The Machinist's Wife

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2019-06-02T13:12:00.000+10:00

"Helen?"

I remained still.

"Helen?"

Then I realised the call was for me.

Already?

"Hello Helen, you look lovely. Are you going somewhere special? I love your outfit. If I wasn't going to jab you with a needle, I would have asked you out..."

And so it began. Our connection. Our kindredness. This phlebotomist - let's call her Janet, shared my kind of humour. My kind of openness. My kind of vulnerability. My kind of outlook on life. We sped through many topics, during the short time I was perched on the (seemingly high and oversized) phlebotomy chair.

Another jabber lady - "the needle whisperer" was called in to seek out my hard-to-find veins. Within minutes, my A positive blood was flowing down the tube. No sweat!

Janet continued with our latest conversation, explaining to me that her son had Down's Syndrome and that he also had a hole in his heart.

"Tetralogy of Fallot?" I asked.

Her eyes widened and watered in seconds. "Do you know about it?"

"Yes, my brother was born with it. The reason I ask you this is that I want to encourage you in your plight with your son. There are so many new, improved procedures nowadays, compared to when my brother was treated as a young boy. Success rates have greatly improved on all types of Tetralogy".

We then entered the bubble of heart speak (pun intended), where time stood still.

I told her how my mother, while breast feeding her youngest at that time (no 3), had to travel - per train, many times - to Leicester Children's Hospital with her other sick child (no 2) to be treated, operated and checked upon. How after his open heart surgery at five years old, he posed on stage showing off his huge scar - in front of numerous medical and heart surgeons (including Dr Christopher Barnard). How later in life, he had a valve installed between his two ventricles (my brother referred to this as his 'pig valve'). I told her of my fear to go into Intensive Care to see him after his operation. I told her how his head had swelled after surgery, and how confronting it was to see him like that. I told her how comforted I was, though, when he lifted his water filled head off the pillow, looked up at me and said "Hello, Doll", as I knew there and then, he was going to be ok. I told her of my brother's humour, wit and courage. And finally - I told her of his passing at age 66.

Tears all round!

Tissues all round!

Janet then told me of her husband, who had suffered an injury and couldn't go out to work. How she was the only earner in the family. How she coped with her son. How she laughed and loved with her son. How they were waiting for her son's 'big op'. How others told her how strong and courageous she was, and how she brushed those comments off with "we have to do what we have to do". She told me how grateful she was that she still had a warm home - and food....

"And talking of food.... I always, in my head, classify and compare people to food, Helen. You would be a juicy hamburger. You have it all. You are lovely on the inside and the outside. You would be a hamburger with the lot! The absolute lot! Whoever has you in their life, has gold. I'm glad I got you today. I needed this. Thankyou so much. You've inspired and encouraged me...."

"And you, me!" I responded.

More tears, more tissues!

I slid off the chair. "Come here, give me some sugar".

We hugged. We exchanged well-wishes. I went to leave the room, and as I was closing the door, I just had to share one of my (deceased) brother, Brian's well wishes with her.

"...And remember to keep your bowels open...."

I closed the door, and as I walked towards the stairs, all I could hear was Janet's hearty Belly Laugh....

LUNCHEON WITH MAM

2018-11-02T00:09:00.000+11:00

It's hard to think of my mam as a widow.  It's hard to think that one of her sons - my brother - no longer exists.  It's hard to even contemplate how she feels: the agony, the distress of both of them no longer with us.  And yet... life goes on - for all of us.  

Visiting the elderly in a residential home - the 'forever' home for most, is facing life on the brink of death.  I don't say this morbidly - but rather - matter of factly.  It doesn't mean it is necessarily a miserable place to be.  I have witnessed such kindness, consideration, devotion, patience,  sweet vulnerability, wisdom and good humour.  I often wonder if what I 'think' my mam would need or how my mam would feel, may not always be the reality of the situation.  

Maybe (probably) I am totally off the mark. 

Today, at lunch, in the dining room, I had the good fortune of a top of the table seat.  Prime real estate. 

