ENJOYING LIFE

GETTING BACK TO MY BLOG

2011-02-15T09:28:00.002+10:00

I decided a few months back to start up another blog (through my service provider). Had no end of trouble with the customer service side of things and just when I thought the problem had been sorted out, it reared its head again.
So here I am back with my original blog.
There may not be a lot of book reviews from now now, as our little book group has been disbanded. But I will still post comments from time to time on books that I enjoy.
At the moment, I am crocheting granny squares for Sarah London - An idea that originated from Sarah London who lives in Sydney. This is to help the victims of the Queensland flood relief. So far I have posted off too large parcels of granny squares and thought that this could be my effort to help out the people who have lost their homes and possessions.
Sarah is going to join up the squares as they start coming in and I know that she has had a great response world wide.

SIGNORA DA VINCI by Robin Maxwell

2010-06-11T16:20:00.000+10:00

SIGNORA DA VINCI by Robin Maxwell

2010-06-08T15:27:00.000+10:00

Another book from my selection for the Historical Fiction Readiing Challenge on the royal reviews blog
This story tells of Caterina, the mother of Leonardo da Vinci.
From her humble beginnings as the daughter of the local apothecary in the village of Vinci, we follow her life as she falls in love with the son of the local aristocrat family, Piero da Vinci.
But when she falls pregnant and believes that Piero will marry her, she is sadly disappointed.
When the baby, Leonardo is born, the family (Da Vinci) takes the baby to live with them, as was the custom.

Over the years, Caterina finds ways to spend time with Leonardo, with the help of Francesco, Piero's brother.
Piero wants nothing to do with the child and the family sends Piero to Florence to make a suitable match befitting his position as a Notary.
When Leonardo is only about 11, Caterina requests Piero find an apprenticeship for Leonardo, as due to the custom of the time, illegitimate sons coud not follow the profession of the father.

Thus Leonardo finds himself apprenticed to ne of the masters in Florence, where his talents develop. Caterina misses him so much, that her father suggests she go to Florence, where he has an apothecary shop which was bequeathed to him by his former emplyer. There she can set up shop, but she will have to disguise herself as a man.
Due to her father's teaching since she was a young girl, she is well education in the arts etc and so she is able to assume this change and revels in it.
She has so much more freedom than living as a woman, and is now known as Cato. By chance she makes the acquitance of Lorenzo De Medici and is drawn into the illustrious circle. Eventually falling in love with him.

Very good insight into that time in history.

THE CANTERBURY PAPERS by Judith Koll HEALEY

2010-04-15T16:28:00.004+10:00

Eventhough this was not one of my chosen books for the challenge (Royal Reviews), I wanted to post a comment as the story was wonderful to read.

This is an absorbing story of Alais (sister of Phillipe of France and step daughter of Eleanor of Aquitaine. Alais had been bethrothed to Richard (the Lionheart) but caught the eye of King Henry and captured his heart.
In this story, Alais, has been living at the French court with her brother Phillipe and is feeling stifled with the life and intrigue of the Court.
A written request is received from Eleanor of Aquitaine, for Alais to travel to Canterbury in England and retrieve hidden letters that Eleanor had written to Thomas Beckett. If these letters fall into the wrong hands, the information they contain could bring down the English king, John.

Eleanor also hints that the child born to Henry and Alais, did not die at childbirth and she knows of his whereabouts.
This prompts Alais to undertake the journey to England and when she arrives, she realises that there is more to the story than she has been told.
While trying to retrieve the letters, which were hidden in the alter of the church at Canterbury, she is abducted by King John and his wife, Isabelle, and held at Sarum - the tower where King Henry had imprisoned Eleanor many years ago.
Her rescue comes by way of the Knights Templar, who are led by William of Caen, a childhood friend of Alais.
Something is taken from Alais while she is drugged - her prized possession of a jewel, given to her by Richard at their betrothal. This jewel had been created by an Arab poet, Omar Bn Al-Faridh. More mystery attached to this, as many people want to get possession.
To find out more, you should read this book.

TWYLIGHT TOWER by Karen Harper

2010-03-24T12:08:00.008+10:00

I had intended reading The Poyson Garden as part of the Historical Fiction Reading Challenge on Royal Reviews, but when I went to reserve at my local library, it was no longer on the catalogue.
So that's the reason for reading Twylight Tower.

This story is set in 1560 and Elizabeth 1 has sent William Cecil to Scotland for negotiations with Mary. Cecil is uneasy about leaving on this journey as Elizabeth has been spending too much time with Robert Dudley, and not enough attention on affairs of state.
Shortly after Cecil departs for Scotland, the court's master lutenist plunges to his death from the parapet (near Elizabeth's chamber). It is assumed that he accidently fell after drinking too much, but the other loyal servants of the Queen are not so sure, and believe he was pushed.
Onto the scene appears a young musician and begs to be taken into the Queen's service. This lutenist is good, but something is not right. It soon is discovered that the musician is a girl (it was first though the musician was a eunach).
Elizabeth feels that she is being watched all the time, but dismisses this as being upset at the death of her previous musician.

Robert Dudley is constantly in the Queen's attendance, eventhough his wife Amy Robsart is ailing and living in the country. We know that Robert is ambitious and will do anything to reach the top.

There are twists and turns in this story, always including the workings of the Royal Court, with all its intrigues and jealousies.
The Spanish Ambassador is also at court, lobbying for Elizabeth to take a husband, and building up a network of spies around the palace.

Tradedy strikes close to the throne, when Elizabeth is almost killed whilst performing in one of the plays that she enjoys.

The death of Amy Robsart brings tragedy close to the throne also and suffice to say that the young lutenist wreaks her revenge on the Queen with this incident.
It transpires that she is one of the bastard offspring from King Henry's time.

I am become quite involved with the characters in this series and look forward to reading the other books.

Here are the pages that I have created for my Historical Reading Journal

Portraits of Queen Elizabeth I, Part 1: Young Elizabeth (1545-1572)

2010-03-23T09:52:00.000+10:00

Portraits of Queen Elizabeth I, Part 1: Young Elizabeth (1545-1572)

BOOK REVIEWS

2010-03-19T11:10:00.005+10:00

I just can't seem to get into the swing of posting on my blog everyday. Always other "things" to do.
A couple more book reviews to add - always can find time to read!!

