      My birthday is a week today (Sunday)! xxx

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  12. That's some beautiful looking yarn.
    Isn't it great to have a winter garden still thriving?

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    1. I was spoilt for wool choice, so many lovely colours.
      I'd never considered a winter garden before but its fab to still be able to harvest good so late in the year! xxx

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  13. I think I like the term Charity shop better then thrift stores, what there called in United States.
    About promoting something on blog or whatever. Me personal I like people to tell there stores and experience. Sure once while mention something you might like or not. No sale for me. I want to hear from spirit of person.
    Stay Safe and Coffee is on

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    1. Thrift makes it all about the money. I buy secondhand things because I love them and not because they are cheap (although it's good when they are!) xxx

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  14. Love the clogs and socks combo.

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  15. Sorry to hear about that, mum and dad are still in tier 3, but they don’t care now, as my brother has split with his horrible GF and is back home so I think they are kinda happy I’m not sure lol. Still stuck in hospital being a lab rat lol.
    Love those clogs, I just stare at my Eds feet and go NO!!! I am having a peruse of the Black Friday deals as yes it’s hit japan. Paul is watching me though like a hawk lol.
    Mum told, me the weather has been mild so far, which I suppose is nice. She still cannot visit my twin though grrrr she lives in Leeds. I feel for her. Paul bought a new phone and he put men at work on it you know that annoying song. About down under it annoys the hell out of me!! Men and their toys.
    Why haven’t they spread out rapid testing everywhere???? i am a bit confused by that. Anyway take care and keep safe love and huggs to you both

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    1. That's lovely for your parents that your brother's back home, I hope he's okay about the split though.
      They do some soft soled clogs for people with foot issues, they're just as good to look at but my ancient joints are fine with wood.
      Jon did have an airhorn noise as a ring tone, reliving the raves of the 90s! the cats weren't impressed!
      They can't afford the rapid testing after saying all us tier 3's could have it. Us oldies (over 50) are entitled to a free flu jab as from Tuesday, let's see what happens there! Feel better soon! xxx

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  16. What a gorgeous crochet skirt your friend Liz made for you! The sight of balls of wool and bowls of bobbins are as warming as a winter's log fire. I look forward to seeing the Scandi project. Lulu x

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    1. Isn't that skirt a cheery little number?
      So many projects, we don't know what to start next! xxx

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  17. curious about your newest crochet work!!
    and of cause the interior offer.......
    lovely photo of you and the gorgeous handpainted kaftan!
    did you try to find vintage fabric online? when i searched for curtains i saw some nice stuff.....
    @cats: cute boys! i´m always nervous if lisbeth is not showing up for a while, luckily she comes if i call her. but sometimes - i guess - she falls asleep somewhere in the woods and needs a while to come back..... uncomfortable feeling.
    of cause i never let her out after dinner/tea. with our huge wildlife - boars and big foxes - around i feel better if she stays at home for the night, cat flap locked.
    wish you a *gemütlich* weekend! xxxxx

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    1. I've gone crochet mad, it must be the weather! I need to find another project of Jon's DIYing, anything to stay out of his way.
      I did find a huge length of Anokhi block printed fabric on Ebay back in the Spring but I'm too scared to cut it up.
      Our lads haven't gone far this weekend, it's too damp for them to settle into bushes and sleep. It's horrible when they don't come back when you call, isn't it? xxx

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  18. A bit of a funny head in the sand week. You seem to have achieved a lot, the wool looks like there's an interesting project to start. I like Marriner wool.
    Hand sewing is so mindful isn't it.
    Those winter radishes are a great colour, I having nothing left to harvest except crab apples and they look too pretty to pick! xxx

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    1. It's hard to stay motivated when it's so damp and gloomy outside, isn't it?
      I seem to be taking longer over tasks now, hand sewing as opposed to getting the machine out and unravelling my crochet numerous times until it's just right rather than winging it. I have a feeling we'll be living like this till Spring, it makes no sense to rush over anything. xxx

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  19. Adorable kittens ... they would gladly run around the garden ... In this period we are getting used to planning everything, expenses, going out ... patience! You have chosen beautiful colors for your wool, it's really relaxing! I'm organizing myself with my wool ... and a smile!
    Hugs, Carmela

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    1. Hello Carmella! It's a new way of life, isn't it? Nothing is spontaneous anymore, we need to plan everything - not such a bad thing, really! xxx

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  20. The term lock down isn't used here officially but that's what we essentially are in my part of the states. I look forward to your post sponsored by the Scandinavian business. I love that look.

