tunabake times

I'm addicted to Instagram

2011-11-09T14:24:00.005+11:00

It's true, I have been unfaithful and have spent many nights in the warm embrace of Instagram.

But when you don't have a digital camera with a timer you're forced to find other avenues to capture dresses and other interesting images.

Mr Ed and I are however planning on buying a joint Christmas present this year - a digital SLR.....very HAPPY!

So if you are on Instagram pop by: tunabake

It's a southern hemisphere spring sale!

2011-10-09T15:31:00.004+11:00

I have been going through my wardrobe and my overflow wardrobe in Little Miss A's room and have started selecting dresses I haven't worn for a long time.

I've decided to sell them on Etsy for, in most cases a lot less than I bought them for.

Take a look and see if there is anything you like.
Tunabake Etsy Shop

Embroider my world

2011-10-06T22:07:00.010+11:00

Well I have come back to post and it took a while, the camera broke and so I have been thinking whether it was worth posting with photos from my iPhone, what is the point of this blog? (I have a very short attention span) and getting the time to post.

But hey! I am back because I have really enjoyed the correspondence from other bloggers, really lovely people, that enjoy vintage clothes, the history and the dresses, aaah the dresses, I don't want to count my growing collection. I don't claim to be an expert but I just love vintage dresses and the history that comes with a piece of clothing that has been pre-loved and is now in my precious hands to enjoy and wear with a certain sense of style? hmmm that is questionable.

So while I have been away I have been accumulating a few more precious items and thankfully the weather has been looking up - out come the summer dresses and pasty, white, freckly legs.

This little beauty I purchased from Blythehopesvintage I just couldn't pass up these amazing pockets and their embroidery, I took the hem down to its original length and it is one of my favourite dresses.

Excuse the smudges on the mirror, Little Miss A can't resist placing her hands all over them and I can't be bothered keeping up with her busy hands.

Dress: Blythehopesvintage
Cardigan: Tempt
Belt: another dress
Brooch: gift

Up the Junction

2011-08-29T09:58:00.010+10:00

I like to collect 1960's kitchen sink novels and films if I can get my hands on them (it is a lot easier in the UK).

I think I have mentioned before that I love these stories, they might be depressing to some but to me it was a great era of literature and cinema that was a change from the portrayal of unrealistic lives people had no connection to.

This is one of my favourite covers and inside illustrations: Up the Junction.

The film isn't as gritty as others of the genre but still an interesting portrayal of a wealthy girl who wants to live 'like the other half' on the other side of the Thames in Battersea.

image sourced from Sir Lord Thomas blog

I'll post about others in my collection soon, I don't have many but I'm always on the look out.

P.S. I have been out of action for a while on the blog front. Life has been pretty busy lately and last week I had a tooth out!! AArrrrr the thought of it makes my arms go wobbly, and now on top of that I have a cold, lets hope life returns to health and relative harmony...I haven't stopped purchasing dresses so I'll post soon about them.

I hope those of you who stop by and read my blog are well.

9 year anniversary

2011-07-28T09:19:00.005+10:00

Yesterday 27th July, was our wedding anniversary - 9 years. After work we had a friend babysit for us and we walked just around the corner to a lovely restaurant called 'Nextdoor'.

It was a great opportunity to wear my new dress I bought from Gorman in the sales. It is a summer dress but with a bit of black accessorising it didn't look too bad.

These clogs have given me blisters every time I have worn them but this time I had a good, thick pair of tights.

This lovely bag from Mimco was a birthday present from my parents. Now when I looked at my present I thought to myself, when do I go out at night to warrant such a lovely bag? But HEY! I used it within a month!

And here is my lovely husband who has put up with me for 14 years, 9 of them officially by law. A wonderful man who makes me laugh, have fun and good conversation, adventures and hope in my life. I love you x

Naaahh it didn't last

2011-07-26T17:50:00.003+10:00

I couldn't deal with more hair on one side of my head than the other. Asymmetry just isn't something I am comfortable with at the moment.

Back from holiday

2011-07-19T16:49:00.006+10:00

I went on holiday to Queensland to visit my parents and brother (who was also visiting from Dubai) last week. The weather was a glorious 21 degrees and sunny everyday.

On our return to Melbourne it was raining and 10 degrees and has not changed all week. I wouldn't say it was a relaxing holiday, especially with a 2 and a half year old but Mr Ed and I managed to get away twice for a coffee and see friends.

Oh and this lovely little cup is just so cute with its little umbrella lid and tea infuser. Many cups of liquorice tea have been consumed today.

A slight change in hair style, it is going to take a while to grow out my fringe but I need a change. I seem to attempt a change in hair styles every couple of years and then revert back to my old trusty fringe and bob. We'll see how long it lasts.

Tea cup: Otogicco

It was my Birthday on Saturday

2011-07-03T18:24:00.007+10:00

It started out a little early on Friday night when I met with a friend after work who was visiting from Perth - a lovely dinner at Cumulus Inc and a few glasses of wine.

In the morning we went to Heidi, a gallery and house in Heidelberg (15 min drive from Melbourne). The house and the gallery have a long documented history in Australian literature and art, at first as a home to John and Sunday Reed in the 30's and then later commissioning a gallery on the property in the 60's.

Showing a few exhibitions that we didn't know much about until we got there, Little Miss A showed an unexpected interest in the paintings and liked picking out the images she recognised.

We walked around the grounds, the kitchen gardens and sculpture garden and then had lunch in the cafe (sadly underwhelming). But the sun was out and the air was crisp and I spent the day with my little family.

I also got a lovely new edition to my jewellery collection, a little silver fox ring by Victoria Mason from Mr Ed, so lovely.

And Mr Ed also made me a delicious beetroot chocolate cake - I'm still enjoying it.

I'm a lucky girl.

altered states

2011-06-30T09:16:00.004+10:00

I recently had my dress taken up to its original length, the previous owner had obviously had the hem taken down but it was pretty obvious. So I asked Karlee from The Golden Age to alter it and make a slip - it's winter and all my dresses work there way up my legs when I wear tights. The best slip I have ever worn!

This is another hand made vintage dress I bought a few months ago at Vintage Garage. The colours (even though the black fabric has faded a little) are lovely together and make the red flowers really stand out.

And finally our little lemon tree is baring fruit, I think it is martini time!

Dress: Vintage Garage (altered by Karlee at The Golden Age)
Cardigan: Temt
Shoes: Kmart
Belt: from another dress
Brooch: a gift from my brother

From our garden

2011-06-29T19:51:00.004+10:00

Today was the last day Little Miss A's playgroup leader was working at the centre, so as a little thank you Little Miss A and I picked some lavender and rosemary from our front garden.

The smell was amazing and I think she really appreciated the fact that Little Miss A helped pick them. I think herbs are sometimes a nicer picked flower or foliage than normal flowers.

I love moss stitch

2011-06-28T08:55:00.005+10:00

I see my friend in a week and I still have a long way to go before I finish the hot water bottle cover for her.

Still, it has got me back into the swing of knitting and remembering how to purl and cast on and make mistakes, it is all part of the fun.

Next challenge...an item of clothing?

Casual day

2011-06-20T14:54:00.007+10:00

Today I've gone for swim and a sauna, went to my favourite Op shop and bought an armful of books for Little Miss A (I was lucky again this week), found a nice pair of wool crepe black trousers for me for $7, drove to the supermarket and bought ingredients for dinner tonight (olive and pea quiche) then back home to cook dinner then out again to pick up Little Miss A from Playgroup.

So today as it is so windy I thought I'd wear a pair of jeans! Ooooohh *gasp* Yes jeans. It has been busy but I've made the most of my last non-working Monday.

I will tell you one funny thing I saw at the pool today. A mum was in up to her waist (with swimmers on) but stood there cross-armed and was wearing a black, leather jacket. My neighbourhood is a little strange. Then I shared the sauna with a group of old Greek women with flannels on their heads...I've had a good day, I hope you have too.

Top: Sportsgirl
Jacket: Monkhouse
Jeans: Country Road
Shoes: K-Mart
Brooch: Peta Pledger

PS Got my hair cut on the weekend, I feel so much better ^U^

Chicken scratchings

2011-06-16T13:53:00.008+10:00

I recently received this wonderful dress in the post from Entwife's shop on Etsy. I have been looking for a gingham dress with this wonderful "chicken scratch" embroidery for awhile and couldn't believe that I found one in my size, handmade and in such wonderful condition.

You can go here to find out a little more about chicken scratch embroidery and its origins.

My digital camera was out of battery at the time of Little Miss A's nap so I clicked away on my iPhone. These were all filtered through the free Instagram app, it's brilliant if you remember polaroid photos and the lovely effects they had.

Dress: Entwife
Cardigan: Gorman
Belt: from another dress

grey days are coming

2011-06-14T13:58:00.005+10:00

Today Little Miss A and I went to IKEA to keep out of the cold and find a few bits and pieces.

As usual I managed to buy more than I planned to: little plastic cups, new cutlery for Little Miss A, bedding, butchers paper to draw on, the list goes on...but it was fun walking around and relaxing in the cafe afterwards with a pastry trying not to think of work tomorrow.

