Flotsam Friends

Love Lace...

2012-02-05T09:21:00.000+11:00

This is my first post for 2012. Happy New Year!

I've had a slow start to the year (as usual). After a month at the caravan up north it takes time for the school/work routine to be fine tuned. The boys and I are in some weird cycle of going to bed at 11pm and then sleeping in until 8am... Not great when you're not on holidays!

I have so many photos to share with you I just didn't know where to start?!

Today though, I had a magical experience. While all my boys headed to the Harry Potter Exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum here in Sydney, I lucked upon the most insanely creative and overwhelmingly inspiring exhibition I've seen in a while called "Love Lace". I cannot tell you how fabulous it was and how unexpected. And it's not just all the magical pieces, it's the way they're all displayed and lit. Really incredibly done (here is an interview) by well respected and well known architects, Durbach Block. Each piece I photographed, I've named and linked back to the artist (on the title). It's really interesting reading the artist's statement.

About the exhibition.

See 130 lace works by 134 artists from 20 countries in this ground-breaking exhibition. Discover lace as you've never experienced it before - from knitted human hair and crocheted steel wire to lace patterns carved into the body of a rusty old truck.

Please, if you're in Sydney, go! It's on until April 2012 - you won't be disappointed! And for everyone else, I'm hoping you can appreciate the intricate details through my photos. Px

CHRISTINE MCMILLAN
ONE ECHIDNA

GRISELDA GONZALES
NANDUTI LACE

KAREN RICHARDS
SECRET FOREST

JOEP VERHOEVEN, DEMAKERSVAN
LACE FENCE

WALTRAUD JANZEN
TREE

ESTHER PALEOLOGOS
MEMORY

MAVIS GANAMBARR AND KOSKELA
YUTA BADAYALA (IN A NEW LIGHT)

This was my favourite piece. The colours and the way the light streams through the weaving are to die for.

Random shots from the video about making this piece

ALICE VOKAC
FIRST DAY WONDER

NOELLE HAMLYN
CEREMONY

FOR ANY HARRY POTTER FANS!

Happy Holidays...

2011-12-21T18:53:00.001+11:00

Hope you have a relaxing break.

Thanks for all your kind comments, your wonderful ideas and creative minds in 2011.

I look forward to catching up with you all in 2012!

Loads of love,

Pruxxx

Luke's drawing on Gus's 8th Birthday card.
I guess he will have more presents than any of us being a Christmas Day baby!

Around Our House...

2011-12-19T21:06:00.002+11:00

I'm counting down the days now until we head north to our caravan (hope to leave on Thursday). We broke up from school on Friday so we're almost there...

I thought I'd share a few photos from home before we head.

Hope all your Christmas plans are coming together and that you're as relaxed as I am (I don't believe I've just written that but it's true). Pxxx

The shell wreath I made last year re-invented with fairy lights with pearls 2011

This totally divine cup I found at Vinnies. Only the one but I'm totally in love. It reminds me that I so have to do something with the horse tea towels I bought ages ago

Last but totally not least, our tabby cat 'Baz'.
These three photos were taken by Luke. His owner & obsessive carer.
They're a perfect duo

Hanging out in the cubby house (in the sun which has been rare around here lately)

Luke with Baz

Baz on our lounge with Tim & I while the boys were at a sleepover

The Magical World of Children...

2011-12-04T07:47:00.001+11:00

Even though I've had quite a flat year creatively, I'm happy to report my boys haven't let the family down. It's so fulfilling for me to see their art on mass like this as it makes me realise that the struggling to do homework and all the conventional parts of schooling hasn't deadened their creative spirit.

I'm not a 'show off' Mum but there's no harm in sharing the love is there?

I'm also sharing a few of my favourite photos I took of my boys in 2011.

I hope you've all had a creative and colourful year. It sure makes life more interesting and easier to handle the flat spots in-between.

Love, Px

Luke's Artwork - 10 years

Ancient Egypt school project. His favourite of the year

Gus's Artwork - 7 years

One of my all time favourites. My Mother's Day present from Gus. A monkey made out of paper plates and it reads: "Mum is butful at all times and I love you"

Photos of my two devils. Life certainly would not be the same without you.

Luke in Halloween mode. Doing your own make-up is serious business

The End

I Did a Bad Thing.... And I Blame Anthropologie!

2011-12-01T10:08:00.001+11:00

It all started with an innocent conversation with a couple of girlfriends about buying online... Those who know me know I'm not a shopper but this snippet of a conversation started my creative juices flowing.

First and last stop, the Anthropologie website where I kind of ordered up big. This didn't seem too extravagant, I think the order came to just over USD300.00. I couldn't understand why they weren't going to ship all these things straight to my door in Australia but I wasn't too worried about that, I was kind of obsessed at this point and just needed to have them no matter what. A great girlfriend of mine, Jacqi lives in Venice so I just had it all shipped to her place. The trouble started around here... I called UPS to have it shipped from her in LA to me in Sydney, easy peasy. My face turned white when I was quoted USD1,688.00. Let's just say I completely freaked out and went straight to Facebook (hoping for similar stories and to try and make myself feel less guilty I guess).

Luckily my greatest girlfriend has handled it for me. Here are four of the boxes so far. I don't think there's too much more to come?!! Nothing has arrived broken and I'm at USD245.25 postage (so far). I've had fun this morning unpacking it all (Tim is in NZ for work so I'm safe).

Worth it???? Totally. Take a look. Would I do it again??? Probably (Jacqi I hope you don't read this post). Pxxx

From The Deep Dinnerware

Opalescent Tumbler

Homegrown Monogram Mug. Gift for the boys teachers

A Surfer's Driftwood Humpy...

2011-11-18T19:53:00.001+11:00

I'm starting to feel that overwhelming feeling... This is what's about to hit me.

November 19 - my Sister's Birthday

December 9 - my Dad's Birthday (70)
December 12 - my Brother's Birthday
December 16 - Luke's Birthday (11)
December 18 - Tim and my Wedding Anniversary (14 years)
December 25 - Gus's Birthday (8)

Oh, and Christmas Day...

Do you think it would be bad of me if I ditched the whole thing this year and headed here instead?

Living from the sea wouldn't be too bad, it could be incredible. I love fish. It may be a little cold at night but a fire would fix that right?! Can you imagine the sounds I'd hear living this close to the water? Birds & crabs would be my friends. The only problem I see is how I'd keep the champagne chilled.

Silly season, I'll never, ever be ready for you but bring it on anyway.

Pxxx

The art of living the simple life

I can see Stegosaurus

Room with a view

The perfect coloured toothbrush. Maybe a little worn and weathered

A little offering I found along the way

Civilisation is out there somewhere (kind of to the right)

A Beach Cottage in Killcare Called 'Dandaloo'...

2011-10-30T19:26:00.001+11:00

My older son had a Cubs camp this weekend up at Kariong on the Central Coast. Never one to let an opportunity to head north and up and out of Sydney go by I decided the whole family should go along too.

I don't know the Central Coast that well (remember I'm originally from Brisbane) so I spent many days trawling through Stayz and real estate sites to find the perfect home away from home.

I stayed well away from anything modern or done up 'beach shack style'. I was only interested in a cottage with original details (I swear I was born in the wrong era). It was love at first sight when I stumbled upon 'Dandaloo'. 1 & a half hours drive from Sydney to this amazing spot, it would be a crime not to do it again soon...

I hope you guys all had a lovely weekend too. Have you ever stayed somewhere that is totally 'you' too that you'd like to share with me?

Px

'Dandaloo' in all her glory

I even love the mission brown door

and behind that brown door...

Gorgeous, original character-filled cabinets

Could these be the most divine door knobs ever?

Kitchen bench

Our beloved Atomic. How could we live without you?

The perfect kitchen

Cute little details

Simple

Plenty of room for rug rats

Main bedroom

Incredible sliding windows. The outside comes straight in

functional deck

Water views

#1 in charm

Friendly neighbours

Surrounded by Bouddi National Park. Sydney in the background. Can you see Barrenjoey Lighthouse?

Around the corner from Hardy's Bay

Flotsam I Love You...

2011-10-26T14:33:00.001+11:00

Some fabulous flotsam I found recently while up north. Happy Wednesday. Px

Pom-Pom Crazy...

2011-10-22T23:14:00.001+11:00

Well we're well and truly back from our October school holidays. Unfortunately we probably had the worst weather in all the seven years we've had our caravan. We still had a relaxing time though and I was so proud of my boys as they amused themselves with jigsaw puzzles, drawing, making god's eyes, a little bit of cooking, most of these things from our school's holiday sign and you guessed it, pom-poms!

Hope you're all happy and well and I'm looking forward to catching up with you in Blogland. Px

Our school sign for the holidays. I loved it!

Gus's pom-pom

Luke's pom-pom

A Red Dress, A New Ring & My Wedding Bouquet...

2011-09-22T06:54:00.006+10:00

A very random post today and it's all about RED.

This red dress was from one of those cheapo shops that we have here at our local mall. I just love it and the best thing about it is that it's lined with cotton so it feels lovely to wear.

I recently bought this ring from a local shop with a voucher girlfriends had given me for my 41st Birthday in January! You may not know it but I'm not a shopper.
My Wedding bouquet is now all dried out (we married in 1998) and I'm so glad I took a photo of it as it was the most beautiful thing ever. It wasn't planned, when we were on our way down to City Hall I just had a moment of thinking I needed a bouquet. We stopped at an insanely gorgeous florist and this is what was made for me. On the spot. Remember, it was NYC.

Happy Wednesday. Px

Hanging Out With My Boys - Part 1

2011-09-17T07:48:00.009+10:00

A chance to do a bit of role playing

A caravan is for creating
Where I'm happiest and most relaxed. I struggle with the school routine!

My excitement is building as we only have one more week of school before school holidays. I can't believe how quickly another 10 weeks has gone! I haven't posted any photos from our July trip up north to the caravan so I thought I might share some with you (if you're interested)? It was everything it always is, relaxing and a chance to re-connect with my boys and to live a simple life. I did it alone as my husband had to work. Working in the school system I am lucky enough to have every holiday off.
Other post from up north are here , here, here, and an older post, here and here

I hope you have a truly relaxing weekend. Px

Twin Towers, I Miss You...

2011-09-11T17:05:00.011+10:00

Unfortunately, I only really appreciated the magnificence of the Twin Towers after they were gone. I keep going through old photos from my two trips to NYC as a tourist and then the ones over the two years we were lucky enough to live there. I wish I'd taken more shots of all the smaller details. To think I'll never have that opportunity again, it's one of the biggest reasons I appreciate my surroundings so much more today.

I thought I'd share with you the ones I did take and that are special to me.

My thoughts and love are with everyone who lost someone special. May your heart be slowly mending. Px

Our Wedding day. December 18, 1997. We were married at City Hall and we walked across the Brooklyn Bridge to take these shots. I couldn't imagine these photos without the World Trade Center in the background.

Walking back together on the Brooklyn Bridge

One of my favourite shots

Hard to see it, but this is actually a 3-D photo

Another favourite. I used the towers so many times a day to orientate myself, especially as I popped out of the subway station

The photos below are from our first trip to NYC in 1993. Tim and I knew then, we'd one day live there

The plaza outside the front of the towers was a cold and sterile place. This was taken on our first trip in 1993

Vinnie's Find Friday...

2011-09-09T14:36:00.008+10:00

I bought all of these cups for $4.00. They so remind me of that one day a year we were allowed into the teacher's staff room at primary school (Kenmore State School in Brisbane) to watch the Melbourne Cup. They're very 80's. I'm wondering if they were popular world-wide or just in Australia?

They're heading to my husband's new office space in East Balmain. We are going there over the weekend to assemble some Ikea tables. I can't wait to help him furnish it. The cups are just the beginning!

Hope you're having a great Friday. I usually work today but have the day off with Gus who has bad asthma. It's the perfect sick day as it's rainy and cold here in Sydney. Px

Happy Monday...

2011-09-05T06:51:00.002+10:00

Sitting elegantly on my mantelpiece today. My favourite flowers picked fresh from our backyard. Spring, I love you!

Pxxx

Always A Place In My Heart For NYC...

2011-08-30T20:23:00.008+10:00

I was so relieved over the weekend that Hurricane Irene didn't cause too much damage to NYC. I just couldn't have handled anymore bad images of a place that holds such a huge chunk of my heart.

Tim and I lived in New York, for two years (1997 - 1999). These would have been two of the happiest years of my life. Having to rely on just each other and to wade through what was such a complicated paper trail to re-establish ourselves.

When we first moved we were sure we'd just be able to rent a simple, fully furnished apartment. This was not the case. Having to deal with brokers and meet landlords and be accepted in to the city was so full-on. In the end it was so worth it and the funny things that we went through along the way really changed us and made us be able to cope with anything life throws us today.

I went through my old album and scanned some photos of our tiny, adorable, one bedroom, brownstone walk up in W12th St. We were between 5th & 6th Ave and just under the Union Square Markets. We loved our neighborhood! Px
Me outside our brownstone
That was our apartment, third floor up, in the trees

I loved the exposed brick and this mantelpiece
Gorgeous windows and our tables and chairs we found at a flea-market in the city and that we still use in Sydney to this day
That's kind of it. The front door, kitchen, some storage, bathroom
Tiny kitchen, but that's all we needed! Our beloved atomic. We still never leave to go anywhere without it
I loved this bathroom. And the amazing shower curtains we could buy. I wish I'd bought hundreds of them!
Exposed brick. Perfection. This is my Wedding bouquet. Did I tell you we were married in NYC?
Cutest garden on the building opposite. I used to love watching the seasons change from these windows
Snow! A real novelty for us
Winter wonderland in W12th St!
The Butterfly Building opposite us. It featured in the film "As Good As It Gets"
Before the grey hair, wrinkles, kid-stress!

Happy Weekend...

2011-08-27T14:26:00.003+10:00

A very foggy Saturday morning down at Curl Curl Beach.

Out early for a walk and some kid-free time!

What are you up to this weekend? Px

A little clearer by the time I headed home

My Creative Space...

2011-08-25T06:47:00.009+10:00

All ready to be box framed

I've been working on another 'family' Flotsam order. I'm so happy with this one. Sometimes it all comes together in a way you weren't expecting. The colours and adornments flowed naturally to create the personality of each family member. Makes me wish again that this could be my full-time job. I can't explain the satisfaction and attachment that comes with making these little guys!

Another satisfied customer! I'm always wondering who will be next.

Looking forward to popping by 'Our Creative Space' to see what everyone else has been up to. PxMad surfer boyfriend

Shell collecting Mum

Soccer playing oldest son (I used sea urchins as soccer balls)

Fishing is his life youngest son. That's some catch

The finished product!

Replicating My Favourite Magazine Cover

2011-08-19T19:03:00.006+10:00

Thank you for popping by, it's so good to be back. I have so many things to share with you I really don't know where to start...

This seems like a great place. I've always adored this cover of one of my favourite magazines here in Australia, Country Style (April 2009). So while up north at the caravan during our June/July holidays I tried to replicate it using my favourite tablecloths and fabrics I keep stored at the van. I was really happy my versions. What do you think?
I hope you have a fabulous weekend planned. We are having a very wet, windy and chilly one here in Sydney. Spring weather, we need you!

Pxxx

P.S. Remember you can double click on my photos to see them more clearly. I so have to sort out how to make them bigger!I adore this vintage "Australian" themed tablecloth. I bought it in Bellingen on one of my many visits

My adorable assistant, Gus

Holiday reading and another cover I adore (but will NEVER be able to replicate)

That's A Long Time Between Posts...

2011-08-18T09:06:00.004+10:00

I feel so bad to have left you this long dear Blog! Not that I haven't been creating, I've just been preoccupied. I've still been dropping by to see what you've all been up to. I've just been a little silent.

Now this is Flotsam Archie. My girlfriend Nina's baby who is now 3 months old. I finally took a trip across the bridge to Bondi to meet him yesterday. He's delicious! How's that hair!

Pxxx

Wednesday Wonderment

2011-06-29T10:21:00.006+10:00

A male, New Zealand Fur Seal (they also live in Australia) down at our local beach, Freshwater. So lovely to see. Apparently these guys had almost been wiped out by sealers 150 years ago but are slowly coming back. They're heading to familiar territory and they live alone. He's fattening himself up for breeding season in November!

Enjoy your Wednesday. Pxxx

My Creative Space...

2011-06-09T07:05:00.007+10:00

Before I head out the door to the airport, I thought I'd share with you my latest Flotsam, 'Ms Tradewinds'. She's inspired by my few hours at The Society Inc. recently doing a workshop and the pages of Sibella Court's book Etcetera and my favourite chapter in the book 'Tradewinds'.

Hoping you have a wonderful weekend wherever you are. We are lucky, it's a long weekend here in celebration of the Queen's Birthday.

Don't forget to check out what all the creative spirits out there have been up to by popping by here. Px

Just a few tantalising images from Etcetera

We're Heading To Melbourne... Can You Help Me???

2011-06-03T17:59:00.006+10:00

We are heading to Melbourne at the end of next week for three nights (staying in the city). I can't wait! We are taking the boys to the Tutankhamun exhibition (Luke's learning about Ancient Egypt at school this term) and The Art of the Brick Lego exhibition (my boys are huge Lego fans).

I can't wait for them to ride a tram and experience the Winter cold, amazingly designed architecture and the feeling of almost being in another country. But most importantly, I'm hoping they enjoy the incredible food. I love arriving into Melbourne and walking through the airport and smelling the coffee. To me, that's the beginning of my food love affair. I'm always blown away by the inventive, fresh and really reasonably priced food you find EVERYWHERE. What especially blows my mind is that this food can be found in the heart of the city! Unlike Sydney where those places are always 'tourist traps'.

I've been pulling extra work days and am planning on vintage shopping my heart out. I've made a list below of shops and restaurants from a blog I adore Rummage but for those of you who know me a little better, can you help me?? I'd love to hear your recommendations.

And are the Camberwell Markets worth visiting? I've always wanted to go there but I've heard mixed reports?!

Px

P.S. This illustration is from printspace

Vintage Shops

Industria: 202 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy
Zetta Florence: 197 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
Moustache: Gertrude Street, Fitzroy
Mr Lincoln: 102 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy
Lost and Found Market: 12 Smith Street, Collingwood
Meet Me at Mikes: 63 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
Arthur's Circus: 631 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne
Shappere: 19 Smith Street, Fitzroy
Guy Matthews: 154 Johnston Street, Fitzroy
Tarlo & Graham: 60 Chapel Street, Windsor

Food, Glorious Food

The Commoner: 122 Johnston Street, Fitzroy
Pellegrini's: 66 Bourke Street, Melbourne
Yu-U (Japanese): 137 Flinders Lane
Journal Canteen: 253 Flinders Lane
Mario's: 303 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
Birdman Eating: 238 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy
Gill's Diner: Gill's Alley, Melbourne
Von Haus: 1a Crossley Street, Melbourne

Mismatched Monday...

2011-05-30T06:44:00.001+10:00

Happy Monday. What did you get up to this weekend?

I've had my little sister here (she's 35) for the weekend from Brisbane. She's down to see The Cure in concert for Vivid LIVE at the Opera House on Tuesday night. I'm also going. We are pretty excited! Her visit prompted me to give our tiny house an overhaul. All skirting boards and picture rails are now free of dust and I even gave our original kitchen a good 'gumptioning'.

While it was looking so sweet and clean I decided I'd use it as inspiration for this post.

To see a previous 'Mismatched Monday' post head here. Px

It's such a love/hate relationship. Most days it drives me crazy but then the thought of upgrading it makes me feel sick. I love the details, the cute knobs and the way it just lasts and lasts

Our treasured Atomic. This was the first present I bought Tim. We've had it for 19 years (and it was vintage then). It's traveled overseas with us, goes up to the caravan and camping and makes the best capuccinos ever

All these gorgeous cups were bought at Anthropologie when we were in NYC in 2007 for our 10 year Wedding Anniversary

We bought these shell salad servers from Pottery Barn on the same trip

Our coffee tin. This would be over eleven years old. We bought it in Rome at a 'tourist trap' cafe near the Pantheon but we just loved their logo. It's a little knocked about now but I still love it

Shells, coral and paint brushes?!

A present from my Mum. A fish gravy boat (the perfect gift)
This was my Grandma's vase. I just adore the colours

Handmade fish. A lucky find (for me) at the Antique General Store, Narrabeen

Narnia Inspired Treasure Maps

2011-05-28T11:32:00.010+10:00

This morning we've been making treasure maps. Last night we finally watched "Narnia The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" and the boys are inspired.

Treasure maps and drawings (stained with coffee and soy sauce!)

We actually saw some of this film being shot back in September 2009 down near my mum's place at Cleveland Point in Brisbane. I'd taken the boys on a sleeper train from Sydney. It was an overnight trip. We left Sydney's Central Station at about 4pm and arrived into Brisbane at about 6:30am. I thought it would be my last opportunity to do this before the boys grew too much bigger as it's very squashy! Sharing a single bed with a six year old was definitely hard work, I couldn't do it now. Let's just say I didn't get much sleep but the trip really was magical. Especially the early part, the excitement of boarding and then following the Hawkesbury River into the Central Coast and then the trip early in the morning from Byron Bay.

I hope you're having a relaxing weekend. We're waiting, patiently, for my little sister to arrive from Brisbane. Px

The amazing Narnia ship. Apparently they chose this location as it's quite rare not to see land in the background, just water

Boarding at Sydney's Central Station

Checking out all the mod cons

Magic Hour on the Hawkesbury

Bedtime. They came and put the beds down at about 8pm

Early breakfast. Hot chocolate and toast with Vegemite!

The Natural Home: Dwellings at Ease with Themselves and Their Surroundings

2011-05-26T13:10:00.010+10:00

One of the first pages in the book

I'm just back from a quick dash to the library to return some just over-their-due date books and couldn't help having a browse. I'm so glad I did as I've just found the most beautiful book. T he Natural Home:Dwellings at Ease with Themselves and Their Surroundings by Nathalie Taverne and Anna Lambert.

There are so many incredible houses to mention so I'm just sharing two of my favourites. The first one is Guy and Lee Mathews home overlooking Pittwater on Sydney's Northern Beaches and the second home is Lyn Gardener's 1930's building (originally a leather-work factory).

I hope you enjoy them and they brighten up a rather dull Thursday here in Sydney. Px P.S. Double click on my images to see more clearly

Guy & Lee Mathews Home

Shot #1

Shot #2

Shot #3

Shot #4

Shot #5

Lyn Gardener's Home

Shot #1

Shot #2

Shot #3

Shot #4

Shot #5

I Heart Flossy-P...

2011-05-25T07:06:00.000+10:00

'Wilderness'

I bought this mini card from Neck of the Woods a few weeks ago and I haven't stopped looking at it since. I just love everything about it! It was supposed to go with the present I bought at the time but I just couldn't give it away. I've since looked up the artist, Flossy-P (what a sweet name) through lalaland and discovered this about her.

A little while back she relocated from inner city Sydney to a small bushy beach side town. This move changed alot of things in her life, including what she paints. Through her city-girl eyes she is spying all sorts of new things, and now fills her pages with discoveries from her new home.

No wonder I feel a connection with her work!

Aren't these other pieces also just lovely.

Px

'aspire'

'whale rider'

'giant wombat'

North Narrabeen Ocean Pool @ 4:44pm Today

2011-05-22T18:51:00.003+10:00

An afternoon when we were going to just sit in the sun and smell the sea turned into this! Just days away from winter in Sydney.

I hope you had a lovely day. What did you do?

Px

Return Of The Sea Monsters

2011-05-20T13:58:00.015+10:00

Take one hot glue gun, lots of interesting shells you've hand picked, a creative young mind and your world becomes just that bit more interesting.

Luke and Gus making their 'Sea Monsters' up at the caravan over Easter.

Hope you have a lovely weekend. Px

It all started with these sea monsters Luke made last October...

Many mornings of creating and great concentration

Luke with his fat lip (after a collision with his brothers head)

little burns on little fingers

Gus learning the ropes from his big brother

Lots of interesting shells and other flotsam were found

Then came the creating. Gus's sea monster cat

Gus's one eyed guy with pet

Luke's smoking sea monster with sea urchin spike gun

Luke's warrior on his own shell beach. Have never seen this purple coral before!

