St George's Day

As well as being St George's Day, the 23rd of April is also the birthday ( and death day of Shakespeare). It is also the birthday of an important family member but we will be celebrating with a BBQ at the weekend!

St George - the patron saint of England is usually depicted as a dragon slaying, maiden saving knight so I thought that I would try to find out a bit more about him. There is a whole host of information on the Woodlands Junior School in Kent not just about St George but other saints and customs.

For instance, I didn't know that St George was not English, but apparently he was Turkish and although he was Christian he became a Roman Soldier. He was beheaded on 23rd April because he would not give up his faith. He lived in the 3rd century but did not become England's Patron saint until the 14th century when he replaced Edward the Confessor. He is also the patron of many groups including soldiers and scouts, farmers and riders to name a few. He also helps those who are suffering with plague, syphilis and leprosy!

I always wonder how they find out these amazing things - can they be called facts?

For more snippets visit the above link. They would also like postcards from where you live to help them find out about other areas. I think this is a great idea and so will be popping one in the post this weekend.

Protagonize.

When my children were small we would make up stories. One person would start, then the next would add a bit and so on taking the story into strange but always hilarious directions.

Protagonize is the grownup version. You can start your own story, add to others, or just enjoy taking in the strange directions some stories are going.

Have a browse and if you feel like a budding author start posting. I couldn't resist and have posted under the name of Guinevere, Why I don't know. I must have been under Merlins influence yesterday.

Better than Ebay?

Your place to buy & sell all things handmade.

Knowing that I have dabbled in Ebay, a friend recently told me about ETSY.

A site similar to Ebay but dedicated to people wanting to buy that unique handmade item.

It has been a refreshing experience browsing the Etsy pages. Their search engines give you the options of browsing by colour or location . The Pounce function is exciting letting you see items from new sellers as well as what has been purchased recently. The gift section, chosen by the Etsy staff, allows you to find that unique present.

I was so impressed that I rushed to my studio and made some more chickens. Sorry Luke, I know that those log cabin squares should have been for your quilt.