Good advice from an Etsian

I loved this advice to take your Artist self to your day job (office) from Etsian Summer Pierre. For those of us, me included, who would so love to be able to live and thrive from our creations, this is sound advice until that day comes into being.

For me, when I dress up to express my true inner self, then I am happiest, for sure. Whatever your art is, live it, be it, all the time, wherever you are, whatever you are doing. Thanks Summer, for the reminder!

http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780399535642?aff=etsy

Tadshikische Teestube

My dear friend Lilli introduced me to this enchanting Russian teahouse, the Tadshikische Teestube . Located inside the Palais am Festungsgraben, it's a tucked away secret that I was thrilled to discover. You can sip teas from the world over, nestled cosily on cushions and there are Blinys and other snacks to keep your belly sated. But it's the room that I adore - malachite green walls and wood carved columns, with luscious textiles on the floor.

One word, it is essential to make a booking as this place is frequently PACKED!

Am Festungsgraben 1
Hinter der Neuen Wache (Unten den Linden)
10117 Berlin Mitte
030 204 1112

Open Mon-Fri 17.00 - 24.00
Sat, Sun 15.00 - 24.00

Gandharva Loka

Tonight on my way to an appointment I was walking along Schönhauser Allee (number 133) and discovered a beautiful little boutique, one of several European branches, selling a myriad of wooden and other musical instruments. The treasure-laden world music shop, for all those Berliners or others intent in banging and tapping and tinkling their way to joy, is called Gandharva Loka. It made me want to fill my house with instruments!

The quote on their card is most uplifting:
"Music will play a most important role in bringing about world oneness, for music embodies the Universal Heart, the Oneness Heart." -Sri Chinmoy

Upon A Fold

My very dear Sydney friend Cherine's sister Justine Fahd has just launched her online Paper boutique Upon A Fold. Her collection of papergoods from around the world is so beautifully selected and brimming with treasure. I am so excited for her and wish her well with this new, long-awaited venture.

http://uponafold.com.au/blog

Alexander McQueen

I am deeply shocked at the death of one of the fashion world's treasures Alexander McQueen. He has left the world with a wild and wondrous oeuvre and I thank him for that. Often I have marvelled at his daring and obvious passion and he inspires me to follow mine and show the world my vision. R.I.P. Lee Alexander McQueen.