CHALK & TALK

Love the Mailman

2012-01-24T14:06:00.000+11:00

Look what came today.... time for a Gin Sling and hors d'oeuvres, preferably on a little cocktail stick, while I peruse my magazine

Natimuk

2012-01-23T16:18:00.002+11:00

Nothing like a little time in the bush to make you appreciate living in Australia - after a couple of weeks on our stunning coast it was nice to experience another aspect of our great outdoors.

After our epic drive up we arrived in the tiny town of Natimuk (somewhere near The Grampians) and settled in for a couple of days with our lovely friend Ronnie. Surfer Boy became 'Climber Boy' and had us scaling cliff faces and generally soaking in the ancient atmosphere of Mt Arapalies.

Lots of food was consumed, many beers were drunk, couches were dragged outside and there was lots of time to sit around the fire while billions of stars wheeled overhead. There was even a mandatory Red Heeler/Dingo called Freckles to keep us company

Day two saw us back in the truck and off to explore 'Little Desert'. I think there may have been some disappointment from Moondoggie who quite naturally assumed that a desert would consist of rolling sand dunes and mirages. Instead he got low scrub and red dirt but a satisfying number of bones!

For three days we did not see one cloud in the sky - we made a point of looking - and I had forgotten just how enormous an Australian sky looks when you can see the horizon in all directions. It's not an easy land but gee it's beautiful.

Gidget wanted me to delete this photo so don't tell her you've seen it - they shared a double bed and every night I would sneak in just to gaze at them, and occasionally call Surfer Boy in to laugh at the positions they'd got themselves in to.
this is one photo that will NEVER be deleted! Sorry Gidg.

That's it for the Natimuk trip - hope your holidays are just a wonderful as ours are proving to be. Have a great New Year. Jen.

Junk Heaven

2012-01-22T19:03:00.000+11:00

Last weekend Surfer Boy took the family on a rock climbing road trip for four days. We piled in the car and headed off to the Wimmera (far Western Victoria). Our four hour trip ended up taking seven as we stopped in at a few places that took our fancy. First up was The Big Koala for the kids followed by various stops to peruse the junk shops along the route. By far the most astonishing was this one that we came across outside Horsham.....

It was a complete sensory overload and Surfer Boy and I were like kids in a candy shop until we discovered that the prices were ridiculously high - thank god or the kids may have ridden the rest of the way on the roof racks to fit in all the things we wanted to buy.

Amy's Kitchen

2012-01-22T11:09:00.000+11:00

Surfer Boy and I have been finalising some of the details of our kitchen as most of it will be made by us (when I say 'us' I mean him while I watch and provide encouragement) I'm not a huge fan of the whole cooking thing so as long as there is a spot for take-away menus and a freezer for icecream then I'm pretty much sorted. Here are some images of Amy's kitchen that I held back from the previous post as I thought they deserved one all their own.

Shasta

2012-01-22T10:50:00.000+11:00

I have posted a picture of this caravan previously but I have now discovered more about this gem.

She is owned by 'Enjoy Cupcakes' who have a bakery in Los Olivos California. They use the restored vintage Shasta caravan to travel to events with their gorgeous cupcakes, and she is often the focal point for wedding receptions and special occassions with guests served from this lovley girl.

images from Enjoy Cupcakes

Peeping In - Amy Butler

2012-01-19T15:51:00.000+11:00

I've been needing to get the taste of Melissa Gilbert's house out of my mouth so I thought who better to counteract M.G's design style than .... Amy Butler.

Amy and her husband David live in Granville, Ohio - America's mid-west and their home is an absolute treat.

I have been a long time lover of Amy's fabric designs and can spend hours scrolling through her design images wishing I had somewhere to put a little piece of everything. As a fabric designer, there is none better in my opinion and Amy and David's home beautifully reflects her design style.

Most of these images are courtesy of Apartment Therapy with some from flikr thrown in.

Priceless

2012-01-18T00:51:00.000+11:00

Peeping In - Melissa Gilbert

2012-01-12T11:41:00.001+11:00

I adore Melissa - she'll always be 'Half Pint' to me and her home will always be a little house on a praire - especially after seeing these photos of where she really lives! Due to the unfortunate demise of her marriage Melissa and her soon to be ex-husband have put their home up for sale. Unfortunately (but not surprisingly) it hasn't sold so they are now offering it for rental. So if you have a lazy $8000 a month and fancy soaking up a little of Melissa Gilbert then this property is for you.
For myself, you couldn't pay me $8000 a month to live there, and if you find yourself loving Melissa's decorating style then maybe my blog isn't for you..... just saying..

Moondoggie's Room

2012-01-09T17:49:00.000+11:00

Although Gidget was super keen to have her own room - because what self-respecting 9 year old wants to dance in her room with her brother watching? - Moondoggie was more skeptical. He was more than happy sharing a room and did not seem at all pleased to find out that he would be sleeping on his own. We have pointed out all the advantages and he agrees the idea has merit but when push comes to shove he's a social creature and wants to sleep in the same room as his sister. I think part of the problem is that he can't imagine his new room so when the framing went in to turn our old living room into his bedroom I made sure I dropped in so he could show me.

I think he is coming around to the idea now that it is taking shape and has even come up with some design ideas that he wants Dad to implement. Fingers crossed he falls in love with his new room because I don't think Gidget will be impressed with a night time visitor in her new private space.

Princess Watch

2012-01-09T17:18:00.001+11:00

Kate and Will at the London premiere of 'War Horse' - Kate wearing a bespoke dress from Alice Temperley.

Retro Christmas

2012-01-09T16:50:00.000+11:00

Christmas is done and dusted for another year and I'm pleased to say that Lorelai (the caravan) was not forgotten - she may be feeling a little unloved as she patiently waits for her home to cease being a building site, but she scored rather well in the gift giving this year.
First up was the fabulous 1950's radio that I received which after a little love is likely to work again and take up residence in the van.

