Power of Film

I find it incredible how the simple act of watching a film can have you in fits of hysterical laughter, left feeling shocked, confused, or disappointed... or another which can creep up on you is how they can make you tear up, not necessarily feel sad, but just cry. Actually I don't mean just cry, I mean absolutely bellow with emotion until it is almost physically impossible to do so anymore. Sometimes unexpectedly. I have just had one of these moments, thankfully at home and not in a cinema somewhere which I have done in the past, and that let me tell you is excruciating and comical at the same time. I have to say though that I feel much better for it. It's obviously a time when our guards down or we allow ourselves to reflect or remember... perhaps those we have lost, those we love the most, mourning the life we had hoped for, or the one we still imagine is possible. Regardless, a good cry (even if it is during a game show... note to self, perhaps don't say that out loud) is needed every now and again.

My New Obsession... road signs

Ok, so some would say I need a life, but I am a huge fan of Australian street signs of the yellow variety and have decided there is no time like the present to photograph them all. Living where we do I often see the ones of trucks and trains, bikes and little people crossing the road, but on our recent travels I started seeing some that were new to me. I have now vowed to take a photo of all yellow signs and start a little collection, so here it begins with 1-3.

Merry Christmas

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Christmas. 

Oh Christmas Tree

Our tree is sitting pretty in the corner this year. Each and every Christmas I can't help but photograph my Christmas tree. Always so proud of it. It's a family tradition to put the tree up on (or as close to) December 1st as possible. I usually pick a theme each year with decorations, but I went with silver and red a few years ago and finding it hard to branch away. I did buy some gorgeous plywood decorations last year which I love and introduced a little rustic touch with a brick pallet as my "tree protector" from my 10 month old (below). I didn't need it this year as Little Miss A has managed to leave the tree alone, but it works a treat if you have toddlers... or not. I actually quite like the look regardless.

To create the rustic fence, I got an old brick pallet (you can buy them from salvage yards), got the saw out and cut it in half. I then sanded it with fine sand paper so that it was smooth to touch for little (and big) hands. You could also use old timber. Have fun!

Daylesford ~ Part Three

If you love beautiful gardens I recommend you visit Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, only a short drive from Daylesford. Great too if you are travelling with a family. The kids will love the space, friendly animals and the Lavender icecream! We had a wonderful time just meandering through the gardens, getting lost in the lavender, watching geese by the water, sipping lattes at La Trattoria, admiring the gorgeous buildings, summer flowers and incredible veggie garden. Simply beautiful!

Doors of Daylesford

As you may already know I absolutely love doors that stand out! Colourful doors, old doors and especially red doors. I couldn't help but photograph these doors when travelling in and around Daylesford in Victoria.

Daylesford ~ Part Two

Let's go shopping! The shopping in Daylesford, or should I say for me mostly browsing, was wonderful with a great range of businesses to pass the time. I was in my element... so many markets to peruse, fresh produce, handicrafts, antique and eclectic furniture and bric-a-brac stores. I also just loved wandering the streets and looking at the stunning old cottages and cottage gardens. My picks: Lark, Rubi Lu, Mill Markets... these were AMAZING filled with antiques, collectables and retro vintage goodies (You can also find Mill Markets in Ballarat, Geelong, Warnambool and Newcomb), Sunday markets near the old railway station, Cliffy's and Bocconcini for foodie gifts, olive oil, muesli, olives, cheeses, dips, French lemonade, chutney, jams, or for coffee, cake, breakfast, brunch or lunch. Enjoy!

Daylesford ~ Part One

We have just returned from the most amazing break in Daylesford Victoria. What a stunning part of the world. Gorgeous scenery, markets, wonderful cafes and small good stores, wineries, eclectic shops, and mineral springs. I have so much to share I don't even know where to begin, so I thought I would do it all in a number of parts. Here begins Part One.

 1. 

 2.

 3.

 4.

5.

