: art : studio : life :

City Shapes

2012-01-15T21:16:00.000+11:00

Looking around the city yesterday for some inspiration, I found some lovely shapes and textures.I'm doing so much drawing lately, trying to get The Sketchbook Project finished before the end of the month. I am always looking up when I'm in the City, but today I looked down and saw these lovely tiles. I really love drawing patterns and shapes lately, let's see what I can do with this one.

Ten on Ten - January

2012-01-10T21:16:00.001+11:00

This month's 10 on 10 were all taken at home. I have one boy away on a trip, and the little one was at Kindy for the day. It was very quiet around here - complete bliss. We have been busy since mid December and this was my first day alone, pity I had so much cleaning to do. I wish I had done something fun...

I had to water the plants first thing this morning, it was a very warm day. Our Roma tomato plants have little fruits on them.

Remi's bed, all made (for a change). My sister made the cushion for him for christmas.

Packing away all the games and toys.

Dusting the window sill in the hallway, the kids love these cars.

Cleaning the stairwell.

Looking at my studio and thinking it's all a little too much to tidy up today.

My inspiration boards that haven't been updated for about 2 years.

The beautiful agave plant outside my studio.

Cleaning the bathrooms. Loving my boys' yellow and white stripe towels.

After his bath.

Home made fried rice for Remi's dinner.

Finally getting to all those photos that have been taken in the last month.

If you have never participated all you do is take one photo an hour for ten hours to document a simple + beautiful day in your life. Then go over the Rebekah's Blog to add your link for others to check out.

Enjoy your day.
xo
Mon

Merry Christmas

2011-12-26T21:37:00.000+11:00

Look what Santa brought for all of us.

What an awesome Christmas Day!!! Everyone pitched in and made it wonderful. Even though it was at our house, it wasn't stressful at all. My sister wins the award for "best surprise gift giver" and "best cook". I tell you what, she was outstanding.

My Sister made this awesome cushion for Remi's bed, he LOVES it!

Not only did Leanne make the cushion for Remi, but look what I was spoilt with as well.
Best surprise present ever!!!!
My mum got one too - boy has L been busy!

The boys waiting patiently for their presents.

Elise, what can I say???

Some of the cousins having brekky.

Brekky time for everyone

Chief cooks for the day - my Sister and I.

We cooked roast lamb and pork, loads of potatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrots and peas, and we made the best gravies ever! Elise and Ben bought the ham along, Ben and Chris bought the Turkey and stuffing, and Jarrod and Mika the chicken. It was topped off with the mother of all Christmas puddings. The pud was the best ever as well! Well done again Sis. Di Di made her ever delicious shortbread, mince tarts and (again) the best Christmas cake ever!!!! I tell you what, this Christmas will be hard to beat.

The feast for 29 of us - so much food!

Family feast

My Christmas lunch - nom nom nom...

Guess what Remi got in his bon bon?

My Dad (left) and Uncle Dave

My Sister and our Aunty Diana

Everyone had so much fun, all the kids played really well together and the weather turned out gorgeous. Seeing family together makes me very happy - hopefully next year, everyone will be there.

I hope your Christmas was as wonderful as ours...

Mon. x

P.S. I LOOOOooovvveeee my new quilt!!! Thanks Sis! Mwah! Mwah! and Mwah!

The lead up to Christmas...

2011-12-18T22:57:00.000+11:00

Phew, no time for blogging, but I have been taking loads of photographs. Here are a few from the lead up to Christmas...

Remi's Kindy Christmas concert

Christmas decorations on the walls at Kindy

A face in the crowd

More Kindy Decorations

Remi with his present from his teachers.

Remi's present for his teachers, we made hundreds.

Luca's class present to his teacher, it was her first year of teaching.

Luca and his teacher, we love her.

Last day of school, Yr 6 guard of honour.

Luca holding Molly (we are now looking after them for 3 weeks while Gra and Shiney are away.

The top of Queen Victoria Building Xmas Tree

Queen Victoria Building at Christmas time

The bottom of the QVB tree

Christmas windows

Love the reflection in this one

Christmas tree in Martin Place, Sydney.

Ten on Ten - December

2011-12-10T21:57:00.001+11:00

Ahhhh, where has the time gone??? With my husband on 'gardening leave' for the summer, the time is just whizzing by. I've taken loads of photos, all with my iPhone (it's such a handy device - almost a little too handy in fact, and a little too addictive as well).

Anyway, my Ten on Ten this month are a few of the things we have been doing lately. I did take more than ten photos today but a lot of them are rubbish, so I added some from last week.

Here goes...

Some watercolour art I've been working on. All WIP's.

Some of my tools

My boys in a tree (one with his bike helmet on)

We found a waterfall in suburbia

Christmas time at our mall

Our daily Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar

Some fishing today - can you even see the fish???

So proud! What a whopper!!!

A pelican on the lake today - it was a little bright for the camera

Yay, Christmas!

I hope you enjoyed the pics... head on over the Rebekah's blog to join in with this months 10 on 10, it's lots of fun.

Addicted to Instagram

2011-11-17T19:40:00.001+11:00

Kids toys everywhere

Hello, My name is Monique, and I'm addicted to Instagram (and Pinterest too, but this is all about my photos, not everyone else's). Here's what we've been up to the last couple of weeks.

School walkathon

I love Springtime

Tiny toadstools hiding next to an old stump

The dead tree at my sisters house

My drawing inspiration over the last few weeks

Strange weather

A gorgeous bridge

A Saturday Market

Playing with the kids

Sculpture by the Sea 2011

2011-11-06T19:25:00.000+11:00

A fab day from Bondi to Tamarama for the annual Sculpture by the Sea exhibition. Family, sculptures and fun, what more could we ask for? Here are a few of the sculptures we liked the most. Go and see it if you can, it finishes Sunday 20th Nov. Really early in the morning is the best time to go, the crowds will be bumper to bumper after breakfast.

The view from Nick's office building

The fam with a sculpture in front of Nick's office building, my boys are missing, probably hiding somewhere.

I Can't Stop

2011-10-28T13:39:00.001+11:00

Bubble Coral
Acrylic on Canvas
45 x 45 cm

Red Coral
Acrylic on Canvas
45 x 45 cm

Reef II
Acrylic on Canvas
30.5 x 40.5 cm

This last week has been filled with so much inspiration. I have been painting non-stop. They are quite different to what I normally paint. The colours are brighter, the shapes are more organic, I am having fun! I don't have time to use my 'real' camera to take the pics (sorry for the poor quality, they were all taken on my iPhone). My brain is exploding with ideas and I can't get them out fast enough. Back to it now....

The last one is a work in progress, lots of details to add.

Acrylic on Canvas
45 x 45 cm

Giant Sandcastles!

2011-10-20T14:00:00.000+11:00

Last Saturday we wandered down our hill, to the beach, with the boys.

There were hundreds of cuttlefish skeletons all along the high tide mark, we collected a few for the pic.

It's that time of year again when they are dredging the entrance to the lagoon so the ocean can flow in, some serious sand builds up pretty quick, so they have to bring in heavy machinery to get rid of it (my Aunty Diana has some more pics on her blog). The sand then gets deposited just down the coast about half a kilometre onto our beach. Sometimes they don't flatten the piles of sand right away, so the kids had a blast for a few hours playing in it. It's a bit gross and dirty for me, but N got in there with the kids.

Their clothes will be stained with orange dirt/sand until the end of time! It was fun for me to take the pics, I don't like dirty sand!

Spotted!

2011-10-19T19:48:00.000+11:00

These two were having a grand old time playing together just off the shore in front of our place today. We watched them for so long. They were so calming, it was like slow motion. They made me smile while I'm feeling so ill (An ear and throat infection - I'm calling it Fijian Fish Flu).

Happy Birthday Honey

2011-10-11T14:44:00.000+11:00

Happy Birthday to my lovely husband "N" today. I know we don't always agree on things, but we do both agree that Mud Cake is super yum!

Ten (or 22) on Ten

2011-10-10T12:59:00.000+11:00

This month's 10 on 10 are from our Fiji trip, we arrived home late last night.

I have taken over 2000 photos while we've been away and wanted to share a few of them, instead of the usual 10 in one day. (I am a little tired of taking photos for a few days.)

We've been away for the last 2 weeks, doing all the wonderful things you do on a tropical island in the middle of the South Pacific. I hope you enjoy! By the way, there are more than 10 pics, I hope you don't get bored....

Flying in to Nadi

Port Denerau Marina

The beach in front of our Bure on Malolo Island

Remi hanging out in the hammock

Yummy dessert

The boys waiting to go on the dolphin safari

Malolo District School children

Every afternoon

Playing on the beach

The fish below the jetty

So much snorkeling

Luca jumping off the pontoon

Remi's turn now

The beautiful coral just off our beach

Hello Nemo and Marlin!

The fish under the jetty

Malolo School (right next to the ocean)

A surprise pic, who's watching who here?

A collection from the beach

Malolo Jetty

Beautiful fishies

Going home.

Join this month's 10 on 10 project by clicking the link below.

Ten on Ten - September

2011-09-10T23:28:00.000+10:00

I am linking up again this month with the 10 on 10 photo project. I am always taking photos throughout the day of little snippets of life. I like to show 10 of them here once a month on the 10th. I hope you enjoy!

I'm starting with a photo of me (taken by my Dad) in about 1975(?) - it's my bonus pic. This morning I was looking through some old photos Mum had scanned for me from my childhood, I especially loved this one - those were the good old days, not a care in the world.

Luca celebrated his 7th Birthday yesterday, this is what he spent most of the day building today.

Luca's Birthday cards.

A present from Uncle Ben tonight.

The beautiful inscription.

The kitchen was OPEN tonight, we had a family BBQ for dinner.

The table was set.

The Rosé was poured.

Yesterday's leftover Angry Birds birthday cake was lit up again tonight. A little worse for wear, but still just as yum! Caramel mud cake!

It was a long day for this 7 year old. Goodnight Beautiful Boy...

Rebekah says:

"The 10 on 10 project has grown to be a fun and interactive way for blogger's from all around the globe to document a snap shot of their lives, once a month on the tenth, taking a photo every hour for ten consecutive hours. Finding life and beauty among the ordinary things of our day. To participate simply visit the blog on the tenth of the month and add your blog to the linky party so that all can check out your day!"

Go to Rebekah's blog to link up and to add a button to your side bar too, support the project! It's fun!

Decisions...

2011-09-08T13:51:00.000+10:00

Hmmm... I'm wondering what to do while the kids are out with Gramps.
Should I get some drawing done?

Finish last weeks painting?

Finish sewing Remi's pirate quilt?

Build my new desk?

Tidy the house?

Fold the washing?

Or, sit and have a nice cuppa?

Just Lovely

2011-09-06T11:19:00.000+10:00

I received this in my letterbox today from my lovely Aunty Diana, a gorgeous hand made Thank You note. It's so nice to be thanked with something like this! Go and have a look at her blog she started recently, it's a lovely read.

Father's Day

2011-09-04T19:03:00.000+10:00

The boys got to spend about half an hour this morning with Daddy before he had to go to a conference in the City.

Luckily he was home by 2.30pm. We all went outside and did some weeding in the garden. Quality time together is what counts the most. Happy Fathers Day N, we love you. xo

And to my Dad, you have helped make me who I am today, I appreciate you very much. I love you. Happy Fathers Day. xxxooo

My Dad and I, 1972
Check out those sideburns and all that hair!

Sailing Away

2011-09-02T21:41:00.000+10:00

I have been asked by Luca's teacher to help with the class artwork for the fundraiser auction coming up in a few weeks. The idea is for the parents to bid on the class artwork at the fundraising dinner. I drew up a few examples of what they could choose from, and the kids voted. The most popular vote won.

The winning design was a boat scene. The background will be painted blue with an ocean/sky/sand scene onto a canvas. The kids each drew and painted their own boat onto paper. I limited the colour choice so it didn't look like a rainbow of colours. I cut them out and am going to glue them onto the painted blue canvas, finish with their name below each boat, and a coat of varnish. It should look good. Hopefully I will get a pic of the finished artwork.

The boats below are so adorable I want to keep them for myself!

Brotherly Love

2011-09-01T21:23:00.000+10:00

The kids each got their haircut this morning. It is the only time they sit completely and utterly still.

When we got home, I asked them to pose for a photo for Daddy's Father's Day present for Sunday. They were more than happy to cooperate - anything for Daddy. I only had to take 20 photos to get some good shots! They don't sit still for me.

Choppers!

2011-08-30T16:06:00.000+10:00

Guess who lost his 2nd front tooth this morning. Those gums are so swollen, ready for the new huge choppers to come down. It almost looks painful!And tonight, he is all smiles, ready for the tooth fairy to come.

The Day After

2011-08-28T16:11:00.000+10:00

Yesterday was such a fun day, the kids were running around outside in t-shirts and shorts with their cousins all day. Silly me should have realised that my kids (always) get sick if there is even a hint of a chill in the air and they are underdressed. So today, Luca has woken with a barking seal Croup cough, and Remi has a runny nose (he is bound to get Croup later in the week for sure). I think it will be a day of stories and movies and grumpy boys.

