The Art of Indecision

Happy Birthday Beautiful girl!

2010-05-07T22:56:00.000+10:00

Happy Birthday to my beautiful baby girl Mazie! 4 years old today...thank you for lighting up my life and making me laugh every day with your crazy fun filled antics...

note to self: next time remember to check cupcake stand to ensure all 3 legs are firmly in place before loading with 24 pretty cupcakes for birthday party that have been up icing late the night before, to avoid having them tumbling onto the floor when stand inevitably collapses...

The front door of my dreams

2010-05-05T21:38:00.001+10:00

Finally, a small window of time to peruse my favourite blogs...it has been so long and I am sooo behind- too many pretty pictures and eye candy to waste time smiling at! For instance this pink fairy door. If I can't have a real life version of the door of my dreams maybe this adorable fairy door will suffice?
A black one for me and a pink one for the girls room I think.
I saw this over at the lovely My Life My Loves and was instantly enamored. Here you can design your own fairy door, choose door & trim colour as well as door style.
Simply adorable wouldn't you agree?

image 1 via My Life My Loves
image 2 via monkeytail and wellington

Easter Break

2010-03-31T05:00:00.000+10:00

Well I have not packed, washed or checked any tasks off my list but we are off on our Eatser camping break tomorrow.
Have a fantastic Easter whatever you are doing!

Image via weheartit

Feminine Charm

2010-03-24T05:00:00.004+10:00

I came across this house while thumbing through the latest issue of Home Beautiful.
Even though my tastes are moving past shabby chic style I still can't resist some of the elements- the pink footstool at the end of the bed, the cluster of bevelled mirrors in the bathroom, the white daybed on the verandah and of course the chandeliers...so pretty and feminine.

I Heart Camping

2010-03-23T05:00:00.002+10:00

Oh, I do , I do!

Camping at Easter is one of the highlights of my year.
We enthusiastically make the annual pilgrimage to Yamba every year for the Easter break. It started 10 years ago with 10 close friends -some couples, some single, pitching a few tents for Easter. It has grown into quite the production and this year we are up to 8 adults and 7 children under 4, 2 buns in the oven. (unfortunately 1 family is unable to come so we are down 2 adults and 2 children). It is a little more hectic then our child free days but still my favourite yearly holiday. Hopefully this years trip will be less dramatic then last years Check out last years amusing exploits here and here.
As you can imagine it is quite the spectacle with so many adults and children and requires precision planning. Lets just say we do not really rough it, with our purpose built communal marquee, large double door display fridge, tv/dvd player (something only for rainy days for to entertain the children) and fully fenced yard to contain the children (last year it was chicken wire- very old MacDonald).

I love having such a special family tradition that we share with such beautiful, dear friends, although next year the children will out number the adults- scary thought!

What are you up to this Easter?

Nursery Prints

2010-03-22T21:21:00.001+10:00

With a few friends/family members expecting at the moment I am on the look out for some cute nursery baby gifts.
I am quite taken with the prints from My Sweet Prints, especially the counting in French (purchasing one for the girls room redo), the customised birth print and the bus roll. I also love the Personalised World Map for a baby boy's nursery- very sweet!

iphone?

2010-03-16T20:52:00.001+10:00

I need a new phone. I am phoneless. And I really can't decide. Should I get an iphone? They are tre cool but I don't know if I really need one and am not sure if I like the whole touch-screen thing...but they are just so lovely looking. And I am a sucker for packaging.
So, who out there has one and what do you think of them? Any help greatly appreciated as I need to make a decision asap and suprise suprise, I am struggling to decide!

image via weheartit

The Rabbit Shop

2010-03-15T06:00:00.000+10:00

Random cute story...
Here in Australia we have an all purpose home and hardware store called Bunnings.
The other day as we were driving to work and Dad was in the car behind us, Mazie asked why dad was going to the rabbit shop. I replied no, he is going to bunnings... It took me a moment to cotton onto what she was talking about meant...Bunnings, sounds like Bunny =the rabbit shop.
Makes perfect sense!

image via chickybean hats on etsy

New Notty Necklaces now instore

2010-03-10T21:38:00.000+10:00

New Notty Necklaces now instore at Bits & Bubs.
Lots of lovely new colours to choose from!

Ladies, do take note...

2010-03-09T05:00:00.000+10:00

Home Economics For Women In The 1950's
From a 1950's high school home economics textbook, teaching girls how to prepare for married life.

1. Have dinner ready: Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal on time.
This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about him, and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospects of a good meal are part of the warm welcome needed.

2. Prepare yourself: Take 15 minutes to rest so you will be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your make-up, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh looking.
He has just been with a lot of work- weary people. Be a little gay and a little more interesting. His boring day may need a lift.

3. Clear away the clutter. Make one last trip through the main part of the house just before your husband arrives, gathering up school books, toys, paper, etc. Then run a dust cloth over the tables.
Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift, too.

4. Prepare the children: Take a few minutes to wash the children's hands and faces if they are small, comb their hair, and if necessary, change their clothes.
They are little treasures and he would like to see them playing the part.

5. Minimize the noise: At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of washer, dryer, dishwasher or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet.
Be happy to see him. Greet him with a warm smile and be glad to see him.

6. Things to avoid: Don't greet him with problems or complaints. Don't complain if he's late for dinner.
Count this as minor compared with what he might have gone through that day.

7. Make him comfortable: Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or suggest he lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him. Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes.
Speak in a low, soft, soothing and pleasant voice. Allow him to relax and unwind.

8. Listen to him: You may have a dozen things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first.

9. Make the evening his: Never complain if he does not take you out to dinner or to other places of entertainment; instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure, his need to be home and relax.

