Winter Solstice

Today is the shortest day or the longest night, whichever takes your fancy.  It means from here on in the days are gradually filled with more light and hopefully sunlight.  There are still chilly days to come, warm winter scarves, open fires, red wine, quinces, and solitary walks along my favourite beach but with the promise of warmer days to come.

When I look around my beautiful shop the late afternoon rays of light flood into the spaces between the furniture and give everything a romantic look.  The chandeliers twinkle brighter, the warm comfy salons look inviting and I'm often tempted to curl up on the Napoleonic day bed in the winter like a cat having an afternoon nap in the sun.... mmm.  but customers await!

Just because it’s beautiful…(and French)

Just because it’s beautiful…(and French)

Are they whippets or are they greyhound?

There is much discussion about whether these gorgeous nickel dogs are whippets or greyhound.  The consensus seems to be whippet from those who have a passionate interest in this breed.  Any way you look at them though they are gorgeous.  They stand 70 cm high x about 20 cm across and won't tarnish.  Sitting squarely and solidly they are not easily toppled.  Call in for a closer look at these regal animals.  Although new they have a touch of art deco about them.  They're priced at $375 each or $725 for the pair.

Empire chandelier. Sorry but both gone now.

We've been waiting for nearly 6 months for these gorgeous chandeliers to reappear.  They are 1.1 metres high and stunning.  Come into the shop and cast your eyes above the counter if you want to see how they look.  We only have 2 which are off being rewired to Australian standards at the moment but they will go quickly.  If you want to have these beauties in your home contact us, but quickly!!  Email ashbyhouseinteriors@bigpond.com or phone on 03 52581907.

Where do old bikes go when they die ?

 My daughter has just bought a gorgeous new pale pink Pashley bicycle http://www.pashley.co.uk/ resplendant with baskets front and back, which she rides around town with great style. 

Her dilemma was then what to do with her beloved old bicycle "lady", hard to miss in canary yellow but somewhat obsolete.  So we thought she deserved a spot in the window displaying flowers, baskets and anything else that we can artistically hang off her. 

Can't miss her now, the pride of Hesse Street !

Winter in Queenscliff

Today is one of those days that makes you think that Winter is gorgeous. Sunny crisp days with the remains of Autumn leaves rolling down Hesse Street and the sun setting over Swan Bay, is truly something to behold.

I love Queenscliff in the Summer because it brings lots of people weary from a year's hard work who relax into a slower paced life, just for a little while, swimming in the Ocean and enjoying balmy nights with family and friends

Queenscliff in Winter is just as endearing. Grand historic hotels with open fires and good food and wine to share and world class wineries within an easy drive. Cosy B&Bs and restaurants, fabulous shops not found elsewhere, the steam train, ferry trip to Sorrento and on it goes. Walks along the beach with a beanie and scarf and no crowds.

Victorians are really resourceful with utilising their spare time well all year, because if we waited for Summer weather it might never come. The Queenscliff Visitor Centre staffed by volunteers are friendly and helpful folk who will happily help you find accommodation, dining options and things to do. Treat yourself to a weekend in Queenscliff.

Follow my blog with Bloglovin