tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55673188996231789812012-01-29T18:29:34.331+13:00Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.comBlogger4301100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-50182470702687109192012-01-10T21:04:00.006+13:002012-01-11T08:01:25.396+13:00

One way to wile away the school holidays! Pop on a painted face and they amuse themselves for a good while, especially if one is a cat and one is a dog and they chase each other as nature intended. I've found Snazaroo paints very good (made to cosmetic grade), and there are plenty of face-painting books at the library. It's easier than it looks, and it's fun too. Audrey sits still but not for too

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-56053443186616631232012-01-06T16:51:00.016+13:002012-01-06T20:49:46.632+13:00

for a mother at a cafe. I have heard and read of comments about stay-at-home mothers fluffing about all day playing and shopping and taking their toddlers to cafes to dine on fine food and beverages. Wow, what a life! Many cafes are still on holiday here, but we did find the local and lovely Pyrenees French cafe open. Try and find something garish and inexpensive in a French cafe. No cutesy

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-84099014435865412642012-01-03T12:44:00.003+13:002012-01-03T12:47:35.179+13:00

I thought these would make a fun and stylish house shoe (until I saw the price). Linen loafers made in Italy. Best they be saved for best.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-7357500808176135582012-01-02T14:21:00.003+13:002012-01-02T14:24:13.074+13:00

With renovations starting very soon (yipee) we are moving out of our house for a while, so everything in the shop is now 50% off (double yipee)! There's also a new pair of small bootleg strutters...

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-20416866412777375272012-01-01T12:08:00.003+13:002012-01-01T12:31:02.445+13:00

A New Years day project for Lucy, one endearing little sausage dog from the book Hop Skip Jump written by Fiona Dalton. I admit I wasn't familiar with the author before finding this book at our library (insular me), and unlike some craft books which I find offer projects far too simple to even warrant a pattern, this book has some clever designs with plenty of small details that make the finished

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-53790471809372990972011-12-31T16:50:00.002+13:002011-12-31T16:57:37.876+13:00

...southern hemisphere style. I find it hard to imagine snow drifts, mushy paths and toasty fires. One day I'll have that white Christmas. For now, on the eve of our new year, a very happy new year to you all. See you in 2012!

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-46790080241735435702011-12-23T11:09:00.006+13:002011-12-24T11:16:16.243+13:00

I love everything about Cire Trudon candles. I bought my mum this one for her birthday a couple of weeks ago, and I am going to choose one for myself this afternoon for Christmas, oh joy! The stories behind each candle (a few above) are as good as the fragrances, especially when you have the lovely Irish lady from World Beauty in Ponsonby telling them. P.S. I chose this candle. Despite the

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-61127232552887735622011-12-21T09:29:00.001+13:002011-12-21T09:29:38.987+13:00

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-91758534398616769582011-12-17T16:26:00.004+13:002011-12-17T16:35:08.982+13:00

A 'living room bed' fashioned from all the sofa cushions (oh joy) and myriad blankets created the perfect afternoon nesting spot yesterday. Too good not to nod off in. I can't remember a time when they last fell asleep together like this.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-78677425064732265762011-12-16T14:03:00.004+13:002011-12-16T14:07:46.904+13:00

To receive a 25% discount off anything and everything in the shop (including items already reduced) enter the coupon code DASHER at checkout.Happy holidays everyone!

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-77495136862096191782011-12-11T18:07:00.003+13:002011-12-11T18:13:33.232+13:00

"Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree.In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall."-Larry WildeSource: a lovely being(photo by Slim Aarons)

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-61483896454449199442011-12-10T20:18:00.000+13:002011-12-10T20:19:10.363+13:00

(...mum's is brandy)

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-91025007435952509902011-12-08T11:06:00.003+13:002011-12-08T11:10:14.065+13:00

There's free worldwide shipping until 11-12th December on *all itemsin the shop!Hats will ship free if bought with another item otherwise usual shipping applies.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-69177103150562538572011-12-07T12:12:00.002+13:002011-12-07T12:23:35.783+13:00

I picked up a couple of Scotch & Soda's bowtie shirts yesterday, in chambray and pinstripe. The bowtie is removable, simply buttoning up behind the collar. I have to say I feel very at home in this dandy look. I also got Scotch & Soda's pinstripe pants and a pair of the Parisienne skinny jeans.But what I also find exciting after buying new clothes is donating items I am tired of but that I've

