The spring veggies are thriving despite the intermittent temperature from hell.
I'm hoping for a good crop of tomatoes this year; last years were a write-off with all the rain.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Salad Days.
I'm hoping for a good crop of tomatoes this year; last years were a write-off with all the rain.
Monday, October 8, 2012
TUESDAY
It has taken spending a lot of time away from this place to see life from a totally different perspective. Totally!
Every day off for ages has been spent dealing with family matters, ie. Marks mother and the difficulties in her remaining in the home as the Altzeimers takes an even stronger hold and then her move to the nursing home. It has been tiring, emotional on so many levels, stressful to the nth degree and at times we feel we've been trudging through mud! In these situations so often all the responsibility falls on just one person and their family.
In the midst of all of the craziness I began to lose sight of the joy of our dream here. Everything just seemed so much trouble; I'd come home and just want easy! I didn't want to muck out the chook pen or water the gardens or any other job. I wanted to eat some sort of take-away crap and not have to go into the kitchen at all. Even making bread or writing a blog :) was too much trouble. It was just too hard.
And then this morning........................! As I sat here in the office writing the next round of appointments in my diary I heard a familiar sound. My window looks out into the portico area at the front of the house. Above the front door were 5 little swallows. You may remember they had a nest on the wall when we first moved here and once the babies left it we knocked it down. They make an awful mess and it wasn't exactly what we wanted at the front door! Now swallows return every year to nest in the same place so we were advised to keep knocking down any nest they built and they would have to go elsewhere. Today they visited and when I looked out I marvelled at their persistence and resilience. They may have had to move to have their babies but their instincts brought them back again to what they know and what is familiar. Of course they can't stay above the door; a big fake owl hanging in the portico for a week or so puts paid to that; but I enjoyed watching them this morning. They reminded me that even when something interrupts the flow of life, with persistence and resilience you can still revisit what you know, what is familiar, what is a comfort. I enjoy that, the security of it, of not having to over-think but simply enjoy. So thank you for reminding me of the joy of the familiar, you mucky little sweeties that mess up my front porch. Thank you............ now bugger off. :)
Every day off for ages has been spent dealing with family matters, ie. Marks mother and the difficulties in her remaining in the home as the Altzeimers takes an even stronger hold and then her move to the nursing home. It has been tiring, emotional on so many levels, stressful to the nth degree and at times we feel we've been trudging through mud! In these situations so often all the responsibility falls on just one person and their family.
In the midst of all of the craziness I began to lose sight of the joy of our dream here. Everything just seemed so much trouble; I'd come home and just want easy! I didn't want to muck out the chook pen or water the gardens or any other job. I wanted to eat some sort of take-away crap and not have to go into the kitchen at all. Even making bread or writing a blog :) was too much trouble. It was just too hard.
And then this morning........................! As I sat here in the office writing the next round of appointments in my diary I heard a familiar sound. My window looks out into the portico area at the front of the house. Above the front door were 5 little swallows. You may remember they had a nest on the wall when we first moved here and once the babies left it we knocked it down. They make an awful mess and it wasn't exactly what we wanted at the front door! Now swallows return every year to nest in the same place so we were advised to keep knocking down any nest they built and they would have to go elsewhere. Today they visited and when I looked out I marvelled at their persistence and resilience. They may have had to move to have their babies but their instincts brought them back again to what they know and what is familiar. Of course they can't stay above the door; a big fake owl hanging in the portico for a week or so puts paid to that; but I enjoyed watching them this morning. They reminded me that even when something interrupts the flow of life, with persistence and resilience you can still revisit what you know, what is familiar, what is a comfort. I enjoy that, the security of it, of not having to over-think but simply enjoy. So thank you for reminding me of the joy of the familiar, you mucky little sweeties that mess up my front porch. Thank you............ now bugger off. :)
Thursday, September 20, 2012
SPRING.
Isn't spring lovely?! Doesn't matter what's going on in life - the sun puts a whole new slant on things and a smile on your face.
I've been very busy; too, too busy; but it's just one of those seasons. I've finished my final assignment and sent it on its merry way; just an exam to do and then that's it! WOO HOO.
This week we've put in tomatoes, zucchini, lettuce, pickling onions and leeks, carrots, cucumbers, beans, beetroot, more strawberries, sweet potato and in the new herb garden chamomile, lemon balm, sage, basil, as well as those I transplanted from one of the raised beds. The transplanted mandarin tree was looking rough for a few weeks but is now getting new growth so we might have succeeded with that. The fig is getting its spring leaves and the cuttings I took haven't carked it so my sister just might get her fig tree yet. :)
There's new growth on the fruit trees and they've all been fed and mulched ready for the warmer days.
The chickens are laying an egg a day each, the little troopers, except dear Cackles who I'm pretty sure is past it. She just wanders about by herself when they're let out to free-range and isn't as adventurous as she use to be. She's a sweet little chook, an individual who just does her own thing. I quite like that in a chicken.
This weekend we're going to declutter the container - look out Gumtree! I'm determined to get rid of everything that isn't nailed down. lol. I hate clutter and feel weighed down when there's a lot of stuff hanging about that's not "earning it's keep" so to speak. I like the idea of moving it on so someone else can get use out of it.
And over the weekend we'll take the time to relax and put the feet up. We sometimes forget just how important that is and have to keep reminding ourselves that it's not only a good thing but also an essential thing to do.
I've been very busy; too, too busy; but it's just one of those seasons. I've finished my final assignment and sent it on its merry way; just an exam to do and then that's it! WOO HOO.
This week we've put in tomatoes, zucchini, lettuce, pickling onions and leeks, carrots, cucumbers, beans, beetroot, more strawberries, sweet potato and in the new herb garden chamomile, lemon balm, sage, basil, as well as those I transplanted from one of the raised beds. The transplanted mandarin tree was looking rough for a few weeks but is now getting new growth so we might have succeeded with that. The fig is getting its spring leaves and the cuttings I took haven't carked it so my sister just might get her fig tree yet. :)
There's new growth on the fruit trees and they've all been fed and mulched ready for the warmer days.
The chickens are laying an egg a day each, the little troopers, except dear Cackles who I'm pretty sure is past it. She just wanders about by herself when they're let out to free-range and isn't as adventurous as she use to be. She's a sweet little chook, an individual who just does her own thing. I quite like that in a chicken.
This weekend we're going to declutter the container - look out Gumtree! I'm determined to get rid of everything that isn't nailed down. lol. I hate clutter and feel weighed down when there's a lot of stuff hanging about that's not "earning it's keep" so to speak. I like the idea of moving it on so someone else can get use out of it.
And over the weekend we'll take the time to relax and put the feet up. We sometimes forget just how important that is and have to keep reminding ourselves that it's not only a good thing but also an essential thing to do.
