Monday, May 30, 2011

Paper Planes

I feel like I've been away too long so all those who have been viewing the blog welcome to some new posts. Now the picture below is not meant to make you think about keeping your body in trim, nor that we have such a warm climate that we are bikini clad, in fact right now it's thundering outside complete with lightening, hail and plenty of rain. So much so that the run off from the ridge across the road is a roaring torrent.







Had a lovely surprise the other day with this beaut' article in Mens Style Magazine Australia which included a column on my prints. So a big thanks to the team at Mens Style who made this possible.

My next endeavour will be to create some posters featuring planes, the vintage style ones like my uncle used to fly with two wings.

We shall see how that goes in the next installment.


Saturday, April 30, 2011

Congratulations to William and Kate the Duke and Dutchess of Cambridge





The whirlwind engagement has culminated with the Royal Wedding of Prince William to Catherine Middleton at Westminster Abbey; where there have been only 15 Royal marriages in 1000 years.


With timing and decorum exec,t the crowds of thousands and viewers of 2 billion worldwide watched Catherine step from the Rolls Royce Silver Phantom with her father at her side. Dressed in a Sarah Burton, the designer who headed up Alexander McQueen when he passed.


The result was an elegant lace appliqué bodice with 9ft train that appeared to be inspired by Grace Kelly's gown for her marriage to Monegasque Prince Rainier III.




She accessorised with a 1936 diamond 'halo' tiara by Cartier - her 'something borrowed' - lent to her by the Queen.




The hair was, as expected, worn in her signature loose waves with a 'demi-chignon'.
The natural look was offset by pear-shaped diamond earrings designed by Robinson Pelham and inspired by the Middleton's new coat of arms.

The veil - made of layers of soft, ivory silk tulle with a trim of hand-embroidered flowers - fell to her waist, framing her naturally beautiful face.

The dress was made with Individual flowers hand-cut from lace and hand-engineered onto ivory silk tulle to create a unique and organic design - incorporating the rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock.

The matching wedding shoes were also hand-made by the team at Alexander McQueen and are made of ivory duchesse satin with lace hand-embroidered.

Though hidden her graceful walk would suggest the heels were low.



What a triumph. A restrained dress from Sarah Burton, creative director at Alexander McQueen,

'The English lace, hand embroidered by the Royal School of Needlework, was demure but pretty.

'The trademark McQueen padding at the hip made her waist look even smaller, while the corset meant her posture was that of a queen: upright, and formal.

'Kate didn't didn't falter once, which tells me her wedding slippers, also by McQueen, were no more than a couple of inches high.


What a great day for British fashion, but also for Kate, whose modesty could be seen in every hand stitch'


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1381851/Royal-Wedding-2011-Kate-Middleton-marries-Prince-William-dress-designed-McQueens-Sarah-Burton.html#ixzz1KwktjRlz






Tuesday, April 26, 2011

What makes your House "Home Sweet Home"

Its been a wonderful Easter School break with children doing great games all day outside in the Autumn sun where its still warm enough to don shorts, singlet and sunscreen. Many sleepovers and Easter Eggs later after bbq's and campfires in braziers on the terrace (bit too damp for camping) our Easter break is drawing to a close and so I'm back blogging again.


In the attempt to tidy up after a lovely easter break I am posting these images of a delightful house that was for sale a year ago. I've kept the photos as a reminder of my favourite type of home. And this one is really sweet.


It is on the Northern Beaches on our way to the boat ramp when we take our boat out, very close to the village shops, cafes and water, what more could you want.



Floor plans are extremely useful as they spell out any design boo boos and give you am immediate indication of square feet so you won't be surprised when you go in a place a second time when it always appears smaller.

When you see these kitchen design shops and hear or the thousands people are paying for their kitchen installations - simple is best. This old Queenslander style home has an open kitchen with everything white. Adding to its appeal is a petit chandelier, high ceilings and island breakfast bar.


Adorable and still my favourite kitchen.


Queenslander style homes have that Cape Cod feel and allow the sea air to breeze through the house thus negating the need for air conditioners.


Comfy and airy in summer, though cozy in Winter this main room is filled with large framed retro film posters.


Tell me what makes your house a home I'd love to hear your comments.


Dining doesn't have to be in a separate room..


A long shady porch, easy wicker chairs and palm fronds all add to the delight this house emanates. 


An easy to clean bathroom.




So what makes your house a home sweet home... add your comments below.