wileys baths

Whoever decided to build ocean pools at the end of beaches in Sydney and some other places on the coast of NSW did a great thing for the community. This is one of my favourite swimming spots in the area we live.

Built on the rocky headland a few hundred metres from the beach, it's a great place for a relaxing swim or to do laps. With goggles on you get a gorgeous view of the sea life, small fish and pretty pink and green colours on the rocks below. A beautiful escape a world away from the city.

A huge deck overlooks the pool with a 180 degree ocean view. Here you can have a massage by the sea, enjoy a coffee, do yoga classes, join a swimming club or just soak up some rays in the laid back atmosphere. It's also a popular wedding venue.

Looks inviting.. but with the water temperature at only 15 degrees celsius I don't think I'll be jumping in for a while.

Extra beautiful at high tide on a sparkling day like this!

Do you have a favourite swimming spot?

here comes the sun

After weeks of grey skies and rain it's so good to see a clear blue sky and sun shining through the trees, bringing everything and everyone back to life.

There's nothing like a walk in nature for your wellbeing and the feeling of rejuvenation you get surrounded by native green growth and turquoise sea.

The only sounds the lapping of the waves, birds, a couple of joggers and an interesting variety of accents passing by.

I've probably mentioned before, you can walk most of the coast of Sydney along walking tracks, winding in and out of beaches, sandstone cliffs and bays.

Feels like a million miles away from the busy city just over the hill.

This is a small section between Clovelly and Coogee, the beautiful and secluded Gordon's Bay. A popular scuba diving and snorkelling spot with an abundance of marine life in calm sheltered waters.

Isn't the colour of the water amazing? and so clear even after all the rain.

Where's your favourite place to get out into nature?

sydney from above

Palm Beach & Pittwater

A lot of you enjoyed my pics of Sydney east from the air. I thought you'd like to see Sydney's beautiful northern beaches and waterways from above, the view I had on the return trip from Byron Bay.
Lucky again to have clear skies.

The Palm beach peninsula and Kuringai National Park looking spectacular.

Is this Avalon & Newport Carolyn?

I think we're over Middle Harbour here.

The long stretch of beaches looking north to Palm Beach and the Central Coast.

Hope you enjoyed the view.

joining
savvy southern style
romantic home

beach art

A hazy day at a beach near me and an artist at work. He told me he liked the light and haze in sky that day. The painting was called 'Into the Light'. I stayed and watched for a while. 
I've had a few attempts at painting and art classes. I can draw a bit but haven't had any success with painting. He told me it's because I didn't persist and that's true.
I love the way he captures the light, the colours of the water and the laid back feeling of the coast.

Read more about the artist Michael Braden here.


joining
romantic home

paper 2

A change of scenery.. When I'm not relaxing in a deckchair on the beach I like to visit some of the shops in the inner city suburbs, not far from here. 
I always love a shop filled with craft supplies, paper, cards, creative ideas, stamps, string and this vintage style paperie never disappoints. 
I feel like a kid in a candy store! 

I could spend hours in here. 

How about you?

 Paper2

477 Crown St

Surry Hills

country in the city

It's so good to see so much of the inner city here in Sydney being rejuvenated. This is a great example of that. What used to be a large pie factory in what was a heavy industrial area is now like a country escape.
The Grounds cafe / restaurant is set amongst rambling gardens complete with free range chooks, fresh produce and herbs. I love the huge warehouse building decorated in a mix of industrial and country styles and the covered outdoor area.  
Known for it's coffee, it's a thriving business buzzing with people whatever time of day you go. I've been a few times for brunch with friends and family and have enjoyed good food in a great atmosphere.
These photos were a bit rushed and don't really do it justice. The inside is so beautifully done with white timber glassed in kitchens and vintage bits and pieces all over the place.. a good excuse to go back!

Enjoy your weekend!

The Grounds

7A/2 Huntley St 

Alexandria