Vidastyle

Christmas Making

2011-12-13T20:19:00.001+11:00

Lots of making today, Christmas bunting for a lovely customer and plenty of this cherry ripe slice. Miss M was covered in chocolate after licking the bowl clean!

Bee Blocks November

2011-12-11T20:56:00.001+11:00

For the November Do. Good Stitches blocks we were given free choice of the blocks we wished to make. The colour scheme was orange, aqua, white and grey. I chose to do a crazy pieced block along with a wonky star.

A Colourful Quilt

2011-12-11T20:12:00.001+11:00

I'm back!

After several very busy weeks of sewing and lots and lots of bunting making; I am back here at my neglected little blog. As I have mentioned before I am a member of Do. Good Stitches and last month was my month to organize the quilt. I settled on a broken dishes block with a base colour of white and the sewers choice of a solid colour.

Heres a sneak peak of the almost finished quilt, I have just finished sewing on the binding and will take some more pictures tomorrow in natural light.
Next up is some christmas sewing for the nieces and nephews and maybe another batch of Gingerbread men which is a hit at our place all year round.

Classic Boy Bedroom

2011-11-07T15:34:00.000+11:00

With two little boys I am constantly looking for inspiration for boys decor. I love this little room from Leontine Linens.

Relaxing Outdoor Spaces

2011-11-07T13:19:00.002+11:00

Via

I could spend the whole day here with a cool drink and a great book!

Red White and Blue Boy

2011-11-06T19:58:00.000+11:00

Image: House and Home

The classic combination of red, white and blue always works for the boys.

Decorating With Bunting

2011-11-01T19:35:00.000+11:00

Image via Glam Camping

Image via kenziepoo

Image: inside out

Image via Urbanoutfitters

Bunting is fun, yet elegant, playful and sophisticated. It can create the perfect atmosphere - A tasteful addition of colour to kids rooms, a touch of romance, gently fluttering in the breeze at an out door tea party, simple elegance at a wedding and a carnival touch camping.

Fun In The Sun

2011-10-20T15:32:00.002+11:00

From The Scrap Box

2011-10-19T20:08:00.000+11:00

Playing with scraps. Maybe a cushion?

Quilt Inspiration

2011-10-18T15:22:00.000+11:00

Thinking about making another quilt.
Surfing the web revealed these little beauties.

Source: linenandraspberry.blogspot.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Source: blueelephantstitches.blogspot.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Melissa on Pinterest

This Weeks Menu

2011-10-16T20:03:00.000+11:00

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Well this past week has been a really long one - with a sick child and lots of mummy attention needed, not much else got done around here. This week I have planned a simple, wholesome menu to aid recovery and to get over some of those holiday excesses.

Sunday: Vegetable patties with sweet chilli sauce and salad
Monday: Tomato soup with parmesan breads
Tuesday: Green pancakes with lime butter and steamed vegetables
Wednesday: Homemade Pizza and salad
Thursday: Lasagne and vegetables
Friday: Dinner Out
Saturday: Toasted Sandwiches

2011-10-14T12:34:00.001+11:00

I am back on board after a lovely time away with my family, we experienced great weather for camping, not warm enough for swimming but certainly not to hot for tent living.

As promised I have the results from the spring give away - the winner is Mara, she wins a $40 certificate to the Vidastyle store. Congratulations Mara!

(The winner was drawn using the random.org generator.)

Making and More

2011-09-29T09:38:00.001+10:00

Well this week has been one of making and packing. Custom bunting orders have been posted.

As part of the cherish circle of Do Good Stitches I made these two animal blocks for this months quilt which kristy will be putting together.

These blocks certainly challenged my piecing skills and I had the seam ripper out more than once.

Tomorrow we are leaving for a week of camping and when I return I will draw the winner from my spring giveaway!

Weekly Menu

2011-09-25T11:42:00.001+10:00

Sunday: Spaghetti Bolognaise
Monday: Vegetarian Calzones with Salad
Tuesday: Baked Cannelloni with Steamed Vegetables
Wednesday:Vegetarian Fajitas
Thursday: Beetroot Risotto
Friday: Leaving for Holidays!

Australian Artist: Joanna Darby Art For Good Project

2011-09-23T15:13:00.001+10:00

One of my very favourite Australian Artists, Joanna Darby has released some of her artwork as postcards to support women in Nepal who require lifechanging surgery. All profits from these postcards are donated to this worthy cause.

To learn more about this project or to purchase some cards, head over to her website and while you are there take a look at her other work.

Illustration: Becca Stadtlander

2011-09-22T14:26:00.001+10:00

I just adore these sketchbook images by Becca Stadtlander over at Book By Its Cover via Pikaland

And my son who is totally into soldiers would love this image.

Enjoying the Moments

2011-09-18T07:45:00.000+10:00

Enjoying special moments together.....

Tree House Love

2011-09-17T20:12:00.000+10:00

There are so many awesome tree houses floating around the web I couldn't resist posting a couple more that have caught my fancy.

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Master Bed Room Inspiration

2011-09-14T13:37:00.001+10:00

Some Gorgeous, neutral master bedrooms, I love the exposed timber beams in this room.

This grey and white room has a soothing feel about it

Another pretty white room with a small splash of colour and a lovely large mirror.

Images: 1 small place style, 2 pinterest 3 High street market blog

Vidastyle Spring Giveaway

2011-09-12T14:43:00.001+10:00

To celebrate spring we are hosting a giveaway. The winner will receive a $40 Vidastyle voucher and free shipping anywhere in the world. (Excluding Cushion Inserts).

To enter:

Simply leave a comment below letting us know what you would spend your voucher on. You can shop between either of our stores vidastyle or vidastyle etsy
You can receive and additional entry by following us on facebook or twitter just leave a comment letting us know that you are following.
Make sure that you provide your email address as the winner will drawn randomly and contacted via email.

