I feel so blessed that there are so many makers and artists out there sharing their work and inspiring others by living a creative life. I've just experimented with using avocado pips for dyeing fabric. When I saw these pictures of fabric and dye plant illustrations together (dye mushroom to... Read more →

I'm so excited about creating things I need from items I would usually throw in the bin. Yes, I guess it makes me a little odd but it's how I'm made. Thrifty, resourceful and creative! Carving or whittling has long been on my list of skills to master. Probably since... Read more →

After attending a writing workshop a couple of weekends ago, my head is full of ideas for writing new stories. I spent two days at the Abbotsford Convent with Australian author Judith Rossell (I adore her Still Montgomery books) and fifteen other aspiring authors. We were there to learn how... Read more →

When I was growing up, I read books to learn more about the world, the people around me and to see myself. I focussed on books with female protagonists by female authors. Mysteries were my thing and I started with girl detectives Trixie Belden and Nancy Drew and then moved... Read more →

I tend follow the rules when it comes to eco dyeing. It's not because I'm particularly obedient although I mostly am. Rather it's because I hate the disappointment when things don't turn out how I expect. So I follow the rules looking for guaranteed results. Of course eco dyeing is... Read more →

As a maker and writer I rely on lots of sources for inspiration. My main source of inspiration is ideas. I get really excited by new ideas and concepts - neuroplasticity, setting intentions and cultivating joy, to name a few. Often the best place to find those wild and crazy... Read more →

I didn't read Eat Pray Love when I worked at a publishers and saw the cover every day. I didn't feel drawn to it somehow. I have on the other hand watched Elizabeth Gilbert's TED talk on creativity more than once. She's funny, inspiring and insightful. (One of my other... Read more →

My sewing machine's been sitting neglected on the floor next to my desk for over a year, gathering dust. Lately it's been quietly calling to me. I got briefly inspired to sew skirts for the girls for their birthdays. I got as far as buying the fabric and it's been... Read more →

Last week we had a family outing to the National Gallery of Victoria to see their Van Gogh and the Seasons exhibition. Almost 17 years ago Gareth and I visited the Van Gogh gallery in Amsterdam and were blown away by his amazing pantings. It was lovely to take the... Read more →

After the Solstice last week I crashed big time. Too much sugar and too many late nights burning the candle at both ends finally took its toll. My body said enough and sent me to bed with a cold. I'm the worst patient in the world - grumpy, mopey, sooky... Read more →