Faded White Linen

Occasional Happenings

2011-08-05T14:34:00.000+10:00

Good afternoon one and all on this beautiful winter's day.

The sun is out and the future looks rosy.

I have to confess that the past month or so I have been a part time blogger at best with the odd occasional forays into the blogasphere. I barely find time to check out others posts and certainly don't comment. So I apologise but I have a good reason though...Moving. They say it is one of the most stressful events to go through in life. Honestly it hasn't been stressful - just time consuming (My own fault really- I'm continuing to work pretty much full time with no time off inbetween the move). We have seven days till the truck arrives and the removalists (my hubby and next door neighbour's son!) start the tough task of shifting our life into storage in Sydney. The house is resembling a storage unit with boxes surrounding us and the once filled walls with frames and paintings now bare.

The next two weeks are big for us - life changing even - I'll finish up my mundane admin job, squeeze everything into storage, move us to the parents, our home will no longer be home just a house once the boxes are moved, I'll start my design job (excited butterflies already) and the girls will start their new daycare. Phew. It'll be an intense two weeks but the thought at being back on the Northern Beaches is overwhelmingly good and makes it all worth while.

So I'll be absent from the blogging world for a month or so whilst I concentrate on the priorities in life which are settling my family into a new life. I'll be back before you know with a grin from ear to ear.

In the meantime here are a selection of images that I stumbled upon and love:

Images found here

Indoor Cubby House Fun

2011-07-28T22:16:00.000+10:00

Well we are in the throws of packing up our life here on the Central Coast. One moment I am serenely calm about the whole process feeling on top of everything...the next I am in a packing tape flap wondering how it's all going to get done. Of course it will, I have no doubt even if it means shovelling things into unlabelled boxes (this prospect sends shivers down my super organised back...even if I have to work throughout the night all through the week I'll get it done methodically!)

So whilst we were on the cooling off period I got thinking about the winter projects that I had set myself at the beginning of the year and that would now have to wait till next year. However one project sprang to mind - one that I could complete in only a few evenings and above all one that would occupy Malia and Lani during our packing.

The Dining Table Cubby.

I wrote a post about it early on in my blogging days a couple of months back and it always stuck with me as a really cute idea. We had a family lunch at the weekend to celebrate both the girls July birthdays (Lani's was today- happy birthday my sweet angel) so I set it all up for the two blondes to wake up to on Sunday morning and for us to eat our lunch on with our guests. A homemade birthday present for the two twinkles.

They loved it and took great joy in peeking through the little mesh windows.

I would have liked to have spent more time on it and not run out of the white material (!) but all in all I'm happy with it. A two year old and three year old aren't going to pick up on the wonky seams and sides that don't quite reach the ground.

Enjoy the rest of your week and I'll be back when I need to come up for air amidst cardboard boxes and newspaper.

Images my own

Let's Celebrate!!!

2011-07-22T06:36:00.001+10:00

SOLD

At last our house has been sold and it is all go in our household. We have just over three weeks to pack up our life on the Central Coast and head down to Sydney, store all our belongings, find a short term rental, start a new daycare and for me to start a new job. (I am beginning to panic at the prospect of the packing...there is SO much to do)

Oh what exciting times ahead. We never thought we would get back to the Northern Beaches when we first moved up here so there is so much joy to be heading back. We love it there and even though we whole heartedly delved into life up here we still really missed it.

Also after three years out of the decorating industry (having my two girls in quick succession and moving up here will do that to your career!)... I am starting back in my old job as an Interior Stylist! Yippee Yay- just to be back in that creative environment surrounded by like minded people makes me get all jittery in my tummy.

So it's time to celebrate before jumping head long into the packing process. Good times ahead for our little family.

Images found via my Faded White Linen Pinterest Board

XX

Teal Magic

2011-07-17T07:53:00.000+10:00

I love the magic of teal...especially in these winter months.

For me its buzz words are:

sophisticated, warm, inviting, sumptuous, enveloping and elegant.

It's rich deep tones used on the walls and wood work teemed with silks, velvet or leather and complemented by copper, orange or vivid pink touches provide an environment that screams gorgeousness!

Enjoy your Sunday

Images found here

xx

Slipcover Madness

2011-07-10T21:19:00.000+10:00

Gosh what a busy week it's been. What with the normal four days at work it was Malia's third birthday on Tuesday so straight after work I scooped up my two chickens and we headed south to Sydney to spend the night at my parents. Malia got spoilt rotten but made me laugh - when asked what her favourite present was she replied that it was Dora...Dora was the wrapping paper - should have just given her a box of wrapping paper!

We also got an offer on the house which we've accepted! Am trying so hard to keep my excitement contained. We're in the cooling off period and there are still a couple of big hurdles to get through before we can pop the cork. So keep all your fingers and toes crossed and all being good in ten days time I'll have to start packing!

Whilst down in Sydney I visited a fabric shop to suss out what material to use for my slip covers I plan to sew for my sofas. Yes you read right- I'm going to have a crack at doing them myself. How hard can it be hey, my sofa's are square armed so it should just be a series of panels right?? Hmmm...I have a feeling it'll be a lot harder than that. To top that off the lady in the store has convinced me that if I am game enough to make the covers then I should do the piping too..HELP! So I'll keep you posted with my progress - first to measure it all up - Step one of my Slip Cover Challenge.

Have a lovely week.

Images via Pinterest

Vintage mirrors

2011-07-04T19:48:00.001+10:00

We've all seen this gorgeous image from Atlanta Bartlett's stunning bathroom. I've had this image cut from a magazine in my style file for the past three years. What do I love so much about it...that collection of mirrors. Ever since laying eyes on them I knew that one day I would own a collection like this. And so my obssession began!

Vintage mirrors always work best in a group- they give more impact and tell more of a story. I love thinking about all the faces that have looked into those mirrors over the years.

Well I started off with Malia's mirror for her bedroom- no it's not old, actually it's from ikea but I loved the quirky shape and it suited her bedroom perfectly.

Next I came across Lani's mirror - removed from a dresser years ago, it has that aged patina that can't be copied realistically.

There are two second hand stores near me up here on the coast - about four hundred metres from eachother and every month or so I take a trip to see what treasure has been dumped by those who think of it as trash. On one such trip I found this little beauty that hangs in the hallway outside the girl's rooms. The shape is beautiful and it has a delicate molding around it. The molding was originally in gold but I re did it in white with hints of aqua. I like the way the detail recedes into the backgound and isn't the main focal point, as it was when gold.

