Pink Pastel Princess: New Shoes on the Block

Every season - every single season, I pound the pavement and scour the internet for the perfect flats. They are not easy to come by. 

My Mum always taught my sisters and I that we should invest in good quality shoes - and it's a rule I've always lived by.

I'm looking for something that looks stylish, is comfortable and will last beyond a season of wear. 

It's not a tall ask my friends! 

I spotted these cuties from the new collection at Ziera - and my heart was a-flutter. THE perfect almond toe, a slight lift in the heel, and the most perfect pastel palette. 

I'm calling it people. The must-have shoe of the season. 
Perfect for work. 
Perfect with a skirt. 
Perfect with a cropped pant. 
Just perfect. 

Ziera Opera flats $179.95 (shown in Blue and Pink Patent)

A little while ago...

The Hen Men from meerkatfilms on Vimeo.


I was driving to work, it was rainy and cold and the bleakest of bleak days. 

It was an ordinary day - until I spotted an elderly man, leaning hard on a sign post, waving. I thought his car must have broken down, so I slowed right down, drove on, and then continued thinking about him. I quickly did a block, came back, pressed my hazard lights on and pulled over to him. Winding down the window my mind was racing:

Who was this man? 
Why did he have dirt on his back? Leaves? 
Where was he heading?
And why had no one else stopped?

In the moments it took me to decide to drive back to him, I had thought - if this was my grandfather, or my father, I would hope someone would pull over and help. 

I called out and we had a conversation - from which I determined that maybe he had dementia. 

My beautiful grandmother had lived with dementia. I was familiar with what dementia does to the mind and the behaviour of those with dementia. 

I asked him if he had any money - to which he told me he had fifty cents. He wanted me to take him to the other side of the city to visit a friend, of whose address he couldn't recall. 

All the time, my mind was travelling so many different ways, and I didn't know the best way to look after this man. If I picked him up, I wouldn't know what would happen. I didn't know his history, he wasn't hostile, but I didn't know anything about him. I gave him my umbrella, told him I wasn't able to give him a lift - and then hooted up to the local nursing home, pulled up, ran in and breathlessly asked if they were missing a man.

They were, and so I drove two staff down the long road, searching for that man.

I knew what he was wearing, knew his stature, knew his accent - but in the very short time it had taken me to get back - he was gone. 

I then decided we would go and search the local train station. 

Thankfully, he was there. Mercifully. Happily. Amazingly. 

He gave me a huge hug (I was worried he was going to be mad I had thwarted his getaway), and then we parted ways. 

I was happy to be able to take him back to a safe place - I had had thoughts of him walking away into the city, by himself with just fifty cents, and no recollection of where he was going or where he was from. 

Which brought me back to The Hen Men. 

Nursing homes are hard places - for everyone. Isn't this a beautiful and simple way to add meaning and value to someone in a possibly dark and lonely place? 

On becoming the mother of a 10 year old

This week the Doctor turned 10. 

I can barely believe we welcomed him 10 years ago. I can't imagine life before him, and I can't imagine life without him. 

He is the best gift I have ever been given (and so is Tiny, of course).

In those early heady days of first becoming a mum, I remember through the haze, struggling to feed, and finally walking in our front door with him curled up in my arms, the tiny body of a newborn, and being struck by the gravitas that I was responsible for his survival. 

I felt ill-equipped. Totally out of my depth. 

I was happy to be responsible, but the reality of being responsible for this small being was quite overwhelming. 

And so I started to learn to become a mum. And I loved it, despite the lack of sleep, the intense learning curve, the fact that I lacked the ability to shower most days before midday, let alone eat breakfast (I remember my sisters being disgusted at my Weet Bix being a sludgy mess, they couldn't believe I would actually eat them that way!). 

I don't think I was particularly good at it, but as the Doctor grew up, so did my confidence. 

We'd go on daily walks to the park, we'd go train spotting, we'd walk to the train station and meet Matt after work - where the Doctor's legs would pump furiously and he'd be SO happy to see the trains, as were the commuters to see this bonny, chubby rosy-cheeked boy exhilarated by the engines pulling in and going off. 

