Table Tonic

Hurry! The Table Tonic 25% off sale ENDS SOON!

2012-01-25T13:02:00.000+11:00

I hope you've all had a beautiful, calm and healthy(!) start to the year. I'll be back soon with oodles more Tonic to see you through those morning cuppas in 2012! PS Don't forget, the Table Tonic monster sale must end soon, so get those orders in! See you soon! xLouise

25% off EVERYTHING at tabletonic.com.au

2011-12-27T16:36:00.000+11:00

Goodbye for now...

2011-12-22T06:00:00.002+11:00

Hello my friends. It's been such a memorable year in the land of Tonic. And sharing 2011 with you guys, my Tonic-ettes, has been a huge and fulfilling part of that. If you're out there, thinking of starting a blog, I say GO FOR IT, because it has changed my life on a wonderfully grand scale. The people I have connected with and re-connected with as a direct result of this blog has been an absolute trip. And the best part of it all has without question, been inspiring you all on a daily basis - particularly, it seems, with my health posts! I just love it. But blogging is time consuming (and then some!), so it's time now for me to take a short break. But the news isn't all bad - I'm going to leave you with 18 fabulous websites to browse through at your leisure. And if you still want more, click here. I'll see y'all in 2012! MERRY CHRISTMAS from the entire Table Tonic team! Oh, right. That's just me...! xLouise

Simply Grove

emmy and mouse design/misc
iubiree misc
oil pulling health

the raw chef food/health
from scandina via with love interiors/misc
animals talking in all caps humour
all things stylish misc
hey look craft/misc
the marion house book decor/interiors
tomboy style fashion

weekday carnival design/misc

bradshaw styling decor/misc

beautiful-vegan food/health

young on raw food food/health

one fabulous day misc

dalai lina health/lifestyle

number-nineteen interiors/decor

mummy of style and substance parenting

A week in my (snapseed-ed/instagram-ed) life

2011-12-21T06:00:00.014+11:00

Friday's lunch: Chicken, Avocado, tomato, cucumber, preserved lemon (made by by sis-in-law), walnut tapenade, chilli flakes, olive oil, lemon juice.

Monday's threads: ALL of which were bought online! T by Alexander Wang knitted pants (from Shopbop), Bassike top, Michael Kors watch (from Shopbop), Tiffany & Co bracelet, Havaianas.

"Stormcloud": Stormcloud is a Chinese Silky and is, by far, the daftest of our chickens - not the full quid - but also the most beautiful...

God save the Queen: Another TT Union Jack cushion (actually, two!) finds it's way to a happy Tonic-filled home...

Tuesday's lunch: Smoked salmon, edamame, quinoa, pesto, walnut, lemon, lettuce wraps... Photographed on the patio floor for effect.

Tuesday's afternoon snack: Fruit smoothie, a-la-Vitamix (serves 3). 1 mango, 1 nectarine, 1 lemon, heaps of frozen raspberries, heaps of ice. Whizz for 30 seconds aaaaand....

Mega-healthy fruity gelato in a cup! Quick! grab a spoon! PS This lot served Mr Tonic, myself and Jasper!

Tuesday's threads: Remo top, Sportsgirl jeans, Table Tonic necklace (click to buy), Havainas.

On another note, by my watch it's exactly 25 years today since we immigrated to Australia from Durban, South Africa. I was 12 at the time, so it was all terribly exciting. But to think what my Mum and Dad went through to give my brother and I a better future in a country where bomb scares and carjacking are not the norm is remarkable. Yes, Australia really is the lucky country! Happy Wednesday you guys.

And the 10 Enjoy Lighting winners are...

2011-12-20T16:52:00.000+11:00

Thank you to everyone who entered the Table Tonic-slash-Enjoy Lighting giveaway. I was completely blown away by the number of you who wrote on the Enjoy Lighting Facebook page wall, so thank you (I'm feeling very "enjoyed" right now!). To find out if you're a lucky winner of one of the 10 flameless candle sets worth $120 each, click here!

Question: What's even BETTER than Instagram? Answer...

2011-12-20T06:00:00.001+11:00

Snapseed! Check it - BEFORE (left) and AFTER (right):

Let's recap - BEFORE:

...and AFTER:

Bet those professional photographers are pissed! Snapseed is around $5 from the Apple iTunes store or App store. Happy snap(seed)ing! PS Here comes yet another photo of Jasper holding a chicken (and looking dashing in his Remo Stripey thing - just like Mummy's!).

Happy Tuesday Tonic-ettes. PPS Don't forget there's free delivery on all orders, Australia-wide at tabletonic.com.au! 5 more sleeps until Christmas! Yipeeeeee........

Table Tonic's weekend in review

2011-12-19T06:00:00.002+11:00

Friday morning: This is the little ray of sunshine that greeted me when I got home from Pilates on Friday morning - the January/February 2012 issue of Vogue Living! Yes. The weekend was off to a flying start...

Friday afternoon: Powerballs just got... SQUARE! So fun. Buy your Rice Cube here and find the recipe for my "Sunday Night Powerballs" (they're a little bit famous) here. There. I just made your day.

Friday night: Friday night came in the form of a couch, Aussie Vogue's January 2012 issue (it's great one), ugg slippers and Green & Blacks organic dark chocolate (it's better than Lindt, I'm not even kidding).

Friday night: Mr Tonic, *cough* award-winning residential Architect *cough* received the following text message from one of his clients on Friday night. They are about to move back into their recently completed home and are (clearly) a little bit chuffed with Mr T:

Saturday morning: I made a batch of my favourite "My New Roots" Raw Brownie powerballs on Saturday, only I made the following modifications: Added 1/2 cup of organic coconut, added a big handful of organic rolled oats and reduced the cacao by about 1/4 cup. They are su-PERB.

Saturday afternoon: I took this picture of Anoushka shortly after she devoured a bowl of frozen berries (frozen berries = nutritious + convenient + delicious + affordable + kids love them). If there was ever one photograph that sums up my three year old daughter, this is it! Cheeky and dirty, mainly...

Sunday morning: Had a beautiful walk/run on the beach, a dip in the ocean pool and came home and made a green smoothie. Love Sunday mornings. I later threw on my Bassike dresses (I'm wearing two here), Spell Byron Bay wings necklace and Havaianas thongs. PS The Spell babes have got a fresh new website - check it out, your inner gypsy will go nuts for it! PS On my wishlist? This and/or this. Mmmmm. PPS Wearing zero makeup here. Healthy food-slash-exercise gives you killer skin, people!

Sunday morning: I keep meaning to show you Noushie's new Castle + Things pillowcases... Aren't they way fun?! Click to buy.

Sunday morning: Pesto is my new favourite thing to make - I took a bunch of organic basil, threw it in a food processor with a chunk of parmesan cheese, a big handful of pine nuts and a 1/4 to 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of celtic sea salt.

Top it up with olive oil to prevent oxidization.

Sunday lunch: Salad! Baby spinach, tomato, avocado, quinoa, preserved lemon, walnut tapenade (recipe here), basil pesto (see above!) and Rich Glen Poppy's salad dressing. Ate it to the sound of two children frantically and relentlessly squirting each other with the hose pipe. #indigestion

Sunday afternoon: Mr Tonic continues to fix up the deck... See the strip down the bottom. Yup. New.

Sunday afternoon: Yes, you read that right! On Sunday afternoon, Mr DHL pulls up with a Shopbop parcel for me! Yay! T by Alexander Wang Cotton Knit Sweatpants in "Zest". And they are excellent! Click to buy.

How was your weekend? What was the best thing about your weekend?

FOUND! Perfect last-minute Xmas gift ideas!

2011-12-18T21:40:00.000+11:00

Stuck on the perfect last-minute gift for someone special this Christmas? A Table Tonic gift certificate might just do the trick! Available in a wide range of price points, each gift certificate is stylishly designed and arrives in a jewel-coloured box, wrapped with grosgrain ribbon - ready to give. Your gift certificate will be Express Posted (next day delivery) straight to you or the recipient, FREE OF CHARGE! Click to shop Table Tonic gift certificates!

A day in the life: 16.12.11

2011-12-16T06:00:00.008+11:00

Reading: Home Beautiful, January 2012 issue.

Loving: Not one, but three Table Tonic treasures on page 41 - An Orange Mexican Suzani, an Orange Baby Juju Hat and the Burnt Orange Ikat cushion! Big thanks to my unofficial press agent, Anecdotal Anna for the tip off! And of course thanks to Sami at HB mag.

Eating: Minestrone. Because Sydney has yet to get the "Summer" memo. We are in a perpetual state of "Possible Showers and 22º. Ugh.

