Tag Archives: Australia

All Done and Dusted

Posted on by kathousekelli70

Just a quick one before I get changed up from shooting into Victorian loveliness.

It's been a great week of sunshine and clear skies, we couldn't have asked for more!

 

Around 760 shooters will now be eagerly awaiting the outcome tomorrow. It's been another awesome Winter Range and it will be what it will be. Good luck to all the shooters and hope you have achieved what you came here to do.

To all the new and first time participants I hope you have thoroughly enjoyed your time at Winter Range and for those who haven't been yet – never be afraid to go to a big match!!

Tonight will be side match awards, shindig, costume contest and announcement of Top 16 Mens and Ladies!

Cheers!

Kat xo

 

Threads from Aus

Posted on by kathousekelli70

Unraveling the fabrics, lace and trims, patterns etc from the suitcase's meant jumping into a whole heap of new projects this past few months.

SKIRTS: There were a few basic shooting skirts to try and what a neat one this cowboy skeletons was to do for Belle Vaquera.

 

Mustang Toni's cute little layered skirt in cowboy paper dolls print kept me amused and her corset – to be done – has been cut out and pattern matched of course!

 

SUITS: Crossdraw Jac got his sack suit which I was over the moon with how it turned out!

 

This pattern was a 'size the pattern from 32″ chest 28″ waist and little instruction' type of gig. (Jack's getting one, it's 2/3rds done) I managed to work it out upsizing to a 44″ chest and was extremely pleased during the process.

Being a plaid wool, I got pattern to match! I did more research and have made the best welt pockets yet. Called on my costume resource Aspen Filly (thank you so much) and asked about pockets in trousers for the era *sigh, so they both got pockets in their dacks!

More research was done to find out about trouser lining – to the knee or long? Went with the 'to the knee' option.

In the meantime I found a snippet of information regarding the weird little pocket that was shown on the black and white drawing. It sits just above the usual coat flap pocket on the right hand side. Some would jump in and say “is it for your pocket watch?” Well, no, that usually is situated on the inside attached to the vest. It is in fact a pocket for your train ticket. This fascinated me and therefore now had to be included in the construction of the coat.

Of course with my eye for detail, how could I possibly give over this suit without getting a train ticket to go with?! Thanks to Duke Canon I asked if he could print me off a couple of 1890's tickets I'd found and Ta-dah! we now have train tickets!

QUILT: Might as well throw something totally different in the mix with a quilt to head to a friends grandson Thomas.

 

FROCK COAT: Getting back to another 'Thomas', as in Hell On Wheels' Thomas Durant, this coat was asked for by Jack. It was about time he got something new and I'm pleased he is looking at something different, and of a particular character. So that's what he got!

More watching of the series to get it right plus we had seen it in the exhibition at the Cowboy Museum where I had taken many photos. Patch pockets and even welted button holes. Although I'm none too keen to do those again any time soon.

 

Now he has the shirt to match and I have the vest cut out for him. Pants to go and I already know where he needs to go for the right hat. (I'll be in touch Linda – I know Workin' Ranch have one that is perfect for it!)

What's next?!

STEAMPUNK: Oh yeah! A fun fabric given to me from Singin' Sue probably 2 years ago now. Coloured cotton reels and thread print was just begging for me to attempt a steampunk styled outfit. It sort of just morphed as I was making it.

From a polonaise pattern as it hung on the mannequin, the front bodice lay open revealing the cheeky red flat lining. Hmmm my mind went into overdrive and I said to my daughter, “I think I shall have lapels and leave it to reveal the corset underneath”. Then I thought, “I don't need sleeves, how's about some cap sleeves?” She still needs some work and accoutrements but here is 'Steampunk Seamstress'.

 

1890's FASHION: Ahhhh the beautiful 1890's gown for Tacky Jackie. Previous feats for finding the perfect colours were achieved. It all started with a trip to a little town called Custer, South Dakota, at the foot of the Black Hills. Jackie came back with a gown she had seen in the Museum there. It just so happened that that Summer, Jack and I were headed for the same territory. One photo was not enough, I needed more and before our time in the Black Hills came to an end I was determined to find the right museum and this gown.

The last day came and we found it – mind you we had driven past it twice in the previous day's. Never mind, got in their on opening and managed to grab some more photos.

