Amish bread, a heatwave…and a Giveaway!!!

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all images © Ness Lockyer

Before I start, let me apologize in case this post is all over the place…it’s sooo hot here and I don’t think I have recovered from tonight’s Zumba class yet. Alright-y. We had a long weekend here in Tassie and it has been wonderful, hot, sticky, and relaxing all at the same time. Melbourne is getting the same weather as us here, but no-one ever mentions Tassie’s heat on the news…we always get left out.

A major event from the weekend was that Mic found my long, long lost camera charger! This was enormous news as I have been doing all of my photos with my phone while we searched high and low for the ‘real’ camera’s charger…it was in one of my handbags on top of my wardrobe…oops…didn’t look in there! We did give the house a good clean out though in the process…

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This means I can start taking some proper shots again although these ones were prior to the charger being discovered, so are the phone …it all happened in the nick of time as I have a photo shoot coming up and needed that camera going…phew!

I did manage to take some for the shop update which I will get to in a moment and these pieces above are some remnants from that shoot. I love these colours and textures I told you, all over the place, stay with me now

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I did get to bake a little bit yep, I know, who bakes in 35 degree heat…apparently I do. This was my first attempt at Amish Cinnamon Bread. Let me just say, it’s not the best for your hips, but it tastes good. I posted this shot on the Marley & Lockyer Facebook page as I was showing the wing plates, and I had a lot of emails asking for the recipe…..as usual, I tweaked it a bit.

AMISH CINNAMON BREAD- makes 2 loaves!

*1 cup of soft butter

*2 cups of sugar (or natvia/stevia/agave if you are cutting out sugar)

*2 eggs

*2 cups of buttermilk (or 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice)

*4 cups of plain flour

*2 teaspoons of baking soda

-Cinnamon/ sugar mix *2/3 cup sugar (or sub), 2 teaspoons cinnamon

1. cream butter, sugar and eggs.

2. Add flour, milk and soda and fold through. Put half of the mixture (or a bit less) into greased loaf pans (1/4 in each).

3. Mix in a separate bowl the 2/3 cup of sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle on top of the 1/2 batter in each tin.

4. add remaining batter and sprinkle the rest of the sugar/cinnamon mix over the top and swirl through with a knife.

5. Bake at 180C for 45-50 mins or until a skewer comes out clean. Take out of oven and let cool in pan for 20 mins before turning out.

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On Sunday, Mic, the boys and I went out to the markets where the Glover Prize was on. This is the richest landscape art competition in Australia and I love going there each year…but I didn’t get to go in. It was sooo hot ans so many people were lined up to get into the building, I didn’t bother…so we hunted about…like you do….

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…and I found a bundt tin! Couldn’t believe it. When you are not looking, it finds you. I baked our other Amish bread in this and we took it with us to Mic’s Mum and Dad’s property for dinner that night – it was a hit! We also spent lots of time at the beach up the road. The water was perfect!

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Yesterday, I finally got to load up the shop. After last weeks “great crash of ’13”, I have been working flat out to replenish what was damaged in that wind…4 loads in the kiln later and I am back on track…until I released these new pieces…

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they all sold out within ten minutes! Far out you guys are fast!! This one above is part of the “Embroidered Series”. They are all based on antique and vintage linens I have collected over the years which have wonderful embroidery details to them. This one is the “Irish Plate”. I have French, Belgian, Scottish, Australian and a few more I haven’t released yet.

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I have started to take some photos of the plates and bowls being used, to give scale and so you can see what can be done with them, along with a plain shot for clarity of design. The shot I went with of the Irish Plate didn’t  have the napkin on it, but I thought this one was lovely with my beautiful vintage, blue and white plate.

I am thinking of doing a shop update once a week on a set day at a set time, so people don’t miss out on pieces.  I would let you know where and when in advance too. I asked the question on Facebook and it seemed to go well over there…what do you think?

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…but seriously, all I can think about is the cooler weather…I am so over this heat! Can’t wait to be able to welcome Autumn like we normally have by now…and light the fire! Before I sign off, there is a GIVEAWAY to mention…..

HEAT WAVE GIVEAWAY!

This giveaway will be valued at $60.00 and will be chosen at random like a lucky dip you may get a plate & bowl, some jewelry and a bowl, some tags and a cushion from the Marley & Lockyer range…WHO KNOWS well I will, but you get it right?

All you have to do is follow the Marley & Lockyer blog, and tell me here what you would get with $60 from Marley & Lockyer. By following the blog, you will not miss out on any sales codes, sales albums, and giveaways…and the shop updates. By sharing on your social media networks, you will get extra entries too! Just let me know in your comment.

It will be drawn on Thursday evening. Good luck! Ness xx

Comments

comments

Comments (61)

  • OMGoodness! I would LOVE to win! I just LOVE your blog! Well, lets see, If I won I would want to get anything you choose….I love it all. I most definately love your divine wing plates and have had my eye on them for some time! Yes. I think it would have to be that!!

