evhCreative

Some old and new friends around the garden

2012-01-24T17:12:00.000+11:00

When we moved into our little home, our tenants were nice enough to leave some amazing herbs and veggies growing in the beds they built. It was such an awesome gift. Now, once I've figured out what most of everything is, we have leeks, chives, rainbow and regular silverbeet, (I think) beetroot, spinach, parsley, mint, thyme, rosemary, fennel, pineapple sage and probably a few things I haven't found yet.

I had to give the mint and the thyme a massive cut back the other day, but out of came a massive amount of dried thyme, which should keep and I can make some tea out of. Or maybe some shaving cream for Jacob (if he ever decided to shave!)

Since Monday was a public holiday here for some, I headed to Leacroft Nurseries with some of the family and was so impressed! I hadn't been there before, but will be going back this week! They have so many native plants and it's all fairly priced! Yep. New favourite place.

Lemongrass (new), fennel with pineapple sage (old)

Feijoa & the $5 tomato plant (both new)

Lavender (new) and one of our leeks (old)

Yep. Love gardening. And love my green gumboots.

Meatless Monday - Really Simply

2012-01-24T09:03:00.003+11:00

Last night was another good Meatless Monday experiment. Based loosely on this recipe, as I tend to Google whatever I have in the fridge, so I made this...

Roasted Veggie and Avocado Pasta

250g of pumpkin, peeled, seeds removed, cut into 1 inch pieces
2 zucchini, sliced into 1 inch pieces
2 kumara, peeled, cut into 1 inch pieces
a small bit of chives, chopped
extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper
250g fusilli pasta (because it's what we had in the pantry)
an avocado, cut into good size slices
a few fresh basil leaves, sliced super thin
and a good bit of parmesan cheese

Preheat the oven 180C. Cut up the veggies, throw them on a roasting tray with a good coating of olive oil, bit of chives and give them a lot of salt and pepper. Let them roast for until tender, turning them every once in a while (about 20 minutes)
In the meantime, cook up the pasta. If you time it all right, the pasta and the veggies will be all about the same time. Throw everything together with a little more olive oil, salt and pepper and the avocado.
Serve up on a platter if you want to be fancy about it and top with the shredded basil and with a veggie peeler, shave some of the yummiest parmesan cheese on top of the whole thing.

I love recipes like these. So easy. All to taste. And a really good reason to use up leftover pasta if you have some, the random veggies in the fridge, and the heaps of basil sitting on the window sill. Not to mention, it makes great leftovers that I'll be having for lunch today!

Dirt and worms

2012-01-22T07:48:00.000+11:00

Yesterday, we cleaned out from behind Jacob's little shed. Beyond all the Wandering Willie, the random bits of rotten timber, a barn door, and a giant iron scrolled window bar... We found worms. And lots of them!

There is actually concrete behind that little shed, underneath about 4 inches of solid dirt filled with any amazing amount of healthy worms! In our fantastic recycling fashion, we moved the dirt into our newly developed garden beds around the deck. Score! And we can now have the back of our shed again!

Here are some photos of the rest of our adventures this week!

A lovely morning walk with the Dog Tales - Awoohooo!

Gardening and some recipes.

Still Granny Squaring away and some new doodles.

Coolness today as we are going to be heading over to the Botanical Garden for a bit! I'm super excited! I haven't been there since my first ever trip to Welly!

Have a good rest of your weekend!!

Oh yeah!

2012-01-19T13:00:00.001+11:00

Forgot to share some good news!!

One of my lovely Christmas gifts from Jakely was to head off to a weekend workshop! (It was more or less my idea, but still!)

Next month, I'll be taking in some learning at the Cottage Hill Herb Farm for the Natural Skincare Product Workshop! I'm super excited! I've been experimenting over the ages making my own oils, shampoos, astringents and random other bits and bobs, but I've always hit a wall with a lot of the other things I'd love to try.

Bring on making creams and balms!

Meatless Monday - Mexican Potato Cakes!

2012-01-16T19:31:00.001+11:00

As one of our New Years Resolution's, we have decided to make a massive effort at Meatless Monday! We will usually have at least one meatless day, but it's nice to fully plan and be creative with it.

Last week, I followed a recipe from the Meatless Monday website, but was actually REALLY let down. It was rather bland and didn't turn out even remotely what I was expecting, so now, it's time to get creative our way!

via Greatest-Ever Mexican Recipes

600g potatoes, peeled and cut into even pieces
1 cup grated cheddar/tasty cheese
1/2 tsp salt
50g drained pickled jalapeno chili sliced, finely chopped
1 egg, beaten
bit of fresh chopped coriander
a little bit of flour for making cakes
oil for shallow flour
and salsa to serve

Add potatoes to a pan of cold water. Bring to the boil and cook for about 30 minutes, until tender. Drain, throw in a bowl and mash away. Stir in cheese, salt and jalapeno bits. Stir in the beaten egg and a little coriander. Mix until it forms something like a dough.
Once it's cool enough to work with, divide it up into even balls on a board with floury hands. Flatten into cakes.
Heat oil in a shallow frying pan and fry up cakes in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden. Serve up sprinkled with a bit of salt and with some yummy salsa.

We had this with some lovely corn on the cob with a little garlic and chili butter.

And if you need to make some quick salsa, I worked out a quick batch today but random things that I had in the pantry...

1 can of chopped tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
1 large clove of garlic, finely chopped
a bunch of fresh parsley and/or coriander, chopped
cumin, salt and pepper all to taste

Leave it in the fridge for at least an hour and yay! Really easy. And all sitting around the house.

I'd love to share some Meatless Monday recipes if you're doing them as well! Share share share!!!

Fill in the Blank Friday!

2012-01-13T21:14:00.000+11:00

1. One of my favorite things to do when I have free time is just to relax. As soon as I have free time, I try and quiet my brain. Then, I either get out a book or get out the good old crocheting.

2. When I have free time I tend to hop on the iPhone and try and catch up on Chess or Words with Friends, I'm a bit slow with it though..

3. If I had an entire day completely to myself I would spend it like I do everyday. I actually have a lot of days to myself, but I try and fill it with day to day things. BUT, if it were up to me, I would spend the entire day reading a book and making coffees.

4. I would prefer to spend my free time (alone or with others...) alone actually. I love seeing my family and friends, but I adore my quiet time.

5. Most of my free time happens without me knowing.

6. The best thing about free time is that you can get to know yourself better.

7. The next time I have free time I should probably do more around the house, but instead, I'll probably faff around a bit, as Jacob calls it... or probably just updating my blog.

Happy Friday the 13th!

A nice day in Wellington..

2012-01-12T08:42:00.000+11:00

... can be rare, but well worth taking advantage of.

Enjoy it all when you get the moment...

An afternoon in the kitchen..

2012-01-11T20:12:00.002+11:00

After a bit of a windy, hilly walk with the dog-boys and a quick stop off to the fish and chip shop, I came home to a free afternoon to do some cooking.

We've been trying out a couple different organics deliveries and had a couple problems with the one we liked, but we are back to using Commonsense Organics which have been good in a pinch. After some rearranging of fruit and veg, I realised that we've had a lot of citrus to use. So... out with the good old Juice-O-Matic!!!

This is my favourite kitchen tool ever! I think I've had it since I was about 21. I have my lovely high-school friend to thank. She would be the one that got me interested in antiques and all things vintage. One year for Christmas, I decided to seek out an old juicer for her. For some reason in my mind, it had to be red and chrome and stylish beyond all reason. After about two weeks of searching all the local shops, I found it! It was gorgeous and I was secretly gutted to have to part with it.

When Christmas came around, we exchanged gifts and I was so excited for her to open her fancy juicer! She opened it, looked at me, laughed, told me to open my gift. I opened it to find something red, chrome and stylish beyond all reason! Yes... it was the Juice-O-Matic!

How funny.. we had basically sought out and purchased the same gifts for each other. But of course, at that age, we were completely convinced we were psychically connected, could read each others minds and thought dating twins was the best idea we had ever had. We were awesome in our early-twenty-somethings.

Anyway, the rest of my afternoon was something completely new! I made fresh pasta for the first time!

Fresh homemade pasta, homemade sauce and meatballs! So yum! It was one of those moments where I was rather proud of myself! Making pasta is a bit liberating!

I'll have to have a few more attempts at it until I'm completely comfortable with it, but if you have a pasta maker, use it!!

Christmas Love..

2012-01-09T20:40:00.000+11:00

Finally some Christmas photos!

We had a lovely time, our first Christmas in our new house... even with no furniture.

Our fantastic little tree from the Aro Street Community Centre.

Peanut Butter Cookies for the Dog Park Party? Such a lovely time!!

Post Dog Park Sleepy.

Christmas Dinner. Go Jacob with his Manuka Honey and Orange Glazed Ham. Fantastic.

The new edition to the family. His name is Jerome. Thank you Ans!

