Jazzy June

Hi everyone, for those that regularly follow me, its been a month since I last blogged, as I have been so busy. This month has been fantastic for me, I'm not sure how much the wonderful weather we have been having here in the UK has to do with it, but its been back to back sunshine, hooray.

we loved those heated chairs

This month started with my birthday and a trip to a spa which was a new experience for me, as soon as I got there and put on my robe I was in a tranquil heaven, dipping in and out of the steam room, sauna and pool, and even a meditation with my companion in the relaxation room. We also had two treatments, which included a back and neck massage and a facial. We were both 'spa day' virgins, and totally sold on the idea, so much so, we daydreamed about going once a month, which would be expensive and impractical, so we decided on going in 6 months again for my friends birthday. As a busy mum it was a complete luxury, and much needed time out, I'm keeping my eye on Travel Zoo for future offers.
Spa day link - Norton Grange Winchester

On the evening of my birthday my partner took me out for an A la carte meal at the Blackbird in Bagnor, on Newbury outskirts. It was hot enough to wear one of my favourite psychedelic vintage dresses that I had been dying to wear. We had a fantastic meal, in this beautiful location, drinks and then a taxi home, I felt like a princess.

The Blackbird - Bagnor, Newbury

The following week I had my annual concert treat with my mum and we went to see Soul to Soul and Chic at Blenheim Palace in Woodstock. The weather remained glorious for this special evening in the grounds of the palace. We danced all night, and then walked back to our very lovely 15th Century coach house hotel, we woke up to another sunny day and enjoyed the luxury of a full English breakfast (luxury because a proper chef cooked it and no washing up for us!) Currently I am reading Niles (Rodgers) autobiography, which to me is fascinating...sex and drugs and rock and roll!

me and mum ready to go and Freaaaaak out....

Nile Rodgers abd Chic at Nocturne Live

We are  booked in for a hotel for Nocturne Live at Blenheim Palace next year.

A couple of nights later, Foxy Lady and crew, headed to the woods for a nights camping, a massive contrast to the previous few events, but something I enjoyed just as much. It was good to get away from it all and touch base with nature properly, I have no photos, because I chose to be phone free for 24 hours. Me and my little family had a lovely evening, Mia and I set up camp whilst Rich was milling a massive Sycamore tree, for some furniture for our boat. I know we have spent many an hour round camp fires, but it was nice to do it as a family, and chat among ourselves. I was really proud of myself as I erected the tent all by myself, I know some of you will be shocked to hear this, because of my off grid, rugged lifestyle, but I loathed the idea of erecting and dismantling tents, and would leave it to my other half.

It looked something like this

Then summer solstice arrived, I like to mark the seasons as living off grid they have become more important to us. I took a trip to Avebury with another mum from Mias school, and again the sun was with us, as we meditatively walked around the stones.

That evening, I organised a few friends to come round to have a party with Mia, and the other girl that lives on our moorings. We are 'top' heavy with boys here (4 to 2), so I thought it would be nice to have some girls round. Children and adults had a lovely sociable evening in our special place, we are so lucky to be living here.

A couple of day after this, I did my first vintage fair in a while at Yattendon Vintage Car Show. I exhibited with Rubys Vintage Fair, in the local village hall. It was a super event in the lovely West Berkshire village, the sun still shining, I was in my element. I met some fabulous people, and will definitely go back next year. My only regret is that I missed seeing England win 6 -1 to Panama. When I returned home, we had a canoe ride and a bbq with some neighbours. Times are good.

My next show with Rubys is at MIllets farm, near Oxford next saturday

Please click to find details

A few evenings later I did another 'first", I went to the cinema all by myself! I went to see McQueen at the Corn Exchange in Newbury. What a lovely venue, it has less than 50 seats, and has an exclusive feel about it. The film itself was amazing, and anyone that is into fashion has to see it. I came out quite moved, as he didn't have a happy ending. I also felt re-inspired.

What a fabulous social and jazzy June I've had, what a life you may think?? However, amidst all of this 'playing hard' I have been working hard too.
I have made 4 tailored skirts, and 8 dresses, as well as doing photo shoots and preparing for Rubys. I have made some really high quality and funky items, if I do say so myself, I am feeling proud.

click here to see my latest collection in my Etsy shop

Heres a couple of samples

vintage patchwork tailored skirt

1960s Mod jerkin 

I have 3 weeks left until the school summer holidays start, and Richard starts to dismantle, my workshop / dining room, to transform it into a better space.
I intend on making my winter collection, which will consist of heavier and warmer fabrics, made into pinafore dresses.
I have some wonderful fabrics I am going to be working with, I cant wait. I love having fun, a drink, music, socialising and dancing, but what really gets me going, is beautiful inspiring fabrics. I often go to bed dreaming of psychedelic prints, and realise what a lucky position to be in.

Genuine 1970s vintage geometric stretch purple and green fabric