Beautiful Creations

White and Natural.

2011-11-21T20:05:00.000-08:00

Don't you hate it when you find something on Piniterest and the re-pinning button doesn't work and then you can't find it when you go back to re-pin it!

It just happened.

I found the loveliest white bottles with natural string wrapped around it which I will make. I hope the five second glance I had at it it enough to go on!

In the meantime here are some gorgeous natural and white things.

Is there anything nicer then jumping under a white cover into clean white sheets. With three kids a soft comfy bed with nobody else in it is my fantasy now. 10 years ago it was sure to have..... hmmm .... Johnny Depp in it.

I think watches are becoming a thing of the past but I still love this one. So simple and chic.

Love this idea of a bark place mat.

Last but not least this is a nice Xmas idea...

If you had the time this would be quite easy. Just take a foam cone and slowly glue the string around it.

If you find those bottles - email me.

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Chalkboard Paint

2011-11-20T18:43:00.000-08:00

So the first thing that you will find out about me is that I hate waste.

We had lots of fun with the kids making the chalkboard necklaces, however then I was left with 3/4 of a can of chalkboard paint which I have a compulsive to use.

So I came up with a few ideas that you may want to try.

Chalkboard Jar for gifts.

Great for a Xmas Present - just spray paint an old clean jam jar (make sure you put masking tape around the screw top!)

Chalkboard T-Cups

I have had these t-cups for years. I don't know why I have kept them, they are very vanilla and boring, however now I have found a use for them.

My kids are always fighting over cups (of all things!!) and wanting to be like mum and dad and drink their hot chocolates out of "real" cups, so we solved the problem.

Put masking tape around the top of the cup to create a nice clean line, and we don't want chalkboard paint around the top of the cup where we drink out of.

Spray paint

Then add names with chalk when dry - or let the kids decorate them whenever the feel the need....

(by the way, don't put these in the dishwasher - I did, the result wasn't good).

Any other ideas? We would love to hear them.

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Chalkboard Necklaces

2011-11-13T19:20:00.000-08:00

Here they are.....

Now I made a kid-friendly option as I thought they would be a great idea for pressies. My little girl loves to give presents to her friends at Xmas time and I always insist we go handmade, and this one was brilliant. Cheap, quick and quirky. I think I spent $6 all up, and we made 20 of these bad boys.

Ingredients:

A sheet of foam
String for the necklace
Blackboard spray paint
Hole punch

Trace your shapes (I used biscuit cutters) and then cut out.

Hole punch

Spray paint...

Thread onto your necklace string.

Done.

However if you don't want to go for the kid version....

http://www.henryhappened.com/diy-chalkboard-necklace-guest-gal-cat.html

Happy creating

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

The Handmade Challange

2011-11-13T17:55:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I was a bit over zealous. Now I have gone through ALL of the tutorials I have realised some I won't make .... because, well I don't like them. However most of the I will make, but as always with me, there will be a twist. I hope your creations will have a twist to it as well because that is what art is all about. Anyone can replicate, it is putting your own stamp on things that makes it your own that makes the difference.

So, send in your "Chalkboard Necklaces" so we can publish the!

In the meantime, I came across this little creative gem:

Modge Podge Popsicle Bracelets

From Craft Affection
Happy Shopping
Jen and Row www.shimi.com.au

Work Wear - The forgotten

2011-11-06T18:24:00.000-08:00

I used to work in an office and whilst I wasn't too keen on my job I loved dressing "corporate" and looking good. I can't compete with the "funky bunch" but I can wear a suit well. Many of my friends can walk into an op shop or a super expensive boutique and look amazing but I tend to look like someone wearing an old dress I bought from an op shop or someone who has spent way to much money on an outfit simply because of the brand name.

Actually I had a friend that used to work in a very funky shop in The Valley in Brisbane. She would kindly tell me when the sales were on and I would venture in there. I never bought much but it was an eye opener to see the other customers. There was always a few women in there who obviously had lots of money and used to buy and through EVERYTHING on simply because of the brand.

Anyway... I miss the days when I used to dress up daily to go to work. Now I work in shorts and t-shirts and whilst I am very comfortable and wouldn't change it for the world I wouldn't mind if I could dress up once and a while.

Here are a few very cute outfits.

Love a cardi

From Asos

Love wide leg pants

Orange is become my new fav colour

Girls got to have a great bag for work though :

Dandelion Duffle

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Who's In?

2011-10-31T17:55:00.001-07:00

So I have lost my craft mojo. It has been missing in action for about the last 10 months. Time to get it back.

I came across this:

So I am setting myself a challenge. To complete all 101 Simple Handmade Gifts within the next year.

Who's In???

Join me every few days in complete this tutorials. They all look pretty simple, hence the title "101 Simple Handmade Gifts" and for those of you with kids who are already shaking in the boots with the thought of what to do on the Xmas holidays - here is your answer.

The first is Chalkboard Necklaces. Very cute and a great little present for my daughters school friends.

So if you are joining in lets get this baby done by the weekend (5th November) - email me your photos of the finished product (info@shimi.com.au) and we will display your works of art on Beautiful Creations.

Yah, how exciting.

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Gorgeous Hand Made Things

2011-10-31T04:30:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post with lots of lovely hand made things:

Love the colour

Ceramics

Cute cushion

Hand made pottery

And now for a bit more jewellery

Handmade necklaces

Handmade bracelets

Hope you get the chance to make some of these things.

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Nail Colour

2011-10-26T04:03:00.000-07:00

I have a tormented relationship with my nails. I do not care for them one iota, but I love beautiful looking nails.

I have tried the fake nails and on me they look, well fake. And I never get the refilled so eventually they just look like fake nails that are about to fall off.

I love a bit of colour on my nails but my pet hate is chipped nail polish and unless you go the fake route, nail polish will be chipped within approximately 2.5 hours, maybe 3.2 hours if you don't have kids.

There are some great colours and styles out at the moment, my personal favourite is nude with peach tips.

http://pinterest.com/pin/386906650/

If I were to marry a colour ....

Nude, always super stylish

cute

Love, love, love

Happy Shopping
Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

"Oh Wells" in life

2011-10-24T04:05:00.000-07:00

I love this quote.

After nearly 4 years of Shimi we are just about at breaking point. We love our little store and we love that we support Australian designers some of who work with recycled fabrics and all of who do all the work themselves - so no "child labour".

But, as was discussed with friends just the other day, we all want to support these industries but the reality is that we support these industries when it is financial viable, and most people will buy the cheaper product and chose to ignore how it was made, or what it was made from. This is not an insult, it is just reality and I am guilty of it.

It's life.

For example right now I really want to believe that I would enjoy watching Q&A, but the reality is I am much more at peace staring numbly at The Big Bang Theory.

So yes, we (Shimi) are not the financially viable business we were hoping for but it is an "Oh Well", and not a "What If". It would be the easier option to give up, but we believe in our little business and we believe in the business's we support so we will prevail and keep on even if it is always "oh well".

What I would love to hear though is some success stories. I love hearing about Mum's in particular who have given it a go and made something of their dream. Inspirational.

Jen
www.shimi.com.au

DIY Canvasses

2011-10-18T17:55:00.000-07:00

This is a really simple and gorgeous idea.

If you are not blessed as an artist this is the project for you. Find some lovely doilies (opshops are great for this), glue them to a canvas and paint white. Done.

Again, easy, all you need is wax crayons and a hair dryer.

