tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17946298881052790522024-03-14T02:06:29.963+13:00Rose in ThornsRosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.comBlogger166125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-25883195638723976692017-09-04T17:47:00.001+12:002017-09-04T17:49:21.716+12:00New Christchurch: Part 1Today marks the seventh anniversary of the <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2010/09/my-eventful-year-of-2010-continues-with.html" target="_blank">first earthquake that struck Canterbury</a> early on Saturday morning while most were asleep. Little did we know what was to come! Over the years I have written posts documenting the journey our city has been through, starting with the <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2010/09/christchurch-still-standing.html" target="_blank">beautiful heritage buildings</a> that were still standing after the first earthquake. After the <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2011/03/shaken-to-core.html" target="_blank">second, much more damaging earthquake in February</a>, I decided to do it again. It took a little longer to get access to the CBD to be able to do this, but it was good to see some of the buildings featured in the first post, not only still standing, but strengthened and restored to their former glory. I featured these in two posts, <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2014/03/christchurch-heritage-part-1.html" target="_blank">part 1</a> and <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2014/03/christchurch-heritage-part-2.html" target="_blank">part 2</a>.<br />
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Now that the rebuild is really gathering momentum, and life is returning to the central city, I have decided to shift my focus to the 'New Christchurch' and give you a taste of how the city is starting to look. This first group of photos I took back in Easter, so more things have happened since then.<br />
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The earthquake memorial opened this year just in time for the sixth anniversary of the deadly February earthquake, as a place to reflect and remember those that were lost. I found the siting of it a little poignant, as the building in the background on the right is where I used to work. My redundancy was the catalyst for my <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2010/03/taking-plunge.html" target="_blank">journey into self-employment</a>, and the earthquake happened on the one year anniversary of the day I lost my job. So for me it serves of a reminder of 'what was'.<br />
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The Bridge of Remembrance was restored and reopened to the public earlier in the year.<br />
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The Avon River precinct is being done in stages. This section looking from the Bridge of Remembrance shows the area in front of what used to be known as the 'Strip', a row of restaurants and bars popular in the weekends. This walk along the river used to be part of my daily commute – it was a lovely way to start the day!</div>
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The BNZ Centre is opposite Ballantynes, where Whitcoulls and neighbouring buildings used to be. There are several laneways and a courtyard in the middle with food kiosks and areas of seating. I like the different facades that have been used to give the area some interest, and hide the carparks.<br />
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The ANZ centre has quite a futuristic (or perhaps back to the future?) feel, with a large atrium and some interesting features. It replaces the triangle centre, and for reference, the Macpac shop is about where KFC used to be.<br />
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Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-59988437878504180542017-02-02T21:15:00.000+13:002017-02-10T10:13:50.739+13:00Behind the scenes: A look at how our hand-dipped taper candles are madeThere is nothing quite like the elegance of a tapered candle, quietly burning away. For many centuries they had a utilitarian purpose to provide light, but now they are mostly used to create an ambience with their soft flickering like. I first started making them after I was given several boxes of church candle stubs that a nun had collected and recycled into new candles. I loved this idea, and was keen to 'carry the torch' so to speak, and to continue recycling the used candles into beautiful new ones. Since then I have also developed a soy/beeswax blend that produces the most beautiful creamy colour and texture.<br />
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Below is a little insight into the process of creating the taper candles, from winding the wick around a frame, then repeatedly dipping them into a vat of hot wax to build up layers. After each dip, the level of the wax in the vat decreases slightly, making each layer slightly lower than the last and giving the candles their distinctive taper shape. The colour dipped tapers are dipped in coloured wax for the last few dips. Once they reach the desired thickness (after around 30 or so dips), they are then cut from the frame at the base, which leaves them in joined pairs. They are left overnight to properly harden, and the next day the bases are smoothed off. Finally they are packaged and labelled in pairs so you know they came from the same batch.<br />
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The essential tools: dipping frame, pliers and wicking</div>
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The first step is to wind the wick onto the frame</div>
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The wick is then tied and tightened ready to start dipping</div>
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The frame is then dipped into the vat of wax to form the first layer</div>
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After first few layers of wax, the candles start to take shape</div>
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A frame with six tapers starting to get wider</div>
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Dipping the candles into the vat...</div>
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...then waiting for the drips to stop</div>
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Melting the wax for the colour dip with the wax leftover from making the last batch</div>
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The molten coloured wax ready for dipping</div>
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Colour layers building up on the candles</div>
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Adding the ribbon and tying on the labels</div>
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All ready to go!<br />
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Thanks to <a href="http://www.sarahgreig.co.nz/" target="_blank">Sarah Greig Design and Illustration and Design</a> for taking the beautiful photos while I was busy creating!</div>
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Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-58937083964284263142016-07-18T21:26:00.000+12:002016-07-18T21:27:27.088+12:00Starting smallFor some people, their true calling is evident from childhood. Many others don't find it until later in life, but I think I might possibly fall into the first camp...<br />
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As a child I loved making things. I have a very crafty mother who taught me many different handcrafts. I always had something on the go, and was quite handy with scissors, tape and old cereal boxes, they could keep me entertained for hours! One school holidays many years ago, my cousin and I set up a shop to sell a few handmade pieces to family members. This got me hooked on the making things to sell bug, and our product range evolved over time. We even acquired a broken cash register to use, just to add that air of authenticity.<br />
