French inspired Macarons seem to be the the new trend in sophisticated cafes and restaurants. Delicate, decadent and near impossible to make, I certainly have a healthy respect for this seemingly simple treat. Not a Macaroon with coconut, but with a foundation of almonds and egg whites sandwiched with flavoured cream or ganache. I've tried to make these several times without success following a Gordon *#@%* Ramsay recipe. They turned dirty brown and flat. I usually am quite competent at baking sweets and deserts, but these little delicacies have me beat, well for the time being anyway

My Mum, Helen Jones of Gallery Gourmet, has been baking Macarons commercially for the last year or so and next week I'll be photographing her products for an online shop. I'm hoping that she'll give me some insider tips because I really don't want to be beaten by a Macaron. I'll keep you posted....

In the meantime, I've gathered a collection of recipes and examples to inspire and whet the mouth.

1 }  My photograph featuring Lindt Cafe Macarons or 'Delice' with Strawberry, Pistachio, Hazelnut, Lindt Chocolate and Blueberry. They were quickly devoured after the photograph
2 } Front cover of July 2009 Australian Gourmet Traveller. Here's their recipe for Macarons with white chocolate and raspberry ganache
3 and 4 }  Passionfruit Macarons with Bittersweet Chocolate Cream Ganache. The Serious Eats blog has a fabulous article on their trials and tribulations of macaron making

Guest Curators for Etsy's Handmade Blog, Olivia Pinto-Lopez and Christine Visneau of Small Magazine wrote a great article featuring children's designs from Etsy and their free online magazine this week. I was really chuffed that Go Make Me was part of it!

A day off! And what do you do....go shopping. I was quite keen to visit Donna Hay's new General Store in Woollahra, Sydney. I have very fond memories of the little village, having spent 8 of my early  design years in the suburb. The shop is just gorgeous, as you would expect from the style maven. I nearly bumped into her in the doorway as she busily set labels straight and making sure all was in order. Luckily, she granted me permission to take some photos before she left

Featured in the front window was a burst of colourful paper flowers and carefully placed goodies tempting passers-by to enter. Absolutely bathed in sunlight on a brilliant winter's day, The General Store reflected the Donna Hay brand with it's simplicity and style. The store stocks special gifts and indulgent treats including ceramics, glassware, stationery, hand-knitted baby gifts, household cleaners and scents, and hand-poured candles. There's a daily spread of macarons, chocolate truffles, meringues and caramels. Well worth a look

The Donna Hay General Store is located at 40 Holdsworth St, Woolhara, NSW and is open from 10am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday