bright and happy

Sweet smelling explosions of colour after the rains - a little like fireworks on New Year's Eve brightening the night sky. Each burst of colour full of wonder and hope for the coming year and all that it may bring.

Whether you are out experiencing the night sky lighting up or home with kindred spirits, may the year ahead bring happiness. With that, anything is possible.

Happy New Year!

x

a rainbow

...amongst the trees! Feasting on the berries between rain showers, I found this beautiful lorikeet this morning - a burst of colour on this grey day.

I had the most glorious Christmas with family and friends and am now enjoying some quiet time at home - a luxury for me at this time of year. I hope your celebrations over this special time have been joyous and relaxing.

joy

The sweetest of joys are found at Christmas

where the loveliest of moments are shared.

Merry Christmas

x

sweet aromas

There is nothing better than fresh herbs...the sweet aromas and fabulous flavours. Whilst at the Finders Keepers Market, I visited Alarna at Little Jane St and bought these for my lovely friend Audra's birthday! Only now can I share my little purchase - aren't they gorgeous?

all wrapped up

A gorgeous parcel of the most divine twine arrived last week! I simple adore the apple green, isn't it the most beautiful shade? I've whiled away a few hours wrapping Christmas presents... the tree is twinkling, music is playing and it has started to rain outside (oh how my poor garden has been wanting this sprinkling for months), the spirit of the season has truly come alive.

summer

A balmy summer evening, wonderful friends, good wine and delicious food...the spirit of Christmas all around. Simply perfect.

around the world...

and across this great brown land, little red envelopes filled with love and friendship travel. I adore the traditions of Christmas, in particular sharing moments of the year with those dearest to us. There are almost 120 of these little envelopes filled with Christmas cheer - a wonderful reflection on the strong bonds my parents have kept across the many, many years of living and travelling abroad. And so, to preserve these connections and memories I keep my Mother's tradition - besides, I too can rekindle friendships of little playmates through their parents! From the Channel Islands, the UK, France, Portugal, the US to Egypt, Borneo, Hong Kong, Solomon Islands, New Zealand and beyond...memories and joy are returned.

I think my own cards will be a little late as a result...but does that really matter?

capturing joy

Nestled on the banks of the gorgeous Brisbane River is the amazingly vibrant, industrial and contemporary Powerhouse Museum. The most perfect location to learn more about the art of photography, to learn to take better photos! Whilst today's course wasn't about taking landscape photos (but I will be booking a spot soon!), I just couldn't resist capturing the creative vibe of this beautiful building.

Today was about capturing joy - the tricks, tips and 'insider secrets' on photographing those magic moments shared between family and friends. Being tailor made to my camera was brilliant and with less than two weeks until Christmas the timing was perfect! Finishing the day with a most scrumptious lunch overlooking the river with two dear friends really was a heavenly way to spend a very hot Sunday!

For some inspiration, stop by Kellie's sweet little blog...who knows you might find some divine treats for those Christmas stockings!

star above

Thank you dear Kylie, this is simply perfect.

You'll notice, in time, that stars find their way into my work. Almost fifteen years ago, with my gorgeous Mother's help, I came up with, and registered my business name. The dream has been burning for a long time. I now think of her shining above me, guiding me and silently encouraging me in making this little dream a reality. Combined with my wonderful Dad's handy work - I really am blessed to have people around me to encourage me in my endeavours... however that might be.