Skip forward and now it's time to reproduce this beauty, simple yet elegant in its design.

Basic skirt and bodice pattern, make scalloped caps, work out and set in silk – okay, ready for bead work.

I drew up the bead design according to the pictures, acquired the beads (even though the lady wanted to sell me pre-made trim) and set about to recreate. I had envisaged making the trim before attaching and had Dad make me up a 'rough loom' for how I thought I would do it. After attempting to do that for about half an hour I ditched that idea and went for working the beads straight onto the bodice.

Some 35 and 1/4 hours later, I got it looking like the real deal. If you look really closely there are a couple of differences but as Mum says, “a blind man on a galloping horse wouldn't notice!”

 

Think I can safely say Tacky Jackie is going to love it.

 

SALOON GIRLS: A quick little purple and gold number for me needs a little more lace that's waiting in OK. Tried out a new corset pattern – gores and me don't exactly fit. We will see how that goes when I get to finish it with steel etc.

 

However, the rich red satin and cotton lace number is out of this world!

No lace I could find was the right colour or the right feel so I decided that I would embark on a journey into the world of dyeing. Crazy? You bet ya! Others have done it with success, might as well have a crack at it myself.

So with Miss Curstin at my side we tried 4 different methods on some samples, making notes as we went. Thank goodness that child helped me sort through that and we had fun doing it. Another few days and I do the bulk lot, still slightly freaking out as to whether I would achieve the perfect colour. Finally washed out, set and dried I was happy with the result.

 

Made up the French drawers – divine!

 

Then it was onto the ultimate corset construction (to date)! Another new pattern to trial AND throw in power mesh that I've never used before. Of course it worked, why I doubted I could do it, I am so excited at the result.

Hand stitching the gorgeous liquorice black scallop trim and appliqués to complete this corset had taken 23hrs. It is totally divine and will be loved by her new owner.

 

Adelita's

Of course the trip wouldn't be finished without a couple more Ad Ita skirts and tops. 'Mint Slice' I called it, for Emerald and a gorgeous turquoise pallet for Trixie.

 

That's it! Did a few catch ups with OK Carrol and got her started again, Joyce (the mannequin) went back with her and things were getting packed up.

From the sewing desk

Kat xo

P.S. If you didn't get it, this is a catch up, sewing done while in Aus! I'm getting there! I'm getting here. Couple other tops and bloomers thrown in at the last minute just for good measure!!

 

Beach Baby!

Posted on by kathousekelli70

So this morning I finished all work on machines, only hand sewing to go and transfers on bags (a whole other story).

Jack and I decided we HAD to get to the beach and MUST got for a swim his time. Nothing more energising than swimming in salt water I reckon.

We looked at Surfers Paradise, Nobbys Beach and decided on Miami Beach to be the favoured one for the morning.


No, no sharks, I'm still here, but was on the lookout. It was a bit rough and tumble in the surf, cool to start but so so pleasant and definitely a change to the tepid water of the pool of late!

 

After our swim and brief sit on the sand we headed for fish and chips for lunch! Yum!

This will sum up this mornings venture!

Sun, sand, surf – What's it really worth? Fresh air, warm skin, vitamin D – I wonder what else we will see? White, tanned, over-tanned – beaches with lifeguards manned. Water, swimmers, muscled – coming up with hair all tousled. Bikinis, balls, sunburn – some will make heads turn. 😉 the salt on your skin, the fish and chips within, energised, ready to go ag'in!

 

Cheers big ears! Hope you've had a sensational day too

Kat xo

 

Liquorice

Posted on by kathousekelli70

Delicious! Black beaded appliqués and power mesh are going to make for one stunning black beauty.

 

Happy dance! The mock turned out perfect and now onto the good stuff.

Every day's a learning curve and keeps my creative mind learning, doing, experimenting and loving the challenges!

Bring it!

Kat xo

 

How Time Flies

Posted on by kathousekelli70

Wowsers! We are already nearing the end of the first month of 2017! Time flies when you're having fun.

Sooooo what have we been up to?

 

Well, Jack and I have been enjoying the pool and getting in some exercise. (because it's warm in the bottom half of the world at the moment) albeit feeling like a lukewarm bath some days as the temperature has been a little unforgiving.

