Perfect Day

The weather was absolutely perfect today, the temperature was 28 C, the sky was blue, and there was just a slight northerly breeze. It was what one would call an idyllic spring day.

So after enjoying a hearty husband cooked breakfast of bacon, eggs and button mushrooms, followed by buttered toast with marmalade and a cup of Earl Grey tea, we set off to enjoy some of that lovely sunshine.

Pup was sitting safely in his booster seat looking out the  car window as we set off up the road to Cardinia and Crystal Brook Park.

THE WATER TOWER

Cardinia Reservoir is truly stunning when the weather aligns as it did today . . . the water was a brilliant aqua and quite spectacular. Cardinia itself is a stunning expanse of water and is Melbourne's second-largest reservoir. The dam at the Reservoir is a rolled earth and rockfill embankment, and was completed in 1973.

NOT MY PHOTO

Crystal Brook Park that surrounds it, features a dedicated Kangaroo Viewing Trail, about 15 minutes one way, starting at the spillway carpark. The kangaroos are most active and easiest to spot grazing on the open grassy slopes during dawn and dusk. We were there mid morning, so all we saw was all the roo poo left behind after their dawn graze.

NOT MY PHOTO

Crystal Brook picnic ground is the perfect location to spend time relaxing in nature and exploring. There is plenty of parking, a playground which you can see here with the dam wall behind, barbecues, shelter and toilets.

We then drove to Emerald (the home of Puffing Billy) and stopped at the Over the Road Café for ice-cream cones. I had strawberry, hubby had mango sorbet and pup tried a little of both while we sat outside in the sun.

THE CAFE IS THE ONE WITH THE UMBRELLAS

Driving home via Beaconsfield meant hitting the Freeway and we were surprised by the amount of traffic on the road, it was like peak hour. Everyone has been airing their grievances about the cost of fuel here, however, it certainly didn't deter them from taking advantage the beautiful weather today.

Hope you enjoy the pics!

Big hugs,

X

A New Red Haired Doll

It was this time last year when I emailed Maxine at My Doll Best Friend to ask for a red haired Chosen Gotz Happy Kidz doll and she told me something was in the pipeline. I've been waiting ever since and had almost given up expecting one to arrive.

Then this morning at some unholy hour, I received an email saying there were TWO red haired Chosen dolls. I decided then and there to bring this one home . . . I mean look at her hair, it's gorgeous!

Her name is Orla, she is part of a really special double release in the exclusive Chosen series with Götz, limited to 250 worldwide.

For the very first time, they've used a brand new super pale vinyl colour. If you are aware of resin art dolls you will know exactly how special Orla is with her delicate pure appearance.

Orla will be my Christmas present to myself, and will make a perfect sibling for my Chosen blonde haired Kitty (2017).
Big hugs,
X

Things I Love and Those I Don't

Some of the things I love, apart from hubby, family (this includes my fur baby) & friends are :-
Dolls of course, teddy bears, doll houses, fabric & yarn (I have a stash of both), warm sunny days and being surrounded by colour.

I also like blogs which are interesting, and bloggers who really want to be part of a community, who want to converse with other bloggers.

Some of the things I enjoy doing:-
Designing clothes for my dolls (both knitted and sewn), writing short stories (especially fantasy ones) & poetry, illustrating, photography, going to fashion exhibitions with my daughter, blogging and chatting with my online blogger friends.

It's because of that last item, that I have been looking for more active blogs to add to my reading list, particularly those written by doll or craft enthusiasts. Well I did find a few, some were interesting, a couple that were . . . well they were just a bit boring (my attention isn't captured by a lot of moaning). Then there a few blog that would have really been interesting, if only they hadn't had so many distractions down the side columns.

Things I'm not fond of:-
Like most people, there are somethings I dislike, such as all white walls in a home, gossip, and grumpy people. There are of course, other things I just tolerate, like going for medical check ups.

However, one thing that really gripes me, is blogs that are inundated with advertising, so much so you cannot read a paragraph before you are bombarded with unwanted intrusions. Also blog layouts that are over the top, featuring highly decorated, maximalist or cluttered aesthetics.

I guess I'm a KISS person at heart and prefer people to . . . Keep It Simple Sweetheart!

What do you look for in a blog? Do you prefer to read simple style blogs, colourful blogs, "ad free" blogs or perhaps a combination?

