Through the looking glass...

2011-04-01T11:25:00.001+11:00

I just might be rubbing off on my 6 year old son...he came to me last weekend and asked if we could eat our dinner outside on the back deck. So after much cleaning and scrubbing of said deck he then decided that it would be nice if we set the table and had a special dinner ready for when Dad got home...this is how he set the table for us. He picked some roses from the garden and I supplied all the items.

I think he did a pretty fabulous job.

2011-03-25T11:16:00.005+11:00

My husband looked at me strangely when I whipped out the camera to take this photo...but they just looked so cute sitting on the sideboard I couldn't help myself.

Look who is on the move...now to just go and make the house baby friendly!

2011-01-22T15:45:00.017+11:00

Hope everyone enjoyed their Christmas and New Year...January is just flying by and I am determined to get a few of my many projects done!

I have had some time recently to get back to my favourite blog reads and the before and afters have especially inspired me to get a move on with my own projects.

Yesterday I discovered a new nursery over near my parents that has a small decorating section. They had 50% off and I picked up this lovely little teapot, creamer and sugar set. They are porcelain but made to look like old enamel ware...so cute.

I really need to get some curtains...maybe a trip to Ikea next weekend is in order!

Whilst out and about today we found a huge garage sale where I picked up this cute little children's chair which looks similar to a brentwood chair. Just needs a little clean up and will be added to my ever growing chair collection!

2010-12-22T20:56:00.007+11:00

With my mother-in-law's 60th birthday in November I thought I'd try my hand at making some cupcakes...well the cupcakes I've made plenty of times before, but wanted to try something a little fancier for the frosting on top...this was my first attempt at piping and I cheated a little with store bought pre-made icing roses. I was really happy with how they turned out but will keep practising (and not give up my day job just yet!).

This cute little cupboard, which I'm thinking is a medicine cabinet (although have not seen this style & size before), was given to me by my mother's best friend...I am storing my ever growing collection of doilies in it for now.

And because I know I will not get back on here before Christmas, just wanted to say I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year and thank you to everyone that comes to visit and for the lovely comments left.

Maybe my New Year resolution will be to....post more often!!!

2010-11-05T21:07:00.004+11:00

5 months old already, someone please find a way to stop time.

On a totally unrelated note, just want to say how thankful I am that my Dad came through some pretty major surgery recently (he had a quintuple bypass) and is doing really well...Love you very much Dad xx

2010-09-14T11:27:00.010+10:00

Took myself, Zoe and Mum off to the markets on Sunday morning early. I hadn't been to these markets for years and was imaging all the lovely things I'd find however we were sadly disappointed. There doesn't seem to be as many "junk" stalls as there used to be, mostly plants and clothing. I did find this cute little man just staring up at me and felt sorry for him so decided he had to come home with me. A little clean up and he now looks happy up on my wall...I wonder who he is??

I looked up the studio on google and discovered that the studio only operated from 1908 to 1913.

Mum has finished off the cot quilt for Zoe's room and has almost finished off the bed quilt as well. Hard to get a good photo, but looks lovely in person.

Another quilt my Mum made for me recently, this one will go in the guest room/office/playroom...the last room in the house to get renovated and probably the most difficult.

Anyone with some good ideas that will incorporate all these functions would be appreciated...even better...if you know of anyone that would love to come over and actually just do it would be appreciated even more!

2010-09-07T11:29:00.008+10:00

It is finally Spring here and there is nothing like flowers picked from your garden to brighten up the house. My son keeps picking these beautiful Camellias and I've put them all through the house. I'm loving the red against all the neutral.

We recently had a family photo shoot that my sister did and these are 2 of my favourite photos from the day. Of course Zoe slept the entire time and only woke as we were leaving.

Just look at the hair!! Hard to believe she is 3 months old tomorrow. We also have another new family member...Silver. Ryan competed in the recent Mounted Games at Terrey Hills and received a fourth place ribbon for his efforts.

Bit of a family post today. Must get stuck into crossing off some of my Maternity Leave List, as of next week I have several things to paint so will put up some before & after shots.

2010-08-09T14:51:00.011+10:00

I seem to be acquiring a little collection of jugs...isn't it funny how collections have a habit of sneaking up on us.

On the subject of collections, whilst playing house, I've also realised I have a chair collection happening or more like a little obsession...can't seem to go past a lovely old chair without wanting to take it home.

The chair below belonged to my husbands grandfather which I saved from being thrown out.

The chair below was my grandmothers and has a lovely waratah & flannel flowers carved into the top panel.

2010-07-11T17:12:00.011+10:00

I would like to be able to say I've been extremely busy thus no updates on the blog however I'll confess I have mostly been sitting around watching Zoe sleep in my arms. What an absolutely wonderful time waster!

Hard to believe she is already a month old.

I did take some photos for you from around the house. Whilst I'm on maternity leave I do have grand plans and have written out my list of things to do...mostly getting stuck into the front gardens which have been neglected of late.

And of course have to include some photos of little Zoe Grace. The second photo is of my Mum (although she will probably kill me...but I love this photo).

2010-06-11T15:30:00.006+10:00

So happy to be home! Just thought I'd pop in with some photos of our baby girl Zoe Grace. Everything went really well and Zoe is settling in...and sleeping a lot. The outfit in the photos below was the outfit I wore home from hospital that my Grandmother knitted. My mother made a new bonnet and booties to match. She looks like a living doll don't you think?

2010-06-07T14:16:00.012+10:00

Only 1 more sleep to go...and I'm still playing around in the baby's room! My mother made these cushions...aren't they gorgeous? She used up scraps of the fabric that have gone into the cot quilt and the single bed quilt she has almost finished.

And aren't these cute...

Mum's birthday is the same day the baby will be born (8th June) so I had a small family lunch for her yesterday to celebrate and decided to have a go at these cute pom poms. My first one, the white one, actually turned out better than the second one. I followed the Martha Stewart instructions found here.

2010-05-16T19:21:00.008+10:00

I've been in such a panic for the past few weeks as nothing seemed to be happening with the baby's room but all of a sudden everything is coming together. I spent all day today (although now can't quiet walk!!) finally trying to set the room up and am quiet happy with how it is turning out. Still need a few more things like the beautiful quilt my Mother is making and the trim to finish off the curtains and maybe a few more things for the walls.

I haven't set the cot up in the room yet, only the bassinet for now until she is ready to be moved into the cot. Saves on space as well. The bassinet was mine that my Mum handed down to me as is the cot I've got.

With only 3 weeks to go I'm getting very excited to meet our new little bundle.

Two of the cushions above were a present from my very talented mother for my birthday in April and the other was a present from my Nan.

The picture over the bed is something that my Mum made for me. She made it in 1977 when I was just 2.

2010-03-29T20:19:00.009+11:00

Have been busy, busy, busy and absolutely exhausted! We have almost finished painting the baby's room and I've been busy gathering "baby" things in preparation for our new arrival which should be in 10 weeks time.

I've been on ebay again...this chair is one of my latest purchases and am now on the look out for another similar to go in our front lounge.

This was also another ebay purchase but for the baby's room, a lovely reproduction wrought iron bed. My mother is making the quilt below for the room and I've also been collecting little vintage pieces. Can't wait to put it altogether.

