Something magical is brewing this January… and it all begins at the historic Bannockburn House!

My newest children’s book, The Beastly Bogles Save Bannockburn House, will be released late January! I’m so excited to share this whimsical tale with you.

This story follows four fun-loving bogles—Bruce, Bonnie, Beth, and Blair—who aren’t your typical spooky ghosts. These cheerful wee spirits have a knack for mischief and a heart full of kindness. But when disaster strikes and Bannockburn House catches fire, the bogles jump into action! With their unique powers, teamwork, and a little help from woodland friends, they save the day and protect their beloved home.

Inspired by real Scottish history of Bannockburn House. Mysterious legends, and even the discovery of Stirling’s town key. This book weaves adventure, folklore, and fun into a heartwarming tale perfect for children aged 5–7.

Keep an eye on this space and mark your calendars for late January! In the meantime, have a look at some sneak peeks from the book (scroll down for photos!). Join me in counting down the days until the Beastly Bogles arrive.

Will you hear giggles and whispers the next time you visit Bannockburn House? You’ll just have to wait and see…

Beastly Bogles save Bannockburn House

Bannockburn House stands proudly in the heart of Scotland, brimming with history and charm. Built in the 17th century, it has witnessed centuries of stories unfold within its grand walls. Its elegant architecture and stunning grounds attract visitors from near and far.

Famous figures, such as Bonnie Prince Charlie, once sought refuge within its rooms. The house’s unique atmosphere enchants guests, leaving them captivated by its mysterious allure. Over the years, it has been a symbol of resilience and community.

Today, Bannockburn House welcomes history lovers, curious explorers, and those seeking to uncover the tales of its remarkable past.

Every visit offers a chance to connect with Scotland’s rich heritage.

Visit Bannockburn House

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HOMEPAGE

By Mandy Elizabeth Rush

When James Savage of Savage Wilderness approached me to design the website for Adventure First Aid, I knew I was in for an exciting project. Renowned for its adventurous spirit and deep connection with the great outdoors, needed a website that reflected both the brand’s ethos and its commitment to safety and education. This journey allowed me to blend creativity, functionality, and my passion for web design into a cohesive and dynamic online platform.

Understanding the Client’s Vision: Website Design

The first step in any design project is understanding the client’s vision. James Savage had a clear idea of what he wanted. He aimed to create a platform that not only offered essential first aid training but also resonated with clients who value preparedness and safety. It was important to create a website that was user-friendly, informative, and visually captivating.

Creating a User-Centric Design

With a focus on adventure and safety, the website needed to be easy to navigate. Users should be able to find courses, information, and contact details with minimal effort. I adopted a clean, intuitive layout that allows visitors to easily explore what Adventure First Aid has to offer. This included:

• Clear Call-to-Actions (CTAs):
  • CTAs were strategically placed to guide users towards booking courses, learning more about services, and reaching out for further information.
• Engaging Visuals:
  • I incorporated vibrant images that reflect the spirit of adventure and the importance of first aid. These visuals play a crucial role in drawing users into the content and creating an emotional connection.
• Mobile Responsiveness:
  • Knowing that many users may be accessing the site while on the go. It was essential to ensure the design was responsive and accessible across all devices.

Incorporating Adventure and Safety

One of the key challenges was balancing the themes of adventure and safety. The colour palette, typography, and imagery had to evoke a sense of engagement while still conveying the seriousness of first aid training. I chose bold, energetic colours that convey vitality and readiness.

Highlighting Courses and Services

Adventure First Aid offers a variety of courses tailored to different levels of experience and environments. It was crucial to present this information in an organised and engaging way. I designed a dedicated course section, complete with easy-to-read descriptions, course durations, and booking options. This approach makes it simple for users to find the right course and take the next step towards becoming prepared for any circumstance.

A Collaborative Experience

Working with James Savage was a collaborative and insightful experience. His knowledge of the outdoor industry and passion for safety were evident throughout the process. Together, we ensured that the website was not only visually appealing but also a true reflection of what Adventure First Aid stands for. Empowering individuals to venture safely into the wild with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe.

Final Thoughts

Designing the Adventure First Aid website for James Savage and Savage Wilderness was a rewarding journey. It allowed me to combine my love for design with my appreciation for the great work of the company. The result is a website that I hope captures the spirit of adventure while providing a valuable resource for those looking to enhance their first aid skills.