Very cute for a nursery

My kids have had such fun doing these type of paintings. Just head down to your hardware store and buy some masking tape for painting. Then stick it on your canvas in whatever design you like and paint away.

Happy Arting

Jen and Row.

www.shimi.com.au

Vodka is just awesome water.

2011-10-17T18:09:00.000-07:00

This quote has tickled me today!

Gone are the days that I head out to a bar to drink Vodka Cocktails, but I am very lucky and my gorgeous parents are moving to my neck of the woods, so we (husband and I) may just be able to have the occasional night out drinking a cheeky cocktail and dressing up. Yah.

Vanilla Bean Vodka Cocktail - Yum

Chilli Lychee Shot

Toffee Vodka Sunrise

Now all a girl needs is a dress

So Cute

A little more fresh and casual

Yellow

Don't forget to check out our fascinators for race season!!

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

DIY Painting a Rug

2011-10-11T03:41:00.000-07:00

I had a spending spree this week at my gorgeous friend Sarah (From Squeezed Daily) house. She is making a sea change (literally) and going to live on a boat so I got to raid her furniture and let me tell you, she has amazing style.

First on the list for me was a new rug. Of course Sarah had something perfect. For the past winter I have been using a very crappy old rug from Aldi that has had years of kids mushing chocolate cake and playdoh into it. So I want to DIY revamp it. I have found a few ideas.... (But would love some more - send them through if you have any).

charmhome.blogspot.com

whatthevita.wordpress.com

pinkflowerlove.com

craftapple.wordpress.com

akindoflove.blogspot.com

This should keep me going.

Jen

www.shimi.com.au

Kids Can Be Trying

2011-10-09T19:17:00.000-07:00

I had a moment this weekend, not a good moment either. I needed this shoved in my face!

My five year old was hidious this weekend. Screaming, throwing things and oh so very rude.

Kids....

Most mums know that when there kids are acting out like this is because they really do need lots of love, but it can be so hard.

I love my kids with all I have, but sometimes it is a bit hard to like them.

But that is very fleeting. They can be screaming at me but as soon as they smile that is it for me - they hook me in.

Here are some cute pics on "naughtiness".

Can think of a few people that would need to tick Naughty.

Happy shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Diamonds - girls best friend?

2011-10-02T19:49:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, I fear I have not got real diamonds in my "real diamond ring".

I am not a great jewellery fan. I wear my wedding and engagement ring and on the other hand a beautiful daisy diamond ring that I have been drooling over for the past 15 years. I change my earrings every few days and I wear a couple of gold bracelets when I go out. Pretty fuss free. But I know what I like.

I am also happy with replica jewellery. Ever heard of secrets - it is the store that sells I guess imitation diamonds, so much less expensive then diamonds. About two years ago I found my ring in Secrets. I told my husband and low and behold a few months later I had my ring (it had been 10 years of me searching for it, so he was well warned). However he did not buy from Secrets, he had it made specifically for me with real diamonds....

However I have a chipped diamond ... I didn't think you could chip diamonds unless with another diamond, and I can tell you I haven't been bashing my hand up again any rough diamonds lately.

Think I need to go to the jewellers.

In the meantime hear are some beautiful rings to drool over.

Tina aka Pink Peony Blog

Opals and diamonds...

Diamond and Chalcedony ring. So pretty.

Morganite and diamond ring.

I will take any of these thank you.

Jen
www.shimi.com.au

It's bird time again

2011-09-15T04:20:00.000-07:00

It is time to revisit my love of birds....

We don't always NEED an answer.

Where can I get a pair of these?

I WANT.

So clever, love this photo

Might try to replicate this one.

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

So Tired

2011-09-14T04:17:00.000-07:00

I am soooo tired this week for some reason. And all I want to do is Maltezers.

So instead of working I am sitting on the couch watching QI. Did you know that Gladiators were vegans?

Speaking of being vegan and/or vegetarian, I have decided my family will be vegetarian, at least whilst I am the cook. My son and I don't eat meat and my daughter and husband only eat the occasional steak or chicken breast - so I just can't see the point in having meat in our diet anymore. Plus there are so many great vegetarian recipes out there.

Here are a few:

Ricotta Balls

eatingwelllivingthin.wordpress.com

Vegetarian French Onion Soup
Isn't French Onion Soup already vegetarian?

verybestbaking.com

cookingwithsiri.com

Might try some of these.

Good Night

Jen
www.shimi.com.au

2011-09-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

I love pale pink. It is not a colour that suits be, but I continue to wear it anyway.

This nailpolish is super stylish. With the chic look of pale pink, but a little zing with the glitter. Love It.

http://twitpic.com/5w8gsm

Suit One Studio . Beautiful and vintage looking. Imagine these bowls filled with strawberry and cream mess. Sprinkle with a few mint leaves.....

YUM. so pretty.

Pink Cupcakes

So pretty again, not doable in this kitchen though.

More cakes

Beautiful flowers, I have never seen blooms so full.

I love this relaxed fitting outfit, so fresh.

What a welcome to this house...

To sit in this gorgeous comfy living room.

Or this one, either would be fine.

So serene

Happy shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Pretty Packaging

2011-09-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

I love giving presents that are wrapped nicely. Pre-kids I used to spend hours wrapping xmas presents in the same wrapping with the same little trinkets. They looked lovely sitting under the tree. Only to be spoilt by the other presents friends and family brought that didn't match my perfectly wrapped gifts - lol. Now I am the one bringing the very
quickly wrapped without care presents because I just don't have the time. But I still love the look.

Here are some lovely ones...

Fancy House Road

Fun In The Making

Aspects Of Kings Park

Petunia

Decor Blog

Happy Wrapping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

2011-09-04T03:44:00.000-07:00

Possibly the cutest baby shoes ever. I so love that they are not pink either, but this delicious sunny yellow.

From Lisa Renee Vintage

Think I have housees on the mind at the moment. I love this look, but I would never be brave enough to do this. Why Not???

Love the wallpaper . It looks to be framed into a huge canvas - great way to bring artwork into the home.

Very cute.

Gorgeous

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

I Want Cake

2011-08-31T04:03:00.000-07:00

It's time to get serious about the diet.....

So I will just droll over pictures of cake instead...

Actually I can take or leave traditional cake, it's things like cheesecake and pie that are my weakness. And I am sorry but fat free yogurt with "sticky date pudding" flavoring do NOT taste like sticky date pudding, they taste like watering flavorless yogurt!

There is some serious talent in these cakes though. I tried to make a ghost cake for my daughter last year and it was dismal. It was a cake covered with blue icing, then I had to role out a thin lay of royal icing which i cut two little eyes out of so the blue icing would be seen. Twice I tried and failed. The royal icing just split and crumbled. Probably the fact that I was suffering from morning sickness didn't help (well that is my story and I am sticking to it). Thank goodness I have a wonderful generous daughter who praised all my attempts and was thrilled with the outcome.

I'm going to the cheesecake this weekend!

A New Boutique

2011-08-29T20:32:00.000-07:00

I just came across this very cute online boutique full of ecowear fashion called Eco Fashionista.

Well worth a look!

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Muted Tones - Always Glam

2011-08-28T20:40:00.000-07:00

These gorgeous pieces of jewellery from Drift Gifts are so stylish.

Lovely with..

