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Hello! the mental battle Hello Lidy god's favorite shoes Tattooed martha kristi murhpy
118 138 153 172 174
eleanor mccomb travel, paris a few recipes final thoughts bonus
heLLO LOVELY!
Yessir, that’s me over there, face unobscured by wine glass this time. I was blown away by the support of the first edition last month, and I am so proud to have such a lovely network of friends, new & old, family, former co-workers & classmates - you all rule SO much. I can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am for the lovely comments, shares & “likes”. The lovely comments & messages from people who don’t know me at all was amazing! I love you all. (and a special shout out to my girl Renee Currie from Air New Zealand who persuaded so many of her co-workers to check it out - you’re awesome Renee!) It will sound so dorky, but it’s an incredible feeling to put something out to the world and have people not just read it, but appreciate it. One friend-of-a-friend Kiwi living in the US told me how homesick it made her feel as she could almost hear my Kiwi accent through my writing. I’m not so sure that’s a good thing!!! (Hi Kylee Ayotte!) I’m still finding my feet here and this issue has a similar - yet totally different - feel to the first one. It’s ENTIRELY due to the people I choose to showcase. I am trying to bring you unique, interesting individuals who are doing cool things to inspire you & provide some general voyeurism, of course. Thanks to the ladies who make this issue complete, you are all such amazing individuals. I do need more Likers & Subscribers though! Help me in my quest to do this fulltime by just freely subscribing via email and liking the Rosieteapot Facebook page. You would get your “Cool Points” for the day.
Rosie
Down here in Auckland, New Zealand, we’re enduring winter. Now, don’t get me wrong, our winter is pretty mild compared to plenty of other climates! The thing is, it rains here. A lot. It’s why we enjoy a green, lush city. If you are reading this as the issue comes out, you may notice it’s August. And this was supposed to be the July Issue. We’ve had a bit going on. Besides being a stay-at-home mum with very young children, and along with a bunch of circumstances that have kept me busier than usual, we’ve had a few major storms. One storm resulted in us having no electricity for about 4 days. We actually had to move out of our house until it was fixed thank goodness for family! Needless to say, I’m seriously looking forward to winter being over and I’m extremely jealous of you Northern Hemisphere babes. With those excuses out of the way, let me tell you about the
mental argument I was having with myself
in the shower the other day. It started like this: ‘Arrggghh I’m so useless, my July issue is going to be in August!!’ Then a little voice inside my head replied....“Get over yourself, Rosie. Let it go. Do you really need a ‘July’ issue anyway?” ‘But I told people I was doing a July Issue!’ Rosie 1: ‘Yeah, so? Do you think they’ll be devastated it’s late?’ Rosie 2: ‘Well...no...but....’ Rosie 1: ‘Who do you think you are anyway???’ Rosie 2: ‘Well, I’m sure the cool ladies featured are busting to see it’ Rosie 1: ‘Will a few days or weeks really make much difference in the scheme of things? Do you think those ladies will look back in a year and say ‘Damn that Rosie and her late issue!’ Rosie 2: ‘I guess not...yeah that’s a good point...’ Rosie 1: ‘I’m full of good points. Stop questioning me.’ Rosie 2: ‘But what about my readers?’ Rosie 1: ‘They’ll understand! Get over yourself and just let it go! There are much worse things in the world!’ Rosie 2: ‘Yeah you’re right. OK...please don’t hurt me...’
Now you’re up to speed with the crazy goings-on in my head, let me ask you this:
What are you holding yourself to that you should let go? Because strangely enough, your sanity is very important. (Surprising fact, right?) Is it a kids birthday party? Is it some project you need to say no to? Did you announce on Facebook you were starting some exercise routine but what you’ve actually done is put a tracksuit on and eat chocolate? STOP BEATING YOURSELF UP!
WHO SAYS: • • • • • •
your kitchen should be immaculate at all times you shouldn’t take photos of your food your body should be “perfect” (whatever that is) THIS is lame THAT is lame this stuff doesn’t go with that stuff
So get over it, girl! Do stuff YOUR way in the way YOU need to and STOP beating yourself up over it!
So
You have your own style, you have your own way of doing things, you have your own voice, you have your own beliefs, you have your own ways of being generous, you have your own dish-stacking system.... (And so does your flat-mate/room-mate/partner/husband/cat. ease up on them while you’re at it.) Let’s get into ISSUE 2, the Sort-of-July-but-totallyAugust issue.
GET YOUR READ ON...
BOSSYPANTS By Tina Fey
THIS is the best book I’ve read in ages! Oh and by “read” I meant “listened to” via audiobook, because that’s just how I roll. Someone recently suggested to me “listening” is not “reading” - like using your eyes is somehow not quite as legit as using your ears? Surely it’s about the information you’re consuming? Like paper makes something a bit more precious? Even though it’s totally mass produced as well?? Anyway, apologies for the side-track rant, back to Bossypants. I found this book light, endearing & hilariously funny. It’s not so much a biography, as it is a series of journal entries & essays (which is in line with a person who writes sketch shows.) It helps I am already a huge fan, but if you like a bit of wry, sarcastic humour and/or you’re interested in making it in a male-dominated industry and/or you’re feeling the pressure of juggling worklife & homelife, then you’re bound to get a kick out of this. (If swearwords bother you though, it’s not for you) And if you click here to buy the book, I get approx 36cents - whoop whoop!
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Style
At Home With...
Lidy Dipert hello lidy
Lidy and husband Joel, create beautiful spaces in their home. From putting a modern twist on vintage furniture, to creating coffee tables and floral crowns, their style is flawless. Just when you think you’ve seen all the DIY goodness on their site, you realise there’s heaps more. And here’s the really special part: They have also been in the process of adopting their children (yes “children”, plural!!) and chronicalling all the up’s and down’s. It’s full on.