Do you have any things you particularly love or dislike that you would care to share? Don't be shy, I'd love to read your thoughts.
Big hugs,
X

My First Attempt at Quilting

I have a bad habit of promising to show things on my blog and end up becoming so absorbed in doing other things, I neglect to follow through. Now it's been so long I can't remember who asked me to show them this. It's not something I am particularly proud of (the procrastinating), but photographing things to show can take up so much time, so I just tend to keep putting it off.

Each calico panel was drawn, then painted with water colours, then the outlines were embroidered as well as the flowers on the hat in the 4th panel, buttons were sewn on and the glass beads for eyes. The backing is in natural calico. It's not perfect, but I didn't think it too bad for a first try.

I made this quilt some time back for the beautiful antique crib that my sweet hubby bought me years ago, and which my fur baby sleeps in from time to time . . . and often just sits in to watch the passing parade through the window. He's very good with my Zwergnase Nili 3 and the teddy I made, that both sit in the crib . . . he looks but doesn't touch.

The photo below my hubby took another time, where my little furry one was sitting in his own bed inside the crib. You can see some of my dolls in the background which were on display in the studio at the time.

Do any of you make quilts? Do you have any pets? I'd love to see them if you do.

Big hugs,

X

Let's Share a Secret

Each day as I read the stories and snippets of each of my blogging buddies daily activities and interests, I am reminded of how small a world this really is and how many talented people fill it. I love seeing the friendships that are developing between people living on the opposite ends of the earth.

With this in mind, I thought it would be fun to invite my followers and fellow bloggers to post one thing that I don't already know about them. In essence . . .


I'll begin . . . My hubby calls me a hoarder, I call myself a collector. As many of you already know, I collect BJD's, play dolls, bears, fabrics, yarn and antiques, but you didn't know I am also an avid collector of buttons (though not intentionally) and have enough to start a shop of my own!

Big hugs,
X

More on Dolly Thoughts

It's hard to believe it's been six years since I wrote my post Dolly Thoughts and so much has changed. Some of those who commented on that particular post have left the hobby or simply stopped blogging.

Generally, my own journey hasn't changed much, apart from getting much older and less mobile (one seems to age more quickly once they pass 60), I still enjoy all my dolls. From the one and only inexpensive Khurn doll, to my Gotz play dolls, IT fashion dolls, Asian BJD's, and more recently the wonderful Zwergnase Spoon Dolls. They all keep me company and stop me from becoming completely bored.

Now I'm left wondering about those of you who are still posting, though much less frequently. I know some of you are still interested in your dolls, but cannot find the time to chat for one reason or another. Whatever the reason, I hope with all my heart you don't stop blogging all together, I miss chatting with you and seeing what you are doing with your own dolls.

Maybe you have a new hobby that's occupying your time, if so, why not share it. I'm sure there are other bloggers who would all be interested in knowing where this new path is taking you. Although most of those who used to chat regularly through our blogs spoke mainly about dolls, we all have lives apart from dolls that is just as interesting, so if you'd like to share a little, please do.

By the way do you realise it's only 103 days to Christmas?

Big hugs,

X

Surprise Email

It arrived yesterday from my friend Trisha, to tell me the new Zwergnase Spoon Dolls had been released and were about to be posted on her website. I looked and it only took a second or two for me to fall in love all over again . . . and yes, I have pre-ordered Dalia.

These are Zwergnase stock photos, I will post more pics of her when she arrives in October. I think she has the most darling face, don't you? You could say she's one foxy little lady in that mohair hat. 

Dalia Spoon was introduced on 10th September 2026 and is one of four Spoons with a new face sculpt. She has beautiful amber coloured glass eyes from Lauscha, real leather shoes, a hand painted face and gorgeous mid-brown wigged hair. Beautifully dressed, she stands at 42cm and is limited to 25 worldwide. Her skin colour is NM Original and she has16 fully moveable joints . . . a real BJD. Designed by Nicole Menzner and made in Germany.

Big hugs,

X

Three Happy Kidz

I completely forgot to share the dolls my hubby bought me last Christmas. They are all Götz Happy Kidz. On the left we have Lea, in the middle Greta 75th Year Jubilee Special and on the right Elf Anne Christmas Signature Edition 2024.

Anne has a much smaller face than the other Götz Happy Kidz and was last seen as Anna Snow Rabbit for Christmas 2021, the next doll using the Anne mold to be released will be the Pippa Signature Edition 2026.

Here is Lea in her undies and already she is looking much prettier than before. I'm really not fond of the way Götz dresses their dolls. The quality of the clothes is usually pretty good, but some clothes are not age appropriate.

