tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17876358126740673902024-03-14T02:38:11.964+10:00how green is my valleyGoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.comBlogger170125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-72905048359142555842012-10-07T08:11:00.000+10:002013-12-24T16:26:03.477+10:00The Wedding<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNrG1HmfHHMCrS4DDJwov4JQs2wFcgug6Nip0afrvkO2peC6G2zVWC9QAvR_6ZnkdM0th8v0sLvYhKFxo-skxvwFR5CNGn3t0RAJ-izZbojpy1vzsJvAI0V_vjqaKTEiydrjRIHcY5v8/s1600/034.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNrG1HmfHHMCrS4DDJwov4JQs2wFcgug6Nip0afrvkO2peC6G2zVWC9QAvR_6ZnkdM0th8v0sLvYhKFxo-skxvwFR5CNGn3t0RAJ-izZbojpy1vzsJvAI0V_vjqaKTEiydrjRIHcY5v8/s640/034.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<i>Well, what can I say.........</i><br />
<br />
After what seems an absolute eternity, I am happy to say that I am <b>finally</b> able to return to this little blog and share our joy.<br />
<i><br /></i>
From the <b>"Let the Planning Begin"</b> (which was the title of my last post WAAAAYYYY back in May)<br />
I am now able to share with everyone the beautiful outcome. </div>
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEd284LmYe7YRvLwcCjzp7_Ni99Q2D5yHS19fjPKuXW3CGCX4qytMGhZ2wwTW04gt9_vIQDtk1KYk9CJGZiYzQ5z9M5zjnA15s2kDPWVtOehE1xHBWpYhqIvS6opy49m7wJJG3MVwLfg/s1600/Wedding.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEd284LmYe7YRvLwcCjzp7_Ni99Q2D5yHS19fjPKuXW3CGCX4qytMGhZ2wwTW04gt9_vIQDtk1KYk9CJGZiYzQ5z9M5zjnA15s2kDPWVtOehE1xHBWpYhqIvS6opy49m7wJJG3MVwLfg/s640/Wedding.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a><br />
Last Thursday - our beautiful daughter Kendall and her lovely Alan pledged their love to each other and became Mr and Mrs!<br />
<br />
In the end - Kendall and Alan decided to do away with all the planning and fuss.<br />
<br />
All they really wanted was to be married. <br />
<br />
<i>So </i>- <i>in the space of 5 short weeks we organised a Wedding!</i><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNmXodGD0wVaSAg5RxvFPtgONbZz872AQP2uwU3LGqgsB29NnnatG3HeVa65mnZ76F0EoZkVX4hpYvBTKN-Y1sLY8uq7sNRkDLESZ_OeyhiDyjGPstBW83QKo3cMurJmve6DT7Xrzy90/s1600/Wedding1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNmXodGD0wVaSAg5RxvFPtgONbZz872AQP2uwU3LGqgsB29NnnatG3HeVa65mnZ76F0EoZkVX4hpYvBTKN-Y1sLY8uq7sNRkDLESZ_OeyhiDyjGPstBW83QKo3cMurJmve6DT7Xrzy90/s640/Wedding1.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
.....and it was perfect!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHu04N4SuxY-qPfo58MyaivmQJD5gsoI1Bs4sJ0N4RZ3xzpgGVD3BGq1vYiPOaNmAHRcOPiL9OzMquYbd-wTpWXPIkYYomzEY-nazyrARCn4GGH_Jy2cpYmoZHIItcSnoelaKWc8DT_zs/s1600/Wedding2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHu04N4SuxY-qPfo58MyaivmQJD5gsoI1Bs4sJ0N4RZ3xzpgGVD3BGq1vYiPOaNmAHRcOPiL9OzMquYbd-wTpWXPIkYYomzEY-nazyrARCn4GGH_Jy2cpYmoZHIItcSnoelaKWc8DT_zs/s640/Wedding2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
From the gorgeous little seaside chapel......</div>
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS6s70w6JJUrAgvlqnCmB2yNlJkjCQ8oDVMBuwi5o7Zof-Bz3VrOZwiybi5U_V4iRbsu8reOA3iJ6ikstXm4F5ZaDEQWLC6Pk205cKjAJj1UlIMAw2njfm9B9IYCzoUggWFN4ugbM8g80/s1600/Wedding3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS6s70w6JJUrAgvlqnCmB2yNlJkjCQ8oDVMBuwi5o7Zof-Bz3VrOZwiybi5U_V4iRbsu8reOA3iJ6ikstXm4F5ZaDEQWLC6Pk205cKjAJj1UlIMAw2njfm9B9IYCzoUggWFN4ugbM8g80/s640/Wedding3.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a> </div>
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to the fabulous celebration afterwards.......<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqqdCqxDkHNRYUDCOCZstBYKgPG8h-aad3PqmLHrG2zBz0lgQ9Qxs_WCUvylni16-zM1-s8s28gK8CXKwW16Z7QUqBIS-DulFsVsb7E3QfSNn6GbVHUDBGSlDRA32C6hhNcoQh7VGDMZk/s1600/013.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqqdCqxDkHNRYUDCOCZstBYKgPG8h-aad3PqmLHrG2zBz0lgQ9Qxs_WCUvylni16-zM1-s8s28gK8CXKwW16Z7QUqBIS-DulFsVsb7E3QfSNn6GbVHUDBGSlDRA32C6hhNcoQh7VGDMZk/s640/013.jpg" height="428" width="640" /></a> </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our hearts are bursting with joy!</div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" padding="0" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a><br />
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GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-51121512261175797602012-05-09T21:41:00.001+10:002012-05-09T21:41:26.257+10:00Let the Planning Begin<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<br />
<i>It's official....</i><br />
We are now in wedding mode.<br />
<br />
Following weeks and weeks of procrastination.<br />
Endless discussions about where, when and how.<br />
Plans which seemed to change daily (and then hourly).<br />
<br />
I have decided <i>enough is enough!</i><br />
<br />
Someone has to take charge of this ship -<br />
plot the course-<br />
man the tiller -<br />
<i>hoist the thingamajig......</i><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNStCwLATdCqy8ntpwKRDC9lv9fkI7B3jZlLMgI7GliLdzuqfsxmssPkfC6i5iOiBmszGkRC39W2eWkzqdQ54q1j3GTJfeHgAy6xEq00D_q8y7RB_69fIpkw2frvn7fNaSgVb1me0Tzc4/s1600/P1030090.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNStCwLATdCqy8ntpwKRDC9lv9fkI7B3jZlLMgI7GliLdzuqfsxmssPkfC6i5iOiBmszGkRC39W2eWkzqdQ54q1j3GTJfeHgAy6xEq00D_q8y7RB_69fIpkw2frvn7fNaSgVb1me0Tzc4/s640/P1030090.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
So<br />
in true "control freak" fashion<br />
<br />
and<br />
<i> with Kendall's complete blessing of course.....</i><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(please....please.....organise this wedding - I'm completely OVER it!)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have been ceremoniously given the title -</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br />
"Wedding Planner" <br />
<br />
So... with my new title tucked neatly under my Billabong cap<br />
and a reinvigorated spring in my step, I set forth on a true voyage of discovery<br />
<br />
<i>in search of</i><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOwLwUGgA4YPepABkkU8cS6mG_dzM4hELnn_v5YFdjvGZdNTzXQRgQ7HxokirBJTBbuuzCIR5jT35Gz5QpasLV4X5vDqbtxoSH5oTy6U739aueYbd7nt-hNzbMa47wi1Te3EQ3_xQ36I/s1600/P1030089.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOwLwUGgA4YPepABkkU8cS6mG_dzM4hELnn_v5YFdjvGZdNTzXQRgQ7HxokirBJTBbuuzCIR5jT35Gz5QpasLV4X5vDqbtxoSH5oTy6U739aueYbd7nt-hNzbMa47wi1Te3EQ3_xQ36I/s640/P1030089.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<b> "THE"</b> perfect church and<b> "THE"</b> perfect wedding reception venue.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, I didn't have to go very far to find this gorgeous little church perched high in a beautiful village not far from our Valley.<br />
<br />
The exposed framing, blackened timber stumps, white timber louvres<br />
and the intricately carved soffits.<br />
With a backdrop of native gums and glorious views of the surrounding countryside -<br />
looks pretty perfect to me! <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UyfftCQmZPcYS5MDnRT81JpT047bNxf4Zr4l7c3dJRQ4TQI1PG0lM7iCGXdYHeHi60e9ylHgwe0Dn97le57GzNfMetJYPInVYGPieARt8LGWXfn-8LGEbeRnwGp0UUv6Leh00sPJ5YA/s1600/P1030087.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UyfftCQmZPcYS5MDnRT81JpT047bNxf4Zr4l7c3dJRQ4TQI1PG0lM7iCGXdYHeHi60e9ylHgwe0Dn97le57GzNfMetJYPInVYGPieARt8LGWXfn-8LGEbeRnwGp0UUv6Leh00sPJ5YA/s640/P1030087.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
As far as wedding venues are concerned.....<br />
Kendall and Alan are fans of all things vintage.<br />
<br />
Timber floors/staircases; ladder back chairs; rustic fireplaces; <br />
leather couches; timber planter stands; old pianos.<br />
<br />
With a little styling, I reckon this little gem could be <br />
just perfect....<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxrL6KEB2W8KxmFi9dV67LaxeCLmNoerS748ppRKcYConcUf7345jnxKP7iWXbzl441uzik-bJSPiLRBWuFIHzqRkoI-hpeUcAlR4pPeCA9C-Zm1B-w4ksx7j7ekHbZWr9pyAcRiH5Z8/s1600/P1030084.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxrL6KEB2W8KxmFi9dV67LaxeCLmNoerS748ppRKcYConcUf7345jnxKP7iWXbzl441uzik-bJSPiLRBWuFIHzqRkoI-hpeUcAlR4pPeCA9C-Zm1B-w4ksx7j7ekHbZWr9pyAcRiH5Z8/s640/P1030084.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKtA0J_jCmKCGIsLK700Be8E3om5JZSiVmvgqju1ASryIDEn65f3LTfqp9VRBv-V51S19KwCS6zBdwyDe9obxNPUnuXbnlJSTy3PRaZCmwf76FP47Bmsl4v_f8rym0i7D-OVebBZxtHIs/s1600/P1030075.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKtA0J_jCmKCGIsLK700Be8E3om5JZSiVmvgqju1ASryIDEn65f3LTfqp9VRBv-V51S19KwCS6zBdwyDe9obxNPUnuXbnlJSTy3PRaZCmwf76FP47Bmsl4v_f8rym0i7D-OVebBZxtHIs/s640/P1030075.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Just love the look of those chairs. Trying to visualise them with a burlap and lace bows<br />
(and maybe sprigs of wildflowers)?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1UELdJ0eOkNk3ZrZJ3aw5SkJ_hAbUlm5CzJfqixfX4GUz5LyJXSXHCuw17SmBzZ4NK0aUjDaMRHd42f3lPOFDJsNs6uHqLMVm_WWk1Yg2Lyt9jaUJWTaniGFaYfL59hLCeO2RSeyVdyw/s1600/P1030083.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1UELdJ0eOkNk3ZrZJ3aw5SkJ_hAbUlm5CzJfqixfX4GUz5LyJXSXHCuw17SmBzZ4NK0aUjDaMRHd42f3lPOFDJsNs6uHqLMVm_WWk1Yg2Lyt9jaUJWTaniGFaYfL59hLCeO2RSeyVdyw/s640/P1030083.JPG" width="480" /></a><br />
<br />
Some memories of days gone by<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDrFeSIoKv9KMc43HTZOCiYfxVZ9-x362pCniWHwH9l5qIKtCDeeLoCilsrFdlv_zVzqahFDYRPV49bq2OeOCgFWosVf9zUPq8q8ttjji2ZgIXv6JnjGFEEiC40ccmxubNxpTYW1zsjRk/s1600/P1030077.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDrFeSIoKv9KMc43HTZOCiYfxVZ9-x362pCniWHwH9l5qIKtCDeeLoCilsrFdlv_zVzqahFDYRPV49bq2OeOCgFWosVf9zUPq8q8ttjji2ZgIXv6JnjGFEEiC40ccmxubNxpTYW1zsjRk/s640/P1030077.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
on this very same staircase.<br />
<br />
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZ9sFZb6T59dgqUcMgnp6coDOvacQkdDcwWSqGhxZ7QjFGIn-AAFaclMs8i_3bjTC7i1HqP2XwVj4auXVJFb_EKXNYUqJZvp55Tryjo5uW06mJ2bY4Lby06NlgxL3EQ_WrLmA6r2HDBU/s1600/P1030069.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZ9sFZb6T59dgqUcMgnp6coDOvacQkdDcwWSqGhxZ7QjFGIn-AAFaclMs8i_3bjTC7i1HqP2XwVj4auXVJFb_EKXNYUqJZvp55Tryjo5uW06mJ2bY4Lby06NlgxL3EQ_WrLmA6r2HDBU/s640/P1030069.JPG" width="640" /></a> Those doors on the top left slide across to make the dining room completely private. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm thinking that we could replace the round tables with those rectangular tables/chairs in the earlier photo,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
white crisp table cloths/burlap runners and maybe dress the tables with vintage teapots </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
filled with fresh flowers and lots of tealight candles?</div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpQvMcfusXdBExsiTUJusfV_gXfN5AGNGkghAWbWhEHhpdhcx9o1hol_dI4F-_Z8SYNpjuVr6BWbPGyMBMXRI7sbv2UDSBGCupszwxj3uc-iSNNzsVjThJdIKASkdOrEtfCHQUXTXjx8o/s1600/P1030071.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpQvMcfusXdBExsiTUJusfV_gXfN5AGNGkghAWbWhEHhpdhcx9o1hol_dI4F-_Z8SYNpjuVr6BWbPGyMBMXRI7sbv2UDSBGCupszwxj3uc-iSNNzsVjThJdIKASkdOrEtfCHQUXTXjx8o/s640/P1030071.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
And seeing it will be winter,<br />
maybe a roaring fire and candles and flowers on the mantle?<br />
<br />
Decisions..... decisions.....<br />
My brain is in overdrive. <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja44f9zGfR7xd9TWZN0hn_aJR12ncbRU3cR0lGV9_QiLqroFZad8PODYoJhxsyU-bDdkm7ANrAZeFb_f-Z0s4VyMafmB7IFCa_mCFxfhr1H-MapcVmvjwL_alvNEji7rTSJeLld-OMeD8/s1600/P1030079.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja44f9zGfR7xd9TWZN0hn_aJR12ncbRU3cR0lGV9_QiLqroFZad8PODYoJhxsyU-bDdkm7ANrAZeFb_f-Z0s4VyMafmB7IFCa_mCFxfhr1H-MapcVmvjwL_alvNEji7rTSJeLld-OMeD8/s640/P1030079.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<br />
<i></i></div>
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All suggestions/ideas gratefully appreciated.</div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" padding="0" src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="border-width: 0px;" /></a><br />
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</div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-88713667436271375862012-04-29T09:11:00.003+10:002012-04-29T09:54:33.732+10:00A Milestone Moment<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAI9RXua-nEniwqAS_IGOYxkLihTlV1qfwBB2-zwoTcVuEoJwciKfdXoHg94icTtQcr_YHtlay4MV37Hc_Gm5mLfw7vI8TSW7_b8WxdTXDYIM7RkxDrhtoxImmUuBKIiWl6xpb8Nrd38Y/s1600/P1030035.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAI9RXua-nEniwqAS_IGOYxkLihTlV1qfwBB2-zwoTcVuEoJwciKfdXoHg94icTtQcr_YHtlay4MV37Hc_Gm5mLfw7vI8TSW7_b8WxdTXDYIM7RkxDrhtoxImmUuBKIiWl6xpb8Nrd38Y/s640/P1030035.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
It's true. There are moments in your life which are <i>just </i>moments.<br />
and.......<br />
There are moments in your life which are <i>Milestone</i> moments.<br />
<br />
Yesterday was a Milestone Moment!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCJtMpSPcRTfIcb5yGfKB9D4G8LTYuW-DPJbJV0IYQiyaet7FdRIs3yStjEKL_1G4gY1GvxkWVr9YlX5yZ7JDO_hZkXdOTKtBcEI1VEesQes_s9B1KFXbeyPE4iZzQRwHf7ySVd1RZP3o/s1600/P1030038.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCJtMpSPcRTfIcb5yGfKB9D4G8LTYuW-DPJbJV0IYQiyaet7FdRIs3yStjEKL_1G4gY1GvxkWVr9YlX5yZ7JDO_hZkXdOTKtBcEI1VEesQes_s9B1KFXbeyPE4iZzQRwHf7ySVd1RZP3o/s640/P1030038.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
You see yesterday........<br />
<br />
Kendall Amy-Louise (our youngest child and only daughter)<br />
walked down that long red carpet...... <br />
and<br />
in front of a huge audience of family, friends, fellow students and University Faculty........<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRuCxYPMy7qFu3WVClJIipwDXQ2yf2axwxklm0FfJhG8kC5UlaTJTMHJLQD6nvycTdNx5RYlE3Jze_YybjcNW7a0O8Qhzb0eVpTLgS1EQBNQXX_uXKU_S7Ctjbimcf6SlMTwO1aImWbk/s1600/P1030047.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRuCxYPMy7qFu3WVClJIipwDXQ2yf2axwxklm0FfJhG8kC5UlaTJTMHJLQD6nvycTdNx5RYlE3Jze_YybjcNW7a0O8Qhzb0eVpTLgS1EQBNQXX_uXKU_S7Ctjbimcf6SlMTwO1aImWbk/s640/P1030047.JPG" width="568" /></a> <br />
received her<br />
Bachelor of Education.<br />
<br />
She follows in the footsteps of older brother Adam - who graduated with his Bachelor of Arts last year<br />
and paves the way for Matthew<br />
who will graduate at the end of this year with a Bachelor of Education.<br />
<br />
Three University scholars in the family - <i>who would have thought? </i><br />
We are just so proud.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkjynlXypTtNpr26ccuqps2e6m5Ul1ZDNpaJSApP5YhDX7RuAhf0wcwyqUd9ew3IR0nGRI85BZXidByVelSi2OA1sC5xFiVJv8MtJCtA5qUP0vgSvZKzxtFUHMUC5EQ1Y7AMWojloPUY/s1600/P1030043.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkjynlXypTtNpr26ccuqps2e6m5Ul1ZDNpaJSApP5YhDX7RuAhf0wcwyqUd9ew3IR0nGRI85BZXidByVelSi2OA1sC5xFiVJv8MtJCtA5qUP0vgSvZKzxtFUHMUC5EQ1Y7AMWojloPUY/s640/P1030043.JPG" width="560" /></a> </div>
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Not only are we proud of their academic achievements - </div>
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we are also SO proud of the people they have become. </div>
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Each so very different and unique in their individual personalities </div>
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but </div>
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each overflowing with those special qualities of integrity, humility and sincerity.</div>
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(<span style="font-size: x-small;">Not to mention the crazy sense of humour they all possess - never more evident than when they are all together reminiscing about growing up together here in the Valley!) </span></div>
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As parents, what more could we ask for. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnxRU-6A8VcZtMMT2RNUU5boCVJLD_tlxxw7wx2RHYinBEQ1yXT6FgfQYYmVk9_PD_A7s5p7cqgiN9h4tLbAmQgs7H2ZHHWQYWxbN28JJ-FDdcPBrMhi1cu2aeD-XYh3kgh5f1ethN1o/s1600/P1030036.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnxRU-6A8VcZtMMT2RNUU5boCVJLD_tlxxw7wx2RHYinBEQ1yXT6FgfQYYmVk9_PD_A7s5p7cqgiN9h4tLbAmQgs7H2ZHHWQYWxbN28JJ-FDdcPBrMhi1cu2aeD-XYh3kgh5f1ethN1o/s640/P1030036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Other than to have been able to share this happy occasion with you Mum. I know how proud you would have been.</i></div>
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<i>Thinking of you always</i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>Never more than today </i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">29.4.2008 - 29.4.2012</span><i> </i><i> </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">- Walk slowly Mum -</span></div>
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" padding="0" src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="border-width: 0px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><br /></a><br />
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<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><br /></a></div>
<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><br /></a><br />
<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><br /></a></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-20472761863786545762012-04-01T07:40:00.000+10:002012-04-01T07:40:36.356+10:00Congratulations Kendall and Alan!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I'll just leave it to DOLLY to let everyone know........</span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rj-MSziZhYw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
PS: .....can't wait to see the ring!
