Lella and Zee

Counting down.

2012-02-16T10:34:00.003+11:00

There's only a week until my sister's wedding! I can't believe how quickly the time has gone. We are busy making bits and pieces for the big day, and slowly ticking things off our 'To do' list. I'm a little stressed, but mostly excited.

I have just finished the little flags to go in the desserts – I used lovely cotton tape and toothpicks.

Etsy love: Mr & Mrs cushions.

2012-02-11T20:39:00.004+11:00

With only a couple of weeks to go until my sister's wedding, I'm all about love at the moment. Love and marriage. So I love these 'Mr & Mrs' cushions by Funkyshique. They would look lovely on the newly wed's bed!

String.

2012-02-06T18:53:00.004+11:00

"it is as if I had a string somewhere under my left ribs, tightly and inextricably knotted to a similar string situated in the corresponding quarter of your little frame. And if that boisterous channel, and two hundred miles or so of land come broad between us, I am afraid that cord of communion will be snapped; and then I've a nervous notion I should take to bleeding inwardly."

Mr Rochester to Jane. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.

Artwork by Claire Falkenberg, via Abundance.

The girl with seven horses.

2012-02-03T08:29:00.003+11:00

Once upon a time there was a girl who had 7 invisible horses. People thought she was crazy and that she in fact had 7 imaginary horses, but this was not the case. When autumn came the girl spent a whole day washing all her clothes. She hung them on a string in her garden to let the gentle autumn sun dry them. Out of nowhere, a terrible storm came and its fiercefull winds grabbed a hold of all her clothes and all seven horses (authors note: since they are invisible they obviously didn't weigh much). The girl was devestated and spent all autumn looking for each horse spread around the country, wrapped in her clothes.

I was reading Abundance and came across this photo project by Ulrika Kestere. I love it. I'm also in love with her blog. Ahhh, the whimsy.

Twenty something days to go.

2012-02-02T09:25:00.004+11:00

My sister is getting married in twenty something days! I'm excited and filled with anticipation. We are in a frenzy collecting glassware and making decorations.

Excitement hit a new high when we were lucky enough to see a test run of the lace (I designed) being made. It made it all so real.

I'm a little nervous about all the things we need to do, and the fact that it hasn't stopped raining for two weeks. Hopefully the sun will come out in time for the big day!

Pallet Coffee Table.

2012-01-15T18:11:00.003+11:00

Ages ago my husband got me a pallet to turn into a coffee table for our lounge room. Today we finished it, apart from a glass top. It didn't have a bottom on it, so we got a piece of MDF and I white washed it and stuck triangles cut from pages of an old book* on it. We then nailed it to the bottom of the pallet and attached industrial castors (from Bunnings) so it can be easily moved. I think the whole thing cost less than $70, so I'm pretty happy. I like the natural colour, but I'm wondering if I should paint it white. The dilemmas!

*The book I used was destined for the recycling - it has no cover or spine and has seen better days. I would never cut up a book that can still be read!

I love Abundance.

2012-01-14T16:55:00.002+11:00

I know I have posted about Abundance before, but I love it. Mady's posts are always beautiful, whimsical and inspirational. I always find myself in awe.

Etsy love: Carson Converse Studio

2012-01-14T16:50:00.002+11:00

I Love the quilts by Carson Converse Studio. I want a big one for my bed. The only tricky bit is choosing between crosses and triangles...

Wedding crazy.

2012-01-14T09:37:00.004+11:00

We are all about weddings at the moment. Our sister Be is getting married in a few weeks, so we are in full wedding mode organising decorations, favours, hair stylists, shoes, signs, drinks and everything else we might need for the big day. I'm addicted to reading wedding blogs and Be tells me I need to stop before my head explodes with ideas.

Some lovely pics I've found from Once Wed, Green Wedding Shoes and 100 Layer Cake.

Gift wrapping and such.

2011-12-23T11:55:00.003+11:00

I'm excited to have finished wrapping our Christmas gifts! I was feeling very disorganised, but now that it's done all I can think about is handing them out on Christmas morning! This year, my son and I made our own muesli and packaged it using labels I designed and then had printed as stickers. Lella tells me her theme has 'aced' mine this year, so I'm looking forward to seeing it Christmas day!

Love Actually.

2011-12-23T09:11:00.003+11:00

It's been so wet and cold here that it's hard to believe it's almost Christmas. Last night I thought I'd try to feel a little more festive, so put on Love Actually, one of my favourite Christmas movies. It doesn't matter how many times I've seen it, it still gives me a warm fuzzy feeling. I love it. I still remember the first time I saw it at the movies, I didn't want it to end.