A Little Celebration

2011-08-28T04:30:00.000+10:00

Luca will be turning 7 in a couple of weeks, Oscar was 12 a couple of weeks ago, and Dad turned 72 on the 1st of August. It was a lovely day to get the family together to celebrate for the 3 of them. The kids all had tons of fun together, everyone got along, and the sun even came out. The BBQ lunch was delicious, and it was lovely seeing everyone and having a chat and a laugh! I love a bit of family time...

Bowling

2011-08-13T20:32:00.000+10:00

Luca wants to have some friends join him for a bowling party for his birthday in 1 month. We thought we would go and try it out with the kids to see if they actually like it. We all had fun, so the party is booked in for his birthday. I had to limit it to 8 friends, the kids parties are starting to get out of control!

On top of the world!

2011-08-06T03:15:00.000+10:00

The morning out walking with the kids. Such a nice day...

Melbourne (warning Lots of Photos)

2011-07-24T00:00:00.001+10:00

I have been meaning to post about our trip to Melbourne that we went on in the 2nd week of the school holidays. The kids and I flew down to Melbourne on the Monday, Nick was on a flight later that day. They were so well behaved, I was very proud of my little guys. I waited till last to get on the plane so they could get rid of their energy, it was well worth it.

After a great flight, we jumped in a cab to our apartment/hotel we were staying in for the week. We met up with Aunty Gabby and had some lunch. My sister and family (The Harvey's) were due to arrive not long after us. When they arrived, we went and had a look at their awesome 'upgraded' apartment - penthouse 3br, 3 bath, huge balcony, there was even a wine cellar, all on the 21st floor with amazing views of Melbourne. Yes we were jealous , so much so that I didn't even take pics of our apartment. It was boring in comparison. Needless to say, we spent a little time up there with them on top of the world! We rode the tram full circle that first night. It was nice to see the city at night, we all loved the tram.

Luca, Oscar, Ethan, Archer and Remi waiting for a tram.

Anyhoo, we started nice and early the next day at Federation Square at the Art of the Brick Lego Exhibition. It was so jam packed with people, there were kids everywhere. The 'sculptures' were really great, great impact using only one colour for each of the sculptures.

We also bought tickets for the Play and Learn activities where the kids had fun building the tallest tower, the vehicle that went the farthest after being pushed down a ramp, and a few other activities - the 5 boys each chose their own task. There was tons to do and not enough time to do it.

The kids waiting for the first challenge

Remi playing with Daddy

The boys won for the tallest tower made in 5 minutes.

Luca won when his car went the furthest. (He was helped along by a heavy pre-made car top that he found)

Luca's winning design

Flinder's Street Station

Melbourne Central

The following day we went to the Tutankhamun Exhibition at the Melbourne Museum. We knew we were in for a long day, there is tons to see at the museum as well as King Tut. No pics were allowed in the King Tut exhibition, we took some of the kids in the store at the end.

Old trams still going

At the end of Day 3, we had seen SO much of the city, our feet were tired and the kids were going crazy being indoors. The next day was Leanne's Birthday, after a quick trip to the Police Museum (to see Aunty Gabby) we jumped on a tram to St. Kilda.

First stop in St. Kilda, Luna Park! It turned out to be a beautiful day The kids went on a few rides each. Luca almost died on the Dodgem Cars - he was a little small for the adult size ones. It ended in tears! He opted for the Carousel for his second ride - a bit slower paced.

The most fun for us grown up's were the crazy mirrors, we spent ages taking pics of ourselves in front of them - what a giggle!

A quick stop to look at all the cakes on Acland Street - believe it or not, we didn't even buy one. It was Leanne's Birthday too

St. Kilda Pier

Melbourne City from St. Kilda Pier

We were trying to spot some fairy penguins in the rocks, Leanne had the camera ready to go.

After some shopping at the Outlets, we walked back to Docklands and had dinner out with Leanne, Paul and the Kids (Happy Birthday Sis!). We had a really great time in Melbourne City, we will be back.

The next morning, we were both off in different directions. The Harvey's were driving back home to the Hunter Valley (which they did in 1 day - crazy!) and we were off on the train to Geelong to stay with Nick's sister on the farm for the night.
The boys had SO much fun with the dogs, goats and horses. The goats were following them around - so sweet.

After lunch we went to Werribee Open Range Zoo. We went in a safari vehicle to see the animals in large paddocks. It was a great adventure.

During the school holidays, the Zoo was open on Friday evenings.

After dinner, we went and roasted marshmallows, danced in the disco and enjoyed the cold night air. We had so much fun.

The next day after breakfast, we flew the kite and spent some time with the animals again.

After a BBQ lunch, we were headed to the airport and flew home to Sydney. We had a f a n t a s t i c time in Victoria!

Out and About - Winter

2011-07-23T02:00:00.000+10:00

*Just catching up on a few posts*
Today was a lovely winter's day, the kids were running around at the end of our bush walk in an area we've never been before. The only problem was, the walk back was just as long as getting there.

And as you can see, it ALWAYS ends in tears!

Warringah Art Exhibition 2011

2011-07-22T21:59:00.001+10:00

A quick visit with a couple of friends to the Exhibition today in the pouring rain. It's always great to see my artwork hanging in an exhibition. It makes up for the hours spent asking the kids to play by themselves in the school holidays.

Ten on Ten - July

2011-07-10T17:45:00.000+10:00

The kids decided to snuggle outside this morning, it was pretty cold, they thought it was great fun!
(Remi is dressed up as a cowboy)

My camera has a multi shot function, I think it's only the fifth time I have used it in as many years.
I think it's a pretty great effect.

Along the main street. Taking pics while I am driving (stopped at the traffic lights).

I drive up and down this street every day to take Luca to school, it's always a lovely way to start the day.

We live somewhere down there.

A toothless (and freckly) grin from Luca!

Remi is always making so much noise, the dimples make up for it though.
(Remi dressed up as a pirate)

School holidays and it's cold outside, the kids have been watching a few movies while I finished my painting.

A lovely lemon meringue treat for a fundraising trivia night for the school, so quick and easy to make.

I had been working really hard to get my painting finished and saw the beauty in the colours of my palette.
See my previous post for the finished painting.

Don't forget to go over to Rebakah's blog to join in with July's Ten on Ten, and to see everyone else's photos.

"PAPILLON" finished

2011-07-09T21:30:00.000+10:00

"Papillon" (meaning "Butterfly" in French)

Acrylic on Canvas

36 x 36 inches

I finished this painting yesterday, put on the varnish today, and now it's been sent off, to hopefully be chosen for the Warringah Art Exhibition. Wish me luck!