 

This face mold appears to be much younger looking to me and needs to look cuter, not older. I'm not sure whether I will do the same to her hair as I did with my first Greta, who I currently have her dressed in her night attire ready for bed.

My second Greta (below) will also need her name changed . . . any suggestions? The poor thing didn't have anything under her clothes except nickers and some crappy marks on her back and shoulder. I was not impressed! It looks like ink from a ball point pen, which is not easily removed.

Now Anne on the other hand, needs even more attention, but I'll leave her to another post.

All of these dolls desperately need suitable clothes, I have plenty fabrics and patterns, so I just need to keep sewing.
Hugs,
X

Portraits of Lolly

Lolly Spoon arrived on the 20th this month, but until now I haven't had a chance to take photos. I changed her hairstyle just a little before taking these. It had gotten a little messed up during transport.

I think she is the perfect sibling for Lina, dont you? I really love the way she is dressed, simple, colourful and not too grown up.

Now I have two favourite dolls at the same time.

Big hugs,

X

Sewing for Gotz Happy Kidz

The weather hasn't been very nice lately so I've been knitting these little bolero style tops for my girls. You can find the knitting pattern (which is also suitable for Zwergnase Junior, Carpatina and Kidz'n'Cats) at Swish & Swirl. The skill level is easy and it only requires 50g ball of fingering yarn and a pair of 2mm knitting needles, a yarn needle for finishing, stitch markers (I just use a slip of contrasting yarn) and a button.

Not finding any suitable clothes to complete their outfits, it was time to look at my fabric stash and decide what to work on next. I'm using a Dianes Doll Designs romper pattern for my Greta with the ringlets which I will modify to fit as necessary. For Lea and Greta (above) I'll be using my own patterns.

These are some of the fabrics I have selected . . . the one on the right will be for Greta (above) the two on the left will be for Greta with the ringlets and the center fabric for Lea. They will all wear coordinating leather sandals.

Oh the weather outside is frighful, but this fabric is so delightful,

and since I've no place to go, let me sew, let me sew, let me sew.

Okay that's all for today folks, I'll be back when I'm done sewing.
Big hugs,
X

Portraits of Lina

 Lina Spoon has been keeping me company ever since she arrived, and I cannot stop looking at her.

 

I believe when collectors are asked "which is your favourite doll?", it's nearly always the last doll they have brought home. It's certainly true with me, I just adore my little Lina Spoon!

Big hugs,

X

Hard Vinyl or Resin

On every website that sells Zwergnase dolls, even Zwergnase itself, they say the Spoon Dolls are made of vinyl, but my 42cm doll feels very much like the same resin all my Asian ball jointed dolls are made from. She quite hard and very heavy for her size, weighing about the same as my Liz Frost (Wizworx) dolls which are roughly the same height.

When I compare my Spoon Doll to my Zwergnese Art Doll Nilli, which is made from phthalate-free vinyl, they look and feel completely different.

After researching further I found this on the internet:

"Hard vinyl and resin differ primarily in their material composition, flexibility, and physical behavior.

Hard vinyl (PVC) is a tough yet slightly pliant thermoplastic that bends under stress and resists shattering, whereas resin is a rigid, thermoset polymer that offers ultra-fine detail and a heavy, porcelain-like feel but can chip or break upon impact.

Material Properties and Feel:

Hard Vinyl: Feels slightly warmer or more forgiving; can absorb minor shocks without breaking.

Resin: Feels heavy, dense, and rigid; sounds "clanky" or glass-like when tapped.

Durability and Damage:

Hard Vinyl: Prone to surface staining or denting under heavy pressure, but very difficult to shatter.

Resin: Highly resistant to denting and chemical wear, but prone to chipping, cracking, or shattering if dropped."

This information leads me to believing these dolls are more likely to be resin!

Now aside from all this info . . . I found another Spoon Doll . . . her name is Lolly Spoon and I just ordered her!

 

Hopefully she will be arriving soon.

Big hugs,

X

A Feeling for What's to Come

After such a long absence, I had been wondering whether I should return to blogging at my age. Then a friend reminded me how important it is for older people to remain active in their hobbies and not to cut themselves off from friends. 

It's been good having a break, but I realised I am at my happiest when I am sharing my love of dolls with you; my kindred doll enthusiasts and blogging buddies. Of course finding Lina Spoon helped fire up the desire for more dolls as well, so here I am chatting away to myself and anyone who bothers to read my blog.

