littlechrissy

The rain in Brisbane floods mainly in my garden

2012-01-23T18:24:00.000-08:00

We are learning to garden.

I am hoping that my ability to send pot plants to an early watery (or bone dry) grave will this year become one that is ruled with a green thumb.

We've rented a plot at the Northey Street City Farm.

On Sunday we turned it from this...

... into this.

Doesn't it look nice? More to the point, doesn't it look FERTILE?

I read somewhere recently that a good gardener doesn't grow plants, they grow soil.

I guess you don't build a house on shonky foundations and expect it to stand up, so it makes sense that spending time improving the soil would make for delicious and happy vegetables.

We dug in the green manure that had been planted there, chucked on some chook poo, mulched it, gave it a good water and netted it to discourage the bush turkeys from making it their new nest.

Only problem is this area is notorious for flash flooding, as there is a creek that runs through the back of the farm.

I've just read that Northey Street was closed today because of rain.

I wonder how our little plot is holding up, or whether our well-tended soil and mulch has gone to a watery grave to be with my pot plants?

A nest made of tin that won't fit in my nest

2012-01-19T23:26:00.000-08:00

I found these vintage nesting canisters recently and HAD to buy them.

In fact I fell so badly in love with them that I may have run over and snatched them up in disbelief that they were still sitting there. Were the other shoppers blind???

Long story short: got them home, realise have no room for them in my kitchen, cried, put them up for adoption.

They are freshly listed this afternoon with The Vagrant Duck. Find them here.

They're all yours.

*runs off sobbing into the bedroom*

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 56

2012-01-18T20:30:00.000-08:00

I frickin' love Cake.
Yes, the delicious edible kind, but also the band, who are irreverent, sweetly cheeky and make damn good use of horns in their tunes.

56 Friend is a Four Letter Word - Cake
57 Girls - Deep Sea Arcade
58 Lounge Act - Nirvana
59 Breaking the Girl - Red Hot Chili Peppers
60 Love my Way - Psychedelic Furs
61 Cherub Rock - Smashing Pumpkins
62 Too Young - Phoenix
63 Nice Dream - Radiohead
64 After Dark - Count & Sinden feat. The Mystery Jets
65 Baby Can I Hold You - Tracy Chapman
66 Perfect Day - Lou Reed
67 The Time Is Now - Moloko
68 Good Dancers - The Sleepy Jackson
69 Get Back - The Beatles
70 Sunsets - Powderfinger
71 Tuesday - You Am I
72 ABC Theme remix - Pendulum
73 Fade Into You - Mazzy Star
74 Down to the River to Pray - Alison Krauss
75 Street Spirit - Radiohead
76 Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana
77 Blew - Nirvana
78 Good Fortune - PJ Harvey
79 Mixed Bizness - Beck
80 Start of War - Clare Bowditch
81 Happy Christmas (War is Over) - John and Yoko
82 I Will - Radiohead
83 Hyperballad - Bjork
84 White Winter Hymnal - Fleet Foxes
85 Last Goodbye - Jeff Buckley
86 Thriller - Michael Jackson
87 Novocaine for the Soul - Eels
88 Sprout and the Bean - Joanna Newsom
89 Rhinoceros - Smashing Pumpkins
90 Mahna Mahna - The Muppets (for Bruce)
91 Everything is Everything - Lauryn Hill
92 Everything's Ruined - Faith No More
93 Alexander Beetle - Melanie Safka
94 Baby Got Back - Sir Mix-a-Lot
95 Talk Show Host - Radiohead
96 Anatomically Correct - Custard
97 Trading Places - Powderfinger
98 Sounds of Silence - Simon & Garfunkel
99 There Goes the Fear - Doves
100 Oooooh Yeah - Yello

Vintage Plastic Fantastic

2012-01-17T15:30:00.001-08:00

I've been busy listing more items for The Vagrant Duck (the letters D and F should not be so close together because I almost wrote something VERY different just then).

I've found some most excellent plastic items - durable, light and cheap to post, especially to Aussie buyers - in fun colours.

My favourite is this margarine tub. It reminds me of my Grandma, who used a brown one for as long as I can remember. It was a permanent fixture on the table during any meal.

I was also pretty excited to find this Fisher Price cash register. Ch-ching! It's even got five of the original coins, and the bell still works.

And this fairy floss pink lemon squeezer is too cute.

My handmade store, littlechrissy, has taken a little bit of a backseat lately while I try to get some of the vintage items that are taking up HEAPS of space in the garage listed for sale.

I have been completing some bulk orders - a lovely yoga teacher from Sydney purchased a stack of eye pillows, and the beautician I go to is interested in getting some for the salon too.

I've also been busy trying to keep up with toy making for the gazillion babies that seem to be arriving at the moment!

But I have plans to list some new items soon. I've received some very cool wooden pendants with holes in them for some cross-stitch designs, and I'm also going to be creating some wooden and fabric brooches.

I just need a few more hours in the day please.

Grandmotherly Advice

2012-01-15T20:22:00.000-08:00

Ceramic Salt & Pepper Shakers from The Vagrant Duck

Hello!
How was your Christmas and New Year?
Mine was lovely - it was all about family.

Firstly, I became an aunt when my sister had her first baby. She's adorable.

I spent lots of lovely time with my mum, and saw my Nanna this weekend when she came up from Coffs Harbour to see Mary Poppins (which was awesome by the way).

I don't get to see my Nanna enough. She's a really cool chick. 92 years young and still sharp as a tack, with a wicked sense of humour and always lots of lovely cuddles and advice for her grandkids.

Her memory is astounding and this latest visit I finally got around to recording some of her stories, mainly about how she and her husband met and fell in love. He's been dead for more than 30 years. She misses him terribly and still reads the letters he wrote her when they were courting.

I asked her what she has enjoyed most during her life, what gave her the most joy, what was the most important thing to cherish, and her answer was 'family'.

My resolution this year is to make more time for family, for friends, for the little lovely things in life.

Nobody ever lay on their deathbed and wished they'd gone to work more often. Regrets lie in wishing you'd spent more time playing, singing, swimming at the beach, planting herbs, holding hands, watching the sunset instead of sitting at your desk trying to earn more money to buy the bigger car, house, etc...

My 2012 is going to be full of creating abundance where it matters, and simplifying where it doesn't. And I think it might just be a bit of delightful journey doing so.

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 57

2011-12-11T19:10:00.000-08:00

Deep Sea Arcade is the first band in what feels like forever that has gotten me truly excited.
Love their psychedelic, summery road trip sound.

So far...
57 Girls - Deep Sea Arcade
58 Lounge Act - Nirvana
59 Breaking the Girl - Red Hot Chili Peppers
60 Love my Way - Psychedelic Furs
61 Cherub Rock - Smashing Pumpkins
62 Too Young - Phoenix
63 Nice Dream - Radiohead
64 After Dark - Count & Sinden feat. The Mystery Jets
65 Baby Can I Hold You - Tracy Chapman
66 Perfect Day - Lou Reed
67 The Time Is Now - Moloko
68 Good Dancers - The Sleepy Jackson
69 Get Back - The Beatles
70 Sunsets - Powderfinger
71 Tuesday - You Am I
72 ABC Theme remix - Pendulum
73 Fade Into You - Mazzy Star
74 Down to the River to Pray - Alison Krauss
75 Street Spirit - Radiohead
76 Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana
77 Blew - Nirvana
78 Good Fortune - PJ Harvey
79 Mixed Bizness - Beck
80 Start of War - Clare Bowditch
81 Happy Christmas (War is Over) - John and Yoko
82 I Will - Radiohead
83 Hyperballad - Bjork
84 White Winter Hymnal - Fleet Foxes
85 Last Goodbye - Jeff Buckley
86 Thriller - Michael Jackson
87 Novocaine for the Soul - Eels
88 Sprout and the Bean - Joanna Newsom
89 Rhinoceros - Smashing Pumpkins
90 Mahna Mahna - The Muppets (for Bruce)
91 Everything is Everything - Lauryn Hill
92 Everything's Ruined - Faith No More
93 Alexander Beetle - Melanie Safka
94 Baby Got Back - Sir Mix-a-Lot
95 Talk Show Host - Radiohead
96 Anatomically Correct - Custard
97 Trading Places - Powderfinger
98 Sounds of Silence - Simon & Garfunkel
99 There Goes the Fear - Doves
100 Oooooh Yeah - Yello

Vagrant vintage seeks new home

2011-12-07T15:16:00.000-08:00

Well lookey here! It's my new etsy shop.