Snail's Pace

2011-07-03T12:25:00.000+10:00

Just dropping in to say hi! I am still painting madly for the upcoming Exhibition. The kids have both been sick this last week, so only little bits here and there have been done. I have one week until the submission deadline, so I am hoping to get it finished by Wednesday. Fingers crossed, wish me luck!

Painting madly...

2011-06-18T17:11:00.000+10:00

The Warringah Art Exhibition is on again in a few weeks. I am painting madly to get this painting done. The kids have been keeping me away from the brushes lately, but I managed to steal 2 days in a row, both drawing and painting to get things moving. Time to get back to it....

AMLP

2011-06-15T12:07:00.001+10:00

I have just sent off my photos for the Arthouse Co-op Project, A Million Little Pictures.

I signed up a few months ago and misplaced my disposable camera a couple of times. I didn't know what to expect when using the disposable camera, I haven't used one in years. It seems that the only good photos that can be taken have to be in the middle of a bright sunny day. Any photos that I took outside that time, or indoors were awful. I've put a few in below so you can see the difference in the pics.

I like the one taken on the car yesterday morning in the rain the best, the last shot on the camera. The clouds below are ok as well, it's the first shot on the camera. I kind of "lost it" in between. I guess I'll know better for next time.

I love using my digital camera, so easy to delete failed pics!

So Cute!

2011-06-12T20:11:00.000+10:00

Ten on Ten (in Sydney): Photo Project

2011-06-10T22:05:00.004+10:00

I was blog surfing this morning and came across this great idea by Rebekah from A Bit of Sunshine. I am always taking photos throughout the day of little snippets of our life, and thought it was a good idea to join in and show 10 of them here once a month on the 10th. Mine is a little last minute thrown together considering I only found this project today. I promise they will be better next month.

Rebekah says:

"The project has since grown to be a fun and interactive way for blogger's from all around the globe to document a snap shot of their lives, once a month on the tenth taking a photo an hour for ten consecutive hours. Finding much life and beauty among the ordinary things of our day! To participate simply visit the blog on the tenth of the month and add your blog to the linky party so that all can check out your day!" Go to her blog to add a button to your side bar too, and support the project!

I'm going for a bit of a vintage feel (they are a little low res, sorry). Here goes:

The morning sun in my boys room, lovely on a cold Winter's day.

The flowers in the dining room this morning.

From the minute he wakes up, Luca is building Lego.

What's for breakfast? Vegemite toast!

The view from our balcony, a bit grey today.

Always picking up these guys from under my feet.

Started 2 new paintings today.

Found this in the back yard.

So many toys!

From the bathroom window.

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!

2011-06-04T16:05:00.000+10:00

Gorgeous daisy cupcakes made by my lovely friend Gina.

Beautiful flowers from a few of the mums from Luca's school - Thanks again Guys!

Twenty one today, twenty one t... oops, got a little carried away. Not really twenty one, more like 31++++++++. It's been a lazy day so far, playing with the kids, reading, eating yummy cupcakes, hearing the kids (awesome) rendition of Happy Birthday To You Mum (it makes me giggle).

Just what I wanted though, a lazy day at home, I feel like we haven't stopped for weeks. Back into it again tomorrow with 2 kids birthday parties. Then some more house guests on Monday. Lucky we did stop today, I really needed to re-energize.

Vivid Sydney

2011-06-01T14:52:00.024+10:00

Last Saturday night, we ventured into the city to see the annual Vivid light show. I missed it last year, Nick and Luca went with out us because it was too cold for little Remi. This year we all went. There were thousands of people that had the same idea. We loved it all. It was beautiful all along the foreshore, lots of smiley happy people enjoying the lovely atmosphere with us. It finishes on Sunday 5th June. If you are in or near the city, you can't, and shouldn't, miss it!

Luca hanging out on a light chair.

Luca near the Sydney Opera House

The MCA splashed with paint (lights), an awesome interactive display.

Me, taken by Luca

Opera House (taken with my phone)

A car.

Jellyfish

Customs House lit up with one design...

Customs House lit up with another design...

...and another.

In Case Your are Buying...

2011-05-30T14:04:00.001+10:00

Here's my Birthday wishlist. I will be thirty something on Saturday! Now can someone please let my husband know...

Canon DSLR Camera

Hunter Original Boots

Wacom Bamboo Fun Graphics Tablet

Carina Zipper Tote Bag

Joya Multi Colour Cushion by Citta Design

A Day Out (with Friends)

2011-05-24T22:09:00.072+10:00

I have never seen Bondi Beach so deserted! I drove to Bondi this morning, it was beautiful, peaceful and quiet. I don't think I've been there on a weekday in Wintertime - It's so much better than seeing thousands of people laying around hungover on the weekend, wondering if you are going to have your bag/wallet pinched! I much prefer our beaches on the North side, but I am biased.

My friends from San Francisco are visiting for a few days, I have only seen them twice since we moved back here from NY all those years ago. It is so wonderful to have them staying with us, they make me remember back to the days without children, and responsibilities. We've had so much fun reminiscing, eating good food and drinking lovely wines. Too bad their time with us is so short.

After the morning in Bondi, we drove into the City and met Nick for lunch at the Australian Hotel at The Rocks. We ate Kangaroo Pizza, Crocodile Pizza and had a few Aussie Beers. The weather turned sour and we headed for home. It was a really lovely day, no kids, no real plans, just wandering around our beautiful city.

Bondi Beach

Backpackers Rip - Bondi

Bondi Icebergs

Bondi Shops

Bondi Graffiti Wall

Australian Hotel - The Rocks, Sydney

My lovely friend Tanner and I at The Australian Hotel

Away

2011-05-22T07:37:00.015+10:00

I don't know if it is because we went on a little holiday, or the change in the weather, but I feel a little spacey lately. Just after Remi's 3rd Birthday, we took a weeks vacation to the Gold Coast in Queensland. We visited the theme parks, beaches and shops. It was exhausting with our kids in tow. They are so full of beans and wanted to go a million miles an hour every day. We just wanted to have a little relaxation but there was no time for that. We will have to wait for Fiji again, later in the year. It seems to be the only place we can truly relax.

When we came back from the Gold Coast, we had a family weekend planned a few days later. On the Saturday we had High Tea planned at Butler & Cook in Newport, with my Mum, Sister, Aunty and 2 Cousins. It was for Mum and her twin Sister's 65th birthday. After a few hiccups, only 4 of us ended up going. We ate lovely sandwiches, pastries, scones and cakes. A few glasses of bubbly and lovely tea were had as well. A lovely day, except for the missing company.