Eating: Last night we had "Deconstructed Chicken Tacos". Everybody wins that way, see!

Adoring: If you've ever seen a child sharing a tender moment with a chicken, you'll agree it's a heart-melting moment to treasure. Jasper-Tonic had a day off school yesterday (teacher's strike), and we actually had a lovely day, including lunch with Mr Tonic at my favourite cafe ever.

Drinking: Chlorophyll. A few squirts of this spearmint flavoured liquid chlorophyll goes into every single bottle of water I drink throughout the day. Delicious and nutritious Tonic-ettes! Get it from your health food store.

Wearing: A Scotch and Soda "Mountaineering Bandana" (click to buy). Love it so much I want the blue one too!

Wearing: Scotch and Soda "Ralston" men's jeans.

Reading: These two gems by Susie Burrell and Kimberly Snyder. Two top chicks, two awesome books. More on them soon (once finished!)...

That's me for now! What are you reading/wearing/eating/reading/loving right now?

New-Balustrade-slash-having-fun-with-Instagram

2011-12-15T06:00:00.065+11:00

It's in! It's in! Or is it "up"? Yes, we are officially with Balustrade again. Kind of reminds me of a giant kid's play pen... but I freakin' luvvit! PS We got it from Art of Stone and it was installed by Art Weld.

Ignore the floor though - Yes, Mr Tonic has his work cut out for him (again) this weekend. Poor Mr Tonic... Actually, I shouldn't say that, he always says he would restore old houses full time if he won lotto (yeah right!). He wants to become a "conservationist" of 50's architecture in Sydney. And he would be damn good at it too.

I've discovered Instagram. Can you tell?!

Yes, I'm a little bit fashionably late to the Instagram party, but WOW. Too much fun for one lifetime! Lots to still figure out, but bear with me...

I have literally been walking around the house with my iPhone, like a kid with a new camera, looking for something, anything to photograph and turn into my own little piece of Insta-fun. Exhibit A. Jasper-Tonic's school work:

And I Instagram-ed yesterday's "arm party". Because why not. The deets? Michael Kors watch, Pepper Gibbs "you will shine" bracelet - email peppergibbs (at) gmail (dot) com, Tiffany & Co Venetian link bracelet, Skin & Threads cotton knit, Bassike long sleeve tee.

The Mini-Tonics. Do you have any idea how hard it was to get this photo? OMG.

And last, but not least, yesterday's new additions: Elle Decor, Home Beautiful and Aussie InStyle.

Oh, and if you have any hot Instagram-y tips, please leave a comment! I'm on my Instagram L-plates!

Modern Wisdom

2011-12-14T21:10:00.000+11:00

iubiree

A day in the life: 14.12.11

2011-12-14T06:00:00.007+11:00

The renovation update: So, today is a biiiig day at Casa Tonic as our new balustrade is being installed! Mr Tonic took much delight in ~~disassembling~~ ripping down the current wire and timber number, despite the fact that it took 5 times longer than he anticipated and resulted in him using "every bloody tool in my tool shed!":

(below) No balustrade! I could get used to this...

The hat stand: Yes it's true! Table Tonic Moroccan Leather Pouffes (shown in Caramel) make a nifty side table-slash-hat stand!

The salad dressing: Thee salad dressing, actually. And I never, ever use bottle salad dressing, but the only ingredients in this little beauty are olive oil, vinegar, sugar, onion, mustard, poppy seeds, turmeric, salt and pepper. The lovely Rich Glen Olive Oil people were kind enough to send me their "Poppy's Salad Dressing" and some beautiful oils, and my goodness it's delicious! And a little bit sweet, which I love in a dressing... Hooked. PS I've had it all of a week and look - it's half empty!

The C-bomb: The green smoothies are still going strong, as is my new Vitamix (beg, borrow and steal Tonic-ettes) and these days, I'm fortunate enough to be enjoying them with a carton of C Coconut Water thrown in (it's "Australia's first 100% pure organic coconut water"). I normally buy mine from Thomas Dux, but...

... (enter blogging perk number 2) A case of C Cononut Water arrived last week and I've been downing it like there's no tomorrow! Hot tip: It sounds obvious, but drink it ice cold. Refreshing and rehydrating (something about electrolytes) on a grand scale.

The bedroom makeover: See the inspiration behind the makeover and get the deets here!

(above) I bought the cotton blanket on our bed from Anna Spiro's very first Black + Spiro "vignette". I absolutely adore it. Way punchy.

The Tonic's tree: Mr Tonic spent the better part of Saturday morning yelling obscenities after the local servo sold out of trees by 9am. A trip to the next suburb proved fruitful and I, in turn, spent the remainder of the day yelling obscenitites. The tree was big and our existing decorations were measly. Off to the local $2 shop I went and $34.50 later, it started to resemble a Christmas tree. One that drops needles ~~and baubles~~ and requires sugar water every freaking day. But damn they smell good!

The instant updater: We're having 21 (or was it 22?) for Christmas lunch and I was delighted with the Christmas-y effect a couple of these Table Tonic "Marlon" buntings had on our dining room! It's instantly 110% more festive, and to be honest, I may just keep them up permanently (I just used pinboard pins, pressed into the top of the timber panels)!

Happy Wednesday Tonic-ettes! Only 11 more sleeps!

Attention Sydneysiders: DAN300 end of year sale!

2011-12-13T10:37:00.002+11:00

Hey you! If you're in Sydney this Thursday, don't miss the DAN300 end of year sale for oodles of beautiful things and bargains galore - Quirky greeting cards, brooches, hairclips... it's all handmade by the lady herself, Miss Dani! Where: Level 2 (outside suite 214), 61 Marlborough Street, Surry Hills - The building is called Marlborough House.

16 bookmark-worthy sites I (only) discovered last week

2011-12-13T06:00:00.003+11:00

the colour field

the colour field colour/interiors
inspired lines decor/misc

fox news nutrition-fitness nutrition/fitness

house to be mine decor/interiors
project take 2 decor/interiors
spruced fashion/misc
in the click decor/interiors
tamara maynes decor/misc
what she has found misc
the aviary decor/misc
yogaglo yoga
design field notes interiors/decor
(coco republic's new blog)
outdoors on parade decor
net-vignette decor/misc
glossybox beauty
the lennoxx decor/interiors

Fab online shopping discounts: EXCLUSIVE to TT readers!

2011-12-12T06:00:00.005+11:00

BLOOM :: Bloom have recently relaunched their website and to celebrate, they're giving Table Tonic readers 25% off storewide from the online store (perfect timing for Christmas presents!) until Christmas. You must go check out the new website, it’s easier to navigate and has lots of great new features like Natalie’s favourites, Collaborations and how to "get the looks". And take it from me, Tonic-ettes - the Bloom Organics range (below) is THEGOODS. Simply enter the code tabletonic25 at checkout. CLICK TO SHOP!

BAY & FYFE :: There's a brand spankers new concept label called Bay & Fyfe, set up by founder Frith Hunks "to collaborate with contemporary artists to create beautiful pieces of art-inspired fashion and homeware". The first collaboration is a collection of stunning limited edition, over-sized silk scarves printed with art from artist Daimon Downey. There are 4 prints in the collection and only 400 of each are produced. Dress up an outfit, wear one as a top for balmy summer days or heck, frame one (or two!) as art for your walls. Bay & Fyfe are offering Table Tonic readers a 20% discount on their first scarf (gift wrapped, with free delivery) until Christmas. To redeem your discount, simply email info@bayandfyfe.com prior to purchase and tell them you're a TT reader. CLICK TO SHOP!

HUSSY :: Woohoo! From now until Christmas, Iconic Aussie brand Hussy are giving Table Tonic readers 15% off storewide (that includes sale items!). Check out the "Little Hussy" range for the mini-Hussy-ette in your life - It's a little bit adorable! Simply sign up to become a Hussy VIP and enter code TABLE TONIC at checkout. CLICK TO SHOP!

FREE SHIPPING at the Table Tonic online store!

2011-12-11T17:55:00.000+11:00

CLICK TO SHOP!

Back in stock: Table Tonic Ikat cushions!

2011-12-10T16:14:00.000+11:00

As of rightnow, all of our beautiful Table Tonic handwoven Ikat cushions are officially back in stock and ready to ship! The most popular style/colour by far lately? These! They really do breathe life into any space or room, whether it's a kid's bedroom or a formal living area.

All orders placed on Table Tonic are dispatched within 24 hours of payment clearing (plenty of time for Chrissie orders!). Delivery within NSW takes around 1-2 working days, SA, VIC and QLD around 3-4 working days, and up to 10 working days for other areas. Contact me if you have any questions, and click to shop Table Tonic cushions!

