Retro ~ Diva

Adios Shabby Chic . . Hello Retro . . .

2011-01-11T16:59:00.003+10:00

Orla Kiely ~ Irish Designer . . to be sure

Amy Butler

Amt Butler Bedding

Hi Everyone! Happy New Year to all !

It has been almost a year since my last Blog entry, and it has been an eventful year that has included family issues and sadness, work related stress and injury and a change of decorating direction that has perhaps has involved a mid-life crisis.

After almost ten years of the melancholy colours of the Shabby Chic style, I have found myself moving towards brighter colours and a retro style of furniture and ephemera. Although I still like the muted pinks,blues, greens and greys, I have just found I have needed a more inspirational style of interior decoration.

I have enjoyed the designs of bedding and textiles of designers Amy Butler and Orla Kiely in recent months and have had a complete move towards this interior styling.

I am selling many of my Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic pieces through my Ebay store "Retro~Girl ~ Retro~Living" and have given away many pieces to family and friends too.

In addition, I have also changed many of my chandelier collection too and have added these to my auction list. ( So please check out my items on Ebay! ).

Some of the design aesthetic are in photos below from the Amy Butler & Orly Kiely Websites.

I have also working through a process of changing my furniture to the more classic pieces of Eames, Cartell, Le Corbusier and Saarinen supported by the textiles of Amy Butler, Marimekko and Orla Kiely.

I am becoming fascinated with modern architecture too, love the Rose Siedler House in NSW. Maybe it because I'm getting older, but the sophisticated style really appeals to me now.

Not to mention, I'm loving Ikea more and more !!

All good things come to an end . . . . .

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

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Big Kisses and Hugs to All this Valentine's Day !!

~ Bedroom Re-Design ~

2010-01-17T14:20:00.005+10:00

Possible choice for a new bed

Rachel Ashwells' ~ Heritage Paisley

Bemberg Collection ~ soft and very gorgeous !

The new bedskirt is Lace from the Bemberg Collection

The trouble with having too many duvets, is the endless temptation to change the covers. Soo many choices . . . .not enough time !!

As many would know, I love (like many others . . ) the designs and patterns by Rachel Ashwell.

I have collected many in the past few years, and have also let many go to other homes, as I have too many. I am seriously addicted to the Bemberg Collection ~ 1940's lingerie inspired fabrics that are so soft to the touch! Beautiful ! I have recently purchased a duvet and bedskirt from a lovely Ebay lady ~ Thanks Phaedra! ~ who herself loves these designs too. I don't see many of these pieces any more as I a scruffing through Ebay, and when I do (and can afford it), I snap it up !!

One of her last designs before Shabby Chic closed it's doors last year (Now it has been re-opened in two stores in California and New York), was the pretty Heritage Paisley collection. Mmmm . .

I have brought a fresh look to the linens after Christmas, but the Heritage Paisley will be the treat for the winter months as it is a heavier linen blend material.

I am looking to purchase another bed, as I am needing a change. This bed has been with me since I got married almost 18 years ago ~ time for a new one.

I have some ideas for a french style one or one with an upholstered / tufted headboard.

Any ideas on where I could go shopping ??

The great shops are always down south in the southern states( I know that you can buy on line a & have it couriered to me here), BUT if anyone knows of a great and secret surprise place in Queensland ~ Tell me !!

What styles of bedroom furniture do you like ??

I look forward to hearing what you have to say . . . .

Nessy x x

A Design Inc Year for 2010

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Well . .it's official . . . 2010 is finally here! And one of my new year resolutions was to find the time to redecorate and revamp the inside of our home.

I am so into the design style of Rachel Ashwell (I know it seems a cliche!) BUT I'm moving towards the interior designs of Toronto based (Canada) designer Sarah Richardson. She has had a show seen on Foxtel/Austar programming for many years and her style is classic, chic, crisp, with a touch of contemporary bling !! Like Rachel, Sarah began her career as a prop stylist and set decorator and has truly marked out a gorgeous career designing and decorating with a keen eye and instinct. There seems to be no job she has completed that I don't like ~ I love the simplicity and yet, cutting edge of style.

Is this it ?? Am I finally leaving the Shabby Chic cult ??

I am finding the juxtapostion of both styles refreshing ang pleasing to me.

She has a webpage ~ sarahrichardsondesign ~ which showcases her design flair, homes she has completed, tips for interior design and other projects. this is pure inspiration !!

Does anyone else like her shows on TV ??(there are three ~ Design Inc, Room Service and Sarah's House).

I believe that my taste and style is evolving and maturing now . . . .

Now where did I put that Paint brush ??

Until next time,

Nessy

HAPPY NEW YEAR ~ WELCOME 2010

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HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE ~ MANY BLESSINGS FOR 2010 !!

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HOLIDAYS

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MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !!

I HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS,

AND SAFE AND BLESSED NEW YEAR !

ENJOY OPENING ALL THE GREAT PRESENTS AND GIFTS . . .

THE SMELL OF THE PINE, EGG NOG, PEPPERMINT CANDY CANES, CINNAMON COOKIES AND PUDDINGS !

MAY YOUR TREES TWINKLE BRIGHTLY,

YOUR SMILES SPARKLE AND BEAM

AND ALL YOUR WISHES COME TRUE !

HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND MERRY CHRISTMAS !!

TRY AND STAY AWAY FROM THE FRUIT MINCE PIES . . . .

NESSY x x x x

More Holiday Decorating . .

2009-12-12T16:13:00.003+10:00

Vintage Mercury Christmas 'Clowns'

Pink and Vintage . . . Just Yummy !!

Happy Pastel Christmas !!

Vintage Mercury Glass

Pink Christmas Tree . . says it all . . .

Happy Holidays to All . . . .

~Christmas 2009~Happy Holiday Decorating~

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Three pretty wreaths all in a row

I just love these houses . . glitter is just 'it' for me

The Vintage Mercury-Glass Decorated Tree

Hand-Made Vintage Chenille Stockings

My Front Foyer . . . a welcome Shabby vision of Pink !!

Hey Groovers !

Just a few photos of Christmas 2009 decorating this year.

It's such an 'event' to bring out the decorations, tinsel and trees each year, gently unwrap the fragile mercury glass ornaments and all sorts of twinkles and treasures !! I love it !! I get SO excited, and each un-wrapping is just like a gift.

It's a magical time of year, and now that my girls are in their teens for several years now, I can safely know that they can handle the more mature decorating style.

I tried the shabby decorating when they were smaller, not only was the style lost on them, many ornaments found themselves broken or lost !! Too many broken vintage mercury tree ornaments sadly were broken that year. To appease the more 'contemporary' members of my family, I have several rooms that are dedicated to pink & pastels, and that rest of the house is more of the red and green style!

I love collecting vintage pieces and adore vintage mercury baubles and tree decorations ~ Thank-You Ebay !! Many of of collection has come from the U.S.A, where they have an abundant source of the 'beautiful' and 'vintage' !

I sent my letter to Santa with several ideas for Christmas gifts, I wonder if the 'big' man will surprise me this year ?

I enjoyed collecting Cookie recipes from Scrappy Jessi's 3rd Annual Cookie Exchange ( Thanks to our Host, Jessi ! ! ), and look forward to baking some over the next few weeks. Such Fun !! For a fun time please see Jessi's blog.

Now . . . If only it could snow . . . . . .

Happy Holiday Decorating,

Nessy X X X

COOKIE EXCHANGE DAY !!!

2009-12-03T11:24:00.004+10:00

YUMMY !!

HELLO !! AND WELCOME TO THE 3RD ANNUAL COOKIE EXCHANGE !!

Being Australian, I have chosen a Quintessential Cookie (or biscuits as we call them!) that is well known here 'Down Under", and enjoyed by many !!

The ANZAC Cookie!

Just a brief history lesson for those who aren't quite sure what they are.

ANZAC stand for the Australian & New Zealand Army Corps who were serving soldiers during World war I. This traditional Aussie biscuit, made by the women at home, were sent overseas to our serving ANZAC's for their excellent 'keeping' properties.

Originally named 'SOLDIER BISCUITS' and containing just flour, sugar, milk powder and water, amazingly made the journey overseas.

ANZAC Day is a National Holiday in Australia & New Zealand, celebrated annually on April 25th.

The Recipe . . . .

INGREDIENTS

1 cup of Plain Flour

1 Cup of Rolled Oats

1 Cup of Brown Sugar

1/2 Cup Coconut

125gm of Butter

2 Tbls of Golden Syrup

1 Tbls of Water

1/2 Tsp of Bicarbonate of Soda

METHOD

1. Sift Flour into a Bowl, then Add the Sugar, Rolled Oats and Coconut.

2. Melt the Butter in a Saucepan, and Add the Golden Syrup and Water.

3. Stir the Bicarbonate of Soda ino the Liquid mixture.

4. Add the liquid into the Dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.

5. Place Walnut sizes balls of mixture onto a greased cookie tray and bake at 175 degrees

Celsius for 15 - 20 minutes until golden brown !!

6. Biscuits will harden when cooled.

7. Yummy ! Now eat with milk or Hot Chocolate . . . . .

P.S. For Crunchier cookies, use more Golden Syrup !!

I look forward to catching up with everyone else's Cookie recipes and I just LOVE cookies !!

Cookies . . . . . Cookies . . . . . Cookies . . . . . YUMMY !!

Thanks for stopping by,

Nessy (Vintage Diva and Cookie-a-holic !!) X X X

3rd Annual Cookie Exchange

2009-11-26T19:21:00.002+10:00

How Exciting ! ! . .

