OK. So. It's done. My book of verse has been wrapped in hope and sent off to a publisher for consideration. Fingers and toes crossed. If they don't like it, I will darn well publish it myself because I know deep inside that people will enjoy, value and gain something from it.

Another day in Paradise here in Noosa on the Sunshine Coast. Sun is out, tourists are happy...and it's a countdown to Valentines Day. Check out our 'countdown IOUs' from today until V day at www.facebook.com/heartsandmindsart. Or why not wander into Hastings Street, check out our Valentines window at No.1, then stroll off for a glass of vino.

It's so important to look beyond the surface...I have written many verses about it. Every day in our shop this belief is backed up. No-one is how they appear to be, there is always so much more. That includes me, and that includes you. Be proud that you are individual, that you take the time to listen to others and not judge.

My goodness, we are lucky here in Noosa. Once again we have escaped the brunt of nature. Our rain and high winds are nothing compared to the devastation other areas of Australia are experiencing. Our love, hugs, offers and positive vibes are what I am sending out and hope those in need can get help. We just want the sun to come out and all to be right with the world again.

We are having so much fun at Hearts and Minds Art's store at Noosa Heads : sourcing fabulous, original products, meeting loads of wonderful people and hearing their stories, planning new things for the new year, knowing the beach is out the back and our doggies are at home waiting for us to walk in the door. Life's good and we hope it is for you too.

We had a past acquaintance call into the shop recently. She stopped, surprised to see us, and said something along the lines of "I heard you'd left to live in Noosa but never thought you'd actually do it." Interesting. Are people really surprised when you do something you've been talking about for ages, and if so, why? Because they don't plan things/do things/want or expect change? Each to his own but listen to what your friends say and back their dreams....whatever they are.

So, 2013 is the Year of the Water Snake. Whatever it is, may it bring you happiness and good health. Remember 'be good to you'.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FOLKS .... may you have a wonderful time with friends and/or family. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and time with my blog.

So sad, so sad. My heart aches for all the little children, those so heartlessly struck down and those who live to remember. May you learn to forget - not your friends for they will forever be tied to your heart - but the moments they were taken away.

WOMEN ARE GREAT...I was chatting to one of our suppliers, Tania, in the shop. How busy life is, 21st birthdays, schoolies, parents, 70ths....you name it. Another customer smiled at our comments and joined in and before we knew it a couple more customers were adding advice, comments and lots of laughs. Even memories of Desiderata! Love it.

It's hotting up for Christmas here in Noosa....if you are looking for something ORIGINAL and gorgeous, quirky and memorable, little or big hop on over to HEARTS AND MINDS ART at No.1 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads, or www.heartsandmindsart.com.au or follow facebook at www.facebook.com/heartsandmindsart.
We have gift certificates and we giftwrap too!