tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28007577927960682982024-03-19T05:59:54.116-07:00Natural StarSnippets of my life as a Knitwear and pattern designerBrenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-26273834261623967432014-12-07T12:19:00.000-08:002014-12-07T12:19:06.229-08:00Indie Gift-a-long 2014The Indie Gift a Long is currently happening over on Ravelry <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/indie-design-gift-a-long">http://www.ravelry.com/groups/indie-design-gift-a-long</a><div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.222222328186px;">The Indie Design Gift-A-Long is a 2 month long KAL/CAL of holiday gifts made from patterns designed by a rather extensive list of independent designers which started on Nov 13 and finishes on Dec 31 2014 - so there is still time to sneak in a few christmas pressies.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.222222328186px;">I was fortunate enough to be able to interview Mary from<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_429340716"> </a></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, Lucida Sans Unicode, Lucida Grande, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/marymealittle">http://www.ravelry.com/people/marymealittle</a></span></span></div>
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<strong style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333339691162px;">How long have you been designing?</strong><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333339691162px;"> </span></div>
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I’ve been working up my own designs for almost as many years as I’ve been knitting, but I only began publishing patterns in 2010.</div>
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<strong>Where do you get your inspiration from?</strong> <br style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1em;" />I find inspiration in a variety of places: Sometimes in nature or a place, sometimes simply out of a desire to add a particular garment to my wardrobe. For years, I envied how knitters wore their beautiful lace shawls. I love knitting shawls but somehow find myself “shawl challenged”. When I try to wrap them over my shoulders, they just never sit quite right on me lol. So, I did a series of designs (Elphaba, Daydream Believer, Iolanthe, and Sleepy Jean) that incorporate various elements of shawl design…and I get to wear a shawl as part of a sweater.</div>
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Another set of designs (my Quabbin Series) was inspired by four central Massachusetts towns that were flooded back in the 1930s to make way for a reservoir that serves the Boston area. These designs were inspired by the sense of place and history of each of these former towns.</div>
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<strong>What do you do with your free time?</strong> <br style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1em;" />What free time lol? “I don’t always put down my work, but when I do…” I can often be found singing, cooking (I’m a total foodie), and/or in my garden (I grow much of my own produce in the summertime…I even make huge batches of tomato sauce that I freeze to use throughout the year).</div>
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<strong>What book are you currently reading?</strong> <br style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1em;" />The Principles of Knitting, by June Hemmons Hiatt. It’s a huge volume full of “physics of knitting” type of information. I love it!</div>
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<strong>What is your favourite music at the moment?</strong> <br style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1em;" />That’s a tough choice! I love a variety of musical styles: Pop, rock, popular song (think: Ella Fitzgerald) and jazz, classical vocal music (I’m a classically trained soprano who performs locally). What I’m listening to right now is Audra MacDonald’s latest album, “Go Back Home.”</div>
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<strong>What are 3 of your best selling patterns?</strong> <br style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1em;" /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/elphaba-pullover" style="color: #666666;">Elphaba</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/simplicity-cardigan" style="color: #666666;">Simplicity</a> have been two of my best sellers, but my recent release, <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/soubrette" style="color: #666666;">Soubrette</a> has been selling very well in just its first month and a half.</div>
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<strong>And anything else that you would like your audience to know :)</strong> <br style="font-size: 1em; line-height: 1em;" />I try to write patterns that are clear as possible. People shouldn’t have to spend their knitting time trying to decipher what I mean, so I do my best to provide a photo tutorial for an unusual construction, text boxes that clarify<em>why</em> I ask the knitter to do something in a certain way, etc…</div>
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I also strive to empower the knitter to modify a pattern to suit their own fit preferences. No two people are shaped alike, and even two people with the same bust size will have different fit needs. So, in most of my patterns, I include a “Thought About Fit” section that takes knitters through the process of choosing a size, and modifying to best suit them.</div>
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Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-59835285298835427422013-01-01T17:58:00.001-08:002013-01-01T17:58:37.927-08:002013 - Knitting Challenge to MyselfThis year I have decided to set myself a knitting challenge - to design 1 new blanket pattern every month. 12 New Blanket patterns for 2013.<br />
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I find blanket designing and knitting very relaxing and mostly done at night time while TV watching or on road trips :)<br />
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This is not saying that a new blanket pattern will be available every month for purchase, but that I have finished a design sample. As the process after the sample being finished is<br />
1. Writing up the pattern<br />
2. Sending the pattern off to the test knitters.<br />
3. Design sample sent to the photographer.<br />
4. Test knitting completed and pattern tweaked where needed.<br />
5. Pattern sent to the printers.<br />
6. After all that is done the pattern is available for sale :)<br />
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Some months may see two or three blankets patterns released at the same time.Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-61089270968441159302012-03-04T14:17:00.000-08:002012-03-04T14:17:27.097-08:00Patterns and House UpdateWhere did the time go between my post last August and now? It has been a hectic time on both a business and personal level. <br />