And wouldn't you know it - Surfer Boy's present was also a radio! What are the odds? Neither of us have ever bought a radio before in our lives - or even mentioned them for that matter and yet we both had the same idea.
His is a reproduction of the BUSH radio and actually has digital radio as well as AM FM. The sound is fabulous and I can picture the family picnicing in style.

On top of these gems Lorelai will also be receiving a wonderful crocheted blanket courtesy of my mother in law and some fabulous 1950's salt and pepper shakers. I think once she sees all her loot she won't feel nearly so neglected.

Princess Watch - What Was Kate Doing This Christmas?

2011-12-29T16:55:00.001+11:00

This being her first Christmas as a member of the royal family - Kate had the fans out in force.

She began the day by attending a church service with the Queen then she joined the Royals for an early morning walk...

The family then gathered for their walk from the Sandringham estate to the local Church. Prince Charles led the group, traditionally Prince Philip leads the family but unfortunately he is still in hospital.

Record crowds were waiting after the service and we can safely assume that the presence of Kate had a lot to do with that.

After Christmas lunch Will and Harry went to visit Prince Phillip in hospital and Kate hung out with the other Royals. Not so different to most people's Christmas give or take a few screaming hordes and dozens of photographers.

Princess Watch

2011-12-24T11:22:00.000+11:00

Kate and Will paid a visit to Centrepoint in Camberwell (south east London) on Wednesday. As young boys, William and Harry, were regularly taken by Diana on private visits to Centrepoint hostels across London to better understand the lives of those less fortunate than themselves. Kate and Will seem to be honouring this tradition which is nice.

Kate wore - a Ralph Lauren Blue Label olive green wool sweater (jersey) dress with suede Aquatalia Rumba boots.

Update

2011-12-23T23:45:00.000+11:00

Moondoggie and I decided to do a fly by the house tonight so he could show me his bedroom, and imagine my surprise when I saw that this....

has turned in to this.......

We were so excited and couldn't wait to do a tour of the house. The builders had said that the ground floor framing would be up by Christmas but I must admit that we weren't holding our breath. I will have to make a mental apology now.

Princess Watch

2011-12-20T22:04:00.000+11:00

Will, Kate and Harry attended the A Night of Heroes military awards ceremony yesterday.

Fashion Deets - Kate is wearing a velvet Alexander McQueen gown paired with stunning jewels that she received for her wedding from a friend. Apparently her shoes are Jimmy Choos.

Done the Tree - now For the Wreath.......

2011-12-19T14:35:00.000+11:00

The Pleated Poppy

from Pinterest

Martha Stewart

Luxe Finds

Just Call Me Grace (tumblr)

Found on Flickr

Country Home

Bees Knees Bungalow Blog

4.BP Blog

The Tree

2011-12-17T13:00:00.000+11:00

Here are some of my favourite Christmas trees this year - simple or ornament laden, these all evoke the festive season beautifully....

Martha Stewart

In Decorating Blog

I Like Design Blog

Family Circle


BHG

But what could be better than these unadorned beauties - I can almost smell the tang of pine in the air and they hint at the pleasures to come....

CHALK

2011-12-16T12:31:00.000+11:00

I rarely post about work but I've made up for it with 3 posts in a week! I promise this will (probably) be my last for a while. I've spent the morning opening large boxes of stock which is a little like Christmas as I had no idea what I was going to find. Turns out they were chock full of fabulous toys, gifts, and fun bits and pieces. I must say that working in a children's store at this time of year makes the whole Christmas season much more festive.

If you are in Melbourne, pop in and see me or drop in and meet my brother at the Kensington store.

Shop By Night

2011-12-15T20:02:00.000+11:00

Taking photos of one of my stores at 1.30am made me feel a little like a criminal - I felt like I was staking the place out. It was fun though to see the shop with it's lights on and I've now tabled the front signage for a makeover and illumination as next year's project.

Things I Believe....

2011-12-15T13:25:00.000+11:00

We should be able to carry a bouquet every day....

Nikole Ramsay photographs / MOSS bouquets

Style Me Pretty

Tiny White Daisies Style Me Pretty

J.L. Designs Style Me Pretty

What We Made

2011-12-14T15:01:00.000+11:00

Here is some of the ridiculously simple yet 'people seem to keep buying it' goodies I crafted for CHALK. My very, very dear friend Kristine designed and developed the tees we use at CHALK and luckily for me when we ran out of our own she agreed to share her Townmouse stash with us. This has meant we've been able to play around with some designs for the Christmas season.

The apple fabric that I had in my stash was leftover from the window display at one of the stores and just happens to tie in beautifully with Walnut's range of shoes. A merchandisers dream, and a complete accident.

The boys haven't been left out either - the lovely Lou who works for me has taken home some suits and whipped up the most gorgeous onesies for us. I'd love to claim them myself but as she reads this blog I'd best tell the truth!

I managed to take some photos of the Yarraville store last night on my new phone (a whole 'nother story) so I'll share those with you later.

Getting My Craft On

2011-12-13T15:05:00.001+11:00

Over the last couple of weeks I have been kicking arse in the crafting department as far as work goes - Christmas windows for both shops, a range of tees, and Christmas onesies, CHALK Reindeer Food, Santa Letters, Christmas cards, a plethora of Christmas goodies crafted by moi.

Problem is that I can't seem to find the time or energy to get my craft on at home. It's pathetic. As we aren't at home all my usual decorations are in the roof at the 'building site' so we've commandeered Mum and Dad's tree and Gidget has strung up lights out the front but I feel I'm letting the team down. There are so many fabulous ideas floating around in my head but I'm afraid that is where they are going to stay.