John:  "What did your mom say?  I'm sorry - my wife died not long ago, and I'm just not coping..."

Fred:  "I want to go back to my room.  I don't fancy lunch.  Please take me back.  Oh, wait... is that ice cream?"

John: " she never had hardly any sick days.  She was gone so quickly..."

Fred:  "ICE CREAM PLEASE"

John:  "Will you keep QUIET!!"

Robert:  "Yes, that's from me, too, Fred.  You're so noisy"

Mam:  "It's a mad-house"

John:  "It's like a circus.  Everyone's performing 'cos you're here"

Mable:  "Could I have some lunch, please?"

Mam:  "What if I need something while you are in Sydney next week?"

Me:  "Sarah will be seeing you on Monday, Mam.  She will bring you whatever you need"

John:  "Don't worry.  Your mother won't ever go without here.  Oh no.  She is a Rock.  She is a rock to us all...."

Mam:  "Hmmm... the Rock of Ages, more likely"

Fred:  "Room please.  NOW"

Nurse Aid:  "Would you like some tea?  Sugar and milk?"

Mam:  "No, not milk - tea.  Do you have any?  Can you get my daughter some?"

Tom - with his hands in his mother's mouth, trying to adjust her cliff-hanging dentures amidst partially chewed silverside  "...It's ok, mom, I've nearly got them.  Do you want them in or out?"

Mam - pointing over to a couple of ladies in mobile recliner chairs:  "Sylvia is 96.  Ninety six!  Oh, and Phillipa is 94.  Awwww....."

Robert to me:  "Where's your little girls?  They were here the other day.  When will they be back?"

Rosie, standing, crippled over with arthritis, fists clenched and wrapped around her walker's handles, staring at me, searching my being while waiting for eye contact: 

"Hell-ow"

Mam:  "Rosie, this is my daughter.  I was telling her about that cushion on your walker.  It looks much more comfortable than mine.  Helen - look at Rosie's cushion"

Rosie: "Well, goodbye then...."

Mam: "Goodbye, Rosie. See you next time"

Machinists Wife on Debco Engineering

2018-10-18T13:11:00.000+11:00

The Machinist and I have been partners in business for 30 years this year.

We hadn't planned to travel to a foreign land and start a business. It just happened by default. The Machinist was offered the use of $15,000 to take over a machine shop; an offer made by the owner of a company he was working for at that time. An owner who saw great potential in the Machinist. An owner whose desire was to retire and travel the country.

It was a great opportunity - from the land of opportunity: Australia.

We arrived with less than $1500 in our bank account, but with lots of determination to build a new life. We arrived with very little experience and lots of naivety.

We used only $5000 of the sum offered to us, which we repaid within six months.

Our new business miraculously survived through the recession. We learned as we operated.

We're still learning. We still feel like new kids on the block. We still occasionally feel like amateurs and that we don't know what we are doing. We are, however, now equipped with a new tool: Awareness.

And I have to smile as I think to myself

"...it's been a long time coming..."

Ever wonder what it's like 'behind the scenes' of a wholly family owned and operated business?

I'd like to share - via this blog and our Facebook pages - some of the ins and outs, ups and downs of running your own business. The reality. The nitty gritty. My intention is that it may encourage, inspire or even - help another to not feel so overwhelmed or alone.

Oh, and I'd also like to share a variety of conversations we have during our short coffee/ tea breaks - aka 'smoko' breaks. They are often a source of hilarity. I call them "Conflab in the Fab (Shop)"

Debco Engineering Pty Ltd - for business

The Machinist's Wife - for home and family

Farewell to Thee, My Father

2018-09-02T19:32:00.000+10:00

His second child, - my second of four older brothers - passed away just five months ago.

I was never really sure how much this news affected him. He wept, but on subsequent visits, we never spoke about brother Brian's death. I would have, had my dad initiated it. But no. Nothing.

Was it the British 'stiff upper lip'?

'Chin up and get on with it'?

Or was it the opacity of dementia?

Some days, his cloudy brown eyes would drizzle tears - and then, momentarily - he was asking for an item to be added to the shopping list.