Another project that is almost finished is Ryan's room and am quiet happy with how it is turning out. Although I'm not a fan of themed rooms for kids, we were having some issues in getting him to sleep & stay in his own room so I thought I'd try involving him in the decorating, he of course wanted dinosaurs, dinosaurs & yep you guessed...more dinosaurs. I must say that involving him has worked a treat and he absolutely loves his new room.

2010-01-24T16:36:00.009+11:00

With only 4 months to go (and the fact it takes me so long to do anything) I really need to get started on the baby's room instead of looking at all these gorgeous images...or can this qualify as a "fact-finding mission?"

source

source unknown

2010-01-09T08:18:00.007+11:00

I'm finally back in the land of electricity! We had an absolutely wonderful camping trip with our whole family and friends of the family. We stayed at friends of my parents called Elm Grove Mountain Retreat and it was magic. What I call a real holiday, and I didn't even miss having no electricity (or flushing toilets!!!).

So back to reality...work, preparing Ryan for "big school" on the 2nd February (or should I say - preparing myself for Ryan starting big school!) and for my exciting news that I alluded to in my previous post...

These might give you a small clue...

source for both

Yep...new baby on the way...

So another room to start working on. The following are my inspiration pictures for the babies room.

source unknown sorry

source

I have had the one above in my favourite image file for awhile. Take a look at Katrina's take on this...fantastic.

So there you have it...a very busy year ahead for our little family.

Hope everyone has a fantastic year ahead.

2009-12-07T20:11:00.006+11:00

Didn't realise I had been MIA for so long! But this is what has kept me occupied...the dreaded "wall" room from my previous post. In hind sight it might have been easier to completely remove the wall and put up a new one. But I persisted and the following are some sneak peeks...yes the room still isn't completely finished! Just need to get the carpets cleaned and then decorate but almost there.

And I will be back soon with some very exciting news...

2009-10-06T20:08:00.010+11:00

Old homes are so much fun! What I thought was going to be a quick make-over for my son's new bedroom has turned into a major job. We discovered some old water damage which we fixed up, then painted undercoat to smooth out the walls. The next day we found a huge bubble covering half the wall...needless to say this is now what the wall looks like (after a few hours of hand scrapping...thus the mess on the floor!). Back to bare plaster, and of course it isn't the normal gyprock but the old fashioned horse-hair plaster so can't be sanded to much. Will be back (hopefully) with some pretty pictures of this room soon.

Onto much nicer things...my lounge is missing something. I keep changing it around but just doesn't seem to feel right. I am going to get rid of the wing back chair and replace with chairs similar to the ones below. I am also on the look out for a lovely Aubusson rug. Some curtains would also be good. Does anyone have any suggestions for this room? It isn't used every day but is the first room you see when you come in the front door.

2009-09-25T20:33:00.014+10:00

Don't you just love chalkboards...I finally finished this little project after admiring all the images that have been shown on some lovely sites/blogs, and with my shocking memory I thought this would be a great idea to put on the wall in the kitchen for reminder notes and dates...although my little man thinks it is also fun to draw dinosaurs eating the flower I drew on it!

A few more things to finish off in this room and then we are done...onto the next!

Some inspirational images I found.
source

source
How gorgeous is this children's bedroom

source

source

2009-09-11T17:38:00.007+10:00

Gee even on 2 weeks leave I couldn't find time to maintain this blog! But I have managed to get so many things done and have enjoyed every minute of my time off. It is so much fun playing house, changing things around and spring cleaning.

Even the sewing machine came out. Thought I'd try my hand at making this simple little cushion out of hessian (my favourite thing at the moment). Actually turned out ok for my first try! Next I'm going to attempt a ruffle and some sort of detailing.

Spring is definitely here...twin goats born on the farm at my in-laws.

2009-08-15T20:17:00.007+10:00

Such a nice way to spend a Saturday, morning tea of pikelets, jam & cream followed by lunch and then a spot of shopping at our local nursery. Even managed to plant some new vegies and my super fantastic parents bought some plants for our new garden at the back. Thanks for everything Mum & Dad...I hope they know how much I love them x.

2009-08-09T18:59:00.008+10:00

We went for a lovely Sunday drive up the Blue Mountains today to drop off my niece who stayed with us the weekend and also to pick up this lovely little piece. I am loving the the colour of this little cupboard, it brings a little something to the family room that is mostly neutral, black & white. Will most probably change the handles but apart from that nothing else will be changing. Gotta love Ebay...

2009-08-05T18:47:00.012+10:00

We have just had a very hectic weekend here, well the week leading up to the weekend was even more hectic with a few midnight bedtimes but that aside, my little munchkin turned 5 so we organised a Reptile Party for him and some friends on Saturday. Steve from Walkabout Reptiles was fantastic and I highly recommend him. So Sunday was clean up day and I potted around the back yard, digging in the vegie patch and created this little spot on the back verandah, just in time for a well deserved rest.

2009-07-05T11:43:00.007+10:00

Can't wait for Tuesday night...the final of HomeMade. I have gone for Jason Sullivan, one of the finalist, since the show started, the following are some of the rooms he has designed.

For more photos go to HomeMade

2009-05-18T20:15:00.002+10:00

Progress made on the back garden...finally! Hurry up and grow little hedge...

2009-04-29T18:07:00.017+10:00

I can not believe how fast this month has gone, to keep it short and sweet here is what I've been up to...we went away for Easter, camping at Nundle which was a lovely little country town (and have already booked for next year), had a birthday (although am trying to forget them now!!), finished painting the hallway and a few other things around the house and pretty much working my butt off at my day job. The word exhausted doesn't even cut it!!

Thank you to those that responded to my Kitchen door knob post...I went with the dark ones and what a difference that little change made.

Thought I'd share some photos from our around the house today.

2009-04-01T18:38:00.009+11:00

Slowly making progress on the backyard...grass is starting to knit together nicely (and no wonder with the weird weather we have been having, torrential down pour one day and 35 degrees the next!). I have finished the garden edging and partly prepared the soil for planting. I've actually enjoyed working outside these past couple of weekends, it makes a nice change from the never ending painting of the inside...which still isn't finished!

The arch is going in this weekend and I plan on growing either climbing roses or jasmine over it, something similar to the last photo.

2009-03-29T19:55:00.007+11:00

Am in need of your opinions please on changing the door knobs on my kitchen cupboards. Have had the gold ones for the past 6 years and feel like a change...so here are photos of the original ones

please let me know what you think.

2009-02-14T21:30:00.021+11:00

I have a thing for plates on walls...doesn't everyone?? Ok maybe not but anyway I decided to browse through google images and came across some of these beautiful images of plate art.

Canadian House & Home

apartmenttherapy.com

unknown source
And have a look at this...amazing. This is located Viceroy Hotel in Santa Monica, CA using Spode.

Images 1,4&5 from cottagenest.blogspot.com

And some of my own plates. The best idea I came across sometime ago with hanging these plates is to lay out a huge piece of paper on the floor or table and lay the plates in the pattern you wish, you can then rearrange till you get the right look, then draw around each plate and make a small mark where the hanger is positioned.

