A Room For Everyone

Botanic Prints

2012-02-18T21:27:00.002+11:00

I'm starting to cover my home with them!
I think they're so beautiful xx

{HERE}{HERE}{HERE}{HERE}{HERE}

Gustavian

2012-02-12T09:48:00.001+11:00

I love Gustavian colour palette and design.. It wouldn't look right in my current home, but maybe one day..xx

{HERE}

First Day of School

2012-02-08T07:38:00.001+11:00

Charlotte was so excited and happy to start school this week! It was a big day for everyone. Mum and little sister had a few tears (all of which Dad captured on camera), but we are all thrilled that Charlotte seems to love school so much. It was funny, I felt anxious about everything - her lunch, her uniform, her shoes, her socks, everything! I'm beginning to think that the first day of school is more nerve-wracking for the parents! It was hard for the mums and dads to leave, we were all peeking in the windows for as long as we could.. Charlotte was confident and calm and we couldn't be happier. This is the start of a long journey, but I really think she'll have the time of her life. Love you Chazzy xxxx

Your Own Little Corner

2012-01-29T09:20:00.001+11:00

That's all we really need, isn't it? I just love wrapping stations, craft corners, home offices. I've set up a wrapping station for the shop and I love it! Here are some I found that I think are lovely..xx

{HERE}

Belle & Boo Party!

2012-01-20T10:14:00.002+11:00

Thank you so much for the lovely birthday wishes!

Look at this beautiful new party range from British designer Belle & Boo!

These gorgeous party pieces are so sweet and simple
and in store at gidgi now!
www.gidgishop.com

Happy Birthday Charlotte!

2012-01-17T20:58:00.001+11:00

My beautiful girl is 6 today! I had a few tears as it feels like the start of her really 'growing up'. It's my birthday too and we had a wonderful time together in lovely Noosa. We even went swimming in the pouring rain! I'm so proud of my gorgeous little/big girl xxx

Taking a Break

2012-01-14T16:21:00.003+11:00

{Alan Matthews Photography}

We're taking a little holiday for a week! And it couldn't be at a better time..In the past month I've had some crooks disappear with our (and 70 other families') money, leaving everyone without a cubby house for Christmas. And yesterday my car was stolen under pretty incredible circumstances. Let me just say - if you have your car washed at a car wash, please tell them NOT to leave your keys in the car and out of sight! I really loved my car and it's all a bit unpleasant but not the end of the world.

On the flip side, I had a lovely surprise last week when I received two beautiful handmade pillowcases, sewn for my little girls by Sarah from Molly's Maison. The girls were thrilled and immediately put them on their pillows. Thank you Sarah, it was such a generous, lovely gift!

Have a great week everyone, I'll post some holiday pics soon xx

Picnic

2012-01-10T11:34:00.002+11:00

Do you love picnics? I'm not sure my husband is a big fan but I AM! My little girls love them too. Hopefully we can catch a good day soon and spread out on some grass. I have a range of gorgeous picnic things in the shop right now, please have a look HERE. Happy Tuesday xx

{mywedding.com}

{Lauren Bergmann on Pinterest}

Dear Photograph

2012-01-08T19:47:00.001+11:00

"Take a picture of a picture from the past in the present."

This amazing website is a good reminder of how transient life is and how important it is to enjoy every moment we have with the people we love.

"Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up -- that we will begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had.

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

You can find more of these beautiful, amazing images at dearphotograph.com .

How to really love a child

2011-12-27T21:52:00.000+11:00

I found this on Pinterest, funnily enough while looking for pool paving inspiration..isn't it wonderful? xx

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T13:04:00.000+11:00

{Creamylife.com}

Tomorrow's the big day! I'm pottering about the house today tidying things up, baking the pavlova for tomorrow and later making Christmas biscuits with the girls. Tonight, we'll have our Christmas Eve hot chocolate,

{Hot Chocolate 'station' with some Nigella mince pies}

listen to some carols sung by Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald & Bing Crosby and open one present before it's off to bed. Do you have Christmas traditions in your family?

Merry Christmas my lovely bloggy friends, I hope you have a wonderful day tomorrow. Thank you for another inspirational year xxx

{Our Christmas tree, decorated by the girls with the new dollhouse

(to compensate for the cubby that will never arrive -

thanks to some unpleasant crooks (a long story)}

Bittersweet

2011-12-22T17:41:00.002+11:00

My beautiful first born, Charlotte, 'graduated' preschool this week and it was a very bittersweet experience for me. She has spent the last couple of years at the most wonderful Kinder and now she's off to school next year. I'm excited for her, but I know I will miss seeing her in such a protected, lovely environment. I will miss her being at home with me nearly every day. At least I have my gorgeous Bridget to prolong the preschool experience next year!

Charlotte is excited and thought it was very funny that I cried so much after her final day! Over the past year her face has matured and she no longer looks like a really little girl. It's funny how this can delight you at the same time as sadden you! Charlotte has taught herself to read this year and at nearly 6 years old, she's definitely ready for school.

I can only imagine my tears after I drop her off on her first day. Did you feel the same or do you have a child starting school next year? xx

From our day together at the zoo recently.