Maybe the trick is to settle on one project rather than get depressed about the million things I'd love to have the time to do. That said - I think I will aim to make these this week.....

pic

Hand made snow domes! what a great way to use up all those toys we have underfoot. Anyone want to take bets on whether I'll get them done?

pics from here

Peeping In

2011-12-12T23:12:00.000+11:00

I have a picture of a kitchen in my file that is still my favourite even years after coming across it. Imagine my excitment when I stumbled across pictures of the rest of the house. Unfortunately, and very frustratingly I can't for the life of me remember where I got the original or these new photos. I'd love some more information so if anyone recognises them could you let me know. (and I apologise to whoever I have failed to credit)

Awesome Readers

2011-12-11T22:00:00.000+11:00

Janis Joplin reads

Kate Moss reads

Lily Cole reads

Orson Wells reads of course

Selma Blair reads

and the beautiful Liz Taylor reads

Our Doors

2011-12-10T12:36:00.000+11:00

I'm very excited because our steel doors were delivered to the house yesterday. We had originally been quoted a 6 month lead time by a couple of companies but the guys we went with have managed to make them in 6 weeks which is fantastic - but where the hell are we supposed to put them? At the moment they are stashed in the only part of the house that still has walls and a roof and I am assuming they are what we ordered! I think I'd better pop down there tonight and check under the bubble wrap.

Princess Watch

2011-12-08T13:04:00.001+11:00

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge along with The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall attended a charity concert to raise funds for The Prince’s Trust and The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry.

For those of you who are interested - Kate's dress was the black and cream lace tulip mini by Zara ($99.90 and not surprisingly sold out). According to my sources her black jacket is by Ralf Lauren and is the same one she wore the day after her wedding...
If you'd like me to fill you in on Kate's fashion when I 'Princess Watch' let me know.

Date A Girl Who Reads....

2011-12-08T12:48:00.000+11:00

While searching for images for my 'Awesome People Who Read' posts I came across this fabulous quote.

Date a girl who reads. Date a girl who spends her money on books instead of clothes, who has problems with closet space because she has too many books. Date a girl who has a list of books she wants to read, who has had a library card since she was twelve.

Find a girl who reads. You’ll know that she does because she will always have an unread book in her bag. She’s the one lovingly looking over the shelves in the bookstore, the one who quietly cries out when she has found the book she wants. You see that weird chick sniffing the pages of an old book in a secondhand book shop? That’s the reader. They can never resist smelling the pages, especially when they are yellow and worn.

She’s the girl reading while waiting in that coffee shop down the street. If you take a peek at her mug, the non-dairy creamer is floating on top because she’s kind of engrossed already. Lost in a world of the author’s making. Sit down. She might give you a glare, as most girls who read do not like to be interrupted. Ask her if she likes the book." Date A Girl Who Reads - Rosemarie Urquico

I think in a couple of paragraphs Rosemarie has validated my existence. I'm off to read the rest....

Rory Gilmore

Cam Giganget

2011-12-05T18:12:00.001+11:00

This is what porn for women looks like.....

Collections

2011-12-03T12:06:00.000+11:00

While on the subject of being true to your passions... here are some passions that people have turned into collections. I love seeing the weird and wonderful things that people choose to collect and the beautiful ways in which they display them.

Being True

2011-12-02T13:45:00.000+11:00

In my 30's I learned that it is o.k. to let your freak flag fly as long as you commit and stand true to your strangeness. For me, my 30's meant that I came clean on a few of my secret passions that were far from 'cool'. My love for Keith Urban (and country music in general), my obsession with The Gilmore Girls, my ability to recite all the words to ALL THREE High School Musical films... and so many more. Now that I think back this lesson was actually learned waaay earlier. I don't drink alcohol, never have, and I discovered in my teens that allowing no doubt in anyone's mind translated to never being hassled about it. I never suffered from peer pressure to drink as I never wavered. This is now my philosophy. My friends may roll their eyes and laugh good naturedly at my dodgey taste but they know I'm not changing any time soon and they still love me (and were not at all surprised when I bought myself the Justin Bieber Christmas Album!).

So thank you to all my gorgeous friends who love me as I am and still are happy to be seen in my company.
Now for some pictures of Keith....

Just wait until I share my Zac Efron obsession with you .......

Late Night Eye Candy

2011-11-30T00:04:00.000+11:00

Mr Scott Speedman

Mary

2011-11-24T13:49:00.000+11:00

Mary and Frederick have been here for a week and are in Melbourne today so I thought I'd better catch up on what they'd been up to.

Princess Watch - Back to Kate

2011-11-24T13:10:00.000+11:00

Sometimes it's nice to remember just how normal the royal couple are. These snaps show Kate shopping at Tesco yesterday and even though they also prove that there is nothing much she can do without getting photographed - they also show what she hasn't changed much in the ways that matter since 'marrying in'.

Upcycling!

2011-11-22T12:20:00.001+11:00

Surfer Boy and I have long been fans of upcycling - although I have only recently been able to put a 'trendy buzzphrase' to what is essentially bowerbirding and making use of what you have when you can't afford to buy what you want. Both of us have a long history with upcycling going back to our childhood - Surfer Boy's mum grew a 'cup tree' in their backyard - whenever her china cups would chip she would hang them in the cup tree and it has become an institution in the family. I hope one day to have our own cup tree that will bloom all year round. My family also upcycled before it had a name. My bedside tables were made from large chlorine containers and my window seat/chest of drawers was a wardrobe that had been cut down to suit.

We are never happier than when we are resurrecting an item to be used for a new purpose and clearly we are not the only ones - I am constantly amazed, and inspired by other people's creativity. Have a look at these amazing re-inventions....