Friday, September 7, 2012
LAVENDER DAYS.
LAVENDER OIL.
What you'll need.
fresh lavender flowers - you can use leaves and young stems but not old woody stems.
carrier oil ( I use sweet almond which is a good all-purpose oil. You can use most oils but make sure you use one that doesn't have an overpowering smell. Be aware of allergies if you decide to use peanut oil!)
a jar with a tight fitting lid
cheesecloth, muslin or a fine strainer
dark glass bottles for storage of lavender oil.
Method.
collect flower heads/leaves/stems. I'm not making too much so I collected 1.5 cups of mainly flower heads and some soft stems.
Pop lavender into a jar, fill with oil, making sure everything is completely covered and put on the lid. Sit in a warm place for at least a couple of days. Give it a shake occasionally to make sure it's mixed. Strain out the lavender,squeezing out all the oil you can. Collect fresh flowers etc, adding to the jar, and do the process over again until the required perfume is reached.
Strain and decant into dark glass bottles. Keep in a cool, dark place and it should last for up to a year.
I won't go into the 1001 uses for lavender oil; there are innumerable books and websites on the subject. Suffice to say it's incredibly easy to make and because I like a very strong lavender smell I'm able to make it how I want it.
Strain and decant into dark glass bottles. Keep in a cool, dark place and it should last for up to a year.
I won't go into the 1001 uses for lavender oil; there are innumerable books and websites on the subject. Suffice to say it's incredibly easy to make and because I like a very strong lavender smell I'm able to make it how I want it.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
HULLO AGAIN.
It's been quite a hectic few weeks; it's so nice to be back.
Mark's mother was extremely ill; we nearly lost her. Physically she is back on her feet but the Altzeimers has progressed at an alarming rate since her illness - the upshot being she will be moved to a care facility this week. It's been a really rotten time quite frankly; how often do we see other peoples agendas rise to the fore in difficult times and all this does is make a sad situation even more stressful. Amongst all this, my dear husband was first on the scene at a terrible fatal car accident just around the corner from us. A few days later we were told it was the youngest son of people we've known for years. So, so sad.
Anyway there's a lot to be done now, a home of 60 years to be emptied and sold. A lifetime to be fitted into a couple of suitcases.
In her more compos mentis moments Mark's mum is fine about going to the facility - that has made it a little easier on the family.
So life is busy, hectic and perhaps stressful at times but it's also funny, happy, with just a bit of crazy thrown in for good measure. That's life after all.
I'm making some lavender oil this week come hell or high water. I want to use some of the gorgeous stuff I've got growing in a pot outside my kitchen window. I'll tell you about it tomorrow . For now I'm going to sit outside and enjoy the sun.
Mark's mother was extremely ill; we nearly lost her. Physically she is back on her feet but the Altzeimers has progressed at an alarming rate since her illness - the upshot being she will be moved to a care facility this week. It's been a really rotten time quite frankly; how often do we see other peoples agendas rise to the fore in difficult times and all this does is make a sad situation even more stressful. Amongst all this, my dear husband was first on the scene at a terrible fatal car accident just around the corner from us. A few days later we were told it was the youngest son of people we've known for years. So, so sad.
Anyway there's a lot to be done now, a home of 60 years to be emptied and sold. A lifetime to be fitted into a couple of suitcases.
In her more compos mentis moments Mark's mum is fine about going to the facility - that has made it a little easier on the family.
So life is busy, hectic and perhaps stressful at times but it's also funny, happy, with just a bit of crazy thrown in for good measure. That's life after all.
I'm making some lavender oil this week come hell or high water. I want to use some of the gorgeous stuff I've got growing in a pot outside my kitchen window. I'll tell you about it tomorrow . For now I'm going to sit outside and enjoy the sun.
Sunday, August 12, 2012
NOT HERE.
My mother in law is very unwell at the moment and so we've been flat out for the last week or so dealing with this. We've not been at home so blogging has taken a back seat to everything. Will pop back in again soon.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
CUPCAKE HEAVEN.
Just a quick share today. Take a look at these gorgeous cupcakes. They were made by my daughter-in-law's Nana and are by far my most favourite of all cupcakes. I'm not a big fan of cake but these I could eat until the cows come home. :) They are an amazing mix of (I think) white chocolate, pistachios and Turkish Delight. I'm sure there's much more to them than that - all I know is they are the best cupcakes I have ever tasted without a doubt!!! My dear new daughter-in-law delivered them the other day but I'm sorry I'm just not going to share! I'll put half in the freezer so I have to pace myself - yeah right - I'm really going to do that!
Hail Pauline - cupcake maker extraordinaire!!!!!
Hail Pauline - cupcake maker extraordinaire!!!!!
Saturday, August 4, 2012
A GOOD DAY.
Do you ever have one of those days? Of course you do - everyone does. In the midst of the daily routine I started the big clean out of cupboards in my office and just felt overwhelmed for a while. So much stuff!
Magazines to go through, research looked over and catalogued, photos and memorabilia to be sorted, everything out of the cupboard and onto the floor and desk. Mark had finished the painting and I was out when he went to put everything back into the room. I had said to him to just toss it all in anywhere and I would sort it out after the wedding. He definitely took me at my word!! lol.
I can't concentrate surrounded by clutter so it had to be done!
I just got it finished when Kim came home. We caught up and then my friend Debbie dropped in. We had a lovely visit sitting on the deck in the winter sun. I so love her company.The guys came home after a vintage motorbike run, Kim left again, Deb went home, Mark went to work and Jord to his mates place. It's all quiet now and it's getting chilly as the night closes in. I'll have an easy dinner and then settle down with my book. It's been a fruitful day - not only by cleaning out cupboards and the usual day-to day chores but by being able to spend time with people I love. I think content is what I'm feeling right about now. :)
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
FRAMED.
This is the frame I did for the hall. It's such an easy thing to do but it looks so effective. You just need a nice frame (mine was from Big W as I searched high and low and couldn't find a vintage one) and paint the backing. The backing on this one is painted a very pale grey which is my wall colour but a bit hard to see on this photo. The word is just an MDF one from the craft shop painted white like the frame then glued with wood glue to the backing.On Pinterest the frame was attached to the wall and the word just attached to the wall inside the frame. Sounded like it could be a bit of a pain made like that, this way there's just the one hole where the frame is hanging.
As luck would have it a few days after I'd finished it I found a frame at the fair I mentioned. It's grotty and needs a really good clean but it's lovely so I'll find something to do with it.
DAYS OFF.
When we got home we sat on the deck with a nice drink, watched the "afternoon shift" (the lorikeets etc that come in the afternoon for feed) and planned what veges are going in for spring. I spent a few hours the other day clearing out the gardens to get them ready for replanting. We have a mandarin tree planted (by the previous owner) on the boundary fence that needs to be moved so we'll be tackling that this week. I've read up on it but never done it so we'll see how it goes. My fruit trees have really struggled in the wet.
