Lynwood Musings

The House

2011-07-27T22:15:00.000+10:00

I saw this on the news this morning.

A spine tingling tribute to a grand House by some of our wonderful performing artists and an iconic song.

How I love my city.

This and That

2011-07-27T18:57:00.000+10:00

Loving these JCrew maxi dresses, would be perfect for summer evening parties. Was wondering Jenna, do you think you will ship to Australia any time soon?

Irene from BloesemKids has recently started a beautiful collection of children's pendants suitable for both boys and girls, the one above is my favourite.

A new online magazine and I just love it, I wish I had been quick enough to snaffle up the print version to keep.

A piece of art, this slate cheese board.

***

I just love the earthy whimsical feel of this room, found in a Californian/Mexican restaurant in Paris. I'm putting Taqueria Candelaria on my list of must check out when I'm next in Paris.

A really pretty shopper that zips into a pouch you toss in your handbag.

One of my all time favourite totes, lots of room and handy divisions for all my bits and bobs, I used it as a baby bag.

I would love to look at this honey pot every day on my breakfast table.

I'm hoping to watch this movie this weekend, I have a bit of a crush on Ms Tautou.

I just love this house, could happily call it mine. Then check out their weekender, which you can rent.

Have a wonderful day.

A Good Book or Two

2011-07-13T07:41:00.000+10:00

***

I have been doing quite a bit of reading this year which I am quite pleased about and have come across some really good reads which I thought I might pass on to my readers.

A wonderful story by a new Australian author. Set in a small New South Wales town just after the Great War and during the Spanish Flu epidemic, this beautiful gothic murder mystery story is about the different ways that people deal with death, grief and heartache.

I read this last year, and a dear friend recommended Craig's first novel, and interestingly like Bereft, this story about a blind girl and a cello playing hermit also deals about how people deal with loss. This is a beautifully written story, very lyrical in its style. Right from the first chapter, it sweeps the reader into a wonderful story of loss and love. Set during the last weeks of the last millennium in the fishing town of Fremantle Western Australia, Silvey proves himself to be another great Australian author.

A powerful read and a bit controversial in my book club. I really enjoyed reading this story of the love between a Mother and Child. Once you got used the "voice" of the book, a 5 year old boy's language is used to tell the story, this was a truly moving book and one that I read in 2 sittings.

As soon as I finished this book, I handed it over to my husband and told him he had to read it. This collection of real life stories highlights how even in today's world women are still the underclass. The beauty of this book is that it is also a call to action, it lists simple ways that we can all help to bring education, health and prosperity to women across the world, in particular those in developing countries.

I read many fashion and design magazines, you would probably say I am a magazine junkie. I came across this one, a "women's magazine" and it is fantastic, full of well written articles about interesting women, such as Fatima Bhutto and the cover girl Adele. I'm hooked.

I follow the online version of this wonderful Australian children's magazine and now it is in print, love it. Beautiful photography and styling.

I've bought quite a few of the latest design books and to me this is by far the one that really hit the spot for me. I have read every single page, and in fact have re-read this book a few times. It fits in with my decorating style and I've been able to use this as a reference for my home and for our future renovating/redecorating plans.

I know, she is an actress, what could she possibly offer in relation to cooking. That was what I thought and I only considered buying this book because of a review by this blogger whose opinions I respect. I still wasn't sure though and I went to my local library first to check it out. What can I say, it is good, really good. Gwyneth, I bow at your temple of cooking, good healthy and simple food for the family.

I have also been reading some wonderful children's books with the boys which I will save for another post, so watch this space.

Have a wonderful day.

Bula, Bula

2011-07-09T18:24:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone, we're back from beautiful Fiji. It was so much fun and hot and sunny (well there was that one day of torrential rain and cyclonic winds). Lots of magical moments with our family and the two families we went with. I highly recommend holidaying with family friends, especially if they have children of the same or similar ages, it just works really well for both adults and the kids.

While the trip wasn't without its challenges given our little one's aversion to being away from his home comforts, all of us had a wonderful time doing wonderful things like ...

Family snaps with both Mum and Dad.

A bit of Kava drinking for Dad.

The boys "got jiggy with it" Polynesian style.

Looking at "fishies" in a glass bottomed boat (don't recommend this if you suffer from claustrophobia)

Dad and the other dads caught us dinner one very early morning, it was delicious.

Of course there was plenty of pool work.

Followed by some Sudoku with Dad.

Lots of sitting here where we read and enjoyed the following view:

Wherever you love, I hope you are having a lovely day. See you soon.

The Best of Intentions

2011-06-11T08:07:00.000+10:00

***

Ah, life it can get so complicated sometimes can't it.

Especially if you have a child with special needs. We decided to intensify our little man's therapies both at sessions and at home, and exhausting as it has been for me with his "homework" and taking him to and from his therapists, the fatigue has been worth it as we have seen a remarkable leap in his development. He is a real little star and we love him to bits.

We are about to start phase two by bringing a therapist into our home for 10 hours every week. The idea is that by the time he starts school in 18 months that he will no longer need the "shadow" he currently has at preschool and that he will have caught up with his peers.

As it turned out despite all the best intentions of keeping up my daily posts, if only to provide a bit of "me" time with pretty pictures, it became impossible to keep abreast of other blogs let alone keep mine up to date.

But I do miss you all both my readers and also the blogs I like to read and I am determined to return to the blogosphere. So, I'm back but it won't be daily and it may not even be weekly or monthly but rather intermittently, I hope you don't mind.

In the meantime, here are few pretty things that I'm loving a lot:

To carry my bits and bobs

By day

And by night

It was really wet a few weeks ago

Wishing it was summer

We're off to Fiji in a fortnight, this would be lovely for evenings

Sexy Scandi style

The most stylish height chart ever

And just to end the post with some family stuff:

The boys on their first day of school earlier this year

Comparing their Easter egg finds

On a day trip to the Zig-Zag Railway in the Blue Mountains

Have a happy day and see you soon.

Happy New Year For Those In Need

2011-01-05T17:42:00.001+11:00

Happy New Year to all my readers, I hope your passage into 2011 was as lovely as ours was. A casual party at friends' place around the corner and the kids almost made it to midnight. L was wide awake though and keen to see the fireworks, so we went home and watched them on TV. They were spectacular as usual, the Sydney Harbour and it's world famous icons (the Bridge and the Opera House) make a fantastic backdrop for the fireworks as the above image shows.

We are still enjoying the boys holidays and the weather has been good to our summer holiday. However, not everyone is enjoying the beginning of 2011 as we are. Please spare a thought and maybe some cash for the victims of the Queensland floods. We have just celebrated a time of year which is about peace and goodwill and of course gift giving. So if you can give go to your local major (Australian) bank or to www.qld.gov.au/floods for further information on how you can help.

Happy New Year.