Timmy's Christmas cracker and some good movie watching, White Christmas on the lappy.

Boxing Day Beach Trip to Petone... Such a gorgeous day...

A little help from... Bruce.

2012-01-02T19:14:00.000+11:00

Ok, maybe not help with the household chores or the painting.. But it's times like these you can't help but love the lil bloke!!

My Scrappy Do!

And more painting...

2012-01-01T11:08:00.000+11:00

We've been able to power through a couple rooms over the last week or so. Our bedroom, second bedroom (which we're going to be calling the library/music room), the third (really really small) bedroom aka the technology room aka the room with all the computers, the living room, dining room and finally started on the entry. What a mission!

Thanks for the help Hamish!!

More painting!

2011-12-29T07:05:00.001+11:00

I should be posting more, but the exhaustion from so much painting has been kicking in. We have been working full speed to get the rooms painted that we need before the furniture arrives... which is finally today!!

So before, our bedroom was a weird yellow colour with pretty depressing green trim. Every room in the house has windows similar to these too. The have been a chore and after I doing this set, Jacob was sweet enough to do the rest. I'm a bit of a perfectionist with these sorts of things. Even though the windows are 3 meters up, they had to be perfect... Yeah, this room took us a week. Once Jacob took over, we've been able to bust through the rest of the house. Thank you my darling hubby!

And After...

The light fitting was found in the window seat!

This is when we were still sleeping on the floor. 6 weeks of camping mattresses...

Birthdays and such..

2011-12-14T08:10:00.000+11:00

Ok, since being stupidly busy with the house, I haven't been able to play catch up yet! I'll try and space these out as not to overwhelm you!

Happy 40th Birthday Mr. Taylor! Thanks for having us and it was such a lovely afternoon! Jacob was able to catch up with a few people he knew in his past Wellington life and I was able to spend some time with our sugar-buzzed niece...

Cutie Etta in her party dress

Lisa shows off her amazing baking... Holy yum!

And a very special Happy Birthday to my hubby. We had a small family dinner out at Sweet Mother's Kitchen with all the goodies! Including a couple Margarita Jugs...

Thank you Jacob for being so amazing. So dedicated and driven. Without you, we wouldn't be here...

Our new home...

2011-11-24T20:04:00.000+11:00

Finally.

After a couple heart-wrenching days, we have all arrived here in Wellington, safely, in one piece, a little tired and confused, but so happy!

I was absolutely heart broken when our lovely little dog-boys were picked up in Melbourne by Barry from JetPets. Seriously. They had barely driven away before I completely lost it and broke down into tears in the front yard. But in less than 36 hours, I was so happy again to see those little curly, wagging tails! Thank you to everyone who made their journey easier than I could have imagined. They are now happy and mostly settled into their new home, new city and making new mates at the dog park. Also, they get on with their cousin Lucy like a house on fire!!! Wednesday, the 3 of them met up at the dog park and then were kindly invited over to dinner up at Auntie Lisa, Uncle Paul, and Cousin Etta and Lucy's for some hangout time. They have been having a blast!

T. Dog and B. Ruce's first trip to the local dog park. So many new mates!!!

And so the living and working begins at Laura Ave. Over the last few days, we've been trying to clean up the inside and attempting to get rid of the musty smells. Considering the house has been a rental for ages, there is actually A LOT of work to be done. Little things that are fairly easy fixes haven't been touched and the garden and porches are overrun by ivy. The back of the house, where we had some new drainage install to stop the damp and land slips from the hill haven't been cleared. Little things.

Overgrown.

Monkey-boy Jakey!! Watch out for that... powerline.

Almost made it to the back of the shed.

The ivy and wisteria have completely overtaken the shed. Inside and out.

The overgrown wisteria is down! Mostly.

Apparently, we have a fence!

Slightly cleared, but in serious need of some mulching.

Some well deserved Hell Pizza and beer. Nice stubby holder!

Monday, Jacob will be going back to work and I'll be here doing more cleaning, filling nail holes, all that fun stuff.

Thank goodness for coffee and our first yummy breakfasts.

The camping life.

Again thank you to everyone who has made our move and transition easy. Especially to Jacob's family and sister Lisa who was amazing to set up the Rocket (coffee machine) and hooked us up with a few essentials so we could live like humans in an otherwise completely vacant house.

Thank you thank you thank you!!!

On the home stretch..

2011-11-19T11:46:00.001+11:00

This week has been a mix of emotions, organised chaos, packing, cleaning and catching up with heaps of people.

Since my last of work last Friday, it's been nonstop. Farewell drinks after farewell drinks after farewell drinks, followed by a Farewell Party here at the house. I think my liver has seen better days. Monday and Tuesday were filled with some full on organizing and cleaning. Basically, waking up at 6 am, straight out of bed to running around the house, blasting through rooms making sure everything was ready and cleaned for the removalists coming on Wednesday.

And, far out! Thank you Crown Removalists! You guys are awesome! I was so happy and impressed with the way they packed and itemized everything... Sort of strangely inspiring for those like me who are a bit compulsive about those things.

Jacob and the web of cords.

More stuff to be packed.

Oh Shetland Ave. We will miss you!

Our container has arrived! You guys sure everything will fit????

See?! Awesome packing job guys!

And there goes our things... See you in Wellington!!

Moving on up... 15 days to go.

2011-11-07T17:05:00.000+11:00

It's officially my last week at work. Finishing up, handing off clients to co-workers. Cleaning up my desk. Making sure I touch base with as many people as I can. Finalising as many details for the house as I can. Closing bank accounts, all that fun stuff.

I realised today, how much of a nervous wreck I actually am. I feel like I haven't been able to eat in days. My poor belly has been in knots. We have so many get-togethers and parties already, it's so hard to say farewell...

But progressing along, cleaning and donating heaps to Savers. It's been a good while since I've binge-cleaned the house. I've come across so many photos of family and friends and friends that are like family. But instead of getting all caught up in the memories, you just have to power on.

So, power on. We're getting there.

In just over two weeks, we will be sitting on our front steps, staring at the beautiful scenery of our private little valley. Power on.

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-10-31T15:54:00.000+11:00

Some quick pics from our pumpkin carving party over the weekend...

Have a very very very happy Halloween and sweet Samhain!

Be safe and eat candy!

Happy ______________!

2011-10-31T06:30:00.000+11:00

Halloween, Samhain, Celtic New Year...

via For The Vintage Fashionista

The weekend catch up...

2011-10-25T19:23:00.000+11:00

... not including my soon to be written love note to the All Blacks - who, yes!, won the Rugby World Cup on Sunday night! I think I'm still recovering... but here is the rest of the weekend!!

Chaos Kitchen. I can't wait to have bench space. And a pantry....

Running out of space. And the celebratory cake stencil!

Lemon Sour Cream Cake from the good old Edmonds Cookbook
recipe below for you eager beavers!

We are suckers for marketing.
Jacob and his Duff, me and my Dirty Granny Ciders (notice the crochet work?) - very nice btw!

Granny Squares. From now (top) and a couple years back (bottom). Such a difference!
And Halloween bunting!

Peabody you reckon? Jacob excited over his thrift find, Bruce being sleepy.

So, yes, a very lovely weekend. Catching up with some lovely friends, baking, thrifting, more pre-move de-cluttering and a bit of Rugby!

How was yours?

125 g butter, softened

2 teaspoons grated lemon rind
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
1 cup Edmonds plain baking flour
1 teaspoon Edmonds baking powder
1/2 cup sour cream
icing sugar

Beat butter, lemon rind, sugar and eggs together until light and fluffy.
Sift flour and baking powder together.
Fold sifted ingredients into egg mixture alternately with sour cream, mixing until smooth.
Pour mixture into a greased and lined 20 cm round cake tin.
Bake at 160°C for 45 minutes or until cake springs back when lightly touched.
Leave in tin for 5-10 minutes before turning out onto a cooling rack.
When cold dust with icing sugar.

via Edmonds Cookbook

Leftovers... Fabric that is!

2011-10-22T10:00:00.000+11:00

A few weeks back I decided that, as a family, we should be civilised and have some handy napkins to use at dinner. And as I've been trying to make an effort to finish projects, get rid of fabric and wool and art supplies I won't need, (which is harder than you may think) I decided to make some napkins!

Nothing like fancy flamingos and palm tree prints!!

So, I cut out a heavy card for a template approx 13x13 inches and cut all the napkins to be around the same size. Then pinned down and ironed out all the hems at about 5mm or a quarter of an inch.. That right there is enough to drive you bonkers. (BONKERS!) So tedious, but once that is done, all you need is a simple stitch and ta da! Look ma! Clean faces! and hands!

about a 5mm hem on all sides, pressed over twice and stitch!

Yeah, I know. My stitching is far from perfect, but it's done with love!

