all my love......Sharyne

Postcards from Home - Part 2

2012-02-18T09:12:00.000+10:00

The second in my little series of Postcards from Home

takes us a scenic half hour drive to the west of my little spot here in the valley -

up the steep and winding Gillies Range Road to the Far North Queensland tropical highlands gem of

Lake Barrine

Lake Barrine is actually the crater left by a volcanic eruption approximately 10,000 years ago

and is surrounded by pristine World Heritage rainforest not far from the pretty little village of Yungaburra.

Apart from the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding flora and fauna -the historic

Lake Barrine Teahouse is a popular attraction for locals and visitors.

The timber Tea House was originally built in the 1930's as a dance hall

and has since had many uses, including an aquatic centre, guest house, school and a convalescent home during World War II.

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

back the 1930's.

The ornate metal verandah railings, timber floors and french doors offer a subtle glimpse

into a time gone by.

The old piano in the corner of the dining room is a wonderful link to its days as a dance hall.

Close your eyes and you can almost hear the sounds of

those old familiar dance tunes tinkling out across the lake.

What a romantic spot it must have been.

"Take your partners for a Quick Step......"

It is so easy to be transported back in time in this magical place.

Special little touches like home grown roses on each table

just add to the joy.

Our favourite place to go for breakfast on a Sunday morning.

Sitting on the verandah with the Sunday papers, scrambled eggs and a cappuccino -

the troubles of the world seem to disappear!

A wander around the beautiful gardens......

and a chance to sit for a while....

and admire the Tibouchina.

It truly is what I imagine heaven must be like!

(and.... can I let you in on a little secret)

Kendall and I reckon this would be the perfect spot for a wedding. Shhh....(don't we Kendall?)

Anyway

So glad to have been able to show you this beautiful little corner of my world.

Please call back again next week for another little

"Postcard from Home"

Happy travels everyone!

What makes a Happy Marriage

2012-02-14T19:20:00.000+10:00

I don't pretend to know what makes a happy marriage.

However after 37 years, I would say that it really does have a lot to do with
(a) picking the right person; and

(b) a lot of hard work!

I also think these 3 littles tips from Drs Mehmet Oz and Michael Roizen
make a lot of sense.

Spend lots of time alone together. Make time to do things as a couple, not just as a family. It's crucial for rekindling love and affection.
When things get tense, tap your sense of humor. Conflicts are inevitable in any marriage, but if you remember to laugh about them, it helps you work through the tension and reconnect
Talk in bed. 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.

Good to be reminded.

Happy Valentines Day.

Postcards from Home - Part 1

2012-02-11T08:30:00.013+10:00

It seems hard to imagine now....

However there was a time when travel (particularly overseas travel) was only really

for the rich and famous.

As a young child growing up in inner city Sydney - holidays for us were very few and far between.

Dad and Mum were both kept pretty busy in our family business and there was just simply not the

time (or money) to go traipsing off on long, exotic holidays.

My father's sister however was an exception.

Auntie Val was a woman ahead of her times.

A single career woman in her thirties - every year she would jet off (or maybe that should be "fly" off - jets might not have been invented then?) to places like Fiji, Singapore, Tokyo, Greece.

She was my childhood idol.

I longed for the time when I would be able to travel to faraway places.

The Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids, Big Ben, New York - I used to dream of visiting these places.

"One day" I promised myself - "I'm going to travel the world just like Auntie Val"

The fact that I never got to fulfill my childhood dreams until I was fifty - well, that's another story!

In the meantime I survived on Postcards!

Postcards that Auntie Val would send; postcards that my parent's friends would send;

and then much later on - postcards that work colleagues and childhood friends would send.

Just gazing at those scenes of far off places - made me feel like I was really there.

Transported me to another time.... another place.

So for all those people (just like me) who long to travel and visit new and interesting places -

I have decided to put together this little series called :

"Postcards from Home"

I am so fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful places in Australia and this is my

opportunity to share some of the beauty of this region -

all without leaving the comfort of your PC or laptop!

First up - an hour's drive north from my little spot here in the valley is the

quaint little seaside village of Port Douglas......

and this is the gorgeous

St Mary's by the Sea

Surrounded by palms, crotons, cordylines and exotic gingers

Built in the 1940's - a gorgeous example of tropical ecclesiastical architecture

Weddings, baptisms, worship....

This little church is kept extremely busy

And just look at this view from the pulpit!

The soaring ceilings, leadlight windows

and of course, the obligatory ceiling fans.

It is the tropics afterall!

Row upon row of highly polished mahogany pews against crisp white walls and timber

flooring.

This surely must be one of the most beautiful little churches in Australia!

Please call back again next week for another little

"Postcard from Home"

Happy travels everyone!

Time to Dust Off the Cobwebs

2012-02-04T22:31:00.002+10:00

source:freedigitalphotos.net/

Enough is enough!

Time to brush off the cobwebs and get this blog back into action.

I can't believe it has been almost 4 weeks since my last post.
Where have those weeks gone?

Can I let you in on a little secret?

I did have a thought that perhaps this little blog had run its race and
that maybe it was time to close the door.............

But I know just how much I would miss it.

I have finally come to realise that this blog truly feeds my soul and gives me something
to aspire to.

It allows me to dream big dreams, indulge my creativity, share my joy
and then put it all on paper to share with whoever may be
passing by.

Without it - I know I would not have the incentive to try different things or discover new projects.
The days would simply merge from one to another without any real
sense of achievement or accomplishment.

It is what keeps me alive and fresh and current.
(Who would have thought a little ol' blog could do all that!)

So I have given my header a bit of a revamp -
Revealed my face for all to see (Hmm... I kinda liked hiding behind that kookaburra!) -
and
Injected some re-newed energy into these ramblings.

Hi everyone - can't wait to see what you have all been up to.

It feels good to be back!

Put a Little Twinkle in your Life

2012-01-09T18:52:00.000+10:00

Here's a super easy little project I put together over the Christmas holidays using my ever growing stash of "used" candle jars.

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.

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.

Glasshouse Candles are my absolute favourite.

At the moment beautiful "Miami" with its unmistakable pomelo and grapefruit fragrance is wafting its way through the house. Ah, bliss.....

A vase of flowers and a scented candle - all is well in my world!

Equally as beautiful (and a good bit cheaper!) are the range of Glade scented candles which are available in most supermarkets.

I usually have a couple of these on the go as well.

"Vanilla" - "Wild Raspberry" - positively scrumptious!

Problem is - what to do with the jars once the candles have finished burning?

So this is where my little tea light lantern project was hatched.

I have put together this tutorial as a perfect New Year recycling project.

Step 1 : 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. (Gosh - my father's old pliers look positively antique!)

Step 2 : Cut a piece of wire long enough to wrap around the base of your jar and cross over at the side.

Step 3 : Grab your pliers and twist the wire until the wire is firmly secured around the base of the jar.

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.

Step 4 : Snip off an excess wire with a pair of wire cutters and then twist your little wire knot slightly towards the top.

Step 5 : 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. 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?

Step 6: Remove the wire cradle from the jar and tie lengths of string equi-distant around the circumference of the cradle.

Step 7 : Place your jar back in its wire cradle.

Step 8 : 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!)

Step 9: 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.

Step 10 : Then tie another knot right at the end.

Step 11 : Snip off the excess string

Step 12 : Grab your tea light. (I picked up a box of 100 tea lights from Target for $7)

Step 13 : Place tea light in the base of the jar.

Step 14 : Secure (between the two end knots) to a nail or hook. Yes, that is a jungle out there!

And then once dusk comes.......

Light up and enjoy!

(I love my little lanterns so much that they are staying up ALL year).

I hope you manage to get a little twinkle in your life in 2012!

Linking up with

Hard to Let Go

2012-01-06T06:46:00.000+10:00

Well, the time has finally come!

Time to take down the decorations and pack them away for another year.

Time to put an end to the procrastinating.

Why do I find it so hard to let go?

To be honest - I have been in two minds about continuing with this little blog in 2012.

My blogging mojo seems to have taken a bit of a battering over the holidays.

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!

I have had heaps I could have blogged about - but for whatever reason - couldn't be bothered really.

(Come on Sharyne - snap out of it!)

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!!??##

Hmmm....time for a deep breath and reawakening of some positive energy.

Time to re-energise this little blog and get going. (I know just how much I would really miss you if you were no longer around.)

Time to take down the festive header and put up some new photos (luckily I had these ones saved on a USB!)

Time to re-focus and start making plans.

Time to start taking lots more photos!!

Welcome 2012 - can't wait to see what you have in store!

It's all About the Wrapping

2011-12-19T18:22:00.000+10:00

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!

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.

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.

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!

These days my Christmas gift wrapping is a lot more civilised.

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.

Or gently crocheting gorgeous little twinkle stars to make individual gift cards

to adorn my (custom designed) gift wrapped gifts.

Even some sheets of pretty card stock and a dab of glitter glue can be turned into unique gift embellishments.

With a perfume candle wafting away and Michael Buble gently crooning in the background - this whole gift wrapping process has turned into something............

Blissful ..... and calming ...... almost therapeutic

Ah yes...... as I dunk another biscotti into my nespresso.

Hmm......

But something is missing?

Something just doesn't feel quite right?

Does anyone need a speed wrapper out there?

Best Biscotti Ever!

2011-12-13T16:38:00.000+10:00

Now that's a bold statement!

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.

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.

A perfect Christmas gift - glass jar/ribbon around the top - how easy it that!

Here's the recipe - full credit to Delicious magazine (May 2004). I can't believe it's taken me this long to find you!

Almond Biscotti (Makes about 40)

Ingredients :

1 cup (220g) caster sugar
2 eggs
Finely grated rind of 1 lemon
2 cups (300g) plain flour, sifted
1/2 tsp baking power
150g whole almonds (leave the skins on)

Method :
Preheat oven to 170 degrees (Celsius). Line a large baking tray with baking paper.
Place sugar, eggs and grated lemon rind in a large bowl. Beat with electric beaters until pale and thick.
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.)

