my summerhouse

simply lovely

2012-02-06T21:57:00.000-08:00

Happy tuesday lovelies!!!

Hope you have all had a wonderful start to the week.

Just sharing some very lovely spaces.!! All with my favourite elements; A white background and pretty colours and patterns in the accesories and furnishings...

I just adore the bright pinks and morrocan lantern below, beee-autiful!!

This table... the sofa..... the rug.... artwork.... what is not to love?!!

Okay, not such a huge fan of all of these real antlers... But everything else is adorable...

another gorgeous, colourful rugs....

Usually, i would never really consider using patterned tiles in a bathroom, but I just love this.........

Also loving some of the latest Lazybones bedding - new to their range... (click on the name to visit the online store)

This printed euro pillow cover is so similar to a pretty vintage embroidered table cloth i have; i will show you all when i take some pics.....

How gorgeous!!! I am off to do some sewing now while I still have an hour or so left before school pick up!!

Have a wonderful day everyone and thanks for your visits and comments, always!
Laura xxx

friday favourites; rylo interiors

2012-02-03T17:25:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

welcome to a wonderful weekend!!!!

I had a very usy day yesterday and wasnt able to get to my friday favourites, but i know that even though it is Saturday now in Perth, somewhere in the world it is still friday!!! So i dont feel so silly posting my FF s !!!!

I actually came accross this Designer a little while ago and i just love her bright, happy and colourful style!

I m talking about Rylo Interiors in Brisbane; I dont live there and havent seen it in person! One day when I do get to Brisbane, there are so many wonderful places on my growing list of MUST SEEs!!!
This is one of them!!!

Just adorable collections and vignettes, gorgeous colours and orchids!!!!

Designer and owner Lauren Pearce, such a talented Lady!!

Visit Rylo interiors here: rylodesign

Still having some blogger issues... even the images for posting are taking the longest time to upload...
Hope it gets sorted out very soon!

have a fabulous weekend everyone!!!!

Laura xxxx

summer days, how i love thee!

2012-01-31T18:58:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

Well, school started back today and I am quite sad that the long lazy days of summer holidays are over. Fortunately, summer is far from over and i will definently be making the most of the heat, the pool, the weekends!

Here are a few pics i took yesterday ; trying to keep cool!

As you can tell, i am loving the acrylic tray!!! just wanted to play around with it on top of the water!!!

It was definently a "no boys allowed" kind of afternoon! I had to clear away all the pretty pinkness before seb and his friend descended on the pool with giant bombies!!!

I really would dearly love a concrete pool with mosaics, but this one is sufficient for now. So glad that we got the pool even though i wasnt keen at first... now, it really does make my summer..

thanks for popping by today everyone,

much love, lauraxxx

orchids... and tips

2012-01-28T17:33:00.000-08:00

Morning everyone,
Just a quick post today! I was wondering...

Have any of you had any luck with potted orchids? I have been planning to go and get some for my home for quite some time now. Only, I am not that great with anything in pots!

cut flowers are easy, in fact, in my home, i can make the cut flowers last way longer than anything in a pot!

In fact, my favourite tips for cut flowers are;;;;;;;

Use a florist knife if possible to lessen the damage to stems..
try to eliminate foilage that will be submerged in water as they cause contamination
Rose dethorners cause browning and trauma to the stems; better to cut each one off with florist knife (timely i know, but u do get faster at it with practice!)
Change the water as often as possible (daily is good) and I like to add ice cubes into my water to keep it as chilled as possible.
Roses can last quite some time in the fridge. However, the longer you keep them in there, the shorter life span they will have when they are eventually taken out .

You probably knew most or all of these things anyway, but just thought I would share and hoping in return to get some potted orchid tips!!!!

Also, has anyone been having blogger problems? I have been trying for day to change my blog list back to thumbnail images but it just wont happen!!!! Its stays on "saving" for the longest time and the I just eventually give up at close the box being the incredibly impatient person that I am!

Happy sunday everyone, thanks for your continual support and for sharing my ups and downs of life! Its truly apprecciated (just had to add that!)

Laura xxxx

Friday favourites, australia day!!

2012-01-27T03:51:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
had such a very intensely busy (and quite social!!) week, add in a few power cuts and computer problems and Australia day, and that, is my excuse for my blogland absence. I cant help feeling guilty for not having been to visit everyone and leave comments... One of the very few downsides of blogging i suppose.
As I previously mentioned, yesterday being australia day meant a little get together for myself and a couple of family members....

Although, with the temps soaring to 42 degrees (celsius!!) most time was spent in the pool for myself!!

Here are a few pics from my alfresco yesterday before my mum and brother arrived! - my favourite things from the week- I chose to stick with the red blue and white to keep in with the aussie theme!

Found these little cocktail sticks with pompoms on top (and without the ribbon - i added that) from the grocery store!! how cute are they?

The blue napkins inside the basket I dyed from white to blue... wanted to just try it out and see how simple it is, and surprisingly it wasnt too difficult at all... only problem is that one sachet doesnt go very far....

I made the cushions last week... love the new bench seat freshly painted!

No australia day celebration is complete without sparklers of course!!!

We had quite a lovely evening as it happens!

Here is a quick snap of some other cushions i have been sewing for the etsy store... Made with some vintage striped fabric and the gorgeous Durham paisley. I ve had it for ages, just didnt have time to sew until last week-ish!!

I love the freshness of the white and blue with a little splash of red.. Not the colours I usually decorate with, but nice for a change!!!

happy australia day everybody, have a fabulous friday!!!

Laura xxxxx

Friday favourites - a little late!

2012-01-20T15:34:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

bit late with my friday favourites this week!! Had to rush out early yesterday morning and by the time I came home, I got stuck into some sewing and then felt a little lazy in the evening...

In fact, my favourites of the week are actually the things I had been sewing (for my home - which i have neglected for what seems like ages!) But I havent taken any pics yet; perhaps I will get time tomorrow or this afternoon...

However, I did stumble upon some very delightfully chic spaces !

Pretty Rubie green cushions...

Love that desk... or, is it just a long, skinny table?.. still, a chic spot to study and work from!

Very pretty teacups... makes your tea taste so much better i think!

Very interesting side table, havent seen one like this before...

I am sure everyone has seen these shell chandeliers before; I just adore them... a wonderful statement piece... dont know where in perth i could get my hands on one though...

Love the idea of the chevron papered hallway.. (although, just one feature wall is plenty of this; otherwise I think I would feel as though I was having a pre-migraine aura - to be totally surrounded by zig zags!!!!)

I just cant go past pink ever!! I dont think i have many posts that dont include the colour pink! Its probably my sub conscious compensating for being surrounded by males and boy things in my daily life!!!

Have a great weekend everyone what ever you do!

Laura xxx

rustic beauty

2012-01-15T17:14:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

have been lusting over these rustic beauties lately....

really, this room is just the cutest isnt it? the chair is just stunning, I sooo need a turquoise chair exactly like that one.. or a few!! maybe even a whole chaise!!

love this simple room and the natural textures with a little pop of pink!

Wish i could get my hands on a few of these birdcage light fixtures from Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic couture.

Lots of rustic eye candy in this room. I am finding myself very drawn to black at the moment.. really like the black on the back wall... also, like the use of the industrial lighting in the dining room where a chandelier would have been a bit more predictable.. I like the unexpected!

More black, a rustic chest paired with some ghost chairs! What a great combo!

Love rustic, tarnished gold - always!

..........beautiful!!.......

Going to be doing a bit of painting today, finally getting around to the concrete bench seat in our alfresco that we remodelled. It has been a few months since we finished it but I just havent had the time to get out and buy the paint let alone ACTUAL painting!!!! But cant wait now to see the area finished and tidied up...
Not long now till the children go back to school so enjoying the lazy morning (perhaps a little too much!) Are you enjoying the school holidays or have you had enough now?!!!

Have a fab day everyone! Laura xxxx

friday favourites!!

2012-01-12T17:35:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, thanks for stopping by today; its friday here in perth!! We have had a lovely warm week, but apparently storms are on the way.... Are they becoming more frequent? I cant help but wonder...

I have been trying to do a little spring cleaning this week now that the christmas decorations are 'away' I am saying that as I have moved them... out of the living area, all ready to be packed away!!! I just had an intense need to go through everything and purge!!! that takes quite a lot of time, but as long as I do it properly I am happy!!!

This week, my friday favourites are little things from around my home...

Some vintage embroideries hanging on a ladder... (waiting to be utilised somehow!)

My inspiration board which is just not nearly large enough.... I am not sure if you will be able to see it clearly or not...

And at the bottom, a recipe card for Singapore slings I 'borrowed' from the lovely Long Bar in Singapore... yum!!!!

A huge bunch of pretty Lisianthus in full bloom! I love the soft feathery look of them... so delicate..

My newest favourite drink (ever) is coconut water and I have had to try every single brand.... I think the best one is by AYAM ( which comes in a can) its not too sweet or artificial tasting... However, the drink by COCO LOTTO has these sweet little bottles which are a lovely shape and I have taken off the sticker to use them for vases and little milk drinks for the boys...

And some of my roses are in flower now after I transported them... I was so worried as I didnt know if they would make it or not!!!

And, my favourite delicious champage truffles that my husband buys for me!! Wont be having any of those for some time now... perhaps at the wedding in March, have to make sure I fit into that bridesmaid dress!!

Have a fabulous friday everybody.... thankyou for your continued friendship xxxxxxx

Laura xxxxxx

Colour Trend; Navy

2012-01-10T16:20:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

You may have read in places (as I have ) that the Pantone colour of the year is tangerine... (actually I am not a fan of any kind of orange really...) so I was quite pleased to read that Belle Decor have hailed Navy blue as their colour of the moment!! and Navy I am a fan of!

I love its crisp, freshness. I love how it looks with pink, with white, with aqua...

Love navy blue nautical touches and the preppy Ralph Lauren paisleys and stripes!

Here are some great ways to use navy!

Do you like Navy blue? My husband has always loved it (being an ex naval person) so I havent been able to avoid it really as he always leans towards navy.. but, its not for everyone I know!

As you can see, i have managed to add the pages under the header; just havent had time yet to work on them, but will get to that!!

Have a busy day planned today.... off to work soon , so should get myself organised!!

thanks for stopping by today!

love from Laura xxx

Friday Favourites

2012-01-05T15:38:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!!