“There’s nothing worse as a mother
not knowing everything about your childrens past. Not having any baby pictures. Not knowing every bump, bruise or illness. Not knowing if they were cold at night, crying for food or reaching out for someone to hold them. Not having a mother to swoop them up and cradle them in their arms. To kiss their foreheads and whisper how much they are loved. It kills me to think that the only mother they might have known was a sibling only three years older than them. Babies raising babies. That’s the reality. I don’t know the outcome of that pain in their hearts. I see so many signs of fear and insecurity. Still. Even after two years of being loved and cared for. Love is so basic, yet so hard to receive in some homes. And though we pour every bit of love and emotion we can to ensure they feel special, secure and stable, that might just not be enough.
”
What's your favorite room in your house? Our favorite room in our home is the room we spend the most time in: our living room. It’s bright, fresh and holds some of our most treasured pieces we’ve either made ourselves or collected from our favorite antique and thrift stores.
What is happiness to you? Being content with where you are at with what you have.
You've been very open with your journey through adopting your children, do you get overwhelmed with questions about this? When my husband and I first starting the adoption process, we were a bit overwhelmed with all the questions and curiosities in regards to our untraditional family. Since it’s been two years, we have just learned that people ask because they are genuinely interested and that’s not a bad thing. It’s rare we ever have a negative response or encounter!
How would describe yo design style
My husband and I like style Vintage-Inspired original handmade desig while keeping up on curr
d you our interior e?
to consider our design Modern. We integrate gns and vintage pieces, rent trends and designs.
“I
started blogging four years ago because I’ve always been an outgoing and bubbly person. So naturally, when blogging became a huge thing, it felt right to want to start one up. It was an outlet and a way to grow. It was an avenue to create and experiment. I am so happy that I have this blog more than ever, because it helps me share my struggles and stories with others that I know need to hear the truth about how painful life can be. The DIYs and decor posts are areas my husband and I are passionate about.
It would be unnatural not to want to share it with others. Not to mention, connecting with brands and the amazing people behind those brands. They are some of the most brilliant and creative folks I’ve met and they continue to inspire me! It’s such a blessing to be able to stay at home with my kids and make a little money on the side. Best. Job. Ever.
”
“A
while back, Joel and I came across a twin National Parks blanket with the classic stripe design at a flea market. It wasn’t in horrible shape, but it did have a few wear and tears in the material. On one side of the blanket, there were even a couple small holes. That never bothered us, but we wanted to use it for a fun project one day – and we finally did!
”
http://www.hellolidy.com/recovered-mid-century-burke-chair/
Describe your perfect day A relaxing day with my family, where we don’t have any obligations. We can take our time in the morning, enjoy a walk in the afternoon and a nice dinner on the patio in the evening. It’s the simple things that really make for a perfect day!
How do you relax? I love to to think of fun design projects and play around with styling in our home. Keeps my mind off of the stresses of life and focus them elsewhere!
“A
Excerpt from Lidy’s Blog:
doption is a funny thing. You always hear people say, “You are such a blessing to these children. You have given them a new hope and life”. But the truth is, they have blessed us and have given us renewed hope and a new chance at a more meaningful life.
”
What's the best part about being a mom? The best part about being a mom is how it stretches you as an individual. You become a lot less selfish and start to view the world in a much different light. Things you once held dear, dim in comparison to what you have gained in your children - no matter how crazy they make you feel sometimes!
Did you do a double take? I did! This is the Doll House Lidy made for her daughter! How lucky is she?? Check it out
here
a VERY COOL UPDATE: As of July 25, 2014, the three children are finally theirs! Here’s an excerpt from the blog:
“And finally, after so many emotional court hearings. All the ups and downs. Today they will be our sons and daughter. I am humbled. I am in awe. I am thankful that we were chosen to be their father and mother. I am lucky to have experienced what it means to step out into the unknown, lay down all my desires and dreams and receive something far better than I could have ever imagined. Thank you God for blessing our family with the three most perfect people in the world: Holden, Violet and Sebastian. Your love abounds!”
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ems from One Kings Lane e of Hello Lidy. (Click on the to go straight to the item)
Fashion
Diva
Meet Reiko god's favorite shoes The description on Reiko’s ‘About’ page on her website starts with: “Stylist. Wardrobe Consultant. Writer. Blogger. Lover of Shoes.” If it were me writing up her page, I would add a disclaimer about how reading her posts may cause tears. (Seriously, ask my man. He walked in on me crying with laughter.) One such giggle was the reason she gave for dressing up for church:
“If I can’t dress up for Jesus, who else is worth it?!?” That is solid logic right there. And if you’re not into hilarious, comical rants, you need to check out her website, not only for her creative, bold fashion, but to be wowed by these amazing locations and murals she poses in front of. I want to go to there! I don’t even want to add more of an intro here because I feel like I’m just depriving you of vaulable time you can spend reading her hysterically funny musings! Don’t ever stop being YOU Reiko! xxx
Excerpt from Reiko’s Blog:
“D
id I tell you guys the story about a grown woman sucking her thumb in church a few weeks ago? YESSSS! A grown woman! I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT! And she was a fly chick too! Hair was swinging... Louis Vuitton Speedy in her lap... Banging body... She couldn’t have been more than 25. She was the chick guys rap about...not the video vixen type but the “she’s bad” type. She sat in the row in front of me. She turned to the side for something and that’s when I saw it! HER THUMB WAS IN HER MOUTH and she was going to TOWN!