10. The goal: Try to make your home a place of peace and order where your husband can relax.

This had me in stitches..oh to be a housewife in the 50's!

Pretty Pencil Rolls

2010-03-08T06:48:00.001+10:00

What do you do with some spare time, a box of pencils and some vintage fabric?
Make pencil rolls of course!
These pretty vintage and vintage style fabric pencil rolls ~~will be instore tonight~~ are instore now.
Be quick as there are only 10 to choose from, all one off designs.
They come complete with 12 thick and vibrant triangular coloured pencils- great for promoting your little ones pincer grip development!

Fabulous Friday

2010-03-05T12:22:00.000+10:00

Well, I have a much needed day off today and although I should be doing menial tasks such as housework, running errands, paperwork etc Instead, I have been indulging in some much needed thrift store hunting. There is nothing better than the musty smell of second hand goods- one person's trash is another persons treaure and all that. I am in dire need to bulk up my vintage linen collection for some new items for Bits & bubs.

Have a fabulous Friday and a wonderful weekend!

Oh, what a wedding!

2010-03-04T13:35:00.001+10:00

to be married on a stage- love it!

what a dress- layers and layers of scrumtiousness

love the kooky moustaches and crowns!

Martha pom poms- beautiful en-masse

Stunning!!!

love the labels

A little bit pretty, a little bit vintage, a little bit of whimsy, a little bit of kooky, a little bit of everything...what a wedding!
Oh and some of the templates are available here

All image via martha stewart weddings and peacock feathers

Mathildas Market

2010-03-04T08:28:00.001+10:00

I am really bummed I missed out on the last Mathildas Market (too busy consuming vodka slushies at Good Vibes and all that). We will be definately checking out the next one in Brisbane in April and fingers crossed, aiming to have a stall at the June markets!

All images via mathildas market blog

Cuckoo Cuckoo

2010-03-03T08:16:00.003+10:00

So sweet couldn't you just eat them!
Cuckoo Nest is a New Zealand designer that is responsible for creating these divine felt creations.
Available at Lark. God, there is way too much beautiful eye candy on Lark- I can easily get stuck there for hours...

In love with...

2010-03-02T20:16:00.002+10:00

...these pretty whimsical creations by blossomnbird on madeit.
Definately on the agenda for the girls room makeover when Addison moves into her big girls bed.

Oh, and you can find her lovely blog here

Adorable Ruffle Bums

2010-02-25T13:14:00.000+10:00

Loving these adorable Ruffle Bum bloomers by Bluebelle! Too cute

Happy Birthday to me...

2010-02-24T20:16:00.000+10:00

It was my birthday yesterday.
32...
Where have the years gone? I don't feel 32 (or more like I don't act 32).

Wait a minute, that's a lie. I definately feel 32 today. After being away for a girls weekend, too many long island ice teas, having a total ball dancing and a "little" drinking at the Good vibrations music festival on Saturday and here it is mid-week and I am still suffering for it! Hanging with the girls, lazing in the sun with vodka slushies, people watching and reliving our high school years dancing to Salt n Peppa. What a weekend, well worth the 4 day hangover!

All you need is LOVE, da da dadada

2010-02-14T21:46:00.000+10:00

image 1 unsure; image 2 me; image 3 wifestylefiles

To My Valentine

2010-02-14T21:03:00.000+10:00

xxx

image via Audrey Hepburn Complex

in love with...amelie's room

2010-02-11T19:47:00.000+10:00

I came across these stunning images from amelie's room and fell in love...pretty, whimiscal and girly.
The story of the princess and the pea, which is the name of their collection and inspiration for the shoot, is a total childhood favourite of mine. The tower of "mattresses" with the knitted green peas peeking out- oh so pretty! I want a pile of pretty mattresses in my house...

Yo Ho Ho & a bottle of milk!

2010-02-08T05:25:00.000+10:00

Funky Pirate Pants now instore at Bits & Bubs.
Yes, these colourful pants are made from vintage chenille bedspreads (did you have one as a child?) and are so durable and fabulous to wash again and again. They can be worn as pants or as shorts as your child grows.

Cute Giveaway

2010-02-03T06:25:00.000+10:00

French Press Knits is giving away a pair of cute custom french pressed felted slippers in your choice of colours RRP $65- Hurry, Ends 5th Feb!

Kind of reminds me of little shoes out of the elves and the shoe maker story...

moomah

2010-02-02T06:15:00.002+10:00

How cool is this place?
moomah, a creative arts cafe, located in New York.

"A place of sweet whimsy, wonder and warmth, moomah is a creative playscape, a cozy cafe, a living classroom, a quiet hideaway, an art oasis, your neighborhood meeting spot. Your favourite place to be together, and a place for your child to simply be"

How great to be able to meet up with some friends and have a coffee and not to have to arrange a babysitter, for the kids to be totally welcomed and free to create, play and wander!

Cute...

2010-02-02T05:00:00.000+10:00

For all the sewers out there...

Summer Jammies in-store @ Bits & Bubs

2010-02-01T06:30:00.000+10:00

Adorable Summer Jammies now available!

Check out our madeit store for more details.

Let's get real!

2010-01-31T15:57:00.005+10:00

It's not too late for a New Year's resolution is it?
Instead of half arsing 2 blogs I think it's time I get realistic and merge my personal blog and my Bits & Bubs blog.
Who was I kidding? Lately I havn't had time to post regularly on 1 blog let alone 2!
So here is the plan; a new look blog with a new banner, regular posting, regular store updates, and of course I will have to celebrate my new found organisation and commitment (ahem) with a competition once the new look has been completed. So, what do you think?
Hopefully my laptop will be back in my very eager hands soon so I can get moving (she has taken a trip to the computer doctor as she refuses to open for me, and of course I keep meaning to back up but...)!

delicious image via weheartit

Lounge Pants Love

2010-01-27T06:35:00.001+10:00

I just love receiving positive feedback from delighted customers, and it is especially lovely when they post pictures of their adorable girls wearing my items and loving them!

