It's a craft affair

Could be an interesting event to get your craft fix. They have designer crafts, clothes and jewellery and yummy cup cakes. (Well I'm hoping they're yummy) Plus lots of other crafty things apparently.
Sat 26th September, Old Queens Head, Islington.
Who fancies joining me?

The blue mug

Here it is! I was one of the first people in the office this morning and had pick of the mugs from the kitchen cupboard. So, please admire it, set against a backdrop of an image of goldfish in a tropical tank. 

I have realised it's also the size of this mug that appeals. The bigger the better to provide a never ending supply of yummy hot tea. Apart from tea cups and saucers, which are also a big favourite of mine. But I'll leave that for another entry and some more pictures.

My favourite mug

Those that know me well, know I am a BIG tea drinker. Love the stuff. Can't get enough of it. Classic English Breakfast is my brew of choice. Favourite bagged brand is PG Tips with semi-skimmed milk. I enjoy the ritual of making a big pot of tea all to myself and really got into loose tea whilst at home over the summer.

At work I consume probably at least three cups in the morning and love getting my favourite mug from the kitchen cupboard at work.

 

The pretty floral design just brightens up my day, even though it is fading from the harshness of the dishwasher. 

Since my return to work after months off I have also noticed a pretty blue mug has appeared in the kitchen cupboard. I try to nab that one if I can (pic to follow when I can). You see, I have an aversion to drinking out of black or very dark mugs. Not that I would be so churlish as to refuse a black mug if someone has made me a cup of tea but it does lessen the enjoyment ever so slightly.

Does anyone else take such pleasure in their daily cups of tea?

Bestival

The wash out that was last year's Bestival made the sunshine on the Isle of Wight at the weekend that bit sweeter. 

I was so glad I had made the effort to get on the island, although it was pretty easy with a lift from the lovely Katie. It was great to spend some time with Sam, it had been a while since we had seen each other, and just to relax. 

The creativity had been flowing amongst the festival goers. The site was a plethora of silver and gold, and sparkles and glitter. 

The artists had made an amazing effort in dressing up to the theme. In terms of the music, Florence (from Florence and the Machine) was a big favourite, although feel some of the power and impact of her set, and that which makes her so magical, is lost in these big outdoor gigs. I have seen her three times now, my favourite still being in the small tent at Bestival last year to 300 people, where she just let go! 

Jack Penate was also a treat, although what the hell he was wearing who knows. It was some poncho like item displaying a sea of colours. I later read that he hadn't had much time to organise an outfit. Some excuse. (Whoops that's mine).

Photographs to follow when I can get them from that boyfriend of mine.

creative block

Bestival is looming fast and I've failed again. Failed that is to make/buy/borrow/steal a show-stopping costume to wow at this year's festival. The theme is Outer Space but with returning to work after 3 months off and just generally coping with being back in London (see my other blog http://bravebadger.blogspot.com/), I've not had the time nor energy to create something wonderful. And I don't want to go as something out of Star Trek.

So, I think I may be limited to a silver sparkly dress, silver tights, false eyelashes and a big smile. I may try and get creative with some tin foil and stars.

Tonight I will be packing my stuff together. I am too scared, after last year's wash out to believe the weather forecast, so will still be including wellies, waterproofs and anything else that will keep me dry and keep me happy/sane. Getting pretty excited now!! Whoop whoop.

Colourscape

As promised, here are some pics from Colourscape, the White Blackbird event held at Stoke Place on Friday 28 August. What do you think of the dress? I love it. Although unsure as to when I'll have the occasion to wear it again.

     

 The venue, Stoke Place

     

Colourful couple

            

  

We didn't once lose Adam (yes, the one in the bright suit)

The shop has a name and website

I have discovered, after googling the name on the tag in my new vintage dress, that the store I bought it from is called Berty and Gerty. This vintage delight all began on a market stall in Brick Lane where art graduates, Mark Wearn and Emma Drew, brought their favourite items to East London's vintage customers. Its success and cult following meant they were able to open the Berty and Gerty boutique in 2006.

Summer 2007 saw the launch of their online boutique. Check it out, but I do recommend a visit to the shop itself if you can...

http://www.bertyandgerty.co.uk

Berty & Gerty,
69 The West Yard,
Camden Lock Market,
London,
NW1 8AF

It's open every day 10-6pm and they have deliveries every week.