Elsa May

What:nots...

2012-01-30T16:50:00.000+13:00

Happy Monday! I hope your weekend was a success. With R away for the next three weeks (!?!) the boys and I laid low, and mooched about the place. My week's off to a good start having spent the morning riding, with a reasonable degree of success, the most difficult horse at the stables. Whether I will be able to walk, let alone ride again tomorrow remains to be seen. And now considering what we have on in the week ahead, I think I'll be pleased when Friday rolls around. Have a great week - here's what:nots.

So much to love about this image.

This is a Snake Wardrobe - but really it could serve many a purpose...decoration, pot stand...

Damien Hirst's spot paintings.

Beautiful, and simple pieces by Studio Nicholson.

Hand & Eye Studio's terracotta pendants.

Con Ghiacco - more goodness from Martin O'Neill.

Pantone's colour of the year - Tangerine Tango. Hard to know what I like more, the name or the colour...

Caramelised almonds blended with dark chocolate - scrumptious chocolate from Masion Bouche.

Images from Lifestyle of the Poor & Unknown, Orphan Socks, Getty Images, Studio Nicholson, Hand & Eye Studio, Cut it Out, Pantone, and Catbird.

Cut it out...

2012-01-29T15:40:00.000+13:00

Traipsing through the Folio Society's website I came across Martin O'Neill's marvellous collages. Hop on over here to see more of his work, it really is quite wonderful.

Images from cut it out.

I like...

2012-01-25T20:45:00.000+13:00

...this image, and this quote...

Both found on philo:sofia.

Precipitation...

2012-01-25T06:34:00.001+13:00

Weather forecasts that refer to precipitation may be technically correct, but really, I think rain (as in it's raining cats and dogs) is less ambiguous, and more suited to Portland forecasts.
Image by Andrew Paynter (found via Aubrey Road).

Weekly what:nots...

2012-01-22T17:21:00.000+13:00

Crikey - could it possibly rain any more? After a very pretty coating of snow earlier in the week, Portland's infamous rains have returned. We are awash in sogginess - ugh! I hope you've had a pleasant weekend - ours has been quite productive but equally relaxing. The perfect weekend combination really. Here's to everyone having a jolly good week ahead (and fingers crossed it stops raining sometime soon).

Love this image, and love the look on her face - withering or nonchalant?

Very wise words found on Pinterest.

Still obsessed by Season 2 of Downtown Abbey.

Onchi Kôshirô's woodblock print Pitcher and Lemon.

A rather fetching tattersall silk scarf from Barbour.

Also from Barbour a rather nice waxed jacket (with very pretty Liberty lining). And while we're at it this hat would be inherently useful right now.

Snug Studio's snug.geometric circle pendant.

Several Circles by Kandinsky.

This quote found on here perfectly sums up my thoughts about winter.

And Stravinsky's Russian Maiden's Song (Parasha's Aria) to end with.

Images from Brown Dress with White Dots, Pinterest, Vogue, MFA, Barbour, Snug Studio, Guggenheim, and Lyla and Blue.

Liking...

2012-01-19T19:35:00.000+13:00

Joseph Sterling's photographs, on display here.

Image from Charles A. Hartman.

Weekly what:nots...

2012-01-15T23:55:00.000+13:00

We woke this morning to snow! So very pretty + the flurries continued on and off all day. Sadly it's all gone now except for the odd patch. The past week hasn't been the best, but things are on the up + tomorrow is the boys' birthday which should be fun. So hard to believe how quickly they've grown. I can still remember when they were so very, very tiny. I hope you've had a grand week, and the week ahead is full of goodness. Here's what:nots...

Love the tee in this image.

Watery Ecstatic by Ellen Gallagher.

m-inspira's edible sugar + gelatine letters.

Musi silk dress from Matta.

Covetable goodies in Sydney's Pure and General.

Love Helena Rohner's range of hair accessories.

Lurk's natural oil fragrances. With notes of cedarwood, tuberose and sweet rose AS 01 would have to be my pick.

Liking the eclectic mix on this mantle (minus the marionettes).

Images from Rag & Bone, MoMA, m-inspira, Matta, The Design Files, Helena Rohner, Wake Robin, and Tiny Trappings.

Boston + New York...

2012-01-15T10:34:00.000+13:00

...with a bit of Vermont + New Hampshire thrown in. Vermont was pretty (even with very little snow). And the historic inn we stayed in was hilarious in a Fawlty Towers kind of way! The one day it did snow the roads were chaos and driving was pretty hairy - our one hour drive took five hours! Boston was wonderful - we stayed in the Back Bay area, and took in galleries, parks and lots of history. A day trip up the coast to Portsmouth proved worthwhile with a wintery quiet and serene views from the coastal road. Here's a few things we discovered along the way...

Tucked away in Middlebury, Vermont, is Clementine, a wonderful little shop selling lovely letterpress, antiques, art and handmade goodies.

