tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78605595905121449722024-02-20T22:43:27.299-08:00This Small Town LifeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-13322362319091946092014-11-12T17:01:00.002-08:002014-11-12T17:01:52.951-08:00Further Adventures with Chickens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One afternoon a few weeks ago, I went down to the Chook Pen to lock the girls up safely for the night. Our black chook, 'In The Box' was no where to be found. The girls had been hanging around the dog pen for the previous few days, eating the left over dog food and scratching under the fruit trees in there. Furious, I stomped over to the dog pen, ready to kill Pippi, our Kelpie cross Border Collie. I was certain she must of killed In The Box. To my surprise, there were no feathers, nor a carcass. I immediately calmed down, said a mental apology to the dog for jumping to conclusions and had a search around the house yard for either a chook, a carcass or a very fat snake. Nothing.</div>
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For the next week, In The Box was not seen and I accepted that she had been eaten by something during her daylight free ranging. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temporary brooder box, awaiting to be adopted out to their new mumma</td></tr>
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Then on the following weekend, I saw her run across the front yard and into the Chook Pen for a drink and some feed. I kept an eye on her and discovered where she had disappeared to.... Yes, In The Box was broody and had hidden away a clutch of eggs below a retaining wall. </div>
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Unfortunately, we have no rooster so In The Box was wasting her time, sitting on ticking timebombs, which would eventually go rotten and explode in an unworldly stench. I did some googling and decided the best thing would be to buy her some fresh chicks to stick under her. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little bit of outside time, prior to being adopted</td></tr>
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At night I moved her and four of her unhatchable eggs into a small pen into the garden. I left her there for the day to get used to her new nest. The next night, I took the chickens down and slipped them under her one by one, removing all but one of the eggs. I probably could have left all the eggs or taken all of the eggs, I doubt chooks can do maths, but better safe than sorry. </div>
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I then spent a restless night hoping In The Box didnt peck the chicks to death. The next morning I went out, expecting to see three tiny corpses and one angry chook. To my delight, In The Box took to her new brood with love. Two of the chicks were under her and the third was sitting on her back. I left them to be, throwing out the last egg the following night.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In The Box with her adopted brood</td></tr>
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In The Box has turned out to be an excellent mother. When I was certain she would look after her chicks, I return the four of them to the Chook Pen with the other Hens. In The Box has continued to be an excellent mother and her chicks are gowing fast. I can't yet tell whether any of them will be roosters. If they are, I'll be keeping one and the others will be destined for the stock pot or as dog food.<br />
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Two of my other hens- Chicken Dance and Fly also went broody and I purchased a dozen fertilised eggs to split between them. I'm now playing the waiting game to see if any of the eggs will hatch.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-14066329862314028852014-11-11T22:59:00.000-08:002014-11-11T22:59:18.643-08:00Visiting New Friends<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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As a University Student, I lived in several share houses, with a variety of young men and women from around Australia and the world. Some have become lifelong friends and others I was glad to see the back of. </div>
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One housemate, who I hope to be friends with for a long time, is my friend Owen. I lived with him for about six months in an old Queenslander in Coorparoo, South Brisbane. Sadly, the house has been demolished to make way for higher density, small housing. </div>
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I had lots of great adventures and times with Owen- Jet skiing in the Bribie Island Passage, shared meals, long conversations over bottles of wine... I was sad to see him go back to China after working in Australia for some time. </div>
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In the years that have passed, Owen met his partner Jess, got married and he and his wife returned to Australia to start a new life. Recently, they welcomed their first child into the world- William. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1nJL141WzftcNOf4GdkA3lJLI1MmSH_cL6UfUUXNOtQ1vZG0AzlifEmtpOdUQjQ6EgBeCbqViR2AZiHFWHbEYPexDtnj6DFN7MSLLLSu_gX0fU2wduugmoalFMsGJiuG6uuwej0waP8/s1600/site+pics+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1nJL141WzftcNOf4GdkA3lJLI1MmSH_cL6UfUUXNOtQ1vZG0AzlifEmtpOdUQjQ6EgBeCbqViR2AZiHFWHbEYPexDtnj6DFN7MSLLLSu_gX0fU2wduugmoalFMsGJiuG6uuwej0waP8/s320/site+pics+015.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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A few weeks ago, Gigi and I made the 1.5 hour drive to meet William for the first time. Gigi was very interested baby William and I absolutely loved the cuddles from a young baby.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnSoQUOufGbLShf-CgX-q-00Xn_9NvmDMhZc4WaqyEccRDCuuWVSskZWnkO3CYPnPzvyu_y7Gmel7CP-1GiH6uYsjfHjXQiAASmYD-CHu2ThkYp7cPmaYQzNkkvcoF_8oswIrejUxU8QY/s1600/site+pics+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnSoQUOufGbLShf-CgX-q-00Xn_9NvmDMhZc4WaqyEccRDCuuWVSskZWnkO3CYPnPzvyu_y7Gmel7CP-1GiH6uYsjfHjXQiAASmYD-CHu2ThkYp7cPmaYQzNkkvcoF_8oswIrejUxU8QY/s320/site+pics+017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It was also wonderful to talk to Jess about birth, breastfeeding, motherhood and lack of sleep. I don't have many friends with babies or children, so its great to have those talks with other women who know where you are coming from.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-55144217473991435102014-11-11T22:26:00.000-08:002014-11-11T22:26:06.840-08:00Fun at Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEkntYtMhngsSmK3SUgC3sPYNu_pdQe9e0uPdGpn_SufmcLSUG8JDzjLJYxjv03s6Gw6DugRZmz9Um9iU3-0BMMFN-odckR4bBera5olNh7jm1-5SOiJUJ8aSW1YTcz-LDOMXXbyk7fp8/s1600/site+pics+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEkntYtMhngsSmK3SUgC3sPYNu_pdQe9e0uPdGpn_SufmcLSUG8JDzjLJYxjv03s6Gw6DugRZmz9Um9iU3-0BMMFN-odckR4bBera5olNh7jm1-5SOiJUJ8aSW1YTcz-LDOMXXbyk7fp8/s320/site+pics+001.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Part of the Frugal Living for Gigi and myself is learning to have fun at home. And there is plenty to do. From cuddles and adventures with our goats....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwSSK-EEUn01ArzRHkc7mFojT7MhshrbPQVOGEoCb_UWz_BXZ8Md0QIuBdyL2e0KxGl9TnBfvB9aOpW9Su-IvmgydwqARGZ4NizAwA35XUxd_XoZRWFRNX4mBzjw3yIkpEmh8BNtnzOnU/s1600/site+pics+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwSSK-EEUn01ArzRHkc7mFojT7MhshrbPQVOGEoCb_UWz_BXZ8Md0QIuBdyL2e0KxGl9TnBfvB9aOpW9Su-IvmgydwqARGZ4NizAwA35XUxd_XoZRWFRNX4mBzjw3yIkpEmh8BNtnzOnU/s320/site+pics+007.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKZdjCYAlMXUMuk1KHChlLczYCcddhX7VSkGJ6gFpHt7qleZ0FNgZACxG522EfGLpfVwnKTCEhwFmqKnRialnkR5Gu2EdPTUiYCgaoKZfVNsJCTeF2bgnEvFbAY2YHe8hmsZz07CdzKM/s1600/site+pics+019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKZdjCYAlMXUMuk1KHChlLczYCcddhX7VSkGJ6gFpHt7qleZ0FNgZACxG522EfGLpfVwnKTCEhwFmqKnRialnkR5Gu2EdPTUiYCgaoKZfVNsJCTeF2bgnEvFbAY2YHe8hmsZz07CdzKM/s320/site+pics+019.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4VSMY_nhHznQSonYd6dcQY4lH2Zkm4mP-Gyk2buTETyzrL0kWzZ7c9mFBj2G2_04n4kBaoj_qWIsZJVUkZd7OnjgKy1vU8Wd2VflxPkDr896U1AHmK0plSG6eIkpm5rEqMsQXKnLY30/s1600/site+pics+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4VSMY_nhHznQSonYd6dcQY4lH2Zkm4mP-Gyk2buTETyzrL0kWzZ7c9mFBj2G2_04n4kBaoj_qWIsZJVUkZd7OnjgKy1vU8Wd2VflxPkDr896U1AHmK0plSG6eIkpm5rEqMsQXKnLY30/s320/site+pics+018.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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To wonderful pedicures for Mumma... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-xUwKSjzNWgzJ-bfOmheVNwXczZhEe9K_ZMPzgu3yRqp6bANOzjORPOPcmLl_lEwws2IS0q890uPljKlozwWh2l9ORcLZ420Jc-VETbujDhzSMmE8TUCWebSkN4RWVC5N2yYgiZ0SeQ/s1600/site+pics+009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-xUwKSjzNWgzJ-bfOmheVNwXczZhEe9K_ZMPzgu3yRqp6bANOzjORPOPcmLl_lEwws2IS0q890uPljKlozwWh2l9ORcLZ420Jc-VETbujDhzSMmE8TUCWebSkN4RWVC5N2yYgiZ0SeQ/s320/site+pics+009.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZIkCOZ6nI4W5UlLLnFCxiu4prJr383rvr_aMRSdhyphenhyphenljkiHL_iNnZciQh_E7Jj17OIY4KSO_0j9gigtEqvDxTd-ras2fmE0TMniIcBlWDifnDdvoYjhVqKHSICfS0Mr5r05dEmKYQRiwE/s1600/site+pics+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZIkCOZ6nI4W5UlLLnFCxiu4prJr383rvr_aMRSdhyphenhyphenljkiHL_iNnZciQh_E7Jj17OIY4KSO_0j9gigtEqvDxTd-ras2fmE0TMniIcBlWDifnDdvoYjhVqKHSICfS0Mr5r05dEmKYQRiwE/s320/site+pics+008.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Playing with Pippi in the mud..... And building castles<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0seFFY8iGNgfaJs-qhI4icJKHHicTRtDHCvnS27X54H3LHHvC7aO54v6N_DBM_smh-CM52yBWpxVo8wgu7PkSZTVFnnfcRI1Q7IFN-mJUwHav_3LakhqqiVzplj0WQXMcal-SQq0QQ0/s1600/site+pics+037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0seFFY8iGNgfaJs-qhI4icJKHHicTRtDHCvnS27X54H3LHHvC7aO54v6N_DBM_smh-CM52yBWpxVo8wgu7PkSZTVFnnfcRI1Q7IFN-mJUwHav_3LakhqqiVzplj0WQXMcal-SQq0QQ0/s320/site+pics+037.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBR3dHBu69QyPxa_Hwxip_8vdR5CD8uHnEDpNE8-hpsxuErEjdCgIzPoC6-N7jJrf_MiAwm54D4ezMQMaoKmOBpvRyaR9OdN7u78ePasdV1G9hUZMxsXcRqueTDPBr36p1AiIw1E3wp0/s1600/site+pics+036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBR3dHBu69QyPxa_Hwxip_8vdR5CD8uHnEDpNE8-hpsxuErEjdCgIzPoC6-N7jJrf_MiAwm54D4ezMQMaoKmOBpvRyaR9OdN7u78ePasdV1G9hUZMxsXcRqueTDPBr36p1AiIw1E3wp0/s320/site+pics+036.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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There is always something fun to do at home, a free adventure to be had and an animal friend to play with.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-52438778710496568222014-11-11T21:32:00.001-08:002014-11-11T21:32:57.294-08:00The dangers of being an adventurous toddler<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Gigi has been having a run of bad luck lately. She is very adventurous, very physical with climbing/ exploring/ jumping/ etc. This month she's had her fair share of injuries and illnesses, so hopefully that will be all for some time. </div>