I have been working 2 days a week since February but now due to some changes, people leaving etc I have been asked to work 3 days. This offer forced my hand into working more days and really there was no excuse for me not to other than I'm lazy and was enjoying a day to myself.

More money is always a good thing and in no time I'm sure I'll be back at work full-time (when Little Miss A goes to school).

It is good to get out of the house, learn new things, meet new people and find another place that gives you rewards in other ways.

Dress: vintage
Cardigan: cheap shop in local mall
Shoes: Lost and Found
Tights: KMart

What a month

2011-06-13T18:02:00.006+10:00

This month has been one illness after another, first with a chest infection (both Little Miss A and I) and then suffering side-effects from the penicillin and discovering we are both allergic! But hey! We are on the mend and getting back to relative normality.

No outfit posts today, I will start again tomorrow (the sun is supposed to be shining).

On the weekend we visited a local children's farm, fed some goats, ran through the long, tufty grass and enjoyed warming ourselves up with a hot chocolate at the cafe.

Oh and I can't forget to mention we went to the Yo Gabba Gabba show on Saturday - cheesy photo of the month.

It was only 3 weeks ago

2011-06-05T17:35:00.003+10:00

Time flies by so quickly and I can't believe it was only 3 weeks ago that we were in Lorne, a small town along the Great Ocean Road.

As it was is the low-season there weren't many people on the beach, but this is the time of year I love most of all by the seaside: cold, crisp air, not many people and warm drinks indoors.

A sick day at home with Little Miss A - in pictures

2011-06-01T19:09:00.004+10:00

Quiet times

2011-05-31T19:40:00.002+10:00

Our house visitors have left however now myself and Little Miss A have a chest infection. Quiet times ahead to recover from the past 7 weeks and restore our health.

And play with my new toy.

Flowers from Mr Ed xxx

Back and blogging - Autumn

2011-05-16T14:59:00.006+10:00

It has been a while since I have put an entry on my blog, between entertaining the inlaws, work and a poorly Little Miss A it has been pretty hectic, oh and also going out having dinner/lunch with friends and Mr Ed, shopping...what's a girl to do!

So Autumn in Melbourne is pretty cold this year, 4 degrees the other morning so I have been searching the shops for nice tights to keep my legs warm. I'm still steering clear of trousers if I can help it, I don't know why but ever since I had Little Miss A I feel more comfortable and prefer to wear dresses or skirts. (ramble, ramble)

The house behind us has the most amazing show of colour in their back garden and we are lucky to be able to see it.

Oh and you know when I said shopping well I have been doing quite a bit, all second hand and Australian desiners though so I don't feel too bad, more consciencious than carefree consumer.

These lovely bluebirds are from Peta Pledger, I just love them and so many people have asked me where I got them from - and I send them straight to Peta's site. She also makes lovely clothes, but I think I have mentioned that in a previous post.

These shoes were my favourite of all my finds this past month. I have been looking for a nice pair of black, lace-up, low-heeled, shoes but they were either too expensive or too high. I found these almost never worn shoes from Lost + Found Market for only $50 and they have bairly left my feet since I bought them.

So it is good to be back posting again, and hopefully I will get a chance to catch up on my favourite blogs (all of which are on the sidebar). My inlaws are here for another 2 weeks so posts might be still a little infrequent but it is good to be back.

I'm going to see John Grant on Wednesday night and then again on Thursday during the day (I won a ticket from my local radio station and luckily I'm not working that day). I hope he is as good live as he is on his album, I love it so much.

Oh my eyes look really bad in this picture - I forgot to take my goggles to the pool this morning and so had to squint under water to see where I was going, I didn't want to crash into oncoming swimmers.

Skirt: Zara
Jumper: Country Road
Jacket: Sportsgirl
Scarf: Some warehouse sale
Brooch: Peta Pledger
Tights: Myer
Shoes: Lost + Found Market

Lots of stuff...

2011-05-01T15:42:00.009+10:00

This is a long a post, as I don't know when I will get a chance in the next week to post.

Getting time alone with my little family has been hard while the in laws are staying for 6 weeks. But today they went out!!! Oh my!!!

Yippee!!

I found these cardigan clips last weekend at my favourite shop. I have seen cardigan clips on peoples blogs and thought, what an amazing invention! I don't like doing up my cardigans but they always flap open. Taa Daaa!

These are so cute: a berry, a shell and a piece of foliage all encased in resin.

And while the in laws were out I decided to dye one of my dresses black. Note to all those who dye their clothes, check that your gloves don't have holes in them! Black fingers to match my black nail polish.

It all looked promising, the water was very black, my blue dress was hopefully turning black...

NOPE! Still blue. Damn, I have never had this problem before and the material is cotton, so I don't know what went wrong? Oh well I might try again but in boiling water, fingers crossed.

Top dress: Etsy
Cardigan: Temt
Cardigan clips: Vintage Garage
Belt:from another dress
Shoes: Rubi Shoes

Bottom blue (supposed to be black) dress: Frocks and Slacks

Oh! And these are my new prescription sunglasses, they are a revelation, I haven't taken them off all weekend, besides the evening (I don't wear my sunglasses at night).

Sheila's a nice name

2011-04-26T12:48:00.008+10:00

Mr Ed and I managed to escape for an afternoon over the Easter long weekend, lunch and a spot of shopping.

This is very exciting to us as we don't have any family in Melbourne so Little Miss A comes with us everywhere. But as her Grandparents are visiting we are taking advantage of the free time this gives us.

I saw this dress outside a second hand shop called Sheila's Vintage (A rack with sale items is something I don't pass by without checking out). I thought if by the end of the afternoon it is still on the rack I would buy it and luckily for me it was still there.

My mum's name is Sheila, she hates her name and always has since she moved to Australia in the 70's from the UK. You see for those people not living in Australia: Sheila is a slang term used for female/woman, not many people use it these days unless they are from the country or 'very Australian' (I don't know what I mean by that exactly, there is a lot of ambivalence about what it means to be Australian, our identity - how we perceive ourselves and how we want the world to perceive us).

Anyway I mentioned to the girl behind the till in 'Sheila's Vintage' that my mum's name is Sheila (I wasn't haggling for a discount, the dress was already only $25) and she said she loved the name and that is why she called it 'Sheila's Vintage'.

So mum, if only you could see some people love your name even if you no longer do.

Dress: Sheila's Vintage
Cardigan: Savers
Belt: ?
Shoes: Oh dear I wasn't wearing any as I just popped out before the sun went down.

I hope you all had a lovely Easter break...work tomorrow boo hoo.

No more sunshine migraine

2011-04-21T14:50:00.004+10:00

Today I managed to go into town to shop for a pair of prescription sunglasses. I have been putting it off for a long, long time but since our long drive on the weekend and the subsequent migraine I suffered from for 2 days I knew I had to buy a pair

So the sun is still out but I have to wait 1 week before I can pick them up. I don't like shopping for sunglasses, I don't know why but the ones I found are fabulous. RayBan's that are light and rectangular, which is a little different for me but I think I remember liking them.

Dress: Etsy
Cardigan: Cheap shop in my local shopping mall
Brooch: Deerfield Vintage - facebook
Shoes: Converse
Bag: TopShop (a long time ago)

A drive to pick up Little Miss A

2011-04-19T09:59:00.005+10:00

We have my in laws staying with us for 6 weeks! That is why my posts have not been so frequent. I don't know what I'd tell them if they saw me jumping around in our back garden taking photos of myself, I don't think they would understand.

You see I haven't told anyone, not even friends that I have this blog (only Mr Ed knows). I like that it is just something that I do for myself.

So on my way to pick up Little Miss A I thought I would take the chance to take a few photos of my journey.

Autumn is finally here and the leaves are falling and changing colour. I love seasons, in Brisbane, Queensland where I grew up you don't really get that change, it is basically really hot, hot or warm.

Bad traffic, but I like listening to the radio and having a bit of time to myself while it is a full house at home.

Even though the leaves are falling from the trees we still have a lot of palm trees that stay green and survive the cold winter.

The old terrace houses that look like they are about to fall down but cost over $1,000,000 line the streets of inner Melbourne.

And of course our lovely trams that speed down tram only roads, no really they speed!

Windy

2011-04-10T18:22:00.006+10:00

The past week has been exhausting, between working and Little Miss A throwing tantrums everyday and recovering from a cold and sorting out the house before my in-laws arrive from London for 6 weeks I seem to be ready for bed at 9pm.

But today the wind was a blowing and the the air was crisp and cool, you couldn't not feel awake and alive.

So we took out the old tomato plants and planted some broccoli and broad beans.
Our little winter crop.

Did I mention the wind was blowing.

I have fallen back in love with my Converse, I think they need replacing though...maybe a red pair next?

Dress: Vintage shop in London years ago
Cardigan: Cotton On
Shoes: Can't remember

Happy Mothers Day in the UK

2011-04-03T21:13:00.004+10:00

We celebrate Mothers Day in Australia (second Sunday in May) at a different time to the UK (today). However as I hadn't posted for a few days I thought I would post a photo that Mr Ed took of Little Miss A and I the other week which I love.

