Who is Jean?

Marion Jean Haw was born on the 7th day of March, 1923 to farmer parents Marion (Paynter) and Amos Haw in the cute little district of Koroop, near Kerang in Northern Victoria. Jean, as she preferred to be know, was the second eldest in a family of 10 children, four of which - twins Mary and May, daughter Mavis and son William -  died not long after being born. They are the bare bald facts of Jean's early life....

Grandma Jean sitting on the stool - what a cutie !

Jean is my much loved Grandmother, and it was so moving to hear the tributes of admiration spoken by her 4 children and 13 grandchildren at her funeral in October 2006 . She was so much more than a bunch of dates and figures - she was a living breathing epitome of love and service to those she cared about. Grandma Jean wanted to be a nurse and would have been very well suited to the occupation, however, she married my Grandpa, Clive - a local dairy farmer, in 1945 and began on a career of wife and mother instead. This was a career she undertook with as much care and perfection as she did everything - something that was reflected at her funeral. Her cooking which was second to none, her immaculate knitting and sewing, her breathtaking style (she was renown for it in her small hometown of Cohuna) were all discussed in reverend tones ! As was her encouragement of the wearing of singlets and petticoats in her grandchildren !!! (Advice I usually never heeded !!)

Clive and Jean on their wedding day in 1945

Grandma Jean spent her life in the service of others, firstly as a child caring for her younger brothers and sisters, then as a wife to a busy and successful farmer and then as mother to 4 vivacious children. By the time we grandchildren came along, Grandma Jean was well versed in wild kids, something that I am sure I was - I remember playing peek-a-boo under her petticoat, and being awfully cheeky !

Living through the war years and Great Depression made Grandma very resourceful and frugal - something we need to value today ! I remember drawing pictures on sheets of butchers paper she saved from her grocery shopping, and playing with tin toys, games and books that had belonged to my Aunts and Uncles (wonderful!!!), playing 'horse and carriages' with a pair of old stockings, not to mention being encouraged by Grandma in my teenage years to re-elastic my underpants to make them last longer - something a 15 year old in the late 80's found quite horrific ! Silly me !

Grandma Jean (centre) as a little girl probably around 1930

There was always a pot of home-made apricot jam on the breakfast table, freshly squeezed orange juice for morning tea, lamb chops and veggies with the divinest gravy the world has ever seen for lunch, and scrumptious, decadent goodies for afternoon tea at grandmas, all cooked on the wood fired stove with no temperature gauge.....she just knew how to cook !

Grandma's garden was oh so pretty - I used to imagine it was "New Moon" or "Green Gables" from the LM Montgomery books. A darling little green painted 1950's wooden home on the edge of a meandering river and backed by State Forrest, it had a blossomy orchard to play in, and all the delightful old fashioned flowers to fill ones world with colour and magic - hydrangeas, crepe myrtle, hibiscus, cottoneaster, elephants ears, violets, gladioli and of course, magnificent scented and velvety roses.

As for the things Grandma loved herself, well, I must say that Grace Kelly and British Royalty were both things that Grandma admired and followed with pleasure.......isnt there always the fanciful longing for elegance and beauty in every girl??

A beautiful and somewhat rare Haw family photograph, Marion and Amos with their 6 surviving children. My beautiful Grandma Jean is third from the right. Isnt she stunning? Grandma was ofton told she looked like the Queen, a compliment she no doubt revelled in !

Grandma Jean's life was not a perfect one, but to me as a child, it seemed so. Surrounded by family and friends, and living on a farm that should have been in a story book just seemed like such a pretty dream to me. Truth be told however, it was Grandma who made her world as beautiful as it was - she filled her garden with colour and beauty, she gave such flair to everything she did - the way she dressed, the way she cooked, the family events she hosted. I adored my Grandma Jean, and she taught me much about striving for the best in ones life, living to make the world a prettier, more beautiful place, serving other people gladly,  making the most of what you have personally and around you, and dressing with flair ! These are valuable lessons that I will always treasure as I remember my Grandma Jean - more than a name on a family tree, Jean was a woman who inspired and passed on so much of herself to her children and grandchildren......her legacy will continue on  down through the generations to come, no matter if they realise her impact or not, she will be there in their acts of kindness, service and love to others. Grandma Jean you are adored and loved still.

What do the women in this post all have in common? Read on and find out.....