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First, she split her eyebrow open by riding her bike into my brother car, and straight to the Emergency Room at our nearest hospital we went. These days doctors don't give kids stitches on their face, unless the injury is serious. A specialised glue is now used to glue the skin together to assist healing. This is the second time Gigi has had her face glued back together. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmxCp-GsR0ucwDaEQtVRFvTYsMnxcS97OC0quCAYjqwUM1XrqeOOvNv8AflZTFbsIdZb-14tRD3YzTQrUnJ2lj6SVY22nHHXOEaMqdzgSiRqxiJGtRxtOUe8M7kwdLSjMkglE5VYHBrNU/s1600/site+pics+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmxCp-GsR0ucwDaEQtVRFvTYsMnxcS97OC0quCAYjqwUM1XrqeOOvNv8AflZTFbsIdZb-14tRD3YzTQrUnJ2lj6SVY22nHHXOEaMqdzgSiRqxiJGtRxtOUe8M7kwdLSjMkglE5VYHBrNU/s320/site+pics+021.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The following week, whilst exploring a creek in the Byron Bay Hinterland on our camping trip, Gigi picked up a paralysis tick on her OTHER eye, right in the corner near her tear duct. I was lucky enough to spot it almost immediately, however it took me twenty minutes to calm Gigi down and convince her to let me pull it off with tweezers. In that twenty minutes, her face and eye swelled up from the toxins in the tick bite. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3TbE-59qy5d5AGgjO-ykHu99QMAPJyL52po5l1d2qC1hEFRfUE5Y42In6Od03Ga_erLFNi6gapVNrhb5SXZc5WsfM46snzIkXGO1VNEHrLRXpQ9oeEJomBiY2wMQiGyok1gsTOexALI/s1600/site+pics+028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3TbE-59qy5d5AGgjO-ykHu99QMAPJyL52po5l1d2qC1hEFRfUE5Y42In6Od03Ga_erLFNi6gapVNrhb5SXZc5WsfM46snzIkXGO1VNEHrLRXpQ9oeEJomBiY2wMQiGyok1gsTOexALI/s320/site+pics+028.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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If that wasn't enough injuries for the fortnight, she also ran into other child whilst playing and put her teeth through her bottom lip. </div>
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Such is life with a toddler. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-90466089478520147002014-11-11T20:22:00.002-08:002014-11-11T20:22:37.016-08:00Chai Tea From Scratch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkZNGRv0njvpya8I8IdHr1uW62rrQPGnlbZLAtSd5GRlcvQym_RoKdEsQ_zjoms3Go8SpJB3k6jEDn33R0g8LzJg4Lqm0vr1DhrxtuZyFf_ZFcejNNa_WGTN2NNo1C9R0JBiXtvt5_Bs/s1600/site+pics+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkZNGRv0njvpya8I8IdHr1uW62rrQPGnlbZLAtSd5GRlcvQym_RoKdEsQ_zjoms3Go8SpJB3k6jEDn33R0g8LzJg4Lqm0vr1DhrxtuZyFf_ZFcejNNa_WGTN2NNo1C9R0JBiXtvt5_Bs/s320/site+pics+005.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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For some time I have LOVED Chai Tea. <u>Real Chai Tea</u>. However I didnt drink it very often because its really hard to find anywhere that brews it from spices. Most Cafes seem to only serve packet mix Chai Lattes, which are full of un-pronounceable ingredients and are sickly sweet. </div>
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Then I discovered Chai is actually not hard to back at home. </div>
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As per my general method of cooking, I don't have an exact recipe for Chai. I usually just add in the same spices but each time a slightly different amount, depending on how much of each spice I have available and how I'd like the Chai to taste. <br />
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As I like to have Chai in the evenings, after dinner, I make my Chai on Rooibos Tea, which is naturally free from caffeine. I haven't been able to find loose leaf tea, just tea bags of Rooibos. This hasn't been all bad though, as it gives me an estimate of how much tea I am making.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgNlO484Aq7SJOIttCdJuqC6qAth9wIODyLYsr8jVwLhJf-1stanml9imqIIo7RopwvOdY7mRfiUNXRdBrad08_EoLssmmYAZpu3PAqTLs2DWHKUwq1SfG6HAmsRsPabbhfxIc5Wi8RU/s1600/site+pics+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgNlO484Aq7SJOIttCdJuqC6qAth9wIODyLYsr8jVwLhJf-1stanml9imqIIo7RopwvOdY7mRfiUNXRdBrad08_EoLssmmYAZpu3PAqTLs2DWHKUwq1SfG6HAmsRsPabbhfxIc5Wi8RU/s320/site+pics+003.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Ingredients:<br />
- 50 bags of Rooibos Tea<br />
- 50 Cloves<br />
- 25 Star Anise<br />
- 25 bay leaves<br />
- 50 cardamon pods<br />
- 10-15 teaspoons of dried ginger (powdered)<br />
- 5-10 teaspoons of cinnamon (powdered)<br />
- 50 black peppercorns<br />
<br />
Method:<br />
- Cut open bags of rooibos tea and pour into a large bowl<br />
- using a blender/ mortar and pestle/ food processor/ coffee grinder, chop Peppercorns, Cloves, Star Anise, and Cardamon Pods into finely, but not to a powder.<br />
- add chopped spices, Cinnamon and Dired Ginger to bowl<br />
- Mix in with Rooibos Tea.<br />
- Amazing Chai<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJIKHjhoQg9n_UweTjRkcowftWfJiNJSu593ALNt5kD7qM9Xk04-wYlI2n5pppJOYuYyn50TUeUdcHoZcAk_lV2kw2eISWa5lQ2oGf2tOb5IWoJ7HSNV0MKXVFFTuCFu8d9lchoH57Ns/s1600/site+pics+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJIKHjhoQg9n_UweTjRkcowftWfJiNJSu593ALNt5kD7qM9Xk04-wYlI2n5pppJOYuYyn50TUeUdcHoZcAk_lV2kw2eISWa5lQ2oGf2tOb5IWoJ7HSNV0MKXVFFTuCFu8d9lchoH57Ns/s320/site+pics+004.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
There are two ways to prepare this Chai...<br />
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The 'instant' way is to add one teaspoon per cup to a teapot, with a mesh insert (so two teaspoons in a two cup tea pot), add boiling water, allow to infuse for 5 minutes, pour into mugs, add milk and a teaspoon of honey.<br />
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The 'long way', which results is much better tasting Chai, is to heat milk in a saucepan, add 1.5 teaspoons of chai to the milk and allow to simmer for 10-15 mins. Strain Chai and serve with honey. This is a much stronger and better flavour, however it requires more time and dishes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkZNGRv0njvpya8I8IdHr1uW62rrQPGnlbZLAtSd5GRlcvQym_RoKdEsQ_zjoms3Go8SpJB3k6jEDn33R0g8LzJg4Lqm0vr1DhrxtuZyFf_ZFcejNNa_WGTN2NNo1C9R0JBiXtvt5_Bs/s1600/site+pics+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPkZNGRv0njvpya8I8IdHr1uW62rrQPGnlbZLAtSd5GRlcvQym_RoKdEsQ_zjoms3Go8SpJB3k6jEDn33R0g8LzJg4Lqm0vr1DhrxtuZyFf_ZFcejNNa_WGTN2NNo1C9R0JBiXtvt5_Bs/s320/site+pics+005.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Chai makes a great gift for Christmas and is delicious and full of great spices, which have many health benefits.<br />
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Homemade Chai is also easy to tailor to individual tastes. If you like it spicier, add more peppercorns and ginger, for a more 'licoricey' taste, add more cardamon pods and star anise. I personally am not a huge fan of cinnamon, so I add less that what other may prefer.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-43195544098353442672014-11-11T19:44:00.001-08:002014-11-11T19:44:31.530-08:00October Garden Update.... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0jHb2P5P_B8CKa5geNqYmAnuQ98cF-8JdBXnvXqrJBuw3xo6n2wczgvPPvx38DZ4UBX3SzI2-3fiL62lsQk-ygZ52px3IBs1UJ0Fa8x6g5qFj4DWY_kvovkyQBa-gH4O5Og10r4yWRAE/s1600/8Sept2014+031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0jHb2P5P_B8CKa5geNqYmAnuQ98cF-8JdBXnvXqrJBuw3xo6n2wczgvPPvx38DZ4UBX3SzI2-3fiL62lsQk-ygZ52px3IBs1UJ0Fa8x6g5qFj4DWY_kvovkyQBa-gH4O5Og10r4yWRAE/s320/8Sept2014+031.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Posting Octobers Garden Update in November, because I've been slack....</div>
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So last month, it was time to grow the summer season of seeds, some of which I had seed saved, some of which I received in a seed swap from Liz, over at <a href="http://eight-acres.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Eight Acres</a> (I've still got to send my seeds, sorry for the delay!). </div>
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I planted a mix of Luffa Seeds, Paw Paw, Silverbeet, Beans (mixed), cos lettuce, calendula, rosella and mini capsicum. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh__TBEigond0J2p8SsZWNR68JMmKjQuQxixQDYkzp8bdGdbP8d4pXtgox8-E2LXfMdVbuDJunWQDnq5c9Nw9e8dD-5JobnuJfx-D9MQIA3j0i7Dn_1_8vT6JYa8tpHmQf_uemSu7TyfCo/s1600/8Sept2014+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh__TBEigond0J2p8SsZWNR68JMmKjQuQxixQDYkzp8bdGdbP8d4pXtgox8-E2LXfMdVbuDJunWQDnq5c9Nw9e8dD-5JobnuJfx-D9MQIA3j0i7Dn_1_8vT6JYa8tpHmQf_uemSu7TyfCo/s320/8Sept2014+030.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seeds to be planted</td></tr>
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I cleared a space in the shed and sat down to happily spend an hour labeling pots, adding soil and planting seeds. I grow my seeds in pots, then transplant into the garden after they have germinated. I find it easier to keep track of what grows and what doesn't. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWk5xYLFt9GDa4Bvqk-q23bejUhGB-y-1g7yX47tGxXAZQqgg7MF66MQja_4QnE470Av72zys9GYL4gufE2r6-_kjdmw6Ard5qm5p0ACU10EO1n1VoePqAjuATumo7vcB3HRoLUjM5zLY/s1600/8Sept2014+028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWk5xYLFt9GDa4Bvqk-q23bejUhGB-y-1g7yX47tGxXAZQqgg7MF66MQja_4QnE470Av72zys9GYL4gufE2r6-_kjdmw6Ard5qm5p0ACU10EO1n1VoePqAjuATumo7vcB3HRoLUjM5zLY/s320/8Sept2014+028.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I planted the seeds in composted goat poo, I'm not sure how good it is as a growth medium, but I have HEAPS of it, courtesy of our 18 goats. In keeping with my 'reduce waste' policy, I've been keeping my finished toilet rolls to use as biodegradable seed pots. The rest of my seeds I planted in re-used pots from various tubestock I've bought over the past year. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkRu_P4G5_r2qAFqqj25rrP2KqvD_1I7uuhGuhP4K-LU03tN4PTxbPQ-Qn784PKhXfRI8-4qZZxDXP2Yd8NhrrafuwnOlVfDXAMN2P9AebblDT6galHkJ2NlK3PqUntPBB4owJBh7dTE/s1600/8Sept2014+038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZkRu_P4G5_r2qAFqqj25rrP2KqvD_1I7uuhGuhP4K-LU03tN4PTxbPQ-Qn784PKhXfRI8-4qZZxDXP2Yd8NhrrafuwnOlVfDXAMN2P9AebblDT6galHkJ2NlK3PqUntPBB4owJBh7dTE/s320/8Sept2014+038.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I placed all the pots in a sunny spot, which is close to the chook pen, so I will walk past it and remember to water it morning and night. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYKi4sFb9uHrlaXnMB-S2bGAe0lqzWyscPunrRufsvlt_VL2DdWHpkS-NbK3FMWfChHBljAK2YNzNRuW532edrRwHSbdyNfRbLPPFW9HqeTo0_dRWaEudG4pALX1jkgLt4UJY9V816RA/s1600/8Sept2014+039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYKi4sFb9uHrlaXnMB-S2bGAe0lqzWyscPunrRufsvlt_VL2DdWHpkS-NbK3FMWfChHBljAK2YNzNRuW532edrRwHSbdyNfRbLPPFW9HqeTo0_dRWaEudG4pALX1jkgLt4UJY9V816RA/s320/8Sept2014+039.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As my chooks are free range, I also added a 'chook cage' to prevent to girls from destroying the joint. Hopefully most of the plants will germinate and I will be able to plant the edibles in Garden Bed #1 and the Rosellas and Luffas somewhere suitable.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVFtqDbF8N_2llXCvfwYsxwXcvsBc5VGUdMEOHqaTHoMUha1eX62gJre9t1D34-NIYMujm4xa7tF0-znZhysDFOOgfM1M8Qzxsmf23TlCCSmXuDpqKIyZ69BcqZNQgtnO7If9FunKZ_A/s1600/8Sept2014+036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVFtqDbF8N_2llXCvfwYsxwXcvsBc5VGUdMEOHqaTHoMUha1eX62gJre9t1D34-NIYMujm4xa7tF0-znZhysDFOOgfM1M8Qzxsmf23TlCCSmXuDpqKIyZ69BcqZNQgtnO7If9FunKZ_A/s320/8Sept2014+036.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Garden Bed #1 is almost finished its food production of winter greens. I'm just waiting for the last of the Bok Choy to go to seed, so I can collect those and use them for the next winter.<br />
