in the every day

This time around the school holidays came and went so quickly, it seems just like a blur. So much to do and pack into so little time collides with the need for some slow time and space.  We ended the holidays feeling like we desperately needed another week just to feel grounded again. There's a lot to be said for the idea of a three week break in the middle of the year.

I think this photo is currently one of my favourites of Lily from the holidays. Even though you can't see her face, I still love it. I love that she's at a place that was so special to me growing up, and she's found her bit of space there. She's content. She has such a busy mind that it's so lovely when it slows down and you can capture her like this. 

I love this next one too. I love her messy hair and the fact that she's filthy dirty, covered in dirt and plants and even some black from the burnt trees she's climbing all over.

I love this one because it shows how far from precious you need to be about wool. Some people always worry about them getting dirty or getting a pull if they let their kids play outside in their knitteds. You know what? Pulls are easily fixed. And dirty? That's what kids are for. And knitteds stand up to dirt almost better than anything, dirt stains wash out far easier than they do in t-shirt material or even these jeans!  They required a couple of soakings and scrubbings! 

I love looking at photos my kids and seeing them wearing my knitteds. Invariably at this time of year, they are and it makes it all the more real for me. My sample garments are not kept pristine and only used for trunk shows or markets; they're worn and loved. As they were intended to be.   

These, however, ARE the same garments that I do take along to markets and use for trunk shows. if you're coming along to The Craft Sessions, the samples I will have there are all the worn items from my kids wardrobe. Preparation involves a big washing and drying session, followed by a date with my flash-as electric depiller. And you know what?  The knits always come up looking brand new!  I don't think there's any other clothing fabric you can do that with!

The Rainbow Dress Lily's wearing was knit in May 2009, four years ago. That's another thing I love about wool, because of its lovely stretch Lily can still wear this dress; a 20" chest when her chest is now about 23". I so love that. 

Wool for girls doesn't get grown out of very easily; dresses just get shorter until they're tunics, cardies become three quarter sleeved. And while you're this young and lean and limber, you can so rock the negative ease look as much as you like!