All image: The Sydney Morning Herald

Warm Wishes

2010-12-23T08:41:00.000+11:00

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I woke up this morning to a very quiet house as the boys stayed over at my mum's place last night. I've taken the time to catch up on my favourite blogs and revel in the joy spreading across the world in the countdown to Christmas.

Christmas is all about family in this household and it all begins for us on Christmas Eve as we head to my mum's place for a wonderful feast of Portuguese delights. The next morning the boys will delight us in all the excitement of unwrapping the packages under the tree before we head to my husband's family lunch where seafood and a turkey and ham will be on the menu as well a few swims in the pool.

It has been quite a year for my family and while some of it hasn't been positive, it has on the whole been a wonderful happy year and I look forward to next year when my eldest begins the next important stage of his life, school and my youngest continues the wonderful progress his has made over the last few months.

I hope you and your families have a wonderful Christmas and I look forward to seeing you in the New Year.

Week of Stillness and a Very Special Lady

2010-12-19T20:45:00.002+11:00

A few Christmas scenes in my home

This week is pretty busy, some last minute stocking fillers need to be bought and the remainder of the gifts need to be wrapped in readiness for Xmas Eve night once the boys are in bed. There is a bit of cooking to be done for Christmas Eve dinner which we celebrate with my side of the family (as is traditional in Portugal) and then Christmas lunch with F's family. Oh and the Chrissie cards are sent out on Monday.

Last week however was a different story.

One of the things I love about reading blogs are the traditions and ideas that many bloggers write about which touch something inside me. One such post, that I bookmarked, was last Christmas when Brooke from Inchmark spoke about taking a week to be calm amidst all the shenanigans in the lead up to the 25th December. Only last week Brooke wrote of how this new tradition in her family was working this year and it reminded me of how I wanted to implement this as part of our family Christmas tradition.

What a wonderful week, L spent three days at Cooking Club organised by his school and J and I just hung out together at home reading Christmas stories and playing with each other and then all three of us enjoyed the treats L brought home from his day of cooking. The late afternoons were spent paddling in the pool. Quiet nights in with F and simple meals of grilled fish and chicken with salad.

L's delicious gingerbread Christmas tree which he made

The only crazy event last week was on Friday with a trip with the boys into the city to visit Santa where we stood in a queue for almost 2 hours!!! Having said that we walked around the city and visited one of the city's many large Christmas trees, the Nativity scene, the David Jones (our department store) Christmas windows and our beautiful Hyde Park. The boys were so excited with all the festive elements of our trip to the city that even the 2 hour wait for Santa wasn't so bad.

The week of stillness is a tradition sure to be repeated for many years in my household and I recommend it highly. Taking time to be with your family in a simple and intimate way is such a wonderful way to experience Christmas.

More Christmas vignettes

This time of year is also when we think about those who are going through a tough time and spare some time to help where you can. One such person in need of our thoughts and prayers is Jane at My Pear Tree House who is facing a dark and difficult road in the coming months. I only know Jane through her blog, but I hope she doesn't think me too presumptuous in saying I regard her as a friend. She is witty and intelligent and is one fantastic writer, plus she is a lawyer which in my book means you are a special person, a community minded person. Her blog posts are always so thoughtfully written and I always learn something whether it be about food, art, design or just life in general.

So, in the madness of this Christmas week I want Jane to know that while I can't be there for her in person as she lives in Melbourne and I live in Sydney, I am there in spirit and she is in my thoughts and my heart all the way through her forthcoming journey. Much love to you Jane.

Holidays Are Here

2010-12-13T12:42:00.001+11:00

We're off and running on our end of year fun.

The boys have finished school for the year, L starts kindergarten next year which means 5 days a week for him, wow big school and J continues 2 days next year at preschool. This means that for the first time in almost 6 years I will have child free days. I can't tell you how excited I am that I get to spend 2 days next year doing anything I want without a child asking me for my attention. Yeah!

In the meantime we started our Christmas celebrations last week with school concerts and school carols night. Our Xmas street party was on Saturday in our corner park and then F and I went to friends' Xmas drinks on Saturday night.

It is so warm and sunny at the moment, so both days were spent swimming and eating lost of salads and fruit.

Ah Christmas in Australia, I don't think there is a better way to celebrate it than enjoying parties on balmy nights and days by the water.

I hope your end of year celebrations are being enjoyed as much as we are.

Have a happy day.

Dear Santa ...

2010-12-09T15:26:00.001+11:00

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I have been pretty good this year and have almost completed my gift buying and have begun the wrapping stage as well.

I am often inspired by Gift Lists in magazines and now of course in blogs,. In fact a few lucky people in my life will be the recipients of gifts found on blogs as far away as Paris and New York.

I thought I would do something a bit different and put together a list for you, the wonderful woman that you are.

I have listed things that are predominantly Australian as there are plenty of overseas blogs that have other nations covered (my faves this year are Simple Lovely, A Cup of Jo and Design Sponge) and my apologies to non-Sydneysiders, there are a few things found only here, but you can find similar things in your neck of the woods.

So herewith my Chrissie list and happy shopping!

***

You are a mum, nan, sister, girlfriend, no matter who this lady deserves some special stuff

Like a bit of silver and classic pearls

This calfskin shopper

An annual subscription to one of these companies

Some delicate smalls

This beautiful silk linen jumper

A degustation here or any other excellent restaurant

A day spa in the country

A subscription to your favourite magazines

Special letterpress stationery (not Australian, but Suann ships to Australia and I think this is the most beautiful stationery I have seen and deserves to be on my list)

And finally, my favourite way to be spoiled, a sleep in and brekkie in bed - pure bliss*

No matter what you receive ladies, I hope that it makes you feel special.

Have a happy day.

* Image from here

His & Hers

2010-12-07T00:10:00.004+11:00

Alli of Hooray & Brooke of Pure and Noble have recently started a weekly challenge of posting his & hers photos, such a fun idea and they have challenged their readers to join in on the fun, so this is my contribution for this week.

I thought it would be fun to show you how different our bedside tables are despite being so similar.

His is the techno version of a stack of books (on the Kindle) and a digital alarm clock.

Mine is the traditional stack of books and a traditional wind up alarm clock.

I wonder what Alli and Brooke have come up with this week.

Have a happy day.

And the Countdown Begins

2010-12-04T09:00:00.001+11:00

So its the beginning of Summer here which means the final countdown till the Big Guy arrives down our chimney.

We like to start decorating on the 1st December so I have made a start on a few baubles and trims. The tree will go up next week as I have to fit it in between birthday parties and BBQs on the weekend plus L is super keen to help trim the tree.

I do have our Advent Calendar up, which the boys love, probably because it has a sweet or two in it, OK it has quite a few sweets in it, after all it is Christmas and I rarely give them junk food throughout the year.

