Latest quilt - in memory of Stephen . . .

Had a chance to visit Kelmscott Manor in Glos - just a few miles from my daughter in Cirencester. William Morris (and that rascal Rossetti) leased the manor for a few years.

Rossetti was having an affair with Jane Morris - William left them to it - went off to Iceland. Meanwhile Rossetti left Kelmscott (and Jane) and William finally bought the manor. It became William and Jane's favourite place. William was inspired by Kelmscott and many of his designs reflect this. Stephen was very much like William Morris.

A basic attitude towards life - fiercely independent - an artist - creative - outspoken. He even resembled Morris - and was bearded. One photograph of Morris in his bedroom at Kelmscott caught me off guard as he looked so much like Stephen. Beverley pointed out the resemblance. Had to sit down for a moment.

This quilt was made in his memory. Adapted from Michele Hill design. I enjoyed making it - wept a few times during the process. The Juki machine (with its large 'harp' and single stitch) was bought specifically to quilt it - plus - eventually - 9 other quilt tops!

More of the JUKI later . . .

STRICTLY COME PEDALLING!

Here is latest gadget to strengthen my leg muscles - as part of new medical DIY.

A Pedalatoré. Peddle away whilst watching TV - during adverts. Keeps circulation going.

FRAGRANT MOI!

Was buying groceries -veggies - from Lidl and picked up a bottle of their new Madame Glamour (name puts you off) perfume everyone is raving about. Apparently beat Dior and others in blind testing.

Thought it will do as an everyday fragrance - cheap. First impression was of lavatory cleaner - but it mellowed and was not bad. Sprayed myself liberally and limped to library and covered market.

Was stopped twice by women saying how nice I smelled and what was my perfume? It's Dior something or other said one lady. 'I buy that - but it's so expensive at £80 a bottle. Yours is a bit different - but LOVELY! Bet it's expensive.' Yes, it is rather. Lidl - £3.99 a bottle!!!

Lasts a long time too - unlike my usual Clarins Sunshine perfume - which is nice and fresh - but soon disappears.

See both perfumes above. More FREE information for you gals. I'm too good to you.

Tests on Juki sewing machine coming up later.

A case of DIY

As my back problem is something I have to live with - unless my bottom or legs go numb - in which case an op will be performed ASAP - it's a case of DIY treatment.

So . . . have made an appointment with physio for some traction - contacted my ex pilates tutor to see if she can help and instead of counselling I've been having at Cancercare - asked for massage sessions instead.

Decided I must do something about my pale washed-out face. Invested in two wash-off 'home tan' products. See above. Guerlain Teint d'ailleurs 02 - made me look like a red Indian (apologies to American Indians - lived in Oklahoma and good friends with a couple - who would understand!) Should have ordered 01. The Becca - Tobacco (colour not flavour) did similar. However, mixed with some pale foundation and moisturiser - look less red Indian - more of a Strictly Come Dancing star!

This is useful FREE information for you.

To be or not to be - that is the question . . . .

Operation on 11th cancelled last minute due to emergency that had arisen at hospital. Sent home.

Re set for Saturday 15th October.

Prepped and ready to go - elastic stockings - paper panties et al. when - after examination and much discussion with anaesthetist and neuro-surgeon - it was decided the risks outweighed the benefits at this present time. Sent home once more. Feel quite depressed as had banked on the operation curing all my back problems. Am back to square one with backache and still shuffling about.

FOR SALE: JUKI TL 98P sewing machine. Purchased 10 days ago. Cannot use it due to back problems. Any Offers?