tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41846485095755929892011-10-30T13:36:33.742-07:00Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comBlogger13831100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-35679203502951597502011-10-30T03:20:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:07.978-07:00

We went to the beach today as we had to do a few things over at our beach cottage.  Gosh it was beautiful.  I really didn't want to leave.    We have a very, very big week this week with Pip's Exhibition at Black & Spiro this Thursday night along with the installation and unveiling of our Christmas Windows and also the launch of our Summer/Christmas vignette over at the online store.  Fingers

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-36145143769450045032011-10-27T22:06:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.070-07:00

What a week!  It's been madness to say the least.  I thought you might like to see this little snippet of our Christmas/Summer Vignette which will go live over at the online store next Thursday. Something very exciting and new for this season is we have people in the vignette including some very well-known Brisbane fashionistas, my children and their friend Charlotte and even I make a little

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-51568234389295670832011-10-25T03:06:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.161-07:00

I really love this space by Sara Tuttle.  I think it's the lamp, the Chinese cabinet, the star paperweight, the pink roses and the blue and white drum stool oh and the pile of books which really take my fancy!!  Thanks Kate for the link.xxAnnavia ivillage

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-77150112305943540722011-10-23T02:02:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.181-07:00

I may be a bit quiet here on the blog over the next week or so.  When my schedule gets completely crazy it's always the blog that tends to get put on hold.However, it's not all bad news because in just over one week's time we will be launching our Summer/Christmas Vignette over at the online store.  I am very excited about this vignette because we have gone outside to shoot this season's

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-3107890983805403512011-10-18T22:45:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.199-07:00

Dear Vogue Living,I love you so much.  Your October issue is divine, divine, divine.  You just get better and better.  Thank you for being my little package of joy.  You are the best.xxAnna

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-79141485109430924732011-10-18T04:38:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.234-07:00

I'm throwing in the towel.  I can't stand it anymore.  I have always, always, always loved white slip covered chairs and sofas.  I just love them.  I don't ever get tired of them.  I can change the look of them by throwing a new cushion on them.  They can be placed in any room in the house because they go with everything.  They are perfect in every way except for 1 major problem.   White Slip

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-22825463760960548622011-10-17T06:31:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.251-07:00

I think that Megan Morton is one of the most stylish women I have ever met.   I know it's a big call but I spent a couple of hours with her earlier this year whilst she was working on a very exciting project and I have to say that she is so gorgeous and so clever. Although it was a day which was extremely rushed for me and I was completely flustered, she just seemed to take it all in her stride.

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-26038123895465787802011-10-14T23:21:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.268-07:00

I find that I am constantly intrigued by the collections of things people have in their homes.  It's so interesting seeing what people surround themselves with.  Home to me is the most important and special place on earth.  Home is where I find solace, rest and happiness and home is where I surround myself with only the things I love.The more I help people decorate their homes, the more I try to

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-16536134652902070632011-10-12T14:08:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.284-07:00

We are very excited to be presenting the debut exhibition of paintings by Pip Boydell at Black & Spiro which will open on Thursday 3rd November, 2011.  Pip has aptly named her collection of paintings Treasure.  Whether sitting on a mantel, resting in a vase, hiding in a jewellery box or fluttering by in the breeze;  there are many things of beauty to be found in our every day lives.  Often small

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-78302681413000981912011-10-10T05:22:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.385-07:00

I thought I would share some photos of an apartment I have been working on.  This beautiful apartment occupies the entire floor of a building in the city.  I have been working with these clients for many years.  I actually think they were one of my first clients.  They are so loyal and supportive and just the most beautiful people I could hope to work with.   It is always a pleasure working with

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-91564851534256657472011-10-07T22:58:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.480-07:00

I emailed this picture of our new Black & Spiro window display to my mother last night.  She wanted every jar in the picture.  I think that's the thing with blue and white, it becomes an obssession. I can't count how many blue and white pieces my mum has in her collection but no matter how many she already has, she continues to collect more and more.  I think this recent delivery of beautiful

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-74533119880167550592011-10-06T23:31:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.577-07:00

Earlier this week I posted about my thoughts on inspiration and what inspires me.  I was thrilled to read that a few bloggers were inspired by my thoughts and words.  I couldn't stop thinking about inspiration this week and not only what inspires me but also about my lack of inspiration at times.  To say that I have been a little bit uninspired lately would be letting you in on a big secret

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-62716730391452527892011-10-05T05:00:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.671-07:00