Even I got into it. My shell girl with crab claw arm

The series name of our Chesney caravan

My Boys As Art...

2011-05-07T07:39:00.007+10:00

Gus

Luke

My beautiful friend, Jane Park painted my boys for me. Aren't they amazing?

Although I love photographs, there's something whimsical about Jane's art. Everyone who sees them, loves them.

Jane's available for commissions. She can be contacted via e-mail janepark6@gmail.com. $200 each.

Have a lovely weekend. What are you up to? Hope all you Mum's out there enjoy your special day on Sunday. Px

Sibella Court - Styling w/ Sticks Stones & Bones Workshop

2011-05-04T12:34:00.017+10:00

I noticed this sign as soon as I entered. I certainly do!

I've just walked in the door from an amazing experience. A couple of hours with the naturally beautiful and talented stylist, Sibella Court's Styling w/ sticks stones & bone workshop at Society Inc, her headquarters in Paddington. (The perfect cure for the holiday blues). I now feel totally refreshed and inspired!

As soon as I walked into her space my heart beat a little faster. It was beating really fast by the time we climbed a divine little staircase and into a room with amazing light. It was like stepping into a treasure chest or someone's jewellery box. Sibella's openness and willingness to share herself (and her treasures) with us was incredible. I can't wait to research these artists who inspire her. Brancusi, Noguchi & Barbara Hepworth.

I first discovered Sibella through Maya's blog, Completely Coastal. This display 'Into the Lighthouse Keepers Quarters' she did for Anthropologie's flagship store in NYC blew my mind. I've been hooked by Sibella's style ever since and promptly bought her book Etcetera: Creating Beautiful Interiors with the Things You Love by Sibella Court. See my post here.

This is a morning I won't be forgetting in a hurry. And to top it off she liked my Flotsam Friends (I took this one to show her)!

I hope you enjoy my shots (I could have taken thousands but didn't want to outstay my welcome). Px

Let the inspiration begin...

This perfect display evolved and created right in front of our eyes

More goodies (vintage cutlery) to create a relaxed table setting. Using such interesting pieces would sure start some fabulous dinner table discussions

Totally sweet window at the end of the table. I couldn't help admiring the little tufts of green and light which came through it

Talking about her much loved shutters

stunning aren't they?

Graceful paper owl (by Anna-Wili Highfield) that flies above the display table. I couldn't help noticing the interesting shadows it created

Sibella explained that even the most common objects deserve to be displayed beautifully. She was saying that the girls in her office thought fish oil tablets put a stop to those sweet cravings!?

My favourite display walls (shell inspired)

Explaining my dolls

A bit cheeky of me but doesn't she look cute here? I bought some of those coral pieces to use as legs for one of my Flotsam Friends.

Good-bye Society Inc. Don't worry, I'll be back soon!

My perfect collection

2011-04-09T13:00:00.000+10:00

If you're wondering why you haven't heard from me it's because I'm up north at Caravan #32 for our Easter school holidays. I'll be back at the end of April.

we'll be here enjoying no time pressures or organised activities...

I'm sorry I haven't been a good blogging friend lately. I've been a little overwhelmed settling the boys back into school, staying on top of homework and the afternoon activities have seriously done my head in. I know I'm not doing anymore than lots of you out there but I always find myself running on empty.

I've never been an organised person and have only just worked out that being a Mum, you have to be. I no longer am enjoying running my life in chaos mode (which has done me quite well until now thank you).

We'll see how next term goes in my super organised state... Until we catch-up, please take care and enjoy your amazing lives. Px

doing a spot of snorkeling...

here...

and making sure we don't get swept out to sea...

see what I mean

we'll be flotsaming together...

and hoping to find lots of this

catching up with old friends... like Bob our friendly neighbourhood frog or...

our blue tongued lizard...

and the tawny frog-mouth who lives in the trees near the park

the boys will be jumping for joy with the Murray Boys from Gunnedah

we'll be surfing with these guys (can you see the dolphins in the background?)

doing a spot of this, then giving them back

definitely hanging out with red nets in rockpools

maybe having a dance at the kid's disco up at the bowling club (but then again, maybe not - I do have two boys remember)...

But most importantly, stopping and enjoying this that surrounds us...

Turquoise & Green... The Most Perfect Combination Ever?

2011-04-06T06:00:00.007+10:00

Yes, I think it is. I adore this combination. What do you think? Px

Shots #1, #2 & #3: my favourite earrings ever and they're mine! So intricately made. By Australian designer Sophie Kyron

Shots #4, #5 & #6: My 40th present from Tim (they were a surprise). You wouldn't believe how much I love these plates. I think in the end, Tim felt sorry for me as whenever we visited Garden Street Bazaar I would sit for ages admiring them. I love everything about them, even their little imperfections. They're vintage Villeroy & Boch and will never be used but too good to leave behind glass! For a post I've done about this amazing shop head here

Turquoise Triangle Ring

Moon and the Stars Ring

Mismatched Triangle Turquoise and Diamond Studs

Sun Moon Earrings Gold, Turquoise and Diamond

Shots #7, #8 #9 & #10: When I win Lotto I'm going to buy all of these amazing pieces. The label is Mociun and I discovered them through a divine blog called my Lens of Love

And That's What Little Boys Are Made Of...

2011-04-04T06:45:00.009+10:00

On Saturday we took the boys to the BMX track at Terrey Hills. I stupidly forgot my camera but remembered I had my iPhone so I used my Hipstamatic app. I'm really happy with the moody feel it gave these shots.

All was going well until the boys discovered mud, then tadpoles in the mud...

Glad to hear what some of you got up to over the weekend. Yours was a lot more glamorous than mine that's for sure!! Px

Shot #1: Gus

Shot #2: Gus BMX Bandit

Shot #3: Luke BMX Bandit

Shot #4: Gus's crocs

Shot #5: Luke's "school shoes"

Shot #6: Ahhh more mud

Shot #7: a rare moment of team work

Shot #8: slippery little tadpole

Shot #9: yes, we brought some home

Shot #10: enough is enough boys

Shot #11: and while they were doing that, I discovered this insane flower

Shot #12, #13 & #14: and read about Lee Mathews amazing creative space in my February 2011 Marie Claire Australia magazine. How cool is that armchair? I'm thinking this is brilliant inspiration for my horse tea towels.