It's called The Vagrant Duck.

It's full of nice vintage things that are looking for a new home.

My absolute favourite is Thermocat. Yes, it's a cat thermos. His head screws off. Adorably cute. Love it badly.

Perhaps this Red Metal Ice Cream Scoop (which comes with a free ice cream recipe) tickles your taste buds?

Or these pretty little arcopal coffee mugs.

Pastel Tupperware forks anyone? ...

All items are have been unearthed from thrift shops, car-boot markets, garage sales or the deep, dark depths of my Nanna's hall cupboards (thanks Nanna!).

Really, this shop is a way of justifying my vintage shopping fetish. Damien has put his foot down and said we cannot fit any more 'stuff' in our little 2br unit, but seems to be ok if I buy things for The Vagrant Duck. It's win-win.

An early Merry Christmas to me AND you!

Chroma-key art

2011-12-06T20:18:00.000-08:00

This is cool.
Artist Tyree Callahan replaced the keys on his typewriter with ink pads, and called it the Chromatic Typewriter.

Wonder if you could replace them with some sort of food substances and create edible art?

Mind. Blown.

2011-11-14T19:27:00.000-08:00

I can say with absolute confidence that these are some of the coolest things I have ever seen.

They're Muppets, in cake pop form.

And they're from the ever-incredible Bakerella, who has very kindly included instructions for making all five.

Nom nom nom.

Three New Wall Hangings

2011-10-17T20:21:00.000-07:00

Three new wall hangings now available in my etsy shop.

All feature lots of lovely hand stitching, eco-friendly materials and a little bit of kitschy goodness.

Yellow Major Major Moustache Eco Wall Hanging

Blue Rain Cloud Eco Wall Hanging

Red Spotted Mushroom Eco Wall Hanging

PS Do you like my new banner? I've updated the one in my shop too. I think it's a bit purty.

Let's Go Shopping

2011-10-16T00:12:00.000-07:00

I officially declare that this will be the Summer of Cider.

Four Pack Cider Bottles and Carrier from Frick and Frack Scraps

Apple Cider Bottle Wraps and Straw Flags from Party Papers

Stoneware Cider Jug from The Womble Queen

Antique Cider Bucket from Greentiques

Ceramic Apple Candle from Deloris Petunia

For more shopping tips, head to the BrisStyle blog.

The lost tutorial

2011-10-14T21:46:00.000-07:00

I thought I was being very clever by carefully taking photos for my first tutorial.

I turned a blue skirt into a bag, which I lined with cute green gingham fabric, whacked a couple of doily embellishments on, and strutted out to the shops to fill it with crusty bread, olives and other delicious picnicesque things.

Here it is. Nice, yes?

Wouldn't it have been nice to make one yourself out of an old skirt that might have - ahem - shrunk in the closet like mine did?

I thought so too.

Which was why it was most disappointing to find only half of the tute pics have saved on the computer. Thanks a lot, technology.

So, unfortunately this is as close to a tute as we're going to get on this one. Sorry about that.

From the sublime to the ridiculous

2011-10-10T20:31:00.000-07:00

The Human Centipede 2 is screening at the Brisbane International Film Festival in November. I am excited. And also utterly horrified at what it might entail.

Cartier-Bresson

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

The Queensland Art Gallery is currently hosting an exhibition of Henri Cartier-Bresson's photographs. It runs until November 27.
Absolutely amazing. Go. Please go.

Let's go Shopping

2011-09-24T15:11:00.001-07:00

It's Spring!
Which means I'm smack bang in the middle of a massive Spring clean. Because it's such a mammoth task - I'm talking the whole flat, top to bottom - it's being done bit by bit, room by room.

Today I spent three hours cleaning the ensuite. A small room, but it took a lot of work. It looks spectacular.

Now that it's all beautiful, I'm dreaming of lovely things to make it even more of a haven. Any of these will do.

Rub-A-Dub-Dub Prints from The Print Makers

Vintage towel from Jawadel

Vintage shaving brush from Rue 23 Vintage

Handmade soap from Warm Sigh

Vintage cotton ball holder from For Everest

My Let's Go Shopping list is brought to you by BrisStyle. They've got more awesome Spring finds on their blog.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - numbers 58 & 59

2011-09-23T21:11:00.000-07:00

20 years today since Nevermind and Blood Sugar Sex Magik were released.
I was 13 and full of attitude.
1991 was the year music grabbed me by the throat.

So far...
58 Lounge Act - Nirvana
59 Breaking the Girl - Red Hot Chili Peppers
60 Love my Way - Psychedelic Furs
61 Cherub Rock - Smashing Pumpkins
62 Too Young - Phoenix
63 Nice Dream - Radiohead
64 After Dark - Count & Sinden feat. The Mystery Jets
65 Baby Can I Hold You - Tracy Chapman
66 Perfect Day - Lou Reed
67 The Time Is Now - Moloko
68 Good Dancers - The Sleepy Jackson
69 Get Back - The Beatles
70 Sunsets - Powderfinger
71 Tuesday - You Am I
72 ABC Theme remix - Pendulum
73 Fade Into You - Mazzy Star
74 Down to the River to Pray - Alison Krauss
75 Street Spirit - Radiohead
76 Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana
77 Blew - Nirvana
78 Good Fortune - PJ Harvey
79 Mixed Bizness - Beck
80 Start of War - Clare Bowditch
81 Happy Christmas (War is Over) - John and Yoko
82 I Will - Radiohead
83 Hyperballad - Bjork
84 White Winter Hymnal - Fleet Foxes
85 Last Goodbye - Jeff Buckley
86 Thriller - Michael Jackson
87 Novocaine for the Soul - Eels
88 Sprout and the Bean - Joanna Newsom
89 Rhinoceros - Smashing Pumpkins
90 Mahna Mahna - The Muppets (for Bruce)
91 Everything is Everything - Lauryn Hill
92 Everything's Ruined - Faith No More
93 Alexander Beetle - Melanie Safka
94 Baby Got Back - Sir Mix-a-Lot
95 Talk Show Host - Radiohead
96 Anatomically Correct - Custard
97 Trading Places - Powderfinger
98 Sounds of Silence - Simon & Garfunkel
99 There Goes the Fear - Doves
100 Oooooh Yeah - Yello

Rapt with this wrapping idea

2011-09-23T03:48:00.001-07:00

Nought like winning a three-month tenancy at Brisbane's own in.cube8r to force oneself out of a creative slump.

My cube is up and running and stocked with lovely things for Christmas: organic lavender and linseed eye pillow embroidered with cute animals, wallhangings featuring moustachioed, monacled men and bacteria in petrie dishes (trust me - waaay nicer than it sounds), brooches and all sorts of lovely things.

My theory is that rad presents deserve rad wrapping. So to help y'all along with this, I've spent my day off creating some little gift tags that you can pop on top of your pressies. Voila - they're the nicest under the tree, which should win you big brownie points and get you out of the post-Christmas lunch washing up. See? The gift that keeps on giving.

Each set comes with eight tags, featuring - wait for it - vintage Christmas stamps. Yes, I was a nerdy stamp collector in my younger years, and lo! here is the reason I kept them. They're even packaged up beautifully, so you get a nice present in the mail. Want more? They're only five bucks. Yep. $5.

They've also just landed in my etsy store.

A civilised gathering for music lovers

2011-09-01T16:38:00.000-07:00

Harvest Festival is happening at the Brisbane River Stage in November.

Portishead, The Flaming Lips, The National, Bright Eyes, and many many more.

Watch this live clip of Flaming Lips performing Do You Realise and tell me honestly that you don't wish you were in that crowd, sharing the love?

Seriously folks. Get your tickets. It's going to be spectacular.

Lovely long-legged birds

2011-08-31T22:25:00.000-07:00

I just won these adorable gift tags.

They're made by Kathy, a very clever paper artist from Brisbane whose lovely little shop is called Sweet Simplicitee.

She has these little tags for sale on etsy. I also really like this ace notecard set and this baby card with its tiny bunting.