I am a fan of Matthew Reilly's books and CONTEST is the author's first novel, which was self published (1996) after being rejected by every major publisher in Sydney (Australia). That attitude certainly changed once he wrote other books.
Before I read this story, my husband Michael said that I would think twice about visiting a large public library.

As usual with Matthew Reilly books, the theme is action packed from start to finish.

"A thief breaks into the New York State Library and comes away with nothing but the biggest nightmare of his life, and being put in jail (where he reckons he is safe from the monster). He had awakened Karanadon, a monster that has been teleported there as part of a Contest.
The human contender is Stephen Swain, who has also been transported there from his home, together with his daughter Holly (she happened to be close to him at the time).
Stephen thinks he has entered a nightmare, especially when he discovers he has to fight for his life if he wants to come out of the library alive.

Don't want to give too much away, as it will spoil all the twists and turns that are in the story.

For a change of pace, the next book DEATH BY DARJEELING (by Laura Childs), is the first in the tea shop mystery series.
The author has also written a Scrapbooking Mystery series.

Was lucky to get a copy of this book from BOOKMOOCH, as the theme of the mysteries intrigued me, as I am a tea drinker (as well as coffee).

The character of Theodosia, owner of the Indigo Tea Shop is a strong independent woman, and she is helped in the shop by Drayton,who is her major domo and expert tea blender; the waitress and chef is a young girl called Holly.

At a tea party catered for by the shop, a well known property developer dies, after drinking tea and it turns out he was poisoned. Of course, all eyes are on Theo, who desperately tries to save her reputation and track down the killer.

Interesting snippets throughout the story of the various tea blends and names of tea.

Enjoyed the story and look forward to reading others in the series.

COZY MYSTERY STORIES

2010-03-12T14:51:00.005+10:00

As well as enjoying historical fiction, I am also a fan of mystery novels, and after coming across the Cozy Mystery site
I have a good list of authors to choose from.

A couple of stories that I have recently read are:

THE BOHEMIAN MURDERS - A Freemont Jones Mystery (by Dianne DAY).

The period for this story is 1906 and Freemont Jones is forced to leave San Francisco after the devasting earthquake. She goes to the bohemian beach community of Carmel-by-the-Sea and is looking forward to being reunited with her friend, Michael Archer, and setting up her typing business.
But she is not prepared for the way that Michael has arranged a cottage for her, situated in the artist colony and feels that she will be restricted. So she takes up the offer of being the fill in for the Lighthouse keeper for a period 6 months and also rents out a small shop for her typing business. The lighthouse duties only really take up a few hours during the day and she has a man to help out with the other duties.
One day while carrying out her duties on the watch,she sees through the binoculars, a body in the water. When the body is recovered from the water, no-one seems able to identify the person (a young well dressed woman).
Freemont therefore undertakes to find out what happened and promises herself that she will pay for the burial for the woman. But this turns out not be an easy task.

I found the character of Freemont to be a lively, independent person and enjoyed the story.

The other book was THE CHOCOLATE BEAR BURGLARY - by Joanna CARL

As I love chocolate, couldn't resist the title of this book. Also a good read into the chocolate making business.
Lee McKinney works with her Aunt Nettie in the shop - TenHuis Chocolade.
To participate in the "Teddy Bear Getaway" organised by the chamber of commerce at Warner Pier, Michigan (where the shop is located), Lee and Nettie agree to display a collection of antique chocolate moulds.
The moulds have been in the same family for generations and are quite valuable.
But after a burglary at the shop, the antique dealer who asked for them to be on display is murdered, and the main suspect is Lee's young stepson, who has left home.
Once Lee starts delving into the background of the moulds and the family who owns them, secrets are exposed and her life is put in danger.

THE GRADUATE

2010-03-12T13:42:00.001+10:00

THE GRADUATE
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

I knew that the chilli cut out would come in handy for a card sooner or later, and for the background, used a page from a book of latin that I acquired from a library sale.

BE CREATIVE

2010-03-12T13:41:00.001+10:00

BE CREATIVE
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

Background for this card is a serviette (love collecting these now for the wonderful colours and prints).
Also I have been collecting quotes from various sources, which add to the images.

QUEENS

2010-03-12T13:39:00.001+10:00

QUEENS
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

I have a multitude of historical images and thought I should start using some. Pleased with the other "bits" that I have added to make up the composition.

PEARL DEALER

2010-03-12T13:37:00.001+10:00

PEARL DEALER
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

A real mixture of paper finds for this card - background paper from a sheet that I downloaded from a scrapbook site; image from a travel magazine, and the text is from a family research matter that I was looking into. Unfortunately my husband's family don't have Chinese ancestors, (at this stage anyway).

READING GROUP BOOK REVIEW

2010-03-11T14:01:00.000+10:00

con-tain-it

The idea for the journal mentioned in my previous post was inspired by Roberta's blog and check it out for other great ideas.

ANNETTE VALLON - by James Tipton

2010-03-11T13:25:00.004+10:00

I decided to read this book for the Historical Challenge as I had seen a couple of reviews on blogs that I follow.
Also I had not read many books centred around the French Revolution, and the character, Annette Vallon, was unknown to me.
Book covers and the "blurb" inside sometimes can be deceptive - in other words, too much hype and not enough substance.

The story starts in the period 1785-1791 in the Loire Valley France.
Annette and her family are in the high social classes, and her mother has aspirations for Annette's future, especially when William Wordsworth is brought to their acquaintance and is definitely of the working class.

I felt that there was too much padding for my way of thinking and the story became bogged down.
Didn't press on with the rest of the book.

I did though start up a Reading Journal for the books in this challenge, and here are the pages for Annette Vallon:

BEACH MUSIC by Pat Conroy

2010-03-04T09:08:00.004+10:00

This book was our set read for the month of March, and at our book group meeting yesterday (3rd March), everyone agreed that it was a great story.
Having to pick the titles for the year, I always ponder how the other ladies will relate to the books and looks like I picked a winner here.

Some of the topics that stand out in the story:

Family Relatonships
Love and Loss
Holocaust
Jewish Race
Vietnam War
Alcoholism
Living in Italy
Suicide

This book has all of the above themes and probably a lot more that I may have missed.
Very intense story to read and so well written - especially the family relationships.
Jack's family - how different all the 5 boys were - their mother Lucy, her poor and heartbreaking childhood and how she overcame this and rose to become a much respected and well loved woman and mother.
Shyla's family (Jack's dead wife) and how the legacy of the Jewish holocaust stayed with her family and eventually took her life (suicide).
Jordan - the son of a career Army man, and how his life panned out because of his father.

