Charlie and Tango on a Sunday

invitation workshop

2010-09-14T20:16:00.003+10:00

Thought I'd share some pics of our invitation workshop...

Me with my first completed invitation....
and this was a box full of invitations (after almost 3 hours of stamping, sealing, tying ribbons & re-printing - thanks to my band of helpers!)....
It's starting to feel very real now and I'm on a roller coaster of emotions. Excitement to terror all within a few minutes...

Anyone have any suggestions on how to stay calm in the tumultuous lead up to the Big Day?

Cat x

Signed, sealed, delivered...

2010-09-13T16:44:00.005+10:00

After a whirl wind of activity this weekend, my invitations have been finalised and either posted or hand delivered! I was very happy with how they turned out - exactly the look I was after! Now all I have to do is sit back and wait for the RSVPs (and inevitable curly questions e.g. can I bring my boyfriend / girlfriend / neighbour's dog?).

Pictures to follow...

Cat x

hold onto your knickers!

2010-09-05T11:54:00.004+10:00

Image from We Heart It

It's so windy in Sydney today! It woke me up last night and today I'm scared my knickers are going to fly off the line!!

Hold onto your hats if you're in Sydney!

Hope you're having a lovely weekend.

Love,
Cat x

An Education

2010-08-31T17:03:00.002+10:00

I know I'm jumping on the bandwagon a little bit late but I watched An Education on the weekend and completely fell in love with the beautiful clothes in it. It was a lovely film but I admit to being distracted and jealous of all the lovely fashion.

Here's a sample of what's on offer. If you haven't seen this movie, I recommend it. A lovely coming of age drama, slightly disturbing but quite beautifully done. And I think the protagonist, Jenny, is a unique yet relatable character.

Enjoy!

Love,

Cat x

Cafe le Chat & All That Jazz

2010-08-29T19:31:00.003+10:00

I hope you've had a good weekend. I've been running around like a crazy woman, 'shooting' and recording barcodes for my wedding gift registries.

I wanted to tell you about the cutest cafe I discovered the other day in...Campbelltown! Cafe Le Chat & All that Jazz, just off the main street, is a friendly little hideaway. Friendly service, comfy mismatched seating, music and vintage knick knacks for sale. I stumbled across this gorgeous cafe completely by chance on my way to a meeting last week. I couldn't believe my luck!
And I definitely couldn't resist picking up these pretty girls. They were calling out to me! With the promise of live jazz and clairovoyant readings, I'll definitely be back. I'm so excited to find a gem on my home turf. I definitely recommend popping in if you're in the area. I've photographed them hanging out with a picture of my nonno and late nonna, taken in Italy when they were courting. One of my favourite photos.

Love,
Cat x

2010-08-27T19:41:00.002+10:00

Thank goodness it's Friday. This week has been crazy busy at work and sorting out wedding stuff. I'm braving Peter's of Kensington tomorrow to do my gift registry. I'm a bit scared but hopefully it will be more fun than stressful. We'll see. I'm grateful for any advice previous brides-to-be have for me about this process.

Have a great weekend.
Love,
Cat x

Bride-to-be 'Charlotte'

2010-08-25T22:14:00.006+10:00

Question:What do you make two brides-to-be that are (supposed to be) watching their wasteline for dessert? Answer: A student 'charlotte'. Thanks to Elizabeth Bard's Lunch in Paris for the easiest of easy ideas. So simple and lovely and (relatively) guilt free. Putting them in some very pretty china somehow makes them taste even lovelier.

Layer savoiardi biscuit (or biscuits if using a bigger container), canned apricots (complete with spoonfuls of the syrup and greek yoghurt) in a container. Refrigerate overnight to let the syrup soak in. Serve.
Enjoy!

Cat x

interesting times ahead

2010-08-22T08:23:00.002+10:00

Good morning,

"The people have spoken, we just don't know what they've said". What an exciting and interesting morning. And only time will tell who our next government will be. As a bit of an election nerd, it is a very exciting and interesting time ahead.

I'm off to one of my besties today for lunch and to start designing wedding invitations. I can't wait to see what we come up with.

Have a lovely Sunday.

Cat x

invitation inspiration

2010-08-21T17:28:00.002+10:00

Aren't these invitations just lovey? Classic, simple, beautiful. Very inspiring.

All from finepapers.com.au

Cat x

connection hic ups

2010-08-19T22:22:00.005+10:00

Happy little toothpick man at Vue de Monde, Melbourne

After getting enthused about blogging again, I hit a road block. That is, one tiny thing was no longer available to me. That's right...no internet. After fighting with a telecon/internet provider for 3 weeks it's finally here. {Yes, I realise it sounds like I'm constantly fighting with faceless corporations. It's NEVER my fault, I swear}.

Anyway, I'm {almost} back on track...Can't figure out how to have the phone and internet connected at the same time but it's all good. Baby steps...

Wedding status: bridal shoes BOUGHT; menu tasting BOOKED; guest list FINALISED; bride starting to stress that there's only 3 1/2 months until the 'big day' TICK. Ooh, I also have a make up trial this weekend {fingers crossed I will love it - I don't think I can bear dealing with another person}

House status: only weeks after moving in, discovered a tree is blocking my pipes and causing me hell. Front yard has been an excavation site for 3 weeks. Had a fight with Sydney Water about who should pay the gargantuan bill for this {actually, wasn't a real fight; more like a kind but firm man telling me I had no hope and me sobbing into the mobile...all while the Optus dude was installing my phone. Good times}. It's all good. As someone told me the other day, 'it's only money'...

Fiance living abroad status: cracks are starting {?} to show. Can't wait until my life is normal again {?}!!

I hope that life has been treating you well.

Love,
Cat x

Hello! Is there anybody in there?

2010-07-24T15:41:00.007+10:00

My poor little blog has been abandoned for awhile. In fact, my complete online presence has pretty much disappeared. The reason for this of course is that I've been incredibly busy over the past few weeks and have literally had no time to keep you up to date. Or to find out what my blogging friends have been up to. Now that things have slowed down a bit I'm looking forward to catching up with everyone's lives.

I'll give you a bit of a snapshot of what I've been up to lately. Here goes:

My June photography challenge was a complete failure. I lasted 15 days only to have it fall by the wayside as I lost motivation. Does that make me a blogging failure?
Tetsuya's was fabulous! I wish I took some photos but it was the kind of night where I was enjoying the food, wine and great company so much that I didn't want to pause for anything. Our table was very quiet when we walked in, completely in awe of finally making it to the renowned food institution. By the end of the meal though (after 5 ½ hours, 11 courses and matching wines) we were all much more relaxed. Shamefully, I believe there was even some immature bean throwing. I'm not going to expand as I do not want to implicate anyone or make you think less of me!
I FINALLY finished painting my house. Six weekends and countless nights after work. Blood, sweat, tears, tantrums and about a thousand McDonald's meals later and IT'S ALL DONE! I can't emphasise how excited I am about this. Despite my grumblings, I am incredibly proud of what I and my band of workers (thanks Mum and Megan!) have completed and I feel a sense of achievement and a real sense of ownership of my house now.
Following on from painting the house, I've been busy moving myself and my furniture into it. More about that later because the next point is without a doubt the best thing about the past few weeks...
My beautiful fiance was in town for the past 10 days. He's gone back to PNG now but the time he was here was perfect. He helped move me into my house, we caught up with friends and family, cooked meals together and went to some beautiful restaurants (I probably don't need to add here that I've also put on 1000 kgs in the past week!). The only blemish to the week was a terrifying few hours where he couldn't find his baptism certificate and I was convinced that it was irreparable and that we couldn't get married at all! Needless to say, some irrationality, tiredness and emotions were at play there and I was about due for a meltdown anyway. Trav came to the rescue and you'll be pleased to know the wedding's still on.