RIP Daniel

2011-08-28T01:48:00.001-07:00

They've found Daniel.

For those who don't know, Daniel Morcombe went missing while waiting for a bus at Woombye just before Christmas in 2003. He was 13.

They've finally confirmed that bones found in a swamp at Beerwah are his.

I can't imagine how his family are feeling right now. It's no doubt an expected shock, and so bittersweet to finally be granted the right to bury their son while at the same time having that last flicker of hope extinguished forever. This must be so painful for them.

I was privileged to meet Bruce and Denise, and their sons Bradley and Dean, many times while covering the recent inquest into Daniel's disappearance. They are the strongest people I have ever had the honor of knowing.

Daniel's inquest was a story of such interest to the public, and media organisations were naturally riveted to the evidence that came out during the many weeks in the Coroners Court. Facing a pack of reporters each day is an immensely daunting task, especially when we are asking for someone to bare their soul and talk about an issue so intimate, something we cannot ever possibly truly comprehend.

There have been many times throughout my career I have been ashamed of the media, but throughout this case my colleagues were remarkably professional, empathetic, kind and sincere in their coverage and their dealings with the Morcombe family. I feel incredibly proud.

But most impressive were the Morcombes. They were amazingly open and honest, and treated us like friends. My heart breaks for them tonight. I hope they can lay Daniel to rest soon, to give him the farewell he deserves. To finally find some of the comfort and peace they deserve.

Sadly there is still a long and rocky road ahead. Brett Cowan, 41, was arrested earlier this month and charged with Daniel's murder. It could be two years before he stands trial.

I don't know where the Morcombes have drawn their strength for the last eight years, but I sincerely hope they can face the next leg of this journey with the same resilience they have shown during the long search for their son.

Bruce, Denise, Bradley, Dean, and of course Daniel, you are in everyone's thoughts and prayers.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Hottest 100 - Number 60

2011-08-06T02:46:00.000-07:00

Sneaky Sound System was guest programming Rage this morning. I'm not a huge fan of their music, but bloody hell they had chosen a cracking set, with a whole swag of brilliant tunes from the 80s. They played the Psychedelic Furs' Love My Way and it stopped me in my tracks. I had forgotten what a heartbreakingly beautiful song this is. I found this acoustic version they've done recently. Listen to his voice. That man's done some living.

The countdown so far:
60 Love my Way - Psychedelic Furs
61 Cherub Rock - Smashing Pumpkins
62 Too Young - Phoenix
63 Nice Dream - Radiohead
64 After Dark - Count & Sinden feat. The Mystery Jets
65 Baby Can I Hold You - Tracy Chapman
66 Perfect Day - Lou Reed
67 The Time Is Now - Moloko
68 Good Dancers - The Sleepy Jackson
69 Get Back - The Beatles
70 Sunsets - Powderfinger
71 Tuesday - You Am I
72 ABC Theme remix - Pendulum
73 Fade Into You - Mazzy Star
74 Down to the River to Pray - Alison Krauss
75 Street Spirit - Radiohead
76 Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana
77 Blew - Nirvana
78 Good Fortune - PJ Harvey
79 Mixed Bizness - Beck
80 Start of War - Clare Bowditch
81 Happy Christmas (War is Over) - John and Yoko
82 I Will - Radiohead
83 Hyperballad - Bjork
84 White Winter Hymnal - Fleet Foxes
85 Last Goodbye - Jeff Buckley
86 Thriller - Michael Jackson
87 Novocaine for the Soul - Eels
88 Sprout and the Bean - Joanna Newsom
89 Rhinoceros - Smashing Pumpkins
90 Mahna Mahna - The Muppets
91 Everything is Everything - Lauryn Hill
92 Everything's Ruined - Faith No More
93 Alexander Beetle - Melanie Safka
94 Baby Got Back - Sir Mix-a-Lot
95 Talk Show Host - Radiohead
96 Anatomically Correct - Custard
97 Trading Places - Powderfinger
98 Sounds of Silence - Simon & Garfunkel
99 There Goes the Fear - Doves
100 Oooooh Yeah - Yello

Handimalia

2011-08-04T00:27:00.001-07:00

Guido Daniele is an artist who uses skin - particularly the skin on hands and arms - as his canvas, to create these animals.
Exquisite.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

A 16yo photographic genius

2011-08-02T14:59:00.001-07:00

I'm twice as old as German teen Phillip Schumacher, and have not as much talent in my entire body as he possesses in his toe.

His self-portraits are stunning. Ethereal, magical and intriguing.

For more go here.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Bedridden and over it

2011-08-01T18:04:00.001-07:00

It's been two years since I've had a cold or the flu.

Print from u Natural Inspiration

I knew that when I went down I would go down hard. So here I am, bedridden, nose streaming, head pounding, bored and tired beyond belief, and wishing I was well and riding my bike in the sunshine.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Let's go shopping - Around the World

2011-07-30T14:43:00.001-07:00

Some picks to fuel my travel bug.

World map tin from Tortoise and the Hare

Desk globe from High Street Market

Around the World Garlands from Collecting Feathers

Plans for Global Domination Journal from Studio Zen

Paper cut map of Paris from Studio KMO

Need more shopping inspiration? Head to the BrisStyle blog for the weekly wrap-up.

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

This is not a test

2011-07-29T15:11:00.001-07:00

Actually it is. It's called can I manage to figure out this iPad blogging business?
Can I upload a photo from my camera?

Can I attach a link?
Street art for the masses

Can I write in bold text?

Hitting 'post'...... Now.

Apparently the answer to all is yes! I might actually start blogging again now. Hooray!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Let's Go Shopping - iPad

2011-06-10T22:43:00.000-07:00

I'm a whore for Apple. I love my iPhone, I love my Mac, and I've just bought an iPad 2, which I may sleep with tonight.

It's the only brand I am loyal to.

I know. It's quite sad, and a bit hipster lame. But I don't care.

The only thing I don't love about Apple is that their accessories don't leave me in the heady spin of awe that their technology does.

Which is why I turn to my friends at etsy.

My picks for this week's shopping list, which is syncing with BrisStyle's Let's Go Shopping meme. Do not disconnect.

Vintage Leather Satchel from dandelion daydreamer

iPad cover from Evolett

iPad cover made from recycled suits from Sew Much Style

Angry Bird crochet pattern from Braaain Forge

Shel Silverstein's The Giving Tree decal from Apple Sauce (oh how iLove this book)

What are you shopping for this weekend?

Toy drops #1-3

2011-06-08T20:57:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit slow in posting this. But it's such a worthwhile idea I thought it would be better late than never to encourage clever folks to get involved.

Last month the good people at BrisStyle and The Toy Society joined forces to do a massive toy drop around the south-east QLD area.

Basically the idea is you make a toy, bag it up, and put it somewhere where it can be found, taken home and loved by a happy kid.

You then send pics of the toy and drop to The Toy Society, and it goes up on their website. You put instructions in with the toy about how people can then also contact the organisation to let them know they've found the little piece of handmade goodness. Hooray!

I made two little owls - Percy and Oliver - and Barry the Blind mouse.

No word on the Toy Society blog about who found them, but hopefully they've made someone smile and are enjoying their new homes.

I've now got two monster toys half-made for the next drop.

Blessed are the Cheesemakers

2011-04-03T02:10:00.000-07:00

Say cheese!

Mr littlechrissy and I went to my Dad's home on Saturday to do a cheesemaking course. I adore cheese. I love it in all its forms. Soft, hard, stinky, mild, cooked, raw, on biscuits, in lasagne, shredded... whatever.

Get in my mouth cheese, because I want to eat you.

The lovely Lyndall from The Cheesemaking Workshop travelled up from just outside of Coffs Harbour to Alstonville to host our little lactose-laden soiree.

The occasion? My little sister's 30th, and a desire to eat as much dairy goodness as humanly possible. Give a human a cheese and they'll eat for a day, teach them how to make cheese and they'll be fat and happy forever.

I love hands-on. I love cooking. I love understanding where food comes from at its most basic level. No, we may not have milked a cow, but we created cheese from raw ingredients, and learned a lot about the processes involved in its creations, and an appreciation for its form.

During the course we made several different products: camembert, fetta, quark (cream cheese), ricotta (ridiculously easy), marscapone and greek yoghurt.