Such were our days. 

The Doctor filled my days, sometimes I cried, some days were so tough, but most days we had fun. Climbing, playing with the ducks, following the shadows, eating play dough (him, not me), setting up train track after train track. My heart is heavy thinking of those days, because my goodness I do miss them. They were uncomplicated, happy and innocent. 

But I'm not here to cast my mind back to coulda, woulda, shoulda, I'm here to say, being the mum of a 10 year old is a gift. I can barely believe we're here. But I am so glad we are. 

Happy birthday my beautiful child. May we always be close. x

10 Tomorrow

This time ten years ago I had eaten spaghetti bolognaise after having walked to our local supermarket (over 2kms away) having to stop every few metres due to contractions. 

I had bought the ingredients to make my antenatal teacher's special Labour Aid recipe, hired Sex and the City, snickered when the video shop guy said, see you in two days (thinking - no dude, you won't, I am in labour), and walked home. Gently. Ever so gently. Resting as I went on low fences, breathing. 

I remember Matt returning from work and me wrapping my arms around his neck, feeling comforted he was home, and I was not alone to ride the waves of contractions. 

That day I'd been shopping with my sister, Sarah. I'd bought new bed sheets. 

We were on a crazy tight budget, Matt and I, and buying one new fitted sheet that was on sale had felt like the biggest extravagance. But it did take my mind from those lower back twinges. 

Ten years ago today I went to bed, and in the early hours of the morning - I went in to labour. 

I could barely wait to greet my beloved firstborn.

5 of the best umbrellas

This weather has been so crazy in NSW. Blustery, bitter, rainy and ridiculous. 

Which brings me to this. An umbrella is imperative in anyone's at home repertoire. 

Which in turn brings me to this. My five favourite brollies to keep you cool, calm and collected for the rainy season. 

1. Kate Spade Rose Umbrella from Lark Store $85: Yes it's exy, but it's Kate Spade. And it has roses. And it's cute as punch. And when it's grey and gloomy, this perfectly punchy brolly will keep the rain clouds at bay.

2. Clifton Windpro Navy and White Stripe umbrella from Umbrellas.com.au $55.95: If you're looking for large and lofty, and really want to take cover from those oversized raindrops, this jumbo-sized super-powered umbrella will do the trick. I can vouch for its awesome-ness, it gives excellent coverage and won't blow inside out. 

3. Parisienne Series Cheetah Print from ParasolUmbrellas $52.95: Ditch boring black and take shelter under some animal print - you'll tread those footpaths in serious style. Plus even the handle is cheetah print. What's not to like? 

4. Senz XXL Golf Umbrella $99: It's an investment but it comes with some serious credentials. Winner of all major design awards globally, the aerodynamic design of the Senz umbrella means it won't flip - not even at winds exceeding 100kph. That's some seriously sweet design. 

5. Gina and May Grasshopper umbrella $59.95: Definitely one of my favourites for the retro tip of the  hat to polka dots, print and colour. Fun, full of personality, and super cool for super dreary days. 

Reading:: Me Talk Pretty One Day (David Sedaris)

I'll be honest - I've been pretty crummy at reading lately. I started the year with great gusto, tearing through three books in one month, and have dwindled to taking two months to read this book.

Which - let me clarify, is no reflection of this book. It's a reflection of me needing to unwind in front of bad tv, with tired eyes, instead of read a book, propped up in bed. 

But today I finished it. Lying on the sofa, with the Doctor fast asleep right next to me, I laughed out loud - so funny is this book, it makes you laugh the whole way through.

I don't think that's an easy thing either, to make someone laugh out loud via a book. But David Sedaris never fails. First published in 2000, it's been out for a long time. A really long time, but it's still as relevant, entertaining and hilarious as ever. 

I read David Sedaris' piece regarding his obsession with his FitBit a few months ago - and it spurred me on to read more of his writing. 