That's a very brief summary of what I've been up to. I haven't started to mention my new couches or my op-shop bedside table find (a future work in progress). I haven't mentioned I made the beef, red wine and onion pie again or the yummy nutella and raspberry dessert (again, from Donna Hay Seasons). But I think that's enough for now. I don't want to saturate you with too much information after such long famine!

I hope you are well and happy. I'd love to hear of any exciting news that you've been up to lately. Thanks for sticking by me and I'm looking forward to getting to know you again.

Love,

Cat x

hello again

2010-06-26T17:18:00.002+10:00

Image from We Heart It

I must apologise for my absence on the blog-front. I was in a bit of a slump last week and knew I could not do my little blog justice. I am happy to announce I have crawled out of the dark abyss and am ready to resume life again.

I'm very excited tonight as I'm heading out for dinner to Tetsuya's in Sydney! I've been wanting to go there for about a decade and tonight's the night!

I hope you have been well and that, whatever you're up to tonight, it's spectacular!

Love,
Cat x

When will this day be over?

2010-06-17T15:38:00.005+10:00

Image from Deconstructing the Narrative

Two things that totally freaked me out today:

1. Nearly causing a fender bender by pulling out in front of a truck. I was totally distracted and didn’t see him coming. Only realised when I heard the screeching breaks. Pretty terrifying plus it shook me up even more as I had my pregnant friend in the car.

2. A strange IT thing happened where emails that I’d sent in 2005 suddenly reappeared in my inbox. Reading some of those emails took me back to a time when I was a very different person. There were lots of emails from people (ex-friends) that I used to be really close to. It’s hard enough trying to forget some of the situations I was in without having to relive them 5 years later.

Is this day over yet??

Cat x

Every 4 years I come alive!

2010-06-15T19:24:00.003+10:00

Day 15, photo 16 Esse

My beautiful cousin (and MOH!) recently went to an Italian festa and brought back one of my favourite treats for me. Esse! Well, I don't know if that's the proper term but it's what I've always known them as. Hard, chewy biscuits with a distinct honey flavour. I love them!

Regarding the World Cup, it's nice to hear other people's opinions and to know that there are other crazies out there like me that have a strong emotional response to a game that happens once every four years.

I texted Travis the other day to say that I was downloading the World Cup schedule. His response was 'who are you and what have you done with my fiance?'. To explain, I am not usually a sporty person. However, I've always been a World Cup fan. But I realised that Travis and I weren't together at the last World Cup so he's never seen this side of me before. It came as quite a shock to him! Plus it's funny to think that Travis hasn't always been around yet now I couldn't imagine my life without him.

Has your partner ever surprised you with their hidden habits? Or have you surprised them with something supposedly out of character?

Cat x

A disappointing start

2010-06-14T10:28:00.005+10:00

Day 14, photo 15 The beginning of the end?

Germany 4; Australia 0. Not exactly the flying start we'd hoped for.

I went back to sleep after the early morning game only to wake up much later than planned. I've still got a load of washing to do (it's on as I type) plus I'm feeling a bit sore and sorry for myself. Given that I only have a couple of hours to kill before SATC2 I decided to skip the painting today. I promise I'll make up for it next weekend! Promise!

Meanwhile I'm going to have a leisurely browse through some lovely blogs and let my body relax after the hectic weekend I've had.

Enjoy this beautiful Queen's birthday holiday.

Cat x

Mid weekend update including choc-hazelnut cake

2010-06-13T18:13:00.008+10:00

Firstly, thank you for all your lovely comments. I hope my work situation improves soon too or at least my attitude to it. Anyway, onto more interesting things. My weekend has been pretty manic - painting, my cousin's 16th birthday dinner, an unfruitful search for a lounge and a visit to a very special little boy. I'm having a quiet night tonight in preparation for another mammoth day tomorrow.

Here are my photos for my June photo challenge:

Day 12, photo 12 Chocolate & Hazelnut Ice Cream Cake

This is such an easy cake to make and an all round crowd pleaser. I've included the recipe if you're interested. It's from Recipes+ magazine (Jan/Feb 2008).

250g packet (6) mini chocolate rolls
6 egg yolks
1/2 cup caster sugar
220g Nutella (or other choc-hazelnut spread)
600ml thickened cream
1/3 cup roasted hazelnuts, chopped

1. Line a 22cm springform pan with plastic food wrap, extending it 5cm above the rim. Cut each roll into 6 slices. Stand a row of slices upright inside of pan at bottom edge. Use remainder to completely cover base, breaking cake as need to fill spaces.
2. Place yolks and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat until thick and creamy. Add Nutella; beat until just combined. Beat in cream, then beat mixture for 5 minutes or until thickened slightly (mixture will still be runny).
3. Pour the mixture into pan. Sprinkle with hazelnuts. Cover with more plastic wrap, making sure it does not touch filling. Freeze overnight until firm.
*Serves 10-12* *Stand dessert 15 minutes at room temperature before serving* *Refrigerate egg whites airtight up to 4 days or freeze up to 6 months* *Enjoy!*

Day 12, photo 13 Sweet Sixteen

Day 13, photo 14 Potential Dining Room Light from Freedom

Not entirely sure about this yet but it is very pretty. Think I'll wait til my dining table is actually in the house though before I make a decision.

Hope you're enjoying this beautiful long weekend and let me know if you're getting up tomorrow morning for the World Cup game. It will be nice to know I have some company! Go Australia!!!

Love,
Cat x

Is this what boredom looks like?

2010-06-11T22:10:00.003+10:00

Day 11, photo 11 phone doodling

I'm not a big fan of work at the moment. Lack of stimulation combined with frustration with my colleagues makes for some very long days. Luckily though it's the start of a long weekend! I've got some busy days ahead...painting, Ikea, family stuff, Australia vs. Germany (!!) and SATC2. Are you up to anything exciting? Whatever you're doing, I hope you have a lovely weekend :)

Cat x

Am I too bright?

2010-06-10T20:29:00.004+10:00

Day 10, photo 10 my new coat

My new coat arrived in the post yesterday. I bought it from eBay and there's always an element of fear when ordering something online. Admittedly it was a lot brighter than I thought it was going to be. I was expecting jacaranda purple; I got hot pink. But I ventured out in my new coat today and the colour has grown on me. It definitely stands out! And, more importantly (??????) it is warm!

Have you had any online shopping disasters?

For the record I'm much happier today. I went out for lunch with a lovely group of colleagues. Beautiful weather (albeit very cold!), great company and an excuse to get out of the office...what more could I want?

Cat x

A measure of a great life

2010-06-10T10:10:00.002+10:00

{A measure of a great life

is not how much you are loved

but how much you love others}

Bounce Back

2010-06-09T17:50:00.004+10:00

Day 9, photo 9 - collection of gifts from colleagues

Have you ever had one of those days where you hear one bit of bad news in the morning and it completely ruins your mood for the rest of the day? That's the day I had today.

One tiny work-related piece of disappointment totally destroyed my outlook on life for the entire day. When I think about it, my day was actually ok. I heard from Travis, I caught up with a good friend and my beautiful aunty and I made a break through with the wedding plans (FINALLY sourced teacups and saucers for my kitchen tea). But my dark mood clouded everything.

Some primary schools are running a program called 'Bounce Back', teaching kids about resilience. Part of it is encouraging kids to think themselves out of negative thoughts. In otherwords, to bounce back.

So this is a message to myself:
BOUNCE BACK CAT!

Hopefully that's done the trick and I'll be back to normal soon. In the meantime, where's the chocolate?

