My Great Uncle Ron introduced me to the piano when I was just 3 years old. He had a garage full of dusty old pianos that he bought, sold, tuned, and played. When he came to visit he would always tune my piano. He did it the old fashioned way – with his ear and a simple tuning fork. When he was satisfied with his work he would play the most fabulous tunes – old honky tonk numbers were among his favourites. Then we would play a little duet together. Usually heart and soul.

Last week my Great Uncle Ron passed away.

I wrote a little piece of music a few months ago, and although it’s incomplete I found myself playing it over and over again last week, while thinking about all the fond memories I have of my Great Uncle. If it wasn’t for his love of pianos, I’m not sure I would have ever learned to play. So thank you Uncle Ronny, this one is for you. I thought that maybe if I put this out in the airwaves, it might reach you, somehow…

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The Dutch, I’ve noticed, have a thing for lace. I, on the other hand, have never had a thing for lace.

But I must say I’m beginning to develop a fondness for it in the home, if used carefully and considerately. I like the lace story photographed above by Dutch photographer Erik van Lokven (who is also the photographer of Yvette’s delish pork belly recipe now in the (blog)house kitchen). I would be very happy to soak in that tub and then doze in that bed, surrounded by all that soft, pretty lace-ness.

Hmm, now how to combine my island living leanings with my new love for lace? oooh i love a challenge!

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9:17pm: i’ve just re-read this post – have you noticed I sway between including myself as aDutchie, and then not (as above), when convenient? And this weekend, thanks to the soccer/football, Amsterdam has been taken over by the Scots. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen so many Scots in kilts in all my life. But due to their presence, it appears I’ve become a proud Scotswoman! because in recent months i’ve worked out i’m more scottish then anything else.

I thought you might find that interesting. or not.

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9:24pm I was proud until I just saw a bunch of drunken Scots making absolute fools of themselves a moment ago…

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9:26pm ok, I suppose this is why I should be on twitter, right?

Riley’s next guest post is up! And includes some gorgeous photos of her home. Click here for the full post. Thank you Riley. xx

How perfectly dreamy is this kitchen? It’s real, it’s raw, it’s authentic, and just so cool. It feels like island living to me, I adore it!

Photographed by William Geddes (whose portfolio is full of the good stuff).

PS speaking of kitchens, Yvette has just posted her next recipe right here in the (blog)house kitchen! Oh it’s a goodie. It’s SUCH a goodie. Go check it out.

Photo credits, clockwise from top right: Anson Smart, bed – source unknown, Michelle Young (styled by me. that was such a fun shoot!), David Matheson (beautiful shutters), Paul Massey…

Photo credits from top left: interior design by Jaya Ibrahim from Island Style (from the sadly missed All Things Bright and Beautiful), Paul Massey, Anson Smart(the chair on the wharf), more from Jaya Ibrahim, and the boy sleeping on daybed is from Ingalill Smitt …

stunning bed, photographed by Jared Fowler, represented by Contacts. First spotted on the beautiful brabourne farm. I would happily rest in this bed after writing on that desk I mentioned earlier…

From top to bottom: Anson Smart, Michelle Young and Anson Smart.

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Be sure to click on all the credit links above because there is plenty more inspiration to be found.
I do hope you’ve enjoyed my island living moodboard! No doubt this will not be the last.

xx

PS oh sofia, great idea! here are some waves, just as you requested in your comment a moment ago. please click on the play button and enjoy…

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(click here for the original source of this soundscape)