I think I made a noise but the choir drowned me out. I tapped my husband. Alerted the brother in law. Burned a hole in the back of her friends’ heads because they clearly were okay with it. I was distracted from that point on because I was trying to make it make sense in my head. When it was time....”sucky thumb ladychick” got up during altar call for prayer... Ummm hmmm. For a split second I wondered what she was praying for. But then quickly realized it’s not my business. But I wondered. P.S...Before you get wound up...I’m not anti thumb sucking on adults. And yes church is supposed to be a place of worship. But there are distractions anywhere. An adult sucking their thumb should expect to get noticed. #ijs
”
What is your absolute, favourite piece of clothing? Or top 5 if thtat's too hard! 1. I just purchased some sequined pants from ASOS! 2. My white circle skirt from ASOS. (Notice a trend here) 3. I have this super thin Jimi Hendrix tee that I will forever wear. 4. My shopper bag from Zara (The store, not my kid. And yes she is named after the store! LOL!) I’ve had that thing for years and restrain from buying all colors. 5. A purple/red kimono that I thrifted yearrrrssss ago.
What's it like living in Houston? HOT. VERY HOT! Not the sexy kinda hot but the “you need to hydrate if you go outside or the sun will kill you” kind of hot. Also very humid. It’s something you have to get used to. At least that’s what I hear. Houston is also pretty big but you can pretty much get to most places in about 30 minutes. Everything is so spread out. There aren’t necessarily concentrated areas where you find one thing but Houston is home.
How do you relax? Browsing blogs/sites for a while, throw in a quick nap and writing usually do it for me. Believe it or not, you would think because I’m a style blogger that I love to shop. Not so much:)
Excerpt from Reiko’s Blog:
“H
ere are random things I’ve thought lately...I don’t keep a diary so this post will serve that purpose. 1. People will TRY you. I have the rudest co-worker and I strive every day to not forget that I need my job and my insurance because #iswearfogawd! I really try not to give dumb people energy but she got to me this morning. I just hate being in a position where I have to hold my tongue because of office politics. 2. I was watching that show Blood, Sweat, and Whatever and one of the “characters” (I call everyone on a reality tv show a character) acts like she knows it all! She irks my nerve! Well more importantly, people who THINK they know everything IRK my nerve. YOU DON’T HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS MAN! #KANYEVOICE 3. I have noticed that certain people that I have written off have really been making efforts to change and I notice and appreciate it.
4. I am making a conscious effort to be the change I want to see in others. For example, if I want someone to act a certain way, I need to extend that same courtesy to that person. Hopefully, reciprocity, karma...whatever will reveal itself. 5. Decisions I have been pondering. - Buying a jogging stroller (will I use it enough and sometimes I need that hour to excercise without the baby) - Buying the NutriBullet ( bought the Bella “Rocket” single serve blender instead for $20 at Target) - Taking a Hip Hop C lass 6. This I know...people will reveal who they are without often saying a word. 7. I have to give it to myself. I’m pretty funny. Not always intentionally though. lol 8. I can’t control other people. What people want to do, they will do.
9. I need to find a perfectly thin, slouchy v neck tee shirt that doesn’t cut me off at the wrong part of the arms that won’t fade easily. 10. My 8 month old kid is hilarious to me. She laughs at the silliest things and when she giggles it always makes me giggle. I pray that those giggles at nothing at all are ever lasting. Before the world gets a hold of her and she starts twerking and posting videos on Youtube and then I will have to beat her a$%. 11. I hope God hears all of my silent prayers that I pray while I’m cooking, driving, sleeping, watching TV or taking out the trash. I pray a lot . About Zara. For Zara. For me. For my family. For AIRRYBODY. On your knees is not the “only” time God listens. 12. I watch people all of the time. I may never say a word but I’m always peeping people. I even have to catch myself because it’s natural to me. Even when you think I’m not watching you, I am. Sounds creepy but it’s in my nature. I can tell most about a person most by watching them and not by the words that come out of their mouth.
”
Reiko has a section on her website called "Christ Chic" - which is what she calls her church outfits
“Christ Chic is simply what I wear to church. Although this looks like I should be throwing a dinner party or something�
“T
Excerpt from Reiko’s Blog, on Pregnancy:
1. Nobody told me that I would become an Avatar in my first trimester. You know the movie where the Navi’s could be unplugged and they would just fall to the ground?
3. THE BACK PAIN! JESUS GOD ALMIGHTY! It comes in waves and makes me disorriented at times. NEVER have I seen those girls on 15 and Pregnant slow down from “mudding” with their baby daddy or having a fist fight with their own momma because they want to stay out all night instead of taking of their first baby. (Y’all remember that episode? LOL)
Yeah that happend for about 8 straight weeks. I could NOT get enough sleep. I slept every single chance I could get. I even begged the doctor to give me something to make me not sleep. (imagine the eyeroll and teeth sucking I got from her).
Me? One Saturday, I was literally in the middle of cooking bacon when the pain hit. I tried to grimmace through it...you know...because I wanted the bacon but I couldn’t. I had to scream for my husband to come take over while I nearly crawled to the sofa. (Notice I had him finish the bacon.)
2. Nobody told me that my body would rebel against me in the form of pain. Ummm, have you EVER heard one of those girls on 15 and Pregnant say they are suffering from sciatica? HELL NO.
They don’t tell you any of this on TV. Everybody is all happy and glowing and talking about how much their nails grew. Meanwhile, I’m limping around like I was trying out to be a backup dancer for Beyonce but didn’t make the cut.