We have been out for lunches and movies a few times to get us out and about. That gives Jack a break from boredom and my eyes a break from the sewing machine. (I'll leave the sewing for the next blog…..'cause I'm still going!)

We have had a few shoots and will have the last two coming up this next couple of weekends before thinking about packing up for the next adventures o/s.

Jack has dealt with the bit of excitement (not how he really felt) of replacing dishwasher, and having burst pipes to deal with, carpet and swollen cabinetry replacements.

We have enjoyed brief moments with friends, family and really enjoyed the grand kiddies catchup on Boxing Day. Little treasures they all are and growing so fast.

My youngest was here again for a week which was both a pleasure and fun! I did manage to convince her to help me with a bit of sewing too for which I'm very thankful……..I need to teach Jack to sew…..well at least straight stitching.

We are looking forward to another eventful, jam packed, fun year ahead and can't wait to share more adventures with you soon!

 

Hugs to all!

Kat xo

 

Merry Christmas!

Posted on by kathousekelli70

As 2016 draws to a close, I am reminded of the many adventures, scenery, museums, memorials, shoots and miles I have travelled to and from with Jack.

It has been another exceptional year that started off a little rocky whilst we waited for Jack to have his heart surgery. We can be extremely thankful for fantastic medical care and rehabilitation as it allowed us to continue with further adventures.

There are many around the world who are not in the best of health and to those we know we wish you all the very best in health and good spirits for a wonderful Christmas and New Year with your families.

The last couple of days has been spent with friends and today with Miss 20, we have had a day of eating, drinking, more eating and for her and I – baking Christmas treats for the Boxing Day gathering of Jack's kids and grandkids. It's been phone calls to family, messages, laughter, love and chilling out.

 

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

 

Lots of love and hugs,

Kat and Jack xo

 

The Gamblers 2016

Posted on by kathousekelli70

'It's the most wonderful time of the year…….' Come on, couldn't help but throw in a Christmas tune there! Haa Haa Haa

Last weekend was The Gamblers, Christmas Club Championships. It was 'the season to be jolly' with two stages set up on the one range, 26 Cowboys and Cowgirls put their rigs on ready for some action.

 

They set to 'rocking around the Christmas tree' alternating the posse between a stage with movement and a stage shot all from one position.

 

Many of us were 'dreaming of a white Christmas' as the temperature crept up to 39C/102F. However, as cowboys and cowgirls do, we keep having fun whatever the conditions!

 

Of course, the usual banter and laughter is ever present, along with some steely glares. (The latter has to do with safety's on unfamiliar shotguns, she says rolling her eyes, sigh)

 

Getting into the final couple of stages and its 'do you hear what I hear?' Thunder and lightning is starting to roll in and with metal baffles overhead it's time to hurry this posse up and get done before the storm comes through.

'Joy to the world' ….the day is done…..let all….pack up….your gear (were you singing that to the tune? 🙂 Haa Haa)

'O come all Ye faithful' inside for the rest of the festivities. We all gathered for the after party with the Budweiser flowing and the chatter getting more animated. A spectacular feast as always prepared by Mrs Claus and her elves (aka Trixie, Prairie Joy and OK Carrol), full of ham, chicken, egg, potato, watermelon salad, prawn and mango salad followed by scrumptious tarts, cheesecake and pavlova! Well done ladies, well done!

 

Oops! Nearly forgot the decorating assistants Marlboro Man and Lucky Strike Lass for the set up of tables, tinsel and Bonbons!

 

Entertainment for the evening was performed by Rex Rhinestone and his fiddle with accompaniment on the spoons by Marlboro Man. Most excellent!

 

Onto Awards and thanks must go to Chuck and Pearl Starr for preparing them. Our leader, Dug Deeper, made announcements and did the honour of presenting awards. Congratulations to everyone!!

 

Ricochet (Jackaroo) came 2nd in Silver Senior, 1st Place congratulations to Johnny Behan and 3rd Place to Mad Mick.

 

In Lady Wrangler category congratulations to 2nd Place, Ex Sighted, 3rd Place, Tequila Sunrise.

 

Overall winners for The Gamblers, were Mad Dog Tannen and Tequila Sunrise.

 

For the 'Outlaws' (non club members), overall winners were Painted Mohawk and Amazing Grace (Kathouse Kelli)!