Me and Mum

Leanne and Elise

Yummy treats.

Delicious Scones

And Tea of course!

The next day, we all gathered at the Dingle for our annual May babies combo birthday BBQ. I flaked a bit on the cake for Remi this year. I was feeling a little exhausted after the no holiday- holiday.

Thomas' Cake

Layla's Cake

Remi's (sad, no effort) cake

My lovely cousins put in way more effort than me, I felt a little guilty. I'll try harder next year little guy, I promise.

We had a lovely, very busy, weekend.

Since then, we have had non-stop sickness at our house. Things are now looking up, it's the start of a new week and I am more motivated. I am starting to paint for two upcoming exhibitions, I am hoping to get chosen for both this year. Wish me luck!

A Superhero Party

2011-05-03T12:50:00.009+10:00

We celebrated with a few of Remi's little friends and their Mums yesterday. My lovely friend Gina made the Superhero Cupcakes, they turned out A M A Z I N G ! ! ! Thank you Gina! We celebrated with Luca and Daddy in the evening. A busy day, full of presents, food and tons of FUN!

Remi and Luca

Three

2011-05-02T21:06:00.035+10:00

Little Remi is 3 today!

He still has that same gorgeous smile and dimples.

He loves his yayyay*, lollipops and pink milk most of all.

He is a little crazy and likes to run away.

He doesn't like to be told off by anyone but Mum and Dad.

He is always cuddling us and loves a good tickle.

He's a sweet boy our Remi, and now he is 3.

Happy Birthday little guy.

I love your guts!

*His cloth nappy he cuddles and chews, that he has had from birth.

Reef

2011-04-27T16:17:00.001+10:00

Reef - Acrylic on Canvas

I quietly disappeared yesterday afternoon, down to my studio, to paint. The kids were having fun playing with their Dad, so it was a perfect opportunity. Leanne gave me an early birthday gift on the weekend, an awesome Ken Duncan Limited Edition Photograph - Breakwater Lighthouse, Delaware USA. It brings back lots of memories from living in the US, I love it! The problem was that it looked lonely where I hung it, so I got the urge to paint a small canvas to hang with it. I like that they are mismatched. What do you think?

I decided to call my new painting "Reef". It reminds me of snorkeling over a reef, there are always so many beautiful coloured fish, coral and other aquatic life.

Easter in the Countryside

2011-04-26T13:33:00.001+10:00

We left the awful rain behind in Sydney this Easter weekend just gone, and swapped it for glorious sunshine in the Hunter Valley. On Saturday my Sister, Leanne, and her family all took us to Wollombi, a small town about half an hour from their home. Who knew it would be so busy with other like minded people! It was really great to be outdoors, the kids had a blast doing nothing in particular, just enjoying their cousins company. After lunch at the pub, we wandered around the (very) small town for a bit, the markets were on too, so Leanne and I had a little look around there as well.

A small sandstone church in Wollombi. (Pic taken by my Sis)

My gorgeous Remi. (Pic taken by my Sis)

Another gorgeous sandstone church in Wollombi. (Pic taken by my Sis)

On Easter Sunday, we went to Hunter Valley Gardens where they were having an Easter Egg Hunt for the kids. The gardens are really beautiful, and never seemed that crowded, which I loved. My kids were going crazy for the outdoor space again, a little too crazy really.

I love how little Remi was interacting with the statues, I didn't see Leanne stalking him, so I was very surprised to see some lovely pics of him.

Me and my big Sister Leanne

Easter Egg Hunt in the Storybook Garden

Mad Hatters Tea Party

All of us (taken on timer).

After lunch at the Gardens, we went back to the farm. The kids absolutely love it there, jumping on the trampoline, flying on the swings, going for a bushwalk to find rabbits, and their new favourite thing to do - riding the motorbike and quad. Their older cousins were so wonderful, both days, doubling them around the yard at a snails pace - so sweet. Thank you E and O.

These were growing in the field.

Remi and Oscar.

Daddy and Luca

That night we celebrated Mum's 65th birthday with a BBQ and a home made cake. After cake, we all sat around the campfire, it was a really lovely evening, the stars were shining bright out there in the pitch dark countryside.

Looking at the stars!

A fab weekend, now we're all exhausted!

MVQ Giveaway

2011-04-20T22:02:00.001+10:00

My big Sister Leanne is having a fabric giveaway on her blog.

Leave her a comment on her "wash or not to wash" survey, and become a follower on her blog to enter.

Sketchbook Project 2012 World Tour

2011-04-20T16:08:00.002+10:00

This years Sketchbook Project was SO much fun, it kept me inspired by making lovely sketchbook pages off and on for 4 months. This next one is a World Tour! I've already signed up. It's going to travel to Melbourne at some stage! I might have to make a special trip down to see my sketchbook sometime next year.

Kids ATC Swap 2011

2011-04-20T14:41:00.000+10:00

I forgot to write about Luca's ATC (Artist Trading Cards) Swap that we sent off on Monday. He is in a group of 7, 6 year old kids, all from the U.S. It was a struggle to get him to draw them, at times I wanted to give up. I even sat next to him drawing my own to give him some inspiration. It's school holidays and I don't think he wants to draw or paint, all he wants to do is play with LEGO! I was lucky enough to get the following drawings out of him. Leave him a comment, he'd be very excited!

The back side of the cards

The Ball

Billycart

Wierdbot (Luca's spelling)

Trainbot

Vegemite Guy

Club

Cezanne Art Class for Kids

2011-04-20T10:22:00.002+10:00

Kids Art Class was on at my house again yesterday. I decided they would give Paul Cezanne a go this time - "Still Life with Jug and Drapery".

All the kids were very excited, and quite apprehensive. They didn't know where to start. Once I got them going, they couldn't be stopped. We had a little help from two of the Mum's, they helped me when the kids got a little stuck - it's hard to be in 11 places at once.

Most of the kids were older this time (with a couple of younger ones as well), instead of doing the exact colours of the painting, they all went their own way and chose beautiful bright colours, they all look amazing and really different.

After they had finished painting, and a little bit of morning tea, I gave each of them a stack of 11 Artist Trading Cards. They were to do whatever they wanted on them, using any kind of materials. When they were finished, they each had to trade one card with everyone in the group. They were all so excited to go home with a little piece of everyone.

Sam with his ATC

It was such a great day, the artworks produced were lovely. I already have bookings for Art Classes next school holidays. Yay!