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-46873985843207699012011-12-04T17:09:00.004+13:002011-12-06T09:21:21.108+13:00

There's a 2T in the shop and it's ready to fly (bad pun, yes)

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-23374354584010086412011-12-02T17:46:00.002+13:002011-12-02T17:49:00.830+13:00

A wonderful short film of 1936 about Santa visiting an orphanage.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-30853539518037171522011-11-30T07:48:00.005+13:002011-11-30T17:53:53.308+13:00

Wow, 26 days to go to you know what! I'm chuffed I've managed my Christmas shopping pretty well this year. I've almost got the lot and it's not even December yet. I visited World Beauty yesterday, which has to be one of my most favourite stores here in Auckland. Corso de Fiori comes in pretty close behind.So about my shop, I am thinking of closing around mid December (I'm not sure of the exact

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-65199920288170028322011-11-25T09:54:00.007+13:002011-11-25T10:01:04.833+13:00

St Kilda Snake earrings to admire from afar as they're somewhat out of my reach.It's funny, when it comes to weddings though spending more seems palatable. (Well, almost.)St Kilda Temptation ring. Breathtaking.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-59167097068381007532011-11-21T20:12:00.002+13:002011-11-21T20:14:50.621+13:00

inside and out.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-18897473590707334712011-11-16T10:10:00.005+13:002011-11-17T09:32:46.602+13:00

Little Brit Jumper, Little Greys and Floral Roadrunners. The fabric for the roadrunners is true vintage. A receipt was found with it dated 1971! These earlier cottons were of such lovely quality. I have many more to share too, and it's like a timewarp transporting me back to my 70's childhood looking through them all. A dress is very much in order for the grey floral.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-81172445821443747512011-11-13T10:17:00.006+13:002011-11-13T10:51:17.206+13:00

Kerboom! Mayday! Whoop whoop!Morning coffee over a game of (1983!) Computer Battleship (love op shops).and Lucy AKA Patch (these are great for novice face painters like me)

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-43998739875806995362011-11-10T14:20:00.001+13:002011-11-10T14:24:52.290+13:00

On my latest trip down to Hawkes Bay with my girls we stopped in (as we always do) at Arataki Honey. If you're ever in the Bay with little folk it's a really neat place to take them (and it's free, a bonus!).This time around, as I stalked all the honey skincare products, I noticed Nelson Honey's Royal Nectar Moisturising Face Lift (essentially bee venom cream). I remember first hearing about bee

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-49232994196172548302011-11-06T09:07:00.003+13:002011-11-06T09:12:53.312+13:00

My brother sent me this. If you need to distract yourself from myriad children's requests (that's putting it nicely), annoying bosses or you're simply feeling the desire to get creative in a nutshell, go draw a stickman.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-83767827357873695422011-10-31T10:50:00.003+13:002011-10-31T11:03:22.828+13:00

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-7479531866970024022011-10-25T15:14:00.010+13:002011-10-25T15:26:10.186+13:00

My crush on George Michael when in high school (circa mid-80s) reached giddy heights. I recall making up a poster about Wham and as I walked through the school gates it was protruding from my bag and my sister told me to hide it as it was embarrassing. Don't worry, The Cure soon took hold of me not long after. I remember a pair of shoes where I'd written in black vivid 'Robert' on the left sole

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-8261423496315535592011-10-24T19:34:00.004+13:002011-10-24T19:44:51.794+13:00

Loved krisatomic's latest posts of her trip to Paris (check out the Herculean cat Winnipeg). And Kristina has got me hooked on checking out vacation apartments on airbnb. It's addictive - already I've faux-stayed in Paris, Los Angeles and Amsterdam. Where to next?