And the Tampurse winners are...

2011-12-09T14:57:00.000+11:00

I think all bloggers find giveaways bittersweet - It's such a joy giving things away, but we want you ALL to be winners! To everyone who entered the Table Tonic Tampurse giveaway, thank you so much. It's a fabulous little Aussie product and I am proud to be throwing 3 of them your way. Don't forget, Tampurse are currently offering Table Tonic blog readers 25% off their Tampurse purchase if they enter the coupon code Table Tonic (2 words) at checkout until 24th December! Click to shop! Aaaaand the three lucky ladies are (drumroll please):

1. Amber Knight

2. Jane Frosh (yay Jane!)

3. Anna Nikkinen

Congratulations ladies! Send me your details and I'll get them on their way to you! PS If you haven't already, I'd love you to go and enter my Enjoy Flameless candle giveaway - 10 sets valued at $120 each? Yes! And you'll be a convert. I swear.

TT onine store update: Colour your world!

2011-12-09T13:02:00.000+11:00

A bunch of table Tonic Moroccan Leather Pouffes are now back in stock! Red, Turquoise, Bright Yellow... Even the popular Dark Turquoise pouffes are back! Colour your world and click to shop! PS Have you seen the newest colour? It's the prettiest lavender/mauve colour I've ever seen... Here she is (click to buy):

Happy weekend Hotties!

Turquoise and yellow: Our bedroom gets a makeover!

2011-12-09T06:00:00.001+11:00

The Lords South Beach Hotel, Miami (as seen in Adore Home's latest issue, below) is officially the inspiration for a little makeover I'm giving our bedroom. Yes, there's nothing like a quiet Christmas lunch for 21 to stick a rocket up your home's ~~wow~~ presentable factor!

So. Here's how I'm getting a little Miami into my world: Two of these (click to buy)...

(below) I already have 2 of these (click to buy)...

(below) Just bought 2 of these (click to buy)...

(below) Going to add one of these (click to buy)...

(below) And one of these (click to buy)...

This is kind of what our bedroom looks like now (below). Our current bedside tables are white vintage wooden crates, bought on eBay about 3 years ago and FULL of splinters...

(above) Table Tonic Moroccan Leather Pouffes, IKEA bed, curtains and rug, Aboriginal art bought on eBay.

Little bit exciting. I'll give you a visual update asap!

Out now: Adore Home and Rue magazine! Click to read!

2011-12-08T12:21:00.001+11:00

Have you read Adore Home's "Sizzling Summer Edition" yet? No? Hop to it! I've said it before, and I'll say it again - when it comes to the complete package (overall design/page layouts & content), Adore Home is my favourite online magazine. I think Loni's graphic design background is what makes Adore Home the pleasure that it is to read - Oh, and make sure you check out the Adore Home blog too. Alright, enough gushing...

Inside, I spotted (among the fabulousness) a Turquoise Moroccan Leather Pouffe, a Yellow Juju Hat and on page 16, a Table Tonic Cherry & Yellow Ikat cushion!

But wait, there's still more - Rue's Holiday Issue 2011 is also out now!

Also spotted - An orange Moroccan Leather Pouffe in this swoony modernist house in Atlanta...

Happy Thursday Tonic-ettes!

On sale today: Inside Out Jan/Feb 2012

2011-12-07T13:59:00.000+11:00

Happy days! The Jan/Feb issue of Inside Out is on sale now! Inside the issue, a designer "pied-a-terre" shows just how far a small space and a little design savvy can stretch. Owner Jonas Chow and industry experts reveal their spatial secrets - and they're spot on:

• Work within limits: Too much furniture will turn a cosy home into an obstacle course. Rather than stuffing an area with sofas, armchairs, a side table and coffee table, you have to be realistic about what will fit and how you live.
• Curate displays: Bare surfaces enhance line and length, but beautiful objects help to direct the eye. However, there is a fine line between clutter and displaying keepsakes; the difference is in the arrangement. For the best results, try grouping items in odd numbers and varying heights.
• Edit the palette: A little restraint, when it comes to colours and materials, can go a long way. As a rule, choose three base materials and try not to stray too far from them. If you feel like this cramps your style in any way, consider that neutral and natural surfaces create a chameleon-like backdrop for future colour experimentations.

PS It's packed with over 170 pages of holiday reading - think beautiful homes and inspirational design ideas a-plenty!
The Jan/Feb issue of Inside Out is on sale now.

Another happy customer email: My Table Tonic Juju Hat!

2011-12-06T06:00:00.001+11:00

Yesterday, I received a beautiful email from an ex-colleague-slash-Table-Tonic-customer:
"Hi Louise! Just a quick email to say a HUGE thank you for the Juju! See below for a quick pic – as I think I mentioned to you a while back we renovated our terrace a little over 2 years ago now and it’s still a work-in-progress when it comes to decorating but this has definitely helped things along...". I excitedly forwarded it to Mr Tonic. His response? "Very nice. They have gone to the Loulou school of decorating...".

Photography by Luc Remond

I'll take that as a compliment! Click to buy a Table Tonic large off white Juju Hat (a beautiful, fluffy new shipment has just touched down!). All orders are dispatched within 24 hours of payment!

TT GIVEAWAY! Enjoy Lighting flameless candles!

2011-12-05T11:45:00.002+11:00

ENJOY Lighting's company tagline reads: "The most realistic flameless wax candles in the word". And they sure-diddly are. In just 15 short months, ENJOY Lighting's flameless candles have captured the hearts of the style-savvy, and now boast a whopping 360 retailers worldwide! Die-hard Tonic-ettes may remember I blogged about them back here. Mainly because they changed my life. Uh-huh. You betcha. So how stoked-beyond-speech am I to be giving away 10 flameless candle prize sets, each containing not one, but two 4 x 8" (10 x 20cm) ivory vanilla scented pillar candles (hello statement pieces!) with a retail value of $120 per prize pack… PLUS one extra prize pack for the person who converts the most friends! PS Yes, that's them on the cover of Real Living mag (below)!

"Candle light is so romantic - these are perfect and our customers are loving them for every room, particularly in the Boudoir as we have them displayed at Hermon & Hermon (as seen below)." - Barbara Hermon

“These candles are so in line with modern living - imagine the look of a real candle with the instance serviceability of a battery powered glow. I love these - up a driveway, around a pool, ENJOY candles are Instantly understated chic. I have put them on super boats, clients houses, and in my own fireplace, pool and driveway for parties - the most reliable understated way to light up a space." - Megan Morton, Stylist

How to enter:
1. Like the Enjoy Lighting Australia Facebook page AND...
2. Invite your friends to like the Enjoy Lighting Facebook page (share the promo with a friend) AND..
3. Write “I enjoy my Table Tonic” (and it needs it be a tag ie. @Table Tonic - to tag, click on the name when it appears in the drop down menu as you type it) on the Enjoy Lighting Facebook wall.

PS You can buy Enjoy Lighting's fabulous range online at Buyster! Go go go! And good luck!

5 bookmark-worthy sites I (only) discovered last week

2011-12-05T06:00:00.002+11:00

All images vogue living blog

vogue living blog decor/interiors

candice lake fashion/streetstyle

carla loves photography photography

miss-design design

chan fantastic misc

Back in stock: Juju Hats in Off White and Yellow!

2011-12-04T21:24:00.000+11:00

Well. I have just unpacked the most exquisite shipment of Table Tonic Juju Hats (if you've never seen a Juju Hat, you're in for a treat!). The following are all back in stock and ready to ship (but be warned, these guys go fast!):

Off white LARGE CLICK TO BUY

Off white BABY SIZE CLICK TO BUY

Yellow LARGE CLICK TO BUY

Yellow BABY SIZE CLICK TO BUY

(above) Off white LARGE Juju Hat CLICK TO BUY

(above) Yellow LARGE Juju Hat CLICK TO BUY

And don't forget, if you're stuck on a gift for that special someone, Table Tonic sell a range of gift vouchers. Only 21 sleeps, Tonic-ettes!

Mr Tonic's birthday present(s)!!!!!!!!!!

2011-12-02T16:46:00.000+11:00

So it's Mr Tonic's birthday today (Happy Birthday Mr Tonic!) - and his presents just arrived! We are both smitten on a grand scale (you can buy them here)...

(above) Next time you see our front deck, it will have a new, 50's style white iron ballustrade(!). We were hoping it would be ready by Christmas, but alas... PS I must fill you in with the renovations soon. So much to tell!