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Meanwhile, the seeds I planted in Garden Bed #2 have germinated and are starting to grow. The seeds I threw in 'to see if they would grow' seem to have all sprouted. The seeds were a mix of Amaranth, Sunflower and some pink flowers I like at a cafe, so I collected their seeds.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkx9915ymVJjdJRG6iDkXBUFQkCJlXsUUIl-O_O5LJiGps_XFq-n9a4ba74ipQdVxpd6cqX-DveYMmOJ09AOTinb3EDj1JF3UaHlIKDH1on9tX7m_EBaC0rygWfdE8qn_TB1xezN_OZU/s1600/8Sept2014+033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkx9915ymVJjdJRG6iDkXBUFQkCJlXsUUIl-O_O5LJiGps_XFq-n9a4ba74ipQdVxpd6cqX-DveYMmOJ09AOTinb3EDj1JF3UaHlIKDH1on9tX7m_EBaC0rygWfdE8qn_TB1xezN_OZU/s320/8Sept2014+033.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I'm hoping once the Amaranth and Sunflowers reach 30-60cm, I'll be able to plant Cos Lettuce, Silver Beet and other greens underneath. The taller, hardier plants should provide shade to the greens during the heat of the day, whilst allowing plenty of filtered sunlight... I'll just have to see if that works out...<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-48220171784905483252014-09-07T23:19:00.001-07:002014-09-07T23:19:32.849-07:00Raw Vegan Sushi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPSEocgmJAJwohcsCSJkuQOMtdeRWbMjU1-0OpIz9BunUiKpTIlqbhT20661g5jQxoz6BkzjnfTvATsJWCysLGAFeu-JOiImBOUrDwYA0Ehav8YzzF-WAooAd4rivN4CN6RErXzo8cvU/s1600/8Sept2014+042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPSEocgmJAJwohcsCSJkuQOMtdeRWbMjU1-0OpIz9BunUiKpTIlqbhT20661g5jQxoz6BkzjnfTvATsJWCysLGAFeu-JOiImBOUrDwYA0Ehav8YzzF-WAooAd4rivN4CN6RErXzo8cvU/s1600/8Sept2014+042.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Another day, another raw food recipe. This one is Raw Vegan Sushi. Its something that I made up on the spot as today I was running late for work, I didn't grab anything for lunch and I didn't feel like fast 'food'. So off I went to the shops to see what I could invent. These rolls were the result.<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
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- Nori Sheets<br />
- avocado<br />
- Noosh (nutritional yeast)<br />
- himalayan salt<br />
- fresh pepper<br />
- Spinach<br />
- rocket<br />
- cucumber<br />
- alfalfa<br />
- Tamari sauce<br />
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Method:<br />
<br />
- scoop of avocado and mash with tsp of noosh, pinch of salt and pinch of fresh ground pepper<br />
- spread avocado evenly over two nori sheets.<br />
- place sliced cucumber, alfalfa sprouts, rocket and spinach on top of avocado mash.<br />
- roll up sushi sheets. Hold until they keep their shape.<br />
- Use a wet sharp knife to cut into bit sized slices.<br />
- sprinkle a little tamari sauce over.<br />
- Enjoy<br />
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I'll probably be eating these for lunch everyday this week now that I have all the ingredients at work. They were so yum and easy to make.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-55975207223007291522014-09-07T23:05:00.001-07:002014-09-07T23:07:11.097-07:00Raw Vegan Pasta with Pesto<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE03r6kxvUyPcAfKOgWDMMJgAcyPuf7dKSE6c9XDDNTH4asL6J-rimmYToyJGzg-hb-zpv-8UZ-5NH8i9OMr6aDD5TktpBp1y7wCR8oXiPSrIeQgHg1GXiENHPgMBfuhDj7RCzjLouQ_E/s1600/8Sept2014+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE03r6kxvUyPcAfKOgWDMMJgAcyPuf7dKSE6c9XDDNTH4asL6J-rimmYToyJGzg-hb-zpv-8UZ-5NH8i9OMr6aDD5TktpBp1y7wCR8oXiPSrIeQgHg1GXiENHPgMBfuhDj7RCzjLouQ_E/s1600/8Sept2014+001.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now that Summer is almost here, I will be incorporating a LOT more raw foods into my diet. The main issue I have with most raw foods is that they generally take a lot of preparation (soak nuts for hours/dehydrating/blending). I like my raw foods to be QUICK and EASY with minimal preparation and equipment.<br />
I like a lot of pesto with my pasta but I didnt have much pesto left over from my freezer stash, only about 2 Tablespoons. So I mixed what I had with half a mashed avocado. It was devine, I will be doing this ALWAYS<br />
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So here is the recipe:<br />
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RAW PASTA WITH PESTO<br />
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Makes enough for one lunch and one snack; or for four 'sides'<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
- 2 zucchinis<br />
- handful of cherry tomatoes, halved<br />
- 4 button mushrooms<br />
- big handful of spinach<br />
- pesto (recipe <a href="http://smalltownmumma.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/alternative-pesto-recipe.html" target="_blank">here</a>) (use approx 2 Tbsp)<br />
- half a mashed avocado<br />
- pumpkin seeds<br />
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Method<br />
- Rinse Zucchinis and slice length-ways into thirds.<br />
- using a peeler 'peel' zucchini into strips, which will resemble tagliatelle (can also use a spiralizer or mandoline slicer)<br />
- sit zucchini pasta in a colander to drain<br />
- finely chop spinach and mushrooms<br />
- mix pesto into mashed avocado<br />
- Place zucchini pasta in a large bowl, mix through pesto/avocado mix, add spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, gentley mix.<br />
- serve with pumpkin seeds sprinkled on top.<br />
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This is delicious. It is so creamy and filling. I find when eating raw foods, due to a lack of calories in the food, I need to eat LOTS of it. The above recipe is what I eat for lunch, with a bit leftover for a snack later in the day. There is also enough for about four people as a side for a main dish.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-12010357451682025832014-09-07T22:39:00.003-07:002014-09-07T22:39:47.948-07:00A Weekend at the Beach<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFhEiPjVSV197DRNcA7To8pOW3srONOrtcJhZDAh5E6aQ6ItRFtU5OkQ9S0MkdJYIMBY4XK1wEmNe-2bTr16nQk3nCyMF1YIRUlGnj1FmWNHem3aKqv8cCSeh8Fk2TfFEds5hyphenhyphen8BK_1w/s1600/August+2014+071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUFhEiPjVSV197DRNcA7To8pOW3srONOrtcJhZDAh5E6aQ6ItRFtU5OkQ9S0MkdJYIMBY4XK1wEmNe-2bTr16nQk3nCyMF1YIRUlGnj1FmWNHem3aKqv8cCSeh8Fk2TfFEds5hyphenhyphen8BK_1w/s1600/August+2014+071.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Last weekend, Gigi spent some time with her Dad at Golden Beach on the Sunshine Coast. From all accounts, they had a great time- Op Shopping for a new hat and sunglasses; eating ice-cream; and kayaking in the Pumicestone Passage. </div>
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From Golden Beach, it is a short paddle across the passage to the northern end of Bribie Island. This part of the island is uninhabited and as a lovely view back to Caloundra and the coastline. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvrbdg2YFjQ45XPR9c-scGkchtnxjn8eBEs427dOPtZlsJi2WfWA6dNfZmvIR1eXnLg_8XJ9kprz-DirzdENBr-TJ3csVtr-QHhyphenhyphenmUxziIWbmK0awAMi2UwsU_GxZYZUW4V1xXur2jl4/s1600/August+2014+069.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvrbdg2YFjQ45XPR9c-scGkchtnxjn8eBEs427dOPtZlsJi2WfWA6dNfZmvIR1eXnLg_8XJ9kprz-DirzdENBr-TJ3csVtr-QHhyphenhyphenmUxziIWbmK0awAMi2UwsU_GxZYZUW4V1xXur2jl4/s1600/August+2014+069.png" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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On Sunday, we had a 'family day' at Shelley Beach. The beach isn't very good for swimming, but its great for collection shells. When the tide goes out, it reveals lots of rock and rock pools to explore. If you arrive at high tide, I recommend walking along the beach to the north (left when facing the ocean) towards the headland. There is a number of 'streams' that meet the ocean and interesting caves at the headland. By the time you've walked back, the tide should be low enough to walk along the rocks to the south (right when facing the ocean). You are able to walk a fair distance along the rocks and there is a stunning view of Caloundra in the foreground and the Glasshouse Mountains in the background.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukCv7fTArf_knuOpNnFUpseqU9iRfcSo8QVkGulViwhZPY5geUeFlogWJc9r8O018EgU6XvvYOc4Efb4ykI2PAncFUOriJvy615XGMRpEy9pPJICiH2iwQn3AUmFwJqzBBRqH3wy9Ukc/s1600/August+2014+074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukCv7fTArf_knuOpNnFUpseqU9iRfcSo8QVkGulViwhZPY5geUeFlogWJc9r8O018EgU6XvvYOc4Efb4ykI2PAncFUOriJvy615XGMRpEy9pPJICiH2iwQn3AUmFwJqzBBRqH3wy9Ukc/s1600/August+2014+074.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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As a bonus there is lots of sea-life trying to find refuge during the low-tide. We chased lots of crabs, squirted water from the sea squirts and watched the sea slugs make their way across the rocks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwUZCtQ36PeDgFHz6QXFtBgF2cpEEAtQPpxYOnXjA86kT_0bad-EtoOLnDIYYZjD5xT5CNoCWj8_37qP5xvSlDNPt84Mgxf9Ny-99QzJme0PrffajP0DV2uCTq8aBGfbAB7j8WCPj716A/s1600/August+2014+087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwUZCtQ36PeDgFHz6QXFtBgF2cpEEAtQPpxYOnXjA86kT_0bad-EtoOLnDIYYZjD5xT5CNoCWj8_37qP5xvSlDNPt84Mgxf9Ny-99QzJme0PrffajP0DV2uCTq8aBGfbAB7j8WCPj716A/s1600/August+2014+087.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Gigi loves exploring, climbing and jumping across the rocks.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-18365231255421877232014-09-01T22:41:00.001-07:002014-09-01T22:41:50.147-07:00August Garden Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV2N0xvWXVhKzVtwGWBuaxeVluf7U76EEQqVKFdOXRF92A0Fe8Je2wb30AggzfHAzabIOvJD_wJQCe1HhA8CmSacJB3oWkUxAgha8Y8Van4O7VnzO-kpRQJf4zS__nSwHPM29Dg7MKbo/s1600/August+2014+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV2N0xvWXVhKzVtwGWBuaxeVluf7U76EEQqVKFdOXRF92A0Fe8Je2wb30AggzfHAzabIOvJD_wJQCe1HhA8CmSacJB3oWkUxAgha8Y8Van4O7VnzO-kpRQJf4zS__nSwHPM29Dg7MKbo/s1600/August+2014+040.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsCrI1pk18mmWlI9S7yMJsPJ97YyK3CgRqdIsbp9RZC2BZJemx-5onUQLjlC7oT6fxZh6yBGTH9NiEjAwPcutB7OQDPY72ZqOtp6d_C5OfU6AxsW2JfviCGnmATeMywveWllSgWIaX-w/s1600/August+2014+041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsCrI1pk18mmWlI9S7yMJsPJ97YyK3CgRqdIsbp9RZC2BZJemx-5onUQLjlC7oT6fxZh6yBGTH9NiEjAwPcutB7OQDPY72ZqOtp6d_C5OfU6AxsW2JfviCGnmATeMywveWllSgWIaX-w/s1600/August+2014+041.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I was pleasantly surprised to discover that despite being neglected for two weeks, whilst we were on holidays, the veggie garden is still thriving and most of my bok choys are either ready to eat now, or will be in the next few weeks. Some have been eaten by pests, both of the insect variety and the two-legged variety. My pest control methods are limited to picking off any grubs I find and feeding them to the chickens; and encouraging Gigi to eat only whats within arms reach. I have so many bok choys this year, I'm not that worried about loosing a few leaves here and there. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4dU4v5wdHfgaDO0PzmqsTP6aUBMlVyRfZ2BgK9tRD2K8YBlritnKrxf2NmU4UIa80lNZ0RMfUtB_wm-Sr15RqCK507e4cAyP1jRxCDR9YUbxYYVuoaIi3JY4rihgRWQtDKamCV6RXko/s1600/August+2014+042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4dU4v5wdHfgaDO0PzmqsTP6aUBMlVyRfZ2BgK9tRD2K8YBlritnKrxf2NmU4UIa80lNZ0RMfUtB_wm-Sr15RqCK507e4cAyP1jRxCDR9YUbxYYVuoaIi3JY4rihgRWQtDKamCV6RXko/s1600/August+2014+042.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happily eating raw bok choy, will not eat it in stir-fry</td></tr>
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I bought a small compost tumbler from Aldi and spend an afternoon putting it together with lots of 'help' from Gigi. Its only about 140L, but I thought it was a good place to start as I've never composted anything before. Our fruit and veggie scraps have always gone to the goats, with meat and dairy going to the dogs. Now that I've got chickens, I thought I'd compost their nesting box 'waste' and also the straw from the bottom for their pen. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXdZvShQUYuz6P_rWUPd-S03QJ5HkJ0JWjdpCj3PIU0a0X9_w2AE8VxAYcFAt02SlewWU2ullM-UTnd6yYaXZNbpi_vV4w_rl0IpmJlEIX52FsVc7wUVOCaTaX3smnmTSE4dS6Bw5tW4/s1600/August+2014+045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXdZvShQUYuz6P_rWUPd-S03QJ5HkJ0JWjdpCj3PIU0a0X9_w2AE8VxAYcFAt02SlewWU2ullM-UTnd6yYaXZNbpi_vV4w_rl0IpmJlEIX52FsVc7wUVOCaTaX3smnmTSE4dS6Bw5tW4/s1600/August+2014+045.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Compost Tumbler</td></tr>