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" padding="0" src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="border: 0px none currentcolor;" /></a>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-70061366279807254582012-02-18T09:12:00.000+10:002012-02-18T09:12:22.187+10:00Postcards from Home - Part 2<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV5iJF0TOSLf1SKRf7X2uHcH66ocN1UwHaciF6TG88dQhPhLzmIMRrkW15-nExNkaFR9DUw1J9_pDVORWqdEuJkSiYoSDDFBsROGBJp7dyYL7bRBPlggIcLGA82vtAT0Dkacc7tu-ix8o/s1600/paris02.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV5iJF0TOSLf1SKRf7X2uHcH66ocN1UwHaciF6TG88dQhPhLzmIMRrkW15-nExNkaFR9DUw1J9_pDVORWqdEuJkSiYoSDDFBsROGBJp7dyYL7bRBPlggIcLGA82vtAT0Dkacc7tu-ix8o/s1600/paris02.jpg" /></a> </div>
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The second in my little series of <a href="http://goldenvalley50.blogspot.com.au/2012/02/postcards-from-home.html">Postcards from Home </a></div>
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takes us a scenic half hour drive to the west of my little spot here in the valley -</div>
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up the steep and winding Gillies Range Road to the Far North Queensland tropical highlands gem of</div>
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Lake Barrine </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsSwcIpBktYS5ktjyLeXBTRu8X0zxaZa4-zTo1qA1h9UeSff4NVaBLoQ1n1rCNdiuz006ni1MCDfWxj_i7SKHC4f8IPilJ1YyKkEwWwgY9UtjHHXv80zxlrgKc5vL89TdKDruApkGbzU/s1600/P1010305.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsSwcIpBktYS5ktjyLeXBTRu8X0zxaZa4-zTo1qA1h9UeSff4NVaBLoQ1n1rCNdiuz006ni1MCDfWxj_i7SKHC4f8IPilJ1YyKkEwWwgY9UtjHHXv80zxlrgKc5vL89TdKDruApkGbzU/s640/P1010305.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Lake Barrine is actually the crater left by a volcanic eruption approximately 10,000 years ago</div>
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and is surrounded by pristine World Heritage rainforest not far from the pretty little village of Yungaburra. </div>
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Apart from the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding flora and fauna -the historic </div>
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Lake Barrine Teahouse is a popular attraction for locals and visitors. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-qEG5zCQ9HC_Gsj8wCEnm6PgS_2_u2rYPjhdZmhrghCWSxFlaLrcop4LmlcVR9v9tLVarNDC9DR5jHAvfcw1TOK8IdfEYrV0Wy-cYZ9dAzauQYksS5TxvvdZRMGER2pAZ0jwZejBZuY/s1600/history2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-qEG5zCQ9HC_Gsj8wCEnm6PgS_2_u2rYPjhdZmhrghCWSxFlaLrcop4LmlcVR9v9tLVarNDC9DR5jHAvfcw1TOK8IdfEYrV0Wy-cYZ9dAzauQYksS5TxvvdZRMGER2pAZ0jwZejBZuY/s1600/history2.jpg" /></a></div>
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The timber Tea House was originally built in the 1930's as a dance hall </div>
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and has since had many uses, including an aquatic centre, guest house, school and a convalescent home during World War II. </div>
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Today the Tea House (nestled right on the lake's edge) provides breakfasts, lunches, and their famous prize winning Devonshire teas and looks pretty much like it would have </div>
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back the 1930's. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrNfpeh_KF2zaG9kBz4jLZrYUqTXSTEamKmtFVt7qVEHNP07K8Yj5nqOU-WWvN605WqWXPu_Xpw5poyyEzEtzhisKNJGyUd5nJB2Gxb10jctyUbJbFa_wjaHyYHJRaM6y1tFoapdIp3bo/s1600/Barrine+for+Breakfast.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrNfpeh_KF2zaG9kBz4jLZrYUqTXSTEamKmtFVt7qVEHNP07K8Yj5nqOU-WWvN605WqWXPu_Xpw5poyyEzEtzhisKNJGyUd5nJB2Gxb10jctyUbJbFa_wjaHyYHJRaM6y1tFoapdIp3bo/s640/Barrine+for+Breakfast.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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The ornate metal verandah railings, timber floors and french doors offer a subtle glimpse </div>
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into a time gone by.</div>
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The old piano in the corner of the dining room is a wonderful link to its days as a dance hall. </div>
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<i>Close your eyes </i>and you can almost hear the sounds of </div>
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those old familiar dance tunes tinkling out across the lake. </div>
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What a romantic spot it must have been. </div>
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<i>"Take your partners for a Quick Step......" </i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">It is so easy to be transported back in time in this magical place. </span><i> </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7J4nXLoEmQt2JiR8SXuGp83nRH8QrkxEuStXftRNuwBT9JHjpfT_gS6vITm6SOnqQ_18kHRG4IuY9Gwe2hrekAShZC_DsTIZY_ZN3rC_9ja08AbVVeyA4uMPX2vaEfjAKCCekUrLEkIE/s1600/P1010312.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7J4nXLoEmQt2JiR8SXuGp83nRH8QrkxEuStXftRNuwBT9JHjpfT_gS6vITm6SOnqQ_18kHRG4IuY9Gwe2hrekAShZC_DsTIZY_ZN3rC_9ja08AbVVeyA4uMPX2vaEfjAKCCekUrLEkIE/s640/P1010312.JPG" width="480" /></a> </div>
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Special little touches like home grown roses on each table</div>
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just add to the joy.</div>
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Our favourite place to go for breakfast on a Sunday morning. </div>
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Sitting on the verandah with the Sunday papers, scrambled eggs and a cappuccino - </div>
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<i>the troubles of the world seem to disappear!</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSORaoxmQwpKfCv9og0FFTmMJm9hN60qvIGYreoJzx1FFAS7G_wp3LCrG5jxUphlVWg9Dc0jwvYKtxfEdK_C4gqIOLbbe0UyOpzdjMHrFfpv1ZfFayV6JwalMVvMSy0jPEDANydVY_ANk/s1600/P1010322.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSORaoxmQwpKfCv9og0FFTmMJm9hN60qvIGYreoJzx1FFAS7G_wp3LCrG5jxUphlVWg9Dc0jwvYKtxfEdK_C4gqIOLbbe0UyOpzdjMHrFfpv1ZfFayV6JwalMVvMSy0jPEDANydVY_ANk/s640/P1010322.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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A wander around the beautiful gardens......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3urHPSmtnsSOarHYyMpEPQkUwqJ4DP2fyZ00tsXmaOyBelb9rojjNJuGe1cSTaHwNJwiuHfKAyCJZE0zrDxgx02YDYZivdV4DwVxpNGnkRPJNsB2bUCqLwW5n7bB4tyDXlvqCttLhO4Q/s1600/P1010323.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3urHPSmtnsSOarHYyMpEPQkUwqJ4DP2fyZ00tsXmaOyBelb9rojjNJuGe1cSTaHwNJwiuHfKAyCJZE0zrDxgx02YDYZivdV4DwVxpNGnkRPJNsB2bUCqLwW5n7bB4tyDXlvqCttLhO4Q/s640/P1010323.JPG" width="640" /> </a><br />
and a chance to sit for a while.... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCovBMrfcet2HmJ6T0lMuzhT2qikj__P2rfQb36BpTtPdD_SnLfR9PWTdIG-hTrCCHBQJiK3dW3XxjvqDVI1Wk-zKz6xEMVH5SJj-x0VNMkAyJiOAPtyoJ3xQobLXoZqWX0lbDKTglXg/s1600/P1010325.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCovBMrfcet2HmJ6T0lMuzhT2qikj__P2rfQb36BpTtPdD_SnLfR9PWTdIG-hTrCCHBQJiK3dW3XxjvqDVI1Wk-zKz6xEMVH5SJj-x0VNMkAyJiOAPtyoJ3xQobLXoZqWX0lbDKTglXg/s640/P1010325.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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and admire the Tibouchina.</div>
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It truly is what I imagine heaven must be like!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(and.... can I let you in on a little secret)</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANnpQiVmm78R8ySz0BNPt7_6BrLXlAiaBEUGsexqA2zJQYYIi9oORQKF9QdxkXwDbTyDEYGHQbMyXFYjaqyg9SQc49ejb-qSY9LI2k4HAzXs7xD3Gg7vjRJJwJvzOiR0VG-N_NQYklSc/s1600/P1010324.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhANnpQiVmm78R8ySz0BNPt7_6BrLXlAiaBEUGsexqA2zJQYYIi9oORQKF9QdxkXwDbTyDEYGHQbMyXFYjaqyg9SQc49ejb-qSY9LI2k4HAzXs7xD3Gg7vjRJJwJvzOiR0VG-N_NQYklSc/s640/P1010324.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kendall and I reckon this would be the perfect spot for a wedding. Shhh....(don't we Kendall?)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Anyway</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">So glad to have been able to show you this beautiful</span> little corner of my world. </div>
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Please call back again next week for another little</div>
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"Postcard from Home"</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Happy travels everyone! </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" padding="0" src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; border: 0px none; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-83281054163034779272012-02-14T19:20:00.000+10:002012-02-14T19:20:32.593+10:00What makes a Happy Marriage<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SZZHJ_XkXmSf4ze0X6RxICNwX6plHXej3Nyzkj24NP541LVy5ss91cI2kPmUKXOluULN3YIPBmgP0kY7Lkp4TWfEb8fxm5TWvxqdziRR0vBbQ5HGIUcCAMPZhjdQ60VhuXVcXNLm8qo/s1600/10479no71a6gi1k.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SZZHJ_XkXmSf4ze0X6RxICNwX6plHXej3Nyzkj24NP541LVy5ss91cI2kPmUKXOluULN3YIPBmgP0kY7Lkp4TWfEb8fxm5TWvxqdziRR0vBbQ5HGIUcCAMPZhjdQ60VhuXVcXNLm8qo/s400/10479no71a6gi1k.jpg" width="400" /> </a><br />
I don't pretend to know what makes a happy marriage.<br />
<br />
However after 37 years, I would say that it really does have a lot to do with<br />
(a) picking the right person; and<br />
<br />
(b)<i> a lot of hard work!</i><br />
<br />
I also think these 3 littles tips from <a href="http://www.realage.com/blogs/doctor-oz-roizen/how-to-have-a-happy-marriage?src=edit&chan=action-plans&con=flipbook&click=related">Drs Mehmet Oz and Michael Roizen</a><br />
make a lot of sense. </div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Spend lots of time alone together. </strong>Make time to do things as a couple, not just as a family. It's crucial for rekindling love and affection.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>When things get tense, tap your sense of humor. </strong>Conflicts
are inevitable in any marriage, but if you remember to laugh about
them, it helps you work through the tension and reconnect</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Talk in bed. </strong>You might think that's the second-best
thing you can do there. But just talking every night in that quiet,
intimate setting allows you to bond even more deeply. </span></li>
</ul>
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</div>
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</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Good to be reminded. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Valentines Day.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" padding="0" src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px;" /></a><br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: CENTER;">
<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; border: 0px none; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-53060100763109086922012-02-11T08:30:00.013+10:002012-02-18T11:33:28.771+10:00Postcards from Home - Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5FavRvdFNlXeNDOkzlGXdHKr27WcKNPy8Ay9lWdDBPRUNdzP9to5GJ8FkxzxTY4ukZh6iUfJYplq3VCkpC_RvYqSeS8oPYN0AcPVT9d7wX5OcrC60At5Cxfwd3Hu2pQoABKpSKxnfMc/s1600/paris01.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5FavRvdFNlXeNDOkzlGXdHKr27WcKNPy8Ay9lWdDBPRUNdzP9to5GJ8FkxzxTY4ukZh6iUfJYplq3VCkpC_RvYqSeS8oPYN0AcPVT9d7wX5OcrC60At5Cxfwd3Hu2pQoABKpSKxnfMc/s1600/paris01.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>It seems hard to imagine now.... </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> </i>However there was a time when travel (particularly overseas travel) was only really</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for the rich and famous.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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As a young child growing up in inner city Sydney - holidays for us were very few and far between.</div>
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Dad and Mum were both kept pretty busy in our family business and there was just simply not the </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
time (or money) to go traipsing off on long, exotic holidays. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My father's sister however was an exception. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Auntie Val was a woman ahead of her times.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A single career woman in her thirties - every year she would jet off <span style="font-size: x-small;">(or maybe that should be "fly" off - jets might not have been invented then?)</span> <span style="font-size: small;">to places like Fiji, Singapore, Tokyo, Greece. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">She was my childhood idol. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I longed for the time when I would be able to travel to faraway places.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">The Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids, Big Ben, New York - I used to dream of visiting these places. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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"<i>One day</i>" I promised myself - "<i>I'm going to travel the world just like Auntie Val</i>"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The fact that I never got to fulfill my childhood dreams until I was fifty - well, that's another story!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">In the meantime I survived on Postcards!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Postcards that Auntie Val would send; postcards that my parent's friends would send; </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">and then much later on - postcards that work colleagues and childhood friends would send. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Just gazing at those scenes of far off places - made me feel like I was really there.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Transported me to another time.... another place. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">So for all those people (just like me) who long to travel and visit new and interesting places - </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have decided to put together this little series called :</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Postcards from Home"</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am so fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful places in Australia and this is my </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">opportunity to share some of the beauty of this region - </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">all without leaving the comfort of your PC or laptop!</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>First up</i> - an hour's drive north from my little spot here in the valley is the </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
quaint little seaside village of Port Douglas......</div>
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</div>
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and this is the gorgeous </div>