Cute summer grey dress from Sophia Clothing

Or go for bright to go with the pale, from Country Road

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Holiday Time

2011-08-28T20:12:00.000-07:00

For the first time since we have had kids we are going on a proper holiday.... the kind where you can't cook and everything!

Yes, we are off to Daydream Island for seven days of sun, sand and surf. We are staying at a hotel, so I can't even toast a slice of bread, which is the most exciting thing about the holiday for me!

We have had holidays since children came along, but it is either a long weekend at an apartment (so as you know mums, the cooking and cleaning continues) or a once a year we head up to Cairns to visit my gorgeous parents, but again the cooking and cleaning continues.

So when my husband said it was time for a "real" holiday (which to him, just quietly, was a week at Threadbo - he would have had a lovely time, whilst I stayed in a serviced apartment with our 4 month old and tried to persuade the 4 and 6 year old to wait until Dad came home for skiing before they tackle the snow) I put my foot down and said resort time!

So now for resort clothes.

Togs I am a little intimidated by at the moment.. however a need is a need.

I think the days of bikinis are over for me for the moment - at 35 with 3 kids I need to give myself a bit of a break, at least until number 3 is over 1. So one piece it is. Love these ones from Swimwear Galore

But is you still love a bikini, these are cute:

anna and boy

Billabong

Sand in My Toes

For The Girls.... These Ones are from Seafolly

And for the boys and men ... well lets face it as far as I am concerned it's board shorts or board shorts.

and lastly for the bag to lug everything around in ....

www.shimi.com.au

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

White Beds And Bedspreads

2011-08-22T19:10:00.001-07:00

I saw this amazing bed - beautiful:

For some reason it looks like you could dive into it.

Yep, old fashioned and gorgeous. White on white - nothing looks better.

The work in this bedspread is incredible.

White and cream together is just as classy.

The white curtains make this room so romantic

For the hotel look

Homey and beachy - my favourite

Which is your favourite?

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

The easy way to shop for gifts

2011-08-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

If you are anything like me finding the time to buy and send gifts is impossible.

I am not a gift voucher type person. I really like to think about the gifts I give. I can't see the point in giving a gift just because you HAVE to. To me gift giving is about making the receiver feel special and thought off so I love finding the right gift.

However with three kids getting to the shops and post office is impossible, so I now buy on line and have the gift sent directly to the receiver. Although I pick and choose my stores carefully because I want the package gift wrapped and a card sent with it.

At www.shimi.com.au we will do this for you. Just pick your gift and card, write your message in our "special instructions box" and we will do all the hard work for you. Just make sure you give us at least 2 weeks to have our gorgeous designers make the products you pick and for us to send it off with plenty of time.

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

What colour to paint?

2011-08-22T04:08:00.000-07:00

I am in a quandary at the moment.

I have a "modern" house. I do love my house but it is a basic 4 bedroom with study, with all the standard themes of the moment - the island bench, the open plan living. Like I said I love it, but there is nothing really interesting about it. This is good in a lot of way - I have a blank canvas to play with.

My problem is that the interior has been painted a very boring cream colour, actually it is more like a plaster board colour. Plus all the trims and doors have been painted that colour. I would love a really crisp white, (Gild and Grace have a great post with lots of white rooms at the moment)but that means I have to paint all the trims and doors white as well - double the work, or double the cost. So I thought I might go a colour, then I can get away with leaving the trims for the moment. I am thinking a very pale grey/blue or a very pale green. What do you think?? I need advice....

Here are some great ideas, but not sure if I am bold enough to do the whole house:

Blue grey ... Yellow is not for me, but I like the look.

This looks lovely and fresh, perfect against the white.

Love this, the pale green with the wooden feature looks very earthy.

Bright green - love it, it looks so fresh.

Again, a brighter blue but a different feel, very warm.

Hmm, I think looking at all these photos have made me love plain old white even more....

Jen

www.shimi.com.au

Awww, so Cute

2011-08-18T04:08:00.000-07:00

My baby is 6 months old now, so I am kissing those beautiful sleepy new born days goodbye....

I will have to live through photos.

Here are some really cute photos.

Hatchling Turtle

And of course my baby.....

Nothing hand made here, except him of course :)

Jen

www.shimi.com.au

Vintage Lace

2011-08-17T04:37:00.000-07:00

My initial thoughts on lace for some reason always goes to tacky black synthetic lace. But here I have found some beautiful, chic, romantic lace fashion and accessories. Good lace is expensive, like most things quality over quantity.

This is a favorite dress. Very vintage in style and so feminine.

A white lace dress is timeless (a good white lace dress that is). Great for a baby shower, lunch out, a day shopping and a would say a wedding but I must be old fashioned and follow the rule of never wear white to a wedding, unless it is your own of course.

Lace Dresses

Most lace fashion is lovely an old Worldly, but I love that these three outfits have a modern twist. Love the lace maxi skirt.

Lace Fashion

Oh my, these lace boots are so pretty, although toenails need to be done and let's not go red, a French manicure would be very stylish. I want!!!!

Lace Shoes

A little lace shrug, perfect with a sundress to cover the shoulder if your like me and have turned 35 and suddenly turned into a grandma that doesn't like showing of to much cleavage (I'm sure that will pass and by 40 I will be getting fake tans and have my boobs pushed up for all to see - maybe even a boob job.....

Lace Shrug

Ah, if only I could do the wedding over again ..... Not really, I still love my wedding dress, but this dress is beautiful...

This is beyond gorgeous.

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Birds, Birds, Birds

2011-08-15T05:25:00.000-07:00

If you are a follower you know that I love birds, or more specifically "Bird Art".

I have searched and found some more gorgeous things:

You wouldn't lose this on the baggage claim.

Very Cute teatowels

Love this handmade mobile

Cushions from House Martin

This is the sweetest necklace.

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Big White Flowers

2011-08-13T04:32:00.000-07:00

It is my birthday today and I have been spoilt rotten. Breaky in bed made by my delightful 7 year old, an iPad (which I love) and a lovely pressy from my mum and dad with a card saying "we are so proud of you" which was more of a present then anything!

This was followed up with a morning in the botanical gardens, or mechanical gardens as it is known in our house. I feel in love with the camellias they had growing and now want to cover my garden with them. I might have to make do with images as we have No space for more trees.

I love the clutch we have in from myoriginalsin.

And of course from Chanel

This bridal strap is lovely

Brooch from Tiger and Hare

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Pink and Purple

2011-08-12T04:10:00.000-07:00

What a gorgeous combination.

Not to mention that this is an amazing watercolour, but the colours are what make this outstanding.

I Love It.

This is from Silver Ridge Studio

Here are a few more

Jane Gardiner

Another one from Silver Ridge Studios

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

A Brisbane Talent

2011-08-09T16:27:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that at www.shimi.com.au we love to tell you about our latest finds and we focus on handmade and local designed accessories.

These are my new favourite thing! I love these earrings, not only for their design and bright colours, but also because they are so light weight.

I bought a couple of pairs from a market stall a few years ago and have been searching for a similar design ever since. I have to put a stop to wear danglies for a few months as my 5 month old son is at the stage of grabbing my earrings and hair, but Mary Grace Jewellery is on my favourite list for a little present to myself!! What do you think?

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Bold Colours

2011-08-08T19:58:00.000-07:00

You probably only have a few more weeks to wear scarves comfortable (if you live in Queensland anyway) so why not go out with a bang.

I found these two great DIY scarves in great bold colours. Great with jeans and a white or black shirt.