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).

Preheat the oven to 140 degrees (Celsius).

Once dough is cool, use a small serrated knife to cut each log on the diagonal in 0.5cm slices.
Lay slices flat on the baking tray and return to oven for 15-20 minutes, turning once, until completely dried out.

Remove from oven and allow to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for 2-3 weeks. (OR 1-2 days in our case!)

Yum-O - give it a try. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

I'm off now to try out this latest batch

All the interests of Quality Control of course!

A Tale of Three Cushions

2011-12-09T20:16:00.010+10:00

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.

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."

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 spoke to me and the choice became very easy.

So, let me introduce you to "Michelle"

Now a couple of weeks ago I was lucky enough to receive a fabric grab bag from the girls at Fabric Traders.Co in response to a blog I posted about their fabulous new on line fabric store. You can read about it HERE.

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......

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 DOLLY at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre a couple of weeks ago.
So this truly is a Fabric Traders/Beach Vintage inspired cushion! Thanks heaps Simone and Jodie.

Next we have "Linda"

There was just something about this pretty blue and yellow fabric that just shouted "Linda" the minute I saw it. Sweet and gentle - just like her. Fortunately she loved it just as much as I hoped she would.

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.

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.

And finally, we have Julie

This was such a tough one. I adore this gorgeous blue and white fabric (again, from Fabric Traders. Com) and only had just enough to make one only cushion. I was SO tempted to keep it for myself. Hopefully Julie will get just as much pleasure from it as I did in making it for her.

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. Merry Christmas Julie!

Oh, and by the way........

Fabric Traders.Com are having a little sale at the moment - 17% off for the next 3 days.

I can hear all those beautiful fabrics calling my name. Yes, you can hear them too!!

Three Simple Secrets for a Happy Life

2011-11-12T07:18:00.000+10:00

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.

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 (warts and all!) - somehow the idea of completely bearing my vulnerability to the entire world is well....... a little awkward to be perfectly honest.

In the back of my mind I can also hear Matthew (jokingly) saying to me : "Gee Mum - sounds like you're trying to be Oprah or something!"

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.

It was written by Serge King. Now I have never heard of Serge King? However Mr Google tells me that "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."

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 :

Bless the present
Trust yourself
Expect the best

How powerful are those three little statements?

Imagine if your lived your life according to them!

- Bless the Present

In a previous "Oprah" moment (sorry Matthew!) - I did a posting on "Being Present". BEING present means that we are aware of the present - not bringing the past in to taint the moment.

Not worrying about things that haven't happened yet.

Not focusing on how bad things are, because you are too busy blessing this moment as perfect - for whatever reason. Just because IT IS!

‘Drink your tea slowly and reverently, as if it is the axis
on which the world earth revolves – slowly, evenly, without
rushing toward the future. Live the actual moment.
Only this moment is life.’ ~Thich Nhat Hanh

Anger, resentment, fear, jealousy, disappointment, frustration and other negative emotions are what we bring from the past. They are not relevant to this moment.

The first time I read this little quote - it was like a real lightbulb moment :-

"after 3 minutes, whatever happened is in the past and should be let go!"

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!

- Trust Yourself

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!

Have you ever had a sense of KNOWING something is true or the right thing to do? It is almost like an intuitive wisdom.

I guess that is what "Trusting Yourself" is all about. It really is your truth. It truly is something to treasure.

- Expect the Best

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.

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.

Maybe we also only see what we expect to see.

How much more uplifting would it be if in every situation, in every person, in every relationship - we expected the best!

I'm definitely going to give it a try. What about you?

So thank you Serge King. You have given me such a lot to think about and to have it condensed into just 3 simple secrets - quite inspirational.

and yes, dear family (particularly Matthew!).........

I will be back to my regular postings about cushions, and flowers, and gardens and Mickey and Buffy and other pretty stuff -

but maybe tomorrow......

Brown Paper Packages.....

2011-11-09T21:53:00.001+10:00

How I love receiving parcels in the mail!

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.

It's amazing how the simple act of collecting a parcel from the Post Office today can evoke such memories of the past.

So with my Express Post parcel in hand, I couldn't wait to tear open the plastic. Easier said than done I must say - Australia Post are not joking when they say these parcels are tamper proof!

Yah! What a surprise.....

The gorgeous fabrics I had ordered from the lovely Jody and Simone at Fabric Traders.com.au on Saturday (last weekend - 4 days ago to be exact) had arrived!   Talk about SUPER FAST delivery. I am so impressed!

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. (Don't get me started on all the trims and bobble braids and oilcloths - seriously swoon-worthy!)

These little beauties are destined to join my ever increasing cushion collection. As I have said (more than once I am sure!) one can NEVER have too many cushions.  I am the Queen of over-cushioning!

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!)

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 ?

And this would have to be my absolute favourite - "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.

Thank you so much Jody and Simone.

Your shop is amazing and your service incredible!

and thank you also for the $5 discount coupon you very kindly included with my order -
Guess what I'll be doing this weekend?...

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

2011-11-06T18:18:00.001+10:00

In some parts of the world, the lead up to Christmas is heralded by a change in the seasons.

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.

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 (and raining....and raining!.....). That simple really.

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.

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.

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. "Look... it's snowing!!!" they would say.

I must admit, there is something quite magical about seeing all those red "snowflakes" fluttering through the air.....

Although I wish someone could have reminded me to shift the car!

PS - A big thank you to Michelle and Melissah for becoming my 51st and 52nd followers!
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.

Thank you ALL for popping by and leaving your little comments - it really does mean a lot to me.

Some Cushion Zhushing

2011-10-29T21:36:00.001+10:00

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!

I know some people find them an absolute nuisance - but not me. I come from a long line of

Over-Cushioners!

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 thing for anything with either a cat or dog motif and over the years collected some rather interesting(?) examples.

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.

Which leads me to today......

Now, I'm not entirely sure what lead me to my crazy cushion making frenzy this afternoon!

One minute I was sorting through my fabric stash.......

And the next, I was cutting out layers and layers of yellow and blue co-ordinated fabric and sewing up a storm!

Buttons, bobble trim, zig-zag - pins flying everywhere......

I was like a woman possessed.

So here we have it.

A whole bunch of cute little blue and yellow creations - perfect for some Spring time cushion zhushing!

Super easy to make and cost me hardly anything (apart from the inserts)

If anyone is interested - I would be happy to post a little tutorial.

Only problem now........

Where to put them all!

On the Mend

2011-10-28T07:06:00.001+10:00

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!

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.

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.

Whilst on the subject of Pet friendships - sweet Loulou over at  Here I am Lou lou 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.

I just had to share these gorgeous photos Kendall took on her recent trip to Ireland.

Let me introduce "Sandy" and Mrs Cat.........

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.

Just goes to show - friendship comes in all shapes and sizes!

PS: Thank you SO MUCH Kellie from Sasse Avenue 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!

Definitely calls for a little giveaway to celebrate - stay tuned!

A Close Call

2011-10-24T22:53:00.000+10:00

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.

Don't let that cute little face and soft, gentle eyes fool you. No Siree Bob.....

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.

However, in the arms of the family he loves -

Mickey is an absolute "Pussycat"!

WARNING : If you are a little squeamish or have a particular dislike for parasites - DO NOT read any further.

(OK - don't say I didn't warn you!)

Now this gruesome looking creature is an Ixodes holocyclus - 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!

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.

And the fact that he has taken up residence on my bed is a sure sign he is DEFINITELY on the mend.

C'mon - Get off that bed Mickey!! Grrrrrrrr........

"Near death experience ? okay but for today ONLY - you hear me Mickey!"

Home at last!

2011-10-22T07:36:00.000+10:00

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.

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!

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.

How magnificent are these Clydesdale's?

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.......

"To show Mum, of course......"

Ah yes, she knows me well!

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?

And here is Kendall getting a taste of farm life at Alan's family's farm in Co.Galway.

Looks quite the farmer's wife....................
I hope they're not your good Country Road boots there Kendall?

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!

I'm sure Class 2/3A are going to enjoy hearing all about Miss Jones' travels.

A Sneak Peek

2011-09-21T22:50:00.000+10:00

Lazybones and Homebodies Pty Ltd

Have you ever seen something and thought "I just have to have that!"

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.

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.

However at $319 it is WAY more than I could justifiably pay for a quilt - regardless of how fabulous it is.

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!

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! "Get off that bed Mickey - you naughty dog!!!" Grrr.......

Lazybones and Homebodies Pty Ltd

So, regardless of my huge case of "quilt envy" - I had resigned myself to the fact that it was never going to happen.

That was of course, until I saw this.........

On the front cover of this month's "Home Beautiful"

Pang! (sound of arrow piercing my heart) - there it goes again. I just LOVE that quilt.

As a matter of fact - I just LOVE that whole bed with its gorgeous lilacs and pop of yellow. So perfect for Spring.

So, it got me thinking.

What if I was to make that quilt? Then if anything did happen to it - well I wouldn't feel guilty at having spent so much buying it. Perfect!

So that is exactly what I am doing!

At under $60 I have bought all the fabric/backing etc. and have started on this little school holiday project.

Stay tuned for my big reveal + a little tutorial I am putting together on the making of my DREAM quilt.

Something to Hum about

2011-09-20T07:00:00.000+10:00

Now this gorgeous little creature is a hummingbird....

.......and this gorgeous little bit of delectability is Hummingbird Slice!

Interesting thought to ponder. How did Hummingbird slice get its name?

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?

Either way - this slice is to die for. Another amazing Donna Hay recipe.

Now I know I said that my baking these days was going to be limited to strictly Special Occasions - well....