Those fast tail girls are chasing the high school jocks and putting in job applications at the local barbecue hut in their 2nd trimester! Me... straight numbing pain from my hip to my knee for about 5 weeks straight.
To be honest, these are really my only complaints. Other than walking a little slower, I’ve been pretty darn good. Just some of these things I had no clue about. Now you're informed.
The doctor kind of just took my hand and said “Yeah, welp...nothing much we can do about that.” (Luckily it went away on its own.)
At any rate, I guess that’s why the show is called 15 and Pregnant, not 37 and Pregnant, huh?
his post will merely serve as a “Hey, nobody told me that!” kind of post.
”
Describe your perfect day Listening to Alice Smith, riding around with my husband, making Zara laugh when I make animal sounds, a sweet tea for lunch and a Baseball cookie from Panera Bread, thifting something that I needed, browsing a few interior decorating sites and not having to go to the grocery store or pump gas....Yep, that’s a perfect day for me!
What is happiness to you? “The older I am getting the simpler that answer is becoming. It sounds corny but happiness to me is peace and contentment. I know so many people personally who are never satisfied, never happy, chasing things...and it only makes them more miserable because then they have to find something else to make them happy. Being authentically me is ultimately the goal. That’s something I want to teach daughter sooner rather than later.�
Has being a mother changed you? “Abso-freakin-lutely! I think being a mom made me cooler. I think being a mother is the coolest thing I could have done. I didn’t think I would LOVE it as much as I do. I knew I could do it but I didn’t realize I would love it to pieces. My daughter is so cool and I can’t imagine not having this experience. It also made me want to be a better person overall. Where I was once quick tempered, I’m a lot more tolerant. I want her to be the best possible reflection of me when it’s all said and done. And I would love it if she picked up my sense of style but I believe she is going to protest my love of dresses as soon as she can get a whole sentence formed! ”
Are there any fashion crimes in your past? Absolutely! I recall a time when I would wear panty hose with pants! LOL! What was I thinking!?!? What was the purpose???
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live & why? I feel like I could live in India. I love all things Indian. The saris, the fabric, the opulence, the culture, I would just love it! I might get skinny because I’m a picky eater but I think I could handle it!
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Meet Sasha Tattooed martha Sasha (also known as “Tattooed Martha”) is someone who loves what she does - and it shows. She moved to Portland a few years ago after visiting the city just once. She fell in love with the people and the general “weirdness” that is Portland! Sasha is passionate about life and expresses this through her amazing food, gorgeous crafts, body art & photography. A bit of voyeurism on my part but I particularly love the Daily Life section of her blog!
“C
Excerpt from Sasha’s Website:
ooking is a huge passion for me that I enjoy sharing with others, but I don’t claim to be an expert or professional. I burn and cut myself often, swear more than a sailor, and screw up recipes all the time! I try things out and make those mistakes so YOU don’t have to!
”
Photo credit: Lindsey Rickert Photography
“I
’m a diehard coffee drinker, but I a now and then. One of my favorite flavors to adapt it into cupcake form for a friend’s steeped in warm milk and fresh raspberrie and light cake that paired perfectly with th originally intended to create a summery c enjoyed year-round! Check out the Rec
Excerpt from Sasha’s Website:
also appreciate a good cup of tea every has always been raspberry, so I decided ’s farewell party last Friday. Black tea es mixed into the batter created a moist he airy sweet buttercream frosting. I cupcake, but this combination can be cipe Here
”
Photo credit: Lindsey Rickert Photography
Sasha has an awesome collection of recipes, including vegetarian & gluten-free. If you love taco’s, jalapeños & cocktails, you’ll be right at home!
Tell me about your pets!! (they’re so cute!!) “Thank you! My cat, Punk, has been by my side since I was 14 years old. She’s been there for my first heartbreak, 9 different moves, and was even my road trip companion when I relocated from Iowa to Oregon. I’ve also kind of adopted a stray kitty that was hanging around our house. I’ve nursed him back to good health and he’s got a little cat house on our back deck. ”
“A
Excerpt from Sasha’s Website:
lot of planning has been going on for next several months.. I clearly have spring fever! Punk has been a tremendous help the entire time.. the second I pull out my notebooks and calendars, she quickly makes it her personal lounge or tries to swat at my pen when I write!
”
What is happiness to you? “Happiness to me is being completely in the moment, no matter where you might be. Appreciating every detail of your surroundings and feeling grateful for it.�
Continued... “We also dog-sit our friend’s two Boston Terriers quite frequently - so we consider them our temporary pets. They’re so snorty, farty, and snuggly.. I love it! ”
What do you love most about blogging? “I love being able to set my own schedule and have creative freedom over my content.”
What do you hate most about blogging? “Constantly being connected. Even on days when I have posts auto-scheduled, I still have to share them to multiple social media outlets, answer emails/ questions, and moderate comments. I start to fantasize about disconnecting from technology for a few days and then I get anxiety just thinking about the overload of work I would come back to! .”
“W
Excerpt from Sasha’s Website:
henever I’m out thrift store shopping I always find a plethora of abandoned teacups without their saucer counterpart. I decided to give new life to these beautiful cups by using them as cacti and succulent planters! They’re low maintenance plants and add simple color and texture to your space! See how easy it is to make your own!
”
Where do you find Inspiration? “Vintage or thrift store shopping gives me some of the best inspiration. Being surrounded by old things from the past somehow sparks ideas for something new for the future.”
Where’s Your Favorite Place to Hang Out? “I love to hangout at Delta Cafe here in Portland. It’s just a few blocks from our place, has some of the best Southern-style food around, and deliciously strong cocktails! Sitting out front also provides the best stage for people-watching!