This one is from www.theDIYdish.com

This great scarf is made from old t-shirts.

Scarves are like jewellery, they are that little added touch that make an outfit ping. For winter while we all seem to live in black, adding some colour will make you stand out from the crowd. I love block, bold colours in small proportions. Here are a few of my favourites.

Our beautiful Fuschia iPhone cover

The cute rings add just a little bit of colour.

Such a pretty blue

For the really bold

But if you don't do the all black - these looks are fantastic.

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

iPad Cases

2011-08-07T18:54:00.000-07:00

It's my birthday in a few days. 35. I am not big on birthdays for myself anymore, I prefer to just ignore them, however it is always very special when my little ones bring me breakfast in bed.

However I am hoping to receive an iPad for my birthday ....

And one of these will be my presents to myself.

iPad Covers from Ambette

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Choose your Hard

2011-08-06T04:24:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this....

It's right - it's all hard, it is just our choice which hard we want to take.

It's like anything. Take our business. It is hard to maintain enthusiasm for a new business because it is really hard work slogging away but I love what I do.

But it was harder for me to go to a job everyday that I hated, that I had NO enthusiasm for.

Sometimes it seems easier not to change, not to make a different choice.

But imagine if you did make the choice.....

What changes am I going to make....

I am going to get fit and lose the last 5 kilos that are hanging around.

I am going to get back to recycle clothing. I love buying op shop clothes and tweaking them - so much fun, it's creative and it's original. It is hard to find the time, so hard, but I will.

I will choose to keep my handbag clean and free from chocolate chip cookies.

And I will choose to be happy as much as possible and see the sunlight in everything!

Jen

www.shimi.com.au

The Great Poo Disaster

2011-08-05T05:05:00.000-07:00

What a night. I just spent the last half hour bleaching our toilet walls, floor and toilet itself after my 4 year old seemed to have a poo explosion. It was everywhere. I didn't even attempt to wash his undies - straight in the bin they went.

I absolutely LOVE being a mum, and I say that not in a preachy way, I have my bad days like everyone, and if I have to play Toy Story Snakes and Ladders one more time I think I may have a tiny aneurysm, but for me it is my JOB that doesn't feel like a job. I used to loathe getting up in the morning to go to work and wished for the day that I had a job I loved, and I now have it. (I just want to stress though that I am not pretending to be a super mum or that every moment is like a cheesy 60s sitcom, motherhood just fits for me). However tonight was not one of my favourite moments.

It was gross and heartbreaking. My little one came running out to me (leaving a lovely trail of poo) hysterical because he had not only not made it to the toilet but somehow got it everywhere and tried to clean it up. If he wasn't covered in poo I would have given him a massive hug. Instead husband put him in the shower while I set to work. But it made me think, as a mother, we automatically see the vulnerability in our children.

This is me and my gorgeous 5 month old

I am sure I will have the privilege of cleaning many more poo, vomit and wee incidence. But I think the fun times far out way the disgusting times. And I have so much ammunition for when they are teenagers. MWAHAHAHAHA

Jen

www.shimi.com.au

Red Hearts

2011-08-03T04:51:00.000-07:00

We have just introduced a fabulous new designer to Shimi. Studio Leanne makes gorgeous ceramic rings and this one is my favourite:

I HEART

Great combination - red shoes and hearts.

Love this artwork - so original and cute.

And how gorgeous is this card.

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Love This

2011-08-03T04:35:00.000-07:00

Found this on Pinterest - Love This.

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

I've got a lovely bunch of coconuts.

2011-07-29T21:47:00.000-07:00

They are called my children and husband - all a bit nutty, but I love them.

However I do love coconut also. YUM.

I love it so much that for my 8th birthday I asked my Grandma for a bag of shredded coconut - which I got.

Here are a few lovely coconut things:

A vase made from coconuts.

Earrings

This beautiful chair is made from coconut twigs

But this is what I am salivating over

Coconut Cream Pie ....

Happy shopping (and cooking)

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Did you say your Affirmation Today?

2011-07-27T04:41:00.000-07:00

I love a good affirmation.

I found this one just yesterday and I have vowed to say it to my kids every morning.

Ok so some of these are Affirmations, but just really great quotes.

This last one is amazing and should be hanging on my fridge for every time I rouse on my children to make me stop and think.

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Everything is coming up Roses

2011-07-26T04:45:00.000-07:00

I love Roses. Yes, they are a little old fashioned and some would say a bit boring, but they are my choice of flower. I think it is the scent and the memories it gives me. My beautiful Dad was buy me for Xmas and birthdays every year a bottle of Yardleys Rose perfume. I was only little so I didn't quite get how special that was, but I remember it fondly now. I have asked my husband to create the same tradition with out daughter. As you become a mum you realise that you are chief present buyer, so the fact that even though mum had all the presents organised, my dad (who is NOT a shopper) would find some time to pop down to the chemist to buy my bi-annual perfume was really sweet.

Hence my love of Roses.

So.....

White Chocolate and Rose Petal Mess - Yum

Very Pretty Ring

Rose Bud Skirt

Or a gorgeous Cottage Rose Scarf

Share your fond childhood memories with us - we love your stories.

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Winter warmers

2011-07-25T04:57:00.000-07:00

I (much to my waist line's dismay) love puddings. I am sure so many people out there have the same story but warm winter puddings remind me of my beautiful grandmother. Any time we had a family dinner with her which was at least once a week, she made a beautiful pudding for dessert. Baked custard, apple crumble, apply pie, YUM. Not to mention all the delicious homemade biscuits she always had in her cupboard.

So when I was sitting down having a relax looking at my daily reads I got very sentimental when I read Ada and Darcy's latest post http://adaanddarcy.blogspot.com/2011/07/pear-and-raspberry-crumble-tart.html

So today's post is all about our Granny's and what makes us think of them.

My Gran always was seated with either her knitting or her crochet hook.

Love these little gems from Vaavoom.

She was always drinking tea out of a lovely teacup.

With the anzac biccies

Hmmmm, I miss her.

Jen

www.shimi.com.au

Our Dress Winner

2011-07-25T04:23:00.000-07:00

And the winner is ......

Sarah from Squeezed Daily.

Squeezed Daily is a gorgeous blog about interior decorating and fashion.

Sarah has a lovely tropical sense of style and I love her quirk.

http://squeezeddaily.blogspot.com/

Don't forget to drop by and say hi.

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Green and White - so fresh

2011-07-22T04:44:00.000-07:00

I love Green and White together. In fact I look at our Pinterest Page and most of it is green or white. Here are a few favourites:

Handmade stones

Very funky shoes

Amazing Wallpaper. A great wallpaper is art for your room.

Interesting - a Beehive Infuser Tea Cup

I love this room - all white with just a touch of green in the lamp.

Bed looks like a great place at the moment after a long week.

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Free Amy Butler Pattern

2011-07-21T05:39:00.000-07:00

I love Amy Butler fabrics and patterns. In fact I have one of her quilts on my spare bed however her products can be a bit expensive. When it comes to the fabric it pays to buy quality material as cheap material stretches and fades. It is the same for patterns - in most cases if you pay more you will get a better design and cut.

HOWEVER - Amy Butler has put a free pattern on her website for this beautiful Portfolio

In a further seach of all things Amy Butler I found she not only designs fabric but many more beautiful items like this amazing rug.