Oh, the dread, the pain of having to tell his wife - my lovely mam - that he had left us. She knew he was soon to depart this world. She was waiting. She had predicted that the third day of his illness would be "the day".

She was right.

She lifted her frail hand to her face and cried gently...."He has left me a few times during the earlier part of our 67 years. I should be used to it. But this is different..."

"Gonna take a sentimental journey

Gonna set my heart at ease

Gonna take a sentimental journey

To renew old memories"

Oh, the anguish of the widow!

The agony.

The grief.

I am so very grateful for my father. He was absolutely perfect for me. He was my jiggly belly gadget man. Soft, and tender hearted. Introverted. A loner, yet still comfortable in company - preferring to listen than to speak.

"I heard about a mansion He has built for me in glory

And I heard about the street of gold beyond the crystal sea

About the angels singing and the old redemption story

Oh and some sweet day I'll sing up there the song of victory"

I love you, Herbert Brian Hudson - BA PhD

(Born again. Past having doubts - HB Hudson)

Farewell to Thee, My Brother

2018-03-28T23:32:00.002+11:00

I learn that in death there are SO MANY lessons on life. Good lessons. I learn that my grief is secondary to the grief of others that I love. Others that loved him. I want to comfort them. In my rainbow tears, I realise the love I have for all those that loved him. But even every day life - between the sadness, I have "eyes to see".

I am aware.

Never before have I been so much in the moment.

My brother knew his time was nigh. That it was getting closer, but alas - I doubt he expected it when it happened.

Then again, who is ever ready?

Who is prepared?

Sitting next to the Machinist in the funeral parlour office, which smelt surprisingly fresh without the scents and cleaners, I asked Phil (first name basis) "Phil, from your experience - people who are grieving, do they grieve in strange ways? Ways that they don't expect?"

"Absolutely", he replied. "Basically, Helen - anything goes. Not to sound callous, but people grieve in different ways. When grief hit me, I blanked out for weeks. Months, in fact. I couldn't remember what transpired in that time"

He went on to tell us how he lost his wife, then 8 months later, his daughter...

I'm so sorry...."

"Thankyou. The thing is, I consulted with a great funeral director. He helped me so much. He explained so much, was ready to help and advise me - any time of the day. He was there for me, comforted me in his presence and assurance. Told me that I could conduct my families' funerals any way I wanted to - to honour them. And because of his help, in my time of deep sorrow - well - that's why I do what I do now..."

"So, Phil, you found your purpose?"

"I sure did. This is what I love to do. To be here now, for you - to help any way I can...THIS IS MY PURPOSE"

* * * * * * * * * *

My brother's crematorium music:

Intro: All things Bright & Beautiful (old tune - UK)
Intro: Lets Get Together - Bryan Ferry
Photo Slideshow: Protons, Neutrons, Electrons - The Cat Empire
Exit: Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick - Ian Dury & the Blockheads.

Never in my wildest imaginations would I conceive a funeral director (A Funeral Director!) to create such inspiration, enabling a client to plan and execute a loved one's funeral with such fervour!

I hope I did you proud, Bro.x

And to Phil - I'm so glad you found YOUR PURPOSE and you're LIVING IT.

Farewell to Thee

Feel no guilt in laughter, he knows how much you care.

Feel no guilt in a smile that he is not here to share.

You can not grieve forever, he would not want you to.

He’d hope that you could carry on the way you always do.

So talk about the good times and the way you showed you care.

Let memories surround you and he will live forever there.

Commonwealth Park and Civic Central, Australian Capital Territory

2017-08-22T11:36:00.001+10:00

I love Civic in winter. I love the fallen leaves in Autumn and Winter, too. I like to kick them. Especially when the wind has dispersed them, then blown them together again. Or some busy landscaper has raked them all together. I know that is naughty of me, but I can't help myself.

And if, perchance, I miss a pile, the Machinist dutifully reminds me of it. He doesn't say anything; he calls my name, and then he turns his head towards the pile and uses his eyes that say to me "Helen, aren't you going to march through that pile of leaves and kick them until they are all over the place..."