You can check out the finished product at Adventure First Aid and see how the website brings James’ vision to life.

Cost of a new website?

Costs as cheap as £500. Most simple websites designed by me are less than £1000.

For more information of what is involved in designing a new website and charges please visit this page on my website

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Are you ready to add a touch of avian elegance to your kitchen attire?

Introducing a collection of bespoke aprons that not only protect your clothes but also celebrate the beauty of birds in a unique and artistic way. Created by the talented designer Mandy Elizabeth Rush, each apron is a masterpiece that merges functionality with exquisite design.

Bobbin of Robins

Embrace nature’s beauty with the Robin Apron, featuring charming robin design on high-quality fabric. Ideal for adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen attire.

Why settle for ordinary when you can embrace the extraordinary?

Do you love birds and love cooking?

Our bespoke aprons are more than just garments; they’re statements of individuality and style. And what better way to infuse your cooking adventures with flair than by adorning yourself with the collective nouns of birds?

Curfew of Curlew

Elevate your kitchen style with this Curfew of Curlew Apron, showcasing elegant curlew motif on premium fabric. Perfect for adding a touch of nature to your culinary routine.

What is your favourite bird? What is it’s collective noun?

Imagine stepping into your kitchen wearing an apron adorned with a “parliament of owls” or a “murder of crows.”

These collective nouns, with their whimsical charm, add a playful touch to your culinary escapades. Whether you’re whisking, sautéing, or baking, these aprons are sure to inspire creativity and delight.

Each design by Mandy Elizabeth Rush is meticulously crafted, capturing the essence of these collective nouns with precision and artistry. From the vibrant hues of a “radiance of cardinals” to the graceful lines of a “bobbin of robins,” every apron tells a story and invites you to be part of it.

But it’s not just about aesthetics; our aprons are also designed for practicality and durability. Made from high-quality materials, they’re built to withstand the rigours of kitchen duty while keeping you comfortable and stylish.

They also make for delightful gifts for the foodies and bird lovers in your life. Who wouldn’t want to unwrap a parcel adorned with a “curfew of curlew” or a “prayer of godwits“?

Don’t see your favourite Birds? Send me a message and let me create your Bespoke Bird Apon

For the bird enthusiasts who also have a passion for cooking, our bespoke aprons are the ultimate gift choice. Combining their love for feathered friends with their culinary adventures, these aprons offer a unique way to express their interests and add flair to their kitchen attire.

Whether they’re hosting a dinner party or simply whipping up a batch of their favorite recipes, these aprons will not only protect their clothes but also serve as a delightful conversation starter. Give the gift of avian-inspired elegance and watch as they soar with delight every time they don their bespoke apron.

Radiance of Cardinals Apron

Brighten your kitchen routine with the Radiance of Cardinals apron, featuring stunning cardinal bird design on premium fabric. A perfect blend of style and functionality for your cooking adventures.

Fly in Style: Bespoke Aprons Inspired by the Charm of Collective Nouns for Birds

Fly in Style: Bespoke Aprons Inspired by the Charm of Collective Nouns for Birds

Interested in more collective nouns for birds and animals? I recommend this great book by Bill Oddie – A Conspiracy of Ravens: A Compendium of Collective Nouns for Birds by Bill Oddie (12-Sep-2014)

For other clothing designed by Mandy

Buy Bird aprons on Etsy

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The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children’s Storybook Commission

In the heart of Scotland lies a place steeped in history and mystery—Bannockburn House. This grand estate, with its sprawling gardens and centuries-old walls, holds within its embrace tales of the past. The whispered stories of the Bogles, or Ghosts as they are commonly known. But this is Scotland and our ghosts are Bogles and Bannockburn House is full of boisterous brave Bogles!

What is a Bogle?

Never heard of a Bogle? Ever heard of a Boggle or Bogill? What about a Bogeyman?

This ancient word is common not only in Scotland but also Northumbria. The words definition of one of a ghost!

The Commission

The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children’s Storybook Commission

I do wish my commission had started with a letter, sealed with a wax stamp bearing the crest of Bannockburn House.

Of course in the 21st Century is begins with a missed voice mail. Next there is a telephone call. Followed by a What’sApp message or two. They eventually introduce me to the faded elegance of Bannockburn House and the amazing group of volunteers who help to run the house.

