Happy Easter 2010!

I hope everyone has had a fantastic Easter 2010!

I'm currently down south at the Australian snowfields for Easter. Thredbo to be exact. The store is closed at the moment and I've left my last two bunnies to keep guard.

The Snowy River. Snowy Mountains, NSW, Australia

We love the Snowy Mountains all year round. Of course nothing can match the snow in winter but now many more Australians like us have discovered that there is much more to do here than ski.

My husband and the boys love riding their bikes all over the rocky terrain. Mountain bike riding is huge most of the year, as is fishing in the snowy river. The air and the scenery are amazing and I can fully understand why people fall in love with this area and never want to leave.

The temperature was "crisp" and a little on the chilly side but it is a welcome respite from the hot temperatures we've had in Sydney all summer.

For dinner last night we went to our favourite restaurant - "Crackenback Cottage". We've been going here for years as it is cosy with fantastic food. Think "comfort food" and warm open fire places.

Our boys love playing in the wooden maze outdoors. There was about 2 dozen children all trying to negotiate the maze last night with flashlights. It is fun to watch the frustration from the elevated viewing platform. I think it is a great way to entertain the children whilst waiting for dinner to arrive. As long as they don't get completely lost and start screaming! And sometimes it is the odd parent who is stuck in there yelling for the way out. Don't try doing it after a few wines!

We had a fantastic weekend away and although we ate way too much chocolate and food (and wine for the adults), we worked it off walking and cycling. So we don't feel too guilty!

Owls...

The hot trend at the moment (other than Japanese Kokeshi Dolls or Russian Dolls) are Owls. Owls are adorning everything at the moment from jewellery to bed linen and clothing. Owls are timeless and it isn't just for the children. Adults also love owls. Is it because they are wise and calm? In current times don't we all wish for those things!

I've always loved Owls as they are very cute and so I've incorporated them into my artwork, cushions and toys.

I only realised how popular owls were when my artwork started selling to customers all around the world. Since then I've added owl pillows, mobiles, rattles and toys to my range. The fabrics and colours are adorable.

Dress As Your Hero Day

The last day of school before Easter was "Dress as your hero day". When the note came home the challenge commenced. Rather than being daunted I love dress-up days. Maybe it is my "inner child" or maybe it is just my creative side coming to the fore. I'm not sure but I seem to get a kick out of it more than my boys.

I normally enlist the help of my mum if I need help with sewing but this year was a bit simpler. My eldest son wanted to be his favourite hero - US Snowboarding champion and Olympic Gold Medallist - Shaun White.




My son loves snowboarding so it was pretty simple for the outfit. The board was another matter. His real snowboard is far too heavy and precious to carry to school, so the challenge was to create a mock snowboard. Using my computer and printers at work I was able to re-create the real snowboard onto matt board.

Although a bit smaller in size I think it worked out well. I cut it all out and even put the holes in for the bindings. Then we put it all together and put him in a wig. I think the snowboard turned out well. I suppose if I ever need to change careers I could use my design skills for snowboards!





I'm secretly thrilled that he chose an athlete as his "hero". Although superhero's are fun, it is great to see children inspired by olympians. Who knows where this may lead! Stay tuned....

I've found my new house... pity I'm too big for it!

I am in love with this spectacular Victorian Playhouse from Posh Tots. Straight out of Wisteria lane but without the desperate housewives, this adorable cottage can be yours for $23,400 USD. The only desperate people will be all the local children and adults like myself who wish they were five years old again.

The inside is amazing and full of charm. I'm loving the bay window. The only issue is that if I had one then more than likely I would end up cleaning it! Forget it. One house is enough for me. However I suspect that the lucky tots who end up with this house will have extra "help" to maintain their little house.