Yeah. I know these things. I can read him.

Fairy lights strewn through the trees in Civic Central

The Machinist Walks On

(Don't slip on the fallen acorns, Machinist!)

This is how my skin feels in winter. But... it doesn't look as beautiful

Acorn Melange. I love these short stumpy acorns. Fat and bulbous.

Oak leaves never cease to make me smile. Oh, and one solitary elongated acorn. Can
you spot it?

Our shadows as we stand together on the bridge that links Civic to Commonwealth Park -
where Floriade is held each year.

The paved circle as you walk off the bridge with a reminder of where you are. Knowing
where you are is always good. At least I think so.

Built up beds in preparation for Spring plantings.

More built up beds. I call this "black gold"

See how the creeper moves in? And takes over?

"Oak is everywhere....everywhere you look around..." tra la la
(To be sung to the tune of "love is in the air" by John Paul Young)

Goulburn Railway, Riverside and Wetlands, Goulburn New South Wales

2017-08-22T11:34:00.002+10:00

We didn't know it was such a scenic, pretty place - the walk alongside the Goulburn river. We followed it until it led on to the Goulburn Wetlands, which is still under construction and growing all the time. It reminded me of the type of area you could base a story on. The "Badlands" in Stephen King's "It" comes to mind.

(If you walk there, look over your shoulder!)

Rail memorabilia. Note how blackberry has no bounds. Takes plenty of prisoners!

Part of the golf course near the river. What an ideal spot. I can't imagine the number of golf
balls deposited in the river. We happened to find one as we passed by. Small things...

A delightful leaf covered bridge on the river walk

A metal "welcome" sign to the arty-sit-area, also alongside the river

War Memorial, Rocky Hill, Goulburn

Swamphens. Cheeky!

"Ullo ullo ullo. Who are you, then?"

The Machinist Walks On.

Lake Burley Griffin 4, Australian Capital Territory

2017-08-22T11:32:00.002+10:00

It seems that although Lake Burley Griffin is one vast - well - lake, each direction has different flora and fauna and landscapes. There's always something that catches my eye. These geese would have gladly picked at my eye if I had of shown any fear.

I trembled inside, though.

Birdlife: They all wanted to chase me. But I stood strong. Gangsters.

The trunk had split into three lanky branches, which were doing the Mexican wave...

Hey up! Who goes there....?

Silver Birch Splendour

The Machinist Walks On

Fluff! I wouldn't have gotten this close if it were Spring. Lucky that we walked the
Burley Griffin circuit in Winter.

Lake Burley Griffin 3, Australian Capital Territory

2017-08-22T11:30:00.003+10:00

As I posted these pics, I realised how blurry they are. That's because I'm below average on photography skills. Nevertheless, I think you will be able to make out what is going on. This is another direction of Lake Burley Griffin in our National Capital. The various Embassies are also in this area.

A wee breeze in the trees. Not that you could tell with these strong fellas.

Choppy waters

Black Mountain and the Telstra Tower

Part of Yacht Club

How good does the Aussie flag look - towering over the top of autumnal beauty

Bronze galloping horse

Chinese Culture in the Capital

Bronze bird

Living birds of a feather....

This is NOT the place to pee!

The Machinist Walks On

Lake Burley Griffin 2, Australian Capital Territory

2017-08-22T11:28:00.003+10:00

Lake Burley Griffin on a sunny day. Walking in nature actually does something good to my brain and the way I think.

Views and reeds

Ducks! Oh and if you look at the trees in the distance, they seem to be "dipping" their bottoms
in the lake.

Yet another angle

Love these bullrushes

Carillon. Oh and clover in the foreground

Black Mountain Tower

The Machinist Walks on

Lake Burley Griffin 1, Australian Capital Territory

2017-08-22T11:26:00.003+10:00

We didn't fancy walking. Not because it was raining, but because - well - we just didn't fancy it. But we went after all. We had no plans as to where we were going to walk. The Machinist just pulled up at Lake Burley Griffin. We got out. We walked.