Five: Things I love about Christmas.

2011-12-22T08:27:00.002+11:00

1. The music.

2. Christmas Baking and craft.

3. Buying gifts.

4. Celebrating the birth of Jesus.

4. Spending time with my loved ones.

These gorgeous images are from Sweet Paul's Holiday Countdown.

An early Christmas present.

2011-12-09T08:14:00.004+11:00

As my Husband and I get older it's harder to buy surprises for each other. We do more of a wish list system for Christmas which means you have some idea of what might be wrapped under the tree. So when I went to put something in my Husband's car and saw 'The Little Veggie Patch Co' book on the seat, I turned to him for an explanation. He confessed it was a Christmas gift for me, and I got very excited – and a little angry that he hadn't hidden it in a better spot!

The book by Fabian Capomolla and Mat Pember is awesome! If you are at all interested in growing your own veggies or herbs it's a must have. It's full of veggie growing wisdom, and is fantastic even if you only have a tiny yard or live in an apartment. It makes a great Christmas gift...

A joyous front door.

2011-12-08T11:36:00.003+11:00

Every year I get so excited about Christmas and all the lovely crafts and decorations you can make, but I rarely end up doing anything special apart from gift wrapping. This year I started early and made a wreath for our front door using paper, cardboard and buttons. It was easy to make and I feel joyous every time we open our door!

Hello.

2011-12-01T07:03:00.003+11:00

Hello December, my favourite month, my favourite time of year – I've been waiting for you.

I'm so excited, Christmas is on the way! We introduced our two and a half year old to the joys of Christmas tunes – as we danced to Diana Krall, he declared he could listen to 'Jingle Bells' all day. My heart is full.

Image via We Heart It

Butterflies.

2011-11-10T13:08:00.002+11:00

Today is overcast, but warm and our yard is filled with white butterflies. It's quite lovely.

Image via We Heart It

Cross stitch.

2011-10-25T07:11:00.005+11:00

A little while ago, Anooke borrowed a book from the library full of unconventional cross stitch patterns. I was inspired when Anooke started her Mexican Day of the Dead skull and thought I might try my hand at one. I decided that instead of using the traditional rainbow of colours, I would do mine in yellows, limes and mustards. I like Anooke's traditional version better, but I'm proud that I've actually finished!

Homemade muesli.

2011-10-23T16:50:00.003+11:00

This morning, my two and a half year old sous chef and I made our own muesli. After a bad supermarket muesli choice I decided it was time to take things into our own hands. We made our own granola/crumble by mixing oats, chopped almonds and hazelnuts, cinnamon, a little brown sugar and a small amount of melted butter and then baked it for a few minutes on a tray. We then mixed it with oats, oat bran, chia seed, sunflower seeds, pepitas and chopped dates. It was so easy and I know exactly what's in it - we are two very happy muesli makers!

Some lovely.

2011-10-21T20:04:00.005+11:00

Today was lovely. It made me want to drink from vintage china, wear something pretty and throw rose petals.

Images via Once Wed

Baking days.

2011-10-11T19:03:00.002+11:00

I purchased this month's Donna Hay magazine and was seduced by the 'Brownies' section. It was a rainy afternoon so decided to try the 'cookies and cream blondie' and the 'brownie cookies with peanut butter frosting'. Doing both on the same day was a bad idea. By the end I was almost in a sugar coma and couldn't stand the thought of chocolate. The 'cookies and cream blondie' wasn't great – it won't be on my make again list. It was a little strange and felt like it was missing something. The 'brownie cookies with peanut butter' were better, very rich, but easy enough to make. I loved the frosting, but I must admit I used less butter than the recipe called for. I think I'll move onto the ricotta section now...

Now you're just somebody that I used to know.

2011-10-08T07:47:00.002+11:00

Image via Baby Melvin

The Distillery.

2011-10-07T10:49:00.003+11:00

I was lucky enough to attend the launch of The Distillery, letterpress and design, last night. It was so exciting and so inspirational. Everything was splendid. The smell, the printing demonstration, the beard on the printing man, the sample pack of letterpressed delights (my son declared the monster calendar to be beautiful!), I could go on all day. I love The Distillery's passion to share the art of letterpress and their willingness to teach their skills.

Have a look at their website. They stock paper for letterpress and make plates as well – so handy!

Monday.

2011-10-03T09:30:00.003+11:00

Images via ffffound

An achievement:

2011-09-17T08:56:00.002+10:00

Image via ffffound

Etsy love: brandMOJO

2011-09-09T07:13:00.002+10:00

I love brandMOJO's furniture – a stunning mix of handcrafted and restored pieces. So lovely.