Had never read any of this author's books before and will probably look for others:

The Prince of Tides
The Great Santini
The Water is Wide
The Lords of Discipline.

The author's descriptions of life were spot on.

THE LAST BOLEYN by Karen Harper

2010-03-04T08:48:00.005+10:00

Another book for the Historical Fiction Challenge on ROYAL REVIEWS.
This story gives another slant of the Boleyn family (have read Phillipa Gregory's book The Other Boleyn Girl which I enjoyed).

I was not aware that the Boleyn name came into being in 1530 - previously the family name was Bullen and Anne had wanted the name changed and pronounced Boleyn, a French spelling and much more suited to a future queen of the realm.

We are shown how manipulative the fathers, husbands etc. were in order to become powerful. Thomas Bullen, the father of Mary and Anne was a power hungry man who thought nothing of using his daughters and also his wife to attain his aims.

Mary Bullen is sent off to France (at a young age as was the custom) to be at the French Court in the service of Princess Mary Tudor, King Henry's sister, who was now the Queen of France.
When King Louis XII, dies, his nephew Francois, comes into power, and besides having eyes for Princess Mary Tudor, casts his net at young Mary, who becomes bedazzled by his handsome appearance and everything about him.
Young Mary is finally seduced by Francois, and comes to realise just how ruthless life at court can be.
William Stafford, a member of King Henry's court, becomes entranced with Mary whle on the King's business in France. His love never waivers for Mary even when upon her return to England, her father arranges a marriage with Will Carey.
As was Henry's want, he wants Mary and has her. For 5 years she is his constant companion, and has 2 children by him,Henry and Catherine, who over the following years are taken from her and used as pawns - once again by her father.

I don't want to give too much away, but Mary's marriage to Will Carey is a loveless match, and all the while, "Staff" is in the background watching over Mary, who comes to realise she is falling in love with him.
Will Carey dies and it is sometime before Mary and Staff can marry - all the time playing politics at court and becoming involved with Thomas Cromwell.

The decline of the Boleyn family comes about when Anne and her brother George are beheaded - King Henry wanting to marry Jane Seymour.
Thomas Boleyn, the father is now a broken man, who has now lost all his power and position at court.
But Mary survives all, and her and Will return to his family property Wivanhoe.

Excellent story.

FOR OLD TIMES

2010-02-26T16:37:00.001+10:00

FOR OLD TIMES
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

Artist Trading Card which I have posted onto my Flickr set as well.

BLACK GEISHA

2010-02-26T16:36:00.001+10:00

BLACK GEISHA
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

The jigsaw piece was something I created a few months back and knew that it would look good on one of my asian themed cards.

TIMES PAST

2010-02-26T16:35:00.001+10:00

TIMES PAST
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

Another postcard - liked the background paper, and the other images just seemed to fit.

LAST EMPRESS

2010-02-26T16:33:00.001+10:00

LAST EMPRESS
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

this postcard brings together images from magazines, together with a sticker depicting a chinese girl.

GEISHA GARDEN

2010-02-26T16:32:00.001+10:00

GEISHA GARDEN
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

The background is a postcard from a book of cards of Japan.
Added the embellishments to enhance the scene.

THE THORN MAZE by Karen Harper

2010-02-25T16:50:00.003+10:00

Another book that I chose to read for the Historical Reading Challenge (Royal Reviews Blog).
First time read of this author and I had been wanting to read her books for sometime.
Enjoyed her style of writing and the period in which she has set her story.

The tale is set in the reign of Elizabeth 1 and the series (this is number 5) sees the Queen become an amateur sleuth.
This is the time of the plague in London and Elizabeth is at Hampton Court, which has as its feature, a hornbeam maze. But the maze becomes a murder scene, as first someone attempts to strangle Elizabeth, then a famed lawyer is murdered in the maze. Soon after his wife is found dead in another maze.
The killer appears to be taunting the Queen and she enlists her closest peoiple to help solve the murders. To add to this, she is trying to keep her eyes on Lord Darnley and his parents, who want to return to Scotland.
Elizabeth is thinking that maybe she can have Mary in Scotland marry Lord Darnley, maybe even Robert Dudley.
William Cecil comes under investigation, as does his wife, and it is not until nearly the end of the story, you discover the identity of the murderer.

The historical names become like old friends once you have read a lot of historical fiction and I find this adds enjoyment of the story for me as well.

CROSS STITCH CUSHION

2010-02-25T16:40:00.003+10:00

My craft cupboard has a "few" cushion kits to be done and this one was a pleasure to do. My friend Diane had given me the kit, and as it very large holed canvas, only took a short time to do.

Very pleased with the result and the cushion sits well on the couch.

Also made up some more cards, and added to the Flickr site as well.

NOTE CARDS

2010-02-24T14:40:00.002+10:00

I am always on the lookout for notecards/paper, and these days there seems to be a lack of this type of writing paper.
So yesterday I decided to print out some of my photos and make my own note cards.
These are much more personalised and you can embellish to your hearts content.

While I was waiting for my bread to rise this morning, thought it was time that I got back into making my Artist Trading Cards etc, so here are the results. Only 1 ATC and 3 cards (4 x 4). I will use these images for my next batch of note cards

THE BORGIA BRIDE by Jeanne Kalogridis

2010-02-23T08:52:00.005+10:00

This is another book that I chose to read for the Historical Fiction Challenge (ROYAL REVIEWS), and was not disappointed.

Starts in the Autumn of 1488.
Sancha of Aragon, natural daughter of the man who become Alfonso II, King of Naples.
Like the Borgias, Sancha's people came to the Italian Peninsula by way of SPAIN. (Wonder whether this can be where the cruelty came into the bloodlines).

Sancha's grandfather, King Ferrante - a ruthless man with a streak of cruelty, who arranges for Sancha's bethrothal to Onorato. She is quite happy with this arrangement, but due to political alliances, is told that the marriage will not happen as she is to marry Jofre Borgia, who is only 11 years old at the time.
Their marriage takes place when Sancha is 16 and Jofre "nearly 13".

