Best birthday

I had the most wonderful birthday last week. My darling husband had arranged, un be known to me, for me to have the day off work.  He took me out to breakfast and then what a surprise, he gave me this magnificent Bernina 440 sewing machine AND a flex shaft drill. I'd dropped a few hints about the drill after the Creative Soul retreat, but never ever expected the sewing machine. I've longed to own one but thought I'd be waiting awhile.

To top it off he had arranged for me to have a two hour private lesson with Olga Walters, an amazing textile artist. Her work is fabulous and she's a wonderful teacher, if ever you get the chance to take a class with her, I'd certainly recommend it, she's a lovely lady. Another amazing coincidence is her sister is named Ro Bruhn, she lives overseas I think.

This is the wonderful machine.

This is an example of Olga's fabulous work, she very kindly gave me this piece.

After such a fabulous birthday I was brought back to earth with a terrible shock. My father was rushed off to hospital with a suspected heart attack and renal failure. Since my mother passed away last month he's been slowly deteriorating, he refuses to have outside help, including family and it finally reached a peak. He hasn't been taking in anywhere near enough fluid and it led to his kidneys drying out. They also think he may have had a mild heart attack. They are doing tests and think he might be OK. He's eating well which is a good start. They've told him he can't stay on his own anymore so we are in for quite a battle when hopefully he returns home. Only time will tell.

At the other end of the scale, I think I've finished the Princess wall. The Princess actually moved into her new room over the weekend and is very happy.

The finished wall.

I'm intending to have a giveaway next week, I just have to put it together. Should have it posted soon.