a beautiful calamity

say it with sparkle

2011-12-30T09:25:00.000+10:00

pretty little terraces

2011-07-30T12:59:00.003+10:00

melbourne, sydney, hobart, launceston...

loving dreamy children's magazines

2011-07-27T12:07:00.004+10:00

this is a paricularly lovely one, via papier mache

blue lips, blue days

2011-07-15T10:48:00.003+10:00

the colour of your skin from far, far away.

carey mulligan & colours

2011-07-14T18:31:00.005+10:00

lady of the flowers

2011-06-20T21:23:00.002+10:00

sometimes I think I would like to own a bakery

2011-05-02T20:31:00.001+10:00

with coffee and chalkboards and wooden mismatched chairs.

some thoughts in pictures...

2011-05-01T18:15:00.002+10:00

toy stories by aled lewis

2011-04-27T18:33:00.003+10:00

this is cute! check out the rest here.

happy easter: bunny love

2011-04-24T14:01:00.003+10:00

please click through for sources. Not sure if that last pic is actually a bunny, but close enough. xx

let's kick things off with some swoon...

2011-01-21T16:09:00.006+10:00

hello 2011! it's only been six months since I last posted...
This may have something to do with my more recent addiction to tumblr, as well as my focus on the new Peppermint website and blog. But alas, I think I can put some effort in here too, as there is too much inspiration out there to limit myself to only two outlets. Speaking of which...

I've just stumbled across these gorgeous photos from Rus Anson. She is pure magic. I can only dream of one day working with her.

For now (and on a completely different note) I urge you all to read this post on Queensland Flood Relief efforts, do what you can, and stay tuned for more news and updates from a beautiful calamity. Sending you all love and hugs (except for that rude person who sneakily stole my antique TV hallstand yesterday). xx

fly away home

2010-06-23T17:10:00.007+10:00

vintage flying wall ducks are my latest treasure quest...
Speaking of 'Fly Away Home' (best family movie ever, FYI), we found out recently that Anna Paquin is a fan of Peppermint and had been recommending it to stores across her homeland of New Zealand. Wowsers. Issue 6 coming out in a matter of days! Keep an eye out xx

crazy cat man with beard

2010-06-22T00:31:00.007+10:00

I've used the phrase 'best thing ever' before, but this is the pinnacle...

God bless you google images. xx

straight to the pool room!

2010-06-21T00:36:00.001+10:00

I nearly convulsed when this divine kitty teapot I scored off Etsy arrived.
It was only $12 too - can you believe it? I'm almost ready to crown it 'best online purchase yet'. Or at least top 10. What have been yours?

And hello to my new followers - do introduce your fine selves! xx

heart of glass

2010-06-16T19:05:00.009+10:00

a few glassy goodies I've been lusting over this week...

collagespiration: cute shoot

2010-06-12T23:01:00.004+10:00

photoshoot: she & him (aka zooey dee and m.ward) for BUST. love it.

I feel a craft attack coming on... And after a visit to the Lifeline Bookfair today, I've got just the materials for it :) Am loving these sunny winter days indoors with cups of tea. Yey for the long weekend! xx

carnivals and ice cream dreams

2010-06-01T21:30:00.015+10:00

Here's what I'm lying here thinking about tonight:No, not the ice cream, but how much it sucks that growing up means you can no longer get your face painted like a cat or a fairy at carnivals and the like, and walk around happily all aglow with glitter and sugar. And tombolas! Someone bring back tombolas! Jessie and I once had the idea/back up plan to join the carny circuit as face painters. Sometimes I still consider it... In other news, a car just crashed into our front stairs. No joke. A tow truck had to peel it away, and there's still bits of car/stairs all over the lawn. Just another Thursday night I guess...

More better, more logical, more relevant posts coming ASAP. And a new Peppermint in one week! Things are happpening!! x

fancy that!: luisa rossitto

2010-05-20T17:06:00.006+10:00

I had a lovely chat to local watercolourist Luisa Rossitto last week

This is just some of her stunning work. She also told me about working part-time in a library and spending her spare time photocopying and sorting imagery, which sounded like a dream to me (especially getting to take home the deshelved books)Anyway! Luisa's latest exhibition, CABIN VISION, opens at the Ryan Redshaw Gallery on May 21 (that's tomorrow!!). Head along - she's lovely. It runs til June 5. www.luisarossitto.com

currently coveting

2010-04-28T20:07:00.004+10:00

typing 'vintage cat' into etsy is a blessed thing...
1. Kitten planter from on 12bluebirds on etsy
2. Mini Siamese Kitty by NomadVintage on etsy
3. Vintage napcoware kitty by CinfulOldies on etsy
4. Cute vintage kitty by goingquackers on etsy

woops, neglect!

2010-04-27T18:37:00.000+10:00

it's been a while between drinks for me here at blogger
but this is what my life has been like. (If you replace the delicious pellets with articles and deadlines and the bowl with a computer screen). I did however manage to sneak away for a quick little trip down to Melbourne for my birthday... It was super lovely as always & the weather was surprisingly great. We went to visit a new shop in Lygon St, Carlton called The Very Curious Kitten run by Annemarie from Button Tree. It's soo cute and lovely and friendly, and even has a swing in store! This has renewed by ambition to create something similarly delightful up here. Or maybe a cafe like Sugar Dough in Brunswick...(especially with the added enticement of baked goods and milkshakes).
I am also dangerously in love with Metropolis bookstore in Curtin House in the city. I could spend my life in the art/design/craft section alone.

all up, melbourne = creative swoon (as usual).
hope all is well in blogland, tess xx

all you need is love

2010-03-22T22:36:00.000+10:00

and the new issue of Peppermint magazine - out tomorrow! And speaking of love - I dare say Issue 5 is our prettiest yet. I'm rather smitten :) Hope you all enjoy reading it as much as we did making it! x

Coles tells me that it's easter

2010-03-21T17:34:00.005+10:00

so I'm also stocking some cute vintage Easter cards now too
And each purchase will receive some free mini vintage Easter gift tags!
More to come, as well as magnets. Stay tuned x

toowoomba: a love letter, of sorts

2010-03-20T21:52:00.002+10:00

over summer the boy and I went on several road trips out west

By 'out west' I just mean inner western queensland, but still...It does feel like a different world (one of greenest pastures and coolest breezes and op-shops so cheap and so plentiful). We're been planning a trip back sometime in late Autumn so we can stay in another one of the lovely old guest houses with rustic fireplaces (!!) and wear winter pyjamas and drink warm mugs of tea. Oh gosh. Looking through an overpriced inner-city Lifeline store today, how my heart wept for Toowoomba. x

my little etsy store is go!

2010-03-20T17:25:00.003+10:00

Check out my little collection of cute and silly things here

I've been wanting to start a lil' etsy store for a while, but lack of time for creative pursuits and printing/uploading/selling has been a bit of an obstacle. So I'm mainly sticking to cute vintage-inspired paper goods and homewares because they're my biggest love and are easy (and cheap!) to post. I'll be putting up prints of my own collage art soon too, as well as some new greeting cards and other bits and pieces.

Stay tuned! As always, freebies will be included for blog readers and friends :) www.abeautifulcalamity.etsy.com

fashion love: gail sorronda

2010-03-18T23:35:00.010+10:00

Brisbane's own purveyor of everything glam, luxe, edgy and unaffordable

My biggest love of all: her gold gem and feathered neck piece. mmm!