Then sticky tape/blue tac the paper to the wall, making sure it is centered and level. I then got the nail part of the hanger and hammered each nail where I had previously marked. Remove the paper from the wall and you are left with a nail in each place you need to put the hangers. Then simply hang your plates in their spots. It was so simple and the plates are in the perfect spot without the need for multiple holes in the walls!

And just because I haven't posted a photo of Ryan for awhile, here is my favourite current photo.

2009-01-31T13:09:00.010+11:00

I really should be out building my new gardens but it is sooo hot out there at the moment so here I am having a lovely look around blog land and all the lovely new discoveries I've made...boy there are some very talented people out there! Just thought I'd throw a few more photos in of my little cottage. Everything has taken on a whole different look with the new colour on the floors.

This is photo is at the request of my mother as she can't seem to take good close up shots of things with her camera...the door to my bedroom will not stay open no matter what he have tried to do to it so my mother made me this little door stop and also this handy door slam saver (or as my darling husband called it "a door bra" hmmm!!). Gee it's great having such a talented mother. Now to just sweet talk her into making something for my Coleman walking doll to wear...poor thing is completely naked except for shoes!

2009-01-25T15:24:00.014+11:00

Playing around with the front lounge room after the floors were done. My shopping list for this room (so far!)...rug, paint coffee table/trunk white, curtains, lamp and aubusson cushions for lounge.

I've moved all my blue and white into the one cabinet.

My mother-in-law gave me this cute little cup to pass down to Ryan. It was given to her father when he was little. I love knowing the history of things and came across this site all about the artist, Gladys Peto. Wonderful thing the internet!

It is Australia Day tomorrow and we will be spending time up at the river which has become our favourite little spot on this day for the past few years. Happy Australia Day everyone...

2009-01-23T18:37:00.006+11:00

Look what finally got done this week...although it turned out nothing like we imagined! A lot darker than we planned but I guess these things happen. Probably a bit of a shock as well as we have lived with the yellowing floors for the past 8 years...now to just move everything back in (maybe some rugs might in order now!).

And this is mostly for my mum...I have been after an antique doll for quiet sometime but something a little different...so here she is, an early 1900's Coleman Walking Doll also known as a Birdcage doll. She needs a little bit of a clean up and yes...a new arm maybe but I think she's pretty unique. The guy I bought this from in America on ebay was not a happy chappy...he was rather shocked at how much I got her for! Now on the search for some lovely old clothes.

2009-01-14T18:59:00.016+11:00

I really liked the idea of going back over the year and showing some of the before and afters so I went back through some photos and found these, just a few of the things I've completed in 2008. Although some rooms still aren't exactly "completed"...need a rug here and there and few more bits and pieces...but I think that will probably be never ending!! Actually makes you feel kind of good going back and seeing what we've achieved.

And this just started...the dreaded backyard. Turf was put down this past weekend and we will be trying to get the gardens done this coming weekend. But what an improvement already.

And our first vegie patch...although I think we planted a bit too many in this one little garden and it has gone crazy. We have planted a passion fruit vine to grow up over the lattice.

2009-01-04T11:53:00.008+11:00

Another Christmas over and truth be told I couldn't wait to pack up all the Christmas decorations this year. I normally wait till the 2nd January but just felt like I was over it this year. But I do love the fact that once the decorations are down it's like a clean slate and I love redecorating and moving furniture around. Fun fun...will take some photos of the lounge soon for you as I have added a few bits and pieces although still have to get the floors done so don't want to put to much in this room as I'll just have to move it all back out again.

Photo of my son and niece on Christmas Day (and playing with my new camera...love this shot)

The newest members of our family...T-Rex (black) and Frenzy (grey).
They are Velvet Rex Rabbits and are exceptionally soft.
I ended up making another one of these for my other niece...
the colours match her bedroom perfectly.

This table is one of my latest garage sale purchase for $13

and this is one of my latest ebay purchases... loving vintage globes at the moment and hoping to use them in Ryan's new room...although still trying to source a vintage looking world map/wallpaper for his room...if anyone knows where I could get one???

ahhh...blue and white...still a favourite and something I always seem to go back to.

I have ended up using it in the lounge room (photos to come!!)

2008-12-16T19:50:00.008+11:00

Some photos from around our home...

Stockings made by my very talented mother

My newest Santas...and some homemade artwork

a little something I made for my niece for christmas...yes I have a thing for butterflys at the moment!

another handmade present by my mum for my son to give to his other Nana.

2008-11-15T20:29:00.005+11:00

Ok I've been a little slack on this blogging thing but it has been hard to find the time really. I have been getting home from work and painting like a mad woman. Finally finished the front lounge room this week and today moved the lounge back in and a few bits and pieces. On my wish list for this room is some Aubusson cushions, Aubusson rug, new coffee table and some additional seating like two single chairs. But so far, working with what I've got, I'm quiet happy with it.

The floors still have to be done yet so won't put too much back in this room until they are refinished.

My dining room is also taking shape, just need things for the walls and maybe a rug under the table. This room joins the lounge room above.

Although Halloween isn't a big thing here in Australia, my sister and I decided to dress the kids up for Halloween this year. My very talented mother made them each a little felt pumpkin bag and also got lollypops and covered them with white tissue paper and turned them into little ghosts, they were gorgeous and we got many comments on them. They had an absolute ball, even getting money from one of the neighbours! They then had a sleep over, if you could call it that, as they talked and giggled for most of the night.

Hope everyone has a great weekend...

2008-10-12T19:18:00.007+11:00

Gee time flies when you are having fun! Well not so much fun having to change jobs but am so glad I had to go through the mess to come out the other side and find a great job without all the stress and pressure that I've had to deal with for the past 16 years and it is also only 5 minutes from home. It has been lovely to be able to come home and spend more time with Ryan and Hubby and especially now since Day Light Saving has started.

We have almost finished the formal lounge room...this room has taken quiet awhile as we discovered there had been previous water damage to the ceiling and the previous owner had tried to do a dodgy patch job. So photos will be forthcoming (very soon...I hope!).

On another note I went to my first "live" auction up at Mudgee and it was so much fun. These are just some of my purchases on the day. We are already planning for the next Auction to be held in March next year...*note to self...take trailer!!!

I think these are called Shoe Stays...I only wanted this particular one but ended up with 5 different types in the lot

The slipper chair was a spur of the moment (or should I say "heat of the moment") buy but plan on getting it recovered and put in my new bedroom.

I've wanted one of these hat boxes/travel cases for awhile...this one is in near perfect condition including the original luggage tag.

I actually bid on this old typewriter only because no one else had bid on it so when the Auctioneer offered it up for $5 I put my number up without even thinking...then someone yelled out that it was worth a bit of money so someone else had the next bid at $10 and I quickly put my hand up again (hands have a habit of doing that in Auctions!!) and won it for $15. I came home and did some research on it and it turns out to be a 1929 Royal Typewriter made in New York with an approx. value of $500 US!

I got a few other bits and pieces as well but just had so much fun...although sat there for 7 hours straight (because I didn't want to miss anything!)...another note to self...pack picnic lunch for next time.

Hope everyone has a great week...