I have currently just completed two new patterns, with two more near testing stage. Below are the photo's of the two new patterns. Abigail Shoes and Peek a Boo Blanket.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am also in the process of changing the pattern format over on all the older patterns, ready to send to the printers ready for wholesale. I am also in the process of changing over the copyright on the patterns, while you still cannot publish and sell the patterns in any forms, you can now create and sell the finished products. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We are currently still in Ashburton until the end of this year for Dylan to finish year 8 and will then shift back up to Christchurch once we have the house ready (it is still structually sound - we figure that it is still standing after 4 good earthquakes so will continue to stay standing). On the house front - it will not be touched for ages as it is in the major fixing/rebuild group, while they say it is fixable it's at what cost. Here is a list of everything that has to be done... the house has to be lifted, ring foundation removed as well as all the piles, new ring foundation laid and new piles put it, all summerhill stone removed and new put on (think we will opt for wood), while the cladding is all off they have to refloor, make sure all the framework is level so that doors shut and walls are straight up and down. Remove roof and put in new support beams and rafters (we have peaked ceilings) and then redo every room inside the house. Outside - garage has to be demolished and replaced, all paths and the driveway have to be removed and replaced, out terrace also has to be demolished and replaced. As the guy said - the only thing they won't have to touch is some of the inside framing! The good thing is that we are no longer living in limbo and are starting to move on with our life with the knowledge from the insurance company that it is probably going to around three years before it is finished.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-31117072751433188782011-08-08T16:09:00.000-07:002011-08-08T16:09:45.298-07:00Commercial Photo ShootThis post is well overdue with earthquakes, shifting towns and settling in, but have finally started to find a sense of peace and normality.<br />
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You have to check out <a href="http://www.sammothersole.co.nz/">Sam Mothersole Photography</a> you will also find her here on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/sammothersolephotography">facebook</a>. Make sure you like her page, especially if you are looking for amazing commercial product photos with children or live in the Auckland area and looking for photographer.<br />
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I will be using Sam and her camera - plus the cute models (thanks parents) again and again - her take on my very short briefing was perfect, which has seen the photos published on a US Photography blog recently <a href="http://letthekids.com/2011/07/natural-star-hat-giveaway/">Let the Kids Dress Themselves</a><br />
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Anyway, enough about Sam and her photography skills - which are fantastic - check it out for yourself - below are a few photos from the shoot.<br />
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Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-50033628201107737572011-05-09T23:27:00.000-07:002011-05-15T19:31:26.271-07:00Christchurch Winter Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This has now closed, I have received 28 emails for the babies in Christchurch this winter, all of which will receive a parcel, thank you. All emails will be replied to this week and will include whether the recipient will receive the jacket and bootie set or the hat and bootie set.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thank you to everyone that sent in emails.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtzllYmcLB-uQn1xzaLgQK4lB-A9R2-WBd0GOh33_20ZmUqFRvOYsmuS6eVURk5wsaK_NtHW0f1RJPzJbE9_rn6-0LOsLWKzGGuVoOjGFhmhhvyWC_UxcAqDTgk8OY7LO1Dd3MnTd4N8A/s1600/jacket.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtzllYmcLB-uQn1xzaLgQK4lB-A9R2-WBd0GOh33_20ZmUqFRvOYsmuS6eVURk5wsaK_NtHW0f1RJPzJbE9_rn6-0LOsLWKzGGuVoOjGFhmhhvyWC_UxcAqDTgk8OY7LO1Dd3MnTd4N8A/s200/jacket.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaKwzfWDuD2TBfoSWedFN7Plv0aA-XYcum3m0U7jmsezIn6t-WICtEXuGpOzBzAFxPQOasdj0Rvb-0mfUrl0AFlpZQwy4Ip4YvM6f0PKREFT3fO2DUukZXDBBvIpi_LLeiXuMQxtc3KM/s200/the+real+one+bootie.JPG" width="200" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Natural Star would like to do their bit with helping to keep the babies of Christchurch warmer this winter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am giving away 5 jacket and bootie sets (see pics above), plus an assortment of 20 hat and bootie sets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you yourself or a friend has been affected by the Christchurch earthquakes and is struggling to keep the house warm and dry and has a baby under a year...send me an email to brenda@naturalstar.co.nz with their name and address, babies age in months and boy or girl, plus if it is a friend a little message from you that you would like me to include in the parcel. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The first 25 emails received will be entered into random.org and five will be chosen by random.org to receive a jacket and bootie set, the other 20 will be sent a hat and bootie set.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Please do not post their name in the comment section.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Brenda xx</span></div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-79634565157497396662011-04-16T19:44:00.000-07:002011-04-16T19:44:01.211-07:00Introducing RoseWe have a new addition to the family, a 8 week golden lab who Emma has named Rose. She is a gorgeous, well behaved puppy and we are all very excited that she is part of our family. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG5FuqcNaCfDe7uSN0pKe89vTI53L8jsgzAn4SMC8HvAwHzQWMRROjuR5E4bo1OFi6Nl3DcIbXOoULpahp95ev4M3-REIsgITTcykOK1He2XSKpbDpiSQyqR17Ush1cP3cr6vmasCNDRo/s1600/DSCF6064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG5FuqcNaCfDe7uSN0pKe89vTI53L8jsgzAn4SMC8HvAwHzQWMRROjuR5E4bo1OFi6Nl3DcIbXOoULpahp95ev4M3-REIsgITTcykOK1He2XSKpbDpiSQyqR17Ush1cP3cr6vmasCNDRo/s320/DSCF6064.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6KiWUA7UBLvInvR_0I4cfjbJyXOIFaWiy7SltVxKINGrWuEdjlmP_eKPcQ23xtVVEcfQVR6HQpY4PHOwCRdfweW_MJsu-o1HdBhQ-nFZhcF2402n4GGCAkoUjL4Z0hSgNcVlxRWNW6w/s1600/DSCF6066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6KiWUA7UBLvInvR_0I4cfjbJyXOIFaWiy7SltVxKINGrWuEdjlmP_eKPcQ23xtVVEcfQVR6HQpY4PHOwCRdfweW_MJsu-o1HdBhQ-nFZhcF2402n4GGCAkoUjL4Z0hSgNcVlxRWNW6w/s320/DSCF6066.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-60269307789163130072010-09-01T17:30:00.000-07:002010-09-02T02:20:54.193-07:00Blog Neglect!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaayx-3yEOrZSfzsEcGMb6fNlp2vI1cF7TbqtoOlkrgy0EvlM7bJtpZ7oND1hk9DwnMMpsOCsuchR5lIjwImdJSfYN84-g7zT5VL6iIqKIUAE5q0nowpkFlZbOXKVRK34LIgGjb0xH_k/s1600/Dylan+fly+casting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIaayx-3yEOrZSfzsEcGMb6fNlp2vI1cF7TbqtoOlkrgy0EvlM7bJtpZ7oND1hk9DwnMMpsOCsuchR5lIjwImdJSfYN84-g7zT5VL6iIqKIUAE5q0nowpkFlZbOXKVRK34LIgGjb0xH_k/s320/Dylan+fly+casting.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dylan Fly Fishing</td></tr>