What magazines/books are on your coffee table? “HGTV magazine, Tattoo magazine, and Game of Thrones! Haha I’m trying to work through the book series since I’m such a big fan of the show.”
Describe Your Perfect Day “My perfect day is good coffee, good company, and good food!”
How do you relax? “I love heading to the coast for a day to relax and clear my head, but when I’m not able to get away I love to have a glass of wine (or two!) and cook. ”
And she JUST got married!!
Photo by Corey Bruce Photography
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I’ve also added a bonus photo to the end of this magazine!! Their awesome Christmas Photo...
Kristi Murphy Lifestyle expert Kristi, I’m sure, is the envy of MANY women out there! She has worked on styling and photography for huge brands like Lauren Conrad (!!!), Bon Appetit and Shutterfly. She has even been featured in Forbes. So quite rightly, Kristi Murphy deserves the title “Lifestyle Expert”! Her gorgeously, chic website, KristiMurphy.com, is in fact, an award-winning blog. She generously shares easy DIY ideas for the home, a party, your wardrobe, a fab holiday, delish meal, or a chic wedding.
HER. CONTENT. IS. STUNNING. Kristi is incredibly passionate about creating beautiful things and she is genuine about inspiring others to create chic spaces, lovely accessories, stunning food and so much more. I feel so privileged to feature Kristi & her work here in Rosieteapot Magazine. Be sure to check her website out and stalk her via your fav social networks! http://www.kristimurphy.com
Have you always had a knack for decorating/designing/creating? Or have you developed it? “I’m not sure I’ve always had a knack for it (You’d have to ask others!), but I have certainly always had a LOVE for it! My dad said when I was younger I would sit for hours doing “projects.” He would leave for work in the morning, and I’d be working on something. And I’d still be working on it when he got home. I guess you could say I’ve got the patience for it … lol!”
Have you had any negative experiences in the blogging world? “I have had wonderful experiences working with other bloggers. The community is so full of people who are willing to help each other out at the drop of a hat! The only negative thing about blogging is it’s a lot of work, but it’s so worth it! I wouldn’t trade it for the world! It’s amazing to see your own ideas come to life!”
How do you relax? It might sound crazy, but even though crafting is my job ‌ crafting is also my solace. I love making things. It gives me joy to see a project from start to finish, and when I am knee-deep in a project, I’m not thinking of anything else. It relaxes me and is truly something I LOVE to do.
Describe your perfect day My husband (It is still so weird for me to say that as we got married two months ago) and I had what I called “the perfect day” not too long ago. He surprised me with a trip to a winery about and hour and a half away from our house. I had never been there and had no idea where we were going.The weather was absolutely perfect, and we were there just the two of us as the sun was setting and the breeze was blowing. Oh yeah, and there was wine :-) He surprised me with a whole weekend trip actually, which was amazing. But that day I said to him “was the perfect day.
You can read more about the rest of the trip to the Arizona Winery HERE
What are your favorite patterns, shapes & colors? I am still a sucker for polka dots. Some days I love bright colors, and some days I love black and white and camels and grays.
What is happiness to you? Happiness to me is the time I share with my family and loved ones. It is what fills me up the most ‌ no matter what we are doing!
What books/ magazines are on your coffee table? Lauren Conrad’s ‘Beauty’ and ‘The Wedding Book’
How did you get started blogging? I started a recipe storing and sharing tool called SaucyPants.com. I had a blog attached to it, and that took off so much that I thought it deserved it’s own home. Hence, KristiMurphy.com was born.
How cute are these Tuxedo Party poppers? Check out how to make them HERE
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go & why? I really want to go to London. Confession: I’m fascinated with the Royal Family, so I’m dying to get to London to see the royals in person (you might want to wish me luck on that last one) !
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EleanorMcComb tHE ELM TREE
E
leanor McComb is, in no particular order, an incredibly talented Artist, a Businesswoman, a Mother, an Organiser of Markets and from my observations, a Bringer-Togetherer of People (shall we say). “The Elm Tree” has enjoyed it’s standing as a gorgeous, boutique shop in Parramatta, Australia, and is now an Online Shop. Eleanor stocks her own creations and beautiful finds from local artists and designers with a focus on children, who share the values of sustainability and community. Eleanor had the brilliant idea to run workshops at The Elm Tree, including classses on Book-Binding, gardening, learning Chinese and Stamp-Making. http://www.theelmtree.com.au
Are you nervous moving from a brick & mortar shop to an online one? Terrified. The motivation for me starting The Elm Tree in the first place was to create a job and workplace that would allow me to be with my two children while also working to contribute financially to our household. It is that same reason that is driving the shift to a studio set up with a stronger online system. If it was just about the money the move wouldn’t make sense at all. Not that is is a surprise to anyone, but having a three year old and a one year old in a shop full of small items isn’t fun on a day to day basis. It has been a very successful experience though for a range of reasons and I certainly feel more prepared to take on a web based shop front than I was this time last year.
What are your Highlights & lowlights from running your own shop? At a market one evening two women walked passed the store and one commented on all the wonderful things we had for sale, the other looked up and saw our sign and said ‘Oh, of course they do, it’s The Elm Tree’. Definite moment of pride there. Shops are, by function, interactive (at least if you have customers they are haha) and I have to say that one of the real highlights was being part of something as collaborative as The Elm Tree has been. Meeting all these different creative people and finding the thread that ties us all together into a shop, then finding customers that think the same way that we do. This all leads to a lot of administration though, which has been my least favourite part of the experience by far.
What gives you the biggest buzz from doing what you do? Sales. I know that probably sounds incredibly shallow, but the whole point of the exercise is to make sales, and because we are a small business, and the items I sell are handmade, often one of a kind - it is wonderful to be able to find homes for them. Most especially when it is an original painting of mine.