 

Thank you to all The Gamblers for a great time as usual!

Feliz Navidad!

Kat xo

 

Lawrence of Clarence River

Posted on by kathousekelli70

I amuse myself, Lawrence of Clarence River, thoughts in my mind was Lawrence of Arabia, I know, it's different. Just my twisted mind.

The little town of Lawrence, established 18 something, sits on the banks of the mighty Clarence River on the north coast of New South Wales. 18something!? You say. Well yes, 18 something, I can not find a specific 'established' date for this tiny little town steeped in history.

Photos within the museum tell me that it was a town more than likely around the 1860's. Public education certainly existed during 1864 however the school buildings foundation was not laid until 1880. Many other major buildings were not erected it seems until around the 1880's either.

 

Past recollections of previous generations, tell stories of Lawrence being a busy little port with many wharves, a great number of boats hauling up and down the river, 3 hotels, 2 large sawmills, 2 general stores, a bank, and a butter factory!

 

Loads of potato's were shipped, timber, duck hunting seasons existed back then in Australia, the timber industry in the area was booming and for a price illicit rum could be procured from the surrounding bush areas. Bit like being able to procure white lightning from the hills of Kentucky I imagine.

 

Of course these days Lawrence is very much a sugar cane growing area and from Paddlewheel and Emeralds place it is not uncommon to see the occasional cane fire burn off.

I mentioned the Museum. The Lawrence Museum is housed in an old radio station building. 2NR was the station. It has been stripped out – some radio gear preserved for history – and now has been set up as different rooms.

There is the kitchen area items, the sewing room with a beautiful display of sewing machines, merchandisers cards of needles, buttons, patterns etc.

 

The bedroom is kitted out with baby linen, old quilts, beds, etc. The parlour with musical instruments, tea sets, and a gorgeous old wedding dress.

 

There are War related displays which are yet to be revamped as there are many more pieces to be included.

 

I was genuinely impressed by the hard work and efforts that the volunteers carry out here. They are to be commended.

 

To finish this quick afternoon tour, we stepped outside to leave. There are some out buildings filled with farm implements that I didn't go take a look at as it was near closing time.

I did take a quick look at the very small cottage that housed a family with 8 children at one point! An interesting story in itself, the tiny cottage was home to a gentleman named Edward Ramsamy. Known as Ram Chandra he was, in later life, instrumental in assisting the Commonwealth Serum Laboratory with an antivenene for the deadly Taipan snakes.

 

So there you go! A little bit, about a small town alongside a big river. Thanks Emerald for taking me to see it!

Kat xo

20th November 2016

 

Remembrance Day

Posted on by kathousekelli70

We held our minute silence on Friday 11th at the 11th hour in memory of all veterans both past, present and across continents.

Saturday afternoon however, we took a quick trip to the Australian War Memorial in our nation's capital. This trip all I wanted to do was to at least see the Hall of Honour, the reflection pool and the tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

 

Simpson's donkey is covered in red poppies from the previous day's memorial service. A bronze tribute to John Simpson Kirkpatrick. Recognised for his bravery and compassion, he and his donkey carried water up to troops through Shrapnel Gully and many wounded soldiers back down to Anzac Cove.

 

The flags even seemed to fly with pride in the clear blue skies and moderate winds, against a backdrop of Anzac Parade, through to both the old and new Parliament house's.

 

There are many visitors coming and going as we make our way up the stairs and into the Reflection Pool area. The wreath's still lay around the pools edge, and it's really nice to see all the Australian native flowers used in many of the display's.

 

There is much chatter outside by some but I was glad that upon entering the tomb of the Unknown Soldier everyone was respectfully silent. This hall has always been my favourite with its beautiful stained glass windows, ornate ceiling, tiled pictures and reverent setting.

 

Out into the Hall of Honour the bronze name plaques are filled with poppies and soon I managed a moment of next to no one in these areas for a better photo.

 

Jack and I decided we should stick our heads in the main museum doors and were surprised by some very new artefact showcases and interactive displays! NOW we need to come again and spend the full day and a bit that it would take to see it again.

We spent almost an hour just in the first entrance to the ANZAC display.

 

Let us all be thankful for our men and women who have served and are serving.

Lest We Forget.

Kat xo

Nov 12, 2016