I have just signed up for Scrappy Jessi's 3rd Annual Cookie Exchange

All you need to do is have a Cookie Post on the 3rd December !!

I can't wait !! . . . . .

Please see Jessi's Blog at scrappyjessi.blogspot.com for more information !!

See You then . . .

2009-11-25T21:35:00.002+10:00

Here is the new Rachel Ashwell Book SHABBY CHIC INTERIORS . . . .

Just beautiful and inspirational !

Vintage Doll Brooches from Eye Candy Creations

2009-09-29T22:06:00.003+10:00

Miss Lauren on the Lampshade

Miss Lauren . . . Sunshine yellow

Miss Sasha . . . Brunettes do have all the fun!

Unique Miss Sasha ~ made with love by Jennifer Hayslip

Let me introduce you to Miss Sasha and Miss Lauren . . . .

These beautiful vintage hand made Dolls Head Brooches are by the VERY talented Jennifer Hayslip of SWEET EYE CANDY CREATIONS.

I bought two of them in July 2008 and have moved them around in that time, from Denim jackets, baskets and lampshades.

These delightful ladies arrived in a decorative pink polka-dot box complete with ribbon.

It was like opening a unexpected Christmas gift that was given all the wonderful gentle attention and care!

Her chic home is featured in the October issue of Romantic Country magazine.

Thanks to Jennifer for her vintage pieces.

sweeteyecandycreations.typepad.com

Nessy

Raphael Designs . . . Gorgeous Designer

2009-09-29T18:31:00.003+10:00

This is Carrie Raphael and she is a talented designer from the U.S.A, she (and her beautiful house) has featured inmany American magazines like U.S. Country Home and U.S Country Living.

You may recognise her nad her designs, decorating and gorgeous pieces that she makes from vintage fabrics.

If you haven't already, please check out her website and enjoy the stunning pictures, photos and designs.

You can also look up the many publications she has featured in.

Stylishly shabby and definitely chic !!

Nessy

Springtime in Montville

2009-09-29T17:57:00.004+10:00

The view over the Park - "Gorgeous" !!

Even the Ginger Cat "Billy", enjoys the Spring Sunshine

Daisy's are such Happy flowers . . .

Pink Roses . . . . enough said . . .

SPRING TIME IN MONTVILLE . . .

Just like the rest of Australia, Spring has arrived here in the Hinterland. I have spend the last few days repotting plants and bringing new flowers and roses onto the back deck, that overlooks one magnificent view of the Russell Family Park.

The Camphor Laurels, Fig trees and White Cedars are amass of new bright green leaves.

It has been several months since my last entry, and it has been a troubling and sleepless time, but as Spring approached it was time for a fresh breath of air and a settling time for my daughter, who has had a difficult time these past months.

I just thought I would share the new pots.

Nessy

Beyond Blue . . .

2009-07-21T18:02:00.003+10:00

A Mother's Love . . . .

It's with a mixture of sadness, despair, helplessness and guilt that I sit down to write this Blog. It's a chance for me to say what I can't always say out loud to the one I love.
My beautiful seventeen year old daughter is living with clinical depression, and something that I can only watch her suffer through.

After the sudden & tragic death of a young friend about a year ago, She seemed to change. It's difficult when the changes are subtle and mixed with adolescent angst. It's hard enough to grow up let alone with depression to 'get you down' more.
She has struggled with her identity & where she 'fits' in the world, her future, her self-esteem and questions relentlessly her role in life.
It's sad that as a mother I can't help her, as you once could with a cuddle and a band-aid.
It's sad that there is nothing that I can say to 'make it better' or help the sadness.
It's a sense of failure, that she's fallen and I don't know what to do to help her.
I am always in the background which is where she wants me at the moment, but always ready to jump to her aid.
I live in constant fear that those moments when she is so low, where she feels like ending it all that I pray that she will make it through the night. The constant hypervigilance is exhausting, but I do not know what else to do.
She has started on several anti-depressant medications in the last few months, which were not successful and onewhich made her so agitated and unwell that I did not sleep for several nights and spend them on the couch, close by, so thta I could keep an eye on her.
This medication, the third, is hopefully going to help her and assist to lift the endless dark clouds that surround her mind and body. There is a light at the end of the tunnel . . .she just can't see it yet.
The therapist says it all take time to heal, and I hope that she can.

The hardest and most difficult part is the fleeting & fluctuating suicidal ideation. It is hard to know when and where her head space is. Now-a-days if she's alive each morning, I consider it a thankful and good day. Raw, I know, but real.
She has so much to offer the world and without her the world would be a smaller and duller place.

The guilt I feel comes from a place deep in side that can't help but ask 'Did I cause this?", "Was there anything that I did or didn't do". So many questions, so little answers.