Naples is plunged into war with the French and the family flees to Messina in Sicily.
Eventually they all return to Naples and it takes sometime for the city to be rebuilt.
Then the Pope, Alexander VI, requests his son Jofre, return to Rome with his wife Sancha as he wants all his family to be with him. The Pope is known for his womanising and Sancha is reluctant to move there.
So it is that in 1496, they arrive in Rome and are welcomed by the Pope's second eldest child and only daughter, Lucrezia Borgia.
At first there is jealousy between Lucrezia and Sancha, as Lucrezia fears that her father will turn to Sancha instead of her. We realise why when later in the story it is evident that Lucrezia and her father are lovers.
Sancha thought is attracted to one of the Cardinals and learns later that he is Jofre's brother, Cesare. They eventually become lovers, and it is not until later that Sancha realises that Cesare is also the lover of Lucrezia and bears him a child.

There are so many twists and turns and at times you shudder at the cruelty that seems to go hand in hand with the power of the Borgia family at that time.
Sancha sees the only way of stopping the family is to poison both the Pope and Cesare to stop the bloodshed, and this she does with the poison called Cantarella.

This is a wonderful tale of intrigue, history, love and betrayal and well worth reading.

JANE AUSTEN

2010-02-16T08:44:00.005+10:00

It has been sometime since I last posted - too involved in gardening, sewing, and of course reading.
Have just finished "Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict" by Laurie Viera RIGLER and loved the story, which has reawakened my interest in the stories of Austen.
I know that I was sucked back into Pride and Prejudice, after watching the DVD(and Colin Firth), and now I need to read more of the books and see the other movies that are on offer.

This story was a delight to read and I notice on the Jane Austen site that there is another book called Rude Awakenings of a Jane Austen Addict.

Wonderful info. and links on this site and well worth a look.

HISTORICAL READING CHALLENGE

2010-01-11T15:00:00.004+10:00

Have read my first book for this challenge from my list - THE PRINCE OF DARKNESS (Book 4 of the Plantagenet Series) by Jean PLAIDY.

The more that I read of this series, my interest is awakened even further in historical fiction. The Royal Reviews blog is a good site to check out

This book follows on with the death of Richard, the Lionheart, and his brother John takes over the throne. Not a popular choice of some of the barons at the time, and especially John's nephew, Arthur, who wants the crown.
Because John realises that there is a great threat with Arthur, he ultimately lures him into his presence and murders him, throwing Arthur's body from the castle in France where they had arranged the meeting. This is John's secret as he enlists the aid of a deaf mute to dispose of the body.

John's reign is one of evil - he has a terrible temper, like his father.
Their sexual appetites are similar, in that John arranges to divorce his first wife, so that he can marry Isabella, a 12 year old girl, who was betrothed to another French noble. Isabella is very knowing for her age, and for some years they appear to have a happy marriage, eventhough John takes other women,(young girls and even one of his Baron's wives).
The story ends in 1216 with the death of John.
You are left pondering whether he may have been poisoned after visiting the Abbey of Swinehead. As usual John's eyes dwelt on one of the nuns, and he had it in mind to return to the Abbey and have his way with her.
While resting at Swineshead for the night, one of the monks gives John some peaches on a platter - these he ate hungrily and almost immediately afterwards he was seized by violent pains.

REVIVAL OF OUR FISH POND

2010-01-11T14:52:00.003+10:00

We have been frustrated for sometime with not being able to keep the water clean in our fish pond. No doubt the pump size is inadequate for the area.
So after much pondering, my husband Michael came up with this idea. It works a treat and is basically a plastic crate that has 3 layers of foam inside, and an extra hose, which feeds from the pump- through the foam, and then comes out clear water.
Each week, all that is necessary is for the foam pieces to be removed, hosed clean and put back in the crate.

The fish are happy and so are we.

LATEST SEWING CREATIONS

2010-01-11T14:40:00.003+10:00

Another 2 projects to add to the tick list and quite pleased with the outcome.

The shoulder bag is a first for me, in saying this I mean that I have never sewn a bag with a lining before, and the tutorial from tiny happy site was very good, especially having the photos to follow. The tutorial is called Shoulder Bag tutorial and here are photos of my bag.
Used an old earring for the button as I did not have the right size button in my stash

The table runner was started last year and got put on the back burner.
The centrepiece is done on my embroidery machine, and wouldn't you know it, as soon as it was finished and I placed it on the table, my black cat Taliesin had to lay on it.

Now what I am going to try next?

CANVAS TOTES

2010-01-07T10:35:00.005+10:00

I had started sewing this Shopping Canvas Tote with the machine embroidery quite a few months back, and when I came to sew on the webbing, realised that there wasn't enough. Had used some of it to mend a strap on Michael's golf bag.
As we needed to go to the shops for a few things, the opportunity arose to visit the Craft Warehouse. Lucky enough to get a lovely red colour in the width that I needed, and surprised to see other colours as well.
Once home I got stuck into the sewing and finished the bag.
The idea is from the site - Advanced Embroidery Designs in their projects section.
Called Shopping Canvas Totes with Applique Embroidery.

Whilst going through my fabric stash, found a piece of material that I either bought at an Op. Shop for $5-00 (a metre piece) or got from the give away table at our Craft Group. Anyway it is good heavyweight material and decided to sew another shopping tote. Found this patter as a tutorial - Summer Sewing - Classic Tote Tutorial on the site Sew.Mama.Sew

Very pleased with this one as well and liked the idea of the outside pocket. Perfect for my glasses and sunglasses.

Have just found another good piece of material that this patter would suit, so will be making this one again.

SEWING - APRONS

2010-01-07T10:19:00.006+10:00

I have a good excuse for staying indoors at the moment and catching up with my sewing. RAIN and how wonderful it is to see the garden come back to life, and the trees reviving. The grass is growing by the day and once the sun comes out, then the mowers will be out in force.

Here are a few aprons that I made (in a day actually) - and got enthusiastic about this after reading a few posts on one of the blogs that I follow - Down to Earth.
A good time was had searching on the net for patterns and this is what I came up with.

First one is an apron you can make from a Vintage Pillowcase. I had just a plain one that I decided to embellish. The details are from a Blog called Whoopsie Daisies Days

The embellishments for the pockets are canvas bags that I purchased rolled oats and SR Flour in. Added the braid from my stash at the hem.