Camembert in hoops - only 8 weeks away from optimum nomnomnomnoming time

The camembert and fetta are both rennet cultured cheeses, meaning there was a lot of curd-cutting, temperature-sensitive mixing, white mould spore sprinkling, and hooping... and now the most difficult part. Waiting for it to mature. The camembert takes 4 weeks to mature and 8 weeks to become beautifully ripe, sloppy and delicious.

My sister Bron hoops the fetta.

Thankfully the ricotta could be turned instantly into Cannelloni, which we ate for lunch. Lyndall also created rissoni with a camembert sauce, and little squashes from her garden stuffed with cheese and other delicious tid-bits. Of course we also had a divine salad with homemade fetta.

We arrived home this afternoon and tucked in to our handmade rum and raisin, almond-encrusted cream cheese, along with a store-bought blue brie, which would ordinarily fill me with glee, but which has now filled me with a longing for the freshness of cheese made in my own kitchen.

Thank god we bought the cheesemaker starter kit.

My sister loves the cheese.

Now I just need to buy a vineyard...

Baby photos that don't suck

2011-03-21T22:43:00.000-07:00

I have a confession. I think most posed baby photos are a bit naff.

*cowers in the corner awaiting missiles from the mothers*

Don't get me wrong. I adore kids and think they are generally very sweet. I just don't like it when they are put in little elastic headbands (my friend says they make their heads look like easter eggs) and posed with fake sunflowers.

However I do absolutely love the photos Adele Enersen takes of her little Mila while she is asleep. She uses items found around the house to create these utterly divine images. Just so precious.

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 61

2011-03-08T19:51:00.000-08:00

Bloody hell I'd forgotten how much Smashing Pumpkins rock. Am reliving my 90s teen angst as we speak.

Fab finds for under $5 - Eggplant

2011-03-07T15:40:00.000-08:00

Aaaah eggplant, you are most delicious as both a vegetable AND a colour.

Purple up your life with these fab finds, all for around the price of a large cup of coffee.

Eggplant cross-stitch pattern from And Wabi Sabi

Ceramic pendant from SoCal Ceramics

Purple Pom by Pom Tree

Eggplant Vintage Collage from rcolo

Eggplant and Teal paper by May Day Studio

Screwing Up Art

2011-03-06T18:24:00.000-08:00

Screw Art by Andrew Myers.

Gobsmackingly realistic. This guy is insanely talented, and obviously very patient.

Let's Go Shopping

2011-03-04T21:39:00.000-08:00

I'm definitely a transitional seasons kinda gal.
Autumn and Spring are where Mother Nature really puts on a show - crisp cardigan weather, bright, clear days, leaves dropping off or delicately unfurling on trees, the arrival of the first seasonal mandarins or peaches, and brilliant sunrise colours blotting the eastern sky.

Mostly I love Autumn and Spring because they bring the best camping weather. And the best crafting weather - not so hot that balls of wool on laps encourage sweatiness and grumpiness; not so cold that numb fingers struggle to do intricate stitching.

Hello Autumn!

Autumn Gold Paper Garland from 3 GIRLS and a goat

Autumn Rust Handbag from Fibre Artist 44

Felt Bead Necklace from Julie Marie Sink

Spice Foks from celapiu

Felt Campfire from Neafus

To join in the weekend shopping fun head to BrisStyle.

NEW! Moustaches and Monocles

2011-02-23T23:42:00.000-08:00

A sneaky peek at my brand new creations to be officially unveiled at the BrisStyle Twilight Market at King George Square tomorrow (Friday) evening.

Introducing... Colonel Mustard

Major Major

and General Geofferson

All are made with vintage fabric, have eco-felt moustaches, and an embroidered monocle with a very spiffy dangling chain.

There will also be some lovely new petrie dish wallhangings too.

Plus loads of new felt and fabric brooches, eye pillows and a whole stack of really awesome bargains as I clear some stock out of my full-to-bursting craft room.

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 62

2011-02-23T15:44:00.000-08:00

I know I'm a bit late, but I've just discovered Phoenix, and their unabashed pop goodness. Too Young always makes me happy.

The countdown so far:
62 Too Youn - Phoenix
63 Nice Dream - Radiohead
64 After Dark - Count & Sinden feat. The Mystery Jets
65 Baby Can I Hold You - Tracy Chapman
66 Perfect Day - Lou Reed
67 The Time Is Now - Moloko
68 Good Dancers - The Sleepy Jackson
69 Get Back - The Beatles
70 Sunsets - Powderfinger
71 Tuesday - You Am I
72 ABC Theme remix - Pendulum
73 Fade Into You - Mazzy Star
74 Down to the River to Pray - Alison Krauss
75 Street Spirit - Radiohead
76 Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana
77 Blew - Nirvana
78 Good Fortune - PJ Harvey
79 Mixed Bizness - Beck
80 Start of War - Clare Bowditch
81 Happy Christmas (War is Over) - John and Yoko
82 I Will - Radiohead
83 Hyperballad - Bjork
84 White Winter Hymnal - Fleet Foxes
85 Last Goodbye - Jeff Buckley
86 Thriller - Michael Jackson
87 Novocaine for the Soul - Eels
88 Sprout and the Bean - Joanna Newsom
89 Rhinoceros - Smashing Pumpkins
90 Mahna Mahna - The Muppets
91 Everything is Everything - Lauryn Hill
92 Everything's Ruined - Faith No More
93 Alexander Beetle - Melanie Safka
94 Baby Got Back - Sir Mix-a-Lot
95 Talk Show Host - Radiohead
96 Anatomically Correct - Custard
97 Trading Places - Powderfinger
98 Sounds of Silence - Simon & Garfunkel
99 There Goes the Fear - Doves
100 Oooooh Yeah - Yello

BrisStyle Twilight Shopping list

2011-02-22T21:52:00.001-08:00

The very first BrisStyle Indie Twilight Market for 2011 is on this Friday at King George Square in the heart of the city.

It's my first Twilight market as a stallholder. I'm lucky enough to be sharing a co-op spot with Rachel from Darling Girl. She makes adorable handsewn fabric jewellery like these lemon yellow kite earrings.

The talent at this market is, dare I say it (cover your ears children), shit-hot.

Here are some other things that have made my shopping list.

Mixmaster brooch from Hungry Designs

Tissue cosy from edward and lilly

Angel wings necklace from Love Chrissa

$15 brooches? Yes please!

2011-02-20T19:40:00.000-08:00

Ooh-er! There's some new stock in my shop.

These are all made from eco-felt, vintage fabric and other lovely things and are the bargain price of $15 + postage.

If you prefer to do transactions the old fashioned face-to-face way, you can come and say hello to me at the BrisStyle Twilight Market at Brisbane's King George Square this Friday from 5pm.
I'll be selling brooches, lavender eye pillows, origami and fabric bunting, and wall hangings.

Flea Market Finds

2011-02-19T19:33:00.000-08:00

My Nanna used to crochet coathanger covers, and give them out as part of our Christmas presents.

When my sister and I were idiot teens, we used to laugh behind her back, thinking they were lame.

I now know better, and cherish the ones she has made me. I also grab other ones from op shops whenever I stumble across them, and wonder whose Nannas made them, and if they too had ungrateful little shits as grandchildren.

I'm sorry Nanna. I will never doubt you again.

For more fabulous flea market finds, head to Her Library Adventures.

Let's Go Shopping

2011-02-18T16:53:00.000-08:00

It's been a social week. Consequently the washing up has not been done for three days. I make no apologies for this. It's been fun dining out, seeing friends and generally ignoring housework in favour of merriment.

We have no clean glasses left in the house, and I have a cracking hangover that does not inspire standing over a hot sudsy sink. Water is being downed from a daggy chipped coffee mug instead.

Any of these things would be greatly appreciated in my house at the moment.

Aqua Retro Mug by Spun Mud

Vintage Ice Bucket from Retroburgh

Juice Glasses from Blackbird Antiques NC

Set of four cups from in my igloo

Recycled Cork Coasters from Evotiv

For more Saturday shopping suggestions head to BrisStyle.

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 63

2011-02-16T21:25:00.000-08:00

Holy schamoley there's a new Radiohead album out on Saturday. Happiest news of the week.
Nice Dream is from their 1995 album The Bends.