If you want an easy read, that's funny, self-deprecating, and totally good value - read this. I am sure it won't disappoint. Particularly the chapters on living in France. Bloody funny. 



Me Talk Pretty One Day - David Sedaris $16.95 from Booktopia

* Reading is all about what I'm reading. It's not sponsored. It's simply me, reading a book and sharing with you. A book club of sorts. In 2015 it's my goal to read at least one book per month - and share my lowdown on them with you. Maybe you'd like to read along? If so, let me know and we can virtually have a book club. 

Oscars 2015: Alexis Carrington Colby AKA Gwyneth Paltrow, Lady Gaga, Scarlett Johansson, Jessica Chastain, Rita Ora, Eddie Redmayne

Gwynnie raided the 'Dynasty' wardrobe. I am totally in on the gag.

I love everything about this Gaga. I love everything. Except the red gloves that remind me of when I worked at McDonald's and had to don huge, oversized gloves for emptying the fry vat. Besides that. I love everything.

This might be better suited to someone attending the Tamworth Country Music Awards. And I can say that because I grew up in Tamworth. And I don't mean it as a compliment.

Apparently Jessica Chastain's bust is ready to party, while the rest of her body just wants to get back to business. 

I'm pretty sure Rita Ora stole the red carpet. And no one's going to be able to get it back. 

And then there was Eddie. I love Eddie. And I do love his inky blue tux. I know I said tuxedos bore me, but this one has piqued my interest. I'm into it Eddie! 

Reading:: The Goldfinch (Donna Tartt)

I procrastinated on this book really, really hard. 

For one thing, it's 864 pages long. I like fast conquests. Something I can knock over in a couple of days. But a good friend read it, loved it, and so when we went away on holidays, I grabbed a copy, determined to get into it. 

It did not take long and it did not disappoint. 

After the first day of reading (and around 300 pages in) I wrote to my friend: I feel like a leaf floating down a flooding creek, being tossed around. 

And so it is The Goldfinch. 

If you haven't read it. Do it. And don't let the sheer length put you off. 

It's a beautiful, sad, detailed telling of the life of 13 year old Theo. I'm not going to give any spoilers, but for me, it was the poetic prose that just blew my mind. 

Donna Tartt's writing is thick with description. In a good way. You really get drawn in to this world, the story, everything. It's compelling. It's page flipping good. Honestly, one of the best books I have read in a really, really long time. 

One of my other friends thought it was a little too long, a little too wordy, but me? Nope. Perfect. So freaking good I can't stop processing it in my mind. And now I can't pick up another book because it's not going to live up to Tartt's amazing-ness. That's the worst. Not being able to say goodbye to your beloved characters who become friends, and feeling if you start something new, you're abandoning your friends. 

I know. I am a bit crazy. But that's how much this book affected me. 


The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt - $13.95 from Booktopia

* Reading is all about what I'm reading. It's not sponsored. It's simply me, reading a book and sharing with you. A book club of sorts. In 2015 it's my goal to read at least one book per month - and share my lowdown on them with you. Maybe you'd like to read along? If so, let me know and we can virtually have a book club. 

The Incredible 'The Imitation Game'.

I took myself off to the movies on Saturday afternoon - which is a rare treat indeed. A solo movie jaunt, and no one to share the popcorn with. Actually, if you must know, I didn't have popcorn. I had a choc top. It's almost compulsory to do so.

I've really, really wanted to see The Imitation Game since it first hit the big screen. 

Benedict Cumberbatch.

Keira Knightley.

And a little-known story (war altering) about WWII. 

A film about the incredible mind of Alan Turing. The creator of the world's first computer.

Honestly, since watching this, I haven't stopped thinking about it. There's so much to contemplate. To digest. To mull over. 

You know those movies when you come out and feel like you really need to chat with someone about it, to debrief? This, for me, was one of those. 

From the performances of Cumberbatch and Knightley (and everyone else) to the true story, my mind was completely blown. It was beautiful, incredible, funny (in some parts) and so hauntingly sad.  

