tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64682838915519971902024-03-19T00:11:30.621+13:00Sublime PastimesFor me, this is the pursuit of any pastime that uplifts my spirit. Mostly in creative pursuits such as, patchwork, quilting, cross stitching, embroidery and dressmaking. I also enjoy gardening, painting, reading, decorating, & cooking. Some other aspects of life's journey, may be shared on occasions. We moved back home to Australia in February 2018*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.comBlogger227125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-80505583132411448842024-03-13T14:05:00.002+13:002024-03-13T14:05:19.079+13:00Contemplative StitchingI am enjoying hand stitching, at he moment it is the EPP method. English Paper Piecing this time, small triangles to be made into a qult.
It is still very hot and humid on the east coast of Australia, so stitching in the airconditioning is possible.
Although we are a couple of weeks into Autumn, the temperatures are still in the 30's. Maybe a seasonal reset will eventuate this weekend, with temperatures dropping to the low 20's. What joy that will be? The nights are a tad cooler althought the humidty o/n, has remained high. When I work out the different proceedure with this new programme, I'll post a photo.*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-34660074789593499542022-08-20T18:43:00.002+12:002022-08-20T18:43:32.903+12:00Winter Activities.It is towards the end of Winter in this part of the world. There are warmish days, when there is no wind, however the mornings and evenings are still quite cold.
A couple of weeks ago we ventured north for the day and had a delicious lunch by the river.
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We are blessed to live in a beautiful area where we can walk and enjoy the delight of many beaches, river sights and activities. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirERXWmLUdDO4El_-nzYQ6AZ4yEX7ybtZTuldObNjmS-Tru4xAN0yd2nYjviQ1at9n9ZCW9MNvd12OEJlYbinYCjo7HjcMWAHupjzig_m_ufDrGHH4A4dbTF5rNumuIwQEgwsSM-N3sqYsB8blwb_Hn8aYD5BDWGbmLXFPhTLIZDKf-0mNKJZoVUKuig/s640/IMG_0944.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="320" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirERXWmLUdDO4El_-nzYQ6AZ4yEX7ybtZTuldObNjmS-Tru4xAN0yd2nYjviQ1at9n9ZCW9MNvd12OEJlYbinYCjo7HjcMWAHupjzig_m_ufDrGHH4A4dbTF5rNumuIwQEgwsSM-N3sqYsB8blwb_Hn8aYD5BDWGbmLXFPhTLIZDKf-0mNKJZoVUKuig/s320/IMG_0944.jpg"/></a></div>
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I've been continuing with English paper piecing. This time, back to tiny hexagons to add a strap for my phone. Some walking gear does not have a pocket, so the strap seemed to be the ideal solution. However it has been a long task, still not completed, until I find three other matching fabrics. To add to the task I have made a double sided strap, matching to each hexagon on the first side.
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I've been enjoying the blossoming of a gift cutting from a very dear friend. It is a white daisy. You can see how prolific it is, with a smaller bush beside it bloomimg profusely. The white flowers add light to that part of the garden, also giving great pleasure. Enjoy.
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*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-65609564347021082482022-07-30T21:19:00.004+12:002022-07-30T21:30:14.458+12:00Catching Up.Seems I never get back to writing an update, perhaps I can endeavour to do so henceforth, we'll see?
When I was unable to access my blog, I did lose incentive to post. I found the different programme frustrating back in April. So trying once again now, fingers crossed.
Last year, we pulled up the Parent's Retreat carpet and replaced it with beautiful Brush Box timber. We also removed the marble tiles in the entrance foyer and continued the flooring in that area.
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My stitching has been limited to EPPs, English Paper Pieces, in the shape of equilateral triangles. I had a good start 18 months ago, however they were hand cut and somewhat innacurate. Not perfect enough for me to continue, so I pulled them all apart, and purchased machne cut templates, 100 to the packet. Each row consists of 112 triangles, to reach pleasantly across our king size matress. As for the number of rows to reach to the top, I'm guessing somewhere between 50 and 60 rows, of which I have completed 25. So a very long way to go. I have several hundred fabric triangles cut, a few hundred EPPs covered and ready to stitch together as the next row. I've also completed several diamond pieces to fill in the sides, although they also need to be attached.
It is a slow process by hand, it will take a wee while to get the top together. My plan is to complete two rows, then stitch in the side edges and attach them to the previous rows, thereby eliminating the bulkiness for a tad. As I progress the bulkiness and the weight will no doubt increase. Such is the process of an accomplishment of this construction.
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This item of EPP stitching did take several months, however when completed, two years ago, I was thrilled with the outcome. It is in constant use. This was somewhat fiddly, stitched with tiny hexagons. When finished batting and lining were added. I did quilt this small item by machine. Machine quilting is not my usual method of attaching the three layers together.I am inclined to make a strap in a similar method so I can carry my phone on my daily walk, when I'm not wearing items with pockets. Enjoy some examples of my EPPs. Kay.
"<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rCFGN5cjcM28tpiPw-RxcO4VsIbfjeEMRyyW64m75EsMA9dl5Y7ysFrR8o3mkPzzWRycoynSp4bYKdjfs5a6pgcEWoMMo2uIIAk_HpaErcWSJp4gbb_HN226Z4xhWrG_SbydtrpnwwUB57kltHiDtceBkxtTb22j8wWsNyqqJN7I_ikUidz6Kltriw/s640/IMG_0130.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="320" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rCFGN5cjcM28tpiPw-RxcO4VsIbfjeEMRyyW64m75EsMA9dl5Y7ysFrR8o3mkPzzWRycoynSp4bYKdjfs5a6pgcEWoMMo2uIIAk_HpaErcWSJp4gbb_HN226Z4xhWrG_SbydtrpnwwUB57kltHiDtceBkxtTb22j8wWsNyqqJN7I_ikUidz6Kltriw/s320/IMG_0130.jpg"/></a></div>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-1932494250236523172022-04-10T14:57:00.002+12:002022-07-31T11:57:19.888+12:00Gratitude to Our Godson.I'm able to access my blog after ten months of being locked out. More Later...*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-34861659808525445562021-07-11T17:36:00.001+12:002022-04-09T17:09:44.640+12:00Update 9/04 2022 It has been a couple pf months since I published to my blog. I am somewhat over this new, time consuming, ill conceived platform.