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-40672109286092608222011-10-14T09:31:00.014+13:002011-10-14T16:29:04.159+13:00

This is probably the only time that it is acceptable to talk about Christmas in October. I was reading Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer to Lucy and Audrey yesterday, and thought wouldn't it be much more fun to store all the fun Christmas stuff away in a special 'Christmas only' box, and watch, read and do them all at Christmas?So in our box so far... The Polar Express, Peanuts Holiday Collection,

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-63200529240492295362011-10-13T17:05:00.004+13:002011-10-13T17:08:27.921+13:00

NYHop purse, found via Etsy. When viewing it I actually said aloud to myself 'that's ridiculous', as in ridiculously charming. Want.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-13680788930014672732011-10-12T15:51:00.003+13:002011-10-12T15:55:15.664+13:00

...is never-ending

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-58846034667549742012011-10-07T09:50:00.004+13:002011-10-07T09:57:07.626+13:00

I tried a Paris Brest by chance at my local french café some months ago, and now it’s the only thing I buy there. It consists of a baked, almond-topped choux pastry which is then split and filled with praline buttercream.The above photo is courtesy of paris by mouth seeing as I couldn't find my camera in time. It's that good.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-58529997996890356972011-10-06T09:24:00.004+13:002011-10-06T09:31:23.242+13:00

As I move towards a new project (albeit at a glacial pace) all ready-to-ship garments in my etsy childrenswear shop are on sale!

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-53635789306343838662011-10-04T20:52:00.004+13:002011-10-04T21:02:34.040+13:00

Rather enjoyed this behind-the-scenes video of the final fitting for GV's SS12 show. I always find it fascinating seeing a designer at work.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-51941621250738373882011-10-01T18:27:00.002+13:002011-10-01T18:34:31.375+13:00

Hanneli Mustaparta, isn’t she lovely?And without sounding childish (which is a little futile to say) her surname reminds me of Mustapha Million, the fictional character from UK comic magazine Cheeky I read sometime during my childhood. Good times.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-53871430339979244622011-09-28T16:45:00.009+13:002011-09-29T08:57:09.645+13:00

I took Audrey to a park today, near the Parnell Rose Gardens. Adjoining the park is a childcare facility. They've since removed the sign but I was always a little alarmed at the fact that they took in babies from three months of age.So we're at the park and I hear a small fiery cry, and I know from experience times two that this is not the cry of a toddler but of a baby. I nonchalently walk with

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-88259177143524667972011-09-24T08:18:00.003+12:002011-09-24T08:23:18.955+12:00

I've always thought of Woody Allen as neurotic and painfully annoying. But after watching Annie Hall (what took me so long?) I am a fan!And this small scene from Banana's is just too much. I think I've watched it ten times over...

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-38553091085209546532011-09-23T11:49:00.003+12:002011-09-23T11:57:14.816+12:00

Have you seen Krisatomic's standalone site for her coverage of London Fashion Week? Amazing closeups, detail, colour. I love the print on the tank above.And I am so tempted by her prints. Chronic Bitchface I always find hilarious, and this would be rather adorable for a girl's bedroom.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-80870534770464512272011-09-22T20:00:00.004+12:002011-09-22T20:09:46.181+12:00

the delightful Château de Villandry

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-11972350753236014112011-09-17T12:38:00.002+12:002011-09-17T12:40:24.269+12:00

for the shop

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-57203570980988797742011-09-16T19:56:00.013+12:002011-09-16T20:38:45.822+12:00

I had a visitor today. Well, two, to be precise. The small black furry one hung out for a couple of hours here on my alpaca wool rug watching Rango, eating jubes and carrots and Snax crackers, all in front of a toasty fire. He must surely have his own lucky rabbit's foot.I then turned him into a little artwork. He said he didn't mind at all, and that his furry body was the least he could offer.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-57583083043411664692011-09-13T19:24:00.012+12:002011-09-13T20:03:01.968+12:00

So I hear. Lucy's into her third week and all is going well. When I pick her up her response to my question 'how was school today' is always a deadpan 'great'. Or my 'What bit did you enjoy most today?' to which the reply is 'playtime' (or lunchtime). And I thought only boys responded like this! So I gently quiz her a little on the drive home. The best way though is to view the masterpieces of

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-42834364977325185272011-09-10T14:05:00.009+12:002011-09-10T14:33:53.869+12:00

Last night, from our upstairs balcony, a look above shadowed trees of the fireworks display for the opening of the Rugby World Cup. The finale cracker drew loud cheers, which we heard some 7-8 driving kms away. Not bad for a free seat I thought. And far better than being jostled about by 60,000+ souped-up rugby fans (you could say I'm not rugby's biggest fan).