Next creation is another Pillowcase Apron, with a pocket and this is from a blog called Lipstick and Laundry

Last one is from a site that had a tutorial called Apron in an hour tutorial by Jona Giammalva. Good pattern as it only requires one fat quarter for the main apron and 1/2 yard of fabric for the waistband and ties.

I hope this inspires you to get out the sewing machine. Quite enjoy wearing an apron now, as it certainly saves the clothes a bit and you can use up some of your stash - tea towels, pillowcases etc.

KENWOOD BREADMAKER BM250

2010-01-01T11:04:00.004+10:00

I was in the mood for bread making yesterday, especially after browsing through my recipe books - so loaded up the pan in the bread maker, hit the settings, pressed the Start Button, and the screen showed a time of 58 minutes.
Something wrong here, so turned off the machine, hoping that it would reset itself.

After sometime, restarted the machine and let it go. Still showing the time of 58 minutes, so let it run through the cycle.
After it had finished, took out the dough - which had cooked mind you, and stared at the machine in disgust.
Checked back through my paperwork, and bought the machine in June 2008 - and of course, the 12 month warranty has passed - isn't that the way.
Left with no choice but to make my bread rolls by hand.

The recipe I chose was from the Simple Green Frugal Blog - the article being Successfully Soft Hamburger Buns.

Success with this recipe and they cooked in my gas oven in less than the time quoted, but what the heck. Had one each with our dinner last night and very nice and tasty. The others I have packed into bags in the freezer.

Another good site for bread recipes in on All Recipes where I have found quite a few to try, starting with Amish White Bread

OUR CLAYTONS DOG

2009-12-26T13:40:00.003+10:00

Now that our neighbour will be moving next month, I have to admit to being rather sad if they take their little dog with them. Bella is the most lovable animal, and spends quite a lot of time at our house. YOu could say she is part of the family, and our cat Taliesin has accepted her as well, which is a big deal for him.

She is on a cane chair that was part of the set, sold in garage sale (mentioned in the previous post).
I am tempted to ask if she can stay with us, and suppose there is no harm in asking.

GARAGE SALE FIND

2009-12-26T13:35:00.002+10:00

Our neighbour had a garage sale a few weeks ago, and we went over for a browse.
There was a lounge suite for sale and my husband thought that it would look good in our sun room (at the back of the house and is a wonderful spot to relax, plus I have my craft room there as well).
So we made an offer, which he accepted, and then decided to put in our old cane suite in the hope that we could recoup some cost. Lucky for us, it was sold and the comfy lounge looks as though it was meant for the room.

GARDEN PRODUCE

2009-12-26T13:25:00.005+10:00

For my lunch today, I enjoyed some Lychees and a Mango from our garden. Everything is organically grown, and the taste is all the sweeeter when you have grown your foods from scratch.

The mangoes in the front of the picture are Kensington Pride, which I may be biased, but have a wonderful taste. Last year, the biggest fruit that we picked off the tree weighed in around 800grams, and my husband Michael and I shared it between us.

The mango crop has been better than expected, given the lack of rain over the past 3 months, so we are thankful for what we have on the trees.

Same goes for Lychees - I had been feeding the tree and giving it extra water, and managed to cover the fruit just as it started ripening, so that the birds could leave me some.

Should mention a good blog that I checked out this morning called Down to Earth .I was listening to Radio National yesterday morning and Anthony Fennell, the presenter, was interviewing the lady who runs the blog.
The blog is very well presented and has a huge following, so check it out.

CROSS STITCH PROJECTS

2009-12-24T13:52:00.006+10:00

I am making inroads into my UFO pile in my craft cupboard, and quite pleased that 2 projects have been completed (framing still to be done).

The smaller one is one of the many patterns that form part of a Cross Stitch Calendar which features a pattern for each day.

The other project is of a Japanese Kimono - this was a free pattern from Annette Eriksson which I received when I purchased a Chart from her. Lovely colours.

My resistance level was a bit low yesterday, as I spent a few hours on Ebay and managed to get more kits and charts. There really is a great selection available and I figured that even with the postage added, I am still getting good bargains.
So over the next few weeks, the goodies should start arriving.

HISTORICAL FICTION

2009-12-22T10:23:00.002+10:00

On my last visit to my local library, came across this series and have just finished Book One - Emperor by Stephen Baxter.
The series is called TIME'S TAPESTRY, and starts with the Prologue at 4 BC - the story then follows on with the Prophecy of Nectovelin and the return of the Romans to Britain AD 43-70.
Gave me a good insight in the early history of Britain and the Romans. Especially liked the descriptions of how Hadrian's wall came about. All of this is interspersed with the people that are connected to the Prophecy.
Next book is called CONQUEROR and is in the time period 1066.
There are 4 books in the series and looking forward to the others.

Every so often I have a browse through different websites after putting in phrases etc. into Google. Historical fiction lists was the last one I used, and came across a site called Historical Fiction Network, which then has links to other sites.
After reading one of my favourite publications, Historical Novels Review, I requested an inter-library loan on a book by Sarah JOhnson called Historical Fiction, and have been able to get a copy.
Hoping that I may get it before Christmas, but if not, good reading for the New Year.
The only drawback in finding other sites, is that my TBR list is growing so much, that I would have to read a book a day for years, just to get through it. What a great thought though.

PRUNE AND BRAN MUFFINS

2009-12-15T12:18:00.002+10:00

This recipe has been adapted to suit Low GI requirements. My mother found this recipe sometime back and recommended that I try. Since then, the muffins have become one of my favourites - and they also freeze well.
Even my husband likes the taste!!

Ingredients
1 cup Natural All Bran (I use the breakfast cereal All Bran)
1 cup Boiling water
1 cup Pitted prunes (chopped)
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons oil (Grapeseed or Rice Bran if you prefer) - I use 1/3 cup of oil
2 eggs beaten (recipe said 1, but 2 eggs make a better mixture)
1 cup SR Flour
1 teaspoon Baking Powder

Method
Soak bran with boiling water - stand for 40 minutes (by then the mixture is cool)

Stir prunes and sugar into bran mixture. Add oil and egg mixture. Mix well.
(think this is the secret. Bran sets so mix the egg and oil mixture into it very well).

Fold into this, the sifted flour until just combined.
Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes - cool.
Makes 8.

I use a large 6 hole muffin pan when I make these muffins.