I've been slowing collecting old dress shirts of Jacob's, some old pyjamas that I love the print but can't bare throwing them away, and lots of other red and light blue fabrics. The goal... A quilted duvet cover for our king size doona/duvet! According to my calculations... (geeeeeeeeek warning)

I'm going to need a lot more squares!!!! Damn!

Any other ideas for using up scrap fabric?

I'd love to here your ideas!!

The Funki Little Frog Shop

2011-10-21T16:28:00.001+11:00

Many kudos and congrats to my lovely old friend, Jennifer, who's shop was featured on one of the Daily Etsy Finds! Her work is really gorgeous and I can't even articulate how proud I am of her! She had an amazing amount of hits and traffic to her shop and all because of one email!

Here's some of my favourites from her shops...

Check out her two shops - Funki Folk Art & The Funki Little Frog

Me and the lovely Jenny (anydots) Ambot Babcock @ my wedding.
Miss you darling!

Herb-a-licous Treasury!

2011-10-21T11:30:00.000+11:00

Love this one! So inspiring!

I think I'll go make some soap this weekend!

Thanks Briga!

Fill in the _____ Friday!

2011-10-21T10:10:00.000+11:00

This was my last weekend - and will probably be this weekend too. Crochet. Beer. All Blacks. The life.

1. The most selfless thing I've ever done was moving countries to be with the one I love... even though I guess I did it for me as well... I guess that doesn't count as selfless.

2. When it comes to working out I'm hopeless. I'm all for exercise, but don't have the patience for actual workouts. I like to think riding my bike to work everyday, and covering about 125km per week is enough.

3. A woman should always be prepared. Wait. Is that Girl Scouts? Or Cub Scouts?

4. I wish I could fast forward through the moving process. I am learning a lot and am thankful I've been working as a Project Manager for the past couple years, but nevertheless, it's still stressful and nerve-wracking.

5. A best friend is my dearest husband. Seriously, don't know what I'd do without him. We pretty much do everything together, except for craft/girl group of course... But yeah seriously. BHF. Love you babe!

6. I can't get enough of tea at work and The Great New Zealand Songbook. I'm a geek.

7. This weekend I am see above. Watching the Rugby World Cup. GO ALL BLACKS!!!!! Crocheting, cleaning, and probably a little beering with friends... Woohooo!

Have a good weekend!!!

And again... GO ALL BLACKS!

New Zealand Green Treasury

2011-10-20T11:30:00.000+11:00

How appropriate!

Thanks to oceanstreet!

Halloweeny Etsy Lovin'

2011-10-19T16:41:00.000+11:00

Thanks to watersofmarch for including my print!

I especially love this print that is part of this treasury...

The Endless of Leaving

For my Mother...

2011-10-18T14:09:00.000+11:00

Everytime I hear this song, I think of my Mom.

Lip syncing in the living room.

Dancing around the house.

Everytime.

Love you!

It's all happening!

2011-10-11T17:31:00.001+11:00

Like. Fo' real. Yes! It's totally official now. No going back now! The Wellington Move is upon us!!!

Our one-way flights are booked.
The removalists are booked.
The boys have their flights and vets and all sorted.
The tenants at our house have their notice.
Some of the utilities are booked to be turned on at the new house.
I've put in my notice at work.
Parties, drinks and farewell dinners are filling up our final weekends...

Full on! I love the fact that we will be without pretty much EVERYTHING for a week here in Melbourne. No furniture, no TV, not much of anything! Once we get to Wellington, that won't bother me too much, as we'll have a lot of painting to do.

So yeah. It'll be a few really busy weeks coming in. And I'll be counting down the days!

Fill in the Blank Friday!

2011-10-07T09:09:00.000+11:00

1. My current obsession is besides planning for moving? More fancy Granny Squares, Pinterest, Rugby.

2. Counting down until we move and making some massive progress on it daily make me happy.

3. My greatest strength is MULTI TASKING!

4. Doubt in myself is my greatest weakness.

5. My life is a bit chaotic at the moment.

6. In high school I was a little misguided. Easily thrown off course. Never quite focused enough.

7. When I'm super tired I crash and burn. I'm an old lady and it hits 11pm and I'm useless!!

Week One in Wellington.

2011-09-16T10:37:00.000+10:00

Back in New Zealand.

Early for the Rugby. South Africa vs. Wales RWC 2011.

Slightly cold and damp before the match.

Wellington from the dog park.

Lucy Dog.

Our soon to be 'hood.

Kia Ora.

Soooooooon! Not that I am stalking our house or anything...

After the hail storm...

We've had a good first week here in Wellington. I've had some time to get myself a little more acquainted with a great city. So far - some place that I love ...

Wellington City Library - This is an amazing library. Everyone, including the staff of the Citizen's Advice Bureau, is so helpful and nice. There is an immense amount of resources, books, periodicals, videos, and music. Of course having a view of the harbour while looking up some great craft books or some fiction is always inspiring. And access to the CBD's free wi-fi connections is always helpful for emailing your mother from far, far away whilst sipping your soy flat white... (Did you get the email Mom??)
Minerva (Cuba Street) - THE Textile Bookshop that everyone should stop if they are in Wellington. They have the largest and best selection of craft, fabric, knitting, textile, fashion... the list goes on... that I have seen in this hemisphere! And of course, seeing the Meet Me at Mike's book there will make everyone's day back in Melbourne!
Knit World (Cuba Street) - So many choices! So many colours! So many ideas! While they have a lot of imported wools, they have a lot of New Zealand made wools that may be pure merinos, or a mix - check out the merino-possum-silk blends! Fascinating!
SaveMart - As a seasoned thrifter, I cannot recommend this shop enough! We were able to hit up the Porirua store and I was quite impressed. Think Savers on Sydney Road, but about 50% larger and just as cheap! I was able to pick up a couple vintage dresses (from the costume section of all places) and a pair of jeans for about $35.00 NZ. Brilliant! I think I'll be making the drive out to Porirua on a regular basis!
Vincent's Art Workshop - Now THIS is a great place! Vincent's is an open studio where you can use their space and have access to their art supplies during most business hours. Every Thursday is a Women's Only Day, this is when I was able to pop in to check it out. There is such a huge sense of community that is just astounding. They do have certain classes and workshops that you can attend for a small fee, and there is also at least two tutors on hand to help. I was very excited to see they have a woodworking shop, clay and pottery and their own kiln, mosaics, painting, drawing and a whole heap of other things to get your hands dirty. I'm going to try and attend a couple of their life drawing classes in the next couple weeks.
The French Art Shop - The best way to describe this art shop is stated on their website... "A cross between a chemist shop and a lollie shop for artists." How true is that statement? Oh so very! After just popping into Gordon Harris's up the road, I came across the French Art Shop and found myself in love.

And on a silly note - yesterday while on our way to an appointment, we saw the Springbok Prop, Tendai Mtawarira aka BEAST hanging out on the streets of Lampton Quay! Very cool to see some international Rugby players around town! Loving this city right now!

One more sleep...

2011-09-08T13:01:00.000+10:00

...until we see our favourite little city again.

Upcycling a set of Chairs

2011-09-07T17:19:00.004+10:00

Jacob found these four amazing chairs on the street a couple months back. Since then, he has stripped them clean of any upholstery (which there were layers of), tacks, nails stuffing, springs, webbing... not to mention dust and more mouse poo then most people can handle.

He has done such a nice job so far! We're finally giving them a good sand, and just last weekend we were able to replace some of the supports that were missing.

The sanding will keep us going for a while, not to mention filling in all of those holes from the gazillions of nails taken out. Not to mention, staining and varnishing. Then - yes - then I get to find the perfect fabric. Can't wait to have them around a big table (that we haven't built yet) in our new house in Welly!!!

New Addictions - Pinterest

2011-09-07T16:52:00.003+10:00

Ok. I love Social Media, well, most Social Media. Linkedin does my head in, even though I know I should get on it. I've recently signed up on Google+, which is fine but I always forget I did sign up in the first place.

But then - there was Pinterest.

I'm really loving the sharing and the ideas and the make believe feeling of being creative when only you're borrowing other people's ideas... either way. Lovin' it.

Come visit and share some ideas!

Lovely Sunny Weekends... and Father's Day!

2011-09-05T11:31:00.001+10:00

according to my iPhone.

A good morning cuddle & Father's Day with the boys.

Little Bruce on the Prairie & making new supports for the chairs.

Still Granny Squaring away & a Sunday Osso Bucce in prep.

We hope everyone had a good weekend!

And everyone has a good Monday!!!!

Fill in the Blank Friday...

2011-09-02T11:50:00.020+10:00

1. My most prized possession is, besides are handsome dog-boys, probably the photos I have of my father. There are a few painting and photographs around the house that I would grab in a fire, but the photographs of my Dad and my family are probably the most important.

2. If I could be one age for the rest of my life, I would want to be 35. Yeah silly I know. But I'm loving my age right now. I love the way my life is finally panning out. The plans for the

3. The best way to spend a weekend is as relaxed as possible, maybe getting a few things done around the house, a little drawing, a little crafting, a little homemade cooking, and joining some lovely peeps for a drink or two...

