antique finds and a visit to a Swiss Italian lavender farm

Here are the French spoon casts I found in Cote Provence that I mentioned in a previous post. They date to around 1900 and are very heavy, which makes them suitable as bookends. I once saw some in Queenstown, New Zealand but they were too heavy to bring home. It was delightful to find them again, they were meant to be (mine)! I also bought this large ball of string from Cote Provence. And this French fruitwood rolling pin on High Street. It is really long and heavy, perfect for pastry. This French wire glass or bottle holder was a great find as it fits French hand thrown pots in it perfectly, keeping them safe and making them easier to carry. We recently have had these pots come into store. They are a lovely soft colour and feel smooth. They are perfect for herbs and would make great Christmas gifts (with or without herbs).

Lavandula is a Swiss Italian farm near Hepburn Springs (above photos). It was a highlight of our visit to the Macedon area. I was expecting lavender, of course, but the real treat for me was the traditional potager. It gave me loads of inspiration for my own vegetable garden. I particularly loved the espaliered fruit tree.

I bought these willow pyramids at Lavandula. I had always wanted some since I saw some at Daylesford Organic in the Cotswolds. (see previous post). I can't wait to get peas growing up them. Or I may plant a tomato plant inside one - has anyone done this? I would love to know how it may work.

mid spring gardening

It is a beautiful Spring day here in Tasmania. And I am at work in the store. Sigh. But as I am photographing items for our website I feel bubbles of excitement about gardening, mostly vegetable gardening. Mostly because I am photographing in my favourite room, the garden room. I love old garden tools (the are made better), trugs (very useful for gathering the harvest), pots (just cute) and old watering cans (they spray better). I am tempted to buy one of our English Haw's watering cans to keep my French one at home company. Haw's cans are really well made and have a great shape. Plus I love the brass spraying rose and maker's label that each can has.

I am also tempted with these French garden edging tiles for some of my more permanent vegetable beds with artichokes, rhubarb etc). But we have just had some other unusual French garden tiles come into the store, so now I can't decide which tiles I want! Both types are beautiful. Does anyone else have a thing for old garden objects?