We dined here on New Years eve and it was one of the best Italian meals I've had outside of Italy.

Boston's Museum of Fine Arts was really impressive - I could have spent days here. Their exhibition of embroideries of colonial Boston was exquisite. Another highlight was the Mapparium, an extraordinary three-story glass globe constructed in 1935.

I found this portrait in a furniture shop and just love the elegance of it.

Boston Architectural College's beautifully illustrated posters.

If you find yourself in Portsmouth, NH, and in need of coffee and cake call into Cafe Vonsolln. Yummy cakes, delicious soup + great coffee.

And after visiting Cafe Vonsolln, pop along to Gus & Ruby where you'll find all sorts of letterpress and stationery goodies.

From Boston we caught the train to New York - a great way to travel and take in the scenery. The Connecticut coast was lovely. We emerged from the chaos of Penn Station, hopped in a cab and headed off to our hotel. A quick lunch at Lucky Strike then it was off to explore one of my favourite cities. It was jolly cold with a bone-chilling wind, but we toured about taking in museums, the High Line, shopping, and lots of eating. Yummy meals were had here, here and here.

Located in Brooklyn is Greenhouse a beautifully curated shop full of eco-friendly home goods.

The freezing temperatures were a perfect excuse to stock up on chunky woollens from Rag & Bone.

We stopped into the Dinosaur Designs Nolita store. Love their Abstract 2012 collection.

Discovered With & Wessel's silky, fine merino pieces.

Took in the quirky goodies at Babel Fair.

Found these wonderful mugs by Jansen+co at Vitra.

And viewed the Maurizio Cattelan exhibition at the Guggenheim.

Images from Clementine, MFA, me, Greenhouse, Rag & Bone, Dinosaur Designs, With & Wessel, Babel Fair, and Jansen+co.

Back soon...

2012-01-14T17:35:00.000+13:00

The past week has been somewhat fraught, I'm still trying to shake this nasty bug + deal with a torn brake cable on the car (frightening!). I will be back tomorrow with a few bits + pieces from our trip, plus what:nots for the week. See you then!
ps: I am thoroughly enjoying the return of Downton Abbey. As my Great Aunt was wont to say "Do you indulge?"
Image from maybeyouwill.

Weekly what:nots...

2012-01-09T14:17:00.000+13:00

Happy Monday! I hope you had a marvellous weekend. Most of mine was spent tucked up in bed battling this dreadful lurgy, but it did allow me to perfect the art of napping which I highly recommend. I also managed to finish Natasha Solomons' heart-wrenching book - such wonderfully descriptive landscapes it made me want to move to the wild English coast immediately. I'm now sorting through all the bits and bobs from our trip - which I will post on in the coming week. In the meantime here's what:nots - have a wonderful week.

Love the light and tones in this Orla Kiely image.

Simple, snowy goodness.

(I think I got this from tumblr - if you know the source please let me know)

Penguin's Great Food series - stunning covers + great reads.

Hankering after this pochette from M0851.

Mikkel Vang's Flowers of the Sea.

Peahen 2010 by Sophie Corydon.

Sublime lambswool + angora blankets from Meg Cohen.

James Pearse's perfect tees.

And this flocked scarf.

Images from Orla Kiely, Penguin, M0851, Mikkel Vang, Dickon Hall Ltd, Meg Cohen, James Pearse, and me.

Ugh...

2012-01-06T17:44:00.000+13:00

...after a really great holiday which included a pretty scary drive in a snowstorm, sub-zero temperatures, and a brilliant four days in New York I've promptly come down with an absolutely dreadful cold. Ugh! I shall be spending the next few days tucked up in bed, and hope to be back late Sunday with what:nots. I hope your New Year is off to a stellar start!

Image from Philo.Sofia.

Happy 2012...

2012-01-01T16:34:00.003+13:00

...may the new year be filled with love, laughter + happiness for all.

Image from Marie's flickr.

Christmas what:nots...

2011-12-25T20:51:00.000+13:00

Well here we are it's Christmas Eve - the presents are scattered under the tree, the children are tucked up in bed...ok...not quite - too much excitement! I hope you have a wonderful Christmas, and holiday with loved ones. We head off late tomorrow for a fortnight in Vermont, Boston and New York (woohoo!). I'm not sure if I'll get a chance to post while I'm away, but I will be back to regular posting on January 5. Thank you so much for all your comments and support over the past year - the kindness and kinship of the blogging community constantly amazes me. Happy Christmas!

This image from Swedish clothing label Nygårds Anna.

A rather nice excerpt from this NY Times article.

Prada's delicate floral bracelets (+ pretty embroidery) from Spring 2012.

Extraordinary illustrations by Daniel Egnéus.

Love this piece.

Black clay plate with white glaze from Anaise.

Carter Radcliff's book on John Singer Sargent.

Utterly wonderful image from Tumblr.