Cat x

my daily vista

2010-06-08T19:05:00.005+10:00

Day 8, photo 8 view from my desk (War Memorial at Hyde Park)

Even though I grumble and groan about work, I think I'm pretty lucky to look at this vista every day. At least I get to gaze out the window whenever I need a break or to assist with my day dreaming.

I just noticed the reflection of the coat hanger...I didn't plan that very well!

What's the view like from your desk?

Cat x

happy little mushroom

2010-06-07T10:08:00.004+10:00

If you've been in NSW any time in the past week you'll know the weather conditions have been decidedly WET! Although the sun did come out on the weekend, which was lovely. Anyway, the conditions have been perfect for some...like this little guy I found in our backyard. He's one happy little mushroom :)

Day 7, photo 7 backyard mushroom

Happy Monday!

Cat x

(home) inspiration for living (rooms)

2010-06-06T18:31:00.008+10:00

I need an incentive to go on. Something to motivate me to keep painting, wall by wall, room by room. Here are some lovely living rooms to inspire, motivate and generally drool over.

Image from Live Creating Yourself

I'm not sure where this image came from - if you know please let me know

Image from Ish and Chi

Enjoy.

Cat x

a quick note

2010-06-06T09:56:00.003+10:00

I've got 10 minutes while I'm waiting for my washing to finish so thought I'd shoot off a quick note to say hi and to upload my picture of the day.

I could have taken a photo of the depressing scales (why is putting on weight so much easier than losing it?) or my declined card at the service station (where is all my money going, I wonder...oh yes, to paint and petrol) but didn't think evidence of my disastrous morning needed to be photographed. Instead, here's a picture of something that makes me happy when I see it. I went to a hen's party a few months ago, where we were given these as our name tags. I think it's adorable and it's a nice reminder that I'll be the bride in a few months too. On really crazy days it also helps me remember my name ;-)

Day 6, photo 6 hen's night name tag

I hope your Sunday morning is a bit more successful than mine currently is. On that note, my 10 minutes is up. I'm off to hang out my clothes before heading over to my house to prime my walls. Looking forward to the end of the day when I can collapse on the couch with my pick of Sunday night tv.

Ciao,
Cat x

painting and lemons

2010-06-05T18:18:00.003+10:00

My body is at breaking point. I can barely lift my arms, my back is stiff and I am so sleepy. A days worth of painting can really take it out of you! And I've scheduled another day tomorrow. I am happy to say we finished all the ceilings today. Not bad for an all girl team. I felt very 'I am woman, hear me roar' today!

Today's picture is of some lemons that my next door neighbour gave me. The first neighbour I've met and she seems lovely. Hopefully it's a positive sign of things to come.

Day 5, photo 5 lemons from my next door neighbour

I'm just waiting for my lift to arrive. I'm heading out with my bestie (and my M.O.H) for some dinner at a yummy, local Italian restaurant (La Rumbla - check it out if you're in the area, you won't be disappointed).

I hope you're having a lovely weekend.

Cat x

Can I tempt anybody?

2010-06-04T18:47:00.005+10:00

Day 4, Photo 4 - part of my little collage at work

Another weekend of painting ahead of me. Any takers to join my little working bee? Mum will supply homemade lunch and snacks (think Italian style treats).

Come on... I know you're tempted ;-)

Cat x

An unusually pleasant day

2010-06-03T20:24:00.003+10:00

Day 3, photo 3 - view from my morning train

I was lucky enough to be working closer to home than usual today so I got to have a lovely little sleep in. Much more civilised than my usual 1 hour plus journey to work each morning. Plus I had time to have breakfast at home, which was a luxury. I actually don't mind the travel too much...I get to catch up on my reading and day dream about lots of lovely things.

I'm very excited tonight...Travis is travelling to Cairns tonight, which means I get to call him on his Australian mobile so we can talk for much longer than we usually do...I can't wait! Plus I can probably sneak in a phone call from work tomorrow. Another luxury!

Ooh, speak of the devil, he's just pranked me! Yay!

Have a lovely night (I know I will).

Cat x

Buona Festa della Republica!

2010-06-02T19:06:00.003+10:00

Ciao belli!

Today marks the anniversary of the unification of Italy. We have a fair few people of Italian descent at work so thought we'd celebrate by inviting everyone to an Italian morning tea. Biscotti, florentines, tiramisu and fresh coffee were abundant. As were the decorations and the Italian music in the background. It was lots of fun!

I believe my shoes were the star of the show! I even treated everyone to a mini tarantella in them! At the very least, they were amused!

Day 2, Photo 2 - my now infamous Italian dancing shoes

Arrivederci,

Catarina x

Day 1 Photo Challenge + Almond, Cranberry & Coconut Florentines

2010-06-01T22:31:00.003+10:00

Day 1, Photo 1...a delicious Almond, Cranberry & Coconut Florentine

Day 1 of my June photo challenge and my first photo is, of course, of food. Not just any food either. A very yummy homemade almond, cranberry and coconut Florentine. I know the styling isn't great but just imagine the crunch as you bite into it, then you get the sweet surprise of a juicy cranberry and the decadent taste of dark chocolate....mmm... If only I could eat them all but I actually made them for work tomorrow. We're celebrating the Festa Della Republica, i.e. National Italian Day!! Wait til you see the shoes I'm wearing tomorrow. I haven't worn them yet as they're a bit far out but if I'm going to break them in, tomorrow's the perfect day. You'll see what I mean ;-)

Here's the recipe for the Florentine's, adapted from SMH, Good Living (Tuesday May 11, 2010)

Almond, cranberry and coconut Florentines

vegetable oil
3 egg whites
1/3 cup caster sugar
230g flaked almonds
50g shredded coconut
50g dried cranberries
200g dark chocolate

Heat oven to 160 degrees celsius. Line two baking trays with non-stick baking paper and brush lightly with vegetable oil. In a mixing bowl, whisk egg whites lightly then whisk in caster sugar. Add flaked almonds, coconut and cranberries and gently mix until combined. Place by the tablespoonful on the trays and flatten with moistened fingers to flat discs of about 6cm diameter. Bake for 10 minutes then turn each tray 180 degrees and bake for a further 10 minutes or until golden. Leave to cool on the tray (they will harden as they cool) then arrange flat-side up on a wire rack set over paper (to catch the chocolate drips - I re-used the baking paper). Melt chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of hot water, stirring. Pour a spoonful of chocolate on each Florentine and spread over the base. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set then store in an airtight container between layers of baking paper. Keep in a cool place or in the fridge.

Makes 18.

Enjoy!

Love,
Cat x

Home inspiration...more bedrooms

2010-05-30T19:00:00.004+10:00

Hello my sweets,

I hope you've had a lovely weekend. I wanted to share some more beautiful bedrooms with you...I can't wait to start decorating! I'm currently still embroiled in the painting process, which is going ok although it's taking longer than I thought. Can you believe the previous owners painted over blue tac and sticky tape? Crazy!
Anyway, these bedrooms inspire me and motivate me to continue with the painting process...Enjoy :)

{Images from Brabourne Farm, Me and Alice and Live Creating Yourself}

Cat x

Monthly challenge

2010-05-30T18:49:00.005+10:00

Unfortunately I can only dream of taking photos like this everyday.

I recently read an article in Marie Claire magazine where people were given a challenge to do something every day for a month. The challenges ranged from wearing red lipstick every day to doing 10 push ups a day. It got me thinking about whether I could commit to doing something out of my usual routine every day for a whole month. I'm very much a 'phase' person, meaning I enthusiastically jump into something for a few days or even weeks but then inevitably I lose interest and look for my next amusement. Health kicks, beauty routines, attempts at avoiding swearing or whingeing have all made their way in and out of my routine at some point.