My morning started in the garden collecting some bougainvillea which I plonked into a vase and packed into the car along with a full load of lovely things.  I headed off on my journey down to Broadbeach on the Gold Coast where I spent the day installing new furniture at an apartment I have had the pleasure of working on over the past few months.  My grand plans of arranging the big bunch of

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-85868007862151380182011-10-03T04:15:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.766-07:00

Many people ask Designers the age old question - What Inspires you?  To be honest, I find it a very hard question to answer.  Pin-pointing exactly what inspires me is never really something I can put into words.  However, in saying that the more I think about it and the more I learn and the more experiences I have there is one word which seems to ring around and around in my head.  It is

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-12113797328011288182011-09-29T06:02:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.867-07:00

I can't believe it's almost October again?!  Where did the year go?  I have no idea.  We seem to be smack bang in the middle of preparing schemes and quotes for clients for pre-Christmas work.  Before we know it we'll be racing against the clock to get everyone's sofas, cushions, curtains etc. installed before the 25th December.  We've also been working hard finalising our Christmas window

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-79300569076939317262011-09-27T23:36:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:08.960-07:00

Hello!  I'm back again.  I thought you might like to see some photos of a beautiful family home I've been working on for the past year or two.  As I say to my clients - homes decorated over time always end up being the most beautiful.  This house is one of those houses which we have added layer upon layer and to be honest, I could work for these clients for the rest of my life.  They are always

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-51838727167443877282011-09-22T03:11:00.001-07:002011-09-22T03:11:31.171-07:00

Hello world

SSBnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-42706871372357651862011-09-22T01:55:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.060-07:00

Having our children 7 years apart has worked perfectly for us.  I couldn't have done it any other way.  However, the big gap does provide some variety...1 1/2 year old Max loves his visits to Black & Spiro on a Saturday morning so much so that we have to put him on the pink step ladder because otherwise the entire shop would be redecorated {Max style}. He really gets excited about being at the

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-41863666668324898932011-09-20T05:11:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.159-07:00

I have talked about my love of Kate Lewis' paintings before.  Her work has that very beautiful painterly look which seems almost effortless.  I was so thrilled when she emailed me earlier today some images of her latest works which she said might look familiar.  Look at the way she has painted the flowers on the chair....so, so beautiful and so, so clever!!Click HERE to see her latest works...

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-16724151577017760402011-09-18T02:26:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.261-07:00

Did you embrace the wonderful weather here in Brisbane today?  Wasn't it a beautiful day?  We had a very lazy day at home.  The sort of day that starts with the Sunday papers spread all over the bed and it didn't get much busier than a bit of weeding and watering in the garden.  Max spent alot of time running through the sprinkler and we spent alot of time just sitting and enjoying the

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-77035880641627873242011-09-15T22:01:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.362-07:00

I haven't posted much this week!  I am sorry!!  I have been playing catch up with my work and trying to stay OFF the Internet.We seem to have had lots of enquiry about our very special hand-made and hand-painted owl jugs and I thought I would let you all know that they will be making a big appearance in our next online Vignette.  The ones in our next vignette will be much larger than the little

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-13002026592220351202011-09-13T20:51:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.458-07:00

This morning we spent a few hours re-arranging the shop.  Gosh it always makes me feel so much better when we've moved a few things around even though it is alway such a big job!!  One of my favourite pieces in the shop at the moment is the antique side table in the photo above.  It is such an amazing piece with so much detail!!We filled our gorgeous Stuart Membery cane sofa with lots of new

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-68731380633419085872011-09-12T03:03:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.550-07:00

I thought it might be fun to share some behind the scenes shots of our Spring Vignette.  It all started with this pile of fabrics, lamps, pictures etc. on my work table at Black & Spiro.  Some might consider this to be just a pile of mess but my schemes usually start off in this manner.  There's nothing like a big pile of ideas, fabrics, colours, snippets of things I like to get the creative

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-65714064816084883112011-09-11T02:14:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.644-07:00

Gosh, I really like this kitchen.  I love how it's all just a bit of a mismatch.  Nothing new and perfect about this kitchen which makes it so interesting and unique.I also like this pretty bedroom which I found over at Decor8 by Lisa Stickley.  Talking about Decor8, I was so excited to see the post Holly did last week about our online store and the concept behind it.  Thank you Holly.  You are

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-52282056542426546452011-09-07T19:21:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.749-07:00

I hope you enjoy our Spring Vignette.  It is now live.  Click HERE to be directed to the store.xxAnna

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-19612846609768423522011-09-07T03:18:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.844-07:00