Well, Friday has come along faster than ever and I have decided this year to make my 'friday favourites' a regular thing! that is , I will endevour to post some of my favourite rooms or spaces that I have come accross in the past week, every friday!! a new years resolution perhaps!

I also have another couple of things i want to do regularly, but I am still deciding!!

So, here are the faves;

Want want want that sofa!!!!! so imperfect, but perfect!!!!! on my 'to buy' list this year is definently a brown leather chesterfield....

or, a club chair like below.... Although, I have never been a huge fan of leather, you cant deny that they look great!

I love this large open space and the eclectic blend of old and new....

Fabulous lighting, flooring, windows....

Rustic features with modern furniture...

These are my pick of the week!!!

I do hope you have a great day wherever you are! thanks for stopping by today!!!

Laura xxx

my bday boy!

2012-01-04T18:39:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

just a little post, just wanted to say happy bday to my (now very big boy) !! Seb who was seven yesterday!!!

We had some family over for cake and pizza, his favourites!, and he will be having a pokemon theme party on the weekend at the Gymbakids play room.... All his choice of course!!!

I just made a little plain cake for yesterday - a yummy creamy vanilla sponge.

A few weeks back I made a little clay bunting for the top of bday cakes which turned out quite well...

Although I do not do cooking (by which I mean, I dont like it.... will avoid it at any cost!! I often dont mind a bit of baking, but try not to do that too much as I have very little will power when it comes to yummy treats!!!! Saying that; my husband made most of this cake and it was just a packet mix!! but because of the party, i expect to be doing quite a bit of cooking over the next couple of days... My little bunting was great, so easy to make with the air drying clay and some thin wire (as it holds the shape more than thread or twine) and I totally recommend trying it. I just like the idea that clay can be used over and over and wont spoil as easily as fabric, card or paper....

One warning though..... dont put your candles too close to the end of the bunting as your twine might catch fire!!! as did mine!!!! think i was having a blonde moment!!!!!!

Here are a couple of the professional shots i had of my little Seb when he was around six months old.
He was just the cutest!!!!!!!

Wish I could remember the photographers name so that I could give her credit.....

This one was my absolute favourite... He was going through a teething phase of sucking his lips at the time, it was so hard to get a shot of him NOT doing it!

Now he is seven! how time flies!!! I miss the baby stage... I miss being a mum to little children... I am sad that its a part of my life that is gone forever.....: ( makes you feel so old!

So happy bday my little Seb, you are truly special and loved....

Moving on to another couple of things;;;;

I need help!!! does anyone know of a good tutorial to add links/pages accross the top of the blog under the header? I found a tutorial on shabby blogs but didnt work for me... have been trying to do it for ages but with no luck...

Also, I had a few questions I feel bad I havent answered yet...

I havent been doing any sewing lately as time has been an issue.. I am hoping that will change now that christmas is over, but havent as yet added anything to the etsy shop unfortunately..

Also, I had a lovely reader ask about my wallpaper, I did try to reply but couldnt find a reply address... anyhooooo, it s from Laura Ashley and the price was quite reasonable. They have it in a few other colours.. I think the name was oriental garden, I think they may even have a sale on all of the wallpaper at the moment.... - thankyou for your lovely comments!

And thankyou to everyone for stopping by and leaving comments, i truly appreciate them all!!!!

have a lovely thursday everyone!

Laura xxx

happy new year!!

2012-01-03T04:06:00.000-08:00

Hi there everyone,

Happy new year to you all!!!!

I have been a little bit absent of late, but i think a little unplanned break was just what the dr ordered!!! time to get through the festive season and spend time with friends and family, and what a truly hectic time it was !!!

I had very little time to bother with decorating this year, but here are a little few touches i added to the alfresco!

pretty glittered deer head!! (much nicer than the real thing i think!) a little bunting i made with some white and red twine and double sided sticky tape!! little tree wrapped in dropcloth fabric...

I must just say that lately, the space was getting a bit too girly and feminine, even for me!! I go through phases when I (over) indulge my girly side, then one day, i need change!! although, i still like a few romantic touches here and there... of course!!

So, I am going to be running up some black and white striped cushion covers for the long bench seat...

and I tore up this runner quickly to introduce a few stripes to see if it was working for me out there...

I thought I might add some nautical touches.. this was purely just for christmas, (the anchors below) but i have a few other things in mind...

I will go for much wider black and white stripes for the cushions however....

And the glittery deer on the wall will be replaced with the wooden letters that I had previously in my dining room...

I have some of my husbands memoribillia from when he was in the navy that i would love to frame for the walls !

I love that the back drop of the space is adaptable to any look really! perfect for someone like myself who is a constant mind changer!!!

I am sincerely looking forward to the new year, to a fresh start, to new possibilities...

I guess you could say that i am planning some big changes in my life and i am excited about them! I am enrolling in studies to become a counsellor/youth worker. Losing weight is also a huge priority for me this year...!!!!! A friend and i are doing it together which will help to stay motivated ( well, thats the theory!!)

Heres to 2012 everyone!!! I do hope its wonderful for all of you , happy, joyous, and full of love!! xx

(cant wait to see wht you have all been doing, sorry i havent been to visit too many of you lately, things will change, i promise!!!

hugs always, Laura xx

mixing old and new

2011-12-23T16:57:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone

When it comes to interiors, most of you will know that i really appreciate a blend of a little rustic, a little contemporary, a little old, a little new!! Maybe its a reflection of my inner self! I must admit that while I am quite traditional and old fashioned, I do have a few modern tendencies and outlooks on life...

Do your values and inner self reflect in your home/interior preferences?

I do find it quite rare to come accross mixes of styles that I love and that appeal to my aesthetic however. I especially find that when it comes to my friends and family, they love 'a style' and stick to it throughout their home... Thats just not for me though.

What are your thoughts on this rustic architecture and furniture with large chevron print tablecloth?

I think its totally Fabulous!!!! the print is so bold and attention grabbing, giving the room a wonderful unexpected punch !

And how about this wallpaper with rustic french furnishings? Chevron print has been a favourite in bloggy/design world for some time yet and I dont think its day is over quite yet!

In fact, when its used in soft furnishings, (or any contemporary fabric) its easier and less costly to update or replace when you tire of it and keeping investment and expensive pieces classic in style and design..

Or, you could just have a few pieces upholstered in a modern fabric such as this while keeping the lines of the chair classic.. these little chairs are adorable

I suppose that if its something you really love, it will work either way, wont it?

So I guess this is me... an old fashioned girl at heart with a little modern twist!! Traditional values and beliefs with a contemporary edge!! What is your favourite style? Are you totally modern? retro? shabby chic? european french? country? balinese? minimalist? coastal? hollywood glam? Hampton/new england style? or a mix like me??

Oh, I almost forgot, its christmas eve!!!! Has that gone amazingly fast or what???? It just doesnt feel like it should be christmas tomorrow already, would like a little more time in fact!! seeing as i still have a mountain of shopping to do (thanks to having a disgusting bout of gastro this week and not feelin up to it last week!) I am going to be very very busy today i think!!! And vow to be ultra organised next year!

blessing and warmest wishes to all of you today and for a fabulous christmas tomorrow everyone!! hope your day is filled with fun, joy, laughter and family!xxx

Laura xxxx

summery, beachy chrissy stuff (and giveaway winner!)

2011-12-19T04:33:00.000-08:00

Hello gorgeous folks!!

Was obviously going to choose the winner of my giveaway last week, but things happen and my best laid plans went astray!! Actually its been a bit of an emotional time for me of late and so, not as productive as I had hoped and imagined... I suppose it is an emotional time for lots of people... thats what christmas can do; the negative aspect... memories, regrets, wishing and longing for people who should be here, but arent....

But hallelujah for the rest of the christmas stuff! the pretty decorations, the music, the old movies, the parties and fun!!!

I have just come accross this fab new online mag today; a MUST visit for gorgeous and inspiring styling ideas, mostly a magazine for childrens parties and the like, but so much eye candy, so much to take in!!! My Little Jedi is the one i am talking about... how beautiful is this beach setting? just jaw droppingly pretty!! click on the name to go straight there!!!

Must say, I am making a mental to get edible glitter for my next baking project!! not that i bake too much, i do like it, but hate cleaning up the mess afterwards, and wind up eating way too much!!!!

now for my chrissy list !!!

pretty Missoni dress!! (happy to settle for lookalike if i can find one!)

And how about some bling? Not sure where this came from actually; again a lookalike would be most satisfactory!!! as with the Kate Spade shoes also below!!!

Have a lookie at the the pretty beachy blue christmassy lovelies!! I am trying as you know to stick with light blue and pink, when the house is tidy enough and I have finished decorating i will take some pics. I have been a bit slack this year and just havent gotten around to finishing it all....

And talking of beachy christmas loveliness, I am really adoring these bracelet wraps made by the very very lovely cheryl from Beachcomber!!! Click on the name to go straight to her etsy shop!! Lots of delicious goodies there, especially if you love a carefree beachy look... another Must visit of course!!!

FINALLY!!! I can let you all know, and I am ever so pleased that the winner of my giveaway was Gem, from the blog; Musings of a Gem.. Again, click on the name to go visit her, she really is a gem, such a sweet young and talented girl.. I am so pleased she was the winner!!! Looking forward to going to let her know now, just not thinking it will arrive before christmas, , feeling bad about that, but hopefully she can use the little decorations next year....

I just about almost lost this whole post!!!! not sure how i did it but thankfully the draft was automatically saved!! I am so happy about that after loading all those pics!!!!

I know i have not been visiting many of you the past week, thats purely because of my feeling a bit emotionally overwhelmed... I really didnt feel like blogging, didnt feel like talking to anyone, virtual or otherwise.... I think i have come out the other side of it now though... cant wait to visit you all and say hello!!!!

Bye for now !!!

Laura xxxx

some things i hope to do before its too late!!!!

2011-12-12T17:31:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

just wanted to first thank everyone for all their lovely comments and spreading the word of the giveaway; you are all such gorgeous gems!!!! thankyou!!!!

