Greetings from the White House

There are some benefits to endless-Bladerunner-death-scene style rainfall here in Sydney.... The decorator who promised to come in September called to say she was on her way and has spent the week painting and now our 1970's style ski lodge ceiling is no longer. Our brown wooden window frames now match the white clouds amongst which, due to our elevated position, we now sit.

I've also been able to crack open the boxes of books that I haven't seen for 3 years and still smell of Primrose Hill and the Japanese plastic toys, so loved by beloved. And whilst we've still got a very long way to go, its all starting to feel a bit like home.

So here then are some of our corners. Our eating corner with our Gary's table, the Star Wars print we bought in Nelly Duff on Columbia Road and some of M's own paintings. Some of the aforementioned books and the 70's coffee table and white vases I bought once upon a time for the black slate fireplace in Holland Road - filled with pretty white blossom that is another benefit of the winter here.

What I learned today #358

Every day teaches us something new - if you're willing to learn. It always comes down to the same thing. You create Heaven and Hell. Hell hides in making others responsible for your story. Heaven lies in honest ownership of your life. No one else can make you happy, healthy, beautiful or valuable. If there's a problem, its you. If there's a solution, its you. You have total power. Use it wisely.

Shop: Ras shoes

Been on a bit of a shoe fest recently. One of my findings is the lovely Spanish shop, Ras, who sell perfect pumps, clogs and boots that smack of the shoes you lusted after, when you were 12 and on holiday with your parents.

They have one outlet in Paris and their online shop appears to sell overseas.

What I learned today #364

Other's fortune is not your misfortune. Born wealthier than you? More popular? Someone somewhere envies your wealth and popularity. Stop comparing and start celebrating all blessings everywhere. No life suits you better than the one you have and no other is available. You wouldn't want to swap problems with anyone. Don't ask to be lucky. Make everyone you meet feel lucky. That's success.

Hotel: Saint Valerie, Juan-Les-Pins, Cap D'Azure

My beloved is attending the advertising conference that happens annually in Cannes and so it seemed rude not to join him for a few days. This post is written poolside at the Saint Valerie Hotel Juan-Les-Pins which is truly gorgeous. A couple of villas surrounded by lush gardens and big shady mulberry trees where you can sip cafe with the beautiful people. Whopping great bedrooms with shady shutters and slipper baths in big adjoining bathrooms. Very french and stuffed with antiques, the staff are attentive but they still retain the ever-so charming minor chaos.

We had dinner last night at a local restaurant sipping pale provence rose and then wandered the streets dodging the mopeds along the promenade. True heaven!

Today Im meeting my skipper brother in law for lunch on his yacht in Cannes and will indulge in a spot more people watching!

What I learned today #357

There is no better version of you available elsewhere. If you're being the best you can be and someone does not want you, then they want someone else entirely and you're free. No need to take another's requirements as a judgement. Let them get on with their search for happiness while you get on with yours - and you won't find it in the eyes of those who don't get you. Focus on those who do.

Rikki Beadle-Blair

Website: Doggelganger

There are loads of pets all over the world that are looking for homes. To help combat this problem in New Zealand, Pedigree have recently launched Doggelganger a website that helps prospective adopters find a dog who looks just like them.

Pedigree used agency, Colenso BBDO to create a site which allows users to upload a pic, or use their webcam (although I haven't yet been able to make this work). 'Human to canine pairing software' then analyses the face and matches it with a dog twin. Details on the dog and how to get in touch are then provided.

Such a great idea! Im in line for a dog in Sydney, so please share it elsewhere Pedigree!