The little Zumi 2 camera has a lot of quirks and a few interesting settings like the one used in this shot - 'Old_2' and it can't really cope with direct sunlight which has created this great effect.

I'm a lucky Mum.

By the way, Little Miss A's actual name is Amelie...yes, yes after the film. As soon as I saw that film I just knew if I was ever to have children and a girl I would name her Amelie.

I've never polked a dot as spotty as this

2011-03-31T13:00:00.003+11:00

Today I took Little Miss A to story time at the local library - it was overcast and a cool wind was-a-blow'n so it was time to get the scarves out.

I got this scarf as a belated Christmas present from a friend so I had to wait until the cooler weather, and what better combination than with more spots.

While Little Miss A was having her daytime nap the sun came out and I soaked up the heat that was radiating off of the cement in the backgarden, I new there was a reason why our back garden was cemented over.

Top: some cheap shop from my local shopping centre
Skirt: Vintage Garage
Jacket: Monk House
Scarf: Gift
Shoes: you know the label

Here comes the sun...again

2011-03-29T12:16:00.009+11:00

Summer has returned for one last day before the cold sets in. Today is is going to reach 27 degrees.

little buddha sitting in the corner of our garden

So this will probably be the last day I can wear this dress before it sits in my cupboard for months on end. I mentioned this dress in a previous post and I happened to have a slip that goes perfectly under it - keeping my modesty intact.

I don't wear necklaces often but I love this necklace Mr Ed bought me in Brazil 3 years ago at a market...lovely memories.

I am going to the gym again and riding my bike again, and hoola hooping again - that must be why my legs look so muscular eeekkk.

So long summer days, I'll miss you a little bit.

Off to work I go

2011-03-28T15:56:00.004+11:00

The weather is getting cooler and it seems I don't have that many winter dresses - time to layer and utilise those jumpers that have been sitting at the back of my cupboard for the past few months.

I love this dress, it is a Swirl dress that I bought a good few years back as dead stock. I'm glad I can get more use out of it in the cooler months.

Anyway this is what I wore to work on Friday, 15 degrees! would you believe that today is 25!! Aaaaaahhh the ever changing weather of Melbourne.

I want to look like you when I'm older

2011-03-24T12:58:00.006+11:00

Ok so this week I was shocked and saddened to find out that I am the oldest person in my team of 8 at work! Even my bosses boss is younger than me. Somehow in my 2 and a half years away from work people have got younger and I have turned into the mature age student.

But I am choosing to embrace this emotionally challenging situation and be happy with my years of wisdom (cough, cough), experience (cough, cough) and intelligence (haha haaa hhaaaa).

Thinking about being happy with how old I am physically, I have been thinking about the older celebrity women I find aspirational, all in the pure physical sense of course - I have no idea what these women are like in their day-to-day life.

Oh and do you want to know how old I am.....I don't mind if you know.....36.

Yoko Ono - Image from NexGadget

Vivienne Westwood - Image from Designtalestudio

Jane Birkin - Image from RBMA Radio

Diana Rigg - Image from The Telegraph

Catherine Deneuve - Image from an unknown source

Debbie Harry - Image from Street Style

Nude!!!

2011-03-21T16:19:00.012+11:00

Really? Where?

I don't see anyone nude?

Well you'd be right, It's my new Gorman shoes, nude in colour and so super fine.

The actual colour is a shade between the two photos

I think they will look even better with coloured tights for winter, come on cold weather, I'm all excited and you're still warm.

Shoes: Gorman

faux fur first

2011-03-21T15:47:00.006+11:00

I dropped off Little Miss A at playgroup this morning and drove to my favourite Savers shop to riffle through their knitted tops in search of a long sleeve cardigan, preferably cropped, red or black.

But instead I found this lovely little number for $6. I have never worn faux fur, I like it on other people but somehow I found it a little off putting. It appears that the previous owner either took very good care of it or never wore it and it fits perfectly.

My ladybird brooch has found a new home.

There were clouds in the sky this morning and a vague chill in the air so I hung it out on the line for awhile to air and just couldn't wait to wear it into town for my lunch date with a friend. (no it didn't smell, and I usually wash my op shop purchases before I wear them but I just couldn't wait this time)

I only just realised that these colours are the colours of my high school uniform - aaaaarrrrrr that really isn't a fond memory.

Dress: Frocks and Slacks
Cardigan: Savers
Brooch: Leigh Stein, gift from Mr Ed
Shoes: Retro Star

Pom pom urge

2011-03-17T08:23:00.005+11:00

I had an overwhelming urge to make a pom pom necklace on the weekend, I don't know why? It could have been the very strong cup of coffee or the impending cooler weather that made me search through my huge box of material, paints, wool, paper goods....

I think it turned out OK, I platted the wool to make the chain around my neck and somehow fastened the pom poms together with wool. It may need a few more pom poms when the winter arrives to keep my neck warm.

It was a fun thing to create on a cool, rainy day.

I have a feeling pom poms might appear a lot this winter in my wardrobe.

Cherry, Cherry

2011-03-15T12:13:00.013+11:00

Yesterday was a public holiday so we went to St.Kilda (which is a town on the bay) we are trying to get Little Miss A used to the sand and sea, at the moment she isn't a fan.

No head but that doesn't matter - look at the dress

Anyway while we were there I wanted to pop into a vintage clothing shop I haven't been to in a long while called Frocks and Slacks. Well as expected I found 2 amazing shirt dresses and as they fit perfectly I had to purchase them and re budget for the month.

This is a shirt dress with no label but very similar to a Texas shirt dress I own but I love this colour more, oh and the waistline enables me to eat during the day.

It goes perfectly with this little necklace I purchased from Peta Pledger the other week, I seem to gravitate towards jewellery in the shape of fruit.

And because I don't have a cropped cardigan I ended up tying it at the front - on the look out for a cropped long sleeve cardigan for winter.

Dress: Frocks and Slacks

Cardigan: Savers

Necklace: Peta Pledger

Belt: from another dress

A couple of family snaps: Mr Ed and Little Miss A on the boardwalk at St. Kilda and Little Miss A not wanting to touch the sand with her hands.

On yer bike!!

2011-03-13T18:11:00.010+11:00

I got my bike back from the shop yesterday. I haven't ridden her in just over 2 years; 3 months before Little Miss A was born was the last time she saw the light of day.

Today was her first outing - a ride early this morning to a cafe for some yummy pastries to celebrate her re-launch.

I took these photos after my 1 hour 5km journey, and a shower - I was absolutely exhausted and felt sick from the exercise.

I didn't realise that on the way back home the road was on a gradual slop and the wind decided to swing around and push me backwards and sideways.

But she is a little beauty and I'm off to do the same trip tomorrow, weather permitting - I could do with another almond croissant, Oh...and the exercise.

I took these photos with my Zumi 2, they are looking a little grainy so next time I'll increase the resolution. Still experimenting with my little toy.

It's been a while

2011-03-08T19:11:00.004+11:00

It has been a while since I last posted. I guess I have just been busy: working, holding a stall at a baby and kids market selling Little Miss A's old clothes (made a tidy little sum) and had a day off with Mr Ed last Friday which was lovley.

Here are a few photos of the city we've chosen to call home.

This is the view of Melbourne from our High Street. I love this view from the hill, it's not a huge city but it is just big enough to entertain us with art, food, markets, music and parks.

While standing at the tram stop I noticed my nail polish was the same colour as the rubbish bin - rubbish bin red!

The local town hall and a tram - my favourite form of transport (until I get my bike serviced on the weekend).

So last Friday Mr Ed and I had a day together, eating, shopping and enjoying Melbourne. We had a lovely meal and ended the day at an Italian cafe and enjoyed an italian hot chocolate before we picked up Little Miss A from playgroup.

What a wonderfully busy time I've had this past week.

All of these photos were taken with my new Zumi 2 camera. It is like my old Lomo but digital!!! I'm still getting used to its quirky features.

I hope you have had a lovely week
x

First day of Autumn

2011-03-01T17:41:00.002+11:00

To celebrate the onset of Autumn a new pair of slippers was needed for these dancing feet. They may not be fancy but they keep my toes toasty on our wooden floorboards.

HAPPY AUTUMN southern hemisphere!

What am I doing today: eating, reading and writing

2011-02-28T13:13:00.005+11:00

Today I bought this amazing looking cookbook to reinvigorate my interest in cooking again and also spice up my taste buds. When you are cooking everyday for a family these sorts of daily tasks can become just that, tasks. So I'm going to sit down with a nice cup of fruit tea and decide on what I am going to cook tonight, pop down to the shops and buy all of the ingredients - I'm very excited.

I was looking at some cook books by Harumi Kurihara about Japanese home cooking but they were just too meat heavy. I haven't eaten meat in 20 years.

As well as that I am going to write a few letters.

I have some beautiful matching writing paper and envelopes but last week I also bought this envelope stencil, so I'm going to make some envelopes, like the airmail envelopes you used to be able to find - envelope and paper all in one.