And Wallpaper

Plates

Towels

But as always it is her beautiful fabrics that keep me coming back for more

Happy Shopping (and sewing)

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Grey and Pink - back in vogue?

2011-07-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

My 70 year old dad told me yesterday that the Pink and Grey colour combination was very fashionable. This from a man (be a very sweet wonderful man) that spends his life in his fishing gear... God love him.

However I then came across this beautiful quote on Seven Cherubs Blog and what do you know - Pink and Grey. Dad is a man ahead of his time. (By the way, you should visit Seven Cherubs Blog - Naomi has some wonderful and inspiring ideas on Happiness!)

So what can I find in Pink and Grey to change my mind:

Is this not the cutest thing you have ever seen?

Sweet Love Creates

A Wedding colour combination - very pretty.

Pink or Red? - it's on the list anyway. From The Little Gem

Very Cute heels.

So - guess I was wrong.

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Kindle Cases

2011-07-17T20:25:00.000-07:00

I have a just added the Amazon Kindle Application to my Mac and I love it. It is fantastic to have any book I want at my finger tips.

However having to take my laptop to bed to read a book not the most comfortable way to read so I am in the market for a kindle. We have just received these wonderful new Kindle covers on www.shimi.com.au to keep them safe from scratches. All handmade from Ambette.

Great for the guys

Navy is a great colour and will not show up the dirt.

Olive and Black

Lovely and Bright

Love Red

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Birthday Tears

2011-07-17T19:25:00.000-07:00

Oh my god. It has been the day from hell. My daughter turned 7 today and it started out beautifully. She loved her presents and even received the same present from us and her aunt. Rather then return it to get something else my beautiful, kind girl gave it to her brother.

We had a small party with six of her little girlfriends which went well and it all turned to tears by the end of the party. It is now 4 pm (party finished at 12) and she has only just stopped crying. I am a tad frazzled needless to say.

But the party was nice and simple so that was a bonus, and the cake was very easy. I saw a lovely Donna Hay cake - a plain love heart iced in pink icing with white choc dots around the edge. I couldn't find a large heart shaped tin, so I went with a round cake with a little love heart on top.

Here are some other really simple kids cakes that should (should) keep them happy.

So sweet with just a little ribbon it makes a gorgeous little girls cake. From Donna Hay (of course)

Very simple and a great one to do with the kids from The Lark Blog.

This is so delightful but simple. From Also Heaven.

Of course you could really make life simply and buy a cake. I love these little cupcakes from Lets Have Cupcakes

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Drop Earrings

2011-07-17T00:36:00.000-07:00

I have always loved drop earrings, even more so when I have short hair - they make me feel girly. However I am just about to put all my drop earrings away for the next 6 months as my little one is just getting to the grabbing stage and earrings are the first to grab their attention.

So here are a few I am currently drooling over

Nicolette

Gorgeous and bright from JILLreDESIGNS

I love my pastels - these are so stylish. From Bunny Boutique

Love these ones. They remind me a little of Amie's (From The Block) earrings that I was admiring on Friday night. From Emily de Molly

And last but not least a nice little selection from Mimco put together by Karen Cheng.

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Pastel Dots

2011-07-13T00:18:00.000-07:00

Stalking a site I love (Concrete and Honey) I found these gorgeous pastel garland of dots. So pretty and such a simple idea, but I think it is all in the colour palette.

They are sewn together, which again is so simple but inspired. The blogger obviously has much more of a love affair with her sewing machine then I do (I do try though).

Hence our theme today - pastel dots:

Shoes - how I love you. They really do make me happy....

Sweet. The covering of this very ordinary chair has given it new life.

These little gift boxes go perfectly with the chair!

Gorgeous little covered pins from Paper Pumpkin

Rabbit and The Duck always line their gorgeous little clutches and wallets with a polka dot print.

Polka Dots are always alluring.

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi .com.au

Back To School

2011-07-11T20:24:00.001-07:00

My little girl started a new school today.

She was quite pleased about this and even wanted to do a talk in front of her new classmates. This is one of the many differences between my daughter and myself - she craves the lime light - that is my worst fear! I am so very proud of her.

However she is off to a nice little catholic school and whilst I am not one of those mums that wear heels and make-up and looks like they are wanting to be discovered for the next serious of "The Real Housewives of .... Manly", (I only joke because I am jealous), I do feel like I need to make a little more effort when picking up my daughter now.

Although I will never look like Posh ...

Sometimes I do look like Tia

So the back to school search is as follows: So a basic "uniform" for mum would include a great pair of jeans, couple of cute tops, cardigan, coat and boots. And don't forget a great "mum" bag..

Jeans - always a problem, but I do love these ones that Reese Witherspoon is in. I know, the rips are a little hows ya father, but I love the look. Must be a throw back from the 90s for me.

Next - the tops, one white, one black and colourful.

White:

Love this first t-shirt. Funky, with a little edge to it, yet still simple and best of all it probably doesn't need to be ironed!! Actually love the pants as well.

Love a black and white striped top. This one is from Boutiques.com

This woman is ultra talented, I have been a fan of Pamela Tang's Etsy store for a long time.

Of course the Mummy Bag - Shimi's Dewberry Tote is big enough for all the things us mum's have to lug around.

What is your "mum" uniform? What works for your day to day life in looking stylish with little effort?

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Old Yella

2011-07-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

I grew up with my mum saying "Not many people can wear yellow" which I took to the bank until I was about 25 and starting experiencing the joy of wearing a bright happy colour like yellow. I am now a huge convert and wear it all the time in various shades. It hangs on my walls and accessorizes with my wardrobe.

Lets walk the yellow brick .... blog.

Kindle or Kobo case from Ambette at www.shimi.com.au . You won't lose this in your bag.

Oh I do love this look - except I think the boobs need to be better protected...

Cute, simple and funky, from Urban Attitude

I would possibly wear pants with this one.. But it is gorgeous top, great with jeans.

Jadore this top from Bumblesea

Love these shoes - and check out this blog - very stylish.

In these cold months where fashion seems to revolve around black add a splash of yellow to your wardrobe.

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Sheertastic

2011-07-09T19:29:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is about Jennifer Aniston, but she is fresh and fun and charming, and I love her style.

I thought she looked fantastic and summery in this white skirt and grey tank top:

Until I saw this photo:

No matter how yogatastic your body is, sheer white is not the best look unless you are in bikinis at the beach. The actual cut of the skirt with the t-bone sandals and tight singlet is an absolute winner, but lets rethink the fabric.

We are all guilty of this I am sure. White is such an inviting colour but leaves little to the imagination, but I guess Jen has done enough photos shots with little on that it is no real surprise anyway.

So when can we get away with sheer fashion?

Sheer Scarves - GOOD :

Sheer Pants - BAD :

Now home decor is one place where sheer generally doesn't equate to tacky.

These sheer curtains are gorgeous. I love light curtains rather then have dark curtains. They make a room feel bigger and fresher.

This is a really interesting idea. Clear chairs covered with sheer white fabric.

Happy shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

An Important Message

2011-07-07T21:48:00.000-07:00

A really important and fantastic blog post from Table Tonic - please read and take action!

http://tabletonic.blogspot.com/2011/07/important-email-worth-sharing.html

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Newsprint

2011-07-07T21:33:00.000-07:00

I am loving the new season of The Block, and how great that we can watch it every night. Firm follower of Amie and Katrina and the moment, but my kids love Josh and Jenna, or Thoth and Thenna and my four year old calls them.

