Hausfrau in Melbourne

Monday Craft

2011-11-28T14:06:00.000+11:00

It seems like forever since I've sat down and actually followed through on a crafting project. It's not that the ideas aren't there, but the lure of mindless internet browsing, coupled with staring at the TV of an evening have me not doing a great deal in the creative department. Yet again, looking at other people's wonderful work seems to be my new craft. So today I fixed that.

Guess what these are for?

Monster baby houses.

To be more precise, Monster beds. Teensy tiny sized.

These little ones are from the book Microcrafts.

I've made three already, the possibilities are endless, such a quick, simple craft that is really very cute. And cheap. I like cheap (not looking cheap, but sometimes its inevitable...).

These are for the kid and her pals for Christmas.

I've also made these and am waiting for everyone to hurry up and finish the last jar of cherries that's lurking in the fridge so I can add another. Plastic farmyard animals glued to lids and spray painted. Sheer genius.

And lastly, a work in progress. Rock Candy. Day one.

The Anniversary

2011-11-27T18:54:00.000+11:00

It was just one night away from all the busy-ness that is our life, but boy was it a treat! We tootled down the road to Kyneton and stayed in the loveliest apartment, right there in Piper Street. Should you ever find yourself in that neck of the woods I highly recommend staying at Apartment 61A, a self contained, two bedroom apartment, gorgeously decorated and very well equipped.

and although I took hardly any photos, I did manage to snap a few of our digs.

The perfect night away, charming company, and a delicious meal at the nearby Royal George. Thoroughly spoilt I was!

Growing Up

2011-11-26T20:59:00.000+11:00

Like weeds I tell ya.

Colourful weeds though...

and just a bit nuts.

Then in the blink of an eye, you find yourself with a teenager.

Luck I still have one baby about to keep me company.

November is our busy month. Two birthdays AND our wedding anniversary.

Whoopie Pies have been made (and eaten)

Party bags made

and giggled over

And I heard a rumour that Christmas is only a few weeks away....

Thanks to my talented gal-pal for those gorgeous kid and dog shots, if only I had half her talent.

Sometimes spilt milk IS worth crying over

2011-09-13T10:09:00.000+10:00

Yes it is.

Image via

I'm afraid it's all been a bit beyond me today. Getting the kids up, making breakfast, school run and petrol filling. I've got a little cough you see. And while I'm here feeling very poorly, I'm wondering why I have been telling the kids to man up and get over it.

It's whooping cough, and while the kids haven't had that characteristic whoop that I seem to have been blessed with, I think it might be the same cough. So while I struggle with another baby disease (last year was Chicken Pox/Shingles), I'm making the most of it and downloading all those movies the husband scoffs at.

Where do I start on the whole vampire vs werewolf debate?

For me, Edward is the clear winner.

What's not to love about Edward and his swoonyness? He can quote Shakespeare!

Possibly a tad too pale, but gosh there is something irresistible about a vampire...

If only he had Jacob's body, I think we would all be happy.

Sadly, I've never had to *choose* between vampire and werewolf, but I'm pretty sure I'd know which way to go.

So while I lie here pondering these important distinctions, forgive me my illegal downloading, illicit thoughts and milk sookery.

Don't buy balloons in a windy day and other pearls of wisdom...

2011-09-10T14:49:00.000+10:00

Of the six balloons I bought on Friday, only three made it home.

Dogs destroy lawn.

Houses do not paint themselves

And paving is never going to happen if I keep spending money on nail polish

But the new tank is full, the pump is working and the garden is loving the rain/sun/rain/sun combination.

Scarfy present

2011-09-09T11:31:00.000+10:00

It's small...but so are kids.

When you are eight, things don't need to be big (although if I was to be honest, I ran out of wool and probably would have made another couple of squares).

I kind of hate the tee, who would have thought a plain grey tee would be so hard to find? Why do they all seem to have inappropriate, tacky things on them? Admittedly this one is not a great example of beautiful simplicity, but there you go.

I compensated for the plain tee with a crochet hanger and necklace.

Because, let's be realistic. I'm not in the business of garment making. One has to draw the line somewhere.

Vietnamese Coffee: How to

2011-09-09T10:58:00.000+10:00

As I mentioned last post, I've fallen in love again with Vietnamese coffee.

What's not to love about that combination of super strong coffee and syrupy condensed milk?

There seems to be endless ways to enjoy coffee and each gives you such a different result.

We are big fans of our La Pavoni Lever. it makes consistently good coffee, and its how I start my day. Everday. I'm not a big milk fan, so my morning latte is my only real calcium intake (other than hefty helpings of washed rind cheese).

But all that milk is just too much and I revert to tea for the rest of the day.

While in Vietnam we enjoyed great coffee, but I hadn't really tried to replicate it at home until now.

These little presses are so nifty. We have two and they are so simple to use. The first was a fancier version from the Luke Nguyen range, and comes with a glass and bamboo coaster, but this one is works the same and was only $7.50 from an Asian grocery store.

Simply place two teaspoons of condensed milk in the bottom of a glass

and three teaspoons of coffee in the base of your press and tamp down with the top press/filter

sit on top of the strainer and add boiling water to the top of the screw, then cover with the lid.

It's not something you can rush, but the coffee will eventually drip through.

I'm looking forward to summer and being able to pour this over crushed ice.

Crafty

2011-09-07T21:55:00.000+10:00

I gotta tell ya...

it's been a while.

And I spent all day at it. I'm intent on making a teensy scarf for an eight year old by this weekend.

I've already broken my rule of sewing in the ends as I go, and cursed myself when I finished the squares. Sooo terribly tiresome.

Once again I used skeins of tapestry wool for my crochet. The colour range is just so much more extensive, and for small projects like this scarf I really didn't want to spend a fortune on wool that might not get used again. The scarf is reasonably short at only sixteen squares long and will team well with a grey tee. I used this pattern as a guide for my sunburst in squares, but adapted it somewhat as I was only wanting three rounds. Once you get the hang of patterns, they are pretty easy to tinker with. I'll finish joining it together this evening and hopefully post a picture tomorrow.

And this is what I've fallen in love with all over again.

Vietnamese coffee.

Strong and sweet and completely different to my morning coffee. Such a treat and a real afternoon pick me up.

Disappeared!

2011-09-03T13:15:00.000+10:00

Well, not exactly. Just nothing much to say I'm afraid.

Possibly I could have made a half-hearted effort and simply reposted old posts, but really...

Keep tuned, and I will attempt to return good and proper in the next few days, with an interesting tale or two (I may have to invent them) and some flattering photos of the house, the dog and the springy garden (after I've retaught myself to use the neglected camera).

Meanwhile, say hi to the triplets.

Sadly there will be no more. The menfolk have made threats and I fear for their safety on a daily basis.

Be warned. I am a voyeur.

2011-06-30T10:25:00.000+10:00

Voyeur. One who looks.

And how could I not be, when this is the view I have.

My lovely neighbour is pushing 70. And lives with her son. Even though we now have blinds, this is our view. Go figure?

Because I spend so many hours in the kitchen, occasionally I see odd things. And obviously I am to be punished. It would seem that I am destined for ugly footwear like these abominations.

Aren't these just so special. Long hours, cooking fancy treats such as rabbit rillettes, have damaged my feet.

I am hobbling around at the moment as I have developed foot spurs and refuse to wear shoes such as those above. A recent trip to the special shoes shop (wearing converses that were deeply frowned at) had me running (okay, limping) out in horror. Did you know that custom orthotics cost $600???? Included in that is a pair of shoes. And they all looked like those.

This is what I would rather spend $600 on. If I had it.

A soft underfoot, freckle rug that the pup would probably destroy in a day.

Why can't my health fund cover this?

Black, black, black and freckles

2011-06-29T11:37:00.000+10:00

It's hard to avoid wearing black here in Melbourne. In fact, nearly every photo that does appear of me has me wearing it. Melbourne black. Not sure why, but the lure of black is strong. Black on black on black. Believe me I'm not alone. That's why it's called Melbourne black. For all those of you not from Melbourne, you'll just have to take my word. In our fair city, it's all about good coffee and black clothes.

To avoid coming across all emo-like (or a widow), I do like to add a bit of colour. At the moment I'm in love with this scarf.

In a hopeful way, I bought the yarn and needles last year, thinking this would be the year I learn to knit. Nope. Just can't get it. So off it went to my Mum's and came back in the form of a cable scarf (thanks Mum).

Less ambitiously, I'm sticking to what I know. Crochet. Here's a sneak peak at what I've just started.

It's super soft and will hopefully not take all winter like last years project.

Indoorsy is looking all cheery.

The forced bulbs are starting to bloom and smell heavenly.

Some are taking a little longer, but I don't mind them being staggered. It just means the delicious scent of hyacinth will be around a while.

Outside, the first bulbs are out.

The rainbow-chard powers on

and the tarragon is popping up.

Bread is being made every day, and at the moment this is the recipe I love.

Cheerio!

Self analysis

2011-06-25T10:44:00.000+10:00

Oh my!

Self portraits are hard. I am obviously overly vain, because I delete, or want to delete 99.99% of all photos taken of me. To be honest, I don't even like the sound of my voice over the phone answering machine. Is that really me? So tinny and screechy sounding? Anyway, occasionally I get all silly (or bored) and take some photos that I know I can delete.

So here I am.

Probably sounding all screechy and tinny.

And be happy that these are not summer shots. Of me in my bathers. Not that they exist...

I'm not sure where the photo phobia came from. As far back as I can remember, I've been a camera avoider. Thank goodness my kids aren't. Gorgeous as they are.

The only shots of me that I can even half stand are those I've taken myself. Here I can be super critical and delete that angle that so flatteringly highlights my double chin (see above), or highlights my many wrinkles and multiplying grey hairs. While I have friends who are simply awesome photographers, I am a challenge. I'd prefer to not be captured on film than to have to ask for every single shot to be taken a certain way. A flattering way. A way that makes me seem untinny and screechy. Probably something I should work on huh?

But not in a studio that sees me dressing up in feather boas draped over a chaise longue....appearing on a calendar kind of situation.

Today I went to Daiso!

2011-06-24T13:17:00.000+10:00

And may or may not have bought a few things...

Because I find the lure of ~~cheap crap~~ valuable household items at an economical price irresistible, off I trotted to Doncaster. I'd been here before you see. Foolishly with a husband in tow, who told me I had five minutes. Five minutes? Seriously? So many things for $2.80. Five minutes was never going to be long enough. Still, I managed to grab a few things and knew I had to come back soon. Husbandless.

Food picks for bento boxes

Banana keepers that I could never buy because I have a juvenile mind and can't help but snigger inappropriately.

