This and That - March edition

Can you believe Doris Day turns 91 this week?
Love Doris!  

How are things your way?!
its been one of those weeks for me - flat out busy at work, we are also getting a new fence in our garden and it hasn't stopped raining gah! ...and Im feeling a little exposed out there but hey its great when the boys soccer ball goes into the neighbours garden,  they can just walk over and get it!
We had parent/teacher interviews and our first with a High School(er) so that was um... interesting...it felt like speed dating! haha...

so its Easter this week and Greek Easter the week after ...double celebrations!
hello food! hello chocolate!
love this collection of
 Classic Easter recipes via Gourmet Traveller

What Ive been reading lately...
I just finished 'Wild: a Journey from Lost to found' a memoir by Cheryl Strayed which was made into a movie recently.  Now that I've read it I'm ready and looking forward to seeing the movie.  It was an awesome book, honest and uplifting and a fascinating read.  I wish Cheryl well!!
I'm now starting 'Gone Girl' and only because I need to read the book before I see the movie...its been highly recommended so looking forward to getting into it!

7vignettes - April starts tomorrow over on Instagram!  I'm going to try and join in, you can follow me on Instagram here

Transitional Clothes - we all need inspiration this time of the year, Autumn for us down under and Spring for the northern hemisphere!

Did you see this super colourful 'Non Traditional' Rock n Roll wedding?  its caused a bit of a stir ...so much that the (creative) Aussie couple made a video to all their haters  clever comeback!

I really enjoyed this post - Give it away, give it away, give it away now 

Fresh + fast cookbook

I love a jumble book sale …you can usually find them set up in the middle of shopping centres, mini pop-up book shop and always when you are casually walking by with no intention of buying books.
But they always draw me in as I just never know what l’ll find!
I recently bought this ‘Fresh +Fast' cookbook, part of a series from
Marie Claire magazine and food editor, Michele Cranston - a $10 bargain!!! (hey that’s the price of 2 and half coffees ha-ha…)
Its actually a really lovely book – and at such a cheap price!
over 100 recipes and when you combine an intelligent fashion magazine like Marie Claire and beautiful healthy food styled in a gorgeous way, its pretty inspiring to eat well!

Its not just about food styling though...
for me its more about living and eating nutritious, real food
that seems to improve everything – my mood, my skin, my body!
You are what you eat after all....

We’ve been chatting in the office about motivating and edging each other on to
eat better and move more, sometimes we need that
'cheerleader team' behind us to get us going and keep going.

I think I’ll be opening this book often!

Ya-Ya Sisterhood

I have so many unread books on my bookshelf...books that were recommended or that I had bought because I might enjoy ( yes! I also judge books by the cover...)...
Since I now commute to work by train, I have plenty of time to read.
2 hours a day plenty!
I'm slowly working my way through the books that have been patiently waiting for my attention all these months (years...)
I recently finished 'Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood' and loved the book so much that I wish I had read it sooner.

a book about family, family secrets and a flawed rocky Mother-daughter relationship... but mainly its about life-long friendship and acceptance...
the 'young' Ya-Ya's sure did hang out a lot on their front porches (...the side porch when they had a head full of rollers...) drinking their cola - lots of laughs, crying, heart break...

It left me thinking about it for days
thinking about all the characters and how I didn't get the closure that I wanted...ha!
I actually ended up a little at odds with the sudden way it ended.
I guess it had an impact on me...like any good book would.

a simple snack and a lovely book!

Last week I started commuting to work by train - we've relocated to a new location in a swish newly-built office. Its all very very nice!
Taking public transport has been a change for me after battling peak hour traffic in my trusty little car for the past 12 years but so far so good..no Sydney rail delays (yet!)
I have a long ride each day and I've been catching up on my reading,  by that I mean my book reading.
Actually, I'm impressed that there are lots of book lovers out there - people still engrossed in a good read, not wanting their stop to arrive too soon.  Others read on kindles, notebooks, phones and tablets...a good read and a quiet train trip go hand in hand!
I recently finished 'Afternoons In Ithaka' a memoir by Melbournite and Greek Australian,
Spiri Tsintziras - what a lovely book, such an enjoyable read!
...not only could I relate to her stories seeped in custom, traditions, and delicious food but also of the expectations, the pressures and self discovery...a daughter of Immigrants trying to find her way. At the end of each chapter there is an accompanying recipe and I made this simple snack from one of the recipes.
its the Greek version of Bruschetta!!  Delicious!
Ripe Tomato, crumbled Feta cheese, a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkled dried oregano on good quality bread...Enjoy!

RIP Maya Angelou

I first heard about Maya Angelou through another wonderful woman of our time, Oprah Winfrey.
You can't not think of Maya and not think of Oprah and vis-versa.
Yesterday when we heard about her death, a couple of girls in my office didn't know who Maya was
but I'm thankful to have been introduced to this wonderful woman from the Oprah Show, from her storytelling, books and poems, from her inspiring quotes....