I must admit I loved that Josh and Jenna used the old newspaper sheets in their last room. I love recycling old products into artwork and this was a really easy way to bring some life and personality into the room.

Newsprint is a great way to bring personality into any accessory of home decor item not only because of the great Black and White contrast but you can present ideas, dates and topics within your art of accessory. What better way to express yourself.

As always, we love this Travel Phone Pouch from Rabbit and The Duck. I love the flashes of red in it.

Love, love, love these quirky little studs.

Of course you don't have to be confined to just black and white - take this card from Otis Pepper. Very creative.

And of course - we love recycling at Shimi. These recycled pencils are very cute.

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

The Nautical Look

2011-07-06T21:43:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to introduce a new range of iPad Covers to Shimi from Ambette.

Get your iPad out of its boring work clothes and slip it into some cool new threads. Constructed of luxurious high-quality 3mm German wool felt in a deep midnight blue, this sleeve will keep your iPad protected from bumps, scratches and minor spills, while the off-centre red closure holds your iPad secure with a crisp white snap. Finally your iPad can look as awesome as it feels! Dimensions: Length: 25.5cm Width: 20.3cm (from seam to seam) The sleeve will fit an original iPad and iPad2.

Very stylish.

However the Nautical Look is a winner from season to season. It is never at the top of the class, but a constant throughout the years.

This is not just confined to fashion either....

A navy skirt is always fashionable in a nautical sort of way. Team this red and white and a great pair of espadrilles and all you need to do is find a vacant boat to man.

This is from Shimi's Amazon Store.

Love this look - white and navy, again team with some red sandals and maybe a red and white striped bag.

This gorgeous creation is from The Girl With A Feather.

If we are talking home decor for the nautical look we are talking boys rooms.

I love this little lamp from Lilly & Lolly - great in a boys room, but I can imagine it in a American Nautical themed sitting room.

I love this bread basket from Thea and Sami. Useful and contemporary - wouldn't it look fabulous filled with crusty fresh bread beside a big plate full of fresh prawns. Yum.

Record all the places you have been by keeping the cards in this lovely Card Wallet from Bagy Bag.

One day I'll sail away........

Jen and Row

www.shimi .com.au

The Travel Journal

2011-06-28T03:28:00.000-07:00

I just visited my best friend in hospital last night to meet her newborn son. Even though I have a 4 months old myself, I was instantly clucky again - newborns are just the sweetest thing on earth.

I love her story though. At 34 El got married last year and promptly told everyone at the wedding reception that it was time for her husband to get to work and get her pregnant. We all laughed thinking that they would enjoy their honeymoon and try for a baby later in the year. Not the case, El had morning sickness for the majority of their European holiday.

It is really not fun being sick whilst on holidays no matter how happy about being sick you are. I had an infected wisdom tooth on one holiday and was so dosed up with pain killers I didn't know where I was and promptly left my husband's work camera (it was digital and this was when digital was just new and nobody could afford one) in the hire care. My husband had to make a mad dash off the plane to retrieve it. All I could do it look at him when he arrived back on the plane and say "OK, let me have it". I let him rant and rave for a few minutes and then feel asleep. The painkillers had their use!

Do you have a great travel story? So our theme today is travel. We have just included the gorgeous Rabbit and The Duck Travel Journal Wallet on www.shimi .com.au (at the top).

We have found some gorgeous Travel Inspired fashion, decor and craft.

This pillow case from My Bearded Pigeon is bright and fun. Great as a featured cushion.

These envelopes are from Caffeinated Prints. I never receive mail via the post anymore. How special would it be to receive a letter with this as the envelope?

Another great way to use old maps is for wrapping paper. Love this display from Kikki K.

So of course we need to look at real Travel Journals. This one is from Odds N Blobs.

Love this little Caravan Travel Journal from Tamptation also.

Happy Travels

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Beautiful Quilts

2011-06-26T02:15:00.000-07:00

My mum is a quilter, or used to be before she found her latest hobby - card making. However my children and I have scored some beautiful quilts in the meantime. Although I think I just about drive my mum to drink copious amounts Kaluha and Milk just to come up with a design but we got there in the end. My style is rather more sedate then most patch workers quilt design. Rather beautiful are most quilts and so much work that goes into them, but I am a less is more type of person.

This quilt I have been trying to bribe my mother into making for years. But I think it is just a bit to boring to spend all that time on. Yes it is lovely, but when you are sewing for hours on end I guess you want a bit of colour and pattern in there.

However she is my mum and I love her to bits and I am still working on her....

Would love this quilt in white, but the pink is lovely.

So if Mum won't come through for me (How dare she has a life that doesn't involving sewing for me!!!) I can get something very similar at Ada and Darcy.

This Moroccan Wedding Blanket from Table Tonic is beautiful. I just want to wrap myself in it, it looks so soft and soothing, like a hug from Mum.

Hmmm, it is a cold Sunday night and all this talk of warm bedding is making me sleepy. Is it wrong to go to bed at 7.15?

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

A Tropical Wedding

2011-06-23T19:37:00.000-07:00

I have a wedding to go to in Fiji at the end of the year and I am very exciting. Mainly because I love a wedding, but Fiji is pretty high on the excitement gauge as well.

Not sure what our beautiful bride will be wearing but I have no doubt she will look gorgeous. I guess the groom will as well, but really, it's all about the bride isn't it. The dress can sometimes be the easy part, it's everything else that goes along with the dress that takes up the head space.

(This lovely headdress is from Petal and Thorn)

I was not your typical bride. Yep, I had the white dress and the flowers and my father walked me down the isle, but my mum had to literally force me into a bridal boutique to choose a dress and the flowers... well I asked the florist what they thought, first suggestion, yep that sounds fine. It was a low key wedding, 45 people, no bridesmaid or groomsman and it was a really special day. I think it was simple and elegant, just as I wanted. If I did it again - all exactly the same, except I would wear my hair down. And maybe I would not invite the older woman (who shall remain nameless) who got shamelessly drunk and attempted to get down on the dance floor with my poor 18 year old cousin. Not pretty.

And that is the problem with weddings isn't it? This is a day that will be high on the memory list for the rest of your life, so you have to get it right. You don't want to look back in 10 years and cringe at the dress you chose. A tropical wedding is always safe though I think as the theme never gets old - tropical equals (to me), happy, pretty and joyous.

We have found a few lovely things that suit our idea of tropical weddings .....

This is a Tropical Coconut Pavlova Cake. Just gorgeous and elegant still keeping with the tropical theme.

So elegant

What a sweet idea

The Hibiscus Flower - so tropical.

Now as a guest, what am I going to wear. Not only do I have myself to dress, but three kids and a husband. Oh well, I'll worry about myself first huh!

I am loving this Aryn K dress

Or maybe I should build my wardrobe around my clutch

Or around the shoes

It is quite nice shopping for summer things in winter...

Ok, so I can't resist having a look for my daughter

Oh, this little dress is delightful. Not overly formal but with a cute pair of sandals and a pretty headband I think she will pass with flying colours.

This is handmade from Sweetie Pie Designs.

Well I think the search for Miss 7s dress is done, but still nothing for me. Oh well. Any suggestions??

And tell us, what would you do different if you had your wedding again?