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St Mary's by the Sea</div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidtKAqk_a3GenAHbapqfgZ35v-jj4MC9V_rcU-JLzCY486hA7OjwI-dF3ccPlYI7tr6VG8QWmDU_LbGoX23RhkKMwF5qjur4sScEYEEw6LWiQNpYeIvyBl5acCrQKU5tzQPbnh4i83Gss/s1600/P1020938.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidtKAqk_a3GenAHbapqfgZ35v-jj4MC9V_rcU-JLzCY486hA7OjwI-dF3ccPlYI7tr6VG8QWmDU_LbGoX23RhkKMwF5qjur4sScEYEEw6LWiQNpYeIvyBl5acCrQKU5tzQPbnh4i83Gss/s640/P1020938.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Surrounded by palms, crotons, cordylines and exotic gingers</div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2NTlKj9Q6JjecZPZ6onrDsWzCT-C4zRlmcsMxQvT2_Lss5n-3HgPJ0EHjL_mIm7Gd3b9RUMXtWKCFZ-aQZauwVZY0J5UQa4mgju0vZ8uN_EkcAzhSuPIcJ14BNHlRf0SyU_CDv_RETFg/s1600/P1020939.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2NTlKj9Q6JjecZPZ6onrDsWzCT-C4zRlmcsMxQvT2_Lss5n-3HgPJ0EHjL_mIm7Gd3b9RUMXtWKCFZ-aQZauwVZY0J5UQa4mgju0vZ8uN_EkcAzhSuPIcJ14BNHlRf0SyU_CDv_RETFg/s640/P1020939.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Built in the 1940's - a gorgeous example of tropical ecclesiastical architecture</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjokRa0MVIY80SvrIIFc5ZpuHQND1VbU3g_nqvALrpp9WhYjdRYqQfKgZ3IIdTQ0bu080jYb2IrnUNNoH4CxQG8u9v3jdxDPt-Ad-PL5lkd0uqAs95oqXyDjf1Hvzz5cJObGOcfIekcx_E/s1600/P1020940.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjokRa0MVIY80SvrIIFc5ZpuHQND1VbU3g_nqvALrpp9WhYjdRYqQfKgZ3IIdTQ0bu080jYb2IrnUNNoH4CxQG8u9v3jdxDPt-Ad-PL5lkd0uqAs95oqXyDjf1Hvzz5cJObGOcfIekcx_E/s640/P1020940.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Weddings, baptisms, worship....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This little church is kept extremely busy</div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP7p-H4_AN2LraDoAnFFMrgOfBneHjFSudm5STF6cUCUwM9d3VKf6BhgCVUGWJoH3SRPcLqzCXh5cQjobOCZmBdl3oFjhKROMqkfeafa3bBT5z4Y5tNJtdiJxDXXwXLpNc6qfcLNIpbaw/s1600/P1020943.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP7p-H4_AN2LraDoAnFFMrgOfBneHjFSudm5STF6cUCUwM9d3VKf6BhgCVUGWJoH3SRPcLqzCXh5cQjobOCZmBdl3oFjhKROMqkfeafa3bBT5z4Y5tNJtdiJxDXXwXLpNc6qfcLNIpbaw/s640/P1020943.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And just look at this view from the pulpit!</div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyZn9MG5eEplxpMYEydVjMNMc0Y_iqHKZYk5teg91GtQQY5I_HFmP2ubfNEMVj5dYPCFUkkm9tJyoghpdWNj3992fxk8IVBNuIv4x-8QRR8tWK44qY_AVcDBvMDVYgj__wrtQz7wDgS4/s1600/P1020944.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyZn9MG5eEplxpMYEydVjMNMc0Y_iqHKZYk5teg91GtQQY5I_HFmP2ubfNEMVj5dYPCFUkkm9tJyoghpdWNj3992fxk8IVBNuIv4x-8QRR8tWK44qY_AVcDBvMDVYgj__wrtQz7wDgS4/s640/P1020944.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The soaring ceilings, leadlight windows </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and of course, the obligatory ceiling fans.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It is the tropics afterall!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqnC8PIzETRP3MneudJiKMYhHaKFdppflYIm8L9hy7EQ-wxAFGAkV2Wl4J53OVPHfX1_qJfgDWgRMemjeQnPW_0hGH4PVxH3W-gMiWU22jCQRJZmwdiTv02KtN2bz7MiDlnPsgaGnC3es/s1600/P1020945.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqnC8PIzETRP3MneudJiKMYhHaKFdppflYIm8L9hy7EQ-wxAFGAkV2Wl4J53OVPHfX1_qJfgDWgRMemjeQnPW_0hGH4PVxH3W-gMiWU22jCQRJZmwdiTv02KtN2bz7MiDlnPsgaGnC3es/s640/P1020945.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Row upon row of highly polished mahogany pews against crisp white walls and timber </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
flooring. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUdsj3KObyo-XX94pgyCaSFL5Zhz8Pi9H1XQskRMblkM3VmXWYjtnbBILegsraXV5sMCFDcMaN2vIxLNLRIYdP3QrV6M49_sEH2WyzDQ32i5ovYxqYmasnQhubcEKW1uqu-2jAdnraZ8/s1600/P1020946.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUdsj3KObyo-XX94pgyCaSFL5Zhz8Pi9H1XQskRMblkM3VmXWYjtnbBILegsraXV5sMCFDcMaN2vIxLNLRIYdP3QrV6M49_sEH2WyzDQ32i5ovYxqYmasnQhubcEKW1uqu-2jAdnraZ8/s640/P1020946.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This surely must be one of the most beautiful little churches in Australia!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Please call back again next week for another little</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Postcard from Home"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Happy travels everyone! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" padding="0" src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-54090560562720051702012-02-04T22:31:00.002+10:002012-02-07T05:50:13.648+10:00Time to Dust Off the Cobwebs<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1jA2y46Ne7TLmPMfGkfx-bVhsJ22yAtwVjKQwGfdmlc2NPq8qNECmfFc8_qklxgHrxaDfBww5dC7Sm1-0k8Pw9nIUBbcBkIPFewxOEhJuGdjRNDn4sSi9ctXJ9ry-fhnX4s32CFLlmw/s1600/4790hhw7iz66h4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1jA2y46Ne7TLmPMfGkfx-bVhsJ22yAtwVjKQwGfdmlc2NPq8qNECmfFc8_qklxgHrxaDfBww5dC7Sm1-0k8Pw9nIUBbcBkIPFewxOEhJuGdjRNDn4sSi9ctXJ9ry-fhnX4s32CFLlmw/s1600/4790hhw7iz66h4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source:freedigitalphotos.net/</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Enough is enough!<br />
<br />
Time to brush off the cobwebs and get this blog back into action.<br />
<br />
I can't believe it has been almost 4 weeks since my last post.<br />
Where have those weeks gone?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Can I let you in on a little secret? </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I did have a thought that perhaps this little blog had run its race and </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">that maybe it was time to <i>close the door.............</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">But I know just how much I would miss it.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have<i> finally</i> come to realise that this blog truly feeds my soul and gives me something </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">to aspire to. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It allows me to dream big dreams, indulge my creativity, share my joy</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> and then put it all on paper to share with whoever may be </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">passing by. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Without it</i> - I know I would not have the incentive to try different things or discover new projects. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The days would simply merge from one to another without any real </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">sense of achievement or accomplishment. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is what keeps me alive and fresh and current. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Who would have thought a little ol' blog could do all that!) </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><i> </i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i><span style="font-size: small;">So I have given my header a bit of a revamp -</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Revealed my face for all to see <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Hmm... I kinda liked hiding behind that kookaburra!)</span> - </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">and </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Injected some re-newed energy into these ramblings.</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Hi everyone</i> - can't wait to see what you have all been up to. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It feels good to be back!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="border: 0px none currentcolor;" /></a>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-47173225015460557802012-01-09T18:52:00.000+10:002012-02-18T19:27:42.655+10:00Put a Little Twinkle in your Life<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotJ79Bor_LqMt9YxaD_Q2lpT7iB_nikIJ24zX-wjK9pSmmfVGocm5OP5tUSPhi3phJsCYa5X4EC1V11xVJssy_eCvQ_7tYsyNvJBO4v-QhaKRQqjce9Hg0YIRutpbCjKh67U_9Z-BqPY/s1600/P1020950.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotJ79Bor_LqMt9YxaD_Q2lpT7iB_nikIJ24zX-wjK9pSmmfVGocm5OP5tUSPhi3phJsCYa5X4EC1V11xVJssy_eCvQ_7tYsyNvJBO4v-QhaKRQqjce9Hg0YIRutpbCjKh67U_9Z-BqPY/s640/P1020950.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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Here's a super easy little project I put together over the Christmas holidays using my ever growing stash of "used" candle jars.</div>
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This little display of twinkling tea light lanterns positively lit up our festive season and provided the perfect backdrop for long leisurely family dinners out on the verandah.</div>
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Now I make no excuse for the fact that I am an absolute candleholic! Along with fresh flowers - scented candles are the one thing I cannot live without. </div>
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Glasshouse Candles are my absolute favourite.</div>
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At the moment beautiful "Miami" with its unmistakable pomelo and grapefruit fragrance is wafting its way through the house. Ah, bliss.....</div>
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A vase of flowers and a scented candle - <i>all is well in my world!</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5Vp9T64FOqDNuAY1Ubk8alkFLFRREmiLXGkgkWyAmFW2rpgLgI45q7FMLdWvfxpkEQhdAjKJQNg9zaBRpGWoEbJybAuro77SNcKmOiBMAHxg_0Y0P9t2CKlptgIoSI9bzMxaE6EPHZ8/s1600/P1020951.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5Vp9T64FOqDNuAY1Ubk8alkFLFRREmiLXGkgkWyAmFW2rpgLgI45q7FMLdWvfxpkEQhdAjKJQNg9zaBRpGWoEbJybAuro77SNcKmOiBMAHxg_0Y0P9t2CKlptgIoSI9bzMxaE6EPHZ8/s640/P1020951.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Equally as beautiful (and a good bit cheaper!) are the range of Glade scented candles which are available in most supermarkets. </div>
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I usually have a couple of these on the go as well. </div>
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"Vanilla" - "Wild Raspberry" - positively scrumptious!</div>
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Problem is - what to do with the jars once the candles have finished burning?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidfVUy2jIGG6Sjt_zPHHxEe-F4ans5LtzzU1S4NYCTEA2Ir3rXG1SuO1crBMM9uprpwn_iRk8RKlXtZ5Fas_PJ3yn2QK7izrYQz-XshZvYN29MTqUlI-NNsfAc5VfJC-fz8mXQGY8Lso/s1600/P1020959.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidfVUy2jIGG6Sjt_zPHHxEe-F4ans5LtzzU1S4NYCTEA2Ir3rXG1SuO1crBMM9uprpwn_iRk8RKlXtZ5Fas_PJ3yn2QK7izrYQz-XshZvYN29MTqUlI-NNsfAc5VfJC-fz8mXQGY8Lso/s640/P1020959.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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So this is where my little tea light lantern project was hatched. </div>
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I have put together this tutorial as a perfect New Year recycling project. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4SapAY5wofsJlAOj7YmzFodSGCpJB-Uh7I77euW5zpjYoYksNrwn79ue1tchhcnEupPGxATPuUpiVXwEs3mHIMfWO9UvHppkyCrKT_zA09rZX9a91VihQSzMY9bd0c-T8zzgdDPS3NAs/s1600/P1020960.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4SapAY5wofsJlAOj7YmzFodSGCpJB-Uh7I77euW5zpjYoYksNrwn79ue1tchhcnEupPGxATPuUpiVXwEs3mHIMfWO9UvHppkyCrKT_zA09rZX9a91VihQSzMY9bd0c-T8zzgdDPS3NAs/s640/P1020960.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Step 1</span> : So for this project you will need an empty candle jar (or 2 or 3); wire; jute (string); pair of pliers/wire cutters; scissors, tealight candle. (<span style="font-size: x-small;">Gosh - my father's old pliers look positively antique!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaQSa8dMQVDxkE_4oW_EeQ1zAvDa5-27a0_Zh5584_PpDp8ecQipVcaNIjw0oMwcUkH8tuF4fIY9ou6t1BS_8N_ZkrQ6GYzl9opux0g4cj2fkDuviqJb-4Vh-63mGyCN3biMJ0kbbjHdk/s1600/P1020964.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaQSa8dMQVDxkE_4oW_EeQ1zAvDa5-27a0_Zh5584_PpDp8ecQipVcaNIjw0oMwcUkH8tuF4fIY9ou6t1BS_8N_ZkrQ6GYzl9opux0g4cj2fkDuviqJb-4Vh-63mGyCN3biMJ0kbbjHdk/s640/P1020964.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Step 2</span> : Cut a piece of wire long enough to wrap around the base of your jar and cross over at the side. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPHjsNyeRzkXkZqnrQr6RfTGLPSrjKwNqfse5sHvdCe9hVFbKDkrRwlF5LDz-8RdFOEjzRpF-SCM56X1WczwqO3eZkAHZ1kfR1UCrNQuHC2knBD5_jDBbOEwzk0ZBw108j9Qp6XZYnwM/s1600/P1020965.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJPHjsNyeRzkXkZqnrQr6RfTGLPSrjKwNqfse5sHvdCe9hVFbKDkrRwlF5LDz-8RdFOEjzRpF-SCM56X1WczwqO3eZkAHZ1kfR1UCrNQuHC2knBD5_jDBbOEwzk0ZBw108j9Qp6XZYnwM/s640/P1020965.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Step 3</span> : Grab your pliers and twist the wire until the wire is firmly secured around the base of the jar. <br />
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<i>Tip : Because the jar is slightly tapered, i.e. smaller circumference at the bottom than the top - if you secure it firmly at the base it won't slip up over the top of the jar. </i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUH85oxijPtejbHvooca3tNOsOLUMINRvWdgADwDHIbLEYr8fyvztScHhyphenhyphendvceCWe0qdolWTEcLgsh9gpNDTfR0zRQIy91BhmAjxCAmDrieAFp9AqP2cOTM4Gd0lVPoWH0wX7GJMlRJmY/s1600/P1020966.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUH85oxijPtejbHvooca3tNOsOLUMINRvWdgADwDHIbLEYr8fyvztScHhyphenhyphendvceCWe0qdolWTEcLgsh9gpNDTfR0zRQIy91BhmAjxCAmDrieAFp9AqP2cOTM4Gd0lVPoWH0wX7GJMlRJmY/s640/P1020966.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Step 4</span> : Snip off an excess wire with a pair of wire cutters and then twist your little wire knot slightly towards the top. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dcPdHEh6UCQ2BGpQjXPCPIai7c3NoWoOUpI-RMnt3Dwv_3utzDkFbqNIRZGu04xBG0_725MpxMDisB5eO04gJ1OV_I3IXEVkfMboxKJ5H70shNbtVU1EsfhOaZ-Vg9zentZoeIJG3Pc/s1600/P1020967.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dcPdHEh6UCQ2BGpQjXPCPIai7c3NoWoOUpI-RMnt3Dwv_3utzDkFbqNIRZGu04xBG0_725MpxMDisB5eO04gJ1OV_I3IXEVkfMboxKJ5H70shNbtVU1EsfhOaZ-Vg9zentZoeIJG3Pc/s640/P1020967.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Step 5</span> : Cut 3 lengths of jute/string depending on how long you want your lanterns to hang. I staggered mine so that some lanterns were slightly shorter than others. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Hmm... not sure about the colour? of this string but it was all I could find at the time and it does look slightly festive looking - don't you think?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixSthPCn4SsbGFTrOJeNOZKM0Kiqmc8YOhpyYtCz2q_0BUK6LU2SICEZmsQn8HWdY121QsVLeodGP8Bo9BRpPVLANsniy6IhaAeKqy8KPs1vW7SpQESYUy42SETVumvfweQRj8ExDLuCU/s1600/P1020970.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixSthPCn4SsbGFTrOJeNOZKM0Kiqmc8YOhpyYtCz2q_0BUK6LU2SICEZmsQn8HWdY121QsVLeodGP8Bo9BRpPVLANsniy6IhaAeKqy8KPs1vW7SpQESYUy42SETVumvfweQRj8ExDLuCU/s640/P1020970.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Step 6:</span> Remove the wire cradle from the jar and tie lengths of string equi-distant around the circumference of the cradle. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PYtO1B5WJAhh4bjFXMcTBBP2iF7g5B8cxAqEOJuTSctykTmPxP8VSmYA26cBKL2PAImCOV0Gnre6m67RhQeWn-nbdWdc2mmzM6SasONVt9BMaxc7Bie-0EVwiC5t3PEvaerlJjTDPQ0/s1600/P1020971.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PYtO1B5WJAhh4bjFXMcTBBP2iF7g5B8cxAqEOJuTSctykTmPxP8VSmYA26cBKL2PAImCOV0Gnre6m67RhQeWn-nbdWdc2mmzM6SasONVt9BMaxc7Bie-0EVwiC5t3PEvaerlJjTDPQ0/s640/P1020971.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Step 7</span> : Place your jar back in its wire cradle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_vRLxIbaqYnM3eo0sw3Zcu1W5iWiA1Co5liXoH2PE_8BG5PDoSLsFIlFHFPHr6r1xrQTQeqp3afe91amCUTGtId8in5rt4Zm1Oo3UhAOCBSD92MkioJY-YM7ae0ojDZ4_ATRejY9c8I/s1600/P1020972.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif_vRLxIbaqYnM3eo0sw3Zcu1W5iWiA1Co5liXoH2PE_8BG5PDoSLsFIlFHFPHr6r1xrQTQeqp3afe91amCUTGtId8in5rt4Zm1Oo3UhAOCBSD92MkioJY-YM7ae0ojDZ4_ATRejY9c8I/s640/P1020972.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Step 8</span> : Now gather your lengths of string together and hold at the top. Lift off your surface to make sure it is hanging straight. Adjust your string lengths if needed. (Last thing you want is a crooked candle!) <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_gk4MjYOsiEAH-7ieFm3gd01QvIvapOdFgY7o7PVF4KgiMyloBF_2mkveuSO_vNU86kPTNguueHYjSgMaz9UWn-q3zDscHjjkUexIZfyuh2eSPQuq3-dFIlUaH8rM-B4mIqTAPqwEb0/s1600/P1020973.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_gk4MjYOsiEAH-7ieFm3gd01QvIvapOdFgY7o7PVF4KgiMyloBF_2mkveuSO_vNU86kPTNguueHYjSgMaz9UWn-q3zDscHjjkUexIZfyuh2eSPQuq3-dFIlUaH8rM-B4mIqTAPqwEb0/s640/P1020973.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Step 9</span>: Once you are happy that your lantern is hanging straight - tie a knot with the three lengths of string around 5-10 cm from the end. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg432NngIpzRfV2soybCsxKN9NhmpFpxWsW2QQx1gOvKDoDA-InBKTmpSWH3oSoPL5zAkYD41CHLtdVFI3FL2uGfx1MEiDbnINTwgLz189WzU6M1iDxQscNirAAOUhrYrU54SSl5JPvu8/s1600/P1020975.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg432NngIpzRfV2soybCsxKN9NhmpFpxWsW2QQx1gOvKDoDA-InBKTmpSWH3oSoPL5zAkYD41CHLtdVFI3FL2uGfx1MEiDbnINTwgLz189WzU6M1iDxQscNirAAOUhrYrU54SSl5JPvu8/s640/P1020975.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Step 10</span> : Then tie another knot right at the end. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3jiOddOtoTwJYlYoKfEv1XMa-NJYGdTsbYtNv5-d_wVxRmZw0r-ahmuJ5cytZpyz8LXBlv2pAU7LTqTRP4OeiaEar7pyh3Vphdalbr-kIu-QGmVu7_nmVhMh2z-3GGEKl99Q14_SHfo/s1600/P1020976.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3jiOddOtoTwJYlYoKfEv1XMa-NJYGdTsbYtNv5-d_wVxRmZw0r-ahmuJ5cytZpyz8LXBlv2pAU7LTqTRP4OeiaEar7pyh3Vphdalbr-kIu-QGmVu7_nmVhMh2z-3GGEKl99Q14_SHfo/s640/P1020976.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Step 11</span> : Snip off the excess string </div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQf-2wwek2P8TijbZORAx0H6msQuK-m_UycQDJYjtUgUh7rm58mIE7xAnn8QUNjZt64ZBymlDZl_g2P1j0MBV_jOe46lBCZVIrvZM7n7QpQ46rn3iTzLnNTWBzq5W0cn9ketUx2Y6dbk/s1600/P1020978.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQf-2wwek2P8TijbZORAx0H6msQuK-m_UycQDJYjtUgUh7rm58mIE7xAnn8QUNjZt64ZBymlDZl_g2P1j0MBV_jOe46lBCZVIrvZM7n7QpQ46rn3iTzLnNTWBzq5W0cn9ketUx2Y6dbk/s640/P1020978.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Step 12</span> : Grab your tea light. (I picked up a box of 100 tea lights from Target for $7)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSl7IOWpMlC8giMnUUgTQh9o-XNzGU4SvwLpPDNxlTRrjt6uBzxGZCSUWKVCEtOaWjIgUTyK-TtQZLuEd2F7Ja5ks1f0eFyNp1oz_CBE7gp0dMizlo14tIvopFk0FVsM9UQzVDQIdwr7c/s1600/P1020977.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSl7IOWpMlC8giMnUUgTQh9o-XNzGU4SvwLpPDNxlTRrjt6uBzxGZCSUWKVCEtOaWjIgUTyK-TtQZLuEd2F7Ja5ks1f0eFyNp1oz_CBE7gp0dMizlo14tIvopFk0FVsM9UQzVDQIdwr7c/s640/P1020977.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Step 13</span> : Place tea light in the base of the jar. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhWEoOz5DmneA1XejtdMYqEwlQURSkuVS8ZoxUNv2UhHuI84VOR7HbKeWUmq9vBNWHExkgaUbJr_SyHXVuGnYxyH0obKIe6sfMgssULCWbSwdIQ4BS9dBlwmF7x_G0TG450Wf6978HZe8/s1600/P1020979.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhWEoOz5DmneA1XejtdMYqEwlQURSkuVS8ZoxUNv2UhHuI84VOR7HbKeWUmq9vBNWHExkgaUbJr_SyHXVuGnYxyH0obKIe6sfMgssULCWbSwdIQ4BS9dBlwmF7x_G0TG450Wf6978HZe8/s640/P1020979.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