My goal for the rest of the year is to find a sibling for my little Lina Spoon, hopefully one with a toothy smile like Ludy or Zora Spoon.

LUDY SPOON (CAPPUCCINO VINYL)

ZORA SPOON (MILK VINYL)

The Zwergnase Spoon dolls with a 16-part structure were launched in September 2024 and currently there are nine faces, the newest being the three Elf Spoons, released in May 2026. Vinyl colours are Milk (previously called light porcelain), Cappuccino, Original skin colour and New.

Most of these dolls have already sold out around the world, so I have a feeling I will need to keep a close eye out to find one to keep Lina company.

Big hugs,

X

Eight Months Absence

Has produced a new doll! 

Introducing Lina Spoon . . .

Lina is a limited edition of 25. She is a 42 cm collectible ball-jointed vinyl doll designed by Nicole Marschollek-Menzner for the Zwergnase "Spoons" series. Lina features 16 moveable joints, hand painted face, carrot-coloured hair and blue mouth-blown glass eyes from Lauscha.

Her outfit and accessories are comprised of a blue dress and matching socks, green lace-up real leather boots, a light scarf and a hand-crocheted bag.

Big hugs,

X

Kitty's New Outfit

 

Her pink floral dress is made from double gauze. This was the first time I had used this fabric and it's not the easiest fabric to lay and cut, but it turned out okay. The tunic (a new design) is 21 wale cord and they both close at the back with press studs (snaps).

Christmas Wish To All My Readers

Have a Happy One! 

Project: A Touch of Dark Academia

Last Christmas my hubby bought me a doll house, and while it's been sitting in my doll room gathering dust, I have been hatching a plan. I want to turn this house into a derelict house, one that was once owned by a man of magical talent . . . a man of interlect, who might have been a master of chemisty, a wizard, a sorcerer, a scribe or to put it simply . . . a combination of them all.

It will take me forever to finish it, but I am determined I shall!

After all the sewing I needed a change, and so for the past few days I have been creating some pieces of furniture for one of the rooms. Non is complete yet, but I wanted you to see where I was heading.

The eyeballs you can see in the left hand dressed (pink jar) are from some inexpensive dolls who's eyes I replaced with better ones. I experimented to add webs and this was done by using my glue gun, some tiny stretched bits of cotton ball and green flocking. The jars are filled with herbs, spices and metallic flakes. 

I made the birdcage hanger from three stacked washers for the base, a small piece of dowell, a paperclip and some jute string. The bookholder is made from card, dowell and washers. Both are decorated with sculls, doll hands and more green flocking. To make the candle holders I used the brass backing plates from small door knobs and plastic noteboard tacks which I painted gold to match the brass . . . the candles are birthday candles which I cut to size.

The other pieces are from my 1:12 scale stash. I am currently working on a Grimoire for the stand and some other books for the dressers. I could have purchased some but that wouldn't be as much fun would it?

Overalls for Christmas

Katie now has a short-sleeved jumper (sweater), a pair of coruroy overalls and beautiful leather boots to match the colour of her glasses. 

Her jumper does up at the back with buttons and her overall has buttons over press studs, they are lined inside with the same fabric that I used to trim the pockets.

Now what to do with her hair? I will not cut her hair, but I would like to give her a new style of some sort which would suit her cheeky nature.

Another Shampoo & Set

I kept looking at Sophia's hair and how dull it looked along side Greta's. The length wasn't cut evenly either, so it was into the bathroom for a wash then onto the table for a cut.

Looking at her now, in her newly completed outfit (with those very special leather shoes) and her hair at a good length, I'm happy with her. I will add, her hair is still not as lusterous as Greta's, but it's better than what it was.

The Dolls Have Arrived!

But I'm not allowed to play with them until Christmas Day. Of course that doesn't mean I have to wait until then to make clothes for them or purchase lovely, expensive, REAL LEATHER shoes & boots. It took me a little while to decide on the following, but they are on their way and I should have them next week.

Orange Wagner Sandals

Turquoise Wagner Boots

Fucshia Wagner Boots

Not sure who's getting what yet, except for the bunny slippers, they belong to my little curly haired Greta who is now wearing a pretty white lawn nightdress and a knitted dressing gown. I will post photos of her once the slippers have arrived.

Sophia's by Teamson

Purple Wagner Sandals

Gotz Sneakers

I also ordered some pretty corduroy fabric to make coats or maybe overalls for three of my dolls, two of which match closely with the Warners boots.

Well that's my news for now,. Anyone else being creative? I'd love to see what you're doing. 😘