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    1. That's good that your state is taking things seriously. The only difference being in tier three as opposed to lockdown is that non-essential shops, beauty salons, hairdressers and gyms can reopen. But still no visitors to our homes and gardens, no pubs, restaurants or cafes (unless they are offering takeaways) and no spectator sports & indoor entertainment venues. xxx

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  21. Oh, how much do I covet that Kate Beaver dress! As to hairdye - I can't source mine as everyone seems to be out of stock (boo) - thankfully I keep a good stash, but I'm seeing a colour change on the horizon!! Fudge seem to contract their range with every passing year and I'm reluctant to back to Crazy Color et al - just not the same quality (unless they've upped their game in the last 10 years).

    Can I ask a Wii question? Do you need to plug everything into a TV or will it work with a laptop/computer do you think?

    Christmas and birthdays are going to be a bit poo this year - but I'm having both again the in the Summer. Cannot see the point of going through 9 months of lockdown in varying degrees and then blowing it for 5 days of Christmas spreading the virus amongst your nearest and dearest (I have a Mum I've not seen since March and a brother not seen since August)- it seems grotesque.

    Ah well, let's get our happy goggles on.

    Take care, stay strong, all xx



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    1. I'm still kicking myself for not buying the black version of that kate Beaver dress from a vintage fair a few years ago!
      That's a relief that you've got hair dye in stock. When the first lockdown was announced I stocked up on hair dye and mascara sod the pasta & loo roll! A girl has to get her priorities right!
      I think a celebration of everything we've missed next summer would be a brilliant idea. maybe the government could give us an extra bank holiday so we can have an extended weekend of fun? We all deserve it!
      The Christmas thing seems like a catastrophe. It must be awful not being able to see your Mum (I last saw my brother in August, too) but it seems ludicrous to put anyone at risk just to keep the masses happy. xxx

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  22. Bobbing back to add - if you're quick, they've got thermals in Lidl UK this week lol I bought some on Thursday and went back today (Friday) to rummage through the leftovers. Nice quality and super cosy (quite how they'll wash I don't know - will report back!).

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  23. Another fabulous post, Vix! I so enjoy visiting. Even when locked down, you two lead such interesting lives and have so many ways of expressing your great taste which of course is right up my street! I loved seeing your lovely old dressmaking patterns and particularly liked the smock top with the big sleeves. As for your 99p charity shop bargain dress, that is an absolute DREAM!!! (Behave, Shoshi and stop breaking the Tenth Commandment lol!!) How exciting being contacted by that Swedish company. Your Nordic socks are rather like my recent acquisitions from Amazon - funky and fun! Seeing your great shoes and boots has reminded me to get out my Conker shoes (yellow) and boots (red and green) for the winter. No reason not to wear them!

    I'm dying to know what your crochet project is. Great yarns and a cute baggie to put the project in!). I'm stash busting for my hubby's cat throw but think I shall probably have to buy some new wool for my Persian Tiles one when the time comes. I shall be posting some photos of progress on my hubby's throw next week (he never goes on my blog so it won't spoil the surprise.

    Your meals look great too - really appetising, particularly the last one. I've got rye bread in the bread maker at the moment - I ordered some different flours in my last online wholefoods order and thought it would be fun to branch out a bit with my bread.

    Love your hair piled up on top like that (in the brilliant kimono pic) - you've got such fabulous bone structure and an updo really shows it off!

    Thank you for your visit and sweet comment. I'm really pleased to have finished the tiny carpets project at last (still got that red cord to make, though) and to be starting on some crochet that's been calling me for a while! The furniture is pretty bog standard DFS fare and definitely needs the Shoshi touch to pep it up a bit, not to mention adding some protection as the kitties are using it as well as us! Glad you enjoyed the photo of them cuddled up in my wool box. Someone said they look like a pair of shoes!

    I'm glad you liked my bereavement card, too. When my hubby gave it to her, she said that the turquoise background was her favourite colour. I didn't know that when I chose it. She was so pleased with it. I think it's nice to do something cheerful on such occasions - most of the commercial cards are so sombre and I wanted to make something really pretty for her.

    I've had such a busy week and had to crash out and rest yesterday as it all caught up with me (2 very early starts to be available for collection/delivery of old/new furniture) and I had a bit of an energy crash. Better today - been busy with domestic stuff. I put washing out and brought it in again at about 4 p.m. - it was freezing out there and the washing wasn't dry at all but at least it was nice and fresh!

    Have a great week, Vix, and keep sharing - your blog is a delight.