Step 14 : Secure (between the two end knots) to a nail or hook. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Yes,</span> t<span style="font-size: x-small;">hat is a jungle out there!</span><br />
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And then once dusk comes.......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8kuY6k1t3yV779qz-27MEy4RHT9E2lQkjZQV0NhDEvUy08h4kS4_6ABDE5wao1s6VE8nsUWqw6pbcnP4sVnTObaD_ld93E9QV2R5EOeHMFY85c9tKFDbrOaU9f3YlyClSykAAx9GE5w4/s1600/P1020949.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8kuY6k1t3yV779qz-27MEy4RHT9E2lQkjZQV0NhDEvUy08h4kS4_6ABDE5wao1s6VE8nsUWqw6pbcnP4sVnTObaD_ld93E9QV2R5EOeHMFY85c9tKFDbrOaU9f3YlyClSykAAx9GE5w4/s640/P1020949.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Light up and enjoy! </div>
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(I love my little lanterns so much that they are staying up ALL year).</div>
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I hope you manage to get a little twinkle in your life in 2012!</div>
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<center><a href="http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Funky Junk's Saturday Nite Special" border="0" src="http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/signmakergirl/satnitenew150w-1.jpg" /></a></center>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-62548619027505956952012-01-06T06:46:00.000+10:002012-02-07T05:50:13.653+10:00Hard to Let Go<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfIo4mEkF0jh4spPLT0UlS4OwR8DgVd5eykqV3LXq8XqMUXkVQtBw6CZP8iR_dbAtIRWlFPL4WbmuE7L3BY35_Lag_hBEBbSyyzH2ti9X8PTXPt3vk1cIKirjhIcvMT4elfQK8lR1WK8/s1600/2012-01-05.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfIo4mEkF0jh4spPLT0UlS4OwR8DgVd5eykqV3LXq8XqMUXkVQtBw6CZP8iR_dbAtIRWlFPL4WbmuE7L3BY35_Lag_hBEBbSyyzH2ti9X8PTXPt3vk1cIKirjhIcvMT4elfQK8lR1WK8/s640/2012-01-05.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Well, the time has finally come!</div>
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Time to take down the decorations and pack them away for another year. </div>
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Time to put an end to the procrastinating.</div>
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<em>Why do I find it so hard to let go?</em></div>
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To be honest - I have been in two minds about continuing with this little blog in 2012. </div>
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My blogging mojo seems to have taken a bit of a battering over the holidays.</div>
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Surprising really - because the creative juices have been well and truly in overdrive these past couple of weeks and my "To Do" list (which was looking rather daunting at the start of the holidays) is now looking extremely achievable. Yah!</div>
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I have had heaps I could have blogged about - but for whatever reason - <em>couldn't be bothered really</em>. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Come on Sharyne - snap out of it!)</span></div>
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On top of all this - Picasa 3 seems to have had a bit of a hissy spack attack over the holidays and now all my photos seem to have disappeared!!??##</div>
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Hmmm....time for a deep breath and reawakening of some positive energy. </div>
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Time to re-energise this little blog and get going. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(I know just how much I would really miss you if you were no longer around.)</span> <br />
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Time to take down the festive header and put up some new photos (luckily I had these ones saved on a USB!)<br />
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Time to re-focus and start making plans.<br />
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Time to start taking lots more photos!!</div>
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<em>Welcome 2012 - can't wait to see what you have in store! </em></div>
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<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"></a></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-30878172909451438872011-12-19T18:22:00.000+10:002011-12-20T07:30:13.349+10:00It's all About the Wrapping<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoBcmKtF0U-6OttikuC-IdekVGpR0AhzFyxiYi7qbsUcmU7K8zFHqQxaQlq3igujGn17fG6wzmyOT_tx49Og3VD2uPahVH7kd-jNTT9IwOHtk0yOE4P9x1cfU19I5S6maTfVsFm7BGNs/s1600/P1020863.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoBcmKtF0U-6OttikuC-IdekVGpR0AhzFyxiYi7qbsUcmU7K8zFHqQxaQlq3igujGn17fG6wzmyOT_tx49Og3VD2uPahVH7kd-jNTT9IwOHtk0yOE4P9x1cfU19I5S6maTfVsFm7BGNs/s640/P1020863.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
There was a time when the wrapping of Christmas gifts was something that was done at flash point speed on Christmas Eve. Safely secured behind closed doors, I would randomly chop through huge rolls of paper - hurriedly wrap it a couple of times around the item in question and then firmly secure it with lengths of masking tape! <br />
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At the height of my "speed" gift wrapping phase I could wrap 8 gifts (and attach gift cards) all during the commercial breaks of the Christmas Eve Carols by Candlelight on Channel 9! These were manic times. <br />
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To this day - Adam, Matthew and Kendall had no idea what I was up to or the production line process that was happening in the bedroom. It was a massive undertaking. <br />
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However the joy in their eyes on Christmas morning when they woke and gazed upon the piles of colourfully wrapped gifts under the tree - is something I will never forget. The fact that the gifts were wrapped in cheap, flimsy paper (literally) held securely with layers of masking tape was of no consequence to them. It was the promise of what lay beneath!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUQ-6o6j3gaotUkm5h5TMKssQqrXdcgmMnWFwxdSdnYS69oJ98wu0rcJBrxs5a-sr5sKFW1T9J-_SXEDPS-OREbD2JF6qTTHYi5wlG04lpptGBdUP8mLl6YJrXu1cCbMrsEYyb-g2mUKA/s1600/P1020864.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUQ-6o6j3gaotUkm5h5TMKssQqrXdcgmMnWFwxdSdnYS69oJ98wu0rcJBrxs5a-sr5sKFW1T9J-_SXEDPS-OREbD2JF6qTTHYi5wlG04lpptGBdUP8mLl6YJrXu1cCbMrsEYyb-g2mUKA/s640/P1020864.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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These days my Christmas gift wrapping is a lot more civilised. </div>
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I delight in deciding the particular theme I am going to use and spend hours carefully folding and turning little rounds of paper to make cute little music rosettes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhom8l8MnP2Ls50ckIY8orrbGP-yADW2-IXS7MbaDe9ogdR9uPdxyg8-AksvYIkYajetI2XuDg3k1_0doQRnDbzG_p5y3KmyDr09lKfKHYom0ciGOEmKGQZCeYAlJ_EZtghCrgIk9XdJ_A/s1600/P1020865.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhom8l8MnP2Ls50ckIY8orrbGP-yADW2-IXS7MbaDe9ogdR9uPdxyg8-AksvYIkYajetI2XuDg3k1_0doQRnDbzG_p5y3KmyDr09lKfKHYom0ciGOEmKGQZCeYAlJ_EZtghCrgIk9XdJ_A/s640/P1020865.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Or gently crocheting gorgeous little twinkle stars to make individual gift cards </div>
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to adorn my (custom designed) gift wrapped gifts. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdi8s_-byqgz9PYz3afshMB2RSgC3Y_A_O8J3DDm1FD8rudgp45Q9DDgf3krks7u7Sh5LwzPAjM_RPzPuOwHXmiLFbcaaSMNsJWs8f6IJwMwv7iAj704RWbyX2crZVcmHL-28nL_L0nfc/s1600/P1020866.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdi8s_-byqgz9PYz3afshMB2RSgC3Y_A_O8J3DDm1FD8rudgp45Q9DDgf3krks7u7Sh5LwzPAjM_RPzPuOwHXmiLFbcaaSMNsJWs8f6IJwMwv7iAj704RWbyX2crZVcmHL-28nL_L0nfc/s640/P1020866.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Even some sheets of pretty card stock and a dab of glitter glue can be turned into unique gift embellishments. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ir38V5goKeOA3OeCXgy9A9MHq7LOXjd244KuPMfbXIfqcwIp9iF1WekUK8lmZoiWxJVX5Psl9it5g0s1PJVDyMBX0RRGGqbKLsInQFz3a8E4mA45EimLJTregA9TZmKJqqI1FHIqIfo/s1600/P1020867.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ir38V5goKeOA3OeCXgy9A9MHq7LOXjd244KuPMfbXIfqcwIp9iF1WekUK8lmZoiWxJVX5Psl9it5g0s1PJVDyMBX0RRGGqbKLsInQFz3a8E4mA45EimLJTregA9TZmKJqqI1FHIqIfo/s640/P1020867.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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With a perfume candle wafting away and Michael Buble gently crooning in the background - this whole gift wrapping process has turned into something............</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_l1ti7r8Nm0U1FwRGePYifgDTPqNnymBv7_5-BlNLGHGEzxopHQ8NwkixGdNwQ2s0k9AwgvI9Q0qTAugVKLXxqNFt8I8jgnXF3wZU4im3egHPBqYSM1G10dWKYVEWA2GwYBtVA67Y-w/s1600/P1020868.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_l1ti7r8Nm0U1FwRGePYifgDTPqNnymBv7_5-BlNLGHGEzxopHQ8NwkixGdNwQ2s0k9AwgvI9Q0qTAugVKLXxqNFt8I8jgnXF3wZU4im3egHPBqYSM1G10dWKYVEWA2GwYBtVA67Y-w/s640/P1020868.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Blissful ..... and calming ......<em> almost therapeutic</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwbHKYySZg5XBNOZNi7-H4q7xdGy8Dwwrvu410mPlFxQ1HdjyWW4WXKK3TDFAIH0b9fM3YQOrPRgHpbZvjKzejHeyUnmcx0md5gcmAE7KyGuVHWjHm4CCmPVb4p_tBWoh2fy_lC9bqCI/s1600/P1020869.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwbHKYySZg5XBNOZNi7-H4q7xdGy8Dwwrvu410mPlFxQ1HdjyWW4WXKK3TDFAIH0b9fM3YQOrPRgHpbZvjKzejHeyUnmcx0md5gcmAE7KyGuVHWjHm4CCmPVb4p_tBWoh2fy_lC9bqCI/s640/P1020869.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<em> Ah yes</em>...... as I dunk another biscotti into my nespresso. </div>
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Hmm......</div>
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But something is missing?</div>
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Something just doesn't feel quite right?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCemfM0Avptl72v3M5GrIZXM3os8aQbRaoxCfJJLbeoIQvCGaRix_JxW9uIf46XbNBzmwF6N1Df7SvQcsHTn7WeVtJHNb_h54ctgi_eE1UCmMm1PUMQVWhJXPhBYgIkAwTairynzvTw0I/s1600/P1020870.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCemfM0Avptl72v3M5GrIZXM3os8aQbRaoxCfJJLbeoIQvCGaRix_JxW9uIf46XbNBzmwF6N1Df7SvQcsHTn7WeVtJHNb_h54ctgi_eE1UCmMm1PUMQVWhJXPhBYgIkAwTairynzvTw0I/s640/P1020870.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<em>Does anyone need a speed wrapper out there?</em></div>
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</div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-75561998177174321672011-12-13T16:38:00.000+10:002011-12-13T20:51:16.346+10:00Best Biscotti Ever!<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvUh6ZOsC7top5MsJzZza4uRL6tud1o75iYtwbKwSqCo970LmykFAkDtOXqzQUC7G8slBqRNXKpEiR-vjqvKurKK-akJbFLUOBocSCy9cVlSjJQYo5AIruo8tysjQjyUdMallsWiNC_Y/s1600/P1020876.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvUh6ZOsC7top5MsJzZza4uRL6tud1o75iYtwbKwSqCo970LmykFAkDtOXqzQUC7G8slBqRNXKpEiR-vjqvKurKK-akJbFLUOBocSCy9cVlSjJQYo5AIruo8tysjQjyUdMallsWiNC_Y/s640/P1020876.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Now that's a bold statement!</div>
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Honestly - this has to be one of the best Almond Biscotti recipes I have EVER tried and I can't believe how simple it is. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UtO9aWqVxtgzAh9YP0q-vJin-ZTvG2kOe1MKzFKASahR2C3rcRnsoVfpsrylvCfvYTH2ua2vgmMcf1h08smkTl4EL5kR3Rm_41DhP7Cl7YV4F1uWbgrK68gTeHueRP0LlwbDF3PbUys/s1600/P1020878.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UtO9aWqVxtgzAh9YP0q-vJin-ZTvG2kOe1MKzFKASahR2C3rcRnsoVfpsrylvCfvYTH2ua2vgmMcf1h08smkTl4EL5kR3Rm_41DhP7Cl7YV4F1uWbgrK68gTeHueRP0LlwbDF3PbUys/s640/P1020878.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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This is the fourth batch I have made in the past 2 weeks. We just can't seem to get enough of it around this place. Crisp and crunchy with just a slight hint of lemon. Perfect for dunking into an espresso or even by itself. </div>
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A perfect Christmas gift - glass jar/ribbon around the top - how easy it that!</div>
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Here's the recipe - <em>full credit to Delicious magazine (May 2004). </em>I can't believe it's taken me this long to find you!<br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Almond Biscotti</span></strong> (Makes about 40)</span><br />
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<strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Ingredients : </span></strong><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">1 cup (220g) caster sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">2 eggs</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Finely grated rind of 1 lemon</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">2 cups (300g) plain flour, sifted</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">1/2 tsp baking power</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">150g whole almonds (leave the skins on) </span><br />
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<strong><span style="color: #38761d;">Method :</span></strong><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Preheat oven to 170 degrees (Celsius). Line a large baking tray with baking paper. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Place sugar, eggs and grated lemon rind in a large bowl. Beat with electric beaters until pale and thick. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Fold in sifted flour, baking power and almonds, then use your hands to lightly knead dough on a floured work surface until the dough is smooth. (It is a little sticky - so just dip your hands into some extra plain flour so that the mixture doesn't stick to your fingers too much.) </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Divide the mixture in half. Form 2 long logs about 25cm long x 5 cm wide and place on prepared baking tray, leaving space between logs. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dough is firm to the touch and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool completely (about an hour). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Preheat the oven to 140 degrees (Celsius). </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Once dough is cool, use a small serrated knife to cut each log on the diagonal in 0.5cm slices. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Lay slices flat on the baking tray and return to oven for 15-20 minutes, turning once, until completely dried out. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Remove from oven and allow to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for 2-3 weeks. (OR 1-2 days in our case!)</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">Yum-O - give it a try. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.</span></div>