(i'd like to live in) lola's room

2010-03-05T00:19:00.009+10:00

stunning vintage photo prints from Lola's Room on etsy. swoontown! and finally something to say 'welcome to autumn' or some such romance

collagespiration: feburary 2010

2010-02-23T19:30:00.002+10:00

ahh paper and glue. is there anything you can't do?

red. white and all things nice...

2010-02-22T21:35:00.003+10:00

more vintage greeting cards

2010-02-20T10:08:00.001+10:00

Because when is too many ever enough?I've been doing a big scan- and organisation-marathon of my colllection of cards, and hope to have some printed in postcard form very soon. They'll make the sweetest little notecards and greeting cards. Can't wait!

a little dose of loveliness

2010-02-16T09:35:00.012+10:00

we're in the middle of a heatwave here. well, a heat tsunami really.
Dignity is long gone. I'm hauled up in front of 2 fans with a wet towel over my legs, partially/wholly delirious, and dreaming of WINTER.

I adore the cool colours and wintry vibes and beautiful clothing layers in these shots. Such a dream. Thanks to Loveology for her gorgeous pictures and inspiration. x

oh, and happy valentines day!

2010-02-14T16:44:00.002+10:00

whatever that may mean :) I just love the vintage cards x

inspiring vintage advertisements

2010-02-14T16:30:00.006+10:00

I'm probably the last person out there to come across this site, but still

why can't advertising today have such charm/imagination?
I'm such a sucker for vintage already. Now seeing all this.... wow.
Check out more at the website here.
Much love from the depths of a brisbane heatwave, tess xx

i dig robots

2010-02-01T21:25:00.000+10:00

Meet felix by fragilefreaks on etsy... It's love.

And off to melbourne tomorrow. Yey yey yey! x

i met isabel lucas today...

2010-01-31T21:03:00.002+10:00

at the local post office, of all places.

she's a lovely delicate little pixie of a thing. when she smiled at me I melted completely. SIGH.

But that's it for today's brush with fame on the way to Coles... who knows who or what tomorrow will behold? :)

should be working, but...

2010-01-27T17:16:00.003+10:00

keep getting distracting by holly's endlessly cute creations.

word on the street (or at least within our house) is that some super-sweet Valentine's Day magnets will be making their way into her etsy store in the next couple of days. Perfect little gifts for friends or partners. I know I've got my eye on at least a dozen already. x

coney island baby

2010-01-27T00:21:00.007+10:00

pics stolen with love from cat party blog sometime in 2008.
I'm feeling all NY-inspired as I just finally watched 'New York, I Love You'... Great film, if a little dull in parts, but that's what you get with a short film mash up. Natalie Portman was amazing as usual, donning a bald cap (not her first experimentation the look of course) and she even wrote and directed one of the segments. My favourite was the one of the elderly couple visiting the seaside.. So funny, so sweet. Check it out!

cute squishy things

2010-01-26T23:19:00.009+10:00

from my big folder of 'stuff i wish i had won on ebay'...

did it hurt when you fell from heaven?

2010-01-22T00:10:00.005+10:00

yes, im talking to you, amazing little cushions...

and yes, I stole them off allison's page at lark, but like she said, too cute to resist reposting. If these guys were in my life, i don't think i'd ever have a sad day.

Did you hear lark is also opening a cafe in Ballarat? so much envy! x

giia neck pieces

2010-01-21T23:53:00.003+10:00

love these bold geometric designs from giia... total wishlist material.
all up = more late night romping around the pages of etsy = another very sleepy day tomorrow. oh well, it's too hot to function anyway. this time of night is the only time when things feel placid and peaceful. sleep tight blogland xx

collagespiration: katy gromball

2010-01-20T18:44:00.004+10:00

I was lucky enough to chat to the lovely katy gromball this week.Katy is a super talented french artist who creates the most divine collage art from japanese paper and old books and illustrations.
Here are just a few of my favourite pieces. (I had to resist posting her whole portfolio)! I'll have an interview with her in the next issue of Rave, and hopefully we'll be seeing her on the pages of Peppermint soon too. Check out some of her prints/postcards for sale on etsy here. xx

oh you pretty foods!

2010-01-14T22:33:00.006+10:00

I'd eat you all if only I had the time and money...

to bake or not to bake? It's really the 'having to buy ingredients' question. I might just wait till sera d whips something up for us! woooo saturdays! xx

collagespiration: jan 2010

2010-01-14T19:02:00.006+10:00

some of the lovely collage art/inspiration floating about the blogosphere
I really cannot wait to have a free day and a ton of glue and just sit down on the floor, knee deep in mess and treasures, and just create...

Please click through the images to get to their original sources/artists/owners. If you have any work you want to share, please email me! I'd be so so honoured x

all day i dream about sleeping

2010-01-11T21:54:00.007+10:00

another hot-as-hell day, long car drive, rural op-shopping binge...
amazing fun and amazing finds (pics coming!) but so so exhausting.... so for now I'll just post pics of napping, because in my current woozy-headed state it's really all I can think about. dog nap plus kitty nap plus person nap plus bear nap
altogether = nap party!! - which is exactly what i'm about to have :)

As usual, please click through pictures for their sources.
sweet dreams! xx

things to be excited about in 2010

2010-01-10T19:18:00.027+10:00

still don't know what to call it, but I have high hopes nonetheless.
Pannikin, Projects and other fun things
Living with Holly (my wonderful little housemate of etsy brand Pannikin) has inspired me to stop procrastinating and get my backlog of creative projects into action this year. I have piles upon piles of lists and folders and sketchbooks of ideas... collages, artworks, sewing projects, refashioning/renovation jobs, writing and so much more. Plus a BIG PROJECT a few friends and I are secretly discussing/planning/working on, hoping to make happen some time this year. Stay tuned! Meanwhile, I'm lucky enough to get to live in a house full of daily little treasures like this kitty brooch. Thanks hobbie :)

Peanut Butter
That's right. It gets it's own section, that's how excited I am. After years of it being on the big No No list, I have rediscovered this little heaven of a spread. Hey, it's got protein, and it's AMAZING with banana and honey on toast in the morning. Using just a thin spread of it and sticking to grainy, organic bread makes it somewhere still in the realm of 'healthy' too. Massive win. Holly has even decided to dedicate her spare time to make a zine purely about the greatness of peanut butter. A preliminary poll on the 'Smooth vs. Crunchy' debate came out overwhelmingly in favour of the latter. I have to find myself agreeing... (PS - that stuff below is 'Goopers' - an American peanut butter & jelly mix. Deliciously bad, and probably solely responsible for the obesity epidemic, but it looks sooo good).

The Boy is Mine
Quoting an old Brandy & Monica song from the late 90s is the only right and proper way to lead into saying I'm excited that my lovely boyfriend is finally moving into our apartment! Sure I'll have to sacrifice cupboard space and ornament space and wall space to make room for Deerhunter posters and old Byrds records, and I'll probably have a little sulk about that, but all in all, it's totally worth it.
I can't wait for it to cool down so I can start baking for everyone... (and no, the fact that I like aprons and cupcakes doesn't make me any less of an independent, opininated little brat).