Down in Many is a quirky little store called Neck of The Woods and only six weeks ago I found my next little gem. With an art deco feel this has such a natural beauty in the pink tinged mirror and mottle throughout.

So buoyed with excitement at building my collection I went back to my fave second hand shops at Long Jetty and boy did they deliver. Two mirrors in one trip and for absolute pennies!!! Both with scalloped edges they fit my collection perfectly.

These latest three now live propped up against the wall at the end of my hallway - I couldn't bear to tuck them away into a cupboard. I won't hang them as we are selling but can't wait to display them all together when we buy our new place.

Now that's a whole lot of mirrors for you- thank you for letting me share them with you. Whilst taking the photos of my mirrors I couldn't resist taking one of my sweet little cat, Lola. She was sat basking in the winter sun by the window and made such a pretty shot...here she is.

Now if you haven't seen my last post- please have a look at my favourite book of the moment with the most stunning images.

Enjoy the start to your week. xxx

The first three images via my Faded White Linen board on Pinterest and the rest are my own photos.

Favourite Book

2011-07-02T15:26:00.002+10:00

I am so excited...at last my new book has arrived via German Amazon...yes you read right....that's German Amazon - all ordered in a language I cannot understand one little bit. French I can do having French blood ... Italian and Spanish I can wing as there are a couple of similarities with French....but German...no clue! Luckily the sales process is identical to that of Australia and so two weeks after ordering, this little slice of heaven finally landed all the way on my doorstep yesterday.

Now the book:

Belle Blanc is by Mirjana Schnepf of Belle Blanc blog and Bianca Aurich of White Living blog and they have just published this stunning book at the end of last year. It is in German but let me tell you, that shouldn't stop you from buying it. Filled front to back with all white interiors, slip covered sofa's, to die for vintage homewares, tips in what flowers suit this style and even some recipes! These girls have impeccable taste and this is plain to see in this book.

There are a myriad of images that more than compensate for the writing that can't be understood. Yes I wish I could read all the wisdom that Mirjana and Bianca impart in the book but at the same time the images speak a thousand words.

I love it - Every single image is right up my alley - exactly how I would love my perfect home to be...here are a couple of photos that I have taken of the book just to give you an idea of what it is all about.

I very much heart it!!! Enjoy your weekend...I'm off to escape into my slice of heaven.

On Monday I'll share with you three new vintage mirrors that I've stumbled across in the past month and have somehow made their way into my home!

Photos of opened book my own

Naturalness of Jute

2011-06-28T21:55:00.000+10:00

I love the beauty of jute twine.

The beauty of it's raw nature.

How tactile it is to touch.

I love how these balls of twine have been used in decoration...have a look...

On a different and totally random note I've just been to the cinema with a girl friend of mine up here on the Coast to see the film Bridesmaids...now I thought it was going to be some silly rom com chick flick...oh how wrong...it is hilarious - if you want a real laugh then go and see it!!

Images found via Pinterest

Snapshots of Prettiness

2011-06-26T16:45:00.000+10:00

To compliment the beautifully sunny weekend we have just experienced here are a handful of sweet and pretty images that bring warmth to the soul. When sitting outside with the warm rays caressing your skin, it's as if it were already spring and thoughts of flowering plants are in abundance. (That is until the winter chill hits again at 4 o'clock and a hot chocolate inside beckons!)

Images found here

Perfect Vignettes

2011-06-24T08:46:00.001+10:00

I love coming across gorgeous vignettes.

Perfectly formed in their whimsical ways but each one telling their own story.

Here are a handful for you.

Images found here

Four Reasons

2011-06-22T09:05:00.001+10:00

Four reasons why this room works

1. Mix of Old and New

The two white Barcelona chairs & coffee table against the Louis chair, console table and ornate frames

2. Combination of Textures

White leather Barcelona's, softer fabric on Louis chair and the tan hide on the chair to the left of the image

3. Use of Dark and Light

White walls and ceiling, bright and airy with the heavier tones of the gold gilt mirrors, tan hide chair and leather bound books

4. Balance of Objects in the Space

No area is cluttered but there feels like there is enough going on in this room to maintain interest.

I hope you love this room as much as I do. Tell me why if I haven't already covered it.

Image found here

The girl's rooms

2011-06-19T21:49:00.000+10:00

Good Morning everyone, and a happy Monday to you too. We all had such a lovely weekend together with some good family time but also a funfilled neighbourhood bash (5 to 7 households get together for dinner- lots of laughter and heaps of fun with 11 kids running around- the girls love it everytime)

A couple of posts ago I wrote about how I loved mixing patterns together especially in the little ones rooms. I have taken some iphone photos (so excuse the basicness...if that's even a word?!...of them). To get more of an idea of what Malia and Lani's rooms are like visit the post my sister-in-law Simone of Honey and Fizz's fame wrote showing my house and the girls bedrooms before Christmas.

Malia's room is predominantly aqua, pink and white. If you jump to Honey and Fizz's post you'll see a beautiful shelving unit in her bedroom, that I bought at one of my favourite stores, Doug Up On Bourke in Sydney. It was initially a shoe rack in a horrid orange colour but the owner of D. Up On B. painted and distressed it for me. When I saw the aqua I knew her whole room colour scheme would stem off this.

A couple of months after buying the shelving unit I saw this quilt set and cushions in the blue mountains and couldn't get them home quick enough. I love the dirty muted tones in the set. They look a hundred years old.

The quilted cushion in the middle is a Bed Bath n Table purchase and the pale blue sheet with pink roses is Best and Less of all places. To me it shouts Cath Kidstone.

I made the artwork for Malia's room over two years ago and the butterflies appear to be floating across her wall. It's really whisical and she loves pretending the butterflies are floating around her room.

Lani's bedroom on the other hand is soft green, pink and white. It's such a lovely combination and I have been lucky enough to find the perfect quilt and sheet sets for her too. It takes some time to build up the sheets, doona covers and quilts but I always have my eye open. I haven't shown it here but I spotted this weekend at Spotlight the perfect doona cover in a flowery pattern with pinks and greens - she's still a year away from getting into a bed that will need such a cover but hey, when you see the perfect one you may aswell lap it up while you can (my philosophy anyway!)

I found the sheets at Woolworths of all places and the quilt cover and pillowcover at My Home. Lani is still in a cot but likes to use her pillow - the quilt will be used when she transferes to a single bed but I have it hanging over the end of her cot as it's such a pretty way of adding the perfect colours to her room.

I also made this artwork for her with flowers made in a multitude of papers and cards.