Happy Weekend...

2011-04-02T08:10:00.002+11:00

I hope you have the time to stop and appreciate the roses!

Happy weekend. What are you up to?

Px

My Creative Space...

2011-03-31T08:13:00.000+11:00

This week I've had a great time re-arranging things down in my little work space under our house. I've particularly loved the new images that now grace my inspiration board (thanks to Australian Marie-Claire & Vogue magazines) and some of my own personal photos and cards.

Now my work space is cleared and become my creative space once again. I'm thinking I may embark on another one of my shell encrusted candelabras.

I'll now skip across to Kristy @ Kootoyoo to see what everyone else has been up to.

P.S. You can double click on any of my images to see more detail.

Px

Shot #1: my inspiration board - March 2011

Shot #2: on the right are some of my personal photos, business cards and a card my girlfriend's gave me for my birthday this year (that's me on the top of that whale... wouldn't that be lovely)

Shot #3: I adore this carefree image from Vogue Australia (April 2011). How super cute are those (Salvatore Ferragamo) crocheted bikini bottoms (love the colour too)

Shot #4: my display shelves. Full of special bits and pieces that are meaningful to me

Shot #5: what's on my shelves?

Shot #6: sea urchins, deceased estate jewellery, shells I've collected then fallen in love with (and will probably never use)

Shot #7: one of my first ever Flotsam Friend dolls

Shot #8: I'm fascinated by these. My collection of Port Jackson shark eggs

Shot #9: more things from the sea

Shot #10: my set-up

Shot #11: shell encrusted candelabra I made a few years ago

Shot #12: I'm now ready to go. Old, black candelabra $2 at Vinnie's and chicken wire... It's going to be a fun ride

A Lick Of Paint...

2011-03-29T06:24:00.011+11:00

Finally I can show you our house freshly painted! This has been a long time coming. Tim and I agonised over the colour and whether we should change it completely. In the end we couldn't imagine our house not being blue. We are only the second family who've lived here. We bought it from the son of the family that built the house and from what older neighbours in our street have told us, it's always been blue! I particularly love the 'Lagoon Blue' we chose for the weatherboard. And hate to sound shallow but the names of the colours helped too!!

Hope you like it! Px

Shot #1: after

Shot #2: before (I didn't realise how shabby she was looking)

Shot #3: Our pathway (after)

Shot #4: after (I'm sure that hand rail will come in handy at some point)

Shot #5: before (that yellow had to go)

Shot #6: that's feeling better (transition)

Shot #7: I've even bought a new door mat!

Shot #8 & #9: pot plants. Love the yellow on the blue

Shot #10: a little offering at our front door

Shot #11: our 'Bahama Blue' front door (see what I mean about colour names)!

Shot #12 & #13: Alcove and back steps at the back of our house

Shot #14: outside shower

Shot #15 & #16: back of our house

Shot #17: new blind

Shot #18 & #19: original letterbox

Shot #20: colour chart

Horsing Around...

2011-03-23T06:18:00.015+11:00

I'm obsessed with horses at the moment... I'm keeping a lid on it though (due to severe lack of space in our house) and am only collecting tea towels and prints.

I bought these tea towels on eBay recently. I adore the colours. Now what to do with them. I can't sew to save myself but was thinking of either having them made into cushions or collecting more and making a curtain. What are your thoughts?

I think my obsession started back in January 2010 when I went to my first ever day at the races while we were up north at the caravan. See some of my caravan posts here, here and here. Since then I've had other 'up close and personal' moments with these incredible creatures. Px

Shot #1: the start of my tea towel collectionShot 2: what a gorgeous face

Shot 3: bought from an antique shop up north. If you're lucky enough to visit Nicky's shop 'Neck of the Woods' she has an amazing horse print on her wall.

Shot 4: my inspiration bible, 'flea market style'

Shot 5: love this cushion. I also love Simone's from 'Beach Vintage'. Here she shows you exactly what to do. She's a legend!

Shot #6: adore this curtain (made from vintage scarves)

Shot #7: A friend from the caravan park, Kaisey and I (that's me on the right. The under-dressed one)

Shot # 8: Bowraville races - January 2010. Unfortunately the races this year were flooded out

Shot #9

Shot # 10

Shot #11: my boys about to place their bets. This was a whole new experience for them too

Shot #12: a great day out for the locals

Shot #13

Shot #14: Later during the same holiday... Gus running up Big Beach to meet Ash and his horses

Shot #15: 'Ash', Kaisey's man. He trains his horses on the beach where our caravan is

Shot #16: I'd never been this close to a horse before. He was quite wild

Shot #17: A camping trip near Lithgow in NSW. We camped on a property that had horses roaming freely. At night you could hear them all galloping around. As we arrived one even came up to great us

Shot #18: Luke (a little apprehensive)

Shot #19: Finally feeding

Shot #20: Gus and his favourite horse

Shot #21: more their size!

My Creative Space...

2011-03-17T06:23:00.011+11:00

This week I made one of my Flotsam Friends dolls. She's extra special. Inspired by Scarlett Johansson's free spirit and her divine Oscars dress.

To see how I create my dolls head over here. And to take a peek at all the Flotsam Friends dolls I've made head to my gallery.

Now I'm skipping across to the creative world of Kristy at Kootoyoo's.

Px

Twirling around our Hills Hoist (an Australian icon). I love the vivid pink flowers on our Crepe Myrtle tree in the background

Scarlett Johansson's Oscars 2011 Dolce & Gabbana dress

A true beach girl! Scarlett Johansson in a beach shoot by Annie Leibovitz

My Barbie Blast (From The Past)...

2011-03-14T16:11:00.009+11:00

I've just spent a week with my Mum helping her recover from her operation (thanks for your kind messages). Mum lives in a retirement village in Cleveland (Queensland) and although it was horrible to see her in so much pain, we still managed to have a lovely time together.

I was lucky enough to have dinner, coffee and daily conversations with some real characters and discovered that age really is only a number.