They match our yellow front door perfectly and have you ever sat in a Butterfly chair? They're SO comfortable! The covers are pre-scotchguarded, although it's advisable to bring them indoors when not in use. And let's face it, if you have a lot of birds in the area... Mike from 506070 is just lovely (and delivers for free in Sydney metro area). He also supplies Rose Seidler House with the covers for their Butterfly Chairs! PS Make sure you visit Mike's 506070 eBay shop.

In other news, MAGAZINES! Just droppped: Lucky (USA), Australian Good Taste, Real Living, House Beautiful (USA) and House & Garden. Consider them inhaled!

And a late addition from today's mail, Elle Decor!

Happy weekend Tonic-ettes!

Summer! Summer! Summer!

2011-12-01T06:00:00.004+11:00

It's very unusual to have 3 "meaningful" days in a row, but this time of year is so special for Mr Tonic and I - Yesterday was our wedding anniversary, today marks the first day of Summer in Australia (finally!) and tomorrow is Mr Tonic's birthday. And just wait until you see what I bought ~~him~~ us! Here's a clue. Happy days!

Images via Vogue UK and Pinterest

And Summer is EXTRA special because it's my sister-in-law's name aaaand... (drum roll)... she's having a baby next May! Woohoooooo! I have 2 nieces and a nephew on Mr Tonic's side, but this is the first child for my brother & Summer. It's just so dingin' exciting.

Happy Summer, Tonic-ettes - Get that Vitamin D into you!

9 years ago today...

2011-11-30T11:44:00.000+11:00

It's funny - Wedding Anniversaries would have to be the polar opposite of birthdays - Every time another year rolls around, instead of groaning that I "feel so ooold", I give myself a little high-five for notching up another year of ~~surviving Mr Tonic~~ wedded bliss. And 9 years ago today, on 30th November 2002, Mr Tonic and I tied the knot!

Where: Woodbyne, Jasper's Brush (near Berry).

The bride wore: Mary Ioannidis (and Manolo Blahnik heels!)

The ring: Jan Logan

Honeymoon: The Maldives

The Celebrant: Nerolie Barnes

Happy Anniversary, Mr Tonic! x

Final hours! Table Tonic 25% off sale ends tonight!

2011-11-30T10:28:00.000+11:00

A day in the life: 29.11.11

2011-11-29T06:00:00.002+11:00

The weekend: Sunday involved a beach, two Mini-Tonics and a bestie (aka the brains behind DAN300). I constantly pinch myself, as we live just a 5 minute walk (if that) from one of the most beautiful beaches in the world... At around 7.30am every Sunday morning, I walk-slash-run 8 laps of it, before jumping into the ocean pool at the South end. Yes. The best things in life are free, people!

I'm wearing: Bassike dress (buy it here) - mine is a Large, Dior sunglasses, gold Jennifer Zeuner necklace from Eclektica (buy it here), cap from Raised by Wolves.

The hot gloss: Or should I say, thee hot gloss. Remember Clinique Black Honey? Yeah? Anyone? Well that just-eaten-berries shade of lip perfection circa 1990 is now get-able in the form of Lanolips "Mulberry" Lip Ointment. I've been wearing it on my morning beach walk-slash-runs. It has just enough colour, without being tooooo much for exercising in. Trust me, this one is a ripper! PS Don't forget to check out the Lanolips blog - TT made it onto their Christmas Gift Guide! Eeeek!

The tea-towel-triumph: Hats of to My Hunter Gatherer for this eye-catching piece of marketing genius (how hot does our el-cheapo oven look?!):

The salad: Cannelini beans, yellow capsicum, toasted pine nuts, capers, lemon zest, garlic. Dress with a dash of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon!

The gift: Tomorrow, Mr Tonic and I will have been married for nine years. NINE. How that is even possible, I have no idea. Feels more like... four. Alright, five max. And I have to show you what my parents bought us (hands up who worships Dinosaur Designs). Isn't she special? Thanks Mum and Dad!

The (under $25) online purchase: No sooner was I on the What's for dinner mum Facebook page, than I had ordered a set of Tovolo Star Pop Moulds from The Little Cook! Chucked a mango, some strawberries and a banana in the Vitamix, tipped it in the moulds, 4 hours later... healthy treats for nagging offspring! Admittedly, they all broke in half as we pulled the lids off but hey, we're working on our "formula"...

The recipe club: How cool is this - Australian Good Taste have formed an online "Heirloom Recipes Club" as a place for you and me to share our Christmas family recipes! But it’s also a site to house all types of family recipes, so you can share yours and keep those precious recipes alive. So, gather your beloved family recipes, snap a few pictures and upload them to the site. Oh, and then read all about it in December Australian Good Taste mag (below)!

Photography: Andrew Lehmann/Australian Good Taste.

The deal: You all know how much I love Simplicite anything, and from now until 11th December, when you buy any two Simplicite products (at selected Myer stores around Australia) you'll receive a third free (same or lesser value than the lower priced item)! How good is that?! And PS If you're looking for a killer body moisturizer? Consider it found!

The sale: All good things must come to an end, including tabletonic.com.au's storewide sale. The good news? You still have until tomorrow night to colour your world (and save 25% in the process)! Click to shop!

5 bookmark-worthy sites I (only) discovered last week

2011-11-28T12:51:00.000+11:00

above images olivia palermo

olivia palermo style/misc

net registry blog e-commerce/technology

urban road decor/misc

jennifer barker decor/misc

love home swap (stylish) house swaps!

PS Have you entered the Table Tonic Tampurse giveaway yet?

What? You've never heard of a Tampurse?

2011-11-25T06:00:00.019+11:00

Back in May, I did a "Day in the Life" post (nothing new there), featuring a shot of my handbag contents, including an intriguing little creature, otherwise known as a Tampurse (a discreet and glamorous little case for storing tampons in your handbag). I know. A piece of $24.95-mock-croc-covered genius, right?

Well. The nice people at Tampurse were so chuffed with all of your Tampurse buying following the post, that they decided to throw 3 Tampurse "sets" my way to give away to you guys - each set contains 1 x Vintage Glamour tampurse ($24.95) and 1 x Starlet tampurse ($19.95)!

HOW TO ENTER: Simply become a fan of the Tampurse Facebook page and write “I love Table Tonic” on their wall. A winner will be chosen at random and announced right here on the Table Tonic blog on Friday 9th December 2011.

But wait, there's more! Tampurse are currently offering Table Tonic blog readers 25% off their Tampurse purchase if they enter the coupon code Table Tonic (2 words) at checkout until 24th December! Click to shop!

Oh, and just quietly, IT'S ONE MONTH 'TIL CHRISTMAS! Yes, people, it's officially panic 'o clock! And I don't need to tell you where to shop, do I...?

The sale must go on: 25% off EVERYTHING at Table Tonic

2011-11-24T23:07:00.000+11:00

CLICK TO SHOP

Stylish Homes: Maria & Eduardo Villa

2011-11-24T06:00:00.003+11:00

When your name is Maria Villa, your background is in Interior Design and Fine Art, and your husband is an Architect, chances are, you're going to live in a pretty swoony, impeccably decorated house. Know what I'm saying? Maria and Eduardo are the Villas behind Sydney based design firm Villa + Villa, "a team of progressive Architects, Interior and graphic designers" and today we're going to sit nicely and look at some pictures of their beautiful Lower North Shore home. No fidgeting. And keep your questions until the end.

(above and below) Maria is thrilled with her Table Tonic Juju Hat! You can't beat an off white Juju on a dark wall - So dramatic isn't it?

Photography by Ross Coffey and Lucy Feagins.

Thank you so much for the extra photos Maria! PS You must, must, MUST take the full tour of Maria Villa's Sydney home on The Design Files. It really is one of the loveliest I've ever seen.

JUST IN! Multicolour Mexican Suzanis at Table Tonic!

2011-11-23T09:18:00.001+11:00

The beautiful Multicolour Mexican Suzanis are back in stock right now at tabletonic.com.au! Not only that, but for a short time only, grab one for 25% off the marked price (simply enter coupon code NOVEMBER at final checkout stage)! That's $366.75 (rrp $489). Whether you choose to hang it on the wall (like this TT customer) or throw it over your bed is up to you! Click to buy.

PS I'm often asked if the Mexican Suzanis come in a larger size (for a King Size bed). Unfortunately, they are almost all embroidered onto a (roughly) 180 x 180cm piece of base cloth BUT did you see this beautiful Mexican Suzani in the November issue of Real Living? Genius! Simply have a border in the fabric of your choice stitched onto it, transforming it from a beautiful Suzani, into a bedspread of grand proportions:

And remember, you can order a Table Tonic Mexican Suzani in virtually any colour you can dream of (click for more info). Happy Hump Day Tonic-ettes!