(I can't find the source, if you know please tell me so I can credit)

And a sweet rendition of Silver Bells by She & Him,

Images from Nygårds Anna, style.com, Daniel Egnéus, Pinterest, Anaise, and Powell's Books. Clip from You Tube.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-12-19T14:27:00.001+13:00

Oooh only one week left...the excitement is mounting around these parts with daily checks under the tree. I have to say I've done quite the stellar job of stealth present purchasing, decoy wrapping, and whopping great fibs to keep everyone guessing. How are preparations proceeding in your part of the woods? For all my efficiency on the present front, I'm woefully behind on the Christmas card front. So much so they're destined to become New Year cards (yet again). I hope your weekend has been utterly pleasant and that the coming week is full of goodness. Thanks for stopping by - here's what:nots.

Love the simple beauty of this image.

Wsake's tiny star necklace.

Asteroids by Victoria Haven.

Olo's Erastus fragrance - tobacco, silver needle + oak moss.

Extraordinary plant photographs by Isabel Bannerman.

Derek Wilson's ceramics.

A stunning book of photographs by Jeffrey Conley.

Love the sunglasses, the dress, and especially the moccasins.

Listening to Birdy - such a haunting voice.

Images from Aubrey Road, Wsake, Victoria Haven, Olo, Jonathan Cooper, Derek Wilson Ceramics, Jeffrey Conley, and Pinterest. Clip from You Tube.

Ten years, one view...

2011-12-18T08:12:00.000+13:00

I really like this idea... Renate Aller has been photographing the Atlantic ocean from a single point over ten years. Hop over here to see her images, and here to find out about the project + book.
ps: Happy weekend!
Image from Renate Aller.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-12-13T21:30:00.000+13:00

Happy Tuesday eve! Things have been busy around here, and somewhat fraught, but as they say tomorrow is another day. Thank you for stopping by, and especially for your sweet comments - they really do make my day! I hope you're having a good week and that everything is well in your neck of the woods. The not so great stuff aside, we are gearing up for Christmas (only 11 sleeps to go), and have planned a wee jaunt to the east coast (we leave Christmas night!). Do you have holiday plans? Are you travelling, expecting visitors, or staying home...? I hope the remainder of the week is kind to you...here's a rather tardy what:nots.

Lovely light in this quiet image.

Tantra Song by French poet Franck André Jamme.

Michael Eastman's images.

Bag 001 from Laurence Doligé.

This excerpt from Jenny Bornholdt's Hill of Wool.

Poketo's lovely little pouches (found via Pennyweight).

Antique storage jar from China c.1920.

Peonies by Molly Vidor.

And Kate's wonderful mixtapes - full of goodness (just like the rest of her blog).

Images from Sweet Nothings, Siglio Press, Michael Eastman, Laurence Doligé, Victoria University Press, Poketo, Weiss House, pdx Contemporary Art, and wit + delight.

My Monday...

2011-12-13T18:04:00.000+13:00

...has been a bit like this. I'll be back tomorrow with what:nots.
Image from wit+ delight.

What:nots...

2011-12-04T19:13:00.000+13:00

Thank you for stopping by, and thank you for your encouraging comments - things have improved somewhat. How has your week been? It's a bit hard to believe it's December, and that Christmas is just around the corner. We headed out this morning and obtained our Christmas tree - much excitement! Here's hoping we get a dusting of snow sometime soon....having grown up in the southern hemisphere I get ridiculously excited by the idea of a white Christmas. Fingers and toes are crossed. Have a wonderful week - here's what:nots.

Pretty + elegant image from Anthropologie.

Untitled 872 by Lynne Woods Turner.

Faber & Faber's romantic poetry series - the covers are inspired by the classic designs of Josiah Wedgwood, and all the books have beautiful endpapers.

Love this image by Corey Arnold.

A rather nice tray, with an even nicer poem by Kylie Johnson.

Basilius Besler's wonderfully intricate illustrations from the 1600s.

A perfectly nice, and perfectly functional popover from J Crew.

And Mindy Gledhill's sweet song - Anchor.

Images from Anthropologie, Gallery Joe, Faber & Faber, Anthropologie, Audubon Art, and J Crew. Clip from You Tube.

Sometimes...

2011-11-29T18:39:00.001+13:00

...when you have a day such as this one, loosing yourself in images of beauty is the answer. Should such a day befall you, may I suggest you peruse this blog which is filled with pages of quiet serenity. And remember tomorrow is indeed another day.

Image from temp files.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-11-26T20:03:00.001+13:00

The past week has seen a right-ing of things, enough to put life back on a more tempered and even keel. Such a nice feeling. And then today dawned full of sunshine which was quite the treat after a week of continual rain, crazy schedules, and two boys with colds. We did take in the Body Worlds exhibit a day or so back (along with a gagillion others). Squeamish-ness aside it really is quite extraordinary. I hope the past week has treated you well - did you celebrate Thanksgiving? If so I hope you had fun. Oh and this poem is one of the nicest things (thanks to Kimia for the link). Have a wonderful weekend!

