Local is Lekker

I fell in love with this notebook at Anthonji Rupert Wine Estate - We have been in the Western Cape a week now and is it my imagination that I am surrounded by beautiful things? Is it the sunshine? Is it the magic of a vineyard or the mystery of the mountain? I don’t know but at every turn there are lovely creative objects to enjoy……

Ceramics …… whether you are a fan of wonky ware, proudly rustic pottery made on the Garden Route or Ardmore, the highly decorative uniquely African ceramics- there is a myriad of creative pottery to tempt you. I have both and would fill a container if I bought every piece that I have oohed and aahead over! 

Fabrics galore….. I always buy my tableware linen here. Partly because I know it will be useful but also because the quality is second to none.there is great choice too from delicate botanical prints of local fynbos to the colourful geometrical swirls of Thswe Thswe. I have added to my collection of napkins and bought some fabric too for me to get creative with,

Jewellery …. My Nom Nom charm necklace is much admired everywhere I go. Gold charms are attached with beads that you have personally chosen to mark significant aspects of your life or journey so no two necklaces are the same. I popped into the store in CT and they promptly offered to clean and restring a couple of my charms free of charge while I enjoyed coffee! I’d love more ..hint hint! It’s lucky that my birthday falls when I am here each year and I have so much choice ….this year it’s Mabe pearl earrings - a classic choice - but in the quest to find them I was so so tempted to the lovely pieces on display at the many jewellery stores. 

I have bought dresses! As if I did t have a suitcase or two of things I brought to wear. My favourite brands ‘Iconic’, Desray, Holiday and Earth Addict, all brands with colourful designs on natural fabrics in mouth watering colours - colours that I may be too shy to wear in WSussex but prints that are joyful! Perhaps I should accessorise with colours and prints that I’m a little hesitant to wear or maybe I should just sod it and go big and bold in Bognor!

I can’t take all of the things I see and spark joy in me home, but his little note book will remind me of my time in the vines.

I must remember to surround myself with beautiful objects that trigger my imagination and speak to my soul.

NB. Remember to value creativity in my environment to be honest I haven’t really embraced local textiles and ceramics in the UK.