I had planned to make our Calendar this year, but time got ahead of me plus I stumbled across this beauty above at our local Op-Shop for $5.00.
Despite my find I still did a quick scout around the Internet and found some great ideas for Advent Calendars:

Cute and how it can be used

A fun creative version

I'm doing this with my boys this year

A paper bag one

You can buy these here, but I think you could easily make them using these found at your local $2 Dollar shop

A simple DIY version

A beautiful homemade felt version

A beautiful linen calendar

A printable version

For the typography lover

So how do you like to countdown to Christmas?

Have a happy day.

What Day is It?

2010-12-02T15:21:00.000+11:00

Made my first appointment for 2011 this week and had to write it down on a piece of paper as I haven't yet bought a calender or diary for next year.

So this has prompted me to have a scout around the Internet for something practical yet pretty.

A family calendar is essential

A diary version of the family calendar, what a great idea

Another family calendar

One for L's room

And another for J's room

Beautiful letterpress for me

Or maybe this letterpress one

I adore this illustrated calendar from Flora Douville

This is stunning

A reminder of my trip to Paris this year

For the kitchen, yummy!

Clever and fun design

To help me keep track of my library borrowings

Finally a showcase of Australian illustrators and their favourite Melbourne and Sydney neighbourhoods

Now, all I have to do is choose.

Have a happy day.

Out of the Mouth of Babes

2010-11-30T07:00:00.000+11:00

Question: What does a 5.5 year old do when his Mama is scolding him.

Answer: Look her straight in the eye and ask her: "Do you think I'm cute?"

Texting

2010-11-26T16:49:00.000+11:00

I love the dash of red in the otherwise neutral palete of this photo.

Portugal

2010-11-25T13:46:00.000+11:00

Oh dear, I've been AWOL, haven't I? So sorry, been terribly busy around here with the little ones, overseas guests, lead up to Xmas and end of our school year. The beach has been our go to place lately, so who wants to sit indoors at a computer.

Will be slow here over the next few months and I'm thinking of refocusing my blog for next year, how? Not sure. I appreciate your loyalty, patience and friendship so I hope you will stay with me.

I finally downloaded and sorted through my photos from our Portuguese leg of our holiday back in August! Most are of extended family shots and due to the extreme heat (35C-40C) every day that we were there, not much site seeing was done, we spent a lot of our Portuguese holiday by the beach and pool. The boys were not interested in site seeing either so we accepted that fact and just enjoyed the trip as a summer holiday rather than a cultural holiday.

So a few shots of some things we got up to in my ancestral lands.

Roman ruins of Conimbriga

The university city of Coimbra

The boys and I with mum and her brother overlooking the Coimbra from his penthouse garden

A Bronze Age hut just outside my mum's childhood town

Praia Grande, near Lisbon which had a 100 metre pool

Lisbon

A night at a bullfight in Lisbon which is done on horseback, the dressage horses are beautiful and amazing(while the bulls are not killed in the ring, the animals are still hurt, so I felt squeamish and guilty) and yes that is a man throwing himself at a bull, they are known as forcados

Picnic with all my aunts, uncles and cousins

I'll be back soon.

Have a happy day and Happy Thanksgiving to my American readers.

Next Stop: Auvergne Region

2010-10-06T14:04:00.001+11:00

We are fortunate to have friends in who holiday every year at the family farm house in central France (she is Parisian and married one of my hubby's schoolfriends, the now live in the next susburb so we see each regularly).

We timed our holiday with theirs and met up with them for a week. It was divine: a bit of site seeing, lots of delicious eating, reading and sleeping.

The beautiful farmhouse owned by our friends' family for a few generations. "A Year in Provence", eat your heart out.

A typical day of eating wonderful locally sourced food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, reading in the afternoon sun, the kids loved checking out the local cows in the backyard and after a long day (this photo was taken around 10pm) the kids would all chill out in front of the TV before crashing for the night.

A bit of site seeing in the nearby town of Herisson. France just has the most picturesque towns, my boys loved the medieval castle (once lived in by the kings of France) which is currently undergoing restoration.

Our friends were married in one of Herisson's medieval churches, L'eglise de Chateloy. It has stunning frescos and sits on top of a cliff overlooking the town.

And they had their reception at this chateau, a moat and beautiful gardens (with a cute garden shed - last picture) included. A local family owns this chateau and they still live in it and rent out the grounds and some rooms for functions such as weddings. A medieval church and chateau, a dream wedding come true I think.

Of course no trip to France would be complete without a trip to the local brocante (flea market). After our week in central France, we drove back to Paris where we caught the TGV and the Sud Express for the next stage of our holiday, four sunny, hot weeks in Portugal.

First Stop: Paris

2010-10-06T14:04:00.000+11:00

Here they are finally a little taste of our week in Paris. A warning, I've been to Paris many times so I didn't take photos of the famous landmarks, actually every day I went into town I actually deliberately chose not to take my camera, those big DSLRs get in the way of shopping bags. So what did we do?

Stayed at our friends' home in the 'burbs (Croissy-Sur-Seine). We are fortunate to have friends who are living there for a few years. They have 3 kids so my boys were happy to have things like toys, trampolines and friends to play with during our stay.

On the day of our arrival the Sunday markets were on at the village centre, so off we went to sample some of the goods.

A spot of sailing the miniature boats at Luxembourg Gardens ...

And hours of fun at the best playground in the world (again at Luxembourg Gardens)

A BBQ with some Aussie expats on Bastille Day. Yes that is the Eiffel Tower in the background, the BBQ was at one of the apartments at the Australian Embassy which has some great views of the Tower and the Trocadero, a great spot to watch the amazing fireworks.

A typical street during my many shopping trips. The sales in Paris in July, are amazing.

On the last day we rented a car and braved the crazy drivers on the autoroute, we hired a German car so that I felt somewhat safe. I find European drivers crazy and then of course they are driving on the other side of the road.

We headed to the Auvergne region in central France for the next stage of our holiday in France.

Travel Tips

2010-10-06T14:03:00.000+11:00

So after many weeks (actually months of missing in action here in blog world) I'm finally able to share some moments of our 6 week trip to Europe. First, a few tips I would like to pass on to any first-time long haul travellers with young children:

Do not let your 3 and 5 year old watch every single kid movie on their personal TV screen over and over again or play all the games you've packed repeatedly. An overstimulated child will not sleep despite how tired they are (it was a 25 hour flight to Paris not including the 3 hour stopovers). Your fellow travellers do not appreciate being woken by kicking (I kid you not) and screaming children.
Don't forget to order the kids meal 48 hours before you check-in (we made this mistake both to and from Europe!!). Despite the snacks we packed, they hardly ate on the flight.
If travelling in Europe in late July and all of August with a 3 and 5 year old, forget site seeing, you'll spend pretty much every day at the beach or in a pool. Actually forget site seeing altogether, their not even interested in castles.
Stay in a house rather than a hotel. This was the best decision we made, the boys settled quickly and it provided a sense of familiarity for them which made the trip that much easier.

Ah, the joys of family life!!

Despite a few hiccups, we had a great time. So on to the good times. I hope you enjoy just a few of my holiday snaps in the following posts.