    Reply
    • Thank you so much. I’m glad you like it. The wing plates are popular….you could get two with $60!!!
      Good luck
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • Ooooooo…….so many thing I would get: more wing plates, a believe plate, gorgeous clay tags, I love it alllllll!!!

    Reply
    • Great choices Kathie! Good luck.
      N xx

      Reply
  • Hi Ness,
    Beautiful photos as always. Glad you are back on top of it all. I would love anything from your range, But I would love some of your little plates
    Fiona xx

    Reply
    • Thank you Fiona. It feels so good to have stock on the shelves again. Good luck lovely xx

      Reply
  • I would love a necklace and escape tag to the replace the ones which have tragically broken

    Reply
    • Oh no Simone! That is no good at all. Well, you will be able to get lots if you win the voucher…good luck.
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • Hi Ness,
    Have shared this on facebook and Instagram. Got your email to say my parcel is on the way, can’t wait! I would love one of your cushions for my new lounge. Glad you are back on track.
    Luv Dayna x

    Reply
    • Thank you Dayna! I’m trying to crack on after all of that work was destroyed…I’m getting there. Hope you love your order.
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • Hi Ness,
    I love reading your blog and seeing all your new designs. Not to mention reading the yummy recipes. I can’t wait to try them unfortunately that will have to wait a few more months as I am currently on bed rest until the new addition to our family arrives.
    There are so many things to choose from and I would definitely put more money in if I won. I would choose the Vanilla & Porcelain wood ring for myself and a letter from the cinematic light range for the nursery.

    Reply
    • Oh dear! That sounds like not a lot of fun at all…but at least you will have a wonderful surprise at the end. The Cinematic lights are perfect as night lights too.
      Take care xx

      Reply
  • Hello Ness, I’m going to buck the trend,even though I love the winged plates, I think with Easter fast approaching, I would go for a selection of your lovely gift tags – especially the rabbit ones – they’re so cute and would set off some easter presents perfectly. Karen
    ps… glad you found your charger too – your photos are just divine! I try to replicate your style but not very effectively (do you do a lot of photoshop etc?).

    Reply
    • Hi Karen,
      I don’t have any photoshop programs at all. I just fiddle about with the settings on my camera…I’m still trying to figure it out actually, so much to learn.
      Loving your choices by the way!
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • I have only just discovered you via Instagram, so if I won I wouldn’t know where to begin…I would be more than happy to leave it up to you! Your work is beautiful and inspiring and I’m really enjoying your blog – tried the cloves in the pantry and it worked! Great tip, thanks.

    Reply
    • Welcome along Mel…how great is IG? I love it!
      Glad you liked the cloves. It makes the linen smell so nice too, and thank you for your sweet words. Good luck xx

      Reply
  • Hi Ness,
    What would I buy with $60……?

    For me…the beautiful Heather Drop earrings….
    For a very special friend….I would love one of the bunny tags to celebrate Easter…
    For my family….your Pressed Tin Ceramic Bowl. It would grace our dining room table!!

    On another note…I do so enjoy the gentleness of your blog! Eva

    Reply
    • That is so sweet…and a great choice too…and thank you for your kind comment xx

      Reply
  • Ness, I love your styling and enjoy your blog. You’ve inspired me in
    styling my own home! I’d choose a pressed tin plate, a love you tag, and
    I absolutely love the new design embroidered plate! Thanks for the
    opportunity! :))

    Reply
    • I’m happy to hear that. Having a play about with things from other rooms of your house puts a new spin on a room. Have fun and thank you for your lovely comment. Good luck. N xx

      Reply
  • All your things are so lovely, I would be delighted to spend $60 on a pressed tin ceramic bowl (gorgeous for my jewellery), Patsy Porcelain Pendant, Bike Tags (very cool way to make guy presents look awesome) and Petite Bird Mini Tags (so sweet). Thanks for the chance! ps you have made me especially hungry with all that delicious baking going on at your house xx

    Reply
    • Haha…I need to stop eating it all! Thank you for your sweet comment. Good luck! Xx

      Reply
  • Oh goodness if I won I would love some of your wonderful winged plates, but the clay tags are gorgeous too and oh my cushions……..

    Love your blog and your work so very beautiful!

    Reply
    • Thank you lovely. Good luck xx

      Reply
  • I love the ampersand brooch. I liked you on Facebook and became a follower. I enjoy reading your blog.

    Rachel

    Reply
    • Thank you Rachel and good luck xx

      Reply
  • Ness, I would not have any trouble spending that $60. LOVE new vintage linen plate – gorgeous!
    thanks Imby

    Reply
    • That’s good to hear. Those Embroidered plates are fast becoming my favourites to date. Good luck
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • Oh My, Such Beautiful work. You are amazing. I live in Louisiana, USA. Where beauty and charm is shown from inside of a home and your whole heart! I would be honored to have your work in my home!