Just thought you might like to know that our Spring Vignette will be going live tomorrow sometime.  You will notice tomorrow that we have already upgraded our site so that we can have 2 vignette pages for Spring and we've also made the images larger so that you can see the items more clearly.  There's lots of wonderful vintage items so make sure you are quick to click. http://

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-67722668375537131242011-09-05T17:36:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:09.936-07:00

I thought you might like to see our current front window display at Black & Spiro and also a fabulous new ikat armchair which arrived last week.  The chest of drawers in the window is a little antique French chest and the lamp is a fabulous old lamp I found.  The new shade has certainly given it a wonderful, new and uplifting look.  xxAnna

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-21461434912990897472011-09-04T18:25:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.028-07:00

I am thrilled to advise that our fresh and exciting Spring Vignette over at our online store - http://www.absolutelybeautifulthings.com.au/ will be up in just a few more days.  Keep checking back for updates...xxAnnaimage via pretty stuff tumblr

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-87657873809487299142011-09-04T01:31:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.121-07:00

Throughout life there are many happy days which come and go.  Some we forget and some we treasure as a memory.  For me I think today was one of those days I will long remember as a very happy day with my family.  I set up our dining table in our garden and we celebrated Fathers Day with lunch on the lawn with my parents, my brother and the boys.  I picked the flowers from our garden this morning

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-43749391465633271722011-08-31T20:49:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.213-07:00

It really is such a treat being able to work in beautiful houses.  I am currently working on a house out in the country which has a big fabulous barn, horses and very pretty gardens.  It is an old white Queenslander and it really is something very special.  I love it so much I had to share it.  Here's a little snapshot of the front garden.  I've also posted a few photos below of the beautiful

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-31260407361859623602011-08-31T04:14:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.309-07:00

I will confess when I am not at work I am very much a homebody.  That's not to say I am unadventurous.  It's just that I love being at home.  We don't eat out alot these days and I tend to decline invitations to fancy events.  Some would probably tag me as boring but I just prefer, in my very small amount of spare time, to be at home with my family.  There really is no better place than home in

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-11522673213207765322011-08-29T23:37:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.400-07:00

Just in case you might be interested I have just put our 4 remaining neon framed embroideries over at the online store on sale.  They are now half the original price which is very exciting!!  Only 4 left though...CLICK HERE to see...xxAnnaPS.  Please note, all of these embroideries are hand-made and will vary slightly in design to the one shown.  If you want to see a selection of what is left

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-27784476347762362972011-08-29T04:33:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.497-07:00

I woke up on Saturday morning to the sound of heavy rain on our old tin roof.  My plans for a mindless day in the garden had to be cancelled.If only I could have stayed home today because this morning I woke to the most beautiful, warm, sunny Spring day.  Isn't it always the way!  I was rather envious of Merv who arrived at around 8am ready to work in the garden for the morning.  There was just

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-3328813651398808202011-08-25T14:18:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.588-07:00

It seems my Daffodils have flowered right on cue.  Back in Autumn I ambitiously planted 50 Daffodil bulbs in our garden and although not all of them have surfaced, we have quite a few in flower today just in time for Daffodil Day.  To support this very special day click HERE to make a donation or to find out how you can contribute.On that note I am signing off for this week.  I'm yearning for a

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-66563416575830993282011-08-23T21:44:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.710-07:00

I love this CRAZY bathroom.  Seems I am loving everything a bit dishevelled...xxAnnaPS.  This fabulous bathroom belongs to Johnelle.PPS - I have just discovered that this bathroom AND that lovely dishevelled bookcase I posted a couple of days ago BOTH belong to Johnelle!  I didn't realise this at the time of posting.  How serendipitous!PPPS - Well I seem to have really gotten my wires crossed. 

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-9702243006740628102011-08-22T15:26:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.804-07:00

 Spring is just around the corner here in Australia.  I am really looking forward to some warmer weather and all the pretty flowers which are starting to pop up in our garden.  I am also excited to announce that our Spring Vignette over at our online store will be live in just over 2 weeks.  We've almost sold out of our Winter Vignette however, there are still a few things available so make sure

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-15785534010347013402011-08-21T14:45:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.896-07:00

Last night I did something I haven't done in a very long time.  I got caught on a couple of tumblr sites and I couldn't get off.  I just kept on scrolling.  Back in the early days of this blog I spent a lot of time reading other blogs and tumblrs but I have to be honest, these days I don't read many blogs.  Maybe it's a time thing or maybe it's because there are just so many out there now and I