HISTORICAL READING CHALLENGE

2009-12-03T13:52:00.003+10:00

When I read the post on The Royal Reviews
knew that I would participate. Historical fiction is becoming my favourite genre, maybe since subscribing to the Historical Novels Society magazine and browsing through their site as well.

At this point in time these are the books that I have chosen to read:

GALWAY BAY by Mary Pat Kelly
ANNETTE VALLON by James Tipton
SIGNORA DA VINCI by Robin Maxwell
THE HERETIC'S DAUGHTER - Kathleen Kent
THE HIDDEN DIARY OF MARIE ANTOINETTE - Carolly Erickson
THE VIRGIN QUEEN'S DAUGHTER - Ella March Chase
THE LAST BOLEYN - Karen Harper
THE POYSON GARDEN - Karen Harper
THE THORN MAZE - Karen Harper
THE BORGIA BRIDE - Keanne Kalogridis
BOUDICA - DREAMING THE BULL by Manda Scott
THE PLANTAGENET SAGA - 12 books in all and I am up to the 4th Book

BANANA BREAD RECIPE

2009-11-28T11:50:00.003+10:00

I admit to having tried quite a few recipes for Banana Cake/Banana Bread etc.

Whilst browsing through a few blogs, came across this site called Little Bird Big City
The author of the blog says that this recipe has been handed down through generations etc. So yesterday as I had a few ripe bananas in the fridge, thought why not.
Cooked nicely and had a slice with my cup of tea yesterday afternoon.

Very nice - good texture and will definitely make again.

THE DEVLIN DIARY by Christi Phillips

2009-11-28T11:25:00.003+10:00

Have just finished reading this book and loved it. (probably helps that I enjoy Historical Fiction).
There were so many topics - all of interest to the story and I felt quite comfortable with the period in history and the characters.
One of the other recent books that I have read (part of a series)is Dark Angels
which is set in the same time frame - Restoration England.

Eventhough you are shown the past and present - it does not detract from the story.
You also get a good feel for what it must have been like for a woman doctor (physic) in this period - the prejudice by the men and general public.
Good insight into medical conditions and how the treatments were administered. Charles the Second was very liberal in transmitting the "clap" to his mistresses.

The author also brought Cambridge alive and the politics and jealousy in the academic world.
Want to read Phillips" other book now - The Rossette Letter.

BOLD - 8 Nov 2009

2009-11-28T11:21:00.001+10:00

BOLD - 8 Nov 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

BLUE - 27 Nov 2009

2009-11-28T11:20:00.001+10:00

BLUE - 27 Nov 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

SMILE FOR THE CAMERA - 27 Nov 2009

2009-11-28T11:19:00.001+10:00

SMILE FOR THE CAMERA - 27 Nov 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

Have had the background card languishing on my desk - from an old greeting card. Hopefully the other images bring the composition all together.

HEART STRINGS - 27 Nov 2009

2009-11-28T11:17:00.001+10:00

HEART STRINGS - 27 Nov 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

KISSABLE - 27 Nov 2009

2009-11-28T11:16:00.003+10:00

KISSABLE - 27 Nov 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

SUSHI - 28 Nov 2009

2009-11-28T11:16:00.001+10:00

SUSHI - 28 Nov 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

Feels good to be making cards again and getting the creative juices running.

COZY LIBRARY

2009-11-26T14:40:00.002+10:00

One of my favourite genre's in reading is Historical fiction, and I have been working my way through one of the Jean Plaidy series - Plantagent Series. Up to Book 4 so far, and really enjoying the style of writing, the historical figures mentioned and the settings.
Whilst browsing through a few of the blogs that I follow, I followed onto one of the links and found this site for Cozy Library

If you like mysteries and always on the lookout for new titles, then check out their lists of books. You can also subscribe to their newsletter.

BOOK GROUP READING SCHEDULE FOR 2010

2009-11-26T14:20:00.005+10:00

At the last meeting of our book group (Burrum Fillys), I presented to the ladies, the books that we will be reading next year. (A previous post listed the titles/authors).
Each year I rack my brains as to how the reading list will be presented, and this is what I came up with:

There are 4 Canvases that I painted, and then affixed a small cigar tin to the front. The tin has been painted as well, with images on the front and inside cover.
3 cards inside the tin, list out the book titles/authors/month.

As I was unable to find an easel size to fit the canvas, my husband made a small wedge, which is glued to the back.

Presentation wise, I decorated brown paper bags, and a canvas was placed in each of them - small tag at the handle lists the dates of the meetings.

CREWEL WORLD by Monica Ferris

2009-11-19T15:10:00.000+10:00

First in the series and the book has a free needlepoint pattern at the end of the book.
Betsy Devonshire comes to Excelsior to visit her sister, Margaret, who owns the shop, Crewel World. But Margaret is murdered and no one can think of a reason why.
Good light read.

Goodreads | search results for "Crewel World" (showing 1-4 of 4 books)

2009-11-19T14:14:00.000+10:00

Goodreads | search results for "Crewel World" (showing 1-4 of 4 books)

Goodreads | Trisha's review of Home to Big Stone Gap

2009-11-19T14:10:00.000+10:00

Goodreads | Trisha's review of Home to Big Stone Gap

THE SPICE BOX by Lou Jane TEMPLE

2009-11-19T14:02:00.000+10:00

The Spice Box by Lou Jane Temple

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An historical mystery - with authentic recipes of 19th century New York city.
This is the 1st Spice Box mystery - Bridget Heaney, an Irish orphan gets a job as cook in one of the "big houses" in New York.
But on her first day, she discovers a dead body in the pantry - it is her employer's son, who disappeared a few days before she arrived at the house.
Bridget sets out to solve the murder, and also track down her sister,who disappeared some years back.

View all my reviews >>

GLUTEN FREE RECIPES

2009-11-08T11:26:00.002+10:00

I have just finished reading a very inspirational book - GLUTEN FREE GIRL by Shauna James AHERN (which I bought through Amazon). (also follow her blog).
Her style of writing got me thinking about food in general, and how it would be to eat gluten free.
Since my sister was diagnosed with celiac disease, I have become interested in the foods that make up their diet.
One of the brands here in Australia is Orgran, and they put out a magazine, every 3 months called Everyday Health, which contains wonderful recipes and articles dealing with this health problem.
This morning I made up a batch of biscuits (or cookies if you are in the States) and just had to try one of them. Delicious.
So here is the recipe from the Magazine - Issue 16 Vol1/2009. The recipe is by Yvonne Voorthuizen, who has compiled 3 recipe books now and this happened after trying to come up with meals for her husband, who was diagnoised withCoeliac Disease about 11 years ago.