Spring, I love you.

2011-09-01T06:58:00.002+10:00

Welcome Spring, you darling. You make my heart skip a beat. Stay a while.

Image via We Heart It

Burger days.

2011-08-21T17:48:00.003+10:00

It's Anooke's birthday this week, so we had a little celebration this afternoon. Anooke and Be love a novelty cake. Always have. I'm not a huge fan. Dry butter cake, too much icing... So when Anooke requested a Big Burger cake, I was a little apprehensive, but up for the challenge. Be did a Google search and found one we could use as a reference, and then I made two marble cakes and a big load of icing and baammm – one Big Burger birthday cake. I'm actually proud of the way it turned out. And it didn't taste that bad either.

Happy birthday my darling.

I wish I could buy you a Velorbis.

2011-08-16T09:37:00.003+10:00

The little things.

2011-08-14T14:03:00.005+10:00

I stumbled upon Sheye Rosemeyer's blog a few years ago and was touched by her and Ava's story. I wasn't a mother then, but the thought of losing a child was awful. Now that I have a two year old of my own, it's unimaginable. Nothing can describe the depth of love I feel for my son, the joy he brings me everyday, or the sheer delight of a cuddle.

Ava's Tea Party, can be celebrated any time in August and is Sheye's way of remembering Ava, but is also about taking time to appreciate the little things and the people you love. You can visit Sheye's blog to find out more. Also, be sure to have a look at Ava's Rule and educate your children about the dangers of hot cars.

Image: My son wearing Lella's glasses while 'reading' over my husbands shoulder. To me there is nothing more glorious.

Etsy love: Lamp Goods

2011-08-14T07:09:00.002+10:00

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." Ps. 119:105

I love these quirky light designs by Lamp Goods. I love that they give old household items a new and beautiful purpose.

Pony days.

2011-08-13T07:55:00.003+10:00

Yesterday was spent in the country with my good friend. We talked about food, gardening, interiors and babies. We fed the horses, read magazines in the sun and planned a trip to Ikea. It was a perfect way to start the weekend.

Pallet makeovers.

2011-08-06T07:50:00.004+10:00

Lella and I really like the whole pallet makeover thing, so we've decided to give it a go. Who knew there were so many things you could do with them!

We're both going to try our hand at turning pallets into coffee tables. I'm thinking I might try and white wash mine, while Lella is thinking dirty lime green might just be the ticket for hers. I'm a little nervous, but it's the weekend and my pallet is ready and waiting for a makeover. If you've successfully transformed a pallet, we'd love to know how it went.

I'm not sure of the source of the images, if they're yours let us know – they're lovely!

A glimpse of Spring.

2011-08-05T18:27:00.004+10:00

The last few days have been divine. A little glimpse of Spring to remind us that Winter will end. My washing actually dried on the clothes line. We played pirates, complete with buried treasure and lunched with a view. One of my Daffodils is even flowering. Warm weather please don't leave us. Stay a little longer.

Image via We Heart It.

Hello.

2011-08-04T17:20:00.003+10:00

I love sending cards and love it even more when I receive them. My lovely friend sent me this 'hello' and it made my day. She said it shouts 'hello, you fool, I love you' just like Roxette would. I suggest you all send a loved one a card today and make them smile.

You can get your own 'hello' card (and other cool stuff) here.

Mizpah.

2011-07-29T10:21:00.003+10:00

I've been obsessed with the concept of "Mizpah" for quite some time now, it is symbolic of an emotional bond between people and symbolizes a place of sanctuary. The term "Mizpah" comes from the Bible, Genesis 31:49, and the verse goes like this: "And Mizpah; for he said, The Lord watch between me and thee, when we are absent one from another." Mizpah jewellery became popular in the Victorian era and also made a huge resurgence in World War 1 for the men who went to war to wish them a safe passage back.

On Tuesday I turned 24 and my family bought me the best birthday present I think I've ever received - the above Mizpah ring. It was made in 1881 - isn't that amazing?! I am so in love with it, and for me it represents the amazing bond and love that my family has for me and I for them. It fits so perfectly and every time I look down at it I wonder who it was originally made for and what kind of life it's had, how it got from Birmingham to Blackheath, and where my life will take it.

Float away with me.

2011-07-29T10:03:00.001+10:00

Image via ffffound

The museum.

2011-07-22T08:32:00.003+10:00

Last weekend we went for a little trip to the mining museum my Dad has been involved with for as long as I can remember. I've been there countless times, but this trip I took time to appreciate the little details. The place is filled with industrial gems. Bits and pieces of days gone by.

