A father's sweet photography project

Ever since his daughter Iris was a baby, graphic designer Paul Andrews has been snapping photos from her perspective and posting them on Instagram with the caption 'Iris’s view'. Paul’s partner Ana and I are friends from work, and I’ve loved seeing their daughter grow up via the series. Today, Paul shares how he started posting the photos and how long he plans to keep it up:

Weekend links

Last weekend was so much fun, my friend Irini put on this incredible spread for a lazy afternoon hangout, and I'm hoping this weekend will be just as refreshing :) We're off to Sydney for Tony's exhibition opening and I'm hoping to visit this tiny bakery and spend some time by the sea. Have a wonderful weekend,  here are 10 things to keep you busy:

A really fun gift shop via Sophie.

The chocolate cake that cures everything.

A fascinating insight into what it's like to be a book editor.

So good - 'I'm too old for this shit.'

This minimalist magazine cover (and the family slice special inside!).

A quick and healthy meal we made this week via my friend Suze. I swapped out the chickpeas for ramen style noodles.

Some thoughts on happiness in everyday life, with cameos from a few of my favourite bloggers.

A novel way to stay crafty.

And something lovely, a bride who photographed her own wedding via Caryn.

Greta Gerwig's new movie

This week I finally got around to watching Frances Ha, which was co-written by Greta Gerwig who also stars in the film. I loved it - it was fun, a tiny bit awkward and surprisingly sincere, and I can't wait for her new movie to come out.

I'm hoping Mistress America is as real and as Woody Allen-esque as her first film, which had the best soundtrack. Here's the trailer:



Her first movie made me think about what Girls could be, where the leading lady is endearing and earnest while she's still trying to work things out, and I was surprised to learn that Gerwig once auditioned for Gossip Girl.

P.S You can watch Frances Ha for free on SBS On Demand at the moment. And here's a cute illustrated interview she did recently with The New York Times.

Popping up in Tony's iPad drawings

I am forever using my phone to take photos of my everyday life, from yummy meals to weekend adventures and baking successes but I can't remember the last time Tony took a photo with his phone. Instead, he prefers to draw things he has seen and wants to remember.

Weekend links

What are you getting up to this weekend? After another big week at work I'm looking forward to catching up with friends. I'll be visiting my friend's new home (I'm bringing rose and corn chips) and going to a special crab restaurant for dinner. I can't wait. Here are a handful of links to keep you busy:


Three clever women discuss their addiction to The Bachelor.

The 7 rules of compliment club.

A brave brave story by my friend Brad.

So true.

New books for small friends.

A fun gallery - couples now and then.

Donut envy.

And something exciting, The Good Food Guide 2016 is out and I'm listed as one of the reviewers, right next to Terry Durack no less :)

White shoes for Spring

I couldn't wait to pack my boots away for another year in favour of these bright white sneakers. I've had my eye on a pair for awhile and love how summery and comfy they look. Finally, a shoe trend I can get behind :)

I bought a pair of Vans and have seen similar styles here and here. Or if you wanted a pair of sneakers that you could walk around in all day without feeling a thing, the most comfortable sneakers I've ever owned now come in white.

And something funny - wearing white shoes makes me a bit more elegant. I don't kick them off when I get home and when I'm wearing them I'm a bit more careful about how I walk. As a back up, I've also use this special shoe spray from time to time, and leave my shoes outside to bleach on a sunny day - it really works!

P.S I love treating myself to one new dress each season, and currently have my eye on this one.

Staying on top of things

How is September treating you? Last week was a bit wobbly for me. I worked long hours, Tony was still away and there was little time to exercise, which is one of my main stress busters. By Wednesday, I was exhausted and emotional and so I decided to spend some time chilling out at home.

I made vegetable stock, a hearty soup and a few loaves of bread. I watched a movie and ate ice cream. I slept in and in the mornings, opened up as many windows as I could to let the light and cool air in. I did some spring cleaning too, seeing to my wardrobe, rearranging my cookbooks (!) and updating my bedside table.

By Saturday morning I felt like myself again, refreshed and cheery instead of vulnerable and sad. It was a relief and a good reminder to take time out and be kind to myself. I'd love to know what helps you unwind after a busy or stressful period. This time of year always seems to be a bit crazy.

P.S What do you get up to when you're home alone?