On Sunday we went to the Vietnam Veterans Markets; this one is huge and in lovely leafy surroundings so it's a nice one to go to. We had a lovely time wandering about though it was awfully cold initially. I got some oranges and made some more marmalade today as a few people have asked for some and I'd only made a tiny amount last week. I also got a great old picture frame for a song so I'll sort something out for that. A book on self-sufficiency and a set of boulles! Yes boulles! I first saw it played and played myself in outback QLD with some French tourists who couldn't speak a word of English. It was huge fun!!!! Can't wait to toss them about the back yard. lol.
I've finished my other little project; I'll post photos tomorrow.
Well out for lunch tomorrow as it's Mark's mother's birthday and then into the work - I've been slack enough. :)))
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
PROJECTS.
Another sunny morning - I hate that the weather man says there's more rain on the way. There can't be that much moisture in the universe!!
The smell wafting from the kitchen this morning is lovely. I've popped on a big pot of ham hock and vege soup for the weekend and the slow cooker is dealing with our dinner - beef bourguignon - that will not only feed us tonight but will fill a couple of containers for the freezer for Mark to take to work.
I took a photo of the board I made for my office. I think I've mentioned before my enthusiasm far exceeds my expertise when it comes to craft but I'm happy with how it turned out and how it looks in the room. The board was one I had, the red ribbon was in my scrap box and the material was 1/2 price at Spotlight. I had in my mind this exact print and was bowled over when I saw it in the shop. Score!!!
I have another little project on the boil, something I saw on Pinterest, another favourite site. Will post the finished product in a day or too.
I tend to fossick about with craft in the winter months; usually a new one each season. I'm nothing if not adventurous. :) I've been inspired to get my painting supplies out again after seeing an advert for a show by my evidently quite well -known cousin in America. I've checked out his work on the Internet - wow it's beautiful - I so wish I had inherited his talent. The creative gene seems to be alive and well in a lot of our family. It's funny isn't though; we don't always appreciate the ones we ourselves have been given. I'm in awe of talented artists of all kinds and though am absolutely not in the league of said cousin, I will continue to splodge my offerings because I simply enjoy every minute of it. :)
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Monday, July 23, 2012
SUCCESS!
Well it's official. I'll be making marmalade in the slow cooker from now on! It was BEAUTIFUL!!!
As I said yesterday I'm the only one who eats it here but Mark wanted to try it this morning. So I made us a nice hot coffee and a couple of slices of toast each. I loved it but didn't think Mark would think much of it as he's never been a fan; but he raved about it. Now I did check his expression whilst he was chewing just to be sure, but no - he really did look like he was enjoying it. :)
It's just the basic recipe but for anyone who wants to try it .............. I used 5 oranges and one lemon, 4 cups of sugar (yes I know its scary but its just standard for jams; lashings of the sweet stuff!). I washed the fruit well then quartered it, got rid of the seeds and put it through the food processor until it was well and truly whizzed up. Tossed it into the slow cooker with the sugar and cooked on low for an hour then high for approx.3 hours. I also added 25gms of Jamsetta but only because I like a firmer marmalade - you can leave it out and it should jelly up quite nicely. This made around 1.7 kg and fitted into 5 sort of medium jars nicely.
I was talking on the phone to my sister and she was saying how much she likes marmalade so I'll take some for her to try when we go on our trip. We both love ginger marmalade too so I might give that a go before we head up her way. She lives on the north coast near the ocean; a beautiful area.
I'm going to look into buying stevia in bulk as it's a little dear in supermarkets and a bit of a pain that the largest container I've seen is 200gms. For those who don't know its a natural alternative to sugar. We use a brand called Natvia which we both like but I haven't been able to source it in large quantities. I use it already to cook with but really do need to have a lot more on hand than I have at the moment. If anyone has bought it in bulk could you leave the details in the comments?
I read this quote in the book I mentioned a few days back..............
"In bread making, as in baseball, there is nothing like a good batter in the hour of knead."
................."groan" ...............good grief there were some bad jokes way back then too!
As I said yesterday I'm the only one who eats it here but Mark wanted to try it this morning. So I made us a nice hot coffee and a couple of slices of toast each. I loved it but didn't think Mark would think much of it as he's never been a fan; but he raved about it. Now I did check his expression whilst he was chewing just to be sure, but no - he really did look like he was enjoying it. :)
It's just the basic recipe but for anyone who wants to try it .............. I used 5 oranges and one lemon, 4 cups of sugar (yes I know its scary but its just standard for jams; lashings of the sweet stuff!). I washed the fruit well then quartered it, got rid of the seeds and put it through the food processor until it was well and truly whizzed up. Tossed it into the slow cooker with the sugar and cooked on low for an hour then high for approx.3 hours. I also added 25gms of Jamsetta but only because I like a firmer marmalade - you can leave it out and it should jelly up quite nicely. This made around 1.7 kg and fitted into 5 sort of medium jars nicely.
I was talking on the phone to my sister and she was saying how much she likes marmalade so I'll take some for her to try when we go on our trip. We both love ginger marmalade too so I might give that a go before we head up her way. She lives on the north coast near the ocean; a beautiful area.
I'm going to look into buying stevia in bulk as it's a little dear in supermarkets and a bit of a pain that the largest container I've seen is 200gms. For those who don't know its a natural alternative to sugar. We use a brand called Natvia which we both like but I haven't been able to source it in large quantities. I use it already to cook with but really do need to have a lot more on hand than I have at the moment. If anyone has bought it in bulk could you leave the details in the comments?
I read this quote in the book I mentioned a few days back..............
"In bread making, as in baseball, there is nothing like a good batter in the hour of knead."
................."groan" ...............good grief there were some bad jokes way back then too!
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Marmalade and Stuff.
Today is shaping up to be a little busy so the marmalade I was going to make will be be done the shortcut way, in the slow cooker. I know some people do it in the bread maker, I must try. The slow cooker is perfect for small batches.
Since no-one here eats the stuff except me occasionally, the jars I keep will last for ever. :)
I don't eat jams as a rule but I do like the odd bit of the old marmalade and like to use it in cooking as well. The amount of sugar in jams is deadly but given how rarely I indulge I'm not going to fret over it..
I'm just about brain-dead from this assignment I'm doing at the moment. I finished it yesterday but on reading it through for about the 10th time I've decided to make a few changes. :) I could weep from boredom!!!!
I can't wait to be finished quite frankly; the whole process has been incredibly slow; it really could be done in a year instead of two.
