Last Post of 2010

I'm in Chiang Mai house-hunting before Christmas. We're looking for a place to live and somewhere for me to work/ set up studio. Wish me luck!! One area we do love is by Nimmanheaminda Road where there are lots of fantastic shops, galleries and artisan studios. 

Here's some pictures of NAP - the Nimmanheamin art & design promenade that's on all this week.

 It's so inspiring to see like minded creative professionals doing their own thing!

I will be back to the blog early in the New Year. Wishing you and your loved ones a truly wonderful Christmas!! Thanks for all your support & best wishes and.......may 2011 be all about ‘celebrating’ you!

"Letting It All Go" Ultimate Christmas SALE!!

This second half of 2010 has been all about ‘letting go'  – not only our house & contents in Sydney but also everyday life commitments, expectations and even some lifelong dreams. It’s been so liberating just to live 'now' and ‘in the moment’.

I’ve also just realised it’s December (and Christmas) already so in the spirit of 'letting go' we’re having our biggest sale ever - 25% off EVERYTHING in store, including all my original paintings on canvas and paper. Just type in the code 2010 upon checkout to receive this special discount. Sale is on for one week only. Please get in early to ensure your order arrives before Christmas.

The Perfect Drink for Summer!

We absolutely loved this drink from Komaneka at Bisma when we were in Bali.....sweet but with a refreshing unexpected hit of basil (and mint). The restaurant manager Agus Suartama has kindly sent me the recipe and allowed me to share it with you.

Photo from realsimple.com - for illustration purposes only

Komaneka Basil Lemonade - this recipe is for 1.

This drink begins with a Muddle of 5 mint sprigs and 5 large basil leaves, 30 ml hand   pressed lime juice and 15 ml sugar syrup.

Shake it and double strain into a Collin glass filled with ice. Finish off with 7-Up or Sprite for a little fizz, then garnish with slice lime and fresh mint. 

If you wanted it to be less sweet, I am sure it would work just as well with mineral or soda water instead of lemonade. And for an alcoholic kick, how about adding a shot of vodka?

Cheeky Monkey!!

I thought you'd find these really funny. At the Ubud Monkey Sanctuary Forest, I was accosted by this monkey searching for food.

The doors are open.....

I am loving all these beautiful wooden carved doors in Bali.......

Bali

Been laying low the past week. I got bitten by some mosquitoes and have a bit of a fever. Hopefully will feel better soon with the antibiotics the doctor prescribed at the airport. Here's some pics of the wonderful resort we stayed when we were in Ubud, Bali:

Komaneka at Bisma - Heaven on Earth"

Love the styling and interiors of the suites; my sort of look - simple, modern and elegant with a touch of tradition, colour and pattern thrown in!

They lay the bed with a 'heart' of petals - very sweet

After travelling for 3 months, we know a good bathroom when we see one!

Leeum Museum

Just down the road from our hotel is the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art....

Can you see Louise Bourgeois's Spiders?

We've seen these spiders in NY, London and now Seoul!!The

The museum was created so we can participate and enjoy the dialogue between art, people & culture.

Sitting on one of Louise Bourgeois's eye benches

Gorgeous spiral staircase

The Leeum Museum shows both traditional and modern art with an emphasis on Korean works!

The 'Memories of the Future' exhibition featured several renowned international artists  

It was great to see Michael Lin's work in the flesh.

We love pattern - everything is hand painted!

Kimchee, kimchi, gimchi

Kim chee is a traditional Korean dish made from fermented vegetables using various seasonings such as chilli, sugar, vinegar and garlic etc. The Koreans eat it everyday and they love it (you can smell it everywhere). It definitely is an acquired taste but it has been part of their culture for over 2000 years!!

You can get all types of kimchee - cabbage, cucumber, radish. Apparently, there are over 187 recorded varieties depending on the region, season and history. It is usually served as a side dish and accompanies all Korean meals.

If you fancy trying it, here is the recipe. It's very easy to make and lasts for ages.

Walking in Seoul

Seoul has quite a few boroughs worth exploring. Myeong-dong reminds me of Tokyo's Shinjuku district for it's neon lights, shopping and atmosphere. Insadong is full of antique shops, art galleries and artisan boutiques while Samcheong-dong is Seoul's past and present at the same time. Traditional hanok (Korean houses) exist in harmony with art galleries and fashionable cafes.

Art Shop in Insa-dong

Roasting Chestnuts

Seoul has quite a lively art scene

Laneways in Insa-dong

What a great idea to make a pillar more interesting!

A craft stall in Ssamziegil

Food is everywhere

Love is a raspberry, lychee and rose macaroon!

My fuel for walking

One of the many boutiques in Samcheong-dong

Art Exhibit

Samcheong-dong

Koreans love their coffee!

Seoul Lantern Festival