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-48920201008554637752011-08-19T03:20:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:10.986-07:00

Could this be the most perfect spot to sit and enjoy a warm Spring Saturday morning?  So beautiful!!  image via - cote de texas

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-82721151362726699012011-08-17T23:20:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.081-07:00

I have a thing for white houses.  Our first house was white our second house was white, our beach cottage is white and our current house, which will be the house we stay in forever, will also eventually be white.  I don't ever stray to another colour and even when clients ask me what colour they should paint their house I always reply white.  The fact is that white houses never date.  I

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-26652257241666778032011-08-17T01:58:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.174-07:00

One of the most important elements in the rooms I put together for people is the array of beautiful, unique cushions I compile and have custom made for their sofas, armchairs, beds etc.  Usually these cushions are made in the most exquisite fabrics which are either imported, hand embroidered or made out of vintage materials or trimmed with fabulous braid or rouche.The downside of these beautiful

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-29023274526363917992011-08-16T05:58:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.265-07:00

Early this morning I headed out into our garden which is currently in full bloom.  I spent about 20 minutes in pure heaven collecting this basket of fresh flowers for Black & Spiro.  It has been so great having lots of vases of fresh garden flowers in the shop over these past few weeks.  As you have probably guessed I am a little bit obsessed with fresh flowers.  Maybe if I decide to give up

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-61364179608472163982011-08-14T23:50:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.355-07:00

This pretty vintage armchair just came back from the upholsterer last week.  I particularly love the box pleated trim we added to the base of the chair.  We decided to keep the legs in their vintage state so as to show the age of the chair.  With Spring just around the corner this little floral chair is such a fresh addition to the shop...xxAnna

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-40518129949879469332011-08-14T00:57:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.447-07:00

We have this thing in our family of packaging up food parcels in silver alfoil after big family events for everyone to take home.  My grandmother's soirees always end with a divvy up of the amazing left overs which she has often spent days preparing.  This similarly happens at my mother's house too.  But it really hasn't been a thing which happens at my house as I don't love to cook.  It's just

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-48593446594806497772011-08-10T15:52:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.536-07:00

I love this image I found over at Nibs blog of John Derian's old butcher's block in his house in Provincetown, Massachusetts.  We have been very lucky this year to come across 2 of these wonderful old butcher's blocks.  One came from an old butchery in Toowoomba.  Each one sold within the first few days of them being in the shop which obviously shows how rare these wonderful pieces are.  I wish I

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-66283292130062249922011-08-09T21:46:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.633-07:00

I thought I would share a few more photos of our back bedroom display at Black & Spiro.  I love, love, love the embroidered cushion we just added to the bed today which arrived this morning along with a few more.  They are all one-off cushions.  And here's a photo of the curtains in the room which we made in a blue and white lattice design fabric.Hope everyone is having a fabulous day!!xxAnnaPS.

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-13973491567486950212011-08-08T21:05:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.725-07:00

I arrived home last night to this arrangement of flowers from our garden on our fireplace mantel.  A little fairy had been to visit.  Gosh they were a lovely surprise.  As I've said many times before, there's nothing like flowers to bring a smile to my face...I thought you might like to see some photos of our new bedroom display at Black & Spiro which we have just finished decorating.  It's so

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-37064294501910064802011-08-04T04:12:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.831-07:00

I am usually more of a Winter girl but I must admit I haven't really enjoyed Winter this year.  I have no idea why.  I am so excited about this coming Summer.  Maybe it's because I've been working really hard or maybe it's because our weather here in Brisbane this past week has been a bit warmer.  Whatever it is, I just keep dreaming about long Summer days at the beach.With all of my thoughts

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-54251887715200401862011-08-02T23:27:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:11.926-07:00

You may wonder why I seem to have an obsession with lovely things placed on tables and chests and mantels.  I think it stems back to watching my mother arranging flowers and shells and paintings and books and bits on tables around our house and our beach house growing up.  I remember thoughts going through my head whilst she was playing around arranging things like - 'What on earth is she doing

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-78104284522904611542011-08-02T16:09:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:12.025-07:00

Getting the word out seems to be one of the biggest things I can do with this blog.  Today I would really like to help Cate Farrar from Multicap.  Multicap is a disability services provider supporting people with multiple disabilities, complex behaviour problems and their families in Queensland.  She needs to get the word out about this charity luncheon being held next week.  You see they haven't

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-48465911146922446842011-08-01T03:53:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:12.117-07:00