Entries Close 29 September 2011

Kids Helping Out at Home

2011-09-12T06:30:00.000+10:00

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I believe it is important for the children to take some responsibility around the home from a young age. It helps foster independence and they know that their contributions to keeping the family home functioning are valued.

Here at home my children have several 'jobs' that they regularly complete, and I am always looking for ways to include them in the household tasks. Sometimes it can be a bother and I have remind myself of the long term benefits of learning to help out. We try to make it fun and enjoyable, sometimes pretending that we are 'soldiers'.

Some of the tasks they are getting quite accomplished at:

My boys 4 and 5 clean their own room and make their bed, they are responsible for their own toys and books - They also vacuum their own room. Mila looks after her own room with some help from me, as she gets older more and more of the task will be hers.

All the kids love to help clean the kitchen benches and wipe down the bathroom surfaces, they each have a cloth and spray bottle and clean the bathroom alongside me (we use safe, natural cleaners - I have recently discovered trinature and love it).

They each love to get a cloth and do the dusting.

When preparing meals and cooking they love to help chop food, they also clear their own places after meals.

Mila loves to help with the laundry by handing me the washing as I peg it on the line. They also help by putting their clothes away after they are folded.

These are just some of the ways they are learning to help out, what are some of the ways your children get involved around the home?

Weekly Menu

2011-09-11T19:03:00.004+10:00

Source: delaneygates.typepad.com via Connie on Pinterest

My baby turned 3 yesterday and we have had a very full and exciting weekend with lots of family and friends around to enjoy it with. It has been a joy to watch her get pleasure from the fun of it all.

Back to the everyday now and planning for the week ahead. This week we will be eating:-

Sunday: Left Overs

Monday: Haystacks

Tuesday: Pumpkin risotto (Inspired by Irina from sew and the city)

Wednesday: ricotta and spinach rolls with salad

Thursday: coconut red lentil soup with home made bread

Friday: Dinner with Family

Saturday: Take Out

Have You Seen Lily Moon

2011-09-09T13:12:00.003+10:00

Today I came across the delightful illustrations by Lily Moon. Check out her pretty little store I am sure you will find something to love.

My Favourite Banana Cake Recipe

2011-09-06T08:37:00.001+10:00

Sunday afternoon we made banana cake. This was the banana cake my mum made for us when we were kids. I have fond memories of sitting at the farmhouse table as a child helping her mash the bananas. The cake was always iced with a simple chocolate icing, but it would be lovely with any of the traditional banana cake toppings.

Ingredients
125g Butter, softened
1 scant cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1/2 tsp vanilla essence
2 cups self raising flour
1/2 tsp bicarb soda
1/4 cup milk
1 cup bananas (2-3 bananas)

preheat oven to 180 °C. Grease and flour a 7cm x 20cm tin
Cream butter, vanilla and sugar until pale and creamy
Add eggs one at a time beating well after each
sift flour, and bicarb soda together, using a metal spoon gently fold in 1/3 of the flour mixture, and the milk, then fold through 1/2 of the remaining flour, finally fold through the bananas followed by the rest of the flour.
Pour cake mix into tin and bake for approx 40mins or until done when tested with a skewer.

Ice with your favourite icing.

Sunday: Weekly Menu

2011-09-04T12:30:00.004+10:00

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Banana Cake is on the agenda for this afternoon, I have some bananas that are just ripe and waiting to be made into cake. They have been far to expensive the past few months to make into cake, but these ones were quite reasonable and I have been missing it.

As well as indulging in banana cake we will be eating:-

Sunday: Hot Dogs

Monday: Lasagne and Vegetables

Tuesday: Tomato Risotto

Wednesday: Quiche and Salad

Thursday: Pizza and salad

Friday: Potato and Pea Curry, Dahl and Naan

Saturday: Take Out

What about you? What will you be eating or indulging in this week?

Adorable Girls Room

2011-09-03T19:05:00.000+10:00

I just adore this pretty girls bedroom by Windsor Smith. The white bedspread with the turquoise colour create a calming atmosphere, while the pops of colour from the artwork and dress up clothes add some fun to the room.

Image Source: Room in a Box

Corn and Bean Burritos

2011-09-01T10:36:00.000+10:00

This tasty Weight Watchers recipe is full of good nutritious ingredients, it makes for a perfect meal for the family, my kids love burrito's and request them regularly. They also love 'Haystacks' which can be made with corn chips, topped with this sauce, the salad, cheese and sour cream. If you are really keen you can make your own tortillas, they are time consuming but taste much better than the store bought ones.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium brown onion, chopped
1 medium zucchini, chopped
2 cloves crushed garlic
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp mexican chilli powder
400g can chopped tomatoes
400g can mixed beans, drained and rinsed
400g can corn kernals, drained
1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
3 medium fresh tomatoes chopped
2 tbsp fresh coriander
25 g pumpkin seeds
8 small corn tortillas, warmed
4 cups rocket leaves

1. Heat oil in large saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook onion and zucchini, stirring occasionally until softened. Add garlic and chilli powder. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until fragrant.
2. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add canned tomatoes, beans and corn and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring, for 15 minutes or until sauce is thickened. Remove from heat and stir in juice.
3. Place fresh tomato, coriander and pepitas in a small bowl. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Place tortillas on a flat surface and top with rocket and bean mixture. Fold to enclose filling. Serve topped with tomato salsa.

To warm tortillas, wrap in baking paper or foil and bake in a preheated 200ºC or 180ºC fan-forced oven for 5 minutes or until heated.

Image and recipe by Weight Watchers Australia

Yay! It's Spring

2011-09-01T08:40:00.000+10:00

Spring is here and we are looking forward to mornings by the pool, ice-cream and the beach (not that we haven't been enjoying the beach over winter here in Aus) Bring it on!

Now Thats a Treehouse!

2011-08-31T13:02:00.000+10:00

Image

How fun would it be to have a weekend away in a treehouse like this?

A Touch of Grey

2011-08-31T07:05:00.001+10:00

There is something about a grey room that gets me every time. Paired with white it is light and airy and a dark grey is so comforting, particularly in a bedroom.