Tennis racquet mirrors

Crate sideboard

cake tin tier stand

tins for a tier stand

one of my favourites - table made from rulers

crate sideboard

mason jar chandelier

like mine - a wardrobe cut down for a new use

a crockery lamp!

who would have thought? a suitcase cabinet

various drawers brought together

suitcase chair

pallets and spoons make a great coat rack

WOW! Lock plates as a light shade.

Tuesday's Talent

2011-11-22T10:37:00.000+11:00

Congrats to Liam Hemsworth who beat out all the favourites to come second in People Magazines Hottest List. Bradley Cooper won the top spot with our boy from The Island coming in second. This photo should go a fair way to explaining why....

And here is a behind the scenes shot that Liam posted on his Facebook page this morning.

Nice work and an enjoyable sight for my eyes today.

Brief House Update

2011-11-21T20:18:00.000+11:00

The Shed

Pallets

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

Living in a semi-industrial suburb I am constantly seeing the humble pallet, stacked against buildings, piled behind fences, lying in laneways even. I am always attracted to them so I thought I would have a look into some of the clever things people do with pallets to upcycle them.

This Week's Readers

2011-11-20T22:57:00.001+11:00

Sid Vicious reads

Kate Winslet reads

Apparently Brando reads quite a lot

Our Lauren Graham reads

Ringo Starr reads

Rupert Grint reads

Sophia Loren may or may not actually be reading

and Marilyn is still reading!

Royal Alliteration

2011-11-20T22:43:00.000+11:00

I know I have quite a few readers who are rather partial to the younger member of the Windsor Family so as a special Sunday night treat I give you .....Hot Harry on a Harley!!

You're welcome.

Princess Watch - The Aussie Version

2011-11-20T17:34:00.000+11:00

The Danish Royal Family have arrived in Australia - well the interesting part anyway! Nice to see the whole family back on Australian soil. They'll be here for a couple of weeks so be prepared for a couple of pics.

The School Run

2011-11-14T17:05:00.000+11:00

When we pulled up at the lights this morning on the way to school we ended up behind this rather large truck.

Suddenly it dawned on me that my address was written on the timber stacks! I couldn't believe it - that is our house. I frantically upended my handbag, grabbed the camera and generally acted like a crazy person.

After weeks of nothing much, it looks like there will soon be something to see after all. I'm actually really excited now that I have seen this - maybe it will look like a house again soon.

Princess Watch - Rememberance Day

2011-11-14T14:47:00.000+11:00

The Duchess of Cornwall, Duchess of Cambridge and Countess of Wessex look on during the Remembrance Day Ceremony at the Cenotaph - don't they look lovely - very co-ordinated.

Camilla is looking rather chipper while chatting to Kate.

She has the most wonderful smile but I'm loving this photo of 'Pensive Kate'.

And we mustn't forget Will - dashing as always while taking part in the ceremony.

This Weeks Readers....

2011-11-13T19:40:00.001+11:00

Liz Taylor reads

Gemma Ward reads

Gene Simmons reads

Gregory Peck reads to Mary Badham

Janis Joplin reads

Johnny Depp reads

Merryl Streep reads

and Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland read

Princess Watch

2011-11-11T11:13:00.001+11:00

Last night Kate and Will attended a dinner for The National Memorial Arboretum Appeal.

My Tap

2011-11-10T11:15:00.003+11:00

Previously I posted some of the kitchen taps I had fallen in love with. As you know we had a successful trip to Masters where we managed to chose all our tapware but we made the decision to splurge on the kitchen tap and get my dream bridge tap. When I looked into them here in Australia I was astounded to find that they were over $1200. I naively had thought around $400 would be a splurge - apparently not!

I was deflated for a while but figured there must be a more cost effective solution. My journey led me to a plumbing supplier in London who sold my tap for 95 pounds. Bingo. I had figured that as they are English tapware they must be cheaper over there and I was correct. the next problem was that they didn't deliver to Australia so a quick call to Mum and she set me up with a friend of hers who was willing to have the tap delivered to her and she would post it on. Perfect.

I ordered the tap, within days it had reached my 'go-between' and was posted on to me. For the last couple of weeks I have been patiently waiting for it to arrive and this morning it came.

What a great start to my day. I think part of me had thought it would never come.

It is exactly as I hoped it would be so I have spent the morning gazing at it, and feeling rather pleased with myself. (the pic only shows the top of the tap) I got my tap for a grand total of $320 - quite a saving. Now we just need a kitchen to put it in!

2011-11-08T16:17:00.002+11:00

My Little Lamb

2011-11-08T15:10:00.000+11:00

Gidget is away on camp and although I say I love having a smaller household for a change, I won't be completely comfortable until she arrives home safe and sound tomorrow night.
Just as I was starting to miss her face I received an email from LITTLE LAMB and there she was! This pic should see me through until the bus arrives back at school tomorrow.

Gidget in the middle with her beautiful friend Rosie on the left.

Thanks Caitlin and Little Lamb

Sally Boyden

2011-11-08T11:06:00.001+11:00

When ever I watch Rockwiz I am reminded of the first album I ever bought - The Littlest Australian (1976) - perhaps not the coolest album but I absolutely adored it. It opened up and had pictures of Sally that I can still remember clearly to this day. It's track listing included such gems as 'I'd Like To Teach The World To Sing' and 'Tan Shoes & Pink Shoelaces'. At the age of 8 I thought Sally Boyden, at 10, was everything I aspired to be.....