Now, on to the giveaway!! I have been so busy in the past few days, i havent had time to draw a winner as yet but will have a winner tomorrow after drawing a winner tonight!!

here is a little collection of pretties for the morning, things i am loving today!!!

look closely at these flowers; dont think they are real, but so convincing..

liking the soft palette here; hoping i will get time to wrap my gifts will as much care and detail!

This outdoor setting to me is just amazing.... would love to take our christmas meal outside but if its too hot we will have to be inside in the air con... It must be a strange concept for all of you in winter who have traditional and cold christmases, to think of a warm, hot summer!!!

I would love to do christmas wrapper tags like these equestrian rosettes!! - stay tuned for that! will definently be trying that!

do you decorate each room, or just one? I usually put a little something in my boys bedroom , but havent gotten around to it yet; will have to get a move on before its too late!

Love these pinatas too for christmas day! My son pointed out a reindeer one that he quite fancied, but this is more my taste!!!

And this; is the latest dress I am lusting after! I have a very formal wedding to go to on the weekend and was looking for something similar to this;;;;;

Just havent found anything yet though... I bought some fabric to try and make something similar. not so many sequins though.. why is it you can never find what you are looking for at the right time?

off to do some lovely blog hopping now and to say hello!!!

hope you are all well and having a great tuesday!!!

laura xxxxx

friday festives

2011-12-08T19:22:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

hope you have all had a great week!!

got started with my christmas decorations, but not quite finished yet... going with pink and blue this year mostly (husband wasnt impressed!!)
Have a look at these gorgeous blue and pink images I found via the Hostess blog..

Isnt it the sweetest little christmas setting? adorable!!

And some more images i found that really appeal to my pastel adoring self!!

I know this isnt a christmas setting, but i think it could still be used.. I love its effortlessness, simplicity and the droolworthy pink glass!!

More pinks and blues!!

Dont forget to enter my giveaway; click on the sidebar pic or scroll down to the previous post!! Only a couple of days to go.!!

Hugs and love, laura xxx

A little Giveaway!!!

2011-12-06T21:49:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,
I have finally found my camera and a few photos, so I can organise a little giveaway!

Firstly is this cushion cover. It was the only one left, so I had kept it aside for some time to use in the giveaway.

It has a button closure at the back and is made with 100 per cent cotton, will fit standard
cushions.

        The print was made using the orange oil rub effect and has pretty little ruffles with shabby
                    raw edges.

Also, while doing a spot of shopping at the christmas store, i found these little zinc tags, perfect for gifts or decorating. They measure roughly three inches in length ( i havent measured them, just kind of guessing!!)

The give away is open to everyone in Australia aswell as overseas.

And last but not least; a little zinc hanging heart..

Has a cute little rustic bell on the bottom...

The giveaway will only be open until Sunday the 11th of December so that I can post it off quickly and perhaps in time for christmas (depending on where you are in the world!!)

                  The giveaway is open to all of my followers, leave me a comment, if you mention it on your blog, i will double your entry to give you two times the chance to win!!! (please let me know if you have mentioned it just to make sure!)     So on Sunday evening (western standard time) at 6pm I will pick a winner and email you as soon as i know....

                                                           Good luck everyone!!!

(how pretty are my roses? my husband surprised me with them the other day when i got home from work... cant wait for them to open fully! And as you can see, my dining table that i had painted white has been getting another make over... I did such a good job painting it in the first place, i am having a hard time removing it all... I do plan to sand the whole lot and give it a whitewashed look...)

Bye for now everyone!!!

Laura xx

vintage silk scarve pillows and pretty things

2011-12-02T15:39:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,

I am posting from my husbands laptop this morning as mine is about to die i think!! It is only two years old.... but i suppose in technology years, thats like ... a life time!

Yesterday morning i noticed a strange noise coming from inside, then smoke!!!!!!!

eek, When I get the time, I will quickly transfer all of my files onto a hard drive to save them!

I remembered this morning that I had a tiny file on my husbands laptop with a few things I had saved...

these beautiful pillows!

I think I just lost most of them!!! whoops!! this Paris one is my favourite though; from thisnext.com

I will definently be looking out for pretty vintage scarves to turn into pillows and cushions !!!

I had saved a few gorgeous, bright and happy tumblr images...

this remind me to make sure I get to the flower markets to get some peonies before they are all gone.. It will be too hot for them soon.
Today is going to be a fabulous 37 degrees in perth. How I do love Summer!!!!!!

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend everyone where ever you are!!

Hopefully tomorrow I will be able to share with you some of my little projects!!

Hugs, laura xxxx

summer at last!

2011-12-01T16:02:00.000-08:00

Morning everyone!

Just a really quick post today as I am on the run but just wanted to touch base!

Am feeling pretty content inside knowing that summer is officially here and we have the whole three months or so ahead of us!!!

Looking forward to lots of trips to the beach and outdoor soirees!

And not long till christmas now; perhaps hubby will agree to putting up the tree tonight!!!! He believes it should be the twelth of Dec.... but as I like to remove it on boxing day, i want to enjoy it for the month!!!

On the wedding/bridesmaid update; we are loving this style of dress; what do you think? The colour would be different; yet to settle on that... The other bridesmaid will probably wear a different style, we both have such different body types and the bride doesnt mind so long as the colour and fabric are the same....

Tricky stuff!!!! Okay, must dash now, Have a fabulous day everyone!!!!

Laura xxxx

Sunday sorbet style!

2011-11-26T19:16:00.000-08:00

Good morning dear folkies!!!

hope you are all well and good!!

Just loving all of these gorgeous sorbet colours all together!!!

I am a real pastel person as you all know, but these bright colour combos are perfect for summer! I am going to be colour blocking with sorbet colours this season!!!

I have a few days off now (yay) and am hoping to get LOADS of things done! Also, will fill you in on my best friends wedding plans! Its going to be a gorgeous day and she has spent so much time over the little details to make the day very special...

Have hopelessly lost my camera!!! need to have a good look for that today; i think i would lose my head were it not screwed on!! Oh, a few weeks back, I lost one of my gold Tiffany earrings :(

I was just SOO upset about it --- for a few hours... I do try not to stay upset about anything for too long.. a couple of hours max, then i tell myself - thats enough- Life is too short after all and moping will not find my lovely earring!!! I have a feeling now that it isnt just going to turn up...

I am going to contact the store and see if they do replacements.

I always remember hearing something Oprah said once about losing things (material things that is)..

she felt that it was the universe` way of showing you that you didnt really need it anyway..

hmmm, think that was what she said! but i see what she meant. And i believe it to be true I guess.

I do not NEED Tiffany earrings!!!

they sure were nice though!!!

well, have a fabulous sunday all of you and thankyou for stopping by today!!! love you all to bits!!

laura xxx

friday favourites

2011-11-24T18:40:00.000-08:00

Morning all! (or good evening if you are on the other side of the world!)

just rounding up my week with a few favourite spaces and some great giveaways!!!

first up is this dining area, beautiful artwork, lighting, rustic table and modern Eames chairs..
I adore the blend of old and new, shabby and modern, classic and edgy....

Another love of the week via Simply Grove. The Capiz pendant is stunning, the Eames chairs again in pastel colours and a rustic old table. (not to forget the gorgeous roses in buckets!)

My favourite thing in this room has to be the Circus poster!! Fabulous!! love the doors also opening up to a gorgeous rambling garden!!! What a great office space!

Some of my wonderful friends are having giveaways this week, you must pop over, say hello and enter!!!! Nellie from McCarthy Designs blog is having a giveaway worth almost two hundred dollars from Minted!!!

Also, my gorgeous and lovely friend Melissa from Miss sew and sew blog
is having a fabulously festive giveaway too!! although I am hoping I win a giveaway or two!! I do wish you all luck! Just click on the names to go straight there!!!

Well my dear and lovely friends, I have to go and get ready for work :( Its going to be a very long day unfortunately But, I have a lot of free time next week and I am hoping my sewing machine will be back from machine hospital!!! dont know what was wrong with it this time, will soon find out, and the money i have spent this year, i probably could have bought a brand new , amazing top of the range machine instead!!! But i wont dwell on it!!!

Have a fabulous friday everyone!!!

Laura xxx

a festive home

2011-11-21T15:50:00.000-08:00

Morning all!!!

can i share my excitement? will you think I am the biggest dag/dork around???

well, maybe you will! thats okay, I am old enough to not care about being a dork!!!!!

My brother sent me a txt yesterday to tell me that he heard George Michael is coming to Perth next year, and then I went straight on the net to comfirm it!!   I am SO excited! I have loved him since I was about five years old! I saw him in London in 06 and then again here in perth a few years ago. But this concert is with the orchestra at a winery in the Swan valley...   See, told you I was a big old dag!!!!!!

Just had to share that little bit of info!!!!   I am sure you all wanted to know about that!!!!

okay,   back to what I was going to post!!! A few months ago, I found this scandi home online somewhere (cant remember where) and loved so many elements from it..

I dont think it is new and has probably been around blogland for some time; but here it is in case you havent seen it!!!!

What a great festive feeling has been created in this home.. Love all the texture and softness, oh, and that gorgeous glam wallpaper in the bedroom!!!

Here are some more pics I have collected for christmassy ideas and inspiration...

the mini tree is so cute!

What are you all doing today? I am off with a girlfriend to shop for our bridesmaid dress!!! only four months to go!!!

have a wonderful day everyone!!!

laura xx

summer styling....

2011-11-13T18:23:00.000-08:00

Monday morning everyone! thanks for dropping by!
I am so excited by the fact that i will have lots of spare time this week and can get into all the projects i have been planning, shopping with friends and a spot of gardening too!

I just loooove summer, i instantly feel happier when i wake up in the mornings knowing that the sun is shining, i dont have to wear a hundred layers of clothing!! there wont be any rain, the world is beautiful!!

I love being able to be outdoors, in the garden or to visit the beach... outdoor living in summer is so much more exciting, I love styling the outdoor areas and tables... I am always on the lookout for new fresh and pretty ideas....

arent these flowers just gorgeous? i do wish we could get lilly of the valley here in perth..

Some twigs beautifully framing the ocean view!!

A very stylish setting below! - although, I am wondering how that Volkswagon managed on the sand!!! My family often enjoy driving on the beach in our 4wd... so I am aware of the improbability of that! but it suits the styling perfectly!

This looks very very close to my idea of heaven!!!

I am loving these spaces with little pops of blue/aqua...