Kendall and her Alan leave on Friday for their trip to Ireland! What more of an excuse do I need?

Hummingbird Slice
3/4 cup (140g) brown sugar
1/2 cup (125ml) vegetable oil
2 eggs
1/2 cup canned crushed pineapple, drained (REALLY squished until there is hardly any liquid left)
1 banana, mashed
1 cup grated carrot cake (about 2 carrots)
115g self raising flour, sifted
1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of (baking) soda, sifted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup (20g) shredded coconut
1/4 cup (30g) chopped pecans (or walnuts)
passionfruit icing OR honey to serve

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.
Ice with passionfruit icing or slice and serve with honey.

Yes, definitely something to Hum about!

Some Spring Colour

2011-09-18T17:11:00.000+10:00

Some days it feels good to be alive!

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.

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.

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? Magical!

The colours from these Cordylines are just so vibrant and with the sunlight behind them - just makes the leaves look translucent.

My little window box of petunias on the front porch looks so welcoming and cheery.

And the bougainvillea is simply stunning!

How is this for a splash of colour!

Sometimes you just don't need any words...........

Ah yes....... good to be alive!

Best Carrot Cake Ever!

2011-09-17T21:29:00.000+10:00

Okay it's true..... There's one thing I like better than making cakes - and that is eating cakes!

Hmm.....Not good!    Where is that will-power when I need it?

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 :

(1) Special family occasions - birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, final exam celebrations, weddings, engagements, holidays, births, arrival of tax cheque......
(2) Morning teas - shared with friends, work colleagues, relatives I haven't seen for a long time....
(3) Dinner Parties (which don't involve family members - not to be confused with #1)

Ah that's better. Baking for a purpose - perfect!

So when a work colleague decided to retire recently - it was just the excuse I needed to try out this Donna Hay recipe and bake this truly scrumptious Carrot Cake with caramelised Pecan topping.

It was (without a doubt) the BEST Carrot Cake I have ever tasted and elevated me to Carrot Cake Queen status at work!

Carrot cake with lime icing
1 2/3 cups (250g) self raising four, sifted
1 1/2 teaspoons baking power, sifted
2 teaspoons mixed spice
1 1/2 cups (265g) brown sugar
3 eggs
1 cup (250ml) sunflower oil
3 cups (360g) grated carrot
caramelised pecans*
lime icing
1 cup (240g) cream cheese
1/2 cup (80g) icing sugar, sifted
1 tablespoons lime juice

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.
* 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.

Just look at those beautiful caramely crunchy pecans - yum!

and

that luscious lime cream cheese icing - amazing!

I definitely feel a Special Occasion coming on.......

Ah yes, start of school holidays - PERFECT!

Proud as Punch

2011-08-30T22:43:00.000+10:00

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.

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. (I seriously need to get a better grip on my emotions!)

Dear Mum & Dad

I would just like to thank you both for supporting me throughout my teaching degree.

I know I have not always been easy to be around and that both of you have

felt the stress.

The truth is, I simply could not have made it without you!

Thank you for the words of encouragement; the "pocket" money;

fixing my car; buying me food/clothes etc.

Thank you for really being outstanding parents and setting me up for my future -

I will be forever grateful.

I know I could never pay you back for you have done for me - so hopefully this is a start.

love always

Kendall

No wonder I was a blubbering mess. I'm a blubbering mess now just typing these words!

(where are those tissues?)

A long time ago, a very wise person once told me :

"Parenthood is never easy

but

sometimes.......some things....... make it all worthwhile"

(Thank you Mum - how right you were!)

Letters to Mum

2011-08-28T16:41:00.000+10:00

A few months ago I linked up to a little party where I was asked to Define My Blog.   It was the first time since I started my blogging journey that I actually took time out to actually think about "why I blog" and "what inspires me to blog".

I'm know many non-bloggers find this whole blogging phenomenon a little difficult to understand.   Decorating and food blogs - sure.    As a former magazineholic - the many inspiring decorating and food blogs out there have certainly curbed my desire to purchase every decorating and food magazine I could lay my hands on.   In fact, I have saved an absolute fortune since discovering the wonderful world of decorating and food blogs!

However, given that my blog is neither a food or decorating or craft blog - why do I feel the need to share sometimes very personal feelings and reflections on my life with absolute strangers? What makes me believe that anyone else (other than my immediate family) would be interested in the daily musings of my life anyway?

When asked - "why DO you blog?" - I find myself quickly replying - "that my blog is a living, breathing journal of the people and things that are important to me and the special moments that give me joy and make me smile".

But who am I actually writing it for?

I have seen many beautiful blogs come and go since I began this little blog.

Many have simply run out of inspiring ideas. Many have found that the effort to sustain an interesting blog and keep their followers happy just too difficult (and time consuming!). Many have just become too overwhelmed with the whole "stats" thing and have become totally swept up in the numbers game - increasing their blog traffic. (I cannot believe there are actually books out there on "how to increase your blog traffic!") They have lost their Blogging Mojo and in doing so - WE (the blogging community) have lost some truly amazing and inspirational blogging friends.

This has got me thinking. (Yes, there is a purpose to this long, rambling piece of soul searching (for those who are still with me!)

Who am I actually writing for?

I have finally worked it out! (a true lightbulb moment!)

On the 29th April 2008 I lost my best friend, my confidante, my sharer of dreams - my Mum. She passed away at just 78 years of age. She was (quite simply) too young to die - there was still so much for her to live for.

She lived long enough to see her grandchildren grow into adults - but not long enough to see them succeed in their careers or find love.

She lived long enough to see the garden she and I created together to come into bloom - but not long enough to see her beloved orchids flower.

There was SO much more for her to share with us all.

I try really hard not to dwell too much on her passing. However, there is not a day goes by that I don't think about her or wish she was still here. There is also not a day that goes by that I don't see her face in a cloud or feel her hand resting on mine. Her presence is still so strong. I know in my heart she is close by - watching over us - listening to our chatter - sharing in our joy.

So this little blog is about to change. It is undergoing a transformation!

"The Views from my Valley" will be no more.

"all my love......Sharyne"   is just like the letter I would write to my Mum if she was living in another town, another State, another country - this blog is my letter to her.

These are the letters I will write to tell her about what is going on here in the Valley - the various projects I am undertaking - what is happening in the garden - what is happening in everyone's lives.   I know she would love it and I hope you will too!

My blog now has a purpose....... a real meaning.   Something to share with everyone and anyone - but most of all, with her.

Being Present

2011-08-14T23:13:00.001+10:00

Interesting words and even more interesting thoughts here from Leo Babauta (Zen Habits) on the "Power of Being Present."

This article really struck a chord with me.   The more I read - the more philosophical I became. I started thinking about all the things in my daily life which bring me calm and peace and how by focusing on a specific task, I was in fact practising the art of "being present".

Gardening obviously was the first thing which sprung to mind.   There is something just so special about working with nature.   To dig a hole and plant a seed and then see it grow into a beautiful shrub or tree is such a wonderful sense of creation.   Gardens are just such magical places to be.   In the solace of my garden I am surrounded by memories. Memories of my mother and my grandmother who provided me with the inspiration and love of gardening.  Their presence is so strong - warm and comforting.

I have also been known to solve all manner of conflicts and problems in the garden.    As I dig and mulch, prune and rake - imaginary conversations take place in my head and before you know it - problem solved!

"Being present becomes, then, a way to handle any problem, any distraction, any stressor. It allows everything else to fade away, leaving only you and whatever you’re dealing with right now."

"No matter how out-of-control your day is, no matter how stressful your job or life becomes, the act of being present can become an oasis. It can change your life. "

Painting (like gardening) is my oasis. It is place I go when I just need to focus on one task. It allows me time to clear my head and become totally absorbed in the moment. It allows me to "be present".

A blank canvas; the gentle tones of Alisan Krauss in the background; a beautiful day in the Valley - Bliss!

Simple pleasures.

"Be joyful in whatever you're doing, grateful that you're able to do that task and fully appreciate every little movement and tactile sensation of the task. You'll learn that anything can be an amazing experience, anything can be a miracle. "

How lucky am I to have been able to find that calm in the middle of the traffic of my life.

I hope you have too!

Finally - at last!

2011-08-13T08:31:00.000+10:00

Yesterday Kendall (my baby girl) became a teacher!

After 5 years (almost!) of blood, sweat and many, many tears she completed her final teaching Prac

and is now ready to embark upon the job of her dreams.

A celebratory cake + chocolates + strawberries was an obvious choice to mark this milestone in her life.

The champagne came later!

Thank you Miss Louise for being such a wonderful mentor (and supervisory teacher). . You entrusted your class to her and gave her such a wonderful opportunity to find her wings and learn to fly.

I know Kendall will be eternally grateful.

This cake was my version of the famous "rainbow" cake - however due to the fact that it had to travel on the floor of my car for the journey to school and was in severe danger of completely toppling over - I decided to opt for 4 layers instead of 6.

(Wise choice I think.)

Nevertheless - it still had that real WOW! factor when Kendall cut into it. There were plenty of "Oh's and Ah's" around the staffroom when the 4 layers were revealed. Quite a Master Chef moment!

Congratulations Kendall! We are all so proud of you.

I know you are going to be a brilliant teacher and I am so looking forward to following you on your journey.

Lots of love and hugs!!

Scatter a Little Kindness

2011-08-03T18:26:00.000+10:00

Last weekend I decided to scatter a little kindness around the place......

and paint this little sign

which now hangs over my kitchen window

A constant reminder

of how little we really need to do

to make our world a better place.

A super easy project to make

A length of timber - a coat of paint – and some type font which I downloaded from the internet

Traced onto the timber and then painted with white acrylic. Simple.

Why not scatter some kindness around your place?

The Power of the Sun

2011-08-02T17:17:00.003+10:00

In this part of the world there is one thing that we are never short of.

And that is SUN!

