Wednesday 29 February 2012

A Journal of Us

For the last few years my sister and I have lived on opposite sides of the planet.  This is far from my ideal scenario since my life is always much brighter when she is within reach on a daily basis. I love that she's having a wonderful time living abroad and I love hearing about her adventures.  But she's finally coming home this year.  And I cannot wait!

Playing tour guide in London






























One of my favourite things to come out of this time apart is our journal.











































I'll fill a few pages with memories, private jokes, things that inspire me, make me laugh, creative what-nots; and send it halfway around the world to her. Then she keeps it for a time, filling the pages in turn with her own creative touch before sending it halfway around the world to me.  And so it continues.

It's a tradition that has only started in the last six months but one we have resolved to continue for the rest of our lives, no matter where in the world we live.  Even if it's in the same country, city, suburb, street (I can dream!)

What an amazing thing it will be to go back through our journals together, one day down the track and remember all of our shared moments!

She is so special to me, I can't describe just how much in words.  



Belinda x

Monday 27 February 2012

Magical Mystery Tour


















 
As a birthday surprise I was blown away with a seaplane ride.  We flew over the city, up the northern Sydney coastline, turned inland near the Blue Mountains and landed at an amazing restaurant on the Hawkesbury River for lunch.  What an unforgettable experience.  It was incredible to see home from a different perspective.  I heart this town. 

I'd love to hear about your home town.  Where are you from? What do you love about living there?

Belinda x

Thursday 23 February 2012

Celebrations

The best thing about birthdays is the excuse to spend time with family & friends.  And cake.




Meet my gorgeous friend Mel.


We met in our first year of high school. 

Her locker was covered in Guns n Roses & Poison, mine in Kylie Minogue and Craig McLachlan (*cringe* well, it was 1989!!) - and although we were worlds apart when we met, we've been friends ever since.

I'm the lanky one on the left with the bad hair and teeth.  Can you spot super cool Mel?!

As it turned out, our birthdays are 4 days apart, and it's become tradition to celebrate together.

Channelling our '80's idols. Mel = Madonna, Me = Danni Minogue.
Surprised each other with choice head ware  gifts this year :-)

I love our birthday tradition.  I love sharing my life with this girl. Theres ALOT of history and she's been there with me every step of the way. Countless times over the years, we have laughed, cried, danced - girl can busta move let me tell you!

She makes me feel very lucky. And, like she said to me recently, you gotta cherish what ya got.
I do Mel, Happy Birthday my darling friend!!

Belinda x

Monday 20 February 2012

Appletree

Erykah Badu in concert.
Wearing these shoes.
Four rows from the stage.
It's SO amazing when someone you have adored for 15 years exceeds expectations in real life, isn't it !

This pic captures the mood :-)

























Hope you had a joy filled weekend !

Belinda x

Tuesday 14 February 2012

Beloved


Music: Booka Shade; Around You (Quiet).

Every day, I'm glad you're in it with me.

For you husband.

Belinda x

Saturday 11 February 2012

Motherhood


Cinderella, Snow White, Hansel & Gretel.  They all had one.  An alarmingly common theme in fairy tales and even Chinese Literature.

The Evil Stepmother.

As opposed to the Mother, Father, Fairy Godmother, even a bunch of moody dwarfs - the Stepmother is always a villain. Why is that??

As a Stepmother myself, of the non-evil variety (yes, we exist!) I find the association with this cruel, selfish and hateful group of the sisterhood rather unfair!

For want of a better term, my 'Stepdaughter' and I have such a wonderful relationship.  The 'Step' reference feels awkward and impersonal and belies the beauty and depth of our bond.

She is a thoughtful, kind, sweet, bright, funny & creative girl. It's wonderful being a part of her life and watching her grow into a confident little lady.  I take my role as a parent and role model for her seriously.

I'm not her mum and haven't ever tried to be.  She has known me for as long as she can remember. We've grown in this together. She knows I love her with all I have and that I would do anything to protect her.  Just as she knows this from her Father, Mother and her mothers partner.  There's room in her family portrait for all of us. And she's all the better for it.

And so am I. Infinitely.

Richard and I would so love to give her a brother or sister but our efforts over the past few years have been challenging, to say the least.  We remain hopeful that our luck will change (ok, maybe hopeful is a stretch for me right now if I'm honestbut I am trying to be positive). I turned 35 this week.  And motherhood, whether it's naturally gifted or through means like IVF or adoption - is the one thing I wish for. 

But I do realise how lucky I am to have this family of mine.  My life is rich and full with them in it.  All the world and half a pea, I love them even more than this.

Belinda x

Wednesday 8 February 2012

Hug a Porcupine

I absolutely love jewellery. Always have.  

When I was a little girl, I started making my own rings, necklaces and bracelets with beads, FIMO clay or anything I could get my hands on.  I became a master at making friendship bracelets, and as soon as I was old enough to earn pocket money, I'd spend hours poring over the jewellery stalls at the markets. I even thought I might grow up to be a jewellery designer one day. I didn't, but it still lights my fire. 

I'm particular, I know what I like.  I can't resist a beautifully made piece, a unique, clever, bold piece makes my heart skip a beat….must….have..!

I recently came across this cute Etsy shop Hug a Porcupine.  Affordable & fun pieces, I love the hopscotch pin! I went with this twin triangle necklace and the colours are even more vibrant in person.  Makes me happy!


I've got some DIY jewellery projects I want to try out too.  It's fair to say this definitely wont be my last jewellery related post ;-)

Belinda x

Sunday 5 February 2012

It's so easy here with you

A twilight stroll to the beach
BBQ ribs and asparagus panzanella by candle light
House hunting
The Spit to Manly Scenic Walk (8kms)
Manly in our sights

Weekends that start without any plans are the best arnt they!
Hope yours was wonderful :-)
Belinda x
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