GreenGate

2011-12-21T09:35:00.002+11:00

Good morning! I've added a few GreenGate lovelies to the shop today. Not everything I ordered unfortunately, as the Australian distribution for GreenGate is up in the air at the moment. When this is resolved, I hope to offer a wide range of GreenGate. In the meantime, here are some very pretty gift ideas.. Any orders made before 1pm today will be sent Express Post Platinum to ensure pre-Christmas delivery! xx

And some cool last minute gift ideas for boys..

You & Me in the Summertime

2011-12-17T10:48:00.000+11:00

Holly Chandelier

2011-12-15T19:48:00.000+11:00

Have a look at this wonderful holly chandelier Wendy made with the herb dryer she bought from my shop! Wendy has a talent for turning almost anything into something beautiful, really. Have a look at her blog here, her art and home are gorgeous. xx

Gorgeous Garden Things

2011-12-12T11:09:00.001+11:00

New in the shop today, some gorgeous garden things made in Australia and Great Britain. They would make a lovely last minute Christmas gift for any keen gardener! xx

White Christmas Table

2011-12-11T07:35:00.001+11:00

Hello everyone.. I've decided to go all white this year for the Christmas table, something very simple. Even though we have a very summery Christmas here in Australia, I can't resist snowflake decorations this time of year. I found these gorgeous pics for inspiration.. Have a lovely Sunday xx

1: UKTV 2: Homelife 3: Tara Dennis

Shop Winner!

2011-12-08T09:37:00.001+11:00

Hello!

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback about my new shop. It took many months to put together and your encouragement means a lot! As a way of saying thank you, I have entered any comments into a draw and the random number generated is 9 - Sarah B! Hooray, congratulations Sarah! Please send me an email when you have chosen your gift.

I've just added some fun stamp sets, games and play sets to the Kids section and next week in store I will have lots more beautiful Greengate, a number of exquisite hand made items from Finland's Tuuni (including her wonderful Christmas stockings), some gorgeous gardening things from Britain and a few more last minute gift ideas for kids and teens. Here's a little sample...

My New Shop!

2011-11-30T12:07:00.001+11:00

Hi everyone,

This is what I've been doing while I've been away from Blogland - setting up my online shop! I'm very excited to finally show you. It's been a labour of love for some months now and I'm eager to see what you think! I'm a little late for the Christmas rush but better late than never! You might remember I used to feature a 'Beautiful Shop' on this blog, who knew where it was leading.. I have called the shop gidgi - the nickname of my youngest daughter.

I am stocking brands that I love, like Pip Studio & Greengate and a number of hand made items from around the world. Stock is still coming in each week, so please check back often.

I would love to hear what you think, so please head over to:

www.gidgishop.com.

Any comments left here will go into the draw to win a choice of ANY one item in the shop!

Thank you for your support and friendship over the past 3 years, I'm looking forward to catching up with all of you. I really hope you'll love gidgi shop!

Table Decorating

2011-11-24T06:56:00.000+11:00

With the Christmas tree going up this weekend (Gidgi has been counting the sleeps), I've started thinking about the table decoration. It's one of those lovely things to do at Christmas, set the table. I think I'd like something a little country or Scandinavian this year. What about you? Do you like decorating the table?

{House to Home UK}

{www.skimbacohome.com}

Kitchen Island and More Charlie

2011-11-16T06:58:00.001+11:00

Hello lovely friends, here's the last bit of the kitchen, finally..

Lots of drawers, of course! I remember when we were drawing up the measurements and I thought the overhang of the stone top was a little short to fit stools underneath. Despite a hard push to stick with the original measurements, I decided to extend it by 10cm and I'm so glad I did. Just another one of those little things that could have been a renovation regret!

And here's a bit more of sweet Charlie..

Asleep on the sofa after staying up for Halloween.

Despite a bit of a digestive problem that gets me up at 4.30 most mornings (ongoing tests), he really is a wonderful dog, so affectionate and clever. We are besotted with him! Even the cats don't mind him.. What is it about dogs? Do you have one in your family? xx

Meet Charlie

2011-10-30T19:41:00.001+11:00

I didn't wake up yesterday thinking that I would end the day with a new puppy.. Strange how these things can happen when you're a parent.. This is Charlie..

I had been thinking about a dog for a long time but I was hesitant as it's such a big responsibility and we already have two cats. Charlie was hard to resist though. A mix of two of my favourite breeds - Beagle and Cavalier King Charles, he is very cute and so sweet and affectionate. The girls love him and Bridget, being the big animal lover like her mum, just dotes on him.

I am still getting over the shock of my husband allowing a dog to live indoors..I think Charlie could charm anyone though!

Halloween tomorrow, the girls are very excited. Halloween seems to be gaining momentum in Australia. I hope so, it's so much fun for the kids to dress up and go around the neighbourhood. You can see what we did last year here. Will you be doing anything for Halloween?

{Country Living}

91 Magazine UK

2011-10-26T21:30:00.001+11:00

I love anything Caroline from Patchwork Harmony does. This new magazine is no exception. Lots of pretty things. You can read it here. I did say I was going to post a photo of the kitchen island, didn't I? I've been so busy working on my new project and hanging out in the sunshine with the girls that I forgot! I'll clear the ~~things I plan to read but never get around to~~ crap off the bench and post a picture tomorrow.

My new project is nearly ready too, a couple more weeks.

What are you all up to? Everyone seems to be having babies, it's very exciting (that's not my new project, by the way..)xx

More Kitchen

2011-10-15T07:46:00.000+11:00

Here's a bit more kitchen. This is the 'sink side'. The big square drawer has deep bins (general/recycling), they are really useful and at a good height. I also find the tray/platter cabinet handy too.