So it makes sense that given the expected increase in electricity charges we keep hearing about – that we should utilise this free energy to offset the cost of power.

I also feel a moral obligation to the planet to reduce our carbon imprint. We live in such a beautiful, pristine part of the world. I would love to think it will still be the same in 100 years time!

So – here is our own little power generating plant – right on my very own roof!

I had been contemplating solar panels for quite a while and when I realised the Government’s subsidy on solar panels was going to be reduced on the 30^th June – I sprang into action.

These sparkling little diamonds were installed today – a beautiful, sunny day in tropical Far North Queensland. Just look at the sun reflecting off those panels .

I am hoping they are going to significantly reduce our power bills and with a bit of luck – we might even be able to sell power back to the grid. Who would have thought it – a CREDIT balance with the electricity company!

There have been times when I have questioned decisions I have made – what is that old saying about “decisions made in haste.” However, this is not one of them.

I am positively glowing!

A Little Drop Cloth Magic

2011-07-31T18:32:00.000+10:00

To be perfectly honest, I have found this whole painter's drop cloth upholstery phenomenon a little hard to get! When all these amazing transformations first began to appear in blogland I was a little dubious. Painter's drop cloth? Hmm...... The only painter's drop cloths I could find were at my local Bunnings store. They were a dirty grey in colour and looked to be coated in some shiny waterproofing stuff. Hardly the type of fabric that I would want adorning my chairs and windows.

However persistence has paid off and a couple of weeks ago whilst checking out paint in another hardware store I stumbled across these little gems - "RotaCota" drop cloths. Now I get it! These are going to revolutionise my decorating.

First project to get the RotaCota decorating treatment - my rattan dining room chairs. See those six chairs just behind where Dixie Chick is sitting.

No patterns or templates here - I just simply draped the drop cloth over the front of the chair and started pinning.    In fact my entire approach to this project was to pin - cut - sew! The beauty of these drop cloths is that there is just SO much fabric. If something is not right - well it's just simply a matter of cutting off another piece.

Once I was happy with the pinning - I then cut off all the surplus fabric and then sewed along the pin line (removing the pins as I went!) The one thing I found with this project was there was an awful lot of slipping off and slipping on.   This certainly helped with getting a good fit.

Then came the seat.   To help secure the seat to the base of the chair and stop it riding up every time anyone sat on it - I made a little trim which fitted nice and snug around the chair. Again, more pinning/trimming and sewing.

See how I secured the trim at the back. That upholstered seat wasn't going anywhere!

Next up was the skirt.   I decided to go for a tailored look and took deep pleats at each corner.   I then pinned the skirt to the seat to make sure it was the right length.

Off with the cover again for some more sewing.

Turn it right side out ( don't forget to remove ALL the pins) and voila!

All finished!

Yes, I'm quietly happy with the way this little project has turned out.

Can't wait to get started on my next RotaCota project!

With a Lick of Paint

2011-07-22T21:39:00.000+10:00

I'm SO thrilled to be linking up with the lovely Sarah at Modern Country Style and her

Paint Please Link Party.

Thank you so much for the invite Sarah!

I LOVE paint! Pouring over colour swatches - seeing before and after pictures of rooms amazingly transformed - finding unloved pieces of furniture and bringing them to life. Nothing gives me more joy.

Paint doesn't scare me - in fact, paint and I are friends! There is not a week goes by that I haven't got some painting project on the go. My daggy "house" clothes are splattered with reminders of former projects - oh look.....here's a blob of Antique White USA.....and what about this delightful Eye of Neut..... oh yes, and how could I forget Friendly Sky.......

Just look at this sweet little cupboard I found in my shed. So sad (and green!)

But with a lick of paint..........

It is transformed into a thing of beauty!

And what about this handy little tool tote I crafted out of unloved pallet offcuts.

Plain and boring one minute ..........

Fabulous and sunflowery the next!

And talking of Sunflowers .......

One canvas + paint =

One piece of Original Artwork.

Yes, I LOVE paint!

Now fellow paint lovers - I have a challenge for you......

I'm looking for suggestions.

This is another "find" from my shed and it is looking even more sad than my cute little cupboard.

(Oh look at all those gorgeous paint splotches on the ground - is that Friendly Sky I see??)

Anyway...... - this piece holds special memories for me.

You see........

28 years ago I sat on this very same rocking chair

and rocked my first born to sleep (many, MANY times... Colicky baby - you know the story)

It is now in serious need of a makeover.

So - what about it?

To paint (or not to paint)? Colour?

All suggestions gratefully appreciated - thank you.

Oh ..... and thank you Sarah for hosting this fabulous party......

Happy painting everyone!

Words of Wisdom

2011-07-22T06:30:00.013+10:00

"I sometimes think that the act of bringing food is one of the basic roots of all relationships."

                                                                                                                         Dalai Lama

To be perfectly honest - I know very little about the Dalai Lama or Buddhism.  However when I heard this quote on Sunday night's "Master Chef" - it really struck a chord with me.

I have been an avid fan of "Master Chef" since the very first episode. In fact I think I can safely say - Master Chef has re-ignited my love of cooking and baking.   I have always loved cooking but for many years it was more a case of trying to provide healthy, substantial family meals on a budget than recreate some of the extravagant recipes on "Master Chef".   Spending $100 on ingredients for a Champagne Trifle - I don't think so!

Food is such a wonderful bonding element.    Doesn't matter whether it is a crumpet and cup of tea or a magnificent feast - if there is love in your heart - it comes out on the plate.

Such a simple lesson in a complex world!

I love nothing better than creating meals for my family or baking a cake to share with friends. It fills my heart with joy to know that through the simple act of cooking - I have been responsible for bringing my family and friends together. To hear Matthew say "That meal was truly outstanding!" or to have Alan come back for a second (and third!) helping of Orange Cake - well, what more could I ask for.

I also think there is also something special about sitting at a table that has been prepared with cutlery, glasses, a water jug, and maybe flowers and candles.

It tells all who sit there.........

Photo courtesy of Martha Stewart

That they are welcome in our home.
(Thank you Dalai Lama!)

A New Favourite

2011-07-21T06:30:00.003+10:00

Bed, Bath and Table - my new favourite store!

Just love this little collection of cream bottles. A perfect vase to show off

my beautiful Cooktown orchids.

And of course this gorgeous little ceramic birdshouse which looks so perky on

my verandah.

Just love the blue budgie on top.

Makes my heart sing!

A Thorny Subject

2011-07-19T06:30:00.001+10:00

It happens everytime.......

Just when I threaten to take the pruning shears to the rampant bougainvillea which is literally taking over the entire bottom section of my garden - it decides to put on a spectacular show of colour. Such a showoff!

At this time of the year when the rest of the garden is looking decidedly boring - this creeper is like a vibrant neon light creeping and twining its way up and around everything in its sight. I'm sure that if I stood long enough in one spot - it would twine itself around me!

It is the absolute bane of my life. I can't begin to tell you how much pain it has inflicted on me over the years. Those thorns are lethal. Heaven help you if you should happen to step on a wayward bract whilst wandering around the garden barefoot - Ouch!

However when its beautiful, delicate, tissue-paper like flowers glisten in the early morning sunlight - filling the room with a cheerful glow - well I can forgive it. (Almost)

Okay Mr Bougainvillea - you have a reprieve - but next year...........

A little Fancywork

2011-07-17T17:11:00.002+10:00

My Nan used to call it Fancywork. Delicate stitches in colourful embroidery floss with names like "Lazy Daisy"; "Satin Stitch"; "Bullion"; and "Herringbone" - all worked on  beautiful Irish linen doilies, tablecloths and pillow slips.   Her linen press was a shrine to these wonderful creations.  As a young girl I remember running my hand over the silken satin stitch flower petals of the doilies on her sideboard and marvelling at the intricate stitching and fine crochet edging which adorned each little masterpiece.

Over the years I have tried my hand at a number of crafts but none has given me more pleasure than embroidery and cross-stitch.   The sheer luxury of being able to wile away the hours with a needle and thread and a cross-stitch piece held firmly in a wooden embroidery hoop - well, does wonders for the blood pressure I can tell you!

Sadly though, there is a limit to just how many embroidered doilies and tablecloths you can actually use in one lifetime.   Friends and relatives start cringing at the thought of receiving another one my doilies - "Oh no, not another one of Sharyne's doilies....."

So when Kendall asked me at the start of the year if I would do a Wedding Stitchery for a friend's wedding - I just jumped at the chance.    (The fact that I didn't get around to starting it till last Sunday and the wedding was yesterday - well, that's another story!)

Hopefully Ashley and Cindy get as much joy from this little piece of fancywork that I did in making it.

Unforgettable

2011-07-04T07:00:00.003+10:00

Unforgettable

Unforgettable, that’s what you are

Unforgettable though near or far

Like a song of love that clings to me

How the thought of you does things to me

Never before has someone been more

Unforgettable in every way

And forever more, that’s how you’ll stay

That’s why, darling, its incredible

That someone so unforgettable

Thinks that I am unforgettable too

Unforgettable in every way

And forever more, that’s how you’ll stay

That’s why, darling, its incredible

That someone so unforgettable

Thinks that I am unforgettable too

-Nat King Cole

4th July 1975 - 4th July 2011

36 years

(and who said it would never last!)

Love always

Lemon Yoghurt Cake

2011-06-27T22:20:00.000+10:00

A scrumptious cake made with lemon and yoghurt.

Well this just HAS to be healthy!

Thank you so much to everyone for your comments about my Lemon Cordial recipe. I am so pleased with the way it turned out. It tastes just like old fashioned lemonade!

I am determined to use every single one of the gorgeous juicy lemons from my neighbour's tree. I am a woman on a mission - seeking out creative ways to make maximum use of the humble lemon.

So with the first day of school holidays and a drizzly, miserable day here in the Far North, I decided to grab a few more lemons and do some baking.