December 2012: In an update to this post from 2009, can I just share that my marriage was falling apart when I wrote this - I chose to wear  the blame, and was surrounded by people who told me 'mental instability' was the cause of my problems.. In retrospect I now know this was not the case and any 'instability' was a symptom of the end of the marriage, not the cause. I have not had depression (other than normal 'bad times') since I left my marriage, have not taken anti depressants from 5 months after I left, and am back to the generally positive person I have always been (save for the months surrounding the death of my Nanna). Just needed the world to know that, although depression/mental illness is nothing to hide from, it is usually a BIG sign that something in your life needs to change or be addressed. Having done that, I now know freedom from it's debilitating effects, the words of the following article will enlighten you to my condition at the time........


In 1965 The Rolling Stones recorded one of their classic hits, Mothers Little Helper. (It was released in 1966.) This song always mystified me....what was it talking about? There was something in the song that I found quite compelling lyrically, even though I am not a huge Stones fan. It is only in the last couple of years that I researched the meaning behind the lyrics, and low and behold, I found that it was something I could identify with.....


This song is about a housewife who abuses prescription drugs to "get her through the day." It turns around the image of a suburban housewife, who is usually portrayed as cooking and caring for her family, by showing her as a drug abuser.
 Mick Jagger: "It's about drug dependence, but in a sort of like spoofy way. As a songwriter, I didn't really think about addressing things like that. It was just every day stuff that I'd observe and write about. It's what writing is for really. "
 

OK, so I am not saying that I am addicted to prescription drugs ! What I do note from the song was Mick Jaggars observation that housewives of the time were struggling - harried, frazzled, disillusioned and more than likely depressed - and so resorted to drugs (in this case vallium) to help them. Depression existed in the early 1960's, in much the same circumstances as it does today.


There were many noted cases of women who were struggling with various manifestations of depression and post natal depression in the early part of last century. Often times these unhappy, misunderstood women were committed to institutions, in some cases remaining there for life ! It was also prevalent in Hollywood - so many leading ladies suffered terribly with depression and mental illness. My adored Gene Tierney was one of them, Judy Garland, Francis Farmer, Vivien Leigh, Veronica Lake, and famously Marilyn Monroe are others. Depression does not discriminate between the famous, wealthy, middle class, working class, men, women, oppressed or successful, and it often manifests itself in different ways depending on the person, or circumstances.

Unfortunately, I am someone who is prone to the damn thing, and since having my children, I have really struggled. I can really understand the feelings of  those women in the 1960's who required a 'mothers little helper' to get through each day. It can really wear you down giving of yourself to other people 24 hours a day, particularly when you are an idealist like me !! Mother and idealist are not happy companions ! Children will never behave ideally, and my mothering - try though I might - will never be 'ideal' either ! So in writing this rather serious post, I simply want to share my own personal struggle, and let other sufferers know that whatever form of depression may they battle with, they are not alone !


One thing that has astounded me as I deal with depression - which has involved going on anti-depressants in recent times - is the huge amount of people with the same issues. One friend, who is head of nursing at a nearby large hospital, told me that every nurse there who had young children was on anti depressants !! Depression takes a number of forms - depression, anxiety, bipolar (formerly called manic depression - unexplainable and extreme  highs and lows) and postnatal depression being the main culprits.

When I lost my Nanna Alice on top of a number of other stress factors in my life, it tipped me into a depression that lasted a number of months, the symptoms of which were that I was unable to enjoy anything, found it difficult to get out of bed, and had no motivation for the things I had once enjoyed, and had thoughts of self harm.


Thankfully I recovered. However, when I had my children, because the symptoms of my second bought with depression were very different, I didn't recognise that I had the illness again. This time around the symptoms were an anxiousness/fear of connecting socially anywhere I might have to take my kids, feelings of isolation, withdrawing from friends and family, inability to hope or dream (something that has always been a BIG part of me), feeling sad or miserable, trapped, frustrated, inability to enjoy my children, no desire to participate in my children's lives any longer, blaming myself for everything that went wrong, and extreme over-activity to fill the 'emptiness'. I do have alot of inner strength, so for a number of years I simply 'braced up', put on a smile and carried on until I could no longer avoid the slide into darkness.