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I'm off now to try out this latest batch</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi02OQ1OBCoTa9hGPCaQtP20i-HmAbKyon_rHKFRInNAXFrPShBmn7siKzk73vnbow3sxtB88peSX3Lth9ZgAyszghCf40unBxqupWWk4bYS91vZxveRxMS2EIBKc_zSlWqt0perY2J0Zo/s1600/P1020885.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi02OQ1OBCoTa9hGPCaQtP20i-HmAbKyon_rHKFRInNAXFrPShBmn7siKzk73vnbow3sxtB88peSX3Lth9ZgAyszghCf40unBxqupWWk4bYS91vZxveRxMS2EIBKc_zSlWqt0perY2J0Zo/s640/P1020885.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<em>All the interests of Quality Control of course! </em></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-53139141426529049792011-12-09T20:16:00.010+10:002011-12-09T22:34:58.906+10:00A Tale of Three Cushions<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
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Last day of term - yah!! I can't believe how neglectful I have been of this little blog. The last 4 weeks of the school year have been so incredibly hectic - I have barely had time to even keep track with what my favourite bloggers have been up to let alone find time to actually blog. <br />
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Can't wait to get stuck into all the projects I have planned for the summer holidays. Hopefully I will also be able to find some time for a bit of R&R. and lots of blogland "catch up." <br />
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In the midst of all the end of year craziness however, I did find time to whip up a little trio of cushions to give as Christmas gifts to three of my very favourite work colleagues. I had such fun sorting through my ever growing fabric stash and deciding which fabrics would suit who? In the end, the fabrics <em>spoke</em> to me and the choice became very easy. <br />
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<strong><span style="color: black;">So, let me introduce you to <em>"Michelle" </em></span></strong></div>
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Now a couple of weeks ago I was lucky enough to receive a fabric grab bag from the girls at <strong>Fabric Traders.Co</strong> in response to a blog I posted about their fabulous new on line fabric store. You can read about it <a href="http://goldenvalley50.blogspot.com/2011/11/brown-paper-packages.html">HERE. </a><br />
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Amongst the gorgeous fabrics in the grab bag was this lovely autumn toned floral print which Michelle immediately fell in love with when I did my little "show and tell" at work, after the parcel arrived. I knew immediately what I was going to do with it......<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwOjjClHdkRG77HkVN7Lquv8mCfelQ2q4276dzDWy_1-LP6BPF02emCwxPcJ8rNrp17lYQh5OQElZd3iqCI-2oNM9yY_U2wpU4b3mYTiNXE4ZOY0o5WSuCsv_iHfmEVNjBP_whCP99-uM/s1600/Christmas+Cushions_1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwOjjClHdkRG77HkVN7Lquv8mCfelQ2q4276dzDWy_1-LP6BPF02emCwxPcJ8rNrp17lYQh5OQElZd3iqCI-2oNM9yY_U2wpU4b3mYTiNXE4ZOY0o5WSuCsv_iHfmEVNjBP_whCP99-uM/s640/Christmas+Cushions_1.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
I had just enough for a 16" x 16" front and then backed it with a left over piece of painter's drop cloth (from my dining room chairs project) and added a contrast binding. Aren't these just the most perfect buttons? I couldn't have got a more perfect match. I actually picked them up at Beach Vintage when Kendall and I flew down to see <strong>DOLLY</strong> at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre a couple of weeks ago.<br />
So this truly is a Fabric Traders/Beach Vintage inspired cushion! <em>Thanks heaps Simone and Jodie.</em><br />
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<strong>Next we have <em>"Linda"</em></strong></div>
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There was just something about this pretty blue and yellow fabric that just shouted "Linda" the minute I saw it. <em> Sweet and gentle</em> - just like her. Fortunately she loved it just as much as I hoped she would. </div>
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Again, I had just enough fabric to make a 16" x 16" cushion and trimmed it with a piece of matching stripe (which for some reason strangely reminds me of Bananas in Pyjamas??) The floral and stripe were both Spotlight finds.<br />
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I then sorted through my button tin and found these rather interesting blue buttons. I love the fact that they are mismatched. For a person who lives and breathes symmetry, they were a bit of an odd choice but I'm really happy with the way they look. <br />
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<strong>And finally, we have <em>Julie</em></strong></div>
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This was such a tough one. I adore this gorgeous blue and white fabric (again, from Fabric Traders. Com) and only had <strong>just</strong> enough to make one only cushion. I was <strong>SO</strong> tempted to keep it for myself. Hopefully Julie will get just as much pleasure from it as I did in making it for her.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYCKGVMlEfLSGDkJG9ZLvvxYR9zwRmDeaJVZ1Me4GLs3P-lN8iwKARSMiU-sbF_XcUC7NdhPpFYewlJ9vOySfOL54QzrCtHHnVU9g2wzxKi4IxbbgteVfU3vTvjta7gM4Kw6HS0DF7Gs/s1600/Christmas+Cushions_11.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYCKGVMlEfLSGDkJG9ZLvvxYR9zwRmDeaJVZ1Me4GLs3P-lN8iwKARSMiU-sbF_XcUC7NdhPpFYewlJ9vOySfOL54QzrCtHHnVU9g2wzxKi4IxbbgteVfU3vTvjta7gM4Kw6HS0DF7Gs/s640/Christmas+Cushions_11.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
I think the gorgeous little bobble trim and crisp white buttons really sets it off. It was SO hard to let this one go - but I know it is going to good home. <em>Merry Christmas Julie!</em><br />
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Oh, and by the way........<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs3JqqdGkBHW0fpB9AN0yimup_7VAvR_3DCCw_RJ5N6SJrI1htw_895dtsHD0i1pQLQ1psYv16xcURpRUzPw2U7vkNXOp0BbcjwBeZ0236DNIbhjrDtHwOzeq3DCw1UY0EW_jjt38hhIQ/s1600/P1020862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs3JqqdGkBHW0fpB9AN0yimup_7VAvR_3DCCw_RJ5N6SJrI1htw_895dtsHD0i1pQLQ1psYv16xcURpRUzPw2U7vkNXOp0BbcjwBeZ0236DNIbhjrDtHwOzeq3DCw1UY0EW_jjt38hhIQ/s640/P1020862.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.fabrictraders.com.au/shop/">Fabric Traders.Com</a> are having a little sale at the moment - 17% off for the next 3 days.<br />
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I can <em>hear</em> all those beautiful fabrics calling my name. Yes, you can hear them too!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-20323426311004494852011-11-12T07:18:00.000+10:002011-11-12T18:43:12.011+10:00Three Simple Secrets for a Happy Life<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
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From time to time I come across words of inspiration which really strike a chord with me. The sort of thing that really makes me analyse the way I live my life or respond to those around me. </div>
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Mostly, I keep these thoughts to myself. I choose to do this because often they involve very personal feelings and moments of critical self analysis. Even though I like to think of my blog as a place where I can journal my life (<em>warts and all!)</em> - somehow the idea of completely bearing my vulnerability to the entire world is well....... a little awkward to be perfectly honest. </div>
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In the back of my mind I can also hear Matthew (jokingly) saying to me : <em>"Gee Mum - sounds like you're trying to be Oprah or something!"</em></div>
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However, something I read recently was just so simple and so true that I just had to journal it here. Not just to share with anyone who might happen to stumble across my ramblings but also so that I can have it for ever more. My Mantra for Life.</div>
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It was written by Serge King. Now I have never heard of Serge King? However Mr Google tells me that "<em>Serge King PhD is an author, humanitarian, speaker, scholar and speaker and has published the world's largest selection of books and tapes on Huna, the Polynesian philosophy and practice of effective living, and on the spirit of Aloha, the attitude of love and peace for which the Hawaiian Islands are so famous." </em></div>
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From what I have read, his philosophy on life seems to be very uncomplicated with a good dose of common sense thrown in for good measure. In fact, it's a wonder he hasn't got his own television show somewhere in the world! I just love his Three Simple Simple Secrets for a Happy Life :</div>
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Bless the present</div>
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Trust yourself</div>
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Expect the best</div>
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How powerful are those three little statements? </div>
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Imagine if your lived your life according to them!</div>
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<strong><span style="color: #b4a7d6;">- Bless the Present </span></strong></div>
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In a previous "Oprah" moment (<em>sorry Matthew!)</em> - I did a posting on <a href="http://goldenvalley50.blogspot.com/2011/08/being-present.html">"Being Present".</a> BEING present means that we are aware of the present - not bringing the past in to taint the moment. </div>
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Not worrying about things that haven't happened yet. </div>
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Not focusing on how bad things are, because you are too busy blessing this moment as perfect - for whatever reason. Just because IT IS!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia", "serif"; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 140%;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">‘Drink your tea slowly and reverently, as if it is the axis<br />on which the world earth revolves – slowly, evenly, without<br />rushing toward the future. Live the actual moment.<br />Only this moment is life.’ <strong><span style="font-family: "Georgia", "serif";">~Thich Nhat Hanh</span></strong></span></span></div>
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Anger, resentment, fear, jealousy, disappointment, frustration and other negative emotions are what we bring from the past. They are not relevant to this moment.<br />
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The first time I read this little quote - it was like a real lightbulb moment :- <br />
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<em>"after 3 minutes, whatever happened is in the past and should be let go!" </em></div>
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Yes! Time to embrace where we are now and put an end to all the negative thoughts of the past and future. BE present and in being present - be thankful!</div>
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<span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><strong>-</strong> <strong>Trust Yourself</strong></span></div>
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I have always been a big believer in "listening to that little voice" deep inside me. It was something I also taught my children from when they were very young and over the years they have (individually) related stories to me of how that "little voice" has got them out of some tricky situations. It's a bit like the stories I used to tell Kendall (when she first got her licence) about the dangers of picking up hitchhikers! My stories traumatised her so much that I doubt she would even pick ME up if I was stuck by the side of the road with a flat tyre! </div>
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Have you ever had a sense of KNOWING something is true or the right thing to do? It is almost like an intuitive wisdom. </div>
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I guess that is what "Trusting Yourself" is all about. It really is your truth. It truly is something to treasure. </div>
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<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-family: "Arial", "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong>-<span style="font-size: small;"> Expect the Best</span></strong></span></div>
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My dear Mum's favourite saying used to be "with my luck....," "I'll never win anything". OR "I'm such a Jonah....nothing works out for me". Yet, in so many ways she was one of the most positive people I have ever known.</div>
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There are so many people who succumb to negative thinking. Goodness knows how it has come about or whether they have been so used to using negative language that they can't break the habit. </div>
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Maybe we also only see what we expect to see. </div>
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How much more uplifting would it be if in every situation, in every person, in every relationship - we expected the best!</div>
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I'm definitely going to give it a try. What about you?</div>
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So <em>thank you</em> Serge King. You have given me such a lot to think about and to have it condensed into just 3 simple secrets - quite inspirational.</div>
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<em>and yes, dear family (particularly Matthew!)......... </em></div>
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I will be back to my regular postings about cushions, and flowers, and gardens and Mickey and Buffy and other pretty stuff - </div>
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<em>but maybe tomorrow......</em></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div>
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</div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-86327689325350898152011-11-09T21:53:00.001+10:002011-12-09T22:08:02.341+10:00Brown Paper Packages.....<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS49xkmgiCKygscDoIAiQyq2OKFqHMy9o94DLXce4O9m3KD8V8K9Pdb6MzWwFYyOtZMYtPAViIVe3M8Q2amyEXvIKIDR36Ht3dV4UTXsgzbzeCUdr6HV9uYkCAA-4jdutGZB384sDEzy4/s1600/P1010092.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS49xkmgiCKygscDoIAiQyq2OKFqHMy9o94DLXce4O9m3KD8V8K9Pdb6MzWwFYyOtZMYtPAViIVe3M8Q2amyEXvIKIDR36Ht3dV4UTXsgzbzeCUdr6HV9uYkCAA-4jdutGZB384sDEzy4/s640/P1010092.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>How I love receiving parcels in the mail!</em> </div><br />
The thrill of anticipation as I skipped up the steps of my local Post Office this morning and pressed the little "out of hours" buzzer. It reminds me of exactly how I used to feel as a small child when my Nan (who lived ALL the way away in Sydney!) would send us parcels for Birthdays and Christmas. Her parcels were always wrapped in really thick brown paper and tied securely with jute string with a neat little bow at the back. She had the most beautiful handwriting - a very distinctive backward sloping script with lots of flourishes and scrolls. The sort of writing that you see these days in vintage manuscripts.<br />
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It's amazing how the simple act of collecting a parcel from the Post Office today can evoke such memories of the past. <br />
