DOMINICO HOUSE

The New 'Pavilion'

2011-04-13T01:47:00.000-07:00

So, Darling and I had to entertain some guests from overseas over the weekend. Being excited about being in 'Africa' I reiterated the fact with an African themed evening. I played it down slightly, and tried to subtly hint at Africa rather than make it outright tackarama (mine and my girlfriends' word for tacky) The good news was that our new 'pavilion' (what we like to call it) had just been completed. There's nothing like a new pavilion to raise one's spirits.Aren't these flowers amazing. They're obviously from the Protea family and are specifically called 'Banksia' The couple from Indonesia were particularly impressed.

The New Completed Pavilion

Darling, hanging the fish trap light at the eleventh hour.

Table mountain dressed up for the occasion.

You see how our house is in camouflage with the mountains! Clever house.

The table looking a bit naked - not quite complete.

The beautiful Portia.

Darling's drinks table.

Where are the guests?

* A note from Mrs Mostess
When serving canapes never make them so big in size, that it is impossible to simple toss them into your mouth. One does not want to have to stand trying to balance a plate as well as your glass then try and eat a huge tricky canape. Only people from the circus can make it look effortless.
Also, whilst trying to introduce your guests to our native cuisine, don't under estimate people's unwillingness to be adventurous. As biltong, kudu carpaccio and ostrich might seem like old hat to us, it is most certainly too much to ask of the palate shy.

My Favorite Christmas Style

2011-02-02T01:54:00.000-08:00

So, I am still recovering from Christmas - or rather just letting it all sink in. I could not believe my eyes when going to a pre Christmas drinks party at a pukka English manor house in Henley, I had stepped into my ultimate fantasy.......

Ample sized Christmas tree in the hall. Perfect. Love the mono tone.

White doves flying up banisters. Oh how I would love to descend these stairs for dinner.

Another gorgeous tree on a table.


Can you see the train track going around the tree? Sir William McAlpine who's home it was is a true English eccentric and has a train obsession. There are miniature trains chugging all over the house laden with mini Sheppard's pie's, chocolates, mince pies and macaroons. Too much for me to cope with really.

Chests filled with gold treasure.

Real reindeer poo!

The children's playroom - as one might expect or at least hope for a true English child.

They even had Elvis singing whilst baby is being fed.

The sitting room. The house was decorated by Oliver Messel a renowned stage turned interior designer during the sixties and seventies. I will have to do a mini expo on him later. You just must see the houses that he decorated in Mustique. I had never heard of him before and now I have researched him it appears he was the Nicky Haslam of his day. He also designed suites in the Dorchester hotel, where I might add Sir McAlpine was ACTUALLY born. His family owned the Dorchester at the time.

I quite enjoyed this crazy concept of a side table filled with all sorts of fascinating nik naks. Brooches, pill boxes, badges and all things shiny and pearly.

I love a fire screen especially tapestry with dogs . I love the flowers over the mantle piece.

Well what can I say. We know the English and their labs. Also, might I add that all posh homes have little tapestry cushions with funny little sayings. The Duchess of Windsor had "You can never be too rich or too thin" She certainly lived by that motto by looking at her.

Panelling!!!! Nothing beats it.

Magnificent.

Of course the library, always my favorite.

Amazing amazing books with ladder. I am obsessed with library steps.

The dining room had the most beautiful wallpaper that covered walls, servers and the entire ceiling. In fact I am so sad I do not have a photo of the ceiling - it had the same fabric as the walls all gathered in the centre like an Arabian tent.

I apologise for the darkness of the photos. I was trying to subtly take photos with my iphone. Terribly embarrassing to be seen taking photos of someone's home. I was like a spy, quietly snapping away under my clutch bag whilst mid conversation with guests. Can you spot the blackamoor figure?

Sad it's not too clear.

A long passage in the house made so interesting with all hats collected from all over the world. The pictures on the wall are all framed puzzles of trains.

In the guest loo I found the official 'Sloane ranger handbook' which I just adore. Funnily enough I actually have a copy - from before I met Darling strangely. It is brilliantly witty and now from witnessing I can't believe how true!! I will have to give you some examples soon.

This is Sir McAlpine's life size steam engine that travels around his property. He has proper stations and once a year invites the people of Henley village for a ride! I have mentioned him before in previous posts. He is the neighbour of Darling's parents and also has a private zoo. You might remember on previous posts photos of us walking the dog and stumbling across wallabies, lama's and strange African buck all living in harmony in the English countryside.

Oh, and they also have a carousel.

What fun to be an English eccentric.

Christmas Dinner

2010-12-13T04:36:00.000-08:00

So, do you remember me telling you about the charity auction we went to, where we bid for a chef to come and cook for a dinner party of ours? Well, we had the dinner on Saturday night. It was just Heaven on Earth. As one of the guests pointed out, it was like flying First Class for the first time. The sad thing about having flown First Class is the depression of having to go back to economy. I feel that now I've had someone do all the cooking AND grocery shopping for my dinner - having to do it all myself next time is going to be just like going back to economy after the absolute luxury of First Class. Tricky!
So, I woke up on Saturday morning like a child on Christmas, I had a relaxed coffee in bed whilst I planned the evening ahead. I could finally do all the fun things that I normally want to do but always run out of steam or time. Things like, making up delicious cocktails, doing beautiful flowers and spending some time on the table decoration. All the fun things really. So I made my list, I love a list. First stop, the bottle store.

Even the bottle store was fun and festive. Who would have thought. The Grand Marnier was the reason I was there. More on that later.

Second stop, Adderley Street flower market. Just my best.

I tried to choose Christmasy flowers (well, my made up version of Christmas flowers) I did not want to be too predictable.

The brilliant Lindsy and Portia doing the prep. Are those little blinis I see!

The table.

The table is not quite done yet, but I had the sudden brain wave to cut branches off our conifer tree and lay them down the centre of the table scattered with Christmas balls and red glass votives. It made for a sort of horizontal Christmas tree.

I tied red satin ribbons around gold candle holders.

I had the mantra of Wallis Simpson (or it could have been Diana Vreeland, can't remember)) going around in my head.

"Decoration should be low, low, low, glasses cold, cold, cold and plates hot,hot,hot!"

Oops, the table cloth looks is in a bit of disarray. That's because I was standing on it hanging branches and balls from the overhead light. Clearly way too much time on my hands! It looked a bit amateur to be honest - so not entirely worth it. It did look better at night however, when all you saw where twinkling lights overhead.

The sideboard waiting to be laden with turkey and vegetables. Again, I just cut a few sprigs from another tree - outside the dining room window in fact. It has variegated leaves which I thought for whatever reason looked like Christmas. I layered the same type of branches along the top of our mantle piece along with pine cones and fairy light and red bows.

Then I started my flower arranging. Quite bizarre what came out really. I was seriously getting into full swing!

This is like "Messy Christmas"

Not bad.

I was quite smug about the berries.

Then finally I was pulling it together.

Am pleased.

Then I lost it again. I think staying in a resort in Mexico influenced me on this one. I'm obviously having with drawls. I had two green leaves left over so I picked some pink roses from the garden. This was arrangement was not part of my Christmas contingent, instead I put them in the guest loo.

Quite pretty.

Flowers on my desk.

The crazy arrangement with the drinks table, quite apt.

The tidy sitting room waiting for a party.

I like this this one here.

I also like my mini white tree with fairy lights.

Now for the cocktail!

I call it 'Christmas Breeze' ha ha a bit of tack.

You need:

Grand Marnier

Cranberry Juice

Fresh Lemon Juice

Simple Syrup

Fresh Rosemary Needles

In a tall mixing glass muddle 10-12 rosemary leaves lightly with simple syrup. (simple syrup we made from just mixing a bit of water with madeira cane sugar over the stove until syrupy)

Add remaining ingredients then add ice and shake vigorously. Strain over fresh ice into glass with ice. garnish with rosemary sprig.

You see above the table laid out for prep. The rosemary leaves and an antique marrow spoon that we got given as a wedding present. Which we love, but sadly are not quite Tudoresque enough to be digging around in bones in search of marrows as often as we would like to. However, we have found that it does make for an excellent cocktail stirrer!

The rosemary sprigs did let me down somewhat. They weren't as robust as I would have had them be. It should look like a mini Christmas tree in your glass, but never mind they were absolutely delicious and set the party off to a roaring start.

One last final look

And finally Darling in his dj pouring me a drink. Hooray!

Christmas at DOMINICO HOUSE

2010-12-03T05:38:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Christmas at DOMINICO HOUSE.

This year we have embraced the Christmas spirit and have got in so may beautiful smalls for presents.

These Gold place mats are just my favorite. I am obsessed with them. If you haven't noticed yet, gold is the hottest colour right now. We have got Gold balls, Gold angels and Gold bangles. Also, we love these beautifully packaged soaps from Portugal.

A lovely present for her is a panama hat. Of course it helps if you have a fabulous located vacation on the cards. But now that we have our own St Tropez in the likes of The Grand Beach there is no longer reason to feel shy. One can happily bust out in outrageous glamorous get-ups without the hiccups, of course a glass of Chardonnay always helps.

For him, a beautiful wooden walking stick. I know Darling fancies one. Also, for the garden a charming bamboo umbrella.

For a girlfriend these Ocar de la Renta banana platters.

White porcelain artichokes that come in the most beautiful boxes. Tea pots,bamboo storm lanterns and unusual vases.

For the home, attractive scatter cushions and throws.

There's nothing like a large collection of frames massed together. You can never have enough.

I collect paper weights and just adore these anemone ones.

Coral, my love. Makes any table scape a show stopper.

For the pool. My mother is always convincing me to buy things to wear "round the pool" this is always her selling line to me. "Gorgeous for round the pool" she says. I now have more things for "round the pool" than anything else. This summer I will be wearing these stunning ikat sarongs. They also work so well tied around the neck with a white vest. Very Vogue.

For the gardener. I am wrapping these Liberty print hats up for anyone who gardens. Darling, won't have one though - as he insists on his panama. I think they are for ladies though, so that's fair. Auntie Ginny was thrilled with hers.

Cotton kimonos. Darling and I have matching ones, which is inconvenient. I suggest buying different ones, there are different colours and patterns to choose from. The thing I like is the soft cotton weight, not too hot!

My favorite, white cotton embroidered night dresses. It's like being in a grown up Christening gown. I do feel like Royalty. Quite nice.

Colourful kurtas, very Boho, Ethno, Indie and all the in words right now.

Hand Embroidered bags, the Palace of Jaipur. These are so French even though the pattern is Jaipur. I of course have to have these for myself.

Hot colour clutches.

Fun stripped bags with gold arm bangles. Did you know I used to be Indian in my past life. I am obsessed.

Raffia satchels in tangerine and plum. I like the pockets.

Well, to those that have it all, who can resist a leopard print bag!!!!

More scatters and throws.

And finally, my piece de resistance. 'The Firecracker'.

One must wear it on New Year's Eve. It looks amazing on naked skin. You in fact, do not need to wear another thing!

For any prices and questions call DOMINICO HOUSE

021 424 9328

Philippe Starck and The Clift

2010-11-11T21:13:00.000-08:00

So, Darling and I were the very lucky couple who got to stay in the uber cool and trendy Clift hotel in San Francisco designed by Philippe Starck. Truly, I did feel like an impostor. Any minute I felt like the game would be up and someone would come and drag me from the hotel and move me to a hotel called Smokey Joe's or something like that. I couldn't even pretend to be as cool as this gang, by wearing gigantic shades - honestly the hotel was the darkest place I have ever set foot into - as it was we had to feel our way along the corridors like a couple of blind bats. Even in the lifts which is the best time to check yourself out - it was so dark that all I could see was a silhouette of myself. In fact the lifts were fun as each one had a different colour. The walls,floors and light (I mean the actual light bulb) were all the same. The colors were red,green or purple. Each time the lift came we would cry "oh it's the red one" or whichever colour it happened to be. How embarrassing - and we never tired of this apparently very fun game.

