Cassandra Allen Illustration

Crumble

2012-01-22T21:24:00.003+01:00

No, it's not the moon's surface. It's my berry and apple crumble. Not the most appealing of photos, I know. But this stuff is easy and quick to make and a real crowd-pleaser. Especially if you serve it warm and topped with a blob of vanilla ice cream or custard.

For this I combined about 2 cups of frozen mixed berries and 3 peeled and grated apples.
Separately I combined ground almonds, melted butter, chopped oats, cinnamon, and a teeny bit of brown sugar.
Then I put the fruit in a small baking dish and topped it with the oaty mix.
In the oven at 180 degrees for about 40 minutes or until the top goes golden brown.
I myself am avoiding sugar. (I just feel better when I do.) But the majority of eaters of this here crumble smothered it with "creme vanille", otherwise known as good old custard.
Bon appetit!

Happy Weekending

2012-01-20T16:17:00.000+01:00

Have a wonderful weekend romping around with your furry friends.

Nepalese Cats, or Mice

2012-01-10T21:03:00.000+01:00

(This is a recent post from the other (naughty misbehaving) blog, transferred to this blogspot in case you missed it.)

A recent gift from a generous grandma, not a grandma of ours but that of a friend. A well travelled lady who has a larger version of these hand-made felted slippers from Nepal on her own feet each time I see her. I was delighted to be on the receiving end of a mini pair for our small-footed big man, who by the way is fascinated by them. Dinner is now shared between three, the small man and his two felt cats. Cute.

Love You Long Time

2012-01-07T22:42:00.002+01:00

Three months ago you were told that you didn't have long to live. "Life is for living" you bravely pronounced. I don't know anyone who eats, breathes and dances to these wise words more than you yourself. But a few days ago you came to me in a dream and said goodbye. And the next morning you were gone. My little noggin hasn't quite come to terms with the fact. Our last conversation has been had. Our last hug has been squeezed. Our final cocktail together has been sipped (way too long ago!). My beautiful, full-of-life, inspiring friend, you will live on forever in my fondest memories. I miss you so much already. Have fun disco-dancing with the angels.
Wa-Wa, Love you long time.

Happy Weekending!

2012-01-06T13:00:00.002+01:00

Have a wonderful weekend chasing petit pirates and kissing big bears.
I am crossing my fingers to see fresh snow drifting down outside my window. Pretty-pretty. Stay warm.

Happy Shiny 2012

2012-01-03T15:44:00.000+01:00

Joyeux Noel

2011-12-25T16:27:00.001+01:00

The fat man in the red suit came and rang his bell. The children squealed, some with delight, some with pure fear (well, one did, it was our little man. Papa Noel(Santa) was rather enthusiastic with his bell-ringing this year). We ate too much delicious home-cooked food and shared funny, serious and sometimes completely uninteresting stories over dinner. Presents were exchanged. By midnight Santa's elves were all tucked up in bed. And the kids too. Merry Christmas.
PS. Nut and Pretzel Mix recipe found here: David Lebovitz

Bread For Chocolate

2011-12-24T09:00:00.002+01:00

I have been avoiding sugar for three months and feeling so much better for it. Sometimes I cave. It's not easy and the stuff is all around us. It sneaks back in to the day to day. And it's difficult with a little man who loves munching on biscuits. But in general I find the less often I eat sugar, the less I want to eat it. And when I do get a mouthful of sweet, I really notice the difference afterwards. The fall. The slump. The lack of motivation to do anything. The bad moods and the negativity. Then the next day, tired body and tired skin.
Today in the supermarket in the middle of the Christmas frenzy crowd, the shiny tin foil-wrapped chocolates were calling out to me. I hesitated, then thought of the fresh bread I'd just made which was waiting for me on the kitchen bench. Warm buttered homemade bread with a slab of gruyere cheese. I was there. Ahhhhhh so good. Plus no hangover. Sweet!

Fingers Crossed

2011-12-23T16:56:00.000+01:00

Have you finished your present wrapping? I haven't but mine are mostly food, which I'll whip up tomorrow and put in pretty cellophane bags with ribbons and bows up to your toes. It's been snowing, a lot. Dusk and dawn are such a fairytale picture when all is coated in snow. Fingers crossed for a white Christmas.

Not completely convinced

2011-12-20T21:14:00.001+01:00

I haven't completely turned my back on the blogspot blog, not convinced that moving to another blog space is the right move for me. Some of you are hanging around here, right? Still reading? I've been testing the waters and combining my shop, blog and folio into one website. But there are issues. As always with the internet. Any feedback?

My Exhibition

2011-12-04T12:56:00.004+01:00

And it’s all over red rover. The exhibion came and went like a hurtling whirlwind, leaving my hair in a tangle, clutching a list of potentially interesting contacts and having mixed feelings about when or why to do another. I really enjoyed having time to focus on my passion and talk to people about my work, especially the children. After 18 months of being a full time mum, as much as I love my dear little man, it was refreshing to direct my thoughts elswhere for a short stint. So now what? Another show with new works in the not too distant future? Hell yeah!! And what about the pieces from this show? I sold many but I had an enormous total of 47 framed works in the show and still have lots left. Question is what do I do with them all? Am exploring my options.

Creative Women and Me

2011-10-31T14:25:00.001+01:00

Want to know a bit more about Cassandra Allen? Some words and pictures over at the fabulous Creative Womens' Circle. Are you familiar with CWC? Jump over there and have a peek. If you are creative you might enjoy it, lots of goodness. What is the CWC? "The Creative Women's Circle is a group of like-minded women working in creative industries (whether full-time, part-time, self employed or as a hobby)."

Pullover Perfect!

2011-10-24T13:39:00.004+02:00

The pullover is perfect! My first real knitting project, not counting scarves and hats. Last Winter it was a bit big for the Bean, but the bean is now a big boy and the pullover is keeping him snuggly warm. Mama is just a little bit proud!

