News & Updates from Sue Way ~ Lily~Pickle Designs · Page 16

I have finally got my sewing mojo back. I made my last item back in February, but thought once I retired I would get back into it. Unfortunately, it didnt happen and I had lost my confidence to get started.

Then a few weeks ago I found a bag pattern that I really wanted to make. I sorted out what fabrics went together, printed out the pattern and I was off! I even bought myself a rivet press to make the detachable straps. But it can be used for so much more.

I had so much more confidence this time and have already planned my next make. So here is my new bag. There will be no stopping me now!

The latest post box topper on our dog walking route is now up, and it features a cheerful Christmas theme.

The topper includes Father Christmas, Rudolf, a snowman, a Christmas tree, and Kevin and Katie Carrot at the front.

It looks like its covered in snow, adding to its festive charm. I enjoy walking past this topper; it truly gets me into the Christmas spirit. However, with strong winds and rain forecast for the weekend, I imagine the woman who creates these toppers will bring it indoors for a few days.

The other day, my sister was going through a memory box belonging to my mum (who recently passed) when she found an old photo of me among various pictures and certificates.

This particular photo holds sad memories, and I remember my mum used to keep it hidden.

I was only four years old and had spent many months in the hospital due to nephritis. During that time, I felt very scared and confused because, back then, parents couldnt stay with their sick children. The photo was taken by a professional photographer and was published as an ad in the Daily Sketch on December 24, 1964.

Unfortunately, it was used without permission by a childrens charity. My mum was furious and very upset because the photo made me look like an orphan, which is why she decided to keep it hidden.

Fortunately, I made a full recovery after being on antibiotics for three years.

Every morning, on our short walk to the beach with the dogs, we pass the RNLI lifeboat station. It has been an exciting few weeks with the arrival of their new Shannon class all-weather lifeboat.

This vessel can accommodate six crew members and is built to withstand even the fiercest weather conditions. The lifeboat was funded by a generous donation from Chris and Jo West, a couple who were inspired to contribute after witnessing a rescue at sea.

The RNLI does an incredible job, and living so close to the ocean, we truly appreciate the power of the waves.

I feel privileged to walk past this magnificent lifeboat every morning.

It was my husbands Birthday on Wednesday. It was a bit low-key as it was mid-week. But as I am now retired and trying to remember my cooking skills, I promised him his favourite dinner, which is my veggie take on good old-fashioned steak and kidney pudding.

I used to watch my nan make it when I was a little girl and was fascinated, and I still remember how my mouth watered as she dished it up.

When I started married life it was one of the first meals I cooked, and then when we became veggie over 30 years ago I adapted it by using Quorn pieces and mushrooms.

When I was working I didnt have the time or energy to cook much, so this was my first time making it in a few years.

And my hubby can vouch for the fact that it was just as delicious as it always was. Here is a picture of it before it went on to steam for a few hours.