If you've seen it, I'd love to know what you think! 

Reading:: Hector and the Search for Happiness (a book review)

By now you should know that there's no rhyme or reason why I pick up books. I just go for random books and read them. By no means is this Oprah's book club either. I don't have enough dress changes to warrant that. 

But again (I know, I know) I saw the movie trailer for this film, and was drawn to reading the book.

So Still Alice was about a psychologist, and Hector and the Search for Happiness is about a psychiatrist. Maybe there's something going on with my sub conscious ? Never mind, I saw the trailer and thought it looked pretty darn funny. It made perfect sense to me to read the best selling book as translated from French to English by Lorenza Garcia. 

I did wonder if some of the depth was lost because of the translation (Lost in Translation anyone), but then again - I really enjoyed this - delightful, simple and fun, this book has been read by over two million people. It delivers an easy-to-follow story, and some important lessons along the way.

About 18 months ago I read The Happiness Project. I am always on the hunt for happiness (who isn't!), and reading this book (it's a really swift and simple read) was a good - and different - kind of adventure. 

It's the story of Hector. A psychiatrist who leaves his office in Paris to travel the world to find out what makes people happy. In over 20 neat lessons, Hector narrows his lessons down to succinct findings - and then tests them against a happiness researcher with happy results. 


Hector and the Search for Happiness by Francois Lelord $18.50 



* Reading is all about what I'm reading. It's not sponsored. It's simply me, reading a book and sharing with you. A book club of sorts. In 2015 it's my goal to read at least one book per month - and share my lowdown on them with you. Maybe you'd like to read along? If so, let me know and we can virtually have a book club. 

Best Summer Beauty Buys:: Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint

I've never been a big fan of tinted moisturiser. It's never the right colour - and it always feels a bit slick when applied to the face.

But as a huge and dedicated Dermalogica fan, I had to try this Ultra Sensitive Tint, because I've never met a Dermalogica product I didn't like love.

Perfect for application (you just need a little more than pea size), I used my fingers for easy and silky smooth application. I wore this everyday of my holidays and loved it - and didn't even go near my everyday foundation, because this was the perfect base. 

It's sheer - but not too sheer, it gives a nice even coverage and feels really good to touch. It worked well with my regular make-up too. 

Offering SPF30 and tinted using earth minerals it helps guard skin against sun and UV damage with Grape Seed and Green Tea extracts added to help fight against anti-oxidants. 

I really loved this - and would definitely recommend it for a really light everyday coverage - and sun protection. But if you don't love tinted coverage - I want to recommend the Super Sensitive Shield. Why? It's really gentle, smells amazing, and it was so good I used it on Tiny (she really, really hates wearing sunscreen - and she didn't complain with this, not once!). 


Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint $52



Disclosure:: This product was sent to me for review and editorial consideration. I considered it. Tried it. And loved it. I thought you might like it too! This is not a sponsored post. 

Movie Review: The Little Death (Australian film)

Matt and I really love watching movies together. And since it's a rare day indeed that we get to go to the movies together - we're avid DVD watchers. 

It's well documented how much I love Australian film. And I really love funny Australian films. So how perfect, I thought - to share my review of this Australian film on Australia Day. BOO YAR! 

The Little Death (a reference to the French term for orgasm 'la petite mort') is big on laughs. In fact it's so big on laughs, I had to replay many of the moments because they just made me laugh. Not just haha, but belly laugh laughs. Like achingly funny laughs. 

A comedy about sex, love, relationships and rounded out by taboo, it's the kind of film you'll recommend to your friends in dire need of some laughs. It's not a shy film, by any means, which makes it all the more real, and a catalyst for conversation. 

Written and directed by Josh Lawson and nominated for six AACTA Awards in 2014, the cast is quality - a whole host of familiar faces, playing complicated, realistic and crazy-normal people. 