I'm also very easily dissuaded, meaning I can think of a million excuses NOT to do something. If you want to feel better about not going to the gym or breaking your diet or just generally avoiding something, I'm the girl to come to. I will make you feel fabulous about doing absolutely nothing.

So thinking all this through made me realise that maybe, just maybe, it would actually be a good challenge to take up. I wouldn't want to do something awful or unrealistic but I thought I should choose something that I enjoy doing but don't do as often as I like. Wearing red lipstick did come to mind but it's not that realistic for me as I drink a lot of water during the day which would either a) ruin my lipstick and I'd have to keep reapplyin, which I don't have time for or b) result in me not drinking water and possibly suffering from dehydration for the whole month. I thought about it some more and have come up with this...

The challenge I have set for myself is to take a photo a day. This might sound easy but I think it will still be challenging for me to find something interesting to take a photo of every day. I love taking photos but I don't see my day to day life as something that warrants or inspires photo evidence. However, my attitude is changing and I'm hoping it might give me a new perspective on some of the sights I take for granted every day. Starting from tomorrow and going until 30 June, I will keep my little camera on me and aim for at least one interesting photo a day.

I hope you'll join me on my little adventure. I'd also love to hear if you've done something similar or if you have ideas for future challenges.

Love,

Cat x

How to truly appreciate wine

2010-05-30T08:17:00.004+10:00

Image from Harold's Planet

It's raining, it's pouring...

2010-05-29T08:43:00.004+10:00

Image from We Heart It

...and I've got a day of painting ahead of me...

Wish me luck!

Cat x

I don't know what I'm doing! I don't know where I'm going! I don't know who I am!!!

2010-05-28T20:03:00.002+10:00

Image from We Heart It

These are not words you'd expect to hear from someone you'd just met. Furthermore, they're not words you want to hear from a specialist when you've just walked into their office. Nevertheless, these were the words I heard this morning.

After waiting 15 minutes in this doctor's waiting room, listening to him ranting on the phone that he'd lost everything on his Blackberry, I was starting to feel mildly irritated. He then beckons me into his office where I had a front row seat to his phone conversation. Ultimately he hung up and then blurted out those very (non)comforting words.

I should have been worried but the whole thing seemed so ridiculous. I felt like I was in an episode of Seinfeld! At least I got a good giggle out of it...

I've got another busy weekend planned. More house painting tomorrow, followed by an engagement party. Then Sunday I'm looking forward to a relaxing lunch with a good friend.

I hope you've got some lovely things planned for your weekend. Have a great one.

Love,
Cat x

Oscar Wilde's wisdom

2010-05-27T17:04:00.001+10:00

Always forgive your enemies;

nothing annoys them so much

- Oscar Wilde

Blog Oh Blog

2010-05-24T19:05:00.002+10:00

I Heart Blogs Clip by Sweet Harper on Etsy

Did anyone watch the episode of House last night? The patient he was diagnosing was a blogger who was obsessed with updating her blog and communicating with her readers, to the point where it was destroying her relationship with her husband. At one point, she had to make a decision regarding the type of treatment she would choose and, instead of discussing it with her husband, put the vote to her readers. The best quote though was when she said to her husband ‘I wish you had a blog so I could know what you’re thinking’.

It did get me thinking about blogging and how it affects my life. I started my blog as a way of recording bits and pieces and sharing info with other like minded people. Over the past few years one of my favourite past times is reading other people’s blogs. I often find myself thinking about these people (hopefully not in a creepy, single white female, stalker way) but more just thinking about their lives and looking forward to the next installment. Since joining the blogging world myself, I’m also able to see things from the other perspective. I think my blog is a way of channelling my energy into something positive. It’s a way for me to unwind and feel like I’m connected. I agree with Fat Mum Slim who says that we often show the best side of us and for the most part I agree. But there are some days when I also use my blog as an outlet to vent thoughts and feelings I could not share with people that I see every day.

This all seems pretty healthy to me and, unlike the crazy blogger in House, there are aspects of myself that I don’t share online. While my blog doesn’t consume my life, I sometimes take pictures or think about events in terms of their suitability for my blog and I can see how it could become an obsessive compulsion. Do you know what I mean? Do you ever feel like you’re living for your blog or have you been pulled up for being blog-obsessed? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.

Love,
Cat x

I'm in pain!

2010-05-23T17:11:00.005+10:00

Owwwww!!!! I am in a world of pain. After two days of washing, sanding, taping, cutting and painting, I am exhausted! My arms are sore, my knees are bruised and I'm struggling to stand upright as my back is stiff but I feel satisfied. I was very anxious about painting my house, especially as I had no idea what I'm doing but I feel much more confident now. I'm also very grateful to my generous family and friends that have been helping me out. There's still a lot to do but it doesn't seem so daunting now.

I also chose my dining table and chairs today. Remember I mentioned I saw a set that I liked (here)? Well I went to check it out today and it wasn't exactly how I imagined. It was a bit too rustic for my liking. After going to a number of stores I ended up finding one at Freedom. It's more modern than what I originally wanted but I am happy with the result. Plus the delivery date will motivate me to finish painting before it arrives.

Morgan Dining Table from Freedom

Empress Dining Chair from Freedom

I hope you've had a lovely weekend and that you have a great week.

Love,
Cat x

Happiness is...

2010-05-20T21:27:00.004+10:00

...a warm shower, new pajamas and clean sheets... Bliss :)

Cat x

Home inspiration (dining table)

2010-05-19T18:57:00.002+10:00

Image from In My House

You know that feeling when you dream of something you want and then you realise you might just get it? That's exactly how I feel! I love the above dining table and was wistfully dreaming about it while trying to convince myself it would be ok if I didn't get something exactly like it. Well, I don't have to worry...I came home from work tonight to find the Everyday Living catalogue on our kitchen table. Casually leafing through it, what do I find?...

Sorry about the poor quality image

Ta da! Exactly what I want! I'm heading straight to Everyday Living on Sunday to purchase the dining table and chairs. Yay!! It will be my first purchase for my new home :)

Cat x

Where do you blog?

2010-05-17T19:46:00.004+10:00

Unfortunately NOT the usual scenery I blog to

To my fellow bloggers out there in blog land, I have a question for you. When I first started to read blogs, I visualised the blogger typing away on their keyboard, maybe in their pj's with a cup of tea or at a cafe, Perez Hilton style. Once I started my own online musings, I've found that it's not always the case that my thoughts transfer directly from my brain, through my fingertips to the keyboard and onto you, the reader. Often I find myself writing little notes to you on the train on my way home from work. I think it helps me to relax and I seem to be more energetic and creative during this time. In fact, what you're reading now was formulated on the 5:07pm Museum to Macarthur train.

My question to you is - where do you usually find yourself writing your blog? Do you have little thoughts that you jot down during the day or do you store it up for a big debrief when you get home? I'd love to hear about your blogging habits.

Love,
Cat x

O My Gosh

2010-05-17T18:32:00.005+10:00

If you've ever planned a wedding, you'll know that it's not all as fun as it's cracked up to be. One of my biggest frustrations and disappointments is dealing with suppliers that treat me as though I'm a walking dollar sign. From trying to increase prices after I've signed the contract to not being upfront about additional costs. From contacts changing to my priest not remembering who I am (after 20 odd years and 3 sacraments not to mention numerous school masses and a couple of funerals). Anyway, the point is that it can be quite stressful, especially when dealing with people that can't even remember your name!

