Snip, Click, Scribble, Ink - the life of a twenty-something female.

Time Out

2010-10-26T16:45:00.000-07:00

Lately I just don't know where time goes. I'm busy as a bee, but in a good way - enjoying life thoroughly. But this combined with a terrible home internet connection means that I don't get much time to blog. My list of "to-do-posts" gets longer each week, and most of the things I plan to share just never seem to eventuate.

So I'm going to take some time out from here. I'll be back one day I'm sure, perhaps in a new location with new inspiration, or maybe here just doing the same-old same-old. One thing that is definite though, is that I'll be reading your blogs every day as per usual.

So thanks for reading here, I really did love getting comments and building up a bit of a community.

Wishing you all well.

Niki

xoxo

Take The Time To...

2010-10-13T22:21:00.001-07:00

Girly Days.

2010-10-11T03:05:00.000-07:00

Two weekends ago (yes I know I'm late with updating!), my Grandma flew up to Brisbane to stay with me! While the weather was pretty rotten (and still is - have you heard about the floods we are having? Eek!), we had such a really lovely time.

We spent Saturday morning visiting the Valentino exhibition - swooning over pretty dresses, frowning over tacky dresses, but overall we were in pure awe of these amazing creations designed for some of history's most beautiful women. There were dresses worn by Audrey Hepburn, Claudia Schiffer, the Princess of Monaco, Kate Blanchett and oh so many fabulous women! It really was spectacular to see these outfits.

After a lovely lunch by the river, we then saw the Cuban National Ballet perform Don Quitoxe. While I haven't been to the ballet for at least 10 or 12 years, it really was fantastic. Even if the style of dance is not your favourite, you cannot help but be impressed by their athletic abilities. Truly these are incredibly dedicated and fit people.
The performance wasn't quite as dramatic as I had been expecting, and my Nan who is a very regular ballet patron says she didn't think it was any better then the Australian Ballet's version, but it was still really really lovely to see and I would recommend it.

Our Sunday together was spent relaxing. We took a trip to Mt Glorious for lunch, and spent the afternoon cooking together. Nanny taught me to make her famous Creme Caramel, though I don't have a very good photo to show you - only this one I took on my iPhone. I thought that perhaps you might like to learn to make it too though? It really wasn't as hard as I thought it would be! I think you should all try it too! Here's what you need:

CARAMEL:
1/2 cup of sugar
1/4 cup water

PUDDING:
1 cup milk
1 cup cream
4 eggs
1 tablespoon sugar

DIRECTIONS:
Put the caramel ingredients into a saucepan over medium hat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and is completely clear. Then stop stirring, and wait until the mixture begins to boil and turn a caramel colour. Pour the caramel mix into a suitable baking dish (like a pyrex bowl) and set aside. The caramel is actualy a toffee, so don't worry that it will set a bit in the bowl. That's normal.

Meanwhile, pour the milk and cream mix into the same saucepan (no need to rinse the pan - the left over caramel will add flavour to the milk mix) and heat until warm. Beat 4 eggs in a bowl with sugar while the milk and cream warm up. Pour the milk mixture into the egg mix and stir.

Pour this milk/egg mix into the baking dish on top of the caramel. Now put the baking dish into a larger baking dish or lasagne style pan. Fill the larger pan with water so that the pudding dish is like an island surrounded by water.

Bake for about 45 minutes in a moderate oven of around 140 degrees celcius or until set (just give it a little shake in the pan and see if it wobbles).

NOTES: If you have small little baking dishes you can bake individual puddings, which is lovely for dinner parties. And if you're worried about your figure or would like a lighter alternative to this dessert, try using skim milk and skim evaporated milk instead of full cream milk and cream. Also, the darker you let the caramel go, the more bitter it will be - like a burnt toffee. Personally I'm not a fan of this burnt taste, so I let mine darken until the colour shown. This gives a sweet caramel taste to my palette - but it's best to experiment and learn what you prefer.

xoxo

My Skirt, By Liesl

2010-10-11T02:49:00.000-07:00

This is a photo of one my new skirts, handmade to measure, by Liesl. As I've mentioned before, these days I just don't seem to find the time to sew, and to be truthful, I never got to develop any real talents when it came to clothing. I know they would come, in time, with practice, as any skill develops; but returning to full time work and maintaining my second freelance job just doesn't allow for it.

Luckily for me (and also for you I think!), there are people like Liesl, who have bucket-loads of talent when it comes to sewing. For a really really cheap price of around US$20-$25, depending on the fabric, you can buy a beautifully handmade made-to-measure skirt. Isn't that amazing? I feel like I have my very own dress maker at hand!

I recently bought two from her, this lovely pencil skirt above, as well as a grey full circle skirt with lovely lace trimming. I didn't get time to photograph the grey skirt with lace, but here is a photo of it taken by Liesl and you can read about it here.

I was so pleased with the fit and quality of these skirts, that I've recently ordered two more lovely pencil skirts - perfect for my "smart casual" office. Now I'm so very excited about receiving them, that I thought I would tell you all just how wonderful they are. Perhaps you would like to buy one too? I really can't stress enough about how lovely they are and how very well made. *nods*

xoxo

2010-10-05T16:23:00.001-07:00

78 days until Christmas Eve, when my holiday break begins.

Hoorah!

xoxo

A to Z, this me, currently.

2010-10-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

Beard Alphabet by Wrong Distance

A. ALWAYS in AWE, at her creations.

B. BOPPING about to this song, by Sia.

C. COOKING CREAM CARAMEL. My Nana taught me this weekend, and now I'm savouring each delicious soft mouthful.

D. DREAMING of DISTANT lands, like this or this or this!

E. EXCITED about the Christmas break which will see me flying to Sydney to visit my family for a few too-short-days, followed by six lazy days on the beach at Fraser. Bliss!

F. FEELING like dancing, after seeing this ballet on the weekend.

G. GEARING up for a long hot summer.

H. HAPPY that there has been so much rain, and HAPPY that it has now gone. HELLO sunshine!

I. INTERESTED to see and to try on, my new made to measure leather sandals. I'm waiting by the mail box with excitement.

J. JAMIE does, and now I want to too. It's top of my "to buy" list.

K. KISSES, according to Rhett Butler: "No, I don't think I will kiss you, although you need kissing, badly. That's what's wrong with you. You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how." *swoon*

L. LONGING to spend who days and weeks reading classics.

M. aMAZING (so I cheated), is what this art project is. If you ask me.

N. NIFTY little things that would make great Christmas presents, here.

O. OBSESSED with David Attenborough's TV series Life, but it just finished up. Poo!

P. PROUD of my new bicycle and how well I'm doing at this cycling business.

Q. QUESTIONING whether I will be able to produce something of a high enough quality, and if I have the time to do it, for the Softies for Mirabel call out.

R. READING, and almost finished, The Poison Wood Bible. It was recommended to me some time ago by this lovely lady. Finally I stumbled across it at a second hand book stall, and she was right - it's fantastic.

S. SAD, that my newly found passion for SEWING has dwindled and really ceased to exist since finding full time employment again, earlier this year. SO SAD.

T. THANKFUL, that even if I don't have the time to sew these days, there are other much more talented people out there who do have the time. Like this lady, whom I recently purchased two fantastic skirts from.

U. UNSURE where on earth the year has gone.

V. VANILLA Malt. The best flavoured milkshake in the entire world. Yes, you heard me right, even better then chocolate. And currently I just can't get enough of them. Nom!

W. WATCHING, Eat Pray Love, this Saturday with a lovely girl friend who I haven't seen in months. Also, WONDERING what all the hype about this book and film is, as I seem to have missed the boat on it.

Y. YOU all should go and visit this blog, because it's one of my favourites, so maybe you will like it too.

Z. ZOO. I'm going at Christmas time to Taronga ZOO in Sydney, and I just can't wait to see the baby elephant.

PS - more to come about Liesl's fabulous skirts, making cream caramel, the ballet, and my bicycle in future posts. I promise!

Mondays Deserve A Special Kind Of Lunch

2010-10-03T19:54:00.000-07:00

Summer Holiday

2010-10-03T16:11:00.000-07:00

Boy and I just booked our summer holiday! We're go to spend six beautiful nights camping on Fraser Island after Christmas. So we will spend our New Year there too! What a blissful and peaceful way to celebrate the new year, in one of Australia's most natural and perfect places.