I love decorating their rooms - when we moved here they were the first rooms to be finished off. When we move I'll replace the artwork with some frames and hunt down some wall decals. Lots of thoughts running through my head and I am constantly seeing images that inspire me.

Photos taken by me.

Birdcage Fascination

2011-06-15T08:11:00.001+10:00

Morning all.

At the moment I have a real liking of birdcages. I blogged about a beautiful outdoor setting with them as a feature here. I don't like the idea of keeping real birds trapped inside them but as a purely aesthetic feature I think they are great!

I see them everywhere at the moment and think that one day a birdcage might just find it's way into my home. (Or garden- I have seen old tatty wooden cages amid flower beds with pretty flowers poking through the cage

- such a cute idea. Will take note for my future cottage garden)

Here's an assortment of pretty cages- all of which I would have!

I adore the whimsy when looking at these objects and won't tire of them any time soon!

Stay warm on this wet and blustery day.

Images found via pinterest

Love

2011-06-11T07:22:00.001+10:00

I was so excited to see this little board on Tumblr.

You see this is the phrase that I tell my girls everynight when I tuck them up in bed before turning off the light.

Image found here

Mixing Up Patterns

2011-06-10T07:04:00.002+10:00

I love pretty floral, patterned fabrics teemed with white. I am in the process of buying bed linen for the girls. Malia will soon transition into a single bed and I am loving mixing soft different patterned fabrics together - gives it a lovely cottagy feel

These pics give me great food for thought.

Images found here

Lace loveliness

2011-06-08T07:35:00.001+10:00

Some images just make me smile.

These are just some of them.

I am a details kind of girl.

The details are perfect here.

Images found here

Laundry Gorgeousness!

2011-06-06T07:44:00.001+10:00

Good morning all on this beautiful Monday.

I spent a lot of of time in my laundry this weekend and if it looked like this I would willingly spend a whole lot more!

White painted floor boards

Shaker style cabinet doors

Large enamel sink

Ornate tapware

Subway Tiles

Enamel Jug

All the beautiful 'bits'..........

The list goes on for what I love about this little area.

Image found here

Happy Weekend!

2011-06-04T07:51:00.009+10:00

Good morning everyone. I just wanted to wish you the happiest of weekends whether you're doing an array of interesting activities or simply relaxing with your friends and family.

After a busy week at work the house has started to look like a bomb site. Amazing isn't it that when I'm out of the house for four days a week at work and the girls are at daycare, the house still gets untidy! I have to be honest though that quite often at the end of the day I have no motivation to pack all the toys away as neatly as I would like to... then in the morning it's always a mad rush to get out the door by seven. It's not the end of the world though. I just spend Saturday mornings whizzing around like a whirlwind straightening things up before the open inspection.

I do find toys in the funniest of places... this morning I found Malia's baby doll in the microwave and when I asked her why her baby was in there her response was: "But to make her nice and warm like when my dinner comes out the oven"! Thank goodness she doesn't know how to switch it on...yet! I love the logic of a three year old. I recently got an iphone so whilst playing with instagram here's a picture of Malia and Lani. (They don't call these phones time wasters for nothing hey! Loving the vintage effects)

I love this sign below - it'll probably end up on my to do list sometime soon!

Images found via pinterest

Heavenly White

2011-06-01T13:45:00.000+10:00

With the prospect of owning a new home in the next six months or so (firstly have to sell the current one!) I am trying to whittle down what style I want to decorate my house with. I have to take into account the style of property it is and how I can incorporate my existing furniture and furnishings...budget will be tight so we have to work with what we've got.

At the moment our home is a mix of beachy / french / vintage. I am definitely leaning towards the french / vintage for our next home. The main points for a home like this are...white, distressed furniture, painted white floor boards, vintage finds, linen, time worn objects, black and white photo's and a white & greige palette...I love the sound of that.

Hubby will be happy as to veer into this style all I need to do is visit some second hand markets and pick up bits and pieces from there - he can't complain about that!

Here are some images that encompass what I'd love to achieve.

Isn't it just gorgeous? So soothing and welcoming, with a certain charm. It takes a lot of restrain to decorate with a white on white palette but at the end of the day if you get bored then it is easy to add some colour highlights later down the track.

Image found here

PS. Still unable to comment on others blogs...frustrated to say the least...blogspot sort it out!

Beauty of Glass (& in search of help!)

2011-05-30T07:49:00.001+10:00

I love glass decanters and glass bottles. The simplicity speaks for itself. The best way to showcase their beauty is to group them together, whether it is the colour - green, blue or clear glass, or the style of bottle that is the unifying factor. They are gorgeous and I love them.

This idea of displaying old photo's in the bottles is gorgeous...not sure how you would get them out though!

I am slowly building up my collection and in our new house will hopefully have a shelf or area to show them off. I love grouping objects together and have become a mini collector in glass bottles, ceramic jugs and vintage mirrors...just need to wait for the new house to display them!

xxx

Now on a totally different note, please bare with me and read on, I have been having some annoying problems blogging in the last week. I can't comment on the majority of blogs that I follow and a lot of you can't comment on mine. Here's my problem: (Please excuse my photos of the screen- I just want you to see what's happening and if its happening to any of you)

When I have read a post and go to comment, I type it in as usual, select Google Account and click Post Comment.

I then have to sign into blogger...

I get sent back to my comment for the word verification but my profile name (Em from Faded White Linen) isn't showing, I'm 'Anonymous'. I click

comment ...

... and then get sent back to sign in to blogger. And here the vicious circle starts...blogger sign in...word verification...blogger sign in... word verification. You get my drift. I can't get past this

The only way for me to comment is if the blog comment format is as shown below, then there is no problem.

I am so frustrated by it all and when I put it out there into the google atmosphere there are others experiencing the same problems but I have yet to find a solution.

So if you have one then please, please help!

I have had a couple of you mention that you can't post a comment on my blog either! So in the meantime if you would like to leave a comment then email me : fadedwhitelinen@gmail.com

I hope this gets sorted out soon as quite frankly it's wearing thin!

Images by me or pinterest

True Story

2011-05-28T07:47:00.001+10:00

When I was growing up my mum would tell me that when I got married I should add my surname onto the end of my husband's surname ...forming a double barrell name. She was all for maintaining my own identity.

My maiden name is Gosling.

Within a week of meeting Ant I knew that this was the man I was going to marry and spend the rest of my life with. When I told my mum what his surname was her thoughts of maintaining my individuality went right out the window.