And read a bit more of my current book 'The Slap' Mr Ed loved it so on his recommendation I started that last week. I kinda like the fact that it is set in my neighbourhood as well.

Isn't she a beauty

2011-02-22T12:51:00.008+11:00

This is one of my other 'first pay cheque' presents, isn't she a beauty?!

The material is something special, I didn't know if I loved it or hated it. But the more I looked at it the more I was entranced - like painterly stain glass windows.

The collars could help me take flight they are so big but I think they are just the right amount of volume for the material - everything in proportion.

Another outing for my apple ring.

Remember that when you shop for rings never do so on a hot day. My fingers are now not so swollen and I have to wear my ring on my middle finger, which is fine with me but it is something to keep in mind.

Little Miss A's play date was a success and she is now taking a nap after a busy morning of eating, playing and screaming (with joy). Now it is time for me to have a nap and get over this cold.

Dress: Vintage Garage

Cardigan: Temt

Belt: from another dress

Ring: Victoria Mason (previous post)

Shoes: Rubi Shoes

Scrumping with my first pay cheque

2011-02-21T10:56:00.005+11:00

Today is cold, well cold for Melbourne at this time of year (12 degrees this morning). I have had a cold for the past few days so with Little Miss A at playgroup all day I am planning on resting, eating and doing a bit of drawing.

This weekend I went on a bit of a spending spree with my first pay in 2 and a half years! I bought this cute little ring from Victoria Mason at her studio. Visiting her shop/studio was so overwelming, all of her jewellery is just the sort of thing I love, but I did restrain myself and bought one ring for me and a pair of earings for a friends birthday.

I also bought a be-uuuuuu-tiful vintage dress which I'm going to wear tomorrow (Little Miss A has her first playdate at a friends house) so I'll take some photos.

It is such an amazing to feeling once again have my own money and be able to contribute.

Dress: Leona Edminson
Top: Genki
Brooch: gift
Ring: Victoria Mason

Zorbing

2011-02-14T14:52:00.004+11:00

I went to see Stornoway last Thursday, it has been a long while since I have been to a gig and had to think long and hard about the last concert I went to (turns out it was DEVO more than 2 years ago!)

I stood for 3 hours! Drank only coke (as I was driving) and got home before 12 and it was all good, they were brilliant live, especially the last 2 songs they sang unplugged - pure magic.

I did take a few photos but they were rubbish - I need a better camera, even the iPhones were taking better photos than my camera.

I hope you like this song.

What difference does it make?

2011-02-10T11:49:00.007+11:00

A no shoe day at home. Little Miss A was painting so I didn't want to get any on my shoes. And so as you do, I drew some shoes on my once bare feet.

I received in the post yesterday a little brooch I bought from Deerfield Vintage Collection. An early Valentines present to myself. I don't fall for all the gumph (and neither does Mr Ed) around Valentines Day but I needed an excuse for this little purchase.

I'm feeling the spots and stripes combination today on one of my days off of work. I love working 2 days a week and appreciate everyday I can potter around the house either with Little Miss A or by myself.

This afternoon I am going to pick up my newly fixed photo of Morrissey which sadly fell to the floor and smashed recently.

This is the photo which is signed by Kevin Cummins and one of my favourite and prized pictures on our walls.

Mozza you will once again grace our walls and bring a sense of maudlin and witt xxx

A beautiful dress and a bargain high

2011-02-08T12:36:00.004+11:00

On the weekend we met up with an old friend of mine while he was visiting Melbourne. After brunch I wanted to drop into a certain vintage market to have a rummage and show my friend who has an appreciation for such things.

I didn't think I would find anything particularly cheap or at least for the amount of money I had in my pocket (oh no, let me get that right, my husbands pocket) but when I saw this dress I couldn't believe the price...

The belt is in perfect condition!

...and the description 'wonderful 1970's dress $18' WHAAAAAAT????

A lovely bow on the shoulder

Now just looking at this dress you can tell it isn't 1970's but 1950's with its metal zip and details. I looked left and right and made a b-line for the change rooms just hoping that it was my size.

And you know what, it was a perfect fit! I just need to get a skirt slip that is the right length or maybe I'll contact Karlee at The Golden Age and get a quote, 'cause I can't wear it as is. So in the meantime I'll just dance around the room holding it up to myself.

A new lease on life

2011-02-06T19:04:00.007+11:00

I bought this vintage dress in London a good few years ago with the intention of wearing it to my brothers wedding, however the original colour was so insipid on me (pale lemon) it sat in my wardrobe for years unworn.

Which was such a shame as I love the style and just look at those little bows!

So recently I decided to chance dying it. I can see a few places where the dye didn't take as well as others but you would have to look very carefully to notice. I was considering dying it again but I think I should just leave it alone as the colour is so lovely and the thread shows up beautifully.

I recently sent a photo of myself wearing a Peta Pledger skirt to Peta as she put out a request on facebook. If you haven't seen her clothes and designs, just have a look at her wonderful clothes, all made by her and wonderfully made.

And as a thank you she sent me these wonderful earrings she also sells, and they just happen to look very similar to a ring I own! Thank you, I love them.

Dress: Vintage form a shop in Victoria (London)

Cardigan: Savers

Belt: from another vintage dress

Shoes: Target

Earrings: Peta Pledger

Oh my, more paisley

2011-01-31T10:38:00.004+11:00

So today is going to be 40 degrees! 1 degree more than yesterday. This sort of weather calls for no layers, no belts, no enclosed shoes and lots of sunscreen.

My camera was on an angle so I overcompensated a little

I bought this dress a few months ago at a small vintage fair in North Melbourne, it is such a cute little handmade dress and the colour is quite unusual, and even better it was $5!!

To my right is our little worm farm, it seems that they have been busy; eaten all the vegetables we put in there last week and are having babies - congratulations little worms.

So to prevent the dress from looking a little like a night dress (I have an irrational fear of looking like I've just stepped out of bed) I added a little scarf and brooch.

Today is a day to myself as Little Miss A is in daycare so I'm going into town to meet a friend for lunch and pick up some chocolates to send to friends.

And I just wanted to say thank you to Stef at Diversions blog for tagging me. I have been thinking about making a list of blogs I love to read on a daily basis, blogs that inspire me, and I find interesting. Make note to self, make another list (I like making lists).

Dress: vintage fair
Scarf: H&M a long time ago
Brooch: gift
Shoes: Rubi Shoes

New tea cup

2011-01-30T20:37:00.004+11:00

Even in this hot weather (40 degrees today) I have taken to drinking more tea, peppermint tea.

I'm trying not to drink as much coffee and this is the next best thing and tastes oh so nice in such a pretty tea cup with matching saucer.

I've got my eye on some vintage tea cups and saucers but I'm afraid that might make me look a little 'Nana'.

Tea cup and saucer: Tea2

Kitschy skirts

2011-01-27T12:07:00.005+11:00

Little Miss A also wore a top with Miffy Bun - I just love puff paint and so much cheaper than buying the overpriced merchandise.

So here are the kitschy skirts I made for Australia Day - surfboards galore!
Little Miss A's was just a simple skirt with elastic but I wanted mine to have a bit more shape with a waistband and pleats.

I didn't follow a pattern so the finished skirt may look good on the outside but the fastenings at the back is pretty poor. But I now know how to rectify the problems and my next task is to practice button holes on my sewing machine.

I don't usually walk around with no shoes but I wanted to take one last photo before the sun went down.

I enjoyed making these skirts as much as I did wearing mine; the material was loud and kitsch but that is what I wanted. I look forward to more experimenting.

muted colours

2011-01-26T11:10:00.004+11:00

This week sees me gearing up for my first day back at work in 2 and a half years. I was feeling surprisingly relaxed about it but on Monday the butterflies in the tummy started and it hasn't stopped.

This outfit is a contender for my first day at work, you see they have a dress down day on Fridays and this is as dressed down as I go.

I love the pattern on this dress - ephemeral paisley is what I like to call it ^U^

On the day I took these photos (Monday) Little Miss A was in daycare and I had the day to myself. I visited the material shop and was searching for material to make myself and Little Miss A matching skirts for Australia Day (26th January). Nothing too patriotic and nothing in the gaudy green and gold that this country has adopted as its national colours - honestly red,white and blue of the flag is far more classy.

They turned out brilliantly considering I didn't have a pattern and made it up as I went along. I have learnt so much making mine in particular and can't wait to get another free day to experiment again.

I'll take some photos and post them up...oh and just a reminder before you see the photos that the material I bought is pretty kitch, but fun.

Dress: Deerfield Vintage Collection

Cardigan: Savers

Belt: can't remember

Shoes: Target

Brooch: gift

No room for more?

2011-01-21T11:46:00.004+11:00

My wardrobe is full, so full that the amount of clothes are forcing them to crease after I spend ages ironing them.

I used to have all my clothes on lovely wooden hangers but am now forced to put them on thin hangers just for them to fit (except for the cardigans and some shirts).

I may have to take over some of Little Miss A's lovely built-in wardrobe.....or not purchase anymore dresses......naaaaaaaaah.