Pony rescue.

2011-07-21T08:50:00.003+10:00

It's official. Lella's house has become a refuge for abandoned ponies. Of the plastic kind.

Can you believe someone actually left this fine pony specimen on the street as part of council clean-up?

Etsy love: Cassandra Smith

2011-07-21T08:46:00.002+10:00

I'm totally smitten... How awesome is this painted, naturally shed Mule Deer antler by Cassandra Smith.

The weekend.

2011-07-10T19:21:00.003+10:00

I love achieving things on weekends. Relaxing is fantastic too, but I love to get to Sunday night and think 'WOW' look at what we've done.

Lella, Anooke, Be, Hamish, Mum and I started the weekend with a trip to Bowral. It was a lovely girly day looking at at antique shops, buying wool and eating food (some yum, some not so great). The next morning Lella, Anooke and Be (oh and Hamish) helped my Husband and I fill a skip with the remnants of our backyard – old concrete and broken bricks mostly. We laughed a lot and got really dirty - it was hard work, but fun. I'm proud when I see the skip.

Anooke managed to get me hooked on the iPad App, 'Pet Hotel' and I put the final coat of paint on my little table (I'll post photos soon). We even managed to fit in a walk to the lagoon near our house. I feel like we've accomplished a lot.

Home.

2011-07-07T11:47:00.005+10:00

Since moving into our house in December I've become a bit obsessed with renovating. I've always had a passion for interiors and I'm a fool for a good makeover (this stems from my first viewing of 'Calamity Jane' when I was a wee child).

For years my favourite TV shows have been about renovation or home makeovers and my favourite magazines are all about lovely homes. All I think about is decorating. I renovate our house in my head every night before I go to sleep - I find it calming (see what I mean about obsessed).

Our house is the annoying, half done kind. So we are stuck with a few things that are just too new (or expensive) to change - like my inherited latte kitchen with pebble splash back. Ewwwww. Hopefully we can change the splash back and live with the latte for a while.

We recently re-did our bathroom - I will post photos when we get around to finishing the paint job on the ceiling. Finishing paint jobs seems to be a problem for us at the moment. We did have a plan to start at the front of the house and work to the back - but I get over excited and start other projects before we're finished an entire room. Having a two year old who loves to help doesn't make things easy either.

I'm eager to see our home makeover complete... Maybe before I change my mind and want to start all over again.

Dreaming of lazy days.

2011-07-06T15:36:00.004+10:00

Today I'm dreaming of a holiday. The family kind. The kind where you read and cook and eat and laugh and walk and laugh and eat. The kind that requires casual clothes only and no watches or TV.

We are tied together.

2011-07-04T16:53:00.002+10:00

Image via We Heart It

Milton and his Violet.

2011-07-03T14:37:00.002+10:00

A little while ago, I was at my Grandma's and came across her boxes of old photos. I had seen her wedding photos before, but only the formal framed ones she has on display. I love these more candid shots. The beautiful, young couple standing next to the big car, the wind catching Grandma's veil – you can almost imagine being there.

Etsy love: Lackluster Co.

2011-07-02T20:53:00.002+10:00

I love Lackluster Co.'s selection of vintage and industrial decor. The old numbers from petrol stations and railways, the crates and other goodies like world globes and football helmets. Love, love love.

Am I really a grown up?

2011-07-02T20:29:00.003+10:00

I'm almost 30 but don't feel a day over 18. I know more now than I did then, but I still feel the same.

I've never been one of those people concerned with age. Getting older just happens and that's the way things are. But as the months creep closer to my 30th birthday, age seems to be on my mind. I've started to notice little wrinkles around my eyes, I've started to feel out of place at clothing shops I've frequented for years and I have a baby seat in my car.

The other week I went into the office next door to mine, and the receptionist said (referring to me) 'The lady from next door's here'. I almost turned around to look at the person standing behind me, and then realised she was talking about me. I was shocked. Since when had I been a 'lady' and not a girl. I think I was actually offended. I laughed later, but at the time I was secretly gob-smacked. Me, a 'lady'?

Sometimes I feel like a kid playing house. We bought saucepans today and I turned to my husband and said 'I feel like a real adult'. Maybe when I'm 40 I'll be a real adult?

Clothes to snare a millionaire.

2011-06-30T15:11:00.003+10:00

Until yesterday I had forgotten how much I love Wheels and Doll Baby. I love the glamour and the pin-up-esque look. I think I need a ballet skirt... Maybe even one in each colour.