The lobby in the hotel. I've always admired Philippe Starck's wackiness and sense of humour. I'm sure he's just having a great old blast whilst not really giving a damn, whilst the design world takes it all quite seriously. Look at the giant chair! But I'm not taking anything away from him. He is one of my all time faves and I think he is genious. I just think he has fun doing it - lucky guy. I guess with his fame he can be crazy.

The hotel also has the most amazing bar, which I should give a wonderful detailed crit on, but I'm too tired and much to my horror Darling has already fallen asleep which means my reading time will now be limited - which I hate. I'm sure you can make out by the pictures how incredible it is.

The Clift

2010-11-11T20:31:00.000-08:00

So, The Clift hotel has purple,mauve themed bedrooms,although it could just have been ours - or just our floor for that matter. It's not my favorite colour by any stretch, but I could cope with it here and embraced it. Our room was relatively small - NOT Paris small - Darling and I could both be standing in the room at the same time. There was no need to 'rotate' as in Paris style i.e one sits on the bed whilst the other moves around the room, or alternatively one has to be in the bedroom whilst the other is in the bathroom. The clever thing about the room was the use of mirror. Both the wall behind the bed and the wall opposite were fully mirrored, obviously giving the illusion of space. We all know this clever trick, but the difference here was the way they were both curtained, framing the mirrors and making a double trickery for the eye. Clever Starcky.

You see how the curtains repeat themselves in the mirror. Also, the wall lights. I love how they are positioned. I love the gold stool - like a lovely little pot of gold.

Very smart the light is. I also love the floating orange cube.

The colour combo works well don't you think? Out there that's for sure, but that's what makes him clever.

Simple desk you think - but then you see the subtle orange in the inside of the legs. The small constant continuation of the colour theme was wonderful.

The first thing I always do when entering a hotel room is immediately scanning the mini bar. The novelty never wears off. It's like finding the forbidden fruit. The holy grail that one cannot touch. Again, spot the mauve! Only in the inside of the cupboard.

Look at that lovely little KitKat in the back.

CALIFORN - I - A!!!!!!

2010-11-10T21:26:00.000-08:00

So, Darling and I are the very lucky couple who are currently driving down the coast of California.Our first stop was San Francisco. We were completely jet lagged and disorientated arriving from London. We felt like we needed a real American kick start. So we headed for the Swan Oyster Depot. It is totally the setting for real American chat and you can just picture Matthew McMonaughey sitting right next to you (sadly he was not) But we just LOVED it. We had oysters, Darling had clam chowder (pronounced with a strong American accent) and half a cracked crab! How cool.

Could one actually get more American!!? Can't you see Matthew McConaughey.

Sweet Darling, a bit out of place with his nazy blazer and red poppy for remembering all those who died in The War. The English are so good like that.

Italian Garden

2010-10-18T10:53:00.000-07:00

So, when we were in Italy we went to the super glamorous and chic hotel San Michele outside of Florence. After eating more than we could ever imagine that we could - we had to recuperate in their beautiful gardens. I just adored what they did with their lemon trees. Darling, always looking for his next DIY project was happy to oblige me when we got home and built me a 'lemon house' a la San Michele!

Don't you think the terraced garden is so smart. As for the classic white canvas furniture - nothing like it!

The Lemon Tree I wanted.

The lemon tree I got! - albeit a long way to go!! I think I'm going to paint my pot white.

* A note from the Crafty Sisters:

Building a structure to use as a bush or hedge

shaper is very simple. Simply go and buy some bamboo poles

from a nursery or somewhere like builders warehouse. Stick

the poles deep into the soil around the the plant in the desired shape. Then simply tie pieces of string around the bamboo poles in which to train (or contain) the tree or bush.

A note from Mrs Potter:

Lemon trees are very easy to keep as long as you have plenty of sunshine.

They love a good six to eight hours of sunshine a day. Also, they are not crazy about drafts, so try to plant them in a protected area.

A small tip when squeezing lemons for juice is to roll the full lemon under your hand on your counter top to already get the juice flowing. It makes squeezing much easier once you have cut your lemon.

Green Gunk

2010-09-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

Well, as a follow on from yesterday, today I am going to talk about Green Gunk. Green Gunk is something that Darling invented. He also invented the name - don't ask me where he pulled that one from, but it is actually quite apt. Think of that thick green revolting looking drink that Rene Russo drinks in The Thomas Crown Affair - that about sums up Green Gunk. It is made up of fresh wheat grass, spirulina, 'green power' (a powder of organic wheat.barley and alfafa grass and 7 types of seaweed!)) a banana, a bit of watered down apple juice and sometimes a little milk thistle for your liver.
Often I hear the whir whir of the blender coming from the kitchen, and I desperately hope that Darling is going to surprise me with a banana milkshake! But, it never ever is my dream of a milkshake it is always the dreaded Green Gunk!

Block your nose and get it down! This is my Green Gunk taken this morning.

You can buy 'The Real Thing, Green Power' from the Wellness Warehouse. The milk thistle tablets you can by from health shops. Oh forgot to mention that of course you can add fruit to soften the blow. Strawberries are nice.

This is our wheat grass crop in our kitchen. Sometimes Darling even adds a bit of aloe plant for kicks.

Let's just focus on how amazing Rene Russo looks in the movie. Think Rene thoughts as you glug down your seven types of seaweed.

One of my favorite dresses of all time. If I get to wear that bring on the Green Gunk!!!

Get a Spring in Your Step

2010-09-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

Well, it's Spring time and that means Spring cleaning! I have decided to go full throttle!

I have spent the afternoon with my bank manager. I have changed my account type and have set up a new savings account. Finance, Tick!

I have as a brave new treat booked myself into the hydro in Stellenbosch for a three day kick start health detox. Health, Tick! (I write this whilst eating toast with peanut butter and jam)

I am having an extreme wardrobe overhaul by Deborah from Iracema Boutique. Wardrobe,Tick! (I am so excited about this, will take photos and tell all) Best of all we're doing a trade off so it remains in line with my new budgeting that I'm practicing.

I'm feeling very Springy indeed.

* A note from Miss Hotbod
Spring is the perfect time to cleanse.
Bikini season is just round the corner for goodness sake!
Start the day with hot water and lemon or green tea.
Try a drink vegetable juice until lunch time.
I either do 'green lemonade' which is spinach (letttuce,cucumber,celery or anything green can be thrown in)a whole lemon and stevia powder (a natural sweetner found in health stores)
Another good juice is beetroot,carrot and ginger all blended together.
There are so many detoxes available today. Do some research on the internet to find the best one for you. Set aside one weekend and do a proper detox!

* A note from Mrs Married (today she is doing the houshold accounts)

I read in Rich Woman by Kim kiyosaki that each month you should set aside a certain percentage of your salary. Then you should split that percentage into three sections: Investing Account,Savings Account and Charity Account .So if you take 30% of your salary you would give 10% to the above accounts.

It is a very good idea as otherwise we know it is impossible to save. when I opened my new bank account I immediately put aside my 30%. It was surprisingly rewarding even after I had to kiss a few purchases good bye.

I'm going to for the first time divide the rest of my monthly budgets into sections but also to give a section to 'treats' as it must be somewhat realistic and enjoyable. Otherwise what;s it all for!!!

A good website to compare banking charges and to clean out your financing is www.justmoney.co.za they give banking tips and ways to save money too!

A bit of shop

2010-09-02T11:46:00.000-07:00

Well, August has been a busy month. Let me re cap with a few photos of what DOMINICO HOUSE has been doing. It's is now September and the start of Spring! What is in store for DOMINICO HOUSE I wonder!

What a fun month!!

Charity!

2010-08-31T01:08:00.000-07:00

Ok, so yesterday I was all jokey about the charity ball - but today jokes aside it's time to get serious! I declare September the month to kick start your generous spirit, it's time to get going and start giving!
The ball was an annual JDI (Just do it) event. JDI is a fantastic charity that helps support different projects. They want people to know exactly how their money donated is helping people. For more information go to www.jdi.org.com The ball this year was for the project SAEP (South African Education and Environment Project) which is the most fantastic organisation go to www.saep.org to see what they do.
So, Darling and I are always talking about how we can help, what we can do. The days and weeks go by in our busy lives and we never get around to achieving our good intentions. The saying 'the road to hell is paved with good intentions' is so true. Then, we were told about this book called 'how 2 help' It is basically for people like us who want to do something but are not sure how to start. It lists 46 charities in and around Cape Town. It has a grid to work out which projects fit your interests and a table that enables you to match what you can offer in terms of time to the projects that would benefit. It is basically 'spoon feeding' people on how 2 help.
I am so excited abut it. We all say "I really want to do something" so, I am substituting a book club for a charity club! We will sit and go through the book and mark out our favorite causes and how we can help as a group of friends. It is going to be so fun.
I will let you know how it goes, but in the mean time go out and buy the book. (Oh, forgot to say that all h2h profits from the sale of the book will go to the projects featured in the book)

p.s. Don't you think this book is a wonderful present to give for Christmas and Birthdays.

2010-08-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

So on Saturday night Darling and I attended a charity ball. As with all these things there was the
inescapable auction (not that I'm complaining it - it was for charity after all) All I know is that we woke up on Sunday morning with a pile of white envelopes next to Darling's head - all our 'winnings' !!! We are an auctioneers dream come true. We love a bit of a frenzy, a bit of excitement, a bit of competition and above all obviously think that money grows on trees!! Hooray!! (It's like auctions are pretend, I always feel like you don't actually pay. As long as you win) I must never go near an auction again!
We acquired some pretty diverse things:

Not one but two weekends away (neither places we've ever heard of)
A two hour Dr Hauschka facial.
The ex chef of the Mount Nelson is coming to our house to cook for one of our dinner parties (AMAZING) Who will be the lucky guests? mmmmmmm.
A signed cricket bat by the Cape Cobras (I must admit I had never heard of them) And when we got the bat it was only a half bat - a mini one. Although actually probably better.
And then the piece de resistance was the three day rock climbing course!!!! What was I thinking? I must be mad. Although we all know I cannot resist a fad.

We even got given a free case of wine. They didn't say it, but I think it's for drowning our sorrows when we realise we will be living off tinned tuna for months! Well, at least we'll know how to rock climb.

This is more or less how I imiagine the rock climbing will turn out.

*A note from Mr Manners.

Try not to get caught up in the frenzy of auctions.

It will do you no good and you will bid for things that you neither

want nor can afford. You should try to ignore your competitive streak.

Don't bid against your friends. Let them have it, chances are auction karma will reward you. Don't drink and bid! For obvious reasons. Memory loss at an auction is by no means an ideal situation. Don't do a victory dance - you paid for the item! Never gloat, someone will know better and you might have brought a dud.

In fact, unless you know what you are doing, an auction is a scenario rife with imminent disaster! The exception is of course charity. You can put your foolishness down to charity and is therefore a win win situation.

So much to do!

2010-08-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

Well, once again I have been a very naughty blogger! I never realised that any one read my blog apart from my mother and my brother. Not even Darling, who constantly features reads it!

So on Friday when I went to my own blog for fun - my heart nearly jumped when I saw TWO comments - neither one from my mother or my brother! Oh the fright I got, and now the guilt. To anonymous that said 'where are the posts?' I am SO sorry. I hope you give me another chance and check on my blog again to see that I am back. (I know I've promised this before - again to my mother and brother, but now I know there are two more people! Well, I think I'm here for good)

Enough about that! Lets get on with it.....

I am still in a fashion frenzy. Clothes are still my fad for the time being.