A day in the life: 22.11.11

2011-11-22T06:00:00.001+11:00

The magazines: I will never ever tire of magazines... This lot is on sale now. (Mr Tonic: "Is that my HOUSES magazine?")

The "treat": The children are loving treat nights sick right now. This might be why:

Thank you Cadbury Bubbly people. One bar will do just fine next time! And yes, Anoushka-Tonic approves.

The salad: Loosely based on Heidi Swanson's Carrot, dill & white bean salad, mine went like this:

Carrots (slowly sauteed in ghee, as per the recipe), 1 tin of cannelini beans, asparagus, chopped red onion, toasted almonds, chopped mint. Olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. And chilli flakes. And to my surprise, Mr Tonic loved it!

The mention: I did a little happy dance when I saw Jen's name in Harpers this month! Too funny..

The smoothie: Whoa! Are you ready? This one blew the tastebuds right out of my mouth yesterday: 4 tablespoons rolled oats, 1/2 - 1 cup oat milk, 1 banana, 10-15 raw unsalted almonds, 2 tablespoons chia seeds, pinch of cinnamon, ice. Chuck it all in a blender (yes, I am still LOVING my Vitamix!) and enjoy. And you will.

(above) Bassike dress (buy it here), Alexander Wang sweatshirt, Converse sneakers

The Zingy Springy thank you: Huge thanks to Loni for featuring Table Tonic's Neon Lime Spot Ikat cushion (yes, the same one that was recently featured in Inside Out magazine!) on her beautiful Adore Home blog last Friday:

Mmmm... all that lime makes me want a Margherita and a trip to Bali, thanks! PS Don't forget to shop the Table Tonic 25% off storewide sale! And yes - the discount can be used on pre-orders too! Happy shopping Tonic-ettes!

13 bookmark-worthy sites I (only) discovered last week

2011-11-21T10:10:00.000+11:00

eat boutique

eat boutique food
the happiness cocktail misc
oh my green eco crafting

health freedoms health

pure mamas parenting/healthy food

half-baked marketing, tech, culture

spell tumblr fashion/misc
kitchen confessional food
silver sea trader fine art/curiosities
luella and rain stylish bubs

the fit girl health/fitness

my design ethos decor/interiors
a perfect prism fashion/misc

SALE TIME! 25% off storewide at Table Tonic!

2011-11-17T13:26:00.000+11:00

14 things we can learn from Nov/Dec Lonny

2011-11-17T06:00:00.011+11:00

So I'm a bit late to the Lonny party this month, but better late than never, I say! The Nov/Dec 2011 issue ~~was out 6 days ago~~ is out now - Here are 14 things it taught me:

(above) THAT Ikea rug? Still as good as the day we first laid eyes on it (sigh)...

(above) A killer typeface is actually all you need in life. That, and a dirty great big, yellow slice of rock (number 18, I'm looking at YOU!).

(above) Jonathan Adler shouldn't get out of bed for less than $10,000 a day. Because he is the man.

(above) I need a green Jonathan Adler lacquered tissue box in my world. We all do.

(above) I've said it before, and I'll say it again: "Art maketh a room".

(above) ...Ditto a gold fish occasional table.

(above) Deep peacock blue walls are not for the faint hearted. And mirrored cube coffee tables are not ideal for home owners with offspring.

(above) Ikat cushions? Still hot. Duh.

(above) Bathrooms the size of a small apartment tiled in black marble subway tiles? That's a yes from me. The floor I could take or leave.

(above) Trick people into thinking you are Scandinavian by kitting our your home with timber floorboards, white walls and black furniture.

(above) More is sometimes more.

(above) Covering every square inch of wall with art is a "YES"!

(above) Wall to wall zebra could potentially be nightmare-inducing when laid in a bedroom. With that bed linen.

(above) Simple equals special. Every. Time. Ahhh. That's better.

Click to read the Nov/Dec 2011 issue of Lonny. So. What did YOU learn?

Table Tonic beauty spotlight: My favourite exfoliators

2011-11-16T06:00:00.001+11:00

When things are awesome, I want you all to know about it. It's as simple as that. Having a blog is handy like that. It's a place for me to share things I would normally only get to tell a handful of close girl friends. And you, Tonic-ettes, are going to love what I have here.

So let's talk exfoliants, aka the best way to keep skin looking dingin' fabulous on a daily basis (that said, most products recommend you exfoliate every second day - which is what I do). Quick mini-facial: Cleanse twice, exfoliate, pop on a mask. Moisturize. And glow. And PS Just so you know, my absolute, hands-down, all-time favourite exfoliator, like, EVER is...

...Dermalogica skin prep scrub. It's perfect. In every way. Good graininess (made from corn cob meal), not too runny (actually, not at all runny), the grains aren't at all scratchy and it contains no artificial fragrance or colour. It really does a marvellous job - I'm a fan for life. PS It's $51 and you can buy it here. My other go-to exfoliating scrubs are (above):

Kiehl's Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub, $38. "Made with real fruit and not tested on animals" (click to buy).

Soap & Glory Scrub Your Nose in It, $19.95. A minty-fresh "face scrub and mask" (click to buy).

Simplicite One Step Exfoliating Cleanser, $46.90. "A must for teenagers and anyone who suffers from breakouts" (click to buy).

Okoii Organic Adzuki Bean Scrub, $29.90. "An excellent source of antioxidants" (click to buy).

(above) EXFOLIATING MASKS:
Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant, $67.50. "A non-abrasive hydroxy acid exfoliation treatment" (click to buy).

Simplicite Rosehip and Lavender Complexion Refiner, $51.90. A rub off mask. "Gives visible results for a firmer, smoother skin" (click to buy).

(above) EXFOLIATING BODY SCRUBS:

Kit Cosmetics Coffee Body Scrub, $32.95. "It features good stuff like caffeine, organic jojoba oil, vitamin E and grape seed oil with Australian sugar cane and native Australian botanicals." One of the best body scrubs I have ever used (click to buy).

Simplicite Macadamia and Bush Gardenia Body Scrub, $36.50. "Helps restore elasticity and moisture levels and invigorates and boosts tired appearance of the skin" (click to buy).

So there you have it! And if you have any questions, check out this great page on the importance of exfoliation. And you know I want to know your favourites too now, right? Leave me a comment!

PS All products are shown on a Table Tonic White Moroccan Leather Pouffe, $199. PPS Don't forget to follow Table Tonic on Twitter and find us on Facebook!

Modern Wisdom: "Dogs are my favourite role models"

2011-11-15T12:57:00.000+11:00

This is so beautiful. Not that I need a reason to worship Oprah any more passionately...

escapade

New book alert! 70/80/90 by Karen McCartney

2011-11-15T06:00:00.002+11:00

Inside Out magazine's founding Editor, Karen McCartney has just released her new book 70/80/90: Iconic Australian Houses (rrp $79.99) - a stunning "sequel" to the design classic 50/60/70 (which we also proudly own!).

And I never thought I'd say this about an Architecture book (sorry Mr Tonic), but it's an absolutely fascinating read. The book's introduction provides social, historical and architectural context, and a review of each house features technical and practical aspects of the design and personal insights from homeowners and architects, as well as a section focusing on architectural details.

(above) Featured architects include Richard Leplastrier, Glenn Murcutt and Wood Marsh.

70/80/90: Iconic Australian Houses (rrp $79.99) is published by Murdoch Books. Click to buy from Booktopia (for just $55.95!).

14 bookmark-worthy sites I (only) discovered last week

2011-11-14T06:00:00.001+11:00

It's not often I single out a particular website or blog on my bookmark-worthy posts list, but today I must make an exception. I actually only discovered nourished life ("living toxic free in the city") last night. Irene, the blog's author, writes (in her first post, dated 7th March this year):

"Here it is, my blog on the amazing discoveries I make while attempting to live an affordable toxic free, balanced & energetic life in the city. I’ve transformed from feeling average to bursting with energy. I have found life changing advice, products and ingredients to consume and to avoid at all costs. My blog is about how to easily remove toxic chemicals from our life and how making small tweaks will quickly result in fast, healthy weight loss, unrelenting energy, crisp clear thinking, glowing skin and an end to getting sick!" ENJOY!

nourished life

nourished life food/health
the stone soup food

a place for twiggs misc

black bird and shell misc

sofias journal misc

r's adventures misc

sweet lime and spiced tea misc

gold chalk decor

sous style fashion

india rose fashion

im fancy fashion

chan fantastic misc

oh the lovely things misc

what she has found misc

On sale now/soon: Real Living, House & Garden...