2008-09-15T09:28:00.006+10:00

Woohoo...the mirror is up, the towel hooks are up and the shower screen is in place....we have a fully functioning ensuite at last!!! OK so I'm excited...well it has been just over a year since the building works were completed...can't rush these things people!

And did you happen to notice the 3 towels hanging up...this is because I not only have to share it with my hubby but with the little munchkin as well...who before this absolutely refused to have a shower (read screaming matches) - only baths for him. Now I can't have a shower on my own without him wanting to have one as well!

2008-09-13T12:00:00.000+10:00

How fun...saw this on My Romantic Home so had to have a play....so if you have a bit of spare time go have some fun!

2008-09-12T16:54:00.014+10:00

I have been wanting to stay at this place for the longest time...they even allow weddings there...hmmm wonder if I could talk hubby into renewing our vows?!!! ha ha.

2008-09-07T19:46:00.002+10:00

To the best Dad in the world...Happy Fathers Day...I hope you had a lovely day. Here he is with his little hobby...his Standard 10 at a recent All British car show.

My weekend away in Mudgee was absolutely wonderful. So relaxing and with just the two of us the time just seemed to go forever. We wandered around the town, practiced our "drive-bys" and just generally enjoyed the down time. My favourite place was actually on our way back home, we took a little detour and went through a little country town called Rylstone...almost every building was gorgeous even the Police Station was a beautiful old 1800's building. We were amazed at the Churches and the Train Stations...they used to build to the most stunning and ornate buildings.
This was the place we stayed at, the Cobb & Co Boutique Hotel which I highly recommend. It was right in the heart of town so we could walk everywhere and they also have a restaurant & bar.

2008-08-30T21:04:00.006+10:00

Just wanted to show the progress of my new master bedroom...still needs decorating but finally getting somewhere....

The wall colour is darker than in it shows in the photos but I'm very happy with how it's all coming together.

2008-08-27T20:15:00.000+10:00

Our ensuite is almost finished, just waiting on the shower screen to be fitted so until I have a full "after" photo for you I thought I'd share this little idea for our vanity. I purchased an old pot cupboard and a separate basin for the top.

This is the before of the cupboard which I later decided to paint as it clashed with the tiles. Our plumber just hooked everything up and it is now a proper working basin.

I also got this for our towels to hang on instead of the usual towel rail.

2008-08-21T12:20:00.014+10:00

Yes time for a change...and also decided on a whole new name for my blog as I haven't been happy with Shabby Windsor Cottage...originally when I started this blog I was all about Shabby Chic and just loved the style however whilst doing all these renovations and basically getting to start from scratch in some rooms and use what I have in others I have come to discover that I don't actually feel that it is for me...although I do still love to see other people's homes decorated in this style and do have a few elements of Shabby Chic in my home.

I guess I'm just decorating to what I like and mixing it up a little...vintage, french country, cottage whatever takes my fancy and just trying to put it altogether. So hope you like my new look (not sure how long this one will last) and the above makes some sense!

And because I don't like posting without a photo...thought I'd share what my holiday cottage is going to look like one day...he he. These come from the movie The Holiday and this was Kate Winslet's little home. It is a must see movie (even just for the decor!). I know everyone has probably seen these a million times but I love them.

(photos are from Cote De Texas not sure of original source)

2008-08-19T13:26:00.011+10:00

Just gathering ideas for our lounge room. The first picture below is some inspiration for this room.

I had plans to get our existing lounge slip covered, however I just discovered that it would be cheaper for me to buy 2 new ones!

Love the Aubusson style rugs and pillows pictured below, going with the blue tones and I have an existing storage box that I will paint and put little legs on as pictured below and use this for the coffee table. I will also use my existing display cabinet and am on the look out for an old side table/cabinet for an empty corner.

The walls are painted in my new favourite colour, Dulux Hogs Bristle with White Watsonia above the picture rail.

(source unknown sorry)

Antoinette Needlepoint

Ebay

Antoinette Needlepoint

2008-08-17T19:39:00.003+10:00

A quick before and after on the buffet in the dining room. We have also painted over the yellow walls and used Hogs Bristle (my current favourite colour).

2008-07-30T09:02:00.012+10:00

I did not realise how much time has flown by since I last posted...sorry about that! So much has been happening around here that it would make for a very long (and probably borish post) to tell you all about it. But suffice to say that things "have" been happening, blinds are all installed (photos to come later), carpet in new master bedroom is being layed tomorrow so will updated with photos on that as well.

But the most important thing about this past month was that my baby turned 4 on Sunday...I know everyone says that they can't believe how fast their little ones grow up but seriously...it is mind blowing how fast these past 4 years have gone and I am more in love with him everyday.

And of course the older they get the cheekier they get!!

This was his 4th birthday cake as he requested...Optimus Prime (Transformers) cake from his Aunty Lisa.

I promise I will be back with house photo updates....promise.

2008-06-30T14:44:00.001+10:00

For my birthday in April my boss gave me a "weekend away" on him so I have been searching for somewhere to stay. Whilst searching on the Internet looking for B&B's or Cottages to stay at I came across these...how gorgeous are they? They are located in Asheville in the United States (sorry not sure where this is?).

Biltmore Village Inn

1899 Black Walnut B&B

1899 Wright Inn

Hmmm...now to decide which one to stay at....think I'll go with Wright Inn.

Off to pack my bags.

2008-06-17T09:12:00.000+10:00

So this is what I've been up to the last week or so...painting, painting and more painting...and still not finished. Although don't think that will be possible for a long time yet!!

I decided to tackle the dining & lounge room as I was definitely over the yellow. Here is the mess we have been living with! I do love this new colour, although it doesn't come up very well with my camera. It is called Hogs Bristle by Dulux and everything seems to go well with it.
Also thought I would show some before and afters of our extension/renovation of the outside as I don't think I have put them on here before. There is still a way to go mind you. I just love seeing before & afters on peoples blogs...

I didn't get to take a photo of the back "before" they started demolishing it but basically it just had a big covered deck coming straight out of the back (coming out of the french doors stepping straight onto the deck) and it also had an outside laundry which is now inside.

We removed the old garage as it was on a major lean and made of asbestos (which my darling father & husband removed - carefully!!). We are all amazed that it was actually still standing as there were only 3 posts still touching the ground. It was replaced by a slightly bigger than single garage (and not for use by the car...oh no, it presently holds all the stuff we can't fit into the house!!).

And to finish up with my gorgeous little man...and yay he finally fits his Thomas jumper that my Nan made him. This is an extra special jumper and a long time in the making. Thanks Nan xx.

2008-06-10T14:04:00.000+10:00

I have always been into "drive bys" and on some recent blogs I have noticed that I'm not alone! We usually go out for drives up the mountains or just around the local area and "sticky beak" at all the lovely houses. I have never thought to actually take my camera with me though so I decided to give it a try this past weekend and take a few shots.

Only a few turned out and I also felt nervous like I was doing something very naughty! Anyway these are a few of the better shots I got. The first one is just around the corner from my house and the other two are about 10 minutes away (they are set quiet far back from the road so hard to get a good shot).

I will try and get some more next drive by...there are so many gorgeous old homes around our area and would love to share.