So that's why when I met Anna from O My Gosh, I was very pleasantly surprised. Not only was she able to take care of bridesmaid dresses, flowers and cake (I love the one stop shop concept), the best part was that I felt like we're on the same wavelength and that she's not trying to rip me off. In fact, her prices are exceptionally reasonably priced (particularly with dresses and flowers). Although I doubt she needs my help (she's already very busy), I wanted to share this amazing find with you. So if you are getting married in the South Western Sydney area and are looking for dresses, cakes, flowers, jewellery, shoes, (anything!), I highly recommend you visit Ms Anna Wang at O My Gosh in Liverpool. Note that this definitely isn't a sponsored post (hardly anyone reads my little blog anyway) and I'm not getting any kind of discount for this.

I was thinking of providing a sneak peak at my bridesmaid dresses but decided against it as I'd like it to be a surprise on the day. I can tell you though that the dresses are very romantic and my two bridesmaids look fabulous in them!

I'll leave you with some beautiful cakes to whet your appetite. As you can see, I'm fairly traditional and love a good floral decoration.

Images from here: 1. Amour Amour 2. I-Do 3. Martha Stewart Weddings

Love,
Cat x

Home inspiration (main bedroom)

2010-05-16T17:35:00.005+10:00

I'm exhausted! I thought weekends were meant to be relaxing?? A housewarming party on Friday night (where I picked up some decorating tips off my tres chic friend); my first ever trip to Bunning's on Saturday (my goodness, I could get lost in there) followed by a night out on the town with my beautiful cousins; then today, along with a convoy of the MOB (Mother of the Bride), two aunties and three cousins, went to see my gorgeous bridesmaid dresses, have a yummy (and big!) lunch, then take them to see my new house...Phew! Luckily I managed to throw in a couple of naps to maintain my energy levels.

I'm going to leave you with some pictures of some beautiful and inspirational bedrooms. I was toying with the idea of a black and white main bedroom although I think it might be too harsh and overpowering for the size of the room. I think I'll stick to my original plan to have a fairly neutral pallet. I absolutely love the chandelier in the first picture and would also like to use a headboard to give some definition to the bed and add interest to the neutral wall.

Image 1 from Boat Shed Chic
I can't seem to work out where I found the other two images from. If you know, please let me
know so I can credit them properly...note to self: be more careful next time!

Let me know what you think. Have you got pictures of neutral colour schemes you think would inspire me? If so, please email me (catarina18@hotmail.com) - I could use all the help I can get!

Love,
Cat x

Green with envy birthday necklace

2010-05-13T20:42:00.009+10:00

Just got home from a tough Pilates lesson. I usually love them but tonight was all about endurance and I was the weakest in the class. I feel a bit defeated but it's probably a good wake up call that I need to practice more often to build up a bit of strength.

Anyway, I wanted to show you a necklace I made for a friend's birthday present. I had a bit of trouble as the original wire snapped but it didn't take too long to redo. Fingers crossed she likes it!

Hope your week is going ok. Only one more day to go then it's the weekend!!

Cat x

Introducing Marshall John

2010-05-12T16:58:00.002+10:00

While most of us were out enjoying our weekend, a very strong woman was enduring a lengthy labour. Spanning around 48 hours and resulting in an emergency Caesarian, I doubt that she'll forget the experience in a hurry. I have a feeling she'll say it was worth the effort though...

Welcome to the world, baby Marshall John Bennett, just in time for Mother's Day! Hopefully I can follow up with some pictures soon.

Cat x

Going once, going twice...

2010-05-09T18:51:00.004+10:00

going three times...SOLD!

I recently made the biggest purchase of my life, a three bedroom house. And today I got to pick up the keys!!

Nonno and Mum came with me to celebrate with Ricadonna and some bikkies. Hopefully the first of many celebrations in my new house :-)

I'm organising a working bee to get all the painting done and then it will be straight onto decorating and moving in...hopefully all before Travis' next visit in July.

Watch this space :-)

Love,
Cat x

Charlie and Tango's Etsy shop updated

2010-05-09T17:44:00.006+10:00

I've finally updated my little Etsy shop with some pretty new earrings I made. Here is a preview of what's on offer.I've got a few other bits and pieces in my shop so if you're interested, drop in and take a look around here. I promise I won't bite (and feedback is always welcome)!
Cat x

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T10:54:00.003+10:00

Happy Mother's Day to my beautiful and long suffering mother. I know I don't always show it but I do appreciate everything you do and love you more than anything. I would be lost without you.

Happy Mother's Day to all my surrogate mothers too. My beautiful aunties that also cop more than their fair share of my troubles. They give me strength and support even when I didn't realise I needed it.

Happy Mother's Day to all the mums out there. To my gorgeous friends that are in love with their children; to the soon-to-be mums that are excitedly awaiting their bubs arrival (including my lovely sister-in-law who is in labour right now!); and to all those that would make fantastic mothers although they may never get the chance...I hope you have a beautiful day filled with love.

I can't let this day pass without mentioning my Nonna, without whom our lives would not have begun. I think of you every day and strive to live up to the legacy you have left.

Love,
Cat x

It's important to scare yourself

2010-05-04T11:26:00.003+10:00

It's important to scare yourself,

to do things you don't think

you're capable of doing.

– Reese Witherspoon

A lovely weekend

2010-05-02T10:01:00.003+10:00

Yesterday, a relaxing hot stone massage followed by lunch with my bestie.

Today, it's perfect weather for a wedding and I'm heading out to watch one of my beautiful colleagues walk down the aisle. Looking forward to a call from my fiance later as well.

It's a technically lovely weekend.

Cat x

Here's to you Mr and Mrs Robinson

2010-04-28T20:56:00.007+10:00

For the past three weeks, I was fortunate enough to look after a house and a cat, the infamous Megsie, at Balmoral Beach, Mosman (Sydney). For anyone who doesn't know Sydney, it's a pretty ritzy end of town, not to mention beautiful.
When my friends returned from their holiday they presented me with some very generous and beautiful gifts - a pot of honey from the pure Ligurian bees from Kangaroo Island and these gorgeous earrings from Wish Ware Designs that I absolutely love. The square pieces are Scrabble squares!
It was such a generous gift, especially as they also took me and my mum out for dinner and left some yummy wine for me at the start. Thank you, thank you, thank you to the lovely Robinsons (and Megsie).

The house sitting experience was not without incident though. There was the terrifying experience with the huntsman although thankfully (and very luckily) Travis was around to save the day there.

Then there was Megsie's surprise...

I was asleep one night when around 3am I was woken by a noise. Megsie had come into my room and was playing with her squeaky toy...Hang on, she doesn't have a squeaky toy. I switched on the light and there is Megsie proudly playing with a mouse! So I did the only thing any self respecting girly girl would do - I screamed...and screamed and screamed. Until finally Megsie got the hint and took her 'toy' outside. I slept with the bedroom door closed from that then on. Apparently she's only ever done that once before (in her 10 years) so I was very special!

Apart from that it was a mostly good cat sitting experience. It may have even changed my mind about owning a cat one day...just don't tell Travis!
Megsie and I in happier times...

Please forgive me

2010-04-25T20:23:00.004+10:00

I have to apologise for being completely MIA during the past month...I've had such a hectic time, Travis was home for a week during Easter; wedding plans are progressing slowly but surely; I was house sitting for awhile and...drum roll please....I bought a house!!

This post is just a brief announcement that I'm back and to promise more posts in the upcoming weeks. I've also noticed that this kind of helps to keep me sane and without it, well, things haven't always been pretty. My ever patient family has put up with all sorts of crazy from me lately.

So, if you're still there, thanks for being patient and putting up with my extended hiatus. I'm looking forward to reconnecting with you and reclaiming my sanity!

Love,
Cat x

The sun will come out tomorrow...bet your bottom dollar!