4. My outlook on life is so positive right now. I'm counting down days until we leave for NZ for the Rugby and then only more days to count until we are over for good! Life is defiantly filled with heaps of positivity at the moment. Bring it!

5. If you want to annoy me just look down at your iPhone while crossing the bike-path or the street, walking or even just getting in my way while not paying attention to the fact that, YES, there are other people in this world around you. (rant done. for now)

6. I am completely defenseless when it comes to wine. Seriously. It sounds bad, but I love love love a really good wine, with a tiny bit of very dark chocolate. But honestly, well designed books, good fonts, and gorgeous simple design. My world stops for a few minutes when out of the corner of my eye I see something that I would like to buy, but never will.

7. When dressing for the day one should check the weather?

The Weekend.

2011-08-29T10:15:00.000+10:00

According to my iPhone.

Jacob working on our chairs. And a sniff from Timmy.

Finally - our new couch!

2011-08-26T15:44:00.000+10:00

This has been a long time coming...

We finally got a new couch! We loaded the old couches into my office, posted them on gumtree, cleaned and vacuumed in time for two very burly men to plop them into our lounge room. Our old couches were bought by the lovely Jacob back in the days of bachelorhood and while they were comfy, they were still separate sofas, which make it very hard to cuddle with said hubby and two dogs. Now, we have rolling plains of space, lounging, cuddling, relaxing and extending our legs beyond large oversided arms.

And not to mention I can layout most of my Granny Squares to design my current blanket... Heavenly!

here it is! in all it's glory and pre-dog haired!

Fill in the Blank Friday...

2011-08-26T14:42:00.000+10:00

1. My idea of pure perfection would be a quiet weekend-ish day during the week, painting in the sunshine, maybe reading a book laying in the backyard and dozing off in the warmth of the sun.

2. Love and Food make the world go 'round.

3. If it weren't for Jacob I'd never have believed we'd ever be moving to NZ..

4. Bloggers are awesome. Even when they're whinging.

5. If I had ten cents I'd buy you a piece of ten cent candy.

6. I'm glad it's Friday because this week has been physically demanding beyond anything that I've had to deal with in a while. Will be happy to be home, cuddling on the NEW couch with the boys this evening.

7. Something I'm excited about is that we will be back in New Zealand soon for the Rugby World Cup! (very very excited!!)

I'm always late on these. Maybe because our Friday ends before most. But from now on - I'll be playing catch-up a week behind. And you know... That's ok.

Anywho. I hope everyone's week has been great! What do you have planned?

Brown Owls - A Crafty Parliament

2011-08-19T16:37:00.000+10:00

Every other Wednesday night, a Parliament of Owls congregate at the Sporting Club over on little old Weston Street in Brunswick. It's always a lovely evening filled with drinks, tapas, chatter and a lot of crafting!

I'm really happy I've been able to be apart of the group, as it's sometimes hard for me to get moving on a project because I may not fully understand or just don't have the time. But having the gals there to ask and putting that two hours aside has really pushed me to try new things and to really feel good about the things I'd like to accomplish.

A little while ago, our little group was featured on a show called "Made by Hand" It's a lovely piece!!

Check it out!!

I'm hoping to start a NZ Brown Owls group once we get settled in Wellington, maybe after the New Year. I think for me that would be the best thing ever! Not only do I have to move to a new city - and country for that matter, but how amazing to start a group and meet more and new like-minded crafty people... Can't wait!

Jacob answers - "So - why are you moving?"

2011-08-16T16:58:00.000+10:00

For the last two or more years I feel like I've been in a holding pattern. Too busy saving money to go out and enjoy myself (too much) and too close to leaving the country to want to commit myself to any bands or outside activities that I'd only have to leave when we finally move to NZ.

Every time I tell an Australian or migrant living here that I'm moving back to NZ - the question is always 'why'. Even when I tell other kiwis this when I'm back there - the question is also 'why'.

Other than the obvious reasons of my family all lives there, we own a house there and quite frankly, I love it there. I also feel like I've given this country a pretty damn good go and I've enjoyed my 12 plus years here to date but the time is simply right. I could go into a vast array of reasons around lifestyle, general attitudes of people and lack of infrastructure for a bulging population that's still increasing rapidly but I won't. I could wax lyrical about being tired of the sheep jokes and 'friendly jibes' I still get despite having always been pretty much void of any descriptive accent, but I won't.

No - for me, along with all those reasons, a large and driving factor for me is the fact that Kiwis are leaving NZ in droves. According to a survey done last month one in eight New Zealanders were considering leaving the country on a long term basis. Now I understand there are plenty of legitimate reasons to up-root yourself and leave a country but there are so many better reasons to stay that I feel it's my time to go back and be a positive example to those jaded kiwis.

Yes - the economy isn't the strongest in the world but then again, neither is the US, yet you wouldn't hear of a single red-blooded American up and leaving their home country simply because the grass is perceptibly greener elsewhere. (Except for my wife, of course.)

We truly don't know how good we've got it in NZ - yes, there are people that are struggling, but the health and welfare systems are still very stable and aren't run by private capitalists - yet - that is.

Sure the welfare payments over here is higher than it is there but here's news to any Kiwis moving after 2001 - you can't go on the welfare for a full two years after landing on these fine shores - the same as immigrants from almost all other western countries around the world.

"At least there's work there" you might say - don't be so sure, Australian recruitment agencies have it down to a fine art of messing you around and making you wait right up until you're about to pack you bags and return home before generously offering you that crappy job you applied for six month previously... if they call at all that is.

"Finding a house will be easy".... yeah right - if you're lucky enough to be able to get out of work to actually attend an 'Open for inspection' (I wouldn't bother going to one unless you had the job already sorted either) then you'll have the priviledge of queuing up with 30 other people most of whom already have their pre-filled in rental applications complete with references (yes, you need those too). There's generally a race to 'inspect' it and then a scramble to grease up the land-agent. Even if you are the first to submit your glowing application (working professionals, both employed, no kids, no pets etc etc) you'll more than likely still get pipped at the post by the owners neighbours sisters nephew who needed somewhere to stay, or someone that offered above the asking rental amount, illegal of course, but done all the time.

OK - I honestly could go on, and I might some other time, but for now - I can't wait to purchase my one way ticket to little old Welly town. More cafe's than you can shake a stick at and nearly everything in walking distance, yes please! -

I do remember getting caught in traffic back there, once, for about 35 minutes, that sure beats sitting on the M1 on a Friday where it literally takes you 45 minutes to travel less than 5kms. The short drive over the hill to Makara beach or inland to the beautiful rolling hills of Martinborough and the Wairarapa. Bring on the 50kph 'breezes' and the horizontal walking position are a small price to pay to be back in the city I love.

Sooner or later I believe most Kiwis will come home and those that don't - are welcome to stay away and leave the pristine beauty that is Aotearoa to those of us who appreciate it.

New Zealanders need to be more positive about the country they call home - the only people that can improve it are the ones that live in it and I intend to be one of those people again.

Farewell Australia, I'll miss you - occasionally - I'll visit often and thanks for the last decade or so, it's taught me lots.

Happy Book Lovers Day!

2011-08-09T15:43:00.001+10:00

There is a day for everything! But this is one of the best! How can you NOT love Book Lovers Day!!!

I'm one of those admitted Book Addicts. I'm ok with it. When I lived in the US and was in the loveliness of a great economy, I used to buy a book a week. Now, I have to be a little more fickle about what I buy, but my local library is one of my favourite places to be.
And yes, I love looking through Amazon and getting wish lists together... *Sigh.*

Books are awesome!

At the moment, I have a couple books going on that I've been switching back and forth between.

You gotta love some good old fiction and mystery!

Of course, there are about a million reference books I have on my shelf at any one moment. Cookbooks, How To's, Art books for ideas and motivation...

via soseptember

So, what is everyone reading???

And for those addicts like me - Some visual book "inspiration" ...

via photos.500px.com

via flickr

via icanread.tumblr.com

Yes, Peace. Love. & Books.

Country Living Tips

2011-08-08T09:20:00.000+10:00

via Flickr HDC Photography

Before you go out to the garden for a bit of weeding,

run your fingernails across a cake of soap to keep them clean.

Etsy Treasury Lovin'!

2011-08-04T17:11:00.000+10:00

Thanks to Tamara for including my print in this gorgeous and inspiring Treasury!!!

via tamaralove1@ Etsy

Recycling Jars.

2011-08-03T11:28:00.000+10:00

I have a serious problem.
(Well, according to Jacob.)

I love jars.
I collect them (sort of).
I have a stash of them.
I use them everyday.