    Shoshi x

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    1. Thanks so much for your lovely comment, Shoshi!
      That 99p dress was a real bargain.
      The smock top was the garment I was hoping to make up. I'd a lovely vintage wool shawl I'd hoped would be big enough for a winter weight top but alas, it was not to be! The illustrations on the old packets are just lovely, aren't they?
      Liking the sound of your boots and I know you have an enviable collection of socks. It's lovely trying out new combinations.
      I like my hair up but only manage to get it right when I'm not leaving the house, isn't it always the way?
      I'm looking forward to seeing your new suite, DFS do some great designs and they manufacture in the UK, too.
      Have a lovely week! xxx

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  24. Can't believe that Vintage Kate Beaver was only 99p! It is just stunning! I also love your collection of Nordic socks. How exciting that you were contacted by that Swedish design company, which is just the incentive you needed to tweak that room. Can't wait to see it, but I already know it's going to be fantastic. Love the photos of the lads, and I think Stephen's face is exactly like Phoebe's when it's raining outside, which of course is our fault! After I did that last-minute shop at the Superdrug equivalent before lockdown, I soon learned the shop would remain open. And of course, as there was something else I needed, I went back and was tempted by long-lasting lipstick and scented candles!
    I'm swooning over Liz's crochet maxi and that free tote bag is indeed very cute.
    We've just had a government announcement and in spite of the initial date for lockdown to end (13 December) all shops will be allowed to re-open on Tuesday :-( so that on my office days I will have to brave the X-mas Zombies after all. At least they will all be flocking to the shops and we'll have more space when we go for our walks! xxx

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    1. It was a good charity shopping day when I found that dress!
      Our lads are appalled with us at the moment, it's been drizzling all weekend and they're convinced that it's our fault.
      Oh no, I know how much you loathe the Xmas zombies, having to dodge them in the midst of a pandemic is going to be doubly trying. Apparently Birmingham's Primark is opening for 24 hours a day next week, the world really has gone mad! xxx

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  25. I am excited to see what the sponsorship looks like. Cute bag your yarn came in. Another great clog sock combo :) I am hopeing after surgery and my 5 more rounds of treatment I can colour my hair as a massive amount of grey has come in due to stress and chemo (but I held onto my hair which mkes me happy) I am sure there are some easy going colours out there made with organic products

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    1. I'm excited, too! Poor Jon's got a list as long as his arm at the moment, he hates having to work to a deadline!
      I'm so glad you've held on to your hair, that must be a big boost. Not sure if it's avaialble in Canada but Daniel Field has a range of dye and hair products especially for people who've undergone cancer treatment. Might be worth a look. xxx

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  26. Loving the outfits especially the the 99p dress! Fabulous! I didn't know about the free delivery thing with Superdrug so thank you for that. I need some face wash and I love their Vit E body cream so I'll be ordering some in a minute.

    Looking forward to seeing the freebie/room rejig. The kitchen is looking lovely and very sunny. Today was horribly cold and foggy - I couldn't face a walk...

    You are motoring with the crochet. I've completely lost my crochet mojo and want it back! Loving the wool and the yarn bag is very cute - and very useful I'm sure.

    Take care
    xxx

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    1. I nearly died of excitement when I saw that dress in the 99p charity shop window! It's till one of my favourite chazza shop finds.
      Superdrug are brilliant with their free delivery service and they'll deduct the points from your card from your purchase if you've got enough of them. I love their Vitamin E radiance moisturiser, I've used it for 25 years.
      I hope you find your crochet mojo, it's good to have a project on a miserable day like today! xxx

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  27. Your Mother-Of-Thousands Plant was what my Parents used to call our Money Plants... Mom was very Superstitious Old Welsh and Believed that when the Youngsters came on the Leaves of the Mother Plant it meant Money was coming. We had that same Plant's Offspring from my Kindergarten Years all the way to Adulthood... we'd sneak it in during our Nomadic Lifestyle to whatever Country or State we lived in. Your Lads brought me to Tears as we just lost our Beloved Fur Baby, Miss Priss, from Old Age... she will be our last Cat as we're getting on now in Age and I don't want a Pet to outlive us and have to find placement. How you handle Pandemic Lockdown is still Inspirational and so disciplined, I wished more Americans possessed the discipline of the Europeans and Asians, we'd have better mitigation, less spread and death. It's embarrassing to be No. One in infection and losing people, we should do better than this in a 1st World Country!

