Today I Am Loving – Page 7

Category: Today I Am Loving

Grown Alchemist ♥

I was given this gorgeous Grown Alchemist Vanilla & Orange Peel Hand Cream several years ago and I have become a convert. I love their whole philosophy:

Grown Alchemist is a new generation of organic skincare formulations comprising of natural technologies that have revolutionised the traditional approach to anti-aging skincare, body and hair care. It is now not only preferable, but finally possible, to achieve real beauty results without harmful chemicals.

As I am approaching my mid-40’s I am witnessing the gentle signs of aging and ‘anti-aging skincare‘ is now on my radar! I was a teenager in the 80’s where brown was cool. If only I hadn’t spent so much time laying on that lilo in the pool with copious amounts of Coconut Reef Oil on! 😎

Grown Alchemist

Reef Oil

Friday, 21 November 2014 0 Comments Short URLAnti-aging skincare, Grown Alchemist, Hand Cream, Reef OilToday I Am Loving

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Pannier ♥

I received this text message from my sister, Rob today and it made me ponder my poor panniers.

Being a self-confessed ‘gear-freak’ I have accumulated an amazing amount of gear that was put to good use over many, many years – snowboards, snowshoes, tents, stoves, bivvy bags, sleeping bags, climbing gear and … cycle touring panniers.

Ortleib Panniers

However, this bundle of outdoor gear, worth thousands of dollars is now sitting idle under our house. I had grand plans pre-children to continue my outdoor adventures with little tackers in tow, but to be honest I haven’t fulfilled my ideals. Apart from our boating adventures, we haven’t taken Poppy and James on any overnight bushwalks yet, for no particular reason. I need to bust out of my routine and get them out there! I look forward to the day when we can wander amongst amazing mountains together.

My gorgeous red Ortlieb panniers have been laying, patiently waiting too. Waiting for the day when they are packed to the brim, popped on a bike and ridden into the sunset. It has been a long time since I have done any cycle touring which included a trip around the West Coast of Tasmania with my old friend Jen (Tetley). There is nothing better than seeing those kilometres tick by, your thoughts slowing to the gentle pace, seeing landscapes from a different perspective and sleeping soundly after a long day.

These poor panniers have also copped a bit of pressure from my husband who has been suggesting I pop them on Gumtree, but I have continually refused. I know I don’t use them at the moment, but one day I will, and selling them will be selling a dream … my dream.

I will take those beauties across France and Italy one day, where I plan to ride along meandering roads, stopping for a baguette and cheese for lunch. I’ll continue on, cycling across the countryside with my red companions until my legs become weary and I pull into a little village, pitch my tent and have a simple meal of escargot and local wine!

I am not ready to part company yet as we have more adventures to share together! Until then, you can borrow them Rob and I hope you enjoy their company! Xx

Cycle Touring

Ortlieb

Tuesday, 11 November 2014 7 Comments Short URLCycle Touring, Ortlieb Panniers, outdoor adventures, Outdoor Gear, TasmaniaToday I Am Loving

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The Wife Drought

I’ve just sunk my teeth into a new book by Annabel Crabb – The Wife Drought:

‘I need a wife’

It’s a common joke among women juggling work and family. But it’s not actually a joke. Having a spouse who takes care of things at home is a Godsend on the domestic front. It’s a potent economic asset on the work front. And it’s an advantage enjoyed – even in our modern society – by vastly more men than women.

Working women are in an advanced, sustained, and chronically under-reported state of wife drought, and there is no sign of rain.

But why is the work-and-family debate always about women? Why don’t men get the same flexibility that women do? In our fixation on the barriers that face women on the way into the workplace, do we forget about the barriers that – for men – still block the exits?

The Wife Drought is about women, men, family and work. Written in Annabel Crabb’s inimitable style, it’s full of candid and funny stories from the author’s work in and around politics and the media, historical nuggets about the role of ‘The Wife’ in Australia, and intriguing research about the attitudes that pulse beneath the surface of egalitarian Australia.

Crabb’s call is for a ceasefire in the gender wars. Rather than a shout of rage, The Wife Drought is the thoughtful, engaging catalyst for a conversation that’s long overdue.

I love her account of ‘wife work’ – utterly invisible to the national economy, but significant to the wellbeing of a family and goes onto describe what the position description may look like:

Opening exists for leader of small, spirited team in a vibrant but often chaotic environment. Applicant must be mature and patient, as team members may at times be prone to sudden mood swings, unorthodox social techniques, strategic tunnel vision and outright insubordination.

Applicant will have responsibility for cleaning, laundering, tutoring, light maintenance, heavy maintenance, procurement, occupational health and safety, occupational therapy, nutrition, ethical guidance counselling, transport, skills training, intra-team human resource management, outsourcing, mentoring, mediation, education and sanitation.

Fine motor control and calm temperament a must. Creative experience and demonstrated innovation strong advantages, esp. capacity to construct, for example, a plausible bat costume from basic household items in under ten minutes.

Some tasks may be repetitive. Formal performance assessment very limited, through applicant may self-assess regularly in bleaker moments.

Salary nominal.

A recommended read so far!

Tuesday, 4 November 2014 0 Comments Short URLAnnabel Crabb, Book review, The Wife DroughtToday I Am Loving

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Bassike ♥

I have been a late convert to the brand bassike but I am now sold. I recently purchased these stripey numbers in Melbourne and they have been on high rotation ever since. I love their soft organic jersey and how lovely it feels on your skin.

