Let the sun shine in !

Like most parents during the wet season I whisk my kids outdoors at the slightest promise of sunshine.  Today was one of those iffy days where it's sunny over my house but storm clouds threaten from afar.  But we braved it & headed a half hours drive away to my favourite beach on the outskirts of Auckland.

Maraetai beach has white sand (albeit a little crunchy with crushed shells), a gorgeous wharf, beautiful green rolling hills & delightful little cafe to top it off. 

Speaking of sunshine, I trawled through all the handmade creations on Little Kiwis Nest to find a bunch that were sunny & yellow & made me smile.  Here's my pick ...

Clockwise from top left:
Black reversible dress by imba (this one just sold but there are plenty of other gorgeous creations by imba!)
Bee beanie by Creative Aertz
Hootie Hoot Hot painting by Kazartz ($20)
Sunshine pinafore by Somerton
Gift box with amber teething necklace, maraca, face cloths & organic Baby Balm by Yours, naturally
Candy stripe butterfly clip by Miss Jade
Buggles soft toy by SnuggleB Toys
Sweet Sunflower wall hanging by KARRIC
Board short & tee set by made it baby

Whooooo Loves Owls?!?

The designers at Little Kiwis Nest do!!!

Designer Kerry of Kazartz is painter extraodinaire & is especially passionate about all things owl - with a few dinosaurs thrown in! She LOVES small, bright, funky art for bedroom walls & her artwork is soooo affordable (ie starting at just $10!).

Amy of A.P.T Designs has a passion for authentic design, fine art and anything cute - including her cuddly owl toy.

Lisa's range of Cuckoonest creations are original, eclectic, high quality and upbeat. Although the owl pictured on her gorgeous cot/throw is a stage prop we think he's gorgeous & deserves a mention!

The girls behind 'made it baby' listened to the masses have just introduced sleeping owls to their 2010 baby clothing range. You'll find singlets & bloomers for both boys & girls in their funky, handmade collection.