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One afternoon, my dad used the tractor to collect broken down goat poo from the goat shed and load up two of our unused garden beds. In the raised bed, I plan to plant all of my amaranth seeds, some beans, which apparently are good feed for chickens and a few random seeds in my seed collection, which I have no idea what they are. My dad wants to plant 'real' tomatoes (not cherry ones) and rockmelon in the other garden. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLvuVUyefxRqvQRVxmleviphbgOYTcUmKWYT6qxU2fzvkKf-h83IiKfrirkX11QPHvI1E6bU1J5txhDCT0r68eDVjnssJ_5TUlGnl54ry9HJOnKkUqOo11rVbbH17JkpmFz71hfgjR5w/s1600/August+2014+047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLvuVUyefxRqvQRVxmleviphbgOYTcUmKWYT6qxU2fzvkKf-h83IiKfrirkX11QPHvI1E6bU1J5txhDCT0r68eDVjnssJ_5TUlGnl54ry9HJOnKkUqOo11rVbbH17JkpmFz71hfgjR5w/s1600/August+2014+047.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS1i1lea97FqinrTilLYq9zQLRphlIrrqJgUXCUN5q3gbuludSWrx4IxJ80Yj0eMF_lAB9dpD2BOYIsoUpp5-zog7oeajQ5kkoGVOwieBBzy3eL3f6sD35jaSwFtoKI-zitXfu0kL9_-U/s1600/August+2014+046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS1i1lea97FqinrTilLYq9zQLRphlIrrqJgUXCUN5q3gbuludSWrx4IxJ80Yj0eMF_lAB9dpD2BOYIsoUpp5-zog7oeajQ5kkoGVOwieBBzy3eL3f6sD35jaSwFtoKI-zitXfu0kL9_-U/s1600/August+2014+046.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoh-H92NktR4a7ymkX7OsR0GK3A0dkwr2kvqIxvP9eZNMjvEL-9zBMZI8ktsmXPlY6SXRRtCK8lGYBV-StbvMDOyb9fgvMsGyTWaCniP517_-yeOkNZDBVEk9S98OGlEXakecEsNyQ7Gw/s1600/August+2014+048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoh-H92NktR4a7ymkX7OsR0GK3A0dkwr2kvqIxvP9eZNMjvEL-9zBMZI8ktsmXPlY6SXRRtCK8lGYBV-StbvMDOyb9fgvMsGyTWaCniP517_-yeOkNZDBVEk9S98OGlEXakecEsNyQ7Gw/s1600/August+2014+048.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The three garden beds</td></tr>
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In the winter garden beds, the winter crops will be finishing up soon. I've been picking a handfull of snow peas most days and the beans are starting to 'ripen' now too. I think I might also have a late crop of strawberries, as the flowers are starting to develop into fruit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtqYD6O0yeP97g7vwUKPaXUsopma-cf-lyNVUizCbKimsXNyuRX5JCUYvhORob5DZs65jORLwbuakouGeKxG-7hGZN4yomhjEI1gGKGQ2RD8b6OfcoYnSefq7_Jc6GSdWmANmoIZHoow/s1600/August+2014+049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtqYD6O0yeP97g7vwUKPaXUsopma-cf-lyNVUizCbKimsXNyuRX5JCUYvhORob5DZs65jORLwbuakouGeKxG-7hGZN4yomhjEI1gGKGQ2RD8b6OfcoYnSefq7_Jc6GSdWmANmoIZHoow/s1600/August+2014+049.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The dill has been flowering like crazy and I'm not sure whether I should collect some seeds, or just collect new seedlings when they pop up and replant them in appropriate locations. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFd5QPknWjBRDUpKO2FynHRR6HpllCfQE3sWYLC6-E5zhOsWBb7VQ3EI2n-XKeaRkYRVrKuOMFEddAxSGYpYuHmuwcYqzc699v1svFQOmTRYlEq4BgHiUIbm2VLGMEeDAtwsjGlTXMtSY/s1600/August+2014+051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFd5QPknWjBRDUpKO2FynHRR6HpllCfQE3sWYLC6-E5zhOsWBb7VQ3EI2n-XKeaRkYRVrKuOMFEddAxSGYpYuHmuwcYqzc699v1svFQOmTRYlEq4BgHiUIbm2VLGMEeDAtwsjGlTXMtSY/s1600/August+2014+051.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gigi enjoying a snow pea</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwqcynjPNwbwoO_JEvhBrantFIfjBZOG7l9wEGm41yXacqRn5FZC4Zvkwi1ScBTrlP4kLliy1yHPXf4E3amCsxLPNljcJJ8AORxD0Rtbv41CnX_Pl0UvOeta1vYSz6wnfPPb_6QC7vEk/s1600/August+2014+052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwqcynjPNwbwoO_JEvhBrantFIfjBZOG7l9wEGm41yXacqRn5FZC4Zvkwi1ScBTrlP4kLliy1yHPXf4E3amCsxLPNljcJJ8AORxD0Rtbv41CnX_Pl0UvOeta1vYSz6wnfPPb_6QC7vEk/s1600/August+2014+052.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Checking out the Dill Flowers</td></tr>
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The chooks have picked up their egg output, as they mature. We are getting at least two to three eggs every day, although they refuse to lay in their nesting box and have instead chosen to lay under a bush in the garden. Just another reminder that despite my preferences and wishes, animals do whatever suits them. Another example is in the photo below, where my ladies have turned my seedling box into a dust bath. All four chooks get in there and have a roll around. Needless to say, all the seedling either were eaten, scratched out or died. I have no intention to do anything to keep them out of the box, instead I'll find somewhere else to grow seedlings. Life is about picking your battles after all. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-32778424918716539852014-09-01T21:57:00.000-07:002014-09-01T21:57:21.280-07:00August Holiday in Fiji<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyVSyMfrXWpnI5tQDewD7XbT5QLhR1aWur4RK2qFYp3mfj6i011RiHFHsKwBpFNoaINAm-DzHDCylXt9FAe37EzdW8q43Kr8Kii1p9TTBjm_PcixW0_UqLyH-W20xqPTFfugOZca29d4/s1600/August+2014+008.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwyVSyMfrXWpnI5tQDewD7XbT5QLhR1aWur4RK2qFYp3mfj6i011RiHFHsKwBpFNoaINAm-DzHDCylXt9FAe37EzdW8q43Kr8Kii1p9TTBjm_PcixW0_UqLyH-W20xqPTFfugOZca29d4/s1600/August+2014+008.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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As mentioned in my prior post, my Mum, Gigi and I had a holiday together for two weeks in Fiji. It was brilliant. Such a great holiday destination for kids. Gigi got disruptive and throw tantrums at times. None of the islanders batted an eye, apparently everyone knows and accepts what Toddlers are like.<br />
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I also found it interesting, that everywhere, men, women and older kids all fussed over Gigi- saying hello, asking her name and occasionally giving her a kiss on the cheek. I know that some people would probably be bothered by that, but i thought it was great, and Gigi responded really well to it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xQEZmiDbJvKyhdReU-RLkMedAM7HvetbnNtuyShrM28MY4Ih_JVCZzdW4arYEWqGeZmL-QAcuxz67qCi04ExnGAauL-hYbQ0JgbwEkDnmqx1fOuJoCivGnAMj5WOgklU69ttelO6Y0E/s1600/August+2014+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xQEZmiDbJvKyhdReU-RLkMedAM7HvetbnNtuyShrM28MY4Ih_JVCZzdW4arYEWqGeZmL-QAcuxz67qCi04ExnGAauL-hYbQ0JgbwEkDnmqx1fOuJoCivGnAMj5WOgklU69ttelO6Y0E/s1600/August+2014+017.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Singers serenading some guests</td></tr>
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We stayed at the Wyndham Resort on Danarau Island, which I have to admit was beautiful, even though resorts are not really my preferred method of holidaying. The staff were great and very patient with kids. It wasn't unusual to see an activities staff member being followed by two or three kids. Every evening, there was a 'torch lighting ceremony' where a man dressed traditionally, went around the resort lighting all fires with a torch. Every evening he was followed by a pack of 10-20 kids.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflKQA4RWvLEVwVE5AMfpGSymc7XVagO4VX5EMFeYb36UeA7FQGRvWeJMsGic5VfE3K0HYjILD7ErI0aQHo9ifr8GCC42LvGvJfjn4KzhJ6PBmanByPeiBRh8r3LY0OLpvHWWkRAYNOcc/s1600/August+2014+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflKQA4RWvLEVwVE5AMfpGSymc7XVagO4VX5EMFeYb36UeA7FQGRvWeJMsGic5VfE3K0HYjILD7ErI0aQHo9ifr8GCC42LvGvJfjn4KzhJ6PBmanByPeiBRh8r3LY0OLpvHWWkRAYNOcc/s1600/August+2014+018.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana and Gigi on the bus. Most had no windows, just rolled up canvas.</td></tr>
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We didn't hire a car or anything and found it really easy to get around via the local bus system. The buses are AMAZING, they seemed to go everywhere we wanted and only cost a few dollars per trip. Plus we met and chatted with heaps of interesting local people, who were more than happy to offer advice for where to visit and how to get there. If the bus didnt go to where we wanted, it always went within a few kilometres and it was easy enough to flag down a cab to take us the rest of the way.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana, Mumma and Gigi at the Mud Pools at Sabeto</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMJyaxVhCBVhf4bIsbz3MXGRv2lrrW5UZMCEf1xOQqzUzH43Wrg5tc0ubs5AaafoO64A0n7VSr3PSYAOPzA5-DxpetRBdfF6-HK4Kxm8a78Sp-81q2deHev6ova9TtFzF9f2x6e4FDuU8/s1600/August+2014+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMJyaxVhCBVhf4bIsbz3MXGRv2lrrW5UZMCEf1xOQqzUzH43Wrg5tc0ubs5AaafoO64A0n7VSr3PSYAOPzA5-DxpetRBdfF6-HK4Kxm8a78Sp-81q2deHev6ova9TtFzF9f2x6e4FDuU8/s1600/August+2014+011.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mumma and Gigi</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gigi 'snorkeling' </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSB0LbpT7r2ckUj8OzkSkL_1O2nV1hB-PuudpL8szfl5VVkIXI2hejZt5inQVw3Q0utf2JbC4fyUTPLkIKc4t8bcoaZCJh3j_stkl5gNbnCvL6VpOP_mEfdiNixoZXMNsWUXyAEAoqGk8/s1600/August+2014+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSB0LbpT7r2ckUj8OzkSkL_1O2nV1hB-PuudpL8szfl5VVkIXI2hejZt5inQVw3Q0utf2JbC4fyUTPLkIKc4t8bcoaZCJh3j_stkl5gNbnCvL6VpOP_mEfdiNixoZXMNsWUXyAEAoqGk8/s1600/August+2014+003.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">South Sea Island</td></tr>
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Our highlights of the trip were the mud pools at Sabeto, which we caught a bus near, then a cab the rest of the way; the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, which is about 1km from the mud pools and I recommend doing both on the same day; a day cruise out to South Sea Island; a trip down to Natadola Beach, again the local bus can drop you off near it and it is easy to get a cab to the beach; and the Village of Viseisei, where we met a lovely family with kids around Gigi age, who befriended us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEEOkF_hEGk4DNfJYJ9t9NhYsVTwJBbxqF0It6V92rubdZASR2sNlPGWeToBKppUj8GhjjZp6sxHrDXJztmtm1g4glDe-Km9lLoXXW-O9Y5hTUI_dB_fbmGTv0h4QZxCBJ0ojcaWAYWDM/s1600/August+2014+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEEOkF_hEGk4DNfJYJ9t9NhYsVTwJBbxqF0It6V92rubdZASR2sNlPGWeToBKppUj8GhjjZp6sxHrDXJztmtm1g4glDe-Km9lLoXXW-O9Y5hTUI_dB_fbmGTv0h4QZxCBJ0ojcaWAYWDM/s1600/August+2014+021.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gigi at Natadola Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTVDkVzez3ZH8mBOHU5HnRGpxddR5P6cFOMkYzEvWhX_Y36LLWuBqv8wlJoWLtDDoHgQqp4EHpEEty7epI-N74WQgBQenFz8OTXqv94wytoXDvTLiGF9VaoOvM8KBstsdHVUdUSfA5Qg/s1600/August+2014+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTVDkVzez3ZH8mBOHU5HnRGpxddR5P6cFOMkYzEvWhX_Y36LLWuBqv8wlJoWLtDDoHgQqp4EHpEEty7epI-N74WQgBQenFz8OTXqv94wytoXDvTLiGF9VaoOvM8KBstsdHVUdUSfA5Qg/s1600/August+2014+024.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some local kids at Natadola Beach</td></tr>
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As we stayed in a resort, food was ridiculously expensive. We asked a staff member where a good place was to buy food and she told us to catch the bus into Nadi from Danarau and to get off at the last stop, as there is a Fresh Market there. The market was fantastic! So much fresh fruit and vegetables for sale and quite cheap too! Also the market is open every day, with different produce each day. We bought all our food needs- bananas, pineapples, papaya, eggs, watermelon, carrots, lettuce, tomatoes, butter, raw honey, cassava, cucumber, bok choy, zucchini, herbs etc. I couldnt get over the variety of food and the freshness. There were also a lot of foods i'd never seen before, like taro, some giant green banana (apparently sweet, not a plantain), yams, some weird spiky fruit and something that looked like a yam, but i think was Rutabaga?</div>