Melbourne, Magazines and Musical Delights
As happens every year, this summer has seen many of our city's best talents (and some of my closest friends) board the ole cultural train down to Melbourne - a place where the grass is always greener, the shops are so much cooler, and the cafes never close. It's certainly a move still somewhere on my horizon, but not one I'm ready to make yet. My best friend Jessie (below) is one of those leaving me, on Tuesday in fact, but I have no doubt it will be for the best for her. She's launching her debut album in March, after gigging for years under her moniker Carry Nation - and with friends and fans like Lisa Mitchell and Megan Washington, I have no doubt she's headed for big things. Just remember Jess, I always have been and always will be your no 1 fan :)
I'm also excited to hear new music from local talents (and the cutest couple on earth) Do The Robot, as well as BigStrongBrute, Tragic Athletic, Little Scout, Sunshine State, Opal and Poole, and many more! Not to mention the new She & Him record, out March 23rd! (yesss). Meanwhile, in my own humble life, and since I seem to be the only person in existence who doesn't play an instrument, I have decided to start freelancing more viguourously and harrass even more mags etc with my rants and interviews. I hope it works out! (because I don't want to have to grow up and get a real job). :(
However for now Peppermint continues to grow in leaps and bounds, and I'm endlessly proud to be part of it. Kelley deserves a medal for the all the work she puts in and everything she sacrifices (though those three Publishing Excellence awards last year were certainly a nice little accolade, and very much deserved). Issue 5 out in late February!

Changing the World
Hmm... optimistic title, but I really hope we can unite together and achieve it. Since Copenhagen essentially failed us all so badly, I think this is the year that people will really begin to speak up and speak out, forcing our political leaders to act on the issue. I even have faith that the apathy of our generation will begin to turn around as climate change awareness seeps further and further into the public consciousness. Even shows like Carbon Cops (available online on ABC iView) are, while certainly not revolutionary, doing their bit to help people understand the very basics of the issues. I think recommending it to a friend who doesn't understand their environmental impact or what's at stake might be a good start. However, we need to do much more than just change our lightbulbs, and fast...

New TV shows!
Okay, now we get to the serious stuff. Generally I'm one of those weird people who don't own or watch a TV. Well technically we do have one, but it is tiny and doesn't work because our house doesn't pick up analogue reception, so it's more used as an ornament holder than anything else (though occasionally I do admit to listening to a crackly version of the 7pm news while cooking dinner). But when it comes to TV shows which aren't on our lacklustre free-to-air Australian channels I have some fairly heady addictions. Here's what I'm excited about in 2010:

Skins season 4

Season 3 was possibly the best yet, and I can't wait to see what happens with Emily and Naomi and their whole gorgeous confused little relationship. Plus recently I was lucky enough to interview the leading vixen of the show, Kaya Scodelario (aka Effy), so I really am excited for this one.

30 Rock

When Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin are involved, you really can't go wrong. I've gotten addicted to this show over the last few months. I especially adore Kenneth, and love the show's acute critiques of American political and corporate culture while still being ridiculously funny. Favourite quote so far is probably when Kenneth sets up the 'multi-faith' Christmas party, with "a picture of President Obama, for the Muslims."

The Office

An oldie but a goodie, and definitely a favourite. Michael, Dwight, Jim, Pam, Creed, Toby, Angela, Andy, Erin... agggh I can't wait to see all of you again! You're like my dysfunctional family of the small screen.

Big Love
Another of my favourite shows. Insightful, intelligent and addictive. Chloe Sevigny's acting is amazing, and Ginnifer Goodwin lights up the screen in every scene ('cute' is a magnificent understatement). Can't get enough :)

And Most Importantly...
I'm excited to know I can come back to this post whenever I'm lost/down/scared/sick or it all gets too hard. Remembering that there are so many things to be excited and grateful about is such an important thing. And Zooey's advice below ain't bad either -hey, I even have those glasses :)
night night blogland xx

PS - please click through pics for sources/links. thank you x

and the tumbleweeds roll through...

2010-01-06T23:10:00.011+10:00

ello blogland! I'm back - I promise!
I'm so sorry for neglecting you... It has been such a busy time, but lots of new adventures and fun things to post about. Just have to sort out my computer dramas and pictures will be up in no time. Meanwhile you can visit my tumblr if you like - I manage to waste a lot of time over there! I'd be honoured if you followed me if you're also a user and I'll check out your blog too :) Inspiration central.

But back to blogger... Thanks to Angela from Three Buttons for mentioning me in her latest post on travel... Yes I am lazy and still haven't posted my Japan pics. Tsk tsk. Coming this week I promise! The boy and I also went on an op-shopping roadtrip out through Western Queensland this week. So much fun, and such incredible finds. Stay tuned! xx

just wanted to share

2009-12-13T23:16:00.002+10:00

this pretty amazing work of art of a human being. yes, admittedly I was getting over the zooey phase, until this pic tumbled into my horizon. goodness gracious blue eyes.

depressing news on copenhagen front

2009-12-09T10:23:00.009+10:00

Climate Science Sabotage - from ben and the team at avazz.org
Climate deniers and fossil fuel lobbyists will stop at nothing to kill a Copenhagen deal. Two weeks ago, hackers illegally obtained thousands of emails between climate scientists--and then released carefully-selected interchanges out of context. A chorus of climate deniers immediately claimed these emails showed that climate change is all a big hoax.Now, just as the crucial UN climate talks begin in Copenhagen, the vast league to stop climate action has swung into full gear -- from Saudi government officials to science-denying politicians like Sarah Palin to the Exxon-funded Heartland Institute.

Scientists are on the defensive -- just as politicians should be listening to them most closely. A cloud of confusion and disinformation is threatening the UN climate negotiations. We can't afford for negotiators get distracted now--we need a constant drumbeat of actions and campaigns to keep them focused on the world's call for a fair, ambitious, and binding climate.

30 years of climate science are being borne out before our eyes, as severe storms threaten islands and coastlines, droughts bring dust storms to Australia and water wars to Africa -- and 2009 closes out the hottest decade in recorded history. One study estimated that climate already kills 300,000 people every year. If the world fails to act on climate, the consequences for every future generation of humans will be severe.

The hacked emails do nothing to dispel this. At worst, they show the angry reaction of a group of scientists to constant confrontations with climate deniers (Check the "sources" section below to read more). The research done by the hacked scientists has been verified by independent research centers around the world--the basic science is no more in doubt now than it was a month ago.

But no matter the facts: Climate denial -- a movement funded for decades by fossil fuel companies -- is now threatening our chance for a fair, ambitious, and binding global climate treaty.

At the opening session of climate talks, Saudi Arabia -- who make billions each year from selling oil -- made headlines by saying that the illegal-hack would have a "huge impact" on Copenhagen. A few days ago, Sarah Palin also joined the chorus and upped the ante by arguing that, because of the stolen emails, Barack Obama shouldn't even go to Copenhagen.

It's enough to make the blood boil. But instead of getting mad, let's get even. We've already got the infrastructure in place, from 12/12 candlelight vigils around the world to our youth Climate Action Factory in Copenhagen. Funding now can scale up Avaaz's campaigns overnight -- and help keep the pressure on politicians to focus on action, not fall back on false excuses about unsettled science. Donate here: https://secure.avaaz.org/en/climate_denial_lets_fight_back

For years, tobacco companies tried to convince the world that cigarettes were healthy and non-addictive. Today, a carbon cabal is pushing an even more dangerous set of myths on climate change. But as one science historian put it, "Even the tobacco companies never tried to slander legitimate cancer researchers." If we rise to this moment, we can ensure that future generations can remember the deniers only as a curious footnote--and that Copenhagen is remembered as a turning point in making the climate safe for all.