I'll show you the last of it tomorrow (the island bench). Have a great Saturday xx

Anthropologie New York

2011-10-14T15:30:00.000+11:00

{HERE}

Anthropologie in Soho, New York was everything I expected.

Full of gorgeous things! I could have bought so much if

I'd had more time/more room in the suitcase! Here's what I did buy..

The little girls chose these for their yet-to-be-revamped old drawers.

I seem to collect measuring spoons, how odd! When I took these photos I realised that I've never shown you the 'sink side' of my kitchen. I'll post a couple of photos tomorrow xx By the way, thank you for all your lovely comments about our trip!

London

2011-10-13T12:16:00.001+11:00

When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.

- Samuel Johnson

Beautiful, historic, vibrant London. It's no wonder my five year old has declared that she is going to live in London! We stayed in South Kensington which was very central to everything. We had the most incredible weather, sunshine and temperatures in the mid twenties every day! I loved every minute of this city, here's some of what we did (not a great variety of photos as it's all hands on deck with two little ones in a big city!)..xx

The White Tower at the Tower of London.

The spot where Anne Boleyn and others lost their lives.

One of the seven ravens (six plus a spare) kept permanently at The Tower.

Legend says that the tower and the kingdom will fall if the six ravens ever leave the fortress.

One of the formidable gates.

Where Sir Walter Raleigh was imprisoned.

Traitors Gate

My husband and stepdaughters went to Paris for the day and did a fun Segway Tour.

I stayed in London with the little ones, they were pretty worn out at this point.

Hampton Court Palace

The Great Hall with priceless tapestries, where Henry VIII held banquets.

One of the many Tudor kitchens

Shakespeare's Globe

St Paul's Cathedral

Looking towards Horse Guards House

Fleet Street, gorgeous old shops.

Trafalgar Square

Downing Street

Westminster Abbey

Big Ben

Houses of Parliament

The view from the bridge in St James Park

Squirrel friends in St James Park

Borough Market

Fun at the playground in Regents Park

On the top level of a double decker bus, a highlight for Gidgi!

The stunning Rembrandt - The Shipbuilder & His Wife.

In the Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace.

Changing of The Guard

The Glass Coach. Diana rode in this one to her wedding.

William & Catherine's ride.

The Gold State Coach. Used only for Coronations, Royal Weddings & Jubilees.

Inside the Queen's Royal Mews. Aren't the stables gorgeous?

The Queen names all the horses herself.

Each stable has the name of the horse and the year they were born.

In Buckingham Palace's 'backyard'.

We were lucky enough to walk through all the state rooms

of Buckingham Palace - incredibly beautiful!

Catherine's wedding dress & accessories were also on display at the time.

A small part of the Queen's beautiful garden.

Regent Street. Hamley's Toy Store was a favourite!

The BEST playground ever!

Diana, Princess of Wales' Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens.

We had more than one visit to this wonderland.

It is fully fenced and staffed. Adults are not allowed in without accompanying a child.

They also have the best homemade icecream!

The Orangery. Delicious afternoon tea in a beautiful building.

Kensington Palace.

The exquisite Harrods. The icecream parlour was amazing!

Hope you enjoyed a little look at our holiday. It really was the trip of a lifetime! We all had such a wonderful time together xx

Empire State of Mind

2011-10-12T13:50:00.000+11:00

In New York,
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of,
There’s nothing you can’t do,
Now you’re in New York,
these streets will make you feel brand new,
the lights will inspire you,
lets here it for New York, New York, New York
- Jay-Z & Alicia Keys

We've just returned from the most amazing holiday and I am absolutely in love and besotted with New York! I honestly can't put my finger on why it is, but my heart now belongs there, and London. They really are the two greatest cities in the world and I can't wait to go back! I've missed Blogland and I'd love to tell you a bit about our trip.

Please forgive some of the pics, taken with my iPhone! We didn't visit everything on our list or do lots of shopping as we wanted to ensure the little ones had a good time too. There's always next time and we could never holiday without them! Read on if you'd like to hear about it xx

We flew over to New York on the Qantas Airbus. It really is a great plane, I loved the Skycam (a view of the flight from the tail). The little ones were so good on all 5 flights throughout the trip. 10 - 14 hour flights are hard on anyone and they were amazing.

We arrived in New York in the evening after 27 hours of travelling (a bit of a delay in LA). I'll never forget the car door opening and a voice saying "Welcome to The Plaza"! The Plaza is exquisite in every way and walking into the foyer was like walking into one of my dreams, really. Everything is perfect and the rooms are very big. Staying there for the first two nights was very special. The little girls really enjoyed the Eloise Shop and afternoon tea in The Palm Court.

We spent part of the first day on a private walking tour with a New York local (Real New York Tours) taking in Uptown. We walked through Harlem (a real mix of rundown and gentrified), Upper East & West sides and Central Park. We visited the Apollo Theatre, the Dakota Building (where John Lennon was shot), Strawberry Fields, the diner from Seinfeld, the Central Park Zoo, the Cathedral of St John the Divine.

Art Kane's August 1958 photograph of 57 of the most well known

jazz musicians, gathered together in Harlem. The current owner of

the building is a little tired of people sitting on his steps, hence the gate!