The chickens were quite naughty today! I let them free-range with never a problem - until now! Four of them were down the hill in next door. I got three of them to come when I called but Violet can be a very independent chicken and do you think she'd come back home? I was in a bit of a hurry to get them back in their coop as there was a heck of a storm brewing, it was sooooo black over the mountains. The neighbours can be a little funny so I'm calling this crazy chook in a stage whisper trying to get her attention. Occasionally she'd glance around at my voice but couldn't see where I was so back to pecking she'd go. It finally got the better of me so I got her attention by banging the side of the mash bucket - scared five years growth out of her. She got a solid talking to from me and a peck from one of the other girls. lol.
Mark had started to make them a run but I think he's going to have to finish it if they are going to start roaming far and wide.
Since no-one here eats the stuff except me occasionally, the jars I keep will last for ever. :)
I don't eat jams as a rule but I do like the odd bit of the old marmalade and like to use it in cooking as well. The amount of sugar in jams is deadly but given how rarely I indulge I'm not going to fret over it..
I'm just about brain-dead from this assignment I'm doing at the moment. I finished it yesterday but on reading it through for about the 10th time I've decided to make a few changes. :) I could weep from boredom!!!!
I can't wait to be finished quite frankly; the whole process has been incredibly slow; it really could be done in a year instead of two.
The chickens were quite naughty today! I let them free-range with never a problem - until now! Four of them were down the hill in next door. I got three of them to come when I called but Violet can be a very independent chicken and do you think she'd come back home? I was in a bit of a hurry to get them back in their coop as there was a heck of a storm brewing, it was sooooo black over the mountains. The neighbours can be a little funny so I'm calling this crazy chook in a stage whisper trying to get her attention. Occasionally she'd glance around at my voice but couldn't see where I was so back to pecking she'd go. It finally got the better of me so I got her attention by banging the side of the mash bucket - scared five years growth out of her. She got a solid talking to from me and a peck from one of the other girls. lol.
Mark had started to make them a run but I think he's going to have to finish it if they are going to start roaming far and wide.
Monday, July 16, 2012
OLD KNOWLEDGE.
What a brilliant sunny day here in God's own country! It's the third day of lovely weather; it must be at least 20c out there, not bad for a winters day. (Dare I say it - about time!!!)
I've been browsing through a wonderful old book that belonged to Mark's father's family. It's called the Peoples Home Library, a library of three practical books. It was first copyrighted in 1910 and was published by the Oceanic Publishing Company in 1920!
The first book is the Home Medical Book which includes not only descriptions and nursing care for just about every disease known to man but also home remedies for each ailment. Some of them are amazing and some are just down right scary! Mexican Mustang Liniment is just one - 2 ounces of petroleum, 1 ounce of ammonia water, 1/2 ounce of naptha, 1/2 ounce crude oleic acid and 1 dram brandy. I'm surmising as a liniment it may have been for arthritis or perhaps sprains; don't know and not likely to make that one. :)
The second is the Home Recipe Book and I look forward to trying some of these old recipes. Mrs. Kirk, the author, has quite a C.V. having been a teacher and lecturer in Domestic Science in both public and private sectors including the Chicago University! She has a quote at the beginning of her book that stands the test of time well ..............
"Good cooking means the knowledge of all fruits, herbs, balms and spices, and all that is healing and sweet in fields and groves and savoury in meats. It means carefulness, inventiveness, watchfulness, willingness and readiness of appliances. It means the economy of your great-grandmothers and the science of modern chemists. .....John Ruskin..... 1819-1900
This second book not only has housekeeping tips but recipes beginning with bread-making; preserving and jelly making (jam for us Aussies) selecting meats and poultry, candy making (lollies) puddings and sauces, pickling., even how to preserve eggs! Under a heading "What to do and how to do it" there are "various recipes of all kinds." lol. (for cleaning etc) "To polish patent leather - orange juice will be found to be a good polish for patent leather."
The third and final book is the Home Stock Book which covers horses, sheep, pigs, cattle, poultry, even cats and dogs. That should be quite a read as well. :)
I've had a heap of fun browsing through it and will post anything I try; though Mark has just said he wants to read the recipe through before he volunteers to be the guinea pig. Bah - chicken!!!! :)
I've been browsing through a wonderful old book that belonged to Mark's father's family. It's called the Peoples Home Library, a library of three practical books. It was first copyrighted in 1910 and was published by the Oceanic Publishing Company in 1920!
The second is the Home Recipe Book and I look forward to trying some of these old recipes. Mrs. Kirk, the author, has quite a C.V. having been a teacher and lecturer in Domestic Science in both public and private sectors including the Chicago University! She has a quote at the beginning of her book that stands the test of time well ..............
"Good cooking means the knowledge of all fruits, herbs, balms and spices, and all that is healing and sweet in fields and groves and savoury in meats. It means carefulness, inventiveness, watchfulness, willingness and readiness of appliances. It means the economy of your great-grandmothers and the science of modern chemists. .....John Ruskin..... 1819-1900
This second book not only has housekeeping tips but recipes beginning with bread-making; preserving and jelly making (jam for us Aussies) selecting meats and poultry, candy making (lollies) puddings and sauces, pickling., even how to preserve eggs! Under a heading "What to do and how to do it" there are "various recipes of all kinds." lol. (for cleaning etc) "To polish patent leather - orange juice will be found to be a good polish for patent leather."
The third and final book is the Home Stock Book which covers horses, sheep, pigs, cattle, poultry, even cats and dogs. That should be quite a read as well. :)
I've had a heap of fun browsing through it and will post anything I try; though Mark has just said he wants to read the recipe through before he volunteers to be the guinea pig. Bah - chicken!!!! :)
Sunday, July 15, 2012
PERFECT, PERFECT,PERFECT.
Well the title says it all. The day was magical from beginning to end. The sun shone, the violinists were amazing, the vows the kids wrote were tear-jerking and the reception was the most fun we've all had in ages. Food was YUM and the cocktail waiter was very talented. What can I say???
It was just brilliant hanging out with family; we don't do it often enough. The whole sibling thing is something I miss as mine live a good distance from us but we had lots of laughs while we re-connected. It was great to catch up with two of my nephews, one of whom is married. I met the others fiancée for the first time and was thrilled she was so lovely. We had a couple there who had had a lot of input into my kids lives and we wanted them to share in the day. It seems almost surreal how perfect the whole day turned out. And as much as we are overjoyed to welcome our new daughter-in-law into our family, it's lovely for Mark and I to know that our son is as welcome and loved by his new wife's family. I love Rae's mum and the rest of her family seem just as nice. I know everyone will be there to support the kids as they embark on this new adventure. That's what it's all about isn't it - just being there for each other. :)
It's a few days of rest and then back to normal here. Chooks, leeks and cheesemaking here I come. :)
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Almost there.
Well it's only two days to go and my first born will be a married man!!