And yes that black splodge on the little person's lip is a hole that's on the mend. Thursday night's circus performance in the loungeroom didn't go so smoothly and ended up in the emergency children's ward with a smashed in mouth, lips teeth and nose and blood covered parents. After 24 hours of not being able to breastfeed I thought it might be all over red rover. But no, all back to normal and solid food's a gogo again after nothing but soup and yoghurt. Plus the ressemblance to Rocky Balboa has dramatically lessened. Phew!

*Edit
Pullover pattern from the super Pickles chicks here.

To WordPress or Not

2011-10-16T15:05:00.003+02:00

Does anyone have anything to say about WordPress? I am considering the move for my blog and folio and shop. Nothing like a bit of integration. Google frequently disowns me and locks me out of its' friendly(?) circle of products. Plus Blogger and I have a love-hate relationship that must be terminated asap.

The Bear is Back

2011-10-13T06:20:00.012+02:00

The Bear is back. I've pulled out our Winter stash of clothes, put the big fluffy doona on the bed and charged up the heating. The Little Monkey needed a hat yesterday. The mornings have become chilly. But he is no longer the Little Bean he was a year ago and maybe this hat is a touch "babyish" for our big boy. He doesn't seem to mind though and it makes his mama giggle to see those cute little bear ears again. That middle photo is the wave ciao-ciao. Kills me with his cuteness lately, really. Same bear, different bear ears (one year ago) here .

Giveaway @ Smallest Things

2011-10-11T13:28:00.001+02:00

She's a nice gal The Franglais. Do you follow her blog Smallest Things ? We have teamed up to giveaway one of my prints. Pop over to her blog and say hi.

The Franglais: Paris, France
Slices of a franglaise's life in Paris with a bub, freshly baked from the oven. Here to share with you some of the Smallest Things I come across in Paris and around the web for our wee kiddies and us sleep deprived parents.

Illustrated Treasure

2011-10-10T21:45:00.004+02:00

Appearing on the planet well before me, and so very well maintained with not a wrinkle to be seen. I scored a book, a beautiful illustrated children's book from 1950. The details are supreme as are the vibrant colours. A work of art for three Swiss Francs. The little man is captivated by it, one page has balloons (a recent obsession of his). As soon as he goes to bed the book will be hidden away up out of reach from tiny hands. Later my little man, when tearing paper is no longer a daily occurrence. Too too precious.

Happy Weekending

2011-10-07T08:00:00.002+02:00

Postcards in Shop

2011-10-05T08:29:00.005+02:00

Hello hello, I have now put these three postcards in my shop. Prices are $2 each or $8 for a pack of 6 (packs come in single design or mixed pack).

Free shipping in October with the code octoberfest.

Go here to visit my shop
www.shop.cassandraallen.com

Or if you prefer my Etsy shop
www.cassandraallen.etsy.com

Weekend Preoccupation

2011-10-02T22:13:00.000+02:00

We get so dirty each time. I think it's mostly from the plaster dust and just general builder-mess that we scramble around in as we inspect the changes. The little monkey loves fossicking through the builders' buckets and boxes of screws and what-not, he is in absolute little man heaven. (Today he found the workmen's teabag box, oh dear.) So as you may or may not know, our weekend preoccupation is meandering over to check the progress on our new house. We are building a house. And we are very nearly there. By the time the first snow falls we should have the walls slicked white, the floor boards clicked into place and the brand-spanking new kitchen ready to roar. A new kitchen, could live get any better?! Woo-hoo, so exciting, and sooo much work to do. Happens to fall around the same time of my exhibition. Am I nuts? Yup.

Shop Updates, New Prints, Free Shipping

2011-09-29T23:50:00.002+02:00

Check out the new prints in my shop. They can be personalised with the name of your choice. Let me know what you think (and if you spot any typos or things going haywire!). From now until the end of October I am offering free shipping anywhere in the world. Just enter the code octoberfest for the discount. I wish that I could be shipped for free anywhere in the world! My shop - http://cassandraallen.bigcartel.com

Baby Cakes for Terrible Twos

2011-09-26T21:24:00.002+02:00

This is my favorite birthday cake and cupcake recipe ever. A fairly heavy vanilla cake which can be shaped well after cooling using a sharp knife. In the past I have made lions, aliens, numbers entwined with vines and bugs. Plus many dozens of cupcakes. This weekend it was for a party of terrible two year olds who were actually quite terrific. Thanks to the wonderful Smitten Kitchen for the recipe, found here.

Happy Castle Weekending

2011-09-23T08:00:00.001+02:00

Once upon a time in a land far away a sleeping handsome prince was waking from his peaceful siesta. As he rubbed his still-sleepy eyes he could not believe what he saw at the end of his bed...a beautiful castle tent had grown quietly while he slept. He rolled out of his bed and into the castle tent and there he remained for the next hundred days, content with Big Bear by his side and spotty Gerald giraffe keeping watch for dragons at the castle gates.

Biscuits, Easy as 123

2011-09-22T13:48:00.000+02:00

Biscuits, every week a new batch. My Little Monkey loves munching on biscuits. Based on a very simple formula found in a French recipe book generously given to me by my belle-mere (mother-in-law, but belle mere sounds so much prettier, ah the french!). Our freezer has recently quit on us, but usually make double quantity and freeze half of it after rolling into a long sausage shape and covering tightly in plastic wrap. When you need cookies, you simply take out the dough, slice into rounds and bake. No need to thaw.
The flour and butter measures need to stay the same, but the sugar can easily be adjusted to taste, as can various extras such as sultanas, cocoa, cinnamon and spice, etc. The basis of the magic formula goes like this: 1 + 2 + 3
100g sugar + 200g butter + 300g flour.
Mix with fingertips and shape into walnut sized balls.
Squash flat (I use a fork).
Bake at 200 degrees Celsius for 8-10 minutes.

PS The two big monkeys like to munch these as well!

New Postcards

2011-09-20T08:30:00.002+02:00

My new postcards have arrived. Three different types taken from original illustrations featured in my upcoming solo show. Very pleased with the results. I get so nervous sending stuff of to print, but I couldn't be happier. These will be the invitations for my exhibition and also for sale in my shop.

LE MARIN & LA MER / The Sailor & The Sea
Opening 29 November 18h-20h

Exhibition and sale of works
29.11.2011 - 04.12.2011
Nest Galerie, 14 rue Etienne Dumont Geneva Switzerland

Happy Weekending!