I have been wanting to try out this Donna Hay recipe for Lemon Yoghurt cake for quite a while now and believe me, it didn't disappoint!

Lemon Yoghurt Cake

3/4 cup (180ml) vegetable oil

2 eggs

1 tabs finely grated lemon rind

2 tabs lemon juice

1 cup (280) thick natural yoghurt

1 3/4 cups (384g) caster sugar

2 cups (300g) self raising flour

Lemon icing :

3/4 cup sifted icing sugar

1 tabs lemon juice

Preheat oven to 180 degrees C.

Place the oil, eggs, rind, lemon juice, yoghurt and sugar in a bowl and whisk to combine.

Sift over the flour and stir until smooth.

Pour the mixture into a greased 24cm fluted ring tin and bake for 35minutes or until cooked when tested with a skewer.

While the cake is still hot - remove from the tin and place on a plate.

To make the lemon icing - gently stir together the sugar and lemon juice.

Spoon over the cake and allow to set. Serve warm.

The texture, the flavour, the scrumptiousness..........Wow!

Well done DONNA HAY - you have surpassed yourself with this one.

A Lemon a Day

2011-06-26T16:49:00.000+10:00

At this time of the year, it seems that the citrus trees in this part of the world are literally dripping with fruit.

I can't help but think what a terrible waste it is when I see piles of gorgeous lemons, grapefruit and oranges just rotting under trees. So when a neighbour very kindly handed me a HUGE bag of lemons from her very bountiful lemon tree - I was determined to come up with creative ways to use each and every one of them.

A quick search of the Internet led me to this delicious recipe for Lemon Cordial.

Lemon Cordial

What you need :

8 lemons juiced

1 tabs of lemon rind

1.5 litres of water

1.5 kilo sugar

2 teaspoons of citric acid

How to :

Squeeze lemons and place in large container. (I put mine into a bucket!) You will probably need to strain the juice to remove the seeds;
Grate some lemon rind (before you squeeze them) and put into the lemon juice;
In a saucepan, boil water and sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Then add the 2 teaspoons of citric acid - give it a stir to dissolve and then leave to cool;
Pour the syrup over the lemon juice and give it a good stir;
Grab yourself a funnel and some clean bottles (with lids) and pour cordial into bottles.
Cool/put the lids on and store in the fridge (you could probably freeze it if you put it in plastic bottles). It actually made almost 2.5 litres of cordial.

To serve :

Once chilled, pour a little of the cordial into the bottom of a glass - top with ice and soda water (or just plain cold water) - and voila! Delicious lemonade.

Thirst quenching - fresh and a great way to use all that surplus fruit.

Next : Lemon Yoghurt Cake

(stay tuned!)

Miss Molly's Big Adventure

2011-06-19T21:48:00.001+10:00

.......An interview with Miss Molly (Blue Heeler and mountain climber extraordinaire).

As told to me..........

Me :              Well Miss Molly. I understand you went on quite an adventure today. Do you want to
                       tell us where you went and what you did?

Miss Molly :     Sure Sharyne (aka Kendall's Mum and nice lady who gives me Beef Jerky treats!)

                         This morning - Really REALLY! early - Kendall and Alan woke me up and told me we were
                        going for a drive in the car.   I was so excited - you know how much I love going for drives
in the car!

Me: So - did you know where you were going?

Miss Molly : No. I thought we might have been going for a drive to get a Pizza (I know how much Alan

and Kendall like Pizza!) but then we turned down this road I had never seen before and I

saw this HUGE mountain. Then Kendall told me that we were going to climb that

mountain - all the way to the top. WOW - I was so excited!

Me : What was it like on the mountain?

Miss Molly : Well, there were SO many interesting things to smell...... and strange little insects and crawly

things...... lots and lots of trees and grass...... oh, and there were also a couple of other

dogs on the mountain.

Alan said they were "German Shepherds". I just thought they were

two dopey showoffs! Running like crazy up that little track.......

Miss Molly : And I'm not the only one who thought that!

Kendall told me I was such a good dog. So well behaved...... So obedient......

So intelligent.......

SO much better than those two dopey German Shepherds!

I really like Kendall (and Alan of course!)

Me : What about the view?

Miss Molly : View? What view?

Me : Did you have any trouble keeping up with Kendall and Alan?

Miss Molly : Who me? No way.
I had to keep stopping so they could catch up to me.

Me : What about rest breaks along the way?

Miss Molly: Oh yes, there were plenty of those.
Kendall brought along my own special water bowl - see that little blue bowl in the picture.
Alan let me share his sandwich and I also had a couple of biscuits - yum!

Me : What was the best part of the whole trip for you?

Miss Molly : Um mm...... climbing over all those rock faces
and
showing Kendall and Alan the way to go!

Miss Molly : Oh....... and sharing Alan's sandwiches and biscuits!

Me : And once you got to the top - what did you think of the view

Miss Molly : View? What view?

Me : Well thank you Miss Molly. It has been a real treat hearing all about your big adventure today.
Is there anything else you would like to add?

Miss Molly : I would just like to thank Kendall and Alan for taking me.
But next time.......

Could you PLEASE pack me my own sandwiches and bikkies

(and maybe some beef jerky treats!)

Lazy Hazy Days of Summer

2011-06-11T19:37:00.093+10:00

Although it is now officially Winter in this part of the world

Summer is never really far away here in the tropics.

As the days get shorter

And the garden goes into hibernation for a couple of months

It's great to be able to sit back on the patio and enjoy the slower pace of life.

And dream about all the new gardening projects I am planning for summer.

So in celebration of life in the great outdoors

And those Lazy, Hazy days of summer

I'm linking up with Donna at Funky Junk Interiors for her

Patio Decor Link Party.

A Little Tote Magic

2011-06-06T19:03:00.000+10:00

How do you like this cute little toolbox I whipped up over the weekend?

With my trusty Ryobi power drill, a handsaw and a few offcuts of packing case timber - I managed to put together this handy little storage tote. Perfect for keeping all my stationery bits and pieces!

It really was one of the easiest woodworking projects I have undertaken.

A bit of measuring and a bit of cutting. And then a bit of sawing and a bit of gluing.

Here are the two sides. See how I have cut the corners off to give it that tapered look.

Next the front bits. See those 2 skinnier bits of timber. They were actually from the base of an old mattress ensemble. (I knew they would come in handy one day!)

The flat larger piece of timber is the base.

Then it was just a matter of piecing it together.

And checking to make sure that everything was even and level.

I really love this steel washer which was embedded into the timber. I think it adds real character to the front.

Then with a bit more gluing and screwing - it all came together.

I then used a special bit which allowed me to drill a couple of holes in the top and cut the top off of my old garden rake to make into a handle. Perfect!

A coat of paint and a bit of distressing.

Oh, and of course I had to include a cute little hand painted sunflower and some

signage.....

Then gave the whole thing a good sandpaper rub down just to give it that aged look.

And voila!

Here we have it - my rustic little sunflower toolbox.

I love it to bits!

And it looks right at home here on my desk.

Don't you think?

Sunday Morning Bliss

2011-06-05T08:17:00.000+10:00

The first rays of sunlight on a wintery tropical morn.

A hot cup of tea

The latest Donna Hay mag

and

A furry friend to share it all with.

Bliss!

Another one for the Collection

2011-05-31T21:38:00.001+10:00

Over the years I have had many collections. I'm sure it must be something to do with my obsessive nature or maybe it might just be that when I find something I REALLY like - I just have to have more than one!

I've been through my "cow" phase when literally everything in my home was a black and white cow - plates, cups, clocks, towels, figurines, paintings, cookie jars.... you name it, I had it. If there was a bovine in the building - I could spot it at 50 metres.

Then there was my chicken and duck phase..... my sheep phase.....my votive candle phase......the list goes on.......

Thankfully - I am now a reformed hoarder. I have embraced the concept of controlled minimalism and regularly de-clutter as a form of Zen meditation!

Impressed?

Well I sure am!

Who am I kidding?

Once a collector ALWAYS a collector!

Take this gorgeous little ceramic birdhouse. When I walked by Bed, Bath and Table and saw it sitting there on the Clearance Table - all sad and lonely looking.......well of course I had to have it for my birdhouse collection, didn't I? The fact that my birdhouse collection is fast taking over every spare nook and cranny in the house - well minor detail really.

I just love the shade of turquoise and the cute little bird perched on top. I think it might be a budgerigar?

I LOVE my birdhouse collection but this is the ABSOLUTE, VERY LAST, NEVER AGAIN one I am EVER going to buy!!

Do you believe me?

Looking for my Blogging Mojo

2011-05-29T22:25:00.000+10:00

I have had a bit of a blogging lull these past couple of weeks.

I just seem to have lost the motivation to
share or journal the things that have been going on

in my life.

I guess you could say - I have "lost" my blogging mojo.

I'm not sure where it has been?

Why it decided to go away?

Whether in fact anyone has really noticed it has been missing?

But I have missed it!

I'm hoping that a bit of a Header revamp

and

Some pretty pictures of my lovely Cooktown orchids (Queensland's floral emblem)

will catapult me into blogging action.

PS - If you happen to find it - can you please send it back

(thank you!)

Remembering My Mum

2011-05-08T14:49:00.000+10:00

Thinking of you today

Missing you always

Walk slowly Mum..........

It Makes me Smile

2011-04-27T06:00:00.003+10:00

It really doesn't take much to make me happy. (Really..... it doesn't!)

Give me my old paints and brushes, a blank canvas, an easel on the verandah overlooking the garden...

and I'm as happy as a pig in mud!

Inspiration Photo

Painting is a bit like my other passion - gardening!

I can literally spend hours pottering around in the garden - trimming, planting, clipping, pruning. The time just seems to disappear. Before I know it an hour has turned into 4. I become so transfixed in what I am doing. It is the best way I know to lose a whole day in the blink of an eye.