Have you ever been to Fraser Island before? This is my first time! I hear the scenery is just amazing.

I've never been camping before either (well, once when I was in a cot and a very little baby, but I don't really count that.). You need a 4WD to go to Fraser, so we will have lots of fun driving around the island. There are also freshwater lakes to visit, rainforest's to explore, and there's lots of amazing wildlife.

I'm very very excited!

What will you be doing for your summer holiday?

xoxo

Halloween

2010-09-30T18:44:00.000-07:00

Pictures by Nienie

I wish we celebrated Halloween, here in Australia, like in America.

Some people here do, perhaps. But not very much. And not to the same extent. But I love the ancient idea behind it. And I love the decorations too. Lets just push the commercialism aside, and instead enjoy a lovely spooky story to get us ready for All Hallows Eve: Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (read it online for free!); and read a bit about the tradition.

xoxo

Serious Business Requires Two Sets of Eyes

2010-09-29T19:46:00.000-07:00

Beautiful, for Spring.

2010-09-29T18:40:00.000-07:00

By Kate Daisy

I just love this illustration that so perfectly speaks of spring.

xoxo

Baked Eggs?

2010-09-28T18:37:00.001-07:00

Everywhere I look, everywhere I read, everywhere I go (well, not really - but you get my point!) I'm hearing about baked eggs.

How, what, who, where, explain!

This culinary treat seems to be totally in vogue and I just don't know the darnest about them. Tasty? Not tasty? Good, bad, in between, so-so. Someone, explain to me. Please? I'd like to try. *nods*

xoxo

Feeling Fierce.

2010-09-28T18:36:00.001-07:00

Found at Pikaland, and perfectly describing my mood for today.

Bring On 2011

2010-09-23T01:30:00.000-07:00

I got my new Frankie 2011 diary in the mail today! I'm super excited! It's so pretty, with the cloth bound front reminiscent of vintage novels, and the GORGEOUS illustrations inside.

I can not wait for 2011, so that I can start to use it.

xoxo

Long Legs and Loose Jackets

2010-09-22T15:56:00.000-07:00

Love this look snapped on The Sartorialist.

Oops

2010-09-22T15:52:00.000-07:00

image source

I've been so so busy lately that I forgot to announce the Chocolate Swap as closed! Luckily only a couple of ladies are participating! Anyway, if those who are playing along could email me using the link on the side of my blog - that would be swell!

I can't wait to see you some of my favourite chocolates!

Today I would like to cut off my hair and go back to blonde...

2010-09-14T18:05:00.000-07:00

Flourless Orange Cake

2010-09-14T04:07:00.000-07:00

The most perfectly moist and refreshing cake that I've ever eaten. And that's a big statement to make, I know. But honestly, everyone who eats this cake - loves it. It's a restaurant quality cake with an almost pudding-like texture. Delicious with cream or ice cream, or just on it's own too.

Made with almond meal, oranges (real ones of course - you boil them down; no extract here!), eggs, sugar and vanilla - it's a relatively "healthy" cake too. Surely the nuts, fruit and eggs count as healthy foods? Once baked you smear the outside with a good quality apricot jam (I use one with no added sugar), and I like to decorate the cake further with slivered almonds and a big slice of orange. It's completely gluten free too, which makes it a good kind of cake to bring to work parties and the like - where a mix of people with varying food requirements will be eating.

This recipe was given to me by my Mum, and I have no idea where she got it. So I probably shouldn't pass it on without her permission. But here are some similar recipes online: here, and here. Though mine has more eggs...I suppose there are plenty of variations of the same cake, and I bet they're all quite tasty.

xoxo

Honey Jumbles

2010-09-13T03:43:00.000-07:00

I recently made these Honey Jumbles and decided I just had to share them with you. These biscuits were a childhood favourite of mine, though I think it was only the packaged ones I had ever eaten. Don't get me wrong, my Mum baked a lot of things. Every Sunday she would make us cupcakes and biscuits for the week ahead at school. I think that's where I got my love of baking from. She just never made honey jumbles - well, not as far as I can remember anyway.

So it was with some excitement that I stumbled across the recipe in my Australian Woman's Weekly Bake cook book. Memories of eating whole packets with a cup of milk as a child swarmed before my eyes, and I just had to bake them.

Overall they were quite easy to make. I didn't have any All Spice so I made up my own spice mix and it seemed to work well which was quite a relief. I was also low on golden syrup so had to even out the equation with some honey - again this tasted fine. Actually they were extremely delicious. Even the Boy liked them, and he's not a sweets kind of person.

One of the best parts about this recipe, is that the biscuits get much better the longer you leave them (in an airtight container) as they really soften up. Though, this could also be a bad thing as you have to try and not eat them all straight away in order to see the best results. *ho hum*

Anyway, without further ado - here is the AWW recipe:

Biscuits:

60g butter
1/2 cup (110g) firmly packed brown sugar
3/4 cup (270g) golden syrup
1 egg
2 1/2 cups (375g) plain flour
1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground clove
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon mixed spice

Icing:

1 egg white
1 1/2 cups (240g) icing sugar
2 teaspoons plain flour
1 tablespoon lemon juice, approximately
pink food colouring

1. Stir butter, sugar and syrup in medium saucepan over low heat until sugar dissolves; cool 10 minutes. Transfer mixture to large bowl; stir in egg and sifted dry ingredients, in two batches. Knead dough on a floured surface until dough loses stickiness, cover; refrigerate 30 minutes.
2. Preheat over to 160 (degrees, celcius), or 140 if it's fan forced. Greas oven trays.
3. Divide dough into eight portions. Roll each portion into 2cm-thick sausage; cut each sausage into five 6cm lengths. Place about 3cm apart on oven trays; round ends with floured fingers, flatten biscuits slightly.
4. Bake biscuits about 15 minutes; cool on trays.
5. Meanwhile make icing.
6. Spread jumbles with pink and white icing.

ICING: Beat egg white lightly in small bowl; gradually stir in sifted icing sugar and flour, then enough juice to make icing spreadable. Place half the mixture in another small bowl; tint with colouring. Keep icings covered with a damp tea towel.

Enjoy!

xoxo

Spring Things

2010-09-13T03:23:00.000-07:00

Some lovely colourful spring things that are in my garden at the moment. Aren't they pretty?
I just love the spring time and all of the beauty it brings.

Spring time seems to really refresh me. I feel more engerised. More patient. More in tune with nature I suppose you would say. When I feel frustrated or angry, I am more inclined to close my eyes and take big breaths and think of the nature that is around me. I see more beauty in small everyday things, then perhaps I would during the winter. That could also be because I get to see more in the spring and summer time.

Working two jobs and essentially running a household (which is an hour away from my work) takes a lot out of me. Leaving early in the morning when it's dark and coming home in the dark, doesn't give me any time to appreciate the outdoors at all. The only time I get to see my garden is on the weekend - inbetween doing the washing and groceries and cleaning of the house. Etc etc, I don't want to whine. I just want to say - that seeing the sunshine more, and seeing my garden more - really really makes me happier. And I feel like I can handle a lot more, when the summery months are here.

Do the season affect you too?

xoxo

The First Swim of the Season

2010-09-10T23:44:00.000-07:00

This morning I had my first swim of the season. It was good to get back to the pool and feel the routine of laps and how it calms my mind and body. The burn of lazy muscle at the start of the season, followed by the slow body memory recollection of "I know how to do this". And the eventual build of speed. I love gliding through the water, feeling it peel away from my skin in long lucid movements. Together as one. The water and I. Inside and outside my body.

I took these photos on my phone as I lay on the grass afterward, enjoying the sun. It's only September but already spring has produced a certain sting with the warmer sun. It's good to feel it prickle my skin and heat me through, while lazing, exhausted, but utterly satisfied.