But my feelings are made worse when I stop to consider "This isn't about me", what am I doing??

Our once close relationship has now changed, and I am a stranger in her life. She and I had alot in common, enjoyed time together and talked alot. She's getting older and I suppose there was always going to be a time when she was to develop away from me, seek her own identity in order to re-connect with the family unit again. It was what we all did when we were seventeen.

I am always here for her, I tell her that alot and will always support her in any way I can.

It's just a wait & watch game, but a game I don't enjoy playing . . . .

This Blog does not necessarily make me feel any better, it probably doesn't make any sense nor serve any purpose. But I needed to express my feelings in a manner that may help me or others. A support group may be a good idea too.
To my beloved girl . . . I pray you heal so that the world can see & know you like I do . . .

Nessy (Mummy) X X X

Montville Village - Beautiful One Day, Gorgeous The Next !!

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The Village Green & Hall

The breath-taking views

The Main Street of the Village

Shops . . .Shops . . .Shops

Montville Village . . . It's where I live, and I love it !!

In the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, 45 minutes north of Brisbane, lies a quiet Alpine village.

This little place is a mecca for the arts, culture, music, food & wine, and tourism. People from all over Queensland, interstate, and overseas come to visit this beautiful, yet understated place.

In winter the air is filled with pine and fireplaces . . .

The rain brings in the clouds and mist that envelopes the hills with a blanket of white . . .

Spring is a visual delight of colour and fragrance . . .

and the views are breathtaking mixture of rolling green hills and sea views . . .

I could go on forever about this little place in the hills that has captured my heart. My love affair with this small village began 10 years ago, when I came here on a 'belated' honeymoon (about six years after the wedding), when we lived in Brisbane.

It was during this visit that it stole my heart & my hubby's, and plans began to move here.

It took just under a year and the dream became a reality . . .

The photos say it all . . . .

Until next time . ..

Montville Nessy

New York, London, Milan . . .Montville . . .

JUNK GYPSY ~ RAMBLER OF THE MONTH !!

2009-06-18T17:56:00.004+10:00

Boots, Boots . . Wonderful boots . . .

My favourite Ol' Gringos . . . .

Anyone ready for the Party ?? Junk-O-Rama . . here I come . . .

This sign says it all . . . . .

Hey Y'all !!

Thanks to the Gals at Junk Gypsy ~ As I was chosen to be one of the lucky three to be featured on their "Rambler of the Month" profile, at the BlackTop Rambler Cafe !!

Yehaww !! I am truly blown away . . . what a way to start the month of June !!

I just love those gypsy girls, vintage vixens and junk lovers !! For anyone that isn't aware of Gypsyville.com, it is a fantastic website full of wunderlust, roadtrips, junk finds, vagabond appeal and cowgirl philosophy !! The party never stops and the road goes on forever . . . . .

The tees are adorable and so gypsy, and of course I have way too many !!

The BlackTop Rambler Cafe is a great opportunity for all with a common love (of junk, of course!) to get together, chat and to put on your Ol' Gringos !!

Check out the girls at Gypsyville.com and The Blacktop Rambler Cafe.

Thanks again . . . . . Kiss My Grits . . .

Nessy

AN END TO A DECORATING ERA . . . . .

2009-04-16T11:20:00.003+10:00

In recent months, Rachel Ashwell (the Queen of Decorating) has decided to close Shabby Chic.
I must admit, when I read her Blog ~ shabbychic.blogspot.com ~ I wasn't sure that I was reading it right. Could it be possible ??? . . . . .was this a kind of joke ?? . . . . .Surely there has to be a mistake . . . . . .

Yes! It seems that the economic turmoil (as well as other reasons for her decision) has even affected a great and beautiful company. It seems saddening, if not, surreal, that there will be a world without Shabby Chic stores, Shabby Chic On-line shopping and new Rachel Ashwell designs, furniture and accessories. I suppose, there is Ebay . . . . but it's not quite the same now is it ?

Her Blog entries have been honest, emotional,raw and yet, uplifting. As many people have written messages of hope, support and touching retrospects of how her philosophy of

"Beauty . . Function . .Comfort" has enriched lives and many homes.

Over the past seven years, I have gathered many of her pieces, items and collections in my own home, and am certainly one of the many converted that have re-decorated my own home

(. . .and life) in this style.

Before Christmas, I bought Duvets, Shams, Pillows and Sleeping bags from the On-Line Shabby Chic store in the U.S. I has visited the site many times before, but didn't quite have enough saved to spend. So I saved and slaved my pennies, and just before Christmas . . . . . .I went on a spending bender !!

The site is just beautiful, and it was quite easy to get 'lost' for several hours, as one drools over the photos and struggles whether to but two . .not one . .of the decided item !!

I also managed to buy Gift baskets, Candles and even Baby items (for future grandchildren ??).