While stopping and smelling the roses, I re-discovered my sister and my Barbie collection from the 70's & 80's. How amazing are some of these outfits?

I've just realised where I've picked up some of my own fashion statements over the years...

Px

My all-time favourite, vintage Barbie dress and Barbie doll (I named Kirra)

More vintage classics

Disco fever

80's chic

Simple elegance

Horse ride anyone?

Cute accessories kept in this old box

Heading Home...

2011-03-06T17:56:00.004+11:00

One of my favourite paintings in the Art Gallery of New South Wales here in Sydney. Howard Arkley's 'Superb + solid'

I'll be offline this week as I'm flying up to Brisbane tomorrow to be with my beautiful Mum. She's just had major surgery.

Am leaving Tim in charge of the boys. Should be interesting...

Look forward to catching-up next week. Px

My Creative Space...

2011-03-03T06:44:00.011+11:00

Another piece I made while up at our caravan over Christmas... A driftwood votive candle holder. When lit at night it made such lovely patterns from the glow. I was inspired by a gorgeous light shade from the vivid pages of one of my favourite books ever, 'flea market style' by Emily Chalmers and Ali Hanan.

Really looking forward to heading across to Kristy at Kootoyoo to check out the progress of some fabulous creations. Px

Choosing my driftwood pieces. The pieces on the top of the holder were my favourite. Really worn and the perfect driftwood colour

Starting to assemble. I used little dabs of silicone glue to stick the wood together

Twig sized driftwood was used to make the base for the votive candle to sit on

Complete! I liked the addition of that piece of sea sponge

Wonderful inspiration from 'flea market style'. This image had been swimming around my head for years. I'm so glad I finally made my own version!

My Dolls...

2011-03-01T13:59:00.004+11:00

You might remember I bought these amazing dolls (amazing to me anyway) from Katherine @ the old boathouse in September last year.

Soaking up some sun on our back steps

Well back in November while I popped in to the Manly Antiques Centre for a little inspiration, I virtually ran into this divine little dolls bed. I wasn't even supposed to be anywhere near the place as I was madly saving for Luke & Gus's Birthdays/Dad & my Brother's Birthdays/our Wedding Anniversary and Christmas so spending money was out of the question.

But I so had to have it so I put it on lay-by. Consequently, I've only just paid it off... It was expensive ($165) but it's just so incredibly special and I've never seen anything like it before. And now my dolls are comfortable in their own space.

Hope you're having a great week. Px

P.S. So sad to say goodbye to Summer. I so didn't appreciate you this year and I know now I'll miss you.

I adore the green and the flower seems to be hand painted

A little worn but it has so much character

Vintage Shop Hopping...

2011-02-27T09:54:00.014+11:00

Yesterday, while Luke was at a party Tim, Gus and I headed to Narrabeen to two of our favourite Vintage shops on the Northern Beaches. This is always Gus's worst nightmare as he thinks all shops selling old things give him allergies! I'm so hoping one day he'll appreciate vintage but so far, he's a big IKEA fan...

First stop was the Antiques General Store. I've posted about this fabulous shop before here. As you can see from these shots, you never leave here without feeling the love of vintage flow through you.

Px

Shot #1 - Gorgeous coloured enamel

Shot #2 - not sure what this is but it sure looks like 'kid heaven'

Shot #3 - just love the colours in these plates

Shot #4 - my love for all things nautical

Shot #5 - vibrant glass floats

Shot #6 - what a brilliant idea. Artist palates

Shot #7 - vintage shells

Shot #8 - so adorable! Little Indian dolls playing musical instruments. I so might go back and buy these...

Shot #9 - adore this old display cabinet. Love the old, worn paint

Shot #10 - display to die for. Vintage fishing nets

Next stop and just around the corner is Garden Street Bazaar. This is another inspiring visit. Over the years they've transformed this place wonderfully. I've noticed more nautical items popping up on each visit.

Shot #1 - isn't this fantastic!

Shot #2 - insane vintage fabrics

Shot #3 - Gus sitting on the front step playing his iPod Touch. Is he really my child??

Shot #4 - adorable vintage shell animals

Shot #5 - I'm in love with this orange glass and so wish I'd been able to keep my Grandma's set (that's another story)

Shot #6 - a tray of shells

Shot #7 - stunning plate

Shot #8 - enamel silver plated spoons featuring Australian Wildflowers. I bought these for my Mum. They are even more divine in real life. Each spoon has the name of the flower engraved on the back. An incredible purchase at $25.

Shot #9 - love this vintage coat hanger

Shot #10 - I was able to entice Gus with this old bike. Aaah, he cracked finally... Maybe he is my son after all.

Shot #11 - really haunting print. Giorgio Salmoiraghi Canvas Transfer Print C1972. "Eva" Original copper frame. $260

Shot #12 - love the colour of these vases. Turquoise, a huge favourite of mine

Shot #13 - more nautical goodies

Shot #14 - I just adored this! Beswick #926. Baltimore Orioles by Arthur Gredington. $245

Shot #15 - Gus waiting patiently...

Shot #16 - such a good boy he got this Easter Bunny meringue from the cake shop on the way home.

My Creative Space...

2011-02-24T07:07:00.007+11:00

I made this 'Nature Wall Hanging' while up at the caravan over our Christmas holiday. I'd been wanting to make one for ages since I discovered this fabulous book at our local library. The problem was that I never seemed to have the right elements. The wonderful driftwood and flotsam washed up on the beach gave me the perfect inspiration.

To see my driftwood heart I made while at the caravan recently too take a look here.

I'm now heading across to Kristy at Kootoyoo for more creative daydreaming. Pxxx

Happy Weekend...

2011-02-18T16:34:00.005+11:00

Hoping you have a relaxing weekend. What are you up to?

We are heading up to the Blue Mountains. Px

From the farm in Missabotti where 'Baz' (our tabby cat) boards while we are at the caravan

These two are from Scotts Head headland

Bower Street, Manly. Adore these colours together. A little different from the classic Frangipani

On the way to Freshwater Beach. Just love these colours

In our front yard

Another Cottage Obsession...

2011-02-16T10:26:00.012+11:00

Every Saturday morning I love looking through the property section of our local newspaper "The Manly Daily". I do this because I'm a sticky-beak and also to look for ideas for when one day we do something to our much loved but over-flowing, falling apart fibro shack. "One day" is one day in the very distant future I might add.