2011-11-11T06:00:00.008+11:00

WHOA! Happy 11/11/11 Tonic-ettes (that has to be lucky, right?)! Here's what's on the vintage cane chest I call a side table today:

(above) The Australian Women's Weekly, House & Garden, Delicious, Real Living.

Look at all that red! It would appear Christmas is indeed upon us! Which is equal parts exciting and scary, really. On another note entirely, I'll be "lunching" at The Ivy tomorrow for a VERY special friend's birthday. And I don't know what to wear. I think it's the footwear that's throwing me...What are you all up to this weekend? Shopping? Markets? Quiet reading? Time in the garden? Cooking up a storm perhaps. Share!

A day in the life: 10.11.11 (my new hair!)

2011-11-10T22:43:00.000+11:00

We have new weather (hot) and I have new hair (wait, also hot!). So a big thank you-ey shout out to Alan (cut) and Wayne (colour) at Atlantis hair in Sydney for this:

(above) Karen Walker Sunglasses, Country Road dress

(above) Check out the (ammonia-free) foils! Can I stop looking in the mirror? Not yet. PS Wayne, you are a mind reader and a genius. PPS Got a few new Original & Mineral products to try as well, I'll show you them soon!

(above) Country Road dress, Danika boots, Michael Kors watch, Meadowlark ring. Rug, Moroccan Pouffes and green chevron Ikat cushions, all Table Tonic.

A day in the life: 9.11.11

2011-11-09T06:00:00.002+11:00

The salad: I recently made this "Asian Cabbage Salad" from one of my favourite food blogs, So Good and Tasty. I chucked in some pan fried (in coconut oil), paprika-dusted chicken breast to ooomph it up for dinner and I used toasted cashews for the nuts. Grab the recipe here.

(above) via So Good and Tasty and (below) my version. And by the way, the dressing? Amaaaazing.

The collaboration: Kiehl's recently collaborated with red-hot Aussie fashion designers, Zimmermann, Ksubi and Sass & Bide to produce these three limited edition Crème de Corps! The three iconic brands have each designed a beautifully unique label, and proceeds from Kiehl’s sale of each product in Australia will benefit the charity chosen by the three fashion houses. Sass & bide has chosen to honour Barnardos, Ksubi’s charity is War Child Australia and the Starlight Children’s Foundation will be supported by Zimmermann’s floral design. Click to shop the Fashion for Kiehl's range.

The shorts: I was going to call these "Yoga" shorts, but I've decided to settle on "Attempted Yoga" shorts. Have you ever tried to do some yoga with two children in the ~~room~~ house? Yah. Not going to happen. Wait. I think I'll call them "Long walks on the beach without my offspring" shorts. There. PS They're actually the "Garment Dye" shorts from Country Road ($49.95). And the colour makes my heart sing.

The good oil: I first learned about Krill Oil from Dr Mercola's jaw-droppingly informative, and often alarming emails. Word on the street is that krill oil contains more Omega 3s and more antioxidant power than the highest grade fish oil (Everest Nutrition Krill Oil offers 54 times more antioxidant power than fish oil!). So after tweeting about my newly discovered super-oil, Sandra from Everest Nutrition came to my rescue and I'm now Omega 3'd up to the eyeballs! Click to buy Everest Nutrition Krill Oil. PS See what Dr Mercola says about Krill Oil in this short video - and he talks quickly, so you get stacks of great info fast!

The other salad: Ever since I bought Yotam Ottolenghi's Plenty (buy it here), I've been throwing read and brown rice salads around like there's no tomorrow. Then I basically add veggies, a fruit, a nut and a killer dressing (usually just olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, honey and sea salt). This one was:
RICE: Brown rice + red rice (health food store)
VEGGIES: Asparagus, Edamame, green beans, capsicum
FRUIT: Red apple
NUT: Pine nuts, toasted
DRESSING: Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, honey and sea salt
EXTRAS: Lemon zest, shredded coconut

The (Biodynamic!) wine: Yes. This is my kind of wine - Certified Biodynamic Rosé from the award winning Krinklewood Vineyard in the Hunter Valley. And this "Francesca Rosé" was just what Sunday afternoon ordered.

The egg-sessorie: Given that our kids eat boiled eggs like they're going out of fashion, these gorgeous Dibbern Egg Cups are positively whizzing onto my radar! There are 37 colours in the Dibbern porcelain range (WARNING: Selecting your colour combination may take longer than boiling an egg!), including pop colours, pastels and everything in between. Click to visit the Beclau Homewares webshop.

The apartment tour: Two things: 1. If you haven't already, please do yourself a favour and familiarize yourself with Will and his wonderful/delightful/colourful blog, Bright Bazaar. 2. Check out Sydney Stylist Jason Grant's crazy gorgeous apartment tour here. You might even spy a Table Tonic Union Jack cushion (available for pre-order NOW!).

TT spotlight: The no-nasties products I use everyday

2011-11-08T06:00:00.003+11:00

I've been meaning to do this post for such a long time. My foray into natural health has been a real eye-opener and I've come to realize that natural "personal products" are some of the most effective, beautiful smelling goodies out there! These are a few that I've been loving:

1. Biologika Vanilla Kiss roll on deodorant (buy online): the first natural deodorant I tried. It smells lovely and, as with all aluminium-free deodorants (note: they're called deodorants, NOT anti-perspirants), you still sweat a little, but I quite enjoy sweating, knowing it's the body's way of detoxing.

2. Weleda wild rose deodorant spray: I like Weleda's product range a lot, and the rose fragrance in this is lovely.

3. Lavera milk & honey deodorant spray: This is the deodorant I have settled on (my hairdresser put me onto it). I'll put 3 sprays under each arm in the morning and then reapply if I'm going out again later in the day.

4. Simplicite firming rehydration eye cream: Absolutely, hands down, one of the most soothing and moisturizing eye creams I've ever used. AND it's all natural. A-ddicted. I'm about to buy more of their Damask Rose Day Cream and Revitalising Night Creme too!

5. Dr Bronner's citrus orange liquid soap: Anything by Dr Bronner is the absolute bomb, and it's very well priced too!

6. Comvita toothpaste: My fave

7. Grant's toothpaste: My other fave. Admittedly, they're the only two I've tried so far.

All of these goodies are available at health food stores, and be sure to shop around, as prices can vary quite a lot. PS If you live in the Northern Beaches area of Sydney, Healthy Life in Warringah Mall has 20% off everything on the first Monday of the month (plus, every time you spend over $100, you get a $5 voucher!). I've also been using a couple of MooGoo products - the shampoo and conditioner (not shown) which are just fantastic. I highly recommend them. The conditioner is one of the best conditioners, detangler-wise, I've ever used.

Now I'd love to know - what are you loving? Anything else I should know about?

11 bookmark-worthy sites I (only) discovered last week

2011-11-07T15:11:00.000+11:00

united we slide

united we slide craft/design
kelly oshiro events decor/misc
nicola chatham gardening
the wellness project health
the healthy apple health
the saha space health
easy eats food
my hunter gatherer decor
knitting onbtrains craft/food
nspired furniture/design

whole promise food

Attention Crafters: Make Hey While the Sun Shines

2011-11-04T06:00:00.012+11:00

The crafty Pip Lincolne of Meet Me at Mikes fame is back with her third book of "sweet and whimsical" projects. And is this not the most divine book cover ever?

In Make Hey While the Sun Shines, Pip shares 20 downright crafty things to make for Summer, holidays or any time! Think bike seat covers made from vintage fabric, crocheted baubles to decorate your house (or car!), hand-printed gift bags and pretty hand illustrated plates to customise your own ceramics. More adventurous crafters might like to try the Chatty Tote or the handy bottle tote to store your drinks when you head out for the day. Making hey isn't just about sewing and craft though - there are also 5 pull-out recipe cards with delicious goodies to take on a picnic or just enjoy at home. All of the projects have step-by-step instructions and illustrations to guide you through, and with sections on sewing, crochet and knitting basics, Make Hey While the Sun Shines is perfect for anyone who is interested in handmaking their own beautiful things. Amen to that! CLICK TO BUY.

And PS For a limited time only, Lark Store is offering Make Hey While the Sun Shines for $29.95 (limited time!).

A day in the life: 3.11.11

2011-11-03T06:00:00.008+11:00

It's been a while since I did a day in the life post, so here's what's been going down at Table Tonic HQ: The livestock: We got chickens! Initially, we got four (2 Rhode Island Reds and 2 Silkies)... Ever tried to photograph a chicken? OMG.