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Our products were mainly focussed on stationery, but seem to have included a bit of everything. I was quite into making recycled paper at the time, so there were lots of cards, envelopes, bookmarks and key rings made with that. You may also notice a few candles – it's more than 20 years now since I made my first one! A few years ago Mum found the box with all my shop bits and pieces in it, so I took a photo of them for posterity. The shopping baskets now reside in my son's toy box.<br />
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Now, more than 20 years later I am living my childhood dream of making things to sell. I'm part of a designer co-op store, <a href="http://www.payitforwardstore.co.nz/" target="_blank">Pay it Forward</a>, so you could even say I have my own shop (well, along with the 50 other designers!)<br />
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This week you have the opportunity to support and encourage a new generation of young designers and makers. As part of <a href="http://www.kidsfest.co.nz/" target="_blank">Kidsfest</a>, Pay it Forward is running a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1017218074994800/" target="_blank">Mini Makers market</a>, where up and coming designers and makers have the opportunity to sell their wares. Come down and check out the amazing talent, and take home a unique handmade piece. It's always a buzz when people buy your creations, and is a great encouragement when you're starting out. Here is a sample of what will be on offer:<br />
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You can see why I showed you my creations first – these ones are much more impressive!<br />
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If you're wondering what my cousin is up to now, she is a visual merchandiser for a well known national retailer, and is busy setting up a new store right at the moment.<br />
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 153px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 624px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 153px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 624px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-12138594707985984172016-02-02T14:55:00.000+13:002017-02-10T10:14:08.369+13:00Three simple and effective ways to style taper candles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Taper candles are a great way to add a touch of elegance to a room. You can go with a traditional candle holder, or choose a modern one to suit your decor. I love choosing the right one from my collection to go with the theme I'm creating.</div>
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1. Modern & Elegant</h3>
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Here I've teamed a copper candle holder with one of our <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.nz/categories/taper-candles/colour-dipper-taper-candles-turquoise">turquoise colour-dipped tapers</a> and a large vase with some gorgeous pink hydrangea blooms. The flowers offset the metallic, geometric shapes of the candle holder, and were picked from the garden.</div>
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2. Industrial Chic</h3>
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The bright tones of the <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.nz/categories/taper-candles/colour-dipped-taper-candles-raspberry">raspberry pink colour-dipped tapers</a> work well with the concrete candle holders. To achieve this look cluster a group of taper candles together in simple, utilitarian candle holders.</div>
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3. Dinner for two</h3>
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What is more perfect to set the scene for a romantic dinner for two than candlelight? If you're planning to treat your partner this Valentine's day, you can't go wrong with some the creamy look of our <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.nz/categories/taper-candles/soybeeswax-blend-hand-dipped-taper-candles">soy/beeswax blend hand dipped taper candles</a> in some classic candle sticks. We've added a red rose and some ivy from the garden to finish the look – all it needs now is a bottle of bubbles and a delicious home cooked meal!</div>
Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-6830795047806971702015-04-28T20:42:00.001+12:002015-04-28T20:43:22.460+12:00The Tea Party is back in a new location!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Come along to our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/995410033805112/">Candlelit Tea Party</a> and take a look at our gorgeous range of candles while enjoying a cup of tea and a cupcake on some fine vintage china.
There will be a range of lit candles on display, great deals on clearance stock, free gift wrapping and a goodie bag for each attendee.<br />
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It will be a great chance to catch up with friends, do a spot and shopping and perhaps even get your Mother's day gift sorted. The Pay It Forward shop will also be open, especially for the Tea Party, so you can also take a look around at all the lovely locally made items in store while you are there.<br />
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Sunday May 3rd from 2:30pm - 4pm at Community Space at Pay it Forward, 49 Nancy Ave, Mairehau, Christchurch. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/payitforwardmairehau">Pay it Forward</a> will be open from 1:30pm - 4:30pm.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-84965960264033480772014-06-17T17:46:00.001+12:002014-06-17T17:46:46.503+12:00Five years of candle recycling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nWdD-ZOVgXM/U5_UqAFswSI/AAAAAAAABCU/OCmaTfkmDew/s1600/recycled+candles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nWdD-ZOVgXM/U5_UqAFswSI/AAAAAAAABCU/OCmaTfkmDew/s1600/recycled+candles.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's been five years since we introduced our candle recycling scheme at our <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2009/06/craft-20-roundup-and-knitting-in-public.html">very first market</a>! Since then, we have recycled almost 100kg of wax into new candles.<br />
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It's also been five years since our first <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2009/05/first-things.html">blog post</a> and <a href="http://felt.co.nz/shop/roseinthorns">felt</a> sale. It's hard to put an age on a business that has had a few stops and starts since it very first began as my freelance graphic design business about 10 years ago (which I still do!). So I think this is a good a time as any to say that Rose in Thorns as we know it now is five years old. Because who doesn't like birthdays?!<br />
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We have also recently put a candle recycling drop off point at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/payitforwardmairehau">Pay it Forward</a> in Mairehau. You can drop off any used candles to be recycled (any unused ones will be donated to charity, so we encourage you do do that as well). If you take in any used Rose in Thorns candles, you can also receive a discount* on your next candle purchase.<br />