Here's a peak at Sally on Young Talent Time in 1975. (aged 9)

At 45 Sally is still writing and performing and although we may not have heard much from her that does not mean she hasn't been busy - .
After leaving Y.T.T. in 1976, Sally acted in a number of American productions including ‘Lassie’, ‘Barnaby and Me’ and ‘The Waltons’, as well as the Australian series 'Come Midnight Monday'.
She then moved to London to work as a songwriter for EMI, writing songs for Leo Sayer, David Cassidy and Shakin' Stevens and has sung backing vocals for Duran Duran.
She has held long-standing residencies at the esteemed London music venues, Twelve Bar Club, Ground Floor, Acoustic Café and South Bar, showcasing Sally’s band ‘The Candy Bombers’.
Sally has joined Duran Duran on stage at Wembley, Earls Court and in Boston and has recorded vocals for Duran Duran’s ‘Pop Trash’, ‘Astronaut’, ‘Massacre on the Red Carpet’, and the latest album ‘All You Need is Now’. Sally’s vocals can also be heard on the Dandy Warhols’ album ‘Welcome to the Monkey House’, and the Stephen Duffy, Nick Rhodes project, ‘The Devils’.

Currently, due to overwhelming response from her recent appearances on the ‘Young Talent Time’ reunion shows Sally has released an album of her own songs, ‘Keepsake - Chapter 1’
Not bad for a child star who looked at one point like she might be headed down the wrong path. Best I drag out the record player and grab my hairbrush....

Lorelai

2011-11-07T14:49:00.000+11:00

I've posted this shot because it has the flooring I am after for 'Lorelai' (the caravan). I don't want the traditional black and white squares as I think they are too strong so I thought grey/white or steel blue/white would be perfect. It's a very 1950's look so it is in keeping with 'Lorelai's' age but so far I have had no luck finding any. I am happy to use vinyl squares so if anyone can head me in the right direction it would be much appreciated.

Audree

2011-11-06T15:12:00.000+11:00

You may remember a little while ago I posted some pictures of other people's fabulous caravans - well I have stumbled across the interior of one of those vans so I thought I'd share them with you.
Tiffany Kirchner-Dixon with a blog aptly titled The Fancy Farm Girl received the 1959 caravan nicknamed Audree as a Mother's day gift this year,and proceeded to renovate it within an inch of it's life. Have a look at what she has done.

Awesome Readers Series

2011-11-06T00:10:00.006+11:00

David Bowie reads

Esther Williams reads when she isn't swimming

Gregory Peck reads

Christy Turlington reads

Clint Eastwood reads

even Darth Vader reads

Ellen Page reads


and Dr Zeuss reads (his own books)

Dress Ups

2011-11-03T12:03:00.000+11:00

The kids very much missed our annual Halloween party this year, due to the move, but today they got to dress up after all. Their school has a Wacky Walk-a-thon every year to raise money and each class has a theme to dress up as. This year Moondoggie's class was 'Monsters and Scary things' and Gidget's was 'Spies & Detectives'.

Here they are as Dracula and Nancy Drew!

It's mid-day and they are about to begin but as I look out the window of CHALK the rain clouds are bearing down! Hope they get to parade around the oval a few times before they get drenched.

Princess Watch - Kate & Will in Denmark

2011-11-03T10:26:00.001+11:00

Kate and Will were joined by Mary and Frederik when they toured the UNICEF facility in Denmark.

One Person's Trash....

2011-11-01T21:51:00.001+11:00

About a year ago we spotted a great unit on the side of the road during Point Lonsdale's hard rubbish collection. We were walking, so after a little convincing Surfer Boy drove back with the ute and picked it up. We have no idea what to do with it and although S.B. keeps trying to get rid of it, I keep hanging on to it. I love it even though I am yet to think of a practical use for it. We never had any idea what it was either as it opens from the top, a little like a hutch. One day when my dad was over I thought to ask him and wouldn't you know it, he knew exactly what it was. Apparently it is a pioneer's cot. They were enclosed and up on legs to keep snakes etc away from the baby.
A little google searching and sure enough the only other one I could find is housed in the Pioneer Women's Museum in Queensland. Looks like it wasn't such a bad pick up after all!!

This is the one in the museum - very similar to ours although ours opens at the top as well.

Wonderful

2011-10-31T20:06:00.000+11:00

Images

2011-10-30T23:52:00.000+11:00

There are probably many reasons to envy Miley Cyrus but I think being able to fall asleep in Liam Hemsworth's lap tops the list.

Love a Fun Gift

2011-10-30T12:24:00.000+11:00

Look at what a lovely friend picked up for me at the local fete. I may never have been hugely interested in Diana but it is a fascinating overview of a fairly incredible life. It also has some wonderful images of Will and Harry when they were young which makes it even more interesting for me. We started flicking through it when she gave it to me and before you knew it we were engrossed. So thanks my friend - I love it.

Bounce!

2011-10-28T16:13:00.000+11:00

Growing up I knew a girl who had an in ground tramp and I thought she was the luckiest girl in the world. Even though we have a trampoline at home I would still kill for one like this - unfortunately it's going to be a space issue as this is one thing Surfer Boy would probably agree to if we had the room.

Weekend Eye Candy

2011-10-28T14:59:00.000+11:00

The swoon-worthy Mr Chris Hemsworth

Princess Watch - Going Solo

2011-10-28T12:16:00.002+11:00

The Duchess of Cambridge hosted a dinner on behalf of Prince Charles, celebrating the work of In Kind Direct.
Kate surprised guests attending a dinner at Clarence House yesterday evening as she stepped in for The Prince of Wales. Charles was unable to attend owing to a trip to Saudi Arabia to present his condolences to the Saudi Arabian Royal Family following the death of The Crown Prince. This was Kate's first ever solo event - wonder if she was nervous?
“We were delighted that the Duchess was able to step in at such short notice after our founder was unexpectedly called away.
“The Duchess hosted a very special evening with absolute professionalism and charm.”

And in other Princess related news, Kate and Will are visiting UNICEF in Denmark next month and Mary and Fredrick are tipped to be joining them - how fun are those photos going to be. Can't wait.