2011-09-02T11:50:00.000+02:00

The Little Monkey met his first snail. When in France... oh-oh!
Afterwards we passed the boulangerie and enjoyed the sweeter kind of escargot, mmmm some for mama?

Sold Out Craziness

2011-09-01T13:59:00.001+02:00

Sold Out! Thanks everyone for the crazy shopping bonanza. You've helped me clean out my shop, ready for some new goodies for Christmas. Yes, can you believe it, snow and the funny man in the red suit are just around the corner, or sunshine and flying kangaroos if you are down there. New illustrations and shop updates soon. Hang around.

PS. Please help. Anyone know how to get rid of the annoying drop shadow Blogger adds to my posted images? My html know-how is pretty basic, but if you tell me where to find the right chunk of code I will change it. Makes me nutso!

Crazy Print Sale

2011-08-30T14:33:00.024+02:00

I am feeling crazy. (The sugar overload from the 5kg of watermelon I consumed ?) I am clearing out the prints in my online shop and have decided to offer 90% off. Yes, you only pay 10% ! The measly 10 percent is to pay for the packaging. So if you are thinking already of Christmas pressies or small people who might enjoy some fun stuff on their walls (or big people too), check out my shop and use the code "CRAZYSALE" for your yummy discount. And thanks for reading my blog. Click on the images below to enlarge.
Go to my online shop.

New Logo

2011-08-30T08:18:00.000+02:00

Do you read this blog through a reader which only shows the post content? Have you seen my new logo? What do you think?

Watermelon Salvation

2011-08-26T21:42:00.002+02:00

Well yes I did ask for it, beg even. Hot weather, it never really happened this Summer. Until now. Now we are having day number eight of non-stop mid-thirties temperatures and I am over it. Maybe I crossed my fingers a little bit hard, I think everybody did, and BAM it arrived. But we're dealing with it nicely, and there are definitely perks to stinking hot weather which are just not the same on mild mid-twenites days. Like carting home an 8kg watermelon wedged on the back of the pram and eating it while sitting on the cool kitchen tiles with my Little Monkey (who oddly prefers the seeds). I made watermelon juice for Monsieur B as an after-work treat, and well because I much as I pushed, I couldn't fit all the melon in the fridge!

Bon Weekend

2011-08-19T10:00:00.001+02:00

Lines

2011-08-15T13:22:00.001+02:00

In completely unrelated news to these photos of the awesome Little Monkey in full Indiana Jones exploration mode, I am re-designing my logo. I am the most difficult client on this earth, (and believe me I have had some tough ones)! I think I am getting close though. And who knows, maybe I'll end up at the first version I developed a few months ago, hahaha, often the way. Probably if I just drew some stripes I'd be content. Love stripes, absolutely. My wardrobe and our Monkey's are choc full of lines.

Wallpaper For Android Phones

2011-08-09T12:51:00.002+02:00

By request, free wallpaper to download for Android mobile phones, for the non-Maccies.

Android phone (960x800) download

Legal.
You may freely download the wallpaper for your own personal use. You may not distribute it on other websites or use it for commercial purposes without written permission from Cassandra Allen. Copyright remains with Cassandra Allen, ie no reproduction is permitted, thankyou!
© 2011 Cassandra Allen.

Art For iPad + iPhone

2011-08-07T22:40:00.000+02:00

iPad (1024 x 1024)

So I've got an idea. I would like to offer more stuff on my blog for people to download for free and enjoy if they so please. Do you have an iPhone or iPad? Here are some wallpapers for various sizes. Please don't reproduce my illustrations without my permission. Any questions regarding useage please send me an email. Enjoy.

iPad (1024 x 1024) download
iPhone 4 (640 x 960) download
iPhone, iPod Touch (320 x 480) download

Installing wallpaper
Click on the download link and save the file to the images folder that syncs with your device. Sync your iPhone or iPod Touch. Tap on the Photos icon, navigate to the photo and set as wallpaper.

Legal
You may freely download the wallpaper for your own personal use. You may not distribute it on other websites or use it for commercial purposes without written permission from Cassandra Allen. Copyright remains with Cassandra Allen, ie no reproduction is permitted, thankyou!
© 2011 Cassandra Allen.
iPhone, iPad and iPod are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

iPhone 4 (640 x 960)

iPhone, iPod Touch (320 x 480)

Contemplation

2011-08-02T19:03:00.000+02:00

A-maizena

2011-07-31T22:12:00.000+02:00

I'm a sucker for packaging design. Today I nipped down to the local corner store for flour and look what I found, completely unbranded packaging. In French, German and Italian as is most of the packaging in Switzerland. Thrilled. Plus I spotted the ever-so-cute Maizena box. Not on my list but how could I walk past this without taking it home? Sometimes I wonder what the neighbours in the building opposite think of me, the mad woman taking photos of biscuits and boxes on her kitchen bench.

Happy Eating Weekending

2011-07-29T22:01:00.000+02:00

Discovered a sugar 'n' spice biscuity deliciousness during my quest for new munchies for the little monkey. Recipe coming one day when I can be bothered typing it out. And translating it. And remembering what I changed about the original to Cassandra-fy it, as per usual. All gone within 24 hours or less, a good sign, makes mama happy.

Happy Weekending!

2011-07-22T21:32:00.000+02:00

Flirting, Rule No. 1

2011-07-20T10:17:00.001+02:00

Flirting. Rule Number 1 = eye contact and a smile. Works like a charm and this little monkey has it well figured out already. Of course bathing nude in an inflatable duck at the same time just adds to the magnetic effect on the girls. Lots of practise during our recent holidays in Portugal.

Le Portugal

2011-07-13T22:37:00.003+02:00

First time seeing the ocean. First time tasting sand. Pure delight, our little monkey is a beach lover for sure. Over the past few weeks we've been lazing around in Portugal and Spain on Summer vacation with cousins and uncles and aunties galore. An outbreak of chickenpox the day of departure meant unfortunately we were limited to dusk beach visits only and the super new shorts from Auntie Carissa remained in the suitcase unused. But fun times were still had by all. And enormous amounts of cake were eaten at breakfast every morning. And precious relationships were formed between the young folk (including much hair-pulling and eye-poking).

