Things have been very busy lately as I start to get organised for 6 months in America. We've tried to think of creative ways to raise some money to send me over there and I have to say, it has been really fun!
Our house is beginning to look a little like a jam factory at the moment, I've been experimenting with different flavours and ways to decorate which make them look really homemade:
I have just made the black forest jam which is full of autumny/wintery berries and has been my favourite experiment so far. My mum makes the lemon curd which seems to fly off our kitchen island along with the strawberry jam. I have so far tried; raspberry, blueberry, mixed berry and black forest flavours. We are especially enjoying the jams that make larger quantities as they tend to make 1/2 jars which unfortunately aren't big enough to be sold, so they sadly end up on our toast. Shame.
I have also been very busy bringing together the plans for my big American themed party. I had some amazing party supplies donated from www.partypacks.co.uk which will look amazing! The night is going to be filled with American style food and drinks, live music performed by some of my very talented friends, a very American quiz (that I need to write!), a raffle and craft/homemade stalls also made by very talented friends.
We have been trying out 2nd hand markets too which has been great because we get rid of some of our clutter whilst making a bit of money to add to the pot! They have been nice markets because we've done some great people watching and met some nice folk. I also have a new job helping out a friend in establishing his own Charity which is keeping my mind busy and doing something useful! I am so thankful for that opportunity.
Nearer to Christmas I'm planning on making and decorating my own salt-dough Christmas decorations as I did last year, Christmas cakes, present tags and small gift ideas that will no doubt be found on Pinterest! I also just won a beautiful set of washi tapes from this beautiful blog that are being shipped over from America so I hope to make some nice things with those! It's so nice to be creative and make nice things that people will enjoy, but will also get me closer to pursuing my dream.
I'd like to thank everybody who has already contributed to my funds, big or small - it means the world to me! If you would like to support me, please check out my Go Fund Me and read all about what I will be doing in America. I have been contacted by Delaware this week and will be attending a training day next week so it is all beginning to feel very real! What a fun time.
Much Love xxx