Ok, maybe it's not a serious problem. But I love finding ways to reuse jars. Whether it's putting some chopped herbs in them to keep on the window sill, making a tonic or a tincture, bringing them to the shop to cut down on our plastic bag usage. I use them for storing buttons, paintbrushes, pencils, the list goes on...

Ok, maybe compulsive, since I can't bear to put any in the recycle bin. And when I do, it's heartbreaking.
Yeah. Compulsive.

I have found though, salsa jars are by far by favourite for everyday use.They are perfect for :

Making Bath Salts
Gifting Jams and Preserves
Storing small quantity things like homemade teas and small amounts of herbs

And my new happy solution - the perfect container for bring homemade yogurt to work! It's especially good to throw into the bike basket, because the lid will stay on heaps better than those old nasty plastic containers!

My yogurt from morning tea devoured.

Happy Birthday.

2011-08-01T15:33:00.000+10:00

Hi Dad,

I miss you and think about you every day.

I emailed Mom a couple weeks ago telling her how thankful I am that you guys raised us the way you did.

I am happy to think that you probably would have been the first to come visit us in a new country and a new house.

Anyway. Happy Birthday!

We all miss you so very much!

"Bundt Cake," he asked...

2011-07-27T09:05:00.003+10:00

"Where does it come from?"

It would appear that "bundt" is derived from the German Bundkuchen (in Southern Germany and Austria called Gugelhupf, in SwitzerlandGugelhopf), a ring-shaped tea-time cake. The word bundt appears as early as 1901 in The Settlement Cookbook, written by Lizzie Kander ofMilwaukee, Wisconsin. Bundt is used instead of bund in a recipe for "Bundt Kuchen."^[1] The aluminum bundt pan is a variation of ceramic cake forms that were used in Germany, Austria, and Hungary to make the ring-shaped cakes and was trademarked in 1950 by H. David Dalquist, founder of Nordic Ware, based in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, who developed it at the request of members of the Hadassah Society's chapter in Minneapolis, Minnesota.^[2] The old-world pans, with fluted and grooved sides, made of delicate ceramic or cast iron, were heavy and therefore difficult to use. He modified some existing Scandinavian pan designs and fashioned the pan out of aluminium.

Thank you Wikipedia.

I'm a huge fan of the Bundt. I like to think I can blame the people of Minnesota for that. Or at least all of my friends' mothers that baked. The best part is you can bake ANY sort of cake in a Bundt pan. Lemon, Chocolate, Gingerbread (Thank you Chelsea!!!!)

I found a good old Martha Stewart recipe that I may try and hack this weekend... Spicy Pumpkin Bundt Cake you say? Hells yes!

via marthastewart.com

Back at it on Etsy!!

2011-07-26T15:20:00.000+10:00

It's been a while since anything has been posted to our Etsy Shop... so here we go!

Emma (Detail)

There are a few original drawings there, as well as some prints.

If you would like to see anything in particular, please let me know.

My Sis.

2011-07-15T17:11:00.000+10:00

Happy 40th Birthday to my dear, darling Little-Big Sister.

I love you!!!

xoxox

Reuse the Refuse!

2011-07-15T09:10:00.001+10:00

Yay for recycling and re-purposing! These are some sweet ideas you can try! Give it a go and let me know!

Reuse those old T's & knit (or crochet) yourself some handy washclothes.

via craftster

Candlelit Sav Blanc? Sure! Thanks! (ps. Mom, think Christmas!)

via Elle UK

Reuse the gift wrap and save your books!

(Sneaky for the embarrassing romance novels on the train)

via real simple

Maps, magazines, scrap paper, more old gift wrap...

via howaboutorange

What I love...

2011-07-14T16:33:00.000+10:00

via designsponge

The Wardrobe of Doom!

2011-07-12T15:48:00.000+10:00

As I was getting dressed yesterday morning, I made the comment to Jacob, something of the lines of – Why must all my clothes feel like they are falling apart?

As I put on my favorite pair of pirate argyles socks (yes, pirate argyles), I realised that besides the hole in the side (where our faithful nugget, Timmy, once took out his aggression on preppy pirates everywhere) each of the heels were completely worn through. I then put on a pair of massively scuffed boots, which were flagged as ‘vegan’ because they were made completely out of synthetic / man-made materials.

Insert big sigh here. Don’t get me started…

The last few months, I’ve become more and more aware of the things I’ve been buying – trying to make the least impact as possible on the plant, and as little impact on my wallet. But with all of this in mind, I am still haunted by the Ghost of Impulse-Purchases Past.. One thing that I have learned is - the better care you take of your things, the longer they will last. But when your closet is sometimes full of bargain-basement dresses made in various countries that you’ve never been to, the guilt starts to unravel, just like hems on those cheaply made fabrics. Later that day, Jacob had sent me a link to a news article that said exactly what I have been thinking!

"Large (fashion and clothing) corporations are looking for ways to make money, so they create a need, where this isn't one, I don't think." Flint believes that to fight this created need and to help save our planet, we should buy fewer clothes, be aware of where and how our clothes are made, and make the clothes that we own last longer.

Thank you!

Finally!

My mom reckons that even when I was a kid, I would buy second hand clothing, not because I understood why or where it came from, but because I was always into older styles. And being the youngest of 3 sisters – almost everything I had, was second hand. Gotta love the pre-loved hand-me-downs! But the last couple years, I’ve been limited for trips to the Salvos and other Op-Shops, which I’m seeing now as REALLY taking its toll.

image via flipandstyle

It’s time to get back to reality. It’s time to get back to thrifting good quality items. It’s time to get back to my sewing machine and learn properly how to mend and sew with amazing fabrics!

It's National Fried Chicken Day!

2011-07-06T15:40:00.000+10:00

So, somewhere, somehow (as a marketing ploy of course), someone proclaimed today as "National Fried Chicken Day". Granted this is probably more of an American day than anywhere else.

But before you go off to KFC to partake in such a strange day, please watch this.

Watch more videos at KentuckyFriedCruelty.com.

Ok. This is made me so angry the first time I saw it. While everyone is just getting into banning Live Export here in Australia, people need to realise that things like this have been going on for ages. There is almost no way to keep tabs on these slaughterhouses and abattoirs and the way animals are treated. Until the human race can treat other animals (and other human beings for that matter) humanely, I will not trust them to pretend that they are making the right decisions in the name of humanity.

I was vegan for a number of years and vegetarian after that. Now, I do eat meat and other animal products, but I try my best to pick ethically raised, slaughtered and free range animals and animal bi-products.

So please, if National Fried Chicken Day is part of your day, lick your fingers responsibly.

Borrowed Words...

2011-07-05T11:00:00.000+10:00

The ultimate test of man's conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard. - Gaylord Nelson, former governor of Wisconsin, founder of Earth Day

The Story of Stuff

2011-07-02T10:10:00.006+10:00

The more and more I get fed up with consumerism and especially people's ignorance toward disposable world, The Story of Stuff says it all for me...

Check out the rest of the videos and info here.

Borrowed Words...

2011-07-01T17:06:00.000+10:00

I only feel angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things we could use.

- Mother Teresa (1910-1997), A Gift for God, 1975.

Fill in the blank Friday!

2011-07-01T12:19:00.000+10:00

Sometimes the simple things are all you need to get motivated again!!!

1. The last thing I ate one of those amazing creme filled doughnuts from Almost French... Pure Heaven for the one minute it takes for me to eat it.

2. The next thing I'd like to eat is something healthy I hope. As good as that doughnut was, it was all sorts of wrong!

3. The best things are free... Love, family, friends!

4. Something that makes me supremely and utterly happy is planning for the big NZ move and life after that.

5. Sports are a not-so-secret love for me. I love watching most sports, especially the Rugby. I don't even have to watch a lot, but having it on in the background is somehow comforting. Odd I know.

6. I miss my family back in the US. My dear dear friends. My father. Samantha. Stevie.

7. Right now I am trying to keep warm in front of a heater and craving another doughnut...

Have a good weekend! Be safe and play nice!!!

Please open your eyes...

2011-06-29T13:04:00.002+10:00

Only when the last tree has been cut down,
Only when the last river has been poisoned,
Only when the last fish has been caught,
Only then will you find that money cannot be eaten.

-Cree Indian Prophecy

A gorgeous evening...

2011-04-15T17:14:00.000+10:00

So many beautiful pieces. So many versions of the female spirit. So stunning!

If you have a chance to check it out and support, please do!

Sisters

For my Sister.
I love you.
xo

Because I am a Girl

2011-04-13T12:40:00.000+10:00

Tonight is the Opening Night for the "Because I am a Girl" Fundraising Exhibition and I am really excited to see all the work and be apart of something very lovely...