My own daughters, although 17 and 14, have grown up around the soft edges of Shabby Chic, and have not known what it would be like without their mother referring to Rachel Ashwell as a 'domestic goddess'. It seems difficult, even for them, to understand that sometimes even big companies have to regroup, move-on and even close their doors.

I Thank Rachel Ashwell for the revolution in Home decorating, Her strength of character, Her Holistic approach to living & designing and the enrichment of individual lives. Shabby Chic was more than just pretty items and bedding . . . . . .

I look forward to the publication of her next book, which I understand will be out later this year and once again, cannot wait to devour page after page of beauty and desire !!

I have posted some photos from her Shabby Chic website of what is now "treasured" Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic pieces and Give her all my Blessings & Best Wishes for what the future hold for this dynamic, creative and inspiring person.

Here's to the one of the greatest design divas in our history . . . . . . .Rachel Ashwell.

Until next time, Nessy (always Shabby Chic)

The photos on this Blog entry are from the Shabby Chic website and are NOT my own work.

Happy Easter 2009

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HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

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HAPPY VALENTINES DAY TO ALL !!

How do I love thee ? Let me count the ways.

I love thee to the depth and breadth and height

My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight

For the ends of Being and ideal grace.

I love thee to the level of every day's

Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.

I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;

I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.

I love thee with the passion put to use

In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.

I love theewith a love I seemed to lose

With my lost saints, - I love thee with the breath,

Smiles, tears, of all life! - and if God choose,

I shall love thee better after death.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Happy Valentines Day ~ Love Nessy X X X

Time to stop and Smell the Flowers . . .

2009-01-15T14:34:00.003+10:00

I've spent alot of time recently in my garden taking in the smells, sounds of the tiny wrens and swallows, and the abundance of butterflies that surround my newly planted flowers and bushes.

It helps me to "Feed the Soul" , quietly gather strength and refocus.

I have been quite ill over the past three months with a mystery illness that has affected my body and . . . . . my sanity.

Recovery has been long, but I have been told that recovery is a journey and not a miracle cure !!

It has taken over my life lately, with time off from work, a stressed family and way too much time to think !!

I have been busy spending money to complete a small part of my front garden, complete with Geisha Girl topiary's and some daisy's (I couldn't possible kill those with my not-so-green-fingers . . . could I ??).

I needed something else to focus on and the feeling that I actually could achieve something small was good ~ and cheaper than therapy !!

I'm at my most happiest when I am tending to the garden, there's something organically basic about the soil and pushing your fingers through the dirt isn't there ?? I suppose it is being one with nature. I should do it more often.

I've got a large Urn as a centrepiece, but sort of ran out of inspiration at that point and plunked a blue Salvia into it, but it seems out of place.

Although I'm not a Maestro at plant names, descriptions, requirements and general plant knowledge, I just like flowers. I am always impressed at those who know so much about plants and flowers.

I'm not too sure if a trailing plant may suit it better . . . . . . .

Until next time, See you in the Garden . . . . .

HO HO HO . . . .

2008-12-22T17:59:00.003+10:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !!

I HOPE EVERYONE HAS A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS AND A SAFE AND BLESSED 2009 !!

MAY ALL THE MINCE PIES, CAKES AND PAVLOVAS NEVER FIND YOUR WAIST . . . .

MAY ALL THE CRACKERS POP . .

MAY ALL THE FAMILY GET 'ALONG' . . .

AND

MAY ALL YOUR PRESENTS BE LOVELY !!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE !!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2008-11-26T16:31:00.005+10:00

Happy Thanksgiving to All !!

Especially my American friends and GalPals !!

To all those creative Divas throughout the world, on the Internet and on Home soil - Bless you All !!

The Things That I am Thankful for This Year :