An exhausting week

2011-01-20T12:04:00.003+11:00

It has been a pretty busy week, I got a job!!! Yep back to work after 2 and a half years, albeit 2 days a week wooooweeeee! can't complain about that.

And Little Miss A has been ill with a throat infection so I have been looking after the little temperamental madam. It has been a tiring week.

But yes I am excited about going back to work and the people seem lovely and the company is interesting so 2 of my 'must' boxes for a job were ticked.

This is the butterfly cake I made for Little Miss A's 2nd birthday party on Sunday. Not too bad and it tasted delicious.

Aquatic birthday and pin curls

2011-01-14T21:39:00.002+11:00

The weather didn't let up so we went to the Aquarium for Little Miss A's birthday. It was fun, I especially loved the penguins in and out of the water and the stingrays - so graceful flying in the water.

Our sad little tomatoes in the background are finally turning red! Who cares if it has dropped most of it's leaves, it's our little naked tomato plant.

However as you can see from these photos this afternoon the sky cleared and the sun came out for the first time in a week.

So the pin curls turned out ok, a little frizzy as I pinned them a little tight but they did me well during the humid weather today.

Sunday is Little Miss A's party, so I'm chained to the kitchen making chocolate crackles, jelly moulds and a butterfly birthday cake (our oven is pretty terrible so it maybe a flat butterfly). But really I'm looking forward to it.

Top: Genki
Cardigan: Temt
Skirt: Vintage Garage
Shoes: Target

Pin curls

2011-01-13T13:44:00.003+11:00

It is Little Miss A's second birthday tomorrow so we will be out all day either Melbourne Zoo (if the weather clears) or the Aquarium (if it stays like it has been for the past week).

I need to colour my hair again tonight and to try and tame this frizz of hair I have developed in the humid weather I am going to try and pin curl my hair overnight.

This was taken before the humid weather, hence the dead straight hair.

Wish me luck.

Humidity, heat, insects and floods

2011-01-12T11:05:00.011+11:00

Humidity is my hair's enemy, it frizzes and flicks and well I just give up, pin it back and forget about it.

The weather in Melbourne has become so inclement that you can't walk very far before you begin to sweat uncontrollably and want to have a shower every hour. That might just be my intolerance of this weather but I really don't enjoy it.

This moaning however is really quite shallow when I see footage on the news of my home town Brisbane flooding, the worst flooding since 1974 (or even worse). The Brisbane river which runs right through the city has burst its banks and friends are keeping an eye on the levels in case they have to evacuate.

It is such an odd feeling seeing a city you are so familiar with and see the streets that you know so well in such danger of being devastated. I hope people stay safe and it stops raining!!!!

This song just reminds me of Brisbane, a wonderful song and a brilliant band.

To lighten the mood this little praying mantis made its way into our kitchen, he didn't like the wet weather much either. He's lucky he doesn't have my hair!

Careless whisper in the heat

2011-01-07T12:59:00.002+11:00

Currently hiding from the heat indoors, making vege burgers and dancing around to this, my favourite tune...for this week anyway.

Sunny days and reading

2011-01-06T12:43:00.007+11:00

Today isn't as hot as new years eve, nowhere near 40.9 degrees!! But it is the start of a hot spell - each day being in the mid 30's.

Today I left the house with Little Miss A very early, picked up a few groceries and visited the library to get a good pile of picture books, she has an insatiable appetite for reading. I'm a very proud mother.

Now I just need to get back into reading. I used to read a lot and enjoyed being in a book club with a few friends, mind you we did also consume a lot of wine as well as discus the current book.

I am half way through The Widow of Clicquot which I am enjoying and a graphic novel (I got as a gift from a friend for Christmas) Asterios Polyp.

Have you read something that you would recommend for my next reading pleasure? I'm open to all suggestions. I want to read another Iris Murdoch but I need something in between.

Top: Dear Gladys
Cardigan: Cotton On
Skirt: Etsy shop (previous post)
Hat: ? (can't remember)
Shoes: Target

They're money!

2011-01-05T18:47:00.006+11:00

Today Little Miss A went back to playgroup for the day and I went SHOPPING! I was originally just looking for party decorations as it is her second birthday soon.

But then I saw these little baby's in Target 40% off! They only had 2 pairs left and one was in my size which is very unusual.

Leather upper with the sides crocheted - too cute and as I said they are 'money' (sorry just saw Swingers again the other night)

Brogue-tastic

And I wore one of the little brooches my brother bought me for Christmas.

Top: Etsy 1940's shirt (previous post)

Cardigan: Savers

Skirt: Vintage Garage

Brooch: Gift

Shoes: Target

Spots and Stripes and Stars

2011-01-04T11:47:00.004+11:00

Something new for the year: mixing patterns, I'm a pretty plain dresser I think, not too adventurous with patterns or accessorising, so this year I am going to make more of an effort to mix it up.

I was cleaning out my wardrobe yesterday (I had a very large pile of un-ironed, hardly worn, no longer fit clothes) and found this skirt I bought a long while ago.

I remember why it ended up at the bottom of my wardrobe, I didn't know what top to wear with it and which way to wear it - big spots at the front or back - yeah I know that is a really silly dilemma.

So with my new attitude towards patterns I gave it a go this morning, and I like it.

Top: Mink Pink

Skirt: Miss Sixty (about 10 years ago)

Cardigan: Gorman

Shoes: Rubi Shoes

High, high waist

2011-01-02T19:05:00.003+11:00

There are 2 items of clothing I am always on the look out for; a fabulous fitting denim skirt and black skirt. On New Years day I found my favourite denim skirt and have been wearing it ever since, well it just goes with everything and when you discover you fit into a 26 inch waist ANYTHING you just have to flaunt it.

I can stand and jump in it, sit and twirl but after a meal it starts to feel a teeny bit tight...smaller meals then.

The detail is great as well. I am not one for over accessorising, I tend to keep things pretty simple so a built in belt is perfect...and it has pockets! ding ding ding, flashing lights, rushing heart rate!

Skirt: Vintage Garage (label: Gollan, couldn't find out any information about them online)
Top: Cheap shop in my local shopping mall
Shoes: Retro Star sale

Hello 2011

2011-01-01T19:54:00.008+11:00

I always look forward to a new year, I don't like seeing in the year at midnight or make resolutions but I look forward to new adventures, learning new skills and the possibilities another year holds.

20'11'

I hope your year has started out well...I'm pleased to be leaving 2010 behind only because I received a parking ticket on the last day of the year poo! poo! to you parking attendant.

However only 16 hours into 2011 and it is looking good: our local supermarket is selling their Christmas eggnog for 10c a carton Yippee!

Dress: Pop Boutique many years ago

Merry Christmas from a little woodland playhouse

2010-12-27T21:51:00.007+11:00

This is how I spent most of Christmas day - enjoying Little Miss A's new woodland playhouse.

Merry Christmas to everyone and see you in 2011.

xxx

Hello! Goodbye. Shoes

2010-12-17T09:56:00.004+11:00

Yesterday I checked out a vintage shop I had never been to called Lost + Found Market. I only discovered it after complimenting a girl in a shop on her lovely novelty pattern skirt. I like to compliment people on their clothes if I like them, I know it makes people feel good and it makes me feel good if someone bothers to voice their admiration.

This place is great, inside it is set out in separate concessions varying from clothes, shoes, jewellery, furniture, crockery, magazines, you name it they will probably have it, I spent a little too long in there and my parking ticket ran out but luckily there were no parking inspectors on the beat.

Oh and I bought these lovely men's Italian leather shoes. I find it quite hard to find vintage shoes in my size - I have quite big feet. These are in great condition, with a slight heel. They are probably not best for the sort of weather we are going to be experiencing this season but they will be ready to go when Autumn arrives.

I bought these Tatty Divine earrings a while ago but as you never see my ears these days I thought they might look good on my collars.

If I were ever to get a tattoo (which I toss up every year or so and then decide against it) I would like to get a little blue bird like this.

Hello and goodbye shoes, until the weather gets cooler.

Dress: Etsy (in a previous post)

Shoes: Lost + Found Market Label: Calzaturificio di Varese

Earrings as brooches: Tatty Divine

Christmas cards all made and sent

2010-12-14T10:59:00.007+11:00

This is our Christmas card this year.

I always like to make them, it is often cheaper and makes not receiving ANOTHER bog standard Christmas card in the post a little more special.

Instead of using the Gocco printer I decided to make a lino print.

As inspiration for the image I scoured the Internet for 1950's inspired Christmas images, this is what I came up with - Rudolph, instead of the typical snow related image which just doesn't seem right in our hot climate.

Tiki and hair dye terror

2010-12-13T12:36:00.010+11:00

On the weekend there was a huge warehouse sale held by a Melbourne retro/vintage shop called Retro Star. Everything was $5 and $10!!! Needless to say I was there early on the first day and had another peep on the Sunday after the crowds had died down.

I purchased only 2 items for myself (I have learnt become very restrained when it comes to vintage as I look very carefully at the condition and some of the dresses were in poor condition with cigarette butt burns and rust stains), and 2 cowboy shirts for Mr Ed.