Fortunately for me, my husband, my sister Tanya and my dear friend Brooke have been an amazing source of understanding, forgiveness, support and love over the past 6 months. That said, for those who are caring for someone with depression, PLEASE take care of yourself......it is a rotten job, make sure you are well supported yourself and surround yourself with people who can care for you, and take regular breaks and respite !


My 'support group' simply listened to my heartaches, continued to love me despite myself, and when the need became so great, helped me start on the little white serotonin pills that have made such an enormous difference to my outlook and perspective in the last 6 weeks. Couple that with counciling and allowing myself time to really search my soul, I have discovered alot of things about myself that I can begin to address to help me understand and recognise problems in the future. The future for me looks promising now !

n sharing this, I simply want my story to be a source of encouragement to others.....if you are struggling, you might like to take some time to have a look at the Beyond Blue website which is chock full of great advice and tips, encouraging stories, self analysis, contacts and information. I'd also like to encourage you to share your stories here if you feel like it...... writing is such tremendous therapy for me, you are more than welcome to 'purge' here too - you just never know whom it might bless in the long run.

Whatever you do, don't ignore it, and 'don't go running for the shelter of mothers little helper' - make sure you get proper medical help and advice, surround yourself with people who are compassionate, positive and understanding, and take time out for yourself and the things you once enjoyed. Left untreated, depression can destroy marriages, friendships, employment and careers, not to mention everything wonderful you were created to be ! It is very real and very debilitating, - may you be engulfed in waves of faith, hope and love enough to lift your heart to a place of freedom, peace and joy today and ever on.

Love to you all today.

Movie Club - May 2010

The Movie Club movie for May is the cult classic "The Girl Cant Help It" starring Tom Ewell and the incomprible Jayne Mansfield. Known as one of the first 'Rock and Roll' pictures, the film features a number of performances from classic artists such as Fats Domino, The Platters, Little Richard, Gene Vincent, The Treniers, The Chuckles, Johnny Glenn, Nino Tempo, Eddie Cochrane, Abbey Lincoln and Eddie Fontaine. It is worth watching simply for the music !!

As usual with the movie club, it's the third Thursday of the month - so join us wherever you are in the world and feel free to comment with your review of the film at any time !

Flower of the Season - Autumn 2010

Isnt it beautiful? And very very hardy too !! This Autumn the flower of the season is the pretty 'Cosmos' flower, sometimes known as the Mexican Astor. Native to Mexico (obviously!), this pretty little plant is an annual, but oh so easy to grow from seed, or you can obtain seedlings from your local nursery.  It is known as a wildflower in it's native land, but suits the wild cottage garden look here in Australia. They will readily self seed so you can either collect the seed heads at the end of flowering and store then in a dry brown paper bag for use next year, or you can simply let the seed fall where they will and watch for new plants in the coming spring. (Here where I live, unless tended, most garden seeds will not reproduce in the wild, however you may want to be a bit more careful of 'escapee's in other parts of Australia that receive higher rainfall that the semi arid inland where I am.)

 The plant in the photographs is actually growing in quite a dry but mostly shaded part of my garden, however this is not the best spot to make the most of your cosmos.....better to be in full sun with well drained, moderately rich soil.

Cosmos is wonderful as a picked flower in cottage garden type bouquets alonside other 'wild' flowers such as Queen Annes Lace, Love in a Mist, Kiss me quick, and Cornflowers. (Arnt some of those plant names just dreamy? Whoever handed out those 'common' plant names deserves a big trophy of appreciation from romantic old me!!) I grow my cosmos to add a sunny little lift to my garden at this time of year (and in spring too), but also because I love to pick bouquets for people - an inexpensive way to show loved ones you care about them - and you simply cannot beat cosmos to add that delicate something to a solid bunch of roses or geraniums. There's nothing like a little bit of 'wild-ness' in your life now and again!

1950's Heart Throbs

Who knows when the term "Heart throb' first came into vogue, but we all know what it means ! Usually in reference to a guy who gets your heart racing ! There were many such men in the 1950's, and I am going to post a few film/performance clips of them here - they get my heart racing anyhow! Let me point out that this is not about musical ability, or handsomness, or even talent, it is purely about the possession of a certian indifinable quality that is, quite simply, captivating........ here we go.......