Another year of Good Health and the continuing Good Health to my Family & Friends
Warm chocolate milk with cookies
Taking the Road Less Travelled
Snuggling under vintage quilts
Smiles from perfect strangers
A gentle breeze full of fragrance
Flowers, in particular, Roses and Peonies
My husband, who just 'gets' me
All volunteers and people that work hard to save all animals and four-legged friends !
Days off from work
Jeans, jeans, jeans
The next door neighbour who Hums when he gardens
Wrens and Swallows that sing all day long
Rainy Days with a long book
Everything pink . . . . pastel blue, green
Roadtrips and Junk Jaunts
Having someone to help when you have a flat tyre
Creative and Talented people
Loving cuddles from children for apparently No reason !
Anything with Sugar in it . . . .
Vintage, peeling and painted furniture
My Mother and Father, with their endless unconditional love and patience
Junk Gypsies
Blue skies and Sunshine
Flea Markets, Garage & Estate Sales
My New Mini Convertable
Chocolate (enough said) . .. .
A Renovation, that has Finally Finished !!

~~~ HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE ~~~

It's Beginning to Look Alot Like Christmas . . .

2008-11-15T19:49:00.003+10:00

I've bought a small village . . . . . .

No, really . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Well, Okay, I really bought two . . . . .

Alright, it's not what you thought !!

I bought in a post Christmas sales earlier this year, two of the most beautiful little Christmas village displays (Dirt cheap !!). They do Christmas "BIG" in the States don't they ?

I purchased them from a lovely internet store called "Room Service Home" - (http://www.roomservicehome.com/)

Delightfully packaged and sent from the United States, these were just divine when I opened up the box. It glowed and shone with glitter and vintage mica.

Each little house has a hole in the back to insert a small bulb to light up the home, but I have to buy a step down transformer, as the power here in Oz is alittle to crazy for the smaller volt bulbs !! ( Learnt that one the hard way !!)

I've set them up in the lounge room and they look quite cute. I can't wait to have the bulbs working !!

I'm going to complete the look with some cotton wool or batting to give the impression of snow.

Any other suggestions on how to make this a little more "life-like" ??

More photos as soon as I finish decorating the big tree in the stair case - I've been waiting for this one since I started renovating !!

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas . . . . . . . . . .

A Finally Finished Kitchen, A new Dry-Stone Wall . . . What more Could a Girl Want ???

2008-11-08T21:33:00.005+10:00

It's been several months since my last Blog entry. Like many of you, I dare say, I have been busy since the last tradesman packed his toolbox and left the renovation for the last time !!
The year is ripping by so very fast and Christmas will be here faster than I can wrap gifts.

It has been a very long twelve months of renovating, and at this time I'm happy to say that "I will NEVER do it again" !!!

The building process was frustrating, disappointing and yet exciting at the same time. I might as well have been drunk for the past year, for the 'woosy' and disorientating feeling it leaves you with.

Despite the kitchen going in about six months ago, I had decided that over head cupboards wouldn't be necessary. Hmm . . . . . How wrong was that statement . . .

After unpacking all the boxes that had stored by bits & pieces for so long, it was quickly apparent that there was not enough space. A well conceived plan . . a delusional mind !!!

So recently we decided to go ahead and have the cupboards made to complete the look and then I would be safe in the knowledge that the plates were somewhere easily accessed & not squeezed in a drawer !! So many jammed and sore fingers . . So not worth it !!

I even decided that the kitchen really does look like a kitchen now, even with under-cupboard lighting. And on the 7th day He created LED lighting !!

I love the Artic glass on the cupboard doors, it keeps the 'mess' out of sight, but reflects the light . . Good thinking Sherlock !

The other BIG job was our retaining wall along the driveway. Unable to do it for the past 4 years, as we were planning on renovating and it would of had to come down for all the trucks and 'stuff' to make it to the back of the house. Instead, I would sit for hours staring at the volcanic soil and sighing "Soon" "Soon" "Please be Soon"

Well it's done and the Hubby did a fantastic job! ! ! 12 tonn of rocks were moved by his hands and a dolly over 5 days. Pretty clever ! Not to mention, pretty sore afterwards.

Nice work Hubby-Of-Mine . . . . .

Nessy X X X

More Gypsy . . .

2008-08-30T12:57:00.001+10:00

Find more photos like this on Junk Gypsy Co.

Gypsy-fied at the Cafe !!

2008-08-30T12:56:00.001+10:00

Visit Junk Gypsy Co.

THE JUNK GYPSY'S - COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS !!

2008-07-19T19:09:00.002+10:00

I have found the perfectly wonderful Website !!

It's called Gypsyville.com.

This gorgeous site is the world headquarters of the Junk Gypsy Co, in College Station, Texas, USA.

It was founded by Amie, Janie and Jolie Sikes, and they have the most incredible taste in design, clothing, style and jewellry EVER !!

They use phrases like " Hippie Texas Cowgirl Flair", this unique style is about the free-wheeling, road-running flea market lifestyle !! They describe people who like this style as Vagabonds, Vixens and Rebel Road Sista - to name just a few !!

Check out their Site and don't forget that they are also on You Tube (just punch in Junk Gypsy) and you can view a piece by the Texas Reporter about them, the family and the business !!!

There are pages of Road Pics, Style, Gypsy Goods and ever So much more . . . . . .