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We cooked all our meals in our unit and took fresh fruit and picnics with us everyday to try and save money to spend on experiences and adventures. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green gazebo at the garden of the Sleeping Giant</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMpzoK8aALtBzBr8jTU1jYe5aPqs110MvoavSEaMSHw1eds1440VbOTU70csefBap7nJvO4kjtIW21RKqA3fEMy6nXhaD2Xy_CgHUuHn36sT5zMyXk9arUIizVdLjn7lRgBEQzlQnNrY/s1600/August+2014+029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMpzoK8aALtBzBr8jTU1jYe5aPqs110MvoavSEaMSHw1eds1440VbOTU70csefBap7nJvO4kjtIW21RKqA3fEMy6nXhaD2Xy_CgHUuHn36sT5zMyXk9arUIizVdLjn7lRgBEQzlQnNrY/s1600/August+2014+029.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nana and Mumma at the Garden</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gigi and Nana at the Garden</td></tr>
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In my suitcase, I packed seven outfits to last the two weeks (obviously had to wash a few times) and the rest of my suitcase I filled with Gigi's clothes that no longer fit her. Initially I thought I'd give them to a Church, but I ended up giving them to the family we met in Viseisei village to use for their kids and to pass around to other family members or friends. I also took several story books and gave those to the kids, as well as hats and some shoes.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjriJDpiCevVpo-51CHANnLQ2PQ_DnbuGD1EM0PfYfmsEf0tGE3OtmUQfZS8DyXikdxDFTc603jAyQua0Y9polmNZ4qmk8BtLt-PAPCWY0wC-DgbK3NKuq1X4jsqQCqX02NuK-ks0elBAc/s1600/August+2014+034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjriJDpiCevVpo-51CHANnLQ2PQ_DnbuGD1EM0PfYfmsEf0tGE3OtmUQfZS8DyXikdxDFTc603jAyQua0Y9polmNZ4qmk8BtLt-PAPCWY0wC-DgbK3NKuq1X4jsqQCqX02NuK-ks0elBAc/s1600/August+2014+034.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gigi and the village kids harassing a chicken</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">saying goodbye at the airport</td></tr>
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I would definitely like to make Fiji a yearly holiday, but I think the next time we go, I'll try to find us a farm stay or a BnB to stay at. Danarau Island is a fake island, created by developers and full of 4-5 star resorts. Definitely not a place to experience the 'real' Fiji. <br />
All in all, we had a fantastic trip and I hope Gigi will retain some memories of it.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-50900088843342035132014-09-01T20:58:00.000-07:002014-09-01T20:58:09.307-07:00Back from holidays and settling in to regular routineWell I haven't written a post for about 6 weeks because we've been super busy.<br />
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The last weekend in July was my niece, Asha's 2nd birthday party. My sister in law made her a gorgeous Peppa Pig Cake. And Gig, Asha and Lily had a great afternoon.<br />
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Unfortunately I came down with a really bad cold that weekend, almost bordering on flu-symptoms. It was such bad timing because I had heaps going on at work and Gigi, my mum and I were flying out to Fiji for a holiday at the end of the week. Lucky for me our lemon tree has been absolutely loaded, so I spend a week absolutely smashing down Lemon/Garlic/Raw Honey 'Juices'. I ate about six lemons and three bulbs of garlic in four days. Luckily I couldn't smell myself, but my family and colleagues assured me that I absolutely reeked of garlic. The magic potion worked though, and I went from deaths door on Monday, to bouncing off the walls on Thursday and ready for an adventure in Fiji. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magic Potion</td></tr>
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We've had so many lemons that my Mum has been going crazy making Lemon Tarts left, right and centre. I think she made maybe 6 tarts in two weeks to give away to friends and eat.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-74776356407801856342014-07-22T18:16:00.000-07:002014-07-22T18:16:12.329-07:00Re-Using in the Home. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdvNS1MMkphRgH4pIknlpkWHtxQlfQMIuihG-3mFqVTFqVrhkvp0cPK7MTv1V_EprYTsOW4V4r4HY8Ph3bJCDTJYrojOQnJgNWtfaysPctsoKZV2eAlWI1SedLx3RMoDyLhilztjp9xM/s1600/22+july+14+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdvNS1MMkphRgH4pIknlpkWHtxQlfQMIuihG-3mFqVTFqVrhkvp0cPK7MTv1V_EprYTsOW4V4r4HY8Ph3bJCDTJYrojOQnJgNWtfaysPctsoKZV2eAlWI1SedLx3RMoDyLhilztjp9xM/s1600/22+july+14+004.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Part of our Simple Life is to consume less, buy local, choose products carefully and recycle or re-use what disposable products we do buy. </div>
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Its easy to find a second use for lots of products that are designed to be 'single use'. I keep all my toilet rolls to use in my greenhouse as seed savers. The toilet rolls can be planted directly into the garden, as they'll break down. </div>
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I'm lucky enough to live near a Co-Op and can buy a lot of my food in bulk, using re-usable containers- Jars, bottles and paper bags. I have lots of jars at home. Lots. I buy 1L jars of coconut oil and keep the jar. These are the best jars for storing grains, flour, rice, cereals, nuts, etc in. I use smaller jars for homemade goodies- pestos, jams, marmalades, creams, etc. </div>
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I also use jars as take-away containers. Every morning, during winter, I cook porridge on the stove, put it in a jar with sultanas, put milk in another jar and take them to work/ kindy. When we get to kindy, I pour the porridge out of the jar and into a bowl for Gigi to eat and add the milk. When I get to work, I eat my porridge out of the jar. My colleagues think I'm pretty weird, but I can live with that. </div>
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We re-use our milk bottles by cutting the tops off and turning them into storage containers and organisers. The soaps in my bathroom cupboard are stored in a milk cartoon, I have toiletries in another, cleaning cloths in another. In the toy-space, they are used to store Gigis pencils, small toys, feather, coloured rocks, etc. Other milk bottles have had their bottoms cut off and I use them as scoops for goat/chicken feed. Other bottles have holes punched in the lid and are used as small and light watering cans for our green house and herb spiral. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdVyMcBEUwBLDxbLOb-RscTA2loqv8ORXvAEU5ZMXx6Lel5nL_46LaAo4ouh9Jwa_8zI7jJCozBc0p6Eml6HZ-Bns_nEd8HUIb3W1Ahv6Y3Ldc59sHaJuolcX1TAL-FC3rXebDc3qZZs/s1600/22+july+14+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdVyMcBEUwBLDxbLOb-RscTA2loqv8ORXvAEU5ZMXx6Lel5nL_46LaAo4ouh9Jwa_8zI7jJCozBc0p6Eml6HZ-Bns_nEd8HUIb3W1Ahv6Y3Ldc59sHaJuolcX1TAL-FC3rXebDc3qZZs/s1600/22+july+14+005.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Old clothes that can not be donated are also re-used. Some I cut into squares to use as disposable cleaning cloths. These can then be composted. Other items are cut into strips to be used in the veggie garden for staking plants. At the start of each winter, I buy three pairs of black cotton tights. I wear them every day and by winters end, they are full of holes. I usually repair the holey ones and wear around the house, but eventually the cotton 'rots'. </div>
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This pair of tights is a few years old. They were thin, rotten and full of holes. The perfect candidate for staking some of my plants. I just cut the cloth into strips and tie the plants to stakes. Most of my stakes are sticks found in the garden. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjdknxjUtfUmXROvq_aRQDHRDAMPdZyngbdkb27QLGHF_HPGEl7k-lJ8xXw00thUL60kx1wDDlIcrMHjnftPb2aUfb4l_A0zbV66QIE3kXazNEfhMT89voe89AEqD1meSd5T5kZgcd88/s1600/22+july+14+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjdknxjUtfUmXROvq_aRQDHRDAMPdZyngbdkb27QLGHF_HPGEl7k-lJ8xXw00thUL60kx1wDDlIcrMHjnftPb2aUfb4l_A0zbV66QIE3kXazNEfhMT89voe89AEqD1meSd5T5kZgcd88/s1600/22+july+14+007.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I remember reading once that plants should never be staked with plastic ties, only cloth ones, otherwise the ties can damage the plants as the grow. Cloth is much more yielding and most importantly- free. The other benefit is that when pulling up annuals, the whole lot can be pulled up and thrown in the compost. With plastic ties, you either have to remove the ties, or deal with plastic in your compost. Win-Win-Win</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-63054974047823338342014-07-15T23:19:00.000-07:002014-07-15T23:19:37.259-07:00Happy 3rd Birthday Gigi!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today, July 16th is Gigi's 3rd Birthday. We celebrated on the weekend by having a small party with family. Gigi's Nana; Poppa; Uncle Benny; Cousins Lily and Asha; Old Pop; and Gran-Nan all came for afternoon tea and cake. Gigi's Nana (my mum) made a princess cake.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixCPHFYxq7Yi7xHQuuE64rveieP2yBwqfjUNOL5LQIToTFw9uKLgqLjoe06_Pq-rpUn-vjnLqb7r6GQSMwlKxfENpPh4dt7sX9zZdwCxjpEmvvNZC5b3zJIv48CFIlF4jMnSnF0yN2oY/s1600/14+july+14+064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixCPHFYxq7Yi7xHQuuE64rveieP2yBwqfjUNOL5LQIToTFw9uKLgqLjoe06_Pq-rpUn-vjnLqb7r6GQSMwlKxfENpPh4dt7sX9zZdwCxjpEmvvNZC5b3zJIv48CFIlF4jMnSnF0yN2oY/s1600/14+july+14+064.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy6kc4qKqeVSqFs9AhrMjr0irkoulCNteAr3LkkfW5IqyMxQPOISCB9eTN759HmF-hcfyFhjcvb5wUuWdocnFsKUE7WaNXrnXnxKEV7StjXLta36B-VfvVROvAVuTKRMc780otoSYEq9U/s1600/14+july+14+061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy6kc4qKqeVSqFs9AhrMjr0irkoulCNteAr3LkkfW5IqyMxQPOISCB9eTN759HmF-hcfyFhjcvb5wUuWdocnFsKUE7WaNXrnXnxKEV7StjXLta36B-VfvVROvAVuTKRMc780otoSYEq9U/s1600/14+july+14+061.jpg" height="320" width="168" /></a><br />
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The girls ran around all afternoon, playing with balloons, chasing chickens and jumping on the trampoline.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiOiGuyjg4aaHhh4IxOiWwsIefnOdKcKGmHoxqBel1aWY8TpCPHjy2Cgtl6OIBjjtmsqeoIL2FdyW0jZrHZcUq4YpmtIoyoRj-1AtE3SgsUIs9kdYoqOhxf8SXTxivfVfBcfEwSsWfMdg/s1600/14+july+14+073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiOiGuyjg4aaHhh4IxOiWwsIefnOdKcKGmHoxqBel1aWY8TpCPHjy2Cgtl6OIBjjtmsqeoIL2FdyW0jZrHZcUq4YpmtIoyoRj-1AtE3SgsUIs9kdYoqOhxf8SXTxivfVfBcfEwSsWfMdg/s1600/14+july+14+073.jpg" height="320" width="221" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePDDU8RJ9LxrIrLI1TYrTzzHNj6J2Y0eNwj01hqTNnlpX1664uzG-gXzlTlRd-QmZVePwUWZ_8hWWl-oUFVg1-OBWTsvyNUHewFAE2mVG74NDgF-3b5ogFw-Hb4P6CNPa6GO9ddD7-Do/s1600/14+july+14+069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePDDU8RJ9LxrIrLI1TYrTzzHNj6J2Y0eNwj01hqTNnlpX1664uzG-gXzlTlRd-QmZVePwUWZ_8hWWl-oUFVg1-OBWTsvyNUHewFAE2mVG74NDgF-3b5ogFw-Hb4P6CNPa6GO9ddD7-Do/s1600/14+july+14+069.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a><br />
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Later, we went down to the goat paddock, so they could pat the goats and try to catch the babies. <br />
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It was a low-key affair- my mum and I prepared all the food ourselves, there were no 'party games' or 'goody bags'. Just kids running wild and adults catching up for a chat.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-41777866354564970842014-07-15T23:01:00.000-07:002014-07-15T23:01:10.795-07:00Homemade Dollhouse from Book ShelfToday is Gigi's 3rd Birthday (16th July). For her birthday, I wanted to give her a dollhouse, as shes been showing interest in the ones at the shop. <div>