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So with my Express Post parcel in hand, I couldn't wait to tear open the plastic. <em>Easier said than done I must say - Australia Post are not joking when they say these parcels are tamper proof! </em> <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Yah! What a surprise.....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikMyL3gmMPHKSMqPjuxktaFEbJjgu0PzFJ9t_AMrqrAe3rS60rd_gX4z5Ki0ELUmgPs3xDw_Q-2iz25T5j8Uc7L7e3Hv60VgNX6BUSbMCEI3srWm7-d5to557JgIBU5iIAKj_JDljlr_U/s1600/P1020806.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikMyL3gmMPHKSMqPjuxktaFEbJjgu0PzFJ9t_AMrqrAe3rS60rd_gX4z5Ki0ELUmgPs3xDw_Q-2iz25T5j8Uc7L7e3Hv60VgNX6BUSbMCEI3srWm7-d5to557JgIBU5iIAKj_JDljlr_U/s640/P1020806.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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The gorgeous fabrics I had ordered from the lovely Jody and Simone at <strong><a href="http://www.fabrictraders.com.au/shop/">Fabric Traders.com.au</a></strong> on <strong>Saturday </strong>(last weekend - <em>4 days ago to be exact</em>) had arrived! Talk about <strong>SUPER FAST</strong> delivery. I am so impressed!<br />
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So be honest - ask me "what I did last weekend" and I can tell you most of it was spent pouring over all the amazing fabrics at their fabulous new on line store. I am absolutely smitten with everything they have and had to seriously stop myself from ordering more. (<em>Don't get me started on all the trims and bobble braids and oilcloths - seriously swoon-worthy!)</em><br />
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These little beauties are destined to join my ever increasing cushion collection. As I have said (<em>more than once I am sure!)</em> one can NEVER have <strong>too </strong>many cushions. I am the <a href="http://goldenvalley50.blogspot.com/2011/10/some-cushion-zhushing.html">Queen of over-cushioning</a>!<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFJ3IE3PhWCkmJnXhVR4-dVva6I-BSx3Ck2Paxoxjn9CxenbqvFfntkpEe2VUgRz0Y3v3O_kB1DMAFWWbyUDd2nBDJyFHc1LNTR7bcE0jJu6Yy8QDg_QXrz1ilLlg46vO1oMhLxtGgjc/s1600/P1020803.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFJ3IE3PhWCkmJnXhVR4-dVva6I-BSx3Ck2Paxoxjn9CxenbqvFfntkpEe2VUgRz0Y3v3O_kB1DMAFWWbyUDd2nBDJyFHc1LNTR7bcE0jJu6Yy8QDg_QXrz1ilLlg46vO1oMhLxtGgjc/s640/P1020803.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
Isn't this just Divine! "Normandy White" by Bernatex. I can just see this in my bedroom as part of my new blue and white summer look. (Definitely ordering more!) <br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwWsS2GWDcYEGwjR17OBKzweGmw3Pbq80V-Iyo-8BBYyiwpJ8-OwRI98e5hUoaUBE_mNhlD1D3E8qhzN-YOoSFUKt6kjbbLnuuCu_Ws4Os24nyLMLBqCUeEJgSqEW-Y_7CEh-M1FkAzJc/s1600/P1020804.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwWsS2GWDcYEGwjR17OBKzweGmw3Pbq80V-Iyo-8BBYyiwpJ8-OwRI98e5hUoaUBE_mNhlD1D3E8qhzN-YOoSFUKt6kjbbLnuuCu_Ws4Os24nyLMLBqCUeEJgSqEW-Y_7CEh-M1FkAzJc/s640/P1020804.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
And how about this for a definite pop of red - "Pallazzo Red" by Alexander Henry. This is a beautiful medium weight fabric has a real feel of quality about it. I'm thinking maybe some big white buttons and white binding ?<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgBg0oJo8Fy4fc167k19tvc9vx0dmJDNNVqXjzNeyCpoEXGfo8EkEoDs2-ZBuXmJ0FZQsjtPy0MhggO-SM0Ntf3zNI289PnDherPlgDyHue9KWoKLJpd2ZhWr2btJUh2nO7Zxqp7VM5s/s1600/P1020805.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgBg0oJo8Fy4fc167k19tvc9vx0dmJDNNVqXjzNeyCpoEXGfo8EkEoDs2-ZBuXmJ0FZQsjtPy0MhggO-SM0Ntf3zNI289PnDherPlgDyHue9KWoKLJpd2ZhWr2btJUh2nO7Zxqp7VM5s/s640/P1020805.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
<em>And this would have to be my absolute favourite</em> - "Tres Chic" by Waverly. Truly fabulous! Definitely a candidate for some bobble trim or maybe a gorgeous contrast binding? Love it to bits. I'm thinking it would make a lovely Christmas gift as well - truly unique. <br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmbbZbPvap10scUHpSai01jh2nKh1PAWJzeICE20thG3_h1eykt3cRvvjlD8R79fxCvHfVuHvF2tzgjCFflX6wutC6n_7_piQzh8kXplDoMvdisAeHvmERIEGaIRIeKzzVoP50f2XA7Q/s1600/P1020802.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmbbZbPvap10scUHpSai01jh2nKh1PAWJzeICE20thG3_h1eykt3cRvvjlD8R79fxCvHfVuHvF2tzgjCFflX6wutC6n_7_piQzh8kXplDoMvdisAeHvmERIEGaIRIeKzzVoP50f2XA7Q/s640/P1020802.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thank you so much Jody and Simone.<br />
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Your shop is amazing and your service incredible!<br />
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<em>and thank you also for the $5 discount coupon you very kindly included with my order - </em><br />
<em>Guess what I'll be doing this weekend?...</em><br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-20282119683463976582011-11-06T18:18:00.001+10:002011-11-12T08:40:16.320+10:00It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7O99Vwau2Yvx2CDKBPGu6pMk_2uPwebIiE8B1J84zeKpBkRSTR9cYfAv9ZV3LibflhgkiviNgYwdeXZANaNvVAYHjUkRqakrtcczqNG06OwYlcBlQNCqgEPApAI-zA7fJafu-MpoOzeY/s1600/P1010280.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7O99Vwau2Yvx2CDKBPGu6pMk_2uPwebIiE8B1J84zeKpBkRSTR9cYfAv9ZV3LibflhgkiviNgYwdeXZANaNvVAYHjUkRqakrtcczqNG06OwYlcBlQNCqgEPApAI-zA7fJafu-MpoOzeY/s640/P1010280.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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In some parts of the world, the lead up to Christmas is heralded by a change in the seasons. <br />
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Here in Far North Queensland we have 2 seasons - "the Wet" and "the Dry". "The Wet" usually runs from Oct/Nov to April and the "Dry" May - September/October. </div>
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There is nothing significant to mark the start of the "Wet". One day it is hot and dry and the next.... it's hot and raining (<em>and raining....and raining!.....).</em> That simple really. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LtLqyJbTA_ICPB5YSHvlk-oYQZBDlUJu0j3KY27Z6vxUdp4TaGwnE5VggP0YL9KKbAFWLU67boiWr8BgMh8yHmCPrfSi28U8SHg47RHkshQHKaFypbwXQiST0ai1QB8velMbQ3kE2Gw/s1600/P1020797.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LtLqyJbTA_ICPB5YSHvlk-oYQZBDlUJu0j3KY27Z6vxUdp4TaGwnE5VggP0YL9KKbAFWLU67boiWr8BgMh8yHmCPrfSi28U8SHg47RHkshQHKaFypbwXQiST0ai1QB8velMbQ3kE2Gw/s640/P1020797.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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So instead of a change in seasons - Mother Nature has devised a cunning plan to alert us to the fact that we are fast approaching the end of the year. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9cB2R9FNmL3f17ktVvfhjfjLy2yEpstJeGEskuBQoTtu1cl1DMLgs64MnBUEOCZUyoWSSMPcf8cGRcc6M2kXerJeejcwdYaLfyCQOUnFUGCRSzrBDp6_-SOpspDktdbCLiCdm2vQuxo/s1600/P1020799.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9cB2R9FNmL3f17ktVvfhjfjLy2yEpstJeGEskuBQoTtu1cl1DMLgs64MnBUEOCZUyoWSSMPcf8cGRcc6M2kXerJeejcwdYaLfyCQOUnFUGCRSzrBDp6_-SOpspDktdbCLiCdm2vQuxo/s640/P1020799.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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Just like clockwork - at the beginning of November every year - tiny red specks begin appearing on the magnificent Poinciana trees here in the Valley and by the end of the month the trees are literally dripping in vibrant red/orange blooms.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjur8w1k034CZyfGKVAUT0HBULeH4Cz2VBcv6zTbqgF3B4H5OaTZ51sbyowzQSHEG0cxLlfFswpsYNi3TV8Y4rqMfOh4o-ukIwShADPzfZR3DfKPIXyAr1f-lCZ8c-TIk0leSJHy4rdcp4/s1600/P1020800.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjur8w1k034CZyfGKVAUT0HBULeH4Cz2VBcv6zTbqgF3B4H5OaTZ51sbyowzQSHEG0cxLlfFswpsYNi3TV8Y4rqMfOh4o-ukIwShADPzfZR3DfKPIXyAr1f-lCZ8c-TIk0leSJHy4rdcp4/s640/P1020800.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
When my children were little they used to call them their Christmas trees and used to squeal with excitement to see the footpath covered with petals. <em>"Look... it's snowing!!!" </em>they would say. <br />
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I must admit, there is something quite magical about seeing all those red "snowflakes" fluttering through the air.....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1VALyegG_UbuMluyHVzJx6Y2mdD2ME1cGoC_LF0Li_k-ltP-ziJi2OxQUqTrpcDVd-pJH3sepxY8jFXrm0nlUThbYO9vGZKKgl_9MqBE8RVYkqSNl0JwEoqgARiIyeIqhRNbuFt-S_3o/s1600/P1020795.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1VALyegG_UbuMluyHVzJx6Y2mdD2ME1cGoC_LF0Li_k-ltP-ziJi2OxQUqTrpcDVd-pJH3sepxY8jFXrm0nlUThbYO9vGZKKgl_9MqBE8RVYkqSNl0JwEoqgARiIyeIqhRNbuFt-S_3o/s640/P1020795.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<em>Although I wish someone could have reminded me to shift the car!</em></div>
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<em><br /> </em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihdpKYeTizXy_5Y6sj5Bm3x-OzRJo741BZGuJLs9892IqaOsJXxcN0Uy2SMffXJvDaDwR-wrfhHsi3Ba4wouDaOp1c6zscTlpP9vY-QVoU0o88goS5pRmTZhLsF-_de3VrEV6VCWNh-Nc/s1600/P1020801.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihdpKYeTizXy_5Y6sj5Bm3x-OzRJo741BZGuJLs9892IqaOsJXxcN0Uy2SMffXJvDaDwR-wrfhHsi3Ba4wouDaOp1c6zscTlpP9vY-QVoU0o88goS5pRmTZhLsF-_de3VrEV6VCWNh-Nc/s640/P1020801.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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PS - A big thank you to Michelle and Melissah for becoming my 51st and 52nd followers! <br />
It constantly amazes me that anyone would find my waffle about everyday life here in the Valley very exciting - but Yah! there are now 52 of you. I feel so privileged. <br />
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Thank you ALL for popping by and leaving your little comments - it really does mean a lot to me. <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a><br />
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</div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-82104589046881246012011-10-29T21:36:00.001+10:002011-10-29T22:29:59.987+10:00Some Cushion Zhushing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbLG7Y5e1WZXDKt9pxSmhax6qFo-5EHqatPk1b3ElRcZzhjGB6BxaBMRF3pSLzAxqE0A9BJTPvGbsXLsXpJb2Nh8ouYTZj30syvMkxwYKuSBmMUHUJJpWzyMEOPzmahShsOB2ERnjsu0/s1600/Cushions.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" closure_uid_hhwenu="138" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbLG7Y5e1WZXDKt9pxSmhax6qFo-5EHqatPk1b3ElRcZzhjGB6BxaBMRF3pSLzAxqE0A9BJTPvGbsXLsXpJb2Nh8ouYTZj30syvMkxwYKuSBmMUHUJJpWzyMEOPzmahShsOB2ERnjsu0/s640/Cushions.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As far as I am concerned - there is no such thing as TOO many cushions. A single cushion can completely change the whole look of a room and in no time turn it from bland to grand! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I know some people find them an absolute nuisance - but not me. I come from a long line of </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Over-Cushioners! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mum was an Over-Cushioner. Her cushioning style was rather random and somewhat uncoordinated. Multiple colours and styles - whatever took her fancy really. She had a <em>thing </em>for anything with either a cat or dog motif and over the years collected some rather interesting(?) examples. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nan was also an Over-Cushioner and being the fantastic seamstress she was - used to create the most gorgeous hand smocked round satin creations with large covered buttons in the centre. She would use a huge darning needle to pierce the cushion and attach the buttons to each side. Her cushions were a work of art. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Which leads me to today......</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, I'm not entirely sure what lead me to my crazy cushion making frenzy this afternoon!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One minute I was sorting through my fabric stash....... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgpEnxmzKj7Fu0AwPmdx2xHYrXtLhi3P70m_x2MKJxkNUZxTRaLWroDgoL1P8U7FATtsxXTHRrdXJpxbYyo_JJSb6igyG8bOarRXZvnpPbfWAr4ApajjNScyL_FPbCXgPUvGdB0NF8Bk/s1600/P1020786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgpEnxmzKj7Fu0AwPmdx2xHYrXtLhi3P70m_x2MKJxkNUZxTRaLWroDgoL1P8U7FATtsxXTHRrdXJpxbYyo_JJSb6igyG8bOarRXZvnpPbfWAr4ApajjNScyL_FPbCXgPUvGdB0NF8Bk/s640/P1020786.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>And the next, I was cutting out layers and layers of yellow and blue co-ordinated fabric and sewing up a storm!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Buttons, bobble trim, zig-zag - pins flying everywhere...... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was like a woman possessed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>So here we have it. </em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A whole bunch of cute little blue and yellow creations - perfect for some Spring time cushion zhushing! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Super easy to make and cost me hardly anything (apart from the inserts)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>If anyone is interested</em> - I would be happy to post a little tutorial.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWe7XII0307yBMEhWl7m21z1kaJ2SpY1tfX_DDMgJnn2qIuQJqd_HQiUh3JdJm1y_Ko4Pf0iCohTQXR3Hrh_ntc6lFo-cO1iCad36R8O5MPdaTkEiuTd2LV1-ELMZMqpIq5W4muDhIYyk/s1600/P1020790.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWe7XII0307yBMEhWl7m21z1kaJ2SpY1tfX_DDMgJnn2qIuQJqd_HQiUh3JdJm1y_Ko4Pf0iCohTQXR3Hrh_ntc6lFo-cO1iCad36R8O5MPdaTkEiuTd2LV1-ELMZMqpIq5W4muDhIYyk/s640/P1020790.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Only problem now........</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong>Where to put them all!</strong></em></div><br />
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<em> <a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></em>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-16603491347094854672011-10-28T07:06:00.001+10:002011-10-28T17:35:22.693+10:00On the Mend<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5sWnMR_L6YoJ3lfERtYPDAN75AdjjSDx_OleBSwjWp_2zzuyxUKWBXlk5t7F73MLDk6iipa71JpnyVhHCg15LALo3VT9QUlV9-fG2i5wElWF1lYiAeRmr7yxaEZhFrZwij16fvlBLwtY/s1600/Dec+2009.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5sWnMR_L6YoJ3lfERtYPDAN75AdjjSDx_OleBSwjWp_2zzuyxUKWBXlk5t7F73MLDk6iipa71JpnyVhHCg15LALo3VT9QUlV9-fG2i5wElWF1lYiAeRmr7yxaEZhFrZwij16fvlBLwtY/s640/Dec+2009.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
I'm happy to report that Mickey is well and truly on the mend after his little encounter with the deadly paralysis tick. A HUGE thank you to everyone who has enquired after him!<br />
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He was a little lethargic for a couple of days but has once again taken up his favourite position (apart from the end of my bed that is!) on the front porch, guarding his beloved family.<br />
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Our pets have always been such a huge part of our lives and I absolutely know for sure that we are the centre of their universe! For those that aren't pet lovers, I guess it is hard to understand the affinity we feel with them. However one thing is for sure - when they're not well, it certainly affects us all.<br />
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Whilst on the subject of Pet friendships - sweet Loulou over at <em><a href="http://www.hereiamloulou.com/2011/10/cat-that-ate-bird-or-did-it.html">Here I am Lou lou</a></em><em> </em>did a posting this week about a unique friendship between a cat and bird. My heart was well and truly in my mouth as I the pictures unfolded - but it was such a happy ending. <br />
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I just had to share these gorgeous photos Kendall took on her recent trip to Ireland. <br />
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<em>Let me introduce "Sandy" and Mrs Cat.........</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPHzPpvnh06B2aPMYL7cHrNYwl4g0TPjgS-TuuD3bjF8t5_mVBhx6FZ5jcMd-7T5ladTBPIRLFtJFAbWjabInOvmFxh3POtKdcQnbMZIwwRiuRDCkg3Crp4GasFdsvVdgPpEX01DrjE4/s1600/P1020691.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPHzPpvnh06B2aPMYL7cHrNYwl4g0TPjgS-TuuD3bjF8t5_mVBhx6FZ5jcMd-7T5ladTBPIRLFtJFAbWjabInOvmFxh3POtKdcQnbMZIwwRiuRDCkg3Crp4GasFdsvVdgPpEX01DrjE4/s640/P1020691.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3TqT1UWyYm9BVGLn2CEezwtXv_SepCRSWLaWrjNpdXgTtxIRhYpFbtI0ai1MzQUTXNoXv4YXHulAf7B6TOOEq7dttNVj4U4GhvbjuPaewFDdWF3R9ex7W742TWBcYJraGaPvr-440p98/s1600/P1020693.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3TqT1UWyYm9BVGLn2CEezwtXv_SepCRSWLaWrjNpdXgTtxIRhYpFbtI0ai1MzQUTXNoXv4YXHulAf7B6TOOEq7dttNVj4U4GhvbjuPaewFDdWF3R9ex7W742TWBcYJraGaPvr-440p98/s640/P1020693.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Have you ever seen such a beautiful friendship? Sandy (the oh so placid Lab!) and Mrs Cat are her boyfriend Alan's family pets in Co Galway. <br />