For more information on the climate denial industry check out the new book "Climate Cover-Up": http://www.desmogblog.com/climate-cover-up

I fell in love with a snail

2009-12-07T11:19:00.003+10:00

I think you can see why...

nara deer park

2009-11-15T21:35:00.010+10:00

this place was a dream come true for me...

nara is a gorgeous little town between kyoto and osaka, full of stunning forests, ancient temples, and - best of all - free-roaming deer!!

we had a ball. here are just a (small few) of the photos we took on our visit.
hand-feeding real life bambis in an enchanted autumnal forest?!
I LOVE YOU, JAPAN. x

back from japan!

2009-11-15T21:16:00.005+10:00

what an amazing amazing amazing country... I'm still reeling from it all :)I have a tonne of photos/area/shopping tips I'm going to post, but for now, some scans from a superbly cute Japanese wool craft magazine. (did I mention they have the BEST creative/crafty/design books there?)Hope everyone is well. And congratulations to Peppermint for winning THREE Bell Publishing Awards on Friday! Exciting news for all of us involved. And the next issue is out in a matter of days! Stay tuned xx

for the love of audrey

2009-10-23T18:56:00.010+10:00

I've been guiltily watching a fair bit of Twin Peaks lately as a way to force-calm myself down in amongst too much work/stress...I just love Audrey (above) - such an old-fashioned style starlet. Of course it's impossible to believe she's '18' (like the rest of the supposedly 'teenage' cast), but that's half the fun of early-90s shows I guess. Oh and I'm definitely naming one of my future cats 'Audrey' - though admittedly, that's been on the cards for a while.

I'm up to Season 2 now, where things get really freaky. I vaguely remember it being on TV when I was a kid, but haven't rewatched it again until now, mainly because a lot of my friends are quite obsessed and i'm sick of being left out when the Twin Peaks references come up at dinner parties.

Hurray for escapism!(Even if it does get a bit scary when I'm home alone).
Oh and I haven't seen the ending yet - nor the prequel movie - so no spoilers! x

cherry cherry bloom bloom

2009-10-22T19:33:00.005+10:00

in anticipation of my forthcoming japan trip I decided to post a few little cherry blossom and other lovely bloomy pics... also to cheer myself up, because it's been a rubbish day I can't wait till I'm in Tokyo and can have a big long nap and wake up and look out the window at this foreign, grey-skied, incredible city... Hope you're all well out there in blogland xo

i have this dream

2009-10-18T23:34:00.022+10:00

it's pretty simple really.

A dream of one day owning a little house, a cottage, just something modest - rundown even. I'd do it up myself with cans of paint and days of sweat and inspiration. I'd like the old lino floors and 60s cupboards painted pink and falling off the walls. I'd cherish the nooks and crannies; I'd fill it with books and ornaments. There'd be a garden, a cat, a boy... maybe one day the sound of tiny footsteps. There'd be a simple happiness. And an afternoon breeze in the summers.

Does no one dream modestly anymore? What happened to living without the bling and brands and home theatre packages? We've all become so blinded by these consumer desires, do we even know what we're doing anymore? Do we even realise we are, slowly, one ignorant choice at a time, obliterating ourselves as a planet completely?

People work themselves tirelessly to accumulate all these assets, to provide a 'future' for their kids... But a future is more than finance. A future is a world, a climate, some sense of stability. Does it not scare you too that we could have actually messed it up so badly we are beyond repair?

When you think about the future, about you children growing up, about the cute little dresses you'd put them in and what colour you'd paint their room, do you counter in the food wars, the water wars, the complete breakdown of the global system as we know it? We fight for peace, for equality, for democracy, but we won't even fight to save ourselves.

I agree - it's easier not to bother. All too busy updating our facebook statuses and planning what to wear on the weekend.

I'm not above this either. I'm just scared because I realise the bubble we're living in, and if we just switch on the air-con and turn off the news, it could go on like this for a sweet while longer.
Others don't have this choice. Their children starve, their farms cease to yield, and their land slowly sinks into the ocean. It's another world we cannot fathom, and one only few of us are brave enough to recognise.

Meanwhile, there's a cute coat I found on the internet which has kitten pockets. I think this would make me happy. For a few hours at least.

I have this little dream where people care again.

of all the cuteness in the world

2009-10-14T10:07:00.002+10:00

just discovered this little gem of a fashion house called Vivietta thanks to hello sandwich... My my, such cute stuff! I adore that coat (pic 1) with the kitten pockets... I would get it in pink and look ridiculous but my gosh, I'd be the happiest girl alive. Now I just need 410 euros (i.e. about $3000). x

i love it i love it i love it !!

2009-10-11T21:36:00.003+10:00

from on BinspiredVintage on etsy - if you buy him, I get visiting rights!

my interview with lawrence leung

2009-10-03T16:06:00.018+10:00

We've been very honoured to have loveley Lawrence Leung - of ABC's 'Choose Your Own Adventure' - in town these past few weeks.

It's been fun hanging out and getting to know him - going to cheap Vietnamese restaurants, exploring op-shops, and being silly on the radio (thank you 4zzz!) One night at dinner he made a serviette disappear, and I am still so blown away by how he did that I can't stop thinking about it (and that's the LEAST of his skills!). Below is my interview with him in the current issue of Rave.

Sucker Punch:
Five Minutes with Lawrence Leung

Lawrence Leung is cute, he’s single, and he’s got skillz. In town as part of Brisbane Festival’s Carnival’s Edge, his live show Sucker mixes the awkward indie boy we all know and love with a significantly more bad-ass streak. Yup, there’s swearing, there’s swindling, and there’s not a Rubik’s Cube in sight. Tess Curran chats to the man behind the beard about lollipops, Megan Fox, and things that really suck.

Tell us a bit about Sucker?
"Sucker" is my live show I'm performing at the Brisbane Festival inside this beautiful 90-year-old French wooden theatre they've erected in the Forecourt behind QPAC. It's a storytelling stand up show about this old street swindler I met when I was 17. He was a man who could literally talk you into taking money out of your pockets and giving it to him. I expose various street scams and swindles and demonstrate some kick ass poker cheating techniques. Come if you want to learn classic grifting scams. But promise not to use them!

Are you a sucker?
Yes.
1) I always fall for cute girls who are musos/writers/artists who just want to be friends, or are super-cool lesbians.
2) Once again, because of childhood nostalgia, I was sucked into watching the new Transformers movie. I want more giant robots beating the crap out of each other and less US Army and Megan Fox's curvy ass saving the day.
3) I instinctively say sorry when I collide into someone in the street, even when it was their fault. If I got hit by a car I'd probably apologise as I smash through the windscreen.
4) I hate commercial music but every time Beyonce's "Crazy in Love" comes on, my indie-snob facade evaporates and I am transformed into a gyrating dance-diva.

What do you suck most at?
Lollipops. Icy poles. Ice-creams. And Q&A interviews.

What is the worst thing that can go wrong during a live show, and has this happened to you?
Veteran comedian Tommy Cooper famously died of a heart attack during a performance on TV. This hasn't happened to me.

Are you enjoying your stay in Brisbane? Be honest...
Yes, I love your CityCat during a dust storm. River views and asthma attacks together at last. Breathtaking.

What's it like flat-mating with a mindreader [the UK's Philip Escoffey]?
Awkward. He knows who stole the last bit of his milk.

Do you get sick of people asking you to do your Rubik's Cube?
No, I would never tell people to piss off.

Do you have it with you now?
Piss off.

What has been your strangest/most awkward fan moment?
Random girls sometimes come up to me and pull my hair. It's a reference to the scene in my first TV episode where this American pick-up artist claims pulling a girl's hair will make her fall for you. Frankly, it's odd.