Their Tees are to die for . . . . literally !! They sell all sorts of Flea market Junk finds and the scrap metal necklaces are gorgeous (Well, I like them anyway).

I've placed some pictures from their website so you can get a hint of what I'm talking about, HOWEVER - I do not take any credit for these photos.

They belong solely to the Junk Gypsy's

STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN . . . . .

2008-05-26T16:24:00.002+10:00

The new staircase has just been installed today and it's quite breathtaking (Well, from where I stand it is !).

It will have stained treads and the handrails, but the rest will be painted an Antique White by Dulux.

I can't wait for Christmas now, where the stairs will be decorated with a lighted holly wreath from the United States and at the base of the stairs will sit a giant 9" LED pre-lit Christmas tree (from, once again the U.S).

It's almost Sugarplum fairy and sleigh bells !! It is very exciting !

Funnily enough, when the plans were being drawn up and the stairs designed, I had a very clear picture of this set up at Christmas and the rest of the house just came into being !!

The really nice gentleman (or should I say Artist ?) that created this masterpiece spent the entire time during the planning grinning at me when I described how the "end-result" would look complete with the Tree, Garlands and Children !!

Hmmm . . . Can anyone say certifiable ten times fast ? ? ?

I have always dreamed of having a Christmas where you run down the stairs on Christmas morning, excitedly gleaming at the tree as you attempt not to fall all the way down the stairs as you were trying to race to the presents.

Somehow this dream didn't include me as a Forty- something ! Oh well, the kids, and future grandchildren will have to have that fun and start their own memories !!

Now . . all I have to do now is paint . . . . .

Coffee anyone ??

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2008-05-12T17:02:00.002+10:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE SPECIAL, HARD-WORKING, DEDICATED AND LOVING MOTHER'S ALL OVER THE WORLD !!

MAY TODAY BE ANOTHER BLESSING . . . . . .

Copyright and Permission . . .

2008-04-10T20:02:00.005+10:00

Hi Everyone!
Just a polite reminder for other Bloggers to ask permission to use material and photos from my Blog before posting it on their own please. These photos of my home have been take by me and therefore require my permission for others to use.
If you would like to use any of these photos it would be advantageous to confirm permission first.
On that note I will say NO more, as it is for the respect for not only me BUT for all the other Bloggers who enjoy this pasttime.
I will be posting some more photos of the completed rooms as they are finished.
Cheers, Nessy X X X X

A new kitchen, and the start of a NEW Business

2008-04-07T14:57:00.003+10:00

ReDesign Interiors by VJ Bouwman

Well . . . here it is, it is in the final stages of my first new project with my new business ReDesign Interiors by VJ Bouwman !!

There are just a few more touches and the project will be complete !

The beautiful cupboards have been painted using a Moss Green, completed with sparkling vinatge glass pulls from the U.S. The countertop is a Caesar Stone in white, which has a very similar look to marble. The combination of colours and textures just gives this space a bright and crisp quality.

The Range/ Cooker is completed with a Pot-Filler Faucet purchased from the United States, and is just the perfect piece for any kitchen.

Finally, what vintage kitchen would be without a Belfast sink to complete the look !!

As you can see, there are no overhead cupboards, which would overwhelm this space and make the room feel cluttered. Plates and flatware are managed in the use of vintage plate racks.

A combination of using vintage and new pieces have given this space a new look with quality and all keeping within a very tight budget !!!

I am just proud of this project, and it is my first as a new Interior Decorator and Stlyist.

I will have some more photos of the kitchen in the next few weeks, when it is completely finished, but at least you can get some idea now of what the finished project will look like.

More Renovation photos . . . It's coming together !!

2008-03-21T17:11:00.003+10:00

Here are some more photos of the house - it's finally coming together, and we are down to the last final few weeks!

Apparently the builders will be dusted and gone within the next month, which is great news.

At the moment it like having a guest that has over stayed their welcome , the builders are everywhere around and there is never a moment's peace !! I wasn't expecting the total lack of privacy and personal space !

The Plasterers will be here next week, so I can stop looking at the pretty pink Insulation batts, Hmm . . . .

I've worked full time night duties through out this entire process, and I have to admit at times I've been quite homocidal due to a total lack of REM sleep !! (It has been 6 months since I've known a good night's (day's) sleep. I'm looking forward to it, when it happens again.

It's down to colour choices and, my favourite time, adding the final decorating touches.

That's the FUN part !!

Cheers,

Nessy X X X X

here

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE !!

2008-03-19T17:11:00.003+10:00

HAPPY EASTER TO EVERYONE !!

HOT CROSS BUNS . . . CHOCOLATE EGGS . . . AND A VINTAGE EASTER !!

MMmmm . . . .

Dining Room possibilities . .

2008-03-13T15:49:00.004+10:00

What colour should my dining room be ??? Any suggestions ??

Nessy X X X X

We're getting there . . . and a Vintage Easter !!

2008-03-13T15:31:00.007+10:00

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE !!

I've placed some Easter decorations around my home, not quite the abundance that I was hoping for (As the builders were to be long gone by now!), but at least I can celebrate Easter in a small way!!