And the same can be said for painting.

Ah bliss........

With the luxury of school holiday time on my hands and an inspiration photo planted firmly in my brain, I set about creating a little field of sunflowers right here in Far North Queensland.

Sunflowers would have to be one of the happiest flowers in the plant kingdom. They always look like they are smiling!

I was in heaven.

With every stroke I could feel my spirit lifting and the joy in my heart being transferred to the canvas in front of me.

Before I knew it.....

and hour had turned into 6!

But finally (at last) my little painting was finished

It makes me Smile!

(I hope it does the same for you.....)

My Transportable Herb Garden

2011-04-26T07:00:00.002+10:00

Just had to share this nifty little idea for a transportable herb garden - Job #4 in my recent "7 Tasks in 7 Days Challenge".

Now as I mentioned, here in the Valley we are blessed with lovely warm, sunny days - just perfect for growing all sorts of things. Only problem is that much of my garden is shaded by a canopy of palms and rainforest trees/shrubs which makes the growing of herbs and vegetables a little bit tricky.

You see, herbs and vegetables need (at least) 5 hours of sunlight a day so I needed to devise a plan whereby I could position my herbs to take full advantage of all that beautiful sunshine. So for me, the obvious choice was container planting.

Step 1 : Selecting the Container.

Now I really dislike plastic pots but I needed a container that was lightweight enough for me to be able to move around. I toyed with the idea of a wooden barrel or a large terracotta planter but I figured that once the soil was added they would just become too heavy to move.

However whilst wandering through Bunnings I caught sight of this galvanised Drinks Cooler and immediately saw its potential. Not only is it lightweight and deep but it also has handles - great for being able to grab onto.

Better still, it only cost $14!

Step 2 : Good Drainage

With my trusty drill in hand (how I love power using power tools!) I quickly set about drilling some draining holes in the base of the container. (Unfortunately the battery pack on the power drill decided to "die" at about this stage so I had to end up using a good ol' hammer and nail to finish the job).

Step 3 : Soil Mix

Previous experience has taught me not to skimp on potting mix. ALWAYS use the best potting mix you can afford - preferably something with water crystals and a complete plant food. The cheaper potting mix just doesn't seem to have all the nutrients the better quality mix has.

Fill the container right up to the top and pack the mix down well. You don't want the mix to be loose otherwise it will drop down too far after a couple of weeks.

Step 4 : The Plants

Decide what herbs you want to plant. I guess it really depends on what herbs you use regularly in your cooking. I can't ever remember using Tarragon - so therefore can't see the point of growing it. However I do use a large amount of Basil and Parsley - so they were obvious choices for me.

I decided to go for Coriander; Dill; Basil; Parsley; and Thyme. I bought the smaller size pots - (around $3 per pot).

Step 5 : The Planting

Space the plants out evening around the perimeter of the container and then put one of the larger growing plants in the middle. Plant them to the same depth in the container that they were in their little pots.

I ended up putting Coriander in the middle of the container because it likes to spread out a bit.

Step 6 : Fertilizer Even though my potting mix had a complete plant food in it - I also added a couple of handfuls of a Starter Fertilizer just to help it along a bit.

And I also gave it a drink to Seafood solution just to lesson the shock of transplanting the seedlings.

"Miracle-Gro" is my all time favourite Seafood solution. It just gives everything such a boost and comes in a concentrate so it is not expensive to use. I usually give my plants a seaweed drink every 3-4 weeks. It smells a bit like fish actually. Dixie Chick and Dolly P get quite excited when I start spraying the seaweed around!

Step 7 : Mulching

Final step is to give the plants a good layer of mulch. I use sugar cane mulch which comes in a bale. I put a good thick layer around the seedlings. It really is fantastic in retaining moisture in the soil and keeping the roots cool. It also reduces the soil splatter effect when watering!

So there you have it - my Transportable Herb Garden.

I've popped it on a little table on my side verandah where it catches all the early morning sunshine. It looks so fresh and lovely and glistening. Fragrant, delicious little green jewels basking in the sunlight.

Perfect!

Lest we Forget

2011-04-25T07:53:00.002+10:00

Thinking of you today Dad.

I wish you could have got to know your Grandchildren.

I think you would have really liked them.

The Sweet, Sweet Smell of Herbs

2011-04-21T09:24:00.000+10:00

Day 4 of my "7 Tasks in 7 Days" Challenge - over half way!

So far...so good.....

Had a very productive day yesterday. Not only was I able to get a good start on my little Sunflower painting but I also managed to dust and clean some blinds and wash some curtains!   How's that for multi tasking?

Although I would love nothing better than to spend the rest of the day painting - my list of "To Jobs" is beckoning.    So onwards (ever onwards!)........

DAY 4 - PLANT A HERB GARDEN 

Given my love of all things gardening - this is another one of the jobs that I have been looking forward to tackling these holidays.   (In fact I feel a little bit guilty including it on my "Jobs to Do" list.)

Fresh herbs - absolutely fantastic in cooking but equally as stunning to look at.   The beautiful shape and glossy colour of Basil;   the delicate frilliness of Parsley;   the randomness of oregano; the rigidness of chives.....  And the glorious smells - Pineapple sage; curry leaf; mint; lemon grass; lavender........

There is no better feeling than being able to pop out into the garden and pick a handful of fresh herbs.    They even look fabulous in an old teapot sitting on the kitchen window ledge!

So today I am off to the nursery to pick up my herb garden supplies.

I have decided to plant my herbs in a large tub rather than directly into the ground.   Herbs (like vegetables) need quite a bit of sunlight throughout the day and although we live in one of the "sunniest" places on the planet most of my garden is covered in a dense canopy of palms and rainforest trees/shrubs.   So, the idea of having a "movable" container of herbs - seems to make a lot of sense to me.

Hopefully I will be able to find a large wooden cask (of some type). (I do have a bit of an aversion to plastic pots!)    Even terracotta would be nice - although they do tend to dry out a bit here in the Tropics.

As for what to plant?

Well, I'm thinking - Basil, Parsley, Chives, Chilli, Thyme and Curry leaf.   Yes, I think that will do me just fine.

Oh - by the way.  I am ALWAYS misplacing my gardening gloves!   Doesn't matter how careful I am about putting them somewhere "safe" or tucking them into the waist band of my shorts - they just seem to vanish.  I can't begin to tell you how many pairs of gardening gloves I have lost over the years only to come across them months/years later rotting away under some bush in the garden!  (Oh - so that's where you got to!!)

Anyway, I just happened to see this fantastic idea to keep my gardening gloves safe and sound.

This is such an ingenious idea (Martha's of course!) although I could never imagine my gloves looking like this pair of gorgeousness. Seriously, what self respecting gardener would have a pair of gardening gloves that looked like these!

So - that's something else to add to my shopping list today.    New gloves, magnets and ........

this beautiful little blue enamel bucket........Sigh!

A Sunflower Study

2011-04-20T08:29:00.000+10:00

Day 3 of my "7 Tasks in 7 Days Challenge" and I've decided to slow down the pace a bit and tackle something a little less labour intensive today. All that trimming, chopping and pruning of the invading jungle has left me well and truly battle scared. My arms and legs are (literally) covered in scratches from those lethal bougainvillea thorns and my back is a little worse for wear from all that window cleaning yesterday! My windows however are sparkling. Love the look of sparkling windows - makes my heart sing!

So, with a liberal smothering of Paw Paw ointment on my battered, scratched and bruised arms I (optimistically) embark upon my next task.

DAY 3 - PAINTING SOME SUNFLOWERS

Now it is of no surprise to learn that one of my absolute passions in life is gardening. I would happily spend every waking moment pottering around in my garden. In fact, I very often do!

However here in the Tropics, when the days are just too hot and humid to garden - I love nothing better than to set up my easel on the wide verandah overlooking the Valley ............

and paint.

Now, I'm not talking walls and ceilings (although they are very often on my list of "to do " jobs). I am talking acrylics and canvas. Still life......whimsy.....abstract.........whatever inspires me.

With everything else going on in my life these days, the opportunity to spend my days leisurely painting away on the verandah are few and far between. It is a real luxury. However, whenever I can find a spare couple of hours (and I have a blank wall to fill!) this is where you will find me.

So my task for today (and probably the next couple of days!) is to paint a little picture I have had in my head for a while now.

Bright, yellow, happy sunflowers on a cobalt blue background!

Hopefully by the end of the 7 Day Challenge I will be able to reveal my beautiful sunflowers.

The sketching is done - now comes the fun bit!

I can't wait.

Crystal Clear

2011-04-19T09:06:00.000+10:00

DAY 2 - WINDOW CLEANING

So here we are - Day 2 of my 7 Tasks in 7 Days Challenge!

Now there is no way this task is a particularly enjoyable one. In fact, of all the jobs that need to be done around the place these holidays - this is the LEAST enjoyable.

However the sad reality is - someone has to do it (and that someone is me!)

Given the large number of windows here in the Valley - it does end up being quite a task.

I absolutely LOVE louvre windows.

Nothing says the Tropics and Coastal Living better than louvres.

When we first designed this house - top of list of "Must Haves" was louvre windows.

There is nothing better than throwing open all the louvres and letting those cool breezes waft through the house. The cross ventilation and natural cooling (to my way of thinking) is so much better than air conditioning.

BUT they are a pain to clean!

Over the years I have read many tips and tricks on how to clean windows and how to make them

crystal clear.

I've tried newspaper, vinegar, bleach + all manner of commercial cleaning products.

However I always end up coming back to my good ol' tried and tested friend - WINDEX and a whole heap of elbow grease!

8:45 a.m. - enough of these delay tactics......

C'mon Mr WINDEX - we have a job to do!!

I'm a Woman on a Mission!