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-20519601986065633392011-09-06T10:41:00.009+12:002011-09-06T11:20:14.164+12:00

Converse hi-tops had become my daily shoe. Now that Lucy is at school I needed to make slight changes to my school run outfits, something a little more polished. I have been wanting these Dieppa Restrepo loafers for quite a while now, which are available for pre-order only. But admidst my deliberating I chanced upon these barely-worn loafers in a thrift shop (though the prices were far from

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-10522227132796091902011-09-04T21:10:00.010+12:002011-09-13T12:59:30.994+12:00

Lucy's new teacher posted this on their school's website and it bought back such vivid memories. Truly mind-altering, psychedelic memories. It is quite possibly one of my earliest recollections, perched in front of Sesame Street watching that mesmerising little pinball. It came out in 1977 (Wikipedia tells me so) so I would have been about four, or a little older if we got it later than

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-32087199634052434702011-09-03T19:10:00.017+12:002011-09-03T19:55:42.966+12:00

I hold a particular fondness for picturesque, usually seaside, villages (which goes some way to explain why I enjoy Doc Martin). I haven't made it to Europe yet, and I still find it utterly fascinating that the English can travel to France for a day trip whereas for me it would take the best of two days. Whenever my mind wanders to living somewhere like New York, I think ultimately I'd find the

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-52769006754406035102011-08-27T07:54:00.011+12:002011-08-27T08:20:59.218+12:00

We've been busy around here this week. Someone turned the big five. Someone is starting school on Monday. The past five years have gone so fast. I think I may cry.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-66251390606280307952011-08-22T08:23:00.004+12:002011-08-22T09:22:58.915+12:00

We are currently working through the new colour scheme for our soon-to-be built new kitchen. I love the idea of a colourful kitchen but I think we'll go for a neutral look with impermanent accents of colour as I really like the light and airy Scandinavian look. In saying that, I do quite fancy that fuchsia pink wall. And I can't quite shake the idea of a black and white pinstripe island bench

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-54173997605400197432011-08-14T19:54:00.009+12:002011-08-14T20:39:47.399+12:00

Three weeks old, how do they grow so big so fast? I (the maid) cleaned out their nestbox today, a ritual that gives the girls and I a good chance to see their progress. I love their perfect little beaks and comical expressions. I've never bred birds before (discounting the Chinese painted quail who do their own thing when I'm not looking). I've always housed birds that have been unwanted or

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-44644277169419660512011-08-12T21:00:00.011+12:002011-08-12T21:14:47.849+12:00

The wedding of Miss Moss. Beautiful english countryside, just how a wedding should be. Wow, doesn't Lila Grace take after her mother. via frolic via vogue

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-1436211206571232772011-08-11T08:34:00.004+12:002011-08-11T08:56:35.699+12:00

For just a few minutes at sunrise an intense orange-red light suddenly brightens up the still-dark house, like someone has turned on a red lightbulb in the sky. I played around with each image in photoshop, using the find edges filter. It's funny what stands out in each version. Notice the little bird singing his heart out at the top of the oak tree?

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-47450586306786716532011-08-05T08:10:00.004+12:002011-08-06T09:21:22.452+12:00

Some folk think it's spring here in mid-Winter. My budgie pair hatched out four chicks a couple of weeks ago and she's been the most incredible mother any helpless, wretched-looking, featherless chick could hope for. The chicks are in fact very cute, and three out of four have now opened their eyes and have scrappy little feathers. All I've done so far is watch from afar, and catch a sneaky photo

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-328159534812371572011-07-29T17:12:00.003+12:002011-07-29T17:27:14.207+12:00

Something new for the shop...

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-75142319880267874952011-07-27T09:33:00.005+12:002011-07-27T09:35:58.971+12:00

Colourful winter woollens in the shop now...