(above) From the top: Fluffy, Soup, Storm Cloud and Teebee (TBC)

...then we got another one (Isa Brown)... But she was getting picked on, so we got another one (Isa Brown).

(above) Pancake and Syrup

They really are such a delight to have pecking (and pooping!?) their way around the back yard all day. And the sweetest thing ever? They take themselves off to bed each night, once it gets dark. This would be the coop (it was already here when we moved in!) - complete with an old Juju Hat, which was unsellable, "to make them feel at home", thought Mr Tonic:

The dinner date: I had dinner with my high school BFF, Dani last week at High St. Bistro, beautiful little place in Willoughby (outstanding food, by the way). And lucky me, Dani brought along some of the beautiful bits and bobs she makes and sells through Dan300, her business/online store. This girl put the craft in "crafty", make sure you check her out sometime! (And yes, Anoushka loves her new hair goodies!)

The words of the day: Anoushka's words for when her shirt/skirt/socks don't feel quite right include "it feels all waffly" and "these socks feel prinkly". I'm still laughing...

The back door: You know those moments that just beg to be iPhone-d and subsequently blogged about? This was 5pm, Tuesday 1st November at our place - out the back door, to be exact. A perfect moment...

The kitchen gadget: Got kids? Heck, even if you don't - head over to ricecube.com.au, watch the very short video and prepare to be blown away. I was. And then buy a Rice Cube online here (they ship worldwide!). You can literally stuff anything into them. (And are you thinking what I'm thinking?) SQUARE POWER BALLS!!!!!!

The bookshelf: If you haven't already heard, Book Depository sell books online, super cheap (no one knows quite how they do it) and ship them worldwide for FREE. I recently bought six books (the five below, plus The China Study), all at once for some absurd amount. Delivery to Australia takes around 2 weeks for in stock items.

The juice: After enjoying green smoothies daily for a month or so now, I decided to embrace green juices (thank you slightly hot Dan, aka The Life Regenerator) and am loving them! A stack of organic leafy greens (kale/spinach/coriander/parsley etc), celery, cucumber, ginger, lemon and apple. 750ml or so in the morning (about half an hour after downing 750ml or so of alkaline water) - ridiculously nourishing and refreshing to boot. You could actually stick the same ingredients in a blender with a cup or two of water and you've got a (more filling) green smoothie!

(above) Wearing Isabel Marant sweater, Nudie pants, Isabel Marant shoes. Bracelets (L-R): Tiffany & Co., Isabel Marant, UberKate cuff.

Happy Thursday Tonic-ettes! Anything been floating your boat? Leave a comment!

70/80/90: An invitation from Great Dane + Inside Out

2011-11-02T12:26:00.000+11:00

CLICK TO READ! House of Fifty Holiday 2011 issue

2011-11-02T11:57:00.000+11:00

It's live! And full of crafty Chrissie ideas and projects - Even I'm inspired, and I'm not usually that big on craft... Click to read House of Fifty's Holiday 2011 issue!

Table Tonic Sunday Night Power Balls

2011-11-02T06:00:00.003+11:00

A Sunday Night Power Ball post on a Wednesday? Yes! Because these babies are going to have a permanent spot in your freezer, I can just tell. It all started when my Mum was on the phone to her friend Tish. Tish's husband walked past and she asked him to grab her a Power Ball. "What's in your Power Balls" asked my Mum. Well! That moment changed my life and it might just change yours. Tish gave my mum the (super simple) recipe, and within 24 hours, my Mum had not only whipped up a batch, but brought a sampling around for me to taste! And within 24 hours, I has also whipped up a batch!

Table Tonic Sunday Night Power Balls

(makes around 20 balls)

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)

1/2 cup walnuts

250g pitted medjool dates (the fresh, wrinkly ones)

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 cup shredded coconut

2 tablespoons chia seeds

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of sea salt

1. Place all ingredients (except dates & vanilla) in a food processor and blend on high until finely ground. 2. Add the vanilla & dates (one at a time) through the feed tube of the food processor while it is running. What you should end up with is a mix that appears rather like cake crumbs, but that when pressed, will easily stick together (if the mixture does not hold together well, add more dates). 3. Roll into small golf balls - or you may prefer to press the mixture into a tray lined with baking paper (place in the fridge to set, then tip out and slice into squares/bars and freeze). 4. Store in an airtight container (ie tupperware or glass jar) in the freezer and eat them straight from the freezer - they'll be lovely and firm, but not rock hard as the good oils in the nuts and seeds won't freeze! Makes around 20 balls.

Admittedly, I'm not a huge fan of Pepitas, so I'm thrilled to have found a way to incorporate them into my diet! The best bit about the whole "raw power ball" phenomenon is that you can mix any combo of your favorite nuts, seeds and superfoods (cacao, goji berries, maca powder, coconut oil, bee pollen) with dates (they will not taste like dates, I promise!) and you've got yourself a power ball. That's all they are! TIP: Try to limit your recipe to a handful of ingredients otherwise the flavours will get muddled. Also, be sure to always use enough dates to bring it all together. TIP: If you run out of dates and your mixture is too dry, try gradually adding water.

Healthy enough for breakfast on the run, too! I'll often press one into Anoushka's little hand as we hop in the car to go to kindy, even though she's already had breakfast (she loves them!). PS If you're a fan of the healthy treat, click here for my other fave - Raw Chocolate Brownies. They are insanely good!

Just in! NEW baby Juju Hats at tabletonic.com.au!

2011-11-01T10:56:00.001+11:00

Just a quick one, Tonic-ettes - NEW Baby Juju Hats have just landed at tabletonic.com.au!

Choose from Red (click to buy)...

Orange (click to buy)...

And Natural Brown (click to buy)...

The baby Juju Hats ($399) are 55cm wide (the large are around 75-80cm wide).

Above is a size comparison: (left) A baby yellow Juju Hat and (right) A large teal Juju Hat

(above) The always popular Off white baby Juju Hat will be back in stock soon and is available for pre-order! Happy Tuesday Tonic-ettes!

DIY of the day: Bunnings just got chic!

2011-11-01T06:00:00.009+11:00

This just in from one of my favourite blogs: It's Claudia of Peep My Style fame's home (I spy a Table Tonic Pink Spot Ikat cushion on the couch!)...

Photography by Hannah Blackmore

And here's the DIY of the day - The "brains" under the dome (below) is actually nylon rope that cost $14.95 from bunnings and it comes in a bunch of different colours! Nylon rope! From Bunnings! Is anyone else digging this on a grand scale? Or have I (and Claudia) lost the plot?

Photography by Hannah Blackmore

Claudia recently emailed me to inform me that the Table Tonic blog has been immortalized in her shiny new blog header...

Ooooh! Thanks Claudia! Isn't it gawjus? Claudia loves pink, by the way... It's a cracker of a blog, so go say hi to Peep My Style. PS Claudia's home is a finalist in the Real Living reader decorating contest!

Just in! MORE new Ikat cushions at tabletonic.com.au

2011-10-31T13:21:00.004+11:00

Four beautiful new Handwoven Ikat cushions have just arrived at the Table Tonic online store! The TT Ikat range has swelled to 30 designs, so I think there's something for everyone now! Here they are:

(above) Blue Diamond (45cm), $79 - CLICK TO BUY

(above) Pink Zig Zag (45cm), $79 - CLICK TO BUY

(above) Yellow Zig Zag (45cm), $79 - CLICK TO BUY

(above) Tribal (45cm), $79 - CLICK TO BUY

They join these newbies (below) which I blogged about (only) last week! Click over for a closer look...

Click to do some Christmas shopping on Table Tonic! And Happy Halloween Tonic-ettes!

8 new magazines I'm drooling over right now!

2011-10-31T13:02:00.001+11:00

Belle Editor, Neale Whitaker recently confessed to having a "senior moment" after wrongly telling his Twitter followers that the December/January issue went on sale last Monday! But it's officially on sale today, and happened to be in my (I almost just wrote inbox!) mailbox today, along with Lucky's October issue and Inside Out's Christmas issue. Recognize the home on the cover? I did! I did!

Here's a clue:

Yes! It's Mark Tuckey and Luella Potter's (the accompanying editorial - styled by Louella herself - is di-viiine)! You may remember I blogged about the house back here and you can see what it looked like when they bought it here. I also blogged about their beautiful Melbourne terrace here.

Also doing the rounds are: Lucky (I only just read September!), House Beautiful, Madison, Architectural Digest (peek inside Ellen and Portia's Beverly Hills mansion here!) and Elle Decor! Phew!

Can we have 8 days in the week already?!