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Just goes to show - friendship comes in all shapes and sizes!<br />
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PS: Thank you SO MUCH Kellie from <a href="http://sasseavenue.blogspot.com/">Sasse Avenue</a> for becoming my 50th follower today! A real milestone moment. I truly appreciate EACH and EVERY one of you for popping by and saying Hi!<br />
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<em>Definitely calls for a little giveaway to celebrate - stay tuned!</em></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a><br />
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</div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-54363361483789057462011-10-24T22:53:00.000+10:002011-10-24T22:53:49.612+10:00A Close Call<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2jKVPIP_McOFzNSAfeQh2BzgttceoofKg31CtKnmv3U0bPQvDgg2gzTMhueFOxnXGTaNeOZbjlTz1FLuZuJ0_AbSw8eb3-0naUAj3KOB_YQ4ncvadTdIYDj0DI0hTzK-EwiyZrI-V44Y/s1600/117.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2jKVPIP_McOFzNSAfeQh2BzgttceoofKg31CtKnmv3U0bPQvDgg2gzTMhueFOxnXGTaNeOZbjlTz1FLuZuJ0_AbSw8eb3-0naUAj3KOB_YQ4ncvadTdIYDj0DI0hTzK-EwiyZrI-V44Y/s640/117.JPG" width="480" /></a> </div>Now this is Mickey - our 11 year old Blue Heeler. Fiercely protective of his home and family and known to strike terror in the heart of anyone crazy enough to disregard the "Dogs on Duty" sign displayed on our front gate! He is well known in our neighbourhood - walkers always cross to the other side of the road when walking past our place and the Ergon electricity man has a very healthy regard for his cantankerous nature. <br />
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Don't let that cute little face and soft, gentle eyes fool you. <em>No Siree Bob</em>.....<br />
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He would have to be THE worst dog we have ever owned! Disobedient, stubborn, cranky (particularly when he doesn't want to do what you want him to do!), anxious, highly intelligent with a good dose of OCD thrown in for good measure. <br />
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However, in the arms of the family he loves - <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjha0CvG-EpLRs-x2XU1eCte9e8S6HyFN7cMg7Hao_xv8xc0cuUnNgor7HIGKkco3D3UcFCR0aRDDIcNDho2MlRYAphl4qHqq2bmoNaKO3GZ8aIw3pyGr848XQjdrpOI4kepsMDXrHSiCI/s1600/P1000810-1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjha0CvG-EpLRs-x2XU1eCte9e8S6HyFN7cMg7Hao_xv8xc0cuUnNgor7HIGKkco3D3UcFCR0aRDDIcNDho2MlRYAphl4qHqq2bmoNaKO3GZ8aIw3pyGr848XQjdrpOI4kepsMDXrHSiCI/s640/P1000810-1.JPG" width="552" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Mickey is an absolute "Pussycat"!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">WARNING : If you are a little squeamish or have a particular dislike for parasites - DO NOT read any further.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
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<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSiS6X7Rxarxt3wVXzntPh8xx9Xo4UNq9fgi5CJ4Sprr-K1Znwu" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="rg_hi" data-height="156" data-width="160" height="624" id="rg_hi" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSiS6X7Rxarxt3wVXzntPh8xx9Xo4UNq9fgi5CJ4Sprr-K1Znwu" style="height: 156px; width: 160px;" width="640" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">(<em>OK - don't say I didn't warn you!)</em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">Now this gruesome looking creature is an <em>Ixodes holocyclus - </em>better known as a Paralysis Tick and the other night "she" (as the lethal ones are always females) and Mickey had a bit of a clash of wills and "she" won!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">Fortunately we were able to recognise the early symptoms (weakness in back legs, change in the pitch of his bark) and were able to get him to our local Vet for treatment. Treatment involved the injection of a special serum plus a couple of days hospitalisation. It was certainly touch and go for a day or so - however I am happy to report that Mickey has pulled through! He is still very weak and wobbly but his bark is coming back and those signs of disobedience and willfulness are slowly starting to emerge. So we feel confident he is on the mend. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlFTDhH3rLSQIlt3iPiWGPR5AD8Q05KOjUuiLeI_NvgO-f3ay25khyUgT6yMKYuPuo4rrGVtdhV-mwRXLxyvSHnwu8-jypS5D56ziPV2gQnoxPnsVOVwdxmO1UwYeE7vgMPU_Ol-ZnXw/s1600/P1010449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" rda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivlFTDhH3rLSQIlt3iPiWGPR5AD8Q05KOjUuiLeI_NvgO-f3ay25khyUgT6yMKYuPuo4rrGVtdhV-mwRXLxyvSHnwu8-jypS5D56ziPV2gQnoxPnsVOVwdxmO1UwYeE7vgMPU_Ol-ZnXw/s640/P1010449.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;">And the fact that he has taken up residence on my bed is a sure sign he is DEFINITELY on the mend.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">C'mon - Get off that bed Mickey!! <em>Grrrrrrrr........</em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><em>"Near death experience ? okay but for today ONLY - you hear me Mickey!"</em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-56289567727160713602011-10-22T07:36:00.000+10:002012-01-10T07:24:01.176+10:00Home at last!<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
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So great to have Kendall and Alan home again after their 3 week jaunt around Cornwall and Ireland. It has been so quiet around this place without them. <br />
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<em>It was also great to see my little Panasonic Lumix p&s return! At last now I will be able to get back to blogging (with photos) - missed you too!</em><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtA9YU1OJYJjnwZ1vLYJbTZOQtV7XXQCi3oVospVqUFmbz4pBmHP_x2MecdEifmKJGYzb0JxcNFRpxt8X49TbOTELRCiO2RwE7uS0xJI8oBYxo6HfEnyV297nG_bLGJqj_ma2GdhWyAJY/s1600/P1020558.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtA9YU1OJYJjnwZ1vLYJbTZOQtV7XXQCi3oVospVqUFmbz4pBmHP_x2MecdEifmKJGYzb0JxcNFRpxt8X49TbOTELRCiO2RwE7uS0xJI8oBYxo6HfEnyV297nG_bLGJqj_ma2GdhWyAJY/s640/P1020558.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
They had an absolutely fabulous time and from the looks of the photos they took - the countryside around Cornwall and south west England looks absolutely stunning. <br />
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How magnificent are these Clydesdale's? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XRt9FdqUmQk9uzQHRzHNuSlZI8cDtQtTjXR8_rTdhyyii6nb4SJIbr73vm3QfVhi-dnUu4S3VI1VDLY1E8J7U7JwDuKuca41DPt1CUYlNAYeigoPQ9kpQeLWR56_wMh64hyNc5V9C_s/s1600/P1020569.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XRt9FdqUmQk9uzQHRzHNuSlZI8cDtQtTjXR8_rTdhyyii6nb4SJIbr73vm3QfVhi-dnUu4S3VI1VDLY1E8J7U7JwDuKuca41DPt1CUYlNAYeigoPQ9kpQeLWR56_wMh64hyNc5V9C_s/s640/P1020569.JPG" width="480" /></a> </div>
Alan couldn't understand the reason why Kendall would want to take photos of all the rooms of the B&B's they stayed in.......<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpmLy_lmEfzoU0pQBWFnkHioHN86fqVb4HTsftIqsfyfbvBgykhbhdER2Y29GGIgr1_PkuzCUR_PhHZdKRDu8uCBn-L6dYdEmd8ADUS4Njh-mkW2syf2MK8XK9JVo6HthC3OPMjEuslZs/s1600/P1020570.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpmLy_lmEfzoU0pQBWFnkHioHN86fqVb4HTsftIqsfyfbvBgykhbhdER2Y29GGIgr1_PkuzCUR_PhHZdKRDu8uCBn-L6dYdEmd8ADUS4Njh-mkW2syf2MK8XK9JVo6HthC3OPMjEuslZs/s640/P1020570.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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<em>"To show Mum, of course......" </em></div>
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Ah yes, she knows me well!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8rb_3wPoHglqSD4wbHtnt1UwcJVc-zruXYTG6Ch7jcljlPxAEl0fMk6YC1k1567FWUn5O6CyTXaxM4p3f5DIH4K5M_M4p61Gu9m_l64qMHEhQY0Dpxf8yZUaIXH9Eyfznuo58MMFvtY/s1600/P1020652.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8rb_3wPoHglqSD4wbHtnt1UwcJVc-zruXYTG6Ch7jcljlPxAEl0fMk6YC1k1567FWUn5O6CyTXaxM4p3f5DIH4K5M_M4p61Gu9m_l64qMHEhQY0Dpxf8yZUaIXH9Eyfznuo58MMFvtY/s640/P1020652.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
Here they are all dressed up at the church (in Ireland) for Alan's brother's wedding. Not sure where the rest of the guests are?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUP1HLLM533cpOGLb0VuDGrDgDNSBEAtjP0LDW93sNyYuNwYiO5zA0d6UjWVr1u1-30udOFBtAn_1_7cib5X58zjSBfMY8EtV5cuMUDH4CjXGvcze6nTm9sS_LjaxrHEK9COagUDuCL4/s1600/P1020711.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUP1HLLM533cpOGLb0VuDGrDgDNSBEAtjP0LDW93sNyYuNwYiO5zA0d6UjWVr1u1-30udOFBtAn_1_7cib5X58zjSBfMY8EtV5cuMUDH4CjXGvcze6nTm9sS_LjaxrHEK9COagUDuCL4/s640/P1020711.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
And here is Kendall getting a taste of farm life at Alan's family's farm in Co.Galway. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16Sa_e8uh-J6jDNx5m5MDi4PrZWORIUEy3P771NnaGurf1tT-fmIltAUfaYE4bMrEMNnjWhaKIZu_ZLaazkoUZt_cWTGWHsMqyOZov8ieV-eG7OsEJTRPq_tLcwSDxEPxispUcxtAdq8/s1600/P1020713.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16Sa_e8uh-J6jDNx5m5MDi4PrZWORIUEy3P771NnaGurf1tT-fmIltAUfaYE4bMrEMNnjWhaKIZu_ZLaazkoUZt_cWTGWHsMqyOZov8ieV-eG7OsEJTRPq_tLcwSDxEPxispUcxtAdq8/s640/P1020713.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
Looks quite the farmer's wife....................<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3a2umcSdp2J2weiCSdCh6AWaAxe-2myVEj5gLvjWwAOPwRfqbr-YFz_h8U39ol3XEidBFD-fCURcIPVEZSwxyFgvRnfqv0uecTjgVGAVPDkg9VV6Yby6ISXla32YCgokQyqb2E7UhNJQ/s1600/P1020726.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3a2umcSdp2J2weiCSdCh6AWaAxe-2myVEj5gLvjWwAOPwRfqbr-YFz_h8U39ol3XEidBFD-fCURcIPVEZSwxyFgvRnfqv0uecTjgVGAVPDkg9VV6Yby6ISXla32YCgokQyqb2E7UhNJQ/s640/P1020726.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
I hope they're not your good Country Road boots there Kendall?<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcMU5U-Y9wLmYApA0J_nOT_TSxRkb3sobIkJF_rfVHAJiCxCmqKy5ij2-ZRiy4ex2UU5kxetGezDEh7WoW_4JEP6QlqXi9JMyVpFD6x_9X00agQCtF_NBBeXiSJkjfVcR_vxEo2qTZInc/s640/P1020500.JPG" width="640" /><br />
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This Monday sees her swapping gum boots for stilettos (or at least a good pair of smart flats!) for her first day as a teacher. Yah! <br />
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I'm sure Class 2/3A are going to enjoy hearing all about Miss Jones' travels.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: 0% 50%; border: 0px currentColor; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-78425591131495326072011-09-21T22:50:00.000+10:002011-09-22T18:31:52.201+10:00A Sneak Peek <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKziK7NH1LUwrEpyhQRQtv_H2cnJaQqvSl4tkw2XgAzjW-1r4ZnIYPfwnYQvAoBTnPjsVpObUAhPiFpsoCV-eAcgf6tm8v527ZI1G9SYLKtRCO1ne5JDTeYLpexcbmQY8crzLuFFRVPM/s1600/qwduckzoom%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKziK7NH1LUwrEpyhQRQtv_H2cnJaQqvSl4tkw2XgAzjW-1r4ZnIYPfwnYQvAoBTnPjsVpObUAhPiFpsoCV-eAcgf6tm8v527ZI1G9SYLKtRCO1ne5JDTeYLpexcbmQY8crzLuFFRVPM/s640/qwduckzoom%255B1%255D.jpg" width="467" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lazybones and Homebodies Pty Ltd </td></tr>
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Have you ever seen something and thought <em>"I just<strong> have</strong> to have that</em>!" </div>
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Well, that is exactly what I thought the very first time I saw this gorgeous Rosette quilt. I think it is just the most beautiful, luscious, squishy piece of bedroom linen I have ever seen. <br />
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I have been in love with it ever since the first time I laid eyes on it 12 months ago. Since then it has popped up in numerous decorating magazines and a number of beautiful blogs and each time - my heart has skipped a beat.<br />
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However at $319 it is WAY more than I could justifiably pay for a quilt - regardless of how fabulous it is. <br />
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Quilts and me do not have a good track record. In fact, I have gone through more quilts than I care to remember. A small rip here...a colour run there.....I (we) are very hard on quilts! <br />
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It also doesn't help that Mickey and Buffy have no regard whatsoever for the niceties of life. I wish I had a $ for every time I had to literally d r r a a g g g them off the bed! "<em>Get off that bed Mickey - you naughty dog!!!"</em> Grrr.......<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaCa0XVb8O0cYJfnxLEh6_NSHQkK152XBF-q8FppUvrqBrOoWzb0egfflVhI-V4CScnuMl1maTzcjtN8u33GPptPvB9fAFLT6P32MRteL_8tEmeqcdBMPk4vroStRQ7cJky7TOsQT2pq4/s1600/qwwhtzoom%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaCa0XVb8O0cYJfnxLEh6_NSHQkK152XBF-q8FppUvrqBrOoWzb0egfflVhI-V4CScnuMl1maTzcjtN8u33GPptPvB9fAFLT6P32MRteL_8tEmeqcdBMPk4vroStRQ7cJky7TOsQT2pq4/s640/qwwhtzoom%255B1%255D.jpg" width="464" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lazybones and Homebodies Pty Ltd </td></tr>
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So, regardless of my huge case of "quilt envy" - I had resigned myself to the fact that it was never going to happen. <br />
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That was of course, until I saw this.........</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChJFM-nQuq4IvmWrvzvME2VdhdOA4CmrtI7HMi-109w0iS5dgxEdNqseTXMcZKl7Xih9hh8b32xh-4BAMNYFf7cyBlrbROv34xUXBQTEsSqAk_C3oq4KKzKAitmMrYrQ2kqajPUC4QAo/s1600/P1020381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChJFM-nQuq4IvmWrvzvME2VdhdOA4CmrtI7HMi-109w0iS5dgxEdNqseTXMcZKl7Xih9hh8b32xh-4BAMNYFf7cyBlrbROv34xUXBQTEsSqAk_C3oq4KKzKAitmMrYrQ2kqajPUC4QAo/s640/P1020381.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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On the front cover of this month's "Home Beautiful" </div>
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<em>Pang! (sound of arrow piercing my heart) - there it goes again. I just LOVE that quilt.</em></div>
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As a matter of fact - I just LOVE that whole bed with its gorgeous lilacs and pop of yellow. So perfect for Spring. </div>
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So, it got me thinking. <br />
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What if I was to <strong>make</strong> that quilt? Then if anything did happen to it - well I wouldn't feel guilty at having spent so much buying it. Perfect!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1hV-tDUyl8luV2h3HS4knF7AkftodV5HsBXuX3v2OeMJDu9n0gqxpa3b2-ie4Z4VFo05mvps_hU-JRyKWYm8nJNh3S7RHQu6Gzj4BATFXcwLpaILgHpqvPSItXI-Xwk_hXubj0saq3wg/s1600/P1020397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1hV-tDUyl8luV2h3HS4knF7AkftodV5HsBXuX3v2OeMJDu9n0gqxpa3b2-ie4Z4VFo05mvps_hU-JRyKWYm8nJNh3S7RHQu6Gzj4BATFXcwLpaILgHpqvPSItXI-Xwk_hXubj0saq3wg/s640/P1020397.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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So that is exactly what I am doing!</div>
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At <strong>under $60</strong> I have bought all the fabric/backing etc. and have started on this little school holiday project. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBQvJrB4KRgCaM_xxmDO5CBiYfbcBWBWtTjDob-hipyQHPJAcm1W9w24Qp7E0zyRMOcISviBq0MBNgEXNcpNWTUSbxjGBKm_gULU_0Uhk3HpXpJPi_Tj9jETh5yQrZhX12wXGbm-SzCpY/s1600/P1020399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBQvJrB4KRgCaM_xxmDO5CBiYfbcBWBWtTjDob-hipyQHPJAcm1W9w24Qp7E0zyRMOcISviBq0MBNgEXNcpNWTUSbxjGBKm_gULU_0Uhk3HpXpJPi_Tj9jETh5yQrZhX12wXGbm-SzCpY/s640/P1020399.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Stay tuned for my big reveal + a little tutorial I am putting together on the making of my DREAM quilt. </div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div>
GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-90492474491885919232011-09-20T07:00:00.000+10:002015-06-28T08:36:09.855+10:00Something to Hum about<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37dIdYaUHJy1NpLEC-CmKav88CNTkbE-4eRwUPJgxahz3E7dTZpJbPO9XLFOPmw5ngzYHTReSZVXuO6wR4KoJQDBGdbzzC1IYhsqAXi_7qBdegvwJAkfL0hdzWriP1pFeYihVPreGwW0/s1600/hummingbird%255B1%255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37dIdYaUHJy1NpLEC-CmKav88CNTkbE-4eRwUPJgxahz3E7dTZpJbPO9XLFOPmw5ngzYHTReSZVXuO6wR4KoJQDBGdbzzC1IYhsqAXi_7qBdegvwJAkfL0hdzWriP1pFeYihVPreGwW0/s320/hummingbird%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