My Heart Melts

2011-07-06T08:00:00.005+02:00

My heart melts when I see this little face, even with crusty bits on his nostrils!

My Boys

2011-07-01T14:04:00.003+02:00

Yum Yogourt

2011-06-27T08:00:00.005+02:00

It's not to save money or time, it's more for the pleasure of making it and eating something we've made from scratch. I make yogourt about twice a week. Here in Switzerland every home has lashings of yogourt in their refrigerator, and the supermarkets have entire isles dedicated to yogourt including flavours I've never seen in Australia (Why is that? And why is yogourt and cheese for that matter so expensive in Australia?). Several times a week I whip up a batch of natural yogourt and another batch of flavoured yogourt, usually coffee or chocolate for Monsieur B's tastebuds. I'm more of a natural yogourt lover, so too is our little monkey who is now burning through over a litre of yogourt per week.
*EDIT
I first learnt how to make yogourt/yoghurt via the fabulous Soule Mama (tutorial here). Although now I simplify this and don't even use a thermometer... I heat 800ml milk and 5 generous tablespoons of milk powder (this makes the final product creamy and thicker) until just boiling without burning the milk, then cool in a sink full of cold water until cool enough that I can just comfortably stick my finger in. Then I whisk in 180g natural yogourt. Pour into small glass pots with lids and put in the oven on 50 deg celcius for about 7 hours then into the fridge about 2 hours until cold and set.
Notes:
-Someone has kindly given me their yogourt maker, which is really just a small box that keeps a low temperature. I use this because I think it uses less electriciy than the oven.
-Before the yogourt maker or the oven, I used to wrap up the jars of yogourt in woollen blankets and leave by the heater overnight. Temperature consistancy seems to be important.
-Here in Switzerland instead of using yogourt for the culture you can buy powder in the pharmacy.
-The longer you let the yogourt develop, the thicker and more acidic in flavour it becomes.
-Left in the fridge more than 3 days it seems to become more acidic also, but in our house it gets devoured pretty quickly anyway.

Birdy Mobile

2011-06-24T11:29:00.000+02:00

Our little monkey loves bananas, birds and balls amongst other things. I made him a colourful birdy mobile which twirls in the wind as it hangs above his bed. He goes crazy for it. Now when he sees birds, real birds, he blows air through his little lips as if blowing the paper birds mobile. Oh to get a photo. Happy weekending everybody!

Twitter Here I Come

2011-06-20T11:15:00.000+02:00

I am testing the waters, seeing if the shoe fits, or if I will indeed be consumed by the ginormous blue twittering winged creature. We'll see. But for now, here's my Twitter spot... Cassandrallen

My (Creative) Space

2011-06-14T16:34:00.003+02:00

A new blue blog banner illustration for a lovely lady who lives by the sea, Charley at Secret Water over here... http://www.secretwater.com.au/

I Love My Bed

2011-06-13T13:22:00.000+02:00

Like father like son, they both love their beds. Mama too, especially on lazy day holidays after a morning of sweet strawberry picking (and munching) under the warm sun. Happy relaxing holiday everybody, in Europe and in Australia.

Les Belles Cerises

2011-06-04T18:22:00.001+02:00

We have a house in progress (photos of progress here) and on the land is an enormous beautiful old cherry tree. We have been trekking out each weekend to check our house progess, and at the same time, the progress of our cherry tree. Today was IT day, the perfect afternoon to fill a large paper bag with organic goodness from our own backyard. Over one kilogram of brilliantly shiny red sweetness. Now I am back in our appartment, a kilo of cherries sitting next to me in a big bowl with a plate strategically placed on top. Question, will this deter the cherry monster? Lil Bean or me, we are both addicted. Question two, now what to do with all these bliss-bombs? Maybe a cherry tart? Any suggestions for cherries?

Tarte Tatin

2011-06-01T06:35:00.001+02:00

Tarte Tatin. I don't know if I really needed all three photos, but looking at them reminded me how good this tastes fresh out of the oven. The next day it loses it's magic, but still very edible. Good bribery material, haha.
Slightly adapted from here... www.chocolateandzucchini.com

Happy Weekending!

2011-05-27T12:13:00.000+02:00

My (Creative) Space

2011-05-26T07:51:00.002+02:00

A Platypus for a small pretty friend in Australia...

Conversation

2011-05-23T13:17:00.001+02:00

Their conversation was in a language the big people had long forgotten how to speak. Two small men standing by the old horse trough comparing notes about Australia vs. Switzerland. Quite serious about it all. Plunging their hands into the cool water and no doubt wishing their arms were longer so as to reach the mystical orange fish which swished around below the surface.

The After Party

2011-05-18T16:25:00.001+02:00

The After Party which followed the birthday picnic party, and has become a three-times-a-day ritual ever since. Yes it's a lot of work, but also a lot of laughs. Sometimes I have to sigh and remind myself that one day this little man will be all grown up and able to feed himself with a knife and fork and that won't be half as much fun.

The Big One

2011-05-17T14:01:00.002+02:00

Our Little Bean turned a big one year old. Chocolate on his teeny tastebuds for the very first time, Swiss chocolate no less. It was true love. I made a bug-covered cake in the form of the number one, decorated with leaves and vines crafted from green marzipan. The cake turned out very well, considering I had no real plan when I started except that the number one would be featured and some sort of planty-nature stuff. We are becoming more and more eco friendly in this household especially since the arrival of our little guy. Watch out here come the hippies!

Hey, Who Stole My Post?

2011-05-13T20:39:00.000+02:00

I don't know what happened, but I posted these images yesterday. I had a comment too, at least one. And now there is no trace of the post. Completely gone, vanished into pixel dust. Does anybody know about this occuring with Blogger? Who stole my blog post?

Happy Weekending!

2011-05-13T20:31:00.002+02:00

Go Mamas!

2011-05-08T06:37:00.000+02:00

To all the magnificent mamas out there, Happy Mother's Day!