Thanks Linda from Lulufroufrou for posting about Bits & Bubs vintage Holly Hobbie Lounge pants. Little Lou looks totally adorable!

check out Lindas madeit shop for lots of lovely hair pretties for your little girl.

I would love to see pics of other happy customers in their Bits & Bubs clothing & accessories so don't be shy and send them as I would love to post them here.

I hope all you Aussies readers had a relaxing Australia Day yesterday and that there are not too many sunburns and hangovers today...very easy when you are at the becah all day under perfect hot blue sunny skies sipping vodka fruit punches...

Make Me Smile Monday

2010-01-18T06:58:00.002+10:00

"My colours are blush and bashful!" Shelby, Steel Magnolias

Anything pretty, girly and pink is guaranteed to put a smile on my face, even on a monday morning before work...hope you all had a fabulous and happy weekend!

I would so love a cubbby for the girls based on this delicious fairy floss pink cottage!

come fly with me...

I have always said I will not get married until I can get married under a marquee with folds of draped silk and chandeliers...

so takes me back to my childhood- who didn't love ice cream soda spiders!

my absolute favourite flower...

image 1 via the princess blog, image 2 via tumblr, image 3 via golden slumbers, image 4 via tumblr, image 5via sweet home style, image 6 via eat drink chic, image 7 via flickr here

Weekend Wishes

2010-01-15T05:00:00.000+10:00

Jump for joy, it's Friday...bring on the weekend and enjoy whatever you are planning!

Thought of the day...

2010-01-14T05:52:00.001+10:00

image via here

Hi Ho Silver, away!

2010-01-13T06:21:00.001+10:00

I have never been partial to horses. They smell, are too big and scary and that pig-rooting thing they do totally freaks me out.

Now these little horses on the other hand are way more my style.
Seriously- are they not the most divine vintage looking hobby horses you have seen?

You can find more items from Calamity Bolt on madeit.com here.

all images via calamity bolt on madeit.com

First Day of School!

2010-01-12T07:19:00.000+10:00

Probably the one thing I did love about the first day of school was the scheduling, arranging desks and gathering the school supplies. Highlighters, sheafs of loose leaf paper, folders, pens, pencils, erasers...
Oh and the smell! Heaven be stationary store.

Yesterday was my first day back at "school" (as a teacher that is) and I am feeling motivated to get my life organised. Schedule my week into managable routines so I can get everything done and nothing (or no-one is neglected), organise my workspace (yes, it still hasn't been done) and get up to date with my large pile of filing, oh and a cute calander and diary to keep track of lifes appointments and goings-ons of course!

A trip to officeworks for basics and smiggle for cute things is on the cards I do believe.

image found via weheartit, room styled by Selina Lake

It's a beautiful morning...

2010-01-10T07:09:00.002+10:00

love this idea- using fabric swatch portraits as mini noticeboards.

broaches aren't just for your nana!

Saturday morning the boy and myself relished in a sunny, lazy child free breakfast in a cafe by the beach, people watching, sipping frothy cappachinno, munching eggs bennedict while reading multiple issues of Frankie magazines. Total and utter bliss.

Sadly, today is my last day off before I go back to work after 2 weeks off. And what a beautiful day to end on- absolutely perfect cloudless skies. The question is, do I stay home and organise the house, tidy, sort, wash and get ready for the week or do I get outside and lap up my last day off sunning and lazing down at the beach?

note to self: order subscription to Frankie magazine...

Just breathe...

2009-12-28T10:04:00.000+10:00

I'm sorry, did someone say it was Christmas?

Life has gone by in a blur these past few weeks and it seems I have blinked and missed all the excitement leading up to Christmas Day...

I do however remember the lounge room floor covered in piles and piles and wrapping paper, boxes and packaging, the million wet beach towels and piles of discarded clothes littered around the pool, the 8 loads of washing, the rather embarrrassingly large collection of empty alcholic beverage bottles, the 2 fridges crammed full of food, desserts and condiments.
And of course I also remember the family times, the love, the laughter and the looks of delight on the little ones faces.

Now I am looking forward to taking a breath and just being...
No rushing, no time contraints, just doing whatever we please over the next 2 weeks. Reading magazines, catching up on blogs, reading the new Paulina Simmons book, watching a few movies, lazing by the pool or beach, sewing, shopping...ahhh.

All time Favourite Christmas Movies

2009-12-15T05:55:00.000+10:00

Who doesn't love a good Christmas movie to warm the cockles of your heart?

Here are my Top 5 Christmas movies that I religiously watch every Christmas- in no particular order of course because that would require way too much decison making!

The Family Stone: funny, heartwarming, touching, crazy noisy family (a bit like ours), spunky males, too many fabulous cast members to list...

Love Actually: LOVE everything about this movie. Love the music, Love the interwoven stories and relationships, Love Colin Fristle, Love Hugh Grant as Prime Minister, Love Karl the spunky French office worker (just don't answer the phone girl!!!), Love Billy Mack ("I have spent most of my adult life with a chubby employee") I could go on and on....

The Holiday: maybe not really a Christmas movie but it is set around Christmas and new years so I count it in the list. The English cottage is just too beautiful, Jude Law is not too bad too and Jack Black is a riot as always, even though it is not a comedy role.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation: this is usually on tv every year but if not we will rent it and watch with my sisters and mum. This is one of those ugly laugh movies. You know, when you laugh so wholeheartedly that you have to cover your face because you look so ugly and you eventually laugh til you cry. Especially when you look over and your mother is literally peeing her pants with laughter.