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While I have all good intentions to blog frequently, life has this habit of getting busy and I am the first to admit that when this happens the blog and the <a href="http://www.naturalstar.co.nz/">website</a> are the first to be neglected.<br />
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We have had a few busy months with the business, picking up new stockists, researching products that will compliment my handknits and designing new patterns. All of this I will share soon in it's own post. This one is more of a catch up :)<br />
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Family life has been hectic, we have all been hit with the bugs and flus that are doing the rounds at the moment. I have returned to work, doing what I did before Dylan's diagnosis and settling him into school at 5 years of age (I cannot believe that it was 6 years ago!). Along with Natural Star, I am now working a 30hr week with 2 little new entrants with the same diagnosis as Dylan (ASD). I am really loving it, life outside of the home! Apart from the feeling more tired bit!<br />
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Dylan starts intermediate this coming year - which I know is going to be a hard couple of years for him and us as a family, the playground is not something he understands socially. Thankfully we are seeing Alison Schroder - who runs Socially Speaking here in Christchurch. There is the kids social clubs that Alison also runs that Dylan will be apart of. This morning we have been to the Hospital Dentist as Dylan needed a tiny filling. To have this done he has to be sedated and have a continuous supply of laughing gas for them to do it. He is now lying on the sofa watching an endless supply of fishing DVDs.<br />
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Emma has her 6th birthday this month, she is such a girlie girl, but can also be such a tomboy. This year we are having to make all the invitations (she is totally into crafts - I have trained her well, now she can tell her Dad that we are going shopping for supplies instead of me having to do it)! Her favourite choice of clothes is dresses and skirts, as far as she is concerned these two items of clothing can be worn anywhere, even outside playing in the mud! I am not allowed to buy clothes as a birthday present for her this year as she told me "Mum you won't buy what I like if I'm not there to help you", she also comes out with the quickest comebacks, the other day her father called her 'An Egg' she quick comeback was 'You Sausage'!Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-20438432689717470012010-05-29T13:04:00.000-07:002010-05-29T13:04:02.642-07:00GIVEAWAY #7 - Sunday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikiOHzCw6Po7jEJNnCnqN9J2GcWwCktWXaavJ-U1faT4VTHJe0Qzqpw9J9lmlV6VmGtSlXKyuiurj9BDYw_3qmCVBIed8lTF1qVcDiqNJjQnu1VXyQuxBIULMMT2L-ze5XqMzP752aQ9U/s1600/Emma+Beanie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikiOHzCw6Po7jEJNnCnqN9J2GcWwCktWXaavJ-U1faT4VTHJe0Qzqpw9J9lmlV6VmGtSlXKyuiurj9BDYw_3qmCVBIed8lTF1qVcDiqNJjQnu1VXyQuxBIULMMT2L-ze5XqMzP752aQ9U/s200/Emma+Beanie.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Today is the last day of the 7 days of giveaways - congratulations to all the winners so far :) Todays Giveaway is - 7 lucky people will receive 2 patterns each of their choice. You need to comment on the Blog post and not the facebook post to be in with a chance. You also need to be a fan of Natural Star on facebook. The button is in on left hand side to visit the Natural Star facebook page :)<br />
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Good luck everyone!Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-45727142973936542472010-05-28T13:19:00.000-07:002010-05-28T13:19:41.394-07:00GIVEAWAY #6 - Saturday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmgvGdhhFJMnZmgDxK4qV3iWzkl9A11mYUIWH0RvUYxQeerYy8z5ZM_nnTx9DrYGatHxZJ2V1VG-wHkkE83n3Ct-lxLXDHvQPQDF2sT7Q0aL7KkiOHiTkMiNQFWvRNbi3pA7_NWwVqw7M/s1600/black+and+grey.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmgvGdhhFJMnZmgDxK4qV3iWzkl9A11mYUIWH0RvUYxQeerYy8z5ZM_nnTx9DrYGatHxZJ2V1VG-wHkkE83n3Ct-lxLXDHvQPQDF2sT7Q0aL7KkiOHiTkMiNQFWvRNbi3pA7_NWwVqw7M/s200/black+and+grey.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Saturday's Giveaway is....<br />
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1 lucky person will receive a black and grey merino striped beanie size 1-2yrs. See pic above. <br />
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All you need to do is leave a comment at the bottom of this post, the lucky person will be published tomorrow via a comment on here and on facebook. Remember you need to be a fan of Natural Star on facebook. :) Click on the highlighted link to become a fan if not already :)<br />
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Comments need to be posted on the blog and not on facebook to be in with a chance :)<br />
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Have a great day everyone, guaranteed forecast for Christchurch today is YET MORE RAIN!!! Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-8084690372506338842010-05-27T10:31:00.000-07:002010-05-27T10:33:39.102-07:00GIVEAWAY #5 - Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZD8IYwN4OGVgB0O_Erm91JQXWFBnTyB8pg5p2nEdvQX6waumhTnnBfRPBW9JX-iSd10tVUFKvd8lfTbfEi87l9Pu7RNzh2R_E_Q1UdRUBb35wH8jk3LOBtufA-8087iGZT_skmYTtTw/s1600/winter-booties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZD8IYwN4OGVgB0O_Erm91JQXWFBnTyB8pg5p2nEdvQX6waumhTnnBfRPBW9JX-iSd10tVUFKvd8lfTbfEi87l9Pu7RNzh2R_E_Q1UdRUBb35wH8jk3LOBtufA-8087iGZT_skmYTtTw/s320/winter-booties.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Friday's Giveaway is....<br />
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1 lucky person will receive a pair of merino winter booties. See pic above. Colour is negiotable :)<br />
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All you need to do is leave a comment at the bottom of this post, the lucky person will be published tomorrow via a comment on here and on facebook. Remember you need to be a fan of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/naturalstarnz">Natural Star</a> on facebook. :) Click on the highlighted link to become a fan if not already :)<br />