2010-03-16T18:25:00.002+11:00

The universe is a funny thing. No sooner does it knock you down, dishearten you and generally show you the nastiest side of people does it pick you up, make you smile and highlights the most luminous side of human nature.

In the past few days I've experience some horrible behaviour and witnessed even worst. Deliberately rude, unhelpful, dismissive, arrogant and downright nasty behaviour, exhibited by a number of people that should know better. To say it was bringing me down was an understatement.

Then...hello...what is that? Sunshine? Smiles? Courtesy? People genuinely happy to see me and going out of their way to be helpful and kind? Yes. Yes. Yes. And yes!

Is this the universe's idea of karma? Or maybe you need to experience the dark to truly appreciate the light? Either way is fine with me. Whatever darkness you might be experiencing, I have faith you will see the light soon.

Love, peace and karma.

Cat x

Be who you are...

2010-03-07T11:35:00.002+11:00

"Be who you are
and say what you feel,
because those who matter
don't mind
and those who mind
don't matter."

Dr Seuss

Proud as pie...Beef, onion and red wine pie

2010-03-06T21:01:00.002+11:00

So the rainy weather I was hoping for didn't come to fruition. But I'm not letting that stop me from my relaxing weekend.

One thing I love to do is look through cookbooks, dream about all the things I can cook and then settle on something a little more practical. We had about 1 kilo of chuck steak at home and I found the perfect recipe to use it. A beef, onion and red wine pie from Seasons by Donna Hay, the Best of Donna Hay Magazine.

The picture doesn't look so great but trust me this is a beautiful recipe. Definitely worth the wait! Mum and I are sitting here with full and happy bellies and I'm happy to make this a recurring dish. I adapted it a little bit by using only shortcrust pastry (the original recipe calls for a puff pastry top) and by making it an 'open' pie.

Enjoy! :)

Beef, onion and red wine pie
adapted from Seasons by Donna Hay, the Best of Donna Hay Magazine

2 tablespoons olive oil 1 kg beef chuck steak, chopped 1 onion, peeled and cut into wedges 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 1/2 cups beef stock 1 1/2 cups water 1 bay leaf 1 tablespoon thyme leaves 2 tablespoons cornflour 1/4 cup water, extra 2 sheets store-bought shortcrust pastry, thawed 1 egg, lightly beaten
Heat a large saucepan over high heat. Add the oil and beef and cook in batches for 2-3 minutes or until browned. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic and re-add the meat to the pan. Add the stock, water, wine, bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender. Combine the cornflour and extra water, add to the beef mixture and cook, stirring for 3-4 minutes or until the mixture is thickened. Set aside.

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees celcius. Line a 22cm pie dish with the shortcrust pastry. Spoon the beef mixture into the dish. Fold in the extra pastry towards the centre of the pie. Brush the pastry with the egg. Bake for 40 minutes or until the pastry is cooked and golden. Serves 4.

Lazy rainy weekend

2010-03-05T22:36:00.002+11:00

Friday night and it's raining...perfect :-) I have absolutely nothing planned this weekend. No obligations. Nothing I have to run around for. I'm planning to laze around at home, watch some DVDs and read a book I borrowed from a friend. Perfect :-)

Have a great weekend!

Cat x

Spread your wings and fly my pretty little butterflies

2010-03-02T19:14:00.004+11:00

My latest projects were these little singlets, made using a Nigella Silhouette (available here). I know two little girls that would suit these perfectly. I hope they like them :-)
Cat x

Shall I bring dessert?...almond cake

2010-02-27T15:53:00.007+11:00

Tonight I'm heading over to a friend's house for a birthday BBQ. A casual, BYO grog affair, it will be good to catch up with people I haven't seen in awhile. It's also a terrific excuse to whip out my cooking apron, crank up the oven and pull out my favourite cake book for inspiration.

Did I mention I love baking? I say you can never go too wrong with butter, sugar and flour!

We have about a kilo of almond meal at home (a result of miscalculation on an earlier biscuit recipe) so I though I'd make this simple almond cake. Unfortunately I can't tell you what the final result tastes like til after the party but I can tell you the raw mixture was delicious!

Here's the recipe if you're interested. It's adapted from the Cake Bible.

Almond Cake

150g butter
1 cup caster sugar
3 eggs
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 1/2 cups plain flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
70g almond meal
3/4 cup milk
icing sugar, for dusting

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees celcius. Lightly grease and flour a 20 cm cake tin.

Cream butter and sugar, then beat in eggs and almond extract. Add sifted flour and baking powder and almond meal alternatively with milk. Mix well.

Pour into cake tin and bake for 50 minutes. Leave in tin for 10 minutes before removing. Dust with icing sugar.

Edit: the final product tasted delicious too! Moist and very almondy :-)

Birds of a feather

2010-02-17T10:20:00.005+11:00

To say that my mum is creative is a massive understatement. Knitting, crocheting, painting, sketching, pottery, murals, decoupage, sewing, embroidery, etching...you name it, she's done it. She's got a flair for creating quirky and beautiful things and uses it as a way to unwind and relax. I'd be here forever if I showed you everything she did but suffice to say our house is filled with many of her beautiful artworks. However, I do want to share with you some of her latest creations.

She's been making these beautiful felt birds for a couple of weeks now. Each one is unique and takes about an hour to do (she does one on the train on the way to work and one on the way back).

She proudly showed me this scruffy looking character she made the other day (see below) and cheekily said 'do you recognise the fabric? I used an odd sock I found lying around!' I did recognise the fabric. In fact, I just happened to have found its partner that very morning! Sadly, it was too late for the sock but the bird will be lucky enough to have a mate soon!

Mum's not sure what she's going to do with all these birds. She's thinking of making a mobile with some of them. I'd love to hear of any suggestions you can think of...

She hasn't gotten around to setting up a shop yet but watch this space...you never know what she'll come up with next!

Sometimes I feel like throwing my hands up in the air...

2010-02-17T09:58:00.006+11:00

It's easy to get stuck in a rut, to feel overwhelmed, undervalued and like it's all just too hard sometimes.

But then something happens to alter your course, lift your mood and pull you out of the doldrums.

I've had a few of these moments over the past week. Moments that have made me smile or, in one case, laugh until I cried. Things that make me forget all my worries and reassure me that everything is going to be ok. I thought I'd share some of these with you:

Finding out a friend is having a much longed for baby;
Sharing a yummy dinner and lots of laughs with a good friend;
Being unexpectedly invited to a party;
Playing my favourite song to psych myself up before a difficult event...and then hearing that song in the car when it was all over;
Seeing our city's beautiful harbour from the train on my way home;
Getting the giggles in Pilates and becoming so hysterical that I needed to leave the room to compose myself;
'Dancing it out' in my bedroom;
Having a good cry fest during a favourite TV show;
Making new friends in a PT session;
Getting a phone call from Trav on Valentine's Day;
A friend saying 'I love you';
Seeing really cute kittens in a pet shop (and I'm not even a cat person - despite the name!);
Discovering a new blog that I love;
Researching our honeymoon!;
Choosing the perfect card for someone;
Reading nice comments on my blog (hint!).

Even writing about these things has made me relive these moments and I'm writing this with a smile on my face. I hope you've had some nice moments this week and wish you 1000 more for next week.

Cat x

Happy Valentine's Day, my love...and my first Etsy purchase

2010-02-13T20:49:00.008+11:00

Dear Travis, From the bottom of my heart, from Sydney to PNG, from one fiank to another...I love you. Will you be my Valentine? Love, Catarina x
Not our prettiest photo but I love it. It was taken just after we'd spent an hour fighting with the hire car company and just before I had to leave to catch my plane home.