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So, in order to celebrate both of these milestones, we are giving a 50% discount on any used Rose in Thorns candles that are returned to us this week. If you can't get into Pay it Forward, at 45 Nancy Ave, Mairehau, Christchurch, then <a href="mailto:candles@roseinthorns.co.nz">get in touch</a> to arrange posting it to us. We can do free return shipping on any candles purchased.<br />
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*conditions apply. More information can be found in our <a href="http://shop.roseinthorns.co.nz/info/sustainability-and-the-environment">Sustainability and Recycling</a> section.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-75934260300340079022014-04-14T17:21:00.000+12:002014-04-14T17:23:22.631+12:00Our candles enhancing your homes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ahUpUQkfzBw/U0ttuYc5pRI/AAAAAAAABAA/aeyfbxce83I/s1600/Gill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ahUpUQkfzBw/U0ttuYc5pRI/AAAAAAAABAA/aeyfbxce83I/s1600/Gill.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
We recently ran a competition where our lovely customers could submit a photo of one of their Rose in Thorns candles enhancing their home for the chance to win a $60 voucher.<br />
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Gill was the lucky winner, with the most popular photo (above). She said "The smell wafting through the house is so lovely, plus it looks so beautiful in the tin. I also love my soy melts, they are great for the bedrooms." Congratulations Gill, we hope you enjoy your prize!<br />
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Check out the other entries below - it's great to see how our candles are enhancing your homes!<br />
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"Smells divine, even after burning it all the way to the end. It's great to come home to a beautiful smelling room after a long day at uni."<br />
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"I love coming home after work, turning the lights off and lighting my Rose in Thorn soy candles. The Rain forest one is divine and after working in a artificially lighted office all day it is nice to have the soft glow of the candles illuminating the room."<br />
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"Rose's tea lights have such a lovely subtle fragrance, just beautiful."Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-78329506284642781602014-03-24T13:07:00.001+13:002014-03-24T17:26:01.630+13:00Candle photo competition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vjcsQFegTOE/Uy90cepeybI/AAAAAAAAA_M/11i3NumdYfE/s1600/candle-photo-contest_r1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vjcsQFegTOE/Uy90cepeybI/AAAAAAAAA_M/11i3NumdYfE/s1600/candle-photo-contest_r1.png" height="222" width="400" /></a></div>
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We love to see how our candles are looking in their new homes. Right now, if you share a photo of one of our candles in your home, you could win a $60 Rose in Thorns gift voucher! Just take a photo, upload it to the <a href="https://a.pgtb.me/hcq14j">competition app</a> via Facebook, Instagram or from your computer, then from Friday get voting for your favourite picture - or encourage your friends to vote for yours. The photo with the most votes will win the voucher.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bbUbk0UciQg/Uy90Z8dK7gI/AAAAAAAAA_E/sUWrntLEsc8/s1600/PIF_advert_20mar14_facebook_22mar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bbUbk0UciQg/Uy90Z8dK7gI/AAAAAAAAA_E/sUWrntLEsc8/s1600/PIF_advert_20mar14_facebook_22mar.png" height="343" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you don't have one yet, then you can buy one from our <a href="http://shop.roseinthorns.co.nz/">online</a><a href="http://shop.roseinthorns.co.nz/"> shop</a>, at our <a href="http://felt.co.nz/shop/roseinthorns">Felt store</a>, or pop down to your <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/stockists.html">local stockist</a>. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/payitforwardmairehau">Pay it Forward</a> is having a sale at the moment, so that could be the perfect opportunity to pick one up! Just get one soon, as entries close this Thursday. Voting closes next Monday.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-67759129264602483012014-03-16T20:21:00.000+13:002014-03-16T20:22:20.138+13:00Christchurch Heritage - Part 2Following on from <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2014/03/christchurch-heritage-part-1.html">last weeks post</a>, I popped into town yesterday to take photos of the remaining buildings from my earlier <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2010/09/christchurch-still-standing.html">post</a> documenting some of the buildings which survived the September earthquake. While I was there I also did a spot of shopping at the <a href="http://tava.net.nz/">Tava pop-up shop</a> and <a href="http://www.gapfiller.org.nz/the-inconvenience-store/">Bridget's two hour shop</a>, both in Cathedral Junction.<br />
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This time I took printouts of the old photos with me, so I could try and line up a similar shot.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4fXALx0XfA/UyT_E_sVKUI/AAAAAAAAA-c/gsecui3YHYQ/s1600/Hanafins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4fXALx0XfA/UyT_E_sVKUI/AAAAAAAAA-c/gsecui3YHYQ/s1600/Hanafins.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
This lovely old building on the corner of Hereford and High Streets suffered a lot of damage in the February earthquake and was subsequently demolished. This photograph was quite hard to line up, with only one building from the original photo still remaining.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dopXhR7BAJU/UyT_H3Ki1WI/AAAAAAAAA-w/xCyfHz5HevY/s1600/Old+post+office.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dopXhR7BAJU/UyT_H3Ki1WI/AAAAAAAAA-w/xCyfHz5HevY/s1600/Old+post+office.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
This is the old Post office building in the Square with Telecom behind it. I'm not sure what the fate of it is. The scene is a bit lopsided now, with both buildings on the right now gone. I think the turret from the old Regent Theatre (?) has been saved, and is sitting on a property near Linwood Ave, visible from the road and looking slightly out of place!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s5jBbbAv2pU/UyT_H1sKEwI/AAAAAAAAA-s/7I0k3mlHzsk/s1600/Old+government+buildings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s5jBbbAv2pU/UyT_H1sKEwI/AAAAAAAAA-s/7I0k3mlHzsk/s1600/Old+government+buildings.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
This photo is largely unchanged from the original. The Old Government building has been restored and reopened by the Heritage Hotel. There is a swimming pool in the basement gym which I learned to swim in at the ripe old age of 22.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HAGNtk4A6w0/UyT_HHEDCcI/AAAAAAAAA-k/5eCNJI2Mcnw/s1600/New+Regent+Street.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HAGNtk4A6w0/UyT_HHEDCcI/AAAAAAAAA-k/5eCNJI2Mcnw/s1600/New+Regent+Street.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
New Regent Street has also been restored and reopened. You'll note a common theme among these photos - most of tall buildings in the background have gone. I don't really miss them, I don't like skyscrapers that much. Don't like being up high inside them, and don't like their behemoth presence from the outside.<br />
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I enjoy going into the city centre. It is getting it's buzz back with more people around, with things to see and places to go. I'm looking forward to seeing the new buildings and initiatives that groups like <a href="http://www.gapfiller.org.nz/">Gap Filler</a> keep dreaming up. The <a href="http://www.gapfiller.org.nz/the-creative-deconstruction-of-the-pallet-pavilion-april-7-start/">Pallet Pavilion</a>, an event space they set up is being deconstructed next month. One of the final events there is the <a href="http://lostfound.co.nz/the-next-market/">Monster March Market</a>, 22 March from 10am - 3pm. You'll find us there, for our first market this year. We'll be bringing all our current candles along with a selection of clearance candles.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-85536244229320725802014-03-15T19:00:00.002+13:002014-03-15T19:04:23.238+13:00Keep up to date with BloglovinI've finally jumped on the bandwagon! If you haven't used it before, it's a great way to keep up with all your favourite blogs, and find new ones. I've also added a handy button in the side bar to make it easy to follow at any time.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/1945817/?claim=t8f2cvtdzk9">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-64775574680328537582014-03-02T17:42:00.001+13:002014-03-02T17:44:26.477+13:00Christchurch Heritage - Part 1A week after the first earthquake in September 2010, I went for a walk around the city to survey the damaged buildings. I ended up taking photos of the beautiful old buildings that appeared to have survived unscathed. There had been lots of coverage in the media about the buildings that had been badly damaged, so I wanted to show the other side of the story, and wrote a <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2010/09/christchurch-still-standing.html">post</a> about the ones that had survived.<br />
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After the February earthquake struck, I wanted to go back and take updated photos of them showing which ones had still survived, and which ones had succumbed. This has taken a lot longer than I anticipated, due to the time it's taken to reopen the CBD, and life in general has also got in the way. I was back in there a couple of weeks ago, and took these 'after' shots of the first few buildings in that post. I will do a follow up post in a couple of weeks showing the remaining buildings featured once I get a chance to photograph them.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5-_qYAkHfLU/UxKw1Bt450I/AAAAAAAAA9s/XjBvaWdZvUg/s1600/Our+City.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5-_qYAkHfLU/UxKw1Bt450I/AAAAAAAAA9s/XjBvaWdZvUg/s1600/Our+City.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.futurechristchurch.co.nz/facilities-rebuild/our-city-o-tautahi">Our City O-Tautahi</a>, or the former Municipal Chambers building has some significance to me as the building I did my <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2009/06/craft-20-roundup-and-knitting-in-public.html">very first market</a> in. As you can see, a lot of work has gone into stabilising the building, so hopefully it will be restored.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1SsqRRfqc_E/UxKw2Oo1N8I/AAAAAAAAA90/t10WDcywT24/s1600/Public+Trust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1SsqRRfqc_E/UxKw2Oo1N8I/AAAAAAAAA90/t10WDcywT24/s1600/Public+Trust.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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The former Public Trust building is one I used to walk past every day when I worked in town. I recall it being extensively refitted, and so hoped some earthquake strengthening was done at this time. It turns out some was, but apparently that wasn't enough, as the owners are currently trying to get <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/city-centre/9690631/Demolition-plan-for-Public-Trust-building">permission to demolish it</a>. This <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/business/the-rebuild/9768556/Heritage-building-will-not-be-demolished">hasn't met the criteria for CERA's section 38 notice</a>, so they are now deciding what to do with it. Apparently it <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/city-centre/9694316/Public-Trust-building-repairable">can be saved</a>, so fingers crossed the money is found to make this happen.</div>
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I have noticed on my travels that a lot of the old Public Trust buildings are of a similar style, such as <a href="http://www.historic.org.nz/TheRegister/RegisterSearch/RegisterResults.aspx?RID=1167">this one that survived the Napier earthquake</a>. Let's hope our one in Christchurch has the same happy ending!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WrDxGdOhwhQ/UxKwv3-tSrI/AAAAAAAAA9k/HZah4ctMMhM/s1600/Napier+Public+Trust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WrDxGdOhwhQ/UxKwv3-tSrI/AAAAAAAAA9k/HZah4ctMMhM/s1600/Napier+Public+Trust.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ul7k6geaSRM/UxKw48basFI/AAAAAAAAA98/wYapB-LKdJ0/s1600/Shands+Emporium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ul7k6geaSRM/UxKw48basFI/AAAAAAAAA98/wYapB-LKdJ0/s1600/Shands+Emporium.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
Shand's Emporium has always been a favourite of mine, as it appeared to defy the progress around it and remain. Unfortunately it hasn't been quite able to do this now, as a new development in the area requires the space. The owner was keen to preserve it, and last I heard, had offered it <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/8885594/Shands-Emporium-waits-for-new-owner">free to a good home</a>, even willing to pay the relocation costs. While researching this post today, I found it has found a new owner, and may be relocated out to Redcliffs. It is shown here where it has been moved out of harms way until it can be taken to it's new home. I look forward to seeing it repaired and returned to it's former glory.<br />
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In a few more years time, I would love to bring you some more photos showing these buildings repaired and restored. In the meantime I will update you on the other buildings featured in my original post.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-49129293900933655302014-02-22T17:48:00.000+13:002014-02-22T17:49:22.560+13:00Three years onIt's nice to be back in Christcurch again this year for the anniversary of the <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2011/03/shaken-to-core.html">devastating earthquake</a> that rocked our city three years ago. Although some of the details of that day are beginning to fade, it is something I will never forget. We went into the memorial service in the botanic gardens today, it was a lovely spot for it on a hot day.<br />
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Last weekend I retraced my footsteps from the moments before the earthquake for the first time since that day. This has only been possible for the last six months or so when the red zone cordon was finally taken down. There are still quite a few fences and shipping containers still up - though times are changing, and some are around new buildings.<br />
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Here are some photos I took, to document what it is like now. I couldn't retrace my exact path due to the fences and shipping containers that are still up, but this is fairly close. The phrase that come to mind afterwards was 'there but for the grace of God go I'.<br />
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I had parked in the carpark at the Crossing, and bought some sushi for lunch which I still had with me, which came in handy later on.<br />
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Cashel mall - Glassons and the Westpac tower once stood here.<br />
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High Street.<br />