On the way from Adelaide to Daylesford I couldn't help but stop and take a photo of the gorgeous Cobb and Co Changing station in Great Western with the Christmas wreath on the side. Simple yet stunning. When we arrived in Daylesford we discovered Cliffy's cafe down the hill from where we were staying (it came with a recommendation, thanks Gill and Ian). This became a regular coffee spot. Wonderful last stop after the Sunday markets. Their lemon tart is absolutely delicious. 

1 & 2 Cobb&Co Changing Station; 3,4 & 5 Cliffy's

Christmas tree inspiration

Each Christmas there are always a handful of people I meet who want to get into that festive spirit, but don't feel the need to put up the tree because they are either going away for the Summer or going elsewhere for Christmas lunch and therefore don't feel the urge. I have found a solution. Here are some clever Christmas tree ideas that are big on impact and small on time and the hip pocket. 

Images from French By Design

Kiki & Coco in Paris

Ahhh, I just came across this most adorable book on Simply Grove. Kiki and Coco in Paris is a children's book beautifully photographed by Stephanie Rausser with words written by Nina Gruener. Thanks Kirsten for sharing. Little Coco is the work of Jess Brown. I am ordering my copy now. I can't wait to read this to Little Miss A... finding it hard to contain my excitement!!

Images from here

The White House Daylesford

This 1850s miners cottage is just too adorable for words.  Hidden behind a hedge, you can't see much from the road, but what a treasure inside. I absolutely love interior designer Lyn Gardener's style.

Wish you lived here? You can... well kind-of. It's for hire, so you can stay for a short time and just pretend.

Images from here

Christmas inspiration

There's nothing quite like the Christmas Spirit. Although I am sure slightly stressed, most people seem to be in such a joyful mood which is infectious. Good wishes are shared and we remember those who are no longer with us. In the lead up to Christmas 2012 I thought I would share some of my Christmas inspiration.

1. Bark Wreath

2. Christmas Tags

3. Advent Calendar Supplies

Items from 1. Original Ornament, 2. green grass press, 3. Oh Hello Magpie

Decorate Holly Becker

Last week my long awaited copy of Decorate, by Holly Becker (from the ridiculously inspiring Decor8) and Joanna Copestick arrived from Amazon. I had read about this book so often on my favourite blogs and in magazines, that it would be a crime not to purchase my own. And WOW it does not disappoint. This would have to be one of the most inspiring interior design and styling books on the market. I know it has been out for a while now and I am a bit slow off the mark. If you have been thinking about buying this book, do it now! I have shared a few of my favourite pages. I absolutely love the pale blue/gray sofa and the apple green cupboard.  

Noel Noel

We are now only just starting to get organised for Christmas in our household. My daughter and I put up our tree today and hung the wreath on the front door. I just love the smell of fresh pine. That's Christmas to me. Only 21 sleeps to go.

Before and After... Fireplace

BEFORE

AFTER

We've been painting. A little while ago now but I am finally sharing the fireplace before and after. What do you think? After everyone telling me not to paint the slate, I did it anyway and am very happy with the result. The room feels much fresher.

Tea time... Lemon pasta recipe

I was craving lemon last night and came up with this delectable delicacy. I made a slightly different version for lunch today so I will write them both down. Vary amounts depending on your taste and how many people you are feeding.

Lemon Pasta
Pasta, any type
Rind from 1 lemon
Juice from about 2 lemons (for 250g of pasta)
2-3 tablespoons of Olive oil
Handful of basil
Pinch of salt
Finely grated Parmesan

Optional but recommended
Tin of Tuna in oil
Handful of pitted Olives chopped

Cook pasta in salted water, in the meantime beat rind, juice and olive oil together. Once the pasta is cooked, drain, put back in saucepan, mix through sauce, basil and Parmesan. Also add the tin of tuna and olives if you are keen. Serve and enjoy. If you can't get enough of lemon (like me) you'll love this.