                  Would just love to get my hands on a set of dishwares such as these from Pomax -(i think)
                  also delightful is the rustic sink.... love.....

Have you begun your christmas shopping yet? Its only forty something days away now (eeek) and everywhere you go you cannot avoid the decorations, music and so forth... I have indulged in every magazine with the christmas theme on the cover and have so far bought a few pressies, and my youngest sons entire stocking presents!!!! yep, i intend to be well organised this year and dont want to be doing anything last minute!!! I did enjoy the summer vignette from absolutelybeautifulthings.blogspot.com such a beautiful setting and as always, bright wonderful colours and patterns!! just click on the link above to go there, although you all probably have already!!!

I will be posting my Minted giveaway tomorrow, I have finally gotten organised enough to take pics of the samples i was sent and its a great and generous giveaway, I am so pleased to be hosting it!!! I have been meaning to do it for weeks now, but FINALLY.... all will be revealed!!!!

Have a wonderful sunshiny day everyone!! hugs, Laura xxx

on my wishlist!

2011-11-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,
yay its friday! I wont bore you all complaining about how busy I have been and how I never seem to have enough time to blog/post as much as I would like to - yet again... in fact I bore myself with that!! I think the problem could possibly be that I am a poor time keeper! I would love to improve, just not sure how! Does anyone have any tips that work? I have tried different things in the past and havent been too successful - perhaps I am too laid back and not disciplined enough with myself.....

Always seem to find time to browse some of my fave stores online tho!!! So so bad I know!!!

Here is my wishlist for christmas from the Angel at my table store....!!!!!

See anything you like? I especially Looove the Charlotte Hardy canvas print chair!! so pretty!!!

If you have time, pop over and have a look!!!

An Angel At My Table

Just click on the name above to visit!

Hope all of you are well!! I have had a very lovely week i have to say, had lots of running around to do, back and forth to airports, catching up with friends, a little christmas shopping!!!

Have lots to show you over the next couple of days!!! enjoy your day everyone!! Be happy!!!

Laura xxx

friday favourites

2011-11-03T17:40:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Yay, its friday!!! although, the weekend doesnt begin for me until sunday now, but friday is closer to sunday which I am very much looking forward to!!!!

Here are a few of my favouites of the week!
In soft and muted pinks and blues... my favourite as you all probably know!!

Okay, i love this next pic, all except for the disturbing skull on the clasp of the bag!! (why I ask?!)

Lovely vintage papers and amazing wall mural below!!! Not to mention the fabulous mouldings!

Have a dreamy weekend everyone,

thankyou to all of you for making my whole blogging experience so special! You are all truly lovely and wonderful !!!

laura xxx

cupcake toppers

2011-11-01T16:46:00.000-07:00

Morning all!!!
how are you?

I only have a couple of pics sadly as most of them didnt turn out too well and i dont have time to redo them or fix them!!! oh well! the light was bad as it was late... maybe i will take some more later!!

I have been making some little clay cake toppers which are great and lasting as they are from clay of course! can be used again and again!

These ones are butterflies painted pink with some gold rubbed onto the etching ... I used tooth picks for the sticks and added some little ribbon to finish!

Last night I made little pink meringue nests with crushed shortbread biscuits, fresh cream, icing sugar and yummy organic strawberries!

Also, I made some little round toppers with a crown stamp on the front which i painted a nice gold...

Since I finished the (what was supposed to be cupcake) toppers, I have made and bought several batches of cupcakes, but they seem to disappear before i get the chance to take any photos!!!! Must have little mice with very sweet teeth!!!

I also picked up some delicious organic sparkly mineral water!!! by a company called Phoenix! And Wheel and barrow now have pretty striped paper straws as you can see - grabbed some of those the other day!!!

How I wish my photography skills were better than they are... perhaps santa will bring me that slr camera I need then i can start learning how to be a better photographer!!!!

time for school now... Have a wonderful day everyone!! thankyou for stopping by!!

Laura xxxxx

summer time!!

2011-10-29T22:41:00.000-07:00

Hi all!!!

I am curently at my mums place as bigpond are down again.... been four days now and wont be back till tomorrow : ( that is the second time in just a few months that our net has been down for five days .. looking into another service provider... hmm havent been able to visit any of my lovely fellow bloggers, missing it! look forward to catching up with everyone when things are back to normal!!!
I have been collecting some yummy summer inspiration over the past few weeks (obviously before the net went down!!!)

Loving the warmer weather right now!!! soo excited that summer is truly on its way!!

just love this room! sorry its a little blurry;..

pretty summer dresses; cant remember where this one was from.. possibly fleur wood....

Kate spade jewellery in pretty coral tones....

Cant go wrong with louis vuitton!! love this white/transparent look.. tres chic!

how cute is this Jonathon Adler pillow!!! ...

and adoring this little nautical garter! love that its not too frilly or fussy; inspiring some of my summer ideas (for other things - the white rope, starfish, white on white fresh and bright...!)

And if i could spend my whole summer here, i would be one happy girl!... truly!!!!!!!!!!!

What is inspiring you this season? I am going to create a mood board tonight... will show you the end result, and the Minted giveaway!!! stay tuned!!! might also have another giveway from myself!

Will be round to visit you all soon lovelies!!! take care!!
Lauraxxxx

seriously?

2011-10-23T16:56:00.000-07:00

Morning everyone!

I have to be getting ready for work really, but thought i would do a quick little post!!

Have been meaning to show you guys this for a few weeks!!!

this is what appeared out the front of a new-ish home just round the corner from me!!! yes, i think its staying!!!! At first i thought it must be someones work project just drying out before its moved to its permanent home!!! but,..... its been a few weeks now!!! months actually!!! think its staying!!!!

I have to say that i am quite glad i dont live right accross the road from it... but after some thought, i had to ask; do we take our homes too seriously? I think so... some would see this as a hideous eyesore... but you know what... we only live once.... maybe we all need to have a bit more fun with our surroundings... cant ramble too much as i am running out of time fast, and its not that i am about to run out and get a huge hollywood sign for my front yard, but, it has made me think! I like that!!

Wish i had more time to show you some of the little projects i have been doing around the house; but heres a quick couple!!!

some pretty acrylic letters mounted onto card from theeee most gorgeous paperie in perth!!!

I attempted to colour some glass bottles with a glue/water/food colouring mixture!!! this little one was the most successful; hopefully i will get to do some more soon; i definently recommend trying it!

Oh, and i painted a drop sheet with some red stripes in fabric paint with quite a lot of success; made a little table runner; another thing which was easy!!

And been thinking about christmas!! A pink christmas this year!!! i am sure my boys are going to love it!!!!!

I know, it may seem too soon to be thinking about christmas, but i know it is just going to fly in from now!!!!

Are you thinking about christmas yet?

well, gotta dash!! love and hugs to you all!!!

Laura xxxx

simple summer living

2011-10-17T23:14:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, how are you all?

unfortunately i have a bit of a yucky headcold which is making me feel quite miserable and I dont seem to have a lot of energy: ( although i am quite fortunate to have managed to get through the winter with not being sick and so many around me have been...

With summer well on its way now, i have been thinking about changing a few things around the home, lightening the place up and giving it a fresh feeling... Here are a few gorgeous casual summer looks to inspire!!!

All dreamy and luverly!!! I am thinking of getting seagrass carpet in my bedroom like the one pictured above.... does anyone have experience with it? I have always had jute and coir rugs, but not sure about the seagrass... I have heard it can be quite smelly and i am worried about the texture being too rough... Would love to hear any thoughts....

Well, must go, off to try and have a bit of a cat nap!!!

Happy tuesday to everyone and thankyou always for your lovely comments and for stopping by!! You are all very fabulous!!!!!

Laura xxxxx

all images, tumblr

high tea

2011-10-12T18:54:00.000-07:00

Morning everyone,

just came accross the gorgeous new christina re high tea products; how pretty are they?

My friend who is getting married in March has just ordered around twenty of the teacup sets to mix in with her vintage tea cups at the wedding!!! Its going to look so gorgeous!

the tea pots are really lovely too!

I have also decided to have a little afternoon tea party for my closest friends before the christmas season gets into full swing and we dont get much time to catch up. I will send out some cute invites and as far as food goes, it will have to be quite simple, I will buy some macarons, and perhaps try these mini yoghurts!!

And these little cherry pops!!! simple, but sweet! i like that!

I might make some colourful bunting!!!

I love that afternoon tea allows you to be a little extravagant and to use your imagination in the most creative ways!!! As its a girls only event, lots of flowers and interesting decor is more appreciated!!!

I will definently have some pink lemonade, and pink champagne no doubt!!!

Lots of pretty flowers!

And pretty dresses! hopefully the weather will allow for this!!

I remember seeing this in the Domayne catalogue a few months ago and thought the styling was just breathtaking!!! Not to mention the gorgeous lighting / furniture, abundance of flowers!!!

I am also hoping one day to visit Michelle Adonis in Northbridge (perth) for high tea with some friends (time is limited these days!) Have any of you been? It looks so sweet!!!!

Okay, now back to reality!!! off to make my own tea! in my old scratched mug (my fave) make some toast and put on a load of washing!!!!

Also, just bear with me as I am making changes to my blog; I am going to be adding tabs under the header and I really wanted my pictures to be larger... thats why i have gone back to just one sidebar... will get there but it is quite time consuming!!

Have a wonderful , happy day everyone!

Laura xxxx

Images, Domayne, tumblr, Christina Re

neutral inspiration

2011-10-10T19:40:00.000-07:00

happy tuesday everyone!!

just realised that I have an enormous amount of lovely neutral, rustic inspired pics collected in my inspiration file!! and thought i would share some (then i can clear the files - i dont like them to get too out of control!!)

I really, really love this room, love the eclectic pieces all together creating warmth and comfort.. (the doggy thinks so!!)

And yummy cushions from Pale and Interesting....

Pale and Interesting again....

divine sofa!!!

interesting little nook,

A really restful bedroom with a Scandinavian feel; also loving the little window!

Will we ever tire of the vintage ladder look?

A gorgeous entry foyer

Pretty pretty linen table cloth; on my rather long to make list!!! a ruffled table cloth! a few in fact in lots of different colours to suit my mood at the time!

I do hope you enjoyed these images/spaces as much as me!!!