Images via

Map Of Stars

2011-08-30T02:34:00.001+10:00

Isn't this little watercolour just delightful! It is by Diana Sudyka and she has called it Map of Star because all creatures are born with an internal 'map to guide them' You really must read her description of the painting. Unfortunately it has already sold out, however you should also check out her other work here.

Etsy Favourites: For the Home

2011-08-29T16:10:00.000+10:00

It's been a while since I featured some of my favourites from etsy, these ones are for the home, pretty little handmade pieces for decorating or displaying.

Little village by rodica - These would look adorable in a little boys nursery.

Hand Built Plate, maybe a coaster or a little soap dish.

Ceramic serving Dishes - so many lovely plates in this store.

Natural Soy Candles and you can never have too many candles!

Weekly Menu

2011-08-29T14:14:00.000+10:00

Happy Monday to you all! Spring is deffinately in the air today, the sun is shining and it is a gorgeous day here. It's deffinately time to start including more salads into the menu.

Sunday: Veggie Burgers
Monday: Pasta Bake and Salad
Tuesday: Patties, Baked Potatoes and veges
Wednesday: Burritos with salad
Thursday: Pizza
Friday: Family Dinner
Saturday: Toasted Sandwiches
What are you eating this week?

Bedroom Decor Idea

2011-08-26T20:01:00.002+10:00

In this room the wardrobe would always need to be tidy and organised, I don't think I could ever make this work!

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Some Fabulous DIY Tutorials

2011-08-25T19:59:00.000+10:00

Some tutorials I am currently loving:

I love these Triangular Bean Bags
Make your own braided headbands
Save money by making your own skirts
Repurpose t-shirts to make a cute ruffle shirt
And another top pattern

2011-08-24T20:04:00.000+10:00

The secret to doing something well is practice, practice, practice.

I recently read of a family whose motto was "Anything worth doing well is worth doing poorly until you get good at it." This attitude provides a safe place for all of us, children and adults included to learn, make mistakes and grow. I think I will be printing this one out for the fridge.

Sunday: Weekly Menu

2011-08-21T17:19:00.000+10:00

Had a much need lazy Sunday, other than doing a run, my grocery shopping and folding the washing I have done very little today. My menu for the week includes comfort food for tonight as it is quite wet and cold. We also have our regular pizza night and I got some fresh ricotta so I will be making Ricotta and Spinach Scroll.

Sunday: Vegetarian Spaghetti Bolognaise
Monday: Mushroom Crepes
Tuesday: Pumpkin and Chickpea Thai Curry
Wednesday: Ricotta and Spinach Scroll with Salad
Thursday: Pizza
Friday: Dinner Out
Saturday: Dinner Out

What are you planning on eating this week?

Everyday Things

2011-08-18T15:34:00.000+10:00

Winter is nearing an end, seeds are sprouting,

Its time to start preparing the soil.

There are strawberry flowers aplenty

and even a few early berries.

And a nice surprise... a small winter harvest of self sown tomatoes from last summer.

Sweet Dreams

2011-08-16T19:35:00.001+10:00

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Sometimes I am tempted to paint our bedroom dark, I love these colours together, with loads of gorgeous pillows and throws. I also really like that bedside table.

Chocolate Doughnuts and Paczki

2011-08-14T13:03:00.000+10:00

My Husband is a serious doughnut lover and his Polish Grandmother regularly makes traditional Polish doughnuts called Paczki for special occasions. They are made with a rich dough containing butter, eggs, sugar and milk; filled with a thick plum jam and iced with lemon glaze. On Friday my sister in law and I had the pleasure of learning how she made them.

I make a similar doughnut using a brioche dough which gives a rich buttery doughnut and then fill it with a quality dark chocolate. These are delicious served warm with a gooey chocolatey centre.

To make the doughnuts:

Take a small ball of prepared dough that has already had one rising.
Roll it into a ball, push a square of quality dark chocolate into the middle and pinch closed, rolling smooth into a even ball. Continue with this until all dough has been rolled. You will most likely use a full block of chocolate.
Set aside and allow to rise again for approx 20mins.
Heat oil to approx 180 C and carefully drop doughnuts into the hot oil 2-3 at a time, so they have plenty of room to rise to the surface.
After 2-3 minutes flip doughnuts and cook on the other side for another 2 mins until golden on both sides.
Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels. Roll in castor sugar.

I often make up half the dough into doughnuts and freeze the other half for another day, I just take the dough out of the freezer the night before and let it thaw out in the fridge.

Cool Churches

2011-08-12T14:49:00.001+10:00

I love old builds and especially churches, Bored Panda has compiled a list of the 50 Most extraordinary Churches. These are a couple of my favourites.

In France, The Chapelle Saint-Michel, a chapel on a volcanic plug. This is the Rock of Aiguilhe, at the outskirts of the town of Puy en Velay, in the Auvergne. lt has stood there for 1042 years.

Las Lajas Cathedral which was built over the Guaritara River.

Check out all the other really cool churches they have come across, 50 Most extraordinary Churches.

Apricot Walnut Bread

2011-08-10T16:11:00.001+10:00

This recipe is a tasty treat for the lunch box or just to have with tea or coffee.

Ingredients
125g unsalted butter
1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
1/4 cup golden syrup
2/3 cup plain yoghurt
1 1/4 cups Self Raising flour
1 1/2 tsp mixed spice
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
Butter to serve

Grease a 12 x 22 cm loaf pan, line base and sides with baking paper.
Combine butter, sugar and syrup in a pan, stir over low heat until butter is melted. Remove and cool for 5 mins.
Sift combined flour and spices into a bowl, add butter mix, yoghurt, eggs, apricots and nuts, stir until just combined. Pour into pan.
Cook in a moderate oven (180 degrees C) for 45 mins or until cooked when tested with a skewer.
Stand loaf in pan for 10 mins before turning out onto wire rack to cool.
Serve sliced with butter

I think I'll go have another piece right now!

