When we previously showcased the NSW north coast home of Mary Beness and her family (click on the House Tours button and read Mary’s story in ‘Gonna Take A Sentimental Journey’) it was readily revealed that one of Mary’s principal decorating dictates centres around the ‘significance of sentimentality’. The roomscapes, tableaus and vignettes created throughout her home are always crafted with a sense of the sentimental in mind as they rekindle memories and inspire new … Read more

The true essence of enchantment Lies in the promise of dreams And the inspiration grasped by the greatest artist (Louise De Culleon  1812 – 1893) Some have a predilection for greenery swags and pine cones; others love rustic wooden ornaments and handcrafted fabric creations. But for Queenslander Ann-Marie Lavers-Grimm, she loves all these things in moderation … her particular passion  being for everything that’s shiny and bright! Beautiful vintage and contemporary-made glass baubles and sparkling … Read more

Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmas time. (Laura Ingalls Wilder 1867 – 1957) It’s the embodiment of memories and the observation of traditions. It’s the sweet celebration of customs and sharing with like-minded souls. It’s uncomplicated and full of frivolity. It’s a time of reflection. It’s about taking stock and being grateful. It’s … Read more

Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. (Calvin Coolidge 1872 – 1933) They used to say that if a visit to Rick Rutherford’s Country Lawson (Blue Mountains NSW) store didn’t get you in the Christmas mood, nothing would! Though the store is now closed – allowing yours truly to pursue many … Read more

Christmas! The very word brings joy to our hearts. No matter how we may dread the rush, the long Christmas lists for gifts and cards to be bought and given – When Christmas Day comes there is still the same warm feeling we had as children, the same warmth that enfolds our hearts and our homes.” (Joan Winmill Brown) She is beyond an avid Christmas collector. Catherine Warner, formerly of Orange (NSW) is a true … Read more

Christmas… is not an eternal event at all, but a piece of one’s home that one carries in one’s heart. (Freya Stark 1893 – 1993) A lifetime of collecting and crafting, designing and decorating is at the very heart of the Jan and Margie Van Krieken’s unique country style. The couple live in the beachside suburb of Mullaloo in West Australia, and have resided in the same wonderfully comfortable country abode – a showcase for … Read more

Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind. (Mary Ellen Chase 1887 – 1973)  Dianne Gilham confesses that she’s stuck in a bygone era. As she tells, she is trying to be modern and ‘bend’ to take in a few new things, but she’s not ‘bending’ too much! Dianne and husband Dennis live in Nerrina (Vic) and it is here that their country world becomes all the more olde worlde come … Read more

The earth has grown old with its burden of care But at Christmas it always is young, The heart of the jewel burns lustrous and fair And its soul full of music breaks the air, When the song of angels is sung. (Phillips Brooks 1835 – 1893) As the days tick on, it gets closer and closer to that great season of the year when avid country decorators everywhere really ‘lose our heads’ and go … Read more

Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. (Calvin Coolidge 1872 – 1933) No matter whether it’s the run up to December, or slap dab in the middle of the year, whether it’s March or September, country lovers always have a passion for Christmas. In fact, given the number of year-round Christmas … Read more