I have a very lovely giveaway coming up, so stay tuned!! ( Its from Minted; the lovely invitation company and such a generous offering on their behalf, but I cant say too much yet!!!)

Have a wonderful day everyone, thanks for stopping by!!!

Laura xx

what colour are you?

2011-10-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone!!!!

How is everyone? I had the nicest longest lie in this morning after a mega busy few weeks and it was just the BEST!!! Especially as I lay there listening to the rain and thunder outside!!! Not terribly spring like, but doesnt matter!!

Its spring in my mind and my heart (if that makes sense?!!)

Have you ever been sent one of those emails that were like questionaires and you answer then send to all your friends which they then copy and paste and fill out their own answers and so forth....
I am just remembering one particular `questionaire` email which asked you which of your friends do you associate with certain colours...   for example   `which of your friends do you associate with the colour pink, then blue, red etc etc.......

It was such an interesting thought... and funnily enough, I did always think of certain colours when i thought of particular friends...

However, my point ( which one day I will get to!!!) is that my dear lovely friend Sharon said that I was her Yellow friend!!!!   I suppose I was kind of expecting pink or something, but yellow surprised me....                  I have no yellow in my home, I dont have yellow clothes, hmmm,
                         it certainly made me think!!!!         but, I was happy to be yellow.....

to me, yellow means sunshine and flowers,

It means flowers.... and spring

daffodils and bulbs growing en masse...

yet, it can also be subtle and buttery, soft and friendship.....

Bright yellow cabana stripes, Grace Kelly, joy and fun.....

                               yellow is happiness, I was so happy to be her Yellow friend!!

In fact, I dont have many undesireable associations in my mind with the colour yellow! What colour are you? What colour do you think your friends see you as? You might be surprised!!!

Have a very happy day everyone and thankyou for stopping by today,

Laura

images from tumblr, etoile home uk

some gorgeous greys

2011-10-05T04:04:00.000-07:00

Hi everybody,

wow, i had certainly hoped that i would have been able to post a bit more regularly than i have done..: (
I also tried to do lots of visiting and commenting the other day but every single comment just disappeared into cyber blog land!!! was I the only one??? Sunday I think it was!!

Have finally decided that I will have some grey in my bedroom.. Here was my inspiration!!!!

this one had me at hello!! and the artwork is gorgeous with that particular shade of grey..

And how chic and glamorous is this room??? the mirrors and curtains are just divine!!!!

This is a nice subtle grey, I am kind of thinking of moulding with white around the bottom half of the room with the grey at the top....

And a large white sleighbed is what we are to have (according to my husband!!)

A chandelier of course!!! thats a must!!

Wishing I had the architectural detail as this apartment does; one can but dream!!!

And now a few living areas I adore with greys.... this shade below is a winner for me... matching it will prove difficult I am guessing!!!

Grey is always elegant and classic. Thats kind of what I am hoping for in the bedroom With splashes of colour in artwork and cushions etc....

Anyone know any great grey paint colours? Might have to head off to Bunnings on the weekend and get some samples and paint chips!!!

I now have to run my sons girlfriend home (which is a one hour round trip unfortunately...) then I will hopefully be home in time to get into blog hopping and saying hello to everyone and ... well, letting you all know that I am still alive!!!!!

So take care everyone and be happy!!!!

Laura xxxxx

Images from tumblr and brabourne farm

flowers and alfrescos

2011-09-27T00:42:00.000-07:00

Hi lovely bloggy friends,

What an awful, miserable day it is here in perth today... Not that you want to hear about that!!!! But it is.... I just soo look forward to being able to spend my free time outside by the pool and in the alfresco.. I have almost finished getting it how i want, it will be a very, very girlie retreat, just for me!!! we need to do a bit more cementing and filling in the built in seat along the wall, then another coat of paint and I will hopefully be able to find some nice light fittings which will be suitable..

I would so love a chandelier out there, but it does get a little too much wind at times, and i havent been able to find anything else i like quite more than a chandelier!!! so i am stumped and open for any suggestions!!!

Here are some pics of my lovely pink runnunculus i took out there last week!!

For something different, i popped them into little vases, then put the vases inside the bags.... and oh how i do luve luve luve pink and blue!!!!

I had a few leftover pieces of my Kelly Hoppen wallpaper which i have kind of used as a table runner... Its nice and soft and kind of goes with anything really - which is why I chose it...

When i painted the pavers, they were meant to be a kind of limestone colour to match with the limestone pour paths we have around the house and the pool, but it was much lighter in the end. It needs another coat which i think i will go a little bit darker...

I do like it this light, but in the middle of the 42 degree days, it can get a bit glary out there!!!

But i love sitting back on my nice soft window seat with a glass of champers and something good blaring from the ipod!!!! (i wont embarass myself by saying what excatly!!! although, my musical tastes are so wide and varied!!) hmmm,

Oh, it was my anniversary the other day! 15 years!!! gosh, it does go fast!! And we were together for pretty much four years prior to that, twenty years all up!!

I came home to a very delicious dinner of creamy garlic prawns, a steak and pastry combo and beautiful garlic, butter and marmalade baked carrots. Then my favourite pear trifle (with no jelly - just how i like it!!) washed down with my favourite champagne of the moment!!!

And some very pretty tulips!!

With just the palest hint of pink!! He did put them into a glass jug, but filled the bottom with lots of tiny white shells which was quite a thoughtful thing to do for a man i thought!!!

Well, hope you are all good and happy!!

Hugs, from laura xxx

blue and white allover

2011-09-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

Good morning!!!

How is everyone?    Things are great here (aside from the rather grey and depressing 'not so springlike' weather!!! As you all know, I love the sun, the warm, happy    happy     perth summer days!!

Its not quite like that right now... sadly....

A bit of navy and white, coastal look, always cheers me up and gives me a feeling of summer,    of beaches,
of    fresh white sands

decks

shells and boats,

all things ocean like.....

Same doggy???? Must remember to use drapey mosquito net outside next summer!! love that!

Check out the floors! the stripes are subtle, but adds wow factor!!

Great fabrics!!! Classic, tasteful, wont date... what more can i say!!

You rarely see navy used in apartment styling... thats what i love about this pic.... and the mixed sofa arrangement....

Beautiful beadboard is always a perfect accompaniment for navy and white decor....

And below... beautiful architectural detail.... maybe a little too much navy and white for me... but just love the room. .. so stylish...

A rustic feel with exposed ceiling beams...

Although I am a pink person, i would always put pink with navy... i just cant deny that red and navy look fantastic together... always.... and especially when the navy is in an imperial trellis pattern!!

And exploring other colour combos... grey and navy... olive and navy?...
What do you think looks best with navy?

Not many of my friends are fans of navy... but I think its timeless... Most of my friends havea lot of brown in their homes.. and neutrals.. I dont dislike brown decor, i think i tend to steer clear of it as there just seems to be too much of it everywhere... hmmmm

Ok lovely folks, have much to do today!! as much as i would love to ramble on and on all day long about colour combinations and decor!!! must go!!

Love and hugs to you all!!

Laura xxx

images from coastal living, turquoise tulips and bliss

new things

2011-09-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

Morning everyone,

another week has gone since i last posted.... hmm wasnt my intention at all! Have been a bad blogger, not really been visiting or commenting.... I keep meaning to take lots of photos of what i have been up to; just doesnt seem to work out the way i plan ever!!!

This by the way is an old photo you may recognise from a few photos back!!

This was my first attempt by the way!!! They have improved since, need to take more pics......

I was so pleased to see some gorgeous dreamcatchers in rachel ashwells online store...

Although, at $150 they are kind of pricey!! I am really loving them though...

I have had some friends ask for some too... I do enjoy making them, there is something therapeutic about it... I love the natural, not too perfect look of them.

I am off now to get my boys ready for school everyone, Thankyou for stopping by today, i do appreciate each and everyone of you.... even those who dont comment of i have no way of knowing who you are!!!

Much love to you all!

Lauraxxx

Thursday already!!!

2011-09-14T23:25:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Been nearly a week since i posted!!! has gone pretty fast, well, too fast, wish there were more days in the week so I could do everything!!

Some exciting news however, i have been asked to be a bridesmaid for my very lovely friend Sharon!

I was so, so excited for her as she has had some hard things to deal with in the past and I was so happy to see her happy again...

So, have been busy helping search for inspiration... dress styles etc... not a hard task really!! The wedding is in March of next year, Didnt manage to lose the intended kilos for the last bridesmaid job, definently happening this time tho!!!! No excuses for me this time around!!!

And aside from that I have started a new job and been filling dreamcatcher orders!!!

Aswell as chilling out in the evening and soaking up all the gorgeousness on tumblr....

Some glamour and stylish spaces!

Do hope you all have been having a very lovely week everyone!!!

Laura xxx

images, house beautiful, elle decor, tumblr

Friday faves!

2011-09-08T17:10:00.000-07:00

What a week its been!!! so much happening around here! Thought I might sqeeze in a quick post before we take off for the night camping! We arent going too far away from home, but will be on the beach and the boys will all have lots of fun fishing, 4wding and playing in the sand dunes!!!

Here are some of my favourite pics of the week that I have come accross...

all bright and happy with lots of colour!

So much pink!!! love it!

As you can see from my sidebar i have added a few dreamcatchers to my etsy store, you can see my post about it here.

Must go and start getting things ready for camping now! and i do apologise if i havent been to visit you for a while; my internet is back up to speed now thankfully; i got so frustrated waiting for photos to load that i gave up trying for a while and havent kept up to date on what ya ll have been doing!

Thanks for stopping by! Bye for now!!!

Laura xxx

Images from turquoise tulips and bliss, ruemag, tumblr.

just gorgeous!

2011-09-02T18:31:00.000-07:00

Hello lovely folks!! How amazing is this artwork? Its by a lady called Eva Hannah (and you can check out more of her work at Moulton Galleries) Just adore the patterns and the colours.. just a happy painting. I love artwork that evokes positive emotions!

And onl the Moroccan theme... I have lately been lusting after a Moroccan Wedding blanket such as these ones below....

and the kilim rugs.

I am not into an over the top `themey` type of room or home, just never looks very authentic (except in the country of the theme!!!) But a few little pieces here and there around the home is more stylish i think... I like things a bit eclectic i must say. Too much of one `style`or theme` I just dont take to at all.... But, everyones different!!! thats just me!