Touching Base

2010-09-30T08:40:00.000+10:00

***

Hello there, I just wanted to stop by quickly and let you know I'm home. Thank you for all your emails and comments enquiring asking if all is well and it is. Life is just really busy right now, the boys are home on their Spring holidays, we have overseas guests, the weather is just too wonderful to be sitting in front of a computer and I have a few more things on my plate at the moment.

I will soon post some holiday snaps, so I hope you will be patient.

Oh, last night on a current affairs programme, this American mum was interviewed, I don't know how contreversial I am being posting about her, but I think what she has to say just makes so much sense, what do you think?

Bonjour de Paris

2010-07-12T16:16:00.001+10:00

But we are here. It is almost 8am Paris time, it is raining which has cooled the air, it has been extremely hot the last few weeks so it has brought some good relief.

We arrived yesterday morning at 9am, absolutely exhausted. My boys are real troopers, I expected the worst for the flight and after 25 hours of flying with 3 hour layovers they weren't too bad. They stayed awake until 9pm last night and L slept until 6this morning and J is still asleep as I write.

We're staying with friends who live in a suburb of Paris called Croissy (about 30 minutes from the centre). For those who live in Sydney, it is like the Double Bay or Vaucluse of Paris. Nice spot to stay. We had thought about stying in Montparnase, at another friend's place, but Croissy offers 3 kids to entertain the boys and a large backyard which is the best option for the boys to get over jetlag. It seems to be working.

F and I went to the local Sunday markets yesterday with our friends and while took photos, I still can't load them on to the iPad, so I can't share what we saw. If you have seen all those photos of French markets with the produce beautifully laid out, then you get an idea of what thy looked like.

F and I will shortly head into the Marais for brunch with an old friend of his and then we'll do a little bit of shopping and site seeing. Hopefully the rain which has become stronger, will stop in time for our wander.

Until the next post, hopefully with some photos.

Have a happy day.

Image via Elsa May

All is Quiet

2010-07-09T15:49:00.000+10:00

We're packed, all appointments have been attended, all plans have been finalised. F is out with the boys kicking a ball and I'm taking the time to enjoy a cup of tea and do some final blog reading.

We head off tomorrow mid-morning so this will be my last post for a bit. We're away for 6 weeks, 2 weeks in France and the rest in Portugal and I do intend to post a few of our adventures. Not sure how I will post the photos as the camera attachment for the iPad is in shortage worldwide!! I'll find a way to post photos of our holiday.

Welcome to my new readers, you have found me at an exciting time for my family, I hope you and my regulars enjoy the journey along with my boys and I.

I wish you all well until my next post somewhere in Europe.

Have a happy day.

Image: The' Dansant

Packing

2010-07-08T09:06:00.000+10:00

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"Two more sleeps Mama" L said as he jumped into bed this morning with F and I. We're packing today and these are the looks I'm going for:

***

Have a happy day.

Three

2010-07-07T06:00:00.012+10:00

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I have been tagged, by Brooke of Pure and Noble. I have to provide three answers to a series of questions (yes a week of revealing a bit about myself). Here we go again...

Three Names I Go By

Engracia

Mama

Grass

Three Places I Have Been

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New Zealand, one of the most beautiful places on earth

***

Italy, so romantic

***

New York City, enough said

Three Favourite Drinks

Champagne, my drink of choice

Tea to start my day and beyond

Water, plenty of it

Three Jobs I Have Had

Solicitor (lawyer) for most of my working life

Book publisher for about 6 years (loved it)

Mama, toughest but best job by far

Three TV Shows I Watch

The news

Grand Designs, one day I want to design and build my own home on a country beach

Brothers & Sisters, pure escapist fluff I love it

Three Places I Would Like to Visit

***

Brazil, would be nice to pop in meet some of my cousins

***

South Africa, I've been seduced by the World Cup coverage

***

Kakadu National Park, I'm really keen to discover this place with the boys in a few years

Three Favourite Retro TV Shows

The Brady Bunch

That Girl

The Mary Tyler Moore Show

Three Places I Have Lived

Potts Point, Sydney

Paddington, Sydney

Darling Point, Sydney

Three Favourite Dishes

Scrambled eggs on toast

Piri piri chicken

Vincisgrassi from Buzo Restaurant, a lasagna with porcinni mushrooms, prosciutto and truffle, so good I always take home an extra serving (try this recipe by Nigel Slater or if you own it, The Silver Spoon version)

Three Things I am Looking Forward To

The trip to France and Portugal with hubby and the boys

Having a romantic dinner with F in Paris (we've been to Paris many times but this is our first trip together)

Watching my boys grow into wonderful, caring and decent adults

I am supposed to tag three people, but I'm just going to tag one, Jane from My Pear Tree House (no obligation Jane, but over to you).

Have a happy day.

A Look Inside

2010-07-06T06:56:00.000+10:00

A post by Jane at My Pear Tree House prompted this house tour. Dana of Yellowtrace lives here and if you look at the first image you will recognise it from the cover of the book which was the subject of Jane's post yesterday. Dana lives in Megan Morton's previous home.

I really like how Dana has injected colour into her home and of course I love the industrial and vintage touches, like he magazine box. I like her quirky vignettes as well, the chooks and the pirate ship. Oh and I have that white ribbon vase in my family room, it is actually a lamp, it produces a beautiful effect when lit. A fun, yet welcoming home.

Have a happy day.

Images via Apartment Therapy

Happiness Is

2010-07-05T16:42:00.001+10:00

Last month I was the lucky recipient of two awards: The Happy 101 from My Sweet Prints and The Versatile Blogger from Let's Go Moerkabout!.

First, a big, if rather late, thank you for the award. I know I have said this before, but I never expected any followers when I started this blog and I have "met" some really wonderful ladies across the world. I have had the great pleasure of actually meeting on a number of occasions Janette from My Sweet Prints (she lives in the next suburb) and hope one day to meet many more of you in person (even those of you overseas, especially if you live in the States, I am planning a trip there later in the year to visit my sister in Seattle). This is my long winded way of saying thank you to my followers and readers who comment and to those who are to shy to comment but still pop in for a visit.

Secondly, as a recipient of these two awards, I am now meant to post 10 things that make me happy, so here goes.

1. My Family

My mum and dad, siblings, husband and boys. This group of individuals give me more happiness, love and understanding than I can ever describe. I only hope that what I give in return is just as wonderful for them.

2. Motherhood

I'm going to be honest, I have found motherhood really tough. The sleepless nights, the worrying about their happiness and wellbeing, their future in a world which sometimes isn't too nice. I worry about J and how he will cope with life as he gets older, will he ever overcome his developmental difficulties. But there is no way in the world I would trade my life today for that of the life I led before L was born. Motherhood has taught me many things (patience ISN'T one of them I must admit) and the thing I most value about motherhood is the magic of unconditional love. I don't think there is anything like it in the world.