Ghosty Beggars of Bannockburn House

The Magical Story of Bannockburn House: A Children’s Book Project

Bannockburn House is very popular for Paranormal Evenings. Thrill seekers can attend special events at Bannockburn House, wandering the dark corridors and uncovering its spooky past. Visitors to the events not only leave with a thrill and a CHILL!

Unravelling the Mysteries of Bannockburn House

As an author and illustrator I first need to get to know my character. In this case the character is the beautiful old Manor House and the stories which inhabit its amazing halls and old damp walls. I receive a generous invite to walk the passages and hear some of the history of Bannockburn House by three passionate volunteers. I learn about Bonnie Prince Charlie, the Key to Stirling Auld Toon, The Fire and of course the supernatural inhabitants of this old stately home.

Meet the Characters- The Bogles

Fiona, a talented fabric artist introduces me to the Bogles she has been creating. These Bogles are made from beautiful pieces of recycled wool and scraps of material, buttons and ribbon. The ghostly Bogles are sold in the shop along with other amazing creations. The proceeds of these sales go towards the restoration work which will eventually see Bannockburn House reclaim it’s stately beauty.

Capturing the Magic

I spend an amazing few hours in the company of the volunteers being guided around the building. In each room a little bit more of the houses unique history is shared. Secrets reveal themselves and the atmosphere seeps into my bones.

I take lots of photos, ask lots of questions. All the information, the sights, sounds, smells, penetrate my being. Finally the story of the Beastly Bogles of Bannockburn House slowly begins to take shape!

The Story becomes a Reality

The Enchanting Tale of Bannockburn House: A Children’s Storybook Commission. At last the story of the Beastly Bogles is now written. The next stage of this fun process is illustrating the antics of the Bogles and their amazing adventure!

To learn more about my visit to Bannockburn House and it’s history go to our wee wild adventures website

For more books by Mandy

Flannelfoot a Scottish Bogeyman another tale of things that creep in the night.

Isobel Gowdie the Green Witch of Auldearn another true tale and this time a wee Scottish Witch.

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Yes, you can and look at how they turned out!

How to Recycled Old Wooden Door Knobs

1. Collect your old Wooden Door Knobs

These old door knobs came from our kitchen cabinets.

Old Wooden Door Knobs

2. Paint the old wooden door knobs

Use acrylic paint and give the door knobs a few coats. Leave them for a day in between coats, to dry.

Attach the door knobs to a piece of wood and then coat them a few times with acrylic paint

3. Draw the images for the top of your door knobs

Using a blue sharpie on regular paper drawn some Folk Art style illustrations. I have about 18 separate illustrations of different animals in this funky Blue and White style.

4. Scan images and open in your photo manipulation software

I use Adobe illustrator. I create circle and then use a clipping mask to insert the image into the circle.

5. Print out the Folk Art Illustrations

Print out the A4 sheet of your Folk Art illustrations on regular copier paper

6. Cut out the circles

I printed two sets of my Knob Toppers. One set I cut out using scissors. The second set of toppers I cut using my Scan and Cut. The Scan and Cut was much more accurate.

7. Use Modge Podge to attach paper to your wooden knob

Coat the top of your wooden knob with modge podge. Hold the screw attached to your knob and press down onto the printed paper. Then use some cling film and place this over the Folk Art topper. You can then use the cling film to mould the paper into the shape of the wooden knob without getting glue all over you or distorting the paper. Another key point is that the cling film won’t stick to the modge podge if you remove it after shaping the topper.

8. Allow Glue (Modge Podge) to dry and then recoat surface of the topper

I allowed my Knob Toppers to dry over night. Coat your knob topper again after 24 hours and then once again.

9. Finally, admire your upcycled Wooden Door Knobs

Now it is time to decide where to use your Folk Art Style Upcycled Wooden Door Knobs.

Aren’t they beautiful? Can you recycled old wooden door knobs? Yes you can!

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1.    Isobel Gowdie is Scotland’s most famous witch

Scotland’s most famous witch, Isobel Gowdie, lived in the Lochloy area of Nairn in the 17^th Century.  Indeed the Moray Coast is famous for its witchcraft. It is estimated that over 4000 witches were killed along the Moray Coast. Indeed if you visit Forres today be sure to visit the Witches Stone. This marks the spot where witches were driven in barrels, through which spikes were driven and then the barrel was burnt.