The two sides of Harlem

The very famous Apollo Theatre.. Michael Jackson, James Brown,

Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Dinah Washington, Sammy Davis Jr,

Miles Davis, John Coltrane..the list goes on.

Cathedral Church of Saint John The Divine

Seinfeld

The Dakota Building

Strawberry Fields

Central Park

Two days later we did the Downtown Tour taking in Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park, Soho, Little Italy, West Village, the Friends TV show building, Chinatown, Brooklyn Bridge, St Pauls Chapel. We were very close to Ground Zero but didn't actually visit as I was concerned about the little ones. Our guide Ben was born and raised in Queens and it was fantastic to see New York with someone like that. My stepdaughters also did a Brooklyn tour later in the week with Ben. The little girls completed both tours with little complaint, I was so proud of them as it was a lot of walking and subway rides. Daddy did give them a few shoulder rides here and there!

45 Grove Street in the West Village, where John Wilkes

Booth plotted the assassination of Lincoln

A rare weatherboard home in the West Village

The 'Friends' Building

An apartment block with a rare private garden.

The narrowest house in the city - nine and a half feet wide;

Edna St. Vincent Millay lived there (No. 75 1/2)

Two great places to eat in the West Village

Cafe Wha?

Washington Square Park, wearing their Eloise At The Plaza outfits - so cute!

One of the gorgeous iron buildings in Soho

Little Italy

New York Supreme Court

We took a cruise at sunset past the Statue of Liberty and under the Brooklyn Bridge, taking in the Manhattan skyline at night.

We did go to the top of the Empire State Building but it was not a clear day at all. Maybe next time!

We managed a little bit of shopping. I bought some gorgeous Ralph Lauren outfits for a fraction of the price I would pay here. Everything certainly is a lot cheaper! The girls got lots of clothes and toys and my stepdaughters spent most of their time shopping I think! They had their own room and lots of freedom which was wonderful for them. (They are 14 & 20) It made me happy to see them feeling confident and independent. They are now experts on the New York Subway system!

Central Park is beautiful and enormous. We enjoyed the Carousel, the playgrounds, Belvedere Castle (meaning beautiful view) and managed to get lost for an hour or so in 'The Ramble'!

The Natural History Museum, well worth a visit.

Our new friend Freedom, on duty with his friend Brooklyn.

They were guarding Obama, who happened to be in town.

Drawing at FAO Schwarz

The little girls with their look alike dolls at

American Girl - 3 floors of doll heaven! Thanks for the tip Jane!

A very cool store - Evolution.

My husband bought a replica 'Lucy' skull!

Pizza & beer on Carmine Street in the West Village.

London next...xx

Favourite Room

2011-09-07T07:10:00.000+10:00

Molly Frey today. Her colour and cabinetry choices are so beautiful. Isn't this kitchen unique?

My favourite rooms

2011-09-05T08:34:00.002+10:00

As there isn't much happening on the house front at the moment (due to the big trip - 10 days to go!!!!), I thought over the coming weeks I'd share some of my favourite rooms with you. This first one is from Sarah Richardson's first 'Sarah's House' renovation. It is a small study nook and I think it's such an outstanding use of space. So many clever and gorgeous ideas. I love the little things on the desk too. What do you think?

Happy Fathers Day

2011-09-04T22:10:00.000+10:00

Happy Fathers Day! We had a lovely day here with our wonderful Daddy..breakfast in bed, presents and lunch at a Greek restaurant (chosen by our 5 year old!). Here's what we bought for Daddy..

A personalised ceramic travel mug from Cafepress.com.au. 'Doctorologist' is the name given to my husband by our four year old. When she discovered that he has a PhD, she decided her dad is a doctorologist!

Personalised cufflinks from The Silver Diva on Etsy with my daughter's and stepdaughter's names stamped on.

This great little book from Kikki K with lots of fun pages to fill in, all about Dad.

How was your Fathers Day?

Spring Sorting

2011-08-31T06:10:00.000+10:00

Better Homes & Gardens

I do love a good storage idea! I've been missing a little from blogland, getting ready for the trip and working on a new project. I can't wait to show you what it is in early October! What have you been up to? Any holidays planned or other news? xx

Freestanding Kitchens

2011-08-16T21:06:00.001+10:00

{Images - all Country Living except 5 - The House That A-M Built & 7 - Cape Cod Designs}

If I ever renovate/build another kitchen, it will have some freestanding elements in it.

Aren't these kitchens beautiful? xx

Beautiful Home

2011-08-07T09:13:00.001+10:00

This is the beautiful home of Wendy, creator of the lovely Mulberry Muse designs. Very gorgeous, don't you think? You can find Wendy here. Have a lovely Sunday x

Winter Sunshine

2011-07-31T21:29:00.000+10:00

Winter at the beach..no one else around, just lots of room to run!

Gidgi's Party

2011-07-25T10:55:00.000+10:00

Gidgi had a fantastic day yesterday. She chose a butterfly theme and invited 8 of her little friends. We made a rainbow birthday cake, butterfly biscuits and chocolate lollypops. We also had marshmellow pops and vanilla cupcakes with royal icing. They played lots of games and decorated their own butterfly biscuits. My husband and stepdaughter were such a great help and made sure everyone had a great time. Can't wait for the next one!

