After a little trip to Manchester...

My darling boyfriend is a Mancunian and he loves his hometown and we regulary go back to see everyone and I like to take advantage of the incredible shopping. My favourite place to go shopping is the Northern Quarter, it's hip, quirky, packed with charity shops and cafe's. But in my opinion the place to head is Affleck's Palace - I fell in love with this place the minute I walked in, it's floor upon floor of vintage, tack and huge heels.

Affleck's Palace is also home to The Bead Shop (http://www.the-beadshop.co.uk/) and I could quite possibly spend hours and hours in there. Browsing through all the individual beads and buttons just filling up my basket. It's here I found the materials I needed to make this beautiful brooch which will be a brilliant Chrismas Present for someone.




What do you think? I showed it to a friend in London and she thinks I should sell it?! I'm tempted. She showed a friend a bracelet I made last year and she's started making copies of them! Can you believe it!? Maybe I should...

Anyone else love to shop in Manchester? Or found some great shops I should check out when I'm 'oop' North again?

Having two months off after your 1st blog isn't ideal...

Yes, I've been terrible and neglected my diary but I have been busy. I've been busy getting things together for Christmas and collecting all things festive. I do love this time of year because not only is it Christmas it's my birthday next month too. I've asked my very domesticated man for 10 surprises, he looked at me and laughed but I think he's knows I'm serious and won't let me down....!

So I've got some serious catching up to do and fill you in on all the things I've been up too. I've just started a sewing course and it's great, everyone's really friendly and the tutor makes sure she has plenty of time for everyone. I've already made two cushions (1 Christmas present done!). I'll try and pop the photos up for everyone to take a look at. I've been doing plenty of baking...croquembouche, sourdough, brioche, baguettes and just about to start a fruit cake ready to get iced for Christmas. Again I'll get some photos and details up to share with you all.

Bunting will be next my friend has been pestering me to make some with her so she can give them as gifts, ooo maybe that can be "B is for Bunting"

For all those who thought I'd given up, I'm back for good this time.

I've got so many Christmas present ideas and finished products to share with you so make sure you come back and check up on me!

FLL x

P.S The apron is almost finished :-)