Miss Holiday Golightly, Travelling.

2011-06-25T19:57:00.004+10:00

Last weekend I read Truman Capote's 'Breakfast at Tiffany's'. Having been a fan of Audrey Hepburn since my early teenage years, I know the movie version well and thought I'd give the book a go. It's not a very long story, and a lot of it is the movie word for word, but there are some major differences.

Everybody knows Holly Golightly. Audrey as Holly Golightly. I think we love Holly because of Audrey. The Holly from the book is almost the same, but sadder. She doesn't really change in the book like she does in the movie. I'm sorry to say there is no dramatic kiss with 'Fred' in the rain at the end, and she doesn't find 'Cat' after leaving him in an alley. Instead she fleas to Brazil chasing men with money and lives the same naive life there as she did in New York.

I finished the book feeling sad for her. Sad for her past. Sad for her future and sad that she didn't live happily ever after with 'Fred' and 'Cat'.

I think I'll go and watch the movie.

Etsy love: Beauchamping.

2011-06-21T21:24:00.004+10:00

I think I may be in love with Beauchamping's striking posters. In particular, the 'Homestead' poster. I love my family too.

I'm sorry baby, I love you.

2011-06-20T19:37:00.003+10:00

Hello blog land, it is I, Lella. I know I've been letting y'all down lately (well mostly just Zee) and I'm sorry for that. I've been busy - starting a degree, living life - but mostly and honestly I was pretty disillusioned by everything and not really sure what I'd put up here, even if I was to write anything at all. Lots of amazing things happening, and life is there for the taking right?

And for now I'm back, let's be friends again x

Artwork by Tyler Axtel.

The mean reds.

2011-06-18T15:41:00.002+10:00

'You know those days when you've got the mean reds?'

'Same as the blues?'

'No, the blues are because you're getting fat or maybe it's been raining too long. You're sad, that's all. But the mean reds are horrible. You're afraid and you sweat like hell, but you don't know what you're afraid of. Except something bad is going to happen, only you don't know what it is. You've had that feeling?'

'Quite often. Some people call it angst.'

'All right. Angst. But what do you do about it?

'Well, a drink helps.'

'I've tried that. I've tried aspirin too...What I've found does the most good is just to get into a taxi and go to Tiffany's. It calms me down right away, the quietness and the proud look of it; nothing very bad could happen to you there, not with those kind men in their nice suits, and that lovely smell of silver and alligator wallets. If I could find a real-life place that made me feel like Tiffany's, then I'd buy some furniture and give the cat a name.'

Breakfast at Tiffany's, Truman Capote.

Daphne.

2011-06-16T08:45:00.005+10:00

I think I must be living under a rock, because until Lella showed me the lovely short film 'Daphne Guinness: Undressed' on Nowness, I had no idea of how beautiful, quirky, creative and elegant she is. Everything about her is interesting, even her name. Daphne. Daphh-nee. So soft and pretty. I think I need to channel a little Daphne Guinness in my life. Maybe I could sell my house and buy one couture piece?

Five: things that belong together.

2011-06-14T19:16:00.003+10:00

5. Bruce Willis and action movies.

4. Smoked salmon and cream cheese.

3. David and Victoria Beckham.

2. Rainy days and movies.

1. You and Me.

Image via We Heart It

Silhouette Masterpiece Theatre.

2011-06-14T14:12:00.003+10:00

I'm quite taken with these prints by Wilhelm Staehle. I have loved the 'Just Right' one for ages, but never knew where it came from. Have a look at the other prints in the 'Silhouette Masterpiece Theatre' series. They are just as macabre and humorous.

Sunshine, when are you coming back?

2011-06-13T16:10:00.003+10:00

Winter has only just begun and already I'm longing for spring.

Image via ffffound

Ribbon and patchwork.

2011-06-12T19:31:00.006+10:00

While visiting my parents yesterday, we took a trip to my favourite patchwork shop to get some ribbon for my doorbell. An hour later we left the shop with more than just ribbon. Be and I found Amy Butler's 'Honey Bun Pouf' pattern and decided we had to have it. Before we knew it, we were picking out our six coordinating fabrics to whip up one of our own. Be chose bright oranges and pinks for her pouf, while I decided on greys with a splash of limey yellow for mine.

It seemed like a good idea at the time, but now I'm feeling a little daunted by the project. I'm determined to make this pouf and not have the lovely fabric end up in a box somewhere with my other half finished projects!

Etsy love: Debbie Carlos

2011-06-09T21:45:00.003+10:00

I love this 'Antlers Poster' by Debbie Carlos. I'm thinking it would look lovely in my lounge room.