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It was nice to see some signs of life returning to this part of High street. This heritage building has been restored to it's original beauty, and the new Strange's building next to it appears to be progressing well.</div>
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The site of the old Ruben Blades building which was badly damaged during the quake.<br />
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High and Manchester street, with the containers holding up what's left of the Excelsior facade.<br />
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The site of the old ANZ chambers building, which completely collapsed during the shaking. This one one of my favourite buildings, so it was sad to hear of its fate.<br />
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McKenzie & Willis building on Tuam street. There were wire fences in front of it on the day - I remember thinking as I walked along side them after crossing the street if you were supposed to walk right next to them... little did I know.<br />
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After popping into Harakeke, I walked back up the other side of High street.<br />
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Standing at these lights waiting to cross, I didn't realise at the time I would be one of the last people to see the old ANZ chambers building still standing.<br />
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Majestic House on Manchester Street.<br />
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Bedford Row - after where I'd been the previous for the previous ten minutes, this wasn't a bad place to be for the quake.<br />
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As I remember the terrible events of that day, my thoughts are with those that lost loved ones, those that were injured and those whose houses and businesses were badly damaged. I don't think anyone comprehended the scale of what had happened, I couldn't. I remember thinking that it would be a lot longer than last time before we were allowed back in the central city, but I was thinking it would be months, not years. I have wanted to do an update on the buildings I showed in <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2010/09/christchurch-still-standing.html">this post</a> a week after the September quake ever since then. I've got some updated photos, so once I have the rest, I will do a post with them.<br />
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Three years on, I hope that those who are still struggling with insurance issues get some answers and closure soon, so they can move on with their lives.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-59887114930384785812014-02-16T17:49:00.001+13:002014-02-16T18:26:32.750+13:00A drawing a day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Juj2q05byw0/UwA-2DHfhII/AAAAAAAAA6o/sqvjQJLepPA/s1600/Day+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Juj2q05byw0/UwA-2DHfhII/AAAAAAAAA6o/sqvjQJLepPA/s1600/Day+1.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
Some time ago I mentioned in <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2013/09/evolution.html">this post</a> that I wanted to get back into drawing again. This was something I did quite a lot of when I was younger, but as with many things, it dropped off the radar. So last week I decided to make a commitment. I declared on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/roseinthorns/posts/10152290370886804">Facebook</a> that I was going to do a drawing a day, and post the results this weekend.<br />
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Portraits are one thing I've always enjoyed drawing, so my wee man and muse was an obvious model choice. This is the first time I've drawn a baby, so I took a photo first, as I didn't think my skills would be up to a life drawing!<br />
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For day two I picked some flowers from the garden to draw. This one is a cornflower - not sure that you can tell!</div>
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I didn't get a chance to draw something on day three (and the only day I missed, I might add!). On day four I was in the shop, so I drew one of my owl candles that was there.<br />
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Day five is a flower from a magazine – I think it was a fejoa.<br />
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Day five is a tomato fresh from the garden (I'm noticing a theme here!).<br />
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Day six is of a candle that has burned down after I tested a new prototype. The lighting wasn't great for drawing, there were some harsh shadows so I haven't captured it quite right.<br />
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Making myself draw something every day has been good - I just found whatever was at hand, which meant I chose things I might not normally have thought of. I will try to keep it up now, and spend a bit more time on them and brush up my skills. I think there maybe some more baby portraits before I'm done!<br />
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Which one do you like the best? Let me know in the comments!Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-84074847656973452014-02-09T14:24:00.000+13:002014-02-09T14:24:50.319+13:00Small and sweet for Valentine's day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Valentine's day is a great time to connect with your special someone or to indulge yourself with a little me time. We have a great selection of candles to set the scene, and to celebrate Valentine's day, we have a 25% off sale on soy <a href="http://shop.roseinthorns.co.nz/permalink/bcdlkrrq">tealights</a>, <a href="http://shop.roseinthorns.co.nz/permalink/bcqcxflw">floating candles</a> and <a href="http://shop.roseinthorns.co.nz/permalink/bcwsfspx">melts</a>. Sale ends 13th February.<br />
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Small candles like tea lights and floating candles are great for creating atmosphere. Find some little dishes or saucers to put tea lights on, or fill a bowl with water and rose petals and add floating candles.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-34818477409783154752013-11-25T14:39:00.001+13:002013-11-27T13:02:25.098+13:00Tea Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">The Rose in Thorns tea party is back, just in time for some Christmas shopping. If you want to shop in a relaxed environment and enjoy tea and cupcakes served on fine china with good company, then come along! </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">It will be held on the 1st December at 3pm - 5pm at my home in Northcote. If you would like to come, just</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dE5QYlM0SFJXNWhyRC1sanRfMFhlZ1E6MQ"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">register here</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"> and you will be sent address details a few days before the event. You can also rsvp to the</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/411274752334970/?ref=22">facebook event</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">if you wish.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Our full range of candles will be available, so you can take a look over them at your leisure. I will have some candles lit so you can see them in action, and there will be some great specials on clearance items.</span><br />