Seems like many other bloggers are well and truly over this uninspired application, as well. Until now, I had always enjoyed the blogging process
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Since this post was started we have experieced a major weather event on the Mid North Coast. Many homes and properties were lost, along with vehicles and stock whuch were swept down raging rivers and out to sea.
We live on a hill, so flooding was not something we anticipated. However, with such a torrent, that lasted for several days, we too experienced a 5cm flood to our downstairs. My DH's new office, our front foyer and my very large sewing room were inundated. That was the 21st of March. In the last couple of weeks we have had drainage installed in our rear garden, ordered new double front doors and entered our projects on supplier’s lists, for when it is our turn for restoration.
A couple of weeks ago, after much procrastionation and obfuscation from the assessors, our insurance company stepped in and paid part of our claim. It will be great to get back to normal in the near future. We have the new double front doors ordered, the plasterer has beem in to make repairs and in the next week or so, the concrete floors will be scraped/ground level again to have new florring laid. Then new storgae builtin cupboards, painting and finally restoring all furniture. It will be great to move back into my sewing room.
This is but a memory now, three months hence. Our quilting group was unable to have our weekly meetings until all flood water had receded and plumbing problems eliminated. We have now returned to our weekly group meetings, with relish.
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Our front doors have been partly installed and as of today, they are undercoated and waiting for the final coat The concrete floors were levelled and sealed this morning, thankfully the new flooring will start to be laid next week. It is great to have this progress, while we still wait for final settlement from the insurance company for contents and the correct amount for carpet replacement. I remain, ever grateful that we are soon to be restored to a place for everything and everything in it's place, oh what joy for us both.
An upgate as of July 11th.
The doors can't be completed until the slate doorstep is installed, so as to attach architraves at the correct height. The slate preparation is waiting to be cut to the correct size. Another 2 weeks before it is ready. Dovetailing tradesmen is a marathon effort, so we still wait. Thankfully I have been working on the garden, however with several large palm varieties in out rear garden, it is rather frightening to be underneath a falling frond. So next week, we have decided to have all remaining palms removed. Hopefully we will be closer to finishing some restorative work on the interior of our home. K
*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-81463421931598878362021-03-16T00:27:00.000+13:002021-03-16T00:27:22.840+13:00New Fabrics Recently Came to Live at My Home.<p> I mentioned in a previous post that I purchased a lovely piece of fabric while visiting a great patchwork store up along the Mid North Coast, on a recent visit. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxqA79xvgoM/YE9AzPxsBXI/AAAAAAAACHs/SzJxo6UiG64AF6pakTofsOzednYvNTAAgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxqA79xvgoM/YE9AzPxsBXI/AAAAAAAACHs/SzJxo6UiG64AF6pakTofsOzednYvNTAAgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0415.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>About a week prior to that trip North, we ventured to another great patchwork store to the South, where a few pieces of wonderful fabric, also came home to live at my home. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CoFoNOOyuFI/YE9BBi8MJPI/AAAAAAAACHw/_3nYVDsSwTEzT7qYVmVqfJlmVt5CjWywACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CoFoNOOyuFI/YE9BBi8MJPI/AAAAAAAACHw/_3nYVDsSwTEzT7qYVmVqfJlmVt5CjWywACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0419.jpg" /></a></div><p>At this stage, I don't have a project in mind where any of these fabrics will be featured, although that could change at any time. On both occasions, we had a delicious lunch while visiting and an enjoyable trip both there and on the return. </p><p>At present, I'm working on EPP with a clamshell pattern, it will be a cushion, eventually, along with a monthly, smalls, ornament cross stitch piece. Photos in a later post. Enjoy.</p><p> </p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-55493200073911872582021-03-11T23:09:00.001+13:002021-03-11T23:09:20.233+13:00A Trip to the North.<p> We had a very enjoyable trip north last Saturday, to Coffs Harbour. We hadn't been that way for at least 18 months, so way back during drought times. The Pandemic had curtailed our explorations, last year. The countryside was freshly washed in much rain and the forests, bushland and pastures, along the way, were lush and bathed in vibrant greens.</p><p>It was a lovely day with a very slight shower, as I ventured into a lovely Patchwork and Quilting store and brought home a lovely piece of fabric to live at my home. After that, we ventured to the wharf for a seafood meal, checking the menus before committing to any establishments. We were disappointed with what was on offer, so moved to another venue, near the beach, to the north. We had a delicious luncheon and a cold white wine, while overlooking the board riders and folk walking the breakwater. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TuylMAvq5Zw/YEnpSrEyiuI/AAAAAAAACHM/2a7-IZ7t4cQOyI94wem1bVDzVCXblYNewCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TuylMAvq5Zw/YEnpSrEyiuI/AAAAAAAACHM/2a7-IZ7t4cQOyI94wem1bVDzVCXblYNewCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0390.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><p><br />We then moved to the south side beach for a delicious coffee, along with a treat each. DH chose a Chocolate muffin, while I chose a white chocolate and raspberry muffin. They were served warm and were scrumptious.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pm486cBYdB0/YEnqPAJBauI/AAAAAAAACHU/LRL7_2JFDxYzJvgSkErMo31lZ_gwqbHZACLcBGAsYHQ/s1040/IMG20210306131246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="1040" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pm486cBYdB0/YEnqPAJBauI/AAAAAAAACHU/LRL7_2JFDxYzJvgSkErMo31lZ_gwqbHZACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG20210306131246.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>After our afternoon tea, it was time to turn for home. Enjoy.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><p></p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-72550840662170651502021-03-10T23:34:00.002+13:002021-03-10T23:34:23.378+13:00A Special Parcel From a Very Dear Friend.