Weekly Menu 6

2011-08-08T13:43:00.000+10:00

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I am well and truly late posting my menu this week, sorry all. The tagine in this weeks menu is absolutely delicious and a great vegetarian winter meal served with cous cous or rice. I usually try to cook up a whole packet at once when preparing dried beans and freeze the extras to use later. If you don't have time to prepare the chickpeas from scratch, canned ones work just as well.

Sunday: Take out
Monday: Tomato Noodle Soup with rolls
Tuesday: Tagine of Pumpkin and Chickpeas
Wednesday: Cashew nut loaf with salad
Thursday: Homemade Pizza
Friday: Dinner with Family
Saturday Night: Birthday Party with Friends

Knitting for The Boys

2011-08-06T21:55:00.000+10:00

It took me a while to get around to finishing Zacks vest, I think I had done so much knitting the past few weeks I needed a bit of a knitting break. The pattern is called Shore and I used Bendigo Yarn, I used just under one ball of the bendigo classic on this pattern. He was so excited to see it finished and didn't take it off all day, which for him is pretty amazing.

Vegetarian Sausage Roll Recipe

2011-08-02T12:37:00.000+10:00

This is a recipe that I have been making for many years, it is a great way of getting some wholesome ingredients into the kids and they love to help make them. I usually double these quantities and make enough to freeze for another time.

3 eggs
1/2 cup pecan nuts (you can also use walnuts but I prefer pecans)
1 onion chopped
250g container low fat cottage cheese
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1/2 cup dried bread crumbs
1 cup rolled oats
3 sheets puff pastry

Place all ingredients in a bowl and process I usually use my stick mixer but a food processor is also perfect.
Cut pastry sheets in half and spoon mixture down one edge. Brush the other edge with milk and roll to enclose filling.
Cut each log into 6 even pieces, brush with milk and prick top with a fork (at this stage you could freeze if not eating straight away.
Bake in a hot Oven 200°C for 15-20 minutes or until crisp and golden.

Makes 36 party sized sausage rolls.

Baked Passionfruit Cheesecake

2011-07-31T17:57:00.000+10:00

250g plain sweet biscuits
125g butter, melted
500g cream cheese, softened
1 cup caster sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 eggs
2 tablespoons lemon juice
300g sour cream
5-6 passionfruit
1 tablespoon cornflour
1/4 cup castor sugar, extra

Preheat oven to 150°C. Grease a 22cm round springform pan.
Place biscuits in food processor. Process until fine crumbs. Add butter. Process until combined. Press mixture over base and sides of pan. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating to combine. Fold in lemon juice and sour cream.
Pour into prepared pan. Bake for50 minutes or until centre is just firm. Allow to cool in oven for 3 hours, with door slightly ajar. Refrigerate overnight
Mix cornflour with 1/3 cup water and put into a saucepan with passionfruit pulp and extra sugar. Stir over heat until thickened. Spread over chilled cheesecake and chill for several hours. Serve.

Sunday: Weekly Menu 6

2011-07-31T16:51:00.000+10:00

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the Family favourites this week.....

Sunday: Tomato Risotto
Monday: Burritos and Salad
Tuesday: Aloo Matar Curry
Wednesday: Tomato Noodle soup with Fresh Bread
Thursday: Sausage Rolls, baked Vegies and Corn
Friday: Spaghetti
Saturday: Take Out

Book Love: Liberty Home Sewing

2011-07-29T16:02:00.000+10:00

If these two preview images are anything to go by, the new Liberty Home Sewing book is a must have for my shelves. I love Liberty fabrics and the book looks like it will be gorgeous. I can't wait for it to be released in September.

Colour Inspiration

2011-07-28T08:33:00.000+10:00

Some light rooms with lots of pretty bright colour.

I love the blue painted side table and the bright throw rug and pillows.

Bright spring pillows

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Images via and via

Twin Room Inspiration

2011-07-25T15:27:00.000+10:00

I love the idea of kids sharing rooms, this long bed is great for leaving plenty of floor space for play, and I love those drawers under the bed for all the toys.

A pretty colour combination in a small space.

I love the blue/grey with white.

Sunday: Weekly Menu 5

2011-07-24T20:33:00.000+10:00

Better late than never. Its been a crazy, busy day, shopping has had to wait till tomorrow.

Sunday: Vegetable Curry and Rice
Monday: Haystacks
Tuesday: Tomato Risotto
Wednesday: Broccoli Soup
Thursday: Home made Pizza
Friday: Dinner out
Saturday: Pasta

Portable Painting

2011-07-22T11:37:00.001+10:00

This is an easy way of taking painting to the park or out and about for a creative art activity. I got some thick card (or watercolour paper would be perfect for this) and put some spots of Gouache along the sides of the card and left it to dry. Once dry it makes a portable paint palate, all you need is a paint brush and some water.

Gouache is great because you can keep reworking the dried work, so even after the painting is dry by just using a wet brush the painting can be reworked.

(Unfortunately I cannot remember where I first came across this idea and am unable to link to the source)

Fruity Jelly Cups

2011-07-20T08:27:00.001+10:00

This was a simple cooking activity the kids and I did.

Zack and Mila cut up strawberries themselves with a butter knife. We then put them in a container and poured some jelly over.

They were set just in time for dessert. A simple, easy treat and they loved it because they pretty much did it all themselves.

Laundry Rooms

2011-07-19T14:03:00.002+10:00

Do you watch the block? I watch it when I can and love seeing their rooms come together. This last week they had to finish the bathroom and laundry. In keeping with the theme I thought I would post some Laundry rooms from my files.

This laundry is really pretty with lots of storage space and room to move.

Another pretty but functional laundry room

This bench looks like a perfect solution for sorting and folding washing

I love the hanging rail above the bench for the ironing, I wonder if I would be more inspired to stand and iron if I had one of those.