Chair socks?

Cute dish sponges. Still wouldn't make me want to do the dishes though...

And the more practical things that came home with me.

Because I truly needed more shiny new plastic ware.

And the sweetest tote bag (I'm trying to forget that I threw out about twenty green bags just the other day. I swear they breed in the boot of my car when I'm not looking).

A grellow towel.

Partly purchased for the writing on the back. I'm always watching out for pesky friction situations.

Enjoy your weekend everyone.

Indoorsy

2011-06-23T16:40:00.002+10:00

Grey days...cold nights.

I'm trying to add colour and brightness where I can.

Lemon tarts

colour pencils

kewpie dolls.

The heating has been working overtime and I've been dreaming of warmer climates.

Some of us are better able to amuse ourselves...

What's next?

2011-06-14T19:19:00.000+10:00

For the briefest amount of time today, it was sunshiney indoors. Lovely, bright, drenching sun. And as I looked around, I realised that the last piles of construction materials have finally left our dining room.

For a while there, I thought free space would never return. Stacks of timber, sheets of plasterboard, cornicing etc had taken permanent residence. We certainly have a way to go yet, but things are coming together. By no means do we have a roomy, spacious house, but we do have a rather cosy cottage, filled with our favourite things.

I've go my eye out for something to grace that rather bare wall, but with a strict budget in force, it might have to wait a while.

In the meantime, there are always plants.

Zebra cacti

and emerging forced hyacinths.

Outside is another matter. With money for landscaping having well and truly run out, I'm forcing myself to make do with what we have. Self sown seedlings are being transplanted, and plants are being divided. As much as I'd love to visit our local nursery and come home with armfuls of plants, restraint is the order of the day.

I'm forcing myself to make more of an effort, to make the most of what I've got, because who wants a bare garden?

Poolga!

2011-06-11T19:00:00.002+10:00

Have you discovered Poolga yet? Words cannot begin to describe how much I love this site. It's a collection of free art for iPhone's and iPad's and I think it rocks. So cheery seeing these pops of colour when I open my phone. After the incident of the dropped litre of custard on said phone, a new phone has appeared on the scene and not before time. My previous phone had become so slow and the battery was nearing the end of it's life. Custard and phones do not mix and I had resorted to talking on speaker function just so I could hear my caller. I'm sure everyone was relieved when that was over.

Anyhoo. Back to the fantastic-ness of Poolga. A selection of illustrators and designers have contributed to a virtual gallery of fabulous pics. There is an app, a facebook page, twitter feed and a shop. Do drop in and have a looksy. Here's my picks of the day:

Croc Monsieur, by Peskimo - Synergy Art.

Kenzie, by Jimbobbin

Gone Karting, by Ben Steers at Handsome Frank

Rain Man, by Luciano Lozano

And just to show it's not all about the virtual art...here's what I've been up to.

Chilled soba noodles with prawns and pickled lotus root

Mini caprese salad with panfried gnochhi (also delish cold) and crumbed chicken

Tamagoyaki omelette bees with nori and onigiri pandas

and goldfish cheese crackers with fresh fruit and veg.

Squeee!!!

I'm tired and in need of comfort food.

2011-05-25T12:52:00.001+10:00

Someone has been disturbing my sleep. And I need sugar. Salt would be good too.

The school Bento boxes aren't going to cut it. While I like fruit as much as the next person, I'm thinking more along the lines of this:

A Korean pancake called a Hoddeok. I actually think it's more like a doughnut, albeit flat.

Inside it's warm and syrupy, filled with brown sugar, cinnamon and walnuts. Perfect morning tea treat. I made mine using this recipe.

This was the bento lunch. Okonomiyaki and rice with pork floss.

And this was my lunch. Don't tell.

And to get my revenge, I'm making the poor dog wear a stupid coat. Because at 1am, 3am and 6am, outside is cold.

Introducing....

2011-05-24T12:34:00.000+10:00

Miss Lolly.

Who I thought would be weary, overwrought and emotional after the ordeal of interstate travel.

Quite the opposite though. Yes folks, we have a live one! A toe nibbling, cat chasing, super fluffy bundle of energy. She barks. She growls. She bounds.

The cat is nervous. Very nervous. For now, he's skulking along fence lines, and sticking close to walls.

Luckily for all of us, puppies need to sleep and lunches can be made.

Today's Bento is really last night's dinner in disguise.

Japanese potato salad, garlic endamame (podded so no eyes of classmates are pinged) and a pork roll made with sliced pork belly roast and hoisin sauce.

In the middle is half a mini blueberry pie that I made over the weekend.

They really were mighty easy to make, and pretty tasty to boot. Frozen berries are such a convenient thing to have on hand, and great things to snack on.

While it stays quiet and sleepy indoors, I think I might treat myself to a teensy Nanna Nap. That 3am puppy cry has left me a bit weary...

More Bento

2011-05-23T13:03:00.001+10:00

Yep.

More cuteness.

School lunch boxes can be a bit hit and miss in this joint. I just know in a weeks time I'll have had enough of the being organised habit and abandon school snacks to packetty crap again. But for now I'm happy to roll with it and turn out nice, nutritional meals for the school day (and don't be fooled for a second, I'm only doing this for the one kid...the other is too cool for school and wants his to be walking around food).

Pasta salads are a bit of a no-brainer here. What kid doesn't like pasta? Factor in noodles in the shape of teddy bears and you have a winning combo. The greenery on the side may or may not be touched, but it makes me happy to see it there. I'm hoping the novelty rabbit salad dressing might encourage lettuce consumption.

While it does seem like a bit of a small serve, it's intended for grazing and I also packed this:

Dried apricots, celery with cream cheese and pomegranate syrup and celery with peanut butter and mini oreos. At least one thing there will be eaten, and I'm pretty certain it won't be the celery.

I'd eat the celery...

Above is what I made for tomorrow's lunch. An inari sushi boat (admittedly shop bought), japanese coleslaw made by moi, babybel cheese with a quail egg mouse and homemade pork and chive Tsukune.

I'll be interested to see if the coleslaw is eaten. That tiny hint of onion might just make the whole thing a no-go zone. The bottle is filled with Kewpie mayonnaise. I love the sweetness of Kewpie mayo and showed great restraint in putting some in the bottle and not helping myself to a spoonful along the way.

Not another Bento, but last nights dinner. We grown ups blasted colds away with super spicy Belacan Kangkong, the kids stuck with a simple tuna mornay. It's actually loaded up with vegetables under that pastry octopus and they didn't even realise. These were made as single serves, the only issue being the heat of those plates and bowls.

Today is dog day. Off to the airport this afternoon to pick her up. While I have tried to explain to the cat in easy to understand terminology what is about to happen, I just don't think he gets it.

Bento!

2011-05-18T12:14:00.000+10:00

Leftover Japanese rice

Hoisin chicken wingettes, crackers and an olive penguin.

Bet she won't eat it. Just to spite me.

Turtle Taties

2011-05-17T16:49:00.001+10:00

Sometimes you just see something so inspired that you have to have a go at it yourself. After gazing at potato turtles for the better part of a fortnight, today was the day to put them on the menu...

I have high hope that the smallest in the house will eat dinner tonight. The turtle is perched on a bed of Japanese rice atop a vegetarian curry. The curry is fragrant and spicy, but without the heat of a normal curry paste. I make my own Garam Masala, and it totally different to any that I have bought before. It's a Neil Perry recipe, and well worth the effort.

Home made Garam Masala

¼ cup green cardamom pods, pan-roasted
1 tsp cloves, pan-roasted
1 tsp white peppercorns, pan-roasted
2 sticks cinnamon, pan-roasted
4 star anise, pan-roasted

To make the garam masala, crack the roasted cardamom pods in a mortar with a pestle and remove the black seeds. Combine with the rest of the spices and grind finely.

Japanese rice is something I don't often prepare. It's a much shorter grain and requires a LOT of rinsing, draining and soaking, but the end result is worth it. Cooked in the rice cooker it came out perfect, just the thing to mop up the curry sauce. The turtles were pretty straightforward, oven roasted for 20 minutes or so until just cooked through.

The lack of warm days in these parts has me hankering for steaming bowls of soup, stews and curries. The recent purchase of a slow cooker means we are in for a week of goodness.

Mother's Day

2011-05-07T22:45:00.000+10:00

There is so much about this photo I love. Let me start by saying that I have no idea of it's date or for that matter what it is they are looking at. I'm guessing mid eighties, but it could be later. This was taken in my Grandmother's house and I can remember her kitchen so clearly, even though she has been gone for nearly ten years now. I wish I could travel back in time and steal that orange crock pot hiding behind my Mum....

Bathroom Progress

2011-05-07T11:02:00.000+10:00

Finally. A fully functional bathroom. While we still have all the fiddly bits left to complete (painting, filling etc), everything now works. Our vanity was a custom order and took an incredible sixteen weeks! Likewise, the sink. As this is a family bathroom, we chose an oversized sink, which is in actuality a kitchen sink. Measuring a whopping 80cm in length and weighing over 60kg, we needed a platform that was sufficiently strong enough to support it's weight.

I love the simplicity of the fireclay sinks. Not fussy or fancy, just functional and pleasing.

The vanity comes from Melbourne furniture designers, Wilkins and Kent. We have several custom pieces from here, and while the waiting time always makes us say never again, we keep coming back. We have an entertainment unit and two large tallboys made in the same pattern, all in American Oak, and while in different rooms, I think it all ties together nicely giving our furnishings a sense of uniformity.

The only downside as such is that there is no actual ledge for soap, so we have had to be creative and find a nice dish for the side. The bench/sink height is still slightly too high for the youngest in the house, so to help with teeth brushing, I've bought a bubbler attachment for the tap which turns your tap into a fountain with a squeeze of the base. Combined with a small step which fits neatly under the bench when not in use, everyone can now use the bathroom easily.

Heated towel rails are a must, but given the compact area I've had to buy one of the smallest available. At only 50cm across, big fluffy towels were never going to fit, so I ordered thinner, waffle weave towels. While still large in size, their thinness means they dry fast, but aren't bulky. I'm not missing the fluffiness of our old towels at all. These are very soft, and just seem to get softer with more use.

And of course, a new bathroom needed a new owl. This is my favourite so far.

Autumn

2011-05-06T15:41:00.000+10:00

Yes to Persimmon? I'm a no. I love the vibrant orangeness, but I just can't get my head around the texture. For me though, they herald Autumn. I'm lucky enough to have a neighbour with a tree, so I can enjoy the gorgeous colours without the guilt of buying something that I know we won't eat. Picked straight from the tree, they last a good couple of weeks on the table before they begin to soften, then gradually dull in colour.