Elvis Presley - Fame and Fortune

RIcky Nelson - It's Up to You

Cliff Richard - The Young Ones

Eddie Cochrane - Dont blame it on me

The Beatles (Paul McCartney) - Till there was you

These are my 'heart throbs' (interesting that they are all muso's !! I could have put Donald O'Connor from Singing in the Rain there too -gosh I adored him growing up! - but somehow, he doesnt quite gel with the idea of a 'heartthrob'....perhaps more of a hero or icon to me !!)

I am keen to hear other peoples ideas - who stirred your heart strings?

(Hmmm, I cant help but notice that Elvis bears a strong resemblence to my hubby in the fame and fortune clip - lucky me !)

Quote of the Month - May 2010

"Tomorrow is always fresh with no mistakes in it"

I am not entirely sure if this quote is from just the movie "Anne of Green Gables" or if it is also from the book as well. Once upon a time this die hard "Anne-fan" would have been able to tell you off the top of her head, but post three children my brain is not retaining all that it once did (well, that is my excuse at the moment !) and as all my books are packed away in boxes (not enough space 'till my boys start sharing a bedroom) I cant even look up the answer for you all !!

However, the source is really immaterial, it is the substance of the quote that is the greatest treasure. Anne of Green Gables is filled with such inspiring gems, reminding us of the beauty, goodness, purity and loveliness that can be in life if we only have the eyes and open hearts to see it and experience it. I used to wish I lived in the era of Anne of Green Gables, but the real truth is that I love the gentleness, community and idealistic life revealed in the stories.....and those things are worth striving for whatever era you live in - there is beauty in 2010 as much as in 1885!

May your tomorrows be filled with hope and fresh starts, and as few 'mistakes' as it takes to learn and develop real charactor !

(How funny is the photograph above ! My girlfriend JennyVellacot and I being "Anne Shirley and Diana Barry", all of 18 years ago! Oh that big hair - I swear it was the fashion in the early '90's!)

Living Dolls - Miss May 2010

Allow me to introduce our beautiful living doll for the month of May......the ever elegent Sue Cadzow

What does 'vintage' mean to you?

Gorgeous, pre-loved items that were created prior to 1980. The 70’s are the cut-off point for me! The fact that the eighties are considered vintage still shocks me!

What was it that first prompted your interest in vintage culture?

Oddly enough it was country television in the 1970’s! We had limited reception (ie a choice of Ballarat, Bendigo and the ABC channels) and the only late night movie that ever seemed to on, and was repeated endlessly, was “Dial M for Murder”. I was besotted with with Grace Kelly. Her hair, her clothes, her style. My mother had a collection of 1950s dress patterns from her younger days and as soon as I discovered these I started making my own outfits. This lead to a bit of an obsession. Next came “Happy Days”, “Old 55” and “Grease” and my major HSC art project was based on the life and death of Marilyn Monroe. Then I moved to the big smoke to attend art college ansd I was thrilled to find I wasn’t the only one – there was a whole bunch of people obsessed with vintage stuff the same as me!

What is your favourite era, and do you 'live it' every day? In what ways?

I think my favourite era would be the mid 1950’s – early 1960’s – Basically the atomic era when space travel and rocket ship styling was the inspiration for design. My house was built in the mid-sixties. It is filled with furniture and knick-knacks from the era. My wardrobe is filled with vintage clothes and accessories (And anything new is made from an old pattern!) All my vintage appliances are in daily use and I drive a 1962 EK Holden. Mind you, I’m a graphic designer so at the other extreme I utilise the utmost in modern computer technology!

Tell us about your favourite item of vintage clothing, kitchenalia, music, furniture or whatever !

Too hard to choose! I love all things plastic, especially coloured kitchenware. I use all my kitchenware – the canisters, the utensils, the crockery, but my pride and joy is the Sunbeam Mixmaster which is identical to the one my Gran used. She taught me how to bake, and I swear the Sunbeam makes the lightest sponge cakes and pavlovas! I also love my bakelite and lucite jewellery and my (small but ever-growing) collection of lucite handbags. I guess I’m a real Plastic Queen.

Can you share with us why vintage culture continues to hold such appeal for you?

I love the quality and design of vintage pieces. Things were made to last. The workmanship is just amazing. Even machine-manufactured items are far superior and much longer-lasting than what is available today. I love the fact that there are other people out there who treasure those qualities as much as I do. And I love the fact that anywhere you travel in the world, like-minded people will seek you out and ask you about your handbag!