They have been so busy getting organised, I'm sure they'll be glad when the day gets here. The weather has been a worry but a sunny weekend is expected so it should all go off beautifully. We've been fussing about doing bits and pieces; the last few things will be finished tomorrow. Bonnie goes to the pet motel for the weekend, Kim and I are getting our nails done and Mark and I will pack our overnight bags for Saturday. :)
It'll be great to see my rels and meet our new daughter-in-laws extended family; they sound lovely. I remember my own wedding and some of the mad things that happened that made it such a fun day. Everyone left for the church but they forgot to take Mark. He managed to get there just as we were pulling up outside; so he had to bolt in the side entrance, but he needn't have worried - the main door was locked! I thought this was scream so pushed my nose up against the glass and waved to get the priests attention. Dad was annoyed, I couldn't stop laughing and the priest waved back. lol what a hoot! At one stage Mark and I had to sit beside the alter and as the priest was talking Mark leaned in close and said; " Sit back and relax, he might be a while." I said "I'd like to but I've sat on my veil and every time I lean back it starts to fall off my head." Needless to say we both lost it and started to giggle - which resulted in some very stern looks from the priest and Mark's parents. :)
That's the thing I remember about my wedding; not that some things didn't quite go to plan; but that we had huge fun!
Saturday is going to be wonderful. I'm guessing we'll shed a few tears - what parent doesn't - but this is as it should be. Our amazing son is beginning a new chapter in his life with his wonderful partner - and we feel very privileged to be part of their special day. :)
Monday, July 2, 2012
Good morning.
Today I lazed in bed a later than I should have but that's the joy of winter isn't it; snuggled up in - between flanny sheets and a cosy doona. And then - the piece de resistance - porridge! :) YUM.
The forecast is for rain for the next month (!) so I've washed everything in sight to take advantage of the beautiful sun. It's a lovely day; lets hope the forecast is wrong.
Mark finished painting my office and we're just waiting for the trim to harden then everything can go back in. It's a lovely shade of pale dove grey with white trim. I'm looking forward to decorating it; looking for new curtains tomorrow. The grey is a very peaceful colour and I need the room to be uncluttered and relaxing to work well. I can't think in clutter. I tend to like mono-chromic or French provincial so there'll be dashes of black, white and maybe a little red.
Not sure about the red though because I have the most beautiful piece of fabric that I've had for literally years in a sort of pastel floral. It's very floaty and soft I'm thinking it might make a gorgeous cushion cover and maybe a tassel for the cupboard door. I'd love a big old wooden desk but the one I have is the perfect size and shape for my work and the room so I'll work around it.
I'm going to a morning tea on Friday of local ladies who do craft and are into the same things I am such as cooking from scratch, gardening etc. It should be huge fun, meeting new people and learning new things. I have to say though, when it comes to crafts, my enthusiasm far exceeds my expertise!
I seem to have a to - do list as long as my arm today, better get to it. Am about to go down to the bush and get some wood to start the fire later on and to stock up before it starts to rain. The fire was blazing last night so when Mark came home the house was toasty. We had a pork stir-fry and home-made custard with stewed pears and then curled up in front of the fire - doesn't get much better. The ducted is a huge blessing but I really do prefer the heat from a fire.
Don't the leeks look lovely?!
The forecast is for rain for the next month (!) so I've washed everything in sight to take advantage of the beautiful sun. It's a lovely day; lets hope the forecast is wrong.
Mark finished painting my office and we're just waiting for the trim to harden then everything can go back in. It's a lovely shade of pale dove grey with white trim. I'm looking forward to decorating it; looking for new curtains tomorrow. The grey is a very peaceful colour and I need the room to be uncluttered and relaxing to work well. I can't think in clutter. I tend to like mono-chromic or French provincial so there'll be dashes of black, white and maybe a little red.
Not sure about the red though because I have the most beautiful piece of fabric that I've had for literally years in a sort of pastel floral. It's very floaty and soft I'm thinking it might make a gorgeous cushion cover and maybe a tassel for the cupboard door. I'd love a big old wooden desk but the one I have is the perfect size and shape for my work and the room so I'll work around it.
I'm going to a morning tea on Friday of local ladies who do craft and are into the same things I am such as cooking from scratch, gardening etc. It should be huge fun, meeting new people and learning new things. I have to say though, when it comes to crafts, my enthusiasm far exceeds my expertise!
I seem to have a to - do list as long as my arm today, better get to it. Am about to go down to the bush and get some wood to start the fire later on and to stock up before it starts to rain. The fire was blazing last night so when Mark came home the house was toasty. We had a pork stir-fry and home-made custard with stewed pears and then curled up in front of the fire - doesn't get much better. The ducted is a huge blessing but I really do prefer the heat from a fire.
Don't the leeks look lovely?!
Sunday, July 1, 2012
Feast / Famine.
Today I was reminded of that old saying "it's either a feast or a famine." The chickens are going overboard now after taking a little while for the new ones to settle in and begin to lay. A month ago I had to buy eggs now I have them coming out of my ears and have given away dozens. It is nice being able to share. Such good little chooks!!!
I have a big pot of lavender outside the kitchen window and it's overflowing at the moment. I love anything lavender and I think a little bit of greenery inside always looks cheerful in winter, so I brought a few sprigs in yesterday. I made that little blue jug 27 years ago! I was pregnant with my first child and he gets married in less than two weeks.
I also had three phone calls from friends, two of whom wanted to come for a visit. How lovely! I can sometimes go a few days and not hear from a friend and now three in one day! And these are the sort of people you WANT to hear from too which is even better. :) We all have the kind where our heart sinks a little when we hear their voice. lol - you know the conversation that goes . . . . . . .
Other person " hi how are you "
ME " great how are you?"
Other person - (hesitates and then gives an almost imperceptible sigh), " oh .........not bad."
After the obligatory "round-the-mountain" small- talk the real reason for the call comes out - it's all so predictable! I finally got smart, now I check the number before I answer. lol.
I got lucky today though, such enjoyable, laughter-filled calls - like I said it's either a feast or a famine! :)
I also had three phone calls from friends, two of whom wanted to come for a visit. How lovely! I can sometimes go a few days and not hear from a friend and now three in one day! And these are the sort of people you WANT to hear from too which is even better. :) We all have the kind where our heart sinks a little when we hear their voice. lol - you know the conversation that goes . . . . . . .
Other person " hi how are you "
ME " great how are you?"
Other person - (hesitates and then gives an almost imperceptible sigh), " oh .........not bad."
After the obligatory "round-the-mountain" small- talk the real reason for the call comes out - it's all so predictable! I finally got smart, now I check the number before I answer. lol.
I got lucky today though, such enjoyable, laughter-filled calls - like I said it's either a feast or a famine! :)
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Whoa - winters here!