The countdown so far:
63 Nice Dream - Radiohead
64 After Dark - Count & Sinden feat. The Mystery Jets
65 Baby Can I Hold You - Tracy Chapman
66 Perfect Day - Lou Reed
67 The Time Is Now - Moloko
68 Good Dancers - The Sleepy Jackson
69 Get Back - The Beatles
70 Sunsets - Powderfinger
71 Tuesday - You Am I
72 ABC Theme remix - Pendulum
73 Fade Into You - Mazzy Star
74 Down to the River to Pray - Alison Krauss
75 Street Spirit - Radiohead
76 Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana
77 Blew - Nirvana
78 Good Fortune - PJ Harvey
79 Mixed Bizness - Beck
80 Start of War - Clare Bowditch
81 Happy Christmas (War is Over) - John and Yoko
82 I Will - Radiohead
83 Hyperballad - Bjork
84 White Winter Hymnal - Fleet Foxes
85 Last Goodbye - Jeff Buckley
86 Thriller - Michael Jackson
87 Novocaine for the Soul - Eels
88 Sprout and the Bean - Joanna Newsom
89 Rhinoceros - Smashing Pumpkins
90 Mahna Mahna - The Muppets
91 Everything is Everything - Lauryn Hill
92 Everything's Ruined - Faith No More
93 Alexander Beetle - Melanie Safka
94 Baby Got Back - Sir Mix-a-Lot
95 Talk Show Host - Radiohead
96 Anatomically Correct - Custard
97 Trading Places - Powderfinger
98 Sounds of Silence - Simon & Garfunkel
99 There Goes the Fear - Doves
100 Oooooh Yeah - Yello

Fab finds for under $5 - Aches and Pains

2011-02-15T20:51:00.000-08:00

I'm currently trying to ignore a cracking headache which is refusing to budge even after I've taken some painkillers and guzzled a dam full of water.

Got your own pain? These might be just the balm for you (and all for under $5, so there's no chance of them hurting your wallet as well.

Therapeutic Tea Sample from Bittersweet Apotheca

Headache Blend Essential Oil Sample Vial from Belle River Naturals

Peppermint Ice Bath Bomb from Elegant Rose Boutique

State of Pain Get Well Set from I'm Crafty

Bite Stick from b. noel Aromatics

The Silent Evolution

2011-02-14T17:45:00.001-08:00

This is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and inspiring pieces of art I've ever seen.

It's called La Evolucion Silenciosa (The Silent Evolution), and is the creation of British-born sculptor Jason Taylor.

He's created 400 life-size sculptures (each based on a living person), which have been placed on the Caribbean seabed, off Grenada.

This gallery is now the canvas upon which underwater creatures will sculpt a new reef. Utterly enchanting and on my list of must-visit places.

Organic Eye Pillows - Just listed

2011-02-03T00:15:00.000-08:00

Feeling stressed? Need a good night's sleep?

Look no further!

Just listed in littlechrissy's etsy store.

All are made with vintage fabrics, and filled with organic linseed (flaxseed) and lavender. The smell is divine.

Black Swan = mind blown

2011-01-30T00:48:00.000-08:00

If you've not already seen Black Swan, go and see it right now.
The film is, to say the least, extremely dark and disturbing, but anyone who's seen Requiem For a Dream will know to expect this from Darren Aronofsky.
Natalie Portman delivers the best performance I've ever seen. If this film doesn't take home a bag of Oscars there is something wrong with the world.

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 64

2011-01-28T02:44:00.001-08:00

This one didn't make this year's Triple J Hottest 100, and I think it was a bloody crying shame. It's one of those happy electro dance tunes that make me wish I was still 20 and hitting the clubs. But instead i'm dancing to this in my kitchen while cooking risotto.

It's the Count & Sinden's After Dark.

An appropriately timed purchase

2011-01-17T18:19:00.000-08:00

So I've only been waiting for more than a year to get my hands on one of Marc Johns' original artworks.
They sell the moment he puts them up online and I've never been jammy enough to score one.
The timing was right, and this baby is coming home to perch on my wall. Could not think of a more appropriate one to have stumbled across given the events in Brisbane of the past week.
'twas meant to be.

Flea Market Finds

2011-01-15T20:30:00.000-08:00

Scraps of vintage fabric waiting to be turned into something pretty.

For more Flea Market Finds, visit Sophie at Her Library Adventures.

$70+ raised for the Flood Appeal

2011-01-14T14:29:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to those who bought my items listed for BrisStyle Handmade Ark Appeal.
The three items have raised more than $70 for Queensland flood victims. Head to BrisStyle to find many more beautiful items, with proceeds going to this appeal.
I will be listing more items on Sunday.

Buy Handmade and help Queensland's Flood Victims

2011-01-12T02:24:00.000-08:00

I'm officially knackered. Thankfully I am not affected directly by these awful floods that are ravaging the state, but as journalist based in Brisbane I've had a very hectic and draining day covering them.

I'm the first to criticise the media when it does a bad job, but I feel privileged to be in a position where I can help disseminate information to those in need in this situation. Quite frankly I think the media has done a stellar job during the QLD floods. The issue has not (yet) been politicised, and everyone has done their best to try to honestly and accurately convey the emotion that is encompassing those in need.

My wonderful group, BrisStyle - a collective of handmade artisans and designers in Brisbane - has also put the full weight of support behind those in need through the creation of the BrisStyle 'Handmade Ark' Appeal.

Members of the group have decided to donate the ENTIRE proceeds from nominated items in their etsy stores to the flood appeal.
We are only too happy to donate the money, and we ask that you, all you wonderful supporters of handmade around the world. open your wallets and purchase something lovely to help those in need.

I've put three items up for the appeal, with more to come when I have more time to list them once the waters have receded.

Chance of a Late Storm Eco-Brooch

Sweet Dreams Wall Hanging

Sunshower Eco-Brooch Set

Remember ALL proceeds from these items go directly to those in their hour of need in Queensland.
Please note that should you purchase one of these items, I will post them asap, but the floods have closed countless post offices in Queensland so they may take a wee bit longer to make them to you.

Flea Market Find

2011-01-09T20:21:00.000-08:00

I know that having reading material near the toilet is terribly controversial to some, but I'm a great believer that the written word helps - ahem - the natural process.

This most excellent magazine holder is now stuffed with issues of frankie, Rolling Stone, peppermint, New Scientist and more, and is ready to aid with the morning ablutions.

Head to Her Library Adventures for more flea market finds...

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 65

2011-01-08T23:55:00.000-08:00

Look, in all honesty, I could have posted any one of Tracy Chapman's songs on here and it would be a worthy addition to my Hottest 100.
The woman is a goddess.
Her voice... *sigh*
I feel clenched up in the stomach listening to her - her lyrics have such depth and are imbued with an ethereal, melancholy beauty.
The reason I chose Baby Can I Hold You is because I have just acquired my Dad's acoustic guitar, and it's the ONLY song I can play and sing at the same time. And so I have sat at home on the couch, listening to the rain, singing this over and over.

I've decided to get guitar lessons this year. I miss having music in my life. Yes I listen to a lot, but I miss MAKING music.

I learned piano from age 4 through to when I was 18, and learned saxophone for a while too. I was Ok at both but too lazy to practice enough to be really really good. However I still learned enough that I could pick up a piece of music and play it. And while I was too young and naive in high school to recognise how lucky I was to be able to do that, the fact that I cannot simply do this every day (I live in an apartment with no room for a piano) leaves me with a little empty hole in my life.
However the guitar fits in my apartment. And so I shall start creating again.

Because 2011 is the year of the creative, don't you know?

The light fantastic

2011-01-07T13:47:00.000-08:00

I took these photos recently of local Christmas lights (yes they're still up).
Any ideas on how I could transfer these images to fabric so I could embroider them?

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 66

2011-01-06T23:02:00.000-08:00

Lou Reed's Perfect Day. Because that's what today has been.

Bunting and birds

2011-01-06T03:35:00.001-08:00

Two new wallhangings to be listed for sale as soon as the light is more conducive to pretty photos.
If you fancy one of them before they're listed, drop me a line.

Viral marketing

2011-01-05T15:13:00.000-08:00

Science + Craft = A Super Sweet Wall Hanging

Made almost entirely from recycled or vintage materials, this little one is available here.