Mary Kate Olsen

2011-10-27T16:02:00.001+11:00

Reno Update

2011-10-27T15:20:00.000+11:00

Surfer Boy has been heading over the house every couple of days while I have been quite happy to leave the builders to it - I mean, seriously, there is only so much to gaze at when your block is a mud pit and it's actually quite depressing as naturally my front garden, my lovely garden, is slowly going back to nature. I hate to think how long it is going to take me to get my front grass back to it's former glory. Not only is the caravan squashed on to the front lawn but there is also a port-a-loo and a power pole at my front door.

I did drop by yesterday to check for mail and surprisingly there was something new to photograph - it's not much to look at but those brick thingies are the foundation of our new house and the shed not only has a slab floor but there is TIMBER! There is actually something in 3D which is actually a bit thrilling.

I am a little concerned that Surfer Boy has instructed the builders to build the shed first in case the money dries up. He assures me it is so he can use it to build the cabinetry for the house but I have my suspicions.

This last picture shows the original lining boards that we are contemplating salvaging for the dining room... we'll see how they look once we sand them back.

So there you go! Fascinating isn't it. Stay tuned, hopefully the next update will show some house progress rather than just shed.

WANT

2011-10-27T15:00:00.000+11:00

Want the legs....

Want the socks....

Want the floorboards...

Thought For Today

2011-10-21T16:43:00.000+11:00

Upcycling - Timber Walls

2011-10-20T11:24:00.001+11:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2011-10-18T15:13:00.003+11:00

It's Surfer Boy's birthday on Saturday but before we get to that we get to celebrate with the other love of my life - Mr Zac Efron who turns 24 today.

Lining Boards

2011-10-17T13:00:00.000+11:00

Our bathroom walls were the original lining boards, not dissimilar to the above photo, and we were quite sad to loose them when that part of the house was demolished. We did discover that underneath the plaster in the kitchen were more lining boards so we have decided to salvage them (as we like to do) and use them in our new dining room.

We have a long blank wall running down one side of the dining room and although I have toyed with wallpaper options, I think we are now going to use the recycled lining boards.

We'll put them up in their current state (see above) and if we aren't happy with the result we will slather them in white paint. I really hope we don't have to paint them as I think they'll add warmth and texture to that space.

Living etc Jan 2011

I'm Not The Only One Who Reads....

2011-10-15T12:46:00.000+11:00

Audrey Hepburn reads.

Walt Disney reads to his kids.

Barrak Obama reads, while Michelle sleeps.

Even Jude Law reads.

Charlton Heston reads.

And Audrey is still reading.

Princess Watch

2011-10-14T21:31:00.000+11:00

Speak of the devils! This is what they were up to last night...

A Princess Could Rule!

2011-10-13T13:37:00.001+11:00

If you read this blog regularly you'll know that Prince William and I have a bit of a thing going - this came about when Lady Di gave birth to the first royal prince ON MY BIRTHDAY. In 1982 I was 14 years old and absolutely thrilled. From that moment on I have felt a connection with Will, which quite obviously now extends to his wife! (judging by the ridiculous amount of posts I've been doing about her recently) As well as being a fan of Williams, I am also a fan of gender equality so when I read this article I thought it was worth sharing.....

David Cameron has formally begun the process that could allow a first born daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to accede to the throne.
He has written to the prime ministers of Commonwealth countries outlining how he wants to change laws dating back centuries, but which are now discriminatory.
In the letter, Mr Cameron says it is “an anomaly” and goes against “gender equality” that women have to take their place behind younger royal males in the line of succession.
He writes: “In the UK, we have found it increasingly difficult to continue to justify two particular aspects of the present rules on the succession to the Crown.
“The first is the rule which says that an elder daughter should take a place in the line of succession behind a younger son. We espouse gender equality in all other aspects of life, and it is an anomaly that in the rules relating to the highest public office we continue to enshrine male superiority.”
Mr Cameron told MPs that he wants to change the rules. As well as ending male primogeniture, the Prime Minister hopes to open the way for members of the Royal Family who marry a Roman Catholic being able to succeed to the Crown.
In his letter to the 16 prime ministers, Mr Cameron said it was rule is a historical anomaly as it does not apply to those who marry spouses of other faiths.
Thirdly, he is calling for an end to the permission to marry rules, and limit to the first six in line to the throne those descendants of King George II who require the Monarch’s consent before they marry.
The Prime Minister is proposing limiting this requirement to the first six in line to the throne.”
Mr Cameron will meet the Commonwealth leaders at a meeting, which will also be attended by the Queen, in Perth later this month. A discussion will be held with a plan for reform expected to be agreed.
The Royal Wedding in April has again thrust the issue of male primogeniture into the spotlight.
Among the laws which would need to be amended or repealed if the rule changes were agreed, the Bill of Rights 1688, the Coronation Oath Act 1688, Act of Settlement 1701 and the Royal Marriages Act 1772.

- The Telegraph - 10/12/11

Thank god they are finally addressing these archaic rules. Hopefully they are rectified before Kate and Will pop out some kids, but if not, at least Cameron has got the ball rolling.

For Eliza

2011-10-08T21:28:00.001+11:00

My lovely friend is a collector of old suitcases so when I saw this image I immediately thought of her. Hopefully she checks in to see it. While I was at it I thought I'd see if I could find any other clever suitcase ideas.....

Prince Harry

2011-10-08T21:25:00.000+11:00

Look out! Harry has landed. Let the games begin.....

Redneck!

2011-10-07T16:14:00.000+11:00

We had our ute stolen a few weeks before we moved house - I know, right! Good timing. - It also happened to be the ute that has my business name plastered all over it. Go figure. If I was that way inclined I certainly wouldn't be stealing a fairly beat up ute with CHALK emblazoned on the sides. Makes you a little easier to spot I would have thought. Anyway.... we have waited 9 weeks in the hope that it would show up but so far nothing. It may be time to come to terms with the loss and start looking around for another car.