<p> You can guess that a parcel from a dear friend is something very special. My parcel was indeed, such a special gift. This first photo shows, two very comical cross stitch charts, from Petal Pusher, designs, several small, mostly unattainable, different frames, along with a couple of magnetic photo frames. The top cross stitch pattern called "Bat Pig, " reminded me of a time when my very DH had placed a pink pig with wings, hanging from the ceiling of his office where he worked. I asked why it was hanging in his office when visiting one day? He said, the folk he was designing for, proposed ideas that equated to "Pigs might fly." The second chart also made me chuckle. It is titled "Heavenly Hog" depicting a pig with wings, wearing a very cute expression, looking very demure. The name really appealed, after all, "Heavenly Pig" would have hardly gained my attention.<br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N-oogKAwgmY/YEiae81qVEI/AAAAAAAACGk/72Snh4KZ-rA67Nrei_30SLpT0nZL0JzggCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N-oogKAwgmY/YEiae81qVEI/AAAAAAAACGk/72Snh4KZ-rA67Nrei_30SLpT0nZL0JzggCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0400.jpg" /></a></div><br />In the second photo, there were delightful Halloween buttons, cross-stitch needles, along with gift tags with pretty ribbon ties. I was thrilled with my gift parcel. Many thanks to my very dear friend, of many years, hugs to you dear Karen. Enjoy<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xy3JKL3MVjY/YEieO5LX0AI/AAAAAAAACGw/sisj1e7rQ640a2fyguAilPrIPOvZPL44QCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xy3JKL3MVjY/YEieO5LX0AI/AAAAAAAACGw/sisj1e7rQ640a2fyguAilPrIPOvZPL44QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0403.jpg" /></a></div><br />*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-64455800318038503732021-02-25T19:00:00.001+13:002021-02-25T19:00:05.560+13:00Started a New Book.<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ydXWVcNS3vg/YDc7uRqAeSI/AAAAAAAACGA/yYYODOkkEvM6Eq8okvuJtnN13MVaTSMdACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ydXWVcNS3vg/YDc7uRqAeSI/AAAAAAAACGA/yYYODOkkEvM6Eq8okvuJtnN13MVaTSMdACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0373.jpg" /></a></div><p><br /></p>I started reading a new novel by Australian Author, Natasha Lester. 78 pages in, light out at 12:45am and I am captivated once more.<p></p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-84804252095439970392021-02-24T16:55:00.000+13:002021-02-24T16:57:58.676+13:00Stiching Completd on February MOSC.<p> I completed the cross-stitching for this month's ornament challenge, last night. This morning I couldn't find it anywhere. After searching the washing load, the bins, pulling furniture out and lifting cushions, I was a tad stressed. Thinking about it after a few hours of frustration, I wondered if I had taken it into my sewing room to check on suitable Christmas themed fabric, for the finishing. Yes. It was there, thankfully. Stitching another lacks the original appeal unless of course, one plans to do several the same from the outset. Here is the photo. It is stitched with DMC Varigations on cream linen. Now to finish into an ornament. Enjoy, K</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oQLwrrdn7jE/YDXNaK9KvtI/AAAAAAAACF4/gU6JqRLs9pohZ6-L-pF5RzheRIpfZqTyACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0365.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oQLwrrdn7jE/YDXNaK9KvtI/AAAAAAAACF4/gU6JqRLs9pohZ6-L-pF5RzheRIpfZqTyACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0365.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />e<p></p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-12218905867412570692021-02-23T19:44:00.001+13:002021-02-23T19:44:40.035+13:00Finally a Photo of January Monthly Ornament.<p> I remembered to take the photo today, of the January MOSC i.e. Monthly Ornament Smalls Challenge.</p><p>So here it is, a patchwork effort for a Santa, I did make one of these ornaments once before, as a gift, in 2016 for a fellow stitcher, in one of my Stitching groups. The recipient was thrilled, so way back then I did promise myself one, for me. It has taken a wee while to have one of my own, all ready for next Christmas. Enjoy.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tu-bO5Sdq8k/YDSjpnB2ldI/AAAAAAAACFY/A62FUSAeAY4wjWLNN_XSFGS-7-tm34-1QCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tu-bO5Sdq8k/YDSjpnB2ldI/AAAAAAAACFY/A62FUSAeAY4wjWLNN_XSFGS-7-tm34-1QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0360.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-89519015805019552952021-02-20T23:28:00.000+13:002021-02-20T23:28:36.147+13:00February Update.<p> I've managed to keep on track with my expectations for both January and February, although I haven't kept up with photographing all items. Below is my progress for the February, <b>M</b>onthly <b>O</b>rnament <b>S</b>malls <b>Challenge</b> as at February 17th. I still have a few days to get it completed, I just haven't been able to comfortably settle to stitch over the last few weeks. Hopefully, it will all resolve itself this week.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TNVtbjy8FTY/YDDTcIXkljI/AAAAAAAACEk/nLQEV6cCm6kjmnu_kiNRDVmP65LcMKj0QCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TNVtbjy8FTY/YDDTcIXkljI/AAAAAAAACEk/nLQEV6cCm6kjmnu_kiNRDVmP65LcMKj0QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0356.jpg" /></a></div> We have been promised more rain over the last few weeks, although not a drop eventuated, until Thursday this week. Yesterday and overnight the heavens opened and it fell all day, today. The garden looks refreshed, lush and delighted, not quite so clear through the insect screens, however too wet to venture out to photograph.<p></p><p>Better luck tomorrow in between showers, perhaps.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DaMLuXNABhY/YDDWbBA6JCI/AAAAAAAACEw/a7HAiVPMB4MC-PjjJBAns67WvgdsQIVXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DaMLuXNABhY/YDDWbBA6JCI/AAAAAAAACEw/a7HAiVPMB4MC-PjjJBAns67WvgdsQIVXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0351.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C10_90wAuXA/YDDW_eLfSZI/AAAAAAAACE4/qz_GtcFp1isEb6KSTZyqjJDef-CGgMOGgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C10_90wAuXA/YDDW_eLfSZI/AAAAAAAACE4/qz_GtcFp1isEb6KSTZyqjJDef-CGgMOGgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0352.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rlJUiQF6iMo/YDDXOL812XI/AAAAAAAACE8/iztS-dw0g3obkv0AvlVUvcPsxj7k2NNOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rlJUiQF6iMo/YDDXOL812XI/AAAAAAAACE8/iztS-dw0g3obkv0AvlVUvcPsxj7k2NNOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0353.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Late this afternoon, my Very Dear Husband went out nearby on an errand. Along the way, a Koala was sitting in the middle of the roadway and it appeared to be confused. He stopped the car and picked the little one up from the roadway, walked it over to the forest, with close by Eucalypts. The Koala was content to be collected in his strong arms and when released, away from the road, ventured up a large gumtree. DH said the Koala appeared to be distressed, with two bite marks on its' back. Maybe it had been attacked by a dog. Unfortunately, he could not place it in his vehicle as he had <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Lg3bVPr92g/YDDbdyddfyI/AAAAAAAACFM/CI6a5_qnRVAnejrRfCOQkleW0G-96QiAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1040/IMG20210220164224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="780" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Lg3bVPr92g/YDDbdyddfyI/AAAAAAAACFM/CI6a5_qnRVAnejrRfCOQkleW0G-96QiAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG20210220164224.jpg" /></a></div><br />nothing to restrain the Koala. They are such sweet little creatures, I love how they scamper up the correct tree trunks, when up far enough to feel safe, they stop and look back at you, before moving further up the tree. We are certainly blessed to live where many of these engaging animals dwell. Enjoy.