Do you have any tips for anyone starting out in the vintage scene?

Follow your heart! There are plenty of people out there who are vintage snobs and will look down their noses at the newcomers who may not know as much as they do or have such an extravagant collection. But just remember there are plenty of other people out there who will support and encourage your obsession! The internet is a fantastic resource for purchasing vintage items (if you have the cash) but also researching the history and background of the era. When I started out we had to read books and magazines and watch old movies for information, we scoured the op shops and markets, and a lot of first-hand knowledge was gleaned by chatting to the old ladies behind the counter who had lived the era first hand! They used to always say how lovely I looked compared to all the other young girls (who looked like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper at the time – it was the 80’s!)

Now is your chance to provide us with an overview of who you are and what you do. Tell us as much or as little as you like !!!!

I’m a graphic designer with my own company Red Pepper Graphics http://www.redpeppergraphics.com.au/ I’m currently in the process of setting up Red Pepper Retro, which will be an arm of the business dealing exclusively with vintage-inspired graphics and custom artwork with a retro twist. Even my main-stream clients seem to be chasing the retro look these days!

Finally, what or who inspires you and why?

Lauren Bacall, Rita Hayworth, Katherine Hepburn – those sassy, sexy women who didn’t put up with chauvinistic nonsense from the menfolk!

(Bottom two photographs thanks to Stuart at http://www.facebook.com/l/2ca7b;www.stuartleal.com.au )

Butterflies in my garden - and my kitchen....

In the beautiful Autumnal sunshine we have been experiencing, my three little poppets have been amusing themselves by running around the garden, butterfly nets in hand, collecting butterflies and caterpillar'ss galore.....I must confess I have never seen anything like the amount of butterflies we have had this year! My 'china doll' bush is simply drenched in fluttering wings - so amazingly pretty !

So in the spirit of life lesson themes, my children and I embarked on making a delicious old fashion favourite - butterfly cakes. Grandma Jean used to make the most delightful butterfly cakes and seemed always able to whip them out for the afternoon tea table, even if we dropped in unexpectedly - amazing woman that she was !

So here is a recipe for yummy butterfly cakes.....to be enjoyed in the sunshine, like any good butterfly would be doing!

Butterfly Cakes

 115g softened butter

115g caster sugar
2 eggs lightly beaten

115g self raising white flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 Cup Milk

Pre heat oven to 180 degrees C. Grease and place patty pans in muffin tray. Sift flour and baking powder into a bowl. Add butter, sugar and eggs and using an electric beater beat until smooth. Add milk and whisk into the mixture. Spoon mixture into paper cases and bake in oven 20 minutes until risen and golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool.

Decoration

 Use double cream or whip a small container of cream

Make up a packet of red jelly according to packet directions, preferably using a shallow pie dish instead of deep bowl to set in fridge.

Slice a 'cap' off the cooled cakes and fill the indentation with whipped cream. Cut 'cap' in half and place two pieces (or wings) according to picture. Dig out a teaspoon of jelly and place between 'wings', then dust liberally with icing sugar.

Sit down to eat on a sunny autumn afternoon and prepare to flutter away to fantasy land !

The Big D Jambouree !

Ok, if you are looking for the event of all Rockabilly events not to be missed in Melbourne this year, make sure you get along to the Central Club Hotel in Richmond this May 8th ! It is going to be one rocking good time with featured artists Pat Cappoci, Danny and the Cosmic Tremors, The Strait 8s, Ezra Lee and Scotty Baker you wont be disapointed ! I will be seeing you there so DO make sure you say hi !

We have a winner !

A big congrats to Paul and Marilyn upon winning the lovely little prize pack celebrating 100 followers on my blog !! This little pack is heading your way guys - do enjoy your movie watching, cups of tea and baking in your new apron....with love from Alice Jean's !

High Tea, Frock Swap and Overnewton Castle

What a divine time was had by a bunch of excited girls on Sunday afternoon as we gathered for High Tea and a Frock Swap at the enchanting Overnewton Castle in Keilor, Melbourne ! All frocked up, we dined on the delcious fare ( mmmmmm, devonshire tea to beat all devonshire teas !!) and bought the proceeds of our raided wardrobes and bathrooms to pool for the swap. I am quite proud of myself in that I didnt end up coming home with more than I bought, and I scored some beautiful purfumes, shoes, skirts and even a suit for Scott ! All leftover goods were donated to a Sunbury thrift shop, and I for one 'rolled' home feeling very happy and full of yummy goodies !!! A wonderful chance to meet other people in the most beautiful of locations.......below is some information about the beautiful Overnewton Castle. I highly reccomend this destination if you are looking for a function venue - magnificent !!