It's Catching On

2011-04-17T15:02:00.000+10:00

I sat down today to spend a little time drawing. Both my Dad and Luca wanted to have a go at it too. Dads drawings make me laugh SO much. He has always drawn the same characters since I was young, gappy buck teeth, floppy hats and a giant smile. I love how he draws, they remind me of him without his false teeth in. I will keep these drawings forever, the kids love them.

And Luca's drawings too...

Watercolours

2011-04-15T21:12:00.009+10:00

These last few weeks have been a little trial and error in regards to my creativity. I have been experimenting with a few different mediums and have enjoyed the watercolors the most. I took some pics of my plants and had a go at painting them. The background is a little dark, but it turned out ok. I haven't used watercolors in ages. The white parts are acrylic ink. What do you think?

Art Classes for Kids

2011-04-13T14:19:00.000+10:00

Yesterday was new for me. It was my first time at teaching an art class for kids.

There were 9 kids from 3 years to 8 years old. I decided on Vincent Van Gogh's Starry Night for everyone to paint on their own.

Everyone started off with a blank canvas, I guided them through drawing different parts of the painting using a pencil, first the cypress tree in the foreground, then the houses, church and hills in the mid-ground, finishing off with the stars in the night sky. I added a few swirls for them, then they traced over their pencil lines with a waterproof black marker.

We started painting using the lightest colours first, the yellow for the stars and the green for the tree. The rest was painted in two tones of blue to make the whole scene dark, like night time.

We used q-tips to dab small bits of paint to add depth, and their signature. Once the paint was dry, we used some silver and blue glitter paint over the whole painting to give it a shimmer.

The kids were SO pleased with their finished works.

Starry Night by Luca - Age 6

Starry Night by Emily - Age 6

Starry Night by Jack - Age 3

The finished paintings!

I got through the class with flying colours, I even have 10 kids booked in for next week.

For really great art ideas for kids go to Art Projects for Kids - what a GREAT site for inspiration!

Manly to Watsons Bay to South Head Sydney

2011-04-03T22:10:00.001+10:00

A wordless weekend...

Big Plans for Today

2011-04-01T09:46:00.001+11:00

While most days when the kids are at School and Kindy have been about getting things sorted around the house, today I am making it all about me. I have been drawing and painting here and there over the last few weeks, trying to get a little bit done while the kids are asking for this and that, but it has been a struggle to get much done. So, an hour this morning is all I am dedicating to the housework, and the next 4 hours after that are for painting and drawing. Off I go...

We did bake a cake!

2011-03-29T14:26:00.000+11:00

My gorgeous Masterchef, all prepped and ready to bake!

Ok, so it's not pretty, but it sure does taste yummy! The Traditional Vanilla Birthday Cake recipe is from the Magnolia Bakery Cookbook (New York City), where I used to frequent with my lovely friends, way back when it was a one shop bakery, before LA and Dubai. Wow, haven't they done well! I have used the same recipe for all but one of my kids birthday cakes over the years - so delicious! And by the way, who needs an excuse to eat cake, it's just another ordinary day... why not!

Buy it over here...

Drawing Morning

2011-03-29T14:02:00.001+11:00

This morning after the little one was dropped off at Kindy, I headed home with the idea to do some drawing. Luca (6) is off school with really bad asthma, so he decided to join in with me and my creative process. We took a few lessons from the Drawing Lab book (below), by Carla Sonheim.

First up, I chose Lab 19, drawing a series of facial features in a particular order, then join them all up. The book was a helpful start to get us going, but we put a little bit of our own spin on it. Luca went one step further - he had a robot in mind - and came up with his own drawing on the right. I don't really know what I drew, but it was very therapeutic colouring with pencils.

Next up, Luca chose Lab 18, drawing a subject with one loose continuous line. I drew some vases with flowers and some faces, all different. I noticed as I drew more, my squiggles and swirls became more detailed. Luca got bored with that one after he had done 3 vases of flowers and moved onto the monkey face (at the bottom).

This is Luca's Lab 7 monkey face. You could only use a limited number of colours, so off he went. It looks a little like a character from South Park I think!

I think we are off to bake a cake now...

Watercolour Inspiration

2011-03-28T18:06:00.001+11:00

Reading new books to get some drawing and painting inspiration.

Even though the weather has cooled down, all of my plants seem to be loving it, they are all in bloom. Some lovely inspiration for some small watercolour paintings I think.

Markets, Sickness and a Lot of Fun!

2011-03-10T11:49:00.001+11:00

Whoa, this last few weeks has come and gone so fast. While I was in the middle of it though, it seemed to be taking FOREVER!

We've had late night hospital visits, days off school and a lot of time watching movies on the couch. On the happier side we've had outings to the City, birthday parties, finding things that we haven't seen or played with in a while, and a lot of reading other peoples blogs and not wanting to write on my own.

I think I am going to start spending less time on this thing (computer), I think I have become overwhelmed at all the things I have to do around home, let alone anything creative. I am a really unorganised person, I need to sort myself out. Hopefully I will get back into my routine at home very soon, and start back with the screen printing and sewing I have planned.

I have hardly taken any photos lately, but here are some pics of the things I bought from the Magnolia Square Markets a few weeks ago at Paddington town hall. I have a few kids birthdays coming up, so it was a good opportunity to find some unique goodies.

Prints and wrapping paper from Sweet William

Mixed paper pack from Sweet William

Print by Printspace

Goodies from Red Wagon

Valentine's

2011-02-14T08:53:00.001+11:00

I made these on Saturday morning for my lovely family. The kids aren't really into breakfast, so when they spotted these, they thought it was Christmas all over again. There are tons of pics on the web for heart pancakes, I think I got the idea from Ohdeedoh last week. The most amazing pancake blog belongs to Jim, go and check out his 3D creations - SO a m a z i n g!

I hope you have a lovely Valentines Day - share the love baby!

My new Matte Prints

2011-02-11T11:20:00.000+11:00

Some new Matte Stephens prints arrived at my door this morning. Now to get them framed, I can't wait to see them hanging. Autumn in New York is for me, Alfred Finds his Soul Mate (the mermaid one) is for Remi's wall, and the Adventurers Club is for Luca's wall. I LOVE his style of painting!

My Little Valentine

2011-02-09T10:45:00.007+11:00

I thought I was thinking ahead. I'm not really into Valentine's Day, but I thought I would treat my family with some yummy Cookie Couture Cookies next week. Unfortunately, they have a 'use by date' of the 11th Feb, 3 days before Valentine's Day! Go figure... So the little guy and I tried some today.

Back to School

2011-01-31T10:26:00.003+11:00

The school holidays went SO fast! We had so much fun on our 'staycation'. The furthest we went from home was an hour and a half drive. I feel pretty lucky to live in such a beautiful environment. We spent numerous days at the beach and sea pool just down the road. Other days we went to the city, the Zoo, the Reptile Park, Manly, fishing, bushwalking, and having fun times together.