His surname is Duckworth.

Mrs Duckworth - Gosling ... I don't think so!

So Mrs Duckworth it is. Atleast I have flown from one feathered family to another and the beautiful product is two gorgeous girlie ducklings.

We have our open inspection again today, then swimming with the littlies, trip to the hairdressers for me, then to the supermarket. Tomorrow shall be a day a rest! Are you up to anything out of the ordinary this weekend?

(I'm having impossible problems with commenting on others blogs and having comments left on my blog - will explain more in my next post. In the meantime if you'd like to leave a comment then email me on fadedwhitelinen@gmail.com Thanks)

Images found via pinterest

White on White

2011-05-26T07:14:00.001+10:00

What a treat for me to stumble across this interior when surfing the web.

It has actually been created as a London photo shoot location and when looking closely it lacks the details and personal touches that would normally be found in someone's home.

However, the 24 foot ceilings and 12 foot windows accompanied with the classic distressed furniture provide an incredibly light and airy interior.

The highlight for me is the beautiful shape of those windows with those shutters adorning them. This type of shutter, slim bifold panels with thin louvres, is very common in the London terraces and mews but less so here. (If anyone knows of a Sydney company that does them then please let me know!)

Images found here

Little Girls

2011-05-24T09:14:00.000+10:00

I'm back from my trip up to the Gold Coast with my hubby. It's the first time we've been away from the girls for two nights and usually I would have been fine with that. However, a couple of days before we were due to fly, both girls came down with middle ear infections and were sick little puppies for a few days there. I made the decision at the last minute whether to actually go or not as Lani was not very well at all. In the end with the persuasion of hubby and my mother-in-law we headed off to the airport. It was surprisingly hard to leave my little one knowing I couldn't give her the cuddles she needed ... but she was staying in the capable hands of my m-in-law so I needn't have worried one bit.

It was so good for Ant and I to spend some 'us' time together and equally for the girls to spend time with their grandparents. By day three though I missed them terribly and couldn't wait to see their sweet little faces when I walked through the door. (That's my favourite part of dropping off the girls at daycare...the moment when they look up from the activity they are engrossed in and you see their faces light up and they come running over for a big bear hug ... just divine isn't it?)

You have probably guessed by now that I love children's spaces and have another winter project that I would love to get stuck into soon...

This tent is the cutest and I can just picture the girls having a little tea party inside come spring.

Image found here

x

One Look is All It Takes

2011-05-22T07:39:00.001+10:00

Being an absolute 'cat' fan I find this photo so touching. The compassion the kitty cat is showing such an inanimate object is incredible. There is so much feeling in that one look.

Image found here

Coming Up With A Compromise

2011-05-20T20:37:00.001+10:00

I've come up with a compromise...with myself. On one hand I love the time that I spend blogging, coming up with the idea of what 'tomorrow's post' should be about or finding an image that I just have to share and then putting the post together with a few of my thoughts. On the other hand though I am finding it time consuming...with two such little ones, a four day work week and a hubby who is often away leaving me to hold the fort, blogging is eating too much into my evenings. Sometimes I don't want to have to 'think' at nine at night when I finally get to sit down...so instead of trying to blog everyday it will be every other day. It has to be a pleasure right and one that fits in with your lifestyle, and hopefully this new way will work with mine.

Anyway, I adore the composition of the image above. The details are perfect. The balance of colour from the wood of the table with the grey placemats and white plates and bowls is mirrored in the chair to the right of the counter. It's a 'busy' interior but because all the colours are subdued it doesn't in any way feel cluttered. The branches above the table with the hanging lanterns and objects give it a winter wonderland feel. And of course the wood panelling is gorgeous.

Hubby and I are off to the Gold Coast tomorrow for two nights....without the girls! It's a work trip for him and I'm able to tag along so I'll have quite a bit of 'me' time! On the way to the airport I'm picking up my brand new i phone 4 so I know exactly what I'll be doing when I'm alone...playing with my new toy! I am so excited.

Have a fabulous weekend

Image found here

Birdcages Outside

2011-05-18T07:25:00.002+10:00

I know the photo is tiny but re sizing it larger just

made it lose focus and I didn't want to lose the quality

This past week the sun has been shining in all her glory. The clear sky at night has made it ever so chilly while sleeping, but by mid morning when the day has started to heat up...it's divine. Wouldn't it be lovely to spend a long lunch at this table in the countryside. I adore the hanging bird cages from the tree and the oversized table cloth.

Have a lovely day wherever you are

Image found here

Chalkboard Tray

2011-05-16T07:19:00.000+10:00

It's quite rare for me to blog about food but I thought this was a lovely use of a chalkboard. I love framed boards and this jumped out at me as a super way of using it. It makes the tea, cheese and condiments look so inviting... and friendly if that makes sense. I would love to sit with a friend this afternoon and have a good 'ol natter over this.

Talking of friends, we had a lovely time over the weekend. Whilst our open house inspection was going on, the girls and I travelled down to Sydney to spend the afternoon with the lovely Ang of Wicker and Stitch. (Always a pleasure to have numerous steaming mugs of tea curled up on her sofa with her x) On we went to my parents-in law who were also minding my two nephews. I always love seeing all the kids get together and play - slightly chaotic but fun none the less!. Then once the girls were counting zzz's it was on to the 40th party of Andy who used to be the head chef of the restaurant where my hubby and I both worked at and fell in love! Do you know in the seven months that I worked there four couples met, fell in love and are now married - something must have been in the water! On Sunday I stopped by to say hello to my Dad and let the girls give big hugs to their 'Gramps' and on the way home I took a pitt stop at the Central Coast Craft it Markets - very small and quaint but there were beautiful products being sold. So by the time we all got home I was ready for a cuppa! I thoroughly enjoyed it though. Off to work now so have a brilliant Monday.

What did you get up to this weekend?

Image found here

Welcoming Shed

2011-05-15T09:53:00.000+10:00

Isn't this the most gorgeous garden shed. This past two years in our home up here on the Central Coast, I have really gotten into my gardening. It has stunned my parents who are brilliant gardners and have the most picture perfect tiny garden. I see the garden as the extension to the home and should be treated with the same respect.

We have just spent two years excavating and clearing our front and back yard from the jungle that it was to create a blank canvas. I had visions of a cottage garden filled with hedges and flowing flower beds.

That will have to be put on hold until our next property but I can really appreciate the significance of owning a shed like this. I would be forever in my wellies with my bucket and spade. Malia and Lani would love it! I am currently potting up lots of my herbs to shift with us..I love our herb patch and want a part of it to be transported to our new place when that time comes.