To (hopefully) take their place, I'm planting some cheery blue Hyacinth. These are "porcelain blue", and should flower in time for those short, dark days of winter. Forced bulbs are really only good for one season, but even in the garden, I've never had much luck getting them to flower for a second time.

As I have quite a few, I'll be planting them in simple, white painted cans, using up some of the many sample pots floating around at the moment. Until the bulbs come up, I've added a little colour in the form of a paint chip (also in abundance here) to take the edge off of the stark white. I'm thinking of painting another batch in a matt black, but just can't bring myself to visit the paint store again....

I've grown daffodils in a similar way in previous seasons, so with any luck these will be just as successful.

In the kitchen I've been busy baking. Pastry wrapped baked pears

and baguettes for tonight's dinner.

Hopefully tomorrow I will get some photos up of our bathroom in progress. We still have a long way to go, but finally we have a plumbed in vanity sink. No more spitting out toothpaste in the kitchen. Hooray!

Laundry Tour

2011-04-12T17:36:00.000+10:00

I am tired. I am weary. I have had a killer tummy bug that has left me very behind in everything. Mostly the never ending laundry. So today I thought I would take you on a little tour of my almost finished laundry space.

Hidden behind cupboards for the most part.

Flip out hampers for darks and lights (and I must say the kids are getting to be very good at sorting and could perhaps teach their father a thing or two).

And open out doors reveal the washer and dryer which just squeezed in. We literally had only a couple of centimeters to spare. These cupboards are Ikea Ramsjo and we have used a Numerar benchtop in Oak. These babies are super heavy and it was important that the cupboards were able to withstand both weight and vibration.

The doors have had spice racks attached to house cleaning products, and the top doors are bracketed together to create two big, open out doors. A shelf above has ample room for two hampers (one washing, one ironing) and above that extra storage space which I use to house photos and keepsakes. As our dryer is vented outside, there is no worry about damp, but to be on the safe side, I have a small box of damp rid on hand just in case.

Below is room for washing powder and the dreaded vacuum. I had originally planned this to be for a fold out ironing board, but those boards are so small that I decided against it.

Of course it's not all pretty and neat. This is my ironing pile...

On the kitchen bench.

Fussy Eating

2011-04-09T10:24:00.000+10:00

Do you have a fussy eater in your family? We do, and for the life of me I can't figure out why. Two kids, fed the same but with VERY different tastes. I guess I should have known from the beginning this is how it was going to be. With the eldest, I craved fruit through my entire pregnancy, and with the fussy one, lollies all the way. Giving in to cravings is perhaps why I'm suffering now. A continual supply of boiled sweets in my drawer at work was always going to be a bad idea.

So, do you love frankfurts or not?

I do not. My husband does not. My son does not. Those colours are just wrong, and don't even get me started on that bland taste that makes me think I'm possibly eating cows lips or worse. The girl just loves them and as I break every parenting rule there is by regularly cooking two completely different meals, I've had to become inventive.

After seeing these on pinterest last week, I knew they would be a winner.

Spaghetti spiders on homemade passata.

And no, the rest of the family did not eat this. Because we are fussy eaters. We had a Malaysian curry, and didn't even eat it all.

Trouble Ahead

2011-04-06T15:10:00.001+10:00

Poor unsuspecting cat. Doesn't know what's about to hit him.

His days as an only pet are numbered....

Image via

We are soon to be joined by something that will hopefully be every bit as cute as this one. A Welsh Terrier is adding to the mayhem of our busy little house in the not too distant future. Gone are our days of horse sized dogs. Something a bit teensier, less sheddy, and with any luck, non-cat-chasing.

Non-shoe-chewing.

And non-blanket-peeing-upon (no blankets have been harmed in the making of this photo, this is just out enjoying the breeze).

Is it bad to have buyers remorse, when the dog is still sight unseen? It's been a long time between puppies for us, and I'm trying to remember all those things we might need to do before she arrives. How much dog proofing do I really need to do? Our dalmatian was the size of a lamb when he arrived many years ago, but I'm guessing that this one will be more the size of a smallish cat. and I'm trying not to panic about the garden being dug up all over by a terrier whose main aim in life is to dig (and chase).

At least my beetroot have been harvested.

These are an heirloom mix grown from seed and really are the most delicious range of colours.

Kind of like my blanket really.

Spoilt aren't I?

This was a birthday treat from my gal pal, and I am so grateful. I could never in a million years have made something so beautiful. I have neither the skill nor the patience. This will certainly need to be kept away from piddling puppies.

Further progress

2011-03-27T13:42:00.000+11:00

Yay for a working house. Well mostly. We are definitely on the home stretch now, and on this grey old Melbourne day, I can see light at the end of the tunnel.

Our claw foot bath is looking as lovely as hoped for, and after living without a bath for many years, it certainly is one luxury I'm glad we invested in. It's deep, and stays warm for an age. Just what I need after a big day in the garden. We are a long way off completion here, and will be without a vanity for another month or so, but still, I can see what it will be like.

Likewise the kitchen is a work in progress. Floor is down, cupboards are in, and appliances are working. Painting is a while away, as are kickboards and trim. If you look closely, you can see a glimpse of our bathroom through the kitchen. We have lined the walls with pressed metal, and I can't wait to show you the end result.

Window coverings are on order, and I can't stress how much they are needed. Through the window is our neighbour, and while she is awfully friendly, a bit of privacy is a must. As a temporary measure, I've sourced a lacy window film that gives us both light, and privacy.

The kitchen is very much in use.

The bench tops are a true labour of love though, needing oiling every three days for the first couple of months.

I fell in love with this vintage enamelled shade a while back, and this will hang above my island bench. It's weight mean that it will require a ceiling beam by way of reinforcement, and rewiring to bring it up to standard.

Other rooms have had a bit of a work over too. New carpet has replaced old, and a fresh coat of paint throughout. Furniture has been moved, and a few decals are gracing the walls. The bird and tree was so inexpensive, and easy to put up. Best of all, it will be easy remove further down the track if we decide on something a bit different.

Owls are multiplying (I'm aiming for a Parliament) and cheering me up no end with their quirky little faces.

And finally, just to prove that the cool weather is here, mini cyclamens are flowering away at my desk.

I feel that I have missed an entire season, and really, I think I have. Summer was over in the blink of an eye, taken up with house renovating, and a lack of hot lazy days. Before I know it, Easter will be here, and hopefully, I will be ready.

Reconstruction

2011-02-19T21:43:00.000+11:00

Just when I thought the house couldn't look any worse...

off came the verandah, exposing even more rotten timber.

Oh well.

Things are on the up though. The new flooring has been laid and stained a rather fetching shade of Japan black, and the kitchen cupboards are almost done.

Just in time as we were all getting slightly cooped up. Living room as kitchen just doesn't cut it....

Hopefully the DIY building works will be over soonish and normal blogging activity will resume, because, guys, I miss you. Life's just not the same without my daily trips to Blogland. One more week perhaps and then time to get some craft on!

So very quiet

2010-12-24T18:40:00.001+11:00

Golly! How time flies.

Christmas is here, and it's been over a month since I last dropped in.

How did that happen?

We have been busy little bees, planning our upcoming renovations, and well, it seems I have headspace for little else at the moment. Ask me about anything plumbing related though and I could chat for hours.

Very little has been achieved on the crafting front, a few crocheted glass baubles, a gingerbread house (not really crafting though) and a few handsewn ornaments.

Much time has been spent up ladders, and I imagine many more are to come.

This baby almost did us in - all 13kg of it meant a reinforcing beam in the ceiling, which meant climbing on the roof, removing tiles, replacing tiles broken by big heavy feet,, replacing the very old ceiling rose which crumbled when the old light fitting was removed, repainting the ceiling, etc, etc, etc.

Hopefully everything else will be slightly more straightforward, but somehow I doubt it.

The months to come will see us ripping up the flooring , replacing the kitchen and bathroom, and half of the windows in the house. I promise not to bore you too much with the nitty gritty daily dramas, but things are certainly about to take an interesting turn....

Anyway, I just wanted to check in and say a very Merry Christmas to you all, and hope you all have a jolly good New Year.

P.S. It is a rather handsome light isn't it?

Success!

2010-11-19T19:28:00.000+11:00

Just a quick check in to share my successful Ginger Beer.

Despite all the warnings and concerns regarding glass bottles and brewing Ginger Beer, mine have been a roaring success. No explosions. Perfectly carbonated.

This is what I think I did right:

1. Very well sterilised bottles. I put mine through the rinse/dry cycle of my dishwasher. This is how I sterilise my jam jars too, and it works every time.

2. Only filling the bottles 2/3 full, allowing lots of room for carbonation.

3. New bottle seals. Everytime.

4. Kept them outside in a cool spot. Just in case.

5. Small batches so I'm never storing too much at any given time.

6. Chill each bottle well before opening, and open very slowly, preferably over the sink. Think Champagne. It does fizz and bubble over initially and will make a huge mess if you aren't prepared. You can see just how bubbly it still is after a few minutes in the photo above.

As tomorrow is another party day, I'll take a few chilled bottles along for the kids to drink at the park. Something to wash down all that sugar and cake...

The Cook-Off

2010-11-13T20:26:00.001+11:00

Well today was party day, and boy was it fun! Thirteen tiny cooks all together, helping Poppy celebrate her birthday.

The favour bags were finally finished, each with a pot holder and wooden spoon,

a little Blue wren (my favourite Australian native bird) in a teensy home,

and a little knitted carrot.

A giant freckle was the only sweet, but after a hard day's cooking (and eating), I don't think they really needed too much more...

Blue Monday

2010-11-08T16:32:00.000+11:00

Oh what a big weekend we've had. A stay in the country and a day of cycling for the boys. I chose the more sedentary activity of getting sunburnt...

Today has been altogether quieter. Shoes have been bought for lovely spring weather, flowers have been picked and mountains of washing hung out under the beautiful blue sky.

The lilacs are still hanging in there, but are nearly finished for the year.

The weather is certainly warming up, but as you can see, NOT all the mud has gone.

Perhaps this is a good reason to be a spectator, rather than a competitor.

Gin O'Clock

2010-11-05T15:50:00.000+11:00

Here I sit. Gin in hand. Contemplating weeding. Honestly, I can't keep up, and sometimes I think I just need to take the time to sit, relax and enjoy. I can only nag so much about the mowing. After all, theoretically I could do it myself, but that would be starting a rather unpleasant precedent. I guess it's kinda like vacuuming, and that never gets done either.