2011-04-18T09:03:00.000+10:00

Day 1 of the school holidays and I am a woman on a mission!

There will be no rest for me these holidays - no Siree!   No long leisurely breakfasts.....no curling up on the couch with a novel......no catching up with friends for coffee and lunch......no retail therapy.........

I have set myself a task (well, a series of tasks actually) and I absolutely determined to complete each and every one of them.     So - here is my ingenious plan.

By committing my plan to paper (Blogland and the world!) - it will be virtually impossible for me to fail - right, eh?    Every day I will do a wrap up of what I achieved and then list what my task will be for the next day. Brilliant (I know!)

So here I go........

7 TASKS in 7 DAYS!

DAY 1 - TAME THE JUNGLE!

You see that lilac creeper delicately sunning itself in the first rays of early morning sunlight.

Well, that is Bougainvillea and it is the scourge of my life!
When I first came to live in the Valley just over 14 years ago - I made the mistake of planting a number of these beautiful tropical creepers. Big Mistake!!

Bougainvillea (and some other tropical vine which I have yet to discover the name of?) has virtually taken over my garden and it just has to go!

Just look at this horrible vine literally choking the life out of my glorious Crotons. Begone with you!

So my task today (Day 1) is to Tame the Jungle!

My tools of trade are ready and waiting - gloves, secateurs, long handle loppers, brushcutter, chainsaw and long sleeved shirt! (The thorns on the bougainvillea are seriously lethal!)

Time : 8.30 a.m. (I'm already 1 hour late!). Off to do battle.

Don't forget to check back tomorrow to see how Day 1 went and to find out what my task for Day 2 is!

Wish me luck!

Have I Found my Niche?

2011-04-15T21:00:00.000+10:00

Today I am linking up with the ever delightful Sarah at Modern Country Style for her "Define Your Blog" link party.

So sorry I'm late for your party Sarah! Looks like I might be one of the last guests to arrive.

Let me make my Grand Entrance down the marble stairway - cue the violins!.

Define my blog eh? Hmm.......well, to be honest I believe my blog defies definition!

Early in my blogging journey I remember reading in some "Guide to Good Blogging" that one of the key factors in establishing a successful blog was to "find your niche and stick to it."

Eeney....meeney......miney.....moe......

What sort of blog will I choose?.................

I know. What about a TRAVEL Blog?

Interesting photos and stories about far off lands like the trip my son Matthew and I made to
New Zealand

No, on second thoughts I think a RENOVATION blog would be more my style. Useful tips and amazing "Befores" and "Afters" like my little Bedroom Transformation

(See that cute little farmhouse bench at the foot of the bed - well.... I MADE that myself -

with my own 2 hands!.....)

No - too hard to keep up the pace (and in any case, I would fast run out of rooms!)

I know - A FOOD Blog. Now that sounds more like me! Delicious recipes and fabulous food styling like this luscious Orangey concoction :

Hmmm.....No - bad idea! Just think of all those calories I would have to Taste Test......

I know........ a CRAFT blog! People LOVE crafts - this was sure to be a winner!!

I was excited. I eagerly embarked on crafts like :

Sarah's Cinnamon and Heart Garland

and

Sarah's Christmas Wreath

(That Sarah has a lot to answer for!!)

Decisions.....decisions.......

A GARDENING Blog :

A PET Blog!!....

A FAMILY Blog !!!.....

ARGH.........No wonder I'm confused!!

I have finally come to the conclusion that my blog is a bit like me really........

"A Jill of all trades and Master of none!"

My "niche" is the story of my life.
My blog is (and will always be) a living, breathing journal of the people and things that are important to me and the special moments that give me joy and make me smile.

And that is just how I like it........

One Man's Junk.......

2011-04-02T09:38:00.000+10:00

One man's junk.... is another woman's treasure.......

I'm constantly amazed at the things people throw out.

Take this solid timber outdoor setting. It was destined for the local rubbish tip when I spotted it. Before the owner could change his mind - I quickly loaded it into the back of my ute and took off down the road - not even daring to look back in the rear view mirror.

(In actual fact - it took me FOREVER to load - it weighs a TON!

When I look at the solid timber chunks of timber and the rusting coach screws I can't help but wonder about the person who built this. How long ago was it built? Where did the timber come from?

I also think about the times and occasions when people would have sat around this table and the stories and good times they would have shared. As a rub my hand over the rough timber backs of the chair I wonder what stories these chairs could tell. If only they could talk.

I think that is the beauty of re-cycled/reclaimed furniture. So much beauty and history. Being able to preserve the memories of this old piece and create new ones - fills my heart with joy!

At this stage I'm not even sure what I am going to do with it. Paint.... stain......or just let it bask in the glory of its natural raw beauty.

Maybe a few comfy cushions? Hmm..... Not sure at this stage.

I'm just so pleased that I was able to rescue it from its fate.......

And give it a new home here in the Valley.

Let Sleeping Dogs (and Cats!) Lie

2011-03-24T21:20:00.001+10:00

Source

There's no doubt about it - sharing a home with 3 dogs, 2 cats and 2 pink galahs can at times be very challenging.

Apart from the regular pet maintenance issues there is also the question of "their space" and "our space" and whether it is possible for us all to co-habitate (happily) under the one roof.

Dixie Chick ready for a quick getaway

From as far back as I can remember - our pets have always lived inside. No swanky colourbond kennels for these canines - no Sirree!..... Our pets have always "known" their place (and usually that has been laying flat out under a ceiling fan in the lounge or bedroom.)

Now I know there are many people who frown at the notion of pets living "inside". All that fur and fluff not to mention the muddy paw prints - but I have always held the view that our pets are part of our family and I certainly wouldn't consider asking a family member to bunk down on a hessian bean bag in the garage or back verandah. Would you?

C'mon Micky and Buffy..... what about a smile for the camera!

I will admit - co-habitating with pets is a lot of hard work! Just look at the dog hair on the floor above. These Blueys moult like crazy. My vacuum cleaner works overtime trying to keep up with the copious amounts of dog hair they discard. Doesn't matter how much they are brushed and groomed - there is no end to the amount of fur they shed. In fact, I reckon I would be able to spin enough yarn from the fur sucked into the vacuum cleaner to knit a jumper (or woolly hat). Actually, come to think of it - there could be a serious market for Blue Heeler yarn. Hmmm..... something to investigate.

Dolly P - time for a bit of shut eye

Some members of our pet family are quite fussy about where they choose to snooze.........

And some have absolutely no regard whatsoever for the niceities of life!

My Vege Garden Inspiration

2011-03-12T14:19:00.000+10:00

Today I'm linking up with my friend Sarah at Modern Country Style with her Inspiration Linky Party.
Sarah has provided me with so much inspiration - in fact it would be true to say she is one of my main sources of inspiration! Why not pop across and see what inspires her (and a whole heap of other inspiring people) - you will be amazed (and inspired!)

I didn't have to think very hard of what inspires me.

Gardens of course!

However much and all as I love trees, flowers and shrubs I am finding myself drawn more and more towards the idea of self sufficiency and the opportunity to be able to use the land around us to grow fruit and vegetables.

In this part of Australia we are limited to about 6 months of the year when we are able to grow veges. This is usually between the months of April - September. The rest of the year is either too hot and humid or too wet! So with peak vege growing time fast approaching I have been busily thinking about my vege garden.

Whilst I want my vege garden to be productive, healthy and bountiful - I also want it to be beautiful! None of this pop a few seedlings into a bit of dirt for me - oh no...... It has to be planned (but not too structured) and it has to look fabulous.

So this is my Vege Garden Inspiration.

This is the place I dream about at night and day dream about during the day. It is how I would love my vege garden to look. (I would also love that cute little cottage!)

Gorgeous raised beds with row upon row of luscious goodness.

I love the randomness of this garden and the way in which the vegetables have been incorporated within the overall plan. The companion planting of flowers and herbs is certainly something I would like to include.

Totally organic and herbicide free.

I love these gorgeous little garden features. They add so much interest and uniqueness.

Pumpkin vines cushioning the little wishing well. Just perfect!

A seat to sit in at the end of the day.

And a short stroll through the archway to the greenhouse.

This is my dream......my inspiration......the images that make my heart skip a beat.

Thank you Sarah for letting me share my Inspiration!

The Ten Things I Love About Adam

2011-03-11T06:30:00.002+10:00

Since beginning my blogging journey just over 12 months ago, one of the real joys has been being able to journal and record so many of my family's milestones. As my blog grows it becomes a living memory of my life and the significant things that have shaped it as well as a wonderful blackboard on which to share so many of my thoughts and feelings.

More often than not, the only person who really reads my ramblings is myself. Perhaps this is why I consider it such an indulgence. It allows me to write the things I sometimes find difficult to say in person - the things I feel in my heart but just can't express in the spoken word.

So if you should happen to read this today Adam - this is for you!

Oh.....and please excuse my little indulgence when I tell you (and anyone else who might stumble

across my little post today) what makes you so special

and how lucky I am to have you as my son!

The Ten Things I Love About Adam

You were my first born and even though I had absolutely no idea about babies, parenting, rearing well adjusted and considerate sons - you turned out just fine (in spite of me!);
When you were 3 years old - you gave me a crumbled bunch of alamanda flowers for my birthday because Dad was away working and you didn't want me to be sad because I didn't get a present;
I remember how devastated you were when you found out that Santa Claus wasn't real but how you continued to "believe" (as long as you could still hear the bell!);
Your smile lights up the room;
I love it when you play your guitar and sing and I love the song you wrote for Elice;
You have such wonderful taste in girlfriends;
I love the fact that you love movies like "Cold Mountain"; "Where the Wild Things Are"; and "Polar Express";
You share my love of writing and reading (and books);
I love your kindness, sincerity, and compassion - and am inspired by your determination and will to succeed;

But most of all........

10. I love how you have stayed TRUE to yourself and your beliefs..........

And for just being you!