I have so many favourite moments from this film - and the trailer gives you a pretty succinct slice of what it's like - the whole way through. Fast paced, cracking and funny. My absolute favourite slice of the film features TJ Power as Sam who is hearing and speech impaired, calling up a sex call worker. Seriously funny and poignant too. 

I give it 8 stars!

The Little Death is now out on DVD and Blue-Ray. 

Best Summer Beauty Buys:: Black Chicken Axilla Natural Deodorant Paste

It may sound weird, but this deodorant paste is a total winner. Otherwise I wouldn't tell you about it. 

When I was first asked to try it out, I was dubious. I didn't want to have to apply a paste. But after two weeks of trialling it, I have to say - it's awesome. 

It's 100% natural from certified organic ingredients, made in Australia - and chemical free (aluminium, alcohol, petrochemicals, fragrance, phthalates, talc and parabens) - which means it's free from all the bad stuff we apply to our underarms almost religiously. 

Invisible after application, you just take a pea-sized amount, apply it under your arms - et voila! 

Really, I didn't think this was going to stand the test - but it lasts all day, and smells really, really good (kind of like old-fashioned cola lollies). For the ultimate test, I asked Matt to try it out - the results are in - it's even man-proof! 

It lets your body dispel toxins while keeping you fresh. 

How does it work? I know it sounds too good to be true, but the Kolin Clay and Arrowroot work together to absorb moisture while the Sodium Bicarbonate neutralises odour - and the shea butter moisturises and helps for easy application. Couple this with essential oils of Peppermint, Mandarin, Lime, Geranium (my favourite), Cajaput, Clove and Lavender - for their antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-stink and antiseptic properties, and you've got yourself a real game changer. 

Black Chicken Axilla Natural Deodorant Paste $15.95 - Nourished Life 

Disclosure:: This product was sent to me for review and editorial consideration. I considered it. Tried it. And loved it. I thought you might like it too! This is not a sponsored post. 

Tak3n:: Review - HELLO LIAM!

Last night Matt and I got the rare opportunity for date night. 

These are rare as hen's molars. Seriously. 

So when my Mum offered to babysit, we swung into action. 

But I have to confess, when I was first invited to see Taken 3, I was a little dubious. 

Don't get me wrong, I loved Taken - oh the stress! On the edge of my seat, scared, worried, my goodness, it really kept me glued. This time set in France, daughter gets kidnapped on a trip with her BFF, CIA operative Dad flies to her rescue. But not without a whole lot of twists and trouble.

Taken 2 - Liam really has bad luck - and again, it was quality viewing. Set in Istanbul, it was a snapshot into the unknown, and those action scenes - yowsers! 

But a third go at Taken? Really? 

REALLY! Go see it. It's awesome. I think Matt still has grip marks on his arm where I was squeezing him so hard. This time set in the US, starring Forest Whitaker, the story takes an unexpected twist and is as riveting as ever. But I'm not giving the storyline away. 

Co-written by Luc Besson (director of The Professional), reigning king of  who yet again creates a totally watch-able, action-packed, beautifully executed, crazy, amazing film that stands on its own in the Taken franchise. He has your heart pounding, your brain racing, and you'll be sitting on the edge of your seat. 

And then there's Liam Neeson. Ahhhh Liam. Supremely watch-able, he kicks some serious ass as Bryan Mills. There's no denying that he's good. But he's not just good. He's ace. 

I totally recommend seeing Taken 3. You'll like it if you like: any of the Taken films. Liam Neeson. Luc Besson. Ass-kicking action. Fight scenes in y-fronts.


Taken 3 - opens in cinemas Thursday 8th January.

My New Arm Party - You're Invited (Sp)

I am pretty excited because I got a new watch. You might think this is a bit old-fashioned. That's fine with me, but it's part of my master plan. 

To spend less time looking at my phone, and more time being in the moment. 

I'm pretty chuffed with it. It's already changed my life a little bit, because I wear it when I am walking instead of carrying my phone. I can be in the here and now, and quick glance at the face - and I know the time (and the date too, which is ace because it always slips my mind). 