I could not believe my luck when I found this website. http://www.psimadethis.com/ In case you don't get it - it's 'p.s. I made this'

It is the best funnest website of all time. I LOVE her inspiration pages. It is worth going to the website just for that alone.

I can't wait to get the crafty sisters onto a few of these fun things. Thank heavens the website has instructions. There is even a book!

So much to do!!!!!!!

Little Lady Pancakes

2010-08-01T12:04:00.000-07:00

Well, like most weekends I hear Darling say 'what's for breakfast?' I must say in Darling's defence this is always after I have been given my daily coffee in bed. But somehow, even after the caffeine has been absorbed, this question can make me feel quite furious. Aaaaargh. Honestly, I am immersed in an article on Philippe Starck's quirky day to day life at his holiday house in the Balearic islands, and now I must come crashing back to the planet of domestic chores - so un-Philippe Starcky! Anyway, resisting in ones own mind just makes things worse. Darling has already leapt out of bed and is sawing,digging,drilling away (chores are his hobby) so you see I really ought to make breakfast.
The thing is, as you would have seen in my previous post -the clothes are coming next week! Oh the clothes, how can I cheat on you with food! If I carry on with Darling's British approach to breakfasts the clothes won't be loving me! What to do. I can't make separate meals for us at every meal - my will power is just a figment of my imagination. I must be clever, yes very clever.

This is what I made. I call it 'Little Lady Pancakes'

They were delicious! AND they took about ten mins.

Makes 4 large pancakes.
For the Pancakes
100g Buckwheat Flour (Buckwheat flour is not part of the wheat family, buckwheat is often used in gluten free baking. Buckwheat is a good source of potassium, phosphorous, calcium, vitamin E and B vitamins. Substitute for wheat flour according to a recipe)
35g Xylitol (Xylitol powder is derived from birch bark. It can be used as a spoon replacement for sugar but has low glycemic index)
210ml Skimmed Milk
2 1/2 tbsp Water
1 Medium Egg
4 tsp Coconut Oil for Frying (1 tsp per pancake)
For the Topping
Low Fat Bulgarian Yoghurt
Berries and Fruit

1. Make the pancakes by blending all the pancake ingredients together. (Except the coconut oil)
2. Melt one teaspoon of the coconut oil in a frying pan and tip to coat the whole pan surface. Spoon in half a ladleful of the batter and tip the pan to spread it evenly in a circle around the base.
3. Cook for 30 to 45 seconds on each side.
4. Spoon a tablesoon of the yoghurt on top (a good substitute for cream) and cover with berries and other fruit.
5. Drizzle a bit of raw honey or agave nectar over the top.

I sadly did not have any blueberries or strawberries. I had gooseberries and was a bit naughty and used banana. You should always make the presentation exciting.

I also did the classic trick of serving the pancakes on a smaller plate. This tricks your brain into thinking your plate is piled high with food and therefore sees more food than there actually is! Or something like that.

* A note from Mrs Married:

I read an article once in the Tatler where the author compared being married to being extremely similar to a waitress - both serving three meals a day.

We all feel like this at some point, lets be honest. The only thing is, that unlike a waitress, you get to choose what you serve. So, be a bit imaginative and make it delicious, healthy and very easy.

There is no reason today for labour intensive meals, nor is there an excuse for anything vastly unhealthy. With all the health shops today there is a substitute for everything. You just have to do your initial homework and you're set for good!

Bags and shoes and all things pretty!

2010-07-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

Well, I can barely contain myself! Iracema Boutique is coming to DOMINICO HOUSE.
Iracema's new collection is straight off the catwalks from London Fashion Week.
Deborah Polonsky is the clever girl behind this concept. She selects pieces from the new and up and coming young designers. The clothes are unbelievably made but thank goodness for us do not have the price tags that come with the well known labels. I have sneakily already tried on a few of the dresses and could not BELIEVE the fit. It was like stepping into another world. What have I been wearing all these years?!! YAY London Fashion Week here I come!! Deborah is also launching Iracema Vintage. I have not yet seen the pieces from this range but am a bit scared at my potential upcoming hysteria. Just think names along the lines of Matthew Williamson, Diane von Furstenberg and Top Shop. (Oh dear)
Here's a sneak preview of some of the new labels we will be seeing..........

If you would like an invitation to view this collection please email me gigi@dominico.co.za

The Morning After Black Cherry Pie

2010-07-25T13:02:00.000-07:00

Well it's all fun and all to have tons of dinner parties - but what can get tricky sometimes is finding the inspiration to cook! What to cook is always the first stumbling block. I had this particular mental block this Friday night. Darling and I were having a very low key supper at 'ours' with close friends. My last minute idea came from seeing that cherries are already on the shelves! Suddenly I remembered a recipe my mum used to make when my brother and I were really young.It's a black cherry cheese cake/pudding type thing. We used to be so excited in the morning to eat this particular pudding's leftovers after a dinner party my mum had done. She hasn't made it in years and can't quite remember it - her instructions in her treasured recipe book can sometimes be quite cryptic. So...... a few things were mentioned like the oven - which in the end I never used at all! All I can say it was a cracker!!
The quote of the evening: "This is the best pudding I have ever had!" one of our guests.

Here it is: (my version)

Black Cherry Cheese Cakey Type Thing

Ingredients:

For Base:
Tennis biscuits(Whole pack)
Butter 100gram
Slivered almonds (Not really necessary)

For Filling:
1 x tub creme fraiche (You can also use smooth cottage cheese)
1 x tub (250ml) double cream. v. thick
1 x can condensed milk! It's making a come back!
About 50ml lemon juice (As much as you can squeeze out) Original recipe said 80ml, but I think that is quite a lot! I also ran out of lemons. 50ml was perfect.

For Topping
1 x tin of black cherries with juice
2Tbs corn flour
Small amount of water
Real cherries if pos (for presentation)

Recipe

First crumble biscuits into food processor and blend until crumbed. Then add slightly melted butter and whiz until it forms a big damp clump. Have some patience I did not whiz for long enough and kept on adding more and more butter! Until mine was too wet - hence the slivered almonds I had to add in to rectify my mistake (I had no more tennis biscuits)
Pack the base into a 20cm round spring foam tin (one of those removal bottom ugly cake tin things) try pack a bit up the sides. Put in the fridge whilst you make the filling.
Mix the tin of condensed milk and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Very satisfying. Lick the rest of the condensed milk tin and feel very happy about it.
Add your cream and creme fraiche. Mix all together. You can use smooth cottage cheese instead of creme fraiche.
Put filling into your cake dish and put it back in the fridge. Go and shower and get house ready etc. 2- 3 hours is minimum time it should be in fridge. You can even make this the night before. Bonus for not feeling too overwhelmed on the day.

For the topping:
Strain only the cherry juice from tin into a pan on the stove. Mix 2Tbs maizena (corn flour) with a tiny bit of water until smooth. Add to cherry juice and stir over medium heat until thickened. Put it aside to cool.
Place your cherries over pie and then pour over the cooled sticky thickened juice. put back in fridge until ready to serve. Before serving remove tin sides and place pudding on beautiful large plate. Stack real cherries (if obtainable) on top of pudding and around the sides. It is a show stopper and very very delicious.

As Darling and I discovered in the morning, it is even better the next day.

I am so sad as in my state of euphoria of my success, I never took a photo of my beauty!!! This is a photo taken from the web to give you an idea, but does not come close to mine which was laden with a real cherry tower like Babette's Feast!

*A note from Mrs Married

When you are having a dinner party it is always polite to consider others dietary requirements.

In today's world this can sometime be challenging.You can however go with what you are in the mood for and do an extra something for the vegetarians etc. Rather don't be put off entirely by trying to make a dish that everyone can eat. The Cherry pudding for instance is certainly not for the people who are very 'strict and strong willed' when coming to watching ones waist lines. But why ruin the fun for everyone! There is nothing more exciting than a condensed milk packed pudding. The super conscientious will just have to pick at the cherry tower.

Paris is a Roll Down the Hill

2010-07-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

Well, this week I met Darling for a cheeky cappuccino during our busy working day. Very European. Our place of rendezvous was just perfect for that cafe society that Paris is renown for; Liquorice and Lime. We took a stroll down Church street past all the antique and tat sellers, then directly into the courtyard behind The Taj hotel, and voila, we had arrived. I can't say too much about the food as sadly we were not that generous with our time, but I can say my coffee was very good and I we had a jovial time.

I love the typical cafe chairs.

Beautiful part of town with beautiful buildings.

There's nothing like a classic striped awning.

I can gladly say that the waiters were friendly than the ones in Paris!

The inside was also attractive.

I looked through some of my photos from Paris to do a mini comparison. Of course the stripe awning did not take long to appear.

My mum having a happy Parisian evening.

I love the umbrellas all lined up with huge globes like moons.

Your typical Paris street scene.

I loved this courtyard, slightly shabby - but of course the starched white table cloths.

I'm Back!

2010-07-21T03:16:00.000-07:00

Oh my word!!! Have been having a shocker! Have spent the last week crying, screaming and throwing things. Not to mention the general bad look of pajamas and slippers - which became my uniform of hard done by feeling. The up side of it is when something is not going your way it opens a door of casual recklessness with all other aspects in your life. i.e suddenly you can gorge yourself and not make any effort with housey chores, exercise and all round friendliness to others. Very indulgent. But now the cable under the sea seems to be in order and I must pull up my socks and get back to the full time job of general perfection!

I am losing it!!

2010-07-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

Well, it must be something to do with the damaged cable under the sea, but I cannot load ANY photos. Have been going mad for the last few days. I hope it is that, and not my computer packing up.

So for now I will leave you with a few fun quotes from the book I am reading - DV by Diana Vreeland. An autobiography.

Just a quick introduction to Diana Vreeland:
Vreeland reigned as the queen of the fashion world for over fifty years.
As fashion editor of Harper's Bazaar and editor in chief of Vogue, she was obsesses with fashion high and low - pink plastic poodles in Palm Beach, for example - and used the pages of the magazine to bring her love of the bizarre and the absurd to her audience.

The book is absolutely fabulous to read. Let me give you some examples and quotes. All taken from the Foreword by Mary Louise Wilson.

DV : " Pink is the navy blue of India"

DV: "I see girls and I see the way their feet fall off the sidewalk when they're getting ready to cross the street, but they're waiting for the light, with their marvelous hair blowing in the wind and their fatigued eyes"

Mary Louise Wilson: "Then a photograph of her living room appeared in a magazine. Never had I seen such profusion, so much red! Red on the floor, red up the walls, and textures, textures, TEXTURES! Plaid on top of paisley, flowered chintz next to silk stripes, and silver, tortoise, ebony, conch, gilt - a magnificent explosion in the midst of a beige decade, a world in which the worst sin was to 'clash'"

DV: " I want everyone to write with quill pens!" Said on her first day as editor at Vogue

DV's son " Mom never liked to appear unless she was at full gallop"

Cecil Beaton about DV's slang and skewed syntax: " One would think she spent hours in an ambiguous Times Square drug stores"

Mary Louise Wilson: " We tune in to laugh and end up obeying her commands to never go to bed tired....always keep our shoes shined.....never look back.....go all the way all the time.....and to dream"

So if this is just the Foreword can you imagine the rest of the book, packed with brilliant anecdotes straight from the horse's mouth - the fantastically magically, spontaneous and thrilling Diana Vreeland.

The World Through Rose Tinted Glasses

2010-07-13T04:45:00.000-07:00

Well, since the weather seems to be so gorgeous of late..... Darling and the Beags and me decided to take a stroll along the pipe track. It really is beautiful and quite refreshing with Camps Bay idling down below. I took this photo which reminded me of one of my favorite Kate Moss shoots - see very below.

I then wondered what the world would ACTUALLY look like through rose tinted glasses. Quite pretty but might eventually be a bit overbearing.

mmmmmmmmm. It makes me thirsty for something very artificial.