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-32096493076924449342011-07-26T12:45:00.005+12:002011-07-26T15:32:51.234+12:00

Once of the things I fondly remember from my childhood was visiting Lilliput, a miniature railway in Napier. And now, somehow, Lucy and I got to decorating this play board. The roads have just been sealed (real gravel!), and the little houses were recently acquired from a model shop.We were told an old man handmade them some time ago (they came with the odd spiderweb and a light coating of dust),

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-56585422144376923232011-07-25T20:59:00.003+12:002011-07-25T21:14:01.848+12:00

We scoot all over the place. To the cafes, to the corner dairy, sometimes Lucy and I to the library with laden messenger bags.But it's not the parents who speed but the tiniest of our lot. We get horrified stares from other parents, oldies too, when they see Audrey breaknecking it down the road on her trike. We just can't stop her (well, a little bit of rope does the trick now). She's fearless as

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-1926486802723922982011-07-23T07:54:00.006+12:002011-07-23T12:14:30.589+12:00

I got Heidi Swanson's Super Natural Every Day from the library recently and I know I have to get my own copy now. Sometimes I get excited about a cookbook, buy it, and then shelve it barely cooking a thing from it. They're my 'trophy' cookbooks, I guess. But since getting this one I've cooking countless recipes.And one of the things I'm really trying lately, is to cut down on my drinking. I do

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-18917316546324761332011-07-19T09:34:00.007+12:002011-07-19T13:08:25.928+12:00

I seriously would wear (almost) all of these kids shoes, if only they came in my size.Top to bottom: Nathalie Verlinden, Soft Gallery, Bensimon, Anniel Enfant, Pépé All from Little Fashion Gallery

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-37900614238972152322011-07-13T08:58:00.015+12:002011-07-15T13:59:57.199+12:00

Becoming a parent means occasionally having to endure a movie with your small people. I can appreciate the appeal of Maisy, but I just don't understand how a mumbling incoherent mouse could garner such a following. And Barbie's mass appeal is quite disturbing too, though surprisingly her stories are adventure-based and not entirely narcissistic like I thought they'd be.One of my favourite stories

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-24823924233423322942011-07-08T14:08:00.009+12:002011-07-08T14:21:51.744+12:00

I know the last thing some of you will be thinking of is woollens, but it is Winter here and in Australia, and you know it never stops coming round so y'all in the northern hemisphere will have it back again real soon.I plan - I hope - fingers crossed - to have a few new bits and bobs in the shop next week. Two preschoolers are like a stick in the spokes - I don't know how on earth I got anything

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-390539245596533342011-07-07T09:45:00.013+12:002011-07-07T10:53:51.509+12:00

Lucy standing next to the Aqua well, drawn by herself I took Lucy to see this yesterday. We arrived early in the morning and as we entered the doors I witnessed something truly horrific - school visit day at the museum! The lady at the ticket counter told me even she wouldn't go to a show with school kids, which acted as an effective deterrent. She was kind enough to give us comp tickets for

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-6730552416153646422011-07-05T08:19:00.004+12:002011-07-05T08:27:16.413+12:00

I think it's better to not take a vacation; I'd definitely get more done.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-30143138449710813152011-06-23T19:45:00.014+12:002011-06-23T20:01:58.056+12:00

I am a keeper of scraps. If I like a fabric then anything bigger than a certain size I throw it in my doll-making box of remnants. I've never made a doll, but I might, ok. Or a little stuffed toy. I especially like keeping all the lovely wool offcuts, which could always be used for stuffing if nothing else. It seems such a waste to throw them out, and not very green at all.Audrey has taken to

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-76410472703294962502011-06-23T09:40:00.004+12:002011-06-23T09:47:00.043+12:00

Isn't he just lovely?More screen tests here. It's quite novel to see the actors speaking directly to the camera.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-33334823307990668052011-06-22T07:55:00.002+12:002011-06-22T07:58:50.459+12:00

Thanks to Grace I found the aforementioned dress is by Tara Jarmon. The original post is here with further photos. This is a good reminder to link, link, link!

