I haven't read any books in ages. Part of the reason is that there is such a wealth of information available online coupled with beautiful images. As a result, it is difficult to engross yourself in a book with what seems like endless pages of text... There are just too many distractions. For example I think to myself, Oh I must look up how to make the perfect flower arrangement... so online I go... click, click and next thing I  know  I'm on Pinterest.  This leads to other websites, blogs, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, etc, etc.  It just keeps going on and on until I can't remember what I was actually going online for in the first place. You know what I mean... Has it happened to you too? And then I never get round to that book that is sitting on my bedside table for over two weeks just gathering dust.

Don't get me wrong, I still think that reading books is important for developing our concentration skills, understanding, imagination, memory and creativity. I feel that this is something younger generations may be missing out on. The sense of discovery in a new book is great and the sense of satisfaction and completion when you reach those last pages.

I have so many books, I have a small library room upstairs in my house and I only have my favourite books downstairs. Lately I am drawn to books with lots of beautiful illustrations and photographs. One of which is this fabulous book Homespun Style by Selina Lake which takes pride of place on my dresser. It's an interior design book which couples both my love of books and interior design...  Have a look at the beautiful photograph and if you would like to find out visit here.

I was working late this evening and when I got home there was a parcel waiting for me :) Exciting! I knew where it was from, it was my wonderful prize I won over at ..... A Mermaids Purse.... Kazzys wonderful blog, full of lots of pretty interiors, crafts, illustrations and images. Full of lovely treasures and personal touches. Thank you so much Kazzy :)

Have a look!

What is this???

Oh an envelope....

And look what's inside...

How pretty is this card, it is so me- floral patterns, flowers, birds and butterflies...

And more...

A lovely receipe which I must try, I'm trying to improve my cooking skills

And there's even more...

At this stage I was smiling from ear to ear, I could also smell something really nice..

and here it is...

I've named her Lucy

So adorable and she smells lovely too :) Think she'll fit in really well in my bedroom near the radiator as she will leave a lovely scent in my room :-)

And last my not least- the masterpiece of my parcel... I got a sneak peek of it on Kazzy's blog but it looks much much prettier and perfect in reality...

Look at the detail of the wee mouse, think that's Lucy :-)

And look at the fairy, the detail and delicate flowers in her hair, I think it is adorable and want to get it framed as soon as possible.

Thank you so much Kazzy you are so kind and such a good blogger friend. Sending lots of good wishes and hugs across the water to you and Sweetpea :) I will try and have your return parcel in the post this weekend.

This is her first book The Goddess Guide and the second book is called the Goddess Experience check it out! See what makes people happy!

           

All of the above calendars are available from most newsagents/ bookstores but if your looking for something more orignial, unique, creative and stimulating then visit Etsy. Here are just a small sample of what's on offer there and the link to each of them. Enjoy!

Todd Smith Photography Calendar

 

Fine Art Calendar with Display Holder -- Artwork by Kristen Stein

daydreams 2010 calendar

CUPCAKES MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY MINI CALENDAR FOR 2010 HAND PRINTED LETTERPRESS

2010 Wild Women Calendars

2010 Calendar - TTV Flower Prints