2.    Confessed to Witchcraft

Isobel’s case is incredibly fascinating as the original transcripts of her trial still exist and are located in the National Archives of Scotland. The detail of Isobel’s confessions over a six week period are rich with detail although we have no idea of the tortures she endured during the time of solitary confinement.

3.    The original transcripts of Isobel Gowdie’s trial still exist

Isobel Gowdie confessed, most probably under extreme duress and torture. It was transcribed that she used magic to attempt to destroy her neighbours crops, she used effigies which she burnt to bring harm to the Laird’s male offspring. Fairies, hares, jackdaws, the devil and other creatures feature in Isobel’s confessions, along with implicating her neighbours and friends.

4.    Isobel was tried by 12 powerful men of Nairnshire

Local Lairds (including the Laird of Park and Loch Loy, her landlord), Harry Forbes the local minister. Also present and part of her interrogation was Hugh Rose, public notary John Innes and church elders.

5.    Isobel Gowdie was tried in Auldearn

It is believed that Isobel was held in Auldearn Tolbooth and it is also in Auldearn where Isobel confessed, she would meet the devil at the Auld Kirk.  At Auldearn Kirk she also confessed that the devil sent her on an  errand to Auldearn disguised as a hare.

6.    Isobel implicated 12 other members of the community as part of her coven

From the confessions tortured from Isobel, Janet Breadhead and Margret Brodie were also put on trial. In total, forty-one people were arrested as a result of Isobel’s tortured confessions.

7.    The fate of Isobel Gowdie is not certain

After the six weeks of trial the true fate of Isobel has been lost in time. However just outside Auldearn, as a place known locally as Gallowhill, it is believed that Isobel and the rest of her coven were hung and burnt.

8.    Green Witch of Auldearn

To this day there are sightings of a green lady in Auldearn. An ethereal ghost or restless soul which roams Auldearn and Nairn seeking resolution and compassion. It is actually believed the Isobel was probably a healer or midwife to her local community. It is suggested that she probably spurned the sexual advances of her local Laird and fell foul to the zealot local minister. Although we do not know much about Isobel we do know that at this time in Nairnshire there was famine, war and sand storms. Perhaps a time where a convenient scapegoat had to be found and blamed for the difficult times.

9.    Books, Orchestral Works, Songs,Plays, Podcasts and of course the original transcripts

Isobel Gowdie is the most famous witch in Scotland and has proven to be an inspiration to writers and historians alike. This enigma of a woman, a poor cottar’s wife, who provided so much detail in her tortured confessions remains fresh in the memories of locals and visitors alike.   

Isobel Gowdie the Green Witch of Auldearn – Children’s Book, by Mandy E Rush

The Confessions of Isobel Gowdie – Orchestral Work, by James MacMillan

The Witch of Auldearn – Play, by John Lawson

Weight of Sand – Podcast, by Stories of Scotland

10. Visit Nairn Museum, Auldearn Church and the Isobel Gowdie Mural

If you are no intrigued about Isobel Gowdie, perhaps you would be interested in finding out a little bit more about this innocently accused woman? Thana tourism or dark tourism, refers to visiting places where dark events of human history occurred.

In this case, we would encourage you to visit Nairn Museum for more information of Isobel Gowdie and of course visit the Auld Kirk in Auldearn. Auldearn is a sleep and beautiful village just a short bicycle ride outside Nairn, where not only can you visit the original chapel but local a local artist has painted a mural in the local square which details Isobel’s story.

Why not download this helpful Exploring Nairnshire map with cycle routes.

Watch this YouTube Movie of Isobel’s Story.

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The most lastest subject of Mandy’s children’s book is the real character, Isobel Gowdie. Isobel is a local woman who was accused and convicted of witch craft in the 17th century in Nairnshire.

Mandy first heard of the story of Isobel Gowdie after Nairn Museum held a talk in the summer of 2022 held for the year of Scotland’s stories. Mandy then started doing research on Scotland’s most famous witch and found copies of original transcripts of Isobel’s trial, a podcast and much more.

Mandy then went exploring on her bicycle and visited Auldearn on a sunny Sunday. She was keen to visit the Auld Kirk where tortured Isobel confessed to having dealings with the devil and the amazing mural at the square in Auldearn. The Isobel Gowdie Mural by local artist Helen Wright contains illustrations and rhyming verse detailing the horrors of Isobel’s story.