Where will we be seeing you in the future?
In the short term, tonight 9pm, at my show Sucker, under the giant Ferris Wheel.
On telly again, perhaps.... hush for now.

And finally, do you have a message for the ladies?
Don't pull my hair.

owl coffee cozies!

2009-09-27T12:38:00.004+10:00

ohmy ohmy ohmy! no reason to give up caffiene now :) by BellflowerTextiles

thriftscores and latest loves

2009-09-21T13:42:00.002+10:00

1. lana jane doll by bitofwhimsyprims on etsy - what a babe.
2. my baby blue-eyed kitties - divine.
3. another beloved kitty ornament on cheesy homemade stand
4. my apple cookie jar/teaset getting all washed up!
5. special owlie cookie jar, sitting wisely amongst all the books
6. sewing machines for $99? now that's a heaven I can relate to...

500 Days of Summer

2009-09-21T13:06:00.009+10:00

it's finally out in Australian cinemas! below is my review for Rave mag.

(500) Days of Summer

Director: Marc Webb
Runtime: 95 mins

(500) Days of Summer might just be the perfect indie flick. Clever, cute and funny from the outset, the story more or less begins when Tom (Jospeh Gordon-Levitt), an architect working at a greeting card company in LA, meets his boss’s new assistant Summer (Zooey Deschanel). After an endearingly-awkward encounter involving an elevator and a Smiths song, Tom falls hard and fast for Summer and her coy, sapphire-eyed, yesteryear brand of charm. After some requisite drunken karaoke and a heady incident in the copy room, Tom finally gets what he wants – or thinks he wants – in the form of commitment-wary Summer. The relationship is then played out in a non-linear format, flashing from say Day 46 to Day 321 and back again, as Tom remembers the couple’s break-ups, make-ups and various encounters in record stores over the 500 days of knowing her.

While the film makes no secret of the fact this is essentially a coupling headed for doom, the painfully-cute casting of Gordon-Levitt and Deschanel makes them almost impossible not to fall in love with, and we as an audience thus cannot help but sit with fingers crossed and baited breath hoping that maybe, just maybe, they’ll work it out. But (500) Days is about serving up reality, not predictability (or however close to it the big screen can offer), thus unlike other rom-coms, even those in the ‘indie’ bracket, director Marc Webb takes a commendably original approach to the material – although not one that all of us, trained in the verse of happy endings, will be satisfied with.

(500) Days is also unique in the way the story is largely framed from the male perspective. Gordon-Levitt’s Tom displays a vulnerability we can all relate to as he attempts to deal with his feelings for the beautiful, but highly-frustrating and ultimately dysfunctional, Summer. Deschanel executes this role to a tee - seductive and frustrating in equal doses, so we as an audience fall for her almost unwillingly, the way Tom, and so many others along the line, have. Credit to Gordon-Levitt also for never making Tom an unbearbly weak or pathetic character; instead he remains just as charming as Deschanel onscreen, albeit with a greater dose of likeability.

The other real star of this film is its soundtrack. The Smiths, Regina Specktor, Hall & Oates, Feist - they’re all along for the ride, carrying us through held hands and smacked lips and various states of breakdown. It’s as romantic as it is smart, as hilarious as it is sexy, and as pleasurable to watch as it is to listen to. Tom’s precocious little sister might be the only real hiccup in this otherwise highly enjoyable and intelligent production, which – though at time a bit too hip for its own good – bravely attempts to put the ‘reality’ back into modern romance... even in a world where everyone is really really good-looking.

(4 stars)

TESS CURRAN

miss priss: cat of my dreams

2009-09-14T20:12:00.002+10:00

I have been chasing her forever. Breaks my heart she's so expensive...

colour my world

2009-09-08T18:33:00.003+10:00

here are some cute & colourful things I stumbled across while procrastinating today!
1. gorgeous dolls from one red robin. her stuff is amazing! I have one of her yellow woodland doll-head brooches which I adore to bits, and hope to one daybe able to afford a real doll :) (c'mon santa)...
2. this is genius. from kootoyoo's blog - bookshelves for under $6. And did you know there's a whole tumblr dedicated to bookshelves?!
3. springtime post from lovely lark - daffodils in daylesford
4. cutest lil' cupcakes by hello naomi on flickr
5. cute kids with cameras! gorgeous. from meetmeatmikes tumblelog
6. birds & wallpaper = love. via misswallflower
7. not the brightest crayon in the box!
8. & 9. now for the silliness: world's coolest grandma and bear on bike. I seriously want to be that lady in 60 years.

click through all images for sources, and enjoy! x

must-read: zooey deschanel interview

2009-09-08T18:10:00.010+10:00

this interview is sooo sweet! reblogged from zooeydeschanel

My sister's an alien:
Hollywood's quirkiest star Zooey Deschanel shares her secrets

Zooey Deschanel is a true Hollywood original. With her bone-white skin and huge blue eyes, she’s startlingly beautiful, but unconventionally so. She’s high-energy and high-decibel, but her accent is impossible to place. She has a flair for off-the-wall conversation, but is too smart to dismiss as merely a kook.

Born into the acting business - her mother is an actress; her father a cinematographer - she made her film debut in 1999’s Mumford. Since then, she’s specialised in playing ‘misfits’, from a mental patient in indie film Manic to a spacefaring scientist in The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy. Her latest movie is (500) Days of Summer, in which she plays a love-weary secretary who falls for a greetings-card writer. Now 29, she lives in LA and is engaged to singer Ben Gibbard.

If there was a fire in my home the first things I’d grab would be my musical instruments.
I’ve got two pianos, a Yamaha upright from the Sixties and one from Twenties Chicago. Those pianos are my babies. They’d be difficult to get out of the door in a hurry, but I can’t leave my babies behind, right? I’ve also got a pedal steel guitar and a couple of ukuleles. People seem to think playing the ukulele makes me some kind of eccentric, but it doesn’t seem odd to me. I love the sound they make. George Formby is one of my heroes.

The best music was made before 1980.
It’s not that music went tragically wrong in the Nineties; I just don’t connect to recent stuff so much. The music I love I’ve always loved, whether it’s Ella Fitzgerald or the Kinks, Dusty Springfield or Bobbie Gentry. The last band I loved was the Smiths, but even they are less in my sphere than those other names I’ve mentioned. But I’ve listened to them a lot recently, because their songs are a big part of (500) Days of Summer. In general I prefer old stuff, whether it’s music, movies or clothes.

I knew I was destined to become an actress from the age of two.
My nursery school did a production of The Three Little Pigs. Even at two I was very specific about how I wanted the scene to play out, like I would insist that the narrator called me ‘Third Baby Pig’. When the wolf started knocking on the door I refused to get up and open it because he was knocking the wrong way.

I just lay on the stage pretending to be asleep.
At this point my dad leaned over to my mum and whispered, ‘Dustin Hoffman.’ He meant not only was I definitely going to be an actor, but I would always want to act in my own way, the way I felt was appropriate for the moment. He was right. As an actor I’ve never settled for less than the best. That doesn’t make me difficult to work with; it just makes me very precise.

I grew up believing my sister was from the planet Neptune and had been sent down to Earth to kill me.
I believed this because my sister Emily convinced me of it when I was a toddler. I think she’d seen Invasion Of The Body Snatchers and her imagination ran away with her. There’s a part of me that still believes it. I have moments when I think, ‘Hmm, could that be true?’ Occasionally I ask my sister about it and she responds by pulling an alien face, which only confuses matters.

