The Sleepy Hollow Chair 1896

My brother-in-law very kindly sent me this photo today of the Sleepy Hollow Chair, in its original condition. I must ask where the name originated from. It certainly describes the sleep-inducing powers of this beautiful piece of furniture.

A Sunday Project

Wanting a change from my usual 'vase of flowers on the kitchen table' aesthetic, I decided today to make my own version of a terrarium. This glass dome has had many lives, from ornamental displays to covering a plate of cupcakes at a birthday party. The combination of white porcelain, glass and wood is always appealing to me, and I have used it here to create a little bit of spring indoors. It's simple to make, just put potting mix into the bowl, poke in a geranium cutting and surround it with lots of sphagnum moss. Once you have added a little bit of water, pop on the dome. Happy potting.

The Sleepy Hollow Chair

The Sleepy Hollow Chair resides at my sister's place, where I have just spent the morning. It is not just a piece of furniture, but a story that is part of the fabric of the Hope Family history. Crafted around 1895 by Joseph Hope, it has been part of my brother-in-law's family for four generations. No doubt, countless hours have been spent in comforting contemplation in the crook of The Sleepy Hollow Chair.  Its arms are lovingly worn, the right bearing the initials of young Margaret, carved perhaps in a moment of solitary defiance. My own girls have sat in this chair ever since they could climb into it, feet barely dangling over the edge. Isn't it wonderful how furniture can soak up the memories of a family, and tell its stories for generations to come?

Tarpaulin Blue

I had never considered that an old tarpaulin could be inspiring, but I love the way the blue covers on the yachts contrast with the white, gold and grey. It seems that inspiration can come from anywhere. Perhaps these are colours to consider in your next decorating project?

Small House Living

My own 'good place' is a renovated terrace by the sea. Completely impractical for a family, we fell in love with the high ceilings and the beautiful character features. Small house living comes with its own challenges, but also some lovely benefits. Using each space for more than one purpose has become a necessity. Our living room has a small writer's desk in one corner. On it sit our Mac and a revolving pile of books and papers. I love having a bookcase in the living room too. I regret to say that it holds such classics as Handbag Horoscope (a guide to your year small enough to fit into your handbag-not, sadly an astrological guide to choosing the correct accessories) and Blokes and Sheds. There are, however, enough 'clever looking' books so as to not cause too much shame should anyone care to browse. Notwithstanding the bonus, if undeserved, IQ points books provide, I love the way they add texture, warmth and interest to a room.

image via Oliveaux

For the Dad who loves chocolate

image via Australian Gourmet Traveller

My family and I don't really need the excuse of Father's Day to feed our chocolate habit, but it is always nice to bake in celebration. While looking for a new chocolatey treat to try, I found this recipe for Violet Chocolate Fudge. It sounds like something Roald Dahl dreamt up.

A Pinch 'n' a Punch...

The first day of Spring for those of us in this part of the world. Typically, it rained for most of the day. Comments about new life and lambs notwithstanding, the first day of Spring does appear to bring some kind of promise. This is the time of the year when I wish I had planted bulbs, as the only colour in my little courtyard garden comes from the stubbornly pink geraniums. So, as I promise myself I'll plant bulbs next year, I grab my umbrella and head out into Spring.