I really wanted to take a photo of the blue ripples on the water and the way it bends the light, but with so many children around the pool having swim classes and such - it didn't feel right. I was worried about parents and accusing eyes who might think my photos have less then innocent intentions. It's a bit sad to think really, that photographing in a public place where children can play is nowadays taboo.
Anyway, instead, I'm sure you can imagine how the spring sunlight hit the water and bounced with each splash from each and every swimmer. And how it made me smile.

xoxo

Want To Swap Chocolate?

2010-09-09T01:54:00.000-07:00

When I was recently reading through Reading My Tea Leaves, I stumbled across this picture of salt and pepper chocolate. Instantly, I was intrigued. What on earth was it? What did it taste like? I love chocolate!!!! As my boyfriend will tell you, I have something of a chocolate addiction. I must eat some every day. Yes yes, it's true. I suppose I should be rather embarrassed. But I'm not. It is a true joy. *nods* Sometimes he wonders if I love chocolate more then him. Sometimes, he should wonder. ;)

Anyway, this new and interesting type of chocolate got me thinking. About all the different types of chocolate across the world that I am yet to taste - and perhaps you would like to try too!? Then I thought how fabulous it would be, to do a chocolate swap between blog readers! Would you like that? I know I would.

So here's how I think it will work. Depending on how many people reply there are two options.

1. If only a small handful of people reply, then how about I send each of you a few of my favourite chocolates and you in return send me a couple of yours.

2. If lots of people reply to this, then I will pair you up with another person and you can swap chocolates with each other. Would that be fun? I think it could be.

Let me know if you want to play along, I'll make the deadline a week from today - so that would be next Thursday evening - or Wednesday if you are in the northern hemisphere.

xoxo

Blog Love: Reading My Tea Leaves

2010-09-09T01:45:00.000-07:00

I recently just discovered the fabulous blog 'Reading My Tea Leaves'.

Described as a "sometimes story about unpredictabilities"; this blog is bliss to me. It's escapism through photography, which are my favourite blogs of all.
Through it I am transported. To New York - where I have always longed to go.

But this blog isn't just about the big city smoke and designer shoes. There are some amazingly beautiful farm and country images that I just hadn't ever though to associate with The Big Apple. Ever.

Do go and visit this charming blog. I think you'll like it too. *nods*

xoxo

PS - all images are taken from Reading My Tea Leaves.

Puppy Play Date

2010-09-09T01:34:00.000-07:00

The lovely Micaela at Dolce Vita recently had a cyber puppy play date for all of her readers. Each reader sent in a photo of their puppy so that we could all meet and greet! It was such a fabulous idea! Of course my baby boy George was included. Head on over to see more cute puppies then you can throw a ball for.

By the way, just look how big my baby has gotten!!! He is 10 months old now (9 months in the below picture) and he has GROWN!!!! And he still has more growing to do! Wowzees!!! But still he thinks he is a lap dog. *awhhhh*

xoxo

Sushi, I love you. Always.

2010-09-08T22:47:00.001-07:00

Summer Style Love

2010-09-07T02:45:00.001-07:00

I'm currently loving the look of well tailored summer shorts. Simple yet classic. Doesn't she look gorgeous in her casual summer shirt and no-too-short shorts? I must have it! This picture is taken from The Satoralist.

xoxo

Blueberry Fever

2010-09-05T18:38:00.000-07:00

"Violet, you're turning violet!" While this was one of my favourite scenes from the childhood classic "Charlie and The Chocolate Factory", I fear I could be heading down the same blueberry laden path. I'm currently absolutely addicted to all things blueberry.

Scones with St Dalfour's Wild Blueberry jam were my vice this weekend (and leftovers for morning tea today, thank-you-very-much!).

And this delicious organic blueberry cordial has been my favourite for the past couple of months since I picked it up at Mrs Flannery's grocery store. It's delicious and so refreshing when mixed with soda water.

It makes me wish that I could blueberry picking with Bluebirdbaby, just look at how many blueberries she found!

Image from Bluebirdbaby

I think if I had an abundance of fresh blueberries, I'd be tempted to make these Blueberry Crumb Bars from the Cupcakes and Cashmere blog.

Image from Cupcakes and Cashmere

Do you like blueberries too? What are you going mad for lately?

Spring Is Here!!!

2010-09-01T16:36:00.000-07:00

Rainbow Bay: Image Source

Spring is here! Yesterday was the first day of spring - my very favourite season. The weather in Queensland was of course, fantastic. Or as they say: "beautiful one day, perfect the next." It's already warming up, and I can feel the energy bubbling inside of me.

Yesterday, I enjoyed spring and a very good day at work down at Rainbow Bay where the charity that I work for were photographing a property they are giving away. I won't say much more then that in fear of breaching confidentiality or some such, but let me just say that the property is SPECTACULAR! The views took my breath away, and my favourite part of the day was sipping a watermelon frappe while watching two whales play on the coast line. Bliss! I love Queensland, the coast, and obviously spring time.

Photo by Liesl

I'm also very excited about getting into some bright and colourful summery clothing this season. I recently purchased some new skirts from Liesl (the below pencil skirt will be actually made from the fabric pictured on the right), that I just can't wait to get into. I'm also going shopping tonight after work with a girlfriend, and planning to buy lots of pretty summery clothing that will keep me feel peppy all summer.

Photo by Liesl

To celebrate the beautiful weather, and living in the sub-tropics, I also enjoyed some blissful yoga this morning and made a delicious jug of watermelon, pineapple and ginger juice. Now I feel pumped, and ready for anything.

How are you celebrating spring? Or is it Autumn you are celebrating? Let me know!

The Best Pizza in Brisbane

2010-08-15T16:25:00.000-07:00

From Pizzeria 1889 at The Barracks. Their funghi pizza is by far the most delicious pizza to ever grace my taste buds. If you live in Brisbane, do try it.

xoxo

M.I.A

2010-08-14T01:56:00.000-07:00

Hey there! How are you? I've been missing in action for a little while now, haven't I. I've been busy, and also feeling uninspired. There's been some ups and downs of late, as well as some tears and also some cheers. There's been some tasty meals cooked, but not much baking which has made me sad - lately I don't seem to have anything to bake for. I got a promotion though, I think you would call it that - for my freelance work. My page in the paper is now going to replace other peoples, and appear in even more papers. So that is good, and the work level is about the same, but I got a pay rise so that's always a "yay".

In between the cooking and the working of two jobs, there were some fights that left me feeling a little sore and a little unsure, and like I might be standing on a very thin layer of ice that could very well crumble underneath my cold toes. And that thought is always bad, and scary. Even if you know that in the long run you will be ok, and a bit of cold water never really hurt anyone; because after quite a few long soaks in the tub and wines with friends and even some tears - you will be better then ever (and maybe even wiser!). But for now the fighting is done, and I'm still standing, though I am left with a few bruises (not literally btw!) that are all but faded, but won't be forgotten. Because if you forget, then how will you know better for next time? So I'll draw them back on, from time to time, in pink and purple texta - just to remind me - of so many things.

But now that the work is done, and the fight has been fought - it's just the uninspired feeling that remains. The feeling of "does anyone even read this"? The feeling of "I don't have time to sew or make - and I'm really not good enough anyway" but there's also the knowing that: "there's always time if you really want to find it, and after all - practice makes perfect!". These thoughts mean something too, something important. But right now I'm just tired and uninspired. So I'll concentrate on the things that seem certain and important and solid to touch. What are those things you say? Well, mainly the fundamentals. Food and movement. It's amazing what a difference these things can make on your life.

So, I've been trying to concentrate on eating more good quality food regularly (I began to neglect myself a bit amongst the long hours and the tears), so I've just recently joined Food Connect and before that happened, I've been making delicious healthy meals almost every day. I've also been moving my body more regularly, and feeling like I'm finally getting back into yoga after a long and lonely break where it dwindled from my life. Yoga, my love. How fabulous you make me feel. I'm sorry that after having such a great relationship with you almost each and every day, I lost track of you. But we're back together now, and I'm feeling so SO good. There really is nothing more fabulous, then focusing for 90 minutes, or even just 20 - on exactly how your body moves and feels and stretches itself. Yoga is my drug of choice, other then chocolate of course.