A huge thankyou to to Becky and Mark for inviting me to this wonderful day - I am already looking forward to next year!

Movie Club - April 2010

This month's movie is a 'northern' (as oposed to a 'western') set on the American/Canadian border - one for the boys! The Far Country stars Jimmy Stewart and Ruth Roman. The plot goes something like this......

In 1896, Jeff Webster sees the start of the Klondike gold rush as a golden opportunity to make a fortune in beef...and woe betide anyone standing in his way! He drives a cattle herd from Wyoming to Seattle, by ship to Skagway, and (after a delay caused by larcenous town boss Gannon) through the mountains to Dawson. There, he and his partner Ben Tatum get into the gold business themselves. Two lovely women fall for misanthropic Jeff, but he believes in every-man-for-himself, turning his back on growing lawlessness...until it finally strikes home.

One of James Stewart's favorite stories of his film career concerned his horse, Pie, a sorrel stallion whom Stewart called, "One of the best co-stars I ever had." Pie appeared as Stewart's horse in 17 Westerns, and the actor developed a strong personal bond with the horse. Pie was very intelligent, Stewart recalled, and would often "act for the cameras when they were rolling. He was a ham of a horse." When shooting the climax of "The Far Country," the script called for Stewart's horse to walk down a dark street alone, with no rider in the saddle, to fool the bad guys who were waiting to ambush Stewart. Assistant Director John Sherwood asked Stewart if Pie would be able to do the scene. Stewart replied, "I'll talk to him." Just before the cameras rolled, Stewart took Pie aside and whispered to the horse for several minutes, giving him instructions for the scene. When Stewart let the horse go, Pie walked perfectly down the middle of the street, doing the scene in one take. When Pie died in 1970, Stewart arranged to have the horse buried at his California ranch. (From Internet Movie Database)

My 'Lil Darlin

For all my non Facebook Friends, here are some photographs of my new 'Lil Darling.....isnt she just a dream?!! A 1951 Pontiac Chieftan Convertable........... Looking forward to all the future fun with this little lady !

Housewife quotes

“No laborer in the world is expected to work for room, board, and love - except the housewife”

 (Letty Cottin Pogrebin)

“I have too many fantasies to be a housewife. I guess I am a fantasy.”

(Marilyn Monroe)

 

"I prefer the word "homemaker" because "housewife" always implies that there may be a wife someplace else”

(Bella Abzug)

 

“I would be content being a housewife if I could find the kind of man who wouldn't treat me like one”

(Terry McMillan)

 

“I don't pretend to be an ordinary housewife.”

(Elizabeth Taylor)

 

“Being a housewife and a mother is the biggest job in the world, but if it doesn't interest you, don't do it - I would have made a terrible mother.”

(Katherine Hepburn)

 

“By and large, mothers and housewives are the only workers who do not have regular time off. They are the great vacationless class.”

(Anne Morrow Lindbergh)

“I hate the word housewife; I don't like the word home-maker either. I want to be called Domestic Goddess.”
(Roseanne Barr)

Spoonflower - a designer and historians dream come true !

I clapped hands and danced with pure joy when Nicole at Circa Vintage posted an article about Spoonflower. Oh my goodness - you simply must check it out ! I have always dreamed of creating my own fabric designs, and now anyone and everyone has the ability to do so !! Not only that, but it is also possible to reproduce vintage fabrics from a small swatch!! If you are restoring a house/caravan/item of furniture, you can now have as much fabric as you need to complete it's authentic look! Always loved a certian fabric from your childhood? Get it reproduced and make it up into whatever you desire ! Want to design every aspect of your clothing wardrobe like me? The dream is now a reality ! The ideas and possibilities are simply endless ! So excited !!!

Celebrating 100 followers !!