‘Because I am a Girl’ is Plan’s global campaign designed to fight gender inequality, promote girls’ rights and lift millions of girls out of poverty. Across the globe, girls are at the bottom of the social ladder, deprived of the same opportunities as boys. For example,research has shown that girls are more likely to suffer from malnutrition; be forced into an early marriage; be subjected to violence or intimidation; be trafficked, sold or coerced into the sex trade; or become infected with HIV.
The campaign is based on a series of reports titled Because I am a Girl: The State Of The World’s Girls. To be published between2007–2015 from Plan International, these reports examine the rights and needs of girls throughout their childhood, adolescence and as young women – and how they are uniquely placed to break the cycles of intergenerational poverty gripping many people in developing countries.
Six of the eight Millennium Development Goals – the goals set by the world’s governments in 2000 to halve world poverty by 2015 – are unlikely to be achieved unless there is a greater international commitment to the fight against gender discrimination.Plan recognises that we have to address gender discrimination as a priority if we want to tackle the root causes of child poverty.Therefore we have made the commitment to ‘address gender inequality and the numerous ways in which the rights of girls and women are particularly denied and violated’ (Plan Program Framework, 2009–2013). This is the focus of the ‘Because I am a Girl’ campaign and will better enable Plan to achieve our overall mandate as a child-centred community development organisation, committed to child poverty eradication and all children accessing their rights. via becauseiamagirl.com.au

I'll be one of the 30 female artists involved and 50% of price of all artworks sold will be donated to the Plan's Because I am a Girl campaign. How exciting is that?!

Anywho, hope to see some of you tonight @ Smartartz Gallery over in South Melbourne!!

A Giveaway for some Great Tweeps!

2011-04-12T14:20:00.001+10:00

I am so amazed and happy!!

We're 6 people away from 200 followers on Twitter! You lovely people rock!

As soon as we are able to hit 200 - I will be giving away a signed print of Mina to a lucky follower!!

Get to it kids!! Make me proud!!

Local Bunnies...

2011-04-12T09:15:00.010+10:00

I love Easter.. It is one of those holidays that I find rather different to celebrate living in the southern hemisphere.

Easter has always meant the start of spring, new life, new sprouts of green growing through the snowy fields, baby birds and the first sight of the red breasted robin. But here, we're preparing the coming of winter and cooler weather, as well as final harvests of our gardens and hoping to see the new life soon.

Either way - Easter is on it's way... and now, the chocolate bunnies in our near future will keep us happy and add some padding for the winter.

themobyduck

brambleandbear

Hannakin

RedMush

All of these gorgeous Etsy finds are locally found here in Melbourne.

Some small scale sketching...

2011-04-11T13:16:00.000+10:00

I have been working on small sketches lately. Mostly A5 and under.

It's nice to just get them out of my system, but am almost ready to start going bigger again.

Also, just a reminder - the Because I am a Girl Fund-raising Exhibition will be opening this Wednesday night at SmartArtz Gallery in South Melbourne. Hope to you see you there!

Shanna-Beth - Family Portraits

2011-04-10T18:20:00.000+10:00

I don't photograph too many portraits anymore,

but nothing's better than crawling around in the grass with Shanna-Beth.

My new Art Crush...

2011-04-10T12:23:00.000+10:00

Once a week or so, I browse the artists on Etsy and Red Bubble to see what's happening in the world. Sometimes I'm totally uninspired, sometimes I can't find anything that pulls at the heart strings. But some days, I gasp into my quilt, whip the laptop around to show Jacob and then try to contain my jealousy.

Coming across Julia Martins work, that was a day of complete inspiration. Since seeing her Etsy and website last week, I can't stop thinking about it. The colour and tones and especially the textures from the paint strokes make me feel like I have a long way to go and a lot to learn.

Check out the prints on Etsy or her actual site and blog.

The Boys

2011-04-07T17:22:00.001+10:00

Our boys, Timmy & Bruce, aka The Basenji Brothers.

One of the highlights of my day, is getting home from work after a 45 minute bike ride and being greeted by two very lovey boys. (And a bigger lovey boy, aka Jacob) They are troublemakers in their own right.

Timmy has a fondness for chewing anything paper, pens, books, (watch your homework kids!) and has a habit of making monkey sounds from the parcel tray when we go for rides. He's a bit scared of bigger, darker dogs, and no he's not racist.. just a bit unsure. But we love him either way...

Bruce is a bit bow-legged but runs like a whippet when he wants to. Hmmm. "When he wants to..." pretty much explains Bruce. He's started to mellow out as he gets older and FINALLY enjoys a good cuddle. He also enjoys eating poo and anything that fall on the floor in the kitchen. (Hey, no man is perfect!) He's the peace-keeper at the dog park, never afraid to lay down the law with other misbehaving dogs.

It makes me happy to think that in less than an hour - I'll have two dogboys wagging and jumping to greet me at the door!

I love our little nuggets!

Jacob says... "Watch your Insurance Bills, People!"

2011-04-06T12:40:00.000+10:00

Ok - so not the most interesting of subjects to write or read about, but this little series of letters has seriously irked me and I'm not a man who likes to be irked...

So … the first communication I received was towards the latter part of last year – out of the blue a letter from the mysterious ‘OnePath’ insurance company.

Now I don’t receive a lot of junk personal mail as I make a point of not putting my address on things when I can avoid it but this was personally addressed to me and they even spelled my surname correctly so I gave it the courtesy of actually opening it.

The letter was an introduction to their company – my current housing contents insurer ‘ING’ insurance – had been bought by the wonderful ‘OnePath’ insurance company apparently over a year prior – which in itself was odd as I’d only renewed my policy with ING in April and nobody had bothered to mention anything. So my policy now belonged to them but I didn’t need to worry as I was covered for the duration of the policy I’d previously held. You’d sort of hope so considering I’d paid for the full year in advance back in April.

The next communication I received was in about January / February – this letter was asking if I’d like to take out some extra flood cover on my existing policy. The letter stated that it wasn’t a mandatory requirement and it would be included in my next policy renewal. Strange, I thought, I’ve only got contents insurance with them and I don’t live in a flood-prone area so I thoughtfully declined that offer.

Just last week I received my much awaited policy renewal letter (note the sarcasm). Included with my existing coverage was ‘flood insurance’ of a meager $10,000 – not really much when you consider our contents insurance is for $95,000. Don’t worry – the letter indicated – I didn’t have to do anything – as of May the 1st my premium would be deducted from my previously nominated credit card…..

So… let me get this straight, not only did you take over my policy without my consent or knowledge but you also got hold of my credit card details – hmmm – good thing I’ve cancelled that one since last year then huh?!

I was also being ‘given’ $9,000,000 in personal liability insurance – because that’s highly important for a guy like me… and, come to think of it, I have that on my life insurance policy anyway so not overly useful.

As if that wasn’t enough to irk me, it really doesn’t take much, I continued to read the letter and the expected premium amount to be deducted - $1116.

Hold on a minute – I could’ve sworn my premium last year was in the late $600 range. Surely they can’t whack on an extra $500 for flood damage that I didn’t ask for and don’t even need. I was so surprised by the amount that I trawled through my financial records to confirm that yes, my previous years insurance premium was for $620 for effectively the same level of insurance.

Perhaps I was being naïve – there have been a lot of floods and natural disasters in Australia over the last 12 months – maybe contents insurance really has jumped by 80%.

Online I go – fill in a quick online quote with another insurance company – did all the figures and they even included the stupid personal liability insurance which is actually fairly standard these days apparently.

Clicking on the ‘quote’ button and waiting with baited breath I thought to myself – hey, even if these guys are as expensive as OnePath I’ll probably go with them to prove a point…… ‘bing’ and the quote pops up – grant total of $689 per annum and I even get the option of paying monthly in case I don’t really want to commit to a 12 month policy….Sold!!!!

I could probably shop around for an even cheaper rate if I could be bothered but I’m relatively happy with these guys and I have car insurance through them also so I’m happy to go with them for now.

I am very much looking forward to calling OnePath when I get a chance and informing them that I am most definitely not renewing my policy with them.

This whole small and fairly insignificant incident got me thinking about the number of people that probably don’t read these communications or even bother to remember the details of their previous years premiums. How many people out there simply file the letter away and then get whacked with massive premium increases through no request or confirmation from themselves. Beware of the dodgy OnePath – which is an ANZ subsidiary by the way but don’t even get me started on the banks under handed behavior.

End of rant!... for today…

Sisters - Sneaky Peeky!

2011-04-05T15:28:00.000+10:00

The painting is totally finished. Varnished. Scanned. And whatever else you can do when you finish a painting! I'm so happy. It's one of those paintings I thought I would never do. Until now, I've always sat outside myself when I draw and paint. But this has been a really hard process for me.

I'm just so happy it's finished. Yesterday, I thought of it being sold at the gallery (trying to send out those good vibes, you know how it is...) and started to cry.

It's like letting go of so many old feelings and being free.

It was rather odd.

I don't want a pickle... Just wanna ride on my Bicycle...