And that is probably all I have to say right now. I'll be posting some photos of the meals I've been cooking, and others that I've just been eating. And when I get my first Food Connect box on Tuesday, I'll let you know how that goes. I must say, I'm very excited about the idea of having such lovely fruit and vegetables that are locally and sustainably farmed. I've also found a few new favourite blogs, so I'll tell you all about them too. Oh, and I'm getting a ring custom made, featuring a very special and sentimental diamond - but more about that, once I have something to show you.

I hope you've all been really well too. Whoever you are.

xoxo

Buntings in Dress Form

2010-08-03T01:11:00.000-07:00

Squeee!!!! Maybe it's just because the whole has gone bunting mad including myself, but I really want this dress by NENEE featuring buntings!!! Isn't it cute?

xoxo

Food Blog Love

2010-08-03T00:55:00.000-07:00

Continuing with my food theme that seems to be dominating as of late, here are two of my new favourite food blogs.

Anne's Food. She's a woman from Stockholm who is "obsessed with food and cooking". She creates cute little things like Cake Pops, and also likes to crochet sweet treats.

A Cake Pop

Some crochet desserts and sweet treats - love the donut and oreo!

Secondly is Hedonistic Hostess, those who watched Masterchef will know that this is Marion Grasby's personal food blog. Full of beautiful photos and great recipes, I can't stop looking at this blog. I really want to try her Steamed Fish in Banana Leaves, and Colour Me Autumn salad.

Colour Me Autumn Salad

Steamed Fish in Banana Leaves

Strawberry Fever

2010-08-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

Strawberries are really cheap at the local markets right now, so I've gone a little berry mad and I'm eating them every chance I get.

This little pot of mush may not look all that appetising, but the smell is beautiful and the taste is intense (and fabulous!). Each night I've been mashing up some fresh strawberries with a fork, covering, and leaving it out at room temperature. The next morning the strawberry flavour and smell has intensified to beyond your wildest strawberry dreams. I add it to my granola with yoghurt and some sliced strawberries; or eat it plain with delicious thick plain yoghurt.

Delicious.

xoxo

Mt Mee State Forest

2010-08-01T00:16:00.000-07:00

Our picnic spot.

Beautiful mushrooms.

Eep - a python!

For my birthday, the Boy and I went 4x4ing at Mt Mee State Forest. We enjoyed a lovely picnic (smoked salmon, cream cheese, sourdough bread, red onion, lemon juice and freshly cracked pepper washed down with beer and completed with strawberries), did some walking, and even managed to see a BIG python. Boy took the python photos, I wasn't keep to get any closer. Look how long he (or she) is - an easy 2 metres. Eep!

What a fabulous birthday (minus the python).

xoxo

My Birthday Present To Myself

2010-07-31T23:27:00.000-07:00

For my birthday I bought myself a little present. And by little I mean it weighs a good couple of kilograms! But a bargain is a bargain ($30 down from $80), and I'm sure it's going to become my baking bible until the day my oven mits and I are no longer on this bright and beautiful earth.

There's so many great tips about baking included in this book, and the recipes all look scrum-didli-umptious. I'm excited that it also includes some of my favourite children's birthday cakes that graced my parties in younger years.

Now I'm left with the tough choice of where to even start, I can feel this book is going to be bad for waist line!

xoxo

Spicy Tomato and Red Capsicum Soup

2010-07-31T22:58:00.001-07:00

Recipe from The Australian's Women's Weekly "Lean Food" cook book.

You will need:

2 large red capsicums (700g)
5 large vine-ripened tomatoes (1.2kg), halved
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium brown onion, chopped coarsely
2 cloves garlic, crushed
4 fres long red chillies, chopped coarsely
2 cups (500ml) water
2 cups (500ml) prepared vegetable stock

1. Preheat oven to very hot.
2. Quarter capsicums, discard seeds and membranes. Roast capsicum, skin side up, and tomato, cut-side up, on lightly oiled oven trays, uncovered, in very hot oven about 15 minutes or until capsicum skin blisters and blackens and tomato softens. Cover capsicum pieces with plastic or paper for 5 minutes; peel away skin. Cool tomato 5 minutes; peel away skin.
3. Heat oil in large saucepan; cook onion, garlic and chilli, stirring until onion softens. Add capsicum and tomato; cook, stirring 5 minutes. Add the water and stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes.
4. Blend or process tomato mixture until smoth.
5. Serve topped with sour cream and chives.

Serves 4.

I made this soup for the first time yesterday. It's delicious! I added some dried basil and oregano once I had blended up the soup though - I thought the herbs would do it justice, and it certainly made a difference! The spices felt great on my sore throat too. I only used 3 large chillies though, and it's spicy enough for my liking; I did add one extra garlic clove though.

You should definitely try out this winter warmer.

xoxo

Sore Throat Soother

2010-07-31T22:39:00.001-07:00

I think that every person has a weak spot in their body. They could be prone to suffering from back ache, head aches, chest infections, funny tummies or if they're like me - sore throats. The throat has always been my weak spot, and after suffering from tonsillitis all my childhood and then into my teenage years, I finally got them out at about 17 years old.

These days I don't get tonsillitis anymore but I do get sore throats still. It could be from a change in the weather, or as a result of neglecting myself and working too hard.

This weekend I've had a sore throat that I believe is a combination of both of those things. The weather has been summer-like. I've been wearing dresses without cardigans - it's August for goodness sake!!! We should be freezing cold (we were cold last week!). And I've been working hard and not eating well enough.

To cure my sore throat I find that the best approach is a natural approach. Ginger, lemon, honey and camomile tea. And lots of it.

So this weekend I've been sipping on cups and cups of this beautiful combination while sitting in the sunshine whenever I can. I'm feeling better all ready and hoping that tomorrow morning I'll wake up fighting fit and ready for work again.

If you get a sore throat this winter, I definitely recommend this remedy.

xoxo

Getting To Know You: What's Your Desktop Wallpaper?

2010-07-28T18:46:00.001-07:00

I'd really like to see!

xoxo

Pancakes with Berries

2010-07-28T03:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning breakfast this weekend was pancakes topped with fresh blueberries and strawberries, drizzled with maple syrup.

My pancake flipping skills need a little bit of work though...the perfect excuse to eat more pancakes don't you think? Plus, while I really am a fan of frozen berries, they're just not as good as the fresh variety. So while the weather is cooler I'm trying to make the most of reasonably priced fresh berries.

More of this dish to come me thinks.

Nom nom!

xoxo

Birthday Breakfast In Bed

2010-07-27T23:23:00.000-07:00

Though possibly not the healthiest way to start the day, a delightful birthday treat nonetheless. Boy made me a bacon, egg and cheese muffin with sweet potato fries and mushrooms - and served it to me in bed. Aren't birthdays the best?

Delish!

xoxo

7 Course Treat

2010-07-27T23:13:00.000-07:00

Second course, photographed on my iPhone using Plastic Bullet app

Brisbane foodies rejoice! Did you know that you can enjoy a fabulous 7 course dinner for only $35? Yep that's right, $35!

I recently went to the Hospitality Training Association's restaurant on Wickham Street in Fortitude Valley, and am pleased to report the food was divine. Possibly one of the best bits was that you got to try little portions of EVERYTHING on the menu (except for the main meal which you only get one of), meaning that my palette is so much more sophisticated now. ;)

Wine was about $3 a glass, and same for beer. Soft drinks were $1.50. Though if you don't have to dry home that night, why not indulge in their 6 course wine menu to accompany your 7 course dinner? Combined wine and dinner package is only $65. Hoorah!

Download the menu here (and maybe have a tissue on hand so that you can wipe away any excess salivation).

xoxo

Do You Like Photos?

2010-07-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

Do you like photos? I sure do. I like taking them and looking at them, and looking at other peoples photos too.

Hillbilly Sweats likes photos to. She's a super awesome Brisbane girl who takes a very cool picture with a unique eye. You should go and look at some more of her photos. She doesn't update all the time, but add her to your favourites and you'll be sure to receive pleasant surprises every time she does. *nods*

xoxo

What BP Could Have Bought With All The Money They Lost

2010-07-27T01:10:00.000-07:00

This picture is too big to post in my blog, but visit it here and see the visual representation of just how much money they lost from the oil spill.

Oh. My. God.

Disgusting.