Love, love, love this image.

Thank you J Crew this is on my Christmas wish list.

Dainty moonstone ring by Carla Caruso.

A zigzaggy green and white tote.

Philipp Haager's painting.

A great gift idea. I'm thinking I'm gonna try growing these myself...

Merchant no.4's covetable cynosure jars.

And How it Ends by DeVotchKa.

Images from Pinterest, J Crew, Carla Caruso, Anthropologie, Pinterest, Sur la Table, Faber and Faber, and Merchant no.4. Clip from You Tube.

Exquisite details...

2011-11-24T17:39:00.001+13:00

...captured backstage at the sea-inspired Alexander McQueen Spring 2012 show.
Clip via eyecandy.

Listening to...

2011-11-24T08:08:00.001+13:00

...this - just enough to wake me up after a very late night, and a very slow morning watching TED's Ads Worth Spreading. Time to get things done...
Clip from You Tube.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-11-21T16:50:00.001+13:00

Crikey it's c.o.l.d - blue skies, and sunset at 4.30pm cold! Mind you there's something to be said for that time of day, just before sunset, when it gets really cold. Standing there looking at the boughs of bay and holly, thinking of hearty stews, red wine and open fires. As much as I love the sun, this has become favourite time of year. I hope you are enjoying life in your neck of the woods - here's what:nots.

The impossibly chic Emmanuelle Alt.

Love this Adire silk scarf from Anthro.

Pretty bedside table.

(I can't recall where I found this image - if you know the source please let me know)

Elegant silk bra.

A field of irises.

Smythson's Cooper tote.

(note: I suggest you sit down before clicking through and seeing the price)

Seriously wonderful cedarwood candles from Saipua.

These Ariat boots are tippy-top of my Christmas wish list.

And watching this makes me want to run away to the Scottish highlands...

Images from Vogue, Anthropologie, Cos, Bryan's Ground, Smythson, Saipua, Dover Saddlery, and Purdey.

A book + a word...

2011-11-17T06:43:00.001+13:00

Nealy Blau's melancholic images of museum diorama cases + a new to me word - Petrichor (found on Field & Sea).

Images from Decode Books and Field & Sea.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-11-15T17:54:00.001+13:00

Oddly it feels like it should be Wednesday today. Not in a bad way, but in a kind of 'is it really only Monday?' kind of way. I do hope all is well in your neck of the woods, we seem to be speeding up as November rockets by. Before we know it it will be Christmas - eeep! Anyhoo here's what:nots - I'm off to catch up on my blog reading and Pinterest.

A quiet reflection found here.

Carine Gilson's silk lingerie.

Lovely pin from Marion's pinboard.

Rose petal jelly - scrumdiddlyumptious.

A wonderfully cosy knit from Vince.

Jeff Masamori's hazy images.

Italian soap by Santa Maria Novella.

And to end with - Sia - I go to sleep.

Images from MUUS, net-a-porter, Marion's Pinterest, Fortnum & Mason, Vince, Jeff Masamori on Flickr, Santa Maria Novella. Clip from You Tube.

Fog...

2011-11-10T18:13:00.001+13:00

...of which we have had quite a bit lately...

Image taken between Copenhagen and Stockholm.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-11-08T18:33:00.001+13:00

Better late than never I say. I hope you had a swinging weekend, and that the week ahead is filled with all kinds of goodness. With R away, ongoing house guests, school things, an increasing list of after-school activities, and the usual end-of-the-year madness things are kinda busy around here. Here's hoping for quieter days ahead.

Love this image found here.

Françoise Gilot - Picasso's muse.

Autumn sunsets.

littala's purnukka canister.

Winter Blues by Anna Emilia.

Revisiting Damien Rice's debut album O.

Delicate ceramics from o t c h i p o t c h i.

Images from Philo.Sofia, Tigerloaf, iittala, Anna Emilia, Damien Rice, and Paula Valentim.

Happy Friday...

2011-11-05T10:46:00.000+13:00

Hope you've had a good week, and an even better weekend is ahead.
ps: if only I could look this groomed while riding...
Image from Pinterest.

Icy mornings...

2011-11-04T05:14:00.000+13:00

The temperature has dropped over the past weeks, and we've had a few frosts. The rain has pretty much stayed away, and after the morning mists fade, the skies turn clear, clear blue. The midday sun holds a weak, watery kind of warmth - just enough to feel. Then around four the chill sets in. Perfect weather in my books. I hope your week is pottering along at a pleasant pace. I'm quite flattered to have a wee guest post over at the wonderfully kind Kristen's blog Contented Me. Kristen is a total sweetheart, and as a working mother to two-year-old twins I take my hat off to her.
Achingly, beautiful image from Denise's Pinterest.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-10-30T10:35:00.000+13:00

I hope you've had a good week. Ours has been busy, so I am very much looking forward to a quiet weekend. Portland was awash in mist this morning, and is feeling very autumnal - perfect for a lazy morning followed by a walk in the forest, and some hot chocolate to finish. Have a wonderful weekend.