As a child my best friends were tropical fish.
At elementary school I was a bit of a troublemaker. I wasn’t a horrible child; I simply didn’t understand the rules I was meant to abide by. It took me a long time to understand things like waiting my turn or raising my hand before I could talk in class. I was very sensitive and kind of chubby. I didn’t respond well to teasing and taunting. So I’d end up doing something like hitting some kid with a pencil and getting sent to the principal’s office. There was a big fish tank there. I spent so much time in that office that I got to know the fish real well.

I bought a Fifties prom dress for $15 and loved it so much I wore it to the Oscars.
Happiness to me is finding bargains in second-hand stores. I’ve been passionate about vintage clothes as far back as I can remember and I’ve developed a good eye for a bargain. In a New Orleans thrift store I got a Seventies ski suit that had been designed for the Winter Olympics. I picked that up for $30 and it’s worth much more.

It took me years to get over my fear of ghosts.
I believe there are things within my control and things outside my realm of control. Eventually I realised it was time to stop feeling anxious about ghosts that I’ve never met, may never meet and may not even exist.

I used to anonymously fax people photos of Liza Minnelli.
She was everywhere at the time because she was about to marry David Gest. I was captivated by all these photographs in magazines and sent them all over the place, but I think most people worked out it was me. It didn’t strike me as strange or silly.

People tell me I have the strangest hobbies; on movie sets I used to crochet hats for the entire cast and crew, although the repetitive motion used to hurt my wrists.
But some of the things I like doing are perfectly normal - bowling, ice skating and miniature golf. These days I pass the time on set by reading books.

You may be surprised to learn that I’m able to make myself invisible.
Not literally invisible - but I only need to change one tiny thing about my appearance and even my closest friends don’t recognise me. A slight change of hair colour or make-up is usually enough. It makes for an easier life. I guess I’ve got one of those faces that’s easily adaptable.

I believe your life is extended by one hour if you hold your breath when passing a graveyard.
My dad taught me that when I was very young. He used to say it wouldn’t work unless I held my breath for the whole length of the graveyard. I still do it to this day.
above: zooey as a baby! everybody now: 'awwh...'

lisa mitchell, 4zzz markets & owning kevin rudd

2009-09-07T12:43:00.013+10:00

hello! this is a bit of a lazy catch up post re. the happenings of the last few weeks... jessie and I were excited to catch up with lisa m on the brisbane leg of her tour last wkd.
dreamy gig then dancing to dirty hip hop and old MJ tracks at Ric's till 4am.
meanwhile, peppermint & I had fun times doing a lil market stall with holly @pannikin
i won the raffle of the day which was insanely exciting, given I haven't won anything since a colouring in competition when I was 7 years old (only 2 people entered). I also (finally) purchased this cute kevin rudd doll from teneale @wicked child designs He may look innocent, but he's going to be used in a climate awareness and action campaign VERY soon, so keep an eye out... xx

things to note!
- A limited number of Peppermint issue 2 (with the lovely Bec Winnel illustrated cover) are now on sale at leeloo
- you can buy sweet owls & more from pannikin at www.madeit.com.au/pannikin (pic 1)
- check out the dreamy works of jasna janekovic on flickr! (pic 2)
- I've uploaded a couple of badly-filmed songs from lisa's gig for your pleasure - the softly-sweet valium and her lovely cover of dire strait's romeo & juliet

paper dolls and darling things

2009-09-06T00:23:00.003+10:00

a selection of gorgeous little designs by munieca on etsy.

Plus 20% off all orders until Monday the 7th. Yey discounts :)

etsy delights: august wrap up

2009-09-03T20:22:00.005+10:00

click on the images for links through to the product/store

1. sad panda purse by tsurubride
2. peacock headpiece by tigerpapertiger
3. grey frill neckpiece by vilicious
4. too cute panda bear earrings by luckyroni
5. adore this - upcycled suitcase cat bed by vintagerenaissance
6. retro paperweights by unicornkidstudios
7. vintage deer ring by laloca
8. another headband by tigerpapertiger

why we love natalie portman

2009-08-31T22:04:00.005+10:00

yep, no words needed (but see 'Girls on Film' below if you require some)
i'm also quite enamoured with that purple wall... what a glorious combination.

but what about the cookies?

2009-08-31T19:51:00.004+10:00

ever felt like the crazy person in the room? (I have...)

Apologies to my much beloved cookie jars - with my kitty ornaments getting all the attention, I forgot to post this...
click through for a bigger image... xx

my cat collection in frankie!

2009-08-31T15:30:00.005+10:00

click through to see the bigger image/read the textso i'm officially australia's crazy cat lady. oh well, least they look pretty! thanks to lara @frankie for doing a fab job :) xx

ornaments/latest thriftscores

2009-08-30T19:42:00.001+10:00

plus finally invested in some anna laura! lovely x

sydney vintage tripping

2009-08-30T18:34:00.006+10:00

some of the best vintage stores in surry hills/newtown

grandma takes a trip - feat. possibly the best mirror in Australia

zoo emporium

with lots of sparkly/sequiny things (loved this costume necklace)

vintage furniture store on king street (newtown)

my friend richie takes amazing photos

2009-08-28T16:31:00.003+10:00

pics from Amsterdam, Poland and Berlin on a $4 op-shop camera

Girls on Film

2009-08-27T18:50:00.018+10:00

Some people review chocolate bars, but hey, where's the fun in that? Chloe vs. Zooey vs. Natalie vs. Sienna - it's gloves off in your ultimate alt-Hollywood It Girl showdown. FOR RAVE ISSUE #906

CHLOE SEVIGNY
Why we love her: She’s the definition of cool. Long blonde hair, sassy style and legs for days. Has been a serious fashion It Girl for over a decade. Doesn’t shy away from the shortest-of-short hemlines – and yet never manages to look cheap.
Acting chops: Broke onto the scene with serious force in 1995’s KIDS and 1999’s Boys Don’t Cry. Continues to show she’s much more than a clotheshorse as polygamous Mormon Nicki in HBO’s award-winning Big Love.
Biggest #fail: The Brown Bunny. Bringing wayfarers to the masses. Also that dead guy found on the roof of the building during her Opening Ceremony fashion launch several weeks ago (not technically her fault).
See her next in: Big Love season 4
Must watch YouTube clip: ‘Chloe April Cover Shoot’ (Nylon TV)
Overall Rating: 8/10

ZOOEY DESCHANEL
Why we love her: it’s Zooey! Girl-next-door of your dreams. Kitten-like cuteness, style to die for, and a voice that’ll melt you completely (for those in the dark, she’s one half of indie-folk duo She&Him with M. Ward). Add to that deadpan humour, a mesmerising screen presence, and a serious dose of ‘I can’t believe she’s actually that nice!’ and you’ve got a pretty formidable mix.
Acting chops: Sundance darling from way back. Early performances in flicks like Almost Famous and 2003’s All The Real Girls had her lauded as the next big thing. Coolest character ever as Kat on Showtime’s Weeds. Currently receiving rave reviews for her performance opposite Joseph Gordon-Levitt in 500 Days of Summer.
Biggest #fail: The Happening. Voluntarily starring in a film with Will Farrell. Twice.
See her next in: 500 Days of Summer (Sept 17).
Must watch YouTube clip: ‘Matt and Zooey open a pie shop.’ ‘Bank Dance (500 Days of Summer).’
Overall Rating: 10/10