Images via

Chocolate Cheesecake Brownie

2011-07-17T18:07:00.000+10:00

This is another Weight Watchers recipe that I enjoy making. It is delicious and a healthier version using pureed apple instead of butter.

Ingredients
1 cup pureed apple
1/3 cup cocoa powder, sifted
3/4 cup self raising flour, sifted
1/2 tsp bicarb soda, sifted
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup castor sugar
250g light cream cheese
1 egg yolk

Preheat oven to 180 degrees celcius. Lightly spray a 20cm sqaure cake tin with oil and line with baking paper.
Place puree, cocoa, flour, bicarb soda, chocolate, salt and 1/2 cup of the sugar in a large bowl and stir to combine. Pour mixture into prepared tin.
Using electric beaters, beat cream cheese, egg and remaining sugar in a medium bowl. Pour cream cheese mix over chocolate mix.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked. Cool in tin, cut into 12 pieces.

I also like to drizzle melted chocolate over the top to serve.

Sunday: Weekly Menu 4

2011-07-17T06:20:00.002+10:00

By planning a menu for the week, It takes the stress out of what to make for dinner, I can save money by not purchasing excess items that will not get used and we waste less fresh food as we only buy what we need.

Time to get shopping so we have food for the week, this is what we are eating this week.

Sunday: Vegetable soup with fresh bread
Monday: Vegetable frittata with salad
Tuesday: Spaghetti Bolognaise
Wednesday: Vegetarian Patties with baked potatoes and vegetables
Thursday: Homemade pizza's with salad
Friday: Dinner with family
Saturday: Toasted Sandwiches

What are you eating this week?

2011-07-16T21:09:00.000+10:00

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I am in the process of planning our spring garden and ordering seeds so that come spring we will be all systems go. My favourite way to plant our garden is from seed and this means I need to be organised so that the seedlings are all coming along nicely ready for spring planting.

My favourite source for seeds and plants for my vege garden is Diggers club. They specialise in heirloom seeds and varieties that are being lost in the mainstream retail environment, whilst maintaining garden traditions.

Spontaneity

2011-07-14T16:41:00.000+10:00

Today was a spontaneous day. Toby wanted a train ride so I decided to just go with it, there wasn't anything I really needed to do today, so we packed some snacks and hopped on the train for town. Once there we enjoyed some time in the park and then finished off with a little walk before catching the train home again.

The kids loved it, it was fun doing something spontaneous and unplanned.

This is a good article that was in my reader this afternoon that has some other fun ideas to do with the kids. Some of them are so simple, yet we often forget that they enjoy simple things, but most of all they just love being with us.

A Fabulous Little Nook

2011-07-14T06:38:00.001+10:00

Image via

I have a place in my studio where a nook like this would fit perfectly. I could really enjoy working in such a cute little space.

Knitting: Boys Sweater

2011-07-13T06:12:00.000+10:00

Well I finally finished knitting the sweater for Toby.

And last night I started on a vest for Zack

Both boys picked their own yarn colours so lets hope that translates getting into a lot of wear out of both items.

A Healthy Lunchbox For Kids

2011-07-12T10:23:00.000+10:00

Following on from last weeks post on healthy eating for Kids I thought we could look at some healthy lunch box ideas for kids to ensure that they have the best chance at getting through the day.

A healthy lunchbox needs to include:

1. Foods that will give children sustained energy throughout the day so that they will have better concentration and energy for play.

These slow release foods include:

Multigrain or wholegrain breads
fruit (unpeeled) apples, grapes, strawberries, pears etc

2. A calcium rich food such as yoghurt or cheese is also important for healthy bones and teeth as well as helping them to feel full.

3. A protein rich food is important for growth and immunity so including some protien foods such as eggs, legumes or meat is a good idea.

Some Ideas for Lunch

Vegemite and cheese Vita Weets and a mandarin
Baked Bean and cheese toastie (many kids would be happy with this cold) and strawberries
Egg and Lettuce sandwich on wholegrain bread with cherry tomatoes
A piece of vegetable frittata with cucumber and carrot sticks
Chicken and Avocado Rolls and sultanas

Morning and Afternoon Tea

Celery, carrot, and cucumber sticks with hommus and apple
Yoghurt and orange wedges
Homemade pikelets with margarine and jam
Cheese wedges or cubes
Hard boiled egg and dried apricots
Popcorn and apple
Selection of chopped fresh fruit with yoghurt
Custard and fruit

You can then mix and match lunches with morning and afternoon tea ideas to combine for a balanced lunchbox for the day ensuring that you have a combination of the following:

Fruit
vegetables/salad such as carrot, celery etc
Dairy foods such as yogurt or cheese
Protien such as meat, cheese, eggs, hommus etc
Wholegrain bread or crackers
Water

Another Quilt Top

2011-07-11T13:13:00.002+10:00

Another quilt top was made last week. It was great to use up some of my stash and make a quilt without needing to purchase anymore fabric to complete it. Mila has already claimed it as hers and I guess since it is predominantly pink no one else in this household will be putting their hands up for it.

I didn't use a pattern and essentially cut up my FQ's in random squares and rectangles and pieced them together.

Now on to quilting it....

Sunday: Weekly Menu 3

2011-07-10T14:37:00.000+10:00

Here is this weeks menu, more comforting winter foods as the weather is cold and the leftovers are perfect for lunches too.

Sunday: Pumpkin soup with fresh bread
Monday: Bean Nachoes with salad
Tuesday: Oven Baked Risotto
Wednesday: Homemade pizza's with salad
Thursday: Patties served with baked vegetables
Friday: Dinner with family
Saturday: Take out

What are you eating this week?

Apricot and Chocolate Chip Slice

2011-07-10T08:07:00.000+10:00

This is one of my husbands favorite slices and I have adapted it slightly from the Donna Hay Modern Classics 2 book. The chocolate chips are a delicious addition to this slice but can be left out if you wish. I also often do the chocolate chip and apricot mix in these cookies which are also a favourite.