2008-05-28T10:28:00.000+10:00

Walking into my parents on Sunday and looking on their kitchen table I thought I must have walked into an antique store! They had just been to a huge Auction held in Mudgee and seemed to have bid on an awful lot of stuff. And the best part...most of it was for me. It felt like Christmas had come early. I got this lovely cup & saucer.

These beautiful glasses which I can just see some lovely desserts being served up.

And my favourite (as I am very partial to anything blue & white) are these. Don't they look lovely in my kitchen. Along with all the other changes going on around here, I'm also thinking of changing all the door knobs on the kitchen cabinets to chrome and also the power point covers...what do you think?

My very talented mother made me some place mats in shabby chic fabrics which turned out lovely.

2008-05-21T10:44:00.000+10:00

Just came across another home to add to my "when I win the lottery" file!! This is located in the most beautiful suburb of Beecroft and was built in 1895. It is for sale by "expressions of interest"...!!!

www.realestate.com.au

2008-05-19T12:12:00.000+10:00

Winter seems to have come early (ok only by 2 weeks) but it has been getting very fresh...makes me miss my fireplace! Snuggling up in front of it watching TV and with Ryan being a winter baby, having the fire was so lovely, my husband would make sure it was stacked up so that when I got up in the wee hours of the night/morning it would be roaring and I would sit in front of it and feed Ryan.

So I am on the look out for a "fake" fireplace (an electric one) to go in our new living room...one that looks like this...so if anyone knows where to get one please let me know.

Yesterday I finally got to Me & Mo's so I could use my gift vouchers...I could seriously have brought everything in the shop...there was nothing in there that I didn't like! I was so overwhelmed that I couldn't pick so decided to come back another time (but not before I got this little gem...I love these at the moment).

So yesterday I decided to start another project (yes I should learn to finish one before starting another!) but I was so sick of looking at the sideboard and decided to get started on it. These are the before photos and will update once finished (started sanding before I remembered to take photos). There are little drawers that fit into the little square holes. And you guessed it...it is being painted White Watsonia (did you guess right Mum?)

That then left a big empty space so I moved the kitchen hutch into the dining room for now and put back all my blue and white china which had been packed away since the extensions were started. The walls in here are yellow but will soon be painted the same as the living area. This is the original part of the house and was painted when we first moved in 7 years ago so long overdue for some freshness. I really do need to get started on these rooms as we are having the floors redone and it would be wiser to paint now.

Yep plenty of stuff happening around here...oh and we finished off the first full coat of our bedroom. One more coat to go and then all the trim work to be done, carpet...oh and yes - the ensuite (you can't rush these things you know!!)

Here's Ryan and his teacher at swimming on Saturday...

He has been coming out with the funniest things lately...yesterday when I was rearranging furniture and cleaning I discovered some marks on the wall so went and got the Gumption - he says to me "is that Gumption" and I say "yes it is" and he says "good 'ol Gumption hey"...like a little old man!

Also yesterday morning whilst taking off his nighttime nappy I rolled it up and he says "wrap it up I'll take two"...where did that come from? Maybe a little too much TV for this kid!

2008-05-14T09:27:00.000+10:00

I know I'm a little late but Happy Mothers Day...I had the best day starting out with McDonald's Pancakes in bed followed by a wonderful picnic at Wisemans Ferry (even if the weather kept threatening us!). And shared it with the best Mum in the world of course....

Thought I would share this poem with you.

Before I was a Mum…
I made and ate hot meals.
I had unstained clothing.
I had quiet conversations on the phone.

Before I was a Mum,
I slept as late as I wanted
And never worried about how late I got into bed.
I brushed my hair & my teeth everyday.

Before I was a Mum,
I cleaned my house each day.
I never tripped over toys or forgot words of lullabies.

Before I was a Mum,
I did not worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mum
I had never been puked on
Pooped on
Spat on
Chewed on
Peed on
Or pinched by tiny fingers

Before I was a Mum I had complete control of:
My thoughts
My body
And my mind
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mum
I never held down a screaming child so that doctors could do tests
Or give shots.
I never looked in teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mum,
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn’t want to put it down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I could not stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mum.

Before I was a Mum,
I did not know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I did not know how special if could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I did not know that bond between a Mother and her child.
I did not know that something so small could make me feel so important.

Before I was a Mum
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay
I had never known the warmth
The joy
The love
The heartache
The wonder
Or the satisfaction of being a Mum.I did not know I was capable of feeling so much before I was a Mum

(author unknown to me)

2008-04-28T12:37:00.001+10:00

To me (well for last week anyway). We have had a birthday, Anzac long weekend and our 7th wedding anniversary just gone (although almost forgot the wedding anniversary which is a bit sad).

Of course I was spoilt again...the lovely card above is from my sister and she also gave me a gift voucher to a store I have been dying to do to since it opened.

This cute little card is from my niece Kaitlyn...got into her mothers scrap booking stash I think!!! Thanks Kaitlyn xx

My parents also gave me a gift card for this store...I can not wait! Mum also made me this gorgeous scarf (although a bit hard to photograph). Very shabby chic indeed...
Finally got around to painting the feature wall in my bedroom and absolutely loved it...so much so that now we have decided to do the whole room in it!!! We then started going through the rest of the original part of the house that needs repainting and decorating and decided to do the dining room in this same colour as well. It doesn't happen often but I love when something comes out the way you had planned it would look in your head!!! This photo really doesn't do the colour justice...

I have also managed to talk my hubby into painting our bed white (I'll do the painting - he just had to agree)...

Another project almost completed is the frame below...I'm going to try something I found on this lovely blog Romantic Home...although not as ornate as her mirror but this might be a good little starting project to see how it turns out. I was planning on putting this frame on the wall and placing some plates inside? Will see how it goes once the dining room is painted.

On Saturday we took Ryan to the Sydney Aquarium which was a whole heap of fun...we could have spent hours in the underwater tunnel watching the sharks and giant sting rays. It was very hard to get any decent photos through the glass, especially with my camera playing up, but managed to get these few.

I love the first two photos...hard to believe but there was actually a glass wall in between Ryan and the Seal.

2008-04-12T19:51:00.000+10:00

OK here is an update on what has been going on around here...not much really!! Have been stuck in a rut the last 2 weeks or so as so much needs to be done I've been totally overwhelmed. I need to go back to my basics and concentrate on one room at a time. Only problem is that I keep coming up with ideas for other rooms that are yet to be started on...so here was my saviour...my mother made me a "padfolio" shabby chic style and it has now become my ideas journal so whenever I'm in the shower and come up with all these brilliant ideas (which is when I do my best thinking!!) or lying awake in bed thinking way too much I can just jot down my thoughts/ideas etc. in this...pretty neat hey?

I have managed to complete one door!! Yep you heard right one door only...each coat takes about 48 hours to dry so needless to say this ONE door has taken a long time...but certainly finishes off that side of the room...now just to get the blinds and the family room is finished.

I won this little gem off eBay a few weeks ago but it had wallpaper glued to the top which was just a lovely touch!! So that came off, sanded it back and a few coats of paint later...taa daa...

I have been looking for one of these for ages and was so happy when I won it and all for only $24.

Some photos of my gorgeous little man...I have been trying to take more photos of him as he is just growing up so fast (and also getting cheekier..if there is such a word?). I can't believe he will be 4 this year. We have also started talking about having another one but might wait till this one starts school (and I get my drivers licence!!).