19 bookmark-worthy sites I (only) discovered last week

2011-10-31T06:00:00.001+11:00

do stuff decor

my notting hill decor

belgian pearls decor

the style saloniste decor

for the love of a house decor/renovation

the neo lifestyle decor

do stuff decor decor

asia live broadcast misc

dr soram health

lipstick and cake misc

make my getaway misc

that girl lucy blog fashion/misc
that girl lucy tumblr fashion/misc
katie rose fashion/misc
alice your wonderland fashion/misc
hu-nt fashion
living earth beauty beauty/health
gaias table health
rob delaney misc

studio annetta decor

Stocking filler alert: Australian Good Taste's "Entertain! "

2011-10-31T05:59:00.013+11:00

Sharing a bottle of wine (or 3), a bunch of laughs and sensational food with family & friends is one of life’s great pleasures. Australian Good Taste magazine’s brilliant new cookbook Entertain! is on sale today and "takes the stress out of dinner party planning". Think foolproof tried-and-tested recipes, step-by-step instructions and the ultimate A-Z of menus for all occasions.

And how good do the included menus sound:

CHRISTMAS LUNCH
LIFE’S A PICNIC
A TASTE OF THAI
TUSCAN TABLE
PASSAGE TO INDIA
SAIGON SURPRISE
WEEKEND RETREAT
SPICE MARKET
MEDITERRANEAN FEAST
MALAY MAGIC
ROAD TO MOROCCO
CHINESE BANQUET
PARIS MATCH
MEXICAN FIESTA

But the best bit? Entertain! is only $9.95, so grab a copy next time you hit Woolies! (PS Two words: Stocking. Filler.)

New book alert! "INTERIORS Australia and New Zealand"

2011-10-28T06:00:00.001+11:00

Ahoy! I see a beautiful new Aussie Interiors book on the horizon! Just in time for Christmas, INTERIORS Australia and New Zealand has sailed in and presents "a broad snapshot of the contemporary Australian and New Zealand home", as told through over 30 of the industry's leading practitioners. From coastal retreats and ecologically sustainable farmhouses, to renovated Victorian terraces and contemporary city penthouses, the variety of projects showcased reflects the region's architectural and design diversity. The highly regarded work of established design practices including BKH, Carr Design Group and Hare & Klein contrasts the innovative approaches adopted by Arent & Pyke (love them), Greg Natale Design and Multiplicity, richly illustrated through detailed photography and extensive profiles. Consider it on my wishlist!

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to ask Author Mitchell Oakley Smith a little about the book:

This follows your first book on Australian and New Zealand fashion designers. Is the region's design industry of particular interest to you?
I strongly believe we have a lot of talent in our corner of the world, and though we are geographically isolated from the major cities that dominate trends, I hope that creating these books helps to elevate our position in the global market. I have just returned to Australia from New York, where I lived for the past six months researching a new book (more on that to come), and Australian design is something people thirst for; the creatives here have such a unique way of interpreting ideas, which is something to be revered.

(above and below) Hare + Klein Residence, Coledale NSW

What is the process of putting together a book like INTERIORS Australia and New Zealand?
It's a lot of hard work! Unlike a fiction book where you're dealing with only your own mind and an editor later in the process, this book includes the work of over 30 designers; that's over 60 projects (with each home featured needing to be approved by the owner) as well as over 40 photographers. I started by requesting five projects from each of the selected designer, which I then edited down to two I thought best represented their vision and added something unique to the book. Then it was a matter of choosing exactly what images would be included. It's a long process, but I can't complain - I'm fortunate to be able to look at such beautiful work on a daily basis.

(above) Designer David Hicks Residnce Melbourne

How on earth did you decide which projects to include?
My publisher, Paulina, and I were very conscious that we represented all areas of Australia and every type of contemporary home. Of course, this was dictated by what was available, but we made it possible with some creative selecting of projects. A review of the projects featured in the book has prompted many questions about what defines local design. It's a question that inevitably returns to our way of life. There are several structures recognised as Australian - the Queenslander, the rural woolshed and the beach house - given they evolved in response to our climate, history, place and identity. These designs utilise local materials and emphasise space and light, as well as a connection to the landscape. A number of these residences are featured in the book, but they do not dominate the selection - an indication these icons do not necessarily epitomise Australian design.

INTERIORS Australia and New Zealand by Mitchell Oakley Smith (rrp $79.95) is published by Thames & Hudson.

Follow @MrOakleySmith on Twitter.

Visit the InteriorsAusNz Facebook Page.

I'm guessing it's on your wishlist now too, right? Happy Friday Tonic-ettes!

Just in! NEW Handwoven Ikat cushions at Table Tonic

2011-10-27T13:47:00.000+11:00

Because I didn't think you had enough to choose from, there are (as of RIGHTNOW!) three brand spankers new Ikat cushion designs making themselves at home in the Table Tonic online store! And that calls for a Woo-Hoo!

So, let's meet them!

(above) Cherry red, yolk yellow and off white, $64, and super cute at 40 centimeters square (the rest are 45cm).
Click to buy

(above) Dark Blue (kind of..denim-y almost), $79. Probably my fave. And you guys seem to worship anything blue/turquoise/aqua right now!
Click to buy

(above) Purple Zig Zag, $79. Looks great combined with beiges and bones and neutrals...

Click to buy

It never ceases to amaze me that no matter what random assortment of Table Tonic Ikat cushions I throw together, they always look amazing! The newbies are shown here with the Table Tonic Green Chevron Ikat cushions. Hope you like them!

On sale now: Country Style and Belle magazine

2011-10-26T12:16:00.000+11:00

Country Style's November issue hits the stands today!

And Belle's Dec/Jan issue went on sale Monday (anyone else still waiting for theirs to arrive?). Editor Neale Whittaker recently tweeted a picture of the cover, decked out in all it's Palm Springs glory:

Happy reading!

50 Graphic tributes to Steve Jobs

2011-10-26T06:00:00.001+11:00

"With the passing of Steve Jobs this month, designers around the world are creating tributes. Considering the impact Jobs had on the technology and design fields, it’s not surprising to see the number of creative designs created to pay homage to his legacy. A great collection of these tributes have been recently posted to Behance.net." - WEB DESIGNER DEPOT

Web Designer Depot collected fifty of these designs, all inspired by the life of Jobs and the impact he had on the world. Click here to be amazed.

webdesignerdepot

Just in: Table Tonic Union Jack cushions!

2011-10-25T10:36:00.000+11:00

Look at the date would you! It's the 25th! TWO MONTHS UNTIL CHRISTMAS! Yikes. Anyway, thought you all might like to know that the huge (51cm) Table Tonic Union Jack cushions are officially available for pre-order with a mid/late November delivery. And they're so fun (they're also the best selling product on tabletonic.com.au)! So, happy Christmas shopping - Click to pre-order yours!

mrjasongrant

(above) Oh, and PS this is the bed of non other than super stylist (and ex-Real Living mag-er) Mr Jason Grant.

Get the look: The modern/classic Berber rug

2011-10-25T06:00:00.003+11:00

I really have to take my blogging hat right off when I look through the (creatively named) 'Miscellaneous' folder on my Mac. It's completely and utterly bursting with beautiful interiors pics that there quite simply aren't enough hours in the day for. Could I blog full time? Hell yeah. I was looking for a particular image yesterday and found this in my archives - The first thing that caught my eye? THE RUG Beacuse we have one just-like-it in the Table Tonic online store! Wheeeeeeeeee!

And that, by my watch, makes it GET THE LOOK o'clock:

(above and below)

Table Tonic "Neva" Moroccan Berber rug,

1.25 x 1.83 metres, $1999.
(free delivery Australia wide on all Table Tonic Berber rugs)

Click for more info

PS Oh, and how could I resist sharing these two glowing Table Tonic customer emails (from last week) with you:

"Just to let you know my two lovely soft cushions arrived and they're gorgeous. I also loved the way they were packaged - arriving under a blanket of pristine tissue paper, in a box that was just the right size. Everything shouted 'attention to detail' which gets my vote and my smile every time."

"You packaged everything up so beautifully. It was a real treat to open and a pleasure to shop Table Tonic!"

PPS My blog post a year ago today? Room of the week: Worn Out (I think you'll like it). Happy Tuesday Tonic-ettes!

10 bookmark-worthy sites I (only) discovered last week

2011-10-24T06:00:00.002+11:00

b's simple ingredients

b's simple ingredients food

365 days of kale food

vegan sydney food

forks over knives food/health
keeping it raw food/health
larritt-evans stylist
silk purse health
wholefood mommies food/health
progressive dinner party food
the health seekers kitchen food/health