Country Mouse, City Mouse

We have officially left our countryside paradise, and landed in London. On our last day at West Dean, I spent the morning with my camera, wandering around the extensive estate, through the gardens, greenhouses and graveyard. It was brisk outside, but because of the unseasonably warm winter, snowdrops and crocuses were peeking out from the frozen ground. Inside the steamy greenhouses- everything from lemons to orchids.

Back in class, we took our last day to complete our whimsical creations. You can't believe how much talent our classmates possessed- everything from robots and baby carriages, to donkeys and bunnies were carefully crafted from bits of newspaper, fabric and yarn. The results were quite stunning.

I managed to make three little creatures- a puppet, a little lamb, and a sweet baby boy, holding a balloon and wearing a pair of knitted, itchy knickers. I didn't manage to capture a picture of my puppet and boy, as I was working on them up until we packed. But here is my little lamb...

We couldn't have more enjoyed our time with the incredible, inspiring and ridiculously talented Julie Arkell. She is a true artist, and a fabulous teacher. I do hope our paths will cross again (I really would love to take my mom to West Dean- she would absolutely adore this class!). As for now...we are off to explore London until Sunday- I'll be sure to report back next week. I'm stocking up on Liberty fabric, and loads of vintage goodies from Portobello Market...or at least that's the plan!