I must be bored!!

2008-03-27T11:22:00.000+11:00

98 words

Speedtest

Hippity Hoppity

2008-03-24T13:51:00.000+11:00

The Easter Bunny definitely came to our house...and we have the photos to prove it! The look on Ryan's face when he saw these footprints was priceless.
He had his first Easter Bonnet parade on Thursday at preschool and they put on an afternoon tea and Easter egg hunt for the kids. Unfortunately I forgot to take the camera!

The Easter Bunny turned up and upon closer inspection by Mr 3 year old he informed me that it was a "fake Easter bunny" so I asked how he could tell and he said "it has man eyes"...I couldn't stop laughing...I didn't even notice that you could see right through the gauze to the person inside the suit. He refused to go near it after that.

Last Sunday we visited my parents for Dad's birthday and had a great time painting some eggs, feeding the kookaburras and jumping on the trampoline with the hose on. My adorable nan and pop were also there and had such a lovely day with the whole family.

Nan has been diagnosed with mild alzheimers recently which has shaken us all up a bit. She had a really good day on Sunday. Mum and Dad have taken them away for the long weekend to Melbourne to visit my brother (who is stationed at HMAS Cerberus) so I hope they have a lovely time.

This past Saturday saw us venture into the city to see the Dinosaur exhibition at the Australian Museum. It was such a great day and Ryan had an absolute blast with all the skeletons and dinosaurs they had on display. They have a fantastic kids space with so many things to touch and feel, although he kept asking who had shot all the animals and why. We then headed over to Hyde Park for a picnic lunch. Catching the train was the best way to go...no stressful city driving or trying to find a car park!

Absolutely nothing has been done to the house the past few weekends but will hopefully get stuck into it soon. I did manage get some sample pots of the paint for the master bedroom though.

2008-03-06T13:41:00.000+11:00

Help...I'm stuck in two minds...the colour on the walls in this picture was my original idea for our bedroom...what do you think - go for the lighter colour (which will blend in with the family room) or go the slightly darker tone?

How cute are those little beds??

2008-03-06T12:37:00.000+11:00

Just a quick post today...I have found the inspiration for my new bedroom (thanks to http://www.chriskauffman.blogspot.com/). Chris discovered this wonderful site http://www.chicshack.net/. They have the most beautful pictures in their gallery section so go and check them out...

The walls are basically the same colour as my family room but I think this should be ok as they will seem to flow as the bedroom is off the family room. My bed is currently black wrought iron so will be attacking that with some white paint very soon and my chandeleir is already hung and I painted my bedside drawers white some time ago! Can't wait to get stuck in and finish it off now...

2008-02-25T09:36:00.000+11:00

Have been doing a fair bit around here lately in terms of the house and my jewellery making. These earrings are for mum to match a necklace I made her and the bracelet is for my sister. She requested lime green and I threw in a bit of pink as well...actually want to keep it for myself...maybe have to make a twin. I did make myself a nice simple pearl necklace though with a lovely little diamond clasp. You will have to excuse the photos as my camera is dying...

We have just started on our new master bedroom, washing the walls down and filling all the nail holes. My little man was a big help (with getting water everywhere!) and now it is already for the undercoat to go on one night this week. Am yet to pick the colour for the feature wall to go behind the bedhead so might go looking today.

This is the wall I am going to put the bed head against...

The french doors that lead out to the back veranda...

The door on the left is the ensuite and door on the right is the walk in robe (the other door is the entrance door to the room from the family room).

My little man has been a little more co-operative lately when the camera comes out but this is now what I get...striking a pose...his cousin would be so proud??

Hubby and I have found our dream houses (for when we win the lottery, which will probably be never so seeing we don't actually buy any tickets!). The "dolls house" is in the most beautiful little town of Bilpin (about 30 minutes from us) down a little country lane (read dirt road) and has the most spectacular grounds and view. I have already decided on the colours we are going to paint the outside as I don't like the brown shingles. And hubby decided that we could build some little cabins on the property and start a Bed and Breakfast. It appeared to be empty so we drove right down the driveway up to the front of the house. It is up for Auction and for more photos go here http://www.raywhite.com/cgi-bin/rsearch?a=o&id=104265410&fmt=&header=&c=18150793&cc=au&p=10&s=nsw&t=res&tm=1203894471

This one is only 5 minutes from our place. The photos seriously do not do it justice...it is truly something you have to see for yourself as the grounds (or should I say acres & acres) are magnificent. It has been set up for polo matches with beautiful little grandstands and horse stables. I can definitely see Princes William & Harry playing polo here. Even the fencing is amazing. This one is not for sale although when that money from the lottery comes our way I will be knocking on their door!! In the second photo...see the lawn...well that is what the entire acreage is like.

Guess I better stop drooling, go buy a lottery ticket and get some work done...have a great day x

2008-02-06T13:50:00.000+11:00

Two posts in two days...what is going on!

Just wanted to share this little cottage I found here http://www.cottageliving.com/. I can picture myself living in this very easily....

And some inspiration for my lounge room makeover (all photos courtesy of www.housetohome.co.uk Not sure on colouring for this room yet but I like the light and fresh look in these rooms.

And once all the work on the house is finished...I will need one of these in the back yard.

Busy weekend for the Little Man

2008-02-05T10:10:00.000+11:00

What a weekend the Little Man had...first up was our trip to the Blue Mountains. Funny story to go with this actually...we heard about a great weekend in Winter last year that Scenic World were holding where the kids could feel like they were in the snow. Well this sounded great seeing as the kids had never seen snow and even I had only seen it once. So off we go, my sister, niece, little man and I for the hour and a half drive up the Mountains to see this "spectacular" snow event.

It was bitterly cold but we were all so excited that this didn't bother us. We arrived to NO SNOW and a few little tents which held a colouring in competition, face painting and a "find the prize" game. To say we were disappointed was an understatment and everyone else was complaining as well. Then they announced that there was going to be a "snow blizzard" starting at 11:00am so we waited for that to happen and guess what....it was just giant fans blowing detergent bubbles!!! Can you believe it! After hyping the kids up to see the snow we left very disappointed with the whole thing and then drove the hour and a half back.

Anyway, got back to tell everyone about our day and Mum decided to write a complaint to the place and a few days later we received a family pass to go back up there and have full use of the Skyway etc. So this is what we did on Saturday. However, when we turned the corner just before the place it was blanketed in complete white! My sister and I just looked at each other and decided we were never meant to come back to this place.

We proceeded anyway and thought what the heck the pass was free and we could still have fun. Our first ride was on the Skyway and going over was still very white. We could see a little as we went through the cloud and then whilst we were waiting for the return trip, all of a sudden the cloud just lifted and we had a perfectly clear sky! It was amazing and needless to say we had a faboulous rest of the day!

This is when the cloud started lifting

At least he isn't scared of heights...here is the little man looking through the floor of the skyway
My niece, Little Man and a big Kangaroo

The Three Sisters

The little man then had a sleep over with his cousin and on the Sunday the kids were taken out on another secret adventure day by my Mum and Dad. They caught the ferry into the city and to Darling Harbour and went to the IMAX cinema and saw the Dinosaur movie in 3D. Mum and Dad said it was hilarious watching the kids trying to "catch" things as they came out of the screen.