And now, after all that holiday fun, guess who doesn't want to go back to school?

"School's boring Mum!" he said.

So I said, "You will be going into a new class, with lots of different kids from the other Kindy classes from last year".

He replied, "Well I bet they don't want to go to school either, so we should all go to the beach!"

I couldn't agree more (sigh). Look at today!

He was happy once he got to school, phew!

Foggy Aussie Day

2011-01-28T10:48:00.000+11:00

On Australia Day we woke up to this, the whole of the Beaches covered in fog. It was an eire feeling, quiet. Standing on my balcony the fog was rolling around our house, I felt like I was in the mountains. It cleared around noon, and later on we went to the beach in true Aussie Day style.

More Sketchbook Project

2011-01-25T08:34:00.002+11:00

Mirazozo @ The Opera House

2011-01-23T22:18:00.002+11:00

We went and saw Mirazozo today. You have to go see it if you are in Sydney for the next few days. It finishes on the 27th January. It's so much fun!

"Mirazozo luminarium is a sculpture people enter to be immersed in radiant light and colour. Mirazozo is inspired by nature, geometry and Islamic architecture. Its original feature is the "illuminated seam" that is found in all the principal domes. The luminosity of light and colour inside the luminaria is created purely by the daylight shining through the coloured plastic." It is all completely handmade.

I warn you, make sure you pre purchase your tickets (we didn't), we were waiting in line for an hour and a half with the kids, who were surprisingly well behaved. It was well worth the wait though. We got some GREAT photos inside.

I was even lucky enough to run into an old school friend, inside the sculpture, who I haven't seen in 20 years! Hi V! What a fab day!

Mirazozo by Architects of Air
3-27 January 2011
10am-7pm daily
All Tickets $10
Sydney Opera House Forecourt
All ages, all abilities

Summer School Holiday Fun

2011-01-19T18:09:00.000+11:00

We're having too much fun on School Holidays, we'll be back with some new things from Remi and Jack at the beginning of February when school goes back. Time with the kiddies is precious you know! Sorry, got a little carried away with the photos....

Australian Reptile Park

Balmoral Beach

Fishing on the Lake

Fountains in the Corso

Buried on 'our' beach

North Head bushwalking

Taronga Zoo

Tired at home

Long Reef rockpools

Scooting at the Park

Zapping everything with his Harry Potter magic wand

Sydney Aquarium - On the Loose LEGO exhibit

Sketchbook Project Pages

2011-01-19T14:41:00.000+11:00

Here are the first 8 double pages of my Moleskine for the Sketchbook Project 2011. I will upload the other pages over the next few posts. I have had such an amazing time doing this, I went out yesterday and bought myself a 2 pack of new Moleskines to continue the sketchbook project for myself, for me to keep. I have a new found love of drawing again!

My topic is "A Day in the Life". It's pretty random, we have been all over the place since I started it in August, so have a peak...

QLD Flood Appeal

2011-01-17T10:07:00.000+11:00

Photo by Dave Hunt of AAP

This last week has been mind boggling. In Queensland, water has been going in every direction, destroying peoples lives. We have all been watching it from afar and cannot imagine, even in the slightest, what they are going through. Everything... lost, gone, washed away in the blink of an eye!

If you can, please donate. They need money, cash, any currency, like right now. There are a few Handmade Charity Auctions going on which go directly to the Premier's Flood Relief Appeal. My Sister has donated a quilt, along with many other crafters. For a list of Auctions go to Make it Perfect (Toni's Blog), there are some lovely things to bid on and 100% of sales goes directly to the Premier's Flood Relief Appeal. Now, go and bid!

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T22:30:00.000+11:00

Ours was spent at a birthday pool party yesterday afternoon, then the 9pm fireworks at Collaroy Beach in the evening, we had a front row picnic blanket and got some good pics (I can't tell if any are upside down or not). What a fantastic way to end the year.

Goodbye 2010, you were a very interesting year. Hopefully 2011 is a little easier - here's hoping!

December at a glance...

2010-12-31T09:26:00.012+11:00

The last month has gone by so incredibly fast. Since school broke up, we have been going at 100 miles an hour. We've had so much fun with family and friends and even just by ourselves at times. The weather has finally come around and we have had an absolutely gorgeous Christmas break. The pics below show 'our December'.

The night of the Lunar Eclipse. I was putting the kids to bed and only just saw the end of it, it was a beautiful evening. My little camera took this lovely shot.

Everyday we walk to the end of our street for a swim at the beach. This day, Remi was tuckered out and decided to have a little nap after his big swim.

Me enjoying the sun, watching Luca and Uncle Ben brave the chilly water.

Christmas Day up at the cousins country house.

Christmas tree and gifts

The Christmas Pudding I made. It was my first effort and it turned out lovely (for a last minute job).

Uncle Paul made the kids a slip n' slide, they all had so much fun!

The country 'estate'!

The kids absolutely LOVE the swings, oh, ok so do I!

Me and my big Sister

Boxing Day Pavlova - made by my Sister and always YUM!

Christmas cake made by my lovely friend Gina, also really yum, the kids ask for a piece daily. It's lasting quite a while.

A surprise present for me when we arrived home.

A quick trip...

2010-12-21T16:05:00.000+11:00

With Aunty's Gabby and Gill visiting for a few days, we thought it would be nice to make a trip into the city yesterday with the kids to see the Chinese Entombed Warriors Exhibition at the Art Gallery of NSW.

It was a really windy day which I think made the kids a little crazy! They were pretty good considering how quiet and still they had to be. Luca loved every minute of it, and had his little booklet where he checked off the things he found in the exhibit. He was excited to find almost everything before we had to walk a lot quicker than everyone else out of there because Remi was sick of being in his stroller and started screeching. I think the slow speed of the stroller was a bit much to handle for a little hurricane like Remi. We walked through a few of the other permanent collections which the kids loved looking at. Then they were let loose in the Domain, the huge parkland areas around the AGNSW. A really lovely day, with a little bit of culture for all of us!

There is no photography allowed inside the Art Gallery, so these were taken outside.

Our new favourite...

2010-12-20T08:47:00.000+11:00

Sshh, we have found our new favourite cafe. Don't tell anyone, it's small and lovely, and has really yummy treats. It's also a little bit of a homewares emporium on a small scale. It's called "Favourite Things" and is in Dee Why, on Sydney's Northern Beaches.

I managed to snap a few pics of loveliness with my phone. Luca says "I want to live in that shop Mummy". I am sure it's because of the jars of lollies they have lining the front counter - Giant Jaffas, Giant Freckles, chocolate covered snakes and lots more... go and see for yourself!