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Comments need to be posted on the blog and not on facebook to be in with a chance :)<br />
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Have a great day everyone, guaranteed forecast for Christchurch today is YET MORE RAIN!!!Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-89411552480753236282010-05-26T11:18:00.000-07:002010-05-26T11:20:01.569-07:00GIVEAWAY #4 - Thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwtuAqKN1KD5X4pAppBBF4IvpXTpX393nnhHeiQj_1jKV0KGgGDzVK78cOa-HHbYqlOZKrjM971qq-TLuM-oVIQWktBt5ze1o0dChSR5ACi1ujaC8xorobH_3q6PGbR-vvw4WFQOy8i0/s1600/Raspberry+Headband.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwtuAqKN1KD5X4pAppBBF4IvpXTpX393nnhHeiQj_1jKV0KGgGDzVK78cOa-HHbYqlOZKrjM971qq-TLuM-oVIQWktBt5ze1o0dChSR5ACi1ujaC8xorobH_3q6PGbR-vvw4WFQOy8i0/s200/Raspberry+Headband.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Thursday's Giveaway is....<br />
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1 lucky person will receive a Raspberry headband size 6-12mths. See pic above.<br />
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All you need to do is leave a comment at the bottom of this post, the lucky person will be published tomorrow via a comment on here and on facebook. Remember you need to be a fan of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/naturalstarnz?ref=ts">Natural Star</a> on facebook. :) Click on the highlighted link to become a fan if not already :)<br />
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Comments need to be posted on the blog and not on facebook to be in with a chance :)<br />
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Have a great day everyone, guaranteed forecast for most today is MORE RAIN!!!Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-88221199932939419942010-05-25T12:04:00.000-07:002010-05-25T12:04:57.476-07:00GIVEAWAY #3 - Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35WVaFtyOrVZY7F0ceFcj_HdWcC0mMO8qDnSb-1N8t7dzLUT64AGErF9Ql5rEne65yKEC-M70HAvOXMBfWsxNIx4YJn-oBuzyZzusupm3TKdgSClswMVqi1qrrxI1Yb6oNIT8hAEuUyg/s1600/Ava+Hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35WVaFtyOrVZY7F0ceFcj_HdWcC0mMO8qDnSb-1N8t7dzLUT64AGErF9Ql5rEne65yKEC-M70HAvOXMBfWsxNIx4YJn-oBuzyZzusupm3TKdgSClswMVqi1qrrxI1Yb6oNIT8hAEuUyg/s200/Ava+Hat.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Wednesday's Giveaway is....<br />
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1 lucky person will receive a Knitting Kit for the Square Tassel hat (this kit includes the pattern and 1 ball of cream 8ply merino wool - with the 1 ball of wool you can knit any of the sizes up to size 1-2yrs :) See pic above.<br />
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All you need to do is leave a comment at the bottom of this post, the lucky person will be published tomorrow via a comment on here and on facebook. Remember you need to be a fan of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/naturalstarnz?ref=ts">Natural Star</a> on facebook. :) Click on the highlighted link to become a fan if not already :)<br />
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Comments need to be posted on the blog and not on facebook to be in with a chance :)<br />
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Have a great day everyone, guaranteed foremost for most today is RAIN!!! Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-83035178025785145142010-05-24T15:21:00.000-07:002010-05-24T15:21:23.302-07:00GIVEAWAY #2 - Tuesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnSBeGeRsiGMUFP6GDSvMlaLtvgJd27bTnJ1meIAi4YETeXfu7hh75KIFVUkIxQ4v4yKY2Cb3c0BfOwn8D2aTE_-FhzM0SGXSCEWO2PP4vpc_ywysIUdT8YH4GCc5DFo0pudMKKbqK7jU/s1600/grace+beanie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnSBeGeRsiGMUFP6GDSvMlaLtvgJd27bTnJ1meIAi4YETeXfu7hh75KIFVUkIxQ4v4yKY2Cb3c0BfOwn8D2aTE_-FhzM0SGXSCEWO2PP4vpc_ywysIUdT8YH4GCc5DFo0pudMKKbqK7jU/s200/grace+beanie.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Tuesday's Giveaway is....<br />
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1 luck person will receive a Grace Beanie size 1-2yrs :) See pic above.<br />
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All you need to do is leave a comment at the bottom of this post, the lucky person will be published tomorrow via a comment on here and on facebook. Remember you need to be a fan of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/naturalstarnz">Natural Star</a> on facebook. :) Click on the highlighted link to become a fan if not already :)<br />
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Comments need to be posted on the blog and not on facebook to be in with a chance :)<br />
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Have a great day everyone, although for most of us it is going to be a wet one!Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-45647794229174975842010-05-23T14:41:00.000-07:002010-05-23T14:41:40.137-07:00Giveaway Day #1 - Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMp0BrcG8UZWSg0Q6iRC3xhtttIVscM8nxQrlQ4vYlDB3qF-tUxZK7qH-7AdOrv9D7JKwD-Uwwtqtx3vqKcY3j7D6Po7HFyFp-esqXesH4YmUEijcdEXGlDS3uD_HXzutIlC98L__gR5Q/s1600/brenda+shot+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMp0BrcG8UZWSg0Q6iRC3xhtttIVscM8nxQrlQ4vYlDB3qF-tUxZK7qH-7AdOrv9D7JKwD-Uwwtqtx3vqKcY3j7D6Po7HFyFp-esqXesH4YmUEijcdEXGlDS3uD_HXzutIlC98L__gR5Q/s200/brenda+shot+3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Monday's Giveaway is....</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 pattern of choice to 7 lucky people.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>All you need to do is leave a comment at the bottom of this post, winners will be published tomorrow via a comment on here and on facebook. Remember you need to be a fan of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/naturalstarnz">Natural Star</a> on facebook. :)Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-945220500329085482010-05-23T14:35:00.000-07:002010-05-23T14:35:04.437-07:007 DAYS OF GIVEAWAYS!!!I have managed to reach the 700 mark for people who "like" the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/naturalstarnz">Natural Star</a> page on facebook....YAY! <br />
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So, in honour of this momentous occassion I have decided to do some giveaways, in fact, 7 Days of Giveaways! All you have to do on each day is leave a comment at the bottom of the giveaway. You must be a fan of Natural Star on facebook to be in with a chance of winning. The draws will be done via random org.<br />
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The winner or winners of each giveaway will be announced the following day at the bottom of the comments and also on facebook.<br />