My new boots have been given a minor workout with a stroll in the garden, and so far, I think they are rather fantastic. Shiny red rubber. Hose-offable, and not too heavy. My winter boots are way too warm now, and I'm not a fan of rubber clogs, so these are perfect.

Just to prove I'm not a total lush, who sits around all day sipping gin, I'll show you what else I've been up to.

Bottling my ginger beer.

I used an easy to follow recipe from Sally Wise's new book (well, new to me).

I've borrowed this one from the library but I might have to add this to my Christmas wishlist. Full of great recipes and old fashioned treats, I think this is one book I would find myself using again and again. Now because I have a mortal fear of exploding bottles, but really didn't want to go down the plastic bottle path, I've been super careful with sterilising the bottles, and have checked all the seals closely before putting them in an old esky outside the door. I've also left lots of headspace for the carbonation process.

If they do, ahem, explode, the mess should be fairly contained. They need to brew for 5-6 days, but I will check them each day, just in case things get out of hand....

I had looked at a ton of recipes before choosing this one. What I liked most was it made a relatively small batch (six bottles), meaning we could drink it in the time it took for the plant to be ready again ( eight days). While I liked Pip's, I really didn't want to commit to making such a colossal amount, only to find I didn't like it or it didn't work. So, fingers crossed and I'll let you know how it all goes.

So bottoms up, and enjoy your weekend!

p.s. I can't begin to describe just how good this homemade cordial is. Here's a link. Go make some today.

I should have been a farmer's wife

2010-11-04T13:19:00.000+11:00

Or at the very least, owned a cow. I LOVE my dairy products. Cheese, cream, butter, milk. Where would I be without them? Certainly not drinking Soy Milk. Today has been dedicated to all things yoghurty.

Do you make your own yoghurt? It's very inexpensive, and once you have made one lot, you can simply keep going, using a little of your previous batch to make the new batch. I always make it plain, preferring to add flavourings and sweeteners later if necessary. I also like to process it a little further by straining overnight until it thickens up, leaving the whey behind.

The thicker yoghurt is then ready to be rolled into balls with moist hands, and then served as is, or sprinkled with fresh herbs. My current favourite combination is kaffir lime leaf, lemongrass, chilli, ginger and garlic. Stored in oil, they keep for about a week in the fridge. We have them spread in sandwiches, on toast, or with a bit of grilled chicken.

Homemade yoghurt is also great for breakfast, layered with a rhubarb compote and crunchy granola.

Sweet, tart and crunchy.

Granola is another pantry favourite here. I'm currently in love with a Nigella recipe, using peanuts and chocolate. Heavenly, but certainly not diet food...

Cup Day. Again.

2010-11-02T16:28:00.000+11:00

It's Melbourne Cup day today, and living only a suburb away, we get to experience all the traffic, all the helicopters and all the crazy dressed up people first hand.

Not horsey folk ourselves, we avoid it like the plague. Hell, I can't even walk in a pair of heels, let alone trying to cope with fascinators and floaty dresses....

Instead of attempting to go anywhere by car today, we've dragged the ponies out for a canter around the river.

Sadly I was made to ride up hills all on my own

but was at least allowed to rest on the other side.

Fake It Victoria Sponge (or how to be a domestic goddess without really trying)

2010-11-01T14:55:00.000+11:00

This weekend it rained, and rained and rained. I could go on - it did. In fact on Saturday alone we had a months worth of rain in one day. The roof leaked - eek, the car leaked eeeek! And we were forced to be indoorsy people.

So I baked.

Fruit cake. Lemon curd. Savoury scrolls. Yoghurt, then Labna Balls (and I'm so in love with yoghurt making I might tell you about it another time). Stewed rhubarb. Strawberry cheesecake. Orange and chocolate pinwheels and rice pudding. Lunchbox treats and desserts.

But the prettiest were possibly the easiest because I like to cheat.

In the far reaches of the freezer was a slab of store bought sponge, left over from the last cheaty dessert, Bombe Alaska. Mini Victoria sponges were cut out using a scone cutter then some were filled with the homemade Lemon curd and some with last seasons Raspberry jam. To make them look a little less cheaty, I crystallised some rose petals (The Squire) and lemon blossom.

Crystallising flowers is dead easy. Simply choose any edible, pesticide free flowers, brush lightly with beaten egg white, then roll in caster sugar.

Allow to dry for roughly an hour then they are ready to use.

Pretty no?

The skies are starting to clear today, so I really have no excuse to stay indoors now, but I'm making a valiant effort to make some headway in Little Dorrit. This book is taking me forever. Perhaps a quick bike ride down to the river might brighten me up a bit. After all, I do pass a particularly large lilac bush along the way, and it would be awfully nice next to my bed as I read my book....

Stop Growing!!!

2010-10-31T13:23:00.002+11:00

Because I cannot keep up. The kid has grown again, and yes I know they are meant to, but geez...

After spending a small fortune on not very much at all, it was time for a stop gap measure. In other words, cheap. But not so nasty.

Usually I avoid Target like the plague, all those bright prints make me want to put on sunglasses, and most of the kids clothes look cheap. But a white t-shirt is a white t-shirt, inoffensive, and to be honest, at $4 a pop - slightly fabulous. I've bought these before and they really do last forever. Target outfits may look cheap, but they never fall apart, or go out of shape. Just like the ad says.

These are replacing size 4 tees from a couple of years back (yes, the kid is small, and they do kinda still fit). I made a few to match the Oliver and S skirts I made.

These have been made to wear with denim jeans, skirts and long blue shorts, perhaps teamed with a cute pair of espadrilles or converses.

It's a bit hard to see the detail here, but the red is a crocheted heart. I used this pattern, a 2mm hook and DMC Babylo cotton. These hearts are so easy to whip up, and they've decorated letters, envelopes and even my bike. Believe it or not, the envelope arrived intact after travelling halfway across the world.

The next one was trimmed with a simple ribbon sewn on with that invisible thread that I both love and hate, then tricked up with a twisty flower and felt leaves. It attaches with a brooch pin so the tee can be washed without fear of the brooch disintegrating. Because I'm lazy, the flower is pretty much held together with hot glue, and I'm sure it wouldn't like being washed, dried, washed, dried.

The third one with the rosette though is sewn on. I've used acrylic yarn, and I figured that if it does get a bit out of shape , it was only $4, and I can always make another. I kind of made the pattern as I went along, have a go, it's pretty basic to work out. If I make another though, I might extend the ribbony bits a little more, they kinda seem a bit short I think.

And here's what I started last night. Not sure what purpose they will serve, but I really like those colours. Not the most economical way to buy your wool, but those little skeins that are meant for tapestry are perfect for small projects. You'd hardly crochet a scarf that way, but the colour range is huge. I think I will get about three flower from three skeins, so really, 75cents isn't too bad. I'm thinking perhaps thankyou cards, or maybe Christmas cards...

And a question. Can someone explain scribd to me in 25 word or less? I seem to have somehow joined (not sure how), and subscribed (again not sure how).

What's on my table today

2010-10-29T16:59:00.000+11:00

Chincherinchees.

Giant freckles.

Homemade cordial.

And a bird ready to take flight.

It's been a busy kind of week. Ballet concert rehearsals, marketing, and a short stint of paid work. How does one fit it all in? I've been itching to get back in the kitchen and do something about the oodles of lemons that we have. After a recent trip to IKEA, I was super enthused about the possibility of homemade cordial and maybe some ginger beer. I came home with 18 swing top bottles, all ready to go. The cordial has been made (and rather good, with a dash of gin), but the ginger beer requires a bit more planning. The plant alone will be eight days in the making, and everything i've read warns against using glass bottles.

Lemon curd has been made, biscuits are in the oven and everything feels just a little bit more organised.

The teensy bird will be off in the mail on Monday to a very special friend. I do hope she likes it!

Gettin' my craft on

2010-10-26T15:06:00.001+11:00

With all the spring busyness going on around here, I've had a hankering to get back indoors and get my hands on a bit of fabric.

This little peep is what I made this morning. Standing just 8cm high, its made with felt, fabric and wire. Simple blanket stitches and basting hold it all together.

Crafting gives me such immediate satisfaction. Especially small projects that can be completed in a day or less. At any given time I have a dozen or so things that I'd like to be making. Obviously they don't all get done, but it's nice to dream....

A scarf for next winter perhaps?

And in my great tradition of biting off more than I can chew, I've started another blanket. Flowers in squares this time, and much, much smaller than the one I am making for my bed. Pure wool, and gorgeously soft.

It may end up as a teensy doll blanket, but I'm hoping for something slightly more substantial.

Mushrooms!

2010-10-25T19:16:00.000+11:00

Have you ever grown mushrooms? Easy peasy. When I saw these little kits at the market last week, I just couldn't resist. These kits were no run of the mill mushrooms either. I bought two, a tube of Shimeji and an Oyster mushroom. At only $5 each, it was money well spent.

It's taken just over a week, and we've already harvested our first meal.

Beautiful aren't they?

Dinner was a chicken and blue cheese pizza topped with oyster mushrooms.

The shimeji have not sprouted yet, but we are continuing our daily misting. Perhaps they are just a bit slower.

Fingers crossed, but I won't be too devastated if nothing happens. At only $5, I won't have lost too much. Certainly more economical than those cartons I've had previously, which are around the $20 mark. Now if only I can convince the kids to eat them...

Down and Dirty

2010-10-21T10:36:00.000+11:00

Not all functional things need to be ugly. Our little garden shed is a great example of this. Despite the shadows, I think you can probably see the little rosemary hedge in the making, and the giant rhubarb that is currently looking for a new home. Ideally, window boxes will be added some time in the future to add a splash of colour, but for now, a tiny bit of bunting is doing the job nicely. This little garden shed of mine is my second favourite space (after the kitchen). It houses all my tools, seeds, etc and has a rather spacious potting bench running down one side. I also have shelving to store my summer preserves.

I'm very fortunate to have great gardening tools. Mine are a bit of a mix, but the basics are all from a small Australian company called Digadoo. Beautifully handmade, and just the right weight. The important part though is their strength.

Good tools can be expensive, but if you buy well, they really do last the distance.

Not so new is this very vintage wooden ladder. Salvaged from a hard rubbish collection, it patiently waits a bit of love and attention. I'm thinking along the lines of a whitewash, and using it to hold a pot or two of geraniums, or perhaps a succulent or two.

Do you have a favourite garden tool? Are yours new and shiny, or vintage lovelies?

Unglamorous Gardening

2010-10-20T22:18:00.000+11:00

Today I thought I'd share some less than glamorous shots of my garden. Here in Melbourne, we have been under very tough water restrictions, which due to recent rains have finally been eased. Previous summers have had us only able to water twice a week, using a trigger nozzle hose, between the hours of six and eight AM.