2015 is going to be my year of organisation. Watch me go (pun intended). 

I had been looking for a watch for a while. I perused what was on offer on OzSale (loads of great pieces!), and found this Kenneth Cole classic men's watch. The cogs started going - this could potentially shift my mind, and then I couldn't wait for its arrival. 

It's chunky, black and I love what it brings to my arm party. And given OzSale offers designer fashion at discounted retail prices of up to 80% off - it means I got my watch for next to nix. 

Shop OzSale now. 

Reading:: Mr Rosenblum's List

It's been a while between books. But I have been reading. But incredibly slowly. Slower than a snail. 

My local bookstore recommended 'Mr Rosenblum's List' post 'Gone Girl' (totally unrelated reading matter) and it wasn't the same pace. But that was kind of nice coming off the adrenal high of that thriller. 

It took me a little while to get into, but I am so happy I persevered with this book.

Set in mid-century London, it's the story of Jack and Sadie, a Jewish husband and wife, together with their daughter who leave Germany to start a new life. 

Despite his thick accent and foreign sensibilities, Jack is determined to become an English gentleman. On arriving in England he is presented with notes on how to acclimatise to his new home - and sets about adding to this list with his own observations. A huge part of Jack's plan to become an English gentleman is to build a golf course. 

He wants to blend in, but the best thing is - he doesn't. At five foot three and a half inches, wearing dowdy tailored suits, he stands out, which makes him all the more endearing. 

This is a beautiful, delightful read. You will laugh, cry, be gobsmacked and be thoroughly enchanted by this couple, who despite all odds, find peace and a new place to call home. 

Author Natasha Solomons struggled with dyslexia as a child, but her grandfather always believed she would be a writer, leaving his writing desk to her in her will. Isn't that the coolest? Seriously can't wait to read more of her beautiful writing. 

You can buy Mr Rosenblum's List here. 

* Reading is all about what I'm reading. It's not sponsored. It's simply me, reading a book and sharing with you. A book club of sorts. I've read seven books this year. This is seven more than I did last year.

Paddington. Paddington. Paddington.

Have you been to the movies these holidays? 

We went to watch Paddington today - we got there early to avoid the crowds. We got there at 8:47am. The cinema wasn't even open, and the movie didn't start until 9:40am. Oops.

But the film was brilliant. 

Beforehand we had had a family vote on which movie to go to. 75% of our family wanted to see Paddington. 100% loved it. Not bad stats, right?

It's delightful, it's fun, it's funny, and Ben Whishaw (of Bright Star fame - another of my favourite all-time films) voices the bear himself. 

Nicole Kidman is fabulous as the villain. Sally Hawkins plays the part of a warm mum. Jim Broadbent is kooky as ever.

From darkest Peru to the hustle of London, Paddington finds a new home and a new family amidst a huge adventure. And the underlying story? It's the story of a bear misplaced, who struggles to fit in to his new found home.

Seriously great fun for the whole family. 

Not sponsored. Just 100% dug this movie and I think you will too. Go see it for yourself. GO! 

Watch this right now: Buble duets with Bieber, Thom Yorke, Gaga, Ke$ha and more.

Ah. That feels better. 

Yo! Yo! Yo! Jingling all the way with Bondville

In the last of my Jingling all the Way series, I chat with super Steph from Bondville. Steph's site is this awesome and inspiring hub of local designers, artists and crafters - supporting our Aussie community. She does an outstanding job and always has something creative and cool on the boil. 

I often pop over to Bondville to find out the latest and greatest in Australian design, and find inspiration for cool gifts. 

Let's cut to the chase, let's go!

What do you do on Christmas eve?

We are so lucky to have family based on the Sunshine Coast, so Christmas Eve we are likely to be veging out on a couch under a ceiling fan after a day at the beach. Oh, and wrapping presents. I'm soooo last minute. 

Please tell me your favourite Christmas childhood memory.

