Things I learned while in Tuscany.
(The first photo is of the hotel)
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CLICK FOR GLIMPSE OF THE VIEW FROM OUR BEDROOM WINDOW |
The most amazing thing about the Castello di Velona was the incredible view. The hotel is set in an ancient stone castle perched on a rocky outcrop with a full 360 degree view of the softly undulating Tuscan countryside. The area is known as the Val d’Orcia (the valley of the Orcia river) and is a World Heritage site – protected because it represents an almost unspoilt view of the Tuscan landscape as it would have been in Renaissance times.
It was a comfortable view – though different every morning and evening. Somehow its very timelessness was soothing to the soul.
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From Martha Stewart’s website |
From time to time I see forlorn teacups on Portobello market and think how easy it would be to make those teacup candles that you sometimes see in gift shops. And now of course Martha Stewart has posted up instructions for making teacup candles on her website. And I am seriously thinking that I would love to give them a try.
I’m sure hot wax and toddlers are highly compatible.
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MEL GIBSON |
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In an attempt to move the conversation on from cute baby goats, I’m sure today we are all wondering why SJP – much as we might admire her house – decided to dress up as Mel Gibson for last night’s Anglomania – Costume Institute Ball in New York.
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Finding a little animal corner, also in Kew Gardens, where the children were allowed in the pens to stroke the piglets, lambs and kids. Have never seen the Minx so happy. Am starting to think I need to buy this girl a pet. (This post was meant to launch while I was in Tuscany, but RocketPost went haywire, so you can read it whilst I do the washing).
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I’m back. ‘Twas fab.
Am astonished to see that I did manage to post a couple of things in absentia. Anyway, will return with photographic evidence of our trip when I have emerged from under a pile of washing and orders.
This week’s fantasy room features a wonderful mirrored cube from Susan Bradley and a matching Wallpaper installation – possibly in red perspex – on one wall, which I may or may not strip back to expose the brickwork (always so much easier in one’s fantasies).
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I wasn’t feeling very inspired by Vogue this month until I came across these glorious summery images by Tim Walker. I love the colours, the use of props and the pervading air of wistfulness. And I think I can feel the beginnings of a daffodil yellow moment coming on.
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