Ingredients

125g (4oz) butter, melted

1/3 cup sugar1 cup plain (all purpose) flour

1/2 cup rolled oats

Topping

2 eggs

1 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup plain (all purpose) flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

200g (7oz) chopped apricots

1 cup desiccated coconut

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 180 degrees celcius or (350 F). Place butter, sugar, flour and rolled oats in a bowl and mix to combine.

Press the mixture into a 20 x 30cm slice tin lined with baking paper. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden.

To make the topping place eggs and sugar in bowl, beat with electric beaters until light and fluffy.

Fold in the flour, baking powder, apricots, chocolate chips and coconut.

Spread the topping over the base and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden. Cool in tin.

Cut into slices and enjoy.

Wednesday Adventures

2011-07-06T19:10:00.000+10:00

A perfect windy day

Fabric Love: Children at Play

2011-07-05T13:12:00.000+10:00

Sarah Jane Studios has a new fabric range hitting the stores any day now. It features her gorgeous images of children at play as well as coordinating prints.

I love the floor cushions she has made for her own kids using the tutorial from living with punks. These fabrics will make gorgeous accessories for children's spaces.

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Egg and Red Lentil Curry

2011-07-05T09:07:00.002+10:00

This recipe is from the Weight Watchers Cook Basic cookbook it is a simple and delicious mid week meal. We use eggs from our own hens making this recipe super economical.

Ingredients
1 Medium onion, chopped
2 Tbsp fresh ginger
2 Garlic cloves, crushed
2 Heaped Tbsp Curry Paste
400g can crushed tomatoes with capsicum
1/2 Cup dried red lentils
1 Bunch broccolini, cut into 4cm lengths
80g Snow Peas, halved
6 Hard boiled eggs, peeled, halved
1 Cup brown basmati rice

Lightly spray a large saucepan with oil and heat over medium - high heat. Add onion, ginger and garlic and cook, stirring for 5 mins or until onion is soft. Add curry paste and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds or until fragrant.
Add tomatoes and 2 1/2 cups cold water (or stock). Bring to boil. Stir in lentils. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes or until lentils are cooked.
Add broccolini and snow peas. Simmer for 5 minutes or until heated through.
Meanwhile, cook rice using absorbtion method.
Serve with rice and sprinkled coriander.

I love James and Rose Curry paste, however any curry paste or even curry powder will work.

You can complete up to step two at an earlier time and continue on with step three when you are ready for dinner. I love curry when it has been cooked a day before as the flavors develop and mature.

June Blocks

2011-07-04T14:18:00.000+10:00

Do. Good Stitches is a charity quilting bee over on flickr. Do Good Stitches is organised by Rachel from Stitched in Color and each month the groups make two blocks which are then put together into a quilt for children in need. I have been a member of this fantastic group for a couple of months now. I really enjoy making my two blocks and then seeing how they come together with everyone else's.

These are the two blocks that I made for the June quilt. They are a scrappy style that makes use of the numerous scraps that overflow my scrap bin. I can't wait to see the finished quilt which is being put together by Becky.

The first quilt I was a part of can be seen here.

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

2011-07-04T10:40:00.000+10:00

I have had several requests for this recipe, it is really quick and easy and is one I like to keep the ingredients on hand for.

Ingredients
500g packet gnocchi
300ml light cooking cream (you can also substitute evaporated milk to reduce fat)
1/4 cup sundried tomato pesto
150g char grilled capsicum, chopped
100g baby spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook gnocchi in large saucepan of boiling, salted water, following directions on the packet. Drain
Preheat grill on medium-high
Over medium heat in a fry pan, simmer cream and pesto, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
Add capsicum and spinach, cook for 1 minute or until spinach has wilted.
Add gnocchi to cream mixture. Toss to combine.
Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese and cook under grill for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden.

Sunday: Weekly Menu 2

2011-07-03T18:29:00.000+10:00

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Here's this weeks menu, when planning our meals, I aim to keep my main meals budget friendly. I usually like to keep my weekly grocery budget below $100 per week.

Sunday: Corn Fritters, salad and potatoes
Monday: Bean and Cheese Tortillas with salad
Tuesday: Tomato Noodle soup with Grilled Cheese Toasts
Wednesday: Egg and Red Lentil Curry with Rice
Thursday: Homemade Pizza
Saturday: Toasted Sandwiches or Pasta

Australian Artist: Anna Walker

2011-07-03T08:24:00.002+10:00

I love the work of Melbourne based artist and book illustrator Anna Walker. We have at least one of her books in our collection. Her works are also available as limited edition prints from Kindergallery and Books Illustrated.

She also has some coloring pages for the kids on her site, perfect for a rainy day. Have a look at her blog and website to see more of her gorgeous work.

Clever Storage Idea

2011-07-02T17:21:00.000+10:00

I really like this idea from Martha Stewart for a clever laundry hamper or you could even hang a couple in the Kids rooms for easy toy storage. Just use an embroidery hoop to sandwich a pillowcase, making it easy to pop items into the bag.

Gorgeous Swedish Home

2011-07-01T14:05:00.001+10:00

Take a walk with me through this gorgeous Swedish home owned by Marie Olsson Nylander and her Husband.

The home is an eclectic mix of pieces sourced from all over the world. Almost nothing in the house is new and I love her attitude to her furniture "One can not be sorry if anything is scratched or broken. Furniture must be used"

I love this blue cabinet and the huge green pot, and look at that staircase!

A perfect Mirror.

Look at that view!

I love this black door.

Read more about this gorgeous home here.

Thank You Card Printables

2011-06-30T09:28:00.001+10:00

These thank you card printables by DIY invitations found via How About Orange are lovely and they are available for free in six different designs.

Chocolate Earthquake Cookies

2011-06-28T19:35:00.000+10:00

Today we made cookies.

They were so good.

Only 4 left.

When Space is Tight

2011-06-28T12:19:00.000+10:00

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When you're short on space, sometimes bunks are not practical - this bed would be the perfect alternative for children sharing rooms in a tight space.