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-50545660044711451542011-06-20T07:45:00.008+12:002011-06-20T08:00:55.385+12:00

I fell for a dress I saw on Fifi Lapin's blog, second photo down in this post. As always, I made Lucy a version of it, rather than one for me, in a polka dot cotton.I can't seem to find who made the original dress though, can anyone help?It was bit cold the day I took these photos, and Lucy's expression was the pick of the bunch. Don't you worry though, she is very happy with the dress. When she

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-52457040356652999222011-06-17T14:38:00.004+12:002011-06-17T14:41:56.905+12:00

Annie Larson knit some custom booties for a friend's baby shower.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-12048344227295394972011-06-15T10:24:00.008+12:002011-06-15T11:00:15.965+12:00

I have to tell you about The Book Depository. My sister put me on to the site as an alternative to buying from Amazon. Book prices may be slightly higher but the cost includes worldwide shipping, so it works out cheaper. With Amazon, and being an international buyer, I never knew what the shipping cost would be until wading to the end of the transaction pages. And I was forever trying to bundle

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-56053422619352003612011-06-13T13:24:00.009+12:002011-06-13T13:52:36.863+12:00

Here in New Zealand they have introduced a before school check with your local nurse. Included in the booklet to complete is a questionnaire, one copy for the parent(s) to complete and one for your child's kindy or preschool teacher to complete. I completed mine while the other copy was at kindergarten so I wouldn't be swayed or influenced by what the teacher wrote. On receipt of their copy I was

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-44903035149074286062011-06-12T09:29:00.003+12:002011-06-12T09:41:32.132+12:00

by Mociun

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-30684504065121136692011-06-05T09:57:00.009+12:002011-06-05T12:49:44.525+12:00

If so, it was unintentional. Just one of the sewing projects I've been working on. I made this one up - darted bodice, box pleat skirt, yellow piping handpicked by Lucy. Those full-leather flower sandals I picked up at a thrift store for $6 - thankyou to whoever dropped them off!She wasn't keen on the first photograph position, hence the look. Things got better though, you'll be pleased to

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-55430749055391194122011-05-09T07:38:00.003+12:002011-05-09T07:46:58.808+12:00

I'm taking a blogging vacation. I'm off to frolic with the girls, sew more for fun, maybe even cook more creatively for the family. Generally, just take things a bit slower. Bye for now, happy Autumn or Spring, wherever you are!

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-22411525788371898482011-05-07T09:36:00.005+12:002011-05-07T09:58:15.304+12:00

If someone said to you they were going to design underwear made of thick cotton with really wide bra straps and bands, would you be thinking what I'm thinking?Every time I see a VPL bra I swoon. Sexy and practical. Damn. I don't know about you but a lot of lace underwear, underwear that advertisements have us believe is the only thing that will make us look and feel feminine and sensual, is

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-39203833606821245442011-05-05T15:47:00.006+12:002011-05-05T16:22:20.483+12:00

Mary is a jewellery designer. Like a magpie, she spends a lot of time "trawling through vintage, charity and second-hand shops for things that catch my eye'.She originally had the name Not for the Faint Hearted which relates to her use of mixing her finds to create one-off pieces, however she realised that 'Mary Crosby Design' would encompass all aspects of her business, including clothing and

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-64264490741583103822011-04-29T10:26:00.013+12:002011-05-21T15:21:05.256+12:00

In my long-since-passed pre-child life, I occasionally skipped work and tagged along with my husband (then boyfriend) on his work trips (he flies for our national airline). I unearthed these old photos of my favourite pool ever at the Intercontinental Beachcomber Hotel in Tahiti. It is a sand-bottomed infinity pool that has views out to Bora Bora and, which still thrills me no-end, a bar pool

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-29697302172815066842011-04-28T16:53:00.013+12:002011-04-29T07:58:26.217+12:00

Having a break from sewing offers me the time to give the room a good spruce.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-39323467915037736222011-04-27T16:40:00.012+12:002011-04-28T10:42:25.679+12:00

I do believe Audrey's hair was fashioned on that of the Playmobil figurines. It's a self-cutting hairstyle, i.e. I've never cut it (not even the fringe, can you believe) and it takes on this shape all by itself. Clever, huh? And from the look on her photo she knew exactly what I was thinking.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-84613374497238875752011-04-24T20:11:00.017+12:002011-04-28T13:26:50.933+12:00

Lucy, Audrey and I just arrived back from a short stay in Hawkes Bay with my folks. Well, my mother lives in town so with her we do the cafes, shops and parks, all the city living. My father lives rurally, just out of town, so with him we plant seedlings, forage for feijoas and fresh walnuts, dodge cowpats, drink brandy on the terrace in front of an open fire, and watch the stars beyond the fairy

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-83172392957302553962011-04-20T09:05:00.003+12:002011-04-20T09:10:16.507+12:00

I feel the need for one of Annie Larson's sweaters (we call them jerseys here) this Winter. And she really makes me want to buy a knitting machine!All images from Annie Larson

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-6814048327631591592011-04-16T08:06:00.003+12:002011-04-16T08:11:02.480+12:00

From Rob Ryan's etsy shop Mister Rob, art in the form of a teatowel, if you dared to use it and not hang it, that is!