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    1. I'm so sorry to read about your lovely Miss Priss. It's utterly devastating to lose a beloved cat especially in these times when we're spending so much more time at home. I wouldn't be surprised if a cat comes and finds you, you know they have a sixth sense for a good person with a kind heart. xxx

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  28. Interesting that a Swedish design co has approached you ... I am racking my brains to think what has got their attention - your lovely bath? beautiful glass bathroom screen? fabulous old fashioned kitchen sink? your kaftans maybe ... I know - your cloggs? watching this space :)

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    1. They liked our eclectic home style, they contacted me after reading the blog post about our kitchen! Maybe they could have a word with Lotta from Stockholm, I won't mind promoting clogs! xxx

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  29. What interesting news about the Swedish company Vix, I shall look forward to seeing your pics and hearing all about it. What a yucky day, I bet those lovely fur boys didn’t want to go outside, not sure I want to go outside today myself it’s a day for woolly crafts and reading. You mention the statue in Bilston, I’m missing going to Bilston! Think I need to get out more and get a life but of course we can’t with now going into tier three. I think, like me, you are one of life’s “take everything as it comes people” pointless in complaining about what we are having to put up with right now, we are alive and kicking and that’s all that matters.You will celebrate your birthday, you will have cards and parcels in the post, and lots of good wishes from all your friends here who’s lives you have made so much brighter during lockdown. Keep Dry and Carry On Bab. Brummie Sue Xx.




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    1. Hasn't it been a grim couple of days, Sue? Jon did say we should have a trip five miles down the road to Bilston before Xmas and see if any of the chazzas have reopened. It could be a birthday treat!
      I'm completely with you, no point in wasting time and energy on moaning, we have to think of things we can do and not things we can't. Stay safe & positive. xxx

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  30. Look at your gorgeous window sill cats :)
    I did have to chuckle at the offer of shapewear, have they not seen you?! I'm looking forward to seeing what the Scandi company has to offer.
    We're in tier 2 here, but it won't make a lot of difference to our daily lives, but sadly it doesn't look good for a lot of small businesses and pubs. Let's just hope the vaccine is approved and distributed soon!
    xx

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    1. The lads are forever on the windowsill either whingeing to go out or crying to be let back in!
      It's exciting to be offered something actually relevant to us. Shapewear sounds like torture.
      Our new tier won't make any difference to us either, we've forgotten what the inside of a pub looks like!
      Will you be able to see your family for Xmas? xxx

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  31. When I blogged regularly I used to get offers from companies wanting me to promote their product on my blog, and a couple of times it worked out, but most of the products were not something I would have used (again, Did you even READ my blog?).

    Yes, your Birthday is coming up! Mine was last week, and there was no celebrating with anyone except Sylvester.

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    1. Happy belated birthday to you, dear Shelley! I hope Sylvester made a huge fuss of you and allowed plenty of cuddles and belly rubs!
      I do sometimes reply with "Have you ever read my blog?" xxx

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  32. Aww Vix I hope you don't mind me saying this but what a stunning lady you are. you have beautiful hair, and the most amazing fashion sense that others just cannot compete with. I love viewing the photos you share with us about your beautiful home and fashions. Thank you for sharing your week Vix xx

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    1. Alana, thank you so much for those lovely kind words, you've put a huge smile on my face! xxx

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  33. Oh my! Shapewear! You? I couldn't imagine anyone with less of a need. I hope you gave them short shrift.
    I am, however, looking forward to seeing what you did agree to review. X

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    1. I didn't even answer them, they hadn't even bothered to call me by my name, just "Dear blogger" xxx

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  34. It's always nice to see photos of the lads:). Your cats are adorable.
    I love both outfits you wore. That patched maxi skirt looks fantastic paired with that blue blouse. The maxi dress combo is gorgeous as well.
    I'm looking forward to seeing your review and collab with the Swedish design company. I can understand why you are not interested in doing a shapewear collaboration as it is something you don't wear. I tried wearing some shapewear about five years ago and found it comfortable enough, but I wear tights most of the time and tights are a form of a shapewear as well so I don't wear it anymore. Plus, I read somewhere that it is easy to make shapewear out of old tights, just cut the bottom part and that's that.

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    1. Thanks so much, Ivana! franks' good at posing, Stephen won't keep still!
      I'd never promote anything that I wouldn't buy myself. I rarely wear a bra so shapewear would be some kind of torture! xxx

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  35. I'm really late, but have to comment on your fabulous pattern collection, your beautiful orange maxi dress, and your groovy crochet skirt!.
    Also loving your salad for tea, and the photos of your home and the lads!
    besos

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Thanks for reading and for leaving a message. Please don't be anonymous, I'd love it if you left a name (or a nom de plume).

Lots of love, Vix