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As, I am returning back to the hourly paid workforce on Wednesday this week - the winners names will be published late afternoon or evening from Wednesday onwards. Because comments are moderated please be patient if it takes a while to show.<br />
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Thank you all so much for your support!<br />
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Brenda xBrenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-68917132221044614992010-04-30T14:14:00.000-07:002010-04-30T14:14:59.373-07:00Emma's first Duathalon and School DiscoEmma had a really busy friday this week. First up in the morning was her first major sporting event at school.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCFMd5N0PfXTZ8fri9gdMK8uNWhSAjwrQ90Dp7Jj6NfQEHYClqCt_CbsgSxL01PcqhzlMdFvlw1x_GoaFKkuTHt0zsxL55OB8kNltyIrITqIE5YLvqolk6Ew-Tf2nmeCq8fN-wUmm_Mc/s1600/DSCF5645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizCFMd5N0PfXTZ8fri9gdMK8uNWhSAjwrQ90Dp7Jj6NfQEHYClqCt_CbsgSxL01PcqhzlMdFvlw1x_GoaFKkuTHt0zsxL55OB8kNltyIrITqIE5YLvqolk6Ew-Tf2nmeCq8fN-wUmm_Mc/s320/DSCF5645.JPG" tt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">She had a lot of fun and is looking forward to the school cross country in a couple of weeks. After recovering from biking and running around the school track (there was a lot of heavy puffing noises running to the finishing line) she raced home and got ready for her first school disco. I was relieved that the day had arrived as it is all she has talked about for the last week! Her big brother is totally over it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPs0Ber4PpVKDt2LltGJePrqz1_nDVndChUSpDGgh7dj8oJF2aq-UzpElFK1GaL8J-QoTgfJ6odsAvh3TKvksjO39Bvn9skRcSTPmNPf6ROSLf4WGzEexN7L92DgeapOJHmnJkPLV-RY/s1600/DSCF5652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPs0Ber4PpVKDt2LltGJePrqz1_nDVndChUSpDGgh7dj8oJF2aq-UzpElFK1GaL8J-QoTgfJ6odsAvh3TKvksjO39Bvn9skRcSTPmNPf6ROSLf4WGzEexN7L92DgeapOJHmnJkPLV-RY/s320/DSCF5652.JPG" tt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Emma had a ball and was on the dance floor as soon as she was able to get in the doors. When I went back to pick her up I found her break dancing - not something I taught her or am even capable of doing! On the way home all she could talk about was the next disco - whenever that happens.</div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-43827056670714617222010-04-30T14:02:00.000-07:002010-04-30T14:24:20.778-07:00Time to play catch up!The last couple of months have been pretty busy and sadly the blogging has been neglected! <br />
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Both kids have settled into school really well this year, lots of school trips happening. I was even lucky enough to see 4 Tarantula spiders on one of those trips!!! (I am not practicularly fond of household spiders). On Monday Dylan is off to Arthurs Pass for the day with his class trip this term.<br />
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We have some new stockists on board with the Natural Star Brand and the <a href="http://www.naturalstar.co.nz/">website</a> has been updated with a shopping cart. It is still a work in progress with more products and features to be uploaded. There are new stockists to add to the stockists page etc etc. I am also adding a wholesale/re-seller page to the website which will be password access only.<br />
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I am also toying with the idea of being more regular on the Market scene. I know from experience that this is very time consuming and a big committment...and I do rely on my weekends to play catch up and have time off with the family. Maybe I could make it a family affair lol - somehow I don't think that would wear well with the two men in the family. Emma would love to do it!<br />
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My patterns have been selling really well on <a href="http://www.e-patternscentral.com/designer.html?mode=list&criteria=greenbio">E-patterns Central</a> and <a href="http://www.anniesattic.com/knitting/list.html?cat_id=1023">Annie's Attic</a>...I really need to devote more time to writing up and designing new products and patterns. I have a pile of bits of paper that need to be typed up and then test knitted. I also have a few new designs on the needles. I call in multi tasking, my husband calls in confusing and why don't I just do one project at a time! But I get bored with one project at a time. We have taken on 4 new knitters in the last month...yay! I have a fantastic team of ladies who are all beautiful knitters and love and care about the products as much as I do :)Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-88321718897312743222010-02-24T19:46:00.000-08:002010-02-24T20:01:22.828-08:00Habitat Baby - New Stockist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ceIONVZqdLeWhtBW5cyls112Gs-sdi9mGogd6wEcWnpi1EIaavx9vLPOiWg-hTY9df4lmpI1UDnIXXI57ZADvEJf0F-v16vnOXm3e6D0bMsO_yf4EFysZ5PKhIajHKOxVKlvnDdlMcg/s320/habitat+Baby+first+pic.jpg" width="212" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Habitat Baby offers beautifully styled bedding and accessories to suit the homes and lifestyles of today’s parents. There are three dreamy ranges available – Wish, Colour Fusion and Spring. All are created from fresh, beautiful, 100% cotton fabrics, sourced from around the world, that bring Habitat Baby designs to life.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">A visit to the Habitat Baby website will reveal a blissful collection of bedding and accessories, including pillows, lampshades and wall art. Most popular at Habitat Baby are the beautiful cot sets, consisting of a </div><div style="text-align: left;">classic cot quilt, fitted sheet and patchwork decorative pillow - certain to be the crowning glory of any nursery! </div> <br />
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Vn9r1G0yA4bcEibVYxAmWIU55ImMifDFHprs1qFH2GcNlNw1i2D9AeqvWkpprlCD7nxv2zq8Zni0WHQfMyXyq8G2ae6zOwlKicjtTWeCG1ouBOsMFs1GK9p94bgoN-4NwXFoIfFRQcs/s1600-h/Habitat+baby+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Vn9r1G0yA4bcEibVYxAmWIU55ImMifDFHprs1qFH2GcNlNw1i2D9AeqvWkpprlCD7nxv2zq8Zni0WHQfMyXyq8G2ae6zOwlKicjtTWeCG1ouBOsMFs1GK9p94bgoN-4NwXFoIfFRQcs/s320/Habitat+baby+pic.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You will also find Natural Star Products are now available at Habitat Baby. Carla is stocking a range of beanies for both boys and girls, as well as some our beautiful flower shoes to match the Emma and Bamboo Beanies. Visit <a href="http://www.habitatbaby.com.au/">Habitat Baby</a> to stock up on your winter handknits and beautiful bedding and accessories to create the most adorable nursery.