Canadian Adventure: Stanley Park

I've been rather quiet on the blogging front because I've been on an amazing trip to Canada which I thought I'd share with you.

My Dad was going to Vancouver as part of a work conference and asked if I would like to join him (of course I would!). We had a very packed few days with lots of activities organised by the people who run the conference and then we also visited Victoria and Whistler.

I thought I'd split the trip into places because I have so many photos!

On our first day in Vancouver, Dad and I walked around and through Stanley Park. This was a really special day because Mum visited Stanley Park when she was about 19 with her Dad, so we were retracing their steps. We bought Mum a lovely eagle carving by a local carver to remind her of her visit.

Here are some pictures from the day:

The boats in front of our hotel

Vancouver Aquarium

The Totem Poles

Lions Gate Bridge

Huge trees!

Walking back into the city

Recommended Read Children's Edition: 'Kensuke's Kingdom'

This recommended read is the children's book 'Kensuke's Kingdom' by Michael Morpurgo. To me, this is the ultimate children's book. I have yet to come across a child who does not love this story. It appeals to boys and girls, has adventure, danger, a desert island, and is a story of survival. Think 'Castaway' with Tom Hanks in, but for children.

If you have any children or need to buy a gift for a relative, this is an absolute classic. I'd recommend it for 9-12 year olds, but it would be suitable to read to 7 to 8 year olds as well, they just may need a little help. If you're a parent and read with your child before bedtime this is perfect because Michael Morpurgo really understands how children want to be kept on their toes in a book. Virtually every paragraph ends in a cliffhanger to keep you hanging on for more.

Even if you don't have children, or a child in your life, to buy this for read it!

Recommended Read: The Lore of the Land

'The Lore of the Land' by Westwood & Simpson is a real gem of a book for anyone interested in English folklore, particularly in your local area. It's an absolutely fascinating book and is the sort of thing you can dip into for inspiration every now and then. You'll always find something that sparks an idea.

The book is organised by county, so you can learn more about where you live, or if you're like me just have a look at everything and see what takes your fancy. There are so many interesting local stories to be discovered. Unfortunately the area of Worcestershire that I live in didn't get a mention, but we have many faerie stories surrounding the area too. The book is a fantastic resource to have on your bookshelf though.

I'd love to hear any local legends you know of from your area.

What I'm Working On: British Wildlife Illustrations

I'm currently working on some animal illustrations I thought you might like to see.

Today I have been drawing a hare hiding in the grass. I love folklore surrounding hares and think they are absolutely beautiful. Rabbits are a bit too cute for me; I like hares for looking a bit gangly and out of proportion.

Yesterday's drawing was of a fox. Foxes always remind me of 'The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe'. I remember watching the cartoon film version around Christmas time when I was little, then going on a family walk just as it was starting to get dark. We saw a fox and I found it quite spooky but thought there was something very magical about it.

Coughton Court

Our arty visit this week was to Coughton Court in Warwickshire. There is a sculpture trail on in the gardens at the moment which has hundreds of fantastic sculptures to see.

We had a lovely day but got rather soggy in the rain. My very glamorous handbag poncho made an appearance!

There were so many artists that I wasn't able to collect all of the names. It's well worth a visit though and there is a guide which gives you information on all of the artists and pieces of work. Here are a few pictures from the day:

Charlecote Park

I'm trying to take my mum somewhere inspiring every week. This week we visited Charlecote Park, where Mum is hoping to show some of her work later this year. It's a beautiful Tudor house with lovely gardens and its very own herd of fallow deer that has apparently been in the park since the Tudor period!

Here are some photos from our day:

On the way home we also stopped at The Arter in Stratford. This is an absolutely lovely shop full of handmade gifts and treasures. Mum's ceramics are in the fireplace there. I'm currently burning the gorgeous scented candle we bought while we were there. It's definitely worth a visit and there is a really nice tea room in the same building too- what more could you ask for?!

Recommended Read: Tree Wisdom

This is my current favourite book for inspiration. Tree Wisdom by Jacqueline Memory Paterson is full of interesting information, myths and legends about different British trees. It's a fantastic reference book to dip into if you are in need of some ideas. This book was recommended to me by Maria Lalic, a textile artist I met at Wonderwool Wales this year. Her beautiful felt artwork is definitely worth a look too!