BUTTERNUT BISCUITS

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons soft butter
1 egg
2 tablespoons golden syrup
1 cup castor sugar
1 1/2 cups Orgran Self Raising Flour
1 cup coconut
1 tablespoon milk
Dash of vanilla essence

Method
Preheat oven to 160 degrees Celsius and line trays with baking paper.
Cream together the butter, sugar and vanilla essence. Add the egg and golden syrup.
Fold in the coconut, flour and milk
Drop teaspoons of the mixture onto the trays,using it all.
Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

I found that I had to cook for a bit longer, and this depends on your oven.
Also this made 2 1/2 trays of biscuits.

PROTEAS IN MY GARDEN

2009-11-06T11:19:00.006+10:00

I have been enjoying reading my books since the last post, plus catching up with some cooking.
One of the books that I got from the library - DARK ANGELS by Karleen Koen, is proving to be a wonderful story. I have been able to get a copy of this book through the BOOKMOOCH site, as well as one of the others in the series.
The story is set in England in the era of Charles the 2nd and I would recommend this author to anyone who loves reading historical fiction.

The protea bushes that I have in the garden are prolific growers - must love the sand and I was able to pick a few to bring into the house

a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-l6Z07q4VFM/SvN65rq3o6I/AAAAAAAAAsY/cgw8dJBmXNU/s1600-h/DSC_0011.JPG">

Not the best of photos, but will give a glimpse of the flowers.

One of the orchids has flowers as well - think it is called Dancing Lady

Whilst walking around the garden, the chickens had to join in as well. We have 11 at the moment - 3 Rhode Island Reds, 5 Black Australorps, and 3 Lohmann Browns and here are a couple of photos of them

There is nothing to compare to fresh free range eggs, and you would never go back to shop bought eggs after tasting these. Lovely rich yellow yolks.

I may just get back to my book now.

YANDINA

2009-10-31T15:57:00.004+10:00

Our last stop on the trip was to the Ginger Factory at Yandina. Anyone that loves ginger, this is the place to stock up on your supplies.
We all headed for the shop to get the big bags of ginger pieces - these are 1kg bags of factory seconds - just $12.95.
As I use this a lot in my baking, as well as mixing with my fruits and nuts as a nibble mix, well worth it.
Also indulged in a bag of Chocolate Coated Ginger Pieces (Dark Chocolate); a jar of Chilli and ginger mustard and a jar of Crushed Ginger.

Always on the lookout for one of my favourite soaps as well - Lemon Myrtle, and one of the shops there - Traditional Herbs and Scents had a great range of the products.

I have a small Lemon Myrtle tree growing, and prefer to use the leaves in my cooking instead of a Bay Leaf. The leaves have a lovely lemon taste and smell and you can also crush the leaves and infuse to make a tea.

This was our last stop for the day, and it was back on the bus for our journey home.
The bus made good time and we arrived back just before 5.30pm. (the bus had left at 7.00am).

MONTVILLE

2009-10-31T15:13:00.006+10:00

Another shop I found, called PRESENT, lured me in when I saw some japanese dolls.

These in fact are KIMMIDOLLS and are collectors pieces. I had never seen them in our area before, so with my love of things oriental, that was it.

There is a website that you can check out for the entire range of this merchandise, and the apparently, some of the pieces are only out for a certain time period, I think 3 months, then other are added.

www.kimmidoll.com

I purchased MOMOKO - 'Peace" and the wording on the box says:

My spirit strengthens and brings prosperity.
You share my spirit by always advocating and promoting peace.
Embrace my spirit, use its power to build strength, promote unity, and bring prosperity.

YUKO - 'Affectionate'

My spirit is loving and warm.
By living the love you feel, you share my spirit. Show your affection in the warmth of your embrace and in the sincerity of your words, and you will know the true joy of living.

KICHI - 'Lucky'

My spirit is curious and adventurous.
By trying new things and challenging yourself, you release my spirit.
Discover the power of my spirit to open up new possibilities and greater opportunities.

Even with the time we had there, still did not get to visit some of the places; maybe next time.
Our next leg of the journey was down the range and to visit the Ginger Factory at Yandina.

Here is a photo, taken in the bus, of Anita and Sue.

MONTVILLE TO YANDINA

2009-10-31T14:51:00.008+10:00

After only a short time on the bus, we arrived at Montville where we could spend more time, have some lunch and look at the shops etc.

Montville, being on the Blackall Ranges, has great scenic outlooks and you can see the Sunshine Coast quite clearly. Lots to tempt us, but we were in need of refreshments, so found the bakery and had lunch

That's me in the Red.

We all had to visit a shop called Chocolate Country - how could you resist not buying something from there

KENILWORTH TO MALENY

2009-10-31T14:24:00.006+10:00

The road from Kenilworth to Maleny passes through beautiful scenery, and it is disturbing that the Queensland Government, in its wisdom (!!!!) is adamant that a dam will be built in the Gympie region, in effect damming the Mary River. Prime dairy farminig country, as well as other farming industries and the people are up in arms. All supposedly to be able to provide water for South East Queensland, mainly Brisbane - in other words so that the people of Brisbane can flush their toilets.

Has the Government factored into their equation where the food will now be grown if this dam is given the approval by the Federal Government.

Anyway, our next stop was Maleny - very community minded town, with lots of arts/crafts and once again lovely food.
As we had only just over half an hour, it was a short look around, but I did manage to enjoy an organic ice cream - Fig and Almond (DELICIOUS. Whilst browsing through the shop windows, came across some books in a stand outside one of the Charity Shops.

Can't resist books and I found a miniature book of poetry - Selected Verse of Henry LAWSON

THE LITTLE WORLD OF ELVES & FAIRIES - An anthology of Verse with illustrations by Ida Rentoul Outhwaite.

The preface says that Ida Rentoul was born in Melbourne Australia in 1888. Her first book, Mollie's Bunyip, was published when she was the grand old age of sixteen and was quickly followed by others, in collabortion with her sister, Annie, who wrote many of the books Ida illustrated.
In 1909, she married writer, Grenbry Outhwaite and thereafter signed her work Ida Rentoul Outhwaite.
Inside there are poems by Shakespeare, Keats, Robert Louis Stevenson and e.e. cummings with beautiful illustrations (both colour and black and white).