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXNyGaODBVfsWxQj5a3qTMLCrMzUh14BY8tAa-ex7L2otxezXW1r5GZ_-7v4Vc28bE_XLbxBu1uUY1Vvc9Fdg36S4mSiUnmZfzfGrPfYDGZh16rWdNGk2KcqWPYBsr-Wjt-KNDXiCy1M/s1600-h/babyshow-logo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXNyGaODBVfsWxQj5a3qTMLCrMzUh14BY8tAa-ex7L2otxezXW1r5GZ_-7v4Vc28bE_XLbxBu1uUY1Vvc9Fdg36S4mSiUnmZfzfGrPfYDGZh16rWdNGk2KcqWPYBsr-Wjt-KNDXiCy1M/s320/babyshow-logo.gif" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">If you are in Melbourne for the weekend of the 5-7 March 2010 make sure you schedule in a visit to The Baby Show. Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton, Melbourne. Where you will find Habitat Baby and can see in person the gorgeous products that are on her website.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-83574897106537326832010-02-19T12:36:00.000-08:002010-02-19T12:37:24.052-08:00MillaRuby Designs - New Stockist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXq8Gu8-_eL_zebQ4SuUplzzHbOvaJV1mBlMZpGsq6sKZirjtWQ_cqSDHSsYpYHJ6d57mUa7t_XvEbMcByNb7yfmEj4pIvuxhhajA3e1UkJhZPefiQ4bUM34kk4WzCk3Al-reQz4ue66s/s1600-h/millaruby+designs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXq8Gu8-_eL_zebQ4SuUplzzHbOvaJV1mBlMZpGsq6sKZirjtWQ_cqSDHSsYpYHJ6d57mUa7t_XvEbMcByNb7yfmEj4pIvuxhhajA3e1UkJhZPefiQ4bUM34kk4WzCk3Al-reQz4ue66s/s320/millaruby+designs.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I am thrilled that Caddie from MillaRuby Designs is now stocking our Natural Star Booties. A few of which are custom made in different colours specially for MillaRuby.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Caddie has a gorgeous website MillaRuby Designs offering Handmade clothing, toys and accessories for the stylish and hip. Click <a href="http://www.millarubydesigns.com.au/">here</a> to view Caddie's stunning creations. Definitely stylish and hip!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Also, if you are in Perth on Sunday the 21st March, stop by Matilda's Market, Cottesloe Civic Centre, 109 Broome St, Cottesloe. 9am to 1pm. Where Caddie will be selling her creations and a selection of Natural Star Beanies.</div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-40776608354942404622010-01-08T16:50:00.000-08:002010-01-08T16:53:01.508-08:00Yummy Mummies & Mini Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL5EU54kjRPlukhcOLMPD6ulobmcdiMZAGF9SsT0dkeK1MzL5GmpTVvR4VJrzIIeIaRehyOK6ILi_zwj3wMCpgJCVA-8ahoxD5eoD29l9tVYyEot1p5huvtXkj88wuC8glA_0nOxGtd0/s1600-h/YMbuttonad2_150.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL5EU54kjRPlukhcOLMPD6ulobmcdiMZAGF9SsT0dkeK1MzL5GmpTVvR4VJrzIIeIaRehyOK6ILi_zwj3wMCpgJCVA-8ahoxD5eoD29l9tVYyEot1p5huvtXkj88wuC8glA_0nOxGtd0/s400/YMbuttonad2_150.gif" /></a><br />
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</div><a href="http://www.yummymummies.com.au/">Yummy Mummies & Mini Me</a> has a brand new website for 2010 that is looking absolutely gorgeous. Bec stocks some of the most amazing products for Yummy mummies and children. You will find <a href="http://www.pramrock.com.au/">Pram Rock</a>, <a href="http://www.babybaseink.com.au/">Baby Base Ink</a>, <a href="http://www.cheekicharlee.com.au/">Cheeki Charlee</a> and <a href="http://www.naturalstar.etsy.com/">Natural Star</a> (we are thrilled to be one of the new stockists for 2010!) just to name a few of the wonderful array of stockists that Bec has on the website.<br />
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The Yummy Mummies & Mini Me <a href="http://www.yummymummiesandminime.blogspot.com/">Blog</a> is also worth the follow. It is regularly updated with news worthy reading and is fast becoming one of my favourites!Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-7528524035598742422010-01-02T11:17:00.000-08:002010-01-02T11:35:11.789-08:002010!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBOECJASd0FKt-kieBX8enZhUnFfRBLVNk6ulqK5_J5PpnflbsxQqfAmw3cpOJ3Nz1hVAR1TdE0FEF8JEFXtIh0U46HpUEdkPJ7BvQt5NvgwAJOoOzV9W_agXRFted3pXawRj-26F75I/s1600-h/My+new+head+band.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFnhuOry9y13hRDJrX1RiIxipN_N24W8cZgcMcMVdVuUjR_OoKRrEg8EvjxSWtAGk6iFzVbs7x5lP4q8k7ddRqoIgJvZV2jyfMEYe4iYsJx6l8rlptvwNXMpz0kGVAYpQBMsVdwHJlNY/s1600-h/green+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFnhuOry9y13hRDJrX1RiIxipN_N24W8cZgcMcMVdVuUjR_OoKRrEg8EvjxSWtAGk6iFzVbs7x5lP4q8k7ddRqoIgJvZV2jyfMEYe4iYsJx6l8rlptvwNXMpz0kGVAYpQBMsVdwHJlNY/s320/green+hat.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div>Hello 2010! We have successfully survived 2009 as a business and as a family.<br />
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Emma loves school and has now spent three months going to school. She is not to sure on the holiday side of things as most mornings after her shower she asks "Can I put my uniform on today Mum?" I cannot remember being that enthusiastic about school and I know for certain that her brother wasn't. <br />
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</div>Dylan has made huge progress after a really busy year of new therapists - mainly in the area of expressing himself especially with the anxieties. There now seems to be a bit more logic. He is now able to tell us which part of his body is sick as usually he will have a tummy ache but in reality after 10 mins of the parents doing detective work we find out that he has a sore ankle. He can now also rate his anxiety level and depending on the level can, with help, put a strategy in place as to what could make it better. It helps that his anxiety rating is based on the sizes of different fish. With all this happening the meltdowns (due to the frustration of not being able to tell us what he wants) are now few and far between. 2010 is looking good from here.<br />
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I find the talking thing with Dylan fascinating as this kid can talk all day and generally does. But to tell us how he is feeling, what is going on inside his head is a major hurdle for him. It is common on the spectrum but I still find it fascinating that a kid that is so verbal has trouble expressing himself. It is the same with the emotional feelings...happy, sad or angry are fine. But the others like - guilty, offended, etc the more subtle gestures just go over the top of his head. He IS looking forward to school after the holidays - not a bad achievement at year 6!<br />
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The business had a really good 2009 with lots of new stockists and over 50% of this years sales were from returning customers, along with the new customers. This year is also another year of lots happening at Natural Star headquarters. We have a couple of new B+M stockists coming onboard with the brand in the early part of the year. The next three months are going to be busy with new patterns being released soon and I am currently working on the finishing touches of the new designs for release in Feb/March. I am so excited about these new designs...but will blog more on them later. This year will also see the arrival of another new product - Natural Star Knitting Kits!<br />