3. Books

***

Whether for escapism, education or eye candy, I just love books. I spend a lot of money on books, new, vintage, thrifted, swapped or received as gifts. I love my books so much I can't lend them, I feel they are a part of me, it would be like chopping a limb off me and handing it over to someone. I think my love started when I was a little girl and every week as part of her weekly grocery shop, mum would buy us all a little gift, for me it was a Little Golden Book. I still have many books from my childhood, including the Little Golden Books, which I share with the boys. I see glimpses of that same love in them and you can imagine how happy that makes me feel.

4. Breakfast

***

You can probably tell from my weekly menu posts that I like food a lot and of course I enjoy cooking it, I find it relaxing and creative. I have to confess my favourite meal of the day is the first, but especially if it has been prepared by someone else. Yes I would rather go out to brekkie than to lunch or dinner. It can be as simple as scrambled eggs on toast (my favourite) to pancakes, or porridge, or ham and cheese croissant. I just love sitting down to a lovely meal first thing in the morning.

The reality of my breakfasts is nothing like this though: a couple of pieces of toast with a cup of tea on the run and prepared by me. I look forward to the day when the boys can get themselves ready for school and I drop them off or they go themselves while I head off to the local cafe for a cooked breakfast like the one pictured above. It is the simple things ladies, the simple things.

5. Lists

***

An organised life is a happy life, well for me anyway. So lists, charts, diaries and notebooks are everywhere in my house. I'm not talking electronic tools, all on paper, so pens and pencils are also everywhere. I have always been this way, I had a chart in my bedroom (which I shared with my sisters) for shutting curtains, turning off lights and closing the door to our room. Yes I was slightly retentive as a kid!!!!!! I am so much more relaxed since having kids (one of the gifts of Motherhood for me), but I still like to maintain some level of tidiness, organisation and schedule to our little household.

6. Summer

Sun, warmth, beaches, sand, sundresses, shorts, thongs (those toy wear on your feet), that is how I like to live. I grew up on the beach, our summers are pretty long and winters mild here. We lived near the beach so many days spent playing in the sea. There is no more perfect time than those long days of summer.

7. Chocolate

I don't have much of a sweet tooth, but I do like to have a few squares of dark chocolate (my preference is for Lindt) every night after the boys have gone to bed.

8. Sewing

(Source unknown, please contact me if you know the source)

I really enjoy the sewing, apart from the crafting I do with the boys, nothing gets my juices going quite like putting something together from some material and string. A great way for me to relax.

9. Frangipani

***

My favourite flower, it reminds me of summer, my honeymoon and my hometown Sydney.

10. Paris Perfume

***

My favourite perfume, I wear everyday. Makes me feel so girly and groomed everyday, even when I look frazzled from everyday life.

There, all done.

I'm supposed to pass this on, if you're up to it (don't feel obliged) I would like to pass the Happy 101 Award to Annie of Elsa May.

Have a happy day.

A New Toy for Me from Hubby

2010-07-02T18:01:00.001+10:00

As a way to stay in touch with my blog friends while on holidays in France and Portugal, isn't he lovely? I picked it up today.

Oh and we leave in 8 days, I'm getting both excited and anxious (about travelling with 2 little boys, especially J, not sure how he will go in such a confined space - if anyone has any ideas about keeping a little boy with sensory processing difficulties calm & entertained I'd appreciate it).

Have a happy weekend.

LMNOP Issue 11

2010-07-01T19:38:00.000+10:00

The latest issue of my favourite parenting magazine is out, you can download it here.

Happy reading.

Off The Shelf

2010-07-01T06:00:00.000+10:00

I bought You Choose by Pippa Goodhart and illustrated by the wonderful Nick Sharratt almost a year ago at the recommendation of my local children's bookstore. Since then it has been on constant rotation, so much so that it is permanently in our family room. This is a wonderful book for encouraging a child's imagination and storytelling skills.

There is no real story just a series of questions and lots of fun illustrations. The idea is that you build a story around the illustrations and questions. So each time your child can tell a different story from the same book.

My boys love it and it is fun to watch them sit together and tell a story either together as they choose from the many illustrations what they want in their story or individually tell a story to each other, ie they take it in turns to "read" from the book.

I think this is a book for non-readers to early readers and possibly beyond, simply because it is about storytelling and using imagination rather than putting together letters to form words. I think you'll enjoy it as well.

Have a happy day.

My Sweet Prints

2010-06-30T16:37:00.001+10:00

My friend Janette is having a great sale at her store - 40% off every print. This could be the best time to get that print you have had your eye on. I've nabbed myself this one for the boys' playroom.

Be quick it ends midnight Australian Eastern Standard Time tonight, 30 June 2010.

I hope you're having a happy afternoon.

A Look Inside

2010-06-22T06:00:00.049+10:00

Do you recall this pillow I posted about? Well I took the plunge and bought it recently for my bed. I love it beautiful quality linen and hand printing.

Well the owner of the shop Uniform Natural is Martha McQuade and I recently stumbled upon her beautiful home on Flickr. I thought I would share some of it with you. She has two boys and I am quite in love with their bedrooms. I also like her vignettes. I hope you enjoy the peek.

You can see more images of her home including her amazing workroom/studio here.

Have a happy day.

What's For Dinner

2010-06-20T21:26:00.000+10:00

It has been far too long between my weekly menu post and I'm not too sure why as I was still doing my weekly menus, so my apologies.

It is a short week, we have dinner out on Thursday and a 40th birthday party on Saturday. So here we go for this week.

Monday - Grilled chicken with harissa & mint yoghurt marinade with avocado and baby spinach salad (this is from Nigel Slater's The Kitchen Diaries - fabulous book)

Tuesday - Kumera (sweet potato), capsicum (pepper), zucchini (courgette) and tomato quiche

Wednesday - Salted cod a Bras (delicious Portuguese dish)

Friday - Veal saltimboca with risotto Milanese

Sunday - Zucchini and Parmesan soup

Right now I'm going to do a bit of reading and catch up on some online magazines.

Bon appetite!

Image: Australian Gourmet Traveller

Pretty Things for a Birthday Girl

2010-06-17T21:10:00.000+10:00

This is my niece, she turned one today (picture was taken back in January). I think she is gorgeous. She moved to the US with her mummy and daddy in March so we can only send her our birthday cuddles via the internet and phone.

Thought I would send her a gift the same way. Here are some of my choices for a very special little girl.

I love the use of vintage material in this dress and the pretty crochet detail

Such a cute clock

Bunting, pink, cakes and balloons - what could be more girly

A beautiful dolly

And her dolly's best friend

Paper dolls, just like I had as a girl

A cardboard dollhouse for them

A wise scandi style owl

Cute vintage style pillows

Finally, some beautiful books to add to her bookshelf

You probably wouldn't be surprised to read, that I play out my dreams of having a little girl vicariously through my sister, even if it is only through the internet. T I hope you like what I have chosen for you little B. I hope she has a lovely day full of lots of kisses and cuddles from you.