CATLAND - Illustrated by Louis Wain (1860-1939)

This book has gorgeous colour plates on every second page and the text of the book by Rodney Dale, tells the story of Wain's life from his early days as a schoolboy in Hackney to his last 14 years in an asylum near St Albans.

It would have been nice to spend more time there, but we needed to head for our next stop which was Montville.

DAY OUT WITH THE CRAFT GROUP

2009-10-31T14:07:00.003+10:00

On Thursday (29th October) our craft group had a wonderful day visiting a few of the attractions around the Sunshine Coast, which is about 2 1/2 hour drive from our locale. A small map of the area will give you a glimpse

We live at Burrum Heads which is north of Noosa.

Our first stop of the day was at Kenilworth, where we stopped for about half an hour, had morning tea and visited the Cheese Factory.
This is where you can buy any of the cheeses that they make, and I opted for a Mature Cheddar; Mango and Macadamia; Ginger & Chilli. For my lunch today, I had some of the Mango and Macadamia cheese with crackers (yummy).

It would have been nice to had some more time there, but we had other places to visit, so off we went.

ART & FOOD - 28 Oct 2009

2009-10-30T13:59:00.001+10:00

ART & FOOD - 28 Oct 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

THE QUEEN SAYS - 28 Oct 2009

2009-10-30T13:58:00.001+10:00

THE QUEEN SAYS - 28 Oct 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

FASHION PLATE 3 - 19 Oct 2009

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FASHION PLATE 3 - 19 Oct 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

FASHION PLATE 2 - 28 Oct 2009

2009-10-30T13:56:00.001+10:00

FASHION PLATE 2 - 28 Oct 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

FASHION PLATE 1 - 28 Oct 2009

2009-10-30T13:55:00.001+10:00

FASHION PLATE 1 - 28 Oct 2009
Originally uploaded by emerging artist2008

Unintentionally, this latest batch of postcards all have a fashion theme.

READING LIST FOR 2010

2009-10-27T12:07:00.002+10:00

As usual, I have been sidetracked whilst reading through the various blogs that I follow, so had better do this post and get back to my work.
I am preparing a "canvas" you could say, and embellishing a tin so that it features the books that our book group will be reading next year.

The books that I have chosen for the group are:

AHAB'S WIFE - SENA JETER NASLUND
CUTTING FOR STONE - ABRAHAM VERGHESE
THE DEVLIN DIARY - CHRISTI PHILLIPS
BEACH MUSIC - PAT CONROY
JUSTICE HALL - LAURIE R KING
WHERE THE RIVER ENDS - CHARLES MARTIN
SWORN TO SILENCE - LINDA CASTILLO
THE LOST RECIPE FOR HAPPINESS - BARBARA O'NEAL
A TOWN LIKE ALICE - NEVILLE SHUTE
DISSOLUTION - C J SANSOM
THE MACHIAVELLI COVENANT - ALLAN FOLSOM
THE MAP THIEF - HEATHER TERRELL

Will post photos of the finished canvases when I have completed the 4 of them.

HOME MADE ICE CREAM

2009-10-24T13:54:00.002+10:00

I came across a recipe in an issue of Earth Garden magazine, for an easy and cheap way to make Ice Cream. Here it is:

350ml (1 1/2 cups milk)
300ml Cream - I used thickened cream
1 tin of condensed milk
1 tsp vanilla essence
optional flavourings

Mix all ingredients together. Place in freezer. When Ice crystals form, take out of freezer and remix. Refreeze.

Or you could use an electric ice cream churn (which I did).
This makes 2 litres.

Without flavourings, makes a delicious vanilla ice cream. You can also add a raw egg or two. This will make it gorgeous and rich.

I did add just 1 whole egg to the above recipe.

AND IT IS DELICIOUS AND EASY.

I also liked being able to make in my ice cream maker, as that way I could sit down and read. From the books that I chose from the ibrary, have read 2.

The Island by Heather Graham
(I enjoyed the book "Ghost Walk" by this author and this story didn't disappoint.
Southern Florida - Beth and her brother and niece are camping on one of the Islands, when her niece discovers a skull, and not an old one, as Beth can see hair still clinging to the skull.
They are interrupted by the arrival of more campers - Beth feels uneasy and covers the skull with palm leaves so she can come back and investigate further. When she goes back to the site, the skull has gone and she is told by her brother that it was just her imagination. She sets out to prove this theory wrong.
Some of the themes in the story - missing yachties; murder; luxury boats, old ship wreck etc.

Name to a Face - Robert Goddard
Good story - another shipwreck theme in this story; this time off the island of Scilly and the wreck dates back to 1707. A missing ring is also involved.
Tim Harding, a gardener in France is asked to do a favour for his tax-exile employer(Barney Tozer)- go to an auction in Corweall (Penzance) and help Barney's brother, Hamphrey, bid at auction for a family heirloom (a ring). This ring had been in the possession of Barney & Humphreys' uncle.
But Tim hasn't been told the full story and gets involved in murder and an investigation into Euro fraud.

I have started on a Reginald Hill book - not read any of his stories, eventhough I have seen a few of the Dalziel and Pascoe TV series.

GLUTEN FREE RECIPES

2009-10-22T13:03:00.004+10:00

One of the blogs that is listed on my side bar, Gluten Free Girl, has great recipes to inspire, whether you are gluten free or not.
This morning, I decided to make up Frozen Yoghurt after reading through the post by Shauna on her site. She had made up Raspberry Frozen Yoghurt, which she came across in a cookbook by Jamie Oliver.
If you are interested check out her blog

glutenfreegirl.blogspot.com/2005/08/frozen-goodness-made-at-home.html

Whilst at the library this morning collecting a reserved book, came across lots of titles that interested me and had to resist bringing home more than what I did.
Here is what I chose:

THE ISLAND by Heather Graham
(I have read GHOST WALK and really enjoyed the story and style of writing)

DAUGHTERS OF FIRE - Barbara Erskine
NAME TO A FACE - Robert Goddard
A WINTER IN CHINA - Douglas Galbraith
THE PRICE OF BUTCHERS MEAT - Reginald Hill
DARK ANGELS - Karleen Koen (read of this author on one of my book blogs).