On the Needles

2011-06-27T14:57:00.000+10:00

I have Caelum on the needles for Toby, just have to finish the bottom band and do the sleeves.

Little tomatoes on self sewn bushes. Its looking promising for a small winter crop.

Healthy Eating for Kids

2011-06-27T06:00:00.001+10:00

I think we all want our children to grow up eating a healthy diet and to be adventurous with food. When I had my first child I was determined that he would eat well and like most foods - and he did, that is until he hit 2. Pride certainly comes before a fall! Since then it has been a constant battle to get him to try most vegetables. I must say that he does eat well and has a variety of fruits and salad foods - he is just not fond of trying vegetables and vegetable based dishes.

I have a really great book on eating for children - More Peas Please, written by a dietitian and a specialist in feeding and swallowing. They give some great tips for encouraging fussy eaters.

One of the things I learn't from this book was that my expectations of the quantities of Fruit and Veggies that my child needed were in excess of what he really needs.

The recommended serves of food groups required per day are as follows:-

Age 1-3 Years

5 glasses of fluid
1 serve fruit + 1 serve vegetables or salad
1/2 serve meat, fish, chicken
2 serves full cream milk, cheese or yoghurt

Age 4-8 Years

6 Glases of fluid
1 serve of fruit + 2 serves vegetables or sald
1/2 serve meat, chicken, or fish
2 serves reduced fat milk, yoghurt or cheese

Examples of 1 serve:

Fruit - 1 medium sized fruit (apple, banana, orange), 2 small fruit (apricot, plum, kiwi fruit), 20 grapes, 1 cup canned fruit, dried fruit - 4 apricots, 1 1/2 tablespoons sultanas

Vegetables/salad - 1 medium potato, 1/2 cup cooked veges, 1 cup lettuce salad

Meat/chicken/fish/egg - 65-100g cooked meat, chicken, 80-120g cooked fish, 2 small eggs, 1/3 cup cooked legumes (dried peas, beans, lentils)

Milk/Yoghurt/Cheese - 1 cup milk (250ml), 40g cheese (2 slices), 200g yoghurt

Cereals/Breads - 2 slices bread, 1 cup cooked porridge, 1 medium bread roll, 1 cup cooked pasta or rice

Source: NHMRC Dietary Guidelines of Children and Adolescents via More Peas Please

Menu Planning on Sunday

2011-06-26T16:41:00.000+10:00

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Sunday is usually my day to plan the weekly menu and get the grocery shopping done. I thought that I might start posting my menu here to keep a better record of it over time.

Breakfasts - Our Breakfasts are usually quite simple, consist of 3 options, and if anyone is still hungry they will eat fruit. Our Breakfast menu rarely changes from the following.

Porridge
milk
honey
or
Weet-bix
Milk
Honey
or
Eggs on Toast (Saturday morning)

Morning Tea
Fruit and water

Lunch - consists of one of the following followed by fruit

Mondays is preschool for the boys and they usually have sandwich, vegetable sticks, hommus
Salad Sandwich
Baked Beans on toast
Cheese, or peanut butter or vegemite etc sandwiches
Egg sandwiches

Dinner

Sunday: Spinach Dahl and rice

Monday: Baked Vegetables with Lasagne

Tuesday: Tomato Risotto

Wednesday: Vegetable quiche with salad

Thursday: Homemade Pizza

Friday: Dinner with the family

Saturday: Toasted sandwiches or baked beans on toast

Australian Artist: Miranda Scoczek

2011-06-25T20:10:00.000+10:00

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I recently discovered Australian artist Miranda Scoczek through an article in Adore Magazine. Checkout the gallery on her site for further images of her art. I love the combination of colour, graphics and silhouettes.

Art for the Boys

2011-06-22T15:40:00.000+10:00

These retro robotic pictures from etsy would look fabulous framed on the wall in the boys room

Composting

2011-06-22T13:11:00.002+10:00

I am liking the look of this compost station over at renest. Plans for a similar one can be found here. Take a look it is a more attractive option to the 'ugly' plastic ones.

Wonderful Workspaces

2011-06-20T13:18:00.000+10:00

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Working from home I am always on the lookout for decor inspiration for my work space. I am loving this simple room with the warmth of the floorboards, the display shelves and the table surrounded by good lighting.

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The natural light along with the all white paint work and a pop of sunny yellow is perfect in this simple room.

A Chicken Coup and a Bird Feeder

2011-06-19T17:03:00.000+10:00

A gorgeous day spent outside with my husband finishing off the chicken coup he has been working on.

The kids also made a bird feeder with plenty of help from dad.

They used some left over timber from the coop, and also made this simple little bread holder by folding some left over chicken wire over pieces of timber and stapling it to attach. The kids can just refresh the bread by popping a new piece in the top. This could also be hung from a branch in a tree for a more simplified bird feeder, like this one here.

Fly Away

2011-06-17T14:42:00.000+10:00

Perfect for the end of a week full of rain, these delightful mobiles and wall decor are from Gosh and Golly.

Fly away for today the sun is shining!

Chocolate Weet-Bix Slice

2011-06-16T13:36:00.001+10:00

This morning the kids and I made some choc weet-bix slice, this is a favourite from my childhood. My Mum used to make big batches of this slice when we were kids and keep it in the freezer - It never lasted very long as we would eat it straight out of the freezer.

3 wholewheat breakfast biscuits
1 cup desiccated coconut
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup self-raising flour
2 tbs cocoa
150g butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla essence
1 1/2 cups icing sugar mixture
Extra 1 tbs cocoa
2 tbs hot water

Preheat oven to 180°C
Crumble the weet-bix into a large mixing bowl
Add dry ingredients and mix to combine.
Make a well in the centre and pour in the melted butter and vanilla. Stir to combine.
Spoon mix into a greased lamington tin. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon.
Bake in a preheated oven 180°C for 20 minutes.
Sift icing sugar and cocoa into a small bowl. Add water and ice while still hot. Sprinkle with extra coconut.
Put in freezer to cool.