HAPPY...HAPPY.... BIRTHDAY!

Lots of love always xxoo

Good Golly Miss Molly

2011-03-06T19:20:00.085+10:00

Source

Once upon a time (about 6 years ago actually) a tiny little fluffy ball of light grey (with just a touch of blue) came into the world.

Her name was Molly and she was a Blue Heeler.

Now for the first few years of her life Molly lived with her Mum V.

They spent many happy times together - taking long trips in the car; playing at the beach; lying on the big bed telling each other secrets.

They were best friends. Molly loved V and V loved Molly.

Source

Then about 3 years ago something strange happened.

Molly started seeing less and less of V. She wouldn't get home till late at night and then she would disappear on the weekends.

Molly would look longingly as she drove off down the road in her car.

She wondered what she had done wrong and what she could do to make V like her again.

One day a new person came to live in the house. His name was S and although he seemed like a very kind person - he paid no attention to Molly.

Molly tried hard to impress S. She wagged her tail whenever he appeared in the back yard.

She ran around chasing balls and sticks and brought them back to him.

She always used her best manners at meal times.

Try as she might - she could not get S to be her friend.

But Molly could tell that V liked S a lot!

So Molly spent her days laying on the back verandah looking through the big glass doors to where V & S were sitting. She wished she could go inside and lay on the big bed again with V.

She felt very lonely. She felt very alone.

Then V & S got a new baby.

Molly would have loved to play with the new baby but whenever V brought the baby outside into the garden - V would scold her and say "Molly - Keep away from the baby!!"

Molly couldn't understand - she was confused.

All she could do was lay on her lonely little bed and watch the clouds roll by -

day after day..... after day...... after day......

Just before Christmas V & S (and the baby) drove off in the car - but this time they didn't come home - not even when it was dark.

Molly was frightened. She hated being by herself. She was so scared of thunder and lightening!

Next minute she saw car lights in the drive but it wasn't V & S (and the baby) - it was another person - someone Molly didn't know

This new person opened up the big glass doors and called out her name - "Molly, Molly - come here girl!"

This person had a lovely happy voice.

She was also very pretty and had a HUGE bone in her hand. Molly liked this new person.

She had long golden hair and a really nice smile and when Molly rolled on her back she rubbed her tummy and stroked her head.

She told Molly her name was Kendall and she would be looking after her while V and S (and the baby) were away.

Kendall let Molly come inside (through the big glass doors) and let her lay on the mat beside the chair.

She told Molly "She was a good girl!"

Molly wagged her tail and laughed. She WAS a VERY good girl.

Kendall and Molly went on long, long walks along the track beside the creek.

She took her for rides in the car; she gave her yummy doggy treats and big bones to chew on.

For two weeks they talked and talked and talked and had such fun together.

And then Kendall left.

V and S(and the baby) came home.

Molly was alone again.

The weeks went by and then one day Molly heard Kendall's voice in the house.

She was so excited to see her again and pressed her nose against the big glass doors, wagging her tail and laughing....

"Kendall, Kendall.....I'm here Kendall! PLEASE come and give me a pat and tummy rub!"

Next minute Kendall was there - patting her head and telling her what a good girl she was.

Molly licked her hands....licked her feet..... licked her face....licked her hair......

She was so pleased to see Kendall again.

Then Kendall bent down, cradled Molly's face in her hands - looked into her deep brown eyes (with their short little white eyelashes) and said the sweetest words she had heard in a very long time :

"Would you like to came and live at my place Molly?"

Molly wagged and wagged and wagged her tail.......

and laughed and laughed and laughed.........

And then she jumped in the back of Kendall's car.

Now Molly is living at Kendall's house with Kendall's Mum and Dad and a whole new family of brothers and sisters

Who look just like her!

Molly loves being able to run around in the big paddocks.......

She loves going for walks with Kendall's Mum and Dad and her new brother and sister.

She loves the beautiful dinners Kendall's Mum makes her......

But most of all............

She just loves being with Kendall .....

telling each other secrets!

The Rain has Stopped!

2011-03-03T20:20:00.000+10:00

Yah!

The rain has FINALLY stopped falling......

The butterflys have emerged from their hiding spots........

All the flowers in the garden are smiling.......

and I have my laptop back again (after its little holiday away!).........

All is well in the Valley

We're going to build an ARK!

2011-02-27T08:05:00.001+10:00

Is this rain EVER going to stop?

Here it is Day 3 and we are still marooned the other side of the mighty Mulgrave. Fortunately the river levels dropped a couple of hours yesterday afternoon which allowed us to make a quick dash into town to pick up some much needed supplies.

Things were looking a bit grim in the pantry department - although I'm sure I could have concocted something with baked beans, coconut cream and three bean mix!

At least the power has stayed on!

Mother Nature certainly has no regard for the necessities of modern life. Here it is 2011 and I feel like the pioneers who settled this valley 150 years ago. They would have experienced exactly what we are going through at the moment - completely cut off from civilisation. Thank goodness for the Internet!

Not only am I able to check the river heights on the BOM (Bureau of Meteorology) site (without having to actually go down to the river to see).........

But I'm also able to check out some really useful sites with excellent instructions on how to build one of these :

Wish me Luck!

It's a Family Tradition

2011-02-22T18:56:00.000+10:00

There's something to be said for family traditions - those little rituals passed down from generation to generation that help shape a family. They are part of the glue that holds families together.

As a young child, one of our family traditions was that every birthday my brothers and I would get to choose what the family would have for Dinner and what type of Birthday cake we would like. "Braised chops and chocolate cake" was always on the menu when my birthday came around!

Over the years I have held onto my family traditions (and gathered a few more along the way!) however as my children have grown older I have questioned whether the picture of me sitting cross legged on the lounge room floor Christmas morning, red Santa hat plopped firmly on dishevelled head, enthusiastically proclaiming "To Adam from SANTA....Ho...Ho..Ho..." is a tradition I seriously want my family to hold on to!!

However they are adamant - Christmas would not be the same. So it looks like I'll be wearing that Santa hat for a few more years to come.

One family tradition I look forward to each year is Kendall's birthday and the opportunity to take a trip up the range to the little village of Yungaburra. We love Yungaburra. It is such a beautiful place nestled in the hills high on the Atherton Tablelands. It has such a casual charm about it and to walk down the main street with its charming heritage front shops is just like taking a step back in time.

For the past 4 years Kendall and I have booked into the gorgeous little garden cottages attached to this award winning restaurant and Day Spa and enjoy a day of blissful pampering, fine dining, champagne and lots and lots of girl talk.

The added bonus for me is that I get to spend time in these beautiful gardens.

Heaven!

Then, as evening approaches.......

We put on our best party frocks......

Wander down the little pathway leading from our garden cottage.........

Under the archway......

To our waiting table on the beautiful verandah. Just perfect!

"Yes, I agree Kendall"........

This certainly IS one of our better family traditions!

P.S. See you next year.....same time.....same place (Mum) xxoo

The Ten Things I Love About Kendall!

2011-02-20T07:00:00.002+10:00

Today is Kendall's Birthday. My baby girl is 24. It seems no time ago that she was 14 - where have those years gone? It's even hard for me JUST to say that number - Twenty-Four. Gosh, I can remember being twenty-four myself - and it didn't seem that long ago. (I'm clearly in denial!)

I often have to pinch myself to believe that she is no longer that cute, chubby, fun-loving little strawberry blonde who used to constantly entertain us with her Dolly Parton impersonations or would go riding off down the valley on her beloved pony "Pilot". In my mind she is still that kid. That has been the hardest thing for me to come to terms with but I am getting better (aren't I Kendall?)

Kendall has grown into a beautiful, confident young woman. In a few months time she will graduate as a Teacher and intends to follow her dreams and work with Students with Disabilities. She is a truly amazing human being and I am so proud to call her "my daughter".

The 10 Things I Love About Kendall

She is funny and has the most raucous, infectious laugh.
She loves animals and has befriended SO many homeless cats and dogs over the years - and yes, they are ALL still living with us!
She became a Vegetarian at 12 because she couldn't stand the thought of all those baby lambs being slaughtered and she has held strong to her convictions.
She knows how much I love chocolate Freddo frogs and when I really NEED one.
She is a fantastic cook and makes the BEST cup cakes and pumpkin/pine nut couscous.

6.   She wants to make a difference in the lives of children - particularly those with disabilities.
7.   She loves the fact that I am a Blogger and constantly encourages and supports my blogging journey.
8.   She has excellent taste in boyfriends! (Hello Alan - see you in a couple of weeks!)
9.   She loved (and misses) my Mum (her Nanny) just as much as I do.
10. She is fiercely loyal and will defend till the death! (slight exaggeration - but you get the picture)
11. She has a fabulous singing voice and I am CERTAIN will be the next "big thing" in Australian country music.
12. She takes over the driving when I have a "melt down" driving up any (extremely steep!) mountain range.
13. She let me stand next to her in the mosh pit at the Bon Jovi concert when she was 18.
14........okay, I know I said "10 Things"....... but there is just one more........

15. She is my best friend!

Happy Birthday Kendall

My Aussie Tropical Garden

2011-02-10T22:11:00.000+10:00

One week ago I didn't know if I would have any garden left at all.......

One week ago Cyclone Yasi crossed the Far North Queensland coast devastating communities and townships to the south of my Valley........

My garden has been left a little battered..... a little bruised.......but it will bounce back.
And so will I........

Thank you to the fabulous (and ever inspiring) Sarah at Modern Country Style for hosting her
English Garden Linky Party.
(She must have known I was in desperate need of some serious prettiness right now)

So......
Welcome to my Aussie Tropical Garden!
Pop your hat on........Come in and take a look around

My garden is (and always will be!) a work in progress. It is the first thing I look at in the morning and the last thing I look at in the evening.

It is what makes me happy!