Note to Self

We’ve just returned from our whirlwind trip to “Maison Objet” one of the biggest and most beautiful trade shows in Europe. In a whirlwind week we spent several days at the show and still didn’t see it all! The dispays were amazing. Huge “houses” carpeted and wallpapered,complete with fireplaces and chandeliers all decked out with the companies, furniture and accesories.We spent a day at the Flea markets at Porte de Vanves (I didn’t want to leave here!)and we came home with an extra 30 kilos between us (our bags,not us!) Our last day was spent walking from sun up to sun down,taking in the best homewares shops in Paris.

This trip was a real dream for us and we’ve come home full of ideas…and just a little exhausted!

Just thought you might like to see our new arrivals!

Mosser Milk glass from Ohio in the States is already proving a hit. Gorgeous Cake pedestals in three different sizes in white, Jade and the palest pink. Also available old fashioned juicers that are large enough to juice several lemons at a time. Gorgeous and practical!

Also in, the start of our Pantry Supplies. Not just any supplies either. Think Lavender Syrup and Culinary Grade Lavender flowers from Tasmania. Fold the syrup through cream or icecream or add to cakes, brownies for a truly beautiful result. Sprinkle the flowers over lavender shortbread or over a sponge. Lots of recipes in store.

Can’t forget our new selection from Yarra Valley Gourmet either. Our first delivery includes infused Olive Oils, Salad Splash, Barbeque Baste, chutney and mustards. Preserved Orange slices in Cointreau make a beautiful addition to Champagne and Rhubard and Vanilla Bean Jam is just plain yummy! Toffe Balsamic and Vanilla Syrup and Strawberry Balsamic Sauce are perfect drizzled over pancakes or even over a pear and parmesan salad.

 We’re very excited with our new arrivals . Come in and have a browse and a little taste! 

Lynda and Nicola

Hi Everyone,

Having a little pre stocktake sale on “last of” and Discontinued stock. Come and have look at our shop in cosy Winter mode ( see pics on our website) and perhaps pick up a bargain or two!

Just thought you’d like a sneek peek at our Easter treats!

More photos taken from my phone!

 I recently had the opportunity to spend a whirlwind week in San Francisco. Along way to go for a week but it was fantastic!

We drove (i.e. my husband drove, I’m very bad at the wrong side of the road!) straight out of L.A. and up the coast road toward San Francisco staying at some beautiul places along the way. We saw 1000’s of elephant seals on the beach north of Cambria, had lunch at Nepenthe, a restaurant built out over the cliffs at Big Sur and stayed at a gorgeous B and B, The Old Monterey Inn.

San Francisco was fantastic and with only a few days there we squeezed in all the touristy bits like Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, Farmers Market, The Crooked Street and the Victorian Houses. We also went to the Alameda Markets just north of the Bay Bridge and absolutely the best vintage Flea Markets I have ever been to. Glenn’s arms nearly broke under the weight of my purchases and I decided if I’m ever lucky enough to go again it must be at 6am for maximum shopping time!

When Glenn went to work I went shopping!

A few top finds ( well apart from my favourites like Williams Sonoma, Pottery Barn and Anthroplogie!)

Bellocchio: A lovely customer told me about this. Just as well because I never would have found it. Very quirky, this little shop sells beautiful cards,trims and treasures all displayed beautifully. No photos allowed so google it to see.

Britex: An unexpected find but if you like a good fabric shop think 4 floors of fabrics, butttons, ribbons and trims all arranged in a rainbow across the wall. a feast for the eyes!

Back at work now (sigh!) but full of inspiration and ideas!

Lynda

Welcome back after a wonderful Summer holiday! We’d like to share some photos taken at beautiful ‘Liku Liku Lagoon Resort’ Fiji. We can HIGHLY recommend this one!

Note to Self is open from Tuesday - Friday 10am-5pm and Saturday from 9am-2pmish. 

Look forward to seeing you soon!

Can you guess what this strange ceramic spool shaped item is for?

Well, it’s a ham stand. Thats right, you use it to present your glazed leg of ham. It keeps the ham well supported and has wonderful presentation. We love them!

Following is our favourite glazed ham recipe. It’s so easy and works every time!

Glazed Ham

8kg leg ham

Cloves, for studding

Glaze;

1/2 cup fresh orange juice

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup dijion mustard

1/3 cup honey

Preheat the oven to 190 degrees. Remove the skin from the ham and discard. Score the fat in a diamond pattern. Stud a clove in the middle of each diamond. Place the ham in a baking dish lined with a few layers of non-stick baking paper.

To make the glaze, place the orange juice, sugar, mustard and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes or until thickened. Brush the ham with the glaze and bake for 10 minutes. Glaze again and bake for another 10 minutes. Repeat and bake for a final 10 minutes or until golden. Allow the ham to stand for 5 minutes before carving. Serves 10-12.