The problem is that I NEVER see any new houses I actually like. My eye always go to the older houses that have so many quirky features and real character and that are made so, so well by proper craftsmen. My eyes really light up when the ad reveals "First time offered in nearly 50 years..." Here are two cottages that I adore.

For older posts on more cottage obsessions take a look here, here and here.

Hope you're having a good week. Px

Cottage #1: Clareville - AUD3,800,000
North facing, Art Deco, absolute frontage to sandy beachfront reserve

Cottage #2: Avalon - Auction
Unique and character filled

A Driftwood Heart To Say Happy Valentine's Day...

2011-02-13T14:54:00.008+11:00

Hoping you have a little romance in your life today...

From the beach

To my baskets

My driftwood heart complete and made with love. Happy Valentine's Day. Px

Joy at the Water Hole

2011-02-10T20:18:00.010+11:00

Moments of bliss like these make me miss the purity and simplicity of our holiday in the country. This is Luke in January at the Never Never Creek at the Promised Land in Bellingen (NSW, Australia). Px

I Adore This Photo...

2011-02-07T22:37:00.004+11:00

Isn't it simply stunning?

I feel bad that I can't remember the blog I found it on. I have a good excuse though. It was so incredibly hot here in Sydney on Saturday that I spent quite a few hours on the couch, blog surfing and suffering through the hottest day I remember in my life... That's 41 years!

This image captured my heart and seemed to leap off the screen at me. I think the colours are heavenly and the style and subject. It made me feel sad to think if only they knew what was ahead of them (and I'm so glad they didn't).

I hope you have a great week planned. I'm hoping to have a fabulous one. I'd love to hear how you keep your creative juices flowing? Px

Desperately Seeking My Groove...

2011-02-03T15:39:00.005+11:00

I'm seriously finding it hard to get my groove back in 2011. I'm sure I'll discover it soonish.

I'm stifled by the school/work/wife/housework routine and am thinking that I may have left my creativity under the waves with the sea life up north. I'm sure I'll find it soon. In the meantime, this is how I'm feeling...

P.S. Baby steps... Today I took an hour out and took some lovely photos of spiders down near my local beach, Freshwater. Px

Top two images: Romance Was Born's Spring Summer 2009/2010 collection Doilies and Pearls, Oysters and Shells

I'm Back...

2011-01-24T07:07:00.009+11:00

The boys and I are finally home after a magical month up at the caravan.

We had a very turbulent time with crazy weather. We spent many hours ducking between caravans with televisions to stay in touch with the flood crisis in Queensland. Both my mum and sister live in Brisbane but their homes were thankfully safe. My sister was evacuated from her work building which is on the Brisbane River but she's back there now. Her and her partner have spent weekends helping with the clean-up at New Farm. She said the damage and stench is unreal but that the community spirit is incredible with people delivering food and drinks and kids handing out biscuits and lollies. She said the whole thing feels like a movie.

Apart from the floods though I've been blissfully unaware about anything else that's been going on in the world.

Due to flooding near us up north our pristine beaches were brown and full of flotsam and fabulous driftwood. As they say, someones trash is someone elses treasure. I escaped into my creative world as often as I could and made some lovely things. My caravan park neighbours enjoyed watching my creations take shape.

I also enjoyed fun family time. My sister camped near us for a couple of weeks and then my cousins rented houses in town. Between the three cousins there are seven children so all the kids roamed happily...

My sister, Mel and her partner and step kids

Cousin Magic

I must admit I'm shell-shocked being home. I'm wondering how I'm going to put shoes and make-up on again to go to work? And how I'm going to get the boys back into any normal pattern to return to school? I'm also wondering why I live in such a crazy city and that I'm sure one day, I'll end up living in the country.

I can't wait to catch-up with you all. It's just what I need to make me feel at home again. Px

Have A Wonderful Christmas...

2010-12-20T19:20:00.004+11:00

I hope you have a fabulous Christmas and New Year!

Thank you for all your support and positivity this year. Great being blogging friends. What a wonderful, inspiring community you are!

I'll be back towards the end of January 2011. Take care.

Kindest,

Pruxxx

Fragmented Friday...

2010-12-17T07:24:00.010+11:00

Our Christmas wreath

I hope you're all having fun on the lead up to Christmas Day. I'm slowly working my way through my crazy month. Only thing left major before we go away is our pre-Christmas catch-up lunch with Tim's family tomorrow. Fingers-crossed the weather will be fine and we'll be able to sit outside... Otherwise, I'm in trouble. If only I had that deck!

I thought I'd share with you some of the Christmas wreaths I've made recently and over the years. I was lucky enough to have one featured on a favourite blog of mine, bloesem living where they're featuring people's Christmas decorations from around the world. A really sweet idea!

Also, Luke's special Christmas wreath complete with a kookaburra!

I've also included another Driftwood Christmas tree I've just made for a girlfriend.

Then there are some photos of 'Baz' our beautiful, tabby cat. When we bought him I remember the lady saying to cuddle and carry him as much as possible as that will make him an affectionate cat. We certainly did that and he's such a loving part of our family. If you're wondering what we do with him when we go away up North, he travels with us in the car for seven hours (in a large cat carrier) and stays on a farm near Bowraville. He then flies home when Tim has to leave us and return to work. While we're having a seaside holidays, he's having a farm stay!

Enjoy your weekend. Px

Our front windows

Luke's wreath

Mel's Driftwood Christmas tree

I think this piece of driftwood looks like a whale?

Baz then...

and Baz now

This Time Next Week...

2010-12-15T06:50:00.004+11:00

The boys break-up from school today and are on holidays until the end of January. We'll be heading north up to the caravan in a week and I can't wait. Still have a few things to do before then like Luke's Birthday tomorrow and Tim's family catch-up at our place on Saturday. But after that... Px

I'll be kicking back here

Looking at the caravan and thinking, maybe I should give it a wash and then thinking, maybe next holiday

Collecting beautiful beach treasures

Sitting for hours on the headland and admiring the view

Definitely not doing this...

... but definitely doing this

Our sweet little caravan Driftwood Christmas Tree