This is what we saw: Scenes from around (part of) Lake Burley Griffin:

Captain Cook Memorial

The National Library

The Machinist walks on

Swans on the lake

It LOOKS cold, don't you think?

Old Parliament house in front of the New Parliament House

More black swans

The National Carillon

Rusty Metal retaining wall

More rusty metal wall

I loved the way these were blowing in the wind. I'm amazed it's not blurry.

Overcast Lake

The Science and Technology Centre: Questacon

The other side of the Lake - Lots of Oak trees!

Approaching Parliament House

After a brisk walk - hot coffee at Hudsons of Dickson (my brother's old cafe)

They still use the names my brother allocated to sandwiches, bagels and drinks. This makes
me smile, as the new owners are Asian and the names are so very British!

Cotter Dam, Australian Capital Territory

2017-08-22T11:24:00.001+10:00

We took our 5 year old grand-daughter, Keiralea to the Cotter Dam.

Keiralea at the dam

Onwards ahead!

I wish I could have dug this up!

It seems like this home-owner had gone out picnicking for the day....

A melange of Oak - our namesake!

The river

Stepping Stones

Shall I? Dare I?

No. I will sit and observe the riverbank

I doubt I will ever tire of the oak and its acorns

Papa will tire of the chase, though!

Kangaroo Valley Bushland, New South Wales

2017-08-22T11:22:00.002+10:00

After exploring the Pioneer Village at Kangaroo Valley, the Machinist and I had a bit of a hike in the nearby bushland.

Old Bridge at Kangaroo Valley

Rocks, moss and lichen = slippery!

I just love this bushland floor collage

"Be careful on the decline, Helen!"

Can you see it? Can you see the beauty in this collection?

Mossy rocks and - although you can't see them here - lots of rabbit holes.

I had to contain myself and NOT go hop pity-hopping on these rocks. Instead, I listened
and delighted in the trickle of the stream

Forrest floor variety show

A carpet of stripped bark

Pioneer Farm Museum, Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales

2017-08-22T11:21:00.001+10:00

This was our second visit to the Kangaroo Valley Museum. The first one was over 20 years ago, when we were homeschooling our children.

Nothing much has changed, as it shouldn't. The Machinist and I enjoyed our time there and had a good chat with a lady who was making butter.

Communication back then....

Post Office display

An old "copper"

Laundering utensils displayed on the back deck

"The Laundry"

The tea table (and everything else)

Frock and apron

I always wonder about the display dressers of old. Did the homemaker have regular-use
dishes and plates, or did she wash and dry after each use, returning them for display?

Cosy in winter. Extremely hot in summer.

Where's the family?

A sideboard for the "pretties"

Another dresser for the lesser used items.

Activity corner!

The parents bedroom. See the ghost in the picture glass reflection?

Lots of sewing and darning to be done.

A Child's pram. I wonder if mama had her special set of straps to keep the child in.

Recreation and entertainment

Boots and shoes. Such personal items. See how they've been shaped to each
individual's feet?

Farmworker Huts

Inside the hut. Brrrr.... feel the winter breeze? And in the summer? Oh my - what could
creep in? Answer: Snakes!

Fitzroy Falls, New South Wales

2017-08-22T11:18:00.002+10:00

Fitzroy Falls is on the way to Kangaroo Valley, but we popped in on our way back home. The Machinist pulled over to have a peek at "Grandpa's Shed" and all its wares, and I hoofed it on my own, while waiting for him.

The rain fell softly, but increased in vigour as I walked through nearby trees and grasses. When we both made our way on the track to the falls, it had stopped, which gave us time and opportunity to admire the flora and fauna.

Oh, and the lyre bird.

Have you ever imagined falling into a waterfall? I have....

"Smoke... in the valley..." tra la la... But it's not smoke, and there's no fire in the sky.

The Falls from different angles

One scene of many - flora and fauna

Hello Lyre Bird

"Catch me if you can"

"You can't catch me!"

"Why aren't you chasing me?"

Anyone home? I didn't want to wait. Well... I did and I didn't. I wanted to KNOW, but I
was also wary as to what / whom may pop their head out.

Helllllooooooo?
Run!