Happy Birthday Gidgi

2011-07-24T06:40:00.003+10:00

Happy Birthday to our beautiful girl Gidgi (Bridget). Four years with you has gone "super fast" (a Gidgi saying and her preferred way of moving about). You are beautiful, loving, clever and so funny, we love you so much xxxx

Some party pics tomorrow, have a great Sunday xx

Small Space

2011-07-18T11:48:00.000+10:00

Skona Hem

Hi everyone, have you all enjoyed the school holidays (for those of you that had them..)? We've had a lovely, very busy two weeks with lots of little friends visiting. I'm starting to take the trip planning more seriously now too, it's only about 8 weeks away! And despite the fact that all money must now be directed towards our holiday (and away from the house), I'm still scheming.. I found this lovely bit of inspiration for our tiny entry. I just love the table and the pendant light, what do you think? xx

Garden Path

2011-07-03T20:01:00.000+10:00

{HERE} {HERE} [HERE}

I would love something like this meandering around the back of our house (which is still mud & weeds after the renovation..). With the right design, garden paths can feel quite magical xx

Pretty Fabric

2011-07-02T20:22:00.001+10:00

Moghul Interiors' beautiful fabric range won House Beautiful Awards 2010 Best Fabric Range of the Year. Aren't their fabrics gorgeous?

Pretty Cottage

2011-06-23T19:16:00.001+10:00

{HERE}

Isn't this cottage incredibly pretty? The little girl's room

is so sweet and the pinboard and other organisation pieces are lovely xx

Flea Market Style

2011-06-16T21:02:00.002+10:00

{HERE}

What clever ways to breathe new life into something old.. very inspiring xx

An Interview with Me

2011-06-15T10:27:00.000+10:00

Kelly from Be A Fun Mum has featured my home on her amazing blog. You can read about it here..
I'm very flattered! xx

Life is Beautiful

2011-06-14T20:32:00.000+10:00

Walking home from Preschool today..xx

And So To Bed..

2011-06-07T22:41:00.001+10:00

I've always loved this store.. their beds are so beautiful. My bed is similar to the one in the last image and I've thought about painting it that shade of grey for a long time (it's white at the moment). What do you think? Do you like a statement bed or something simpler? xx

Little Things..

2011-06-05T20:29:00.001+10:00

It's been a lovely weekend here..

Yesterday we drove up to the very beautiful Daylesford..

{HERE}

I bought lots of little things at Lark's Warehouse Sale..

We shopped at the Farmer's Market..

{HERE}

We used the ingredients we bought for Sunday Lunch today,

a new tradition for our family. My husband and youngest

stepdaughter made Jamie Oliver's Roast Chicken.

I spent the morning adding more wall stickers to the little girls' room..

Making up their beds with some gorgeous bed linen

from Provincial Home Living.

I just love anything with little rosebuds..

And to top it all off I won the most generous,

gorgeous giveaway at Kyandra Rose.. Thank you Kym!

What did you do this weekend? xx

Beautiful Walls

2011-05-29T08:42:00.000+10:00

Images 1-4 - Pottery Barn Image 5 - House to Home Images 6 & 7 Country Living

I'm a bit obsessed with wall decor at the moment..Aren't these images just beautiful? When I'm able to fill our blank walls, these will definitely be my inspiration! Have a lovely Sunday xx

Beautiful Scrapbooks

2011-05-21T21:49:00.001+10:00

I have lots of little things stashed in boxes waiting to be sorted into something beautiful like these..

{HERE}

Do you have your memories organised or are they in boxes like mine? xx

Ikea Kitchens

2011-05-18T19:30:00.001+10:00

First of all, thank you for your support of my new blog - The Happy Little Blog. You're right, I didn't have much time for one blog, let alone two, but blogging is a fulfilling hobby and connection to a great community, so I'm making some time for it!

On another note, my neighbour is currently selling her house and the only negative feedback she's received is regarding her kitchen. The kitchen is about 14 years old and is a little outdated. If the house doesn't sell, she might be able to give it a 'facelift' - new doors, drawers, benchtops. If that won't quite work, I've suggested an Ikea kitchen. For a fraction of the price of custom made, you get an attractive, durable kitchen. Plus a 25 year guarantee. I have Ikea cabinetry in my laundry and it's fantastic. These are Ikea kitchens and I think they look great..What do you think?

My New Blog..

2011-05-17T09:39:00.000+10:00

I love blogging as everything is so much more fun when you can share it! I enjoy this blog and I'll keep posting about my home and other things here, but as I also love children, I've created a new blog. It's called The Happy Little Blog. It's all about happiness with little ones. I would really love you to have a look and, if you love all things little, follow along! Your friendship and encouragement are truly treasured xxx

Pretty Pantry

2011-05-12T20:48:00.000+10:00

Some pretty little things from Lark..

Anthropologie New York

2011-05-10T21:33:00.001+10:00

Definitely on my list of places to visit when I get to New York is Anthropologie .. so much eclectic gorgeous-ness in one place .. xx

Retail Store Windows

On Mothers Day..