Oh my goodness it was a chilly morning here. Mark had to wash the windows of his work car to get the ice off it so he could see and even as he drove out of the yard it began to ice up again! Brrrrrrrrr!
I got moving after having a cuddle with the pup and got the washing started. It's a pain at this time of the year trying to get it all dry before the afternoon cold and damp closes in. I've been laid low with an awful cold so didn't do much at all, washing, made salsa to go with the salmon for dinner and made a pear cake for desert. I pulled the blinds back in the family room and dozed on the chair in the sun for a few hours. Bliss! The pear cake is lovely; not an original however. I had extra pears so trawled the ipad (sitting in the sun under a blanket) to see what I could make; easy and quick being the order of the day as I just couldn't be bothered fiddling for too long in the kitchen. I may have gotten the recipe from Simple Savings - I get so many fabulous recipes from that site - I highly recommend it. If not then I can't remember, but accolades to whoever made it up. Lovely with a little ice cream or cream.
Ingredients.
1 kg pears - peeled, cored and sliced
2 eggs
1/4 cup of milk
1 cup white sugar { I use Natvia, which is a natural substitute (Stevia) and I use a bit less than a cup as it can be a little sweet for some people)
1 1/2 cups plain flour
1/4 tsp mixed spice
Method.
Preheat oven to 190 c.
Grease a spring-form pan or round baking tin and dust with plain flour.
Mix eggs and milk together.
Add sugar, mix well.
Add flour and mixed spice and beat until it resembles a thickish batter.
Fold in pears, making sure all are covered.
Pour into tin.
Bake 45-55 minutes until golden brown on top.
Cool in the tin for 20 minutes.
And yes that missing bit was YUM!
I've got some bulbs to go in tomorrow, they should have been in a week or two ago; never mind, they'll be O.K. They're tulips,daffies and freesias. I'll put them around the gates that are leading to the secret garden; they should look gorgeous come spring.
There's a bunch of leaks to be pulled so I'll make some soup to pop in the freezer.
Oh I've just bought a cheese making kit; that's next on the agenda. I'm really looking forward to trying that.
So.......it's quiet and peaceful here at the moment, cold but peaceful. :)
I got moving after having a cuddle with the pup and got the washing started. It's a pain at this time of the year trying to get it all dry before the afternoon cold and damp closes in. I've been laid low with an awful cold so didn't do much at all, washing, made salsa to go with the salmon for dinner and made a pear cake for desert. I pulled the blinds back in the family room and dozed on the chair in the sun for a few hours. Bliss! The pear cake is lovely; not an original however. I had extra pears so trawled the ipad (sitting in the sun under a blanket) to see what I could make; easy and quick being the order of the day as I just couldn't be bothered fiddling for too long in the kitchen. I may have gotten the recipe from Simple Savings - I get so many fabulous recipes from that site - I highly recommend it. If not then I can't remember, but accolades to whoever made it up. Lovely with a little ice cream or cream.
Ingredients.
1 kg pears - peeled, cored and sliced
2 eggs
1/4 cup of milk
1 cup white sugar { I use Natvia, which is a natural substitute (Stevia) and I use a bit less than a cup as it can be a little sweet for some people)
1 1/2 cups plain flour
1/4 tsp mixed spice
Method.
Preheat oven to 190 c.
Grease a spring-form pan or round baking tin and dust with plain flour.
Mix eggs and milk together.
Add sugar, mix well.
Add flour and mixed spice and beat until it resembles a thickish batter.
Fold in pears, making sure all are covered.
Pour into tin.
Bake 45-55 minutes until golden brown on top.
Cool in the tin for 20 minutes.
And yes that missing bit was YUM!
I've got some bulbs to go in tomorrow, they should have been in a week or two ago; never mind, they'll be O.K. They're tulips,daffies and freesias. I'll put them around the gates that are leading to the secret garden; they should look gorgeous come spring.
There's a bunch of leaks to be pulled so I'll make some soup to pop in the freezer.
Oh I've just bought a cheese making kit; that's next on the agenda. I'm really looking forward to trying that.
So.......it's quiet and peaceful here at the moment, cold but peaceful. :)
Monday, June 11, 2012
A THOUGHTFUL DAY.
It's a lovely sunny autumn day. The horses are milling about, the birds have been in for breakfast and a swim and have gone to....well .... wherever they go through the day. Have just picked some onions, capsicum, and beetroot, 3 figs, and got 7 eggs from 6 chickens (???) Washing is hung and the bread maker just started up and scared the heck out of me! I'm making some fruit bread for my eldest; hoping it's ready before I go over to their house for a barbeque lunch. Doesn't a meal made by someone else taste soooooo much better than when you have to do it yourself? :)
It's a thoughtful day today. A boss where my daughter works passed away today after only being diagnosed with cancer a few weeks ago. Her passing must be so incredibly devastating for her family and friends; today will be forever etched in their minds. It made me think again at how quickly life can change; how fast what was so important one day pales into insignificance the next due to a change in circumstances. How easy it is to be caught up in the trivial things and miss the beauty that's all about us - be it family, friends, our home. An attitude of gratitude can turn a crappy day into a brilliant one.
* This was sitting in my drafts from a couple of weeks ago. Thought I'd pop it in. :)
It's a thoughtful day today. A boss where my daughter works passed away today after only being diagnosed with cancer a few weeks ago. Her passing must be so incredibly devastating for her family and friends; today will be forever etched in their minds. It made me think again at how quickly life can change; how fast what was so important one day pales into insignificance the next due to a change in circumstances. How easy it is to be caught up in the trivial things and miss the beauty that's all about us - be it family, friends, our home. An attitude of gratitude can turn a crappy day into a brilliant one.
* This was sitting in my drafts from a couple of weeks ago. Thought I'd pop it in. :)
Monday, May 21, 2012
Tuesday - again.
I had a giggle this morning as I roamed about the bush area down the back of our land. Mark was loading the wheelbarrow with wood to take up to the house and I was trailing through the bush with a big plastic container dragging behind me picking up small sticks for kindling. (We put the fire on last night and had it raging thanks to my little "chips".) It was lovely just wandering about in the sun. Mark confessed when he was watching me a few weeks ago doing the same he thought I was wasting my time as they wouldn't burn effectively, and the soft wood he had chopped would be much better. Haha - silly boy - I'm not just a pretty face you know!
There's something rather mellow about a warm autumn day and just wandering about; and being followed by some very excited chickens. They followed me down to the folly; a new place for them; and just had the best time scratching about in the mulch under the trees. When I left though they quickly followed me back up to their yard - they don't do brave. :)
There's something rather mellow about a warm autumn day and just wandering about; and being followed by some very excited chickens. They followed me down to the folly; a new place for them; and just had the best time scratching about in the mulch under the trees. When I left though they quickly followed me back up to their yard - they don't do brave. :)
Tuesday.