This is the Kate Moss shoot I was talking about. I love it. Wouldn't you like to be stranded on an island in this sort of attire.

Now I'm sort of jumping... this is a different shoot altogether. This one is an add for Cavalli. Kate obviously likes a bit of driftwood - it seems to suit her.

Oh and then..... I found this shoot in my 'look book' section in my computer (every girl should have one) A straight copy of the original!

Tapas for Spain and so on

2010-07-08T11:02:00.000-07:00

So luckily Spain did win last night. To get us into the spirit of the Spanish evening last night, I did a little Spanish supper.I remember reading Patty Boyd's autobiography and reading how when married to Eric Clapton he would always ask for a big bowl of spaghetti and a large napkin to tuck into his shirt when watching The Godfather. It makes simple affairs eventful and fun.

This photo was actually taken at our wedding. We did anti pasta starters. Quite a nice idea for all the guests to have to pass round and share which breaks the ice when first seated.

*A note from Mrs Mostess:

If you're feeling a bit uninspired about your next dinner party or even a quiet supper in, you can choose a theme for the evening.
It will be refreshing for others, without them having to dress up.

What about a Russian night with blinis and borscht. It can be quite wild with vodka of course or a low key night in with Dr Zhivago.

Chinese New Year is also easy. You have to wait for the appropriate time of year of course.

Espanolas!

2010-07-07T03:09:00.000-07:00

Well, I am very excited about the match tonight. Neither Spain nor Germany are my team. I have however decided to support Spain as I have spent many a wonderful day there. I have not been to Germany, and I'm sure it's lovely but the hot countryside, sangria, gazpacho and siestas is definitely helping in my choice to support Spain. They live a very civilized life indeed, one that I could happily adapt to. Darling and I spent one of our best holidays in Seville at a friend's hacienda. It's called Hacienda de San Rafael. Pronounced 'Hathienda de Than Rafael' it is very fun to say especially when said quickly.

The entrance to the 'hathienda'

Such cool (temperature) indoor spaces surrounding a central courtyard.

Old large terracotta tiles that are so nice to walk on when coming in from the hot sun.

I love the dark beams on the white ceiling.

Of course a big horsey element which always lends itself to the Spanish ranch style living.

Who knew that cotton could work so well in the sitting room.

The Spanish steps

The colloquial inner courtyard

Darling cleaning the pool

This is where I loved to read

Late dinners in the courtyard.

Camellias in Season

2010-07-05T23:06:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy right now, as one of my favorite flowers, Camellias are in season! White or pink I love them. Red is my least favorite. They look so beautiful just plonked casually in a vase on a desk, entrance hall or bedside table.

It is also easy to keep greenery on your entrance hall table. Flowers are not essential, greenery is just as beautiful. Beautiful white Camellias.

Look at these white roses in the lobby of Le Meurice in Paris. It looks very top heavy for that table! But quite amazing and decadent.

A big arrangement of white hydrangeas at my wedding. Another one of my favorite flowers.

Pink peonies at my wedding. One of the wonderful things about getting married in November.

* A note from Mrs Married:

If you do not have a garden from which to pick flowers, or none of your flowers are in bloom - I ask Husband to do what I call 'the neighbourhood
sweep' He won't be happy about this particular task as it could lead to embarrasement. It is always so worth it though. Your house can be filled with natural looking arrangements such as Frangipanis, (which are often easy to find hanging over a neighbours wall) Bougainvillia or even Hibiscus.

Do not ask him to pick things from the mountain however tempting as it
may be as it could lead to arrest!

* A note from Mrs Mostess:

Try to make your arrangements look natural.

There is no need to group different flowers together like a store brought bunch from the 7eleven. Rather mass the same flower togther in one big generous bunch. Never add shocking accessories like twirled sticks shooting up to the moon! It is your home and not a conference centre.

yoga

2010-07-04T11:49:00.000-07:00

Well, after the World Cup madness is over it is time to regroup ourselves! I don't know if anyone is feeling like me, but after all the chilli 'dogs', budweizers, ice creams and post games general celebrating/commiserating drinks I need to do some serious penance for my sins. The answer lies in 'Jai' the new yoga studio that has just opened in Cape Town. Go http://www.jaiyoga.co.za/

What really sold me on this studio is the interiors. It is all white with crystal chandeliers and soft lighting. Very soothing. I am also happy that one of my favorites is the face of yoga (well, in the modern Vogue world) which just adds to the whole yoga appeal for me.

Christy Turlington in Calvin Klein. Now, that's an exercise look I appreciate.

How classic - the white vest. My best.

Have you ever tried this move? It's not as easy as it looks!

Now that we're speaking about Christy, how gorgeous are her children? Grace and Finn (love the names) There's nothing like a child dressed in beautiful classic clothes. Not a velour tracksuit with neon Nikes to be seen!

* A note from Miss Hotbod

Winter is a good time to do some hot hatha yoga.

Not only is it a pleasant change to the cold outside but

it will get your body ready for Spring .It massages every organ in your body and therefore detoxes and and defends your body from disease.

It increases flexibility, improves posture and tones.

It helps to delay ageing, provides energy and encourages a general zest for life!

Good Guest

2010-06-30T01:52:00.000-07:00

I was the lucky lucky girl to receive this delicious little tart. My very generous friend Mariam came round for a tête-à-tête and I was so happy to see what she had tucked under her arm.

How unbelievable is the perfection of this lemon meringue pie. I love the name of the bakery written in gold on chocolate. That is inspiring presentation if ever I've seen it.

Our feasting continued with this little pretty. Classic chocolate eclair. Very good for general upliftment. In fact my Grandmother always used to eat chocolate logs for 'cheering up'
If you have not been to Cassis, you should go immediately. Try to limit yourself to one hit a week.

One of the many nice things about having friends to your house, is that they sometimes come with lovely things. I also received these amazing boxes of Turkish delight. I was more happy with the box itself than the actual contents. I love the colour and the pattern.

In fact the two together make for a very original and stunning colour combination.

I have recently received these beautiful soaps for my shop from Portugal.

I think they make for the most perfect something to take as a guest to a person's house.

Again, loving the colours and patterns.

They come in large with matching babies.

The Portuguese are so clever.

I actually do collect soaps. It is very rewarding to group them together in a big bowl or vase and have them next to your basin or bath. I also have tone hidden in cupboard under shirts etc. Nothing like putting on a clean T shirt smelling of scented soap.

Very attractive indeed.

* A note from Mr Manners:

As a guest, one should always take something

for your host. Try to make it personal and put

some effort into it. When obvious NEVER re gift, unless

of course you do not want a repeat invitation.

It is not ideal to take flowers to a dinner party as so many

people do - it puts your host under tremendous pressure as she

runs around looking for a vase and water etc. Rather leave their favorite chocolates or a special soap discretely on a table.

A beautiful ribbon is always in good taste.

It's bed for me!

2010-06-15T05:02:00.001-07:00

On cold days like these, there is nothing else to do but get into bed. As you all know I am a big fan of beds. I would live in mine if life permitted it. I am sitting here trying to think warm and sunny thoughts. My mind keeps drifting to the ice hotel. Getting into my bed is as inviting as this little cool number...............

Luckily, after a while the frost bite starts to subside and finally finally I can wiggle my toes again! That is why it is vital never never to get out of bed.

The one thing that I loved about our honeymoon on Kiwayu Island in Kenya was the many many day beds plonked at random intervals - perfect when one feels a sudden nap creeping up.

How I wish I was there now.

This was our bed at The Peponi hotel in Lamu. I love a super high bed.

Our bed at home - my dream permanent residence.

How magnificent is this bunk bed I found in an antique shop near the East End in London.

As for this crib!!

I quite fancy this leather sleigh bed. Perfect for a winter Ralph Lauren style hunting lodge.

I keep scrapbooks and folders of inspiration photos - these are some photos of beds I like.

A David Hicks bed

A bedroom designed by Emma Jane Pilkington. One of my decorator idols. She did Ivanka Trumps apartment when she was single.

I love the detailing in this room - the bamboo bed, the paisley fabric used on walls, curtains and bed canopy and of course the ultimate touch of leopard print.

Lovely and serene and feminine.

A Kelly Wearstler room - another idol of mine.

* A note from Mrs Mostess.

It is quite wonderful to entertain in your bedroom.

It has been known that certain grande dames in the past would serve cocktails in their vast bathrooms. So take advice from Elsie de Wolfe and the likes and break out of parochial norm and why not serve chilled campari and bitter orange in a deliciously toasty bedroom. It's a sure way to make your guests feel at ease.

What's your game plan?

2010-06-13T09:24:00.000-07:00

Well, I must say I am on a serious high after this weekend's world cup events. Never before have I experienced such an electric atmosphere. It was excitement beyond belief. Lets discuss the highlights:
Firstly, it is not often that you get to pretend that your house is an embassy.
Secondly,the whole family can participate, including the Beags. They loved it although quite shell shocked when Darling insisted they join in on the Long Street parade. The vuvzelas where enough to confuse them, let alone it was the first time that they have ever worn 'clothes'. The poor things were under the impression that, admittedly their slightly tightish soccer tops disabled them from walking. They spent the first five minutes with cat like arched backs standing statue still. It's amazing what one boerewors roll can do. they were wagging and dancing just like the rest of us with just one boerie!
Thirdly, it is not often you experience Cape Town on such a united front. It was momentous to say the least.
In order to be fair one must discuss the down sides:
Firstly, I got home with a migraine from the vuvuzelas - they are quite out of control. Fun of course, but seriously? Think of it as a Lear jet hovering overhead for the duration of the game.
Lastly, my only other complaint of the entire event is that they ran out of food at the match - tragedy! It did not help that the girl next to me was divulging in salt and vinegar chips. Torture. I always think of that song.......Ag, please daddy won't you take me to the drive in, popcorn, chewing gum and ice cream too (something like that, I hope it's not just me!) Somehow the Budweiser was not a well received substitute for me.

Dominico House - The Embassy

The Beags!

You can see it's all equal equal in our house. South Africa AND England.

Mr Chester

Miss Beatrice. I think green could be her colour.

Unbelievable!!!!!

Blowing in my ear - do you want to busrt a blood vessel!

Alle Bleu!

A little house outside Stellenbosch. How charming.

Get out the umbrellas!

2010-06-08T11:46:00.001-07:00

I never really think about umbrellas. They are the poor little lonely essentials left in people's hallways. They are there because they have to be, not because we really welcome them. It doesn't make sense? We value our other practical items such as our wallets and handbags. It's all about the bag! So why not the umbrella? In fact an umbrella is a make or break key item to your 'look' the cherry on the top really. So after the rain in Cape Town I've decided...... bring on the umbrellas.

Here's Darling in Florence. I love a red umbrella.

Umbrellas can roll with the times as well. Just look at these lovely ones made from recycled bags. Very green of them.

As for these lovely ladies! I am surprised Paris Hilton hasn't discoverd yet another object with which to use her face.

Bling! Hate this photo, wish they could have shot it more amazingly. But imagine a little sparkle whilst heading out to the ballet. I secretly want this very badly. I found these little treats on www.iwantoneofthose.com (warning, you can go crazy on this site, and might not ever recover)

Now for the stylish......... how beautiful are these umbrellas. From the UK of course. Come on Cape Town get with the brolly side of things.

I think this one is my fav. You?

A bit Austin Powers for me, but maybe nice if winter makes you depressed.

Quite lovely. Could work with Chanel.

How is this one! Biodegradable. Quite sensational.

This umbrella is known as the 'best umbrella in the world' Go to www.classicluggage.com Very smart indeed. Think Darling would appreciate this one.

Usher used it in his cover of Gene Kelly's singing in the rain. Of course he would, only the best for our Ush.

* A note from the crafty sisters.