Prancer: an absolute childhood favourite about a litle girl who finds a hurt reindeer she thinks is Prancer and nurses him back to health...tear

What's your favourite Christmas movie?

Fat Mum Slim Christmas Giveaway

2009-12-14T12:00:00.001+10:00

Pop on over to Fat Mum Slim for your chance to enter Chantelle's Huge Christmas giveaway!

Amongst other fabulous items my Bits & Bubs vintage floral necklace is also up for grabs...what are you waiting for? Get clicking now!!!

image 1 via fatmumslim

Weekend Wishes

2009-12-11T12:00:00.005+10:00

I forgot to mention how lovely our Christmas carol experience was last weekend.

We all arrived, set up camp, kiddies enjoyed carnival rides, mummy enjoyed her beveredges, clouds gathered, lightning started, thunder boomed, rain poured, feezing cold, kiddies cried, mummies shrieked, gathered stuff, everyone ran, soaking wet, started car, car bogged...

Thanks to the lovely passer-by for pulling us out of the sand!
Despite all this it was still fun and we stopped to watch the beach fireworks from the headland on the way home so it wasn't a total failure of a family outing.

Enjoy your weekend!

cute random image via audrey hepburn complex

2 weeks 'til Christmas

2009-12-11T10:00:00.000+10:00

...and still not a scrap of shopping or preparation has been done.

I am the world's best procrastinator & leave to the last minuter...

image by Alicia Paulson via Pozy gets cozy

SATC2

2009-12-11T07:38:00.001+10:00

Only 5 months until Sex & the City 2. I can't wait, how about you?
And what do you think about the poster? It's very bright and sparkly, I don't know about those aviators though...maybe she is wearing them so she doesn't get blinded by those city lights?

What the fudge?

2009-12-11T05:41:00.000+10:00

Is anyone else having problems opening the new Lonny Mag?
Every link I click on and everytime I open the address it takes me to the launch issue.
HELP!!! I so wanted to have a peruse before I started work this morning...

A reason to smile...

2009-12-10T06:13:00.000+10:00

The December issue of Lonny Mag is out tomorrow!

Yeah!

image via MA Belle

Weekend Wishes

2009-12-04T14:00:00.002+10:00

Obviously I will be trying to get some organisation happening this weekend, but we will also be enjoying
Carols by candlelight on Saturday evening- rides and activities to keep the children amused, lolling around on a picnic rug, a delicious cheese platter,some white wine and a designated driver...sounds pretty good to me!

Enjoy your time off this weekend!

image via wehearit

3 Weeks 'til Christmas

2009-12-04T06:10:00.000+10:00

The Christmas menu is planned, non perishables stored, presents bought and artfully wrapped, the tree dressed perfectly, new handmade decorations skillfully hung, family portrait Christmas cards mailed to friends and family and the daily to do list strictly adhered to...

The reality is the tree is only dressed on the top half only as I am sick of replacing and fixing the baubles, ribbons and garlands within Addison's reach- baubles lay scattered under the tree and around the living area- I may manage to collect them all and scoot them under the tree at the end of the day but thats all. I have bought a total of 1 present each for the girls (the lovely Tiny Concept dolls). I have at least bought the resources to make some new Christmas decorations- sadly they are still sitting in the filing cabinent with last years new Decorations that did not get completed. No menu has been planned and no food bought as yet and we are having Christmas Eve, Christmas breakfast and lunch at our house with around 20 guests, no Christmas cards have been sent- I never get around to it and the checklist is a waste of time as it is only causing me to have panic attacks looking at what still hasn't been done.

Please tell me I am not the only one that has all these grand plans that fall to the wayside every year?

all images via pointclickhome

Early Mid-life crisis?

2009-11-30T20:27:00.001+10:00

Last weeks 2 possible indicators.

1. Went to a Britney Spears concert. Yes, I know, I am not a teenager. (it was a great concert though, even with the lip-synching).

2. Threw a party, overindulged in alcholic beveredges, swam in the pool all night and did not go to bed. Lots of fun during, not so fun the next day with a house to clean and 2 children to deal with thus no sleeping until the evening. I was so exhausted that I woke up last night with 1 chocolate truffle in my hand and 1 partly eaten truffle on my pillow. Explanation: I eat dessert in bed every night and obviously I was too tired to even finish chewing- how embarrassing.

image via weheartit

5 weeks 'til Christmas and Weekend Wishes

2009-11-20T06:21:00.000+10:00

It's going to be a busy weekend...
The christmas tree is going up (heaven help me as to where it is going to go- we have a rather ,ahem, large tree), decorations to make, decorations to hang, a "quick" trip to ikea for Christmas supplies and a Christmas party to plan for next weekend. Oh, and Bing Crosby will definately be making an appearance on the ipod (don't you just love old time Christmas carols?).

Have a very merry weekend!

ps. Oh, and I am still on team Edward. New moon was a little slow as I thought it may be (it was my least favourite book out of the series) but fantastic anyway. The count down to Eclipse begins!

image via pointclickhome

Edward or Jacob?

2009-11-19T05:49:00.000+10:00

We are off for a girls night out at the movies tonight- I have been waiting for this for a looong time. Yes, I am aware I am not a teenage girl but there is something about the Twilight saga that absolutely captivates me. I am sooo team Edward all the way, not a full blown Twi-hard (I didn't go to the mightnight screening or anything) but enough to be classed as a slight obsession.
Has anyone seen the movie yet???

LOVE Amy Butlers new range

2009-11-18T06:10:00.000+10:00

I always love her fabric but I really love Amy Butlers new fabric range "LOVE".