2011-05-08T09:10:00.000+10:00

I posted this lovely piece last year and I love it so much that I've decided to post it again this year..

wpclipart.com

Imagine this. You are sitting on the front porch. In front of you are gardens and a leafy street - there is no sound but the singing of birds. You are old, but still tanned and fit, and wearing warm, soft clothes.
A sleek and almost silent vehicle rolls up. Its doors click open, and some young adults step out. They are your grown up children!
They give you big hugs. They are full of energy, and happy to see you. They sit down and tell you their latest adventures, new achievements, and news of their families. You bring out food and drinks, and talk over many things. Eventually, it's time for them to leave.
You go inside and put on a warm sweater.
For a long time you sit by the window, remembering back to when they were children.
You feel very proud of how they have turned out, of what you have given the world.
- Steve Biddulph

Happy, happy Mothers' Day to all the lovely mothers out there creating tomorrow's people xxx

If Momma Aint Happy, Aint Nobody Happy

2011-05-04T20:30:00.000+10:00

Thank you, thank you for all your wonderful tips for New York & London, I've kept all of them!

With Mothers Day this Sunday in Australia, here are some pretty little things to make Momma happy.. xx

A Dream Come True

2011-05-02T09:15:00.000+10:00

For my husband's 50th Birthday this year we will be going to NEW YORK AND LONDON!!!!!! I am so excited, I get goose bumps every time I think of it. It is a dream come true for me and I just can't wait. We are taking our 4 girls for a week in each city. We even get to stay at this beautiful place for a couple of nights..

Have you been to New York or London? I'd love to hear about it..xx

A Wonderful Week

2011-05-01T22:13:00.000+10:00

What a great week we've had here. The Royal Wedding was perfect I thought, beautiful in so many ways. We enjoyed our Fish N Chips, cakes and Biscuiteer biscuits..

A rare chance to stay up late but alas,

asleep just before Kate's appearance..

It was also my husband's 50th birthday.

Here's the silly cake I had made for him..

And to celebrate his birthday.. I'll tell

you tomorrow.. Lets just say that, for me,

it's a long held dream come true! xx

Amor Vincit Omnia

2011-04-29T09:37:00.001+10:00

Love Conquers All
xx

All Things British

2011-04-26T21:51:00.000+10:00

When I was 6 years old I met the Queen.. I gave her flowers and she shook my hand and smiled. The same year I watched the wedding of Charles & Diana on TV. Both these events gave me an interest in Royalty and in Britain.. The history of the British monarchy is fascinating and I don't think Friday will be any exception.. We'll be having a little celebration here with a few British things.. How about you?

Homemade Fish N Chips

Biscuiteer Biscuits

Very British Cupcakes

Happy Birthday

2011-04-25T21:21:00.000+10:00

Happy Birthday to my husband..50 today. There are so many things I could say to you.. about the many, many reasons why I love you. These two poems say at least some of it..

It is a beautiful fact

that you and I together

can make one hour

into a holiday

~ Nan Witcomb

Let me not to the marriage of true minds

Admit impediments. Love is not love

Which alters when it alteration finds,

Or bends with the remover to remove:

O no! it is an ever-fixed mark

That looks on tempests and is never shaken;

It is the star to every wandering bark,

Whose worth's unknown, although his height be taken.

Love's not Time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks

Within his bending sickle's compass come:

Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks,

But bears it out even to the edge of doom.

If this be error and upon me proved,

I never writ, nor no man ever loved.

~ William Shakespeare

Everything you are and everything that you do, none of it goes unnoticed. I love you, have a wonderful day xxxxxxx Now make me a cup of tea darling..

Anzac Day

2011-04-25T08:29:00.002+10:00

Today I remember my Grandfather, a Sergeant in the Royal Australian Air Force in World War II. He was responsible for getting the (hopelessly inadequate) Australian fighter planes in the air, in the middle of the Papua New Guinea jungle. He was also responsible for many men, some of whom he watched be taken away with 'shell shock', some killed in action. Men who had spoken to him about their hopes and dreams of having a family and building a life back home in Australia. Men who had sobbed with anguish after killing a Japanese soldier in self defence and then finding the picture they carried of their wife and children back in Japan .. "decency in the face of dreadful odds". My Grandfather always cried when he spoke about his men. He received the highest award in the Australian Air Force and I doubt they could have had a better Sergeant, despite the fact that he was only 19.

My Grandfather was the finest person I have ever met. For this reason, and so many others, Anzac Day holds a special place in my heart. The Anzacs did so much for us and for the world.

Lest We Forget.

Easter Sweetness

2011-04-22T09:42:00.001+10:00

Images ~ Country Living

Happy Easter xx

Study

2011-04-19T19:40:00.000+10:00

The study isn't quite finished..we still have some painting, framing, window treatments and other little things to do.. but this is it so far. I'm definitely not going to win any decorating or design awards! We are limited in this room by doors on either side. But my husband seems to love it and I do too..

We decided not to spend much money in here so I chose free standing shelves instead of custom cabinetry. The shelves are from Ikea and cover most of the wall.. all for $350! I filled the space above with frames. Three of the pictures are painted by the talented Kerri Shipp, the rest are from Vintage Printables and The Graphics Fairy..

The desk lamp is also Ikea. The Big Ben and

Empire State are from Bed Bath & Table.

Union Jack cushion from Naked Decor..

The desk is from Ikea, they have a choice of tops and legs.

I chose a stainless steel combination..

Hope you like it.. I have a few blogs to catch up on now..xx

I Love You

2011-04-14T07:55:00.003+10:00

KikkiK

My daughter Charlotte is 5 and at times she seems so grown up. She loves trying to read and write at the moment and has worked out how to write notes to me..

I've received one of these each day for the past week and they are very precious. Watching my children grow up is so bittersweet. I love watching them grow like this but I also miss all the lovely little things they used to do.