Remember in today's finacial climate it is no longer acceptable to be reckless.

Your possensions should earn their keep, most of them now having to serve dual jobs. Take the umbrella for instance - well it is bone idol for the majority of the time. Well, that simply won't do.

Why don't you use it as a beautiful light for a fun soiree. It really can make for an intimate atmosphere and really does look very pretty.

Belle Wedding

2010-06-07T10:29:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends just got engaged. This sparked my longing for wedding planning. I've already had my wedding. Now I have no other choice but to live vicariously through my darling friend's upcoming big day. When I was in Italy recently I found the perfect bride's aisle. Imagine walking through these beautiful white hydrangeas in full bloom with the city of Florence in the distance. Amazing!!!

Have you ever seen such hydrangeas?

Then the dress, oh the dress. I actually saw this dress in the flesh or shall I say tulle at Stefania Morland. I started foaming at the mouth and secretly hid my hand behind my back as not to show that I was already married. Shame full. I was terrified they would not let me touch and stroke it. Have you EVER! It is a dream come true. Go to her website www.stefaniamorland.com

I so wish it was mine.

If you feel like a real mind blowing experience go to Stefania Moreland on Kloof Street. You cannot believe the ensembles. There's also a beautiful pair of gold velvet shorts. Winter will be joy if you can spend it in gold velvet shorts.

The dress reminds me of one of my favorite Vogue shoots - 'Alice in Wonderland' shot by Annie Leibovitz.

Too much.

Weekends are for Eating

2010-06-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

Well if you're anything like me, the wheels totally come on the health side of things starting with Friday afternoon. After work on Friday is reserved for eating chocolate in bed, followed by a quick cat nap in anticipation for the Friday nights first glass of wine. The rest of the weekend follows along those lines.... I must say however, Italy took it to a whole new level!!! It is basically all about eating. It starts with a cappuccino - a total joy in ones life. Then a stroll and a well deserved croissant or pastry (any carbs will do really) It builds momentum slowly but gathers speed rather quickly as the day goes on. Maybe, a pre lunch snackette in the food market in Florence- little taster of a delicious salami, olives and cheese. Then lunch is quite momentous a predictable pizza with a few glasses of wine of course. I am not convinced about the unsalted bread though. But sadly my hand to mouth habit encourages me to eat it anyway. After lunch an espresso. Then how about the biggest most delicious 'gelato' you have ever had. choosing your flavour is quite an excruciating experience. Then maybe a little nap to prepare for the evening's feast! A wonderful bottle of wine, 'l'antipasto' (starter) which could be anything from little brushettas to the classic caprese. Then 'il primo' (first course) which is mostly a soup or pasta (yes, you heard me a pasta BEFORE the main course) then 'il secondo' which is normally a main meat dish. Of course don't forget 'il dolce' Then it is customary to have a couple of toasts to life. Women generally toast with limoncello, and the men with grappa, or if you prefer, you could have both - which often happens when on holiday. Normally one has to go home relatively shortly after such a meal as it is essential to lie down and stretch out.

* A brief note from Mr Manners

Never ever order a cappuccino after lunch in Italy.

It is considered a breakfast drink and would be a terrible faux pas to order one directly after lunch. The Italian view it as very unhealthy to have hot milk after a meal. Rather have an espresso. One only needs to ask for a 'caffe' pronounce 'cahf - FEH' for a gorgeous little espresso.

When in Italy you can pronounce words with lots of gusto. Not only does it sound authentic it is quite a thrilling experience . You can practice with words like 'parmigiano' and 'montepulciano'

How does one choose?

Have you ever seen such stylish ice cream?

It is complete sensory overload. I was practically have seizures outside this window.

So so happy, I had made my chocolate selection and was waiting for my little box to be wrapped and gently handed to me all ribbon-ed up with expert hands in gloves of course.

Salami and parma ham anyone?

Even the fruit and vegetables made one feel like Charlie in the chocolate factory.

I wish I could have beautiful fabric lined drawers for my mushrooms.

Books,I want

2010-06-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

I'm always on the hunt for a book. I have a long list written down on pieces of scraps in all sorts of places - handbags,drawers, other books etc. So....... when I'm out and about I'm always looking out for one of the books on my list. Recently I was anticipating my trip to London as I knew there is a good chance of finding many many books. Of course, it is much to the horror of Darling that yet again I will inevitably be 20kgs overweight on luggage! I had recently read about Fleur Cowles in the January issue of the UK Elle Decoration, and could not wait to get my hands on her book 'The Best of Flair' by Dominic Dunne (a big socialite) and Fleur Cowles herself. To my horror not a single book shop had the book! I was flummoxed, I was in England after all. Why is this? So on returning home empty handed I began my research with aplomb! Thank goodness, there the lovely little red cover was staring at me from my computer - Amazon you are so clever. Then! What! $600.00 Holy smackrels no wonder WHSmith was out of stock. So now I am totally possessed. How am I going to lay my itching hands on the pretty red cover. I am so depressed.

Extract taken from UK Elle Decoration, January 2010, Style Icon

"Fleur Cowles(1908 - 2009) was a go-getter. Her life path was a familiar one for grande dames - obscure beginnings, a series of husbands each more powerful than the last, stellar middle age - but everything else about her was unique. She's best known as the creator of style magazine Flair, which blazed a trail through New York in 1950 but folded just after one year. This wasn't because it was no good - in fact, some have suggested it was spiked by jealous rivals- but because it was so ahead of its time and expensive to make. It boasted hedonistic features such as short stories printed on silk-like paper;pages impregnated with scent;invisible ink that required cigarette smoke to reveal its secrets;and debut magazine pieces by the likes of Lucien Freud and WH Auden.

What makes her an icon? After the press storm that followed Flair's downfall, Fleur bounced back .She already had considerable power - having charmed a series of political leaders on her world travels, she was offered an ambassadorship by President Eisenhower in 1954 - and set her sights on conquering London. Her Piccadilly home, The Albany, was an 18th-century mansion once lived in by Lord Byron and Benjamin Disraeli. Fleur filled its Wedgwood blue drawing room ('the most beautiful in London' she declared) with exotic antiques and her own magic realist paintings of animals and flowers. As well as being exquisitely stylish, it was also well-frequented: attendees at Fleur's salons included Winston Churchill,Cary Grant and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, who'd been cajoled into having their home photographed for Flair in 1950. Not bad going for an ordinary girl from New Jersey - but then Fleur's motto, displayed on her office wall, said it all: 'No matter what you've got, it takes more than that'"

So now you can see why I simply must have this book.

The original copy of the Best of Flair when it first came out in 1996 with HarperCollins. Hardcover.

An upright half page making a heart on either side.

The work of Salvador Dali presented with die-cut shapes on two pages.

'Girl with roses' by Lucien Freud. The card is perforated and was the first in a series of Flair memorable art insets.

The Place Vendome, Paris with eleven little windows to open revealing whats going on inside the building.

A Sixteen page insert featuring the wonderful art of Saul Steinberg.

Fleur Cowles thoughts on Flair written in gold on dark blue Kraft paper. The lovely illustration is by Rouche, May 1950

Famous folk from the Fifties sketch their ideal woman.

An insert about painter Andre Bouchant

A sixteen page insert with a story of carnival life by Gypsy Rose Lee

A sixteen page insert, written and illustrated by Jean Cocteau.

A hard copy edition printed in 1999.

An original Flair magazine cover

Another Flair issue with cut-out cover

Fleur Cowles in her blue drawing room.

Treasure in Italy

2010-05-31T12:05:00.000-07:00

What I always recommend is buying presents for special friends immediately on the spot as you see them. Don't go out and buy a present under pressure for the looming occasion. You will inevitably feel quite luke warm about what you are about to give - which does not give a good impression. Rather wait for when you find the perfect thing, even if it means buying it months in advance (obviously preferable to months in arrears)

Remember the golden rule! Never give something that you would not be happy to receive.

The thing that is so wonderful about travelling is the treasures you find along the way. Whilst recently in Italy I stumbled across this magical book. It's was originally written in Italian. Thank goodness this copy has been translated into English - or else I would have missed out on the mischievous world of Don Camillo. A sort of Italian 'Little Prince' although I must say altogether way more naughty and dark than the famous French 'little Prince' Vary Italian in Fact! I found this beautiful petersham ribbon - and voila a special present for a dear friend who reads children's literature above all else.

Turtle Cove

2010-04-12T12:22:00.000-07:00

This is where I've been abiding for the past week. Turtle Cove, Tofo, Mozambique. More on the events of the holiday later.........

I always feel it is essential to see lots and lots of palm trees on holiday. It somehow makes it a bonafide escape.

A full moon is another must have. It does make one slight crazy especially with hot and humid tropical night air.

The point of my voyage was actually a yoga retreat. It was truly inspiring. The only thing I am now dragging my feet back home as somehow the Virgin Active yoga space does not quite live up to this!

Our very perfect abode.

Shanghai Tang

2010-03-24T09:19:00.000-07:00

Well, I never told you what Darling gave me from Singapore! I found this little exciting parcel on my bed! Unwrapping it was most fantastic. First was the lovely smooth and shiny purple bag, very bright for maximum enjoyment.

Then,another new parcel entirely on its own! Very smooth again.

Still more unveiling! With stickers!Then FINALLY before one couldn't take it any longer, a breathtaking silk dress.

Clever Darling.

I also was given a very heavy paint brush. Yes I KNOW it's for decor. And I love it. It has pony hair with bone and am not entirely sure of the beautiful celadon/eau de nil green stone. I am not very good with my stones.

It is quite fun when Darling goes away and I get presents!

World of Dogs

2010-02-24T01:07:00.001-08:00

Well, I've made quite a crazy addition to our sofa in our sitting room. Maybe because Darling is away and I have spent SO much time with the Beags that my mindset is somewhat programmed into dog world. So when i was out sourcing fabric for clients my heart stopped when my beady eyes fell on this 'collection of dogs' fabric. I had that wonderful feeling when you see something and it makes your heart jump into throat because you know without a doubt you HAVE to have it. I adore the dead sureness of the whole thing, none of this thinking about it nonsense. It's that exhilarating happy but totally terrified feeling as you have yet to see the price tag. It's similar to gambling because you are either going to have the best luck and it be cheaper than you thought and you can do that 'I've won, I've won' dance or that absolutely gut wrenching experience when it is ten times more than you anticipated but regardless you still buy it and feel sick for a few days afterwards. This fabric was somewhere in between the two - so generally quite a pleasant shopping experience. I am still floating on that buyers high every time I walk into our sitting room I look at my purchase with a warm fuzzy feeling. it is very nice.

Spot the dog...........

I like that the cushions a re asymmetrical.

Also, couldn't believe how well it went with my already existing kantha quilt.

Shanghai Express

2010-02-18T04:54:00.000-08:00

Darling has had a wonderful time in Singapore and now he is in Bangkok. He called me in a flat panic to say that he has started his shopping part of his trip (a half hour) and that he is standing at the first stall of a never ending road of every conceivable item of clothing and accessories one can buy under the sun. My dream! I knew his level of stress and panic would warrant a phone call. Luckily I was one step ahead! I have learnt from his previous trips when Darling is left unaided what that can mean. He is very very good with consumable items such as Fortnum's biscuits, chocolate and perfume. He also made a hit with The 'Aspinal Ladies' Social Diary'
in powder blue. Luckily it is a hit he can continue with, so now it's become tradition that I get one every year in my stocking, it is a win win all round. However, one year I said I would like a gold clutch bag.(I didn't give specifics or brand) He said finding a gold clutch became the search for the holy grail, his 'raison d'etre' He came home empty handed. I realised that it was unfair of me to put Darling under that sort of torture. So, this time I gave more direction!

