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Blue Mountains fire continues....

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Bushfires 2013

To those who have lost everything in the fires that are roaring across NSW, especially through the Blue Mountains region, our thoughts and prayers are with you. My family have been lucky enough to only sustain a burnt backyard, but others have not been so lucky. I am amazed by the sense of community and the generosity shown by so many people and it is greatly appreciated. And finally an enormous THANKS to all firemen, police and emergency crew for the ongoing amazing work.

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Summer Loving!

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Views from the lesser known spots in Leura. Opposite the Toy and Rail Museum is a secluded path to the some of the most beautiful views in the Mountains. Featuring the Three Sisters, this is the best place if you don't want to be stuck in a busy tourist area, especially during spring and summer months.

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Springtime! My vintage barrow made into a planter, found in Glenbrook shop 'Nice Old Stuff'. Appropriate name I think!

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These two are loving the warm spring weather in the lower mountains.

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Leuralla.

"Leuralla" is a beautiful historic home in Leura. Not only does the house showcase it's original state of living, it also displays the largest collection of toys and trains in the Souther Hemisphere! A nice stroll from Leura's main stretch, the house seems a little lost between small cottages that surround it. But you can tell there are many who love this place, from their beautifully kept gardens to the enthusiastic front desk man.  We were the only group who were at the house, and I thoroughly enjoyed the peace of our own company as the place is packed with toys. I don't think I would have enjoyed sharing the experience with a large crowd as I wouldn't have been able eye every little detail.

From a vintage Barbie collection that spans decades, tin war toys aimed at both the British and Germans, to the much loved Tin Tin characters. This place is for both young and old, and it showcases just how toys have changed over the years. And if toys aren't your thing, make sure to take in the beautiful surrounds as their gardens are just as famous as the house. I hear during spring and summer, their flower displays are a must to see!

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Best Coffee in the Mountains.

Butternut Coffee. No other way to start, but the best coffee in the mountains.  I have visited this French, modern cafe in Springwood many times and have a family member who can’t go without a coffee from there everyday. That is not an exaggeration.  Consistently smooth and strong, I have never had less than a fantastic coffee from Butternut. Not only do they have great coffee, but their food is just as delicious. Ranging from ready-to-go baked goods to cooked to order dishes, I find it hard to resist the temptation of eating there everyday. I have been told the avocado smash is delicious, although I am yet to try. I have resisted my sweet tooth so far whilst eyeing off their caramel slice and brownies, but they have quite nicely thought of offering bite size pieces as well as larger slices, so I don’t think I will resist for long.

Needless to say, I highly recommend visiting Butternut Cafe if you ever head to Springwood.

Shop 1/150 Macquarie Rd, Springwood, New South Wales, 2777

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New Discoveries.

The decision to relocate to a strange and new place wasn’t tough when you know that you get to live in a beautiful, tranquil, heritage listed area like the Blue Mountains in NSW. I have found in the short period of my existence in the mountains, is that there are wonderful places and people secretly hidden or overlooked. I’d say the majority of locals have lived in the area, one mountain suburb or another, for over 10 years, so no wonder things can seem a bit forgotten.

I’d like to share some of the wonderful things I discover around my lovely Blue Mountains home, so hopefully others can enjoy them as much as I do.