2011-04-01T16:42:00.000+11:00

After a few moments of complete frustration and yelling at the television at my work’s local café and Jacob getting knocked off his bike earlier this week by a car (he's fine, just scrapes and bruises), I thought this was an appropriate selection of Etsy finds…

via SweetRide

The Channel Nine’s Mornings with Kerri-Anne has a few things to answer for. Not only has she blatantly been against cyclists in her past episodes, but today seemed to be a repeat of her appalling opinions against cyclists all over again.

Again, she and her panel are trying to prove that cyclists don’t pay for roads and quite a few other issues that have nothing to do with cyclists. If cyclists paid for regos and had number plates, that still doesn’t account for the fact that people break the law. And the idea that motorists take account for their actions is complete bullshit. *pardon the french*

...if cyclists expect other road users to give way we should reciprocate by following the road rules. In the midst of the Tour Down Under I was very disappointed to see an amateur team sail through a red light, no doubt in a desperate bid to get to their coffee venue. If we can't be bothered why should everyone else - except, of course, the cyclist will come off worse. Jonathan Miller, Adelaide SA via Australian Cyclist.

I think EVERYONE needs to play by the rules, there are laws in place for a reason. Whether it's running red lights, wearing helmets, or having a bell, they all need to be followed.

Anyway, I’ve been too angry to write about this propaganda whoring, but you can check out the finer points of many shared opinions here from a past show where she claims the same ideas. As well as here for a good opinion email about common courtesy.

via PosterPop

via papercutsbyjoe

via linedraw

Anywho. That's all the angry I can deal with on a Friday.

Have a good weekend and Be Safe!

You have a memo...

2011-03-30T16:41:00.000+11:00

Dear Motorists,

For God's sake, can you please look before you open your car doors? Please? Seriously. Your thought process may need to be something along these line..

Hmm. I wonder if there is a cyclist coming up behind me, as I am parked along the bike path. Let me look in my rear-view mirror just to be sure. Ok, here comes someone - wait two - ok. I can open my door now since there are no cyclists and won't put them in danger of swerving and getting hit by a car.

Wow thanks Motorist, for checking before you kick your door open into traffic and not attempting to kill me under a tram. You are awesome.

Dear Our Sweet Little House in Brooklyn,
I can't wait to see you! I'm counting down days... Please stay up on the hill and don't fall down. I know all these earthquakes in New Zealand are scary, but you are an older, gentler, kinder house that was built when houses were built properly, we have no doubt you will be ok, but keep in mind... We love you!

With love,

Digital Painting

2011-03-26T20:31:00.001+11:00

Trying out a Wacom tablet.. Pretty cool!

Upcoming Exhibition - Girls and Sisters

2011-03-23T16:40:00.000+11:00

I know, it's been a while since I've posted. Sorry! I still love you! Honestly!

Anywho, I've been working on a painting for an upcoming show over in South Melbourne at the Smartartz Gallery. The opening night is the 13th of April and runs until the 29th. Please go check it out, it's all for a good cause - check out the website for Because I am a Girl for more info on the campaign.

I'm really excited about the painting. It's been a long and slightly painful journey for it, but it's nearly finished.. I know - I'm cutting it fine... It's titled Sisters.

When I was going through ideas about what it means to be a girl, I kept coming back to the weird connection women have with other women. That strange thought processes and mental connection we have with other women that are close to us still astounds me.

The painting relates to the connection I have with my sister. We grew up together in a fairly small, secluded town called Sterling. There was never much to do there, since the population then was probably less than 3,000 people, so we would wander through the woods and rely on our imaginations to stop the boredom from driving us mad.

The painting I've been working on relates to the adventures and hardships that my sister and I went through together. I don't know how my life would have ended up if I didn't have my sister. Now that I live thousands of miles away, I feel in someway, we are still connected. As sisters, as friends, and as women.

I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of the show and see what 30 other women think about being a girl. Hope to see you at the Opening Night!

xoxo

Future Plans... in Gardening

2011-03-02T17:27:00.000+11:00

Some inspiring greenhouses..

via flickr Old Chum

via weheartit

via finehomebuilding

via flickr emma.williams

via Tom Mannion

And the most inspiring... The Owen's house from the movie Practical Magic...

How do you NOT love this!!!???

New Zealand.

2011-02-24T15:13:00.000+11:00

As you know, New Zealand has been hit by some incredibly hard times.

I am auctioning off a few prints on my Facebook page for the NZ Red Cross to help with the rescue and recovery efforts. They need all the help and support they can get.

ALL proceeds from each item successfully sold will be going to the New Zealand Red Cross. http://www.redcross.org.nz/

Please, dig deep!
Every single cent will be going to the New Zealand Red Cross to help everyone affected. Spread the love in anyway you can!!

Auction prints and details are here...

Auction of prints for the New Zealand Red Cross 2011 Earthquake Appeal

one of the prints up for auction...

My heart is breaking just thinking about the people and the city lost to the earthquake.

Thank you so much for your support.

xoxo

Herby Goodness!

2011-02-21T15:29:00.000+11:00

At first, J thought I was nuts...

A small collection of jars. A medium collection of jars.

Now, a massive collection, being used to make herb infused oils, tinctures, salves, astringent toners, hair tonics, and soon - SOAP and LOTIONS!

One of the best parts about this whole process, all of the herbs I'm using are from our garden! That is one of the most satisfying parts. Really! (That and using my awesome Lemon Balm and Lavender Toner! Heavenly!)

Since we have had so much rain in the last few months - Summer? What Summer? - everything has gone being going crazy in the garden! We have tomatoes that have mysteriously appeared, as well as some pumpkins and zucchinis that are almost the size of the calf... a couple different kinds of beans, cucumbers, the list goes on!

This year, I was so lucky to have a good base of herbs. The mint was already going crazy in a bed, but I transferred it to an old lemon tree pot and it's taken off even better than before. It's so healthy and loves to be cut back. The lemon balm, calendula, and the lavender are doing beautifully. The rosemary and thyme coming along nicely for their first season. Even the Goji Berry plant has finally shown us some life - and some berries!

This is been one of the BEST growing seasons in ages! I hope everyone else has had great success as well!

Strange Creativeness.

2011-02-08T16:51:00.000+11:00

Warning – bit of a ramble…

For the last week or so, I've had my head stuck between a canvas and my paints.

I've really found a new way of working that seems to suit me. It's hard to describe. It's hard to explain without sounding nuts. But I've been delving deeper and deeper into what I feel like is a past life. My childhood. My sisterhood. And my frankness about life in general. I will say, it’s therapeutic.

My sister and I have been through some odd things in our lives, as individuals and together as a couple of troublemakers. And lately, I have been missing her immensely. I love to think that maybe in our sisterly link – we still know what each other is feeling and thinking, but with more than 10,000 miles between us, you can never quite tell.

So, here is to getting lost in the woods, pet chickens, inflatable purple Easter Bunnies, matching dresses and burning houses.

I love you Leigh! Hope you are well...

xoxo

Wristcutters - A Love Story

2011-02-04T17:15:00.000+11:00

Ok. Here is my movie recommendation for the weekend!

Zia: Being here with you reminds me of what I was like before my suicide.

Mikal: What were you like?

Zia: I was happy...

Yes, I know. A dark comedy about suicide? Yes. It is.

I really liked this movie. You should try and see it sometime.

And yes, the Gogol Bordello references are gold.

Check out this review of it.

Have a good, happy and safe weekend!
xoxo

Happy Sufjan Stevens Day!

2011-01-31T17:00:00.000+11:00

Or rather Happy Monday. But in my world today... It is officially Sufjan Stevens Day here in Melbourne! I get to see him play at the Arts Centre tonight. I've never seen him play before and am really really ... REALLY excited! Can you tell????

This weekend was pretty brilliant! Hilarious and good times had by all! And a HUGE HUGE HUGE thank you to Andy for hooking us up for the Mos Def show! What a lovely surprise and what a lovely night... even my 5am bedtime didn't dampen my spirits much.. And just a note to myself - I know I live on the other side of the planet to where heaps of my old friends are... but more than 10 years of not seeing people... Way too long. So much catching up and never enough time!

Anyway.
Happy Sufjan Day!

heheheee!

Happy Friday! Weekend Plans...

2011-01-28T16:25:00.001+11:00

Tonight. Mos Def.

Thank you to my old friend, Andy, for hooking all us of up with this one!

Saturday. Drawing.

I'm not keeping within the lines. More on the Blue Knights video later.

Sunday. Time with friends and family and the neighbourhood animals.

The view from my office/studio.
This is our neighbour's goat.
She has a kid as well, soooo cute!

And MONDAY!!! Finally!
Two words.
Sufjan. Stevens.
*sigh*

Happy dances were had by all when I received this in the post!

I am super excited for this show. I feel like I've been waiting years to see Mr.Stevens play live.
Can. Not. Wait!