Its been tricky trying to establish a garden with limited water and searing summer temperatures. In summer its not uncommon for us to have over 40C, several days running. To keep everything going it has been important to establish alternative water sources, harvesting as much as we can from rainfall, and saving grey water from both bath and washing machine. It's all been of a rather temporary nature, given that we have plans to renovate the house, and will eventually add more usable water storage in the form of tanks and pumps.

A couple of years back we very cheaply bought three olive barrels, attached a tap near the base, and diverted our guttering with a simple open/shut valve so we could fill them, then turn them off.

They've worked well, and each can hold roughly 120 litres. It does however require all plants are hand watered using a watering can, which is very time consuming. It also relies on rain to actually fill them, which isn't always around.

Diverting our grey water is what has kept the trees going. We use an eco-friendly laundry detergent, low in sodium and phosphorous, which is garden safe. Our final rinse is saved, then a hose carries it down to the trees and shrubs. Obviously not the vegetables or herbs, because that would just be a bit blaghh. Again, this can be turned on or off, and now that the garden is a bit more established, we find ourselves using it less and less. When things get really dry, we bucket out saved bath water.
Using grey water has meant a rethink on the products we use in the house for cleaning. I've never been a fan of chemicals, and the thought of them going either down the drain or into the garden isn't really appealing either.

Our biggest tank is 1000 litres, and runs off our garden shed roof. Again this is strictly for hand watering as we don't have a pump for this yet.

Because we have a tiny garden, every available inch of space is put to work.

Compost bins do take up considerable room, but they are screened off by a soon to be tall hedge, and won't be visible from the house.

The three bins seem to be the right number for us, and supply the garden with rich compost at planting time.

This year I have again planted tomatoes in tubs. While I have larger, heritage varieties in the garden, the pots are good for smaller, cherry tomatoes and eggplant. This side of the house has sun for most of the day, and I have a tank nearby for easy watering. Likewise, our herbs and lettuces are pot grown, and can be easily moved into the shade on the really hot days.

The back garden has just recently been replanted, and this area will soon be paved and screened by shrubs. A smaller rosemary and lavender hedge defines the borders, and a new row of buxus will edge the pavers. This back area houses our small garden shed and clothes line. More lawn will be removed meaning less watering demands. We still can't water lawns or use sprinklers, but mulching garden beds helps retain moisture.

The clothes line is a must. Even in the depths of winter I try to hang the clothes out. Until a few weeks ago we had a rotary line, but this new, retractable line takes up less space.

So all in all, lots of messy bits, and very much a work in progress, but I'm loving it more every day.

Inadequate Parenting

2010-10-18T12:29:00.000+11:00

Do you watch Junior Masterchef? We here do, but I've got to say it leaves me feeling rather inadequate. It's a sad day when you realise that a twelve year old is a more focussed, talented and faster cook than yourself. Can I cook pretty looking Lemon Meringue cupcakes in 45 minutes? No I cannot.

Can my children cook a Lamb Wellington? No they cannot (however hard I try to convince myself, a six year old making nachos with a lot of assistance is not the same).

How can such small children have so much talent? I can only assume they have rather dedicated parents, who have made a real, concerted effort in training their kids to such a high level. All I can think about is the mess I will have to deal with every time mine want to create something in the kitchen.

Other than trying to emulate a twelve year old, this is what I have been up to today.

Party favours for the soon to be seven year old. Spurred on by all things culinary, we are having a cooking party. Simple little cupcakes, tiny little pizzas and milky milkshakes. And no, not at home. The mess will all be elsewhere. A purpose built kids' kitchen that caters for parties and the like.

Rather than a sugar filled party bag, I'm making up kid sized pot holders with kid sized wooden spoons to give away. These first prototypes have a big case of the wonks stitching wise, but I doubt they will notice. Just to be super safe, they have been double lined with that crazy insul-bright stuff, before quick quilting. I do plan on sending home a teeny treat bag, perhaps with a giant freckle or two inside. I am thinking I might add a couple more things, but will try to keep them fairly simple, and foodie inspired.

And just so you know...those cupcakes took me an hour and a quarter!

Another round of party planning

2010-10-17T13:02:00.001+11:00

Just to prove that I really have become an uber-geek, I am in the process of organising a Harry Potter party.

At nearly twelve years old, the kid has become simply too cool for school. Birthday idea after birthday idea was shot down. Then I struck a winner.

A movie at the Imax, followed by a ~~play~~, get-together in the park. Obviously not a play because that would not be cool. Even though it is in a playground....

As a happy coincidence, the party is just two days after the launch of the latest installment of Harry Potter. Tickets have been bought, and a party is being planned. Invitations are going out way ahead so we can send out a second round if need be (don't want to waste those tickets).

I think the key to a tween party is to be low key. Oh the embarrassment I could inflict without even trying. The invitations have been printed on parchment paper, and tied with a simple black ribbon. The Harry P font was downloaded from here, true home of Harry Potter geekery. I had thought at first that I would write it in Potteresque language, but I think that would be taking it just a little too far. Don't want to be uncool after all.

The little cauldrons were a happy find at Spotlight, on sale pre Halloween. These will take the place of lolly bags, and will be filled with creepy crawly sweets - spiders, frogs etc. I also like the idea of these.

It's about now that I have to confess that I have not actually read a single Harry Potter book, or seen any of the movies. Do you think it's necessary for the movie to make sense? It is after all, two and a half hours long, and I don't really want to be confused the whole time.

As for cake. Hmmm. Stumped. I haven't seen anything in the theme of Harry potter that I like. Given that it will be cut and eaten in the park, it need to be transportable too. Thinking caps are on. Any suggestions?

Got me

2010-10-16T21:53:00.000+11:00

Yep. Got me good. Ten attempts I have made of these and now I'm admitting defeat. I so wanted to make these, and try as I might, I just can't seem to get it.

Obviously maths isn't my forte. I think the stitch counting is my main problem.

Initially, I thought the teeny, tiny size was my main fault, and no doubt about it, the first few were small. Doll size. Even when I changed from newborn size to 12 month old, they were still smallish. Moving up a hook size helped, but then further problems arose. The straps didn't align.

Such a shame. The yarn was beautiful, Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino.

I'm putting these aside for now, and maybe I might feel like tacking them again later on.

Instead, take a look at these:

Radishes!

Easy peasy, and cute if I do say so myself. The pattern was from this lovely book by Lesley Stanfield.

Lots of sweet flowers, fruit and vegetables, both knitted and crocheted. I've bought the wool and put in my order for asparagus, carrots and lavender. Sadly, I can't knit, so I'm relying on more capable hands for these (thanks Mum).

Here's a quick couple of shots of our latest project.

Any guesses?

Half Way

2010-10-09T13:51:00.000+11:00

Out of bed. Fevery, flu symptoms have finally gone, replaced by something almost as bad.

Itching. Unrelenting itching.

Although I feel much improved, I daren't go out. I'm still covered in nasty blisters, and infectious. So more crochet is the order of the day. Frustratingly, I have run out of red, and am also nearly finished all the other colours. A visit to the wool shop is out of the question, so I'm taking the time to sew in ends.

From the beginning I adopted a sew-as-you-go attitude, and I'm glad I did. I can't think of anything worse than reaching the end, and then having to sew in the ends of 150 squares. I'm up to sixty, and it is only the last eight that need sewing up. These are the ones I have done in the last few days, and I figured I would do them as a batch.

Laying them out today, I am a bit unsure as to how it will all come together, given that my tension has changed quite dramatically. Some are quite noticeably larger than others. I think I will simply sew them together, rather than crochet, then crochet the whole blanket together with a decorative edge. Any ideas?

My usually very easy going husband has pronounced a dislike of the blanket but I'm hoping he will come around. How dreadful to sleep in a room, under a rug you don't care for. I think it's the Nanna-ness. It certainly can't be the colours, and I know for a fact that he loves red, however he is no fan of crochet quite obviously. I had thoughts of making a contrasting cushion, but perhaps that may be pushing his tolerance too far. As it is I make him keep his boyish collection of F1 cars in the cupboard, out of sight. Mean aren't I?

A pox on your house!

2010-10-06T10:54:00.000+11:00

Okay. Who did it? Chicken Pox has reared its ugly head and bitten me. I have a nasty case of Adult Chicken Pox (shingles), and am out of action. Luckily the kids have been immunised, but I am quarantined and under strict orders to rest in bed. For a week.

So, the blog break continues, and I am becoming a bit like Jimmy Stewart in Rear Window, spying on the neighbours.

Thank goodness for books, crochet and computers. And drugs. See you on the other side.

Tooth Fairies and other stuff

2010-10-01T15:59:00.000+10:00

Someone here is as pleased as punch. Finally, after several weeks of wobbling, the family baby has lost her first tooth. The last in her class, but possibly the most excited.

I've been ready for this for the last twelve months.

A fairy door is outside Poppy's bedroom you see. Waiting.

(and yes, that is possibly the world's ickest looking fairy, but she loves it)

An official Tooth Fairy kit had been delivered via said Fairy Door when the wobble became apparent.

And we waited. And waited. And waited.

Until finally...out it popped.

So to celebrate, a sugary, sticky Bombe Alaska. As you do.

All quiet

2010-09-29T19:32:00.000+10:00

On holidays.

Yep. Nothing to say. Not much happening. All is quiet.

An unexpected blog-break, but hopefully back soon.

Tissue Paper Mobile

2010-09-13T12:56:00.001+10:00

The arrival of spring hasn't really brightened up indoors yet. We have had lots of welcome rain, but also more than our share of grey, overcast days to help the rain along.

So to cheer us up, and add a bit of colour, I'm making a tissue paper mobile.

Strictly speaking, it's not a mobile at all, it doesn't move, it just hangs. As I seem incapable of throwing out tissue paper (and wrapping paper really), I had plenty of colours to choose from. I've kinds stuck to spring-y colours, pastels with a bit of red thrown in for good measure.

And a bird

and bobbly bits.

Now I just have to work out how to attach it to the wall....

I'm still cooking Nanna Food, just no photos. The arrival of this lovely creature has me all a flutter with new ideas, and I am wanting to chop everything. It has replaced my nearly 20 year old Magimix, whose only fault was a cracked bowl and lid. It's much bigger though, and I'm loving it already.

Tonight I am tackling Toad in the Hole. Stodgy goodness, but sadly, no chopping involved.

More on the Penpals and Nanna meal #4

2010-09-08T20:17:00.000+10:00

Off we trotted, hand in hand.

Letters were posted, and now we wait.