What Can You Buy for $5?

2010-07-27T00:55:00.001-07:00

Lots of pretty things if you go shopping here at UrbanOutfitters.com

I'm loving their romper, kitty fang tee, and bird in nest headband (how fun!).

So don't delay, shop shop shop!!!!

xoxo

25 Years Old and Pretty Pastels

2010-07-25T19:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I turned 25! Quarter of a century. Quarter of the way to a letter from the Queen. Boy made me breakfast in bed and then we spent the day exploring Mt Mee State Forest by 4WD. We had a picnic by a waterfall and saw lots and lots of wildlife! Photos to come.

Later that night we ate bean nachos, drank margaritas and watched some of my favourite movies.

I thought I would share these photos to celebrate my birthday with you all. Aren't they such pretty colours? I feel a bit like the first girl after all the celebrating is done. You can visit the flickr stream here for more photos.

I hope you had a lovely weekend too!

xoxo

My Singer Sewing Machine

2010-07-22T00:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I told you about my Underwood typewriter, so today I thought I'd show you my Singer sewing machine. I bought it just less than two weeks ago at Caboolture Markets for AU$40 - what a bargain! It works perfectly and it's so pretty to see.

Just like my old Underwood, I can't help but imagine what it helped to create back in 1936 when it was originally made. Imagine the fabulous dresses it could have made, my heart leaps when I think about it. I think once I get the hang of using this machine some more, I'd really like to create a vintage dress on it using a vintage pattern and fabric - perhaps something from the 40's or 50's when this Singer would have been a youngin' still. Wouldn't that just be something?

xoxo

My Underwood

2010-07-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

This is my Underwood typewriter. Isn't it beautiful? I think so. I've had it for quite some years now, but for most of that time it's been at my Mum's house in Sydney. When she came to visit last weekend she bought it up with her. So now we are reunited again and I'm so so happy about it.

This typewriter is very old. My mum found it at a fete and knowing that I had always wanted one, she picked it up for an absolute bargain price. She then paid a lot restoring it for me as a birthday gift years ago. The man who restored it thought it might have been an old war correspondents type writer. That makes me dream of the places it went, of the person who used it, of the stories that they told together. I hope they were good stories, interesting stories; stories of more then just sadness and bloodshed. I hope that the man (presuming it was a man) who used it, wrote letters to his wife on it. Beautiful love letters, about how wonderful life would be when they were together again. I hope the letters made her cry with joy, and their reunion that much more special.

I'm trying to use this typewriter more, now that it's back with me again. I love the tap-tap-tap-clingggg sound that it makes. I think that perhaps more love letters should be written on it, and I know just the recipient for them! There will also be more stories told on it, stories for publishing perhaps, or stories for my one-day children, maybe even just stories for you all to read (and recipes too!). So for now I'll pack this computer away, and return to my tap-tap-tapping away on my darling and beautiful Underwood.

xoxo

Baking Bread

2010-07-20T23:35:00.000-07:00

I've gotten into the routine of baking our bread by hand. I find it really satisfying - the pounding and kneeding and turning of dough. And the final product always tastes so much better, and is so much more filling, then any store bought bread (plus it's free of preservatives!).
I also like the imperfection of my home made bread, one side a little higher, the other side a little lower. They're rustic I suppose you would say.

Do you like to bake too?

xoxo

Learning To Catch

2010-07-20T00:20:00.000-07:00

George is currently learning to catch mid air. Sometimes he gets it, and sometimes he doesn't. This time he didn't, but he was already very tired - but he did get close. And close when tired is very good for a baby I think. He's still only 8 months old after all.

:)

xoxo

The Iris

2010-07-19T14:17:00.000-07:00

We recently bought an Iris for our garden, and suddenly it's flowering. Isn't it beautiful? I just love the colour. Apparently the Iris takes it's name from the Greek word for rainbow, because there are just so many different colours of the species available.

Regardless, it's a beautiful addition to our tropical backyard and each day it is making me smile.

xoxo

Premature Celebrations

2010-07-18T23:07:00.000-07:00

It's my Birthday this Saturday. Yep yep, it sure is. The big 25. But last week my mum and sister flew up to visit me and stay for the weekend. So we celebrated prematurely with these lovely sweet treats that they picked up at Eumundi Markets. Some were chocolate flavoured, and the others were a zesty orange. They were so tiny and cute (and delicious!) - a perfect way to celebrate prematurely.

xoxo

Berry and Cherry Jelly

2010-07-18T23:05:00.000-07:00

At work recently one of the designers bought in some tasty afternoon tea she had made. It was so delicious, and so simple; so I thought I would share it in case you all wanted to try it too.

All she had done was taken frozen berries (thawed them), set them in jelly and before it wad totally hard she topped the jelly with strawberry slices and fresh cherries. Delicious! Serve with cream (or ice cream even!).

Xoxo

Ps- image taken using the Plastic Bullet app on my iPhone.

Keep Cup

2010-07-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

If you ask me, these Keep Cups are the best thing since sliced bread. They're environmentally friendly, reusable coffee cups made from safe plastic. You can choose what colour you want your cup to be, and they're not very expensive either. Hoorah! Most coffee shops give a discount when you bring your own cup too, so not only will you be helping to save the environment but you also might save some cash in doing so. What colour will yours be?

xoxo

The V8 Experience

2010-07-17T23:03:00.001-07:00

For Boy's birthday I bought him 8 laps in a V8 super car. Last weekend was the day he finally he got to do it. While it seemed to go so so quickly (though I guess that's the point in a V8 right?!), the Boy really enjoyed it! I guess most boys do like that sort of thing though huh? Next year he wants to go rally driving - ohoh! I hope I haven't created a motor-sporting monster!!!

If anyone is looking for a great gift for someone they love, I can definitely recommend this though. Much fun!

xoxo

Sunday Morning Breakfast

2010-07-17T22:33:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning's are always my favourite day for breakfast, because unlike every other day of the week I actually have time to cook. Last Sunday I cooked corn fritters and layered free range ham and avocado between them, topping them with poached eggs and cracked pepper. We ate fresh home grown rocket and cherry tomatoes with them on the side. Delicious!

xoxo

Summer Dreaming

2010-07-13T17:37:00.000-07:00

1. Out of Africa Dress 2. Denim Bowtie Skirt 3. Beaded Birdie Dress

Addicted...

2010-07-12T19:55:00.000-07:00

Photo taken on my iPhone using the Plastic Bullet app

Currently addicted to Green and Black's organic dark chocolate with 85% cocoa.

Nom nom nom!

xoxo

PS - I'm also practicing my gratitude in silence, I think it might be better that way!

Strawberry and Rhubarb Crumble - by Donna Hay

2010-07-07T19:36:00.001-07:00

Image Source

My mum recently emailed me this recipe by Donna Hay, and although I haven't had a chance to try it yet - it sounded so delicious that I just had to share it.

For the filling you will need:

4 cups peeled and diced rhubarb (approx 1 bunch)

2 Tbsp sugar

1 cup strawberries (if large cut in half)

1 heaped tsp corn flour

For the crumble you will need:

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup plain flour

1/w cup quick oats

To make:

Prheat the oven to 220C. Grease a small gratine dish. Place rhubarb and strawberries in this and lightly mix sugar and cornflour through. Mix crumble. Bake until golden.

Yumo! I think I would really like to buy her cookbook now!

xoxo

Feeling Floral

2010-07-07T15:58:00.000-07:00

Some of you probably know that I have two jobs. Yep yep I sure do. I like to keep busy you see. My main job isn't quite as fun as my second job though. For my second job I write a weekly fashion page for a few different newspapers in Brisbane. It's very fun! I've been doing it for over two years now, and I still enjoy it.

Next weeks page is all about winter music festival fashions, and in it are these great shoes by Kustom! Aren't they sweet? They're only $79.99 too, which makes them affordable in my book! Hoorah!

xoxo

The Gratitude Blogs

2010-07-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

Wednesday 7th July

Today was one of those days were everything that could go wrong, seemed to go wrong. However, it all ended well and I and I was pleased to be finding good amongst the bad in the earlier part of the day.