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Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-42536755402126288752013-11-01T14:12:00.000+13:002013-11-01T14:12:39.602+13:00Manderley Home and Garden Festival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Next weekend you'll find me at the <a href="http://www.manderley.co.nz/festival.htm">Manderley Home and Garden Festival</a>. It's an event I always enjoy attending, due the the lovely setting and atmosphere. There will be a great selection of food stalls, live music and dancing and the homestead will have three rooms open to the public.<br />
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There will also be a large selection of stalls hand-picked for their quality and originality, so it is a great event to start your Christmas shopping in a relaxing environment. It's on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th November from 10am - 4pm each day at 3875 Christchurch/Akaroa Highway, Little River. Admission is $15, with children under 12 free.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-8446900971302569042013-09-13T11:25:00.000+12:002013-09-13T11:25:50.615+12:00EvolutionSo my blogger dashboard tells me this is my 150th post – hopefully it lives up to that milestone!<br />
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As the saying goes, the only constant is change. My life has changed quite a lot over the last few years, and the last few months have been no exception. My wee man is growing and learning at a rapid rate, and it's definitely a fun journey to be part of. While on leave I seemed to keep stumbling upon lots of different artists, which inspired me to get back into drawing again. I haven't made a start on that <i>yet</i>, but I hope to find some time soon. I used to draw people quite a lot when I was a teenager, with a strong lean towards the heart throbs of the time. (I'm guessing that <a href="http://www.dearcolleen.co/">Dear Colleen</a> must have gone through a similar phase herself, with her ever expanding collection of <a href="http://shop.dearcolleen.co/category/tea-towels">dishes tea towels</a>!) I even managed to put a couple of drawings of Brad Pitt into my Schoot Cert art portfolio. I'm still not sure how I managed to get that past my art teacher! Since then I have mostly focussed on painting, as I thought it was a natural progression, but I would quite like to try drawing again. Here are some of the drawings I did way back then, including the School Cert specimens. Points for anyone who can identify any of the three featured at the bottom!<br />
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My workspace also keeps evolving. Last year I posted some pictures of <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2012/02/new-year-new-office.html">what it looked like</a> after I'd finished setting it up. Since then, it's been entirely redecorated, and I kept posting <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2013/02/new-year.html">teasers</a> saying I was going to put some new pictures up. Here are some I took in early May – it's changed again since then, but I still have some more plans for it, so new pictures are going to have to wait!<br />
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The room was repainted after earthquake repairs, and I had decided some form of 'duck egg blue' would be nice, and found the perfect shade. So I also painted the cabinet to match, as it needed some updating, and also it's own repairs after being knocked over from the fishtank. The busy 1970's carpet also had to go, so we found a wool carpet in a nice neutral brown, and then we had to get new curtains, as the pink ones didn't go so well!</div>
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The room changed again not long after that, to make way for the spare bed which had been in what became the baby's room. It has now gone in favour of a sofa bed, which means I no longer require the couch, which is my pride and joy. I'm not quite sure I can bear to part with it just yet, so it's future remains unknown at this stage.</div>
Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-59413338658775842582013-07-27T15:40:00.001+12:002013-07-27T15:41:48.263+12:00Sharing the love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few weeks before the wee man was born, this lovely packages of goodies turned up on my doorstep. They were from <a href="http://www.sophieslim.co.nz/p/the-sisterhood.html">The Sisterhood</a>, to show us love from afar as we headed into this new season of life. It was a very kind gesture, and I must say I did feel loved, it really made my day. Somehow, they'd even managed to figure out what my favourite chocolates were too!<br />
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Things are going really well with the wee man after a few difficulties to begin with. He's growing really well, and is a sweet wee boy.<br />
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In this last week, when the headlines seemed to revolve around babies, I learned that a crafty friend of mine was in a very stressful situation with her premature baby girl Lily. She had been born unexpectedly in Shanghai while they were in transit on their way back from Europe. She was born at 27 weeks gestation, which in itself would be incredibly stressful. So to have this happen in a foreign country, with a different language and different culture, while away from your usual support networks would make everything much, much more difficult.<br />
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They would like to bring her back to New Zealand, but as their travel insurance won't cover this, they need to raise the $250,000 need to bring her back in an air ambulance. If you would like to help out, you can donate some money via their <a href="https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/GetLilyHome">givealittle page</a>, and keep up to date with the fundraising efforts on their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/getlilyhome">facebook page</a>.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-60238204492095953012013-06-16T21:15:00.001+12:002013-07-27T15:42:07.836+12:00A new arrival<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Josh and I welcomed little Hamish into the world at 10:51am on the 4th June, weighing 3.98kgs. Now we're settling in at home, and learning about this whole new exciting chapter of life!</span>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-36611853540534281002013-05-27T10:00:00.001+12:002013-05-27T10:01:46.162+12:00Maternity leave saleVery soon I will be finishing up work while I await the arrival of the new baby, so in the meantime, I thought I would have a sale to help clear some stock, and free up some space in the office, which is about to become the spare room as well!<br />
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So, until Tuesday evening, everything in the <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/">online shop</a> is at least 20% off. There are also some great deals on <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/seconds">seconds</a>, and <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance">clearance items</a>, including <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/discontinued-products">discontinued candles</a> and <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/discontinued-fragrances">fragrances</a>.<br />
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The discontinued fragrances are chocolate, coffee and rainforest. These are still available in <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/discontinued-fragrances/discontinued-box-of-six-soy-tealights">tealights</a>, and various bargain box packs, with <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/discontinued-fragrances/owl-and-tealight-bargain-box">owls</a> (coffee and chocolate) or <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/discontinued-fragrances/teardrop-and-tealight-bargain-box">teardrops</a> (rainforest). There is also one great value pack with a<a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/discontinued-fragrances/owl-tin-tealight-bargain-box"> chocolate owl, large tin and box of tealights</a>. Stocks are limited in these products, so once they're gone, they're gone!<br />