Here's mine, which is obviously taking the scenic route, because it has yet to return to the school. Most have made it back safely, a small handful are still on the way. I hope none get lost. There may be tears.

Maybe the Postie didn't like mine and binned it. Or maybe really liked it and decided to keep it. Either way, I do hope it arrives soon, or there may be grown up tears.

And of course, I made Tuna Mornay. How could I not?

What are your thoughts on Tuna Mornay? Like or dislike? I like, it's a real no-think meal. Like Spaghetti Bolognese.

Mine always has small pasta shells, so I guess, strictly speaking, it's really a Tuna Bake. It must have peas. It must have corn. Sometimes it has pineapple, and I'm rather partial to tinned champignons, but nobody else is, so it's rare they get a look in (in fact, I think I am the only person in the world to like these). It also needs a crusty, golden top. I have vague recollection of my mum using potato crisps as a topping, but I daren't go there...

Dessert was heart attack food. Truly.

Golden Syrup Dumplings.

Mmmm. Good. I think. But they may be the death of me.

A small serve of this goes a long, long way. This is a dish my Aunt made years ago, and as a kid, I loved it. My kids loved it, so it's a winner.

For tomorrow's Nanna meal, stay tuned.

Goodness Gracious

2010-09-07T12:26:00.001+10:00

Are you gracious? I am not. In fact I am downright awkward. I don't like being the centre of attention, and deflect compliments faster than I can say thankyou. I'm quick to point out flaws in my work, and can't help but say don't look too close, it's not very good.

When it comes to giving compliments, I don't think I am much better. Of course I see things I like. Everyday. But do I take the time to tell people? Not so often. Perhaps this is why I like blogging. Giving and accepting compliments is so much easier. So enough of the introversion and more of the Nanna Food.

Today I am cooking a vegetable and barley soup. With alphabet noodles. No tricks here, just a reliance on homemade chicken stock to make it sing.

This soup is good. I make it at least once a week, and love it with toast soldiers for dipping. Because I have time today though, I am making dinner rolls to go with it. Petit pain, infinitely better than those nasty, bake at home ones that our local supermarket sells. Not to mention making the house smell all ~~burnt because I forgot them~~ lovely and yeasty.

So to copy the words (and image) from pinksuedeshoe, from now on I will try to say a simple thankyou. Then I'll just shut up.

Old Favourites

2010-09-06T17:29:00.000+10:00

Today's Nanna recipe is a classic Shepherd's Pie. This recipe is from taste.com.au, a website I use frequently. It's a great resource, and has thousands of recipes.

I doubled the recipe and made enough to freeze for a quick, easy meal later.

Ingredients (serves 4)

1 tbs olive oil
1 brown onion, halved, finely chopped
1 carrot, peeled, finely chopped
2 celery sticks, trimmed, finely chopped
500g lamb mince
2 tbs plain flour
500ml (2 cups) beef stock
1 dried bay leaf
1 tbs Worcestershire sauce
1 tbs tomato paste
Salt & freshly ground black pepper
4 (about 200g each) desiree potatoes, peeled, chopped
40g butter
125ml (1/2 cup) milk
Melted butter, to brush

Method

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot and celery and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until soft. Add lamb mince and cook, stirring to break up any lumps, for 5 minutes or until lamb changes colour.
Add the flour and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until combined. Add stock, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes or until sauce thickens. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Meanwhile: cook potato in a saucepan of salted boiling water for 15 minutes or until tender. Drain well. Return to the pan with the butter. Use a potato masher or fork to mash until smooth. Add milk and use a wooden spoon to stir until combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Preheat oven to 200°C. Spoon lamb mixture into a 2L (8-cup) capacity ovenproof baking dish. Top with mashed potato and use a fork to spread over lamb mixture. Brush with butter. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes or until mashed potato is golden brown.

I served this with minted peas, beans and romanesco broccoli.

Dessert was baked apples. I remember making these as a kid, but in the microwave, not baked like these. I used both Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples, cored and scored them around the centre, then stuffed them with a mix of flaked almonds, dried apricots, fresh breadcrumbs, butter and amaretto. They were then dotted with butter and sprinkled lightly with cinnamon and sugar. Bake in a moderate oven until soft. Great with homemade warm custard.

The leftover shepherd's pie was used to fill puff pastry lined dishes, then baked for 20 minutes. These will freeze beautifully and make a handy single serve meal for the kids.

Last night's curry was also used to fill pies, but these ones were topped with pastry as well. These are small enough to fit in the kids lunchboxes. It's such a great idea, and if you want further lunchbox inspiration, pop over here.

Channelling my Inner Nanna

2010-09-05T17:29:00.000+10:00

This week is dedicated to Nanna Food. You know exactly what I mean don't you? Simple, uncomplicated stuff that the kids will love. Casseroles, pies, puddings and cakes. Basically no-chew food.

So I'm starting off with two things that are quintessentially granny, yet I have never made either.

A beef curry.

Not my typical, asian style hot, hot, hot curry, but one of those old classics. This uses curry powder, and a mild one at that. It's sweet, with a big helping of dried dates and raisins and an apple thrown in for good measure. I can't believe I've never made one of these before, it smells delicious and tastes great.

1 kg stewing steak

3 tbsp oil

1 onion, chopped

1 apple, peeled and chopped

1/4 cup raisins

250g chopped dates

2 tsp curry powder

1 tbsp tomato sauce

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp grated lemon rind

1 tbsp fruit chutney

2 tbsp cornflour, blended with 2 tbsp water

2 tsp worcestershire sauce

500 ml beef stock

Heat oil in pan and brown meat over high heat.. Add the onion, apple, dates, raisins, curry powder and lemon rind, stirring through to combine. add remaining ingredients and cook in a moderately slow oven for a couple of hours, or until meat is tender.

Serve with steamed rice.

If the leftovers don't disappear, I think this would make a great filling for pies.

Dessert (or afternoon tea) was a Pineapple upside down cake. Let me just start by saying YUM. Sweet? Sure. But with a nice healthy dollop of cream on the side, it was well balanced. Beautifully syrupy, and ever so nice with my cup of Earl Grey tea. Why are glace cherries such a rarity these days?

So I've got my thinking cap on, and will sit down tonight, while I crochet, and channel that inner nanna for more ideas.

Remember the scene...

2010-09-03T16:01:00.000+10:00

You may remember me mentioning that we were off to see the stage show of Mary Poppins a while back. Well see it we did and let me tell you, we are now more than slightly Mary Poppins obsessed. The musical was great, the DVD has taken up permanent residence in the player, and tunes are playing on small IPods.

My favourite scene in the movie is when they step through the chalk drawings. We have just read that chapter in the first novel, and I love it. I had no idea that it was actually a whole series of books (eight in fact) that were written by P.L. Travers, not just the one.

So deep in the recesses of my mind, I remembered making chalk, many, many moons ago. Then I remembered I had a bucket of plaster lurking somewhere and tempera paints too.

And that is all you need.

Mix 1 cup of plaster to 3/4 cup of plaster, then stir through your colour.

I would really, really recommend using disposable tubs for this. I had some old plastic containers left over from a takeaway that were perfect. Believe me, it sets fast and hard, you really don't want to deal with this once it has dried.

For the same reason, don't be tempted to make a larger batch. You have to work at a fairly quick pace to get this mixed and in the moulds before it sets.

I used rubber moulds from Ikea. They are easy to remove the set chalk from, easy to clean, and they were just the right shape.

Fill each mould, tap to remove any air bubbles, and smooth the surface over.

This is messy. Very messy, and you need to be really careful not to get that powder everywhere.

Let them slowly dry in the mould for up to 24 hours before removing. That's the hard bit. They may well look dry much sooner, but trust me, if you remove them too soon, they will just crumble.

Ta da. Chalk!

More Pony Rides

2010-08-31T14:04:00.001+10:00

My little pony and I are doing well. Of course, now it has a few more trims, we are even happier. Fancy like.

Leather grips (and pretty ribbon).

A nice, well sprung leather seat.

And a bit of woolly-ness for the basket

What I haven't shown up close is my new Pannier. It is a deep cherry, woven straw affair, and ever so roomy. Fits all the important bits, like library books, bread and a bottle of wine.

And of course a bit of riding gear was in order. None of that awful clingy, lycra stuff here. Instead I have invested in a reversible riding cape. When turned around the other way it has reflective strips for safety.

Despite my rather buxom appearance here, it is quite flattering, and very warm. With spring just a day away, I'm sure it will still get plenty of wear before being packed away.

Anyway, hoo-roo for now. I am off to start putting pen to paper and getting a letter or two off in the mail.

Snail Mail

2010-08-27T12:44:00.000+10:00

While moseying around, I came across this. A project designed for PenPals! Cool huh?

Anyway, one day in and I now have a penpal. So does Poppy. I can't wait to start. If you're interested, pop on over for a looksy, but don't forget I'm friendly too. If you'd like a bit of old fashioned snail mail, send me an email and we can get stared. The more the merrier I say.

Pen Pals

2010-08-25T13:36:00.000+10:00

Did you have a Pen Pal when you were a kid? I did. A fabulous one. Mine was a air-hostie for Singapore Airlines and her name was Sheila (I kid you not). Anyway, having a pen pal who was a world traveller was a definite plus. Younger, nerdy me was a reasonably avid stamp collector, and boy did I score big time in the stamp department. I had stamps from everywhere winging their way to me. We kind of lost touch in the last few years, the correspondence trickled down to an annual Christmas Card, and then eventually even that ended. But I will never forget the thrill of receiving mail addressed to me.

So. This is what I am doing. With my daughters class, we are embarking upon a letter writing mission. Inspired by this, and this, we are decorating envelopes, and writing a note to a fellow class mate. While I would have loved to have done this as a project involving another school, the privacy issues raised by the school made me half cranky enough to abandon the idea. Don't get me started....

Even as a somewhat downgraded idea, I think this will be great.

The kids will learn how to correctly address an envelope, different ways to write a letter, the workings of our postal service (stamps, posties, letterboxes etc) and we will have a little mini excursion out of the school to drop all of our letters off in the nearest post box.

Just to make the excitement of receiving mail even greater, each kid will enclose a trinket or two in with their letter. Nothing too big, just teeny things that I had lying about.

Who wouldn't want to open a letter and find a pair of googly eyes falling out?

Or some colourful yarn?

Or a scary tag?

After they have all been sent, and duly received, the envelopes will be brought back in to school, and the kids can display them in the class room. The letters will then be read out to the class by the recipients.

Tomorrow is stage one, envelope decorating. I'll have another update in a couple of weeks time, and let you know how it all went.