The bassike philosophy is all about creating wardrobe staples with longevity; combining timeless style with premium quality and sustainable fabrics.

The beauty of bassike is its appeal to men and women whose easy-going style still requires an element of subtle luxury. bassike’s very specific aesthetic is influenced by the contrasts of loose Australian beach style and the integrity and simplicity of Japanese design.

Monday, 13 October 2014 0 Comments Short URLbassike, Organic jerseyToday I Am Loving

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PJ ♥

Masini & Chern

Today I am sharing a little PJ love! My range of sleepwear leaves a lot to be desired as I have never successfully found a pair of ‘jammies’ that are stylish, yet comfy at the same time.

My sleep attire can range from a long-sleeved t-shirt adorned with Nick’s boxer shorts or other random pants. Being a reptile – I always feel the cold and so I prefer long sleeves and pants (sorry Nick, I’m not one to slip on a slinky number unless it is over 30ºc at night, which is rare in Hobart)!

I recently came across Masini & Chern and like their founders, I have definitely been frustrated with the lack of stylish product available:

Masini & Chern is a luxury sleepwear line providing stylish and comfortable designs for both men and women. Based on the traditional pyjama with a contemporary twist, each season Masini & Chern provides an edited selection of chic and fashion forward prints. Perfect for situations like breakfast with house guests, pre wedding prep and new mothers in hospital.

Masini & Chern

Friday, 26 September 2014 2 Comments Short URLMasini & Chern Pyjamas, SleepwearToday I Am Loving

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The Water Police

I’m the self-proclaimed ‘Water Police’ in our household – always making sure my peeps are well hydrated as I truly believe that drinking water is one of the keys to good health.

I have been lugging around my favourite Nalgene Water Bottle for over 10 years – it has had many adventures with me, but I often find it on the bulky side:

Nalgene Bottle

I recently came across the memobottle – a slimline bottle that is the shape of a piece of paper – now you’re talking: 1408280582

Ever looked at your carry bag to realize that your water bottle is not worth the squeeze? Resembling the shape of a piece of paper, the memobottle is a slimline, premium designed reusable water bottle which suitably slides into your favorite carry bag alongside your computer, books and valuables. The memobottle brings leak-proof hydration to a new level of style and efficiency.

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Monday, 22 September 2014 0 Comments Short URLmemobottle, Nalgene Water Bottle, Patagonia StickerToday I Am Loving

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Dombo ♥

I recently came across this adorable cup via Thirteen Red Shoes and immediately ordered one for James (or was that for me?). Bec even hand-delivered the Dombo directly to our door, beautifully wrapped. Now that is service for you – thank you!

Dombo (a.k.a. Domoor) by Richard Hutten for Gispen is a happy cup with big ears for handles.

Dombo’s design refers to the human ear; the only part of the body that keeps growing during a lifetime. The big handle offers grip, which suits young and old. This decorative cup can also be used as a pen holder or herb container in the kitchen.

James and his Dombo

Dombo

Dombo Cup

Thursday, 28 August 2014 1 Comment Short URLDombo Cup, Richard Hutton, Thirteen Red ShoesToday I Am Loving

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UNIQLO ♥

After my trip to Melbourne I am now loving UNIQLO – the fabulous clothing store with its iconic logo, a distinctive Japanese flavour and the best customer service I have experienced for some time:

Our name comes from the words ‘unique’ and ‘clothing’ – simple and clever, just like our clothes, which are world-famous for being high-quality, innovative, functional and affordable.

From one store in Hiroshima, Japan in 1984, we have grown to more than 1300 stores in 15 countries. Through Asia, London, the USA and Europe, our life-enhancing apparel has been embraced and loved by all.

To keep such high standards and reasonable prices, we design and manufacture every single item ourselves, although we do like to collaborate with interesting and inspiring people.

Uniqlo

One could be perturbed by all those down jackets thinking it was just another outdoor store, but don’t give up because after a bit of digging I came across beautiful soft cashmere jumpers, stylish Oxford shirts in all the colours of the rainbow and these fabulous skinny cords that fit like a glove and were only $29! Bargain!

Cords

UNIQLO

Thursday, 14 August 2014 0 Comments Short URLCorduroy Skinny Jeans, UNIQLOToday I Am Loving

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Melbourne : Shopping : Girlfriends ♥

Ever the sentimental one – this time exactly two years ago I was in the delightful city of Paris for four days to wander to my heart’s content. Ah Paris how I miss thee!

It may not be Paris, but this morning I am off on my annual trip to Melbourne with the girls. Jo, Jen, Cherida and I converge on this cultural delight and are swept away with being in a big city, away from the dependable cries of our wee ones and most importantly … being with each other. 💋

Friday, 8 August 2014 1 Comment Short URLGirls Weekend, Kat McLeod Illustration, Melbourne Shopping TripToday I Am Loving

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Silver Spoon ♥

Silver Spoon

I was quite taken aback when I opened my mail this week and discovered this fabulous book – The Silver Spoon for Children all packaged up with orange wrapping. It was from the Jetstar Thankyou Department!

After our flight to Sydney in May I posted this photo of Poppy on Instagram with the hashtag #Jetstar. I received a request from Jetstar to advise them of our address and 6 weeks later this book arrived with a personal note!

Jetstar

I was very impressed and quite astounded by their exceptional customer service … or maybe it was because they think I am an awesome Mum – ha ha! Either way, it is a wonderful book with beautiful recipes and illustrations. Here’s to more cooking with Poppy – Thank You Jetstar!

The Silver Spoon