Happy birthday B.

A Look Inside

2010-06-17T06:00:00.046+10:00

It has been a few weeks since I posted a house tour. This home is in Sweden and I love its mix of vintage, op shop (thrift) finds with mid century design classics and a bit of IKEA for good measure. The use of vibrant colours adds a real sense of warmth. You can tell this was a well loved family home. And what about that kitchen, I could cook and bake in that one all day.

Have a happy day.

PS. Happy birthday to my niece, she is one today.

Images: via Emma's Design Blogg

Pretty Things and a Homemade Thing

2010-06-16T06:00:00.050+10:00

Today I caught up with a girlfriend of mine who is a very talented lady. She designs and makes resin jewelery and homewares. I already owned a few rings and have now added a pendant from her new range as well as the beautiful plate which will find its place on the coffee table in the "winter" room.

This little top I made up this afternoon. It is a lovely soft flannel and so warm, perfect for a winter day by the sea, yes planning on heading back today with J and Dada. Over the weekend I made some pillows which I will post as soon as I buy the inserts. They are for the "winter" room, some of the pillows in there at the moment are to be moved to my bedroom.

J has his first Occupational Therapy assessment session this morning. I am hoping that we will receive a positive review of what his needs in this area of treatment will be.

Oh, and Schnitzel came home yesterday evening. She's bandaged on two legs so I won't post a picture. She's doing really well, weight bearing on the broken leg already. We're glad to have her home.

Have a happy day.

Pure and Noble

2010-06-11T01:30:00.000+10:00

I'm over here today. Pop on over to see what I get up to when no one is looking. Thanks to Brooke for the opportunity to do a guest post, it was a lot of fun and gave my hubby a bit of a giggle as well.

While your there have a browse around Brooke's blog, it is full of fantastic, inspiring ideas all with a great sense of style and wit.

Have a happy weekend.

Image: Cookie Magazine

Woolly Wonders

2010-06-08T05:00:00.036+10:00

Inspired by some of the Aussie blogs I read which have been posting about knitting, I have decided to embrace one of the winter crafts. There is a local knitting shop which also provides classes for a beginner like me, so I'll be enrolling in one I can do before our trip to Europe (only 4.5 weeks to go, yeah). I popped into my local bookshop on Saturday and picked up the above book. It is a stunning book with simple diagrams and beautiful projects designed for a beginner, I highly recommend it.

Yesterday morning while driving J to kindy I was listening to one of my favourite radio stations when they launched the 2010 Knit In, an annual event where volunteers knit squares to create wraps which are donated to the Wrap with Love cause. This organisation, since 1992, has donated almost 222,000 wraps to people in over 75 countries, including Australia, to help ward off hypothermia. What a moment of serendipity to have turned to this radio station after I had decided to take up knitting, don't you agree? The Knit In is on for two months, so with my new book in hand, I'm going to knit a square or two before I head off to the warm sun of the Northern Hemisphere.

While at the bookshop I also picked up this book recommended by Jodi. I started it last night and so far have loved what I have read, thanks Jodi. Another read recommended by Jodi is a new blog, The Wool Maker. A gorgeous blog of family life captured in beautiful photographs.

Off to the zoo today with L and his kindy friends and mums, looking forward to it.

Have a happy day.

A Bit of Winter Colour

2010-06-05T18:36:00.002+10:00

***

And look at what I saw outside my living room this afternoon.

I hope you are having a happy weekend.

A Look Inside

2010-05-25T05:00:00.037+10:00

In one of my earlier posts I blogged about how much I liked this pillow (I actually ended up buying it). Well this week I thought we could visit Virginia from Roddy & Ginger (she also has a lovely blog) in her sixties home in South London. I hope you enjoy the visit.

Have a happy day.

Images: LivingEtc

What's For Dinner

2010-05-24T11:29:00.001+10:00

Wet and cold. That was our weekend and we spent most of the weekend in our "winter" room in front of the open fireplace staying warm, building Lego planes, reading and "gasp"... eating on our "nice" couches. J had a birthday party, but other than that we stayed in that room all weekend.

So this week for dinner, I thought I would make a few meals that would warm me inside out.

Monday - White bean and vegetable soup

Tuesday - I'm out to dinner so F will have a soup from the freezer

Wednesday - Spaghetti meatballs

Thursday - F is out so I'll have soup from the freezer

Friday - Beef strogonoff and jasmine rice

Saturday - Fish and potato pie

Sunday - Roast chicken and crispy potatoes with tomato salsa

Now, something I need to confess about these menus. I have had a few comments about how lucky my family is to benefit from these delicious menus. Let me clear that misconception, only F and I eat these meals. My boys hate food. I plan to do a separate post/s about this issue, but I am trying to gather up some courage as it is a sad state here when it comes to my boys and food. Anyway, just getting tense thinking about dinner tonight for them, so I'll stop right here for today.

Bon appetite and have a happy day.

Image: Cuisine.com.au

This and That

2010-05-20T15:59:00.000+10:00

"You've just got to have a dream ... and work hard." Sailing for 210 days, around the globe solo, non-stop and unassisted and only 16 years old. Congratulations Jessica Watson for living your dream.

The original design was hand embroidered and then scanned to create the most stunning wedding invitations I have ever seen. More images here.

A new to me blog, Leah's "daily exercise in gratitude"

A peek inside this illustrator's Moleskine notebooks

A beautiful new online magazine

A beautiful doll made from a vintage peg and vintage ticking and denim. A wonderful example of repurposing what you have around your home.

Murder mystery, first love, teenage angst, bigotry, migration, Vietnam War, shattered dreams, bitterness, small town malice, parent/teen relationships and disappointments, heroes. One of the most beautifully written books I have read, if you want a book you can't put down, get this novel.

Have a happy day.

Still having issues with Blogger, this post took me quite a few hours off and on!

Trouble, Trouble

2010-05-20T09:43:00.000+10:00

Having trouble with Blogger today, can't upload my lovely pics. Will try again later.

Hope you're all having a lovely day.

A Look Inside

2010-05-19T05:00:00.012+10:00

Do you recognise the third and fourth images? I have seen them in magazines and blogs frequently and always loved them and wondered what lucky children slept in that shared room. Well their father is my second favourite actor Mark Ruffalo and his wife Sunrise Coigney (what a great name).

I just love the warm eclectic and bohemian vibe they have created in their home with a mixture of contemporary and vintage furnishings. There are some great ideas that I am going to adapt as I slowly continue with the "mindful refreshment" of my home (a resolution from of my spending hiatus).

Have a happy day.

Images: Domino via Black Eiffel

What's For Dinner

2010-05-17T14:00:00.000+10:00

We went out to dinner on Saturday night to a wonderful Spanish restaurant Delicado in Milson's Point (for the Sydneysiders reading my blog). We had fantastic tapas that were just gave you a wonderful variety of taste sensations. It included quail, chorizo and cod dishes so it has me hankering for a bit of fish and meat this week after a few weeks of vegetable soups.