Iandra Castle, near Greenethorpe, New South Wales

2017-08-22T11:16:00.000+10:00

The Machinist and I took a drive to Iandra Castle, near Young, New South Wales. I took many photos of the Castle and grounds; - far too many to upload here. And besides, I think you may become bored with them, as some are very detailed.

I couldn't wait to get out of the car and make my way towards the castle. I wanted to get lost in my own imaginings of the Green family. How they may have thought and felt. How they may have conducted themselves.

How they coped in a foreign land.

I think I need another visit to Iandra. I really do. Time evaded us. The sun began to set before we left the premises.

I did, however, return home with a few - ahem - tokens for remembrance of our day there; pods and seeds from the castle garden. My bag was heavy with them. One day, I will plant them.

If the castle intrigues you like it does me - you can read more here:
Iandra Castle & Mt Oriel Homestead

Tower

We couldn't wait to see inside. The outside "calls" you in

Dormer windows always intrigue me

Chimneys!

More Chimneys!

The Machinist and I were standing on this upstairs verandah and didn't realise we had been
spotted by Cameron's parents, who also visited that day.

Creeping Ivy Skeletons

Lichen

Australian emblem on the kitchen stove (one of them)

A typical bed

The bedroom's pee pot

A bedroom hearth

Part of a corridor in the parent's wing

Part of a corridor in the right wing - leading to servant's quarters

Corridor connecting one wing to another.

Telephone situated near the kitchen

The Family Church

Side door to the church. More lichen....

A "welcoming" from the wasps

Very old graves, no surrounds. Solid metal headstones

An infant grave

The Stables

We love the bronze ring

Peeling paint on a rusty gate within the Stable courtyard

Mr Green; home and landowner - Iandra Castle

Even thistles show their beauty

Add caption

Independence and Dignity

2017-03-04T20:45:00.001+11:00

My parents no longer live independently, in their own unit.

Last year, when my mam got very sick and had two bouts in hospital, (very shortly after my dad had finished with his extended bout in hospital) we all decided that it was better for them to move into a Residential Care Home.

I had dreaded putting this to them.

They took it well. Both were very quick to respond positively.

I think they were relieved in a way.

It is a different story now, as although still facing a variety of chronic health issues, they seem to be the most mobile couple on their wing of the care home. They go out on their own, too. It seems that they are caught between wanting / needing assistance in some areas of their health and well being, yet still desiring to retain independence in other instances.

Plus, their strengths and weaknesses differ.

One would think this fact would be advantageous, but often it is not.

I see and hear and experience their frustration (sometimes anger) with each other. After all, they are husband and wife. They don't think of each other as residents or patients in their own right. Their expectations of each other are those of married people, living together in their own home. Unique responsibilities, specific duties.

Yet, they are not independent and are not in their own home.

It is hard for them to grasp.

"I miss my stuff...." my dad laments
"What stuff"
"My tools, mainly"
"But you didn't use your tools in the unit"
"I did a little. Not much, but I did"

And mam:

"I actually miss cleaning my own home"
"I never thought I would actually miss cooking my own food, either"

My mam had been taken to hospital two days before moving day. She left via an ambulance, in her pyjamas. She was discharged into her new home; her shared (but divided) room with my dad.

That must have been tough.

For both of them. Dad on his own, in a strange place. Mam still in that surreal state one experiences for a few days after leaving hospital.

We wanted to make their rooms "homely" and "welcoming", but to this day, they aren't that keen, or interested in the subject. They didn't want photos or prints, personal affects or items of comfort.

I will continue to ask them if they are ready to "sort" another box.....

Sometimes, I think that this must be the saddest time in their lives.

And mine - just watching them.

I long for normality.

And yet, I suspect this may just be the new normal.

Dishwashing 101 with Miss Keiralea

2017-02-23T22:40:00.003+11:00

Before we began our chores, I told Miss Keiralea that I was looking forward to her coming over and just KNEW she was going to be a great help to me.