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Sadly, I will be discontinuing the popular teardrop candles, as they are not particularly cost effective to make. I will still be able to make them to order though. The bright side is that they are included in some of the clearance packs, so if you've had your eye on them for a while, now is a great time to snap them up.<br />
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They are available in one <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/discontinued-products/five-scented-teardrop-candles">set of five with all fragrances</a>, <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/discontinued-products/small-teardrop-candle-with-acrylic-plate">with a white acrylic plate</a>, <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/discontinued-products/teardrop-candle">individually</a>, and in various <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/gift-packs/large-tin-teardrop-with-plate-and-small-tin-gift-p">gift packs</a>.<br />
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There are also some great value <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/seconds">seconds bargain boxes</a>, with candles that have minor chips or dents, or other surfance damage, but still smell great and burn well. These include a <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/seconds/frangipani-teardrop-bargain-box">set of three different sized frangipani teardrops</a>, and a <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/seconds/large-owl-candle-tealight-bargain-box">large owl with tealights</a>, along with some <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/seconds/owl-tin-teardrop-bargain-box">owl, tin and teardrop combos</a>.<br />
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Last but not least, there are some gift pack with candle plates, including <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/gift-packs/soy-pillar-and-plate">soy pillars with china plates</a>, tealights with <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/gift-packs/box-of-six-soy-tealights-and-saucer">saucers</a> or <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/gift-packs/box-of-heart-tealights-with-large-square-slate">slates</a>, and <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/gift-packs/ice-candle-and-plate">ice candles with saucers</a>.<br />
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I finally finished organising the office a couple of weeks back, and took some photos which I will post up later this week!Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-19973505234364070652013-05-15T10:18:00.001+12:002019-02-16T20:09:22.405+13:00World famous in Christchurch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/6ghkd8csyyx82vn/Press%20Article_305.jpg?dl=0">here</a> to read the article</td></tr>
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It's not often you get a full page feature in the local newspaper, so I was quite excited this morning to go and buy a copy of the <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press">Press</a> so I could see how it looked. A big thank you to <a href="http://www.threadmark.co.nz/threadmark/">Katy</a> who helps keep up the profile of the local crafting community by writing articles for the Zest section of the Press.<br />
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The photo is of my stall at the Christmas Encraftment last year – thanks <a href="http://freedomcreative.blogspot.co.nz/">Emma</a> for taking the pics!</div>
Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-72292764558702947482013-05-03T14:49:00.001+12:002013-05-03T14:49:33.199+12:00Be in to win a gorgeous soy candle prize packAfter much anticipation, we have recently launched our new soy glass jar candles. One of the main benefits of using glass is that you can see the light from the flame all the way to the bottom of the candle. They also look pretty too!<br />
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Glass bowls are often used as wedding centrepieces, but we think you should be able to enjoy them in your home any time you like as well! They are currently <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/soy-candles/soy-glass-bowl-candle">available</a> in the following fragrances: rose, vanilla, frangipani, mandarin & mimosa, white tea, jasmine & honeysuckle and red raspberry.<br />
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The little votive glasses were just crying out for some colour, so we now have a rainbow of fragrances available in these sweet little candles. These are also <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/soy-candles/soy-glass-votive-candle">available</a> in the same fragrances as the bowls (listed above).<br />
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We have also launched a delectable new fragrance, red raspberry. Just try and resist it, it smells good enough to eat! It is currently available in the soy <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/soy-candles/soy-glass-bowl-candle">glass bowl</a>, <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/soy-candles/soy-glass-votive-candle">glass votive</a> and <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/soy-candles/box-of-six-soy-tealight-candles">tealight</a> candles, along with a one off <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/soy-candles/berries-and-cream-scented-soy-glass-jar-candle">recycled glass jar candle</a>. We also have some lovely <a href="http://felt.co.nz/listing/151455/Set-of-six-crystal-glass-candles-aamade-to-order">crystal glasses</a> that can be made to order in your favourite scent, perhaps for a wedding, or whatever you like!<br />
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To celebrate the launch of these new candles, we are giving away this gorgeous prize pack. It includes a <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/soy-candles/soy-glass-bowl-candle">soy glass bowl candle</a>, a <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/soy-candles/soy-glass-votive-candle">soy glass votive candle</a> and a <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/soy-candles/box-of-five-soy-floating-candles">box of five soy floating candles</a> in your choice of available fragrances.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 14px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 14px; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"> </span></span>To enter, all you need to do is choose your favourite Rose in Thorns candle from our website and Felt shop, then fill in your details in this <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/13zhHMvtw9CAib-D6sU-P-jr9QiaJ3QhR6HR9gA1DuqU/viewform">form</a> and you're in the draw. It's that easy! Entries close at 8pm on Wednesday the 8th May 2013.<br />
<br />Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-18060914888792353332013-05-02T12:33:00.000+12:002013-05-02T18:55:04.226+12:00Creative Collections<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After a delay due to earthquake strengthening work, <a href="http://artandcompany.wordpress.com/">Art & Company</a>'s annual exhibition for 2012 is currently on at the <a href="http://christchurchcitylibraries.com/south/">South Library</a>, 66 Colombo Street. It runs until the 9th May, and contains a variety of paintings from beginners through to more experienced artists.<br />