This dress was my favourite and in perfect condition, with every sequin in place!

I'm not a huge fan of Tiki design but this has a certain charm and muted palate.

And these shoes were a surprise, my size exactly and recently reheeled cuban heel dance shoes. Who would have thought I would have 2 pair of heels in my cupboard?

I can't wait for the next sale in 6 months - look out youngen's.

Oh and you might notice my hair colour has changed. This is supposed to be medium brown!!! Now this doesn't look like medium brown to me, more like ... almost black! Oh well I will just have to wait for it to grow out, I am getting used to it...slowly.

Dress: Retro Star (Label: Erika Dress)

Cardigan: Temt

Shoes: Retro Star

Belt: Oasis

Brooch: Borders (yeah really!)

Cleaning the house kinda day

2010-12-09T12:57:00.005+11:00

The back lanes - these were once sewerage gutters for the houses they back onto...nice.

Today I've been in a bit of a cleaning frenzy, you know the type where you start with, hhmmmm that sink needs a bit of a clean and then you realised you've cleaned the entire bathroom in a good dress! Well that happened to me this morning and this is why I have now changed into this sack of a dress.

It's a great little tunic dress made of a thin indigo denim.

Another outing for the hat

So I took a brief break to take a few photos, unfortunately the house whose window sill I normally rest my camera on was home, so I had to find another ledge. With no luck I had to settle for the ground and by hand. I really do need a tripod.

Dress: H&M years ago

Christmas has arrived

2010-12-08T11:54:00.004+11:00

We put our tree together on the weekend, well Little Miss A threw a bit of tinsel on and I fixed it all up in the evening. I'm pretty happy with it even though it doesn't have lights - we thought it best not to in case a little certain someone comes along and decides to pull it down.

The decorations we have had for a long time, although this year we bought some more baubles and bells.

I have been working on a little head band that I may wear on Christmas day. I just took apart some Christmas decorations, wired them all together, wound some ribbon around it and Vwalla!

I think it needs a little more work.

Heels?!

2010-12-06T19:17:00.003+11:00

I've had my eye on this pair of sandals for a good couple of weeks, wondering if I should spend that amount of money on a pair of shoes I might not be able to walk in.

Here are the little beauties: My clog sandals

The heel is only 5cm but it is a lot to me

You see I have never worn heels, I'm quite tall already so I didn't see any advantage to wearing heels. But today I went into the shop and they were half price so I tried them on and hey! I could walk in them!

And jump in them!

Remind me again why I was wearing so much clothing in 31 degrees!

Top: Dear Gladys

Skirt: Zara

Scarf: Thrifted

Hat: Dangerfield

Shoes: Rubi Shoes

A morning at the convent

2010-12-05T20:44:00.006+11:00

Yesterday was a very hot day (31 degrees) so we headed out early to buy a Christmas tree and some new decorations (I'll take some photos of our little tree and show you soon, it's so cute).

Then for morning tea at Abbotsford Convent and a 'chino' as Little Miss A calls it.

The convent is no longer a functioning convent but now houses many artists studios, a school and a few cafe's.

*Damn, forgot to take a photo of the building

The grounds owned by the convent are what you would describe as part cultivated, part rustic in that it is left to its own devises which I like.

This dress is a very simple design and again handmade (not by me).

Family portrait in the gazebo.

Isn't it great when there are places to rest your camera for the timer that are at a decent height.

Dress: Pocket Vintage Clothing Etsy Shop
Cardigan: Gorman

Belt: Supre

Hat: Dangerfield

Shoes: KMart

Out on the town - Friday night

2010-12-04T19:02:00.007+11:00

Last night I went out for dinner with a group of friends from my mothers group (we met through a council scheme to get new mothers together to give support to each other) A few have fallen by the wayside but 6 of us met for a drink, some delicious food and a chat. It was a lot of fun and we got 2 plates of desserts for free because they messed up our order - who can complain about free dessert!!

I wore a dress Mr Ed bought me for Christmas 3 years ago. It doesn't get much of an outing (I don't go out much) but I love it and decided to add a studded belt (I always wanted to be a rock chick) and black nail polish.

I don't know what to say about the details on this dress accept that I have never seen another dress like it.

Waiting for the tram.

Dress: Frocks and Slacks (Label: Jacqueline Lechat, Made in France, CANNES)

Belt: KMart

Cardigan: Temt

Shoes: KMart

Red through the rain

2010-12-03T13:27:00.004+11:00

Another day of rain: run to the lane, take a few photos...

...and then the rain really came down!

Through the haze of tropical rain, I stood under a very small sill against the wall.

This is what I see if I don't have my glasses on: like looking through a haze of tropical rain.

I have started wearing this little hat I bought a while ago for $5. It won't protect me from the sun (we haven't seen much of the sun recently) but it keeps my hair from frizzing in this humid weather.

At the moment I have a black scarf covering the permanent checkerboard material around the crown. This won't do for too much longer so I plan to make a trip to the haberdashery to by some felt and maybe make some leaves like the ones on this wonderful hat I am starting to get hat envy, there are so many cute hats out there.

Dress: Vintage Garage
Cardigan: Savers
Belt: Oasis
Hat: Dangerfield
Scarf: Pop Boutique
Shoes: KMart

I've ventured outside

2010-12-02T11:27:00.008+11:00

So on the day I decide to venture out to take a few pictures it decides to rain hard and all morning. But as I saw a clearing I dashed out the front door and across the road to a little alley, which happened to have a torrent flowing down it.

My shoes filled with water, time for a new pair of shoes.

And a new umbrella, one of the spokes broke during one of my frenzy's to get it up.

The lavender is really coming on in our front garden. I have been beheading the flowers and it has made a huge difference to it's size and the amount of flowers it produces, and the butterflies it attracts.

I don't think I can make that many lavender pouches?

These little flowers have also been popping up and covering the front garden, if only the newspaper man wouldn't use them as a target every morning.

I love this denim jacket, it is one of the most expensive items I have bought!!! Yes!? I bought it about 8 years ago at the Levis store in London and it cost me £120. I had a well paid job at the time but even so, I felt very guilty afterwards.

Dress: Cassie's Attic (label: Altogether)

Jacket: Levis

Scarf: TopShop

Shoes: KMart (got to go)

Umbrella: ? (got to go)

Badge: The Gentle Waves (bought it at a gig years ago, didn't think much of the show but I liked the badge)

I don't like purple

2010-12-01T11:57:00.011+11:00

Little Miss A enjoying a jump

For some strange reason I dressed Little Miss A in similar colours as myself, now I normally steer well clear of the mini-me, lookey-likey duo combo but I couldn't be bothered to change either one of us.

This skirt I bought years ago and it is the only purple item of clothing I own - I don't like purple.

But the pattern on the fabric won me over, wonderfully stylised trees and flowers straight out of a 60's fairytale book.

Solo jump

Top: Thrifted

Skirt: Numph (bought years ago)

Scarf: Thrifted

Shoes: Rubi Shoes

Little Miss A

Top: KMart

Cords: Savers

Shoes: KMart

Tea towel dress

2010-11-30T12:02:00.008+11:00

This dress reminds me of a tea towel, just the print, not the feel.

Surprisingly it is from Sportsgirl, now Sportsgirl has gone the way of TopShop in that it has a section that gets some bad 70's/80's dresses chops them up so they look even worse then sells them for a ridiculous amount of money to the young teenager who has no idea of vintage or has never been to a 'vintage shop/market/fair', or even entered an Op shop.

But you know, I take a peek in there occasionally just to see if by chance they have anything. During their recent sale I managed to pick up this heavily discounted dress.

Who would have thought I would be wearing almost head to toe Sportsgirl at my age? These shoes were also on sale a while ago.

So it proves to not be a snob about where you buy your clothes and find the best bargains you can find. And especially in these tunabake times.

Sans glasses

Dress: Sportsgirl 'vintage' he he he
Belt: Oasis
Shoes: Sportsgirl

Cleaning the house attire

2010-11-29T12:21:00.003+11:00

I don't have any plans today just play with Little Miss A and clean the house around her.

I have now finished 2 images for the local gallery competition, which I am sum what happy with, finished the patchwork floor rug for my friend (unfortunately forgot to take a photo of it before I sent it) and applied for a fabulous job I'm waiting to hear back from.

Still pinning my hair back after the fringe massacre

I still have my wrap dress that I am slowly working my way through, Oh! and I am supposed to be working on a small 2011 calendar so I had better sort myself out.

Top: Some cheap shop in my local shopping centre
Cardigan: Savers
Skirt: Peta Pledger
Brooch: Pierre Bex
Scarf: Top Shop a long time ago
Shoes: Rubi Shoes

And the heavens have opened

2010-11-28T18:13:00.004+11:00

It has been raining on and off for the past two days and cold! Not as cold as Europe of course but a cool 15 degrees which feels cold after experiencing 34 degrees last week.

Today we took Little Miss A to her music performance, now she is just shy of 2 years old so this is a pretty basic performance but it gave Mr Ed a chance to see what she has been learning this past year.

