Spring in your step

There's nothing like an afternoon of pampering to make you feel new again (and all tingly-soft and glowing)... A few days ago we jumped into the car and took the 90 minute drive North-West of Melbourne to Daylesford, in the heart of mineral springs country. It was a grey and blustery day - perfect for some warming up in a mineral bath. As I left the house, I couldn't resist a photo of the beautiful autumn treetops around the neighbourhood:

The trip through the autumn countryside was misty and gorgeous. Huge gums flashed past as we wove in and out of the forest, past paddocks and over bridges. I have such a romanticism about the country with its painted homesteads, gorgeous gardens and fresh air that brings the pink to your cheeks. Here's a 20-second snapshot of the trip:

Highlander

The other day my Asos utility jacket arrived in the mail, all hooded and enormous and cosy. I've been enjoying enveloping myself in it as the Melbourne cold slowly encroaches. I've also noticed that it's been making me see new possibilities in previously unexplored makeup colours. At the moment I'm loving the contrast of a hot pink lip or cheek against the subdued military tones. My favourite colours are NARS 'Desire' or the Stila 'Custom Colour Blush' (for a more subtle effect). Dust a small amount across the tops of the cheeps for instant snow-bunny glamour.

The last sunny Saturday

A morning coffee with the paper and an olive oil tin for a chair / flowers for the table / a sunny welcome 

Nobody likes a pore

One of these days, I'll find a way to display the product so that it's actually visible on screen  =sigh= ...In the meantime, you'll have to take my word for it...

Rock it like a lady

For some of you it's Springtime - and for the rest of us, we wish it was. Either way, get into the vibe with  ladylike pastels. luxurious treats and a hint of peach on the lips or cheeks. Cup of Lady Grey, anyone?

Pamper me please

Create your own day-spa at home with some of these soothing products. For a cheap and easy treat, I also like to create my own home treatments:

• yoghurt and honey mask: honey has antiseptic and antibacterial properties while yoghurt is reputed to moisturise and mildly exfoliate the skin (due to its lactic acid content). Mix equal parts yoghurt and honey together well, adjusting the mixture so that it is not to runny. Slather on whilst in the bath (avoiding the eye area) and relax for 5 or 10 minutes. Follow with a gentle scrub for silky-smooth skin.
• you can also experiment with strawberries, egg white and oats for quick and easy freshening facial masks.

Take me to where the sun still shines

Think South of the border, holidays in Mexico and partying until the sun rises. Shimmy in bronze & gold, tassels, vintage jewelry and jewel-bright eyes: more is more when you're in this mood.

Beautiful weekends