I must say I have never seen Mum and Dad looking so exhausted after their big adventure! But my Little Man certainly had a lot to tell at Pre-School yesterday.

2008-01-25T10:06:00.000+11:00

January (as well as the first week of February) is our birthday month, so every weekend has been taken up with some sort of party or get-together. This, of course, has left little or no time for anything to be done around our home. I have so much stuff in my head of all the things that need doing around here...think I better start making a list! So much needs doing I just don't know where to start and it is making my head spin. We seriously need to finish off the extension, that is a priority and get the outside finished. I am really sick of looking at Shrek's Swamp (our backyard after the bobcat dug it all up)!

One thing I really really want to get done is the kitchen floor...which I need your help with...at the moment it has been sanded back to the bare floorboards. When the extension was put in we decided that we would make the new floorboards go through to the eating area just off the kitchen and when we could afford we would then re-do the entire house...but until such time we are stuck with what we have got. My thought was to put down some sort of lino/tile as a temporary measure. I had the idea of black and white tiles but not sure whether a lighter colour would be better? I do have the 2 new single lounges in black and white and I'm also getting some black and white cushions to put on the chairs in the photos at the dining table we use which is next to the kitchen? So what do you think? My kitchen is also very small...see photos below..(bearing in mind that the wall down the right hand side hasn't finished being painted yet)

I do love the black and white and am very into that at the moment however I think it might be a bit too much in this small space? Or if anyone has any other cheap simple ideas...please HELP....

On another note, look what I grew! And they won't stop flowering!

And some recent additions to my little collection of cups and saucers. The dark blue one is from my sweet little mother picked up on her travels around New South Wales and the light blue flower one is from my grandmother's collection.

I also took a photo of the crystals that I received for Christmas from my brother...I have had many comments about them (although they do look better in real life).

Tomorrow is Australia Day (and another family birthday!) which means we get a long weekend. We are heading up to the Grose River with my family for a picnic and some swimming. We did this last year and had a fantastic day...especially the kids (and big kids!) and we will also get to met my sisters boyfriend...should be a fun day all round.

Happy Australia Day everyone...

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-01-15T15:14:00.001+11:00

Happy happy

2008-01-07T21:15:00.000+11:00

Not that he reads this, but a big Happy Birthday to my husband today. We had a lovely little party yesterday for him and today he decided to take the day off as he did not feel that it was right to have his first day back at work be his birthday as well. So he just pottered around the house...oh and brought a Caravan!!!

Yes that's right...we have ourselves a 1977 12ft Caravan. It is the cutest little thing and I think it is perfect for the three of us. We got it from our next door neighbours who have owned it since 1977 (brand new) and for the past 8 years it has been stored in their garage and it is in perfect "Retro" condition. The only thing I will be changing is ripping out the carpet as they said it got too cold for them with just the lino and also changing the retro curtains (which I might add look new!). Can't wait for all the adventures we are going to have. But we decided that our first little trip has to be to Huskisson - our favourite little spot down the South Coast. Will take some photos and post later.

I have made two necklaces recently, mostly with my favourite thing...pearls.
I have also finally completed my hall stand and here are the after photos (I seem to have misplaced the before photos!!! great).

Just photos today...

2007-12-31T14:56:00.000+11:00

Don't you just love the look on his face...photos from Christmas day.

and his new trampoline from Dhama & Gregdad (under construction - it now has sides but he just couldn't wait). You will also have to excuse the "shrek swamp" that is our backyard at the moment - it is also still under construction!!

taking his cousin Emily for a spin...

wait for it...

2007-12-20T20:17:00.000+11:00

Well here it is...the only photo I got to take of Ryan all day...but it is the first photo I have of him with Santa since he was 5 months old. Although I think Santa took him by surprise and spun him around to face the camera before he could protest.

And as predicted he didn't perform at his Christmas concert. Just a few handshakes with the jingle bells he was holding and that was it and even then I had to go and sit down with him. Oh well maybe next year.

Cheeky little monkey

2007-12-19T08:52:00.000+11:00

Feels like I haven't taken photos of the little man for a long time...funny how everyday there was a photo when he was born but lately there is only a photo on special occassions....and this is probably the reason why!!! This is what he called "serious" posing...his Aunty Sheree would be proud.

And these are the bookmarks I made as Christmas presents for his Teachers at PreSchool. He has his first Christmas Concert on tomorrow and is supposed to be singing Jingle Bells and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Hope to get some good shots and will post after.

2007-12-12T14:04:00.000+11:00

Not much happening around here (well anything exciting anyway!). Am really starting to stress out about Christmas cause I still have so much shopping to do. My always wonderful Mother offered to come and look after the little man on Sunday so we can go and finish it off.

All my jewellery making tools arrived (from ebay!) and I also went into Richmond bead shop and purchased some gorgeous beads and have made 3 bracelets. The one in the photo is what I made for my sister's birthday that was on the 4th December. She absolutely loved it although I had to make it smaller. Was very happy with it myself being my first attempt at bracelets. Since then, as I mentioned, I have made 2 more.

And Nan loved her necklace as well, although even more so once she realised I had made it myself.

This craft is very addictive!

Have now started working from home until at least February when the new office is sorted and ready. Has been so nice not to be rushed in the morning taking the little man to school and I get to spend some time with him there rather than dumping and leaving him.

He has been coming out with the funniest little comments lately.

I was stressing over something the other day and he comes and says "come into my room and relax and have a snack".

Then this morning he comes and asks me if he could "look up dotcomdotau (.com.au) on my puter" pretty scary at 3 years of age!

This is a favourite photo of mine with my little man and niece.

Well not much else happening (except the stressing!) so if I don't get on here again before Christmas - Merry Christmas everyone....

(source: http://www.notebookmagazine.com.au/)

Lots going on

2007-11-29T15:08:00.000+11:00

Will have to catch up on a bit in this post...first things first...we have finally moved into our new family room!! Yippee...here are few photos of the room so far which I'm very happy with...just need to get a rug and a few other bits and pieces and need a lamp for that little table in the corner. And of course I want to get plantation shutters for the big window behind the lounge. The thing hanging over the chair below is a christmas wall hanging that mum made me which will go up this weekend along with the christmas tree and lights.

Hubby has bought my christmas present...early...these are 1872 antique prints from Alice in Wonderland. Thought they would look lovely in black frames for the new family room.

And my new collection has begun...I am collecting old books! I especially love when they have inscriptions in the front covers with dates. A lot of these old books don't seem to have publishing dates so the only way I have been able to date them is by the inscriptions. My oldest is the Robinson Crusoe. It is in excellent condition considering it is 130 years old! Although not a very good photo but you can just make out the date Christmas 1878. They are so interesting and will look lovely in my new book shelf.

I have finally got my laundry powder tin and will try and finish off some more of the laundry this weekend and post some photos. Just need to paint the shelf and hang a few things up. Although STILL waiting for the tiling to be finished!!

And, because I know that my Nan dosen't get on the internet (or any computer for that matter) I can show you the necklace I made her for her birthday...in her favourite colour of course...purple.