I do hope you are spending a lovely Sunday with your friends and family. The girls and I are back from Sydney having had a great overnighter and going to potter around home for the rest of the day.

Image found here

Wall Magic

2011-05-14T07:30:00.002+10:00

Happy Weekend!

It's an exciting day for us as it's the first open inspection of our house and it has got me feeling so jittery with nerves and excitement. There is so much resting on the sale of this house...hopes of being back near family and friends...a return to my career ...being back near the beautiful Manly which I fell in love with those ten years ago when I stepped fresh off the plane as a back packer....and so much more. Keep your fingers and toes crossed for us x

I love this quirky idea for a wall display in a children's bedroom. So simple and sweet but visually interesting at the same time.

Best be off as have to round up the girls and the cats and do a final tidy up before we are an open house. If I have a minute I'll take some photos to show you my home ... better do it soon as you never know, a buyer might be closer than we think - here's hoping!

Image found here

A Peaceful Place

2011-05-12T07:08:00.006+10:00

Morning All.

Do you ever feel

that life is flying by far too quickly,

that you almost can't keep up with it and

that you can't come up for air...

well that's where I'm at for the moment

I know that it's just a phase and in a couple of months it will all seem like a distant blur but for the time being I'm in the thick of it.

So here is a room that would live in my realm of fantasy..one that I can escape to when I need to take a moment to breathe, a second to pause.

Escape there with me today, rest your head on the fluffy pillow, curl your knees up to your chest, close your eyes and just be.

Image found here

Closet Secret

2011-05-11T06:58:00.001+10:00

Our next house is going to be somewhat smaller than we have now so when I stumble across a brilliant space saving idea such as this one I have to ear mark it for possible future reference.

Not only does this hide the overall space of what can be a messy area but also look at the detail - the chair fits under the desk perfectly so it can be shut away too! The decoration of it is so cute too - I would love the wallpaper in Malia's bedroom...Note to Self to hunt around for something like that as a feature wall. The use of space on the doors is brilliant- not one centimetre gone to waste. I really, really like this idea.

Image from here

Soft Pale Blue and Crisp White

2011-05-09T07:42:00.001+10:00

I love this combination. It brings back feelings of relaxation, calm, holidays and happy times. It sounds cliched but when I was pregnant and if I had a boy, I was so excited about decorating with pale blue and crisp white with an injection of red. I didn't have a boy yet I still have a page in my Inspiration File filled with magazine cuttings that is dedicted to a boys scheme. I've never decorated with this shade of blue in my home but if I had a holiday house by the sea then I would instantly go towards this combination - it screams of summer sunshine.

It's used in such an elegant manner in the above image. The wallpaper is gorgeous and I love how the curtains are in the same pattern so that they blend into the background.

As I mentioned earlier...pale blue and boys rooms...it just works.

What a stunning door- so intricate and ornate - can you imagine the room it leads into?

I've seen these pom poms used like this before in other colours and I am always drawn to it. It's such a fun quirky thing to do ... I'll take note for one of the girls' room in our future house!

So much is brilliant in this room - the steps up, same level bed height, drawers in the base and the same blue painted on the bed and the ceiling beams..love it!

Do you like this combination or is it not your taste?

Image found here

Garage Sale Day

2011-05-07T06:22:00.000+10:00

We're having a huge garage sale on our front lawn today. I have found it so cleansing going through all our bits with the mentality that if I haven't used it in the past two years then it can be sold. With the iminent move I am not relishing packing up so if there is less 'stuff' then that makes my job easier! I invited four neighbours around us to come and sell their wares on our lawn too so it should be a fun day.

Enjoy your weekend and I'll be back on Monday with another post in my colour combinations series.

Image found here

Favourite Colour Right Now

2011-05-06T07:34:00.003+10:00

I adore this seafoam green - blue colour at the moment. I have it dotted around my house but it is really jumping out at me in these images.

I particulalry love this last one- the cracked plaster on the walls, the ornate windows, spiral iron staircase and extravagant train on the dress all speak to me in the language of perfection. Just Exquisite.

Images found here

Light, White and Airy

2011-05-05T07:22:00.010+10:00

It's set to be a beautiful and sunny for the next couple of days ...well so the weather man says and we all know that he can sometimes get it oh so very wrong.

But putting my trust behind him here is a beautifully light filled room that matches the lightness of outside.

Isn't this teeny tiny house so serene with an enormous air of tranquility - I'd happily float around here!

Enjoy your day

Image found here

Childhood Memories of The Tuck Shop

2011-05-04T07:20:00.000+10:00

At boarding school we had a place called the Tuck Shop which was basically a sweet shop or confectionary store as they call it in the USA. As youngsters we would get so excited to go and spend our 50p pocket money on whatever sweets we liked... lemon sherberts, milk bottles and liquorice laces and jelly beans are only a few of what would land in the bottom of my paper bag only to be savoured outside on the grass.

I came across this gorgeous shop based in Seattle and thought straight back to my Tuck Shop days. Admittedly Dean Close School Tuck Shop was by no means anywhere near as fancy as this but in our ten year old eyes it was sweetie heaven.

Imagine being a child and walking into a store like this - your eyes would be as wide as saucers!

Images found here

x

Dolls Houses

2011-05-03T07:04:00.001+10:00

I secretly always wanted girls as my children....and I was very non secretly happy when I did! As you might have probably guessed by now.... I'm a girlie girl - I love pink , I love flowers, I love dresses...I Love prettiness. I don't try and hide - it's just the way I am.

So now I've had my two angels I have all these ideas of what I want to do with them and what I want to be able to give them. One of these things is a dolls house. As a small girl there is nothing more magical than being able to escape into this tiny house with the tiny furniture and the tiny people and let your imagination run wild. Malia and Lani are still far too young but one day I'll get them a dolls house.

Images found here

Hint From Nature - Yellow & Green

2011-05-02T08:26:00.000+10:00

I'm back with my Colour Combinations series - apologies about not doing last Mondays' but what with Easter and the public holidays I missed it...so here I am now.

With all this footage covering the Wedding in London, I noticed the abundance of flowers all over the City in particular yellow flowers and it got me thinking about the use of yellow and green in interiors. It's not a widely used combination but none the less it is one that works...let's take our cue from nature. If it works outside then its going to work inside.

I love the subtlety of the yellow here with the hint of orange as a little zing. The sofa colour is sublime.