Shanghai Tang, Terminal 2, Singapore Changi Airport

Option 1. These beautiful silk pyjamas. In any colour except as shown above. Size Medium. Unless made for tiny Chinese girls then size XXL

Option 2: 'Double Fish' cotton voile tunic. Ref: 1H330z2 Col. mustard. NOT fuchsia

Size as mentioned previously

I can't wait to see what he gets me. Just as long as it's exotic and Eastern. I want to be like the sultry Marlene Dietrich in 'Shanghai Express' and walk around the house saying her famous line " It too-ook more than one man to change my name to Shanghai Lily"

How glamorous is this.

Valentines Weekend

2010-02-16T11:28:00.000-08:00

Well I had the most relaxing Valentines weekend. It's quite obvious I haven't been near my computer. Darling is in Singapore, so I packed my bags with Beags in tow and off we went to my parents. It was heaven. Sweet Darling left before Valentines Day, but he gave me the most beautiful bunch of lilies. Very good thing he remembered that I abhor red roses. The Beags decided that they wanted to take the flowers with them so here they are on my mum's desk....

Miss Bea asleep on an Indian quilt on her chosen chair. She is exhausted as has consumed:

1 x fly swatter (combined effort)

2 x oven gloves

1 x apron

(all the above she cannot be one hundred percent blamed for as there were no witnesses, but she was at the scene of the crime)

Chester, asleep on his chosen chair! Bare in mind they have never dared to sleep on the furniture in their own home. They really did an outstanding job of showing me up. He consumed:

1 x fly swatter

2 x oven mitts

1 x apron

1 x pair cycling sunglasses

1 x attempt at large kelim rug which has huge sentimental value

ALL flowers in the garden - he can't bear the sight of them. They make him totally incensed and all must be annihilated at once!

So apart from the dogets the weekend was OTHERWISE relaxing.

*A tip from Mr Manners to all men

Whether you've been married to the same person for 25 years or you've just started dating here is rule No. 1 on Valentines Day: It's all about her, not you.

* A note from Mrs Petiquette

Do NOT allow your dogs to try out other people's furniture like 'Goldilocks and the three bears' Their own blanket is 'just right'

Only bones are acceptable items to chew. Precious household items really aren't ideal - especially if they do not belong to the owner!

Try to encourage your dog to be the perfect house guest. Bad behaviour is never invited back.

Ralph Lauren How Could You?

2010-02-10T07:57:00.000-08:00

I have always been obsessed with the Ralph Lauren ad campaigns. I have collected them over the years. Of course I am now familiar with the various Ralph Lauren models. So, I could NOT believe when i saw the below image. This poor model Filippa Hamilton has been photoshopped within an inch of her life! She obviously is a human phenomenon that can survive with only two ribs she looks like Barbie in life size except for the long neck (you know how they're always banging on about what Barbie's proportions would be in real life) I can't get over this huge blip on the Ralph Lauren name. It made me sad and happy at the same time. Sad because my ultimate dream has been shattered with a lie and happy because oh hooray the relief! So you see, people aren't actually THAT thin in real life. Anyone can look super model thin with a click of a mouse. In fact, Ralph Lauren has actually just fired Filippa Hamilton for being too fat! So she claims, she says they fired her because she can no longer fit into the sample clothes. She has been with Ralph Lauren since she was fifteen.You will know her from the famous ad for Ralph Lauren's fragrance Romance. I think every young girl has covered her school books in this campaign. What a shame we will miss you Filippa.

Can you cope?

Another one of my favorites.

The classic Ralph Lauren shot.

Looking more normal in size and SO much more attractive.

Spot the Difference!

2010-02-09T09:48:00.000-08:00

It's always so fascinating to look back at photos of our projects before we began our work!
One often forgets how it looked before......

Not a very inspiring fireplace.

That's better.

Sad dining room.

A bit more inviting.

Painting the ceiling white and loosing all that 'sauna' wood really lifted the room. Installing white shutters and a lattice screen also gives the room that plantation indoor/outdoor living feel.

Depressing kitchen. Too dark

mmmmmm. What shall we do?

Loose the arch and install shutter doors with beautiful shiny panelled cupboards.

I love the thick white icing tops contrasting with the dark rich brown drawers.

Study cupboards quite sad.

Much better! Beautiful raw oak panelled bookshelf with British racing green backdrop. Comfortable worn leather wingback armchair.

Main bathroom needing 'something'

Yes, I think that will do it. White marble double basins with panelled mirrors with lights. The mirrors are open when you press them to reveal secret cupboards.

The new bath with white marble surround. We used the actual old bath but just boxed it in with, again, panelling! To layer it a bit more we did bamboo and fabric blinds.

The original bath. Is that actually a large gold lion's head sprouting water!

Dingy dressing room

Amazing what white paint can do.

Main bedroom with very low windows.

We increased the height of the windows to exaggerate the height of the ceilings and to maximise the view.

The guest bedroom, Very poky.

What an improvement. We opened up the space between the cupboards and lost the overhead cupboards to loose the claustrophobia!

Superette

2010-02-08T11:31:00.001-08:00

Today I was rushing around like a mad thing and was so rewarded when at lunch time I came across a little jewel in the name of 'Superette' I have never seen it before. I am told that they have been open since last year and that they have featured in a lot of magazines. How can that be? I love magazines - how did I miss this wonderful thing? Anyway, it sounds like I'm definitely not the first person to discover it and the whole of Cape Town has been brunching here for months. I love the way it is so Notting Hilly - right in the middle of Salt River Main Road. It is done so cleverly and stylishly - attention to detail is unreal and so refreshingly original.

The super slick and simple awning was what first caught my eye.

Just so beautifully simple.

You see..... Notting Hilly

Delicious panini's piled up. Behind, the menu written on the shiny white (almost butcher type) tiles.

I love the casual, warm atmosphere.

I love the napkins.

Very clever really, even a coat rack for yes, your coat!

You help yourself to a drink from the old school fridge.

Couldn't believe my eyes when I opened the fridge - the old school continued with old fashioned bottles of ginger beer, root beer, lemonade and cream soda! Cream soda for heaven's sake! It was quite tricky deciding

I went with the old style root beer. Must say it tasted a bit like a large glass of Wicks bubblegum - which is quite a good thing.

My food was absolutely delicious. I even had a purple plum tomato.

They also stock the most unique products. Who needs Whole Foods.

My heart stopped - honestly? Chestnut Spread. Can't cope. I think I might just have to make macaroons in order to fill them with this! Although my one and only attempt at macaroons was not successful.

Am so sad as in my mad rushing I forgot to buy a bag of these delicious biscuits. Dammit. Wish I was dunking away right now. I will have to go back!

Lazy Sunday

2010-02-07T08:50:00.001-08:00

I have the laziest most indulgent Sunday ever. I have spent 94.5% of it in bed. Was so thrilled to wake up this morning to see the weather was quite mis. Hooray!!! My favorite, a guilt free day in bed. I can't bare that bright happy sunshine day when you feel like you should be outdoors 'doing things' To top it all off i have just started new book. Well, I can't tell you how I am loving it! I read her first book about three years ago 'Liz Jones's Diary' by Liz Jones. Liz Jones was or is (am not too sure) the Fashion Editor of the Daily Mail. She wrote about being single in The Sunday Times and then in The Guardian. She now writes a hugely popular weekly column in The Mail on Sunday YOU magazine. If you google Liz jones daily mail you can read her articles. Anyway she is basically like the real life Carrie Bradshaw. So..... I read her first book a few years ago and had that amazing experience when you find a book you LOVE. I normally find that in one in every ten books. Look, it's not deep and moving a life changing and up there with the greatest novels of all time sort of stuff - it's is just such fun and so funny. Her writing is very Bridget Jones, Marian Keyes vibe. One needs to read these type of books in between the ones you feel you should be reading. Anyway, I couldn't belive it when I was perusing the isles of Exclusive that I happened to notice the name Liz Jones on a new book 'The Exmoor Files' Could it be? Yes! Liz Jones's new book about "How I lost a husband and found rural bliss" My word! So the first book about "How one single girl got married" was follwed up by how she got divorced! I have spent the entitre day reading the new book - again hilarious. Now that I know they got divorced I want to read the first book again to see if I can spot the cracks. Human nature (or maybe just mine) is fascintaing.

The first book.

The new book.

Oh and just to finish off the weekend in the manner that is has been going along in - I am having custard for supper. Yes! It was tradition on Sundays when I was growing up that my brother and I were allowed custard for supper. I haven't had it in years, but have a sudden craving. I hope I don't make it all lumpy.

Orange all Around

2010-02-03T11:41:00.001-08:00

As you know I spent the last weekend in Natal. It so happened to co inside with the Hindu festival Thaipusam.
Thaipusam is the feast for the son of Shiva, Lord Subramarian. Lord Subramarian is the universal granter of wishes. All those who wish to ask for a future favour, fulfill a vow in return for a granted favour, or to repent for past sins will participate in this feast.
I happened to come across these beautiful garlands made out of marigolds for the celebration. I loved how each one was so individual, some had other flowers braided in between the marigolds whilst others where adorned with peacock feathers. It was mainly the colour that struck me as so vibrant and rich. I'm not normally a yellow/orange kind of girl, but when I got home I looked around me and noticed quite a few of my favorite things were shades of this rich marigold orange......

For starters, my beloved Dr Hauschka mini travel kit. Also, I love the look and smell of Darling's Geo.F. Trumper's Sandalwood shaving soap.

My treasured copy of Elsie de Wolfe's 'House in Good Taste' Her advice is timeless.

Part of my collection of the Schott's Almanac. Poor Darling gets one for every birthday as tradition. They all live stacked in our guest loo! I have paired the orange with the blue here - as I started this post I realised something I had forgotten from art class, blue is the complimentary colour to orange. Of course!

My very handy worst case scenario book. Who knows when I'll have to leap from a motorcycle to a car. I'm serious the first instruction is to wear a high quality helmet and leather jacket, plus leather pants and boots. The outfit sounds very glam.

I got given this beautiful box of Turkish Delights by a guest. A wonderful present I thought.

My favorite amber Lampe Bergere. I stock these in my shop so am always living in a world of 'Cypress Breeze' or 'Cedars of Babylon' Quite exotic names for the oils I must say. These amber beads I adore as they remind me of my great aunt. They are very heavy and I'm sure I would get a migraine within seconds of wearing them. They look beautiful on my dressing table though. Again, couldn't do without the blue!

This Naf Naf tee I have had FOREVER. I can't toss it, I'm not sure why but I have become attached. I think it's one of those items that is kept for the day my figure miraculously reverts back to a twelve year old. mmmmmmm

Same with the bikini bottoms. They have seen me through many a fun summer.

My new fancy running gadget! Apropos of my previous blog on running I decided to get myself into the swing of things by treating myself to a handy little running watch. I love the colour and the design. Typically it does not get enough time on the track. I seem to be stuck on the 3rd week 9min run.

A girlfriend has just given me this beautiful little bag from her trip to Hong Kong. AGAIN can you believe the blue?

I bought these beautiful pumpkin orange silks from Thailand eight years ago. I wonder when I'll do something with them?

Spot the lone marigold! Definately not my favorite flower but an essential one.

* A note from Mrs Potter

If you want to have an organic vegetable garden, it is hugely helpful to plant African Marigolds as they act as a bug and slug repellent.
You won't have to use chemical pesticides!

Botha House

2010-01-29T00:52:00.001-08:00

I am so excited as this weekend we are going to stay at Botha House. It is in Pennington on the South coast of Natal. It is a beautiful stately home originally built for the first Prime Minister of the Union of South Africa, General Louis Both, in 1920. It has all the original fittings, Oregon pine floors, double volume ceilings, antique furniture, portraits and a grand old staircase.

I can't wait to explore. I'm sure I'll come back with some inspiration.

