Two years on

I am a great believer in planning, experimenting and adapting to respond to changes. I don't necessarily do all these things as well as I would like to, but I do them all the same.

In early spring three years ago, I completed a new business plan outlining my vision for Pretty Practicals for the next few years. I carefully set about putting my plans into action and 15 months later (by late June 06) I was ready to present my business to the world. Although I had undertaken some serious market testing beforehand, Pretty Practicals was to be officially launched on 23 July 2006.

My parents have always been amazingly supportive of me and have followed, encouraged, supported, laughed with me and celebrated along the way.

I can hardly believe how quickly the last two years have flown past and this week is especially memorable for me because as I start to celebrate my business's 2nd birthday, there is also a tinge of sadness thrown into the mix.

On 17th July 2006, just 6 days before I officially launched Pretty Practicals, my father passed away. In true Dad-style, a stiff upper lip will be shown by our family tomorrow, a thought or two (and more) will stay in our minds of how much we miss him and then we will celebrate as best we can, all the good things that he gave to us and to everyone who's life he touched.

At Dad's funeral, his closest friend Peter Baskett (who sadly also passed away earlier this year) paid tribute to him, these wonderful words sum him up to a tea. To read this beautifully composed obituary click here.

A new year for Pretty Practicals is just about to begin and I am planning a little party to celebrate, so watch this space and I will tell you all about it shortly.

As always, it's time to put the kettle on,
Chat soon, Liz
All images and text copyright Pretty Practicals 2006 - 2008 except where stated. Image on this blog entry is property of Mrs Zorab.

Happy Easter

with best wishes from Liz & Dave

Hot house & Nottinghill

There are some days when things go well; at work I achieve everything on my 'to do' list and then at home, the boiler decides that it will function with the ferocity of a volcano, making our house toasty warm and heavenly to be in... today is such a day.

So, I have decided to treat myself and am now curled up on the sofa with my faithful cat (still doing warthog impressions) on one side of me, a cup of hot chocolate on the other side of me and Nottinghill on the DVD player. And in about an hour and a half, I will be reaching for the tissues... it happens every time and there's no reason to think that this evening's viewing will be any different.

Won't chat for longer tonight.... going to enjoy the 'me' time, chat soon, Liz

100th blog Giveaway

Ooh this is exciting... to celebrate my 100th blog entry I am doing my first giveaway! To be included in the draw, just leave a little comment and I will pick the winner's name at random late in the evening of 10th February, so that this little collection of hearts might be with you in time for Valentine's Day.

It's been another great day at work ~ I am so lucky to be able to work doing something I love and with the man I love ~ every day brings new joys and challenges.

I have found the correct link to a bit of info about our stand at the NEC, so here it is... Restoration Pavillion and I have sprung into action with planning and organising and things now seem well under control. Dave has finished creating our new logo which can be seen as our blog picture and will be on the front page of the website shortly.

Louise (of Louise Loves) popped in to see us today; she makes the most gorgeous cushions and things from vintage fabrics and creates her own design fabrics. If you haven't discovered her lovely website yet, it really is worth a view.

And finally, I just wanted to share this picture with you. These beautiful blooms will be cheering up my house for some time ...

... and I like them so much that I have popped them onto the website homepage for a little while. Amazingly, these are faux flowers ~ haven't things moved on since the days of garish coloured plastic tulips? Well, I can hear Dave in the kitchen, so there must be some tea on the way!

Chat soon, Liz