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2010 is also the year that I promise to try and blog more!<br />
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Wishing you all a safe and prosperous 2010!Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-22273761949176644712009-12-20T13:42:00.000-08:002009-12-20T13:44:20.333-08:00Handmade Swap - Buttons by Lou Lou<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGu0p6_6gGp7GOa69thhZjinRamjRrXTD-Ab3dCIQ_7N3Z0SBlIWu8zvfKXMJ-JRKok9g65pd27gEi98U50n395FU1u1A8roUH8apOCh3Ix89j-0aUVmE01eKpQ7AXzqJMP24jJvBNi0/s1600-h/handmade+swap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGu0p6_6gGp7GOa69thhZjinRamjRrXTD-Ab3dCIQ_7N3Z0SBlIWu8zvfKXMJ-JRKok9g65pd27gEi98U50n395FU1u1A8roUH8apOCh3Ix89j-0aUVmE01eKpQ7AXzqJMP24jJvBNi0/s200/handmade+swap.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I have recieved the most gorgeous hair accessories from Lou at <a href="http://www.buttonsbyloulou.com.au/">Buttons by Lou Lou</a>. The array of products that Lou has available for purchase is astounding. I am thrilled with my selection that I chose and I am 100% positive that my 5 year old daughter will be equally thrilled on christmas morning.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrAAeI7F34d6jioEAuH3LnRD4mKT0OFd78xy-eCzjIbZAhtSs_OWjvnf7Y6m4NRSXrKIT5PSS_18n85P2ZkbBTOEdU-kSUb3IgDO5om67ecy6G0nPdupVdKIOlD_CvtdYrVteEYDSmEM/s1600-h/fairies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrAAeI7F34d6jioEAuH3LnRD4mKT0OFd78xy-eCzjIbZAhtSs_OWjvnf7Y6m4NRSXrKIT5PSS_18n85P2ZkbBTOEdU-kSUb3IgDO5om67ecy6G0nPdupVdKIOlD_CvtdYrVteEYDSmEM/s200/fairies.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Not only am I thrilled with the selection that Lou creates, but also the craftmanship. They are perfectly handcrafted using very high quality fabrics and the fabric designs are gorgeous. A lot of prints that I have not seen before. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgMT_QS-4laEPFVuQZ4nW_MVzId2X3L81CR4ApcZ6mio-cP6DZrv70jo15zT9CCQGzh5iIEIoOHVTpptbN1hyphenhyphen3XGP4VzbtGuZ_XudI921NQERhzRmfpVv3LehFl290v2CUQauopOR8jI/s1600-h/ballerina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFgMT_QS-4laEPFVuQZ4nW_MVzId2X3L81CR4ApcZ6mio-cP6DZrv70jo15zT9CCQGzh5iIEIoOHVTpptbN1hyphenhyphen3XGP4VzbtGuZ_XudI921NQERhzRmfpVv3LehFl290v2CUQauopOR8jI/s200/ballerina.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">As well as the hair accessories for little and big girls, Lou also stocks sewing buttons, jewellery, office and homeware products all using her beautiful fabrics.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCpeycVEW6QtFnLI9mufgQgu_VBJw3fE85ooo2ekObEn6_bscysLxyssfG_7wkZYqdw7ZRdKF4qJy1WW8usX-lgOv3-vCPMM_CuuxSIGHFV8p36ZWVR3913cMWceKOMavtzDHaSzbBU4/s1600-h/cats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCpeycVEW6QtFnLI9mufgQgu_VBJw3fE85ooo2ekObEn6_bscysLxyssfG_7wkZYqdw7ZRdKF4qJy1WW8usX-lgOv3-vCPMM_CuuxSIGHFV8p36ZWVR3913cMWceKOMavtzDHaSzbBU4/s200/cats.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">The pics that I have chosen are some of my choices for Emma (the photos are from <a href="http://www.buttonsbyloulou.etsy.com/">Lou's Etsy</a> site).<br />
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</div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-57371452982760590882009-11-30T17:01:00.000-08:002009-11-30T19:11:24.806-08:00Kreativ Blogger Award<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nZokJmUMpsc3KB5fC5ce0PsLQq-_2PfIavAIHUQsk0OIouvEaGyY3svU5tqT0WjAdl1P4FFtMz3MbNYskWywek3g5ajohBzlhXm9nah0PmhDssQrH-cOiOipDz2r-LEloPhJHPBYAek/s1600/kreativ-blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nZokJmUMpsc3KB5fC5ce0PsLQq-_2PfIavAIHUQsk0OIouvEaGyY3svU5tqT0WjAdl1P4FFtMz3MbNYskWywek3g5ajohBzlhXm9nah0PmhDssQrH-cOiOipDz2r-LEloPhJHPBYAek/s400/kreativ-blog.jpg" yr="true" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have received a Kreativ Blogger Award from the wonderfully talented Natasha aka as <a href="http://piperandlily.blogspot.com/">Piper + Lily</a>. I feel completely honoured to have received this, considering the company I am in. Thank you Natasha!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is now the award works:<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Copy the picture and post it on your blog.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. Thank the person that gave it to you and link to their blog.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. Write 7 things about yourself that we don't know.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. Choose 7 other bloggers to pass the award to.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Link to those 7 other bloggers.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. Notify your 7 bloggers.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ok, 7 things that you may not know about me!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. I have an identical twin sister.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. I will be 40 this year! Not much of the year left either :)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. In a previous life I was a chef for about 13 years, give or take the odd break. After that I worked for Group Special education (GSE) in early intervention before deciding to be a SAHM, now I am a WAHM :)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. As a teenager I was heavily into sport, my weekends used to be filled with running, hockey, netball and basketball. Now I find it really hard to get motivated to go to the gym!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. I spent 3 good years living on the Chatham Islands.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. I have three chickens living in my backyard, who provide us with an abundance of eggs, Sandy who is named after Graham Sinclairs wife (fishing guru to my son - but as I informed him that the chickens were girls, he decided that Graham's wife Sandy was a more appropriate choice), Miley and Hannah (I have a five year old daughter that has discovered the world of Hannah Montana).<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">7. My favourite takeaways are Indian :) Thankfully they are my husbands and kids favourite takeaway as well.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now, for my 7 bloggers that I would like to pass this award on to are in no particular order!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://bloomingnihon.blogspot.com/">Mee a Bee</a> - Jacqui is a super talented lady, making designer messenger bags among other things for kids. Her work is of the highest quality and the fabrics that she uses are gorgeous. A Mee a Bee bag is a must for every child. Her blog makes for pretty good reading as well!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://howtweetitistobeachick.blogspot.com/">How Tweet it is to be a Chick</a> - Christine has the most adorable and well made accessories with both all the little girls and the bigger girls. I have some for Emma and they are stunning!