Such a beautiful image found on b for bonnie.

Miles of Light's Pepper Sprouts.

Sweet charms from Anthropologie (found via Aubrey Road).

Quite taken by Humanoid's Edna blouse.

This Cy Twombly book is tippy-top of my wish list.

Carrière Frères Industrie wax candles - wonderful scents and beautiful illustrations.

Titio with scents of smoked grass and cinder would have to be my favourite.

And a rather captivating image of the road from Ambleside to Kirkstone

Images from b for bonnie, Miles of Light, Anthropologie, Humanoid, Powell's, Carrière Frères Industrie, and splenderosa.

Paradis...

2011-10-26T18:50:00.001+13:00

... a new exhibition of photographs by Christian Chaize opens tomorrow at Jen Bekman Gallery.
Image from Jen Bekman Gallery.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-10-25T17:06:00.001+13:00

Monday evening in front of the fire. Our weekend guests have departed, and R's niece has arrived. The leaves continue to change, and the temperature is falling. A hearty stew with red wine and mushrooms has been had, and for me another year has passed. I hope all is well in your neck of the woods...here's what:nots.

Another good tumblr find.

Retro print and retro colours from Orla Kelly.

3.1 Phillip Lim's racerback slip dress.

A rather lovely vignette found here. The chap with the berry branch is quite endearing.

Modern quill pens from Jayson Home (found via the charming Odessa May Society).

Anna Emilia's book Proof of Winter - an illustrated story about winter, friendship and loneliness.

And possibly one of the most extraordinary things I've seen - Franc Grom's delicate, hand-drilled egg shells.

Images from Muus, Small Acorns, La Garconne, Rue magazine, Jayson Home, Anna Emilia, and National Geographic.

Just because...

2011-10-25T03:23:00.000+13:00

...this image evokes such a peaceful feeling. I trust you had a lovely weekend - I'll be back later this evening with what:nots. Happy Monday!
Image from Muus.

What:nots...

2011-10-16T22:00:00.000+13:00

Well what a week or two. Why is it this time of year always speeds up? And with a house full of guests expected later this week, I expect things will be busy for a while yet. I do hope all is well in your neck of the woods. With autumn days now upon us we've been enjoying log fires, and toasting marshmallows. But before it gets any later here's what:nots - have a wonderful week.

Such a beautiful image found here.

Polaroid set from this tumblr.

Design for chintz: Rose by William Morris - beautiful.

West Elm's Honeycomb Tassel Towels.

Pretty packaging + lovely soap from Sweet Petula.

Apolis' market bag - they also have a great new range of cypress + fig candles.

Rosemary Milner's extraordinary wallpapers (found via Jennifer's Pinterest).

Caorunn - a rather lovely sounding hand-crafted scottish gin. Apparently it's best enjoyed with a slice of apple...

Images from All Those Pretty Lights, Wanderlusting Mushroom, Pinterest, West Elm, Sweet Petula, Apolis, Rosemary Milner, and Caorunn.

Back in a few days...

2011-10-12T17:35:00.000+13:00

...see you then.

Image from philo:sofia.

The last of the...

2011-10-06T13:49:00.000+13:00

...summer roses

an excerpt from the exceptional Steve Jobs - rest in peace.

Images from me and Pinterest.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-10-04T05:32:00.000+13:00

Hmmm...I'm thinking that this should just be simply called what:nots, due to my inability to post it in a timely manner. The pleasant day to day happenings of life seem to fill in the days at present, and when I do venture near the internet I get sidetracked on all manner of things... I do hope you had a pleasant weekend. Ours was a cosy early autumn indoors-y one - which reminds me I must order the firewood. Have a wonderful week!

Beautiful light in this image.

A wonderful Sufi saying.

Quite enamoured with the thought of lush green borders.

A simple little container from Fleet Objects.

These plates are fuelling my obsession with all things wooden.

Love this Humanoid wrap dress - utterly timeless.

Am quite taken by this little chap (albeit slightly freaked out by the taxidermy idea).

And Anthropologie's lovely leather bound journal.

Images from Rose & Crown, Jason Ingram, Fleet Objects, Brook Farm General Store, Manor Fine Wares, and Anthropologie.

A pop of pink...

2011-09-27T12:26:00.001+13:00

...on a grey day.

Image from Marion's pinboard.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-09-26T17:42:00.000+13:00

And my oh my what a week it was. Let's just say after Tuesday's fiasco I have a whole new respect for plumbers, especially those who make after-hours house calls. I do hope that the weekend has treated you well, and the week ahead is just as kind. After a late summer burst, autumnal rains have arrived in Portland and with it the promise of a new season.