Crystal Kite Award

2011-05-06T15:01:00.008+02:00

This old Sailor went to town and won an award! The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) awarded There Was An Old Sailor (for which I illustrated and Claire Saxby wrote) a Crystal Kite award for the category Australia and New Zealand. Yippeee. The book is available in hardback and the publishing house Walker Books has just announced There Was An Old Sailor will be re-released in paperback for Christmas 2011. Available at all good bookstores and online at Fishpond.

My (Creative) Space

2011-05-04T21:52:00.003+02:00

Not just any pickle, but an Inner Pickle. Fiona asked me to illustrate a banner for her wonderful blog of which she is in the process of redesigning. (Click on the illustration to see it at full size.) Check out Inner Pickle's handy hints for making stuff from scratch, for low-chemical living and also some fabulous well-tested recipes for a happy mouth. A blog that is always a pleasure to read. http://www.innerpickle.com.au/

Happy Weekending!

2011-04-30T07:55:00.002+02:00

Someone likes Mama's big chair, like craaazy. It spins too! Have yourselves a lovely weekend everybody. Over here we will be busy baking a birthday cake in the form of the number one for a special little monkey.

My (Creative) Space

2011-04-28T09:46:00.002+02:00

I don't like designing logos. But sometimes I do. I quit graphic design a while back to focus on my passion, illustration. But some logos are a joy, especially when they call for illustrative elements. I've been painting up some beautiful type for a new project of a very clever clothes designer friend and really sinking into it. The baby-brain fog is lifting slowly but surely and creative ventures are clicking into place. “hallelujah!”

See some more Creative Spaces over at KooToYoo

Package Numero Two

2011-04-21T21:21:00.000+02:00

A second package bound for another little head in Australia, Tom. And some nice brown pants to keep those edible baby legs warm in Winter. Little Bean says hello and hope you like your beanie.

Package Numero One

2011-04-20T16:55:00.002+02:00

I gathered a few cute pieces to put inside the package bound for a little Phoenix in far off Australia. I made a quick hat in a lovely shade of grey. My in-house model complained that it was unfair to be modelling a beanie in such fine Spring weather, but I explained that I really needed to check the size and fit and that he was the best man for the job. He agreed. He also demonstrated an alternative method of sporting the hat.
To make the hat, it couldn't be easier. This is what I did.
I used a ball of nice soft baby merino wool (10cm=17st) and bamboo double-pointed needles size 4.5mm. Cast on 60 stitches. Spread across 4 double pointed needles (15 stitches on each needle). Pearl a row, knit a row, pearl a row. Then knit until you have the desired length. Cast off and sew the top straight across. Wash carefully by hand (this helps even out the tension in the stitches, yes, after a hard day even knitting gets a little tense, oh I know that was bad!)

Baby + Belly

2011-04-15T09:43:00.000+02:00

Valentin has arrived! Little Bean recently performed some baby to baby communications through my friend's big pregnant belly, saying hello and encouraging the little one to come out and meet us all. And yesterday afternoon he made the big move and now he's here. Cannot wait to meet the little wonder. Congratulations to his beautiful new parents, Valentin you are off to such a great start!

Flickring

2011-04-14T21:44:00.000+02:00

I now have a Flickr page. On this page I have begun to display a collection of my illustrative work from the past couple of years. Check it out if you're interested, here. I've also added a little gadget in the sidebar of this blog with updated thumbnails and a link to my Flickr page. Little Bean has been the star of this blog recently. Well, we think he's pretty darn cute so we cannot resist but pass the days away clicking photos of his royal highness. But actually, my life consists of other activities aswell. Occasionally.

A Cozy Noggin

2011-04-11T08:56:00.000+02:00

Knitting project numero deux. A little hat for a little head, graciously modelled by our Little Bean. Luscious warm days have graced us recently and Winter has well and truly left the party. That's the news on this side of the planet. But this hat is bound for distant shores, for a little head on the coast of Australia, where the seasons are flipped and soon the heads there will need hats. It's not the first hat I've created, but the first I've knitted. The first one was crocheted, see here.

This knitted hat pattern I found here. (slightly adapted, I made the ribbed border a little chunkier and longer)

Have A Wonderous Weekend

2011-04-08T21:37:00.001+02:00

Boo For Bananas

2011-04-07T10:29:00.000+02:00

We have a small person in our house who used to eat anything, including parts of the actual house. Now we have a fussy eater, an eleven month-old who is super choosy with his food, although still is impartial to gnawing on various household objects. The poor little mite has also has been struck with pesky allergies and has large areas of dry, itchy eczema-plagued skin. Like his Mum. Oh so not fair. How bad do I feel. Here's hoping that this is just a baby thing, and that after some time his immune system will adjust and his super soft baby skin will return, along with his tolerance for dairy products, strawberries and bananas, which for the time being are off limits. Bananas never did score high points with Little Bean though, he prefers to paint the high chair with them rather than stuff them in his petite bouche.

Happy Weekending!

2011-04-03T10:17:00.001+02:00

Chocolate Muffins

2011-03-29T10:49:00.000+02:00

There aren't many folk who refuse a slice of freshly baked chocolate cake. And a cake which one can whip up easily using the ingredients already found in the pantry, well that scores big points from me. This recipe calls for cocoa instead of actual chocolate but still has a robust chocolate smell and flavour. Handy because I cannot keep chocolate in the house, it gets devoured. By me. I whipped these up Sunday morning when Little Bean went down for his morning nap, filling the apartment with heady fresh-baked choco odours ready for the arrival of our lovely friends.

Chocolate Muffins (or cake), makes approx 18 medium muffins
(Recipe adapted from here www.innerpickle.com.au )

1 cup sugar
¾ cup oil
2 eggs
1 cup coffee
1 cup milk
2 cups plain flour (I used a mix of wholemeal and white)
1 cup cocoa (sifted)
1 tsp salt
3 tsp baking powder

Preheat oven to 165°C.
Mix together sugar, oil, eggs, coffee and milk.
Mix together flour, cocoa, salt, baking powder.
Add dry ingredients to wet mix and beat well.
Pour into cake tin or muffin trays
Bake for approx 30 mins for muffins (longer for cake)

Giving Goodness

2011-03-27T21:38:00.002+02:00

I love cooking. I love eating. I love crafty goodness. I love sketching a line then filling it with brush-strokes of gouache. I love the internet and the generosity of good folk who share their crafty know-how, edible treats, latest illustration adventures and and amusing anecdotes of mischievous kidlets. Plus I love the sweet support I receive from people who browse my net space place. So very touching, thank you.