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ― Maya Angelou

After I read 'I Know why the caged bird sings' the first of her autobiographical novels, I was so moved by her early life, her struggles, her hopes that I ordered the whole set online to read some more
 ...I think I will pull them out my bookshelf to read again...

RIP Maya....

Paris in Love....

I'm reading the most delightful book -  Paris in Love by Eloisa James.
They say never judge a book by its cover...or title
but I did...plus it was in the bargain bin for a cheap $6.
I'm glad I picked it up though because its been such an enjoyable read so far - Ive been reading it a slow leisurely pace....

The author Eloisa James writes Romantic novels but she moved to Paris with her family and the book is a memoir of her year in Paris.  Its written like a diary (or blog posts) in short paragraphs - observations, feelings, thoughts and day to day happenings that Eloisa and her family experience in the city of lights....so funny and heartfelt!

*

Today young men stood outside the Metro stations selling bundles of small narcissuses, their stalks tied together very tightly so the heads burst into exuberant posies.  Almost every woman handed over a couple of euros, so the street was filled with woman holding bright yellow flowers to their noses, looking happy.

(an excerpt from the book...)

*images of Vintage Paris via Pinterset 

A Girl called Sujean

Its been a while since I’ve done a Creative girl post so today we’re heading over the pond to meet Sujean.

Sujean is a talented illustrator, book author and mum to a darling little boy!

I first came across Sujean’s colourful illustrations many years ago when I subscribed to the

 'Daily Candy' newsletter.

Each time Id get the newsletter in my inbox it would include a delightful illustration that just made me smile!  

This was way before blogs, Pinterest and even Facebook….gee I was probably just getting used to the internet?!

I think Sujean would be surprised to know how I observed, studied and gawked at her beautiful watercolour illustrations each week…

Sujean has worked with many exclusive clients and brands we all love, like 
Tiffany & co. and Coach,
and she has also illustrated many beautiful book covers.  
Sujean is also a published author and illustrator of the Birdie series - a darling children’s book  character.
Birdie is so fun and sweet!
   
As a mum, Sujean is also totally in love with her gorgeous little boy and sent me this fun photo of 'Sticker art' that her little boy decorated all over her legs!

Welcome Sujean!!

Can you tell us what is currently inspiring you?

Witnessing my 3 year old son discover the world. 

Watching Spring finally begin to show itself and 

the Classic 'Little Golden Books' series.

Name 3 things you couldn’t live without right now? 

My family. 

Good coffee in the morning and good wine in the evening. 
My iProducts.

Can you define to us your personal style?

Non-fussy, comfortable but still a bit girlie.

Do you have a favourite colour (or colour combinations)? 

Depends on my mood. 
Right now, it's black, white and red. Yesterday, it was turquoise and grass green...

What about a favourite Smell or Fragrance? 

The beach.

What do you love about your City/Town? 

I still consider myself a Brooklynite (even though we moved north in 2007).
I love that you get the city energy and creative spirit in a relaxed neighborhood. I currently live in Chappaqua, NY and have to say I love being in nature now too - especially with a child.

Do you have a favourite quote you'd like to share with us? 

Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it 

- Buddha

Thanks so much Sujean!
To see more of Sujean's beautiful illustrations head on over to her website  

Daisy

I've been hanging out for Baz Lurhmann's  'The Great Gatsby' , for what seems like ages!
With delays in the release date, a huge blow-out in the film's budget I'm hoping it will be nothing but spectacular!
I love how the Fashion world get behind Baz & Catherine's films - their creative vision and beautiful styling  should be celebrated.
The May issue of US Vogue features Carey Mulligan who stars as Daisy, I'm still waiting for my subscription in the mail, but I've spotted some of the beautiful images by Mario Testino on fashion blogs -  you can see the set  here at the Vogue site.

...I read 'The Great Gatsby'  a couple of years ago - such a fast read,  but I was on holiday...a  beach holiday so had lots of idle time.
I must admit as the story unfolded I found Daisy's character to be very shallow...still,  Gatsby is obsessed with her!
Im hoping movie goers world wide will be obsessed with The Great Gatsby!  

.....The last of the sunshine fell upon her glowing face with romantic affection....

Inspiration Now - Botanical prints

Beautiful, delicate Vintage botanical illustrations.
I adore them! 

What were originally technical and not artistic, drawings, they  look beautiful in the home.
Try second hand book shops or Etsy for book  plates or large botanical charts look great against a stark wall!

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney offer botanical illustration classes ...drawing from nature amongst the most beautiful surroundings -  How wonderful.

* images Top by
 Tine Ediger for HomeGarden.nl
Bottom via
Hvuitur Lakkris

I heart books

why hello there!
I do hope you are well...

I've had a little blogging break...it wasn't planned but it was nice to relax a little after the festivities.  We've been having lots of family time and outings here and there...life is good!

