Learning new skills

One of the things that I've been wanting to do for a long time is to get and learn how to use a DSLR camera. So I'm a little bit excited to tell you that I finally got one for Christmas!

Here's my new baby.

I've been on the hunt for a local photography class as I really want to learn how to use my new camera properly and take killer photos. I've just missed the start dates for some of my preferred providers, so I've decided to do an online class instead.

I am a huge fan of lifestyle blog A Beautiful Mess. They always have AMAZING images on their site. They also have a number of products and classes that they sell, including blogging, photoshop and photography basics. I've signed up for the Photoshop for Bloggers and DSLR Basics Bundle. I hope to implement (and experiment!) my new found skills on this blog over the coming months.

This class also fits into my ethos of lifelong learning. There are always new skills to learn! In fact that is one of my resolutions for 2015 - to complete this and also my interior design studies.

There are so many opportunities to discover new things. They don't always have to be formal or expensive. In fact there are many free options these days if you are looking to gain knowledge or skills in a particular area that interests you. You can sign up for any number of free online courses (or MOOC) through places such as Coursera and Open2Study on pretty much any topic you can think of. I just finished an introductory program on disruptive technologies, which I knew nothing about but was a topic on which I wanted  learn more. I watched the videos on the bus on my way to and from work.

So if you'd like to learn a new skill or find out about a particular area that interests you why not sign up to one of the many online courses available. And the best part about it is that there's no assignments or exams!

Top image Sara Rhodes, bottom three images Death to the Stock Photo

All I want for Christmas...

Christmas is upon us again and so I am composing my wishlist for my husband and family (hint hint!). Here are the top 9 items on my wishlist.

1. OrotonRiviera Tote
2. Freedom Dome Floor Light in Chrome
3. West Elm Wool Kilim Rug in Platinum
4. Ecoya Madison Jar (in French Pear)
5. Canon 700D DSLR
6. Alphabet Uppercase Schoolbook Stamp Set
7. Sheridan Bedding 1200TC Millennia Quilt Cover
8. Rose Gold Initial Necklace
9. Gumball Pouf in Green

What are you hoping for this Christmas?

Choose 2 reuse

My sister and I made a trip out to Hornsby today to visit Second Hand Studio, a second hand store that specialises in recycling and upcycling old pieces of furniture, knick knacks and clothing.

Judging from their Facebook page there is a regular turnover of stock, and they also have a “You Choose” area where you can select a piece of furniture and choose a colour and finish that suits you. You will find chairs, bookcases, cribs, coat racks, tables and stools, all waiting to be transformed into your dream pieces.   

There is a vast array of mirrors, artwork, jewellery, vases and vessels and it took all of my willpower not to buy everything in sight. I ended up with one of the gold frames pictured above, and my sister bought a pair of sunglasses and a cushion for her second baby’s nursery. 

Second Hand Studio is a true gem and I know I will become a regular visitor!