So we get up on stage with 9 other 'almost' 2 year olds and their mothers and she decides she is tired and doesn't want to play nice (it is right in the middle of her sleep time) so I start to go red and sweat and well I hate being on display in front of a bunch of people. Thankfully she cooperated and my beetroot face cooperated, we bowed and exited stage left.

Dress: Pocket Vintage Clothing Etsy shop

A great little 70's dress I recently received in the post, and thankfully the weather got a little cooler so I could wear it straight away.

Scarf: Kinki Gerlinki

Hat: Dangerfield

Boots: Clarks

There's a storm-a-brewing

2010-11-27T21:50:00.010+11:00

I was sitting at my computer Friday afternoon filling in a job application when I could hear a constant rumbling coming from outside. I stepped into our back garden to be greeted with this huge, silver lined storm cloud slowly drifting over our house. This photo really doesn't do this menacing, Armageddon like cloud justice.

So before the 'death cloud' reached our house I thought 'jump photo! Must do it now!' Thankfully it wasn't a death cloud and these aren't the last photos ever taken.

Oh and I got my hair cut and my fringe fixed after a stern talking to from my hairdresser. He is right I shouldn't cut my fringe on a wim and after 3 cups of coffee. And this is why my fringe is soooo short now.

Dress: Beyond Retro (London) Label: Texas shirt waist. I luuurve this dress but need to have my bottom rib removed like Cher, it is very snug and cannot be worn if I plan to eat that day.
Cardigan: temt

Deadline looming

2010-11-25T15:14:00.004+11:00

Today I have been working on a couple of paintings to enter into a competition being held at a local gallery. I haven't given myself much time, in fact just 2 days, and out of those 2 days I have to do other things like; cook dinner, washing, get hair cut, grocery shopping, the boring mundane things that take up my time. So in actual fact I probably have about 4 hours.

So with that in mind I'm going to enter 2 images, this is the first that I am still working on..

My studio: The kitchen floor

I thought I would add a beret for this photo just to show how cliche I can be. You know, artist working away, living off of coffee and chocolate...I feel a little sick.

Dress: Black shirt dress previously listed
Apron: Made myself

Coffee in any weather - 32 degrees

2010-11-24T15:49:00.004+11:00

I'll drink coffee in any sort of weather and I love having a small shot of coffee in the morning when Little Miss A is having a nap. I accompany it with either some chocolate or homemade muffins, today was blueberry, banana and walnut muffins. This cup is actually Little Miss A's but I've claimed it, it makes me smile.

It is very windy today and was blowing my dress in all the wrong places

This dress is nice and light and one of my favourite patterns - gingham. It has little ties at the front...

...and back.

Dress: Retro Star (Label: 'Three Heart' with some Chinese writing underneath)

Hot days hybernation

2010-11-23T14:06:00.005+11:00

My arm seems to be miraculously appearing or disappearing

So it is another stinking hot day and I'm not venturing outside to do anything let alone jump, which is a shame as I planned to go for a walk and chose another background for my photos.

So today the photo is just from the waist up. This little dress I bought a while ago but never had the nerve to wear it as I don't like wearing figure hugging dresses. But it is so hot, and well, I have been going to the gym so I think I've lost a little from the hips - yay for the gym!!! It is a great dress; 1980's does a bit 1940's? And the print is so cute and once again ... it has pockets!!!

Not that the pockets prevented me from leaving my keys in the car and shutting the door with Little Miss A inside this morning!!! I always put my keys in my pocket but forgot this dress had them. So a quick and panicy phone call to roadside assistance and within 7 minutes a man kindly coat-hangered my door open and tar-daaaa! My awful episode of the week was over. Last weeks awful episode was that I walked into a metal part of a children's playground (not seeing it through my big floppy hat) and whacked the bridge of my nose...bring on next weeks accident.

Dress: Thrifted

Too hot - 2 outfits before 10am

2010-11-22T12:29:00.004+11:00

Today it is expected to reach 32 degrees but at 10 o'clock this morning after a walk to the shops it felt like it had already reached that temperature. So on my return to the shops I quickly got changed into another dress and off we went to a cafe to meet a friend.

The cement in the back garden doesn't help to soften the glare of the sun either.

Too hot to jump today, I might have to get up before the sun tomorrow as it is expected to get to 34 degrees!

Dress: An Op Shop a long time ago (such a comfortable 't-shirt' material dress) Label: Target

Pink with bows moving!

2010-11-19T15:14:00.011+11:00

I'm having a play with this great little online programme picasion.com pretty cool! But I need to somehow keep the camera pointed in the same direction. There will be more experimentation to come.

Couldn't help but wear my The Smiths badge today, it goes so well with this cardigan. 'hoooorrhoorrrhoooooooooooooorrrr'.

Dress: Quick Brown Fox
Cardigan: H&M
Shoes: KMart
Badge: from a stall in Trafalgar Square in 1992

An empty house

2010-11-18T14:19:00.005+11:00

Today is the first day my Little Miss A has gone into full day daycare. I was excited after I dropped her off as she was so happy to see all the toys and other children and said 'Bye, bye mummy' I thought wow that was easy (I was a little teary this morning), what shall I do with my day? I almost became catatonic with the prospect of doing anything I wanted.

But I took it easy and went to a cafe, had a coffee and a Nutella croissant, bought The Gentlewoman magazine and sat for as long as I could on my own. Then home to start work on a job application.

It is cold again today so I dug out from the bottom of my wardrobe a jumper. Now this jumper has some fancy detailing...by default. You see I accidently put this fine, merino wool jumper in the washing machine without a protective bag and it got caught on something and developed some big holes. I was devistated as it cost me quite a bit of money but after a little thought I got out the embroidery thread and Ta! Da! Some hearts and stars.

Now I am going to collect Little Miss A from daycare, I can't wait to see her.

In the same place

2010-11-17T11:52:00.004+11:00

Why are all my photos all taken in the same place?

Well I only get the opportunity to take photos when Little Miss A is taking her midday nap and this is our back garden.

I prop my little digital camera on top of our wheelie bins (ewww I know) and set it to timer. I have to get myself a little tripod and maybe next week when Little Miss A is settled into her two full days at daycare I can venture down some of our local lanes and give you more of a taste of what my neighbourhood is like.

This is a new skirt, purchased yesterday from...you guessed it, Savers. It is such a great little, linen skirt and it has pockets! Always a bonus in my book.

Top: Genki
Skirt: Savers
Cardigan: Topshop (years ago)
Scarf: Topshop (years ago)
Skirt: from another thrifted dress
Shoes: Converse

Shades of brown

2010-11-16T11:55:00.007+11:00

Nothing special happening today, just taking Little Miss A to daycare for the afternoon and so I'm going to finish a floor blanket I have been sewing for a friend who is due to have a baby in the next few weeks (I started this blanket 3 months ago!!).

I am wearing this adorable brooch by Cat Rabbit I happened across their brooches in a shop on Sydney Road, Brunswick but can't remember the name of the shop. Since looking them up on the internet I've discovered they do very, very cute plush toys which they sell on Etsy.

It's great to happen across such interesting designers and crafts people from Australia, and not just Australia, but Tasmania (a place I would love to visit).

Dress: Sportsgirl 'vintage' (present from parents)

Cardigan: Temt

Brooch: Cat Rabbit (Looks very much like Toad from Wind in the Willows) made from Tasmanian wood

Shoes: Rubi Shoes

Too many bows?

2010-11-15T11:38:00.006+11:00

I don't think you can have too many bows, although these days I'm trying cut back, as a 30something it tends to look a little crazy, like a scene from 'Whatever Happened to Baby Jane' (such an amazing film).

But today I fancied lots of bows so I cut off the two ties on my top and made a hair clip and tied my scarf in a bow - I think four bows would constitute crazy, so I'm safe with only three.

Top: H&M (a long time ago)

Trousers: Leonard St.

Scarf: Sportsgirl

Shoes: Converse

Hair clip: Me

Red is the colour

2010-11-14T19:23:00.002+11:00

Red is one of my favourite colours
Red is the colour of my skin when I happen to be in the sun for 5 minutes

Spots on my top
Spots are the pattern on my skin, freckles that have been like a tattoo my whole life

Top: Your father should know Etsy shop

Cardigan: Savers

Brooch: Gift (Pierre Bex)

Ring: H&M

From hip to waist

2010-11-13T19:38:00.030+11:00

This is the entrance to our 1950's bungalow, don't you just love the coloured glass in the door and surrounds. I used to hate it but on a summer morning when the sun shines it gives off a lovely light. (I'll have to show you our matching lavender bathroom suite at another time)

Top: Pop Boutique (my old place of employment in the early 90's)

Skirt: Genki

I used to wear my skirts around my hips but these days I prefer to wear them around my waist. So with great trepidation I attempted to take-in my favourite Genki skirt. It didn't turn out too bad!

Watering our cement garden

Top: Savers

Skirt: Genki

Genki used to be one of my favourite shops in Melbourne but last year they closed shop, and I along with a lot of other fans were very sad to see it go. But there was some good news recently that they have relaunched their online shop and are selling these lovely Susette skirts and their stripey tops (I own 5, Oh my!).