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Oh Ruby, Don't Take Your Love To Town

2011-06-23T05:13:00.000-07:00

I'm such a sucker for a Kenny Rogers song and this is coming from a Country Music fledgling. But from a young age my aunt and uncle listened to him and I feel in love. Kenny and Dolly, a match made in heaven. Although have you seen Kenny's face lift? He looks constantly surprised those sleepy eyes he used to sport are gone :(

Anyway, July is imminent and the birth stone is Ruby. Oh Ruby, don't take your love to town. Put it in your wardrobe for goodness sake! Red is the bomb for me. I don't do red lipstick... but I wish I could. So I supplement my wardrobe with lots of red pieces, especially tops and shoes. Accessories in red definitely work well as you can still keep the demure classic look but funk it up a bit with a great bangle or bag.

Her is what we have found:

Of course from Shimi

A little Max and Cleo of the shoulder number.

Soft and casual, love the look of this Mango Skirt.

Had to add this one as well. A little more formal but no less versatile is this Mango Red Skirt.

How cute is this. Wouldn't you feel like you were in an old 50s movie wandering along with this on your shoulder. Of course to get the full effect you would need to walk around with this facing your audience, but all in the name of fashion. From Umbrellas 4 Life.

Yum. Makes me want to find a huge juicy red apple and crunch it. Actually that is my greatest memory of Sesame Street from my childhood. Grover I think had a skit where he crunched into a huge ruby red apple and to this day I still think of Grover when I eat a red apple. My first crush....

This one is from Rabbit and The Duck

Another Rabbit and The Duck. Very Retro.

Wow - love this cocktail ring. Makes me want to eat a boiled lolly. From Studio Leanne.

Jen and Row

www.shimi .com.au

Seriously -Who Wears These

2011-06-21T20:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, I like the idea of legs that go forever as much as the next person. I love the idea of being the cool stylish mum that drops the kids to school dressed in my skinny jeans and higher then high heels (I would potentially pop on a top as well... sort of a fashion rule for me - go out fully clothed). However beautiful these shoes are, they will be pretty limited in their outings if they lived in my wardrobe.

So last week I meet a couple of girlfriends, one heavily pregnant the other with a 8 week old and me with a 12 week old. I braved it and popped on a pair of high wedges. I then proceeded to walk around the shopping centre where we meet and feel of my wedges not once, not twice, not thrice but four times. Highly embarrassing. At least I had undies on I guess. So I left the shopping centre not feeling cool and stylish, but feeling like a clumsy frump.

I think it is best to leave my heels for nights out at a lovely restaurant where I will be sitting for the majority of the evening.

These ballet flats are more my style

Just to end on a high note - look at these beauties, comfort and style all wrapped up in a piece of chain and a couple of nails. Great for a trip to the park with the kids, or just a casual day around the house...... if you are a member of the Jersey Shore Crew and your name is Bubbles.

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Join Our Blog and Win A Dress

2011-06-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

We love hearing from our Beautiful Followers, so join them. To go into the draw to win the pretty dress simply do three things:

1. Subscribe to Shimi
2. Join our Blog
3. Make a comment on our Blog

Then you are in the draw to win this Gorgeous Dress from Shimi (RRP $69.90). Lovely and Casual, this dress looks beautiful with a pair of sandals and a sun hat. For the cooler months, pop over a pair of jeans. Beautiful embroidered neckline, sleeve edge and hem make this dress very feminine.

Entries close 20th July 2011.

Looking forward to all your lovely comments.

Jen and Row
www.shimi .com.au

The Natural Elements - our Top Ten Favourites.

2011-06-21T19:32:00.000-07:00

I have never felt particularly sophisticated. I am short and curvy and I guess my idea of sophisticated is tall and willowy. Think Audrey Hepburn or Cate Blanchett. They always looked/look stylish and polished. Audrey wore the LBD so well, and when going a bit more casual, it was cigarette pants and twin sets. Cate on the other hand does wear very quirky things, but she seems to always wear the very streamlined designs. However the two things they have in common is that they wore/wear neutral colours and if there is bold colouring in the outfits, it is limited to one bold colour.

I think it was Audrey Hepburn that said before you go out look in the mirror and take one thing off. Less is More in other words.

We have compiled a list of our top Natural and Neutral items to create that fantastic sophisticated look.

At the top of the page is a gorgeous skirt from Mango, available from our Amazon Store (and half price at the moment). With a slight flair this give the impression of a smooth streamlined skirt without having to worry about going on the Cabbage Soup diet before hand. Navy Blue and Cream, great colours to mix and match with and a touch of yellow brings some sunshine to the look.

2. Freesia Portfolio . Very cute little bag with natural elements in the handle and buttons. All organic and earth-friendly materials used in the satchel with front pockets for small items and interior products to keep little items from getting lost at the bottom of the bag. Available from our store www.shimi.com.au .

3. Kenneth Cole Earrings. Simple yet unusual. Gold will mix and match with almost anything, especially the earthy colours.

4. Sandals may not be great for the weather at the moment, but these are very stylish. Pop on some subtle nail polish and you are good to go.

5. Natural fabric brooch from Wild Ginger Silk. Brooches are very hot right now. Soft and romantic pin this as a feature or even to hold a cardigan together. Buy two and pin them as a feature on a pair of plain black ballet slippers.

6. A belt is a must. This wide cream leather eyelet elastic belt is very chic. Pop this on with our Number 1. skirt and a navy top. From Topshop.

7. Another lovely clutch that with a touch of yellow that would look great with our skirt. Rabbit and The Duck Wallet from www.shimi.com.au

8. Mango Dress. This I love. Soft natural fabric, floaty with a beautiful cut. Great as just a dress, but equally lovely over a pair of skinny jeans or tights.

9. Beaded Cuff from Monkey Buns. Soft colour but with a slight edge that cuffs bring.

10. Last but not least, a classic white shirt. This one from Aryn K is stylish and anything but boring with it's different textures.

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

50% off Mango

2011-06-19T18:43:00.000-07:00

Just had to share this with you. 50% currently off this gorgeous Mango Dress available from our Amazon Store now.

It is a Romantic style open knit dress with a v-neck, self fabric tied band and a bow at the waist. All with with beautiful trim detailing along the neckline and armholes.

This would look lovely with a little jacket and a pair of wedges.

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Baby Chic

2011-06-18T21:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a pile of some of the cutest baby things you could put on your bub.

FOR THE GIRLS

Of course our delightful Baby Shoes from www.shimi.com.au

Add one dress from Club Baby

We can't have our dress getting dirty. However there is no need not to look stylish. This cute bib is from Lark

Legwarmers. So glad they are back. These are from The Infant Boutique

Of course for these winter months - a hat. From Gaia Organic Cotton

FOR THE BOYS

Another great baby shoe from www.shimi.com.

The nautical look from Club Baby

Great Organic Jeans from Bobux

This is probably the cutest hat I have seen - Love It. From Cradle Rock.

Jen and Row

www.shimi .com.au

Little Red Riding Hood

2011-06-14T19:05:00.000-07:00

My kids currently are loving the Little Red Riding Hood story. I am not a fan and try to avoid it. I don't love that the woof eats Little Red Riding Hood and Grandma, and I don't love that Dad then comes along and slits open the woof's stomach. Just a bit too blood thirsty for a 4 and a 6 year old I think. However most of the old fairy tales are a little like that. I must prefer the "Hoodwinked" tale of Little Red Riding Hood.