My favourite childhood Christmas memory is unwrapping all the decorations to trim the tree. Each piece of tissue paper had to be gentle removed to reveal a nostalgic ornament that my sister and I had made, or been given. It was a lovely long, slow process as many decorations were fragile. Then finding the perfect spot on the tree for each one. I make sure that my girls have the same great experience each year and I love to hear their exclamations: "remember this one!?!" and "oh I love this one!". And... my sister and I wore matching red and green Christmas dresses that my Mum made for us, and that my girls now wear. Too cute.

What did you leave out for Santa? 

A biscuit and a beer. Definitely beer.

What time do you get up on Christmas morning?

As soon as the kids are up, and with daylight savings in QLD, that's 5am!

Favourite part of Christmas?

Relaxing with my family at my parents' house and having 24/7 babysitters - they are amazing with the kids. We get to go on Date Night nearly every night! 

What's on your wish list this year?

I picked up my big Christmas wish list item a little early this year at the Armadillo & Co. rug sample sale. Loving it already! As we travel for Christmas, we have to go very light on presents; also OK by me. But if I didn't have to take hand luggage into consideration, I would wish for a yellow butterfly chair, a Gorman lobster bucket hat, an Eames Hang-It-All from Living Edge, some new Pony Rider cushions, Beci Orpin's Make & Do book or Jerusalem by Yotam Ottolenghi.

What's one thing you'll be gifting/giving this year?

Our family is into US-style BBQ (in a big way), so my husband is getting the Myron Mixon Smokin' cookbook - everyone wins! 


Take a look at Bondville here. 
And follow Steph on Instagram, pronto! 

Yo! Yo! Yo! Jingling all the way with the red thread

"Christmas 2005. Roxy was almost 2... this is what it's all about."

Continuing on our merry journey, chatting with some of my favourite bloggers, today I'm chatting with the lovely Lisa Tilse of the red thread. 

I've been lucky enough to known Lisa for a few years. Perhaps when I first started reading craft blogs and dreaming that I too could be crafty (I can't). Over this time I've had the great joy of working with Lisa. She's an immense talent, completely humble, and the kindest, most generous person you could meet. 

I freaking love her. This interview just made me love her even more. 

Let's find out what puts the star on Lisa's Christmas tree. Or what makes her baubles burst. Let's do it! 

What do you do on Christmas eve?

Sometimes we go to look at Christmas lights, but we always listen to Carols sung by Dean Martin, organise refreshments for Santa and the reindeers, and I do last minute wrapping. Oh and I always spend a protracted time asking Roxy to control her excitement and go to sleep.

Please tell me your favourite Christmas childhood memory.

I loved the year that I got my dragster bike, complete with a floral seat, handlebar streamers and a basket. I think the bike was purple. Every Christmas was special growing up though - mum planned the menu for weeks, and we always shared the day with my nan, uncles and aunts and cousins. We had a huge family feast of everything from prawns and salad to roast and vegies, pudding and ice cream cake, followed by present opening... and thankfully never any family tension or conflicts!

What did you leave out for Santa? 

Usually fruit mince pies and a beer. When I realised the truth about Santa it became clear why Santa liked the same things as my dad.

What time do you get up on Christmas morning?

We are early risers everyday, but Christmas day is even earlier. It's usually around 5 or 5.30!

Favourite part of Christmas?

Everything. I love Christmas. I love the lead up to it and the decorating and planning as well as the happiness and excitement of the actual day. The photos above capture the spirit perfectly for me: excitement, joy, magic, innocence.

What's on your wish list this year?

Honestly there's nothing that I really need or wish for, but I do always love to receive design, art and craft books.

What's one thing you'll be gifting/giving this year?

Roxy is getting to an age where she likes to make her own decisions about many things, so one of her gifts will be some cash so she can buy a couple of things in the sales.I know she'll go for clothes and books! It's also good practice for her in managing money and making choices - supervised of course!

Read Lisa's blog - the red thread - here. 

Follow Lisa on Instagram here (seriously, do it, you can thank me later).