</div><br />*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-14314536709177702782021-01-26T22:56:00.003+13:002021-01-26T22:56:55.063+13:00Happy Australia Day. <p> We were up and away early today for Australia Day celebrations with company.</p><p> We celebrated Australia Day by the beach with the surf behaving well on this special day. So many folk were at the beach and many people were at beaches along the way as we drove down the coast. At Lake Cathie, there were few parks left at 7am. On our return, four hours later, the parking was all along the roadside, beyond the designated car park. The beaches were packed, within restrictions and many families were enjoying playing in the shallow water between the surf and the bridge.</p><p>We returned to the beachfront cafe, we visited last Thursday for afternoon tea. We enjoyed Champagne and a delicious breakfast overlooking a calmer scene. However, this morning, the temperature rose to 34C. Even though it was very hot, we had a wonderful, cooling, sea breeze, blowing in over our very long tables. The restaurant was decorated appropriately with light blue balloons, featuring our beautiful flag, small toothpick flags, small flags in the table foliage pots and Australian decorated plates and napkins.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9AUUpJU3FLk/YA_jA3lOUPI/AAAAAAAACD0/gfPjmswkH38kSP2NPHSWKZ1lQ4Rc3kb5wCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9AUUpJU3FLk/YA_jA3lOUPI/AAAAAAAACD0/gfPjmswkH38kSP2NPHSWKZ1lQ4Rc3kb5wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0305.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>Today, the restaurant was closed for our private function with 51 of us commemorating and enjoying our National Day.</p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-59890835540588873442021-01-24T16:00:00.000+13:002021-01-24T16:00:20.470+13:00Afternoon Tea at the Beach.<p> On Thursday after Quilting group, we drove down the coast a wee way to check out the location for our Australia Day Breakfast gathering. The restaurant had recently changed names and we were not sure of the exact address, not that we had been to visit under the previous name. It is an early start tomorrow, so now we can go there directly.<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QLWCr4IEotw/YAzYoo9aZvI/AAAAAAAACDA/mUT6Je00roYrMCuAq1k9Qa2kVXPDkjTGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QLWCr4IEotw/YAzYoo9aZvI/AAAAAAAACDA/mUT6Je00roYrMCuAq1k9Qa2kVXPDkjTGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0294.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><p>It looks like any beach however, there were marine warnings issued for large swells, for all of last week.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oy1BazgYrUc/YAzaKV1seMI/AAAAAAAACDc/B5iJMo9AmGgyx095Cm9gVZQTBzT4Lz1awCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oy1BazgYrUc/YAzaKV1seMI/AAAAAAAACDc/B5iJMo9AmGgyx095Cm9gVZQTBzT4Lz1awCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0297.jpg" /></a></div><br />This is how it changed very quickly, as a new set arrived. The waves were breaking from well out to sea, to the edge of the car park road, at the shoreline. We haven't visited this area before, although on calm days, one can see the beach from the roadway south, from here right up to Lighthouse Beach, several miles to the north.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lcLNG1W8Dlc/YAzcet6NN9I/AAAAAAAACDo/AdEBE59kLBIZY9jbgDQw6uoZ3BmlxMIVACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lcLNG1W8Dlc/YAzcet6NN9I/AAAAAAAACDo/AdEBE59kLBIZY9jbgDQw6uoZ3BmlxMIVACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0300.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>Just white froth all the way for this very long beach, approximately 8-10 Klms from Tacking Point Lighthouse. </p><p>We sat on the balcony overlooking the seashore view, with a delightful afternoon tea of carrot cake and white chocolate pecan tart. K.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-61866758999040484472021-01-23T19:24:00.003+13:002021-01-23T19:28:52.728+13:00Two Birthday Gifts.<p> Two stitching friends celebrated their birthdays in January.</p><p>They are members of my Quilting group and have been supportive friends during my time as a member. On the day I joined our group, one of these friends was also a new member. I have relished her quick, dry wit, on quilting days, ever since. Amazingly it is very similar to my very dear husband's sense of humour, which I am blessed with, several times a day.<br /><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W3bIO131K-0/YAu-wgpIrtI/AAAAAAAACCo/IPQfjhn0Ox0dxqvdzUQ4xz0fnBxnVOviQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/image1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W3bIO131K-0/YAu-wgpIrtI/AAAAAAAACCo/IPQfjhn0Ox0dxqvdzUQ4xz0fnBxnVOviQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/image1.jpeg" /></a></div><p><br /></p> Both friends were thrilled with their gifts. Making such items gives me great joy, with a few more of these items to make as the year progresses. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kXXeUHeIF2s/YAu_h3hoUTI/AAAAAAAACC0/5dz96S1c1CEy-Vh38jUaaor2Zsz4m-zkgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/image0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kXXeUHeIF2s/YAu_h3hoUTI/AAAAAAAACC0/5dz96S1c1CEy-Vh38jUaaor2Zsz4m-zkgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/image0.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br />*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-84754398163177024852021-01-04T01:36:00.001+13:002021-01-04T01:36:34.841+13:00 Welcome 2021, A New Year Beginning.<p> </p><p>We ushered the New Year in with relish. A different celebratory meal from last week, although we did have the delicious pudding for sweets, for the second time. The pudding turned as superbly as the very first one. Extremely scrumptious and moist. It was served with Brandy Sauce and fresh pouring cream.</p><p>It is almost time to dismantle all the decorations, it makes the house look really bare for a day or so., then it all seems normal once more, till Christmas this year.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vogiaQYxLdA/X_Gzx8pMNcI/AAAAAAAACB4/JaEbWDzA7-cF9Wa_r2VrtVD2caFxpfdfgCLcBGAsYHQ/s816/IMG20210103200409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="816" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vogiaQYxLdA/X_Gzx8pMNcI/AAAAAAAACB4/JaEbWDzA7-cF9Wa_r2VrtVD2caFxpfdfgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG20210103200409.