Oh dear,... husband just came home (literally) and handed me a speeding ticket he just `aquired`!!!! best i go and give him a good telling off!!!

Have a good weekend everybody!!!!

Laura xxx

Images from elle decor, hometrenddesign.com

happy spring!!!

2011-08-31T19:07:00.000-07:00

good morning everyone,

Happy, happy springtime to all of you!

the days are warming up slightly, the flowers are popping up everywhere and I am on the christmas countdown!!! (can you believe it?!!) Only around 17 weeks-ish i think... I am planning to do a lot of handmade gifts this year, so I am getting started on that right now!!! Want to allow lots of time!!!

have you thought about christmas yet? I usually try to make myself wait till sept. the first... not before!!!

Off to the dr now! Have a fab day everyone!!

Laura xxxx

linens and dreamcatchers

2011-08-31T02:20:00.000-07:00

Happy wednesday lovely ladies!!

just thought i would show you a couple of things i have picked up recently at the thrifty thrift stores!!!

Actually, i do have more, but havent taken pics of them yet, been so bad with taking pics lately!!!

This is my alfresco area that is under some serious renovations at the moment, so the space is a bit `makeshift`..... The bench/seat spot was part outdoor kitchen like... but we just didnt use it and i wanted to level it all to one long seat... this is just the corner as the rest still needs a bit more rendering and painting.

I have been searching for this type of grey and white cabana stripe fabric for the longest time! then there were 6 little cushion covers in a thrift store at a dollar each!!! love them!

Okay, now, a few weeks ago, i spotted a dreamcatcher in the ~simply me~ blog which i am sure you are all familiar with and i was so taken with it!... i had to make one. I have seen many before that I just wasnt so keen on, but i loved the ragged fabrics hanging from the sides... mine is okay, still working on them... i have several now that I thought i might just put onto etsy... when they are all finished! a girl only needs so many dream catchers!

Love the soft floatiness of them..

Its the final day of winter today! so so happy about that!

Spring tomorrow!!!! yay!!!!! (at least in my part of the world!!!)

have a wonderful warm and happy day!!1

Laura xxxx

blue, white and coastal

2011-08-26T17:37:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Saturday already!!! How fast the weeks are flying past! although, the faster spring arrives the better for me! And already there are flowers popping up in the garden... the wild lillies are appearing in the scrublands and bushes... the days are somewhat warmer! beautiful!!!!

Here are some lovely coastal pics , my favourites of the week!!

love this gorgeous fabric.... and the architectural features of the building!

these are the kind of oars my husband and I have been searching for, to hang on the wall in the cabana..

I must say that I have never before seen turquoise painted floors!!! And I like.!!!! What do you think?

Love this rustic old chest, the view isnt too bad either!!!!

Can you hear the ocean calling?!!!

Love all the blue and whites, so refreshing and timeless....

I have a very busy weekend planned! friends are coming over tomorrow and I have a fancy dress/surprise party to go to tonight. So I had better get my costume finished and have a little sewing to do!!!

Have a truly lovely weekend everyone! Thanks for stopping by today!

Laura xxxx

fans

2011-08-24T00:45:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Just a quick post, a new venture for me, well, a sneak peak!!!

While searching endlessly for handfans mounted and in beautiful fabrics, I gave up and decided to make my own... While there was a lot of work involved (trust me, its not as simple as it looks!!) I really enjoyed the creative aspects, I wanted to keep on going and making more and more... some will be for gifts for friends,... some will I will sell on.....

Each peice will be an original, one off creation....

Mounted onto beautiful fabrics...... hopefully designer fabrics eventually ( i will do custom orders with fabric preferences)......

This one I have pictured (in my alfresco area - my son had been riding around in his bike in here and I had to edit the tyre marks from the wall !!!!!) is mounted on a gorgeous silk.... I wont be selling framed work online... but the fabric will be adhered to board instead..

I love mixing and matching the fabrics, but have lots to do still, so better get cracking...!!!

Have a wonderful day everyone!!!!

Laura xxx

artwork and what i love

2011-08-23T19:46:00.000-07:00

Wonderful Wednesday!

Hi lovelies, how is your week? I have been busy, as always, in fact, if I am not busy, i usually find things to do in order to keep busy,, my mind just never rests!

Have you seen this artwork? Its by Michelle Armas at Armas Design. Love the bright, happy colours!!

Now I want to sincerely thank Melissah and Frances (from Scrapbook and Beautiful 18th Century Style blogs) for passing this gorgeous award on to me. They are so very, very sweet for thinking of me. Usually I am so bad with these things, but anyway, thought I would tell you seven things about myself as part of the award!... Actually., seven things I love!! Of course my family and friends always come first, but aside from them....

I love.... Flowers!!! but you all probably knew that already!!!

I love reading... magazines, blogs, books, anything to do with design, art, decor, stylish things oh, and self help!! Love to learn about how the brain works... how people think and why they think that way... So interesting.

I love summer.... Love the smells of summer... sand and sea, roses, tropical fruits and drinks... coconut and pineapple!!!! Love the smell of my little cherub smothered in sunscreen! Warm weekends on the deck by the pool...... cant wait!!!

The beach.... obviously!! You know, I dont like to swim in the ocean too much as I got caught in a rip when i was a little girl and it scared me for life. But when the water is shallow, calm, aqua and warm, I cant resist it! And walks along the shore all by myself.. this is when I feel the most alive and yet the most insignificant in the huge, wide universe....

I love ballet!... dancing and music.... couldnt live for a day without music of some sort!

I love a bit of bling!!! (who doesnt!) bling and girliness!!! Especially pearls and gold. Not big on silver or white gold either, doesnt suit my skin tone i dont think!

And fabric! Just addicted to fabrics, I could spend hours and hours googling every online fabric store I can find.... Currently I am waiting for this fabric to arrive from the States. Not sure what I will be making yet, but keep checking the mail in anticipation!!!

Paisleys are some of my favourite right now, but that might change any time!!!!

Well, I know I am supposed to pass this on. Its so hard though, I want to give it to everyone, then would feel bad if I missed someone!

But thankyou so much Melissah and Frances!!! Such beautiful ladies with gorgeous blogs too, love them both! Do visit them if you havent already!!!

Have a very fabulous day everyone!!!

Laura xxxx

images from tumblr.

what i did with the free poster from the graphics fairy

2011-08-20T20:43:00.000-07:00

Morning all,

Thought I would just quickly share with you a couple of things i have been doing over the weekend!!!

Quite some time ago I found a Keep Calm poster for free and I made a few little teabags for afternoon tea with friends, after printing them out in wallet size pics...

If you visit the Graphics Fairy you can get your own printable version!!,

I uploaded it to picnik and changed the colours, here is one i printed in aqua for a frame...

Another little vintage frame i had, I used a little fabric union jack that i had sewn with some scraps which i thought was quite sweet. Anyone could do this really, if you dont sew, you could use the iron on hemming tape.... or even just glue I suppose!!!

(and the beginning of my vintage bottle collection here!... the medicine bottle is really old and has a chip in it, but i dont mind. The clear bottle is an old milk bottle which does have the `1 pint` writing on it, but you cant really see it here...)

My gorgeous friend bought these little vintage spoons on etsy for me, how cute are they?!!! I am loving them, they are meant to go in the garden apparently, but I am not spending enough time out there yet and i wouldnt be able to appreciate them, so i am keeping them inside for now!

Well, its been a very busy weekend, and there is still half a day left ! I would like to do some sewing, but unfortunately my machine has been playing up and even after a service, there are still some issues. It will suddenly start sewing completely on its own when no one else is around!! Has anyone else ever experienced this? Perhaps I have a ghost who loves to sew!! its a bit spooky!!!

So, it looks like i will have to find something else to do this afternoon!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend wherever you are!!!

Laura xxx

pretties

2011-08-14T16:46:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
how was your weekend? Mine was just lovely, i have to say... not too much in the way of rain or clouds! visits with some friends and my husbands delicious cooking!

I spent the whole time doing crafty type things which i wish i could show you, but theyre not quite finished yet, perhaps tomorrow...

So here are a few gorgeous pretties for an inspiring start to the week!

I love, love love that gorgeous courtyard....the exotic architecture and aqua pool.... yummy!

Pretty room, pretty fabrics!

Gorgeous trumeau mirror!! (below)

Selina Lake - i think - below.

the prettiest bunch of flowers ever!!!
(not mine... wish they were! - but i have it on my desktop so i can see them everytime i open my puter!!)

Have a lovely monday everyone! thanks for stopping by! love to everyone!

Laura xxx

Hunter and Ivy blog

2011-08-11T18:43:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE!!!

Its such a gorgeous day here; the sun is shining and I have the whole day to myself which i have been looking forward to!

I wanted to introduce you to a lovely friend of mine who has started blogging and has so many wonderful ideas, stylish tips and her own designs to share. Corinna is a Melbourne girl with her own Interiors business (Hunter and Ivy Interiors) and judging by some of her past design work I have seen she is going to do so very well!!

If you get the chance, stop by; Hunter and Ivy Interiors

and say Hi!!!

Going to sit down with a cuppa and do a bit of blog hopping now, and see what you have all been up to. Havent been very good at visiting and commenting this week... apologies everyone if its been a while since I stopped by!

Have a gorgeous day!!

Laura xxxx

i think i need one of these!!

2011-08-09T00:19:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
i feel like I havent posted for ages... well, i guess its been around a week, but just had a lot on lately. There are loads of things i have been wanting to blog about, just havent gotten around to taking pics i suppose or finishing things off (I am sooo bad at that!)

Yet I seem to have amassed so many images or articles which have interested or inspired me lately... really need to either use them or lose them!!!

Anyway, I was going to ask if anyone has attempted to make a ju ju hat? I know I am a bit behind the 8 ball in wanting one; truth is, i wasnt sure if i liked them or not....

until now that is! now I have decided that i actually do like them and NEED one!! I suppose I could buy one from the internet as I havent seen many around Perth!! but... how difficult can they be to make? really?... I suppose it can depend on what you use as your base... as I have studied floristry in the past, my initial thoughts were using an oasis... would be easy... I think....