Bright, girly, floral and absolutely delicious. My mind is going into overdrive of projects I could make...

All image via amybutler.com

Christmas Crafting with Paper

2009-11-17T06:04:00.000+10:00

My Christmas Crafting inspirations made from paper...

paper wreath made from old books, music sheets etc

paper bird garland in red and white

paper cutout snowflakes (I make these every year, though not as intricate!)

paper doiley garlands (you can never have enough garlands!)

image 1- source unknown- oops!
image 2 via kiddley.com
image 3 via sweetfineday
image 4 via maminkagirlstudio

Make Me Smile Monday- Blue & White decor

2009-11-16T05:30:00.002+10:00

Ahh, blue and white- always fresh, always lovely, forever classic...

image 1 &2 via decorpad
image 3 & 5 via brabourne farm
image 7 via marley & lockyer
image 4 via coastal living
image 6 via desire to inspire

Weekend Wishes

2009-11-13T15:00:00.000+10:00

Ahh...the weekend is here again.
What do you have planned this weekend?

Enjoy!

image by Dolly Kershaw

6 weeks 'til Christmas

2009-11-13T05:00:00.002+10:00

OK, now I am starting to freak out. I am so unorganised this year I fear!

I am in definate need a checklist...

image via pointclickhome

New Blog- Bits & Bubs

2009-11-12T05:29:00.000+10:00

Pop on over to check out my new blog and keep up to date with my Bits & Bubs Label!

Bits & Bubs Website live!

2009-11-11T21:33:00.000+10:00

Check out the Bits & Bubs website now online!
Although it is a little bare at present and some parts are still under contruction...at least it's up and running.

image via citified

Clam shells

2009-11-11T05:35:00.000+10:00

Funny story...a few weeks ago my sister and I quickly popped into the local markets to grab some strawberries. While she was busy with our girls trying fingernail stickers I ducked into a bric a brac stall and to my suprise found and quickly purchased a fabulous large clam shell for $15, complete with a few barnacles. I showed her what I had found and said "I have always wanted a big clam shell like you've got" her draw dropped and she was quite unimpressed- turns out she doesn't have one and has been crazy searching for one everywhere...sorry Ez!

images 1-6 via completely coastal
image 7 via decorno
image 8 via willowdecor

Bits & Bubs News

2009-11-10T06:00:00.005+10:00

Very exciting news!

I have been a very busy bee trying to get my new website up and running for my sad and neglected Bits & Bubs label...fingers crossed it shall be ready by Thursday at the latest.

I will post some pics of some pretty little items I have been working on tomorrow.

Coffee filter garlands

2009-11-09T06:00:00.001+10:00

While trawling the web for paper garland inspiration for Christmas I came across these pretty images by Pam Garrison of garlands made from coffee filters, music paper, tissue paper and crepe.

Love them!

Weekend Wishes

2009-11-06T15:00:00.002+10:00

image via audrey hepburn complex

What delights are you up to this weekend?
Have fun!

7 weeks 'til Christmas

2009-11-06T06:00:00.002+10:00

Another week down, another week closer to Christmas.
I love this simple wreath hanging from black and white striped ribbon- simple, fresh and very effective.
I am sticking with last years theme this Christmas- red, white and brown paper- as I don't have enough time this year to make a whole new decoration collection in a differnet colourway.
Next year it will be time for a change...

image via willow decor

Vintage Swimsuits

2009-11-05T06:00:00.001+10:00

I love vintage, I love the 40's and 50's and I love these vintage swimsuit pictures.

I may have mentioned before I have an old calender with vintage Vogue pictures some of which I have been planning to frame for quite a while (yes, another unfinshed project...).

Hopefully I will find them if I ever finish unpacking and can get them up somewhere in our house...hmmm

all images via myvintagevogue on flickr here

The Grainery- Hoarding issues much?

2009-11-04T14:58:00.000+10:00

For anyone who worries they have hoarding issues, just take a look at these pics.

Lovely glass decanters, bottles jars...

a small sample of the crazy amount of lampshades...

and just when you think you have seen everything, you look over behind a wall and there is more stuff still in boxes!

chairs, chairs everywhere...hanging from the roof even!

The Grainery is one of my favourite 2nd hand shopping haunts.
I try to go every 2 weeks or so- no matter how many times you go there you will always see something different. Seriously, you could easily spend a whole weekend wandering the many isles, corners, alleyways and hidey holes this gem has to offer. From linens to lightbulbs, every lamp base you could imagine- desk, wall, table, floor, and of course squillions of shades in every size and colour, furniture, stools, tables, cupboards, bric a brac, clothing, a multitude of teapots and tea cups- the list is endless.
I tend to get a little overwhelmed when I go there and don't know where to look first...especially if I go with my sisters and mum as we always want to nab the best stuff before each other finds it.
The elderly owner is an absolute hoot and never fails to make you laugh with his bawdy humour.

I wonder what suprises are in store for me this weekend?

Mathilda's Markets Mayhem

2009-11-02T22:12:00.000+10:00

I went to Brisbane to check out my first Mathildas Markets on the weekend.
Luckily I got there 45 minutes after opening time as apparently there was a massive lineup to get in.
As it was it was absolute mayhem inside with throngs of women, mothers, prams, babies and children (with perplexed looking fathers standing on the outskirts) all trying to get to the absolutely beautiful stalls full of all kinds of handmade goodies. And of course I simply had to grab a stunning handmade Tiny Concept doll each for the girls for Christmas. I am having a little obsession with them at the moment...I am in love with their exquisite faces and just love their heart shape mouth...It was great to speak to the lovely Tina who creates these too as I love her blog.