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Now this gorgeous little creature is a hummingbird....</div>
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.......and this gorgeous little bit of delectability is Hummingbird Slice!</div>
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Interesting thought to ponder. How did Hummingbird slice get its name?</div>
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Perhaps it might be something to do with the abundance of fruit and nuts in the recipe and the fact that a Hummingbird's diet consists of fruit, nuts and nectar?</div>
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Either way - this slice is <i>to die for. </i>Another amazing <b>Donna Hay</b> recipe.</div>
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Now I know I said that my baking these days was going to be limited to <b>strictly </b>Special Occasions - well....<br />
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Kendall and her Alan leave on Friday for their trip to Ireland! <i>What more of an excuse do I need?</i></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">Hummingbird Slice </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: black;">3/4 cup (140g) brown sugar</span><br />
1/2 cup (125ml) vegetable oil<br />
2 eggs<br />
1/2 cup canned crushed pineapple, drained (REALLY squished until there is hardly any liquid left)<br />
1 banana, mashed<br />
1 cup grated carrot (about 2 carrots)<br />
115g self raising flour, sifted <br />
1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of (baking) soda, sifted <br />
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
1/4 cup (20g) shredded coconut <br />
1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans (or walnuts) <br />
passionfruit icing OR honey to serve <br />
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Preheat oven to 160 degrees C (320 degrees F). Place the sugar, oil and eggs in a bowl and whisk to combine. Add the pineapple, banana and carrot and mix to combine. Add the flour, bicarb of soda, cinnamon, coconut and nuts and mix to combine. Spoon into a lightly greased 20 x 30 cm tin lined with non-stick baking paper. Bake for 45 minutes or until cooked when tested with a skewer. Allow to cool in the tin. <br />
Ice with passionfruit icing or slice and serve with honey. <br />
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Yes, definitely something to Hum about!<br />
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GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-64435804111027763362011-09-18T17:11:00.000+10:002011-09-18T17:11:41.304+10:00Some Spring Colour<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3k8I3dv1O1umRHpaZvS7e3PjUMA4NSSLAxqnYWAycA0NZEnoNLe7iP7ilNvt7cAjtpJatGhiJgiQj41mq7F-DbU3I7VLju0yEtiEIwWKgs6Mmp-RkCJJ6qOlqzxofapDgPhWXCQmheJ0/s1600/P1020401.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3k8I3dv1O1umRHpaZvS7e3PjUMA4NSSLAxqnYWAycA0NZEnoNLe7iP7ilNvt7cAjtpJatGhiJgiQj41mq7F-DbU3I7VLju0yEtiEIwWKgs6Mmp-RkCJJ6qOlqzxofapDgPhWXCQmheJ0/s640/P1020401.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Some days it feels good to be alive!</div><br />
Whilst the rest of the house slept - I was out and about making the most of the crisp tropical spring morning. How I love the the quietness of the garden particularly as the first rays of morning appear. A magical, glistening shimmer making everything sparkle in its way. <br />
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I was lucky to share the moment with a couple of cheeky sunbirds who spent the time darting in and out of the fine mist of water spray coming from the hose whilst I was watering. An early morning shower before flying off to look for some breakfast. <br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvMoWea1WaLg17M-iQMh0qjxERhsCgfqsYa7Avhm6BtSkCsBXIh867soyWDZJMLm6_LrqFvktDShFneDpasdnrGU0vYvMwXuqwM1m8KTGfW11gPeec34ZrZmG9grVURfCULbkOfVJs4I/s1600/P1020402.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvMoWea1WaLg17M-iQMh0qjxERhsCgfqsYa7Avhm6BtSkCsBXIh867soyWDZJMLm6_LrqFvktDShFneDpasdnrGU0vYvMwXuqwM1m8KTGfW11gPeec34ZrZmG9grVURfCULbkOfVJs4I/s640/P1020402.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>Just like clockwork - these cute little orchids come into bloom the 2nd week in September. Never fail. I wonder how they know just when to bloom? <em>Magical!</em><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-uwBpVwg26vDY1f78O6jUwqRsvTbrrbb8CUAAWF7Zq9wQrCHbp1RbiFRnEbN9VxvpQjfT6Y4JSVhRb_5UfEnd2QnJ2UDwFCHMbRIYphmYaJF2c3aVU3QEWvgy1fUp7qj1yogCt5rwrAU/s1600/P1020405.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-uwBpVwg26vDY1f78O6jUwqRsvTbrrbb8CUAAWF7Zq9wQrCHbp1RbiFRnEbN9VxvpQjfT6Y4JSVhRb_5UfEnd2QnJ2UDwFCHMbRIYphmYaJF2c3aVU3QEWvgy1fUp7qj1yogCt5rwrAU/s640/P1020405.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>The colours from these Cordylines are just so vibrant and with the sunlight behind them - just makes the leaves look translucent. <br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix3Z9XYwOKF48jk3aieYhpaG56ZZ57F40IkSbzwFvz0QiBm5MouANzWJO0fZ-pfsEgzA4LAXYaAZWHb8qaJ_5urWAAtktzUH6uoE-ZNnHQEl6XsRN-cAKhhvRqxLTCOX3tjvwgi8LSlDs/s1600/P1020410.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix3Z9XYwOKF48jk3aieYhpaG56ZZ57F40IkSbzwFvz0QiBm5MouANzWJO0fZ-pfsEgzA4LAXYaAZWHb8qaJ_5urWAAtktzUH6uoE-ZNnHQEl6XsRN-cAKhhvRqxLTCOX3tjvwgi8LSlDs/s640/P1020410.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>My little window box of petunias on the front porch looks so welcoming and cheery.<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Swns5JYKrJEvujFw1z-tkBsAzrhPAGeGvlMUjRAI6YSpt3p9RUmPPb8T4fk7JQXH-sQLOl4BEkNyzchgQ-p90lGvrtudrIEA1K2z4jtZNFnFEazpPGFR5YAtSiaUxeueU2JXnpdqVHo/s1600/P1020411.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Swns5JYKrJEvujFw1z-tkBsAzrhPAGeGvlMUjRAI6YSpt3p9RUmPPb8T4fk7JQXH-sQLOl4BEkNyzchgQ-p90lGvrtudrIEA1K2z4jtZNFnFEazpPGFR5YAtSiaUxeueU2JXnpdqVHo/s640/P1020411.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>And the bougainvillea is simply stunning!<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVySy0Ge88xc1Lvdz6jdcoMzvzVP3XelIt8fwhJA2Rowxkfx7isMSbvUkmit4DezaHXdZwM3grL_Cz_7kc1ozVXzdhQBzZey0U40DIMyDxN2kMQL1jdWTlK-1FkP8imsuc9tDlcoo2JY/s1600/P1020412.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwVySy0Ge88xc1Lvdz6jdcoMzvzVP3XelIt8fwhJA2Rowxkfx7isMSbvUkmit4DezaHXdZwM3grL_Cz_7kc1ozVXzdhQBzZey0U40DIMyDxN2kMQL1jdWTlK-1FkP8imsuc9tDlcoo2JY/s640/P1020412.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>How is this for a splash of colour!<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IYVbYUgjrcJwbM1OPZpUv8gZ9Pl9D2gyhqct7C1_UkYwZ-AyZtG892wiUb4OsE5dRhdFjlTLihFCzaLLt47ZkqXvzfh6zjB6LXZoOQpPkIstr7OiZx9-aBiHgHyEUjZHcsmz4TtQEDk/s1600/P1020413.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IYVbYUgjrcJwbM1OPZpUv8gZ9Pl9D2gyhqct7C1_UkYwZ-AyZtG892wiUb4OsE5dRhdFjlTLihFCzaLLt47ZkqXvzfh6zjB6LXZoOQpPkIstr7OiZx9-aBiHgHyEUjZHcsmz4TtQEDk/s640/P1020413.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>Sometimes you just don't need any words...........<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhzMWw4A_YbKrj3vZXRSo52v6M-uEd1kgYeZR3xGifIBOqvJsp6YJqsU7smLVdJuC0NnfdATqw3dnJiknm3ejJpM0r_peZUtFwr5Gk07ux5VjzVdHyUmalRAoUsN5rPVuEqeDZNudemg/s1600/P1020414.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhzMWw4A_YbKrj3vZXRSo52v6M-uEd1kgYeZR3xGifIBOqvJsp6YJqsU7smLVdJuC0NnfdATqw3dnJiknm3ejJpM0r_peZUtFwr5Gk07ux5VjzVdHyUmalRAoUsN5rPVuEqeDZNudemg/s640/P1020414.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG78Z6h3paYHju0-eankanG6ZASLl0Pdpr4FJKClvJjMX1K2azhcbvMsrnl1OB4LM1Y0ZbfcNAvxVCdO_LjXnxqm_GWyFIii2_3wbYvQtIfRiMY7WUoVs51Gn9tAUCaYPtBctkrOtKX7Y/s1600/P1020415.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG78Z6h3paYHju0-eankanG6ZASLl0Pdpr4FJKClvJjMX1K2azhcbvMsrnl1OB4LM1Y0ZbfcNAvxVCdO_LjXnxqm_GWyFIii2_3wbYvQtIfRiMY7WUoVs51Gn9tAUCaYPtBctkrOtKX7Y/s640/P1020415.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Ah yes....... good to be alive!</div><br />
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<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/273/54058B014095AD67D4F965BA895FE42C.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a></div></div>GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-55369810887829643392011-09-17T21:29:00.000+10:002011-09-19T16:35:20.005+10:00Best Carrot Cake Ever!<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxz2AbmXvIyrr40SEgnc2ssi3SKMbZL7GkJaWOso2PGVfbt3ggg3S0S4EyVDEiCzInA1IWDIrW_uYxxT0ge9ptOTje6Dn67cnWgCfo7KaNixiut6TPrH8R-LplH1JyGFwdzQBQ2UJ9nwM/s1600/P1020393.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxz2AbmXvIyrr40SEgnc2ssi3SKMbZL7GkJaWOso2PGVfbt3ggg3S0S4EyVDEiCzInA1IWDIrW_uYxxT0ge9ptOTje6Dn67cnWgCfo7KaNixiut6TPrH8R-LplH1JyGFwdzQBQ2UJ9nwM/s640/P1020393.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
Okay it's true..... There's one thing I like better than <em>making </em>cakes - and that is <em><strong>eating</strong></em> cakes! <br />
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Hmm.....Not good! Where is that will-power when I need it?<br />
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In my efforts to halt this "cake-charged" middle age spread and at least have a small glimmer of a hope of fitting into my summer wardrobe - I have decided that I my cake baking will now be limited to the following :<br />
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(1) <em> Special family occasions</em> - birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, final exam celebrations, weddings, engagements, holidays, births, arrival of tax cheque......<br />
(2) <em>Morning teas </em>- shared with friends, work colleagues, relatives I haven't seen for a long time....<br />
(3) <em>Dinner Parties (which don't involve family members - not to be confused with #1) </em><br />
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Ah that's better. Baking for a purpose - perfect! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKewL-Lsv3f_uWujhdmz5AJ99Q_0iDGJ7xI9E5B7dSVWPPg3AUUPars1QcywwULM2JYrAd6NQ7hFbkXnd45SkaTScpeGwkCUGmJHuFEnKygu5TD8kn6Kp_Pl72MlgtX9bK7JPzckABJoE/s1600/P1020394.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKewL-Lsv3f_uWujhdmz5AJ99Q_0iDGJ7xI9E5B7dSVWPPg3AUUPars1QcywwULM2JYrAd6NQ7hFbkXnd45SkaTScpeGwkCUGmJHuFEnKygu5TD8kn6Kp_Pl72MlgtX9bK7JPzckABJoE/s640/P1020394.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
So when a work colleague decided to retire recently - it was just the excuse I needed to try out this <strong>Donna Hay</strong> recipe and bake this truly scrumptious <strong>Carrot Cake with caramelised Pecan topping. </strong><br />
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It was (without a doubt) the BEST Carrot Cake I have ever tasted and elevated me to Carrot Cake Queen status at work! <br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><strong>Carrot cake with lime icing </strong></span><br />
1 2/3 cups (250g) self raising four, sifted<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons baking power, sifted <br />
2 teaspoons mixed spice<br />
1 1/2 cups (265g) brown sugar<br />
3 eggs<br />
1 cup (250ml) sunflower oil <br />
3 cups (360g) grated carrot <br />
caramelised pecans*<br />
<em>lime icing </em><br />
1 cup (240g) cream cheese<br />
1/2 cup (80g) icing sugar, sifted <br />
1 tablespoons lime juice <br />
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Preheat oven to 180C. Place four, baking powder, spice and sugar in a bowl and mix to combine. Place the eggs and oil in a bowl and whisk to combine. Add to the flour mixture and whisk until smooth. Add the carrot and mix to combine. Pour into greased ring cake tin lined with non-stick baking paper. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked when tested with a skewer. Allow to cook in tin for 5 minutes before turning onto a rack. To make the icing, place the cream cheese, icing sugar and lime juice in an electric mixer and beat for 5 minutes or until smooth. Spread on cooled cake and top with nuts to serve. <br />
* Mix 1 cup (120g) pecans, 1/2 cup (110g caster sugar) and 1 tablespoon water. Heat in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat for 6-8 minutes (or until sugar has caramelised) stirring occasionally. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheu0ZWdoUOwLdl_v0zm2_JoQ8f3qJVOqEaF5422c2FiONAml10fbeXuY3IL6ImfQGMCLXTxPZhgH2gOUyu_cf0mV4ZDlI-gHakqscu5eSHGgCdhzC8G3pS9Caae01MSdDFlNtGAodR574/s1600/P1020396.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheu0ZWdoUOwLdl_v0zm2_JoQ8f3qJVOqEaF5422c2FiONAml10fbeXuY3IL6ImfQGMCLXTxPZhgH2gOUyu_cf0mV4ZDlI-gHakqscu5eSHGgCdhzC8G3pS9Caae01MSdDFlNtGAodR574/s640/P1020396.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Just look at those beautiful caramely crunchy pecans - yum! </div>
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and </div>
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that luscious lime cream cheese icing - amazing!</div>
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I <strong>definitely</strong> feel a Special Occasion coming on.......</div>
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<em>Ah yes, start of school holidays - PERFECT!</em></div>
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GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1787635812674067390.post-84765277581804293862011-08-30T22:43:00.000+10:002011-08-30T22:44:01.289+10:00Proud as Punch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2Usk1OpmtWHRlXAixoDxX_36mx_uNEzGycL4c_51uDa4O9o2WheJNFYBaXzZk8U0lUU6jodURnmpIIjjCKxD6yeKLElxT1GxPYusTna8LbTVHeq_FjWdoe4dGv9-1qxiWa2Ekstl8GQ/s1600/P1020285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2Usk1OpmtWHRlXAixoDxX_36mx_uNEzGycL4c_51uDa4O9o2WheJNFYBaXzZk8U0lUU6jodURnmpIIjjCKxD6yeKLElxT1GxPYusTna8LbTVHeq_FjWdoe4dGv9-1qxiWa2Ekstl8GQ/s640/P1020285.JPG" width="640" xaa="true" /></a></div>
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Just look at this gorgeous bunch of flowers Kendall arrived home with the other afternoon. Aren't they just beautiful? So totally unexpected and "out of the blue" - a lovely surprise. <br />
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It was her note in the little card however that really tipped me over the edge. I only managed to read the first line before dissolving into a blubbering mess. (<em>I seriously need to get a better grip on my emotions</em>!) <br />
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">Dear Mum & Dad </span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">I would just like to thank you both for supporting me throughout my teaching degree. </span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">I know I have not always been easy to be around and that both of you have</span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">felt the stress. </span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">The truth is, I simply could not have made it without you!</span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">Thank you for the words of encouragement; the "pocket" money; </span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">fixing my car; buying me food/clothes etc. </span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">Thank you for really being outstanding parents and setting me up for my future - </span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">I will be forever grateful. </span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">I know I could never pay you back for you have done for me - so hopefully this is a start. </span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">love always </span></strong></em></div>
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<em><strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">Kendall </span></strong></em></div>
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<em>No wonder I was a blubbering mess. </em> I'm a blubbering mess now just typing these words! </div>
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(<em>where are those tissues?)</em></div>
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A long time ago, a very wise person once told me :</div>
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<em> "Parenthood is never easy</em></div>
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<em>but </em></div>
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<em>sometimes.......some things....... make it all worthwhile</em>"</div>
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(<em>Thank you Mum - how right you were!)</em></div>
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GoldenValley50http://www.blogger.com/profile/05271282913634650123noreply@blogger.com6