The Bolt Hole

2011-01-04T18:08:00.000-08:00

Yes, let it be known that during my rainy week-long holiday, in between the drinking and the eating and the catching up with friends, I organised my fabric into mini-bolts.

It makes it much easier to decide on a project now that I can see what I have to work with.

Now all I need is a bigger room so I can sort through the two boxes of fabric that wouldn't fit on these shelves.

Embrace your inner cat

2011-01-03T15:23:00.001-08:00

My cats have got the correct philosophy on life.

They don't need new 'stuff' to fill a void, and they don't give a rats about what sort of scratching post the neighbours cats have.
All they need in the entire world is food, shelter (empty cardboard boxes preferred), cuddles and sleep.

Sleep is very important. It makes you more beautiful, inside and out. It helps you live longer. It is the perfect end to a good book.

So put the fifth coffee down, and catch some zzzzzzs. Need a reminder? You can buy this here or follow the link on the right hand side to my etsy store.

Sweet dreams.

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 67

2011-01-02T22:01:00.000-08:00

Voice of an angel.
Moloko - The Time is Now.
Which it is, actually.

Resolutions and other such lovely nonsense

2011-01-02T01:25:00.000-08:00

I'm a total sucker for a new year.

A clean slate, a chance to slough off the old you and emerge brilliantly resplendent as the person you could be, if only you had more time/willpower/energy/insert any other excuse here.

It follows then, that I am also a sucker for new year's resolutions. Write a list and stick to them. Got it.

Here are mine. Please note, these are not listed in the order they will be broken - I like to mix it up, and surprise myself.

1. Buy only handmade or second-hand. So far so good. The ebay addiction monster has been most happy with how this one has gone so far.

2. Get fit. Check. Went for walk today, did get puffed.

3. Cut back on drinking. Check. Thank you festive binge for quashing any desire for a nice glass of sav blanc... actually ... mmmm... sav blanc.

4. Do something creative each day. This required some serious organising of the craft room. Observe my beautifully ordered embroidery threads. I've even made mini bolts of fabric from my stash and arranged in order of colour. Yep. Nerd. Will post pics of this later, because it is a sight to behold.

Tomorrow is sewing with my bestie. We require new frocks. Because one cannot be expected to keep any resolutions without a new pretty dress.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-21T15:09:00.000-08:00

... and a happy, handmade new year.

Photos in daily life...

2010-12-19T01:52:00.000-08:00

Get your fix of all things sublimely ordinary at The Life Obscura.

littlechrissy's Hottest 100 - Number 68

2010-12-14T15:01:00.000-08:00

The Sleepy Jackson's Good Dancers. Stunning.
There should be more spontaneous dancing at work.

Happiness is...

2010-12-10T23:07:00.001-08:00

Coming home to a bunch of fluffy sunflowers. Mr littlechrissy also bought a real life Christmas tree, which has been re-potted and is sitting happily on our back deck, just waiting to be adorned.

Happiness is also spending a rainy afternoon in the kitchen making baked goods to give as gifts at a Christmas party this evening. On the menu? Cinnamon Drops and Cumin Seed, Chilli and Parmesan Shortbread. Divine.
All beautifully packaged of course - I've put them in little brown paper bags, tied them with string and attached a mini-garland made from scallop-stamped Brisbane maps from the Yellow Pages that get left on our doorstep every year, yet NOBODY uses them. (apologies for dark shot - it's been raining all afternoon and is a little gloomy at casa de littlechrissy)

Happy days. x

Fab finds for under $5 - Food

2010-12-09T18:42:00.000-08:00

Tis the season to indulge...

These super-sweet treats are all $5 or under, making them perfect little stocking stuffers.

Cupcake eraser from Doll Face Kawaii

Sushi pinback button from Barrel of Monkeys

Zombie Food Pyramid Magnet from Horror Belle

Organic Dutch Cocoa Powder from The Fox's Glove

Banana Split Crochet Pattern from Melbangel

Felt Jelly Beans from HeartFelt Playthings

littlechrissy's Hottest 100 - Number 69

2010-12-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

Is there anyone who doesn't love The Beatles?
So much talent.
This gets added points because of the rooftop location, with the band nestled in amongst the Mary Poppinseque chimneys.
Apparently they're playing on the roof of Apple Studios in Savile Row on January 30, 1969. (Thanks Wikipedia - you're always right, right?)

Write it out 100 times...

2010-12-08T12:20:00.000-08:00

A work in progress...

Bacteria is good for your health

2010-12-08T00:33:00.000-08:00

Newsflash - a little bit of dirt and bacteria in your life is good for you.

Ditch the anti-bacterial handwash and celebrate nature's tiniest creatures with a petite wall hanging dedicated to micro-organisms and the glorious patterns they make.

This gorgeous little wall hanging has vintage brown notebook-ruled fabric as a backing, with a doily round and a cluster of plastic re-purposed buttons to represent the spawning bacteria.

Science has never looked so good!

Adorn your wall with one by heading here or here.

Time to get organised

2010-12-05T21:16:00.000-08:00

In our house, the calendar rules supreme.

My sieve-like memory means if something is not marked on the calendar, then it ain't happening.

Which was why I was so delighted when the gorgeous girls from Organised By Art generously gave me one of their calendars AND a yearly planner in return for me doing a wee little bit of editing for them. Talk about Christmas generosity.

Are these not utterly divine?

Best of all they are eco-friendly, printed with soy-based inks on 100% post consumer waste paper. Which means you can start your new year with a blank page and a clean conscience.

You might want to mark on your current calendar a memo to check out their 2011 range, and the stories behind the artists and designs. Find them right here.

Sleep on a plane? No problem

2010-11-25T00:40:00.000-08:00

Further to my last post, I've also made some lovely eye masks for Mum and Bron to help them get some sleep on the looooooooong plane trip.

They're flying AirAsia, which was fine, I found, for short trips, but they don't really provide you with anything comfort-wise unless you pay.

And besides, budget airline or no, the eye masks are never stylish. They are always made with synthetic fabric that is uncomfortable, ugly and hot.

So I decided to make some with pretty, breathable cotton.

I've made them reversible so they can choose their fabric according to mood, or to complement their comfy fisherman's pants ensemble (seriously who flies in anything other than ultra-comfy clothes? I marvel at the women who wear heels and makeup on long international flights. For me it's loose clothing, a cute cardigan and moisturiser every hour).

Getting the size right was difficult. I cut the pattern from an old eye mask I got on a European flight, but had to unpick and resew the elastic three times on each to get it the right tightness. Mum has a bigger head (sorry Mum, but it's true) so I had to make hers a little looser. I hope it fits.

Sweet dreams, sister and mum. Buy me an awesome present, yes?

Handmade Christmas

2010-11-24T00:03:00.000-08:00

My lucky sister and Mum are heading overseas for Christmas.
For several weeks.
To do many splendid things.
I am not.
I am consoling myself by picturing them layered up and freezing, walking like penguins on frosty, slippery sidewalks, the sky darkening at 3pm, while I laze by the beach and eat juicy watermelons and mangos, possibly in daiquiri form.

Oh who am I kidding - they're going to have an amazing time.

In the spirit of consoling myself through the act of generosity, part of their Christmas presents this year are handmade pieces designed to help make their trip just that little bit more lovely.

I am by no means a good knitter, but I can make things that don't require anything more challenging than a straight line...

... and I'm grateful the weather has not been too hot, as snug lengths of wool wrapped around a sweaty body do not a happy Chris make ...

... and I did have to unravel a few times, yet I think there are no dropped stitches ...

... and all in all this should do nicely to keep a bit of the European winter at bay.

Mmmmm.... doughnut.

2010-11-14T15:42:00.000-08:00

My diet may have started today (honestly, why did I start the silly season of eating and drinking in SEPTEMBER?), but that doesn't mean I can't still enjoy a sweet treat.

The doughnut brooch won't go to your hips or thighs, but is simply guaranteed to make you look cute.

Available here.

littlechrissy's hottest 100 - number 70

2010-11-12T18:36:00.000-08:00

A band that needs no introduction.

I bought tickets to one of Powderfinger's farewell shows in September. The day of the gig I started looking for the tickets... and looked... and looked... and looked... and cried, because they were NOWHERE to be found.

Not one of my finest moments, especially when I had to tell my sister and friend that we couldn't go because of my absentmindedness.

