Long Time No Speak


October Newsletter

Long Time No Speak

I know that I don't owe anyone an explanation on why I dropped off the face of the earth for the last six months. However, you guys are my community, so here goes!

I had to have an emergency operation in April, which left me dealing with some pretty horrific side effects, even though my surgical team said it was a success. I then underwent another four operations to try to resolve those issues. To cut a long story short, nothing helped, and something actually made them worse, so in the end, I ended up with a PEG feeding tube and as I can only manage liquid, not solid food.

It has been a pretty dark time and a challenge for all of my family, who have been amazing and by my side the whole time.

If anything I share has ever helped you or brought a smile, and you feel able, you can buy me a cuppa here or donate here via paypal— it means the world. And if not, please just take this as your gentle permission slip to do only what feels good this month. 💛

Now let us move on to the main event!


Jen aka Mum in the Mad House


35 Pinecone Crafts

We love crafting with pinecones. There is something magical about nature crafts and bringing nature into your home. Plus we always have loads of pinecones as the boys always seem to find Autumn treasures, so pinecone crafts for the win!


Autumn Printables

Step into the Season with some of our Fab Autumn printables.

October Activities

Halloween Hub!

This is where you will find all of our ghoshtly crafts, activities and more. It is updated on a regular basis. So keep coming back.

Glue Resist Pumpkin

We love glue resist art projects, one of our favourites was the watercolour leaf garland

This is the perfect pumpkin art project for this fall season. This black glue pumpkin art project is perfect for kids of all ages from preschoolers to adults

Pinecone Hedgehogs

How cute are these Pinecone Hedgehogs? Pinecones are just amazing. Autumn has such beautiful bounty and one of our favourite crafts of the past was our pinecone owls and when we got them out recently Mini commented that pinecones look a little like hedgehogs, which is what inspired our pinecone hedgehogs

Pumpkin Playdough

Fall is here, and what better way to embrace the season than with some homemade pumpkin playdough? This simple craft combines the sensory fun of playdough with the delightful scent of pumpkin spice, making it a perfect activity for kids during the cooler months. Plus, it’s easy to make with a few basic kitchen ingredients.

October Treats and Eats

Get Ahead - Fireworks

November starts with a BANG and our brilliant and fun fireworks crafts. So geat ahead.

Pinwheel Poppies


Learn how to create beautiful DIY pinwheel poppies for a unique and fun craft. Perfect for Remembrance Day or festive decor. Easy, creative, and meaningful!

We also have lots of other poppy crafts and activities.