I could tell you everyone who I have sold originals to - their names, jobs, and a bit about them. Meeting people face to face and being able to talk to them about the story behind my work, and then have them love it so much that they buy it, yeah - that’s the best.
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I like designing things and helping people realise visions they have, whether it is i n v i tat i o n s for a wedding, b u t t o n s for blogs/ websites, large paintings, small paintings... pretty much whatever.
Except from: http://www.eleanormccomb.com/p/me.html
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How do you relax? I put myself in time out. Have a bath, read a book, listen to music. Avoid dealing with my children for a while... When I first started the business it was taking up all my time. I was dreaming about the lay out of the store and would wake up in the morning composing emails to people. I would come home from work and work for hours more until it was time to go to bed, and then I would do it all over again. Now I plan better, and will set aside work for tomorrow so that I can actually be present with my kids and my husband - even though I am doing less hours of work, I am less stressed.
What is happiness to you? For me, it is an inner peace - being comfortable in my world and with the people in it. Happiness is definitely a matter of balancing all the aspects of my life for the best long term outcome. That sounds very sterile, saying it like that, but its taken me a long time to realise that happiness is more than just a passing feeling - its a lasting joy and isn’t dictated by my environment or other people.
You seem to be constantly organising markets & gatherings... does organisation come naturally to you? The true answer is no, and so I don’t know why I keep putting myself through the stress. I do like it though, despite not being terribly good at it, I like working with other people towards a goal and the sense of shared excitement that come from markets and exhibitions, and craft events. I think if business was a race, I would be all about the sprint, because I enjoy running events and markets and then having time off afterwards. This is probably why I have had so many different businesses through the years. I’m trying to fix it - by ‘it’ I mean ‘me’.
Is organising artists / designers like herding cats uphill? (I'm just curious myself!) Sometimes I really feel as though it is, some designers are brilliantly organised - much more than I am - and I never have to worry about them. Others are unreliable, flakey, and totally unfocused. One of the great things about being the boss of the business is that you don’t have to work with people you don’t want to. I am an artist myself, and so I also have to run my own art business as well as the shop, so I definitely have a lot of sympathy for the arty cats I work with.
Describe your ideal day My ideal day would have to follow on from the ideal night where the Samurai (1) stays in his bed the whole night and the Angel (3) doesn’t have horrific nightmares that have him screaming the house down in the middle of the night. I would have enough food in the pantry for us all to eat the things that we feel like eating, nice people would come through the shop for a chat and to pick up come stuff. The boys would behave themselves, Ky (the husband) would call me over lunch. The weather would be lovely and perfect for walking in, and we would walk home after work to have a nice dinner and go to bed. ... In my ideal day, there is no cleaning up after messy children. This day is totally fictional...
“I
went to university and studied biology because I believed that it would offer the most practical career for me, and I like biology. Instead I spent time in Asia, learnt to speak Chinese, came home, met this guy, and got married to him. Then he’s all like “What do you want to do?” And the answer was ART, and he supported me for years while I struggled to learn business skills and apply them to my art... which I had taught myself. He worked jobs he didn’t like, and dealt with employers who were less than kind. We had a son, we travelled overseas for a while and worked together as marketing consultants, and we had another son.
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check out more of eleanor's work here
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The Frugal fashionista's Guide to... By Rebecca Addison
Paris
Ah, Paris. It’s the city of romance; beautiful people sipping coffee on the Champs-Elysees; lanky models in pointy shoes; the river Seine and shopping, shopping, shopping. It’s enough to have you reaching for your passport. Unfortunately, travelling on the humble New Zealand dollar can make a shopping trip in Europe seem out of reach. But as I discovered on a recent trip to Paris, money needn’t hold you back from some great fashion finds. With a budget like mine you may have to miss out on Chanel and Lacroix, but like me, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the amount of great fashion you’ll come home with. I spent five days in the capital with only one thousand dollars in my back pocket. That wasn’t my shopping budget, it was my whole budget. My money paid for accommodation, sightseeing, meals and a suitcase full of clothes and shoes. Impossible you say? Well, read on! Tip number one is that timing is everything – for the best fashion bargains make sure you arrive in Paris around the summer sales. Retailers drop between 50 – 70% off the normal price during the sales, which run from the end of June to around the end of July. Bright red ‘Soldes’ or ‘Sale’ signs line the main streets.
It is important to get in early, but if you think you have to get up at dawn to grab the best bargains think again; most shops and restaurants in Paris won’t even think about opening before 10am. The Marais district in the 4E is a great place to start shopping. This famous medieval area has many wonderful boutiques housing the creations of up and coming designers. Rue de Rivoli is the main street and is lined with department stores, shoes stores and cheap fashion aimed at the young and trendy in Paris. The real finds come in exploring the winding cobbled back streets where you will find antique stores, jewellery designers and young designers selling one off pieces. I loved Antoine et Lili a brightly decorated shop selling home wares and clothing made from beautiful fabrics. You can pick up an outfit here for around 100 euro, and gorgeous accessories from just 15 euro. The Marais has some of the best shoe stores in Paris. A stroll down Rue de Rivoli will take you past numerous little boutiques selling the latest in Italian, French and Spanish heels for surprisingly reasonable prices. The shoes you will find here are beautifully made, often with detail such as ribbon, buckles and hand cut leatherwork. I bought two pairs of heels for just 78 euro.