The tickets have still never turned up. I suspect I threw them out accidentally.

But it was a blessing in disguise because my lovely Mum got online the moment the tickets to the next round of shows were released, and lo and behold we are going to their last ever show tonight.

Powderfinger is one of the few bands that I have listened to consistently for their entire career. I have lost count of the number of times I've seen them play, and they're always brilliant.

Excited about tonight does not describe it.

Sunshowers make me smile

2010-11-04T17:08:00.000-07:00

I'm a woman who loves contrasts, and sunshowers fit that bill nicely.

There are few things more magical than being surprised with a shower of light rain while the sun is still beaming down on the earth.

To celebrate my love for this weather phenomenom, I've created a Sunshower Brooch Set.

The brooches - made from eco-felt - can be worn together or on their own.

Shower some love on someone by giving them the ultimate in mood-reflecting presents by purchasing this set here.

I'm also working on creating a sweet mobile with rainclouds and sunshine, for little and big kids alike.

The Purrfect Christmas Present

2010-11-02T21:43:00.000-07:00

Cute, cuddly and guaranteed to make even the biggest Christmas stresshead relax - why it's the Charlie Cat Organic Lavender Eye Pillow!

Available here or here.

It's Movember

2010-11-01T22:36:00.000-07:00

Who wants a moustache ride? Get your fuzz on with this special organic lavender eye pillow.

Find it here or here.

Randal Breen

2010-10-19T16:19:00.000-07:00

I've just stumbled upon the exquisite work of Brisbane-based artist Randal Breen. Utterly oddly, fantastically beautiful.

Squirrel this away for Christmas

2010-10-18T16:38:00.000-07:00

Hand-embroidered eye pillow filled with organic flaxseed and lavender available here.

One for the cat lovers

2010-10-17T00:05:00.000-07:00

Time for a cute new brooch?

2010-10-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

Back by popular demand, it's the Cuckoo Clock Brooch.
Made from Eco-Felt, and with a super-sweet dial that will put a smile on yours.
Red not your colour? Well gosh, turns out I can make you a custom brooch in a colour that will make your heart chime.

The craft bug has bitten again

2010-10-15T17:07:00.000-07:00

I've been a little crafted-out since the wedding, and have been waiting for the bug to bite again.

Which it did. At 4am this morning. Which is when I woke up thinking about buttons and fabrics.

First job: give my much-neglected madeit and etsy shops some love, with new listings. Hurrah!

Introducing the Pinwheel Eco-Felt Brooch
Handmade with eco-felt (made from recycled PET bottles), vintage fabrics and other little bits and pieces. Find it here or here.

Next we have the Forest Sunshine Eco-Felt Brooch
More eco-felt goodness, with a doily remnant just to pretty it up that extra little bit. Find it here or here.

Last but certainly not least, may I introduce Rusty Rabbit, who comes with his very own organic lavender eye pillow.
Filled with organic lavender and flaxseed (aka linseed), this is perfect for sending you off into a sweet slumber, easing headaches and de-stressing. Bliss. Take him home here or here.

Stay tuned folks, there's more to come.

Love and other handmade things

2010-10-08T01:49:00.000-07:00

I've been off doing loved up things like gettin' hitched.

Damien and I got married recently at Lennox Head and it was pretty much the most fun I've had.

After a visit earlier this year to one of those bridal shows (oh the utter, mind-blowing horror) we decided firmly that a handmade / vintage theme was our bag baby, and so the creating and sourcing began.

I made vintage fabric bunting for the ceremony.

We made the bouquets and boutonnieres on the morning of the wedding.

I picked up the most excellent yellow typewriter on ebay for the guest book. I made most of the tablecloths out of vintage sheets from op-shops (carefully laundered of course), and the rest were provided by my Nanna and Damien's Grandma. Bless.

My veil was a family heirloom, first worn 98 years ago by my Mum's Nanna. I was the 22nd person in the family to wear it, and it went to Sydney last weekend for it's 23rd wedding. It skipped the wedding's in my Mum's generation. Instead Mum used it as a net over my cot when I was a baby.
My necklace was moonstones brought back from the Middle East by my sorely missed Pa when he served in the war.

My mum, sister and I handmade about 70 flowers from old sheet music and books.

We also made about 60 tissue paper pom-poms (or Pouffes, as we prefer to call them), which were strung up on the deck. My family and the beautiful girls at BrisStyle also collected glass jars for several months leading up to the wedding. These were our candle-holders.

The photobooth was a most excellent inclusion.

Hiring a proper one that prints the little strip photos would have cost $1000 for the night - hello? - so we just strung up a vintage sheet, made some props, provided cameras and let everyone loose.

Last but not least we decided on cupcakes, and got BrisStyle belle Bel, from Enticing Icing, to bake up storm. Seriously amazing cakes. Hit of the night.

Best. Fun. Ever.

Best. Idea. Ever.

2010-08-09T21:37:00.001-07:00

How to spend an entire Saturday afternoon in the kitchen

2010-08-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

Would you look at this recipe?

I saw Julie and Julia recently and loved it - decided at that point that I would make the famous Beef Bourguignon at some point. Well today is that day. I must have been having a minor brain explosion when I decided to attempt it. And in hindsight should possibly have started cooking it about two hours earlier than I did

But there were hangovers to overcome, and a trip to the shops to find the ingredients did not seem appealing until I had downed at least four coffees, read two newspapers, done the crosswords, and pottered aimlessly for a decent amount of time.

So here we are. It's 5pm. The casserole is in the oven. It needs to cook for at least two and a half more hours. And in the meantime I've got to do the next fiddly step of preparing the onions and mushrooms. Julie, seriously, could I not have just chucked it all in at the same time and let it stew?

It is a stew after all.

But no. It is a very labour intensive process. But judging from the divine smells that are already filling the unit, and the fact the cats and Damien are already hovering awaiting a taste, I suspect it may all well be worth it in the end.

Here's the recipe for any other mad person who has time to cook what I think may well turn out to be my best meal ever.

Julia Child's Beef Bourguignon
Recipe Courtesy of Julia Child

Servings: 6
Difficulty: Difficult
Cook Time: Over 120 min
This recipe is adapted from "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle and Simone Beck (Alfred A. Knopf, 1961)

Ingredients
One 6-ounce piece of chunk bacon
3 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
3 pounds lean stewing beef, cut into 2-inch cubes
1 carrot, sliced
1 onion, sliced
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons flour
3 cups red wine, young and full-bodied (like Beaujolais, Cotes du Rhone or Burgundy)
2 1/2 to 3 1/2 cups brown beef stock
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 cloves mashed garlic
1/2 teaspoon thyme
A crumbled bay leaf
18 to 24 white onions, small
3 1/2 tablespoons butter
Herb bouquet (4 parsley sprigs, one-half bay leaf, one-quarter teaspoon thyme, tied in cheesecloth)
1 pound mushrooms, fresh and quartered