Love this image found over on Pretty Stuff's tumblr.

A lovely quote from The Armchair Book of Gardens.

A wonderful piece from Lisa's Floodline series.

3.1 Phillip Lim's simple, stylish and utterly wearable spring 2012 collection.

i gigi general store in East Sussex.

Jason Ingram's gorgeous images.

Bally's buttery-soft leather flats.

Hortus - a gardening journal. Possibly the best I've seen.

Images from Pretty Stuff, The Armchair Book of Gardens, Kiki & Polly, Style.com, i gigi, jason ingram photography, Bally, and Hortus.

A wilderness...

2011-09-22T06:36:00.000+12:00

...in which I'd like to wander. Things have been busy, thus the lack of posts. I hope to be back later in the week.
Image from Alexandria's pinboard.

NYC Ballet...

2011-09-16T04:26:00.001+12:00

Loving the images (and clothes) from the New York City Ballet's Must See campaign.
Images from New York City Ballet.

2011-09-15T17:01:00.000+12:00

A little throw back to the eighties with Hazy Shade of Winter from The Bangles and Flame Trees from Cold Chisel.

Clips from You Tube.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-09-11T22:36:00.000+12:00

My oh my it has been hot. Hot like being in India hot. A bit hard to believe that in less than three months it will be quite the opposite... Anyhoo I hope you've all had a pleasant weekend, ours has pootled past quietly. With R away the boys have been enjoying some down-time after the rigours of the first week back at school. So before we roll into a new week here's what:nots...

A rather lovely shot of Kate Bosworth from this AW12 Vanessa Bruno clip.

Ahh...how very true Mr Poe (found here).

Love the lines of this Serge Mouille Spinning BH2 light.

A newly discovered Rothko.

Wonderful incense (and lovely packaging) from Astier de Villatte. The Delhi scent is sublime.

A perfectly simple tote from Madewell.

Andreas Bruzelius Berger's exquisite Exotic Feathers series of wall art.

And so much to love about Emerson's clothing range - this shirt would definitely stand the test of time.

Images from Russh Magazine, Serge Mouille, WSJ, Astier de Villatte, Madewell, Andreas Bruzelius Berger, and Emerson Made.

The Lake Isle of Innisfree...

2011-09-09T16:47:00.003+12:00

Right now...

2011-09-08T17:05:00.001+12:00

...I'd like to be here.
Image from spires and gargoyles.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-09-06T17:53:00.000+12:00

Gosh you leave internet land for a mere week and Blogger launches a swish new interface. I hope you had a jolly nice weekend. With R away the boys and I have spent the past week in a lazy-last-days-of-the-summer-hols-haze. But come Wednesday the harsh reality (ie. early mornings and routines) will be upon us. Ugh! Here's a rather late what:nots...have a wonderful week!

Love this image of Sofia Coppola.

There's much to like in this interior...windows...floorboards...utterly lust-worthy daybed.

Elisa Mazzone's illustrations (found via Willow & Frank).

Beautifully soft leather wallet from Zara. And such a great colour!

Ishi's handmade tableware.

A rather lovely silk blouse from Emerson Made.

Sebastian Conran utensils.

And Muriwai by Colin McCahon - just because.

Images from Getty, Aaron Hom, Elisa Mazzone, Zara, The Linen Works, Emerson Made, Crate & Barrel, and McCahon.

Simple beauty...

2011-08-30T16:28:00.000+12:00

Kate Moss and Lila Grace.
Image by Mario Testino for Vogue.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-08-29T17:57:00.000+12:00

Goodness suddenly the summer hols seem to be fading fast. I hope you've all had a fab week, ours has been filled with lots of sunshine and balmy evenings, BBQs and fruit picking, riding and bush walks, and lots of doing not-very-much-at-all - here's a rag-tag what:nots for the week.

Love this image and love the freckles.

Hadieh Shafie's Ketabs/Scroll Works are incredible.

If you head over to Hadieh's site you can see them up close.

Still hankering after Vincent van Duysen's ceramic pieces.

Beautiful blowsy peonies.

Love this bottle from Holmegaard's Minima range.

Thing's Organized Neatly is a pretty fascinating tumblr.

And I very much like this quote from Mr Jobs (found on Wit + Delight).

Images from Happy Girls are Pretty Girls, Hadieh Shafie, When Objects Work, Holmegaard, Things Organized Neatly, and Wit + Delight.

The ship song...

2011-08-26T12:54:00.000+12:00

....redone to showcase Sydney's Opera House.- a truly stunning piece of architecture on one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. OK I might be a little biased having grown up there, but it really is lovely. Thanks to Engracia for the link.
Clip from You Tube.

Stockholm....

2011-08-23T18:23:00.001+12:00

I've been meaning to post about Stockholm since we got back, but somehow the lazy day-to-day of the summer holidays has meant that I've spent a lot of time doing...not a lot. An ideal summer past-time I think. And given the boys still have two weeks left before school starts I feel there will be more lazy days ahead. So before I completely forget here's a few things I discovered while in Stockholm...