If it’s big department store shopping you’re after, you can’t go past Gallerie LaFayette. This massive shopping centre houses some of the great names of fashion as well as some more affordable designers. A happy day’s shopping can easily be had in this store alone. There are separate floors for cosmetics, perfume, handbags and hosiery, women’s shoes, women’s fashion and so on. During the sales it’s not uncommon for retailers to be selling end of line stock for as little as 5 euro. I found two fantastic summer tops in baby pink and beige, soft white cotton singlets and funky military style trousers all for a total of 50 euro.
Aside from accommodation, eating out in Paris will be most traveller’s major expense. Main meals at restaurants range from around 13 – 30 euro and the closer to the sidewalk you sit, the more money you pay. Lunch takes around two hours and is the main meal of the day. Restaurants can be seen packed with people enjoying a three-course meal during the early afternoon. Joining in this very French affair is a great way to relax and partake in the Parisian way of life, so plan to spend an afternoon eating out – even if it is just once.
With a bit of know-how it is possible to enjoy the wonderful food Paris offers without spending away your shopping euro. Instead of eating outfor breakfast, do as the Parisians do. Find a local patisserie for some chocolate croissants or a crepe stall for some Nutella and banana crepes. Coffee can be easily picked up from one of the many cafes along the main streets. By eating this way you can pay as little as 4 euro for a delicious French breakfast. As you discover Paris on foot you will see many bakeries, cafes and street vendors selling baguettes and sandwiches, a delectable and filling lunch option that is very affordable. A baguette filled with delicious French cheese and cold meats will set you back only 3 euro. Combine it with some fresh fruit from one of Paris’ many markets and you can cheaply enjoy a gourmet pique–nique. Delicatessens and fromageries (cheese shops) line the streets and are great fun to explore. The more exclusive food shops can be expensive so find what you want to buy and then head to your local Monoprix supermarket where you can find similar marmalades and jams,
mustards and wines for bargain prices. Stocking up your kitchen with French products is not expensive and will make your foodie friends green with envy at your next dinner party. Monoprix supermarkets are dotted all over the city. You can pick up a bottle of French wine here for as little as 2 euro.
No first time visitor to Paris should leave without seeing the major sights. Admission fees can mount up, but with a little forward planning sightseeing shouldn’t eat into your shopping budget. From October – March most major museums such as The Louvre and the Musee d’Orsay are free on the first Sunday of the month and if you’re a student, or are under twenty-five, big discounts are available. If you’re prepared to do some walking you can experience the Eiffel Tower by walking up to the first platform for a cheaper admission price rather than taking the lift to the top floor. The best way to experience Paris is by walking around it, so avoid expensive taxis and walk to your next shopping destination. The metro transport system in Paris is one of the best in the world, so if you have shopped until you have dropped - literally, head underground to one of the metro stops dotted around the city. The metro is easy to use, efficient and cheap. Signs are in both French and English and maps of the metro system are in every station. Some of the major attractions are a good distance apart so it is a smart idea to buy a ‘ten trip’ metro ticket. Shopping in Paris should be an experience. Most of the joy in shopping here is in discovering the unknown.
Leave your map or guidebook at the hotel and get lost in the back streets of the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank or find one of the many outdoor flea markets for a day of antique hunting. Paris is the home to countless specialist stores where you can find gifts that are one of a kind. Everything for the man in your life can be found at Il pour l’Homme – literally ‘It for the Man’, or try some gourmet teas at Mariage Freres, Paris’ first teashop founded in 1854. Handmade Florentine paper products can be found at Melodies Graphiques or treat yourself to some stunning professional quality cookware (or maybe just the souviner apron!) from the famous E Dehillerin established in 1820. Next time you’re thinking of a shopping trip abroad but think Paris is too expensive, remember that it’s not where you travel but how you travel that makes the difference. Some research and planning goes a long way and if you’re prepared to sacrifice some fancy meals and taxi rides there is no reason why you can’t come home with some Parisian fashion finds that you will treasure.
as Rebecca is a new zealander, here's some extra Info for Kiwi's: Getting In Visitors travelling on a New Zealand passport have the luxury of being allowed to enter Paris visa free for up to three months.
Addresses
Money As of June 2014, the national currency of France is the euro (pronounced eu-roh in French). One euro is approximately $1.56 New Zealand dollars, so if you multiply the cost of your shopping purchases by 1.5x you will roughly arrive at the New Zealand equivalent. Il pour l’Homme: 209 rue du Faubourg, Saint Honore. Mariage Freres: 30 rue du Bourg Tibourg, 4e; Temes. Melodies Graphiques: 10 rue du Pont Louis-Phillipe, 4e, Pont Marie. E Dehillerin: 20 rue Coquilliere, 1er, Les Halles.
Have you watched Amelie? It’s one of my fav movies ever! I always thought the cover makes it look all weird and mystical, but it’s not at all! Very cute, quirky little movie - all in French by the way. I love this so much that I bought the sheetmusic a few years ago, and can play most of the soundtrack on the piano from memory! Show-off eh? Watch it here (or grab the DVD!)
random
Recipes
WALNUT MUFFINS Ingredients: 3 or 4 bananas, 1/3 cup melted butter 3/4 cup sugar 1 egg 1 tsp vanilla essence 1 Tbsp coffee 1 tsp baking soda Pinch of salt 1 1/2 cup of flour 1 cup chopped walnuts (toasted or raw)
Method Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F. Mash up your bananas in a bowl, and mix the butter into it. Add the sugar, egg, espresso and vanilla & mix it all in nicely. Sift in the flour, baking soda & salt, stir until it is “just” mixed. Fold in the chopped walnuts. (I like mine chunky, as you can see) Pour the batter into muffin tins. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Use a skewer or a knife to check they’re done. If it comes out clean, get them out of the oven quick-smart! Cool on a wire rack, then enjoy!