I've decided to put a bit of order in this space and start posting recipes, categorising posts, detailing knitting patterns etc. Giving a bit more back. (Most of my giving during the past 11 months has been to the small person in our lives.). I'm just not sure what to label this post as? Hmmm, good start!

There is evidence in the above photo of a small person living with us who frequently inhabits my kitchen. Can you spot it?

Chocolate cake recipe up next, as soon as I clear the crumbs from my table...

Bitchin'

2011-03-17T16:23:00.002+01:00

I've got to have a whinge... I have allergies and often suffer from eczema, sometimes caused by eating too much sugar or fruit or dairy products, but sometimes nothing I can pinpoint and it's a pain in the bum but I do my best and live with it. (That is not the whingey bit). In an effort to reduce the risk of passing on this horrid curse on to my little man I was utterly determined to breastfeed from day one. But as natural as it may be, breastfeeding didn't come easy and was a million times harder than I thought it would be. No one really talks about the difficulties. They should. But in the end, we worked it out, and now eleven months down the track he is an expert little sucker, over and done in a few quick minutes, making his mama proud.

Here comes the whinge...During a recent conversation with my mother-in-law where I was saying how tired I was because of the breastfeeding, she turned to me shocked that I was still offering Little Bean the boob, and immediately and sternly instructed me to quit. Now. I felt steam coming out of my ears and flames roaring out of my flared nostrils. How dare she! Where is the love and support?! Why wouldn't she want what is best for the small person. All I heard was "in my day blah blah blah..." If only the conversation had've been in english instead of french I could've held the fort and not let the fury blur my vocabulaire and conjugaison. But alas, what came out my mouth was not ideal and I quickly decided to bite my tongue and let the fire pass. Sigh. But it rocked my boat. A lot.

What is it about our society and breastfeeding? My experience and that of my mama friends' has been that in the early days of the babies life we are often frowned upon for not breastfeeding, but be careful, if then if you breastfeed for too long, well tut-tut-tut, that's just not right.

Little Bean, your mama is so proud of you. You are my petit chou-chou champion and I love you to bits.
Photo: Little Bean mid strawberry-biscuit-fest

Thankyou

2011-03-10T21:52:00.001+01:00

Thankyou for all your lovely well wishes. Our little champion is doing well and so are we all. Look what I found tonight, slightly distracted by old photos while attempting to clean up my hard drive. Chucky T's, me and skinny jeans (hand bleached by my own little teenage hands), circa 1988. Over twenty years ago, a whole nother lifetime, how old do I feel!

On The Mend

2011-03-03T21:24:00.005+01:00

Our brave little man is on the mend and sporting a couple of lengthy 2-3cm scars on his tummy after a recent stint in hospital. His mama cried and his papa paced the room like a caged tiger, but they put on brave faces and pulled through together. All is good now and our small hero is re-gathering his mighty strength at home. Today he showed true form and was back to flirting with the passers-by as he cruised in his pram. Didn't think it was possible, but I love the little monkey a million times more.

The Busy Assistant

2011-02-24T09:03:00.004+01:00

I find it difficult receiving clothing gifts that are not really my taste. It's bound to happen and I try to be as sensitive as possible in these situations, without lying but at the same time not crushing the giver's feelings. Yesterday was not like that. Yesterday Little Bean received two new pretty hand-knits from the lovely Auntie Évelyne, an aunt who is not really and aunt but who is as affectionate and doting as any aunt could be. Thankyou mille fois AA, we love the neutral colours and the simple styles. I set out to photograph them as best I could. My very busy assistant enthusiastically art directed the photo shoot. He was seriously dedicated, insisting that no toy would distract him from his job!

Big Love

2011-02-15T10:55:00.002+01:00

The big love is being returned. Our little man is now showering us in affection and it's melting our hearts. But Saturday night was stressful and even with some tears. The little man was the hero as we spent oh-too-long past his bedtime waiting amongst tired grumpy unwell little people in the emergency section of the children's hospital. It was his parents who were wrought with worry and angst. Little Bean explored, made friends and was generally a super trooper despite the situation. We are not past the worst and his mama is stressing, but hopefully soon things will be back to normal. Flowers and cake given and received on Saint Valentine's day. We ate so much cake that afterward there was no room for left for even a tiny slither of chocolate, shocking!

Easy Chocolate Cake
(source unknown!)

Ingredients
(half this quantity makes 12 medium-sized cupcakes)

300g flour (I used 150g white, 150g wholemeal)
3 heaped tsp baking powder
100g cocoa (sifted)
250g raw sugar
200g melted butter
4 eggs
450ml milk

Pre-heat oven to 180C, line and grease a 22cm cake tin.
Mix dry ingredients. Add combined wet ingredients.
Beat until mixture is pale and silky looking.
Pour into the tin and smooth out.
Bake for about 45 mins to an hour (or as cupcakes for about 40 minutes) .

9 months in and out

2011-01-31T22:30:00.001+01:00

Our Little Bean is nine big months old. My how he's changed! The final belly pic was taken just four days before he was born. I was suddenly enormous and really feeling the weight. People would stare at me on the tram with a sort of frightened expression. Actually, they didn't stare at me, it was my belly they couldn't take their eyes off. Maybe they were worried the baby was about to come out and they'd have to help?!