A fab new equestrian magazine The Horse Rider's Journal. Hop over here for a peek at some of the wonderful images by Ditte Isager.

Ravel gloves - possibly the most beautiful leather gloves ever.

Modern, simple and chic clothes and accessories from Hope.

These wonderful Helena Rohner 'Munio' bowls found at Illums Bolighus.

Monocle's Scent One - cedary and woody, and reminiscent of my Grandfather's art studio.

Part coffee shop, part office co-op, Coffice has really good coffee and a great vibe.

The E27 Socket lamp.

ABICI's Pantone window displays - there were similar ones with red and blue bikes too.

A couple of other 'finds' were Cajsa Warg, a yummy gourmet market/deli; Fotografiska museum of contemporary photography; Nytorget Urban Deli a great place for lunch or dinner; and if like us you have a couple of kids who are into all things money a trip to the Royal Coin Cabinet is highly recommended. Dating back to the 1500s this museum is huge with a really impressive collection of all things currency related, along with a great modern art exhibition space.

I hope all is well in your neck of the woods - thanks for stopping by.

Images from Malling, Ravel, Illums Bolighus, Hope, Monocle, Hay House, and me.

Cave of forgotten dreams...

2011-08-16T13:18:00.000+12:00

I cannot wait to see this documentary about the Chauvet caves in the South of France, and their truly extraordinary cave paintings, dating back 32,000 years. By all accounts it's incredible.
ps: will post in the next few days about Stockholm - 'tis nice to be home at last.
Clip from IFC Films.

Copenhagen...

2011-08-10T08:14:00.000+12:00

Sooo I'm actually in Stockholm right now - but I've been meaning to post about Copenhagen since we left several days ago. We stayed in an amazing apartment right on Frederiksborggade which was perfectly located for exploring. Many an hour was spent wandering the streets, and with the incredible weather we made the most of the beautiful parks and gardens. We spent an afternoon visiting The David Collection, which has an impressive collection of Islamic Art from the 8th to the 19th century, and had an enjoyable morning at the Designmuseum Damark - their Hans J. Wegner and Poul Kjærholm furnished cafe was very cool. All in all Copenhagen has become one of my favourite cities and I'd love to go back. A few other things that caught my eye whilst there...

Delicate ceramics at Keramik & Glasværkstedet, including this lovely pot by Annemette Kissow.

Incredibly yummy (and healthy) meals, juices, smoothies etc at Granola. Thanks to Juli & John of Kitka for the recommendation.

Creamy ice creams and bars by Hansens - not to mention their fab packaging!

North's simple and stylish swimwear. Plus they also have an inspiring travel blog.

The wonderful collection of homewear, ceramics, and jewellery at Stilleben.

The Royal Cafe - a mad mix of colour with yummy cakes and a lovely courtyard.

And Malene Helbak's rather fetching ceramic containers.

The past few days we've been in Sweden staying on Lidingö, exploring the woods, visiting Millesgården, and enjoying island life. And now we're tucked away in the quaint Columbus Hotel in Stockholm until we fly home on Friday. Thanks for stopping by - I hope all is well in your part of the world.

Images from Annemette Kissow, Kitka, North, Stilleben, and Malene Helbak.

Amsterdam...

2011-07-31T22:21:00.000+12:00

Sure enough the discombobulation passed, and we have settled into Amsterdam - thank you for your sweet comments. Our days have been filled with shopping, museums, visiting R's relations, touring the countryside, wandering the tiny streets and devouring copious amounts hung yoghurt with honey for breakfast every morning - yum! I hope all is well in your neck of the woods - here's a few things that have caught my eye in the past week.

Joot Books - a wonderful second-hand store stocking all kinds of art books and artworks.

Marc Mulders' oil paintings of flowers.

Soiree sandals in deep night by Flip*Flop.

Friday Next - a stylish mix of furniture, fashion and food.

Beautiful hand-made soaps and bath products from Rain.

Cole & Son's Hummingbird wallpaper - super pretty in real life.

The cafe at Felix Meritis all towering ceilings, exposed wooden features + really good coffee.

Annliz an elegant little shop located in the Jordaan district, which stocks ethical fashion and homeware, including this rather fetching Michelle Jefferson clutch.

And Property Of... has a great range men's bags, stationery and design publications.

We're off to catch a teeny tiny boat and tour the canals, then tomorrow morning we leave bright and early for Copenhagen. See you soon!

Images from Marc Mulders, Flip*Flop, Rain, Cole & Son, Annliz, Property Of..., and me.

Discombobulation...