In the end I was grateful for these five things:

1. That even though I missed the train and was late to work, no body minded and everyone understood.
2. Friends helping friends. What would we do without them?
3. Email and the internet. Because not all of our friends can be close by all of the time, but the internet makes boundaries melt away. Hoorah!
4. IT professionals. Because computers are well beyond me.
5. Points. Yes this time around, though it was too late and they still didn't win, the Blues at least gave QLD a run for their money (sort of) in State of Origin game 3.

All up a 4/5 day. Who would have thought such a bad day could turn good!?

xoxo

Gratitude Day One

2010-07-06T00:22:00.000-07:00

Monday 6th July

Today I am grateful for:

1. Wisdom and accesibility. I went to a Chinese Medicine practitioneer today and was so grateful for his knowledge, and the fact that we have so many different forms of medicine available to us in Australia.
2. Strawberry season, the fruity favourite of my winter time.
3. Having a car. It just makes life so much easier!
4. My Boy. On his day off today I came home to freshly planted tropical plants in our garden. Hooray!
5. Our puppy. Because even though he can be so naughty, he always makes me smile!

Today is a 3.5/5 day!

What were you grateful for?

Xoxo

The Gratitude Blogs

2010-07-04T21:22:00.000-07:00

I was recently looking through the iTunes App store and discovered the Gratitude Journal. Basically it's a journal in which you write down things you are grateful for.

The creators say: "Write down five things you are grateful for each day in your gratitude journal. Do this for at least one month and your life will change forever."

Oprah Winfrey claims that "the gratitude journal truly changed my life".

Now I don't know much about Oprah, or if her endorsement means anything to anyone; but it does seem like a cool idea. Perhaps you would be interested in doing this with me? For surely you can never have too much gratitude in your life, and perhaps it would be nice to see what other people are grateful for in their lives. I know that I would really like to see that.

For the next month I'm going to write down 5 things that I'm grateful for each day. I'm going to give the day a ranking too, and perhaps I'll include some photos that inspire me or that I've taken that day.

If you would like to play along, you can copy the below picture into your blog so that everyone knows you are playing along too. I've posted this image into my side bar on the right hand side.

Tonight (or tomorrow) I'll post about what I'm grateful for today. Here's a quote to get you all inspired about gratitude in between time:

"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it."

William Arthur Ward

I really hope you play along too!!!!

xoxo

Favourite Things

2010-07-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favourite things. It's an incense burner, believe it or not. You place small cones of incense inside the hollow owl, and the sweet fragrance wafts out of some holes in his ears and the back of his tail. I bought in Kyoto, when traveling around Japan earlier this year.

What are some of your favourite things in your house? I'd really like to see. Would you post a photo on your blog and let me know here, so that I can go see?

xoxo

Love In Pie Form

2010-07-03T14:49:00.001-07:00

Last night we had roast free range chicken and vegetable pie for dinner. I started it, then went off to have a bubble bath while the vegetables roasted. Boy decided to finish the pie - how lovely I thought, as I relaxed some more.
And then when the smell of our dinner was almost unbearable and our tummies growled, it was finally ready. What a treat to see a special message on the top of our pie, from Boy to me, as it came out of the oven. It made the pie taste even better!

Are You Going to Paris?

2010-07-03T14:05:00.000-07:00

Image Source

If you answered yes, then lucky you! I'd really love to go to Paris one day. And all over France to be precise. Yes, my dreams have been filled with French notions for many many years now. So hopefully one day soon I will get there.

Until that sweet and dreamy day, I think that I would like to go to a French restaurant for my upcoming Birthday. Yes, I would! In researching the best French restaurants in Brisbane, I discovered this lovely download (just click the "things to do in Paris" link), written by the owner of Montrachet. As the name would suggest, it's his very own guide of what to do in Paris. Move over Lonely Planet, this guide is fabulous. Of course he recommends lots of foodie places, but also gives so many great details about public transport and walking trips too. Even if you're not planning a trip any time soon, it's a lovely way of taking a mental mini-break; and I do like mental mini-breaks. Do you?

xoxo

Pallas Couture

2010-07-01T21:51:00.000-07:00

I've never been the sort of girl who imagined getting married or fantasised about such things. And I'm still not. But flicking through last month's Vogue magazine left me breathless when I saw a photo of this dress. Isn't it beautiful? It made me think that if I was ever to get married, and wear a white dress - this would be the sort of dress I would like. Can't you imagine it in a beautiful garden setting, with loose natural hair and simple clean make up?

You should take a look at some more of the dresses by Pallas Couture. They're the stuff of fairy tales, even for those of us who never dreamt of them.

xoxo

Gardening Update

2010-07-01T21:32:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about living in Queensland is the fact that I'm on the border of the sub-tropics. This means that we're not subjected to frosts in winter, despite the fact it does get quite cold. So winter becomes a fabulous time to start preparing the veggie patch for the upcoming Spring. And that's exactly what I've been doing.

New seeds have been planted like Elderberry, Sweet Marjoram, Spinach, Rocket, Coriander, Violets, and Forget Me Nots. Seeds planted early are doing well - my Carrots are taking off in their old wine barrel pot, Lettuces are growing, Sugar Snap Peas are getting bigger and bigger. My baby Rosemary is getting bigger too, and a new addition - Chinese Celery, is also doing very well.

The only problem is that the more I garden, the more I want to plant. And while I'd be quite happy to turn our backyard into one big veggie patch, the Boy wouldn't be too impressed. So until we have more land I will have to suffice. Just as well lots of good things can grow in pots then isn't it?! :)

xoxo

Pink Patchwork

2010-07-01T21:15:00.000-07:00

Guess what? There's a party this weekend. A 1st Birthday party for Boy's niece. She's such a pretty lovely little girl that I thought I would make her something special. So I decided to try my hand at making my first ever patchwork quilt. It's something I've been interested in making for quite some time, so maybe a baby sized quilt seemed a good place to start.

And you know what? I really enjoyed it. I'm not about to win any quilting awards soon, but that's no the point. The point is that I tried my best, poured a little bit of myself into it, and hopefully this pretty girl will have many fond memories snuggled up in this blanket. I hope it gives her great comfort, and perhaps some adventures together too (I'm thinking of my own childhood and the fabulous tents I would create from sheets and blankets here).

I even made it large enough so that she can use it as a grown woman over her lap while reading a book or watching TV. I hope that it lasts that long!

What was also quite special about the quilt, is the fact that some of the squares came from across the other side of the world! Quite some time ago I won a giveaway over at Liesl's blog. And included in the giveaway were some lovely fabric squares. Those squares are now included in this gift. How special!
I think that one day I would love to make myself a quilt with fabrics collected from across the world - wouldn't that be amazing? Particularly if they were pieces collected while travelling, filled with memories of happy exciting times.

xoxo

Holy Moly We Have a Female PM!

2010-06-23T16:49:00.001-07:00

In a whirlwind morning in Australian politics, we have just been instated with our first ever female prime minister! Our old PM Kevin Rudd was voted out by his own party this morning, and now Julia Gillard is it!

Holy moly, exciting times - new change and all that; though I can't say I really know much about her. Everything just happened so fast! And with a federal election just around the corner, I'm going to need to be filled in fast about why the heck I should vote for this woman!

But still, about bloody time I say - Australia is finally with the times and with a female ruler.

Bike Love

2010-06-23T16:34:00.000-07:00

I'm currently loving everything to do with bicycles, and am desperately in want of my own. But you know what? Apart from a vague attempt a year or two ago with a friend one day, I don't really know how to ride a bike! But perhaps you're never too old to learn. And I bet a shiny bike like these pretty (but expensive) ones would give me the inspiration I need!

Wise Words

2010-06-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

Some wise words I discovered at the library last night, as part of a community sewing display.

They're spot on though, don't you think?

"If heaven were a place on earth,

then surely it must be,

a place where you can sit and sew,

and drink a cup of tea."

Craft Question

2010-06-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

Image Source

Hello! I have a craft question for you all.

I would like to stamp some designs onto fabric, however, I've never used a fabric ink/stamp pad before. I was wondering if anyone had, and if so - what brand do you use?

Also, any helpful tips for a first time fabric stamp attempt?

xoxo

Giraffes

2010-06-20T15:52:00.000-07:00

Giraffe oil painting.