There are a few tutorials around, but I just flicked threw them all, will have to go and have another look when I have more time...

I think the white ones do look the best, but as I have lots of white already in the house I was thinking of going pink or aqua...

Have any of you tried to make a ju ju hat? Would love to know!!!

Well, best go as the boys will be home from school, then i have another bday dinner to go to... Is it just me, or is this a busy month for bdays?!!!! Oh, my husband and I have been working on the pool area and enclosing the cabana type spot we have down there, I cant wait till its finished to show some nice pics!!

Hope everyone is having a wonderful tuesday!!!

hugs from laura xxxx

(sorry, i cant remember where all of these images were sourced from)

August is a great month to....

2011-07-31T15:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
can you believe its August already!!! the year is just flying, and by the end of next month christmas stock will be filling up the stores!! Its all going a little too fast for me!! Although, I cannot pretend that I wont be happy when this miserable winter is over! i am looking forward to throwing out all my old summer things and stocking up on some pretty new stuff .... And hopefully i will lose a couple of kilos this month - i am going to focus on that- as well as being a little more healthy... Winter time has taken its toll and with the lack of outdoory type things happening and darker evenings etc... its harder to get motivated . But I know that some pretty new things will help!

And if I had somewhere extra special to go to... I might want something like this Roberto Cavalli dress, isnt it stunning?...

August is also a great month to read the latest issue of Adore Home Magazine!!

and perhaps to get started on my bedroom!!

I especially love this eclectic look from Fenton and Fenton. If I could persuade my husband to go with that bed.... just divine!!!

So I guess I just want to take stock of how the year has gone and have I achieved any of my goals so far... hmmm, might have to get back on track as I have had a few curve balls my way to distract me so far with my son and my granny....

How have your yearly goals and plans been going? I can only wish for wonderful things for you gorgeous girls out there!!

Thanks for stopping by today!! hugs and love,

Laura xxx

love this!

2011-07-27T19:16:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

Happy thursday to all of you!!

I am really loving this awesome article in Rue magazine... you may have seen it, if not, here are a few snippets!!

Love how there is a little Morrocan revival thing happening and in such an authentic way, .. a bit more sophisticated (than i remember the from last time round)

Although Peonies, in the desert? .. perhaps not so authentic!! but i love peonies either way!

I did spend a few years in the desert you know!! After the first gulf war my parents moved to Kuwait and i ended up working as a teachers aide. I also met my husband there (who was over from England working as a bomb diffuser in the minefields - gosh, i had no real concept at the time of how dangerous it really was!!).

But perhaps that might explain my being in love with this shoot!!

Now, I am not saying that Kuwait was quite this picturesque, but its just the sky, the sand, the exotic feeling... brings back some wonderful memories!!

If you want to check it out for yourself, or just have a lookie at Rue Magazine,

go HERE!!

Have a fabulous day dear lovely folks!!!

Hugs to you all, Laura xxx

pink and blue - my favourite combination!!

2011-07-24T19:17:00.000-07:00

Morning all!! slept in today!!! that will be the last though as school starts back tomorrow! Must admit, these holidays have been better than most - the boys have been pretty well behaved!

As some of you know, I am going to (finally) makeover my bedroom and have been searching for inspiration. However, I just cant seem to draw myself away from pinks and blues.. it really is my absolute favourite combination, although I think it might be nice to try something different, but I know I will always go back...

And when I see pics like these, i just cant help myself!!

a little bit boho...

Love the white sofa and walls for the backdrop..

and a little bit of country

And I just adore the styling here and the aqua and pink....

especially the glass...

Whats your favourite colour combination? Do you find yourself always going back to the same colours?

I will have to keep looking until I am totally satisfied with what I want in my room (even if it does take years!!)

Hope that you all had a wonderful weekend what ever you got up to!!

hugs to you all,

Laura xxxx

my heart went pitter patter!

2011-07-20T22:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!!
I cant believe that its been a week since I posted, but, what a week its been!! We have had our gas hot water sytem blow up, blocked drains, broken beds, parties, dramas of all sorts and my husband and i both had huge viruses on our laptops... The troubles i have had with it constantly freezing and then losing everything!! all sorted now though hopefully!!!

With my bed breaking last week (while i was out!!) I have been looking for another even though it is temporarily fixed ).. and rethinking my bedroom makeover that i didnt get around to last year! .. Thankfully though i didnt get anything done as my tastes have changed since and I wouldnt be happy now i suppose, but not really sure of what I would like in there right now.

But when i saw this yesterday, my heart did skip a little beat and was seriously thinking of doing something very similar, but in freehand...

The wallpaper is around $300 per roll from Anthropologie

I am in love with this, but not sure if my husband would feel the same way. Perhaps i could use it in my sewing room....

While i was checking out the anthropologie site, i saved a few other pics of things that I quite fancied!!!

such as this pretty little mirrored drawer!!

And this amazing bed cover set!!! Love the ruffles!!

Another view of the same cover....

And how amazing is this bed?!!! How practical it is, i do not care to imagine!!! But love the whole concept!!!

And another view....

There was an article in one of this weeks decor mags on painting wall murals using a projector that i might have to read a bit more carefully...

I am enjoying the lazy mornings sleeping in and staying warm and snug in bed while the children are on break... Not feeling terribly productive, but it is winter here and the viruses are doing their rounds!!

Hope you are all well and warm!!

Hugs, Laura xxx

you can visit Anthropologie here.

newest favourite book!!

2011-07-13T17:52:00.000-07:00

Morning all!!
just a very quick post as i am supposed to be taking the car off for a service!!!
Just got this book yesterday and am itching to sit down with a pot of tea and devour every lovely page!!
Decorate by Holly Becker (from decor8 blog) and Joanna Copestick; I have been intending to get a copy for some time now and my lovely husband picked one up for me yesterday (it was one of my bday pressies!! - 36 years young yesterday!!)

(This last pic is a shop window display featuring some of the book pages)

Even though I havent read the book yet, i did have a quick flick through and i can tell that I am going to love it and pretty sure lots of you would love it too. Will be sure to let you know my favourite bits after i have had a chance to read it properly!!

Best go and get the car down to the workshop now or we will have to reschedule!!!

Happy thursday everyone!!

Hugs to you all,

Laura xxxx

winter decor

2011-07-11T02:04:00.000-07:00

Hi lovely friends!!

Hope you are all well and good!

I am very pleased to share with you that my blog is being featured over at the Decorating Forum!! Have you checked it out? Its such a wonderful forum full of links, inspiration, and a place to connect and chat about all things building, renovating and interior design... Here is the link; decoratingforum.com.au And is run by the very lovely Julie-Ann, who i think must work pretty hard to run such a fabulous forum!!

Unfortunately, there is just no escaping the cold weather these past few weeks, and as most of you know, its just not for me... It has such a HUGE effect on my mood, my lifestyle, my energy levels.... But as I just cant beat the cold weather, I thought I might just have to make the most of it!!

Trying to focus on some of the nicer things that are wonderful in the winter.... around the home of course... I do tend to change things around a little at home, starting with the soft furnishings... and the textures in winter are quite delicious, soft warm chenille throws, faux furs (or real if you prefer!)

Incidentally, how gorgeous is that peacock on the dresser above?!!!

I think leathers and rich colours really exude warmth during the colder months...

And for me, winter is all about candles!!! Definently one of the nicer aspects of winter... Oh, and and an open fire place if you have one... (I dont , but wouldnt even mind a faux fireplace!!)

And drapes.... I know this one below isnt what I would typically think of during a cold spell, but wanted to add it to the post as I thought it was such a lovely idea when I came accross it... a pretty bohemian style panel patched with clothes ... I really like this idea and might give it a go as I think it has so much character and individuality.. I mean, you would never find anything like it in anyone elses home!!!

Mirrors are great in winter too, to reflect any light and give a feeling of spaciousness .. This little pretty number would do nicely for me! Loving it!!!

In fact, I am really loving the whole marble bench and little bowl on top.

Bulbs are another indulgence of mine in the colder months (especially Hyacinths). Havent quite gotten around to organising any, might have to get to the garden centre Asap and get planting if I am not too late!! I may just have to get some mature plants to have around the house and brighten things up a little!!

Dont forget to stop by the Forum (Here) and say hello to Julie-Ann! And thanks again Julie-Ann for the lovely invitation!!!

Have a wonderful day everyone!!

Laura xxx

inspiring me of summer

2011-07-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

Morning everyone,

How are you? I do confess (once again) to having been a little absent from blogland lately as I am a bit caught up with my mums bday preparations. What is taking the most of my time is the photobook I have been trying to put together. Some of the pics are just soooo incredibly old, torn and stained.. it can take up to an hour to fix some of them. But I know that she will love it!

Its been extremely cold here lately. As most of you know, i am NOT a winter person!!!! I am just longing for summer, dreaming of the hot sunshine, bright happy colours , the flowers, the outdoors...
And not having to wear layer upon layer just to keep warm...

have some gorgeous summery images to cheer me up!!!

Love this veranda...

And what do you think of this entry way? isnt it the cutest?!!

How pretty are these outdoor spaces? Lots of flowers and coloured glasses!! theres nothing better than having friends for lunch and eating outside in the summer...

Not sure where this is (below) but wish i was there!!

masses and masses of flowers...

Now this is the kind of poolside living area I am thinking of... wonder if this is what my husband has in mind!! I am thinking not!!!

Lots of blue and white... loving it today!!!

Is it summer where you are? I do hope you are enjoying it!! Love to all of you!!

Hugs, Laura xxxx

images from tiny white daisies tumblr

love that dress!

2011-07-04T00:58:00.000-07:00

Hi all,
how was your weekend? Mine was busy busy!! And finally managed to get some laundry done after an exceptionally wet week. And today; Sunshine at last!! Its so chilly, but I dont mind if the skies are blue and there is no rain!!

I cant help admiring the wedding dress that Kate Moss wore for her big day designed by that tres naughty John Galliano.. Its just stunning! Especially the detailing around the hem... And the veil is just the prettiest thing ever!

They just look incredibly happy together and I can only imagine how great the reception party would have been... yes, my invite must have gotten lost in the mail, so I can only wonder!!! What do you think of the dress? actually, i think the shoulders could have been a little different, but its very , very Kate...

Have a wonderful, sunshiny day everyone and thanks for popping by!