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-41386883258405639272011-04-13T13:25:00.007+12:002011-04-13T13:36:03.918+12:00

It's funny, out of all the garments I've noticed over the past few months, it's these kids Popupshop tights that stick in my mind! They'd look so good under a simple, block colour dress. I should have bought them by now but I was trying to justify the flat rate international shipping by buying something else, but when one sews... Also these tights, below, by April Showers, perfect for any age (

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-40673394051724300632011-04-09T11:12:00.008+12:002011-04-14T16:39:28.469+12:00

Each night for a family of four I make up six meals; one for me, one each for the girls, one for darling husband, one for puss, and one for my quail and budgies. We had chooks growing up, as we had a few acres to play on, and I always remember the drill of throwing leftovers into the chook pot under the sink to which pellets or mash would be added to it at dinner time. Even today, most leftovers

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-49414298150701201562011-04-04T13:25:00.006+12:002011-04-04T18:12:08.657+12:00

I have been thinking up, and working on, a new project and to give me the time I need to work on this I will soon be putting my shop on vacation until further notice. Everthing currently in the shop will be available for sale until the end of this week, the 10th of April (reserved items will remain).I'll post more details of my new project as soon as I can!

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-13790529968632818322011-04-01T08:59:00.011+13:002011-04-01T14:40:35.973+13:00

A delightful customer from New Jersey recently sent this photo to me of her utterly angelic daughter, Annie, as she'd bought her the Twig jumper and frenchy denims. Oh my, that hair, those eyes!Annie's mum, Natasha, is the talented photographer behind Ponteuf Photography who took this 'candid' shot (my candids do not look like this), and she specialises in photographing newborns and children. And

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-63409147061889001362011-03-29T10:31:00.003+13:002011-03-29T10:40:40.297+13:00

Printed Pocket Jeans for toddlers! There's currently two pairs in the shop, ready to ship, both 2T. They have a very cute poufy shape to them, quite unlike all those skinny leg jeans I've been doing for so long.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-78914853487531924222011-03-28T09:06:00.007+13:002011-03-28T09:21:23.043+13:00

Before bedtime Lucy gave me the brief and last night I sewed while she slumbered. The brief was two-part: first, the fabrics including lining, which she handpicked. Second, I asked her if she wanted the skirt out here (spreading my hands a little to suggest slightly flared) or here (widely outstretched hands to mean monstrous). Of course, she promptly chose the latter.So it's a tiered full circle

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-51553764027848052842011-03-22T19:32:00.009+13:002011-03-24T09:37:18.430+13:00

In a few week's times it will have been one whole year since we got married! Oh my.Despite loose conversations about going away somewhere for a few days unencumbered by little people (Australia, for one), I think what we both prefer is something modest, maybe dinner and a movie. Call me a gooey old sap, but I am just not at the stage where I can be away from Lucy and (particularly) Audrey for a

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-14110794434887796052011-03-19T08:45:00.004+13:002011-03-19T08:49:25.781+13:00

A few new things, top to bottom: Dainty Shorts, Liberty shirt (12m), Stripe Knit Shorties

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-86141223572295183392011-03-17T13:18:00.003+13:002011-03-17T13:29:16.392+13:00

A walk in the sun to our lovely local library means hats are in order. Adorably, Audrey went and grabbed Lucy's straw hat when she saw me wearing mine!

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-51670710225165612102011-03-17T09:57:00.014+13:002011-03-17T16:26:16.684+13:00

Youtube is just brilliant for finding things you didn't realise you were looking for. Case in point, the Dukes. A childhood memory of mine, the family watching this classic TV show together. Pure Americana! The theme song's guitar strum is timeless.Looking at Daisy now, the outfits were rather saucy (which perhaps explains why the entire family watched it), but back then I didn't notice how saucy

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-5112501624883234182011-03-12T21:19:00.010+13:002011-03-12T21:49:40.259+13:00

Lucy's favourite, a meal on a blanket on the lawn. If we're ever missing Lucy, we gravitate to the nearest blanket and she's sure to be on it, under it or inside it. Once I looked for her for a good five minutes (our house is no mansion), calling out to no avail. I walked back down the hall, gently kicked a pile of rugs so I wouldn't trip over it and lo behold my foot met a body! Completely

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-40470921723424880192011-03-11T10:04:00.007+13:002011-03-11T15:02:12.720+13:00

New shirt style for boys and girls, which Audrey and her caterpillar gracefully modelled today!Two versions of this shirt available - classic and ruffle collar.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-26895302748509921752011-03-10T07:57:00.005+13:002011-03-10T08:05:22.971+13:00

To those New Zealand residents who shudder at the thought of millions of hens destined to spend their lifetime in cramped wire cages busily producing eggs for us folk, please take a moment to sign this petition. The hens thank you from the bottom of their hearts.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-35597697633481875352011-03-07T21:07:00.007+13:002011-03-07T21:22:07.109+13:00

As of this month I have limited how many times I 'pop' into thrift stores. It's so thrilling to visit one. Other stores are predictable - you go in, and pretty much know exactly what they sell. But with a thrift store, it's like stepping into an ever-changing, magic store. Who knows what one will find. My last visit (prior to my new rule of course, which is once a month), I came out with this

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-30356445476138037292011-03-03T16:19:00.008+13:002011-03-03T17:17:14.774+13:00

Love the pieces by Massimo Vitali seen in a house tour in the latest issue of Vogue Living. Take a visit to his site and be transported to the beaches by the sound of breaking waves. Such a clever clogs.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-18798481800168689842011-03-02T08:06:00.004+13:002011-03-02T20:36:11.548+13:00

Rescued pigeon, dubbed 'Barney Rubble', and his veterinarianA charming little story to come out of the devastating Christchurch earthquake. This little pigeon survived five days without food and water in the wreckage of the cathedral. Bless his feathered heart.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-22448525170728779292011-03-01T09:29:00.005+13:002011-03-01T09:32:01.311+13:00

Admist the unpredictability of the world (and bad modern pop songs), sometimes we just need to listen to a song like this. Possibly the sweetest song ever?My dear, thoughtful brother turned up on my doorstep the other week brandishing the entire Muppet Show series on DVD for the girls. We grew up on good stuff like that. Worth passing on I think.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-47361439627527854702011-02-27T10:15:00.006+13:002011-02-27T10:26:53.674+13:00

I just noticed these beautiful ceramics over at etsy shop whitney smith. I love the colours she has chosen, and could see the red pomegranate (first photo) on my mantel, if only it didn't have to come over break-inducing, frothy ocean waters to reach me.

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-2566202821030854872011-02-24T20:53:00.006+13:002011-02-24T21:19:34.031+13:00

It's a weird feeling. New Zealand is relatively small yet the sun still shines here in Auckland, the buildings are all standing strong and today there was a welcome breeze to cool things down.Down in Christchurch the situation is worsening as the extent of damage becomes apparent. This evening my husband said he felt guilty that we were all okay up here, untouched. I don't know if it has anything

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-22059084533396223542011-02-22T18:21:00.006+13:002011-02-22T18:35:34.561+13:00

It's too much. Christchurch suffered a big earthquake last September, and since then so many aftershocks have hit the city, albeit smaller in intensity. They rattled the city constantly, keeping everyone on guard.Today another big one hit, and so far 65 lives lost. Honestly, I have to ask what Mother Nature is playing at. As little as the rest of the country, in particular the South Island,

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-43310893277328308842011-02-22T11:25:00.006+13:002011-02-22T11:51:20.662+13:00

I don't mean to keep making Audrey stuffed things for her birthday but she does love a good loll about, and all the cushions in the house are pretty standard sizes. She hoists them off the couch, lays them out and then flops and lolls on them like a wet dog in grass. On wooden floors they slide apart, so I decided to make Audrey a whopper. I found the largest inner I could, and the finished

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567318899623178981.post-31742256329327546292011-02-20T13:20:00.004+13:002011-02-20T13:26:38.015+13:00

Here....

Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06148635013066682907noreply@blogger.com1