Giraffe necklace.

Gold Giraffe Cigarette Case.

Giraffe softy.

Giraffe tote.

Last night I dream about giraffes. They were swimming in a big river, but I could see through the water and watch their long legs propelling them along. They looked quite funny I have to admit.

The dream made me remember how wonderful I thought giraffes were when I was a kid. They amazed me at the zoo with their blue tongues, long thick eyelashes, and enormous legs and neck.

Here are a few sweet giraffes that I found on Etsy.

Enjoy!

xoxo

The Best Way To Start The Day

2010-06-16T13:36:00.000-07:00

Poached eggs on toasted Turkish bread with avocado, crack pepper, and a drizzle of Tabasco sauce. One of the best ways to start the day.

Nom nom nom!

Happy Thursday to you all!

Springbrook National Park

2010-06-16T03:50:00.000-07:00

A few photos from our adventure to Springbrook National Park...

The Natural Bridge (above)

Happenings.

2010-06-16T03:04:00.000-07:00

It's been quite some time since I posted much about anything personal over here hasn't it?
But that can also be a good thing - I think, because it shows that life has been busy and I've been enjoying each moment. It also means that I have a lot to update you on! So here's a bit about what's been happening in my life:

I got a fringe cut in my hair, it looks a bit like this (sorry it's not a very good picture!):

I've been baking lots of pies:

We celebrated the Boys 25th birthday with a BIG cook up (however I was too busy cooking to take photos of my creations - sad!) and celebratory lunch. I made my first corned beef, with TONS of vegetables and a massive steaming bowl of creamy mashed potato; and fresh baked bread of course. There was also birthday cake, and cupcakes for the kiddies, and my special chocolate and almond Florentines too.

We also spent a day at Springbrook National Park for his birthday. We did lots of bush-walking and picnicking, and just enjoyed being out in the lovely fresh air in the rainforest. Here is the Birthday Boy, I'll post more photos of Springbrook next!

I've been working on my veggie patch too, and found great new websites for buying herbs like this one which specialises in medicinal plants, and this one also has lots of great gardening supplies! I've spent a little bit too much money on both of these sites recently - oops! I'll post photos of the veggie patch soon too!

I also started going to yoga classes again, and watched SATC2 (was anyone else disappointed?).

I've been inspired a bit by Dawn over at Handmade Love, and have been doodling pictures of my food each day. Though mine are just biro sketches and no where near as pretty as hers, it's still something that has been lots of fun and I think I'd like to make a habit of it.

And because of those food drawings I've been thinking a bit more about what goes into my mouth. This means that I've been trying much harder to eat lovely fresh and healthy food each day - food that has lots of nutritional value.
As a result I discovered raw chocolate (just look how many antioxidants are in it!). I've also been reverting to my old favorite vegetarian meals like falafel with homemade/homegrown tabbouleh and hommus wraps; or chickpea rissoles with cucumber and yoghurt sauce; and definitely lots of tofu and vegetable stir frys.
Between all this healthy food and going back to yoga, I'm feeling pretty good at the moment.

Suddenly winter has also crept into Queensland, and the days are getting much shorter and colder. Soups and curries have been on the menu (as well as the pies), and each day I dream of spending long leisurely mornings tucked up in bed with a good book in hand.

Actually dreams have been creeping into my life a lot lately. My favourite at the moment is the one where I escape the 9-5 montomy with my boy in our own van (kinda like these Wicked camper vans) and spend our days exploring Australia. Wouldn't that be nice?

Pepper has also been exploring her dreams and she's actually making them a reality - how exciting! Did you see that she's decided to become her own boss? I'd like to say a big congrulations and good luck to her!

I think that's about all that I wanted to say for now, so thank you for reading - sorry it's a bit overdue.

See you soon!

xoxo

Yarn Bombing

2010-06-15T02:32:00.000-07:00

Above Images From...

Image Source

Have other people in Brisbane noticed the Yarn Bombing that has transformed our city too?
Our sculptures and landmarks have been transformed (for the better!). How festive too - some people really are so clever (and crafty!).

See more here on this video!

xoxo

The Crafty Minx

2010-06-15T02:27:00.000-07:00

I just ordered this book online today - hoorah! You can visit her blog here too, it's full of lots of easy craft ideas! I'm very excited about receiving it. First thing on my "to-create" list, is a recylced lambswool throw. Hoorah!

xoxo

PS - A big fat update is coming soon I promise. I don't have internet at my home (well I do, but it doesn't work properly - long story!) so updating my blog has been really hard. Please stay tuned though, there's lots of exciting stories to come!

The Harsh Facts of Plastic Bags

2010-06-09T13:36:00.000-07:00

Why doing crafty things like this, is a good way to get rid of your plastic bags.

Baby Sea Lion Swimming Lesson

2010-06-09T13:32:00.000-07:00

Something cute to watch on a Thursday morning.

The Words You Don't Say

2010-05-30T20:32:00.000-07:00

"Can you believe it?", she said with a smile; with vacant drifts of fine blonde hair blowing across her face - tickling.

He couldn't believe it, and he wasn't sure they had, or that it wasn't a dream. So he held her hand to make sure she was there, and smiled at her nonetheless, while breathing in the trees and the sky and all that he could see.

Perhaps, he thought, that if he just breathed deep enough for long enough - he could inhale the whole scene, grit and all; to leave them both standing barefoot, on an open page and a blank slate. The new beginning they had talked about.

He breathed a little bit deeper.

She brushed the hairs from her face and fell against the wind.

The world turned. And they arrived, at where they'd always been.

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Though I love to write, I don't do it often. Or often enough these days at least. But main problem has always been that I can only capture scenes. The idea of writing a novel is both simultaneously amazing and terrifying. I'd love to do it; to spend years researching and writing and plotting and planning in order to give birth to this creation of your mind - but how on earth could I ever think of something that I want to write about THAT much. As I've said, I only seem to be able to capture scenes these days. Just like the one above. And I know there are possibilities of what could happen from this kind of scene, but as soon as I start to think of what could be - my mind shuts up tight like a clam and refuses to think. My pen stops (or my fingers refuse to type anymore). And that's it. There is no more. So I simply walk away and forget about the whole darn thing.

Today I was catching up on my Google Reader subscriptions, and I flickered over to Micaela's blog - the lovely Dolce Vita; and I noticed in a post that she talked about her favourite story. Hemingway was said to have written it on a bet that he couldn't write a story using just six words. The words he wrote were: "For Sale: baby shoes, never worn."

I had never heard this story before, but it really got me thinking - particularly as I seem to have a commitment problem with the writing of my own stories. My stories are usually without a place, without any real character depth, and without an actual story line. Like I said - they're really just scenes - or fragments of an image I once had. However, and perhaps this is egotistical of me - I think my fragments are ok. They're intriguing and they have an unknown hook that would will me to keep reading (if in fact there was more to read). And I think the reason for this is because sometimes it's what you don't say that counts. Just as Hemmingway did in those six words. It was what he didn't say that became the story. And that idea in itself is pretty amazing. Can a story really be all about the things that you don't write? Or is a great text about the harmonious balance of both?

So after all this thinking about what I can't write, and about what other people do or don't write; where does that leave me? Is there a future in writing snippets about people with no faces, in places you can't see, with no plot or scheme? Most likely not. In fact, most definitely not. But here I am. Unwilling, (or afraid?) to go any further. With a writers block bigger then ocean, and an uncertainty that stretches beyond.

And Speaking of Flying...

2010-05-27T16:48:00.000-07:00

I saw giant flying beer today! Suddenly I'm thirsty...

Why didn't anyone tell me that fish could fly?

2010-05-27T16:46:00.000-07:00

I'm gobsmacked.

Chicken Pie

2010-05-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

I made the most fabulous pie on the weekend ever! It was really easy too, so I thought I'd tell you all how to make one too!

You need a roast chicken - and then shred all the meet.
Some vegetables like potato, pumpkin, sweet potato, peas and corn. Dice the veggies that need roasting and bake them in the oven with some olive oil, salt and pepper, and a few sprigs of rosemary.