Cooking Styles

2010-08-24T13:33:00.000+10:00

Do you like to cook? As you might know, I love to. Everything about it, and the more obscure the ingredient or technique, the better.

We love spicy (I say we, but really the smallest likes baked beans and little else), and luckily we have fabulous fresh markets nearby.

Mostly I cook asian food. Indian, malaysian, vietnamese, cambodian, thai, chinese. All good.

Loads of herbs and lots of chilli. Mmmm.

Here are some of the more challenging things I have made recently.

Vegetarian sticky rice parcels, wrapped in bamboo leaves.

Bhel Puri, an Indian snack food, with green mango and lots of crispy things.

Green Papaya Salad. An all time favourite.

Rojak. A Malaysian salad with jicama, pomelo, green mango, pineapple, served with a tamarind/peanut sauce.

Caramelised mackerel, cooked in a claypot.

Chargrilled goat in white bean paste.

Roti Jala, for which I bought a fancy, perforated cup for $3.

Cashew and potato samosas.

Naan bread with nigella seeds.

Homemade tamarind chutney.

What are your favourite things to cook? Fast and easy? Old faithfuls? Challenging new things? I'm always on the hunt for something different to cook, so if you have a good recipe, send it my way.

Random Monday Images

2010-08-23T13:39:00.000+10:00

Blue sky. At last.

Smoochy cats.

Bike riding for the essentials.

Beautiful trims.

Marble cake

and classic movies while I iron.

Lotus Leaf Rice

2010-08-22T16:53:00.001+10:00

Righto. Recipe time.

One of our favourites when we meet up for Yum Cha. My version features chicken, lup cheong, lotus seeds and shiitake mushrooms.

Lotus Leaf Rice

Serves eight (or four really greedy people)

500g sticky rice, soaked for 2 hours then drained

500ml water

2 tsp salt

4 lotus leaves, soaked until pliable

300 g diced chicken fillet

8 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked, then quartered

1 small lup cheong (chinese sausage)

4 tbspn oil

4 big cloves garlic, crushed

4 tbspn oyster sauce

1 tsp ground black pepper

2 tbspn sesame oil

6 tbspn water

40 dried lotus seeds, soaked

Put the soaked rice in a steamer, add water and salt and steam until cooked (I do mine in a rice cooker and it takes about 20 minutes). Cool.

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok, fry the garlic, then add the chicken and stir fry for a couple of minutes. Add the sausage, mushrooms, oyster sauce, lotus seeds, pepper, sesame oil and water and stir until chicken is cooked through and sauce reduced slightly.

Gently squeeze excess water from leaves and lay flat. Divide rice in to four and place on each of the leaves, flattening with damp hands. Top with chicken and mushroom mix.

Firmly fold the leaves in, making a parcel.

Kind of like this.

Place in a bamboo steamer, and steam for roughly five minutes, or until heated through.

Slice open, and serve.

Domestic

2010-08-21T15:57:00.000+10:00

I never thought I would end up a housewife. Truly. I majored in Psychology at university and did a half dozen units in Women's Studies. Yet here I am. Educated, but so not a career woman. Instead I am lucky enough to be doing exactly what I want. Every day. I guess I never had a passion for any particular career, instead I filled in a few years doing various things before I really discovered what I wanted to do.

I'm not a Lady Who Lunches, one who spends days at the beauty salon, or am addicted to shopping.

I do what I love, which is making a home.

I do ponder the worthiness of this occasionally, and I was accused of creating work for myself the other day by another stay at home Mum. But the things that I do to fill my days I don't really see as work, just extensions of my creativity.

Like sewing pretty aprons that match my shoes.

Learning a new craft

and baking cakes.

I mark the seasons by the preserves I make, rather than counting down the days worrying about sales targets or performance reviews.

So I'm very rarely bored, and every day I get to do something I'm proud of. Something that makes me feel fulfilled. I get to express myself in so many ways, and challenge myself by continually learning new things.

With both kids now in school (in fact one heads off to secondary school next year), I have even more time to devote to my own interests, and I love it. I really am blessed.

I hope you are all having a lovely weekend, and I will leave you with one last shot.

All finished!

My little pony

2010-08-18T12:51:00.000+10:00

Well it has finally arrived. No excuses now. Time to get out of the house, stop driving the car, and experience fresh air and wide open spaces.

But not today. Too windy.

Instead I am powering on with the wretched scarf that I think I will never finish.

Three more to go, and I almost can't bear the thought of sewing in all those whispy mohair ends. Looks pretty though and I must say I am looking forward to wearing it. The weather here is still very nippy and scarves are a must. Hopefully in the upcoming week I will have a few more bike excursions around our area, and perhaps I will be wearing the fancy scarf before spring arrives.

Acrylic Vs Natural

2010-08-12T12:56:00.000+10:00

Never really been a lover of acrylic, yet the colour choices just seem to pop a little bit more.

I was wanting yarn to complement the lovely Green Gate cups I have, and at $3 a ball, the acrylic was hard to beat. My new project is a Granny Square Rug, and if I ever finish the scarf from hell, I think this will crochet up pretty quick.

It is fast and neat to use, and unlike the mohair, cotton and pure wool I am using for the scarf, it doesn't split.

I think the end result will be worth it, but these flowers have been a bugger to make. I'm still struggling with the tension, and am only 13 flowers in. I need to make a total of thirty two to complete the scarf.

The green mohair is my favourite, despite it's trickyness.

Please don't look too closely at the dodgy stitching!

Given our awful wet, windy weather, I haven't ventured too far out in the garden, but things are continuing to astound me. Despite it's neglect, bulbs all over have multiplied and are flowering. The aeonium is blooming for the first time, and poppies are popping up, competing for a spot beneath the Queen anne's lace and snapdragons. For once the weeds are mostly under control, and if we have a break in the weather I might even get out and pick a few flowers for inside.

But for now, it's time to stay indoors, feet up, and finish a few more crocheted flowers.

Ten Things About Me

2010-08-06T14:44:00.000+10:00

That you could probably live without knowing....

1. I am currently obsessed with nail polish. Bright, colourful, non-nail polishy colours.

2. My one personal rule is no day time TV (for me it would be a slippery slope towards soapy addiction and thus never getting dressed).

3. I have a new bike, that hand over heart I promise to ride.

4. I hate making Chicken Stock, yet I make it every fortnight.

5. I have an irrational fear of going to bed with my cupboard door open. Also extends to drawers. Who knows what might jump out and get me.

6. While I love the classics, I also read an unhealthy dose of trashy chick-lit. Shhh. Don't tell anyone.

7. Even though I am allergic to cats, I let him sleep on my bed.

8. After one week, I am a crochet nut, but promise to draw the line at clothing.

9. I LOVE white chocolate. But not just any white chocolate. Organic Valrhona is my current fave.

10. I have a girl-crush on Poh Ling Yeow, and who wouldn't? So, so talented and as cute as a button.

Now you can all rest easy knowing ten more obscure things about me,

One More

2010-08-03T15:01:00.000+10:00

So sorry to bore you with more, but look, I made a flower. Fancy like.

Fancy that.

Ta Da

2010-08-01T10:15:00.000+10:00

I did it! Granted it is far from perfect, but I have actually made a Granny Square. I persevered with the wonderful video tutorials, and presto, here I am. Crocheting.

While I still have a ton to learn, I am so pleased with myself. I am still booked in to classes, which will hopefully help me with tension etc, and I really haven't figured out how to read a pattern. But hey, it's a start.

Mental Hands

2010-07-28T14:13:00.000+10:00

Way, way back last Winter, I decided that I really wanted to learn to crochet. Even bought a kit.

Turns out I have mental hands that do not behave, and cannot process simple instructions.

But still, I'm trying again. All formal like, with classes and everything.

Believe me, these hands are hard to teach.

Most people could probably learn this way, but sadly not me.

Crooked and wonky chain stitch and just can't seem to work out how to hold the yarn.

So, in anticipation of being finally able to crochet a Granny Square, I have a little supply of wool. Practice wool from my new local craft shop, Onabee.

Because I don't want to be the class dunce, I will try, try again, ready for that first class.

Random Monday Images

2010-07-26T14:04:00.000+10:00

Given the frequency that I hear my tweeny son say random, I can hardly bear to say it.

But here we go.

Random Monday Images, or RMI's.

My lovely new Pom Pom slippers, courtesy of my Mum.

Pistachio and Cardamom Kulfi with Rosewater Syrup. So, so good and very easy to make.

Homemade finger buns and yellow nail polish.

Birthday boy out for lunch.

A bit of cheery street art sighted on the weekend.

The tiny thought of a pet Guinea Pig.

And a cat that just won't leave me (or my tea) alone.

Liberating

2010-07-20T14:10:00.000+10:00

Because I am such a crazy, risk taking kind of person, I've done something dramatic. I've wiped the slate clean so to say. My out of control google reader has been deleted. Yep. Starting again. To say I am feeling panicked is an understatement, but really it had to be done. I've even removed the sidebar of blogs I follow.

So. What I am hoping you will do is give me a hand. New inspiration is needed. Tell me your favourite blog and send me a link to yours.

In the mean time, I'm heading back to the printed word and finishing off a book or two without worrying about trying to keep up with google reader.

Aahh. Feeling better already.

My Legs

2010-07-17T16:00:00.000+10:00

Too much colour? Well it's hard to say.

Difficult to see here, but I am also wearing teal coloured knitted socks (thanks Mum).

Either way I don't really care. It's one of those drab, grey Melbourne winter days, and with a temperature to match, things needed warming up a bit. I've spent the day outdoors, digging, pruning and sighing. Lots of sighing. Hard to imagine that I will one day have a nice, orderly back garden.

This however, I can imagine better. This space is the bane of my existence. I know you don't need a fantastic kitchen to bake good food, but geez...what were the previous owners thinking when they designed this beauty? Black laminate tops and woodgrain cupboards??? Not just ugly but shoddily built, with very limited storage.

I really can't wait to move into a properly functioning kitchen again, and although it is at least 12 months away, it's exciting to be planning it. The photos are a bit crappity (yes, I've been on photo booth again), but no fancy camera can make this room appear anything other than what it is.

And back to those purple legs. As long as nobody comes to the door, I think they are just fine.

The Garden

2010-07-16T20:18:00.000+10:00

Old photos, but ones that make me want to get out in the garden and do something.

These are spring shots of the garden, so bright and colourfilled, full of flowers and promise.

If only you could see it now.

Won't show you though, because it is so neglected, soggy and sorry looking. Haven't even pruned yet. It all looks truly dreadful, and with renovations planned for next year, it is hard to get enthused about it. My overall design for the garden is going to have to change to accommodate the proposed building work, and I'm at a bit of a loss as to how best to achieve this. Things will have to be dug up and moved, and my lovely old lemon tree will have to go. All a bit overwhelming really.