Take a look, along with these great classics they also have some cute pre-loved items and 'I love tees'.

Ooo Pink Panther is on telly so I should finish up, have a great evening xx

Compiling a Christmas shopping wish list: Number 1

2010-11-11T12:28:00.005+11:00

Some Victoria Mason Jewellery

Victoria Mason is a jewellery designer based in Melbourne and I just love the objects she chooses to miniaturise.

My favourites would be the Nice biscuit and a tea cup - they sum up a relaxing morning when Little Miss A has her nap.

And this cute little apple ring.

Mr Ed, keep an eye out for more subtle ideas!

Bad hair day

2010-11-09T11:53:00.004+11:00

I am trying not to wash my hair everyday, I have become a little obsessive about it but it really isn't good for my hair as I blow-dry it and straighten it and really it takes too long. But on the odd days I don't wash my hair I feel pretty yucky; it doesn't do what I want it to do and goes a little boofy.

But when I put this dress on I feel a little better. I bought it from Cassie's Attic Ebay shop and did a few alterations, nothing major, just changed the buttons from tan to blue and on the pockets added some lovely buttons I got as a gift.

Now the day doesn't look so bad, and hey! The sun is shining and Little Miss A goes to playgroup this afternoon so I'm going to be sewing that dress I mentioned.

Dress: Cassie's Attic (label: Altogether)

Buttons: Liberty

Shoes: Kmart

Brighton Rock 2010

2010-11-08T20:23:00.005+11:00

Image source: Wikipedia

Brighton Rock by Graham Greene is one of my all time favourite books and the 1947 film adaption staring Richard Attenborough is a fabulous film.

My DVD of Brighton Rock takes pride of place along with my kitchen sink dramas from the 1960's - I seem to love watching depressing depictions of everyday life on screen.

Today I discovered from reading Lola is Beauty's blog that they have filmed a remake!!! I am very excited and can't wait for it to be released in Australia.

Image source: Live for Films

One major difference is that it is set in the 1960's instead of the 1930's so I'm imagining plenty of scooter action which makes me think of Quadrophenia (another favourite).

I don't mind that they have tampered with a classic novel as long as the end product maintains the menacing essence of the story.

Protection from the sun II

2010-11-07T19:17:00.006+11:00

So I've already shown you my UV driving gloves, well here is my wide brimmed hat I wear religiously in the summer. I wish it wouldn't flatten my hair though, how do you avoid hat hair?

Hat: I can't remember

Top: Some cheap shop in my local shopping mall

Jeans: Thrifted

Belt: Oasis

Shoes: Kmart

Hula hooping

2010-11-06T19:05:00.004+11:00

I got my hula hoop out after 2 years decorating our living room. I forgot how much fun it is, how hard it is and how good it is for my tummy muscles.

I need to keep it up to work those abs and to fit into those small sized waists some of my dresses have. Oh and maybe not eating so many Caramello Koala's might help.

Dress: Vintage Garage
Belt: Oasis
Shoes: Rubi Shoes
Hula Hoop: Online?

Poppies in the sun

2010-11-05T11:43:00.004+11:00

As soon as I saw this skirt in Savers I quickly picked it up and looked over my shoulder to see if anyone else was waiting to pounce. It is such a great skirt, I would say 1950's due to the style and feel of the fabric (a heavy bark cotton), and the abstract print! Ahhhhhh like poppies in a field.

Black nail polish and red belt - not too matching I hope.

I didn't mention that the dye has bled quite a bit but I gave it a good hand wash and most of it has come out, just a little remains but I can live with that.

Jumper: Country Road
Skirt: Savers (label: Generation Three)
Belt: Vintage Garage
Shoes: Rubi Shoes

Another handmade gem

2010-11-04T11:47:00.007+11:00

This little dress is so sweet although every time I put it on I think, do I look like a school girl? It is handmade and there are so many things good about it and so many that are, not so good.

Some of the detailing is lovely like the button panel down the front.

The shape of the collar at the back and the little...I don't know what you would call it?...panel on the back, and the material. But some of the sewing looks like it has been hastily sewn together at the last minute so I had to do a bit of mending.

That's what you get when you buy vintage dresses that are handmade, but I think it is worth the purchase because you know someone took time to sit down and make a dress for themselves or a loved one. They will never know that someone appreciates all their effort.

Dress: Retro Star
Cardigan: Temt
Belt: Thrifted
Shoes: Rubi Shoes

Dress down Wednesday

2010-11-03T15:59:00.004+11:00

It just started to rain!!

After dressing up yesterday it was a dress down day and running around with little Miss A (cafe in the morning, music class in the afternoon)

Another belt that tends to go with a lot of skirts/trousers. It actually came with a dress I bought years ago but I tend to wear the belt more often - it adds a burst of colour.

This balloon is a left over from yesterday's festivities, just add a hat and your set.

Shirt: thrifted
Skirt: Savers
Belt: thrifted
Hat: Dangerfield
Shoes: Converse

The Melbourne Cup 2010

2010-11-02T18:18:00.006+11:00

Today was the Melbourne Cup. The biggest horse race in Australia that literally stops the nation, I remember stopping class in school and everyone crowding around the television. This year (as we get a public holiday in Melbourne) we had some friends over for a BBQ and we dressed up with hats of course.

I wore the dress and hat I wore to the Melbourne Cup 5 years ago.
The hat I made myself; I bought the hat from Sportsgirl for the low, low price of $2 and did a bit of stitching and gluing and Ta-da! It matched my dress.

My dress is a Swirl dress, a super find at an American Retro shop, they had a handful of them, all dead stock and never worn!!! One of my favourite dresses.

I made some muffins for afters. These are my own concoction: blueberry, banana and walnut. Little Miss A loves them.

Dress: Swirl
Cardigan: Temt
Shoes: Office
Hat: Sportsgirl/me

Bubbles and scarves

2010-11-01T12:41:00.012+11:00

I bought some bubbles for little Miss A today. I forgot how much fun they are to see floating up and over the fence and up into the sky.

I don't like to sound like I'm harping on about the weather but it changes so quickly that no longer are we sweating in 28 degrees but shivering in 10 degrees! Hence the layers (but no vintage today).

I'm sure Melbournians talk about the weather more than the English.

I love this scarf, I don't wear light, silky scarves very often but I seem to have a lot of them?

This one has a lovely print and reminds me of the paper cut-outs of Rob Ryan

Top: Sportsgirl
Jacket: Witchery
Skirt: Genki
Scarf: Alannah Hill
Shoes: Rubi Shoes

Halloween and pretty dresses

2010-10-31T17:36:00.006+11:00

Happy Halloween.
I've done my bit.

Now onto something really exciting.

I bought some fabric to start my 'Misses' dress I mentioned in this post earlier this month. I thought I would start off with some cheap fabric just in case it doesn't turn out, but also something that I would wear if it did! And this fabric is so sweet.

I'm going to cut out the pieces tonight and hopefully start sewing this week, depending if little miss A gives me a break.

I'm going for pattern 1. with sleeves.

Wish me luck.

Calendar 2011

2010-10-30T20:08:00.005+11:00

I studied Illustration for 4 years at University, 4 years and that was a long time ago.

I am always drawing or painting or creating images in some form or another, just not as a paid professional. I have been thinking of printing some calendars for 2011 with my Gocco along the lines of these portraits. I drew these as postcards to friends and I think they turned out OK.

Or maybe of people jumping!?

Protection from the sun

2010-10-29T12:02:00.010+11:00

It's 28 degrees today and yes I am wearing a cardigan.

I'm also wearing the dress I wore to my brothers wedding 5 years ago. It's from Toast, they have some lovely dresses and this was no exception, I think the print is just divine, and this belt seems to go with almost every dress I own.

And as promised....
The sun is out:
cardigan. check
sunscreen. check
driving the car. UV driving gloves. check

Aren't they special. I'll take them off before my lunch date with Mr Ed.

Dress: Toast
Belt: Vintage Garage
Cardigan: Savers
Gloves: Cancer Council

American shirt dress

2010-10-28T12:03:00.005+11:00

This shirt dress is from Revolving Styles Etsy shop. I finally got around to taking in the sides and got rid of the batwing-like sleeves. I love shirtdresses, they are just so practical and during the summer it keeps the sun off my neck and arms.

Tomorrow I'll do a post about how paranoid I am about the sun and show you my ever so lovely UV driving gloves (they really aren't lovely) and detatched sleeves I wear while driving in the summer months. I have had a few laughs from friends but hey! At least I won't have old lady hands before my time.

Dress: Revolving Styles
Belt: Oasis
Shoes: Rubi Shoes

Buying sometimes helps others

2010-10-27T10:15:00.006+11:00

I bought this top from a shop called Dear Gladys located on my local high street.
Dear Gladys donates all profits to an organisation called Fitted For Work, they are a service that are committed to helping long term unemployed and disadvantaged women obtain work.

I love its wide collar as well

Top: Dear Gladys
Cardigan: Gorman
Trousers: Leonard St