Monday - Chicken pot pie
Tuesday - Lamb shanks with braised fennel, brussel sprouts, cauliflower with mustard dressing
Wednesday - Caldeirada (Portuguese fish stew)
Thursday - Spaghetti bolognese
Friday - vegetable soup ( from Piri Piri Starfish by Tessa Kiros)
Saturday - date night
Sunday - Scrambled eggs, avocado, prosciutto, roquette and toasted sourdough cibatta

Bon appetite!

Image: Australian Gourmet Traveller

Bonito Baby

2010-05-15T06:51:00.000+10:00

I have been meaning to do a little shout out to my girlfriend and neighbour Stephanie's great little online store. Stephanie has curated a wonderful product range for her little store. I especially love her focus on eco products and she has some wonderful furniture and decor. Pop on over she ships anywhere in the world. Oh, and Stephanie now has a blog as well.

Have a great weekend.

Smitten

2010-05-13T06:00:00.107+10:00

Classic flashcards

Stunning flashcards that illustrate all that childhood should be

Modern flashcards

For your boy

For the typography and letterpress lover

For your girl

Classic letterpress

Modern classic

If you speak Portuguese...

Spanish...

French...

German...

Italian...

Arabic...

Japanese

Alphabet book yesterday and alphabet prints (a few flash cards and a quilt) today and in a variety of languages. Enjoy.

Have a happy day.

Off the Shelf

2010-05-12T06:00:00.026+10:00

I'm a voracious reader and I am happy to say that I have passed this joy onto my boys. I have books all over the house within easy reach. It is common to see them sitting on their own or together "reading" a book or two.

So I thought it might be fun to do a regular review of a book that we like, it might come come Kindy, the library or own collection. Most of my readers are mums to young children so I thought it might provide some inspiration or ideas about what your kidlets (and you) might enjoy.

So to start I have chosen a fantastic book I borrowed from the library yesterday called All Aboard!: A Travelling Alphabet by Bill Mayer. There are many beautiful alphabet books available, but this one is perfect for L. His current passion is all forms of transport and this book features stunning illustrations of all things relating to transport in an alphabet theme. The illustrations remind me of 1930s transport posters and are beautiful enough to be framed in the future. I love this book so much I'm going to get L a copy for his birthday next week.

Do you have a favourite alphabet book, what makes it so special?

Have a happy day.

A Look Inside

2010-05-11T06:00:00.038+10:00

I thought it might be fun to pop into the home of my favourite actor Vincent D'Onofrio and of his wife Carin van der Donk. It is perfect isn't it? I love the parquet flooring (we had a similar one in our Potts Point apartment and I really miss it). I think the beams in the kitchen and dining area a just amazing and I adore how the children's spaces have been decorated (that green wallpaper in the daughter's room is to die for). Oh and the light fixtures, just special. Yes, for me it is pure perfection.

Have a happy day.

Images: Remodelista

What's For Dinner

2010-05-09T22:39:00.000+10:00

I've missed a few of these posts, life is busy once again with the boys' return to kindy. The last few weeks with the evenings being cool I have made lovely soups, I plan to continue the theme this week. So on to this week's menu:

Monday: Lemon and broccoli soup
Tuesday: Creamed salt cod and roast garlic soup
Wednesday: Cauliflower and Stilton soup
Thursday: Chicken noodle soup
Friday: Soupe au pistou
Saturday: Dinner out with friends
Sunday: I make enough soup to freeze for another meal, so I'll choose from whatever I have in the freezer

Bon appetite!

Image: Donna Hay

Smitten

2010-05-06T06:00:00.002+10:00

Yes, I too need a comfy nightgown

I love the whimsy of butterflies

A winter stew will taste even better in this vintage pot

So pretty

For the family sofa

To add to the gallery wall I am putting together

A cute twist on a classic pendant

I love corsages and this one is a stunner

A reminder of my childhood suburbs every time I dry the dishes

To wear with my jeans, dresses and mini skirts this winter

I would love a monthly letterpress giftbox like this

Personalised stationery never looked so stylish

I just love this

Some eye candy

One way or another, this book is ending up on my kitchen bench

In honour of Mother's Day this Sunday I decided to list a few things I would like to receive from the boys. Of course they don't read this blog so hopefully someone else will!!!

It's is L's turn to make his Mama proud at this morning's Mother's Day Concert and Morning Tea. I forgot to photograph what J made for me along with the card, it was a necklace of beads, really pretty. I'll take pictures later after I receive what L makes for me.

Have a happy day.

A Look Inside

2010-05-04T06:00:00.028+10:00

I love this place in California owned by Morgan and Jeremy. They have created a warm home using furniture from thrift stores and vintage markets. I love how they use earthy colours to add warmth and texture to the otherwise white rooms. My favourite piece is the shelving unit in the third image which they built themselves.

You can see more of their home and the story of their renovation in their blog.

This morning I am attending a Mother's Day morning tea and concert being held by J's kindy class. This is the first one for J so I am especially excited, I've got my SLR camera and video camera ready to record the event. It will be L's turn on Thursday.

Have a happy day.

Liam

2010-04-30T06:37:00.000+10:00

I love letterpress and Lynn Russell from Satsuma Press has some beautiful pieces of covetable stationery. Lynn also is a mum to an adorable six year old boy Liam who has a neuromuscular disorder called Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Lynn has set up a blog celebrating Liam so that she can raise money to remodel their bathroom to make it fully accessible to her son.

You can help by making a donation or by entering a fantastic giveaway. An amazing 51 artists and studios have donated fabulous works and prizes for this worthwhile cause. The giveaway ends on Sunday 9 May 2010 (Mother's Day in Australia, a rather appropriate day I think).

Best of luck to those who enter the giveaway.

Have a happy weekend.

Smitten

2010-04-29T06:00:00.012+10:00

A fun library bag

A sophisticated print

This photograph just takes my breath away

A wise house rule

Believe it or not but those books are in fact a wallpaper

A cute print for the boys' playroom

And one for the little lady in your life

Another great print

Love these pins, I would put them in a box frame

I was at a Parents and Teachers Committee cocktail party last night, and the subject of a very interesting conversation I had was about books we were reading and book clubs set up by some of the mums. I came away with some great recommendations.

It prompted me to have a look on Etsy and other places for products inspired by books and these are just some of the many I found. I hope you like my finds.

I had a lovely catch up with Janette from My Sweet Prints. What a gorgeous lady she is and what an adorable little man she has. L was quite taken with Will watching him crawling about and standing up against some of the playground equipement. Looking forward to more catch ups with Janette.

Have a happy day.

A Look Inside

2010-04-28T06:00:00.039+10:00

Isn't this Parisian apartment just so beautiful? Those floors are just exquisite and the tall windows letting in all that glorious natural light. It just looks like a lovely family home, really lived in with all those books in every nook and crany. I also love the garden just off the living room. A stunning home.