Tuesday Washing Day

2011-01-25T10:41:00.047+01:00

Tuesday is washing day. Our apartment is teeny so we have to use the communal laundry in the basement and have an allocated time slot. Tuesday is our day. It is the day that our baby carriers get used the most. I zoom downstairs hauling a basket full of dirty washing and singing and dancing to the cute little 11+kg bundle strapped on the front of me. If I stop, he starts. And his singing is far less agreeable than mine (is that possible?)! Ten action-packed minutes is about the limit that the little man will agree to be strapped to my body, so long as I keep him well entertained. (It is also about the time limit for my poor old spine.) The little guy is currently is on a mission to explore, to discover, to touch tear and taste. Neither the sling nor the Ergo are his idea of fun. But he loves helping sort the whites from the darks, whilest hiding himself beneath in a self imposed game of cache-cache hide and seek. See that photo in the middle, he stays stationary like that until I whisk the towel away and say coucou, peek-a-boo. He truly thinks I cannot see him I am sure. Ah how I love my little helper.

Happy Weekending People!

2011-01-21T14:15:00.002+01:00

Today is nasty, a fiesty battle between the sun and the wind. As pretty and tempting as those rays of sunshine might be, they're no competition for La Bise which blows icy gusts at full speed from the North, obliterating any chance of warmth. Happy weekending people, stay warm, or cool, and eat well.

Chocolate Biscotti

2011-01-20T21:31:00.001+01:00

Chocolate biscotti heaven made using a recipe from David Lebovitz (recipe here), except I didn't put the chocolate on the outside after baking because I prefer my biscotti simple. Although it was not an easy decision to skip the extra choco goodness, I am quite a freak for chocolate (chocolate lover is not a strong enough term). This was a first time recipe, and let me tell you, sooo good I couldn't stop eating. I had to hide them from myself. Yes, we all know that works. Double baked for double yum crunch, dipped in a steaming cup of coffee is a match made in heaven for breakfast lunch or dinner, and everything in between. I gave a bag of these little Italian wonders to some lovely Italian friends and got 10/10. I also learnt that biscotti in Italian is actually plural and that biscotto translates as the singular, biscuit. I love languages like I love chocolate. No, chocolate wins.

The First (of many) Pullover(s)

2011-01-15T21:06:00.001+01:00

About twenty years ago I tried to knit a scarf. My Nan taught me how. I never finished it though. I dropped too many stitches and I hated counting as I went, it defeated the calming effect of knitting and stressed me out. Still does! I've decided to pick up the needles again, well, not those same ones I had in my hands twenty years ago, but still...
I can crochet, and I love to crochet, but the problem is that in general I find most knitted stuff a whole lot prettier than crocheted stuff. So I found a knitting pattern for a baby boy's pullover (here) and I bought some lovely soft merino wool in olive green and some bamboo clickety-clack needles and I'm off. So far so good. It still stresses me out though. I live in fear of dropping a stitch, like it's going to kill me!

Papa Love

2011-01-15T20:54:00.000+01:00

The amount of love and admiration he has for his papa is unmeasurable.

Baby Bear (but not a Rummey)

2011-01-10T15:58:00.000+01:00

It's our little bear, or Little Bean as I've called him since he was growing inside my belly. But he's too big to be that anymore. I don't know what his next nickname might be. A few times I've called him Crumpet, but that doesn't seem very nice. When I was a wee tacker I got called Muffet (as in Little Miss Muffet) and my brother got Tiger.
Eight months have passed since we met this little man and I am now seeing changes from baby to toddlerhood. And like they say, it's really bitter-sweet. I am telling myself to savour every moment, even the tear-filled-I-don't-want-to-sleep moments (baby, not me)! I am taking photos and films like a woman obsessed. Oh, yeah ok, I AM a woman obsessed, out of control as Carissa would say! I had to buy a second external hard drive because our camera is full and so are my two hard disks, stuffed full with a kazilliion baby photos and videos, so much so my poor old lappy laptop had a heart attack and wouldn't function (fixed it though, phew). That's why these photos are so ruddy, I've resorted to my mobile phone for pics. Argh! Soon to change all that. Major photo sorting and saving taking place very soon.
His latest tricks: fake laughter for the camera, pushing and pulling doors, chewing shoes and slippers (an old habit that won't go away, ewgh!), and performing a sort of thigh-slapping german-style dance at high speed whenever he's on the change mat.

Happy Shiny New Year

2011-01-01T07:58:00.005+01:00

Au revoir 2010, it was nice knowing you. I am truly grateful. You delivered bucket-loads of wonderful delights and experiences, including my favorite illustrated book project to date (There Was An Old Sailor) led by an awesome publisher Walker Books, the green light on our house plans in France, a not long enough visit from my dear parents from Australia, the simple yet charming marriage to my handsome Monsieur B, and the incredible and unexpectedly easy birth of our precious Little Bean.
Now 2011 has arrived, a fresh new beginning. I cherish this moment and look forward to the many adventures which will cross my path in 2011.

The Magic Christmas Spirit

2010-12-24T16:23:00.005+01:00

I don't understand the bah-humbug attitude when it comes to Christmas time, especially when there's small people around. I've never been big on shopping for gifts, and instead revel in the making and baking. I love love love the smell of a fresh Christmas tree sitting pretty in the lounge-room adorned in dangling precious decorations and with a collection of fancily-wrapped goodies piled-up underneath. During my childhood Christmas time was always sprinkled with magic, thanks to my marvellous parents. Now with a little man of our own who is experiencing his first Noel, I am excited to share this enchanting time of year with him. Merry Christmas all of you!
PS. It just started snowing, the magic continues!

Molasses Gingerbread Cookies
http://crazyaboutcookiesbook.com

650g flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
2tsp grnd ginger, 1tsp grnd cinnamon, 1tsp nutmeg, 1/4 tsp grnd cloves
250g butter, softened
200g brown sugar
2/3 cup (approx 150g) molasses
1 egg

Lemon Royal Icing

4 egg whites
4 cups confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
food coloring
Toppings

Make the Gingerbread. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Combine the flour, salt, baking powder, spices in a large bowl.
Cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the molasses and egg.
Gradually stir in the flour mixture. Form the dough into a flat disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Roll the dough out on a floured work surface to 1/4 inch thick. Using a utility knife cut out robots. Place the shapes on the cookie sheets 1 1/2 inches apart. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until light brown around the edges. Transfer to a rack to cool.