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I spent a few weeks scouting Op Shops and Gumtree for a cheap, solid timber book shelf to convert to a dollhouse. Finally, I found one for $20 on Gumtree. I sanded down the bookshelf, painted it white, then painted the shelves with poster paint. The bottom shelf is the 'farm' section of the house, with green grass, blue skies and a pond. The middle and top shelves are the 'house' part of the dollhouse. The middle shelf is painted in three different coulours to represent kitchen, bathroom and living room; whilst the top shelf is two different colours to represent two bedrooms. Obviously I didn't get it finished before her birthday. I still have to put in some bits of wood for actual room dividers and I'd also like to paint on some trees on the bottom level and windows and doors on the top levels. </div>
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For dolls in the dollhouse, I used some wood offcuts, sanded them back and painted them with people and animals.<br />
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I'm not a great artist, but luckily Gigi has enough imagination to recognise the chickens, ducks, goats and cats that I painted for the farm level.<br />
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I also painted 'dolls', modeled on our family. There is 'Nana', Gigi','Mumma', 'Poppa', and 'Daddy'.<br />
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Gigi loves the dollhouse, she thinks the 'Gigi' doll is hilarious and she tells a little story as she plays with them. As time goes on I will make more people, animals and some furniture for the dollhouse, as well as finish it, according to the plan in my head. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-81247801278789269132014-07-15T22:25:00.000-07:002014-07-15T22:25:16.571-07:00July Garden Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Cy4P-N78z50pYglgVH6zJFeBCNgRchZGCd6g8ByqmLi-yd_56AYcddZpxMiIpDUYNTGbLmPHcDEws6fRvQJAGkpa3eKJktoWUqyzWLkulomdgAbnX13v7pD1tSPc6AmgY4aLujRZYIQ/s1600/14+july+14+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Cy4P-N78z50pYglgVH6zJFeBCNgRchZGCd6g8ByqmLi-yd_56AYcddZpxMiIpDUYNTGbLmPHcDEws6fRvQJAGkpa3eKJktoWUqyzWLkulomdgAbnX13v7pD1tSPc6AmgY4aLujRZYIQ/s1600/14+july+14+013.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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As I said in a previous post, winter has hit with a vengeance. My cottage is located within a floodplain, close to a reasonable sized river. Therefore it has been getting all the frosts that have hit South-East Queensland this winter. I have no experience with frosts. The last few winters have been quite mild and I've always lived at higher altitudes, where there is no frost. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet potato </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsUwB014T4QkwWAcEwp0EJ9jokNoz6cIB98dEXZuKa04tBCwOQeuXBg93N_VTArwmujPN82gKvBHcv0cPNTrBvMmlzfWHm04ZIp7B1mjF1nLpM5X0vMqQ_TX6PL3AmPDnMG6XDDMBO1g/s1600/14+july+14+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsUwB014T4QkwWAcEwp0EJ9jokNoz6cIB98dEXZuKa04tBCwOQeuXBg93N_VTArwmujPN82gKvBHcv0cPNTrBvMmlzfWHm04ZIp7B1mjF1nLpM5X0vMqQ_TX6PL3AmPDnMG6XDDMBO1g/s1600/14+july+14+022.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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It was quite a shock to have a look in the garden at my cottage and find most of my food plants killed by frost. The leaves have blackened and the plants are dead. I'm so disappointed. I had no idea this would happen. My sweet potatoes, cherry tomatoes, herbs, and food forest small trees are all dead. I'll replant everything in Spring and hopefully it'll get enough growth in three seasons to survive the winter frosts next year. I've left the plants in the ground, in the vain hope that maybe some aren't dead and will return to life in spring. </div>
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On a positive note, my veggie gardens at my parents property are going great. The lettuce seeds I planted in my raised garden bed 'to see if they would grow' are now delicious lettuces. I have been harvesting a few leaves everyday to have on sandwiches. I plan to let one or two of these go to seed and save the seeds for next year. </div>
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The Bok Choy seeds I planted have grow into little plants, that will be ready for harvesting in a few weeks. I sowed the seeds into seedling trays and grew the seedlings in my greenhouse, before transplanting them into my raised garden bed. The seeds were ones I saved from last year and once again, I plan to allow one or two go to seed so I have seeds for next year. The raised garden bed also has beans, snow peas, lettuce and chives growing in it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8owm_LYf4TpAZw1jRIw2rE_rX_32CSZgqLCgdP-YHxcIXaLv5U7_GCqb7TQfDCFzk8C7O-P8xZwzcdpm8iUqF2MGG33LiG_FP6CAOL1CGUOTue3CGL2IpbBlkbPjJU2l3fw3dMTCVmOA/s1600/14+july+14+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8owm_LYf4TpAZw1jRIw2rE_rX_32CSZgqLCgdP-YHxcIXaLv5U7_GCqb7TQfDCFzk8C7O-P8xZwzcdpm8iUqF2MGG33LiG_FP6CAOL1CGUOTue3CGL2IpbBlkbPjJU2l3fw3dMTCVmOA/s1600/14+july+14+017.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWbw09Imj3vlY0LGrc6GHCjn0Tkpi-nLbrfz9NNIT11vGLafZJcCJER2D5pLIgnEdRhjveSsKP6mP9KozHa1eampF101g27iRW2p8DKGonatoG1kf_P7EMeAfq5w1otMBnz7Xl0va9L8/s1600/14+july+14+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWbw09Imj3vlY0LGrc6GHCjn0Tkpi-nLbrfz9NNIT11vGLafZJcCJER2D5pLIgnEdRhjveSsKP6mP9KozHa1eampF101g27iRW2p8DKGonatoG1kf_P7EMeAfq5w1otMBnz7Xl0va9L8/s1600/14+july+14+015.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
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I picked the last two capsicums from the capsicum bush. I was a good season for capsicums. I think I got 15-20 from the bush. All were quite small, about the size of a post-it note, but all were crisp and full of flavour. I don't know what to do with the bush now. Do I pull it out and chuck it in the compost? Or do I leave it and it'll grow more capsicums next season?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_429Yd2P-Zm3T129k8EdcrGpIpIcYD785Xr-eMzTZEIdfdU7zW8fTslAwXqVf00A7B4itIEPymyq463xUY0jtgJYfYk95jKBWNjTPz1QEL_VcQnP9fFDGt4jhP5sdj8ulDUcP4mrPDU/s1600/14+july+14+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_429Yd2P-Zm3T129k8EdcrGpIpIcYD785Xr-eMzTZEIdfdU7zW8fTslAwXqVf00A7B4itIEPymyq463xUY0jtgJYfYk95jKBWNjTPz1QEL_VcQnP9fFDGt4jhP5sdj8ulDUcP4mrPDU/s1600/14+july+14+011.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lastly, I've kept a few of my surplus seedlings in pots to take to a market at Maleny and sell at the end of the month. I have cherry tomatoes, lemon grass, lettuce, bok choy and rosemary seedlings. The market is a Community Garage Sale at the Maleny Baptist Centre- Cnr Maleny-Landsborough and McCarthy Roads at Maleny on July 26th. Hopefully I'll sell all my seedlings and find a few bargains.
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2KnNwTWCSjKYzbesfrqXrNNJb3pz7Qqvzonf5sH4BGByu1T_Li6mTYaoSV_RFvpPqckIkbHUCg0mjR_XublJ8cH1-aaaPuKKtgwoGePnjumkBIsh9XdhsaOBOPqoBDBw6cTkXc3cqCk/s1600/14+july+14+028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2KnNwTWCSjKYzbesfrqXrNNJb3pz7Qqvzonf5sH4BGByu1T_Li6mTYaoSV_RFvpPqckIkbHUCg0mjR_XublJ8cH1-aaaPuKKtgwoGePnjumkBIsh9XdhsaOBOPqoBDBw6cTkXc3cqCk/s1600/14+july+14+028.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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We now have four chickens, as we've taken in a refugee from a friend at work whose new dog ate all of her chooks, but one. So our flock welcomed Sooty last week, who is a grey silkie cross. I'm not sure how old she is, nor do I expect her to lay for some time- if at all- after the trauma she's been through (she was rescued from the jaws of the dog). Sooty is a very friendly chook- quiet, calm and able to be picked up for a cuddle. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCiFE-ytYSSlsBn_HaI_3QTxr0CUmpF6dYMs9-NQ_ADNzdX2NfT9GQu1EMljSNKgaI5f66RIGqBebNjLjQrOd41FspbftWD8NxYqEGqb_jDpO7lDhN0uxfh4Nh-kuT64PgGWJwBfTnAhM/s1600/14+july+14+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCiFE-ytYSSlsBn_HaI_3QTxr0CUmpF6dYMs9-NQ_ADNzdX2NfT9GQu1EMljSNKgaI5f66RIGqBebNjLjQrOd41FspbftWD8NxYqEGqb_jDpO7lDhN0uxfh4Nh-kuT64PgGWJwBfTnAhM/s1600/14+july+14+001.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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In other news, Chicken Dance has started to lay! In the past fortnight, I've gotten six small eggs. At first, I only suspected it was her, as she is the biggest chook. Then I caught her 'in the act' one afternoon. I'm now enjoying delicious home-produced eggs and I couldn't be happier.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi63JvYKGqmmBMtfSHzWU-YlIsdUas3zzQ7VI_AXAyxyh908MhvxAVAdAWF6PhFoS4TafT9tXIi82vtu9eSvL7b25sr3Tsb2pNXfoMihhtpoUZN_ypZkN8q-ErRCR2PL8fT9ECgZxFJSJk/s1600/14+july+14+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi63JvYKGqmmBMtfSHzWU-YlIsdUas3zzQ7VI_AXAyxyh908MhvxAVAdAWF6PhFoS4TafT9tXIi82vtu9eSvL7b25sr3Tsb2pNXfoMihhtpoUZN_ypZkN8q-ErRCR2PL8fT9ECgZxFJSJk/s1600/14+july+14+003.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Ladies have now settled into their routine. Every morning I let them out of their house, re-fill their water and put out some feed for them. They then scratch in the garden all day. Of an evening, when I get home from work, the chooks are in their house, ready for bed. All I have to do is shut the door to make sure they are safe overnight. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiio2POiht9GbaIf5sTl4-MDbMpSkNsP2ObZoIgpVdcLpzmWCkfZ6BfNvWMLLCJ638GSrjWYwXxNaiBv_wupxbtAns7P5yvzG5ZKnLB4uSoZW-O8Sxg0KQispiXI8aePye56pYGv5xlV9U/s1600/14+july+14+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiio2POiht9GbaIf5sTl4-MDbMpSkNsP2ObZoIgpVdcLpzmWCkfZ6BfNvWMLLCJ638GSrjWYwXxNaiBv_wupxbtAns7P5yvzG5ZKnLB4uSoZW-O8Sxg0KQispiXI8aePye56pYGv5xlV9U/s1600/14+july+14+004.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I still feed the Guinea Fowl every morning over by the goat paddock. Unfortunately, if I dont turn up with their feed before 8am, they come up to the house looking for it and making a racket. The perfect alarm, in case I wanted to sleep in on a Sunday. The chickens and the guineas get along well. That is, the guineas basically ignore the chickens and the chickens ignore the guineas. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-4217387644606289632014-07-13T19:49:00.000-07:002014-07-13T19:49:06.624-07:00Big Changes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5pRqcCHUTG2ItZ0sY5c12mkzl24bP3imf0llMMi4NLVesZWI5GCY5ZcY_xeMbZCc8fFVOx5phBC0bmpyWmerxrax-5c4O2VyrfOagNjkzMjAvpfv0mitoZf4bQ-B9l71VK2Zg_tjcfFI/s1600/11+june+14+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5pRqcCHUTG2ItZ0sY5c12mkzl24bP3imf0llMMi4NLVesZWI5GCY5ZcY_xeMbZCc8fFVOx5phBC0bmpyWmerxrax-5c4O2VyrfOagNjkzMjAvpfv0mitoZf4bQ-B9l71VK2Zg_tjcfFI/s1600/11+june+14+001.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Lots of things have happened in the past fortnight- Gigi and I are living back at my Mum and Dads hobby farm. My dad has started a new job, so he and my mum will be staying at their holiday cottage closer to to the city during the week. They will come home on the weekends to help out with activities I can't do on my own- fencing, maintenance, tractor-work, etc. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlp1GG5EDADItlWZRtMVqu0Wjkxce011DfE_gUcIpWynNGx8kdU4BSZ5oBaeRa1NzmYKsFpJMGWWLF7D-Jcx1hQAW61eGKSmaUZGoyV7Li0uCJAnxB4SSmIh93Wgqbv16niV2d8cEfPCw/s1600/21+june+14+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlp1GG5EDADItlWZRtMVqu0Wjkxce011DfE_gUcIpWynNGx8kdU4BSZ5oBaeRa1NzmYKsFpJMGWWLF7D-Jcx1hQAW61eGKSmaUZGoyV7Li0uCJAnxB4SSmIh93Wgqbv16niV2d8cEfPCw/s1600/21+june+14+021.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I've decided to I'm going to rent out my little cottage in town. I think renting at this stage will present lots of opportunities for me. I'll be able to save money much quicker for the improvements i want to make- extension; boundary fence; solar hot water; solar power; etc. I'll also be able to take the time to properly plan a permaculture design for the backyard. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRt49dLI9M8NR5srbB5Ctkt-oSoQh-Fw8sFyuWVA7CWLgJ5EJEkPQy8QSIrTdolvonCcMM31Q7_stNwS82pNZNHH9TIURKrScFbAseuCB7U4vz8xvwmEnTzCHkgvEOANV725rQW5IfXjI/s1600/14+july+14+033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRt49dLI9M8NR5srbB5Ctkt-oSoQh-Fw8sFyuWVA7CWLgJ5EJEkPQy8QSIrTdolvonCcMM31Q7_stNwS82pNZNHH9TIURKrScFbAseuCB7U4vz8xvwmEnTzCHkgvEOANV725rQW5IfXjI/s1600/14+july+14+033.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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In the meantime, I'll be continuing to grow my own food at my parents house. I have lots of plans to extend the veggie gardens I already have growing there, from when I lived there last year, whilst saving to buy my cottage. I've also managed to talk my dad into giving me free reign to plant whatever I like at their house.</div>