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This is my sixth time exhibiting with this group, and I'm always impressed with how well it comes together. Maree always does a great job organising it!<br />
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It is well worth a look if you are based in Christchurch, and paintings can be purchased through the Red cafe onsite.<br />
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The following are my paintings in the exhibtion:<br />
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<i> Pecking order</i><br />
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<i> Standing tall</i><br />
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<i>Uighur Beauty</i>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-4493638863278166622013-03-21T16:36:00.000+13:002013-03-21T16:36:30.688+13:00Why it's been a bit quiet around here latelyClearly my goal to post more often this year has fallen by the wayside! I've been busy organising my office and spare room, as mentioned in my last post (still no new photos yet – soon!). There are two reasons for this – it was long overdue, and the spare room is being requisitioned for a new purpose – a baby's room. Yes, I'm having a baby in June, so I'm having a bit of a tidy up and destash so that I can squeeze everything from the spare room into the office.<br />
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It's actually quite satisfying getting rid of things you no longer require, and since I've been downsizing lately, it's become more necessary. Over the years I've accumulated more and more things, and the last flat we lived in had a lot of space to store it. When we bought our house just over a year ago, it was slightly smaller with less storage, so things became a bit more crammed, and the sorting had to commence. Now that I have to downsize by another room, it's become more urgent!<br />
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I don't like throwing things into landfill if I can help it, so the second half of the problem becomes what to do with all the things I don't need any more. Fortunately trademe is a good place to find new homes for obscure things, though I'm yet to make my fortune doing that. Charity shops are always another good option, and if you have time for a quick browse when you're dropping things off you can often find something you need to buy, and share the love even more. Once I've put up the last lot of new curtains, the old ones will be going to the <a href="http://www.cea.co.nz/curtainbank">Curtain bank</a>, a charity that resizes old curtains for families in cold houses.<br />
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I've also got some surplus candles which are taking up valuable space and need new homes as well. I'm trying to streamline my product offering a bit more, to make setting up at markets a bit more efficient. This means I won't be making any more of some older candles. If you'd like to take a look at what's on offer, I have a section on the website for <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance">discontinued candles</a>, which includes discontinued fragrances, the small and large tins, and <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/clearance/ice-candle">ice candles</a>. So if you are a fan of the rainforest, chocolate or coffee fragrances, then snap them up now so you don't miss out.<br />
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I'm also having a sale on selected products which can be found in the <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/sale">sale section</a>. There are also a few bumped and knocked candles in the <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/categories/seconds">seconds</a> section. Last but not least, because it's almost the end of the financial year, and stocktaking is boring, I have another incentive for you to stock up on candles. Any purchases $20 and over before the end of March receive free shipping withing New Zealand. This will be automatically applied on the <a href="http://www.roseinthorns.co.nz/">website</a>, and if buying on <a href="http://felt.co.nz/shop/roseinthorns">Felt</a>, just enter the code FREESHIP at checkout.<br />
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I'm getting to the end of the sorting now, and can nearly fit everything in the wardrobe in the office. Trust me when I say this is quite an achievement! So hopefully I'll have some new photos to put up in the next few weeks.<br />
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It would be nice to make a few baby things before the baby comes as well, so once I've finished all this organising, I might even have some time for this!<br />
<br />Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1794629888105279052.post-6767185633885772002013-02-06T18:10:00.000+13:002013-02-08T08:58:06.543+13:00New Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I always like the break over Christmas and New Year as a great opportunity to reflect, and think about what I'd like to do and things I'd like to change in the coming year. One thing was to blog more regularly, but I clearly need to do more work on that one!<br />
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I've been self-employed for almost three years now, so I've been thinking about where I'd hoped to be by now, and where I'm at. It has been hard work, and a lot more difficult than I expected. I didn't achieve the growth I had hoped for last year, which means my financial position is only slightly better than a <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2011/12/milestones-and-merry-christmas-to-you.html">year ago</a>, and still quite far off my goal of earning a living.<br />
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This of course raises the question of whether or not it's sensible to continue. The prevailing wisdom is that it takes three years for a business to find it's feet. There has been a lot of trial and error, and the associated costs of this, along with the general costs of setting up a business. I've learned which products work better, so know which direction to concentrate my efforts.<br />
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I have a lot of the skills required to run a business, but feel I'm missing something, that spark that brings everything together and makes it sing. I like running my own business, and the freedom it brings, so would like to find that missing piece, and to make it work properly.<br />
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To this end, I have a few plans this year. I would like to be more organised, and have been going through everything having a good sort out, and trying to catch up on boring paperwork and filing that seems to get forgotten. I would also like to put some more time into marketing. This is one area that I always seem to leave to last, which means it often gets forgotten, but is an important part of a business. I have subscribed to an online course by <a href="http://designinganmba.com/">Designing and MBA</a> called <a href="http://marketingformakers.com/">Marketing for Makers</a> which I hope to complete soon. So once I get my time management sorted, things will be all go!<br />
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I had hoped by now the office would be all tidy and I could put up some new photos of it. It has been redecorated over the last year, and I'd been wanting to finish tidying so I could take some after shots to post up. That hasn't happened yet... soon, I promise, but I did find last years <a href="http://roseinthorns.blogspot.co.nz/2012/02/new-year-new-office.html#comment-form">photo post</a>, which I posted exactly a year ago. It's quite nice to look back and see how much it has changed!Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05266722417757669826noreply@blogger.com0