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>We are looking forward to a year ahead of much promise and joy. It has been rather wet so far and it is only the third of January. Our garden is loving all the rain and the plants are dancing.</p><p>I'm stitching Initials for birthday gifts for friends, two are needed by the end of this week. Then back to another piece half finished. A photo of the first two, later this week and the third, after it is received. I have been contemplating returning to a larger Sampler, Long Dog's "Virtue," started mid last year. I lost interest because the pattern was so very difficult to read. Trust I'll be able to decipher the symbols when I pick it up next time, here's hoping. Until next time, enjoy.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-67871630092054104662021-01-02T01:12:00.002+13:002021-01-02T01:19:56.282+13:00<p> Celebrating Christmas 2020.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkscv9Um2yU/X-8Dkz_rMAI/AAAAAAAAB_g/-eWpiZ8l1MEbZDJTUdvkCOzw1IJ2yuKAACLcBGAsYHQ/s1024/export1609486536976.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="358" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkscv9Um2yU/X-8Dkz_rMAI/AAAAAAAAB_g/-eWpiZ8l1MEbZDJTUdvkCOzw1IJ2yuKAACLcBGAsYHQ/w369-h358/export1609486536976.jpg" width="369" /></a></div></div><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cvA-jtW-Eq0/X-8EamowjeI/AAAAAAAAB_s/6bew5N-BrAMcT7e-cZyYZ1pnd4kiG5dLACLcBGAsYHQ/s1024/export1609486630831.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="342" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cvA-jtW-Eq0/X-8EamowjeI/AAAAAAAAB_s/6bew5N-BrAMcT7e-cZyYZ1pnd4kiG5dLACLcBGAsYHQ/w347-h342/export1609486630831.jpg" width="347" /></a></div><p><br /></p>In spite of the year we have had, our restrictions allowed us to have guests in our home so we made the most of that situation. We welcomed friends to celebrate Christmas lunch, enjoying their company, the festive food, along with much chatter, lots of laughter and beautiful gifts. I love Christmas time with all it denotes, the decorations, music and special food. It is usually hot in the southern hemisphere, thankfully we were very comfortable in air conditioning. I also chose to limit hot food preparation apart from the Christmas pudding, steaming away for most of 4 hours from early morning and roasting turkey.. Considering it was the first Christmas pudding I have every made, it turned out superbly. So much so that I have another prepared, for our New Year's Eve celebratory dinner. My Mother used to make me one every year, then my MIL and then SIL. In subsequent years I made deserts that were delightful, looked spectacular for this special occasion, along with being more suitable to our hot climate<p></p><p><br /></p><p></p><p> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TgJN67fi3wA/X-8HVmFiZ3I/AAAAAAAACAA/qMEuTvPraNEmHt3it106imsEGNiGZC1PgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1024/export1609487024793.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TgJN67fi3wA/X-8HVmFiZ3I/AAAAAAAACAA/qMEuTvPraNEmHt3it106imsEGNiGZC1PgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/export1609487024793.jpg" /></a></p> A Prawn and Avacado salad above , a Beetroot and Citrus salad below.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riDeJqnyJTo/X-8IkFfzCuI/AAAAAAAACAU/HuReTw49o5AGn1jy1mnaS6q-eMrFj61KACLcBGAsYHQ/s1024/export1609487087027.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riDeJqnyJTo/X-8IkFfzCuI/AAAAAAAACAU/HuReTw49o5AGn1jy1mnaS6q-eMrFj61KACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/export1609487087027.jpg" /></a></div> <div> A mixed Tomato and Dill salad, below followed by Ham and Turkey. <br /></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K5chOPeorag/X-8JeCP2lJI/AAAAAAAACAo/qIjVYX1k82UhPlS_gf5s1jpSY00Ior94ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1024/export1609487236780.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K5chOPeorag/X-8JeCP2lJI/AAAAAAAACAo/qIjVYX1k82UhPlS_gf5s1jpSY00Ior94ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/export1609487236780.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NiZq0XBbReM/X-8Kve8LyJI/AAAAAAAACBA/L1_AEpoqq4wOH6ytXkacP_aOvqNL7h-PwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1024/export1609487210478.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NiZq0XBbReM/X-8Kve8LyJI/AAAAAAAACBA/L1_AEpoqq4wOH6ytXkacP_aOvqNL7h-PwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/export1609487210478.jpg" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i6xwhCbyhwg/X-8MJ1NCJVI/AAAAAAAACBQ/AgbHezR81XsvFF-Bz5xgv35Q6tZIUpQhQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1024/export1609487269647.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i6xwhCbyhwg/X-8MJ1NCJVI/AAAAAAAACBQ/AgbHezR81XsvFF-Bz5xgv35Q6tZIUpQhQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/export1609487269647.jpg" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">\</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Before Christmas I made several gifts for friends and family, those below I remembered to photograph.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PMf9gOlt2w/X-8Mo80rDjI/AAAAAAAACBg/lxG1f7Ql_HY_XkxfaYhM6oLGohfKM-PKwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/export1609487398436.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PMf9gOlt2w/X-8Mo80rDjI/AAAAAAAACBg/lxG1f7Ql_HY_XkxfaYhM6oLGohfKM-PKwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/export1609487398436.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I made 16 of these , which are phone rests and decorated the gift bags with Christmas themed fabric.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I2CzVSbee-0/X-8NQi4q6TI/AAAAAAAACBo/8x4xCZM4W7YwzuT1lPKlke52Jr-YBuQHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1024/export1609487427828.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I2CzVSbee-0/X-8NQi4q6TI/AAAAAAAACBo/8x4xCZM4W7YwzuT1lPKlke52Jr-YBuQHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/export1609487427828.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Soon it will be time to dismantle the Christmas tree, the lights and all the decorations. However, for me, not until after New Year and twelfth night.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you have enjoyed reading a little about our Christmas Day lunch. With 2021 only a week</div><div>away, I hope this coming New Year for us all, will bring wonders and joyful times, once again to our lives.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-46273706922807307672020-12-02T19:27:00.001+13:002020-12-02T19:27:05.303+13:00Current Book Reading.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--wIZu967Kdc/X8czdqnPj6I/AAAAAAAAB-0/j_lX8lmHKuAvVN7vxL_Ckzk-ZexkIHJrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1040/IMG20201202162724%2B3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="780" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--wIZu967Kdc/X8czdqnPj6I/AAAAAAAAB-0/j_lX8lmHKuAvVN7vxL_Ckzk-ZexkIHJrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG20201202162724%2B3.jpeg" /></a></div><br /> I'm really enjoying this tale, well researched and definitely captivating. I can't wait to read more from this author, who is an Australian. K.