Burns' Night

2010-01-28T10:49:00.000-08:00

So it was Burns' night on Monday night - I know I am a bit late but for some reason we are only celebrating it next Saturday night. We are going to a Burns' night soiree. There will be the toast to the haggis, a toast to the lassies and I'm sure some Scottish reel dancing. We also have to dress up in some sort of Scottish attire! Quite a feat to achieve in Cape Town. I'm thinking along the lines of Alexander McQueen and Sarah Jessica Parker at the Costume Institute gala.(Although must say, he pulls it off much better than her) Will keep you posted!

* A note from Mr Manners

Burns' night supper is a celebration of the life and poetry of Robert Burns, author of many Scots poems. The suppers are normally held on or near the poet's birthday, 25th January. Burns' suppers may be either formal or informal. Informal suppers typically include haggis, Scotch whisky and the recitation of Burns' poetry.
Wikipedia

Last year I went to Scotland for the first time. We were invited to a real Scottish wedding. It was very 'Four Weddings and a Funeral' I loved every second of it.

A bagpiper at the wedding. There's something about that sound that is very romantic.

It felt very dramatic. You can see how cold it was. Also, very Braveheart.

There's Darling in his kilt! Very dashing, walking towards the Church. The wedding was at Murthley Castle.

The best part about our trip was our friend's beautiful home.

Look at the way the hedges are shaped.

I also loved their garden.

The view from the front of the house was just like a painting.

Marriage Italian Style

2010-01-27T09:18:00.000-08:00

So, Darling is away. The Beags and I decided to have a quiet night in and treat ourselves to a bit of Italian drama. We decided on watching ' Marriage Italian Style' starring Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni. We were not disappointed.It is over the top dramatic, romantic,sexy and incredibly stylish like only the Italians know how. We adored it. Of course we couldn't possibly watch it without a huge plate of spaghetti. I remember reading Patti Boyd's autobiography she explained Eric Clapton's extreme ways.He would insist that she make him large bowls of pasta for when he watched The Godfather. He would have to have the whole setting Italian as well, and only watch with his large bowl of spaghetti and a large white starched napkin tucked into his shirt. So the Beags and I gave it a bash - I must say it definitely makes the vid even better. Am very Italian at the mo.

Although, don't think I could take it this far. I think only Sophia could pull this one off.

Secret Garden

2010-01-25T11:34:00.000-08:00

I am currently trying to plan my garden. Since we got the Beags, the poor garden has taken quite a bashing. So...... now that most of my plants have been ripped out and used in a tug of war, I have been left with flowerless beds with mounds of earth a la graveyard. Not very attractive.
Although, I am now very excited planning a whole new garden from wall to wall. For inspiration I was privileged to visit 'Freshwoods' private garden in Elgin. It is owned by Peter and Barbara Knox-Shaw and has been described as "Rambling,romantic plantsman's garden with major collection of heritage and species roses and many rare trees and shrubs"
It certainly is the most beautiful garden I have had the pleasure to walk through. It is like a dreamland with so many wonderful,magical secret spaces. It has such ancient towering trees, winding walkways that sometimes lead to hidden tunnels. it even has a bamboo garden.

Oh dear, where to start!

And so to Bed......

2010-01-23T06:48:00.001-08:00

I am so mad mad about my bed. The place that I adore most spending time is in my bed. Does that mean I'm lazy? So, I was going through some old photos and saw how my bedroom has changed over the course of two years. I wonder what it will look like in the future?
Our bedroom two years ago. Definitely way too much dark wood.

I loved the blue ikat scatter cushions with the cotton mustard and crochet pillow cases and bedspread.

Our bedroom now! Quite a change BUT still a work in progress. I added the aubusson rug for some more layering. The four poster to create a bit of drama. Our bedroom is not very big, so thought I'd exaggerate the ceiling height to give it a better sense of scale. Also, I changed the cut-out wooden screen to a raffia headboard - more comfortable and to lessen the dark wood! I think one of us needs a white bedside table though - not sure who will trade as we are very protective over our adored pieces.

My bedroom at my parents' house. One of my most favorite rooms in the world. It has the most calming, cool feeling about it. It feels like a holiday.

A bedroom we did for a client in Mauritius. Does it look like I have a fetish with four posters?

The guest bedroom in Mauritius.

My clients' son's room in Mauritius.

A house we did in Constantia. We were not given much wall - so they have the smallest bedside tables on earth. We had them made out of bleached oak, so at least they are very beautiful.

The teenager's room.

Their little girl's room

A holiday house we did. The soft mint colour makes it very soothing! Although, we did go quite crazy with the palms! This client is prone to exaggeration - she is Ruby Wax after all.

The guest bedroom in the holiday house. We did an upholstered mattress to make it more of a day bed. It can be used as a rumpus room during the day,

Clients bedroom in Durban. Very peaceful. I love the deep buttoned headboard.

Can you Cope?

2010-01-20T12:44:00.001-08:00

Well, I did not write my post yesterday as I was immersed in Gossip Girl! That's right season 3 is here! It most certainly is my most frivolous vice - and I absoltely adore it. I know the whole planet has probably downloaded the entire season and it is now old hat. I, on the other hand am an old fashioned television watcher and wait patiently for each episode. It is bitter sweet I know, the trauma to wait for a whole week is quite unbearable. What I can't stand is being invited out on a Wednesday night! I don't think it's socially acceptable to decline an invitation because of lets face it a sitcom! I know I know PVR blah blah blah. Yes, maybe that will make my life easier. The risk of pvr is that I might never see sunlight again! Great for my skin but that's about it. No, I would turn into a couch potato of the very worst kind. (In fact are there other kinds?) The kind that is covered in crumbs and that has worn the same pyjamas for five consecutive weeks, the kind that has a mini bar right next to them - nothing is out of arms reach. No, it just won't do.

Holy Moly! Am loving them. Am definatley going to do some Serena van der Woodsen chanelling this weekend.

These two are my best.

Must say Vanessa, you really have upped your game. That dress is quite something!

Inspiration Overload

2010-01-20T11:52:00.000-08:00

I am currently engrossed in the autobiography of Nicky Haslam. It is absolutely fascinating and I can't believe that one person could have met so many talented and famous people in one life time! He really does know EVERYONE. I met him once at a wedding in Devon. He was not interested in me in the slightest and kept asking where Darling was - when you read the book it will be obvious why. He does do the most brilliant projects though, go and look at his work on www.nh-design.co.uk His hand drawn perspectives are too beautiful for words.

I'm not going to try to write a clever summary of the book so instead here's the synopsis from the book cover:

From the legendary interior designer Nicky Haslam, a dazzling and witty account of his frenetic life - from the 50's to the present - in London, the south of France, New York, Arizona and Los Angeles, in a crowd of friends and acquaintances that includes virtually all of the cultural icons of our time.

Nicky Haslam has found himself at the centre of the most interesting circles wherever he is - at parties, opening nights, royal weddings. In London in the late 50's he crossed paths - and more - with Cecil Beaton, Francis Bacon, Diana Cooper, Lucien Freud, David Hockney and Noel Coward. In the 60's, in New York, he encountered Dorothy Parker, Cole Porter, Andy Warhol, Jack Kennedy and Marilyn Munroe while working at Vogue and Show magazines, before decamping to a ranch in Arizona to raise Arabian horses, when he wasn't commuting to Los Angeles to decorate for the stars. Back in England in the early 80's, he attended the wedding of his cousin Diana Spencer and designed for everyone from James Goldsmith to Bryan Ferry.

Haslam is a gifted and exuberant storyteller with an exacting eye for the telling detail. Redeeming Features is a fascinating look at our culture, a compelling and wholly singular document of our times.

Homes decorated by Nicky Haslam.

Go and look at the enlarged version of Nicky Haslam's drawings on www.nh-design.co.uk

Run for Your Life!

2010-01-18T23:21:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we lost Bea and C on Table Mountain! It was stressful to say the least. I ignored the vet's warning of never taking a Beagle off it's lead, and look where it got me! They of course had a whale of a time just running and running and running. The not fun part was me running after them. Trying to find two puppies in Table Mountain really is trying to find a needle in a hay stack. After running for two hours (more than I have ever run in my entire life combined) my body packed in and I resigned myself to the fact that we would be going home sans dogets. Thank goodness to our absolute delight the Beags had ambushed a couple on their romantic sundowner picnic. They had traded us in for biltong! It was quite tough prying them away from the couple as they had already given their new pups names and of course the Beags were more than happy to stay with them as the couple had biltong and we did not.

The point of the story is, besides not to let your Beagle off it's lead, but the fact that I cannot run! It dawned on me that not only is it quite social, but maybe also an essential in emergency cases such as this one that one really should be able to run for more than five minutes. Let's face it I will never be entering marathons that is SO not my style. There is nothing attractive about poly shorts is there?

I have grouped together some images for my own running inspiration. Luckily Miss Hotbod has given us all some tips on how to get going............

* A note from Miss Hotbod

You can run 10km in just 3 months.

Break up your training into 12 weeks. Rest every alternate day.

Key: W - walk. J- jog. L1 - 50-60% effort. L2 -75% effort (you can still talk whilst you run) L3 - 85% effort. L4 -maximum sprint 90% effort (hectic!)

Week 1 - Grass or treadmill. W 2min/J 3min L1 x 5 reps. W 2min cool down. Last day week.(Sun) W2/J6min x 4 reps.

Week 2 - Grass or treadmill. W2/J6/ x 4 reps. W2 min cool down. Last day of week (Sat) - W2/J9 x 2 reps L1

Week 3 - Grass or treadmill. W2/J9 x 2 reps. L1 W2 cool down. Last 2 days in week (Fri,Sun) Run 20 min on road L2 (pick up pace a bit)

Week 4 - Run 20 min on road x 1 day. Run 25 min on road x 2 day. L2

Week 5 - day 1 - 30min easy recovery run. L1. day 2 - 30 min L2&L3 5 x 2min fast/2min easy jog. day 3 - 30 min L2 steady pace. day 4 - J45min L1

Week 6 - day 1 30min L1 recovery run. day 2 - 35min. L2&3 . day 3 - 35min L2 day 4 - 50min L1.Walk when you have to recover.

Week 7 - 35min L1 recovery run. day 2 - 40min L1&L2 day 3 - 40min L2. day 4 - 55min L1

Week 8 - day 1 - 35min recovery run L1. day 2 - 45min L2&L3. day 3 - 45min L2. day 4 - 60min L1

Week 9 - 40min recovery run L1. day 2 - 45min L2 & L3.day 3- 45min L2 & L3.day 4 - 65min L1

Week 10 - 40min L1 recovery run.day 2 - 45min L2 & L3. day 3 - 45min L2&L3. day 4 - 70min L1

Week 11 - 45min L1 recovery run. day 2 - 45min L2&L3. day 3 - 45min L2&L3. day 4 - 75min L1

Week 12 - 3omin L2&L3. day 2 - 15min L2 &L3. day 3 - run 10kms!

Remember to stretch during and after a run, particularly the calves,quadriceps,hamstrings,glutes and hip flexors. Assist recovery by eating a protein rich meal,taking a hot bath with mustard salts, and drinking water.Before you run, eat a banana to get your energy levels up.Run on a treadmill or on grass whenever possible in the first few weeks - this will minimise jarring on the legs until they get used to running. If your calves and shins feel very tight make sure your laces aren't too tight,and stretch regularly. Look after your body. Eat,sleep,drink water,go for massages - it all goes a long way to making you an awesome runner!

Fair Lady. February 2008

Pink Monday

2010-01-18T11:03:00.000-08:00

Everywhere I looked today, I saw pink. It started with the giant watermelon I cut up. Once I saw the size of the tower I had created, I realised that there was no getting through that in a hurry. I very subtly pretended to Beatrice and Chester (Bea and C) that is was delicious slices of Beagle snacks - they saw through that quite quickly. Obviously. Oh, I did not want to waste this precious summer fruit. And then clever Darling saved the day and it was delicious!