As my partner in crime ditched me at the last minute I had the whole day to myself so after the markets I popped in to Ikea (as if you can ever just pop in there), to grab a few things ie black and white striped runner I have been dying to get for our entrance.
Of course I did the usual, walk around in a daze due to the sensory overload, load my bag and trolley full of goodies, promise myself that I will get everything I need this time, take heaps of photos and 3 hours later as I get closer and closer to the registers gradually put items back on random shelves because I can't decide if I really need them and then freak out what the total will be- usually I will leave with nothing or a couple of things that I didn't go there for but I at least came home with the runner, black and white striped fabric, some kitchen canisters and storage boxes for my fabric and trims etc.

After one last pop in to spotlight and $35 later for some black and white striped bias binding to finish a 3 year old quilting project (hmm sensing a black and white stripe issue here?) I headed home a very weary lass indeed...

Weekend Wishes

2009-10-30T15:00:00.002+10:00

Another fabulously colouful and pretty image to end the week.

Enjoy your weekend!

Mathilda's Markets, Brisbane

2009-10-30T06:00:00.005+10:00

We are off to Mathilda's Markets in Brisbane on Sunday. Girls day out- woot woot!

I am hoping to pick up a darling little doll each for Mazie and Addison made by Kristina from Tiny Concept- love them!

Colour me happy

2009-10-29T15:09:00.006+10:00

From the "I am too scared to try colour myself so I will just drool over others" file.

image 1 & 8 via peacock feather events

image 2 & 7 unsure

image 3 via wanderings of a wannabe

image 4 & 10 via decorpad

image 5 via chek design

image 6 via centsational girl

image 9 via massucco warner and miller

8 weeks 'til Christmas

2009-10-28T22:20:00.002+10:00

image via willow decor

Holy freakin hell!
I have just realised there is only 8 weeks until Christmas...seriously, where did the year go?

I really love, love, love Christmas- the decorating, the pressies, having free time to spend with family, the lying around and doing nothing except eating (especially a big chewy pavalova), not feeling bad for eating dessert (ie aforementioned pavalova) for the majority of meals for generally a 2 week period and all the guilt free excess drinking (tis the season to be merry, right?).

Hmm, I think its time to think about christmas shopping (love having an excuse to write a new list). Oh and I guess I should finish the kids new santa sacks I started last year and didn't get finished in time...la la la la la, lala la la

Entry Way Inspiration

2009-10-26T22:19:00.007+10:00

image via apartment therapy

image via porchlight interiors

image via elle decor

image via the nerdy fashionista

image via apartment therapy

image via ish and chi

image via apartment therapy

Some inspiration for one of my many items on my "to do" list- the entry way.

At last I have finally found a sideboard- not exactly what I was planning on but it works...and for $35 how could I pass it up? But more on that another day.

Weekend Wishes

2009-10-17T07:08:00.003+10:00

2 glorious days off...
Hope you enjoy blue skies and sunshine wherever you are this weekend!

Yasmin's Bedroom

2009-10-17T06:51:00.002+10:00

all images via the wifestyle files

My neices bedroom is featured over at Swish & Swankys children's bedroom series. There are so many other fantastic children's rooms to be inspired by here- I am loving it!

Lovely Little Lark

2009-10-13T20:14:00.001+10:00

Isn't this just the sweetest little shop?
I would simply love to potter around in here and pick out some goodies for my girls...

you can visit their lovely blog here and website here

Weekend thrifted finds

2009-10-12T19:31:00.005+10:00

$10 vintage travel clock (as previosly mentioned, I have an issue with collecting clocks...) and pretty floral and blue polka dot table cloth

Do you remember these adorable little double mirrors? You pull out the back mirror and it flips around so there are 2 mirrors-a standard and close up mirror...so sweet!

Looks quite scary with those beaded eyes but with a coat of paint I am sure he will come up cute as a button!

This flamingo pair kept calling to me but sadly I left them there. I keep thinking about them so I think I am going to have to go back and get them. They are a darker pink in real life. Don't know where in my house they they would go, hmm, minor detail.

Bundle of vintage linens- sheets, tablecloths and pillowcases. Perfect for some upcoming projects I am trying to start...

It was quite a productive weekend at my fave thrift/junk shop.

Lots of new projects to start and hopefully some will even get finished sometime soon!

Weekend Wishes

2009-10-09T06:00:00.001+10:00

Woot woot! Day off today, that means another 3 day weekend for me- hopefully I will get a chance to do some 2nd hand store rummaging, check out my favourite fabric store for more fabric and accessories I dont need and catch up on some projects around the house.

Have fun whatever you have planned!

Vintage playsuit

2009-10-08T20:23:00.001+10:00

I finally got to do some sewing over the long weekend and look what I whipped up.It is from a vintage pattern mum picked up from an op shop and a vintage Sheridan tablecloth from my collection of vintage linens. At first I wasn't sure if I liked the style but now I am thinking it is pretty cute for a toddling tots summer outfit!

DIY Peek

2009-10-07T06:00:00.000+10:00

Here is a peek at my outdoor setting DYI revamp project.
I just have a few more cushions to finish sewing then I can post some full shots. One project down, god knows how many more to go!

Summer Look

2009-10-06T20:45:00.000+10:00

"Now if only I had the body to match" I think as I dig into a pack of Tim Tams...

Weekend Wishes

2009-10-02T16:00:00.000+10:00

image via audrey hepburn complex

Oh be still my heart- 3 days off!
Here's to a lovely, lazy, long weekend (for those of us in NSW anyway).

Birthday Wishes...

2009-10-02T12:00:00.000+10:00

Happy Birthday lover boy.

Mwah!

xoxo

Lonny Love...

2009-10-01T22:25:00.005+10:00

OMG drool...