Bridget..my 3 year old.. is too young to write but she draws these beautiful pictures and they are her way of saying I love you..

I had a scrapbook to put them in but then I found the perfect journal from Kikki K (above). Now I'll always have them.. they are something to be treasured xx

Cosy

2011-04-10T20:12:00.001+10:00

It's getting cold here in Melbourne.. time to get cosy..

Country Living

Shelves

2011-04-08T09:16:00.000+10:00

Almost finished the study..I just have a few shelves left... Here's a little inspiration..

Rule Britannia

2011-03-31T10:26:00.000+11:00

I've been looking for a Union Jack cushion for my husband's ~~ugly~~ comfortable chair in his study.. I found one on Etsy along with these other beautiful Britannia bits and pieces..

Nakeddecor

Hoolala

TheCrossings

TheJuicyFig

Adorapop

ilovehearts

FragileEliteDesigns

LittleKittenHomemade

Veedubz

TheBlissfulBaker

Cox & Cox

Weekend Finds

2011-03-28T07:56:00.000+11:00

A few finds from my local second hand store..xx

The Farm

2011-03-24T17:14:00.001+11:00

My husband flew to Perth this week so I decided to take the girls on a little holiday to the farm. We visited my grandmother and aunt & uncle before staying overnight at the lovely old homestead. It's one of our favourite places and we've stayed here every year since we discovered it a few years ago.

Life just seems to slow down to a very easy pace here and we had such a good time together.. We raced down the hills on the billy cart, walked through all the paddocks with the sheep, cuddled a piglet, collected fresh eggs, sat in front of the open fire eating pizza. It was so lovely just hanging out together, I won't forget this little trip..xx

Patchwork Harmony

2011-03-22T20:57:00.000+11:00

One of my favourite UK stores, Patchwork Harmony, has just launched their new website. Have a look at their gorgeous selection here.

Happy Monday

2011-03-21T11:05:00.000+11:00

Elle Decor

Hi everyone.. we're having a day at home today after a very busy few weeks. I think all kids need days when they can just potter about and play without having anywhere they need to be. And I have to admit, that's what mummy needs to! Although, I might do a bit more work on my husband's study. I love making a space for him, he deserves it so much. I have a tiny budget for this room but I did manage to buy this miniature Big Ben from Bed, Bath & Table for my British boy. It will sit on his desk alongside the cheap but lovely Ikea lamp.

I've also bought a paperweight as I'd like to start a collection

for his desk, just like Jed Bartlet's in my beloved West Wing..

I'll post some pictures later this week.. Have a lovely day..xx

New Kitchen Lights

2011-03-13T08:42:00.002+11:00

Yesterday I had our new kitchen lights installed..

these beautiful Campagne Hanging Lamps from Riviera Maison..

Well worth the nearly 6 month wait! I didn't expect the

hanging cord to be black and I may have to change that.

Otherwise, they look perfect.

I originally bought two enormous holophane pendants
but they overwhelmed the space..

The lights were only $150 each and they cast a

lovely soft light over the kitchen at night.

Nurture

2011-03-10T07:47:00.001+11:00

Silence

Write

Self Care

Renewal

Rest

Enthusiasm

Stillness

From Martha Stewart

I Want To Live in a Green Gate World..

2011-03-02T21:27:00.000+11:00

Green Gate

The Loveliest Season of All

2011-03-01T08:55:00.000+11:00

Image 1 - Flickr, All Other Images - Apartment Therapy

Girls, Girls, Girls

2011-02-27T08:33:00.002+11:00

Life has been very busy around here with two little girls at preschool and my teenage niece staying with us for a while. Lots of drop offs and pick ups! On weekends we have a 3 year old, 5 year old, 14 year old and a 16 year old - all girls! I think my husband might consider painting his toenails soon.. that or hide away in his study.. Here is Bridget starting her 3 year old preschool class..

Charlotte starting 4 year old preschool

(we're waiting until she is 6 to start school)..

Now that they're both at preschool, I get to have one on

one time with both of them..

On our 'day off', we go roller skating. Speed skating was a passion of mine a long time ago and I am absolutely in love with skating again, I might even try some roller derby classes! The little girls are having so much fun learning and my big girls love going skating too.

On weekends it's fun in the pool with Daddy..

Life is busy, but wonderful..xx

Little Girls' Bedroom

2011-02-17T21:23:00.004+11:00

A while ago, I posted about decorating my little girls' bedroom. It's almost finished.. It took me a long time to figure out how to decorate the long wall opposite the beds.. I really like how it's turned out and the girls are very happy xx

The girls' little snow dome collection

The bottom three are gorgeous personalised prints from My Sweet Prints

TV, TV On The Wall..

2011-02-16T15:22:00.002+11:00

..what is one of the hardest design decisions of all? How to decorate around a wall-mounted television, that's what! The television in our family room has been sitting all alone on the wall for nearly a year now as I've struggled to come up with a clever way to decorate around it. I think this must be a common design dilemma now, so I'll share with you some of the solutions I've found.. Have you had this problem? What have you decided on?

I've decided to have an eclectic arrangement of frames around the tv..

Or you could try..

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T08:04:00.000+11:00

For my Bright Star, my husband..