NATALIE PORTMAN
Why we love her: She’s genetic perfection. Beautiful, funny, intelligent, and environmentally and ethically aware (a proud Vegan and activist, she’s launched her own vegan shoe line and supports a variety of charities and political causes).
Acting chops: Every nerd boy’s wet dream as Padme Amidala in the latest Star Wars trilogy. Ditto as the ultimate ‘Manic Pixie Dream Girl’ in Zach Braff’s Garden State. Showed her grittier side in 2004’s Closer and 2006’s V for Vendetta (shaved head and all).
Biggest #fail: Unsurprisingly, there’s nothing to list here. Does irritatingly perfect count?
See her next in: New York, I Love You – due for release in October. (Meanwhile the web’s all aflutter about her upcoming lesbian sex scene in current production Black Swans)
Must watch YouTube clip: ‘Natalie’s Rap’ – a Saturday Night Live short
Overall Rating: 9/10

SIENNA MILLER
Why we love her: Because she’s British and she’s a bitch. Endearingly flawed – smoker, swearer, socialite; perpetually in states of undress. Gets away with it due to killer accent, humour and style – always looks like she’s stepped straight out of the window of a Portobello Road vintage store (and STILL manages to beat up the paparazzi. Props).
Acting chops: Showed people she wasn’t famous just for being Jude Law’s ex in her brave performances in 2006’s Factory Girl and 2008’s The Edge of Love.
Biggest #fail: Questionable friends and sexual partners. Signing on to the three-pronged GI Joe film series – big money, even bigger fail.
See her next in: Hippie Hippie Shake (source of those famous nude pics that did their rounds on many-a-blog earlier in the year). Coming early 2010
Must watch YouTube clip: ‘Sienna Miller on Letterman’ (July 2007)
Overall rating: 7/10

TESS CURRAN

tumblr, i love you

2009-08-25T22:31:00.010+10:00

but you're bringing me down...

i'm finding it hard to get anything done with your endless flow of images
now screenshots give me instant inspiration boards/collages

i think about getting them printed... but what would be the point of that?

there's so much riff-raff to wade through, but that's half the fun of it.

you're bad for me tumblr, but I'm not ready to give you up yet.
www.tessebony.tumblr.com and www.abeautifulcalamity.tumblr.com

things i love thursday

2009-08-13T19:08:00.002+10:00

a haphazard little list of visual pleasures x
1. collage by misspaq on flickr. such beauty in the simplest things.
2. love this dress, this pose, this long-gone elegance
3. necklace porn. amazing.
4. loving the nostalgic. pics from 60s schoolbooks coming!
5. Lily Cole because she gives a damn.
6. old books are my weakness.
7. more zooey! still holding ridiculous hope that She&Him will tour here.

random acts of goodness

2009-08-10T11:11:00.005+10:00

1. i think this girl's a babe. i really want her skirt and/or her hair, even though i realise both are drawn. click through images for sources.
2. via the talented miss natalie perkins of definatalie - go say hi!
3. ginnifer goodwin is sooo cute! (yeh I've been watching too much Big Love season 3 lately. great show. she can be my sister-wife anytime)
4&5. yep, that is Lily Allen and she's nakey for the latest issue of i.D.
Photography by Alaisdair McLennan and styled by Kate Moss.
LOVE THE PANDA SUIT TOO. oh my - if I had one of those... xx

the charmed world of tabitha emma

2009-08-06T21:18:00.005+10:00

as featured on Finders Keepers - lovely site, check them out!

Do The Robot

2009-08-04T21:22:00.005+10:00

DO THE ROBOT - The First Names
From the DIY fabric-textured and screen-printed cover to the perfectly-crafted indie pop contained within it, there’s certainly a lot of love about this humble gem of a record from Brisbane’s favourite newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Deasy. A vinyl and CDR combo, The First Names is a joy from the first listen – 8 tracks of subtly-sentimental golden melodies, reverb-drenched and hopelessly enchanting. While their technical prowess is more than impressive, it's the intimacy of the record that is most hypnotic: the loving and intriguingly-innocent presence of the Deasy’s themselves beaming through the layers of glockenspiels and keyboards, bleeding guitar and vocal harmonies. From the chiming guitar bells and lyrical sweetness of opening track ‘Europe’, The First Names does not dull for a moment with its tightly-packed oft-shoegazerish swoon of melodies, all topped off with the musical-jewellery-box, romantic twee of ‘Birthday’. Turn it up loud for maximum textural appreciation. TESS CURRAN

photo by Jessie Warren, article from Rave mag 4th August edition.

www.myspace.com/idorobots

some thoughts on happy endings

2009-08-04T19:34:00.007+10:00

I was lucky enough to see indie-hit 500 Days of Summer at BIFF on the weekend (while it continues to charm the pants off the US, it's not due for release in cinemas here till the end of September). I had been waiting for this movie for a LONG TIME, not least because of its incredible production/soundtrack, and the fact that it stars my ultimate girlcrush Miss Zooey Deschanel, in one of her first leading roles for a long time.
I'd seen the trailor, "this is not a love story. it's a story about love," and knew this wasn't going to be another predictable shitty rom-com, but despite myself, I became thoroughly invested in the two characters and their ridiculously adorable relationship (credit to Joseph-Gordon Levitt and Zooey D for brilliantly-cute performances that suck you in hook, line and sinker). So even though I knew - as it was purposefully made clear at the start of the film - that this was a coupling headed for doom, you couldn't help but watch with a little smile and fingers crossed, hoping that maybe, just maybe, they had all completely tricked us and it WOULD all be okay after all. Naturally, when the inevitable heartbreak occured, and occured again (and I don't think I'm giving anything away here), then with a large dose of finality towards the end, I was shattered. I already have a pre-existing condition of empathising far too heavily with characters in certain films, and this one was one of those which really caught me. Sure, it had its flaws (be they minor ones) and I could get on my high-horse and criticise its predictable indie-romp leanings in certain areas, but I won't: because it's a style that works, it's intelligent, and it's thoroughly enjoyable.

500 Days, however, which is actually REALLY FUNNY, got most of its praise for not going down the predictable love-story happy ever after route, instead serving us up a big dose of doom and gloom reality: love is unrequited (if it exists at all); relationships fail; cute, kooky 60s-style girls from broken homes with 'commitment issues' aren't going to trot away with you into your Ikea-commercial-sunset. BUT WHY NOT? Screw reality! Isn't that the whole point of films - to deliver us that satisfaction, that escapism? The critics loved to point out the predictability of the 'happy endings' in movies like Slumdog Millionaire and Garden State, but were they not inherently deeply satisfying? (Although the tagged-on 'airport scene' in Garden State definitely wasn't needed). I walked away from those movies with smiles, with a renewed sense of faith in some sort of cute, ideal world full of endless adventures and Shins songs.
500 Days left me torn; left me wishing there was something more I could do to repair this relationship, to have the ending Tom (Gordon-Levitt) and all the rest of us secretly wanted. Call me low-brow, but I like happy endings. Ridiculously hollow rom-com style no-thank-you, but when they are done well, as in Slumdog Millionaire, when they completely sweep you up into that fairytale world, where despite the odds everything is going to be okay, I LIKE THAT. Life isn't so realiable, so for 90 minutes or so, why not give us what we want?