Daffodils - the flower of spring (in Europe anyway!) These bright greens and yellows here have a real joyful effect in a bright and cheery way.

Doesn't this wallpaper give the bedroom a REAL wow factor. Amazing! The flower is so bold and strong in size but also quite subdued and I believe this is achieved in the tone of the yellow and green - it isn't in your face at all.

This bathroom is so warm and welcoming with the buttercup yellow cabinetry and sage green walls.

Images found here

Holiday Feel

2011-05-01T07:37:00.000+10:00

Doesn't this house have a lovely holiday feel? It's so fresh and calming. I can just imagine coming from the beach and wandering into a pint sized house like this. The aqua chairs are the perfect injection of colour with a light shade of aqua followed through in the console table and accessories.

Exciting news....we have decided to move back to Sydney! Yay!!! After two years on the Central Coast we feel it's time to head back to the Northern Beaches where most of our family and friends are based. So the house goes on the market in two weeks time...wish us luck. Then it's the long process of packing, moving, renting, buying and unpacking. Even that doesn't worry me too much as I'm so excited to get back to Sydney.

Enjoy your Sunday - we're busy getting the house ready for sale - so much to do, so little time!

Image found here

Let Us Welcome a Princess

2011-04-30T07:29:00.001+10:00

....And what a wedding it was!

Spectacularly beautiful in every conceivable way - Kate was ethreal in her beauty - poised, elegant, demur and dignified. A princess in the making.

Doesn't Britain do pomp and ceremony so very well? What a magical time for everyone to be part of such an important day in history. I was glued from beginning to end and feel a real pride at being British. Let them have a lifetime of happiness.

Image found here

It's Wedding Day!!!

2011-04-29T06:28:00.000+10:00

I am so excited that the big day is finally here for Wills & Kate! The Union Jack is flying high in my household and tonight I am going to be glued to the screen to watch this momentous occasion. I think London would be a magical place to be at the moment- so much joy, magic, anticipation and tradition.
If I can't be there in person then I'll be there in spirit!

I am most looking forward to see Kate's dress - I have no doubt that it will be stunning but here are a couple of images to set our minds imagining a fairytale dress . . .

I can't imagine how nervous Kate would be - it's hard enough on a 'normal' girls special day but imagine having to have your day broadcast to millions of people - my palms would be sweating just about now!

...........................

On a less romantic girlie note I thought I would let my patriotic side shine through - in what better way than to post the Union Jack!

I keep being told from those less into the monarchy:

Not to me it's not! I was too young to have watched Diana and Charles' wedding so this is most likely the only chance in my lifetime to see the future King of England wed with all the pomp and ceremony that the British do so well. There is a lot to be excited about I say.

So tonight you know where I'll be. Are you watching it too??? (Please say yes!)

Images found here

A Beautiful Dresser

2011-04-28T08:01:00.001+10:00

This dresser is picture perfect isn't it?

I love everything about it - it really speaks for itself I think.

All the objects are gorgeous but the very top shelf is amazing- the clock, globe, books - all so beautfully aged.

The Huile d'Olive cloth is a wonderful finishing touch.

Image found here

x

Surrounded By Creative Girls

2011-04-26T08:43:00.004+10:00

I'm lucky enough to include friends and family as creative types who constantly inspire me and who fortunately for everyone else write great blogs!

Before leaving interior decoration to have my two girls I worked with Bree of A Paddington Perspective fame and Lucy from Indigo Obsession. Bree provided so much guidance in my early days of decoration and it soon became apparent to me that she oozed class, sophistication and exquisite taste which is plain to see in her blog. Check out Lucy's blog for some brilliant cost effective ways to makeover your home and you'll get snippets of her own interior which is one of the most welcoming homes I've been to.

This is Bree's home as featured in Home Beautiful last year

Amazing hey!

Then we have my sister in law, Simone from Honey and Fizz. Can you imagine how rare that is to find two members (only related by marriage) of a tight knit family who share a passion of creativity and design. Brilliant for me- going to family functions, I always find myself steering towards her to have a good ol' chin wag on just about anything. The majority of you have found me through her post introducing me to blog land or previously showing my interior...but for those of you who have randomly found me then firstly check out Simone's wonderful daily blog but also her facebook page where she sells the best prints for girls, boys and adults alike.

This print is currently in Malia's room and I adore it

Lastly there is Angela from Wicker and Stitch (I also worked with her alongside Bree and Lucy). We first met four years ago and instantly hit it off but it is this last year, post baby phase for me, that our friendship has gone to another level. We share so much in common it makes us laugh - not only in our core values but also general interests which includes everything white, pastel, feminine, painted, vintage and much much more! As I've mentioned in a past post I have a twin brother which is fabulous but being a girls girl I always dreamed of having a sister....and you know what - Ang comes as close as I'll ever get to having that sister. She is kindness personified and is as pure a soul as you can find. Her blog is right up my alley- full of quirky finds, vintage heirlooms and great decoration images and advice. She also has a real talent for photography and for writing.

Photo by Ang

As I said, I feel so lucky to have worked with and be friends with such amazingly talented girls so if you haven't already then head on over to these blogs.

Yesterday I invited my parents up for lunch and decided to set the table with my great grandmothers 100 year old table linen.

(Excuse my photography, a camera is on my wish list for my birthday pressie in September!!). It looked beautiful and set the tone for a lovely relaxed long lunch - perfect for a rainy Anzac Day.

Here is a close up of the hand embroidered table cloth and napkins. Along with the flowers there is the intitial of my mother's maiden name (M for Mericq) on each napkin and the table cloth

The napkins are huge- double what a standard napkin would be now today. The reason for this apparently is because the fashion was long, full dresses and skirts and the cloth of the napkin needed to cover the lap and fall over the knees to protect the clothing.

Enjoy your Tuesday

A visit from the Easter Bunny

2011-04-22T17:15:00.000+10:00

To my lovely 32 followers and anyone else who happens upon my blog...I wish you a very Happy Easter Break

Apologies this is a bit late in the day but time has just whizzed by and suddenly the sun is already fading away.

We have a lovely couple of days planned with friends and family in Sydney and up here on the Central Coast - isn't that what this Easter break is all about?

Enjoy yourselves and I'll see you in a couple of days

A Perfectly Wrapped Present

2011-04-21T08:05:00.000+10:00

Another thing I'm telling you about me.

I love wrapping presents. I love buying the paper, matching the ribbon to the paper but also to the gift receiver...and then finding a tag or even making one that will bring the whole present together- like the icing on a cake!