Have you bought anything awesome in the sales?
I bought a new Summer Dress two days ago ..its light and airy and a pretty blue shade.
I also bought a stack of books online the other night - I heart books, yes I do!...
plus its my birthday in two days so this is a little gift for me (from me!)

This what i ordered
*Decorate workshop by Holly Becker.
I love Decor books and Holly has great taste and aesthetic!
*Grace: A Memoir she's so inspiring and I cant wait to read this...
I also bought another memoir, * What Remains by Carole Radziwill ...okay Im a RHONY fan (hides face) and Carole seems  super cool plus her life story seems so interesting...
*The $100 startup - love his newsletter and the book's title just grabs you right?!...
plus '6 ways to Keep the 'Good' in your boy' - I like reading parenting books, we all need some guidance and direction!
so a real mix of books on their way to me!
If you have any book recommendations, any great reads you absolutely love ...please share!

a Dottie Life...

I was super happy to finally get my hands on Tif's book!

i always seem to leave things to the last minute and Allison had sold out of them over at Lark, so I thought Id try my luck and contact Tif directly.

Yayy for me - she had some copies left and was planning to list over on her Etsy shop...but sadly as I was sleeping they sold out in a snap!

I guess she felt sorry for me as after pleading she listed one just for moi!! Nice!

Dottie Angel: The Peachy Crafty World of Tif Fussell - i've always loved Tif's blog, Dottie Angel,

and her book is such a cozy

comforting delight!

it has cute stitching detail and a postcard on the textured cover, comes with a small envelope of craft bits and pieces

and is full of beautiful photos and inspirations!

Adorable!

top pic - by me

Middle/Bottom - via Dottie Angel, Circle of Crocheted Goodness and Handy Dandy Decal Jars

Reading + Eating
two of my favourite things to do!!

On the coffee table by my comfy couch i have the latest
'Real Living magazine' and a stack of books - top on the list to read is
'I know Why the Caged Bird Sings' by Maya Angelou.
I found this in a thrift shop for $1.00 - just love the cover!


Im also enjoying Heather Bullard's 'SOUVENIR', a seasonal Lifestyle Gazette.
If you didnt get the latest Summer issue in your inbox make sure you sign up here for the Fall issue! Its so lovely!

what Im eating?
- lots of roasted chestnuts and a simple healthy treat that I made the other night, courtesy of
Mr Jamie Oliver who inspires me so much!
Frozen Berry Yogurt

250 grams Frozen Berries
1 cups Low Fat Greek Yogurt
4 tablespoons Honey - more if you like it sweet
a small piece of Fresh Ginger (optional)
Blend and place in bowl or airtight container - freeze

Its Good!!! my boys didnt like it, the berries are too tart but Andrew and I are not complaining! So yum!!

Indulgent

Time to myself always feels very indulgent...I feel a little guilty but I quickly get over that as its so easy to think we don't deserve it or could be doing something else with our time. I generally give a lot of myself to others - my boys and hubby are my number one priority, my home, our extended family and friends too, so I think its important for some time just for ME!

So my Friday was very indulgent in that I booked myself in for a Thai massage, it was pretty stressful getting there as I was amongst peak hour traffic which is getting kind of cr-aaazy in Sydney lately! (note to self, avoid peak hour anything!) ...the massage was not the relaxing kind but i felt so invigorated afterwards.

The lovely staff offered me some herbal tea when it was over but I politely declined and ran down the street looking for a strong coffee!..ha-ha

Once I got home I made myself a simple lunch, ignored the housework and sat down to enjoy Holly Becker's new book 'Decorate' which arrived during the week.

Its so lovely and heavy and thick just like a decorating book should be!! I can see it easily becoming one of my favourites - so full of information, ideas and beautiful images - it features so many different decor styles space by space! I bought mine from Book depository online which offers free postage worldwide on all its books. I also loved the European cover of 'Decorate'... Holly is always an inspiration - her blog and her new book is fantastic!!

Cook and Look
...so on Saturday i went shopping for a new blazer and came home with a cookbook.
well it was on sale
and way too cute to pass up.

'She's Leaving Home' by Jazz singer and shop owner Monica Trapaga and illustrated (adorable!!!) by Meredith Gaston
its a lovely cookbook with lots of family recipes, comfort food and lots of heart, cant wait to test some of the recipes!

aren't these illustrations super!!??

Rustic Florals

Ive spent the day decluttering
our spare room - its full of stuff!
ive got a huge pile of books and magazines that need to be listed on Ebay...
this has taken all day because I sat and flicked through them first didnt I??

one of the books is
Cath Kidston's 'In Print' she's such a clever gal that Cath,
when it comes to floral prints - just beautiful!
I'll be sad to see the book go but I need to clear room as I had a bit of a ...um...huge shopping spree (Oops!)
over at Amazon...well the dollar is strong and all, and its been a while...(whats a girl going to do!??)


*Top image from Google Images - so pretty!!
* Next two images by Pia Tryde for Cath Kidston
*Bottom image from Cabbages & Roses book*