Isobel Gowdie the Green Witch of Auldearn tells the story of Isobel from the time she was a small girl. She is a special child who finds joy all around her. She tends too and cares for all the creatures which surround her. She helps the old hare escape from an evil snare, she helps Mr Jackdaw when she finds him with a thorn in his wing.

Isobel sings and dances and laughs in the natural world which she inhabits and indeed grows up with the knowledge to be a healer not only to her animal friends. Isobel becomes a healer to her neighbours and friends and even becomes a midwife.

Unfortunately at this time, Nairnshire is not all a tranqility. It is a time of war, famine and sandstorms and the poor young woman becomes an easy scapegoat for powerful men looking for someone to blame for the ills in the shire.

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Arlene the lovely librarian at Plean Library and her senior Jan invited me to my old school and library for a special week of events titled, Off The Page. I was thrilled. I had been taken every Tuesday night by my mum to Plean Library, late night opening, for my weekly exchange of books for the week. We all went, Geoge, Campbell and I. Now I was being invited back to my old library to do a book reading and chat. Something I could never have dreamed off!

First of all though I was headed back to my old School, East Plean Primary.

I had never been inside the new school at East Plean and was a bit surprised with the high security access arrangement, not disappointed, just didn’t realise the double buzz access had arrived in our sleepy wee village.

What a laugh I had! I showed them some old pictures to see if they could tell me some of the places in Flannel Foot a Scottish Bogeyman, base around the Plean. Now I knew some of them would be tricky but some of them had me in stitches.

Cockabendies Castle? The symbol on all their sweatshirts? The school badge? “Stirling Castle! Wallaces Monument! Edinburgh Castle!” None of the wee ones knew it was Cockabendies Castle or as it is called today Plane Castle.

The Corner? Obviously with the older images it was difficult but by the time I got to the newest image one of the wee ones said “Main street” yeah!

Old East Plean Primary? This photo they got super fast!

The Big Hoose? Eventually someone said “The Country Park” perfect!

Cory got conned into looking after Nancy Coo! You can’t have a Highland Coo running around unsupervised in the school gym hall!

The kids at East Plean Primary were fabulous fun!

As Flannel Foot the Scottish Bogeyman is written in our Plean Scots, I asked them to put up their hands if any of them spoke a second language.

Quite a few of the children did speak a second language which was great and a lot of them said French which they had been getting taught at school.

I however said, “I think you might know another language“. Then I asked them what certain parts of the body were called in Scottish!

I was rolling about the floor laughing by then! As they all shouted out

“Heid”, “Arrrrmpit” (I was going for oxter!), “Fit”, “Eurrrrr” (I was going for lug), “Burl”, “Aye”, “Naw!”, “Hoose”, “Moose”

Then we all sang a song for Nancy Coo using our Plean Scots!

Next on to the library which were there was much less singing and dancing yet we had cake! Yum!!

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New Illustrated Story Book from Mandy Elizabeth Rush, inspired by her visit to John O’Groats and local stories and folklore.

John O’Groats, or Jan De Groot is a humble ferry man. One day he rescues the mermaid caught in the Swelkie the Sea Witch’s whirlpool and from that day forward, Jan’s life will never be the same. For his brave deed he receives some local shells, little beautiful pink shells, called groaties. Little does Jan know but these are no ordinary shells but have magic woven into their beauty.

Follow the adventure of Jan De Groot as his kind, heroic deeds around the seas of Caithness, result in him living the live he always dreamed off. Not one filled with wealth and possessions, but one filled with love and laughter.

A story book which is full of love, kindness and adventure as Jan bravely puts others before himself without thought of reward. The perfect bedtime story.

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Charles Darwin’s origin of the Species was first published on this day in 1859!

The revolutionary story of Darwin the Finch, a children’s book about the story of these amazing finches will be launched on facebook on the 24th of November 2021.

Watch my little trailer about my illustrated childrens book launch.

Señor and Señora Finch are swept away from their home by the strong Trade Winds. Eventually when they finally land on distant islands they build a nest and lay eggs.

Blessed, Señor and Señora Finch hatch five eggs.

How will these five brothers adapt, survive and thrive in this strange new land?

The revolutionary story of Darwin the Finch

Written and Illustrted by Mandy Elizabeth Rush

Darwin the Finch, book launch, Evolution Day the 24th of November at 7pm, join me and listen and watch to a wee story about Señor and Señora Little Brown Finch and the revolutionary story of Evolution!

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