I've sent a little Valentine's Day package to Travis. Unfortunately he won't get it in time as I couldn't get my act into gear to post it any earlier. I thought I'd share the cute little pressies I snaffled for him from Etsy.
These pencils are so gorgeous. I've kept half for myself! They came in a cloth bag as well which made then even cuter! Note, these are from Paper Pastries on Etsy (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=40291827).

These soaps look amazing and, best of all, they're from an Aussie shop, based out of Bondi Beach, Inner Earth Soaps (http://www.etsy.com/shop/innerearthsoaps). Yeah!

I also sent a sudoko book with a personalised crossword about us pasted onto the front page. I hope he likes these pressies as much as I do!

Whatever you're doing today, happy Valentine's Day!

Cat x

Pretty things make me happy...

2010-02-13T07:56:00.005+11:00

...does that make me a superficial person?

To say this week has been stressful would be an understatement. In terms of stressful events actually occurring, I've had tougher times. But in terms of worrying, it was up there. Worrying about Trav's health; about my dad and my nonno who are also sick; worrying about an upcoming obligation that I know is going to awful; stressing out about an incompetent colleague; trying to ignore a passive aggressive bully at work; and then yesterday finding out my boss, who is like an uncle to me, is sick as well. Never mind that in the background I'm still trying to recover $3500 from an unethical hire car company and plan a wedding! Arrrrrggghhhh....feels so good to vent!
So is it so wrong to take comfort in pretty, familiar things? I don't think so. After all 'the hours when the mind is absorbed by beauty are the only hours we live' (Richard Jeffries). These images are taken from around my bedroom. I can't explain what it is that calms me down and makes me happy when I look at some of these material possessions. Each piece has its own story and, if it was a gift, then I always think of who gave it to me. Who cares if it makes me seem shallow and materialistic? Pretty things make me happy and that's a good enough reason for me right now.
I hope you have a beautiful day.

Cat x

Rupert Bunny

2010-02-11T16:27:00.009+11:00

My friend and I wandered down to the NSW Art Gallery yesterday where we saw the Rupert Bunny exhibition. Having never actually heard of him (I’m ashamed to show my ignorance), I was going along more with a curiousity than an interest. I’m glad I did as, not only was it a lovely diversion from my currently boring work, but because I discovered images that I was genuinely drawn to and inspired by.

My favourite painting was Dolce Farniente (above) , one of many paintings where he featured his beautiful wife. Red roses and swans were recurrent images throughout his art as well and I was inspired by the beauty of the images and of that era in time. This mood board makes me think of lazy summer days, walking in the park and drinking tea with my girlfriends. I love the crocheted necklace, lace top and swan brooch album and I think the silver spoon bracelets are so unique and beautiful. I’ve been looking for a silver bracelet for years and I think I’ve finally found the perfect one. Note that all of these beautiful products are all available on etsy.com.
Image credits and links: 1. red rose image from Bill Perry http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=18
2. Vintage Shimmer Lace Collar by JessJamesJake on etsy.com http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38057978&ref=sr_gallery_2&&ga_search_query=winter+wedding&ga_search_type=vintage&ga_page=3&includes%5b%5d=tags&includes%5b%5d=title
3. Robert Gordon ‘Liberty’ 3 piece tea cup set, available to purchase at lastminute.com.au http://gifts.lastminute.com.au/product/1362-robert-gordon-liberty-3-piece-cup-saucer-and-side/
4. Parisian Summer Vanille Cotton Lace Top by FrenchSugarCouture on etsy.com http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=40216981&ref=sr_gallery_21&&ga_search_query=vintage+camisole&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=1&includes%5b%5d=tags&includes%5b%5d=title
5. Gliding With Gwyneth Large Swan Photo Album by KandiceInWonderland on etsy.com http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26374339&ref=sr_gallery_4&&ga_search_query=white+swan&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=7&includes%5b%5d=tags&includes%5b%5d=title
6. Paul Revere Engraved Spoon Bracelet Vintage Silverplate by Village Boutique on etsy.com http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=40482419&ref=sr_gallery_3&&ga_search_query=spoon+bracelet&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

If you’ve got a spare lunchtime or even better a day off, I suggest you check out this exhibition at the NSW Art Gallery. While you’re there, be sure to check out the two external installations at the front of the gallery. They’re very clever and absolutely free! I should also mention that my friend and I actually got half price tickets through the Viva Sydney deal. Check this site out for details http://www.sydney.com/Viva_Sydney_p4020.aspx. It’s a free card that you can print from the website and will entitle you to special deals on all sorts of things around Sydney. Definitely a worthwhile and valuable resource to have.

Love long distance...

2010-02-08T14:25:00.007+11:00

Up until now, I’ve been ok with the long distance thing. Of course I was a tragic mess when he left and fairly miserable for the first couple of weeks. But then I found myself settling into a new routine and adapting to life as I now know it. The past few days, however, have been more challenging than usual. Dealing with some difficult family stuff has been hard but, even worse, Travis has been unwell and I can’t do anything to help him. He’s apparently been bitten by something (spider? Mosquito?), which has become infected and quite painful. He’s currently at the doctors, hooked up to an IV drip, getting the infection drained, and I can’t do a thing to help.

“Love long distance Is testing me trying my patience”- Gossip

Anyway, in the spirit of keeping this blog positive and not allowing myself to get bogged down in a pity party, I thought I’d share this gorgeous party from Amy Atlas: Sweet Designs: A Blog by Amy Atlas: Ready for Takeoff! I think Travis would love this and have filed it away for future inspiration…perhaps when he finally gets that perfect, high paying, close to home job. I have no idea where to even start with this cake though…spectacular! Well done Amy on a fantastic job!

Here's a peek at my favourite images:

Cat x

uh oh...wardrobe malfunction

2010-02-07T10:37:00.004+11:00

I haven't been very active on my little blog lately and the main reason is that I've been working my butt off at the gym or at Pilates this week. Considering I hadn't done any exercise since before Christmas, I knew I needed to get my act into gear. I kept seeing the Seinfeld scene where George puts his back out and the doctor advises that it was a result of 'EXTREME INACTIVITY'! Not to mention that my wedding is looming and I have less than 10 months to lose my tummy and get rid of my 'bye bye' arms.

In the spirit of my renewed enthusiasm for activity, I decided to go for a swim today. No, not just decided...I actually really wanted to go. Believe it or not, swimming is actually one thing I do enjoy doing. I'm not terribly good at it and I'm terrified of deep water, but I do enjoy paddling about in the water and calling it exercise.

So I slipped on my lovely cozzies for the occasion. Cozzies, I might add, that I paid far too much for, on a whim one day when I thought that buying something expensive would make me feel more grown up...and RIP, a great big tear down one of the seems. So much for paying for quality...

I made a weak effort to still go, even driving to Target Country to see if they'd have something suitable, but have now decided that it just wasn't meant to be today. Perhaps it's the universe's way of saying 'relax, you've done enough for now. Take it easy before another hectic week'. And who am I to disobey? So, on this beautiful rainy Sydney day, I'm going to do just that...I think I'll start by making a cup of tea and flicking through my new jewellery making book I bought yesterday. Then I might catch up the news from some of my favourite blogs. Whatever you're up to I hope you enjoy the rest of your weekend.

Cat x

It's the weekend!!

2010-01-29T19:23:00.004+11:00

Thank goodness!! Even with the public holiday in the middle of the week, this week still draaaggggggggggged on. Between fighting with a car hire company (the b@stards have charged us $3500 for damages we didn't do), negotiating with the reception venue and trying to find a hotel in the city for Trav's next visit that isn't exorbitantly priced, I've copped my fair share of stress and hard work this week.

Thankfully, I've got a fabulous weekend coming up. Not to mention I've also got Monday off. Woo hoo!!