<p></p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-9575094198921940752020-12-01T22:14:00.000+13:002020-12-01T22:14:21.458+13:00TODAY'S ENCOUNTER.<p><br /><br /> Wee turned out of our avenue today to find a line of traffic in both directions, We live in a very quiet area near a forest corridor along with a beautiful lagoon, sporting many blue water lilies, so we were somewhat baffled at a traffic holdup. My Dear Husband said there appeared to be a cat waddling across the road and everyone was waiting, so as not to startle the animal. We could see some small movement at the pedestrian crossing, of all places. As the small bundle of fur came closer toward our position, it was obviously not a cat. There, walking, no waddling towards us, was a Mother Koala with baby on board her back. How wonderful to see so many folk stopped to allow her and her babe, safe passage across the road and further up the rise of the road.</p><p>DH quickly parked our car into the verge, grabbed his camera and followed the Mother and babe up the rise. There were several trees, gums and others, along the opposite verge area. My DH talked to the Mother very calmly, she allowed him to pat her, gently reassuringly guiding her away from the traffic on the road, before leaving. She paused after she climbed the correct variety of Gum tree to watch him walk away. When he turned to see if she was content in the tree, she stopped to look him in the eye, so he took another photo of her and her precious cargo. After watching the process of her and her babe along the road, what a thrill for me to see the photos. It was certainly very uplifting, especially after this time last year, with so many of these amazing animals lost to the raging bush fires along Australia's east coast regions.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTKI0y6zMHM/X8YDNA9PHEI/AAAAAAAAB-g/Gpybt_UxKmwN2crA_WF8ESQxLN_nACAygCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/5FD608A2-8057-4E87-8D29-FD392C2D21DE.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1659" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTKI0y6zMHM/X8YDNA9PHEI/AAAAAAAAB-g/Gpybt_UxKmwN2crA_WF8ESQxLN_nACAygCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/5FD608A2-8057-4E87-8D29-FD392C2D21DE.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> A pause with eye contact, before she headed up the Gum tree to safety.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yOx_jjxIeqw/X8YDYfWeoII/AAAAAAAAB-k/A3RL79mdVEkdnvfqq8FMc1Xqm0OTmSs2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s658/D630CF9B-387B-4349-93B3-4E2294F53BA2_1_201_a.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="446" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yOx_jjxIeqw/X8YDYfWeoII/AAAAAAAAB-k/A3RL79mdVEkdnvfqq8FMc1Xqm0OTmSs2gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/D630CF9B-387B-4349-93B3-4E2294F53BA2_1_201_a.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well done Mum! Of all the different gums in the area, she knew exactly which one was the correct one to choose.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><p></p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-34174598600205571862020-11-28T19:36:00.003+13:002020-11-28T21:10:46.971+13:00An Evening at the Beach.<br /><p><br /> It was a hot afternoon, when we met up with a group at the beach, for a picnic-barbecue.</p><p>When we arrived, we parked looking out to sea while waiting for other members of the group to arrive. While we watched, there appeared much splashing and spraying a wee way out in the deeper water. Sure enough, there were frolicking whales, probably on their way back down south. My camera shots were n't fast enough to capture any great photos, however it was fun to watch. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-po0Pc_TakV4/X8HuUZQUviI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/x-Lf5W_lzcM9Nyq0x0dBXK2mCxr-5-mXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s199/whale.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="127" data-original-width="199" height="226" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-po0Pc_TakV4/X8HuUZQUviI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/x-Lf5W_lzcM9Nyq0x0dBXK2mCxr-5-mXgCLcBGAsYHQ/w297-h226/whale.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p>About an hour later my DH noticed smoke from the dashboard of recently parked car. A young Mother was frantically trying to remove her children, belongings and baby equipment. Several folk ran to help, within less than a couple of minutes or so, the car became a major fire</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZvnuMWTXv8/X8Gn-C5ukII/AAAAAAAAB94/zG6TQ69q35Afp871y6Orj1F-19u1ZoNfACLcBGAsYHQ/s322/8DFC2342-EDB3-42E8-B591-9566E5EE7223_4_5005_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="322" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZvnuMWTXv8/X8Gn-C5ukII/AAAAAAAAB94/zG6TQ69q35Afp871y6Orj1F-19u1ZoNfACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/8DFC2342-EDB3-42E8-B591-9566E5EE7223_4_5005_c.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kRB6L5Dtkk4/X8GfxtHaYQI/AAAAAAAAB9I/k0edL7mgSfsehTM0e5r8tC0ZCYKeOx47gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1214/A93D5803-7212-4C35-AABC-EF93EDF408C0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="1214" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kRB6L5Dtkk4/X8GfxtHaYQI/AAAAAAAAB9I/k0edL7mgSfsehTM0e5r8tC0ZCYKeOx47gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/A93D5803-7212-4C35-AABC-EF93EDF408C0.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p>Many folk, ran to remove their vehicles which were parked nearby, ours included. There was an onshore wind so the black acrid smoke was billowing across the picnic area and up the face of the coastal foliage cliff to the coastal road. Our car windows were covered in black soot when it was time to drive home. Such a small vehicle, burnt for a very long period of time. It was sporting an aero dynamic roof compartment when the car arrived. It just melted completely. there were many small explosions, probably airbags or electrical components. Several of us were watching from behind a massive trunk of a Norfolk Pine, using it as protection as we anticipated an explosion from the petrol tank. Thankfully, that did not occur. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d83ftuveSUA/X8Glb-gWoqI/AAAAAAAAB9U/EYwNUH6_CDAooZtpkhasQ3q4jfBAgv2MwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2703/210DE697-955E-458E-B776-26C4628C22FB.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="2703" height="123" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d83ftuveSUA/X8Glb-gWoqI/AAAAAAAAB9U/EYwNUH6_CDAooZtpkhasQ3q4jfBAgv2MwCLcBGAsYHQ/w341-h123/210DE697-955E-458E-B776-26C4628C22FB.jpeg" width="341" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p>The fire brigade arrived about 15 minutes later, to extinguish the blaze that was still burning furiously. We also noticed the police, interviewing the young mother, at the other end of the picnic ground. The fire brigade said it appeared to have started from the air conditioning vent.