My Doll Haven

Everyone Needs Playtime

In our hectic, modern lives, many of us focus so heavily on work and family commitments that we never seem to have time for pure fun. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we stopped playing.

When we carve out some leisure time, we’re more likely to zone out in front of the TV or computer than engage in fun, rejuvenating play like we did as children. But play is not just essential for kids; it can be an important source of relaxation and stimulation for adults as well.

There doesn’t need to be any point to the activity beyond having fun and enjoying yourself. By giving yourself permission to play with the joyful abandon of childhood, you can reap oodles of health benefits throughout life.

Tuesday

Planning Holidays

I always get the job of planning holidays, most of the time this is easy and I enjoy the whole experience. However, this time I have found it one hell of a headache . . . if anyone is planning to use Stayz to book their accommodation I suggest you read these reviews before you begin!! I wish I had!

While Stayz was Australian owned, we never had a problem. Then Homeaway acquired them in 2011 and subsequently they were acquired by Expedia in November 2015. It's been a gradual downhill run ever since . . . customer's and owners alike, are fuming.

The Stayz customer service centre is run out of the Philippines and frankly my dears they just don't give a damn for the customers, nor the owners. If you check thoroughly on the internet you will find complaints from both sides.

Many of the holiday homes are family owned and operated. Some are caring, others not so, but at least while you are dealing directly with people on Aussie soil, one stands a reasonable chance of getting things sorted to everyone's satisfaction.

I am not an advocate of using Credit Cards online, other than through PayPal. I know there are fees involved on the business end, but as a personal shopper I have always found PayPal safe to use, while keeping one's financial information secure.

Once Stayz has your details, you have NO CONTROL over how your CC is used, and with their system you have to supply that to Stayz BEFORE you can even have a booking confirmed.

If you are thinking of using Stayz or any of it's associated companies, do so at your own peril.

Well my dear readers, that's my huff and puff for today. :) Ah, I feel so much better now . . . time for a cuppa.
Cheers,
X

Friday

Cristi's New Dress

I thought you may just like to see how Cristi looks once she's been all spruced up and dressed.

I think she looks absolutely darling in this lovely dress by Carol Pringle. :)

Wednesday

Storage Box Makeover (Part 2)

This morning was perfect for painting, warm but not too hot, with just a wisp of breeze. That was of course until I actually started spraying!!

Nevertheless, I was determined to paint and post progress shots today.

So after carefully setting up everything in the back garden, I began by sanding the box and drawers using a fine grit sandpaper (P600).

After everything was sanded smooth, I wiped them over with a damp rag to remove any dust.

When dry, I gave all the pieces a coat of primer, followed by a single coat of enamel.

I wasn't overly pleased with the Dy-Mark paint (had never used this brand before) it felt a little grainy when it was touch dry. However, I did like the trigger design of the can, it felt good in my hand and made it much easier to use. Maybe when it's had a second coat it will look and feel better.

Should the weather be a as nice tomorrow, as it was first thing this morning, I will probably give it the second much needed coat.

Me being my usual self, I was curious and impatient to see what it may look like finished, so I loosely attached the knobs.

Now I really need those brass card holders to hurry up and get here, so I can finish the draw fronts and begin using it for the purpose I have in mind (don't worry, you'll all find out soon enough).

Anyone else have any projects happening? They don't have to be dolly related . . . whether they are or not I'd love to see them if you do.