Dreaming about a Conservatory

I have been dreaming about extending our verandah and enclosing it to make a conservatory. These images are simply divine. Click on images for their source.

Leek & Goat's Cheese Phyllo Parcels by Tina Bester

I've become a steadfast fan of Tina Bester Queen of Tarts. I got her book Bake last year, and I'm very keen to acquire her other recipe books. I made these leek & goat's cheese parcels for a friends Christmas party in December. They lasted I think 2 mins. I got the recipe from her book Bake. I'm super impressed by her recipes. I've only made these parcels and her cupcakes so far. Her ingredients are easy to come by; the recipes are simple to follow and the end result is delicious! I'm also a sucker for good photography, which combined with the layout is just gorgeous.

Look at the sunny egg leek!

Phyllo square sheets

Parcels before adding cream filling and being baked

Ta daaah!

Love Hamper

Coco li is a Fashion-Accessories-Gift Boutique based in Cape Town. In their own words: "We pride ourselves on stocking predominantly locally designed and sourced treasures". Wish they were in Durbs! Coco Li are giving away a love hamper to the value of R650. Check out their facebook here and their website here. Good luck!

Vintage dress rescued

I popped in at the local Hospice shop and spotted this vintage Italian dress for R38. Not the best pic I know - apologies it was late! I paid R19 for it as they were having a half price sale! Crazy! It still has its rather large, original label on it of an Italian gondola. I don't know when I will use it but I had to rescue this dusky pink dress. I couldn't believe my luck when I tried it on and it fitted me. It reminds me of a dress you would wear if you were to dance with Gene Kelly or Fred Astaire!