I loved seeing the pics Heather from Habitually Chic shared last week of her new apartment.  I particularly loved these 2 {above and below} as the colours reminded me of our Winter Vignette.The beautiful photo below has been saved in my inspiration files since it appeared in Trad Home a while back.  Again the colours remind me of the colours I chose for our Winter Vignette.Talking about our

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-18003895341313621712011-07-31T02:25:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:12.212-07:00

Kate & Emma at Sourced Grocery in TeneriffeHave you ever played tourist in your own home town?  Let me tell you it's so much fun and it makes you realise how wonderful the place is that you live in.  I left home early Saturday morning and met up with Kate & Emma who I have got to know through blogging.  Earlier in the year they hosted me in their home town of Adelaide and this weekend was my

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-55624875931862029372011-07-28T15:04:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:12.314-07:00

When you put all your efforts and thoughts and energy into a project which you are so passionate about you can become extremely stressed and nervous and anxious as to whether it will work, whether people will embrace it, whether it will happen the way you had hoped and dreamt it would.  Yesterday saw the launch of our online store which has been a project I have been dreaming about and working on

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-37210024552373020932011-07-27T17:09:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:12.407-07:00

We are now open!!  Click HERE to visit our new online store.  I hope you enjoy the experience!!xxAnnawww.absolutelybeautifulthings.com.au

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-7849775572300621742011-07-27T02:57:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:12.499-07:00

In preparation for tomorrow's launch I thought I would give you a brief tutorial advising how the store is going to work and what my idea is behind the concept.  First and foremost I am a Designer and I really wanted that to be reflected in our online store.  I wanted to create something which was different and exciting.  Over the years we have had so many requests from overseas and interstate

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-61150419700147568882011-07-26T19:55:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:12.791-07:00

Tomorrow we will draw open the curtains on Anna Spiro's Absolutely Beautiful Things online concept store.  If you would like to be one of the first to know when we actually go live then make sure you register on our holding page over at http://www.absolutelybeautifulthings.com.au/ We've got lots of lovely things all wrapped and ready to be shipped...To celebrate our launch tomorrow, the first

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-25964876134364842912011-07-26T05:23:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:12.884-07:00

I love these words of wisdom from architect Bill Ingram!  I completely agree with him because if you delay that special thing will be gone and you will regret it forever!!

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-34815391262984050442011-07-24T20:23:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:12.979-07:00

It's a big week in this neck of the woods.  Our online store goes live on Thursday...eeeekkkk!!  Scary!!  If you want to be one of the first to know when we actually go live on Thursday make sure you sign-up on our holding page over at http://www.absolutelybeautifulthings.com.au/ We are also very busy getting our back rooms at Black & Spiro ready to open again.  Hopefully they will be ready to

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-39659807776541603172011-07-23T16:58:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:13.342-07:00

Just wanted to give you all the heads up {if you don't already know} that the extremely talented and creative Emma Clements from White and Wander and her mum have launched their amazing online store.  It is filled to the brim with antlers and globes and all sorts of amazing collected things. I really think their store fills a void in the market {here in Australia} for stylish vintage treasures

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-77978668324354434692011-07-18T18:57:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:13.441-07:00

I thought I would share a few pictures of a very cute and tiny inner city cottage I recently worked on for a gorgeous young couple who are expecting their first baby in a few months time.  We decided to leave the old kitchen in place instead of ripping it out.  We painted it a fresh white and added the black and white checkerboard floor as there was a chipboard floor in that section.  We also

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-64939390929871073472011-07-14T22:50:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:13.532-07:00

Whilst on a bit of a reconnaissance mission today for something exciting down the track, I was very lucky to be given this beautiful fresh rose stem from a public garden which is currently full of roses in bloom.  I am shocked and horrified that tomorrow the roses in this garden will all be cut back and most of them will be sent to the rubbish.  Isn't it so sad that they don't bunch these

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-4130932979415581252011-07-11T22:06:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:13.630-07:00

Our new look in our back rooms at Black & Spiro is almost ready to reveal {again!!}.  The new wallpaper went in late last week and the curtains and a few other finishing off bits and pieces should be in within the next couple of weeks.  I thought I would give you a sneak peek of how it's looking...xxAnna

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-25878045399606509802011-07-07T14:30:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:13.722-07:00

So there you have it - our very exciting online store will be going live Thursday 28th July, 2011!  Make sure you circle your calendar!!  www.absolutelybeautifulthings.com.au xxAnna

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-91913418730696729602011-07-06T23:01:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:13.812-07:00

Here are a few snapshots of some of our new things at Black & Spiro.  Lots of great things including beautiful table linen, cushions, ginger jars, trays, rugs and fabrics.  It's almost like Christmas here at the moment with things arriving daily.

