I picked up this lovely little autograph book when I was on my honeymoon in New Zealand several years ago. It was discovered in an antique store in a little village on the North Island (possibly in Huntly?). We were on our way from Auckland across to Rotorua. The book was a gift to ‘Jess’ from her Mum on 23rd of November 1915. Most of the entries date around 1915- 1920, and some are marked with the name ‘Waitoa’, a small village on the North Island not terribly far from where I purchased the book.

I enjoy looking through old autograph books and I love how they look. Sometimes they contain illustrations, pressed flowers and other treasures.  They also showcase many different types of handwriting! Some of the entries in this one were not very politically correct and really highlighted its age. The book also has lovely end paper!

Contributors include: M. McNaull, Gilbert Sealy, M Black, Jessie McNaull, W Turnbull, L.R.Lindemann, W.J.Hyde, V.J.Sealey, Margaret Weekes

…bits and bobs that I adore, things to make me smile, memories, inspiration…a mish mash of all sorts of little things I like (a bit like this blog ha)! Click above for a closer sticky.

Featured Gem 19
Real Photo Postcard
‘The odd hat out’

Date: Unknown
People pictured: Unknown
Studio: Westerman, Hebden Bridge & Victoria Rd Todmorden
Postcard Back: blank/unused

Notes: What an interesting bunch and a great addition to my Pierrot/Harlequin inspired images. I wonder who they are and what they were doing? An amateur Pierrot Troupe? I think they’re all women. All in pierrot/clown hats except one. I am not sure they all look entirely thrilled to be in the photo!

While searching for a photo of the ‘knee high nylon socks’ I came across this one. Not exactly what I was after, but a pivotal moment none the less! My first day at Brownies, Mt Riverview, which would have been around 1982.

I was a Warragul, and eventually worked my way up the ‘ranks’ as seconder and sixer and then on to Girl Guides when I was old enough. So many laughs, experiences and good memories. Camps complete with ghost stories, campfires, making damper, toasting marshmallows, constructing shoe racks with a few sticks and knots (essential skills you know!) and sleeping in Bell tents in the rain. I earned my ‘Collectors’ badge for collecting rocks and shells, and my ‘Writers’ badge for penning a poem about the zoo which included a rather good line about a camels hump (my family still tease me about all these years later).

I remember on my first day of Girl Guides when I was introduced to my patrol leader she told me her name was Emily LeBon and I naively believed her!

The Melbourne Myer Christmas Windows opened at midday today. When we heard who was going to be the ‘star’ this year we decided to get in early and take a trip into town. The windows this year are based on the Ian Falconer book, Olivia Helps With Christmas, narrated by Dame Edna Everage (Barry Humphries).

We’re big Olivia fans in this house….my Madame Alexander Olivia doll has sat on my desk since before Eloise was born! It was a beautiful night. Perfect for ice cream, very warm….and not a queue to be seen!!