Chalk board walls: yay or nay?

2011-06-06T18:56:00.003+10:00

So I've decided to take the plunge and paint my bedroom black – but I'm not going to stop there! I'm also planning to paint the end of my hall black as well. I may be crazy, but I'm doing it anyway. I was looking at The Society Inc. colours on the Murobond website and noticed that there's a chalk board range and it got me thinking.

I'm not a huge fan of the whole chalk board wall thing, but I do love Tom's bed in 500 Days of Summer. So here's the question – should I paint the wall black and hang some pictures on it, or should I chalk board it and draw on it? Are chalk board walls ok or not so ok?

Images from ffffound and 500 Days of Summer

I should have taken more photos of you.

2011-06-06T18:43:00.001+10:00

Image via ffffound

School girl treasures.

2011-06-02T14:34:00.004+10:00

My Mum had a clean up recently, and to my horror delivered two boxes full of things from my childhood and teenage days. Stuff I had thought was 'special'. Old cards, presents, Barbies, school books and letters from long lost friends and first loves. I went through the boxes today and found myself laughing at what I had kept for so many years.

Much of it I threw away without a second thought, other things I have held onto, or at least documented before they went in the bin. I just had to take a photo of the four years worth of graffitied pencil cases I had kept – it was all the rage to buy cheap pencil cases and scribble the names of the boys we loved all over them with pens and liquid paper. I wonder if school girls still do this?

Sardines.

2011-05-26T08:24:00.002+10:00

My Grandma likened my sisters and I to a tin of sardines. I was shocked, but then I liked it.

Image via We Heart It

Today.

2011-05-25T17:07:00.001+10:00

Image from all the mountains.

Speaking of gardens...

2011-05-19T08:42:00.004+10:00

While I'm rambling about my backyard, I thought I'd share some images I've found while looking for inspiration. I can visualise my plans for inside the house, no worries, but when it comes to the outside and the garden I'm completely lost. I have so many ideas it starts to do my head in.

Images are from various sources, most from Desire to Inspire, the others from searches on google images (if you know the original source let me know).

Ancient ruins.

2011-05-19T07:46:00.003+10:00

When we first saw our backyard it was, to our knowledge, rough lawn with barely any plants and a couple of big gum trees. It has two levels, and we had planned to have a big lawn to play on at the back, and a big herb and vegetable garden at the front. We could see a couple of pavers under the grass at the back, but just thought we'd pull those up and level things a bit.

To our surprise the 'few' pavers turned into a big octagon of pavers under the grass. We dug up all the pavers – a mammoth job in the middle of summer, and thought we were almost done. We were wrong. Deeper under the ground, and around the pavers was a large brick circle which we have named the 'ancient ruins'. We spent the weekend digging up the circle and stacking bricks, which we think we will build a wood fired pizza oven with. Our neighbour mentioned that there was a pool there and then a gazebo with an impressive fernery. I would have liked to have seen it.

Wise words: Dr. Seuss.

2011-05-10T10:46:00.002+10:00

Image from Graphic-Exchange

Hummingbird heartbeat.

2011-05-07T10:13:00.002+10:00

Even the seasons change

I want it to stay the same.

You give me that...

Hummingbird Heartbeat

Spread my wings and make me fly

The taste of your honey is so sweet

When you give me the Hummingbird Heartbeat

Lyrics by Katy Perry (don't you judge me!), Image from WeHeartIt.

Double the love.

2011-05-04T21:19:00.004+10:00

I know it's late to be posting this, but Catherine Campbell is having a half price print sale that ends today. I had been trying to decide between two of her prints when I logged on tonight and discovered her sale, needless to say my decision was easy, I bought both! I'm so excited. Quickly – visit Catherine's Etsy shop and treat yourself!

Dream home.

2011-05-03T19:10:00.004+10:00

I'm a huge 'Grand Designs' fan and I'm constantly falling in love with houses on the show, but when I saw the episode featuring Kathryn Tyler's home it was love at first sight. The house is exactly what I would build, my dream home. I love Kathryn's bold choices and clever ideas. I'm not only a fan of her home, but also her work. You can visit her website to see more.

Five: things I love about Cairns.