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-6109559109780482002011-07-05T23:13:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:13.906-07:00

I have actually posted this picture before...way back in my archives.  However, I thought I would re-post it for my cousin and his fiance as they are getting married in December HERE at this amazing property and I thought this could make for some good inspiration for them or anyone who is planning a party!! 

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-30856226003255379412011-07-04T23:01:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:13.998-07:00

This image captured my heart this morning.  I know it's Winter but I love Summer and this space above is pure perfection!  Of course it is by that very clever person - Sig Bergamin as captured by Elle Decor.

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-68669693802260462602011-07-01T19:36:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.088-07:00

I was up early this morning as my brother Sam came home from Western Australia and couldn't wait to come to see the boys.  He has been away living and working over there for the last couple of months and our entire family is just so excited about him being home for the next 2 weeks.  After his visit I went to see my friend Phoebe and collected some fresh flowers for the shop.  It really makes all

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-28116331334367243862011-06-30T21:32:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.180-07:00

Whilst browsing through the images I have saved on my laptop today I pulled these three out as they caught my eye.  I seem to be drawn to green lately.  I don't know why as I have always been surrounded by so much blue thanks to my mother.  There seems to be something so grounded about green.  I mean, I wouldn't ever paint the outside of my house green but I have to say that I love the look of

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-60759684298566088022011-06-28T02:01:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.276-07:00

I've posted about our custom made Max coffee table before but today we took delivery of this little Max side table which I had made for placement between 2 single beds in a client's guest bedroom.  I couldn't resist sharing this little beauty with you all. 

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-46742889484581574502011-06-22T21:51:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.369-07:00

I am delighted to share some very exciting news with you all.  It has been a long time coming but I am always of the opinion that it takes lots of time, lots of thought and lots of planning to do something properly.  So here goes....At the end of July/beginning of August 2011 {just over 1 month away} we will be launching our very exciting online store which will be called - Anna Spiro's

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-478331584321116002011-06-21T19:55:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.466-07:00

It's always like a breath of fresh air when we install a new window display at Black & Spiro.  To celebrate our new window I bought some pretty fresh tulips which we have placed into one of a pair of blue and white vases we have on the table with a beautiful pair of lamps.  Good old Chiang Mai in blue and white makes a big appearance in the background.  I will try to post a picture from the

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-42926005280482711372011-06-20T22:58:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.557-07:00

I am still here.  I promise I haven't performed a disappearing act {although sometimes I wish I could!!}.  Just been a bit busy.  My dear friend Soph has declared that she completely dislikes the word busy and I have to agree with her but it really does describe my life!!  Anyway, back to beautiful things....I have fallen head over heels in-LOVE with Joel Penkman's painting above which I spotted

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-53461890897583973202011-06-14T23:26:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.654-07:00

Sometimes I think people are under the impression that I only create very bright and colourful rooms however, this isn't the case.  I thought I would post this room today as it is one I recently finished for a client who wanted a bit of colour but also wanted a more formal and sophisticated look.  I love the palette we selected for this room and the curtains with the orange banding turned out

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-40757183712896185432011-06-13T18:04:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.752-07:00

It's always an exciting moment when our 2 subscriptions of Vogue Living arrive in the mail.  We get 2 so that I can have one at Black & Spiro and 1 at home.  We received the latest issue today and I have to say that it is jaw droppingly beautiful!  My favourite story is on Chrissie Jeffery and her redecorated Sydney apartment.  I remember when her apartment was featured in VL the first time

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-48531095656206071682011-06-13T03:00:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.854-07:00

I love this quote and after chatting with a friend today I thought it was perfect to post.  I dare you to dare yourself to do something out of the ordinary this week.  Do something you have been wanting to do for sometime.  Find the courage and just do it.  I am going to...image via coco & kelley blog

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-70046939870532881152011-06-08T18:35:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:14.949-07:00

I took this photo at Black & Spiro before our sale last month.  The reason I am posting it is because I love the fabric we used on the antique chair pictured.  It's always so exciting stumbling across a fabric I haven't seen before.  It inspires me and gets me thinking about the possibilities of what I can do with it and what other fabrics I can mix with it.  Even though this chair has now sold I

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-18307178768083535402011-06-01T02:32:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.040-07:00

Thank you Loni for featuring Black & Spiro in your latest issue of Adore Magazine.  There is so much work that goes into producing these online magazines and most of the time the team behind them is quite small so I would really like to encourage a round of applause for Loni.  Her latest issue is a cracker!!Click here to read...