Hugs, Laura xxx

parties and pillows!

2011-06-29T01:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!
thank heavens I have internet back! - had nothing since Friday thanks to bigpond apparently `upgrading` the exchange!!! hmm, doesnt seem to be much faster... My son was getting pretty desperate (as a teenager, the internet is like oxygen to them! He just was beside himself all weekend poor little mite!!) And just letting you know, he is suddenly doing extremely well.. we have had so much help, fantastic help actually from PMH (as always) and he is now having counselling, therapy, and medication... its obviously working, yay!!

I am heavily into the preparations for my mums 60th party which i am having on the 16th and getting very excited.
found this gorgeous image today in a Very old folder I had, full of inspirational pics I had collected.

So, this, is the cake i am going to make for my mum!!!! How lovely is it? well, mine might not end up quite looking as lovely, but i`ll give it a go!!!

I have also squeezed in a little sewing time as I found the most gorgeous linen the other day. It has a burlap look about it, well, a fine textured burlap only much much softer. I wove some cotton accross the front and added a little rhinestone crown brooch.

I made a lovely dusty pink pillow cover too and I also have one almost finished in navy and red.

The fabric was quite costly , but as its the end of the tax year, I kind of thought i would reduce everything i have left in the etsy and I was going to price these particular covers at $18 US ... not sure what it is in aus$, bit less i think, so thats a bit of a bargain really!!!

Heres another cover i made recently but i will also have reduced...

i am sorry I havent had a chance to visit anyone lately... I do apologise... I have really missed not having internet ... I am having dinner at a neighbours home tonight, so I have to go, but will get to do a little blogsurfing when I get home! cant wait to see what you have all been up to!!

Be in touch with you all soon!!!

Laura xxx

catching up, the block, more inspiring spaces

2011-06-23T04:00:00.000-07:00

Hi all,
been a little absent from blogland this week... had lots on my mind and well, strange, just couldnt get my head around posting... does that ever happen to anyone else? Its not that i didnt want to.. not that i had nothing to post about... just...... had my head elsewhere.. Today is actually my little Sams birthday.. I guess that might have a little to do with it, although, I havent been sad.

Have had several things i wanted to post , but I suppose there is a bit of a backlog!!

You know, I am always on the hunt for gorgeous rooms/spaces/homes... Here are a few inspiring lovelies!

You may be seeing quite a theme here; yep, its everyones favourite at the moment; the white backdrop... I do wonder for how long? Everything has a `cycle`if you will.... I dont think that white walls have quite had their day yet, perhaps this is the peak? What do you all think?

And what is next? What will be the next ~look~? I wonder. I wish I could predict...!!!

Have any of you been watching the 'block'? I missed the second night unfortunately... I have to say, none of the rooms have really struck me or made me think 'wow'! Cant wait to see Katrina tonight, i do think she passes the first elimination... will soon see!

But, I do have one 'whinge' I know the contestants are put into such a difficult situation etc etc... but one of my pet hates has to be....

ill fitting curtains!! curtains that dont quite reach the floor!! I think it must be the first thing that strikes me when I look at any of the rooms... Is it just me? Am I being silly? Does anyone else have the same gripe?!! (i am hoping so!! cant just be me surely!!)

Alright, seven oclock, must go; time for the block!!!!

Goodnight gorgeous friends! Laura xxx

a little bit of glamour

2011-06-17T18:40:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

had a gorgeous long lie in bed this morning with my electric blanket!!! just divine!!! I am not usually a lie-in type of person, in fact, it was only around half an hour (till i get bored!) but when its cold and dark outside, theres nothing better!!

I am off to a friends party tonight and realised that it is actually a fancy dress, so might have to get cracking on that!!

So, here are my favourite pics of the week..... gorgeous girly glamour!!!

French sofas and candelabras..

mirrors...

and more mirrors....

such pretty tablescapes.

with gorgeous roses..

how very stunning is this setting? so romantic and unashamedly feminine!!!

Hope you enjoyed them too!! What plans do you have for the weekend? I think i had better get started on breakfast now before the boys start moaning!!!!

Oh, and i am sorry to the people who just missed out on the print! I felt so bad, i wanted to send one to everyone who commented, i would love to , but i would get a bit carried away!! thankyou for your lovely comments too! you are all a beautiful bunch of girls!!

hugs everybody!!!!

Laura xxx

Free print for the first three commenters!

2011-06-15T22:39:00.000-07:00

Hi all!! Only one more day till the weekend - yay!!!

Have a couple more prints (sorry!! you `all must be so bored of them by now!!!) and I thought it would be fun to giv one away... to all of my lovely friends... But.... that could get a little too costly for me..
so, how about, the first three to comment.. get a free print!!?

orchids ( have a few more almost finished too soon!)

Peonies

Pears on bone inlay table.

There are so many ginger jars around right now, I am not going to do too many more of those, for me , its more about the flowers..

So, you can cheese any, but if you are one of the first #3 to comment, email me and say which one you like and your address of course!!

So, ready ..........set.......... go!!!

Laura xxxx

flowers everywhere!!

2011-06-13T05:05:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

have you all had a lovely weekend? Mine was certainly very relaxing. We had lots of sunshine, so that always helps!! Unlike today.... Looks like rain for the rest of the week unfortunately... roll on summer I say!

I have a couple of little paintings finished, but havent had time to frame them and take any photgraphs yet.. just the images today..

cherry blossoms..

roses and bone inlay chest...

More roses!! (and pretty chair!)

You can probably tell that I do like flowers... a lot!! And I love painting them... I do get a lot of pleasure from it. In fact, I have been taking my little seb to the skate park on weekends to play on his scooter. And while he is riding to and fro, I have a little cup of water, a paintbrush and some paints and sit in the car listening to the radio and pottering away. ... It certainly makes the time pass quickly!!

Thankyou everyone for stopping by today.. I appreciate all of you and your lovely, wonderful comments!

Have a very lovely week, Laura xxx

my favourite spaces this week

2011-06-11T19:17:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

came accross a few lovely spaces this week. I guess some of them have been around for a while, but new to me! Hope you like them too!

Love the colour of the light ; havent seen one in teal before...

Gorgeous rug!

How pretty is this little girls room? And I love the open windows with pretty garden outside.. Sadly, I will never be able to do a little girls room in my home!!! no more babies for me!

Interesting combination of modern/industrial look artwork, traditional style chairs, roman blinds.. very eclectic, but it all works together.

Can never have too much pink!! Cool poster too!

I think this was from Gwenyth Paltrows london home, easter tablescape. Is there anything that girl cant do?!!!!

Cute place to sit outside... lusting over that old gold chair!!!

Do you all have a busy day planned? We slept in this morning and missed auskick.... whoops!! Who ever decided 8am on a Sunday morning for auskick was a crazy person!

Off now to visit some of you all and check out what you have been up to!!

Love to everyone,

Laura xxx

images from tumblr

watercololur roses and bone inlay chest

2011-06-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

Happy wednesday everyone!!
Just a quick little post as the day seems to be going to fast - just looking at the clock quickly, have lots to do before I leave to pick up the children!!

Just adding a couple of watercolours to my etsy... Just hope the colours and detail turn out ok on the screens!

having lots of fun painting roses and peonies lately!

the first one, atop a bone inlay chest...

and with a few new little trinkets... the bird on branch and little japanese pot from a thrift store.

roses in morrocan tea glasses.

Theres just something about morrocan glasses that I adore!

These will be available in a print from - click here; etsy

Also, print of the hydrangeas in blue and white ginger jar (pictured on my sidebar).

I just enjoy painting flowers. I find it so relaxing and peaceful! I have some others, but they re not finished quite yet....

Ok, must dash!!! have so much to do.!!

Hope you are all very well today; hugs to you all!

Laura xx

Casual living

2011-06-03T17:32:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I am besotted with these gorgeous, casual living spaces... just perfect for the weekend!! Lots of loveliness, pretty fabrics, crisp whites..
I am definently a fan of a more casual lifestyle... I guess my favourite interior styles reflect that!

That daybed looks just too comfortable!

lovely greens on the table; perfect for winter when the flowers in the garden become a little few and far between!

What a view!!

Hope you enjoyed these lovely spaces as much as I do!!! Thankyou for your amazing comments yesterday...I really value each and every one of you all; you are the loveliest bunch of girls! But I promise, no more doom and gloom.... I dont want you all to think I am always going to be miserable and ... well, you know! .. dont want you all to stop visiting me here and thinking it will just be another sob story!! Anyway, I am positive that things are going to get so much better for my boy.. and it IS going to be a great day!!! sending out the positive, happy karma!

Have a very wonderful day everyone!!!

Laura xx

Inspiring me this week!

2011-06-03T02:55:00.000-07:00

Friday at last!!! What a huge week I have had! I was so positive in the beginning, then all of a sudden, it all came crashing down! I dont want to go into too much detail but my oldest son Jack ended up at the hospital. He is only 14, but, well, I dont want to blab to the world (especially without him knowing) but he has some issues, mainly depression and unresolved grief over his brother. So, so sad for him, but we are well on the road getting the best help for him. Its always easier once there is some kind of diagnosis...

I certainly dont want to sound like a tragic.. I dont want to have some miserable drama everytime I post! I am not looking for sympathy or anything... Its definently not anything I cant handle! I have dealt with way worse in the past and I guess it takes a lot to shake me now!

On a positive not.... its a long weekend here!!! yay!! I am hoping to do some planting and a little gardening and no 8 am footy training for Seb on sunday morning; just a lovely lazy start to the day is what I am planning!

Hoping to get a chance to sit down and have a proper read of all of your blogs, and the June issue of Adore magazine!...

Here are some of my faves so far from the latest issue; Christina Re`s appartment...

Some of Christina Re papers used to perfection! (below)

This week, I am also absolutely loving this little dressing table/area!

And I so want a little flower room like this one!

pretty mismatched plates..... (usually not a huge fan of open kitchen shelves; I hate the dust) but this is such a cute display, had to add it!!

Lots of bright, happy colour!!

Would love a little warehousey space like this!

Do any of you have a long weekend ahead? Any exciting plans? Hope its wonderful whatever you decide upon!

Laura xxxx

Images from Adore home magazine and tumblr.

(ps, would love to chat privately with anyone who has experience with teen depression...)