So Marc Webb, you made a beautiful film, but next time, let him get the girl. Especially if it's Zooey.

cat cards: omg

2009-07-29T18:21:00.007+10:00

received a little package in the mail today which made me very very happy :) woo vintage kitties!

thriftscore: vintage apron

2009-07-28T13:39:00.003+10:00

I love this badly coloured lime green lemon-printed 50c plastic apron! finally i will be forced to cook without harbouring the excuse that I don't want to get my pretty frilly cloth aprons dirty. this one is hardcore 'get in that kitchen' plastic - coated with the stuff on both sides, with a wipeable surface. oh my. gonna get messy.

things i love today

2009-07-26T19:38:00.010+10:00

trawling the net pays off with treasures aplenty!

1. the shy little kitten by my latest crafty-love pannikin
2. betty jo up to more button-sorting goodness
3. zine fun over at hello sandwich
4. bec winnel missing the sunshine
5. gorgeous letter cards by i.klee (via. daydream lily)
6. panroma of an amazing caravan!
7. deer pendant by pannikin. (am missing my own lil' real life fawn)
8. my latest vintage score off eBay - i LOVE this print.
9. and last but not least, my weekend etsy indulgence - cupcake brooch by tabitha emma

hope you're all having lovely days x

i am a terrible blogger

2009-07-23T23:07:00.007+10:00

i admit it and I'm sorry...

There's just so many things to do and know and keep up with lately it's overwhelming... I just created a twitter too (yes, I'm spineless), just to add to the modern inundation of password-regurgatation that is facebook, myspace, ebay, etsy, 2 blogs, 3 tumblrs, 4 email accounts and about 18 more I am forgetting...

My tumblr is what I'm most addicted to. You can do it late at night, mindlessly and relaxingly and filled with sugary tea, just by pressing 'reblog' as the pretty pictures feed themselves endlessly into your dashboard.

I fuss around with colour schemes and picture flow, but that's the most work involved. People are pretty obsessed with posing with old cameras in their underwear and looking melancholy and attractive over there, but you do find plenty of diamonds in the rough.(and a lot of Zooey Deschanel).

In real life news, Peppermint continues to make us proud as punch with glowing reports from Girl With A Satchel and our cover girl Rhiannon @ Liebemarlene (and all her fans!)

We're already discussing ideas for the next issue. I can't wait. Meanwhile, if you live in the South East Q area, you must check out Vintage Espresso. A little slice of heaven. As is the new Rational Academy album, Swans. Try the two together and it's a surefire recipe for euphoria.

And now my new Weeds episodes have finished downloading so I'm off x

hipster photography

2009-07-17T20:44:00.005+10:00

lipstick n polaroids: a heady mix
click through pics for links (or visit my tumblr)

in style: zooey deschanel

2009-07-12T22:30:00.005+10:00

from the august 2009 issue of InStyle US I'm not really loving this whole 'field of hay' look - but hey, it's zooey!

interior dreaming part 1

2009-07-12T20:31:00.006+10:00

I am completely in LOVE with this space and this tiny little kid's kitchen Back in real life, I just bought a vintage Singer machine off eBay. hope it works. If not, yet another ornament to crowd the house :) Last two pics courtesy of Pip's tumblr. Also my sewing machine is not quite this cute unfortunately :) x

is this our happy ever after?

2009-07-09T22:57:00.008+10:00

it does have the white picket fence, after all...
let's play house. x

deer hunting with jesus

2009-07-09T21:20:00.005+10:00

I have lost the last two weeks of my life to this book... America is an awful place when it wants to be. Amazing book, amazing insights. never too late to read it!

pretty glam: european couture

2009-07-09T20:49:00.001+10:00

i'm not usually a follower of high fashion but...
from Dior, Givenchy, Galliano and Lagerfield. See more here.

new peppermint!

2009-06-30T18:21:00.007+10:00

peppermint issue 3 is finally here :)

look how pretty the cover is! we fought long and hard about this, but I think Kelley definitely made the right choice in the end. And here's a sneak peek at my Made With Love feature... It's 8 pages(!) so settle in for some serious (crafty) reading.

The mag will be in store (borders and newsagents) on friday in QLD and mon/wed in other states. Hope you like it! x

craft envy: dear fii

2009-06-26T16:37:00.004+10:00

here's just some of the cute crafty things fii has been up to...
feature in homespun magazine (above). & many new goodies on the way she has the BEST collections of buttons and fabrics! www.dearfii.blogspot.com. Keep an eye out for Fiona in my Made With Love crafting feature in the upcoming issue 3 of Peppermint too!x

greetings from yesteryear

2009-06-25T21:55:00.009+10:00

forgot to mention - I made another blog! well not a blog as such, more just a catalogue of images (scans from my collection of vintage greeting cards, to be specific). I made it for fourthousand's 100th-issue birthday because I couldn't find a good site cataloguing vintage cards - thus was a little annoyed when I discovered this ENORMOUS FLICKR POOL pretty soon after I published the article. oh well! will keep on posting them as I get time. It's the messages inside that I find the most hilarious/interesting, and you usually don't find this part uploaded - so that's my treat to you. x

blog lust: perfectbound

2009-06-25T21:19:00.005+10:00

this blog is so organised! not a spec of dust or clutter to be seen. I don't know how these girls keep it up! check them out here.

500 days of summer

2009-06-25T20:50:00.012+10:00

cannot wait for this film! we have only (finally) just started watching 'WEEDS' too. zooey's character at the end of season 2 is so hilarious-cute. I can't wait for mary-kate to join the cast in season 3... playing a hardcore christian of all things...

owl ipod cases

2009-06-22T17:39:00.004+10:00

these are too adorable! by evelynX, on etsy. check her out.

ceramic score: vintage bluebirds

2009-06-20T14:12:00.010+10:00

this is the cutest little set - tray, sugar bowl and milk jug. as usual I have disobeyed their natural organisation and have them scattered about the house, storing jewellery and little knick-knacks. they're the sweetest little fellas I've come by in a while. How can a bird in a hat NOT make you happy? x

sewing machine wishes

2009-06-19T11:15:00.010+10:00

dear santa,
if you're listening, and there really is a christmas in july, please bring me one of these (hopefully in a more modern version, but hey, I won't even complain if it isn't). We don't have a chimney, but just knock on the front door. I'll make you a cup of tea and some homemade biscuits and we can talk about the economy. Sound good? Totes.

You're the best! Thankyou!!! x

PS - I wouldn't mind one of these machines too - surely they still make them? Then I could have cutiepie dimples like zooey deschanel and life would be dreamy with a capital D.

room makeover

2009-06-18T19:31:00.010+10:00

re-organising your life makes you really dusty..
Sometimes you realise you are just getting too old for all the rainbow brites and strawberry shortcakes and vintage care bears crowding up your life...
Of course I will never get rid of them, but the sheer volume of these toys currently crammed into my room does not bode well in giving an impression of myself as a 'creative' 'intelligent' 20-something...
or a 20-something at all, really.
mess mess mess....
Here's my cat trying to help... Dusty dusty dusty...
Soon alll this will be gone :(
An obituary to the clutter I have loved so long <3

the winnel sisters

2009-06-16T17:09:00.007+10:00

a pretty talented duo.
Bec illustrated the cover of our issue of peppermint - totally ethereal. This is one of her newest illustrations, 'farewell.'
You can see more of her work on her blog here, or her sister Liss (from whom I grabbed the article below - written by our own blog icon, Pip Lincolne!) here.

Bec and Liss are from Albury too... There seems to be A LOT of talent bred in rural Victoria.

Any theories?

this is ruby

2009-06-16T17:00:00.001+10:00

by aprilfloss.She even comes with her own pet whale! What a babe.
(Isabel Lucas eat your heart out).

tomorrow

2009-06-15T23:13:00.004+10:00

is when it all begins...