2011-04-28T18:40:00.004+10:00

Recently I was lucky enough to escape to the tropical north for a dear friend's 30th birthday. I found the thought of the trip daunting, but as I flew into Cairns and saw the brilliant blue sea and green mountains, I felt as though I was coming home. I had a brilliant weekend catching up with old friends and eating beautiful food. What a wonderful place – here are my top five favourite things about it:

5. The weather. It's warm all the time. I love the warm breeze at night, it makes an evening stroll extra special.

4. The landscape. The high, lush hills and the clear blue sea.

3. Rusty's market. The fresh produce is unbelievable, and there are more weird and wacky fruit and vegetables than you can imagine. One morning we decided to get our days food from the market. We started with vegetable samosas, then moved on to bocconcini and buffalo mozzarella balls with fresh basil and ripe tomatoes. We then sampled sweet pineapple and the odd Longan fruit. We finished off with the most beautiful Vietnamese paw paw salad and rice paper rolls. I think I was in heaven.

2. The memories I have of living in such a beautiful place.

1. The dear friends I made while we were there.

For like ever.

2011-04-22T19:49:00.003+10:00

Yvonne, from the beautiful and stylish, The Yvestown Blog is giving away three 'For Like Ever' posters. Be sure to visit her blog and comment for your chance to win. I love the bold red typography on the pastel pink – so pretty.

Mad obsession.

2011-04-21T19:28:00.002+10:00

I'm afraid my love for Mad Men has turned into a full blown obsession. It happened somewhere between season one and three, I can't think of anything else. I'm waiting for my delivery of season four. Please hurry.

Contemplation.

2011-04-18T18:36:00.002+10:00

I'm contemplating painting my bedroom black. Lella says 'Yes Yes Yes', but I'm just not sure. When it comes to interiors I'm a white lover, but lately I want to branch out a little, live a little, be a little brave. I'm scared. I love this black room I found on one of my favourite blogs, Desire to Inspire.

Me too.

2011-04-11T08:24:00.000+10:00

From here.

Break it to me gently.

2011-04-07T13:38:00.003+10:00

My favourite song at the moment is 'Break It to Me Gently' by Brenda Lee. I have fallen in love with the smooth country tones of this 1962 song.

Image via ffffound

Time travel.

2011-04-06T19:11:00.004+10:00

It's funny how hearing a song can trigger memories long forgotten. I was driving to work, minding my own business and then – boom – my 'first kiss song' started playing on the radio and suddenly I was a teenager again. The memory was so vivid, I was back there in my fluffy red midriff turtleneck and denim skirt being kissed for the first time. It wasn't a great experience, but I remember being giddy with joy because the boy I liked, liked me back.

Image via We Heart It.

Oh deer me.

2011-03-21T09:43:00.004+11:00

This cold weather makes me think of these beautiful creatures.

Wise words.

2011-03-16T18:20:00.003+11:00

One days trouble is enough for one day.

Image via ffffound

Better Half.

2011-03-08T11:06:00.002+11:00

I love this packaging designed by VSA Partners. I'm not crazy about a pony being cut in half – but I am crazy about the design.

Bompas and Parr: The coolest guys in jelly.

2011-03-03T12:36:00.002+11:00

How totally awesome are these guys? Not only do they make bespoke jelly moulds and cookie cutters, they design awesome and spectacular food experiences – sometimes working on architectural scale. I knew jelly could be cool, but not this cool. Be sure to visit their website, it will blow your mind.

Just like you.

2011-02-21T17:04:00.003+11:00

When I was younger I hated it when people said I looked like my Mum. I didn't want to look like anyone else. I wanted to be exotic, individual. Now I like it when people say I look like her. She is one of the best, most wonderful, funny and beautiful people I know. I like that you can tell that I'm hers.

January.

2011-02-17T07:52:00.002+11:00

I have just started watching the first season of Mad Men. I love the fashion, the style and January Jones. So beautiful.

Somewhere special.

2011-02-14T20:14:00.002+11:00

Anooke's year 12 major art work was selected for this years Art Express exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW, so we drove into the city for the launch. It was so exciting to see her brilliant film playing at the gallery. Afterwards we wanted to take her somewhere special for lunch to celebrate. Lella and I threw some ideas around, but Anooke's idea of special was Harry's Cafe De Wheels – a totally stylin' roadside diner. I suppose I shouldn't be surprised by Anooke anymore.

The perks of work.

2011-02-14T20:11:00.002+11:00

I love my job, but it was made even better when one of our paper reps dropped in a box of Adriano Zumbo macarons. Everything about them was divine. The packaging, the colours, the flavours – oh the joy.

Sweet sweet roses.

2011-02-03T20:01:00.003+11:00

I was asked to put some flowers together for a wedding last weekend, so last Friday Lella and I got up at 4.30am and headed to the flower markets in search of some pretty blooms.

