Baskets

The last time I saw this, I had a baby on the way…..

Around my home you will find lots of old things, many passed on through the family, things that have been upcycled and repurposed long before this was a trend, lots of things made by hand, some by me but many by people whom I know personally and I like that, to be surrounded by familiar faces reflected in their creations.

I grew up in a family where working and creating with your hands was highly valued. My father was an electrician and would always be interested to know another man’s skill, “what’s your trade”, was a question I often heard him ask.

My parents were both keen gardeners, my mum very much a homemaker, my grandparents similarly skilful and a big influence on my life. When I met my husband he was an academic, but also a keen gardener and now retired from academic life, he is a talented musician. Our children are both creative too and grandchildren eager to know how things are made and how they work, it would seem that the gene pool is strong.

So, back to the picture, it’s safe to say I’m not expecting, but I am happy to say that my wardrobe is bulging and suddenly I have lots to wear. Indeed I can see the bottom of the ironing basket, a rare sight, a beautifully handmade laundry basket by Ted Bruce, who works and lives in north Shropshire. I have a passion for baskets and they are pretty much in every room of the house in varying quantities, a good three quarters of them have been created by basket makers whom I know and admire, being able to see and handle their work on a daily basis brings me great joy, a simple thing.