once upon a time

I bought this Kenneth Whitley print at Ikhaya's stand at the I Heart Market over the weekend. R120. And it was framed! Always a bonus, especially considering the fact that I have several beautiful prints waiting impatiently to go to the framer...

back

So I flew back home yesterday morning. Was sad to leave Cape Town, but since I am the ultimate homebody , it is always nice to be back in my own little space, surrounded by my own things.

I bought all kinds of pretty things, which I will photograph and post here later the week, but for now, take a look at these adorable matryoshka measuring cups a friend got me from the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Thanks Willemien!

 Image: Fred

retro desk search

I am dragging the husband to all the second-hand shops in Durban to look for a retro desk tomorrow. I almost, almost got this one from Mint yesterday, but some sneaky man paid for it without even asking if he could have it. Grrrr. I was so not happy.

Image: Mint

pity party

So I succeeded in killing my phone this morning. Sigh. If anyone has a spare Blackberry or iPhone lying around, I'd be ever so appreciative if you could send it my way. Did I mention I'm also sick? I'm feeling pretty sorry for myself at the moment. One of these A Merry Mishap bracelets sure would brighten my day.

I must just also mention a new place called Mooki Noodle Power where the husband and I ate earlier the week. Omg...the fish cakes covered in sesame seeds are so good. If you live in Durban, get yourself to Mooki ASAP. You won't be sorry.

Image: A Merry Mishap

happy things to look forward to

My parents are coming to visit me in Durban for a week on Sunday. I cannot wait! They were last here two years ago, so I have lots to show them. I'm just sorry that they couldn't have come a bit later in July for the Virginia Airshow (my dad loves anything that flies) and the Durban International Film Festival. The programme was released several days ago and wowzer, there are some awesome movies coming to town. My pick: Toast (based on Nigel Slater's book - that's Helena Bonham Carter in a scene from the movie above), The Tree of Life (the love-it-or-hate-it new Brad Pitt movie), Midnight in Paris (the new Woody Allen movie), Black Venus (about Saartjie Baartman), and Black Butterfiles (about poet Ingrid Jonker).

Image: Telegraph

winter hibernation

It never gets very cold in Durban, which actually makes me a little sad. I am used to my hometown where the temperature usually goes below freezing at night. I do love curling up in bed with a book, big slab of chocolate, and electric blanket.

This looks like a great home to hibernate in during a long, cold winter...

Images: Skona Hem via My Scandinavian Retreat

home

Ok, this is the deal. I live in Durban with the husband. But, I was born and raised in Bloemfontein, which is a medium-sized city in the centre of South Africa. So, I fly back home every two months to visit my parents and friends, and when I'm there, I always try to go to the following places:

Vida en Arte - This cafe is owned by my dear friend, Miguel, who is Argentian. He makes the best South American food (tortillas, chimichurri, chimichangas) and is the most charming host, so make sure you stop by his place if ever you are in Bloem.

Liedjiesbos - Well, I got married at this B&B, so obviously I think it's a great place. Situated just outside Bloem, it's wonderfully quiet and relaxing. The decor is also pretty great. Run by another pair of charmers, Dawie and Henning. (That's my wedding in the photo, btw.)

Images: Vida en Arte, Liedjiesbos