Method for Lemon Royal Icing:
Beat the egg whites, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and water with an electric mixer on low speed until blended.
Increase the speed to high and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Add more confectioners’ sugar or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Color the icing with food coloring.

Steps for Decorating
Pipe the outlines first; let dry. Fill the outlines with colors, attach candy dots and stars, and let dry. Finally, top with piped details. Let dry.

---------------------------------------------

Spiced Glazed Nuts and Pretzel Mix
(adapted from here www.davidlebovitz.com)

200 g mixed raw nuts
1 tablespoon (15 gr) unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons (45 gr) dark brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
2 cups (100 gr) small pretzel twists

Spread the nuts on a baking sheet and roast in a 350F (180C) oven for 10 minutes, stirring once for even toasting.
In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne.
Add the warm nuts, stirring until coated. Then mix in the salt and pretzels, and stir until the nuts and pretzels are completely coated.
Spread the mixture back on the baking sheet and return to the oven for 12-18 minutes, stirring twice during cooking.
Remove from oven and cool completely, separating the nuts and pretzels as they cool or they will stick together.
Once cool, this mixture can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Happy Christmas Week

2010-12-21T10:25:00.001+01:00

Curvy Book Available

2010-12-16T09:40:00.003+01:00

I have an illustration in a book, which I mentioned here on the blog a little while back. The book is called Curvy Seven, because it's the seventh time these people have put out a book called Curvy. It's full of female artists' work, hence the name curvy, (although some boys are curvy too I guess!? On that point, this year there is also a boy version of the book called Muscle Up). Anyway, I am pretty wrapped with the result. There is some awesome work inside. There are a few that I wonder about, but that's just me. Oh well.
So, there's a new Curvy site with lots of interesting news, interviews and information about creative people (click here). There's an online version of the book (click here). And if you like the book you can purchase Curvy Seven for a mere for $40 aud (click here)

Drowning Apples

2010-12-12T21:12:00.001+01:00

I made this cake. It's called Drowning Apples which is very appropriate because the apples sink in to the cake batter and are almost competely engulfed with just their tops poking out, all prettily sliced and calling your name to "eat me, now!" It was easy peasy to make and a nice idea to fancy up a plain cake. Initially I was a bit disapointed when I pulled it out of the oven and saw that the apples had remained closed. But after cooling for a bit, they fanned out and did what they were supposed to. Made it taste even better! Shame there were no guests to share it with, just me and the Monsieur. Although Little Bean tried to rip some out of my hand. He moves at light speed now when he sees something he wants. Sooo fast! I just know our cakes, cookies and food in general will be divided by three of us soon. He is so ready to eat a steak!
Cake recipe found here: schlachtplatten.blogspot.com

Natas, Mmmmm

2010-12-06T14:28:00.000+01:00

I have always loved Natas, or Portuguese Tarts, but eaten warm out of the oven and made with love by my Portuguese mother in law, (and with the help of Monsieur B) and sprinkled with cinnamon? Oh how heavenly! I didn't want to know how much cream and egg yolk went into the custard cream filling, that would spoil the pure pleasure of eating them.

Have A Wonderful Weekend

2010-12-03T13:30:00.001+01:00

More White Stuff

2010-12-02T10:37:00.002+01:00

It's been blizzarding down on this side of the planet. Love it!

First Snow

2010-11-29T16:02:00.002+01:00

Our Little Bean couldn't keep his eyes off the ground. Fresh snow all weekend, the first for the season and the first ever for our little man. We bundled him up like a little snowman and ventured outside to play. It was too cold to stay too long, and our little shark with his mouth full of newly pushing teeth, didn't have much patience either. I say it every year...I LOVE snow!

My Creative Space

2010-11-25T09:49:00.013+01:00

Finally got some photos of the finished hat on our lovely little model, who decided like all things it is great to eat! Bonus, the hat is multifunctional, not only is is effective for keeping little ears warm but it also doubles as a teething device. Brilliant!More creativity over at Koo To You.

Six Months, Six Teeth

2010-11-23T21:03:00.001+01:00

Six months old and six teeth sprouted through already. Poor little man is going through teething hell. Lots of cuddles required lately.

Seven Facts

2010-11-20T21:04:00.001+01:00

I've been tagged by Jgee from Bebek to list seven facts about myself. A little while ago Mama Bear from Rummey Bears tagged me (click here to see) so here's seven different facts...

The Mister's Apple Pie

2010-11-18T18:44:00.003+01:00

I made this apple pie and it was superb, divine delish. I ate it for dessert after dinner, then again for breakfast, and some for snacks throughout the day. Why not. One could say I lived on this pie until it was all gone. So. Good.
The recipe is simple, like that of a simple apple pie should be. I found it on Damaris' wonderful jam-packed full of goodies foodie blog. A post by her hubby no less, lucky woman! I opted for wholemeal pastry and devoured it with lashings of natural yogurt. Mmm.
Recipe ...
www.kitchencorners.com

{this moment}

2010-11-12T20:32:00.001+01:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see - soulemama

Have a wonderful weekend laughing and chewing your shoes (as Little Bean likes to do).

Pears in Verjus

2010-11-09T10:23:00.007+01:00

With the small tart grapes we picked at the vineyard the other weekend I was stuck with what to do with them? Too sour to eat fresh, too precious to throw away. My mum suggested making verjus, by simply blending the fruit to a pulp and straining it. There were lots of recipes easily found for pork in verjus, but I decided to go with poached pears, adding some cinnamon and honey to balance the acidy bite of the grapes. The colour was spectacular and my mouth was watering as the appartment filled with the smell of warm pears and cinnamon. Monsieur B was happily surprised to get a dessert, as I rarely bother these days.
*(I forgot to photograph the finished pears before devouring them. Therefore the last photo is not mine. Not sure where it came from, sorry to the person who took the photo!)

Have A Wonderful Weekend

2010-11-05T09:55:00.002+01:00

Have a wonderful weekend daydreaming in the warm afternoon sunshine.

My Creative Space

2010-11-04T09:53:00.007+01:00

The crochet needle and some pretty wool are slowly but surely forming a small hat for a small head, to guard against those chilly Autumn winds.
More Creative Spacers over at KooToYou.