How exstatic was I when I discovered I had cracked the 100 followers mark on my blog ! I know blogging isnt about numbers, its about sharing passions and interests with like minded people - and it is such a wonderful way to do that ! For me blogging is also about 'scratching the itch' I have to write, and considering all the beautiful friendships I have made through cyber space, it is a most satisfying itch to scratch ! None the less, I was totally chuffed to think that there are 100 people out there who like what I share so much they are keen to follow along with me.....and then I decided to check my sight meter readings for the first time in ages, and was utterly floored to discover that 250-350 people are reading my blog each week !!! I feel so humbled and honoured to know that !!

So, in celebration of this heart swelling achievement, I am going to host another little giveaway, and I would love it if you would all enter !! It is so very easy - just leave a comment !! You can leave a comment on my blogpage, facebook page or via email and your name will go into the hat to win :

1. A copy of 'North by NorthWest' on DVD (Region 4) by one of my alltime favourite directors - Alfred Hitchcock

2. A darling little Maxwell Williams 'Leading Ladies' mug

3. A cutsey pie blue floral and ruffle apron made by me for the occasion - perfect for the complete 1950s kitchen look!

If you would like your name entered twice, simply share about this competition with others by emailing your friends with a link to my blog, putting a post on your own blog about it, or simply direct your friends to my blog by word of mouth - make sure you let me know you have done this and I will enter your name twice for you.

I am so looking forward to your comments and to giving away this little pack to one of my newfound vintage loving friends ! Thankyou one and all, for joining me in my many happy trips into the nostalgia of the past...... here's to many more !!

XX

Living Dolls - Miss April

Meet the beautiful Jodie Suppa - our stunning Miss April !

What does 'vintage' mean to you?

When I hear vintage, I think of ‘clothing’pre mid 60’s. When dresses were made to suit a woman’s curves and jeans were made to sit at your waist rather than at your hips. I also think of cheese, because I love Vintage Cheese.

What was it that first prompted your interest in vintage culture?

I grew up with my folks listening to Buddy Holly, Wanda Jackson, Gene Vincent, Eddie Cochrane, Waylon Jennings, Bill Haley, The Everley Brothers, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, and Elvis of course. . When I had finished year 12, dad took me to see a friend of his play with his ‘rockabilly’ band called “The Flying Tigers”. I loved it!..so raw and energetic. Still to this day, I still go out with my folks to see bands. In fact that same ‘friend of dad’s is having his first cd launch this Saturday, 19 years later..yes, I’m going with my folks.

What is your favourite era, and do you 'live it' every day? In what ways?

My favourite era (for music and clothing) is the 1950’s. It was only about 18 months ago that I started developing an interest in the clothing. I have admired the style for a while, but never really considered wearing it. I never thought I would feel confident in this style but it is actually this style that makes me feel confident (does that make sense?). It is not lived ‘everyday’. During the day I am happy to be in my ‘mummy clothes’ (jeans and t.shirt), that way, I don’t have to worry about my nice clothes getting dirty.

Tell us about your favourite item of vintage clothing, kitchenalia, music, furniture or whatever !

I love lots of different 1950’s style music as long as its swinging along and got a catchy tune you will see my toe tappin’. I love to go and see many local bands (Benny & the Fly-by-niters, Detonators & more) and at home on a Tuesday I enjoy listening to my husband’s radio show “It’s a Gas”.

My favourite ‘vintage’ item is my 1940’s cherries pin that I just acquired from Ebay. It’s hanging on its last threads (literally) but I love it!!

Can you share with us why vintage culture continues to hold such appeal for you?

I can’t explain why the music continues to hold such appeal for me. I just love it..and I am disliking the music of today more and more. I do love the old 80’s stuff though. I love that I can meet my parents at the pub as well as my brother and his wife and loads of other friends that I have met over many years thru this scene. I love that all week I can be a mum at home and get messy with my 2 boys but come the weekend I can paint my nails red, wear a pretty dress and high heels and go dancing. How can that not be appealing??

Do you have any tips for anyone starting out in the vintage scene?

Go to Wintersun!

An overview of who you are and what you do. Tell us as much or as little as you like !!!!

I am a wife and a mother of 2 little boys. I am also a fitness instructor for pregnant women. How many jobs can you turn up at and be happy to be there. It keeps me fit (but not trim because I love ice cream too much) and the extra money helps me with my ebay addiction!

Finally, what or who inspires you and why?

All the beautiful and ‘very’ stylish women I have met since hooking up with my husband. (they all know who they are!) I also love reading ‘vintage style’blogs (such as this one!)