Building plans aside, I've gone from being a person who read plant catalogues at bedtime, to someone who can barely be bothered weeding. Plant wish lists and expeditions to far flung nurseries have become a thing of the past. Somehow six months have passed without me planting anything new - no bulbs, seedlings, shrubs or trees, but the bones of the garden are good, hedges are growing well, and bulbs are popping up. With the dog gone, no more plants are being dug up, lain on or chewed.
I know I will get my gardening mojo back, a sunny day or two may just do the trick.

Photo Phobia

2010-07-13T13:04:00.000+10:00

Always have been. So here's what I did today.

Played with photobooth, and ooooh, I like being able to take AND then delete photos of myself. Was after a shot of my lovely apron. And then couldn't stop. Many shots later, and I've spared you the ones of me holding up the eiffel tower, swimming under water, and looking all pop-artish, and I actually have some photos I am happy with.

Smirky me.

Serious me.

Booky me.

Hours of entertainment while I ignore the housework piling up around me and the overgrown garden that is desperate for attention.

Photo booth is a lot of fun, and today was the first time I had ever bothered to look at it. Makes me love our Mac even more (and part of me secretly wants to get all dressed in costume and pose all day).

Culture with a C

2010-07-11T10:04:00.001+10:00

Bendigo Art Gallery has on a Frederick McCubbin exhibition, so off we toddled for a day out of town. Small people who do not appreciate art were dropped off along the way, while the larger, McCubbin disliking person was told he had to come anyway.

Disappointingly, I didn't really like any of the other McCubbin's, but LOVED the Boyd's.

Always do. Bridegroom waiting for his bride to grow up, and Leda and the Swan.

On a fridge.

Also loved this Jan Nelson Walking in tall grass (Tom).

And this Emily Floyd cuckoo clock? Love it!

Chicken pie with mushy peas for lunch, perfect really as the day was cold, wet and blustery.

Culture with a K

2010-07-09T16:35:00.001+10:00

After a day or two going slightly stir crazy, with kids just wanting to hang out at home, we headed for the city.

The Snuff Puppets were out, and the Tim Burton exhibition was on.

Hordes of people though, and queues everywhere, but well worth it. The sheer volume of work on display was amazing to say the least and I could have spent hours looking at it all if there had been a few less people.

The Gallery itself was quieter, and after gazing at the McCubbin's, Nolan's and Blackburn's, we went through Stick it!, a collage exhibition.

I liked Sally Smart's Femmage Frieze

and Blair Trethowan's Sweating Logos, made from tiny, circular stickers.

Yum Cha for lunch and then home.

Thanks everyone for your kind words about our poor old dog. Life is certainly quieter (and dare I say less filled with dog hair) without him.

Let's go...

2010-07-07T11:36:00.001+10:00

I'm off to see Mary Poppins soon, and I have had that damn kite song stuck in my head forever.

So I made one.

Pretty easy, a couple of lengths of thin dowel, knotted and glued.

Eight pieces of Gaffa tape folded over and stitched to corners.

Then trimmed to size.

The dowel cross bars where notched, and threaded with string, then placed in the little Gaffa tape corner pockets.

The string was then taped down

And more string threaded though from the back to the front

wrapped around the corners

and tied in the centre.

The rest of the string was then wound around a cardboard roll

and a tail attached.

Now all we need is some wind.

Postscript.
Given that our in-house air traffic controller/aerophysicist just scoffed as he walked past... I now have serious doubts about it's flying capabilities. You may need photographic evidence that this actually flies.

Watch this space.

Off we go

2010-07-06T12:21:00.000+10:00

A quick trip up to the mountains.

A tour on the Great Alpine Road, through Benalla, Omeo and Bairnsdale, via Hotham Heights and Dinner Plain.

A smooch in the snow

A stroll in the snow

And a toboggan ride or two.

An icy topped snowman

And a warming hot chocolate in a nearby cafe (while I allowed a rare photo to be taken of me). Not sure what I was looking all weirdy eyes about, but it really was a great day.

It was a largely unplanned trip, only booked a week prior to the start of school holidays, and definitely a budget adventure. We self catered the whole way, and it was actually a lot of fun. Picnic lunches, homemade biscuits and pre-made dinners which I could reheat. Chilly temperatures meant everything stayed nice and cool in the back of the car, and we packed a bottle or two of something nice to sip on in the evening to warm us back up again. Easily done, and we are looking forward to another short adventure soon.

Old Dog

2010-07-06T10:59:00.001+10:00

What a sad week we have had. Our lovely old dog fell ill and had to be put down. What a dreadful decision it was to make. At almost thirteen, he was getting slower and slower. Dalmatians don't have the longest lifespan (11-13 years), and the last couple had seen him struggling with arthritis and skin cancers needing regular surgery.
Despite his health problems, he was well medicated and still had a great quality of life, and we aren't sure exactly what his final illness was. Very suddenly he stopped eating, became listless with a high fever and just seemed to lose the will to live. With vets talking about ultrasounds, blood tests and long hospital stays, we made the awful decision to put him to sleep. While I know it was the right decision, I still wonder if he could have got over this and been with us for another year or so.

Sometimes being an adult sucks.

Cupcake Day

2010-06-26T17:08:00.000+10:00

Or not as the case was here. Three dozen cupcakes baked, waiting decoration and I was told not to worry anymore, the party was being postponed. POSTPONED!!!!!

Hmmm. Less than thrilled, I powered on anyway and am so crazy pleased with the end result that the fact that I had actually baked them for an event was kind of irrelevant. We will eat them (Although it does seem like a lot).

The gnomey ones are a mini strawberry cupcake, covered in tinted fondant and grassy green buttercream. And some have gum paste caterpillars. The toppers were perfect for the bite sized cakes, just the right height. And if you can keep a secret...I cheated and used a packet cake mix, I knew it would make a nice, consistent domed cupcake, and really, kids aren't that fussy when it comes to sugar.

These on the other hand are the real deal. Using my favourite chocolate cake recipe, and topped with my favourite chocolate ganache.

These are a slightly larger cupcake, and very, very rich. Made for the adults, the chocolate was a 70% cocoa from Lindt. Although not intended for these cakes, I have topped them with gum paste baby roses I twirled together yesterday and sugared leaves I had leftover from a previous cake making frenzy.

These are fun to make, albeit time consuming.

These were to grace the vanilla cupcakes I had still to make, sitting above a tinted, poured fondant icing. Maybe next week.

Lantern WIP's

2010-06-19T15:19:00.000+10:00

Tonight we are headed off to the Collingwood Children's Farm for their Winter solstice celebrations. Given that last year I came home with serious lantern envy, I figured I would give making lanterns a go.

Basic lanterns, of the paper mache and recycled tin can variety.

I had planned on a tutorial, but was overcome by laziness, and really, just google it and there are tons of how to's out there already.

The paper mache lanterns were the most fun to make, layers and layers of tissue paper in gorgeous shades of reds and browns. Don't believe those articles that say tissue paper is too difficult to work with, it isn't and makes for a nice, translucent orb. The lovely dome shape was achieved with the use of an inflated balloon, which was popped when the PVA glue had dried off. As I made this a couple of months back, they have had a fairly long curing time, but had the weather been warmer this period would have been much shorter, days instead of weeks. They still need final touches added, obviously a handle of some sort and I still need to glue in the tea light holders.

Not so sure about the tin can ones. Slightly trashy looking, but similar ones caught my eye last year, so maybe when all is dark they will glow nicely, sending out little star patterns for us to enjoy. They are certainly brighter than the paper mache orbs, and won't catch alight if bumped.

Also easy to make, just freeze a water filled can overnight or until solid. Using a nail, simply punch a design on to the surface and a couple of holes at the top for a wire handle to be inserted. I have also cut some lengths of thin dowel to add to the wire handle so little kiddy fingers don't get too close to either a heated tin can or a candle flame, but I really don't think the tea lights will send out too much heat.

If you are wondering why the can needs to be ice filled, it is too stop the can becoming dented when the nail is hammered in. Just to be safe, I placed a towel over the open top of the can to stop shards of ice shooting across the kitchen bench.

Given how cold are evenings have become, I'm off now on a serious hunt to see if I can finally locate my missing winter mittens, before I launch into locating thermos's for hot chocolate on the go.

Want one?

2010-06-18T13:12:00.001+10:00

A veritable army of gnomes. Itsy bitsy ones. Coming in at about an inch high, and plastic coated they are completely reusable (unless of course the pick gets too manky). My new laminator and I are now firm friends and I have made far more toppers than necessary.

Soooo. While the dim indoorsy photo's do them no justice whatsoever, they really did turn out great. They look ever so sweet perched on the lurid green cupcakes that I think I might just have to share some.

Should they take your fancy, I have six to give away. Yep, all for you. Just leave a comment here in the next week and they might be winging their little way to you soon. Random child-aided selection will occur ~~next Friday at 8am.~~ Every player wins a prize. Thanks guys!

Anyway, on non-gnome related baking, I also made these. Choc hazelnut, using the whimsical wrappers from The Cupcake Wrapper Co.

Then I got all silly and made some hazelnut toffees.

And even crazier, spun sugar.

Fancy, huh?

Bad Friend

2010-06-17T18:06:00.000+10:00

We all have one. A bad friend. You know the type. The slightly lazy one who is slow to return calls, has trouble committing to dates and says maybe when they really mean no. It occurred to me today that I am that bad friend.

I am the queen of avoidance and frequently exhibit anti-social tendencies. I really do need to work on that, but man some people are just hard work.

That is my rant for today.

See, I even managed to blame my non-friendliness on other people's faults. Cool huh?

Me and the Gnomies

2010-06-16T14:45:00.000+10:00

As I have been volunteered to make little person cupcakes in a few weeks time (never offer what you don't intend to do), I've been thinking along the lines of gnomes.

To be honest, I'm more than a bit over cupcakes. I can appreciate that others love them, and certainly there are some beautiful and elegant ones out there, but I always find them just a little too sickly sweet and overloaded with icing/ frosting/chocolate.

Of course mine will be no exception and obviously I don't have to actually eat them myself.

So looking at the gnome and all things gnome like, I think these will be made into a toadstool design, red with white spots. Or perhaps green tufty grass. I'm going the easy route and making toppers from a laminated gnome image, using an illustration from that beautiful book by Will Huyen and Rien Poortvliet.

Either way, I'm thinking quick and easy, but perhaps I might print off a few of these to keep them company.

Best $4 you could spend.