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nRS3WMLJpFI/X8Gl4k7ErOI/AAAAAAAAB9k/N4I2i3v5DbMSMV194yD2IjcUzIZRZaxPwCLcBGAsYHQ/s570/0E821D62-6F11-4267-BAB4-EDA060E4375F_4_5005_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="189" data-original-width="570" height="159" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nRS3WMLJpFI/X8Gl4k7ErOI/AAAAAAAAB9k/N4I2i3v5DbMSMV194yD2IjcUzIZRZaxPwCLcBGAsYHQ/w320-h159/0E821D62-6F11-4267-BAB4-EDA060E4375F_4_5005_c.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>However, we did enjoy delightful company and delicious food after such an alarming incident. We washed the windscreen of our car so we could see out and drive home safely.<div><br /></div><div>K.<br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p></div>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-45389398108396758882020-11-24T14:49:00.000+13:002020-11-24T14:49:17.275+13:00 Ten Months of 2020<p> It has taken many months to deliver this post. Shall we call it 2020 and remember how life has changed with all that has come with this year. Thankfully, we have been very well throughout the preceding ten months, as always, even before. Our area has had very few problems, only those in the early stage as folk returned from a particular cruise. Our lockdown was very reasonable with most doing social distancing, obeying the rules and wearing masks. We have plenty of sunshine and fresh air, for which, one is very grateful, with no resemblance to the air quality of this time last year. We ventured out only for walking and food shopping, Being at home is never a problem. We are always creatively inclined, so have plenty on our "to do" lists. Life seems to be back to some normality, for many of us, living in this region. However in other parts of our wonderful country, life has been very cruel in many ways. One can only feel sadness, for those who have lost family members and loved ones. It is concerning to think of the many folk who are no longer employed, who are homeless, alone, or destitute because of the restrictions that have been enforced.</p><p>I hope these photos can lift your spirits.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Ti7BXwO3PE/X7xcG5NJlFI/AAAAAAAAB8o/6Z7fBClsid4oquujSRDYEeYHIfWFNfo8wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_5517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Ti7BXwO3PE/X7xcG5NJlFI/AAAAAAAAB8o/6Z7fBClsid4oquujSRDYEeYHIfWFNfo8wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_5517.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p> Other photos of completed stitched items in the next post, for now, just a few photos of small stitching necessities that have been collected over the years.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_3-aHvHuLg/X7xdJHm_k0I/AAAAAAAAB8w/-hxTsZWCuL8h9_eqqEMu4auBEXVTG-5bACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_5522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_3-aHvHuLg/X7xdJHm_k0I/AAAAAAAAB8w/-hxTsZWCuL8h9_eqqEMu4auBEXVTG-5bACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_5522.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Some of these have been hand made over time, others purchased, along with gifts and those handed down from family or friends. My collection keeps growing. It is a constant source of joy and stitching inspiration.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UI_BkzmLtCg/X7xeV9gFz6I/AAAAAAAAB88/YTVJH2GRaZQtTfnniuInGM9yGt3ykc5LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_5516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UI_BkzmLtCg/X7xeV9gFz6I/AAAAAAAAB88/YTVJH2GRaZQtTfnniuInGM9yGt3ykc5LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_5516.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Enjoy.</p><p> </p>*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-31286435150199210152020-05-19T15:11:00.003+12:002020-05-19T15:11:50.276+12:00Overdue Post.<br />
I didn't realize I hadn't posted since Christmas, such a long time ago, well so it seems. I hope to rectify that over the next wee while. *-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-32203351703084840732020-01-01T22:00:00.000+13:002020-01-01T22:00:03.932+13:00Happy New Year, 2020..<br />
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It is hard to believe it is a week since we celebrated Christmas and today we celebrate a New Year and New Decade. In most instances time flies so fast, while other times it drags. Not too much of the dragging of late. Life has been so very busy, with fun and pleasurable experiences. We were invited to share the festivities with family and friends, however we declined this time because of the travelling, opting to be at home. <br />
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The celebratory season in the southern hemisphere, is summer time. Warm days and of course the end of the school year, so many folk enjoy a long holiday break.<br />
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I love Christmas and this time of the year. One can usually feel the excitement in the air and for many, it is normally contagious. This year has had a very different atmosphere. Sadly our country continues to suffer further widespread, raging bush fires, loss of property, also loss of lives. Both gallant fire fighters and some who have lost their lives, after choosing to stay, to try and protect their property. No Joy for these folk, their loved ones, their towns and communities. We were blessed with gentle rain on our way home on Christmas Eve, What a delight to see it caressing parched ground, gardens and lawns. It fell softly through the night with a very heavy downpour at 6am Christmas Day. Not a drop of rain since, with none forecast anytime soon. The drought continues.<br />
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We had a delicious Christmas Dinner of ham, roasted stuffed turkey breast, <br />
roast pumpkin, potato, local fresh king prawn and mango salads and dressings.<br />
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Our climate does not bode well for traditional Christmas Pudding. This year I chose to make a cold treat for our Christmas fare. </div>
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A White Chocolate Cheese cake with raspberries and shards pf pistachio, and pepita </div>
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praline.</div>
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Only 357 days till we celebrate this event once again. Let's hope our scorched and blackened land, will soon be rejuvenated with cool and refreshing rain, to enhance regrowth and greenery. I wish for you all a Happy New Year with many joyful blessings. <br />
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<br />*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-52250802865619716382019-12-19T12:43:00.002+13:002019-12-19T12:48:44.074+13:00A Week Before Christmas and a Wee While Before.<br />
Speaking of Christmas, how did it arrive so soon? I know I had a slow year accomplishing anything in needlework. I was unable to concentrate on any stitching, any counted cross stitch, or patchwork, without reverse stitching. By the end of September things had taken a turn for the better. It allowed me to accomplished more than I thought, although not the major item I had in mind. It is what it is, onward from here.<br />