Before my first visit to the flower markets, I had imagined them to be a beautiful, serene place filled with rows of flowers and pretty coloured tents. My romantic fantasy was well and truly shattered when I realised the reality was quite different. The markets are dirty, wet, stressful and busy. The sellers are big men in leather aprons – some are nice and some are awful. The rows of flowers are there, but the dirty white buckets they're in are a long way from my pretty coloured tents.

If you've never been it's worth the trip. They sell flowers you could never imagine. Lella and I saw a bunch of beetroot coloured roses. I wish I had've bought them.

We spent the day putting together bouquets and discussing what our 'florist names' would be – I chose Felicity and Lella chose Anastacia. My house has smelt of roses all week. It's beautiful.

I still dream about you.

2011-02-02T19:15:00.002+11:00

Image via ffffound

AllSaints Spitalfields.

2011-02-02T18:34:00.003+11:00

I love this collection from AllSaints. Makes me lust for cold weather in the 38 degree heat.

Moment for life.

2011-02-02T18:17:00.005+11:00

The boy that I love just moved to New York. Before I had even met him that was my dream too; now that he's done it first I feel like I shouldn't want it anymore. How do you stay true to your own dreams without having someone else think its about them?

Lella's dream home.

2011-02-02T18:04:00.001+11:00

My dream house in Brooklyn. Interior design by Eva Gentry.

Oliver Peoples 2011 Collection.

2011-01-22T12:35:00.002+11:00

Devendra Banhart and Rebecca Schwartz for Oliver Peoples...Yowza. Can't speak. So fine. In love.

Me...Grow Up? Never.

2011-01-22T12:32:00.002+11:00

I want this tee from Mini and Maximus so bad. Do you think they'll have it in my size? Chances are...not good.

The best gift I've ever given.

2011-01-09T20:10:00.004+11:00

My Son and I bought the 'Bourke Street Bakery' (by Paul Allam and David McGuinness) book for my Husband for Father's Day, and let me just say it's the best thing we've ever given him. We have had beautiful fresh bread on multiple occasions, as well as croissants, lemon curd tarts and grissini. We are looking forward to further exploration into the sweets section, but can't complain about what we've had so far. If I'd realised I was married to a brilliant baker, I would have bought the book ages ago!

Posted.

2011-01-09T19:28:00.002+11:00

I've just put some wedding invitations I've been working on for a friend in the post! I was a little anxious as I watched them disappear into the red post box, but relieved that they are on their way. The wedding will be held on my friends lovely property in western NSW, so the old 'Waltzing Matilda' stamps tie in well with the location and style of the wedding – I'm sure they'll also stand out amongst other mail as well!

It's a sign.

2011-01-04T10:21:00.004+11:00

Santa let me buy this wonderful, spectacular 'Pharmacy' sign for Christmas (from the lovely Newspaper Taxi in Newtown). I feel like the luckiest girl alive. The letters are cut from ply wood and my Dad says it was probably made sometime around the 1950s. Every time I look at it I get a warm fuzzy feeling – what a glorious piece of typography. My only dilemma is where to hang it.

Factory Lane.

2011-01-02T14:33:00.003+11:00

Anooke and I love an evening stroll past the old factory close to our parents house. It saddens us that it's glorious windows have been broken, and dream about converting the whole thing into huge, sunny apartments.

Goodbye No. 13.

2011-01-02T14:28:00.002+11:00

Almost a month ago we said goodbye to our No. 13 unit. It was bittersweet – I hate change, but loved the thought of having our own house with a backyard. I will miss No. 13's sunny disposition and 1970s tiles.

This year.

2010-12-30T14:25:00.003+11:00

This year has come and gone so quickly. This year I went back to work after spending ten months at home with my baby boy. This year I learnt to juggle. This year my identity returned. This year we got new carpet. This year we moved to a house with a backyard. This year I grew herbs. This year Lella and I had a bet that she would learn to play the harmonica. This year my washing machine stopped washing. This year I didn't blog as much as I would have liked. This year was busy.

Image from Abundance

Jack Spade.

2010-12-19T10:30:00.005+11:00

You all should have your Christmas shopping done by now, but if not, check out Jack Spade! So lovely and something for everyone. My favourite gift guide is the "Gift like a drunken sailor". Brilliant. Happy gifting!

Your melody haunts my reverie.

2010-12-19T10:21:00.002+11:00

These, dear friends, are Fleet Foxes. Get to know them very well and you will never be the same again. Listen to a few tracks here. Then buy the album.

This summer I want to build a Teepee.

2010-12-17T16:04:00.001+11:00

Just to chill in.

Indeed it is.

2010-12-15T10:10:00.001+11:00

Drawing by Swampy.