Tomorrow I'll be spending at a day spa, relaxing in a Fijian spa bath followed by an hour long massage. The Fijian spa was a birthday gift from one of my best friends (thanks Lizzie!) and I thought I'd spoil myself and book the massage as well. I can't wait!

Then I'm very excited about Sunday - I'm taking my bridesmaids to try on dresses! We're going to a one stop wedding shop, so I'm hoping I'll be able to sort out the flowers and cake while I'm there. One of the best things is that I don't actually have to try anything on - always an advantage, especially when you're having a bit of a frumpy week (as I do so often).

Have a fantastic weekend everyone!!

P.S. That gorgeous little girl in the photo is my cousin and god-daughter, Cara :-)

Produce Day

2010-01-27T19:44:00.003+11:00

Ever since I can remember I've been surrounded by food. Growing, picking, killing, cooking, buying and playing with have all been adjectives I'm pretty comfortable around.

From my maternal grandparents growing rows of tomatoes and herbs and a large chestnut tree in their backyard to my dads parents growing strawberries and selling them at markets. From seeing Nonno's yard turned into a production line making scores of bread in the wood fired oven and tomato sauce to remembering the wine vats bursting, spreading a river of red wine all over the drive way and into the gutter. From helping Nonna make cotolette and sneaking bits of raw meat to being given bread dough to play with and then bake and eat. From seeing dead chickens hanging from the verandah to realising that some of the cute cows ended up on my plate...and so on and so forth. I could go on for ever about the enormous impact food and everything related to it has had on me. In fact, I chose to study Nutrition at university and it was no coincidence that my first boyfriend was a chef!

My love affair with food began before I can even remember and there are foods that my enjoyment of them isn't just about the taste but also about the memories associated with them. When I'm sick, all I want is pastina. When I'm upset, I turn to a glass of milk with my favourite 'cafe latte' biscuits.

This is my first post about food but it will not be my last. Food is inextricably linked to me, my family and my life. Having an Italian background probably helps :-)

I wanted to share some pictures of beautiful fresh produce that I've been fortunate enough to eat lately. Tomatoes from Mum's garden and fresh fish that my brother, Tony, caught. There's something incredibly satisfying about knowing where your food has come from and how fresh it is.

Enjoy :-)

New Jewels!!!

2010-01-25T19:14:00.006+11:00

I took advantage of the quiet weekend to work on some of my jewellery. I've had these pretty Swarovski crystals for awhile but wasn't sure what to do with them. I wanted to make something really pretty and really girly and I think I've achieved that. Definitely one for the girly girl!

The second item is this beaded necklace, which I'm really proud of. I don't often make necklaces but I had a number of beautiful one off beads I wanted to use. It's really pretty and feminine and I think appeals to a broad age range. I was very tempted to keep this one for myself! I also think I'd like to make more necklaces like this. Stay tuned to see what I come up with next!

Congratulations Stav and Bec!!!

2010-01-24T17:25:00.003+11:00

Just found out the most beautiful couple just got engaged!! Stav and Bec have been together for ages and are really just perfect together. It's clear that they love each other's company, always have fun together and make a strong team. I also love that they haven't lost any of themselves in the process - they're both gorgeous people and together they're even more perfect.

I know I'm gushing but I'm just so happy for them.

Congratulations Stav and Bec! I wish you all the love in the world and am excited for the journey you're about the embark on. Right now I bet you're on Cloud 9 - Enjoy!! Lots of love x

Our reception venue

2010-01-24T10:31:00.004+11:00

I thought I'd give you a sneak peek into our wedding by showing our reception venue. Harrington Grove Country Club is fairly new and Trav and I were pretty impressed the first time we saw it. Beautiful architecture and styling surrounded by native bushland. Absolutely gorgeous and very us!

I went there yesterday to show my family and while we were enjoying a Devonshire tea in the restaurant, a kangaroo casually bounded through the bushland in front of us. Beautiful!

All pictures from the Harrington Grove Country Club website www.harrington.com.au

A new kid on the blog

2010-01-23T22:11:00.000+11:00

Hi there,

My name's Cat and I live in Sydney, Australia. Welcome to my first ever blog entry!

I never thought I'd be the kind of person who blogs about my life. Afterall, why would anyone be interested in little ol' me? I am the kind of person who does love to keep a record of things though. I keep all my tickets and photos are very important to me. My hopeless memory means I need all the help I can to remember things.

Upon realising just how big a year 2010 is going to be for me, I thought it would be a good idea to amalgamate all my little notebooks, scrapbooks, post-it notes and snap shots into this...an online record of all the trials, tribulations, love, laughter, joy and heartache I know is ahead of me.

The biggest event planned for this year is the wedding. The Wedding. Our Wedding. On 4 December 2010, my fiance Travis and I will officially be bound to each other for the rest of our lives. I can't wait :)

I love this pic of us - it was taken from my laptop the morning after our engagement party.

Our situation is a little unusual at the moment as Trav's just moved to Papua New Guinea for work. So, as well as plannning our wedding, I've also got the additional challenge of missing my fiance terribly. It's his first job as a pilot and the the plan is to stick out the seperation until our wedding. Then we can reevaluate the situation.

2010 is also going to be the year I finally get into the property market. I've been saving for years and April is my target month to purchase my first home. Very exciting! Then comes the part I'm most excited about...decorating!!

Just in case I thought I wasn't busy enough (and to prevent myself going mad from boredom and loneliness), I've also started making and selling my own jewellery.

As you can see I'm going to be a very busy girl! Thanks for starting this journey with me. I hope you'll help me out with advice and comments as I could always do with some extra help. Enjoy and stay tuned... :)

Charlie and Tango on a Sunday

invitation workshop

Signed, sealed, delivered...

hold onto your knickers!

An Education

Cafe le Chat & All That Jazz

Bride-to-be 'Charlotte'

interesting times ahead

invitation inspiration

connection hic ups

Hello! Is there anybody in there?

hello again

When will this day be over?

Every 4 years I come alive!

A disappointing start

Mid weekend update including choc-hazelnut cake

Is this what boredom looks like?

Am I too bright?

A measure of a great life

Bounce Back

my daily vista

happy little mushroom

(home) inspiration for living (rooms)

a quick note

painting and lemons

Can I tempt anybody?

An unusually pleasant day

Buona Festa della Republica!

Day 1 Photo Challenge + Almond, Cranberry & Coconut Florentines

Home inspiration...more bedrooms

Monthly challenge

How to truly appreciate wine

It's raining, it's pouring...

I don't know what I'm doing! I don't know where I'm going! I don't know who I am!!!

Oscar Wilde's wisdom

Blog Oh Blog

I'm in pain!

Happiness is...

Home inspiration (dining table)

Where do you blog?

O My Gosh

Home inspiration (main bedroom)

Green with envy birthday necklace

Introducing Marshall John

Going once, going twice...

***Charlie and Tango's Etsy shop updated***

Happy Mother's Day

It's important to scare yourself

A lovely weekend

Here's to you Mr and Mrs Robinson

Please forgive me

The sun will come out tomorrow...bet your bottom dollar!

Be who you are...

Proud as pie...Beef, onion and red wine pie

Lazy rainy weekend

Spread your wings and fly my pretty little butterflies

Shall I bring dessert?...almond cake

Birds of a feather

Sometimes I feel like throwing my hands up in the air...

Happy Valentine's Day, my love...and my first Etsy purchase

Pretty things make me happy...

Rupert Bunny

Love long distance...

uh oh...wardrobe malfunction

It's the weekend!!

Produce Day

New Jewels!!!

Congratulations Stav and Bec!!!

Our reception venue

A new kid on the blog

Charlie and Tango's Etsy shop updated