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I managed to do some stitching for our quilt show 'Sale table"for next year. Tote bags, baby items Christmas decorations and such. There will be more to do before June next year, so I need to make progress with hand quilting on my king size quilt, before making more items to add to this project. <br />
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We established a rose garden earlier this year, in Springtime. The
rose bushes are rewarding us with beautiful blooms, some of which are
pictured below. The pink and white one, was a "ring in" in my order. I
didn't much care for the look of it in the catalogue. I chose one listed near to it, the nursery folk must have decided it needed to come live at our home. In a
bunch, in a Lalique bowl, it looks quite pretty.<br />
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We have had extreme and extensive bush fires around our country this year so far. Only 18 days into summer for us in the Southern Hemisphere, right now. Our airport is located in a peat area and a fire started there in late July. It has continued to burn, with flare ups, still now. There have been 55 days of smoke here, like the photo below, in the highly dangerous category, equivalent to smoking a packet and a half of cigarettes a day. Thankfully we have been blessed with good lungs, hopefully they are not damaged<br />
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Years of unrelenting drought have taken our area to water restrictions at level 3, with the threat of moving, to level 4 early in the new year. The view below is looking down the hill and across to the city, some 4-5klms away.<br />
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On November the 8th we had a very scary afternoon. the fires were only 3 klms from where we live. The smoke, combined with the red dust from the dry interior plains and the heat from the flames caused such an arid atmosphere, leaves descended over all properties nearby. The leaves were black, although still very much intact. </div>
Obviously all moisture from the stems had been evaporated, causing the trees to shed their foliage. The wind blew the leaves across the city, with green lawns covered with an odd looking black carpet.<br />
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These photos were taken at 2:30pm, from nearby, looking out to sea. We needed the lights on indoors, the smoke and dust made everything very dark. Below are some of the leaves we collected from our front garden. They reeked of burnt eucalyptus forests, even weeks later.<br />
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We have had a week clear of smoke. What a relief for us all to be able to breathe freely and not have stinging eyes. Not so for those wonderful fire fighters, who have done their utmost to keep most of us from harm, although sadly, 750 homes and buildings have been lost so far. We are very grateful for all their efforts and are indebted to their selfless service.<br />
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Once again I participated in the international Christmas Ornament Exchange<br />
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I've done so for over 12 years. Prior to this group was one, 5 years ago, when I started exchanging . Below is my Ornament for this year along with two gifts I included. Enjoy.<br />
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*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6468283891551997190.post-74805458876446441022019-06-08T22:44:00.001+12:002019-06-13T23:07:25.831+12:00<br />
Hello again,<br />
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Seems I haven't been here for such a very long time.<br />
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Over the last 2 years, life has been very confronting, presenting
several challenges. Sadly some, one never wants to experience ever
again.<br />
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. Moving countries, to return home to
Australia, was an ambivalent experience at the time.. "There's no place like Home" is
so true for me, however leaving loved ones, friends, special encounters and
locations behind, required some acceptance. Selling our home,in New Zealand was somewhat distressing.<br />
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Several urgent factors determined our new location in New South Wales.. However, this location has turned out to be
very pleasant, apart from the high humidity of summer. Some of the many beaches along the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, are truly beautiful.<br />
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Horse Shoe Bay</div>
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South West Rocks NSW</div>
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Parking at Tacking Point Lighthouse, looking to Lighthouse Beach .<br />
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Looking South to Laurieton, with the three mounds of Big Brother, Middle Brother and Little Brother, just visible in the distance<br />
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Tacking point Lighthouse.</div>
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Looking North at Port Macquarie Harbour Entrance.<br />
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Lake Cathie entrance, to the South (pronounced Lake Cat Eye).<br />
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Our lovely back
garden, is filled with Palms, Frangipani , Cycads, Buxus hedging, as
well
as a great, flat, Buffalo lawn. It is a blank canvas, since removing
the many Agaves Yukas and others, not wanted. There is much to do, now
the weather is cool enough for gardening outdoors. <br />
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To the left. </div>
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To the right. <br />
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We espaliered five citrus trees along the eastern fence just after we moved in last year, in May. They were laden with small fruit soon after, which we removed, to strengthen the trees. We have since harvested a number of blood red Grapefruit.<br />
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In spring two climbing roses were planted, one on each pillar at the front entrance. These have now grown to reach up to the next floor. They grow very quickly, love the northerly aspect and have prolific blooms with an exquisite fragrance.<br />
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My stitching has been a non event of late. I've not been able to concentrate on counting threads and stitching over one, on a special project, that was meant to be finished by November last year. After a large quilting luncheon, down the coast last week, I was inspired to look at my abandoned, current patchwork project. Hopefully I will remain enthused, to keep working on this quilt.</div>
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Photos next time. </div>
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<br />*-*http://www.blogger.com/profile/13586909718984864426noreply@blogger.com3