2011-07-27T03:31:00.001+12:00

Having arrived this morning in Amsterdam, I confess I am feeling somewhat befuddled by the stark contrast in my surroundings. Less than 24 hours ago I was surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the sounds of crickets, frogs, and chanting from the temple at the end of the road. The air was thick and heavy with humidity, and the sound and smell of the sea drifted into our room. We took our meals on the small verandah outside our room, and spent the evenings reading by candlelight. Our days were luxuriously slow. And now I find myself in a quirky 1920s Dutch hotel, it's cold and grey outside, and everything seems so....ordered. And so different.
Image - detail of wall painting from our verandah at Villa Jacaranda.

Rajasthan...

2011-07-20T18:18:00.000+12:00

Goodness what a whirlwind two weeks we've had! India has been incredible - if you're interested I've started a flickr album of some of my shots, plus we have a wee travel blog going here. The past three days we've been chilling in Jodhpur, with a few forays to the markets, but mostly have just been poolside at our over-the-top hotel. And now it's time to pack our bags once again and head south to Varkala. Thanks for stopping in - I hope to get a chance to catch up on your blogs in the next wee while.

A few things...

2011-07-04T20:45:00.003+12:00

I hope your weekend is going well and that for those of you in the States you're having a fab 4th of July. Our time in New Zealand is pretty much over - we leave early tomorrow for India! So before we head off here's a little collection of things that have caught my eye recently.

Love the light in this image - beautiful.

This sparkling riesling is described as bottled happiness - what could be better. Not to mention the packaging is utterly beautiful.

Brown Graham's simple, utilitarian bags.

A wonderful new series of paintings by Lisa Golightly.

Tiny Ruins new album Some Were Meant For Sea.

A wonderful french comedy-drama.

Laurence Fearnley's The Hut Builder - I shall be adding this to my reading list.

And The Row's clothing - simple, versatile pieces.

Have a wonderful week!

Images from Threading in the Choirs, Ritzling, Brown Graham, Lisa Golightly, Tiny Ruins, Hopscotch Films, Penguin Books (NZ), and clip from You Tube.

Wellington...

2011-07-02T12:51:00.000+12:00

There's many great things about this little city. Too many to mention. Among some favourites are Unity Books "an antidote to the ordinary" where one can while away many hours. Another must to visit is Maranui Cafe on the south coast - great food, coffee and views.

I hope the past week has been a good one for you and that the sun has shone. I have a little collection of things I hope to post in the coming days, but in the meantime am off to make the most of the winter sun.

Images by me.

A little bit of New Zealand...

2011-06-26T10:00:00.000+12:00

There's nothing quite like arriving in your home country - everything seems familiar and comfortable, rather like putting an old jersey. Here's a little bit NZ music from way back.

Clips from You Tube.

Here...

2011-06-26T07:13:00.000+12:00

Thanks for stopping in and taking the time to leave a comment - it's always so nice to hear from you. As part of documenting our summer adventure we've started a bit of a travel blog called Here. So if you can (and you're interested) feel free to pop over and have a peek at where we've been. Plus I'll still be posting bits'n bobs on Elsa May as we go from place to place.
Image from our 36 hour stop in San Francisco.

Weekly what:nots...

2011-06-22T19:19:00.000+12:00

Here we are mid-week and our adventure begins in less than 48 hours. This is both thrilling and somewhat daunting. So much to organise and so little time. The boys and I are awash in bags, packing, and last minute bits'n pieces. By Thursday evening we shall have joined R in San Francisco where we plan to take in the sights before Friday night's long-haul (such an apt name) to New Zealand. I'm working out the best way to blog while travelling - more on than in a day or so - but in the meantime here's my last what:nots until sometime in August.

The lovely Lara Stone. I like that this image has not been airbrushed.

Have you heard about Kinfolk? Hop over here to find out more. I love their dinner table challenge.

Beautiful ceramic pieces from Beklina.

Simple and chic pieces from Tibi Resort 2012.

Dale Frank's artwork.

Wonderful silhouette on this cover - and it sounds like it could be a good read. Do you ever buy books just because of their cover?

And these Smørrebrød look like pieces of art. I can't wait to visit Aamanns when we are in Copenhagen. (Smørrebrød and Aamanns discovered on Kitka.)

Images from Of Fashion & Malice, Kinfolk, Beklina, Tibi, Roslyn Oxley9 Gallery, Powells, and Kitka.

The art of bad blogging...

2011-06-22T04:42:00.000+12:00

Hand on my heart I've been quite the bad (OK quite the appalling) blogger of late. But I will be back later today with a ~~somewhat~~ decidedly belated what:nots and a few trip details. Thank you for hanging in there and taking the time to stop by.
ps: I love this image of Diane Kruger.
Image from Elle Fr.

The seam of everyday unpicked...

2011-06-17T07:23:00.000+12:00

...a line from Jenny Bornholdt's new book of poetry The Hill of Wool. Essentially a book of memories - how some live and grow in families, how some are triggered by chance encounters, or inspired by rediscovered songs - like Jenny's other books it is full of wonderful prose.
Image by me.