If I could make a business out of wrapping presents for other people I would. The creativity that can go into wrapping is endless. Imagine having this room at your disposal...bliss...

Brilliant idea to use maps - turns it into a non gender specific gift.

The below image has such an organic feel to it with the various materials used in white or neutrals - the pearl and paper rosette is too cute.

These flower wrapped gifts are so feminine and sophisticated. The brown paper 'grounds' the look - if a pastel colour was used it would be too much. (I have to learn how to make fabric roses...If I do I'll let you know how.)

Image found here

Oh So Pretty!

2011-04-20T07:59:00.000+10:00

Are there some styles that you absolutely love...but couldn't live with?

For me this is one of them.

Looking at an image like this instantly makes me want to put on the prettiest dress and heels that I own and sit at that dressing table to apply my make up and brush my hair.

Of course it's all in my fantasy world as in reality it is just a little too girlie and ornate for my taste.

Putting my personal preferences aside this is a picture perfect, stunning room that I can truly appreciate ... from afar.

Image found here

My Weakness

2011-04-19T08:01:00.000+10:00

Let it be known that I have one (of many but lets highlight just one) great weakness .... nutella.

http://pinterest.com/pin/10138300/

I LOVE IT

Always have and I am sure always will...
On toast, scones, crackers, icecream, even breadsticks. I have even been known to grab a teaspoon loaded with my hazelnut chocolate heavenly goo and suck away at it like a lollipop.

What naughty weakness would you like to share with me?

Muted Greys and Dusky Pink

2011-04-18T08:30:00.001+10:00

Leading on from my red and aquas post last Monday I wanted to continue on with my Colour Combinations Series for the start of the week.

From charcoals to slate to platinum, grey is such a soothing and elegant colour to use in an interior scheme.

Used in conjunction with white rugs, painted floorboards and white curtains, a scheme using grey and white can have the lightest of touches resulting in a bright and airy feel.

There is such a warmth in grey and this can be seen in the slightest variations of the shade as seen in the image of these scarves below.

In the bedroom I adore grey and white bedding- it's so relaxing and would make me want to lie in bed all morning with a cup of tea and a newspaper! If you are using a monochromatic scheme then varying textures in the space will add subtle interest that can draw the eye from one area to the next.

Grey and white can be accented with almost any colour such as ice blue, sunshine yellow or simply black but one of my all time favourite combos is with pink...soft faded dusky pink.

Look at the pink kitchen aid mixer- I so want one!!!x

So lovely and feminine but the grey stops the pink from being sickly sweet.

We used to own a vespa before moving to the central coast and had so much fun on it.

Sadly it was black and not this cutest if pinks

Do you have favourite accent colour with grey and white?

Images from here

What An Entrance

2011-04-17T08:11:00.000+10:00

I stumbled across this hallway and had to share it with you.

What I love about it:

The muted grey walls

White gloss & dove grey panelling

The impossibly high ceilings

The high gloss floors

The crystal chandelier

Above all...the mirrors

The result:

A beautiful, light filled entrance way that sets the tone

for the rest of the house... relaxed feminine sophistication

One word:

Stunning!

Image found here:

Dining Table Cubby House

2011-04-15T07:30:00.002+10:00

I love, love, love this idea. What a fabulous little hideaway for the kiddies to play under and hide - why not use an item of furniture that is in every household and turn in into a hideaway place. Brilliant!

I will definitely be getting the sewing machine out and make this for the girls for those rainy winter days when I need to keep them occupied. Watch this space- I'll share with you how I go.

Have a great weekend
x

Image found here

Dreaming of Sleep

2011-04-14T07:22:00.002+10:00

With two such little ones, a full nights sleep has been an elusive dream for nearly three years now. Just when one is sleeping well right through the night, the other one starts niggling away...and then vice versa...it goes on and on. I know they will settle down as they grow up - half the problem is their rooms are right next to eachother and they are always waking eachother up.

In the meantime I will look at this beautiful bedroom and escape to a fantasy of sleeping ten hours straight with my two cats snuggled up beside me. Are you lucky enough to be getting your required beauty sleep?

Image found here

A Bit About Me

2011-04-13T06:30:00.001+10:00

I thought that only being new to blog land I should introduce myself properly and tell you A Bit About Myself...

Full name Emma Saskia Duckworth, married to Anthony with two daughters Malia, nearly 3 and Lani, nearly 2!

Where do I start ... well I'm lucky enough to have led and interesting and varied life so far that spans the globe.

I have a French Mother and English Father and have a twin brother who now lives in Maine, USA with his family. We lived an expatriate life in the Phillipines, Hong Kong (twice) and India from when my brother and I were two up until twenty years old. This meant we got to travel the world with my parents and visit countries and places that I dream about going to now adays.

On my honeymoon in Bali
To give us stability from when we were 10 years old my brother and I went to boarding school in the Cotswalds (a divinely beautiful part of England). My heart would tear in pieces at saying goodbye to my parents at the beginning of each term but school taught me to be fiercely independant both emotionally and practically.

With my yummy hubby

From there I studied at Uni in Oxford, trained in interior decoration in London then came backpacking to Australia with my best friend for a gap year...and this is where my Australian life began. I fell head over heels in love with Manly, Sydney and luckily enough my very own Aussie, and knew instantly that this sun burnt country would be my home forever.

Malia & Lani

Seven years on, another decoration course, various jobs in kitchen design, interior styling & colour consulting and one move up to the Central Coast later...my Aussie and I are married with two angels for daughters, Malia & Lani and two tabby cats saved from the animal shelter.

Say cheese!!!

Gosh - it's hard to sum up ones life in only a few sentances but there we have me in a nut shell. A little history behind Em.

Beautiful Photography

2011-04-12T08:01:00.000+10:00

Sometimes when I view images they are so intensely beautiful it hurts. Like music and the written word, imagery can have a profound effect on ones emotions quite suddenly and unexpectedly...they can bring both joy & sadness, longing & serenity and much, much more.

These two photos are achingly beautiful - the softness, elegance, subtlety and fragility in each shot is breathtaking. The lighting, architecture, hairstyles, jewellery & fabrics are without fault. It goes without saying that the sublime dresses speak for themselves.

Really, really stop & look...if you're lucky you may feel what I'm feeling too.

I hope so.

Images found here

Strawberry Red & Aqua Blue

2011-04-11T09:18:00.000+10:00

Every Monday I thought I would bring to you a post about colour combinations that work. So this is my first one for you.

All these images make me smile - it is such a bright a cheery pairing of two colours- perfect for the beginning of this week.