Image via Wikipedia

Have a safe and happy weekend!!!
xo

The belated Holiday Recap

2011-01-28T12:07:00.000+11:00

Yeah. I know. Late as usual! We had a lovely week off, hanging around the house, gardening, I did some drawing, J did some baking. Good times. :)

Bruce aka Scrappy Do. He enjoys a good army crawl.

My fancy new cheese board J got me for Xmas! It's stunning, so was the cheese.

Jackal, maybe Nigella? Minus the obvious.

Peanut Butter Brownies and our Christmasy Kitchen. YUM!

Dreams.

2011-01-25T11:21:00.001+11:00

Sometimes, after I wake up... I have to reconnect my brain to reality.

And remember that the beauty is no longer there.

via flickr - Ciorania

via flickr - katiesilvester

I miss you, my dearest, old friend.

via weheartit

A new drawing in the works

2011-01-21T17:16:00.000+11:00

A rose by any other name...

Juliet

More Treasury Goods

2011-01-20T13:55:00.000+11:00

Thanks to RelyDesign!

Yay for Etsy Treasuries!

2011-01-15T18:33:00.000+11:00

Thanks to ButterfilesWing for including my Elizabeth Bennet drawing in this gorgeous Jane Austen inspired collection!

I've recently put up a few original drawings on good old Etsy.. Let me know what you think!

Have a lovely weekend!!
xx

Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head

2011-01-13T14:15:00.000+11:00

image via weheartit

Our thoughts and love go out to all those people and creatures in Queensland...

Stay Strong!

xxx

Giving Thanks.....

2010-11-25T11:49:00.000+11:00

It's Thanksgiving today...

I'm missing my family...

Missing my Gramma's Turkeyday Feast....

Missing having a four day weekend....

I love you and miss you all!!

But I am looking forward to our own version of Thanksgiving tonight!!

Turkey Burgers on the BBQ.

Root Veggie Chips.

Cranberry and Blue Cheese toppings.

Duncan's Pecan Pie.

And *fingers crossed* my first ever Pumpkin Pie from actual pumpkin (aka not from the can!)

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Americana Counterparts! Love you all heaps! Miss you all more!

xoxo

I love the library...

2010-11-24T14:28:00.001+11:00

image via ImagesbyClaire

Not any particular library, but just most every library there is.

I've been hitting up one close to my work lately and its fantastic. I've only been there twice and have come across books that are exactly what I was looking for. Kudos to the Yarra-Melbourne branches! I think more businesses need to work like libraries actually.

Anyways, I'm very happy about the announcement of this exhibit opening at the State Library of Victoria the 3rd of Decemeber... I've been in love with a lot of the illustrations in children's book lately and this will hopefully kick start me into something good. Fingers crossed!

So, what are you reading?

On my night stand at the moment :

Local Girls by Alice Hoffman

(thank you Richmond Library!)

New drawings on RedBubble

2010-11-22T17:02:00.000+11:00

Very happy to announce some new bits and pieces on RedBubble.com!

While you can only get prints and cards on RedBubble, I will be selling the hand drawn originals on my Etsy site. Please let me know if you are interested in purchasing any...

xoxo

Beards are ...

2010-11-22T10:39:00.000+11:00

via theboldbanana

Yes. Yes they are.

Movember Update!!

2010-11-17T15:44:00.000+11:00

Hey all,

I meant to post this last week!!! Argh! Anywho.. in continuation of the Movember fantasticness, here is Jackal's new look! Totally minus the beard, with a hint of Mo'! Bring on the handlebars!

If you haven't and you would like to PLEASE DONATE!!!

Here's to counting down the days until the beard is back!

Wednesday's Wish List - Rustic Holidays

2010-11-17T15:03:00.000+11:00

Let the holiday festivities begin!

1 & 2. kellystreetvintage
3. sejoe
4. PatinaPosh
5. NestaHome
6. Bluebirdlane

Quote of the day...

2010-11-15T15:54:00.000+11:00

"Follow your dreams" is stupid advice. Last time I tried that, I wound up naked in Fed Square, talking to an invisible pudding tree. - @gilfer

A gorgeous treasury!

2010-11-15T12:56:00.000+11:00

Thanks to SattvicMeri for including me in this beautiful treasury!

Wednesday's Wish List - Typography

2010-11-10T10:45:00.000+11:00

Mmmm. Text. Type. Letters. Love it all.

via qacreate

via funkifolkart

via thebeakshop

via everyeskimo

Happy Monday!

2010-11-08T11:33:00.000+11:00

Two things that are making me happy today...

1. Skirts.

2. And bunny wabbits.

Hope everyone has a great week!

Meg & Jay are Married! {sneak peek}

2010-11-05T16:49:00.000+11:00

Congrats to you both!! Love you guys dearly and can't wait to see you after the honeymoon!

xoxo

Beth and Jackal

Movember!!!

2010-11-03T13:38:00.000+11:00

*Sigh*

It's that time of year. Movember!

After 8 months of growing out his beard, Jacob has shaved it all off to grow a Mo for Movember!

He's totally clean shaven now and looking a bit alien like - but it's all for a good cause!! Please donate!!

Check out the site here...

I'll be posting the ongoing mo-growing as we go!

Thanks!!!

xoxo

Creatures of the Deep!

2010-10-25T16:32:00.000+11:00

Hello gorgeous people!!!
Hope everyone had a good weekend! We had a great one!

Friday night, I saw Concrete Blonde at the Palace. Brilliant!! I so have a girl crush on Johnette, she is still so amazing. I'd be happy to have one ounce of her coolness when I am her age. Seriously.
Saturday, we went to Ceres and bought some new seedlings from the garden. I know have a new rosemary and lavender in the garden! And a set of cukes!
Saturday night, we did a little early celebrating for Duncan's birthday and saw Resident Evil - Afterlife in 3D. Not enough good zombie-ness, but the 3D was really well done..
Sunday, J and I slept in a little and he made pancakes (crepes, really) and we spent the rest of the day in the garden. It was a glorious day!

I'm hoping my Echinacea makes it through a battle with some bugs! I think they are getting attacked by earwigs and white fly. I'm going to be diligent now, checking twice a day for bugs and spraying them with a little mild, soapy water. If anyone has any other ideas, I'm happy to hear them!!!

And - yes! Creatures of the Deep (an Etsy treasury) has featured my Drowning drawing. It is an original drawing too!

Thanks to QueenandCorgi

xoxo

Dreaming of summer times

2010-10-21T12:01:00.001+11:00

334/365 Tire Swing Bench Monday!, originally uploaded by kharied.

Right now - I should be swinging on the top of a tire swing, in the sunshine, listening to some good old Big Band, drinking Iced Tea or maybe a mint julep...

Some Etsy Lovin'

2010-10-11T17:09:00.000+11:00

Hey kids!
Hope everyone had a fantastic weekend!!

We had a big and busy few days! Our gorgeous friends are getting married on Halloween, so this weekend was the Hen's Night and Buck's Weekend festivities!!

Let's just say - good times were had by all!

Monday mornings are always nice to wake up to an Etsy Treasury and a blog post of some of my crafty bits and pieces..

I'm loving loving loving this treasury!!! Gorgeous!!

Thanks to Adictaaloscomplemnts

Thanks to handmadespark.com

Also, my Port Melbourne Button from Etsy was on handmadespark.com for this article featuring Melbourne and Victoria crafters and artists.. Some great shops mentioned! Check it out!

See you soon!

Another Anti-AFL weekend...

2010-10-04T10:42:00.000+11:00

Apparently Collingwood won...

What a gorgeous weekend for a BBQ! And friends, beers, and hanging out in the backyard playing Kubb...

Jackal's action shot

2kg of chicken wings

Timmy getting some cuddle action from Julie

Sleepy Bruce enjoying the sunshine

Bryan & Julie

I think Duncan and Jackal were dancing at this point...

Bruce in the field of play

Marshmallow & a fire calls for...

S'mores & Champagne

Friday night we were able to check out Erin's new Women's Circus venture! It was one of the best one's yet! It's called Ladies Prefer Brunettes (so true) ! It was cheeky funny, very well choreographed and just plain fantastic! I'm not sure when they will be performing it again, but if anyone if interested - below are the details...

So back into another week! Hope everyone enjoyed the weekend and has a happy Monday!!

I've finally begun the battle!! Again.

2010-09-29T11:41:00.000+10:00

My weight has always been a roller coaster type battle.. Eating out of boredom, a desk job for the last 2 years, too much drinking and evening snacking with the hubby.. It's all part of the problem.

Now, I'm striving to get back a little closer to my normal weight - mainly due to the closet of vintage dresses and the threat of an upcoming summer.

I've pimped my iPhone with a couple weight management apps and hopefully I'll have a better idea of how to forge through it all. I'm determined to ride to work as much as possible, and since the weather has been a bit nicer, that's the easy part.

On the food note - This Friday is World Vegetarian Day! It's a good chance to feel healthy and light all day! All of October is Vegetarian Awareness Month - so, all of you meat eaters - myself included - should give it a try!