Whenever I make this I usually make a double batch as it doesn't last very long!

Homemade Bread

2011-06-15T11:26:00.000+10:00

Homemade Rye Bread

I love making my own bread. Mixing. Kneading. Rising. Shaping. Sometimes though, time is short and I have been looking for fast ways to have fresh bread. This book is perfect for quick delicious bread. It makes delicious homemade bread super easy. Anyone can do it. Throw all the ingredients into a bowl. Mix. Refridgerate. Use anytime in the next two weeks. Fresh bread daily from your own kitchen is really possible!

More Boys Room Inspiration

2011-06-13T13:37:00.001+10:00

Source: diyideas.com via Melissa on Pinterest

My boys bedroom is still imcomplete and I have been scouring the web for some more inspiration. My eldest loves maps and I really like the way the blank frame is hung over the map on the wall, with the rolled maps and nautical elements on display displayed.

Source: minordetails.typepad.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Art supplies are readily available in this room for easy access when inspiration and creativty strike.

Source: tabletonic.blogspot.com via Melissa on Pinterest

I really like the artwork in this room, actually I love all of it.

Source: iheartorganizing.blogspot.com via Melissa on Pinterest

A more traditional boys space.

Source: isabellaandmaxrooms.blogspot.com via Melissa on Pinterest

I love the stenciled map of Australia and New Zealand on this wall. Is that blackboard paint below?

Rainy Day Fun

2011-06-13T09:21:00.000+10:00

A roll of masking tape and some vehicles provide hours of fun on a rainy morning.

Winter Decor

2011-06-10T14:41:00.000+10:00

I adore these fun crocheted floor cushions available in many great colours on etsy

Organized

2011-06-08T14:29:00.000+10:00

Via

I think I may just do this.

Winter

2011-06-06T22:05:00.001+10:00

Via

Finished: Idlewood

2011-06-06T21:13:00.000+10:00

It's finally finished, it took me a while to get to the sleeves, I don't love sleeves and these were so small.... But I love the outcome. The yarn is deliciously squishy and soft and it fits her so well. It was also my first attempt at modifying a knitting pattern. I started out with an adult pattern and changing yarn and guage I was able to make it fit my 2 Year Old.

Next on the needles is a sweater for Toby, the pattern is Caelem. He has chosen the colour and is watching its progress closely.

Sunday Stitches: Shalom

2011-05-22T16:45:00.000+10:00

Shalom, the Hebrew name for peace but also the name of the latest knitting pattern I have just completed. I loved this pattern and especially like the twisted rib yoke. I used Malabrigo Yarn which is deliciously soft and squishy -would have loved to add sleeves to the sweater but did not quite have enough yarn, maybe next time....

If you are interested in making your own shallom the pattern can be found here.

Happy Mothers Day!

2011-05-08T16:55:00.001+10:00

Happy Mothers day to all those mums out there, I hope you have been thoroughly spoiled, I know I have been! I received some much needed new ugg boots and some gorgeous flowers and I now have some time to myself while dinner is cooking and the kids have all gone to the park with dad to play soccer.

Oaty Biscuits

2011-05-03T19:10:00.000+10:00

It's been a while since we did some baking around here so today I tried out this recipe from Taste. They are a fabulous source of excellent recipes and I usually love just about everything I make from there. These are not going to last long around here!

Paris Houseboat

2011-04-25T07:38:00.000+10:00

Images: Living Agency

I could enjoy spending some extended time on this lovely House boat in Paris.

Perfect Family Room

2011-04-24T01:25:00.002+10:00

I really love this room, green is my favourite colour and I love the green walls. Such a fun, casual room for the family and the lounge looks comfortable too!

Image: Lonnymag: Traditional Home

More Favourite Childrens Rooms

2011-04-23T08:00:00.001+10:00

I love the green walls, framed map and the flag bedding for a masculine boys room.

Lovely bed in a pink and green themed room for a young lady, I like the use of the green wall and love that bed. The pink velvet couch is perfect for a cosy pop of colour!

Images: Lonny Mag and Traditional Home

Hot Cross buns

2011-04-22T11:41:00.001+10:00

The Kids and I made some delicious fresh hot cross buns this morning, ready just in time for morning tea.
I left the glaze off mine to cut down the sweetness. They were very yum straight from the oven with a warm mocha! I ate two and then had to go for a run to try and burn them off!

Hot Cross Buns
Makes 24

Ingredients
8 cups plain flour
2 x 7g sachets dried yeast
1/2 cup caster sugar
2 1/2 T mixed spice
1T salt
2 cups sultanas
1 cup currants
80g butter
600ml milk
4 eggs, lightly beaten

Flour paste
1/2 cup plain flour
4 to 5 tablespoons water

Glaze
1/3 cup water
2 T sugar

Method

Combine flour, yeast, sugar, mixed spice, salt and currants in a large bowl. Melt butter in a small saucepan (medium heat). Add milk. Heat until lukewarm. Add milk mixture and eggs to currant mixture. Mix until dough almost comes together.
Turn dough onto a floured surface. Knead 10 minutes, or until dough is smooth. Place into a lightly oiled bowl. Set aside in a warm place until dough doubles in size.
Punch dough down. Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Divide into 24 equal portions. Shape into balls. Place balls on lined tray, about 1cm apart. Cover with plastic wrap. Set aside in a warm, place for 30 minutes, or until buns double in size. Preheat oven to 190°C.

Make flour paste:
Mix flour and water together in a small bowl until smooth, adding a little more water if paste is too thick. Spoon into a small snap-lock bag. Snip off 1 corner of bag. Pipe flour paste over tops of buns to form crosses. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until buns are cooked through.

Make glaze:
Place water and sugar into a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil. Boil for 5 minutes. Brush warm glaze over warm hot cross buns. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Recipe adapted from Here