Cooking Directions
Remove bacon rind and cut into lardons (sticks 1/4-inch thick and 1 1/2 inches long). Simmer rind and lardons for 10 minutes in 1 1/2 quarts water. Drain and dry.
Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
Sauté lardons in 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a flameproof casserole over moderate heat for 2 to 3 minutes to brown lightly. Remove to a side dish with a slotted spoon.
Dry beef in paper towels; it will not brown if it is damp. Heat fat in casserole until almost smoking. Add beef, a few pieces at a time, and sauté until nicely browned on all sides. Add it to the lardons.
In the same fat, brown the sliced vegetables. Pour out the excess fat.
Return the beef and bacon to the casserole and toss with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
Then sprinkle on the flour and toss again to coat the beef lightly. Set casserole uncovered in middle position of preheated oven for 4 minutes.
Toss the meat again and return to oven for 4 minutes (this browns the flour and coves the meat with a light crust).
Remove casserole and turn oven down to 325 degrees.
Stir in wine and 2 to 3 cups stock, just enough so that the meat is barely covered.
Add the tomato paste, garlic, herbs and bacon rind. Bring to a simmer on top of the stove.
Cover casserole and set in lower third of oven. Regulate heat so that liquid simmers very slowly for 3 to 4 hours. The meat is done when a fork pierces it easily.
While the beef is cooking, prepare the onions and mushrooms.
Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons butter with one and one-half tablespoons of the oil until bubbling in a skillet.
Add onions and sauté over moderate heat for about 10 minutes, rolling them so they will brown as evenly as possible. Be careful not to break their skins. You cannot expect them to brown uniformly.
Add 1/2 cup of the stock, salt and pepper to taste and the herb bouquet.
Cover and simmer slowly for 40 to 50 minutes until the onions are perfectly tender but hold their shape, and the liquid has evaporated. Remove herb bouquet and set onions aside.
Wipe out skillet and heat remaining oil and butter over high heat. As soon as you see butter has begun to subside, indicating it is hot enough, add mushrooms.
Toss and shake pan for 4 to 5 minutes. As soon as they have begun to brown lightly, remove from heat.
When the meat is tender, pour the contents of the casserole into a sieve set over a saucepan.
Wash out the casserole and return the beef and lardons to it. Distribute the cooked onions and mushrooms on top.
Skim fat off sauce in saucepan. Simmer sauce for a minute or 2, skimming off additional fat as it rises. You should have about 2 1/2 cups of sauce thick enough to coat a spoon lightly.
If too thin, boil it down rapidly. If too thick, mix in a few tablespoons stock. Taste carefully for seasoning.
Pour sauce over meat and vegetables. Cover and simmer 2 to 3 minutes, basting the meat and vegetables with the sauce several times.
Serve in casserole, or arrange stew on a platter surrounded with potatoes, noodles or rice, and decorated with parsley.

Pop up

2010-08-04T16:33:00.000-07:00

Did you ever have pop up or so-called mechanical books when you were young?

I certainly don't remember having anything this cool. These are certainly not just for kidlets.

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Robert Sabuda

What about a pop up dollhouse? This one is from LEAFpdx.

Or this gorgeous Paper Circus with little birds from Under the Stair Studios...

This takes pop up books to a whole new level. It opens up and out pops a working lamp. It may not be the brightest light, but it wins major points for quirky style. It's by Japanese designer Takeshi Ishiguro.

littlechrissy's Hottest 100 - Number 71

2010-08-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

I love artists that use horns in their music. You Am I's Tuesday (from the most excellent album Hourly Daily) not only has horns, but strings, and some beautiful harmonies. Magic stuff.

Just sold - Hydrangea Bunting

2010-08-01T22:48:00.001-07:00

This eco-bunting - made from hand-embroidered vintage fabrics - has just sold in my madeit store.

Urban picnic

2010-07-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

A picnic set that is eco-friendly AND looks like an old-school boom box? Be still my beating heart.

These Boxsal picnic boxs are full of compostable plates and cutlery and recycled serviettes. They can be reused and reused and then 100% recycled.

So clever.

littlechrissy on email

2010-07-21T00:10:00.000-07:00

Lovely blogging friends, you can now get littlechrissy straight into your inbox.

You can see the link to the right. All you have to do is plug in your address and hey presto - email goodness from me!

(Big thanks to the lovely Amanda from Calico and Co for writing a post on how to set up this notifcation palava, and thus saving a tech numpty like me a lot of arsing around and quite possibly a few naughty words.)

Fab finds for under $5 - Winter

2010-07-19T23:07:00.000-07:00

Brrrrr it's cold. Fab finds to keep you warm and toasty during winter in Australia - all for $5 and under.

Snowflake digital artwork by Angelz Unawarez

Postcard of ice skates by Krista Keltanen

Matt glass bead earrings from 2 Dollar Earrings

Felted acorns from Out 2 Sea

Winter White Girl and Fox Card from Pencil Shavings

Moldy art

2010-07-19T22:53:00.000-07:00

Who knew mold could be this beautiful?

ELIN's embroidery is stunning, and is guaranteed not to spore all over your walls or carpet.

Find them here.

littlechrissy's Hottest 100 - Number 72

2010-07-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

Perth's Pendulum remixed the ABC news theme. It is brilliant. Wonder if Richard Morecroft is a fan?

Hoping to see Hope

2010-06-23T16:04:00.000-07:00

I won the Frankie competition to see Hope Sandoval (formerly of Mazzy Star, currently of The Warm Inventions) at The Tivoli tonight.

(Isn't she gorgeous? Total girl crush.)

Yes I did do a little happy dance.
Yes I did call almost everyone I knew to brag.
Yes I did play the "We're having our first dance at the wedding to Mazzy Star's Fade Into You" card to try to win the competition.

I'm now having a minor panic that the effing Patel jury will decide to reach a verdict at 6pm, thus raining poo down upon my chances of actually making it to the gig.

Live Music Gods, may you see fit to deliver me safely to Brisbane's finest venue so that I may worship at the altar of excellent tunes.

----------
Update
----------
Thank you Live Music Gods.

Eco Lavender Eye Pillows

2010-06-22T16:26:00.001-07:00

The rumours are true. I've made new stock, AND taken photos.

The eco lavender eye pillows are made from gorgeous recycled and vintage fabrics.

Each one features different fabrics on each side, and they have been individually embellished with embroidery...

Or little complementing swatches in pretty designs.

They have been filled with organic linseed and lavender, and contain a few drops of essential oil just to give their divine scent a little boost.

They are perfect for anyone who needs to de-stress, for use at the end of yoga, for meditation, to help sleep...

They will be making their debut at the BrisStyle Indie Eco Market on July 10.
After that I will be listing them on etsy and made it.

Milo Biscuit recipe

2010-06-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

They're delicious... but you have to wander over to my new blog to get the recipe.

http://thelifeobscura.blogspot.com

2010-06-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

New Op-Shop friends

2010-06-20T21:25:00.001-07:00

Dear strange people who unceremoniously dump these things at op-shops because of a misguided belief they no longer have any value ... thank you.

Two corduroy jackets

A midnight blue casserole dish (this came complete with old food baked on inside - delicious)

A plastic colander, and two Pyrex nesting bowls with funky pattern and only one teeny tiny chip on the rim

An enamel tray with blue bird motif

Welcome to your new home, unloved items.

A new obscurely photogenic blog

2010-06-17T04:38:00.000-07:00

I've gone and become a little more schizophrenic than usual.

I've started another blog. Madness.

This new one's all about my love of, my fascination with, and my utterly amateurish exploration of photography.

My current love is the Hipstamatic application on iphone, which gives photos a rocking analog kinda feel without the bulk or expense of film. Purists are rolling in their graves, I'm sure.

I'm aiming to post a photo a day, but anyone who knows me knows this is ambitious, to say the least.

What I can promise is a blog about the ordinary and not-so-ordinary things I see on my journey through life.

Won't you join me?

Please come and be my friend. You can find me at The Life Obscura.

I made it

2010-06-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

I've finally gotten around to opening a shop on madeit.com

It's good news because it means you now have a chance to shop in Aussie dollars, instead of the ol' greenbacks.

I've only uploaded two wee little lovely brooches, but rest assured there are more to come (including some luverly new items).

Find me here!

2010-06-15T16:25:00.000-07:00

Golly it's been a while. It's always a nice feeling when you've been so freakin' busy having a life that you haven't had time to blog.

I've been to Indonesia.

(Rice Paddies in Banda Aceh)

What a freakin' cool place. I never had any desire to go to Indonesia, but that was probably because I only ever associated it with "Bali, bogans and bad beaches". (And yes we had eight hours in Seminyak on the way home and it pretty much lived up to my low expectations).

However the time we spent in Sumatra and Java was just amazing. We were privileged to meet with politicians, Islamic leaders, tsunami survivors, conservationists, activists and many other almost obscenely interesting people. The food was divine, the scenery spectacularly vibrant, and the people were warm, generous, open and resilient despite the many hardships that come with living in a developing country.

Also had my first ever few days in Melbourne.

Caught up with an old friend, ate nice food, drank much, and had just enough of an explore to convince me I must got back.

Arrived home to find I'd won a competition. Happy days!

The delightful Peg & Kate has sent me the most spectacular reusable lunch bag which I have been using every day to cart my leftovers in to work. It's beautifully made, and is even insulated so things stay cooooool (very important in the avoidance of salmonella).

Have been crafting madly for the upcoming BrisStyle Eco-Market.

Perhaps one day I shall actually get around to taking photos of the new things I've made. Or you could just come along on July 10 and check it out for yourself, and save me the hassle.