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-776235135606222512011-05-31T02:38:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.134-07:00

I quickly snapped this photo as I was leaving the shop tonight of our front desk.  Today we replaced the black and white ikat desk skirt, which we've had on the desk since our re-opening last year, with a new gathered navy and white ticking skirt.  This photo gives a very small indication of our new look for the entire shop which will hopefully be in place within the next 3 weeks.  There is going

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-27462834218889677302011-05-29T22:37:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.225-07:00

I think we have lit our fire every night over the past few weeks.  We are actually a little bit obsessed with lighting the fireplaces at our house.  Even on nights when it hasn't been very cold, we have lit the fire.  Brad chops the wood and Harry collects the smaller bits and Max and I watch.  It is a big family event every single night!!We just received some beautiful paper mache pots into the

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-57318527985921797302011-05-26T16:32:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.320-07:00

You might notice I have a new look.  I think it was well overdue.  This little vignette was one I put together at home last Summer.  I was inspired by it's fresh and happy vibe this morning and I thought what a perfect picture to post for the start of a new era here at ABT....image - elouise van riet-gray

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-21395015639873233332011-05-25T04:45:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.418-07:00

The floral patterned fabric above wasn't my first choice colourway for the curtains in our bedroom at home.  My first choice was the lavender colourway.  However, like so many fabrics we have ordered over the past 12-18 months it was out of stock and not available.  Has this been a problem for other decorators out there too?  With only a few weeks to go before Christmas last year I made a very

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-88042427596046539302011-05-24T03:13:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.514-07:00

Our first born child knew the definition of No well before he ever got himself into too much trouble.  A simple No would always result in him moving away from something I didn't want him to touch.  Over the years I've had many clients ask me how I am able to keep all my books and bits and pieces in place on our coffee table with a little one in the house.  I have always been a firm believer in

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-36426297646353152522011-05-22T02:23:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.614-07:00

Today we celebrated Max's Christening and first Birthday at our home with our family.  My mum did her usual amazing cooking thing and my Aunty Jane cooked lots of wonderful sweets.  My job was the Christening/Birthday cake.  One of my client's told me about this rainbow cake and how easy it was to make.  I was very doubtful!  However, it turns out that it was a very easy cake to make

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-74482132223103718352011-05-20T01:18:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.712-07:00

I've seen a few TGIF posts around Blogland this afternoon and I have to agree....THANK GOODNESS IT'S FRIDAY!!!!!!!!!!  But, I have Max's First Birthday Party and Christening this Sunday so I'll be at it again running around like crazy.  Thank goodness it's just the family coming.  I am attempting to cook a cake one of my client's recommended to me tomorrow for Sunday so if it works out I'll be

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-40523746883516591642011-05-19T04:44:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.805-07:00

Max woke up this morning to red, blue, yellow and green balloons tied all around his cot.  This is sort of a little tradition in our household.  Lots of balloons on Birthdays that is.  He absolutely loved them.  However, I think he loved his new car even more.  And I think Harry loved it even more than Max!  It's been a perfect First Birthday. 

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-51585571474109143302011-05-18T03:38:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.901-07:00

It's hard to believe that our little Max turns 1 tomorrow.  To celebrate his first year, Harry and I recently created this little chair for him for his bedroom.  Being quite small, it is actually the perfect size for him to climb up onto. I bought the vintage chair for a very small sum and then had it recovered in a plain white canvas.  Harry then drew all over it with fabric felt pens.  On the

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-16022668915867403802011-05-17T03:15:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:15.996-07:00

I am totally smitten with the artwork of Kate Lewis.  I love everything she does.  Her paintings have a soft, smudgy look which I think is very beautiful.

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-20902730748990417102011-05-16T02:20:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:16.087-07:00

For me, creating a home with soul is the most important thing I hope to achieve for my clients and myself.  No matter what colour or style preference you have, it's about selecting furniture, fabrics and pieces which strike a chord with you.  It's also about having your children's artwork on your walls and your grandmother's vase on your fireplace mantel.  It's about personal preference and the

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-37848462459881504002011-05-14T03:12:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:16.182-07:00

Mum snapped this photo as the beautiful pair of Antique chairs were loaded into the back of this truck.  They were headed to their new home in Byron Bay.  I was sad to see these chairs go as they were my favourite things in the entire shop.  These ladies drove all the way up this morning from Byron Bay...unbelievable!!What a beautiful, sunny day it was today.  Perfect weather for a sale.  I

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-81433442725038573922011-05-11T01:43:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:16.273-07:00

These fresh tulips arrived at Black & Spiro today.  They were such a surprise.  I took them home and arranged them in the vintage bird vase I picked up a few weeks ago.  They have brightened my week. Thank you Janet!!

