Winter is definately starting to show itself here. Its getting harder to brave getting out of bed in the mornings and the evening chill starts to set in around 4pm.
With the cooler weather upon us, its a good excuse, well for me anyway, to fix some good old family favourites in the kitchen. Wholesome, filling, tummy warming recipes that are just too much to eat in the Queensland summer and have a special place in our home in the cooler months.
I've been super busy, and perhaps getting a little carried away, in the kitchen this afternoon after picking up some very well priced vegetables at the fruit shoppe today.....how could I not stock up on pumpkin at only 29 cents a kilo!!
The kitchen has been a buzz with 5 recipes underway all at once.....and let me tell you the house smells delightful! A traditional lasagne, vegetable lasagne, pumpkin soup, banana cake, caramel cakes....mmmmm yum!
What I am most looking forward to though is a slice of that fresh banana cake with my cuppa tonight when I snuggle under the douvet to watch my favourite shows, Greys and DHW.
Banana cake was a childhood favourite in our home. I always remember looking at the bananas starting to get a little past their best and excitedly thinking...oh shame, now mum will have to make a banana cake! I look forward to sharing our favourite recipe with you tomorrow!
Until then enjoy your evening and keep warm!
Tash
Is it any wonder vintage fashion is yet again doing the rounds? The styling of bygone years was so good at flattering female curves and, lets be honest, we are not all slender size 6 models who can make a potato sack look good, curves are something most women have!
For lovers of womanly curves, the nipped-in waists and figure-hugging shapes of the 40's and 50's styles, offer a wake-up call to the female form – reason enough for curvy girls to celebrate and head for their nearest boutique!
Not only to they look great, but vintage dresses draw me in on another level. They seem to capture a time lost in the busyness of today's society; A time when life appeared so much simpler; where families and communities were stronger and more united; of days at the beach and picnics on a Sunday afternoon....yes you guessed it, I AM a hopeless romantic.....but do you know what I mean? I think vintage, I think simple, fun and romantic.
Although some high-street stores have vintage departments and vintage inspired pieces, Second-hand chic is truly for the hunter gatherers of fashion - those who love the thrill of the chase… On their mission to seek out the perfect outfit, these creative shoppers get a kick out of the challenge that carries its own reward – a stylish ensemble with flair, quirky appeal and a unique personality.
Sure you may pick up a rare bargain on the off occasion; But seriously, who does have time, or the money, to drive all over town looking for that one off, perfect dress?
While on the search for a vintage Tea Dress I stumbled across the fabulous works of Western Australian designer Rebecca Williams. Her recently established boutique business creates stunning, whimsical 50's inspired dresses using vintage fabrics....and the great thing is that at prices between $80 and $110, your one off original won't break the bank!
Rebecca's designs are perfect for running around town, , enjoying a sunny picnic, a romantic summer's night, High Tea or sophisticated soirees. Alternatively, just as beautiful teamed with leggings and a cardi to take you through the cooler months.
Accessorise with vintage pieces such as jewelery, scarves and belts to add the final flourish to an otherwise contemporary outfit. Mix and match your high-street staples with one-off finds and make your own statement.
I know all too well from personal experience that when you or someone in the house suffers from food allergies, life gets pretty complicated. Grabbing a bite to eat while out and about, or even celebrating at parties can be almost impossible without taking your own food along or taking a considerable amount of time to check ingredients...usually then coming up emply handed.
With more and more children, and adults, displaying signs of food intolerences and allergies Whimsy Petite Styling is very conscious of having clients check with their guests if they have special dietary needs so that we may include suitable foods for them in our catering, leaving them to relax and enjoy the celebration with everyone else. We also label foods accordingly so ease confussion of whats safe for them to consume on the table.
I came across a great little business with the same understandings you may want to check out! Allergy Riders founder Amy Dowling, has created a range of cupcake papers and food flags ideal for the hostess looking to ensure all of her guests are catered for safely, and without confussion. Included in the range are tags for gluten free, egg free, dairy free, vegan, nut free and various combinations of "free" foods.
What a great idea!
