Visitors to our garden

We usually get a few different species of birds visiting our garden. The bush fires have meant that we have been getting more than usual this last week. My husband had put out some fresh seeds and our visitors have taken advantage of that. These Rainbow Lorikeets have also enjoyed eating some of the last of the apples on our apple tree! They also took advantage of the bird baths we filled up for them.

Valentine's Day in Australia

It is Valentine's Day in Australia. This is a mini quilt I did using a pattern from a Quiltmaker Magazine. The heart was foundation pieced. The quilt measures 4 inches by 4 inches.

In Australia we are trying to come to terms with the loss of human life and animal life which was caused by the fires that ravaged Victoria. Australians have opened their hearts to the victims of the fires and over 80 million dollars has been donated to the bush fire appeal. It is a little surreal being able to go about our daily life knowing others have been so affected by the fires.

Heavy hearts.....

Here in Victoria, Australia we all have heavy hearts and feel for the people in the fire stricken areas. No words can express the immense sorrow for those who are suffering. Kinglake and Marysville are not that far away from where I live. Each place has its special quality.
Marysville was such a quaint little town. It was raised in the fire. Last time I went there was at Christmas time. This is one picture I took. It is not that good with the reflection of the glass. This is a picture of the window of the Christmas Shop. There were so many little shops in this town. They all had their distinct character. I just cannot believe they are not there now.
The fire fighters have a real battle on their hands and have done a marvellous job in the circumstances.

A postcript to the above. I learned from the newspapers today that the owner of the Christmas Shop and her husband have been listed as missing. Their three children are safe. Our prayers go out to their family and all the other families struggling with the enormity of these fires that are raging across Victoria at this time.

Another finish.....

I had wanted to make this fabric basket for some time. You can look at this tutorial by Pink Penguin at

http://ayumills.blogspot.com/2008/05/tutorial-fabric-basket.html

I used some of my Australian flora fabric. In fact I made two fabric baskets! I enjoyed making the fabric baskets and I found this tutorial very easy to follow.