A lovely morning here today. Its so warm through the day - hard to believe winter's just around the corner.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Monday.
Well I'm finally back. Life takes over completely on occasions and sitting at the computer for anything other than work just doesn't happen sometimes.
It's awfully quiet in the garden at the moment. There's onions, beetroot and capsicums to get each day, and of course herbs and a few straggling strawberries. The fig tree is having its second and best flush of fruit. We just bought a lovely lilly pilly and I'm assured it will give us masses of fruit. After buying it I thought maybe we should have gotten 2 to be very sure so I'll pick another one up. The colours are lovely - and so is the fruit! I remember my friends neighbour had a huge lilly pilly in their side garden close to the fence. My friend and I use to eat handfuls of the berries every summer.
This crazy big toadstool is in the dog yard. I'll have to pull it out shortly but I quite like how big and silly looking it's become in a few short days so I might just leave it to see what happens and if it gets even bigger. Shame it's not edible - I'm a big fan of fungi.
It's awfully quiet in the garden at the moment. There's onions, beetroot and capsicums to get each day, and of course herbs and a few straggling strawberries. The fig tree is having its second and best flush of fruit. We just bought a lovely lilly pilly and I'm assured it will give us masses of fruit. After buying it I thought maybe we should have gotten 2 to be very sure so I'll pick another one up. The colours are lovely - and so is the fruit! I remember my friends neighbour had a huge lilly pilly in their side garden close to the fence. My friend and I use to eat handfuls of the berries every summer.
This crazy big toadstool is in the dog yard. I'll have to pull it out shortly but I quite like how big and silly looking it's become in a few short days so I might just leave it to see what happens and if it gets even bigger. Shame it's not edible - I'm a big fan of fungi.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Good Morning to Autumn.
Ah my favourite time of year. It was a lovely coolish morning. Coffee on the deck and watching the sun peep through the trees.
There are lots of 'roos about, munching on the clover but thankfully leaving my gardens alone. The hares are out as well early morning and late at night; but they too only eat the grass. The "penguin" birds don't drop in as much now but the lorikeets etc are still as noisy as ever.
It was a beautiful day - finally getting the sunny days we missed out on all through summer. An early start with three loads of washing, fresh batch of ricotta and breakie dishes all done. . Breakfast was home made muesli - brilliant if I do say so myself, hahaha - and then aforementioned Vienna coffee watching the world wake up.
What a life!!!!!!
There are lots of 'roos about, munching on the clover but thankfully leaving my gardens alone. The hares are out as well early morning and late at night; but they too only eat the grass. The "penguin" birds don't drop in as much now but the lorikeets etc are still as noisy as ever.
It was a beautiful day - finally getting the sunny days we missed out on all through summer. An early start with three loads of washing, fresh batch of ricotta and breakie dishes all done. . Breakfast was home made muesli - brilliant if I do say so myself, hahaha - and then aforementioned Vienna coffee watching the world wake up.
What a life!!!!!!
Monday, March 26, 2012
Ricotta.
Tomorrow I make my first sourdough loaf from the starter we made at the Purple Pear Farm about 10 days ago. I've got a couple of photos from the day but I left my memory card at home and they were saved to the camera and at this point I can't find the plug-in to download them. If I ever find it I'll put them up.
I made some ricotta this morning as we're having home-made Ricotta and Prosciutto pizzas tomorrow. The pizza dough is hand-made, tomato paste home made as well, the baby spinach and other herbs are home-grown, and now the ricotta is made here. The prosciutto is bought and always will be!
The ricotta draining.
The finished product; into a sealed container for a couple of hours to chill and it's ready to eat. You can of course eat it there and then if you wish; I know people who do and nothing much makes it to the fridge. :)
I made some ricotta this morning as we're having home-made Ricotta and Prosciutto pizzas tomorrow. The pizza dough is hand-made, tomato paste home made as well, the baby spinach and other herbs are home-grown, and now the ricotta is made here. The prosciutto is bought and always will be!
The ricotta draining.
The finished product; into a sealed container for a couple of hours to chill and it's ready to eat. You can of course eat it there and then if you wish; I know people who do and nothing much makes it to the fridge. :)
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Morning Tea.
Muffin at the ready , waiting for the kettle to boil.
Just out of the oven - banana and white chocolate. One only sadly; the rest can go in the freezer for friends.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Making Stuff.
I've been using my preserving kit lately. I made some Plum Sauce for stir-fries and some wonderful pasta sauce to be put away for winter. I dragged the dehydrator out as well and did some semi-dried tomatoes with fresh herbs in oil.
This is half of the pasta sauce freshly chopped and ready to simmer for 3 hours. I need to buy a bigger pot as I had to do it in two lots!
Almost there.
Cooling the second batch of pasta sauce and my plum sauce. The pasta sauce looks an odd colour in this photo; in the flesh so to speak it's actually a lovely red.
Friday, March 9, 2012
New kids on the Block.
We got three new Isa Browns today. These are point of lay so we should see the egg production go up. Cackles and Penny haven't been doing much at all for weeks and Henny is broody so I'm only getting an occasional egg from her. They're all a bit past it I think. A friend suggested I make stock from the ones that aren't laying! I suggested that when she is physiologically unable to produce eggs we might boil her up as well! Said friend thought that was hysterical. Insensitive coot!
Hyacinth is on the right and Violet and Daisy are on the left. A direct steal from "Keeping up Appearances" an old English comedy.
Hyacinth is on the right and Violet and Daisy are on the left. A direct steal from "Keeping up Appearances" an old English comedy.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
BITS AND PIECES.
What a crazy few days it's been. First and most importantly Mark had a call-back from the Dr. regarding his latest blood tests; things aren't going too well at the moment; so he's off to have more tests on Friday. It's an ongoing battle just now but he's taking it all in his stride as usual.
We got a bargain on "Gumtree"- a rotary hoe. lol - yes we got one! It's a Masport Cultivator and has been in storage for a while but it started first try and we've already had a turn around an area that had been a bit compacted. Oh my gosh it goes like a train and is so easy to handle. This will make life easier so now we can get some more gardens in for things like pumpkin and watermelon etc that I don't want in raised beds. We only need it for a few bits and pieces but its a handy item to have
I'm going to buy some more fruit trees this weekend, including an advanced olive. I can't stand olives but Jord and Kim like them so I'll pop one in for them.
I'm hoping to complete my current assignment this week; so Mark and I can have some down time on his long weekend off. I was offered a job last night completely out of the blue and have said yes to it so that starts in a couple of weeks. Why on earth did I say yes?? I must be mad.
Hopefully I'll be able to post some photos of preserves this weekend; determined to get some plum sauce made too - love the stuff.
I'm going to buy some more fruit trees this weekend, including an advanced olive. I can't stand olives but Jord and Kim like them so I'll pop one in for them.