Surfer Boy wants exactly what he had - a Toyota Hilux.

I, on the other hand have different ideas, and they may not be what you'd imagine. I want a Ford Bronco!

Preferrably a late 70's/early 80's model, 2 tone if possible. And I know what you're thinking because it's what Surfer Boy tells me all the time - 'what a bogan car!' I completely disagree and firmly believe that (with the addition of a set of steer horns on the front) it is one kick arse ride.

My other auto love is an F100 - which to Surfer Boy's horror is almost as bogan as the Bronco - and I believe I could have swayed him except for the fact that it doesn't fit all four of us in it. So it's goodbye to the F100, but not the Bronco!

I eventually got my way with the caravan so I haven't lost hope yet. Besides, once he sees this one I'm sure he'll be won over! Wish me luck.

Paper Mache Part 1

2011-10-05T12:29:00.001+11:00

Holidays

2011-10-05T00:06:00.005+11:00

Some people hate the school holidays

I love them

I get to spend time with these two nut bags

I get to hang out with them

do dumb stuff with them

eat holiday cereal

hang out at the skate park

frisbee and lego, star doll and baking

....and somersaults in the pool

Tomorrow's my last day before I go back to work. It's paper mache mask making, the last thing on their 'to do list' - wish me luck.

Be Still My Beating Heart

2011-10-01T15:35:00.001+10:00

This room is a mess of fabulous finds, but it manages to retain it's light and airy feel. I wasn't sure if I loved it or hated it at first but then I saw the other side of the room!!!

Books, books, books! They are stacked, piled, and strewn while being watched over by a cat - I'm sold.

pic from here

While on the subject of books - it may be about time for some more bookshelf inspiration....

pic from tumblr

pic from here

pics from here

Princess Watch

2011-09-30T15:23:00.000+10:00

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were at the Royal Marsden Hospital today to open a new specialist children’s cancer treatment ward.

Feeling Festive

2011-09-30T00:11:00.000+10:00

I am an absolute sucker for a christmas album so you can imagine my delight when I found out She & Him have one coming out at the end of October!

For the last few yeasrs Chris Isaak has ruled the Christmas airwaves but I feel a coup coming on.

Peeping In - Midwood

2011-09-29T18:10:00.001+10:00

This historic home from 1888 sits on the Hudson River in New York. It's owner has 12 grandchildren and this home is a haven for the large family.

Ths property covers 87 acres of Columbia County

There is special arts-and-crafts center for the grandchildren on the second floor. An adjoining playroom features a tiny stage - how I wish we could see it. Imagine having a home large enough to have a craft room!

On the second-floor landing, a floor-to-ceiling bulletin board serves as a changing autobiography of the house. It is overflowing with family art, photos, outlines of original plays, and notes from almost everyone in the clan.

This is the stunning enterance to the property.

Princess Watch - Topshopping

2011-09-28T21:33:00.000+10:00

It's always nice to see evidence that Kate is as nice as she looks. This is completely irrelevent but fun all the same...

On Monday evening, Kate was spotted at her local Topshop store, making some quick purchases just before the store closed. Thrown over her arm as she waited patiently in line was a smart polka-dot skirt in teal, a cobalt-blue boucle jacket with velvet trim and a delicate pair of gold-effect leaf earrings that cost just $10 and change. Kate browsed the store for a half-hour before joining the line to pay for her $170 worth of items.
“She was low-key and casual – she seemed so normal,” the Topshop staffer who served her said. “She was really chilled out despite some customers in the queue behind her saying, ‘Oh my God it’s her’ and pointing – she didn’t seem fazed by it all and she was really sweet.”
Despite the commotion, no one approached Kate, who gave the store no prior warning that she would be coming in.

Issue 4

2011-09-27T13:47:00.000+10:00

There's nothing better than getting the mail and finding something that isn't a bill - especially when it's my Caravan magazine!

Love Me Some Grammar Humour

2011-09-26T21:20:00.000+10:00

Princess Watch - Kate in Collette Dinnigan

2011-09-26T15:08:00.000+10:00

It's been a while between Kate sightings but yesterday she stepped out at the wedding of good friends Thomas Sutton and Harriet Colthurst.

William arrived early to fulfil his duties as an usher and later (in time for the ceremony), Kate was accompanied by her friend Louise Aubrey-Fletcher.

what are your thoughts on the Collette Dinnigan number?

Caravan Love

2011-09-26T14:46:00.000+10:00

They may not exactly be my style but they are still fabulous.

I'm missing Lorelai and can't wait to get her back. We visited her at the house yesterday and so far she is surviving the build well.

Summer Hair

2011-09-26T14:00:00.000+10:00

Peeping In - Meg Again

2011-09-24T13:50:00.000+10:00

A while ago I posted some pics of Meg Ryan's beautiful Martha's Vineyard home and yesterday I found more images that I hadn't seen before. I wish she'd confined all her renovating to her house - rather than her face!

Concrete Rocks

2011-09-23T12:27:00.000+10:00

Images from Dutch interior magazine 101 woonideeën. This home is a former brewery in the Gotland countryside and the bathroom in particular is making me salivate...

The Delicious Styling of Johanna Flyckt

2011-09-22T11:06:00.000+10:00

Peeping In.... Kerri Russell

2011-09-20T22:18:00.000+10:00

I adore everything about Kerri Russell. She is an actress that I love to watch, an unassuming celebrity that flys under the radar. She fell in love and married Shane Dreary, a builder, and they now have a son, and more importantly for this blog - a Brooklyn Brownstone that dates back to the 1860's. I am thrilled that along with the most glorious hair ever to grace the screen, she has superb taste in interiors. Together with Shane she has transformed her home and it is gorgeous.