    Many Hugs

    Reply
    • That sounds wonderful. A home should contain your heart and soul I think too. Thank you for your lovely comment and good luck.
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • I’d definitely choose the embroidered plate – love the texture mix of the ceramic and the”fabric” design. Ness you are a clever clogs!

    Reply
    • Why thank you lovely! I am glad you like the new range…good luck xx

      Reply
  • I love everything you design. I am especially loving these latest vintage linen plates. (They remind me of some of my Mothers old linen table cloths that I have been fortunate enough to inherit). You once showed a cheese platter. Do you ever make them to order? Keep up the great work Ness, you make me envious of your great talent. Lynne xx

    Reply
    • Hi Lynne,
      I am making the platters, but they are listed as they are made because they are very organic in nature. I make them as I go…no patterns as such. They are an ‘off the cuff’ thing. Keep your eyes peeled for the next shop update though.
      Good luck.
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • I’m already your follower, Ness 😛 I really can’t choose what I would get for $60! It’s all so lovely! I LOVE the new plates, and all the old plates. Of the jewellery, my absolute favourite so far is the Eve leaf necklace (not in your Etsy shop right now, I know), but I think that brings the total up, even without getting a look at all those gorgeous ceramic tags. I love your work so much, and how it reflects your sweet creative spirit ♥

    Reply
    • Thank you sweet Emma. I am glad you like it all. I have some porcelain Eve necklaces coming soon….
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • Oh it would be so hard to chose. I think either a wing plate or something from the embroidery series.

    Reply
    • The new Embroidered Series is proving to be very popular! Good luck
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • I would love, love, love to own one of your pillows, they are the best…

    Reply
    • Thank you very much. They have stood the test of time. Our house is the testing grounds…two small boys and a country life! We still have some of my original ones from about 5 years ago on the sofa 🙂
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • I love the bicycle tags, the Mr. Rabbit items. I love the bowls that I saw on your blog, and your plates.

    Reply
    • Nice combination Kathy xx

      Reply
  • Hi Ness
    Sapa from IG here – long time fan!!
    I’m a follower and liker now too
    I’d chose the porcelain eclipse pendant and a small bowl
    x

    Reply
  • Hello Ness – sapa from IG here – long time fan!!
    I’d choose the eclipse pendant (so pretty) and a small bowl
    x

    Reply
    • Hi Sapa…who I now know is Ally! Loving your choices
      Ness xx

      Reply
  • I LOVE the embroidered plates! I’ve been following you on Instagram for a few weeks and enjoying all the preview photos – and just now started following your blog “officially” 🙂

    Reply
    • Thank you and thank you 🙂 Welcome along to my ramblings 😉
      N xx

      Reply
  • Like everyone else, I agree that there are just so many beautiful items I could possibly choose from your shop – but in the end I think I would go with the set of 4 ‘Love’ tags – so I could hang them around our new home, just to remind my husband that I love him, even if Im not right there to tell him (I know, bit soppy…) 🙂

    Reply
    • I get that completely …not soppy at all.
      Good luck xx

      Reply
  • Love the French embroidered plate, but there are so many equally beautiful items I could choose to spend up on!

    Reply
    • Thank you Tania. I am glad you like them xx

      Reply
      • Takes me back to my Nan’s beautiful linen

        Reply
        • I adore old linens and hunt the world for them. My Nan had beautiful pieces too and I was lucky enough to be given some….treasure yours.
          N xx

          Reply
  • I would select three special treats . . . . one for a dear friend who paid me the greatest favor today, the second for my Mum who lives 800km away and the third, for myself . . . . to celebrate the end of another busy working week. X

    Reply
  • Sooo hard to choose what I’d pick. But probably the Mr Fox brooch and some bunny clay tags for Easter pressies OR I’d splurge and put it towards one of the Cinematic Lights which I’ve been coveting for awhile 🙂

    Reply
  • I am looooving your ceramic pieces. I have just started a ceramics class which makes me appreciate your beautiful things even more – I can see how much care & attention you put in. With the $60 I would spend them on your wing plates because they are divine, especially for serving my sweets 🙂

    Reply
    • That makes my heart sing….I love working with ceramics, but yes, it is a laborious love and most don’t realise what goes into each piece…especially when I do it all myself by hand.
      I am sure you will fall in love with clay when you are done.
      N xx

      Reply
  • I love the embroidered plates and the Believe It Truly- Ceramic Inspirations Series Bowl. Very hard to choose from the lovely products.

    Reply
    • Great choice…and just in the nick of time xx

      Reply
  • Oh my goodness if I was lucky enough to win I would love to begin my collection of the new embroidered plates, and maybe a wing plate to add to my first one which was the most gorgeous Christmas gift from a friend 🙂 You are so generous Ness xx

    Reply
  • *****THE GIVEAWAY HAS NOW ENDED**** THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH FOR ENTERING AND SHARING XX
    The winner is revealed in the post above 🙂

    Reply

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