When they're cooked, mix up in a big bowl the chicken, veggies and add a really thick gravy (I used some packet Brown Onion gravy mixes - about 3 packets actually cause it was really thick!).

Line your pie dish with puff pastry, fill with the mix, put a lid on the pie, decorate if you want and put into a hot oven!

Voila!

We had enough to make two pies, so this should definitely feed up to 8 people with the two pies.

Also, if you want to avoid having a soggy base on your pie, before you add the filling you need to prick the base with a fork a few times and cook it for 10 minutes on its own. Then fill, top and bake!

Hoorah!

Naudic

2010-05-26T13:36:00.001-07:00

Don't these clothes look comfortable and laid back? They're by Naudic, you can visit their website here. They use lots of natural fibers in their clothing too, which if you ask me is great!

I love the white dress in the top corner. I think it would be great on a beach/resort holiday.

xoxo

Get Your Greek On

2010-05-25T03:35:00.000-07:00

On the weekend I went along to Greek Festival in Brisbane with my lover.

We sat in the shade of a large fig tree drinking Alfa Greek beer, while munching on yummies like haloumi and souvlaki pita wraps.

I also bought some tasty baklava to take home and eat later in the afternoon when I wasn't so full. Though I didn't take any photos of it, I just enjoyed eating it instead. :)

On the way home we saw some pretty street art.

What a fab way to spend a Saturday!

Hope your weekend was lovely too!

xoxo

Happy Face Fruit

2010-05-25T03:31:00.000-07:00

Is it just me being a little bit odd, or does my plate of fruit look a little bit like a happy face today? Perhaps?!

Clogs

2010-05-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

My puppy ate one of my clogs today, I'm now very sad! I used to leave them around the back door and wear them as my outdoor-around-the-house shoes.
If I had some spare money I'd be buying these pretty floral ones to replace my old pair though. Aren't they pretty? I think they're very fun looking, and also quite girly. But first I need to buy new Ugg boots; it's getting really cold here and I don't have any slippers at all!

xoxo

Garbage Warrior

2010-05-22T20:28:00.000-07:00

You should watch the full movie, *nods*; it's very interesting indeed!

Ginger Addiction.

2010-05-20T18:43:00.000-07:00

I'm currently addicted to slices of fresh ginger soaked in boiling water - AKA - fresh ginger tea. Such a delicate and beautiful taste, with a fantastic aroma too! It's getting me through each day at work, now that winter has descended. Hopefully it will keep me healthy too, when others are getting the cold and flu bugs.

What sort of teas do you like to drink?

xoxo

I Like Raspberries

2010-05-19T16:38:00.000-07:00

My little Amelie-esque moment with Raspberries this morning! Nom nom nom!

xoxo

I Just Can't Wait

2010-05-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

I recently bought this new cook book full of yummy sweet treats! Now that I'm feeling better I just can't wait to choose a few recipes to try out this weekend. I feel a bake-a-thon coming on! Hoorah!

xoxo

Really.

2010-05-18T20:52:00.000-07:00

I would REALLY like to go to this lady's house for a meal. Her blog just makes me want to cook, and eat. Eat lots. Nom nom nom!

Sewing Concerns

2010-05-18T17:19:00.000-07:00

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I'm a little bit concerned that I haven't sewn a single thing since I started working full time again. There are projects I have in mind, but haven't since found the time.

- There's a long skirt in bold black and white fabric that I'm dreaming of making. In my head it's fantastically retro but oh-so chic. I purchased the fabric at IKEA some time ago, and I'm dreaming of wearing it winter with a plain black long sleeved tee and bright red beads.

- I've also dreamt up a simple calico bag adorned with matryoshka dolls to carry my lunch to work each day - don't you think it will be sweet?!

- And a while ago I bought some beautiful blue vintage cotton, that I plan to transform into a soft full circle skirt that's knee length. It will keep me dreaming of summer through the winter months I think. (You can see the pale blue fabric here.)

I also want to do something with the fabulous Obi fabrics I bought in Japan, they're very heavy and quite stiff, so a purse or bag could work nicely. What do you think? I'd love to think I could create a cute cropped jacket out of the fabric, but my sewing skills wouldn't be good enough, I'm still a beginner after all.

But first I need to dust the cobwebs off my sewing machine, and see if I remember how to use it. How sad that I've neglected it so.

xoxo

PS - I never did show you all a photo of my linen blend skirt I created a while ago, that I talked about here did I?

PPS - I just saw on Riyo's blog this morning that Marimekko have their new Spring 2010 collection out! Hoorah for beautiful patterns!

xoxo

Royal Tea

2010-05-18T17:12:00.000-07:00

I just bought these tea bags for my Grandma. She's British and a fan of the royal family. I think they'll make her laugh.

They're coming all the way from Switzerland too - wow! Apparently I'm the first sale they've ever had to Australia, I feel happy about that. :) They have lots of lovely things to buy on their store, but it's all in German unfortunately - unless of course you can read German!?

I hope my Grandmother likes these tea bags!

xoxo

Bleary Eyed

2010-05-17T20:41:00.000-07:00

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I'm sitting here typing, a little bleary eyed, wondering where the last week went. Well, I know where it went; it just seems sad that it was wasted on being sick. And boy was I sick. And still kind of am, but mainly I'm left just plain old exhausted from this rotten virus that is plaguing my body. While no one wants specifics I've had a horrible gastro bug that has left me 4kg thinner, much paler, and wanting to crawl back to bed as soon as I'm out of it. But at least the worst is gone.

Other then the physical side of being ill, one of the worst parts has not been eating. The thought, the smell, the look of food made me want to heave. And now that I'm on the mend - I want to eat, but my tummy is too sensitive still for more then soy milk in tea and white bread sandwiches with Vegemite. Boring! You should all know how much I love food, so not to be cooking or eating delicious fresh produce is making me glum

So, I just wanted to let you know that I'm here dear readers. I'm just bleary eyed and reading your blogs from afar while sipping ginger beer.

xoxo

Clubs

2010-05-10T17:37:00.001-07:00

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Guess what!? After asking you all for reading recommendations, I came up with the great (and geeky) idea to join a book club! I roped in a friend, and together we will explore the literary world like great (and critical) explorers of unmapped land.

Well, we'll give it a go anyway, and if it's rubbish then we'll probably just sneak out the back door and head to the closest bar and drink wine instead. But lets think positively!

Our first book is "The Forty Rules of Love" by Elif Shafak, and the club meets in June to discuss it. So currently, I'm frantically trying to finish reading "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo" so that I can start this new book. Exciting!

Are any of you involved in a club? I'd love to hear if you are! I think next, or if I had more time, I'd love to join a craft or photography or writers club. If only time could be controlled, or if I didn't have to work.

xoxo

I Would Like...

2010-05-10T17:27:00.000-07:00

To buy one of these t-shirts very much. *nods* They're by this lovely lady. Aren't her illustrations fabulous?

Why is that you always find lovely things to buy when you have absolutely no money to spend? Hmph. It's one of life's great mysteries I suppose.

Ron Mueck and The Lovely Weekend

2010-05-09T17:01:00.000-07:00

^ ^ I stood besides this sculpture so that you could see how large it is! Imagine how long it would have taken to create?! PS - do you like my new vintage skirt? :)

Wow what a lovely weekend that came and went all too quickly!

On Friday night I caught up with the girls I used to live with. We ate pizza and drank wine at a local restaurant and shopped until we dropped at a Vintage Fashion and Decor Fair - so much fun!

I bought two lovely dresses and one colourful skirt (pictured above!). I'll have to post some photos of the dresses another time. Sadly my phone battery was low and I didn't have a camera on me, so I couldn't take any photos of the lovely fair! So disappointing!

However, my phone was fully charged on Sunday when the boy and I went to see the Ron Mueck exhibition. Aren't his sculptures just fantastic! They are even more impressive close up when you can see the goosebumps on the flesh of his creations, and see the pattern of veins that look so real you can't believe they're not.

If you're in Brisbane I really recommend seeing the show at Southbank. Oh and of course you should do just as Boy and I did afterwards - eat ice cream and drink coffee by the river.

How was your weekend?

xoxo

The Thirst

2010-05-04T20:26:00.001-07:00