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I'm really looking forward to the learning curve ahead. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-12686514407890605032014-07-09T23:34:00.000-07:002014-07-09T23:34:06.539-07:00Family Visits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCLHoiCc2cVsmCVDTa3U6jM2lsPekey-VLhaNKl-dPfqKM0OC1S3j8wdlGnTZ6B4lwAjRz-ZStALuw8kjV-sw5iOiJEFlL-G_zv4QP92AhBhYWFzId5pUpVrfLEpbLlRFU12tAqq8GXBw/s1600/IMG_7655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCLHoiCc2cVsmCVDTa3U6jM2lsPekey-VLhaNKl-dPfqKM0OC1S3j8wdlGnTZ6B4lwAjRz-ZStALuw8kjV-sw5iOiJEFlL-G_zv4QP92AhBhYWFzId5pUpVrfLEpbLlRFU12tAqq8GXBw/s1600/IMG_7655.jpg" height="320" width="237" /></a></div>
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We are lucky enough that my brother, sister-in-law and nieces live only an hour and a half away and therefore regularly come to visit. The girls ran around like crazy outside, playing with Pipi, the dog and trying to catch the chickens to cuddle. They played outside for most of the day, on the trampoline and on the various scooters and bikes we have.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBU9LF9V1iVZVY0YPm5efnIcixB2pJoFeNJJyd8f8RWhlbG4koZqkqK-7TwvbhfQBltIbf5tIP3e4XxHTOpeHBLQyymjIIcU_CMqK56aJ_FO-Q0LL16DdbEV55TgoAAHhTymy7urrVb8/s1600/IMG_7656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeBU9LF9V1iVZVY0YPm5efnIcixB2pJoFeNJJyd8f8RWhlbG4koZqkqK-7TwvbhfQBltIbf5tIP3e4XxHTOpeHBLQyymjIIcU_CMqK56aJ_FO-Q0LL16DdbEV55TgoAAHhTymy7urrVb8/s1600/IMG_7656.jpg" height="320" width="283" /></a></div>
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In the afternoon, I took the girls out to visit the goats. The baby goats were a huge hit. The girls loved chasing, catching and cuddling the babies. The goats on the other hand, weren't impressed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0cXM9y8-Kekx_edkFPMuMHWmQw16atSE5Ze59jt2GZ-zrx-9EcwxfiO_dWELWQD0wSgyOFD0VOjLOqHghi2RtiQS9L1AcK81mnh7B-k5Kx03TbKEMEihZ6n5gn53mCOIY4WAmd_eKdq0/s1600/IMG_7659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0cXM9y8-Kekx_edkFPMuMHWmQw16atSE5Ze59jt2GZ-zrx-9EcwxfiO_dWELWQD0wSgyOFD0VOjLOqHghi2RtiQS9L1AcK81mnh7B-k5Kx03TbKEMEihZ6n5gn53mCOIY4WAmd_eKdq0/s1600/IMG_7659.jpg" height="257" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gigi, Asha and Lily</td></tr>
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I caught a kid for Asha to hold and she cuddled it for about 20 minutes. Lily managed to sneak up to and catch her own kid to cuddle. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYjVV7cI-4acEH6KjqeYjvoXVpUnM9A6cBcVSuwQqyWO-RofbB0yEpU2maSymTzPQ1xwvQ2pdQuvczaHuPgmkCym-SP0nPApqZy1io3kMsePFnAFA9Jef5WL_2bmSiCsqHwUwYmeKwhI/s1600/IMG_7669.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYjVV7cI-4acEH6KjqeYjvoXVpUnM9A6cBcVSuwQqyWO-RofbB0yEpU2maSymTzPQ1xwvQ2pdQuvczaHuPgmkCym-SP0nPApqZy1io3kMsePFnAFA9Jef5WL_2bmSiCsqHwUwYmeKwhI/s1600/IMG_7669.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lily named this kid 'Rosy'</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-74664828045516957402014-07-09T21:37:00.001-07:002014-07-09T21:37:36.165-07:00Frosty Mornings and Mt Beerburrum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05G_qCXOX1nGNCi6fZ4geLsOVxkKgkmTfAr0TQUV5W_kTbftVBJ4JC7_MH_AhvaGunO7wlgYp5UrqFnzKtSKAW6NWSmGVmTXUTWabfcUPxr26mRiPYArA95oHC5UoNnfP8XJni0llhUg/s1600/IMG_7388.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05G_qCXOX1nGNCi6fZ4geLsOVxkKgkmTfAr0TQUV5W_kTbftVBJ4JC7_MH_AhvaGunO7wlgYp5UrqFnzKtSKAW6NWSmGVmTXUTWabfcUPxr26mRiPYArA95oHC5UoNnfP8XJni0llhUg/s1600/IMG_7388.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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As mentioned in my previous post, winter has hit. We have had frosts every morning for the past week and the fire on every night, to keep us toasty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpSQHg3Cu_NL9TP24aIrt554xU-tmLcKc_h3AlD-wYZImwFPdeoCutDHXQU6SRREPjvVmdpAYQASGmz3bL-k1eNP5NagjiiCUQVcjRAh8k14qUhejAi7AuISxh4FiJ3NjSLdVFV9G7slU/s1600/IMG_7691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpSQHg3Cu_NL9TP24aIrt554xU-tmLcKc_h3AlD-wYZImwFPdeoCutDHXQU6SRREPjvVmdpAYQASGmz3bL-k1eNP5NagjiiCUQVcjRAh8k14qUhejAi7AuISxh4FiJ3NjSLdVFV9G7slU/s1600/IMG_7691.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Gigi and I climbed Mt Beerburrum with a girlfriend of mine, early one morning. Due to the cloud cover and the 8am start, it wasnt too cold. Although the track was very steep, it was a reasonably short climb, with a beautiful view from the top. Gigi walked most of the way, but had to be piggy-backed for the last section. I thoroughly enjoyed this climb, it was a good workout, wasn't very busy (only two other cars) and much better for toddlers (as opposed to Mt Ngungun). I think we'll definitely be doing it again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcddLFsrJVBy6YSC4WOpWLmmNAkHY0gLlWn_7istxKceIZEUXwTsgdLvb4ZV-kYHt2V4diK8sLeUIs0ULVMHyfEX2xAkJc6DelKA_GRjTUvTubF6Hy_O0eMeU1MVNR-rM-83p1q6oN8sM/s1600/IMG_7695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcddLFsrJVBy6YSC4WOpWLmmNAkHY0gLlWn_7istxKceIZEUXwTsgdLvb4ZV-kYHt2V4diK8sLeUIs0ULVMHyfEX2xAkJc6DelKA_GRjTUvTubF6Hy_O0eMeU1MVNR-rM-83p1q6oN8sM/s1600/IMG_7695.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-20299314732400209922014-07-09T21:18:00.000-07:002014-07-09T21:31:15.774-07:00Op Shopping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgE3nSf2URlhyyFeqJeuf9QYMmCI0ZIkRfD7xIMEjeb1NOBJKOS0zekIcEU2AjxJdjnHYdp4SVz3ZXDxZXpxiX8U7FJ_3vCP9WEzbWylMuyz84PxKF0QWB8ge9maTJWjMczuv4f-L_srk/s1600/IMG_7130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgE3nSf2URlhyyFeqJeuf9QYMmCI0ZIkRfD7xIMEjeb1NOBJKOS0zekIcEU2AjxJdjnHYdp4SVz3ZXDxZXpxiX8U7FJ_3vCP9WEzbWylMuyz84PxKF0QWB8ge9maTJWjMczuv4f-L_srk/s1600/IMG_7130.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Since our shift to 'simpler' and 'frugal' living, I have been buying most of our clothes and whatever household items from the OP Shop (thrift store). I'd always been a pretty keen op shopper, but now I try to source our needs second-hand first, before buying anything new.<br />
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We have two in our Small Town, both very cheap and full of goodies. We heading to the church op shop last weekend to grab a few warm clothes, now that winter has finally hit with a vengeance in our part of the world.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgveheSKR_iEQjqTwNgjOZeRf09_S2A-dGfjr7TNBSXAi3GjtXg8XB-DjLdUk2cLhdN1MlWhj0KNYYS1NjII8QaGbT0hdCH7nI2hskDwZPmI6bU2UkU47N4ul-nuJhDpSheNolQ-9tMIuc/s1600/IMG_7794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgveheSKR_iEQjqTwNgjOZeRf09_S2A-dGfjr7TNBSXAi3GjtXg8XB-DjLdUk2cLhdN1MlWhj0KNYYS1NjII8QaGbT0hdCH7nI2hskDwZPmI6bU2UkU47N4ul-nuJhDpSheNolQ-9tMIuc/s1600/IMG_7794.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinosaur feet</td></tr>
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We managed to walk away with a new scarf for Gigi for $1, a hand-knitted cardigan for $5 (also for Gigi), and a woolen jumper for myself for $20. Even though I dislike plastic toys, and don't like to buy toys for no reason, I also bought these 'Dinosaur Feet' for Gigi. They were only $1 and I absolutely LOVED the pair I had as a kid. I remember spending hours walking around on them. Gigi also seems to love them. They are her most played with toy and she clomps around on them inside and outside.<br />
Her co-ordination on them wasn't good to start with, but seems to be getting better.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-86552095947572417002014-07-02T00:08:00.001-07:002014-07-02T00:09:16.414-07:00Front Yard Native Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6OiE-bJjMuCEijCxpz8OLO4Gf8vX7x1bDv9Q_ADGdWEplie_zuKxRryk2j7CtNr4rvJsN-i3x9hNET7X7T8dhd6MiBl9EVnApHZzkl1bqdqWMbnp3DAL4tMjVBFsuCTqmO2waC_5lcE/s1600/21+june+14+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6OiE-bJjMuCEijCxpz8OLO4Gf8vX7x1bDv9Q_ADGdWEplie_zuKxRryk2j7CtNr4rvJsN-i3x9hNET7X7T8dhd6MiBl9EVnApHZzkl1bqdqWMbnp3DAL4tMjVBFsuCTqmO2waC_5lcE/s1600/21+june+14+030.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I've been planting some native trees in my front yard since I bought my cottage last year, with the idea that it would form a continuous garden for wildlife with my neighbours native garden. </div>
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Regarding the location of trees, I've planted a row along the fenceline, and a second row approximately 3m inside property from the first row. I've left a big gap as the sewer main runs parallel to my front fence, between these two rows of trees. As I live in an old subdivision, I feel uneasy planting trees over the top of the sewer main. I think it is best to leave it bare. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOvY7mKSol8MsArLe4JeEI0nMtb-JOakR6QxuVv4NtsGifEkw2orLNsSbq-Ne0KTIHx0Aj1GtYHqPVprHjoA0T5LdKfXW8WQ3x5IdzWRJjmNlSOksBeRSEt0CDr_Xy02Ao8CefFS4R3Y/s1600/21+june+14+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOvY7mKSol8MsArLe4JeEI0nMtb-JOakR6QxuVv4NtsGifEkw2orLNsSbq-Ne0KTIHx0Aj1GtYHqPVprHjoA0T5LdKfXW8WQ3x5IdzWRJjmNlSOksBeRSEt0CDr_Xy02Ao8CefFS4R3Y/s1600/21+june+14+001.jpg" height="320" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Log garden edging</td></tr>
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To save myself the hassle of mowing, I thought I'd mulch out the whole front area. I don't like mulching areas unless I have garden edging, so I collected a pile of logs from the bush up the road from my house. Some I had to cut to size with a handsaw, which was hard work. I'm thinking I'll have to buy myself a small chainsaw at some point, if I'm going to keep doing these kind of projects around the house.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzAhbhaAI7gtvzAB3pyJ4NRJkLlNanjPbKeyZXq9dVWwprtIW53ri6AxCRaQsFYe4_bPTSBRnrfjBwZxl0vDwDyp30U3wjH8rjxhfCtc5E6NamFWyZWCPZn_45fIXcDgyGggUYXL-8hE/s1600/21+june+14+023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzAhbhaAI7gtvzAB3pyJ4NRJkLlNanjPbKeyZXq9dVWwprtIW53ri6AxCRaQsFYe4_bPTSBRnrfjBwZxl0vDwDyp30U3wjH8rjxhfCtc5E6NamFWyZWCPZn_45fIXcDgyGggUYXL-8hE/s1600/21+june+14+023.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gigi helping to spread the mulch. Pipi supervising</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoZ4PFB0CJqB8jS2NybesuR-BMRdSUbc7bZmXk8WREuR0GGYfkORYVj7AHXIjS_WvOp7AAWtbP7StArpkSid7yXUZ8X-17pwLFcpIYzUwmDLo6sI_834H57mQTnq_2-3DAzCEuDnv_oVM/s1600/21+june+14+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoZ4PFB0CJqB8jS2NybesuR-BMRdSUbc7bZmXk8WREuR0GGYfkORYVj7AHXIjS_WvOp7AAWtbP7StArpkSid7yXUZ8X-17pwLFcpIYzUwmDLo6sI_834H57mQTnq_2-3DAzCEuDnv_oVM/s1600/21+june+14+024.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unravelled mulch bale</td></tr>