Bright star, would I were steadfast as thou art

Not in lone splendour hung aloft the night,

And watching, with eternal lids apart,

Like nature's patient sleepless eremite,

The moving waters at their priestlike task

Of pure ablution round earth's human shores,

Or gazing on the new soft-fallen mask

Of snow upon the mountains and the moors;

No yet still steadfast, still unchangeable,

Pillow'd upon my fair love's ripening breast,

To feel for ever its soft fall and swell,

Awake for ever in a sweet unrest,

Still, still to hear her tender-taken breath,

And so live ever or else swoon to death.

~ John Keats

Beautiful Shop ~ Nostalgia

2011-02-12T08:02:00.000+11:00

Pure and very gorgeous.. You can find Nostalgia Organics here..

Beautiful Potting Sheds & a Beautiful Glasshouse

2011-02-11T09:42:00.000+11:00

I would love to have one of these, my version of the man's shed. Somewhere to escape to and just potter about..

These images are via Brabourne Farm.. which brings me to the Beautiful Glasshouse. Have a look at Leigh's gorgeous new addition to her amazing garden..

Valentine Gifts

2011-02-06T07:41:00.003+11:00

Gift ideas from some of my favourite shops..

Biscuiteers

Brissi

Rockett St George

Cox & Cox

Char's Treasures, Madeit

My Sweet Prints, Madeit

Mulberry Muse, Madeit

L'Occitane

Beautiful Treasures

2011-02-05T07:13:00.000+11:00

From the most beautiful new book, Rediscovered Treasures by Ellen Dyrop and Hanna Kristinsdottir..

Love..

2011-02-01T20:46:00.000+11:00

Pretty Drawer Knobs.. I'm looking for the finishing touch for my little girls' bedroom.. one of these might be the very thing..xx

All Anthropologie

Pottery Barn Kids

Sweet Petites Boutique on Etsy

7 things that make me laugh

2011-01-31T20:37:00.003+11:00

A big thank you to Anna from Around My Table for the Blog with Substance Award and Mrs KT from Taylor Made Baking for the Blog with Substance and Stylish Blogger awards. Wow!

I won't pass them on as I know not everyone accepts awards, however I'll tell you 7 things - but not about me, about what makes me laugh.. as I LOVE to laugh and hope they give you a giggle too..xx

1. My husband always makes me laugh, actually until I cry and my tummy hurts..usually when he's not even trying to be funny. He doesn't take himself too seriously..which is good because I love to impersonate him..which makes us both roll around laughing!

2. My children make me laugh, especially when they're being very serious and grown up. There's nothing funnier than a 3 year old speaking like a 40 year old!

3. Last week my 3 year old daughter Bridget said to my husband, "Dad, do you ever think about moving into a bigger bum? You could go to the bigger bum shop!"

4. My Milky Toof always makes me laugh out loud..have a look at Ickle and Lardee's adventures here.

5. This fantastic piece on using the Ladies Bathroom, believe me it's hysterical!

6. MOTH's (Millie's husband from The Laurel Hedge) quote about blogging, "A blog is like one of those light, airy, souffle, spongey cake things Millie - it can start off really good, but if you're not careful, it can end up a real mess."

7. Ricky Gervais.. his podcasts are very funny.

What makes you laugh?

Beautiful Shop ~ Biscuiteers

2011-01-30T07:44:00.001+11:00

Biscuiteers is a UK company making delicious biscuits and sending them around the world in gorgeous tins.. what a beautiful, unique gift idea. They also make children's party bags and biscuit greeting cards..xx

My Desk

2011-01-28T13:31:00.000+11:00

Yesterday I moved things around to make way for my own desk in the bay window of our bedroom. I thought I would share the new study with my husband but he has become very territorial.. He has installed a super duper sound system, gym equipment, a very masculine chair and a lock on the door.. I think I might have created a monster! So..what to do with my space.. xx

Happy Australia Day

2011-01-26T08:45:00.001+11:00

On Australia Day, I thought I would share with you the funniest (and more than a little accurate) thing I've ever read about Australia.. written by Douglas Adams (Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy).. You can read it here xx

Giveaway - Danish Porcelain Enamel Signs

2011-01-25T20:03:00.002+11:00

Recently, Tina at Rubies Place had a giveaway that I was very sorry to have missed. She was giving one lucky person a beautiful Danish porcelain enamel sign from Ramsign. But guess what? Ramsign contacted me and are offering my readers the same! Can I enter my own giveaway?

Ramsign offers real old fashioned, hand stencilled signs, featuring original design, thick and glossy enamel and a 30 year warranty.

If you'd like to enter, all you need to do is check out Ramsign's website, come back here and tell me which name sign or house number you like. If you win, Ramsign will contact you directly and then ship your sign to you - anywhere in the world!

Thank you Tezz from Ramsign and good luck everyone xx

Charlotte's Birthday Party

2011-01-24T21:16:00.003+11:00

Charlotte had her 5th birthday party at the beautiful Como House today. As I've mentioned before, it's one of our favourite places to visit and today was just perfect. The kids loved running around the garden and playing some old fashioned games like croquet, skittles and skipping. The food was delicious too.. the children's food was presented on three tier stands and the adults had the most delicious fish & chips in paper cones. We had such a relaxed, happy time xx

Beautiful Home

2011-01-22T08:08:00.000+11:00

This Victorian in San Francisco took 10 years to restore, taking it from bold colour to white..xx

Country Living

Beautiful Drawers

2011-01-20T16:17:00.000+11:00

I have a thing about lots of drawers.. the little girl in me loves the curiosity of what could be inside..xx