But these old fairy tales have some magic to them. Last night I read Rip Van Winkle to them. Re-reading all these old tales to my children I am left wondering what I found so magically about them because now in my infinite wisdom as an adult (God I am so boring now) I find them tedious and lacking in direction. I have realised though that this is what I found so amazing as a child. It is those holes in the story line that ignited my imagination. And looking back Little Red Riding Hood was one of my favourites too.

But I think I might "lose" that book for now and maybe gain this little wallet for my daughter instead.

Wow, I just looked up google images of Little Red Riding Hood and have found they consist just about solely of Sexy Little Red Riding Hood costumes. Nooooo

On further investigation I have managed to find some much sweeter Little Red Riding Hood products - take a look:

This lovely print from The Little Fox

Cute hair clips from Amelia Rose Photo Art

Or notepaper - such a novelty these days to receive a hand written note.

Jen and Row

www.shimi .com.au

Constructive Comment Please

2011-06-13T23:37:00.000-07:00

I am having one of those days. I think most business owners have plenty of "these" days. You know the ones, where you wonder why you are doing all this work for such little return. Then you have a little glimmer of hope that things will be ok and the passion is reignited and you are intensely pursuing your dream again.

I'm just waiting for that little glimmer of hope to hit me once again.

So I am asking for help.

Do you have a successful blog? I would love your comments, good and bad.

Now I have followed the code of "If you love it, it is not work" for many years now and I must say that I love my blog. It is a little thing that is just for me. I really enjoy writing, I love finding interesting pieces to show our followers and I get so excited when we do receive comments or a new follower. So passion is not a problem.

I do work very hard on it as well. Most nights I post 2-4 posts and I always try to put a little of myself in each post.

So come on bloggers - let me in on your secrets. I would love to hear from you.

Jen
www.shimi.com.au

Bangles, are they ever too big?

2011-06-12T23:43:00.001-07:00

When my daughter started school she was not a happy camper. She actually liked the learning side of things but didn't like not having my by her side. A friend suggested I give her a necklace or bracelet of mine and tell her that she has to look after it for the day for me. This apparently gives them the security that we will be back to pick them up from school. (My daughter is showered with love so I don't know how she wouldn't know that, but new experiences for kids are very scary and their little minds work in mysterious ways.

So she looked cute. Cute but ridiculous.

So we sat down the next morning and she picked something of mine out of my costume jewellery box. Of course she choose a huge navy blue bangle. It was bigger then her arm and could probably be used as a weapon, but anyway, we went with that. It is split now and not wearable, but it brings back fond memories of that day so I can't quite come to terms with throwing it out.

I need a replacement though:

I love a big bangle and this one is a stand out.

It has a pretty turquoise feather floating in it. Some people are so clever!

Jen
www.shimi.com.au

Orange you glad it has a zip?

2011-06-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

New wallets from Rabbit and The Duck now have zip to keep all your valuables safe and sound.

We are loving this tropical looking big orange flower design.

It really is a happy fabric, still keeping in Rabbit and The Duck's theme of prints on bone coloured material, with a distinct island feel.

Islands In The Stream....

Need something to go with it? Try these...

Earrings from Anna Sofia Designs

Maybe a dress of four..

Maybe a sneeky pair of Christian Louboutin's

Or this beautiful ring

But when we are talking accessorising with orange, lets refrain from this :

Fake Tans...

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Dewberry Drop

2011-06-10T21:41:00.000-07:00

Our Dewberry Drop from Canopy Verde.

This is one of our favourites, not only because it is such a stylish Tote, but because it is so versitale and roomy.

(Great as a nappy bag to just quietly).

Talking of Dewberry's:

Joel Dewberry is the creator of this gorgeous fabric. Splendid in it's design, but also equally quirky and eye catching with the colours he combines.

The Body Shop Dewberry Perfume. Who doesn't love to smell delicious.

Bag - check, perfume - check, jewellery - check. Gorgeous Dewberry earrings from mcrdesigns, and how beautiful is the display?

Happy Shopping

Jen and Row

www.shimi.com.au

Take a Ride in my Beautiful Balloon

2011-06-10T00:11:00.000-07:00

Never have I taken a ride in a balloon.

Not sure that I would like to, so I will stick with Balloon images.

The one of course is from Rabbit and The Duck.

So I dare say this little number is not in the Ready to Wear collection. But it is a quirky way to use balloons and does present fashion as art.

So for something a little more wearable.... I love a good t-shirt and this one is super cute. From Steampunk.

Esbertscollection created this lovely cushion cover. Beautiful colour and a very subtle image of a balloon. LOVE IT.

Happy flying

Jen and Row
www.shimi .com.au

The Green Seam Organic Clothing

2011-06-09T23:35:00.000-07:00

What a gorgeous array of bright stylish woman's and children's clothing

I think we sometimes lose the try nature of "organic clothing" and find ourselves looking for "organic" clothing in big department stores. Yes, they may be organic but are they fair trade? Organic is a wonderful choice but if we are going to choose to by a sustainable product, shouldn't we also choose a humanly conscience product as well (no sweat shops thanks).

The owner of The Green Seam, Kelly Woolmer, started her business with a second hand sewing machine and grew it so she now supports other mums who sew for her rather then outsourcing to bigger companies.

Take a look. It is lovely to not only see some great funky clothing but a business owner who sees the value of using great sustainable products and local people.

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

Bonsai Beauty

2011-06-08T23:08:00.000-07:00

Rabbit and The Duck have made this very cute zip wallet. Bonsai are so distinctive in their design. Hard to grow well, but very easy to look at....

Rabbit and The Duck Wallet

Gorgeous Glass Bonsai Pendants from JessicaLandau

How cute and funky are these little bonsai lamps.

Wall art is so popular now, and why not. It is so nice not to have to put a hole in the wall every time you want to move a picture around.

Jen and Row
www.shimi.com.au

My Bird Faze

2011-06-08T05:33:00.000-07:00

Is it a faze? I don't know. I am a bit perplex by it as I am not what you would call a bird lover. I like them, but I don't want to hold them or have one as a pet. However I am totally drawn to any thing bird like in the home decor department. Do I get all analysisy on myself and say it is because I feel like "flying away" sometimes. Nup, not my style, I just like a good bird picture.

I am currently trying to get my house up to scratch. I have a newish home (3 years old) and whilst I LOVE it, the modern homes does lack that character that the Queenslanders seem to have. So for a while now I feel like our home has been a bit sparse and cold. So the kids are I are on it this week to make a difference. They are being very helpful and I am truly trying to embrace their creative ideas by finding new and interesting ways to steer them in MY decorative direction.

So Far:

Kids Rooms re-arranged - Check. Much more room for them now and a cosy book corner which they love. Maybe they will spend more time in there now. (Who said that? Really, so rude.)
Lounge room re-arranged - Check. Instead of having my lounges pushed up against the walls I have positioned the lounges in the middle of the room, added a rug (an old ugly one which will be replaced, but we can roll with it for the moment) and in turn have created a very cosy, intimate lounge.

Next on the list:

Toy Room..... do anything to make it look less of storage room and more of a room that the kids might actually want to play in. Again, maybe they will spend more time in there.
Our bedroom ... again storage out, play in.
More artwork......

So I am going to give into my bird obsession and cover my walls with bird artwork. I really love this quirky artwork from Prince Design UK. I am a big fan of block colours, but when you use block colours the key is texture. The embossing on these birds are what takes this from a simple cut out to really beautiful and eye catching. Prince Designs UK have a store on Etsy (we all love Etsy).

Jen