I'm very excited this morning. I'm meeting up with a special lady this afternoon, Janette from My Sweet Prints. I can't wait to meet her and her sweet little boy and swap stories about our lives. It will be a lovely get together.

Have a happy day.

Images: Apartment Therapy

Lest We Forget - Anzac Day 2010

2010-04-25T17:50:00.001+10:00

Have you forgotten yet?...

For the world's events have rumbled on since those gagged days,
Like traffic checked while at the crossing of city-ways:
And the haunted gap in your mind has filled with thoughts that flow
Like clouds in the lit heaven of life; and you're a man reprieved to go,
Taking your peaceful share of Time, with joy to spare.
But the past is just the same--and War's a bloody game...
Have you forgotten yet?...
Look down, and swear by the slain of the War that you'll never forget.

From "Aftermath" by Siegfried Sassoon

Image: Australian War Memorial

Spending Hiatus - Weeks Ten & Eleven

2010-04-23T06:00:00.071+10:00

The last two weeks have been quite busy here at Lynwood Ave, yet I still was able to think about how I was spending my money. It isn't to say that I haven't bought anything but groceries and essentials, I have bought some extras, but these were necessary.

A new chair for J to sit at the table (if anyone is looking for an IKEA highchair, I've got one I'm happy to sell). J looks like such a little man now, he is so happy sitting alongside his brother having his meals.

In our family room we have a large blank wall over the sofa, that F has been asking to fill with artwork or photos etc. I have resisted until now as the boys love to climb all over the sofa, jump on it, ets. I didn't want tears as a result of falling pictures on little heads (and broken glass of course). So on Wednesday whilst at IKEA buying J's new chair, I stocked up on frames for photos, prints and other things I want on our gallery wall. I'll be using all my skills as a handywoman (sorry F you just don't have it in you!!) over the coming weeks as I put the gallery wall together.

I mentioned in my last Spending Hiatus post about how I was going through all my things and reinventing their use and moving things around. I'm having a ball doing that, in fact it is my new addiction that has replaced shopping. Once I've done all that needs doing and I'm happy with how our home looks, I'll do a little house tour of my home (probably in a month's time).

One of the things I did was use a leftover piece of felt from a craft session with the boys as a table runner (images above). It was a small piece (it should be longer given the length of the table). I trimmed it, added some tea lights (a wedding present still in its box!!) plus some bud vases I bought last year with fake flowers from my mum's place (she said she got them from Spotlight). I'm pretty pleased with how this little project turned out. I may change the centrepiece soon, add a small fishbowl vase I have and fill it with pinecones (for an autumnal vignette). The possibilities are endless when you just look around at what you already own and use a bit of imagination.

One more week of the official hiatus, it is looking good.

It is a long weekend here, so I'll be back on Tuesday. Have a happy day and a great weekend.

Smitten

2010-04-22T06:00:00.110+10:00

Beautiful bees wax votives

Nature themed ABC

Gorgeous children's cutlery

A cute doorstop

Love the pop of colour on this doorstop

Earthy wallpaper

A beautiful side table or stool

An upcyled WWII duffel bag

A girl needs her chocolate fix

What a nice set to clean up the children's biscuit crumbs

This is for the little growler in your life

To hang your gear by the door

A chic recycling system

Witty, natural, great design, smell nice and really work (yes I buy these)

A classic in eco chic

In honour of Earth Day, a bit of eco chic I'm smitten with.

Have a happy Earth Day.

This and That

2010-04-21T07:16:00.000+10:00

Oh what a gorgeous paper doll house I found in my inbox this morning, I just had to share it. You'll find it at Upon a Fold.

Following on from the house above, you've probably seen this beautiful letterpress version around blogland, but I couldn't resist showing it again.

Image: Sydney Morning Herald

How impressive is that Icelandic volcano causing a bit of a fuss for travellers. Mother Nature is just spectacular.

A new to me blog I've been reading, a cabin renovation in Norway plus lots of lovely Scandinavian interiors.

Another new to me blog by a very talented stay at home dad.

Finally some music from my favourite current band.

Have a happy day.

A Look Inside

2010-04-20T06:54:00.000+10:00

This weekend is a holiday weekend and the weather is going to be lovely and warm, so were off to the Northern Beaches for a little holiday. In that spirit I thought I would show you a lovely home on Sydney's Northern Beaches owned by a lady who is from London, hence the Underground splashback. Isn't it a great idea? Oh and I love the hanging chair out on the deck and the fabulous garden. Can't wait for Friday.

Have a happy day.

Image: Living Etc

What's For Dinner

2010-04-19T13:38:00.000+10:00

Running a little late with this post. Had a pretty big weekend, too much good food and champagne and wine on Saturday and Sunday lunch, so I was feeling too tired yesterday evening to even pull out a cookbook let alone plan a menu! Today, J is back at kindy and L is back to his term activities, so it has been hectic.

This week's menu will be a little lighter than last week to compensate for the weekend and also it is going to be a fairly warm week, so some outdoor meals will be on the cards. So onto this week's menu:

Monday: Linguini with rocket, cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, chilli, garlic and breadcrumbs
Tuesday: Herb & pine nut crumbed chicken schnitzel with brussel sprouts & baby potatoes with melted butter & vinegar sauce
Wednesday: Salmon poached in white wine, vinegar and water with asparagus and potato salad
Thursday: Roast beef fillet, treviso (from raddichio family) and sweet potato salad
Friday: Fried sardines and stuffed tomatoes
Saturday: Date night with F
Sunday: Celeriac soup

Bon appetite!

Image: Australian Gourmet Traveller

Street Fashion - Kids Style

2010-04-14T07:32:00.001+10:00

Browsing some of the street fashion photography blogs recently, I spotted a few kids who are almost as cute as mine!

We're off to our favourite harbourside park today for Mothers' Group.

Have a happy day.

Images: Mr. Newton, Jak & Jil, Vanessa Jackman & The Sartorialist

A Look Inside

2010-04-13T06:57:00.001+10:00

Brrr, it is cold here this morning, first sign of Autumn (Fall), next the trees will start changing colours into the glorious, golds, oranges and red.

I found this home in New York and I thought it perfectly captured the earthiness of Autumn (Fall): the tan, caramel and green colours in the furniture and furnishings, the coziness of the rooms, the exposed brick walls. That child's bedroom with the chalkboard, isn't it great. I also love the artwork taped up on the wall in the dining room. A truly lovely family home.

The owner Zoe van de Wiele lives above her store Cloth Clothing which has some really yummy things.

Have a happy day.

Images: Flickr

Lonny Magazine: The Latest Issue is Out!

2010-04-11T21:26:00.001+10:00

Yeah, issue 4 just reached my inbox! Click here for a wonderful design inspiration and don't forget your cup of tea.

Happy reading.