Some sherbet lollies

A giant Jaffa

A kids milkshake

Commission Finished

2010-12-19T17:05:00.001+11:00

I whipped through this in about 4 hours yesterday morning. I'm happy to have it finished on time, it will be delivered as scheduled on Monday. I had fun painting, the kids stayed upstairs while I just got stuck into it. It's amazing what you can do in complete silence. I tried to make it a little different to the last 2 I did for this client. I think it is a little more quirky this time. I want to continue to paint again... I am missing it.

Painting madly...

2010-12-16T15:01:00.000+11:00

It is so nice not to have to rush out of the house today. I have one last commissioned work to finish before Monday. It's a kids "My name is..." painting. I have done quite a few of these, so I like to change it up a little each time, you know, make them one of a kind. This is the 4th one of these for this client, for her new little one, Henry. She says she is stopping at baby no. 4. I guess this will be her last commission request.

The kids are on school summer holidays now, so that may make it a little challenging to paint. I'll have to do it in bits and spurts. I'm enjoying painting again, it has been a while, it may even be my new years resolution - to start painting more. I'll post a pic of it next week once it is finished. Until then, back to painting...(and the kids).

Upcoming Markets for Remi & Jack

2010-11-15T11:14:00.001+11:00

There is lots going on here in the lead up to Christmas with all the lovely Markets in the area. We are going to be at 2, one on the 28th November and one on the 10th December. We have been busy little worker bees in the last few weeks getting all those unfinished things finally done. These lovely little everything bags will be for sale. I already sold a couple to a few friends the day they were made.

Back to getting things ready, lots to do, I have to stay on schedule you know.

Simple Sewing

2010-11-01T17:25:00.000+11:00

I've been making a couple of things for some upcoming Christmas Markets, where we are having stalls, at the end of this month. I'm still working on those things in my last post as well.

Above is a little drawstring bag to be used for a little girls precious things...

So much to do, so little time. Back to it!

Time?

2010-10-26T21:40:00.001+11:00

Oh where does the time go?? I am slowly working my way through my mile long list which included some sewing projects for Remi and Jack, drawing for the Sketchbook Project, some screen printing, organising and spring cleaning my home as well as having a social life.

Yikes, I am a little overwhelmed, because I am trying to spend as much time as I can with little Remi, he is growing so fast every day. At the same time I crave to be creative every day. Unfortunately blogging has taken a backseat to some more important things in my life, but I like to pop my head in occasionally. When I blog, it seems to relieve some of the stress.

We are outside a lot lately with the warmer weather. These are growing on my balcony at the moment, lovely aren't they, I love Spring!

Trampoline

2010-09-21T11:22:00.000+10:00

With the Australian $$ being really high again, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to do some (more) online shopping. I want to frame all my prints and drawings etc that I have collected over the years and hang them in my stairwell. There are a few white walls on the way down asking to have some colour added. I am a white gallery walls kind of person and like to let artworks have a neutral backdrop, so these little antique sea life prints should be a lovely addition to my ever changing collection. They arrived in our mailbox yesterday. I purchased them from Trampoline on Etsy - thanks Kim, I loved the way you packaged them, so simple and lovely.

Now, to find some frames...

Club Penguin Cake

2010-09-18T20:44:00.000+10:00

A gorgeous day.

13 boys and 1 girl.

Hot dogs, chips, lollies, watermelon, cordial.

Soccer, red light green light, hide and go seek, party poppers.

An awesome Club Penguin cake, made by yours truly.

A very happy 6 year old!

6 Six Seis Sechs Eksi Roku

2010-09-09T22:23:00.001+10:00

An unbelievable 6 years has passed with our beautiful Luca growing into such a gorgeous, fun loving, very serious at times, kind hearted boy. He has lots of friends and is interested in all kind of wonderful things. Each year is passing even faster than the last and his mind is absorbing anything and everything. He is bright, smart and trying so hard to be athletic. We love you so much our beautiful boy. Happy 6th Birthday Luca - we love you to the moon and back! xoxo

Chocolate Crackles

2010-09-08T22:16:00.002+10:00

Tomorrow my big boy turns 6! Instead of cupcakes for his class at School, we decided to make some Chocolate Crackles. His birthday party in a couple of weeks will have a Club Penguin theme to it, so we found some little penguins to add to the chocolate crackles as well. Aren't they cute?

Happy Fathers Day

2010-09-05T17:20:00.017+10:00

Happy Father's Day to my wonderful Husband as well as my lovely Dad.

Modelling a new pair of Boardies (boardshorts) and a new Rashie (rash vest for the beach) for Daddy is little Remi. Hurry up Summer!

: art : studio : life :

City Shapes

Ten on Ten - January

Merry Christmas

The lead up to Christmas...

Ten on Ten - December

Addicted to Instagram

Sculpture by the Sea 2011

I Can't Stop

Giant Sandcastles!

Spotted!

Happy Birthday Honey

Ten (or 22) on Ten

Ten on Ten - September

Decisions...

Just Lovely

Father's Day

Sailing Away

Brotherly Love

Choppers!

The Day After

A Little Celebration

Bowling

On top of the world!

Melbourne (*warning* Lots of Photos)

Out and About - Winter

Warringah Art Exhibition 2011

Ten on Ten - July

"PAPILLON" finished

Snail's Pace

Painting madly...

AMLP

So Cute!

Ten on Ten (in Sydney): Photo Project

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!

Vivid Sydney

In Case Your are Buying...

A Day Out (with Friends)

Away

A Superhero Party

Three

Reef

Easter in the Countryside

MVQ Giveaway

Sketchbook Project 2012 World Tour

Kids ATC Swap 2011

Cezanne Art Class for Kids

It's Catching On

Watercolours

Art Classes for Kids

Manly to Watsons Bay to South Head Sydney

Big Plans for Today

We did bake a cake!

Drawing Morning

Watercolour Inspiration

Markets, Sickness and a Lot of Fun!

Valentine's

My new Matte Prints

My Little Valentine

Back to School

Foggy Aussie Day

More Sketchbook Project

Mirazozo @ The Opera House

Summer School Holiday Fun

Sketchbook Project Pages

QLD Flood Appeal

Happy New Year

December at a glance...

A quick trip...

Our new favourite...

Commission Finished

Painting madly...

Upcoming Markets for Remi & Jack

Simple Sewing

Time?

Trampoline

Club Penguin Cake

6 Six Seis Sechs Eksi Roku

Chocolate Crackles

Happy Fathers Day

Melbourne (warning Lots of Photos)