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-73886247637925262402011-05-10T01:48:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:16.389-07:00

Yesterday we started preparing for our annual sale at Black & Spiro which starts at 9am this Saturday.  This is what our fabric remnant room looked like after I had stripped it of piles and piles of fabric which we are putting into our sale on Saturday. It's so nice to have some order in our remnant room as it usually looks like a cyclone has swept through it!!

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-23549712279348109932011-05-08T03:11:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:16.481-07:00

Whilst having a flick through one of my old decorating books today I stumbled across this image which reminded me how much I really like the idea of these blue and white patchwork tiles for our new kitchen.  Oh and look at those big fabulous blue and white bowls...definitely something else to covet!!Hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day.  Mine was lovely.  The boys cooked me lunch.  I set

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-63855241845505441382011-05-04T20:53:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:16.574-07:00

I am delighted to announce the date of our highly anticipated annual Black & Spiro one day only sale.  There will be lots of wonderful things as always and very generous discounts.  We look forward to seeing you next Saturday 14th May.

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-80479894257281339852011-05-02T03:00:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:16.667-07:00

A very funny and lovely thing happened to me today.  As it was a public holiday here, most of our day was spent pottering around the house enjoying some time with our boys.  I cooked a chocolate cake with Harry and Roast Chicken this afternoon for dinner.  I picked some flowers and herbs out of our garden and I tidied up the house.  Brad and I finally sat down in the lounge room tonight after we

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-45745977570966841262011-05-01T03:36:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:16.762-07:00

My father has never been the best gift organiser/giver.  However, he recently returned from an overseas surfing trip with a bag full of amazing shells for my mum.  Some he found on the beach and some he bought from local men in dug-out boats.  My mother absolutely loves them and has placed them on a table in their entry with other lovely things she has collected over the years and some fresh

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-85779421092035371652011-04-28T23:16:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:16.869-07:00

Hope you have a great weekend.  I am one of those looking forward to the Royal Wedding which is only hours away.  I am about to head home to immerse myself in the coverage!  I can't wait to see her dress!  See you next week...image via this is glamorous blog

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-54639736787839198652011-04-28T00:33:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:17.006-07:00

We've had another influx of new things at Black & Spiro this week.  The new blue and white inlay chest of drawers which we have placed in our front window with the butterfly fabric is very beautiful.  We also have new pale pink cockatoo lamps which we've had custom made for our store, lots of new cushions in fabrics I bought when we were overseas earlier this year, a pair of antique armchairs and

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-74447249669647617692011-04-22T22:46:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:17.112-07:00

The anticipation is building in our household for the Easter Bunny's arrival tonight and for what he might bring.  Today Harry made this large, colourful card for the Easter Bunny which we will leave out tonight along with some carrots and some milk.  It is so fun watching the innocence of young children at times like these.  I am looking forward to our annual Easter Egg hunt in the garden

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-78660009728179131742011-04-14T00:13:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:17.203-07:00

These flowers have been sitting on the fireplace mantel in our bedroom for 2 weeks now.  I am surprised they have lasted so long.  At $3.00 a bunch at the markets they were a good investment. I have enjoyed looking at them every morning when I wake up.I am taking off early this week for a few days away.  I am so tired.  See you soon.xxAnna

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-73260863597760656152011-04-13T03:10:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:17.295-07:00

I have posted this bedroom before but I thought I would post it again today as I still love it and it reminded me that blue and white can look so beautiful in a bedroom.  I also love the black iron bed and the mix of furniture styles in this room.   {image - country living magazine}Here are a couple of new blue and white fabrics which hit our fabric library this week.  I'm sure the die hard blue

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4184648509575592989.post-35978492133924220642011-04-12T04:31:00.000-07:002011-10-30T12:12:17.390-07:00

The other day we had a lady in the store ask us for some fake flowers.  I had to bite my lip and very kindly advise her that we only use fresh flowers.  I don't go for anything fake.  I'm a real or nothing girl in all aspects of my life.  If I can't have real flowers then I would prefer to go without.  Today I brought into the shop some of the succulent pots I have been potting up at home which I

Doel123http://www.blogger.com/profile/17824549269119403874noreply@blogger.com