By a Whisker

2011-09-20T17:00:00.000+10:00

Our architect has been playing around with our stairwell and got the new drawings to us yesterday - just in time too as the foundations have been started today and apparently when you move a wall a bit it affects the placing of the base - go figure.

Hate to think what kind of drama could have ensued had they already started.

Gidget

2011-09-18T16:01:00.000+10:00

Gidget turned up in this month's SMALL Magazine. She and her friend Rosie spent the day modelling for Rosie's Mum who owns the beautiful Jewellery Label - Little Lamb. Gidget is on the left with Rosie in the middle. They had such a fun day at Werribee Mansion and the photo's are fantastic.

Steel Design

2011-09-15T13:55:00.000+10:00

The steel doors are ordered! This was the first design decision we made way back when we did our first architectural drawings. This is basically the profile although we are keeping them galvanised (dirty silver) rather than powder coating them. I felt the black was too heavy with our weatherboards.

One set of doors will also have a row of windows on either side effectively making the area double the size. We did toss up as to whether these were an extravagance but I am so happy we have decided to stick with them.

Tapware Decisions

2011-09-15T13:31:00.001+10:00

Surfer Boy took the day off yesterday so we could do some hunting together. We had an appointment with the boys making our steel doors and we thought we may as well try and cross some other things off our 'to do' list. This is where we ended up... the first MASTERS hardware store. turns out it is not that far from us and as we drove in to the carpark we knew we had found our new spiritual home....

It had absolutely everything, including a McCafe and racks of magazines!

We managed to chose our bath, toilets, and tapware all in the one place which was fabulous and we left an hour later feeling very pleased with ourselves.

Excuse the dreadful snaps but here are a couple of our picks.

Bath taps

Laundry taps

Shower head

Everything was very reasonably priced so I am hoping that any money we saved can go towards my gorgeous bridge tap for the kitchen. Fingers crossed.

Next Up...

2011-09-13T14:30:00.000+10:00

Windows have been chosen so the next item on my to do list is the bathroom. Specifically tapware. And wouldn't you know it the style I like seems to be the most expensive on the market - bugger.

Surely there is someone in Australia doing a version of the English bridge taps at a more reasonable price? Please let me know if you have any suggestions. I secretly wanted to do them in the kitchen too but wasn't sure if it would work. this pic has proved that it will. Yay.

Bye Andy

2011-09-12T14:36:00.001+10:00

It only took 18 months for cancer to claim the life of the beautiful Andy Whitfield. He died today from non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and leaves behind his wife, Vashta and a son,6 and a daughter, 3.

Andy was born in Wales but has been an Australian since his parents moved here in 1999. He acted in shows such as McLeod's Daughters, Packed To The Rafters and All Saints before landing the role of a lifetime - SPARTACUS.

Andy was a beautiful soul who handled his illness with grace and dignity. He will be greatly missed.

Brocade Never Looked So Good

2011-09-11T11:39:00.000+10:00

Wildflowers Photography

The Humble Side Door

2011-09-08T23:50:00.002+10:00

This underrated item has become my very first big decision for the new house. I sat done with our lovely builder Karen yesterday for a couple of hours and went through the plans in detail to work out a schedule of when I have to have decisions made. I now feel very much in control and being a list lover I am overjoyed at the typed up timeframe I have made for myself.

While I was there I actually made a few decisions, the first of which was the side door. I must admit I hadn't previously given it a lot of thought so I hope it's ok. This door leads off our laundry to our side path not unlike this one...

In fact the door I have decided on is pretty similar to the one pictured too. While I was on a roll I also chose the laundry and toilet doors - now for the handles. Seriously! So much to decide. Fun though.

My door -

Hurry Up Summer

2011-09-06T18:56:00.000+10:00

The Danish ice cream brand "Hansens Flødeis" is an old family business from 1922 who makes really delicious ice cream of high quality. But Hansens Flødeis can do much more than make good ice cream. Their packaging graphics and branding is sublime. Their designs have won awards in Denmark and aren't they a joy?

CHALK & TALK

Love the Mailman

Natimuk

Junk Heaven

Amy's Kitchen

Shasta

Peeping In - Amy Butler

Priceless

Peeping In - Melissa Gilbert

Moondoggie's Room

Princess Watch

Retro Christmas

Princess Watch - What Was Kate Doing This Christmas?

Princess Watch

Update

Princess Watch

Done the Tree - now For the Wreath.......

The Tree

CHALK

Shop By Night

Things I Believe....

What We Made

Getting My Craft On

Peeping In

Awesome Readers

Our Doors

Princess Watch

Date A Girl Who Reads....

Cam Giganget

Collections

Being True

Late Night Eye Candy

Mary

Princess Watch - Back to Kate

Upcycling!

Tuesday's Talent

Brief House Update

Pallets

This Week's Readers

Royal Alliteration

Princess Watch - The Aussie Version

The School Run

Princess Watch - Rememberance Day

This Weeks Readers....

Princess Watch

My Tap

My Little Lamb

Sally Boyden

Lorelai

Audree

Awesome Readers Series

Dress Ups

Princess Watch - Kate & Will in Denmark

One Person's Trash....

Wonderful

Images

Love a Fun Gift

More Awesome People Reading

Bounce!

Weekend Eye Candy

Princess Watch - Going Solo

Mary Kate Olsen

Reno Update

WANT

More Cool People Who Read

Thought For Today

Upcycling - Timber Walls

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Lining Boards

I'm Not The Only One Who Reads....

Princess Watch

A Princess Could Rule!

For Eliza

Prince Harry

Redneck!

Paper Mache Part 1

Holidays

Be Still My Beating Heart

Princess Watch

Feeling Festive