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I bought a roll of sugar cane mulch from the produce in town and dropped it off at my house. It was so heavy, I couldnt physically push it. I used the ute to push it into position, cut of the ties holding it together, before using the ute to unravel it. Gigi enjoyed raking the mulch around, before deciding that Pipi needed mulching.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95kJeVjVJU_UU_AmItN8e3n-dJyq6ubWtSz_n2hh971AjXFxnudpTPtCVxxa0sJBV-V7VUqgOvAXNhW-DOz4raLjcy6cLq9Lo3FFshpE8y0BnRX-_r5F6aoYvm01qTcviF3A8nPXQyM4/s1600/21+june+14+026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95kJeVjVJU_UU_AmItN8e3n-dJyq6ubWtSz_n2hh971AjXFxnudpTPtCVxxa0sJBV-V7VUqgOvAXNhW-DOz4raLjcy6cLq9Lo3FFshpE8y0BnRX-_r5F6aoYvm01qTcviF3A8nPXQyM4/s1600/21+june+14+026.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The whole exercise only took one afternoon and I'm pretty happy with the results. I'll need to collect more logs to continue the garden edging to the front corner, then up the side boundary. I'll also need another bale of mulch for the next section. But its slowly getting there. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwv3XPh-gTsyiIXORzzG-BOlJe0o0EIHZe-LzP92lXjCmIVIeXxx41bsXpEOe1qR_XXbDSYa_Bunifi7AxLq4ytZRa4Y4PRiYsWj3PLiH4WnSZXZ2JeTz2Tv1pMpd__rGuC4tk_gwaoI/s1600/21+june+14+031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwv3XPh-gTsyiIXORzzG-BOlJe0o0EIHZe-LzP92lXjCmIVIeXxx41bsXpEOe1qR_XXbDSYa_Bunifi7AxLq4ytZRa4Y4PRiYsWj3PLiH4WnSZXZ2JeTz2Tv1pMpd__rGuC4tk_gwaoI/s1600/21+june+14+031.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mulched front yard. </td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-28522415074553273032014-06-30T23:25:00.000-07:002014-06-30T23:25:05.242-07:00Shopping Local and Roast Capsicum and Pumkin Soup<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbUj5pFwINvcDo6e_146MxzgamcSeRdq86f6yJtDOt3jbl_VCDCR4NMV1BTdcSOKcbLUIzEkAk47O3cGiOvZjVMnLserGNNEVw72S5iYA02NMr2I3UmT84-KhY2O-C6Fft5zSKreuPw8/s1600/17+june+14+042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbUj5pFwINvcDo6e_146MxzgamcSeRdq86f6yJtDOt3jbl_VCDCR4NMV1BTdcSOKcbLUIzEkAk47O3cGiOvZjVMnLserGNNEVw72S5iYA02NMr2I3UmT84-KhY2O-C6Fft5zSKreuPw8/s1600/17+june+14+042.jpg" height="307" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(L-R: Quinoa, Nutritional Yeast, Couscous, Quinoa, Chocolate, Soap)</td></tr>
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When it comes to food, I believe that <i>where</i> we buy our food from is as important as <i>what</i> we buy. Good food choices start with supporting our local growers/ suppliers/ community, as well as growing our own. </div>
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Whilst I do visit the big supermarkets on occasion, I prefer to buy my food from a Fruit/ Veg Shop, which is supplied by the local farmers and our nearest <a href="http://www.maplestreetco-op.com/" target="_blank">Co-Operative</a>, which is about 20 minutes from home. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoQVoWK1EJXW3uPg2bSfA0MvvDBVjz1_4aDC5RRrWb9AkSUIYg1c9SNKACO9phBH9x33PJqZE31V6YY07bb6SHPy72q2VPVTLjTu9OLE3YJTVZFNODGsc3aT1IErfk8xmCQfIPp0mrDc/s1600/17+june+14+043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOoQVoWK1EJXW3uPg2bSfA0MvvDBVjz1_4aDC5RRrWb9AkSUIYg1c9SNKACO9phBH9x33PJqZE31V6YY07bb6SHPy72q2VPVTLjTu9OLE3YJTVZFNODGsc3aT1IErfk8xmCQfIPp0mrDc/s1600/17+june+14+043.jpg" height="320" width="237" /></a>I absolutely love shopping at the Co-Op. Not only do members get a discount (yay), but a lot of the foods are available in bulk, and are mostly organic. The Co-Op also has just about everything else you could need- beauty and health products, dried food, fresh food, grains, pulses, chocolate, diary, bread, frozen foods, ice-cream, etc. It is basically a miniature supermarket. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQg_3OiRnW4KhIl1231_ZLpVOKqL09I_uBfRjqvD6iY5F76NcMMyxd-UyhsdkprQVkC7z5JBrkgyJaLlFvV8C8u_P3IGQXeLCsVb7uoBJ82GpcMu8Un9QbdqGu8o4XVf6zAR3vu_ZUH8/s1600/17+june+14+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQg_3OiRnW4KhIl1231_ZLpVOKqL09I_uBfRjqvD6iY5F76NcMMyxd-UyhsdkprQVkC7z5JBrkgyJaLlFvV8C8u_P3IGQXeLCsVb7uoBJ82GpcMu8Un9QbdqGu8o4XVf6zAR3vu_ZUH8/s1600/17+june+14+040.jpg" height="320" width="179" /></a>I generally purchase all of my grains and cereals in bulk, using the paper bags supplied at the Co-Op, transferring them into various jars once I get home. The paper bags are then added to my cupboard, to be used for seed saving. My favourite items are Couscous; the handmade chocolate; and the handmade bar soap- which are only $1.95 per bar. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjST3g5mAb9wo4iPI9qjhvuvi_BlS1D3OjbQTnAl-eRQDycS_94grddwYhfGSpErce90Zzx8E8jygc3kGbpCyT137Vh31phCEf0IQjCE2eMEeVIC6d7QTngSuRW7JO0OAn3GWfta33PTvY/s1600/17+june+14+045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjST3g5mAb9wo4iPI9qjhvuvi_BlS1D3OjbQTnAl-eRQDycS_94grddwYhfGSpErce90Zzx8E8jygc3kGbpCyT137Vh31phCEf0IQjCE2eMEeVIC6d7QTngSuRW7JO0OAn3GWfta33PTvY/s1600/17+june+14+045.jpg" height="320" width="165" /></a>I also regularly biodegradable bamboo toothbrushes; herbal toothpaste; essential oils; raw honey; raw Apple Cider Vinegar; etc when we need them. As we only visit the co-op about once per month, I keep a list on the fridge of items we have run out of, or are getting low on. I then take this list along with me to ensure I get everything we need, avoiding wasting money by doubling up and having food stuffs go bad. </div>
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The other place I go shopping is in my own garden. Over the last three weeks, we've had approximately 15 capsicums from our capsicum bush. I grew the capsicum bush accidentally, from seeds I threw in the garden at some point. I'm not a huge fan of capsicums, I only like them roasted. So I've been getting crafty in the kitchen, incorporating roast capsicums into our dinners. My favourite was Roast Capsicum and Pumpkin Soup. </div>
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Ingredients:<br />
- Half a Jap Pumpkin<br />
- 1 Brown Onion<br />
- 5 Celery Stalks<br />
- 3 cloves garlic<br />
- Butter<br />
- 3 Medium Capsicums<br />
- can of coconut cream<br />
- Spring of Rosemary<br />
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Method:<br />
- Heat Oven to 200 degrees Celsius, place capsicums whole on a baking tray and put in oven<br />
- Peel and chop brown onion and garlic, add to chopped celery and brown in a large saucepan with butter.<br />
- Peel and chop pumpkin, add to saucepan. Add water until pumpkin is just covered. Add the sprig of rosemary.<br />
- Put the lid on the saucepan, bring the water to a boil<br />
- Once water is boiled, lower temperature and simmer until pumpkin is cooked through.<br />
- The Capsicums should be roasted by this stage. The skin should be blistered.<br />
- Remove capsicums from oven, cut open and remove seeds. Roughly chop capsicum and add to soup.<br />
- remove the rosemary sprig<br />
- Using a stick mixer, blend the soup into a smooth consistency. If the soup is a little watery, remove lid and increase heat, to evaporate off some water.<br />
- Once the soup is thick, add the can of coconut cream.<br />
- Allow the soup to heat to preferred temperature and serve.<br />
- season with salt and pepper.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-31905877464526843622014-06-24T19:58:00.001-07:002014-06-24T19:58:25.287-07:00A day at the Show<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImyAZwxO3ttmCS3zkkpyYTzDtEEgaE2ONHQbrqzOybLxX-Dp_SWuVI5080qXd3Vafoz_dA-xn6eKRiLMHnsy8KY0v0HojM6eKRqzBKiCZ_EuqyoMelW_ZyteYSa1N3aYbpLqX9iJBpL4/s1600/21+june+14+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImyAZwxO3ttmCS3zkkpyYTzDtEEgaE2ONHQbrqzOybLxX-Dp_SWuVI5080qXd3Vafoz_dA-xn6eKRiLMHnsy8KY0v0HojM6eKRqzBKiCZ_EuqyoMelW_ZyteYSa1N3aYbpLqX9iJBpL4/s1600/21+june+14+020.jpg" height="201" width="320" /></a></div>
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One of the local shows was on last weekend, so I took Gigi along to see the animals and the ring events. She had an absolute blast and I had a good time too. <div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNukP_dEPhbVsf5sALRXh7v5q6is3e7dfz45x4ToufZ0tRsUT79oBLhjnpqvk3XmnsfEQe4LpYoAiGd-AhP0nMBsH2A39a2O_OtCFfZLI5TY-KqbH22XX7h-zJvut7dib0UqhI0e8jnw/s1600/21+june+14+009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNukP_dEPhbVsf5sALRXh7v5q6is3e7dfz45x4ToufZ0tRsUT79oBLhjnpqvk3XmnsfEQe4LpYoAiGd-AhP0nMBsH2A39a2O_OtCFfZLI5TY-KqbH22XX7h-zJvut7dib0UqhI0e8jnw/s1600/21+june+14+009.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patting the Farm Babies</td></tr>
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I haven't been to a Country Show for a few years and the last time I went, it was pretty sad. There weren't many competitors, nor were there many ring events. All of the Judges, Competitors and Organisers were elderly and I wondered if eventually the whole 'Country Show' would die out. </div>
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However, there seems to be a resurgence of interest and participation in the small Shows. There were lots of families attending the shows; lots of competitors- both young and old; and lots of Organisers of varying ages. </div>
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Hopefully the Shows will be here for some time to come. I'm thinking in future years, I might join the Show Society and volunteer to help out at the Show. I don't want to see the tradition die out, and unless new people take an interest and join up, at some point it'll be no more. <div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860559590512144972.post-44871869447044239862014-06-24T19:18:00.001-07:002014-06-24T19:18:31.500-07:00They're Here! This seasons baby goats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The nannies have started to kid and this seasons baby goats have slowly been arriving one by one. Gigi is so excited by the kids, every time we go out to look at them or feed the mothers, she tells me "I love the baby goats Mumma". At first she was a little confused about where they had come from, she kept asking me if Poppa had bought them. I explained that they grew in their Mumma's tummy and then they were born. She now picks the kids up and tells them "You are so cute, you were in your Mummas tummy".<br />
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The nannies and kids were isolated in the 'nursery pen' for a few days to ensure the babies were feeding correctly and that the mothers were looking after their offspring. In past years, the mothers (especially first time mothers) have the kid, then walk away. Other times, they've had the kid, looked after it for a week or so, then just given up. After loosing a few kids over the years, I have learnt the importance of separating out the mothers. If you don't keep the nannies and kids in a separate and smaller paddock to the main herd, it is harder to keep an eye on them and identify problems as they arise. Also, in a small pen, the kids are easy to catch and pick up for cuddles. By about four days old, they are very fast and hard to catch. </div>
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So far we have had four kids born to four nannies. One female kid and three males. The males will be castrated to be whethers, which I will write about in a future post, at the time. Whethers are much easier to handle, don't smell and are much easier to sell on to others. Also, with a small herd its important limit the number of billy's' to prevent fighting between themselves and also to prevent inbreeding in the herd.<br />
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There are another three nannies due to kid sometime in the next two or three weeks. Two of the nannies usually have twins, so I'm expecting twins from them again this year. The other nanny is pregnant, but looks small, so I think she will only have a single kid. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749565738071268883noreply@blogger.com0