Well that will have to do it for now...

New hobby

2007-11-17T15:08:00.000+11:00

I have started going to beading classes of a Wednesday evening with my mother-in-law and, just recently my sister-in-law so thought I would show off my first creations...although not very good photos and they do look so much better in real life (even if I do say so myself!! he he). This is my very first one and you can wear it with or without the heart...it is made with grey pearls and little silver spacers in between.

This one I made with jade and swarovski crystals, the second photo shows up the crystals better.
and this one was using 2 different shades of purple pearls with crystals and silver beads and spacers in between

Today I discovered a beading shop in Richmond, I could have spent hours in there. This is the little stash I came home with.

On another note, I received my free shaggy quilt last week. This is it on my bed and also a close up. I have been looking for a queen size one to go in my new bedroom (when it is finally finished). I absolutely love these quilts. Am thinking of doing my room with a feature wall behind the bed in a deep beige/caramel the rest in white watsonia and then pinks/florals on the bed.

Well I must fly, off to a BBQ at the in-laws then home to bed ready for a lovely day tomorrow in Windsor at the markets and the new Shabby Chic shop, Oh Faux Real and fish and chips on the river with Mum & Dad.

Photos

2007-11-14T10:19:00.001+11:00

Ok so I thought I would post some photos of my purchases on Sunday (so seeing I ranted for so long yesterday and had no photos to show) so far and also a photo of my very very expensive chandelier (a whole $18.00!!).

Warning...big rant about Ikea ahead...

2007-11-13T09:02:00.000+11:00

Well where do I start about Ikea! Was so looking forward to getting my lounge and other stuff and even planned a big day out with the whole family, mum, dad, sister, niece, husband and son. So before I left I just thought I would check with Ikea to make sure they did have the lounge I wanted in stock and the lady said sorry it would not be in the warehouse till next weekend. So a little disappointed there, rang Dad to tell him not to worry about the trailer and that we would just get the other stuff that would fit in both cars.

So off we went had a lovely look around and picked out everything I wanted and Dad suggested I ask about the 3 seater lounge being out of stock. Well I asked and....guess what....they had 5 in stock!!! The sales person said that they are told to tell customers that if they have any less than 5 in stock that they are "out of stock" - get that!!! I even told her I was going that very day to pick it up. So poor (darling wonderful) dad went all the way back home and got the trailer.

We got over that and went on our merry way (which was lovely I must say) through the rest of the shop and down to pick up the self serve items...as you can guess - both items I was after were not in stock!!! So another disappointment but we moved on through the check outs and went down to the warehouse end put the order in and were told 20 minutes wait. By this time Dad had arrived back but they would not let him park so he had to keep driving around and around.

After 25 minutes (yes getting a little impatient) I went to enquire what was happening and how much longer and they said that they picked the wrong lounges and so had to wait longer. Dad ended up sweet talking the security guy to letting him park which was a small blessing. In the end we waited about an hour! Finally got everything out and hit the road back home.

Quickly organised a BBQ for everyone (lunch at 4:00pm!!!) and had our first meal out on our new deck and table & chairs, which was really nice. And after all that, then forgot to give mum her necklace I made!!!

So there you have it...our wonderful Sunday Ikea trip. And we still have to go back and get the rest of the items that were out of stock!!! arrgghh....

Almost there...

2007-10-28T20:39:00.001+11:00

Well I had grand plans of having the new living room finished today but alas it was not meant to be. My hands were starting to ache from holding the paint brush all day so didn't get to do the architraves and frames. But it will definitely be finished next weekend.

I was almost in tears as I opened the tin of paint and started cutting in as the colour was nothing like the sample pot I had tested on the walls...it was definitely different. So I rang the paint shop and he checked that they had done the correct measurements of colour etc. which they had and then said that apart from spending another $135 to get another 10ltr tin in a different colour, there was nothing they could do. Hubby kept trying to reassure me and told me to wait until it was all finished and see what it looked like and if I really really didn't like it we would repaint! What a treasure (as my mother would say).

Well guess what....we both LOVE it! The photos below don't really show up the colour very well but it is pretty much what I had envisioned.

So next weekend we will finish off and then the most exciting part...furnishing the room!! This is the lounge suite I am getting...although not sure on going with the white or beige? What do you think (bearing in mind the 3 year old munchkin!!) They are removable covers so that is a big plus and maybe I could go the white and buy the beige slip covers? Oh decisions, decisions... (I am going for the three seater). I am also going to get the single seater as well and again decisions, decisions about that cover as well.

My darling wonderful fabulous father (is that enough sucking up?? he he) is coming with us in his car and trailer to pick up all the furniture. Oh happy days...

I also started a quick project of painting my hall stand so will update shortly with before and afters.

Well off to rest my soon to be aching arms...

Home work

2007-10-26T08:40:00.000+10:00

I have been working from home the last 2 days and loving it. Have managed to get more work done in these 2 days than I get done in a week at the office!!! And have managed to get all the washing, cleaning done at the same time! Talk about multi tasking...go me.

Will see how today goes though as my little man is home with a very bad tummy ache and a temperature.

My husband is off this afternoon to pick up our new outdoor setting from Recollections. Funny thing is we went there last Saturday to buy our ensuite basin and taps and ended up buying the outdoor setting as well. Although that seems to happen a lot to me when I go to that shop! Everything is just gorgeous in there. Here is a photo...

Here is a work in progress picture of the back deck area that the table will be going on.

We are going to get a new BBQ and I have a white cane setting that I am going to put outside our new bedroom (the french doors on the left).

Our extensions added a new living room, main bedroom, ensuite and walk in robe plus moved the laundry inside.

This weekend we will finally have the living room painting finished. Here is the before shot and I will post the after shot on the weekend. The ceiling was done on the weekend just gone. Don't you love the colour patches on the walls! And I'm still not sure if I made the right choice. I always have this problem that I have the exact look in my head but it never turns out the same way! Well I guess it is only paint...

Well I guess I better go and get some more work done!

Finally....something

2007-10-24T09:44:00.000+10:00

Well at least that is what my mum and sister will be saying when they see this entry!

Of course I have been an avid reader of various blogs (think you call that lurking?). Some I have to read everyday to get my fix.Anyway so I decided to create my own and chronical the exciting life (not) and times of ME.

I guess you probably should know a little bit about me first though...I am a mother, I work full time, aunty (to 3 beautiful little girls), I love all things to do with decorating (especially on a budget), shabby chic, french provincial, collecting (old bone china at the moment), shopping for furniture/antiques/old wares and painting everything white!

I also have a very tolerant and wonderful husband and an absolutely adorable (well most of the time) son who is 3.

We live in our little cottage in Windsor located in the Hawkesbury district and have recently just had major renovations and extensions. Thus most of my blogging will probably be based around that.

Here is a before shot of our little house. This is pretty much how we bought it.

This is an after shot. We totally reclad the entire house, new colourbond roof and re-pitched the roof over the front window.

Of course the front is still not finished. We are getting a bobcat in to rip up all the old grass (or should I say weeds) and the pathway and lay new turf and path down.

Well I think that about does it for my first entry...mum & Sheree...you better be reading this!!!