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://imbadesign.blogspot.com/">Imba</a> - Catherine from Imba design is another sewing superstar. Her designs and fabrics are gorgeous. I am always wishing that Emma was still a baby so that I could dress her in Imba designs clothing. Her bibs are a must have baby fashion accessory!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://madeitbaby.blogspot.com/">Made it Baby</a> - Amy and Suzan are the faces behind Made it Baby, another two very talented ladies behind the sewing machine. I love their style and the fabric choices that they use.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://stickytiki.blogspot.com/">Sticky Tiki</a> - Kim and her partner design the most amazing Wall Decals printed on fabric.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://littlelizzies-kidsfashionwithatwist.blogspot.com/">Little Lizzies</a> - Not only is Amanda from Little Lizzies super talented behind the sewing machine, she also knows how to using a set of knitting needles. I love her designs. Amanda uses recycled and vintage fabrics as much as possible.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.sewkatiepie.blogspot.com/">Sew Katiepie</a> - Kate is the creator of the lovely Sew Katiepie range. Kate's range features the most gorgeous Kimono style wrap cardis and hoodies made in NZ merino!<br />
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</div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-12430046941426825822009-10-20T18:26:00.000-07:002009-10-20T18:27:11.880-07:00Queenstown Road TripI am now just getting back into the swing of things after having a wonderful weekend away with just my husbands company. Emma went for her first sleepover at Grandma and grandads...and better still....she enjoyed it so much that she can not wait to do it again! Dylan went to his Nannies and had a great time, although he brought the tummy bug back into our house! (Not so good).<br />
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We chose to go to Queenstown even though it was just an overnight stay, it was more about the drive and spending time with each other, plus for me - NO COOKING. (Dylan is on a restricted diet which means everything is pre-thought and life pretty much revolves around meal times - will it seems that way).<br />
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For those that know us well, will know that we are car enthusiasts, mainly of the vintage variety (we have two, one that is for sale and a newly acquired toy to do up). For this trip we were able to borrow my father in law's convertible. (About as cosy as it gets!) <br />
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We spent all saturday driving and eating our way to Queenstown. We stopped off at some fantastic cafes on the way, one in Fairlie which is new. But my fav one was The Tin Goose in Cromwell. Weather going down was a bit dismal, we only managed to have the hood down for about 15mins. The return trip on Sunday faired better weather wise and we had the hood down most of the time. There is just something magical about feeling the breeze and sun on your face when travelling in an open car.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1Gg05CKgfWHmrDAiNbConhLJL6iEuFKuAGgU-eTJUP4U5AZSV4xFCDCEX5rmxJqETNppUD9fsgpwADfzA32xBlKvHfKI2FpiZNz9fNV8Yi40PypR6JG5gUzcQKcBNsitnAZvBHKNUoQ/s1600-h/2009_1017(003).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1Gg05CKgfWHmrDAiNbConhLJL6iEuFKuAGgU-eTJUP4U5AZSV4xFCDCEX5rmxJqETNppUD9fsgpwADfzA32xBlKvHfKI2FpiZNz9fNV8Yi40PypR6JG5gUzcQKcBNsitnAZvBHKNUoQ/s320/2009_1017(003).JPG" vr="true" /></a><br />
</div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800757792796068298.post-37608324963936420072009-10-13T20:18:00.000-07:002009-10-13T20:20:09.979-07:00New Stockist and a Pattern Giveaway!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I am thrilled to announce that 4 of the Natural Star patterns are available online at <a href="http://www.patternsonly.com/natural-star-m-27.html">Patterns Only</a>. Their order arrived the other day and they have them up on the site already. Prices are in AUD. The patterns they have in stock are the Rolled brim beanie with flower, babies first headband, babies first blanket and the winter booties.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_b3BiTfFzTGATEeTxjBWuL3CxkmG_MYuN2O00IcEi4rCZD8xlBN1-2kaXMexgNGa3TZjOVPMY0wj7Oqv23nptadxDngib4H7Nic5hfKFEqk_RbMC1X40cpIzfIl4uS54DTnFKmn59vfw/s1600-h/blanket+folded.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img $r="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_b3BiTfFzTGATEeTxjBWuL3CxkmG_MYuN2O00IcEi4rCZD8xlBN1-2kaXMexgNGa3TZjOVPMY0wj7Oqv23nptadxDngib4H7Nic5hfKFEqk_RbMC1X40cpIzfIl4uS54DTnFKmn59vfw/s200/blanket+folded.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcDUanQVixpuLoMDTiVckZ7Rrb3RCUY-eAlYq5W37ITKIDdRIA7B1LxpA8VhrVS2SC4AXAZn-_gq4g5xSrvbxrY-wkq0SwmWuxNYuKmcqe6MXqO2bPTuaAGyMZEgGppSoLi1cXEqa1bfY/s1600-h/Cream++Merino+Flower+Beanie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img $r="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcDUanQVixpuLoMDTiVckZ7Rrb3RCUY-eAlYq5W37ITKIDdRIA7B1LxpA8VhrVS2SC4AXAZn-_gq4g5xSrvbxrY-wkq0SwmWuxNYuKmcqe6MXqO2bPTuaAGyMZEgGppSoLi1cXEqa1bfY/s200/Cream++Merino+Flower+Beanie.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEnl2EVWbZIBg8xiXd-n-ZxPkIrqr5nrfB9jwt-vKGdeT2YII-MhxS2lOY8vuWxdMiqMjh4_3zFGkH7uKvWLXJptIW54M08QCMt3l9-p0KI7xYdoPQJXDAv1CMlJavHD2j53npwUDy3U/s1600-h/winter+booties+crop2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img $r="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEnl2EVWbZIBg8xiXd-n-ZxPkIrqr5nrfB9jwt-vKGdeT2YII-MhxS2lOY8vuWxdMiqMjh4_3zFGkH7uKvWLXJptIW54M08QCMt3l9-p0KI7xYdoPQJXDAv1CMlJavHD2j53npwUDy3U/s200/winter+booties+crop2.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAvGUktmoiQownmlJacOevsdX3HTXZFo9oRhxggGpYcK4HS94GLDbWvrNKRRE9f8MsOei8P6HYiWom7VJKaX2ogVZdLmxcbJGsphVRjxYWl9d6N2c0RIBiJkXq_k5UNP9Qf6tfYCcDGY/s1600-h/red+headband+web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img $r="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAvGUktmoiQownmlJacOevsdX3HTXZFo9oRhxggGpYcK4HS94GLDbWvrNKRRE9f8MsOei8P6HYiWom7VJKaX2ogVZdLmxcbJGsphVRjxYWl9d6N2c0RIBiJkXq_k5UNP9Qf6tfYCcDGY/s200/red+headband+web.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_b3BiTfFzTGATEeTxjBWuL3CxkmG_MYuN2O00IcEi4rCZD8xlBN1-2kaXMexgNGa3TZjOVPMY0wj7Oqv23nptadxDngib4H7Nic5hfKFEqk_RbMC1X40cpIzfIl4uS54DTnFKmn59vfw/s1600-h/blanket+folded.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">You can also visit their <a href="http://bit.ly/h8jfJ">Blog</a> and enter their giveaway for one of the above Natural Star patterns. The hardest part will be deciding which one! The winner will be drawn on the 20th October 2009.<br />
</div>Brenda @ Natural Starhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16897966234759577165noreply@blogger.com0