I'm hoping to complete my current assignment this week; so Mark and I can have some down time on his long weekend off. I was offered a job last night completely out of the blue and have said yes to it so that starts in a couple of weeks. Why on earth did I say yes?? I must be mad.
Hopefully I'll be able to post some photos of preserves this weekend; determined to get some plum sauce made too - love the stuff.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Peace in Eden.
An interesting aside to our new lifestyle has been peoples reaction to it. A few who have known us for years are thrilled for us that we've finally been able to make the tree-change. Some think we're just a little mad at our age (oh yes we do leave a zimmer frame at the back door to use in the yard lol) and some feel sad for us because they equate our lifestyle with one of lack. That really makes us laugh because the perception couldn't be further from the truth!
We're building a lifestyle here that will - yes -take a few years to establish.; and yes it can be hard work at times; but we aren't on any "written -in - blood" schedule so we please ourselves when we start and when we stop.
We're learning new skills all the time and loving it. We've come to appreciate everything so much more - and each other for that matter.
We feel we have purpose in our lives. We have a great partnership that's creating something lasting here in our little pocket of the country. Mark works and then works again here on his days off, and I use to worry that this might be too much but he finds it exhilarating and has more energy than I'll ever have. He still has his bikes and boat whilst I study and am preparing a course outline for when I start to teach beginner classes in genealogy. He has such an inventors mind and there's nothing he can't make or fix, I'm sure. I occasionally find time to paint and set aside time to write each day. This lovely place brings out the creative side in both of us.
There is nothing we enjoy more than sitting at the end of the day and chatting about what we've accomplished that day and what we'll attempt tomorrow. It's a laid-back existence that has afforded us the chance to meet some fascinating people and learn some amazing things. We both have a thirst for knowledge so this suits perfectly.
We envy nothing of anyone. I can't think of anything that someone has that I could possibly want. (hmmm, well maybe a rotary hoe lol) Don't get me wrong, we don't live in a bubble where nothing goes wrong or tired and grumpy is a thing of the past (!) but in the main we try to be mindful that we all have a limited time span on Earth; and it's far too short to be wasted on things that don't have a positive impact on our lives.
This sort of lifestyle is one that more and more people are choosing. People are tired of the rush and tear, the loss of time to spend with family and friends as they give it away to chase something that society says they must have. Different strokes for different folks as the saying goes - but far too often I hear from people who really aren't very happy with their life, they're bored and unchallenged. As my daughter likes to quote "if you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude. Don't complain." Maya Angelou.
There is a price to be paid whatever the life we choose and there have been adjustments for us here and compromises to be made at times. However we are happy, content, using our brains and our backs, meeting challenges and new people, finding our gifts and talents again and overall just having a good time. It doesn't get any better than that.
The gates to the secret garden are going in.
We're building a lifestyle here that will - yes -take a few years to establish.; and yes it can be hard work at times; but we aren't on any "written -in - blood" schedule so we please ourselves when we start and when we stop.
We're learning new skills all the time and loving it. We've come to appreciate everything so much more - and each other for that matter.
We feel we have purpose in our lives. We have a great partnership that's creating something lasting here in our little pocket of the country. Mark works and then works again here on his days off, and I use to worry that this might be too much but he finds it exhilarating and has more energy than I'll ever have. He still has his bikes and boat whilst I study and am preparing a course outline for when I start to teach beginner classes in genealogy. He has such an inventors mind and there's nothing he can't make or fix, I'm sure. I occasionally find time to paint and set aside time to write each day. This lovely place brings out the creative side in both of us.
There is nothing we enjoy more than sitting at the end of the day and chatting about what we've accomplished that day and what we'll attempt tomorrow. It's a laid-back existence that has afforded us the chance to meet some fascinating people and learn some amazing things. We both have a thirst for knowledge so this suits perfectly.
We envy nothing of anyone. I can't think of anything that someone has that I could possibly want. (hmmm, well maybe a rotary hoe lol) Don't get me wrong, we don't live in a bubble where nothing goes wrong or tired and grumpy is a thing of the past (!) but in the main we try to be mindful that we all have a limited time span on Earth; and it's far too short to be wasted on things that don't have a positive impact on our lives.
This sort of lifestyle is one that more and more people are choosing. People are tired of the rush and tear, the loss of time to spend with family and friends as they give it away to chase something that society says they must have. Different strokes for different folks as the saying goes - but far too often I hear from people who really aren't very happy with their life, they're bored and unchallenged. As my daughter likes to quote "if you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude. Don't complain." Maya Angelou.
There is a price to be paid whatever the life we choose and there have been adjustments for us here and compromises to be made at times. However we are happy, content, using our brains and our backs, meeting challenges and new people, finding our gifts and talents again and overall just having a good time. It doesn't get any better than that.
The gates to the secret garden are going in.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
RIP LaLa.
I am grief -stricken this afternoon. One of my girls that were left here when we moved in 16 months ago had to be put down a little while ago. She had a prolapse and we did as much as we could for her but it was obvious her discomfit was getting too much.
LaLa was so named because she was just a little bit crazy when we first arrived. She was a pretty white chicken with a cheeky way about her. She'd come to the window at the family room and stand there as cool as a cucumber whilst the dog went berserk. I'm sure she was laughing at Bonnie. Her and Cackles were virtually wild as they were never looked after, they simply free-ranged all the time. No fresh water or nice bedding at all. We bought a hen-house and fed them well and at the end of the day they were tucked in safely in their new home; the upshot being they became tame and would follow me about the yard and eat from my hand. I always hoped both of them would just go in their sleep as they had had an awful early life and deserved so much better.
Sadly that didn't happen for LaLa. Cackles is wandering about lost this afternoon; and the twins Henny and Penny seem to know something isn't right because they're hanging about Cackles; something they would never normally do.
Who knew that losing a chicken could be so gut-wrenching. My poor little LaLa.
LaLa was so named because she was just a little bit crazy when we first arrived. She was a pretty white chicken with a cheeky way about her. She'd come to the window at the family room and stand there as cool as a cucumber whilst the dog went berserk. I'm sure she was laughing at Bonnie. Her and Cackles were virtually wild as they were never looked after, they simply free-ranged all the time. No fresh water or nice bedding at all. We bought a hen-house and fed them well and at the end of the day they were tucked in safely in their new home; the upshot being they became tame and would follow me about the yard and eat from my hand. I always hoped both of them would just go in their sleep as they had had an awful early life and deserved so much better.
Sadly that didn't happen for LaLa. Cackles is wandering about lost this afternoon; and the twins Henny and Penny seem to know something isn't right because they're hanging about Cackles; something they would never normally do.
Who knew that losing a chicken could be so gut-wrenching. My poor little LaLa.
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