Be still my heart...what can I say...Stunning!

L.O.V.E. the East Village fabric by Rubie Green...

Loving Lonny mag that went live today!!! You can check out their premier issue here.

Such easy access to such a fabulous magazine at the click of a button, and with so many fresh ideas I am in heaven!
I already can't wait until the next issue!

All images via lonnymag here

YSL: too cool

2009-10-01T06:00:00.001+10:00

I just love these images of Yves Saint Laurent.
Seriously...he was just way too cool.

Black Beauty- Beach cottage

2009-09-29T06:00:00.003+10:00

A beautiful little black (or is it navy?) beach cottage perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, white trim, tongue and groove vertical paneling indoors, beautiful decor...sigh...

all images via sanctuary

Little Wise Owl

2009-09-28T21:53:00.004+10:00

Aren't they just too cute? - made by Becky from Little Wise Owl (love the name!) on madeit.com here.

I want want want that gorgeous bag made from vintage noahs ark fabric. I can so picture my mazie carrying her books in it or wearing it flung over her shoulder teamed with her new apple green smock dress and funky coloured fabric necklace or fabric broach...

Becky's items really have me inspired to get stuck into my stash of vintage sheets, pillowcases and fabrics and get some sewing happening around here!

all images via little wise owl on madeit.com

Weekend Wishes

2009-09-25T12:00:00.000+10:00

image via audrey hepburn complex

Sunshine, fun and love...

Plus for me, lots of painting and sewing. It will be the first time I have pulled out my sewing machine since the move and I can't wait to get my crafting on again!

Enjoy your weekend!

Sex and the city 80's style

2009-09-25T06:00:00.005+10:00

pearls, lace and leggings...very a-la madonna like a virgin

a little girls just want to have fun meets flashdance?

charlotte, preppy as always with bobby socks and a knotted sweater and a flick of her hair...

you gotta love miranda, especially that bowl haircut!

samatha does punk like no other...

I am a total die hard SATC fan and just had to post these images I stumbled upon from the sequel.
I love Sex and the city and I love the 80's so the two combined = simply fabulous!

all images from here

Chalkboard Walls

2009-09-24T06:00:00.001+10:00

image via my sweet savannah

image via the estate of things

image via desire to inspire

image via my sweet savannah
image via desire to inspire

image via a beautiful living

image via my home ideas

image via the stylefiles

image via desire to inspire

To chalk or not to chalk, that is the question!

I have a narrow blank wall in my kitchen that just begs "chalk board me!" but I am still not sure... does anyone have one in their home? I am wondering if the chalk rubs off propberly or if it leaves marks you cannot get rid of. I dont think I could handle a messy chalkboard with swipes of old chalk marks everywhere...

Are they a little "done" or still going strong? What do you think?

Outdoor setting DIY

2009-09-23T06:00:00.005+10:00

image via marley & lockyer

image via Brabourne farm

image via dress design decor

I decided to do a bit of DIY on our outdoor setting as there is really nothing wrong with it structurally, it is just faded out and the timber is sun bleached. Plus, I would much rather be spending my money on some other prettiness instead of outdoor furniture. Surprise, surprise I am painting it white and I am also making some very nautical/Riviera style navy & white striped cushions for the chairs.

My goal is to finish it this weekend so fingers crossed I will have some pics of the finished project next week!

Ice-cream parlour deliciousness

2009-09-22T06:00:00.000+10:00

Isn't this just the sweetest (pun intended) dessert bar for a party or even a girly wedding?

I found this on Eat Drink Chic and was immediately smitten...they even have free downloads for the labels and Amy Moss, the designer and blogger, also descibes what items she used and where she sourced them from...SCORE!

I do love ice-cream and when you throw in pink, stripes and a vintage theme how could anyone resist!

All images via Eat Drink Chic

A Room with a view

2009-09-21T06:10:00.003+10:00

via tatielle on tumblr

via Ilouvreyou on tumblr

Oh to have a room with a view such as these!

Weekend Wishes

2009-09-18T22:24:00.005+10:00

image via don't foget to fly - tumblr

So very busy trying to get into a working routine here at the moment...hopefully more time to blog next week...
Have a fun weekend!

Weekend Wishes

2009-09-11T15:00:00.001+10:00

image via bambikino

Another week passes by...just where has the year gone? I feel like I have blinked and missed it!

Here's to a relaxing weekend for all! Guess I should do some unpacking too...

Something's gotta give- Hamptons Chic

2009-09-11T06:00:00.000+10:00

images 1-5 via CocoMale

image via Cote de Texas

image via Silver screen surroundings

Two of my all time favourite movies also feature my all time favourite set designs that interior designer James Radin as had input with -"The Holiday" (cosy cottage charm) previously posted about here and here and "Somethings gotta give" (fabulous Hampton's chic styling).

Besides the fact that I simply adore Dianne Keaton (cue totally hysterical over the top dramatic crying whilst furiously typing a screenplay) and most movies she has been in, the movie is totally hilarious and Jack Nicholson - AKA Harry- is a riot (awkward).

But, back to the decor...

I sooo love the neutral colour palette-the whites, creams, taupes and blue accents...right up my alley as other colour favourites come and go but white and blue have always been my constant- they just look so fresh together.

Love the deck chairs with blue and white striped cushions, the blue and white striped rugs in the lounge and that stunning hutch displaying the various plates in the dining room- heaven!

If only I had a house with the architecture to match the Somethings gotta give Hampton's house- oh how my life would be complete.

Discovered- The joy of coffee!

2009-09-10T06:00:00.002+10:00

image via petitcoeur on tumblr

image via lyrical graphics on tumblr

image via Sigrid

image via madebygirl

image via bugs and coffe on flickr

For all of my adult life I have been hearing of the joy of coffee- but i just didn't get it. I hated the smell- especially the smell on a persons breath, the taste and any coffee flavoured food or dessert- mocha included.

I always wanted to say "lets do coffee".

"Lets meet for tea" just doesn't have the same ring to it. Coffee seems so grown up and I wondered if I was destined to never know the joy of a good coffee and the caffeine hit and addiction to follow.

Well folks, I am pleased to say that that time has finally come!

During our busy moving period I had a cappuccino to try to boost my energy- "just ignore the taste and drink it!" my sister would say- "you'll get used to it!" a few sugar laden cappuccino's later and I am hooked. Cappuccinos are my new fave and I wonder how I have never drank them before? AND I still have to sample the world of flavoured coffee- Caramel macchiato's I am told are divine.

Welcome to adulthood!

Now if only I could talk the man of the house into purchasing a cappuccino machine...

Back to work!

2009-09-09T21:33:00.003+10:00

image via ladidaladida

Today was my first day back to work at my new/old workplace. Before I was a WAHM, I was a director at a childcare centre and now I have returned to my centre in the same role. I have always loved working with children and seem to have much more patience with other peoples kids then my own???

The only thing is now I need to get used to actually getting myself and the kiddies dressed and ready in the morning- no more luxury of lounging in my pajamas all day like I could when I worked form home!

Addison's Party

2009-09-08T06:00:00.001+10:00

Finally some (not so good) photos of Addison's 1st birthday party.

Due to her birthday falling in the midst of all the moving chaos I tried to stick to cost effective, fast and easy decorations. A lot of paper doilies, Martha pom poms, and items made from my existing craft collection.

It was held at our local park and we even had a visit from a random "cowboy" passing by offering pony rides for the children!

You gotta love a tutu! This was made with binding on the edges and a shirred waistband.

Fabulously cheap and effective decorations.

Made with blue paper bags, paper doilies (for the girls) and white thank you's on pink card.

Fabric corsage made from the V & Co tutorial.
See that patchwork rug Addison is sitting on? I started that 2 years ago and still have not finished it- all it needs is the binding!!!

The party was held at the local park by the lake and wild (but very tame) geese are constantly wandering around waiting to be fed which the kids of course loved!

Little girls + bubbles = too cute
A battery powered bubble machine makes for easy entertaining!

Don't look too close at the icing- no piping bag, warm weather and a bumpy car ride didn't leave it in the best shape...

Very bad photo taken at home. I made this from squares of scrap booking paper (great use of my large collection that I buy and never seem to use!) in various shades of pink patterns, paper doilies separating the words and threaded with thick jute twine.

Another terrible photo taken at home- they looked a lot cuter in real life. Made form paper doilies, A photo of Addison on one side and a number 1 on the reverse with a straw taped inside. I had these standing in sand filled milo tins that were covered in brown paper with a wide pink bow wrapped around them.

Home Sweet Home

2009-09-07T16:42:00.004+10:00

image via art.com

Well after a drama ridden, ridiculously long settlement that was meant to be 3 months but turned into 5 months, we are finally in our new home!

Granted there is still a garage full of "stuff" at my mothers house and more bits and pieces at my sisters house, but most of the essentials are unpacked and the Internet is finally functioning! I don't know how we lived without it- I have been dying and have a lot of catching up to do in the blog-o-sphere!

Now to tackle the decor of our new house...let the indecision begin!

Moving Update...

2009-08-31T06:00:00.001+10:00

image via i can read

Well, settlement has been pushed back until Wednesday so all going to plan we will have the keys by Wednesday afternoon and our furniture will be delivered Thursday morning.

That means I have 3 days with NOTHING to do! No work (I finished my current job last week-more on that later), no cleaning or packing, nothing to do... Happy Happy Joy Joy!

Tick Tock

2009-08-30T22:34:00.006+10:00

image via decoylab on etsy

Confession...I have a bit if a thing for clocks.

I have a collection of vintage wall clocks, large clocks, small clocks, table clocks, cuckoo clocks blah blah blah and yes, most of them have never seen the light of day- I buy them and store them for "later".

I just found this one on etsy that I like for Addison's room in the new house.

What do you think?

We're outta here! (nearly)

2009-08-27T14:00:00.001+10:00

image via this is glamorous

Well, the vans all packed (of course it didn't all fit so we have to do some trips ourselves) and then all that's left to do is clean...dang.
Cleaning is bad enough let alone cleaning every square inch of an empty house. This calls for red bulls and loud 80's music, stat!

Some prettiness amongst all the insanity that is moving house...

2009-08-26T08:30:00.002+10:00

image via I am a greedy girl

image via this is glamorous

image via weheartit

image via petitcoeur

image via apartment therapy

image via madebygirl (i think?)

Some random pretty pink things to take my mind off the bushfires in the hills near our house, missing mortgage documents holding up settlement booking and a messy, unorganised house showered with an embarrassingly large amount of ugly brown packing boxes...

Eek, the truck is coming tomorrow to pick up our life's belongings and hopefully lovingly watch them until we move into the new house on Tuesday...hi ho, hi ho, it's off to work we go!

What happended to Spring?

2009-08-24T12:32:00.005+10:00

The forever divine Grace Kelly

We have had some crazy warm weather here over the last few days.

Today it is hotter yet again! It feels like we have skipped spring and moved straight into summer...if only I were on holidays lounging at the beach, sipping cocktails and enjoying a good book rather then working at home surrounded by ugly packing boxes- blah!

image via That Obscure Object

Weekend Wishes

2009-08-21T15:00:00.002+10:00

Appreciate the beautiful things in your life this weekend.

image from ghost factory via weheartit