He calls is "Pink Swim" Watermelon, mint and a splash of vodka. Blended all together. Add a sprig of mint for completion. Now that is how you eat a watermelon!

* A note from Mrs Mostess

Elsie de Wolfe, as a hostess had more ideas than most women have guests.She was one of the first to popularise cocktail parties, where she liked to serve her own concoction........

'The Pink Lady'

1/3 gin, 1/3 pink grapefruit juice, 1/3 Cointreau

Women all over America heeded her rules for entertaining:
"Plates should be hot,hot,hot; glasses cold,cold,cold; and table decorations low,low,low"
The Power of Style, Annette Tapert and Diana Edkins

I looked out my kitchen window and saw my frosty pink Angel's Trumpet was in bloom!

I can't believe how quickly this plant has grown. It really has been the fastest growing plant in my garden, and look how beautiful the flower is.

* A note from Mrs Potter.

Brugmansia, often called Angel Trumpet, grows to be a large shrub and has datura - like blooms that hang down like bells. A designer plant collected passionately all over the world, plant lovers favour their exquisite blooms and heavy fragrance. http://www.arhomegarden.org/

All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested. They are evergreen.
Water regularly, but do not over water. http://www.davesgarden.com/

Welcome to DOMINICO HOUSE

2010-01-15T08:17:00.000-08:00

I thought you might like to see some of DOMINICO HOUSE'S beautiful projects.......

DOMINICO HOUSE Headquarters

An Architect's house in Newlands

Project Torquay

Exciting!

2010-01-14T05:56:00.000-08:00

Well, couldn't believe my eyes when I saw the February issue of House & Leisure has hit the shelves! My heart was pounding as I ripped open the wrapping to view the article on my and Darling's house. Very pleased indeed. I must say little Chester and Beatrice have outdone themselves in the looks department.

Don't think I'm really allowed to show images, but just can't help giving you a sneak preview............

Spot the Difference

2010-01-13T11:12:00.000-08:00

So the reason I have been so absent is because I have been in a winter wonderland. I adore the beautiful English countryside. Looking through my recent photos I felt a strange familiarity but somehow something had changed..............
The next door field.

The vegetable garden

The driveway

Horses in the next door field

Darling's parents neighbour is a Great Gatsby character and collects animals from all over the world. Here are some of his pet wallabies residing on the hills of England!

The drive to Henley on Thames.

Darling walking amongst the blue bells.

Goodbye Holiday

2010-01-12T04:15:00.000-08:00

Well, I must say I was quite shocked to see the last blog I posted was a month ago! You can't blame me as I have been having the most wonderful time. Firstly, I am thrilled with Darling's choice of stocking fillers. I am such a packaging magpie. So was thrilled to see the Smythson blue bag with it's navy petersham ribbon and a rich chocolate coloured bag from Maison du Chocolat. I like to look at both bags next to eachother. The two colours are so complimenatry. It's one of my favorite combinations, as you can see in on my blog heading - duck egg blue with a donkey brown. Maybe I will do a whole room scape with that inspration in mind. A bathroom would be nice. Also, in my stocking was "Keep Calm and Carry on" Am not sure what Darling was hinting at!? But, it has very handy advice from very clever people.

"If you can spend a perfectly useless afternoon in a perfectly useless manner,you have learned how to live" Lin Yutang

"Always laugh when you can. It is cheap medicine" Lord Byron

"It Ain't no use putting up your umbrella till it rains"Alice calswell Rice"

"How can they say my life is not a success? Have I not for more than 60 years got enough to eat and escaped being eaten?" Logan Pearsall smith

"A life time of happiness! No man alive could bear it: It would be hell on earth." George Bernard Shaw

I love Aerin Lauder's blue Christmas room.

The interior designer Bunny Wiliams also uses alot of blue ans shades of browns and taupes in her rooms. It really is very attractive.

Christmas Cheer

2009-12-11T13:37:00.000-08:00

So after my very un-Christmasy post yesterday, I thought I really need to bring myself up to speed with the required spirit expected round about the eleventh of December.So what better way to do that than Ralph Lauren. Always so inspiring. It really got me into the red velvet,plaid and rich textures. Somehow not quite the same when it is beach weather outside. Nevertheless I closed all the curtains and subjected the Beags (Beagles) to a faux wintery experince. Ralph Lauren's Christmas Windows....................

My Ribbons ready for all my wrapping.

This year I have decided to wrap all my presents in beautiful fabrics. Not only does it look beautiful but it is good for the enviroment! So a win win for all. Also, I have discovered the most wonderful website gifts4good.co.za Every year SO much money is wasted on unwanted presents. Lets face we all have too much. This website enables you to buy presents for people not so fortunte on behalf of those who are. The presents are really uplifting items such as garden tools,compost,stationary, childrens' vaccinations etc. So for example my mother in law is passionate about gardening and I think she would be thrilled as part of her Christmas present I have donated on her behalf a set of gardening tools to a family. I am very excited about this concept.

Me, getting carried away in my pretend Ralph Lauren window styling.

The Beags getting into the spirit of things!

Ok,I'm done

Absolute Mayhem

2009-12-10T12:39:00.000-08:00

So after overdoing the Christmas shopping, by overdoing it I'm referring to the actual shopping, mall tralling rather than any buying. And that is the problem you see. My body is aching from head to toe. This is a recent phenomenon since being married to Darling who has four sisters all who have husbands and children. My Christmas shopping is multiplied from one sibbling to thirty. Very relaxing. So off I go with my list with high hopes. I start in quite a relaxed fashion and touch,peruse, smell and fondle items in that shopping high. I am supposed to start with the sisters and go down the list accordingly. However, the seventeen year old niece is like a thorn in my thigh, a blip on my shopping list happiness. Seventeen! The coolness of seventeen. Oh the pressure. I keep saying to myself - pass,pass,pass on the seventeen year old for heaven's sake. Move on, you have a menagerie of easy ages to choose from, ease yourself into it. But no couldn't tear myself away from the task of getting the utimate best seventeen year old present of all time!

The outcome?

Not a sausage for a single soul. Well done four hours lost into Christmas oblivian.

If only this could be me - I would have some consolation at the end of day.

* A note on shopping from Mr manners

1. Never look over goos without any intention of buying them.

2. Should you find another person examining a piece of goods, do not take hold it - wait until it is laid down, and then make your examination.

3. Pushing or crowding at a counter, or the indulgence of personal remarks, handling the goods ina careless manner, or so roughly as to injusre them, lounging upon the counter or talking in a loud voice, are marks of bad breeding.

Hangover Tuesday

2009-12-08T09:17:00.000-08:00

So after my fun filled champagne Monday I have now delt with Hangover Tuesday.

My posting is short today as quite tricky to type when I have spent most of my day like this:

A note from Mrs Pettiquette.
When one's owner insists on slipping into a champagne hysteria, not only is it embarrassing to witness, it is simply not tolerable when said owner cannot get out of bed the next day to walk you.
If this is the case, it is perfectly acceptable to chew anything you desire. Favorite shoes are most effective to snap ones owner out of their obsene state.

Blue Monday

2009-12-07T09:20:00.000-08:00

It's official I have 'the Black Dog' It is bad........

There is no apparent reason for said condition but just one of those unexplained rare occurrences.

What to do! My eyes scan the room in despair and then Oh my, relief!

Of course, my little Savoy cocktail book. Heaven.

Ok, the world is not over and look they even have a cocktail for my exact state of mind

'Blue Monday Cocktail'

1/4 Cointreau

3/4 Vodka

1 Dash Blue Vegetable Extract

Shake Well and strain into cocktail glass

The Savoy Cocktail Book

Darling, do we have cointreau? Ummmm, no.

Oh, alright do we have blue vegetable extract? Ummm, have we ever had blue vegetable extract?

Suppose not. Damnation.

So it's worse than I thought. I can't even have My blue Monday cocktail.

The Darling, sensing it was about to become bad for him too, pulled the most wonderful surprise. We had one bottle of champagne left over from our wedding! Saved for a good or in this case bad occasion. Hooray!!!!

Bring on the Champagne!

And then, can you believe it The Darling revealed that Winston Churchill's favorite champagne was Pol Roger. The exact champagne we are drinking whilst also experiencing the 'black dog.'
It was all meant to be. Black Dog has run away.

A note from Mrs Mostess:

It is always safest to ask your guests what they would like to drink.

If they say they do not mind, it means they want Champagne.

The Savoy Cocktail Book

Doing It Properly

2009-12-06T00:31:00.000-08:00

As procrastination is my forte, when it came down to sitting and writing my post today I immediately conjured up the necessary (unecessary) preparations before actually just sitting down and doing it for goodness sake!

What came to mind? Ian Flemming. Obscure I know, but I remember reading that when Flemming sat down at his desk at Goldeneye, his house in Jamaica on 17th February 1952 Casino Royale was born. He had already swum out to the reef that morning, as was his habit, before breakfasting on his usual scrambled eggs and Blue Mountain coffee. By lunch he had typed 2,000 words. At around five, after a siesta, Fleming returned to what he had written and reread it, making a few minor corrections before stowing the manuscript in the bottom left-hand drawer of his desk. Then as the sun began to set, he went out on the terrace to have a drink.

The following day he did exactly the same thing, and he stuck to his iron regime until on 18 March he hammered out the last bitter sentance. 'The bitch is dead now' and the book was finished. It was a thriller named Casino Royale, and it's hero was James Bond.

'James Bond,The Man and His World' Henry Chancellor

Now that is how you write in style.

Ian' Flemming's Goldeneye in Jamaica

Ian Flemming at his desk at Goldeneye.

Me at my desk at DOMINICO HOUSE. Well, actually not my desk but Darling's drinks table. I have hijacked it for today to be closer to the cool garden breeze on the sweltering day. More about my real desk tomorrow...... I think I will go for my afternoon nap now.

Day One

2009-12-05T09:14:00.000-08:00

Why a blog The Darling Husband (Darling from now on) asks. Maybe you should start off by replying to your many long unanswered emails.

But you see this blog is essential because I am so so terribley flaky and unfaithful. A real dilettante. I have so many loves..........

My house, cooking, gardening,painting,designing,entertaining,riding*,excercise and sport,French,books and combing the world for beautiful things.

So, you see how could I possibly be faithful to all that!!!!

Instead I flit like a butterfly landing on each one for a fleeting moment before I'm on to the next.

I plant and nurture roses because I am so mad about them. Two weeks later I am the new Julia Child and so busy whipping, stirring,baking tarting myself into such a frenzy that the roses have recoiled in shame now they are a group of old 'has beens'. Just as Darling (husband) is getting accustomed to Haute Cuisine Chez Nous he comes home to absolutly nothing at all - or at best popcorn. "What's for supper?"

"Supper!!!, are you mad. Don't you know clothes only look good if you're pencil thin"

And so it goes on.

So I'm hoping this blog will keep my inspiration constantly fuelled and on the path of mastering the art of living well. I have employed a few doyenne's to guide me and pass down their knowledge. So without delay I introduce to you The Board of DOMINICO HOUSE:

Mrs Mostess, Mrs Married, Mr Manners, Mrs Pettiquette, Miss Potter, The Crafty Sisters and Miss Hotbod.

Here's to surviving the roses!

* A Note from Mr Manners

Before you all snigger at the connotations for the above mentioned 'riding' it is very non-U (non Upper Class) to use the term Horse - riding. U (Upper class) term is plain 'riding' From the non- U point of view the expression is reasonable, for to the non- U there are other kinds of riding (non -U to go for a motor -ride/U to go for a drive in a motor - car) But bicycle - ride is normal.

Taken from 'Noblesse Oblige' edited by Nancy Mitford.

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2009-11-24T01:10:00.000-08:00

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