Thoughts on compassion and human frailty.....

I felt that I ought to write something as we enter another holiday. In the light of my own life experience recently, and my reflections upon the core of the Easter message, I am struck by the magnitude of compassion there.  When it all simmers down, that is the essence of the Easter story - the compassion/mercy/kindness of God to humanity. I too have learnt in recent times to perhaps begin to have some compassion towards myself - not an easy thing to do, and more than anything I have realised how absolutely vital it is to see other people through eyes of compassion.....

"Because you'll never be a first-class human being or a first-class woman, until you've learned to have some regard for human frailty"

from High Society/ The Philadelphia Story

One of the plot lines in the movie quoted above is the female lead's (Grace Kelly) expectation of perfection from herself and others. When she 'slips up' on her wedding eve, her fiance cant handle her apparent 'fall from grace'. Although he agrees to marry her still when it is proven that the 'fall from grace' really didn't amount to much, it is done with a sense of making a tremendous concession - imagine living with that from the moment you marry !!! This prompts a most beautiful quote from Grace Kelly

"George, I don't want you to marry me because you think I am now worthy of you. It would have ment so much more to me if you had married me because I was unworthy,"

Lucky for Grace's character, her 'true love' steps in and all is well in the end!!

Compassion. Mercy. Forgiveness. Understanding. Regard for Human Frailty. Isn't it lovely?

It's not easy to display compassion these days I must say. Maybe in conventional, 'easy' ways it is (giving money to those less fortunate overseas etc etc) - but to actively show compassion to those who really 'don't deserve' our attempts at kindness and love  - those who are angry, or mean, who behave erratically, who say hurtful things, who appear ungrateful, those who cant help themselves, and those who we cant identify with or understand, that's when compassion gets difficult. But I think it is important if we are to grow into 'first class human beings (who)...... have some regard for human frailty'.

My biggest struggle, however,  is in having compassion for myself - for having some regard for my own frailty, and forgiving myself when I fail.....over and over again. I beat myself up in my head so many times over big and little things, ever condemning, ever eroding my sense of self worth and esteem.....I am not so hard on others as I am on myself, but that is pretty much a trait of my Myers-Briggs personality type (INFJ for those who are into that!!)! If there is one thing I need this Easter is a bit of self compassion and forgiveness.....but then we probably could all use that from time to time, couldn't we ?

I don't think I have shared this wonderful quote on my blog before, and it is sure to feature in the 'quote of the month' at some point, but the beautiful and incredibly perceptive Audrey Hepburn once said

“People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone.”

And it is so important to add yourself to the list of whom that applies to !

Have a wonderful Easter everyone, enjoy your family and your friends. Most especially, may we all show compassion and forgiveness to those we love (and maybe even those we don't !), and importantly also to ourselves. Goodness knows, we all make mistakes, and we all - especially me - desperately need it !Love to you all

XX

Quote of the month - March 2010

"I was born with an enormous need for affection, and a terrible need to give it"

I dont think I am much like the great Audry Hepburn, but it is to this quote that I relate better than any other quote I have ever read....the story of my life! It is a state of being that opens one up to being terribly hurt and misunderstood, but also to feeling exstatic elation and joy, even in simple friendships.

Love to you all today !

Best ever setting lotion....

Now, it is obvious by reading my blogg that I am not one to promote products just for the heck of it.......infact the only time I think I have done a post about a product was to road test various red nail polishes. However, I simply have to tell you what a difference dying my hair blonde and using the Lindy Charm School for Girls setting lotion has made to my ability to create a vintage look hairstyle. Firstly, being blonde has enabled me to use much less product in my hair as the style I create holds so much better....when I was brunette it used to slip out unless I plied it with handfuls of the strongest hold gel etc etc etc. Now that the bleach has done its wonderous thing, I simply wash my hair once a week and set it with my favourite setting lotion. I pop in hot rollers and when the lotion is dry and the rollers have cooled I remove them and brush out the curl to whatever look I desire for the day. A squirt of hairspray and its done !! Simple ! The best bit is that for the rest of the week I dont have to put anything more than hot rollers in my hair to acheieve a great look.....

So  if you are chasing that glamerous 40's or 50's pin up look, you simply must get yourself a bottle of the Lindy Charm School for Girls Essential Setting Lotion - it's a dream !