My favourite book of the year was 'The Keeper Of Lost Things' My husband loved it too. We agreed that it one of the most moving and funny books we had ever read, and it takes a very talented writer to pull that off. I've just downloaded 'Things We Never Said' and I'm looking forward to getting started on that. PS I couldn't get on with 'The Essex Serpent' either. Blessings

Instead of peeling off onion layers, you are adding them, and it works. Like this. Blessings

It's taken me quite a while, but I am now feeling a connection, which has left me feeling a bit shaky. I wasn't expecting it, and to be honest, I really didn't actually want it. But it's there. When I looked out of my window tonight the moon goddess was shining so brightly, even though no other stars were visible. and I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. Can't explain it. maybe it's better not to try. Blessings

After taking more time to really look at it, I think I'm beginning to see what you were getting at, so thank you. Blessings

You have a treasure when your family understand and empathise with what you are doing. Mine could never do that. But as to the last posting. It's probably just me, but I found the red to be an intrusion, and if I'd been following your path I could never have gone along with that. Were you really comfortable with it yourself or did you have just a tiny doubt? Sorry, don't mean to be difficult, but you've taught me so much, and this doesn't quite gel, but that must be me, right? And even if it is just me, is that a bad thing? Blessings

Through your blog you have always taught me. Not to copy you, but (much as I hate the phrase) to 'think outside the box'. My work is decidedly more free and conceptual and I've stopped feeling I have to follow so-called rules and conventions. It's opened up a whole new world of stitching to me, and that world definitely includes the moon and stars. Blessings

Was that Ha a put down?. Or don't you believe in eternity? luv and Blessings Lesley

Time is forever until it runs out, then it eases into eternity. Blessings

I do the salting thing. Slugs dontcha know. Blessings

Karla, I'm so sorry, I haven't seen some of my grandchildren for several years, and it breaks my heart, so I know how you're feeling. Warm Blessings to you

Hi Karla, Hope you have a wonderful holiday in Hawaii. Spare a thought for us in the UK sheivering in the wind, rain, snow and sleet (often all at the same time. lol) Lots of pics please and you can be sure we'll all be green with envy....but in a nice way of course. luv and hugs to the fairy babies. Blessings

Hi Linda. Happy New Year, Delighted to see you back again, with all your fantastic stitching. You've been missed. Blessings

The fudge sounds delicious, but most of all I love your decor. Hope you and your sweet family have a truly magical Christmas. Blessings

Good for you. I'm all for seeing the funny side of things..if there is a funny side. But this so-called type of humour is both insulting and very UNfunny. Maybe we should let our views be known more often and more loudly. Blessings

I'm so pleased to know you will be doing tutorials. I love the mermaid card. Blessings

Oh Linda, you've made my day. Isn't it silly, I'm almost as excited as you are?. I'm so looking forward to seeing all the new pretties. Blessings are being sent to you, your friends, and your new venture.

Hey, I didn't say he was PRETTY!

Good Morning, I don't know if I should be classed as a lurker. I have only recently found your blog, and along with Dianne Knotts you have inspired me to try mixed media work for the first time. Your giveway would be a wonderful way to start my new 'journey'. Blessings Lesley

Hi Linda, love the hedgehog, but don't they make an enormous noise at night? Well' probably not this particular one, although, there again, you never really know what goes on at Lilley Cottage after you've gone home! luv Lesley [email protected]

Hi Linda, I love the bag. I'm currently making one for MIL, but at the rate it's going, it won't be done by Christmas....and I'm not even saying which Christmas! lol. Mind you, because her eyes are not very good I'm doing masses of very bright embroidery and lots of bling embellishments, and I just can't get on with sewing machines. I love making life difficult for myself! luv Lesley

Hi Linda, I'm so pleased that I'm not the only 'crazy' one. MY DH thinks I am because I check a website 'Latest Earthquakes In The World' several times a day. 'Why?' he asks, 'There's nothing you can do about it.' But there is, when I see a new earthquake or tsunami warning I try to send blessings to all the people in danger. I'm a Pagan, and as such I trust that Mother Nature is looking after herself, after all, we are only temporary occupants of this planet. For every force of Nature, there is a reason, although some times it's very hard to understand. Keep thinkng of those poor people, as I will. It is all we can do. Blessed Be Lesley

I love your little corner. I wish I could visit. By the way, I'm with the Jane Austen fans, I also enjoyed 'The Time Traveller's Wife' The Shell Seekers by Rosamund Pilcher is also one of my favourites. I hope you're feeling better. My MS has flared up again, and I'm in the middle of editing the October edition of our local magazine. It always happens at the worst time, doesn't it? I'm smiling through gritted teeth. luv Lesley

Hi Linda, How lovely that you've been able to visit Lilley Cottage. I can't begin to understand how much you must have misssed it, except, I've missed it too. How strange is that. Try not to overdo things, I know how easy it is to do too much when you start feeling better. Be patient, (yeah, like I am lol) It's great to have you back. love Lesley UK