I just love the vintage inspired Easter pieces from the Bethany Lowe collections !! I have been collecting these over the past year, and have many more in boxes, but htese will have to wait until next year - I'll have the whole house to decorate then !!

I've added some photos of the new kitchen bench tops too - Fabulous !! This is a Caesarstone marble !! YUM !! It's looks great with the sparkle of the glass pulls !!

I've also placed my dining room together ( only shortlived though) to see what the space may be like when it's all done. I'm experimenting with colour and texture at the moment. I'll have to put it all away next week though as the building continues again inside and I'm not wanting my pieces of furniture ruined !!

I would appreciate any suggestions for colour options . . . . keeping in mind please that I like soft and/or neutral colours !

Cheers, Nessy XXX

TheOldPaintedCottage.com: March's Cottage of the Month#links

2008-03-08T10:48:00.000+10:00

TheOldPaintedCottage.com: March's Cottage of the Month#links

THE WAY MY HOME USED TO LOOK BEFORE THE DESTRUCTION . . .

2008-03-07T12:58:00.002+10:00

FINALLY . . . . A KITCHEN !!

2008-03-06T08:58:00.004+10:00

It's been a very long 8 weeks, BUT, finally my new kitchen is being installed !! Yipee !!

I NEVER thought I would say that I was "sick of take-out", but I am !! Although I'm not much of a cook and only step into the kitch to grab a coffee....I'm beginning to appreciate the subtle art of cooking and baking !!

LET's SEE HOW LONG THAT LASTS . . . . .

My dream kitchen has always included vintage glass drawer pulls, so during the planning stage (Mind you this was over five years ago!) I started to scour the Ebay market and slowly collected about 25 pulls . Did I mention that I am Ebay addicted ?? My husband at times has considered organising an Ebay-vention to halt my buying . . Good luck with that my dearest!!.

I had almost forgotten where I had stored the glass pulls, as they had been put away "for later" for so long, and I can remember the look on the installers face when he asked me for them !

Umm . . . . " I'll go look for them" I said, struggling to remember where they were ! There are so many boxes and packages every where, I haven't a clue where most things are! It's absolute chaos !

He found this quite funny and said that I must have a case of 'Renovation Dementia', it appparently affects numerous people who undertake renovations.

Symptoms include :

* Simply forgetting where all the new and collected items have been stored.

* Erasing ALL memory of what a BUDGET means, and

* Frequently changing your mind because you can't remember the last thing you told the

contractor !!

I will imagine that I will unveil items in the future that I will stumble across after the building has been completed and wonder why I couldn't remember where I had put them when I had needed them !!

I am just waiting for the bench tops now (Beautiful pale marble) . . maybe they will arrive in another 8 weeks . . . . . . . .

Cheers for now, Nessy X X X X

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2008-02-18T19:55:00.003+10:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY TO EVERY ONE !!

I hope that you all have been showered with gifts, LOVE and Chocolates . . . . MMmm . . . .

LOVE Vintage Nessy XOXO

Montville Mayhem

2008-02-16T17:18:00.004+10:00

Hello !
This is my first Blog and I've decided that after living in a major renovation of our small worker's cottage, that I needed to use this as therapy ( "Good luck" said the kids )
I've been living in this train wreck for over six months now and its' not pretty ! I would advise anyone NOT to live in this type of disaster even if everyone you know says "It'll be easy". . . . . . . MMmm, I wonder if my family have had Cat Scans lately ??
I live in a small mountain village called Montville, that is situated in the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast. For those unfamiliar with this, I live in Australia in the state of Queensland. In the mountains but close to the ocean (it's a win-win situation)
Montville is a village thriving with arts and culture . . a small community of people that move here to get 'away from the Big City' and once here, don't move away !!
I moved here about nine years ago from a big city that was crammed to the eyeballs with people, noise, pollution and movement.
When we first arrived, my husband and I stood on the back verandah of our newly purchased property that over looked a lush green parkland, I said to him casually....
"Wow, would you look at that?" as I pointed into the sky
"Yes ,Honey that the sun up there over the hills" my husband sarcastically replied.
"Yes, but it looks so clean and clear" I answered
"That's what happens when you don't have to peer through smog!!"
I have to say if there was any doubt about moving over 200km north, then it was a prophetic moment.
I had never taken such a clear breath of air nor seen the sun so clearly, not to mention the birds (which seemingly were everywhere) and the gentle sound of breeze through the trees. No car horns, No sirens wailing, No screaming of close neighbours, and No noise.
Actually , in all honesty, I found the quiet deafening for the first few months. It was so . . . . . . quiet.
From that moment I was hooked, I don't believe I ventured far from home for the first two years and when I had to go the the nearest city to shop then it was like taking a breath and then holding it until I drove up into the mountains again !! I couldn't wait to get home and away from the hustle and bustle of city life . . . . . . . . and I don't miss it.
I will post my experiences with my renovation and give support to all those who are thinking of living in their home whilst the buliders are creating havoc and chaos . . . who knows I may start a support group . .
"Hello, my name's Nessy and I'm a reno-holic".