VEGETARIAN STIR-FRY Ingredients: Colorful Peppers Asparagus Red Cabbage Garlic Cloves, Crushed Ginger, 3cm Grated Sauce: Lime Juice 1Tbsp Soy Sauce, 1Tbsp Brown Sugar, 2 tsp 1 Tbsp cornflour/cornstarch A little water
Method Fry up the garlic & ginger in some olive oil first. As you can see, I sliced up the red peppers into thin strips, and the orange & green ones into chunks. (Experiment with your slicing!) In a cup, mix up your sauce ingredients, stirring well. You may wish to add a bit more water - you may even wish to add a Tbsp of Peanut Butter! (It’s a stir-fry, you can’t really go wrong) Add sauce to fry pan, keep stirring. Serve on it’s own or on rice or noodles.
HEALTHY BEAN SALAD Ingredients: 1 Can Cannelloni Beans 1 Red Onion 2 Tomatoes 1/2 Cucumber Fresh Herbs: Basil and Mint Optional: Jalapeno Peppers Balsamic Vinegrette: 1 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar 1 Clove of Garlic, Crushed 2 tsp brown sugar Salt & Pepper
Method Drain and Rinse beans . Dice your onion finely. Cut your tomato and cucumber into cubes. Combine Balsamic Vinegrette in jar, shake. Pop everything into a bowl and mix it all together. Easy!
MUSHY PEAS! I know it’s a bit random to add here but I actually make this a lot! You can serve with hot chips (fries) or fresh bread... or even stale bread if we’re being honest. I love it... Ingredients: 1 Cup of Frozen Peas 2 Tbsp Butter Salt & Pepper
Method Microwave peas covered on high for about 3-4 minutes. Throw those into a blender with butter, salt & pepper. Whizzzz! Done! Serve with hot chips (fries) or on fresh bread.
BLACK BEAN BEEF STIR-FRY Ingredients: 500g Beef Sirloin or rump 3 Garlic Cloves, Crushed, 3cm Grated Ginger Spring Onions/ Shallots 4 Courgettes, Sliced 2 Tbsp Black Bean Sauce 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce 1 tsp Sesame Oil Juice of 1 Lime (Sesame Seeds to garnish if you have some)
Method In a hot pan, fry up your garlic & ginger in some olive oil, then add your diced Spring Onions. After a minute or so, add your beef. Once it’s mostly browned, add the black bean sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil and lime juice. You can either add the thinly-sliced courgettes (zucchini) at this point, or as I did, fry up seperately in some more garlic. Style & Serve!
WHITE CHOCOLATE BROWNIES Ingredients: 200g butter, softened 1 1/2 C Sugar 1 C Cocoa 3 Eggs 1/2 C Standard Flour 150g white chocolate, chopped roughly
Method Place butter, sugar & cocoa into your electric mixer and beat for about 4-5 minutes, untill creamy. Into the mix, add eggs one at a time. Beat well with each egg. Stir in flour and chocolate. Pour into a shallow baking tin. Bake at 150째C (300째F) for 1 hour or until the surface of the brownie looks cracked. The centre should seem a little bit uncooked. Cool in tin, then cut into squares. Dust with icing sugar - it covers up the mistakes ;-)
EASIEST PIZZA DOUGH RECIPE Ingredients: 1 1/2 Cups Self Raising Flour 1/2 Cup Water
Method Whizz in Food Processor Roll out! Add more flour if you need to. Add toppings & cook!!! Great for leftovers - on right i have leftover roast veges, tomato paste & cheese.
(If you can’t be bothered doing that, this one on the left was just a tortilla.)
HUMMUS! Blend: - 1 Can Chickpeas, (rinse them first) - 1Tbsp Tahini (or peanut butter if you’re desperate - I won’t tell) - Lemon Juice to taste - Crushed Garlic Whizz that up then if it’s too dry, add a little olive oil. I sprinkled with Paprika and served with Homemade Pita Crisps (which was pita pockets, sliced up, broiled with garlic & olive oil)
Mix of the Month My Bloody Mary! I don’t mess around - I just make a huge jug / pitcher. If it’s just a couple of people, I’d make less and strain it. Ice! 300ml vodka 1 Litre Tomato Juice 2 teaspoons Worcestershire 2 tablespoons Horseradish 1 Lemon, cut into wedges Black Pepper to taste Hot sauce to taste Stuff for garnish - celery, tomatoes, lemon or limes (I prefer lemon for this drink), pickles - think chunky thoughts. Combine all ingredients into a jug filled with ice. Stir like crazy - no, really. Stir. Garnish & serve!
Final Thoughts Here’s a few reasons to Like the Rosieteapot Facebook page: 1. You’ll get to see “Behind the Scenes” photos like this... (exciting stuff right?? Yeah, I’ll up my game) 2. You’ll get to see little updates on people I feature in this mag...I’m quite the stalker and they have no idea. 3. You’ll learn things like... I don’t know... things... 4. I’m planning to grow, so one day you can say “Oh Rosieteapot? Yeah, I was like, one of the first 200 to like her Facebook page. We’re totes best friends. She wanted to braid my hair and I was all, no thanks weirdo.” So go over there now and leave a comment!! Say hi!! I’ll love it!! Perhaps too much!! AND Subscribe to the Email List so you know when it’s coming out. Because I tend to be unpredictable with these things... Safest to Sign Up to be in the know...
Pure. Awesomeness. i am so looking forward to the wedding photos! You can follow too at: Tattooed Martha Photo credit: Lindsey Rickert Photography
THANKs
s for reading! those links again
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