I love these two colours when the emphasis is on the white background with the red and aqua used in smaller measures. In the image above the red stool, lampshade and bottle are what draws the eye immediately and then the blue of the wallpaper and objects on the shelves jump out.

The wallpaper and tiles look like they are straight out of a Cath Kidstone advert (she's a fabulous English designer famous for her flowery prints...I'll do a post on her sometime soon) Such a pretty toilet!

Being a white and pastels devotee this combination is too bright for my own interior but I appreciate the magic that happens when these two colours are used together.

What a great idea for the wall behind the cot- scapbook card...simple and cost effective! I adore the cot- I would love this for my little girl Lani - she would look so cute in it.

A bit of quirkiness for the start of the week.

Images found here

My Birthday Boy

2011-04-11T07:00:00.002+10:00

It's my gorgeous husband, Anthony's birthday today.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY my lovely one.

Never a truer word could be said.

He's the most patient, caring, articulate man that I know and deserves a magical day.

Love you!

Images found here

Pssst...

2011-04-10T19:19:00.000+10:00

Image found here

A Kiss and A Hug

2011-04-10T08:31:00.000+10:00

Moments like these are so important.
In our fast paced and busy lives we sometimes forget to give enough kisses, give enough hugs and say I love you.

Soooooo........

Take a minute to stop.
Kiss those that you so love.
Touch their face.
Squeeze their hand.
Hug them tight.
Appreciate them.

Take a moment to do this- you'll feel better for it...I know I will

Enjoy your Sunday

Images found here

Sewing Nook

2011-04-09T09:30:00.003+10:00

Yay it's Saturday!

Isn't this the cutest little sewing / craft area you've ever seen? I adore the abundance of patterns on the doors, the walls and the drawers. It is so quirky and fresh ... my sewing fingers would dance all over fabric if I were to sew in a corner like this.

Enjoy yourselves this weekend

Image found here

Linen Love

2011-04-08T08:00:00.001+10:00

I have for many years had an intense love affair with linen

(hence the title of my blog)

I love how smooth the fibres are, how cool it is in summer against your skin, how when its crumpled...it still looks beautiful. I love how it provides a relaxed elegance in your home that is instantly recognizable, how it comes as rough jute fibre or silky soft for handkerchiefs and I love all the colour variations from crisp white to soft taupe to warm greys.

We see linen in napkins, table cloths, scatter cushions, bedlinen, curtains, tote bags, scarves, clothing, espadrille french shoes and a multitude of other uses.

So where has this love affair stemmed from I hear you asking ... well two words- French mother. Yes I am lucky enough to have a blood line to the home country of beautiful linen!! So lets blame my obsession on my breeding - well at least that's the excuse I keep telling my husband when I'm eying up another piece of linen for home!

I am so fortunate to have been passed on some exquisite pieces by my mother - table cloth & napkins, Euro pillow cases, sheets, handkerchiefs all hand embroidered and monogrammed by my great grandmother. It makes my heart sing when I see these little pieces of ancient perfection. At some point I'll give you a sneak peek into my collection.

Quite simply...Linen I love You

Images found here

Reclaimed Wood

2011-04-07T14:00:00.000+10:00

I stumbled across these images over the past couple of days and each and evertime I would open them up I immediately wanted to dive into the room and touch the reclaimed wood with my hand - isn't it such a tactile product?

I adore the painted 'love' on this particular headboard and how the mustard yellow paint colour is copied in the cushion fabric and the charcoal walls is carried through to the cushion & blanket. All this loveliness off set with the crisp white bedlinen and the shell disc candelier above ... in one small photo shot there is balance in colours, texture and interest.

If there wasn't the distressed wood used as the headboard going up the wall then this bedroom area would feel very masculine and minimalist indeed. Yet with the wood it softens the feel with the variations of grey in the timber and I love the detail of the reclaimed wood being used on the step into the bed area too.

I need not write anything here - the beauty of the staircase and handrail speak for themselves!

How clever to use an old pallet as shelving against the wall. I see disused old pallets all the time thrown by the side of the road and some have been there so long the wood has 'greyed' with the exposure to light into such a beautiful colour timber. Love this idea! I have used pallet wood as a frame to my large kitchen chalkboard and it looks fantastic.

Without the warmth of the timber benchtop on the island this kitchen could have felt extremely sterile but with the differance in tone to white, the timber instantly adds warmth. This kitchen has all the elements I would love in my future kitchen- subway tiles, butlers sink, painted wood ceiling and floor and wooden island top with open shelving. I'll keep dreaming...

In this day and age where timber is at a premium isn't it a must to re-use and upcycle wherever we can?

Image here

Angel Wings

2011-04-06T14:02:00.000+10:00

Isn't there something inexplicably magical about angel wings?

Isn't it comforting to believe that...?

Isn't it lovely to know that our children are each an angel in their own right?

Isn't it amazing how a collection of angel wings can be the perfect finishing touch to a simple but stunning room?

Isn't it wonderful to have angels at your dining table?

Images from here

Happy believeing

Imaginative Girlie Bedroom

2011-04-06T07:54:00.000+10:00

What a beautiful bedroom for a little girl to grow up in.

Not only is it imaginative but also a great use of space.

The decals and patterned materials used are so cute.

It's light, bright and fresh but the mid to dark tone timber of the desk and chair grounds the scheme to prevent it from being too airy fairy.

I love the painted pink floor- an unusual option that really works.

Image from here

My favourite part of the decoration though is the ladder - the use of worn distressed wood leading up to the painted panelling of the bed above is gorgeous. It's so tactile and inviting and there is no better combination than paint, particularly pink paint and wood hey!

Open Day

2011-04-05T19:49:00.000+10:00

Well my fellow bloggers- this is my very first contribution into a world that unites us all - blog land! I have been umming and aaring for so long as to whether or not to take the plunge and start 'me' up...but here I am ready to show and share with you all that I love and all that inspires me. Sooooo...Faded White Linen is officially open!

As you join me on my journey you will notice my love (verging on obsession) with all things white, rustic/distressed, antique, feminine and just plain pretty. Here is a peek at what is to come...

Perfect setting for an outdoor afternoon tea don't you think? I love the pink and blue lanterns that match the sashes on the chairs.

My heart skips a beat when I see an image like this. Whenever I visit a second hand shop I instantly go to the cutlery box to see what odds and ends are to be found

Maybe one day a piece like this might just end up in my kitchen!

Au revoir for the moment and thank you for joining me

xxx

Images found here