She insisted on carrying a kitchen chair over to the sink to stand on. I rolled up her sleeves. "If you get wet, don't worry; Mama has another top for you to wear", I assured her. I rolled a towel into a 'sausage' and placed it on the edge of the sink to soak up any spills and prevent water dripping onto the chair, potentially making it slippery.

I placed a plastic, removable bowl into the larger sink and filled the smaller sink with water for rinsing.

"Mind while we run the hot water into the bowl. If we put dishes into the bowl the water could splash on you and we don't want that, do we?

"No, Mama"

"Is that too hot for you?"

"A little bit..."

"OK, I'll put some more cold in. Mama likes to uses the hottest of water as possible to clean the dishes because it makes lots of dishwashing bubbles and it is that hot water and bubbles that help clean all the food mess and oil off the dishes"

"Mama, can I wash this knife?"

"No, Baby. How's about we wash the glasses first because they are the cleanest of all the dishes. We can soak all the knives and forks because soaking makes all the food that is stuck to them - soft - and it is easier to wash off".

"To wash the glasses, we put them in the hot, soapy water and use the dishwashing brush or bottle brush to wash inside".

"Why do you use a brush, Mama?"

"Because it is safer than putting your hand inside the glass - with or without a cloth"

"What will happen?"

"Sometimes, some girls and ladies had their hands cut from the sharp glass"

"Did they bleed?"

"Yes..."

"Oh noooo.."

"Anyway, after we have washed the glasses and everything else, we rinse them in the other sink with clean water, then put them upside down on the draining board so that all the water can drain off and then,the tea towels don't get so wet."

After a decent chunk of time, Miss Keiralea decided it was time to stop. "Can we have some tea now, Mama?"

A girl after my own heart.....

The Predator of Dusk and Dawn

2017-02-18T02:11:00.002+11:00

Mosquitoes love to drink my blood.

Not so much the Machinist's blood.

He is most considerate of my dilemma when I become insomniacal (if that is a word) after being brutally savaged by the Culicidae Family. Especially those who have ties to the Mafia.

He urges me to wake him, should I be harassed in any way, shape or form by these pesky, midge-like flies. In past times, I've watched him swat and swing, balancing and bouncing on the bed as he does so - with threat of lurching himself off. I can't handle that kind of drama in the middle of the night.

And so - the other night, after switching on the light and thankful that it hadn't woken him, I proceeded to spray the room.

*Cough cough*

*Splutter splutter*

"Babe, what's going on?" he pleaded drowsily

"It's ok, I'm just trying to get these mozzies. They've bitten me a hundred and twenty three times"

I was determined to convince the Machinist that I was doing my part in thwarting their plans of a blood-fest, even if I was exaggerating just a little.

And then he said it.

I had to make an urgent dash to the bathroom.

"You don't have to over do it....we're not in Auschwitz..."

Grand Escapades

2017-02-18T00:57:00.000+11:00

More power outages today. Over two hours of non-productivity in the workshops. However, the Lads took it upon themselves to mow and trim the lawns in order to stay busy and earn their wages. I didn't even have to take the whip to them and give them twenty lashes each!.

The Mummies, on the other hand, were more concerned with not being able to shower, flush toilets and make baba bottles. Fortunately, we have a gas stove, so we boiled a saucepan of water and made tea and coffee.

Oh, and a couple of bot-bots.

Priorities!

A phone call from Granny (of "The Grands" fame - my mam), answered by Sarah, as I had baby Lyla on my hip, watching and waiting for a pot to boil.

"Hello Sarah, is your mum coming through today?"
"Yes, Gran" - as she looked at me, enquiringly to confirm
"What time is she coming through?"
"I'm not sure, Gran, as we currently have no electr...."
"No what?"
"No electricity"
"No what did you say?"
"No electricity. The power is out"
"Your mums gone out? Where's she gone?"

Sarah and I share the same routine with the Grands when we (separately) go through to see them on different days each week. They like to take a break from their "dailies" at the residential care home, book community transport and meet us late morning in the mall. We usually start with a weekly "news" or "show and tell" over cups of coffee. Then a bit of window shopping, (but usually buying). Perhaps a banking errand. A trip to the local chemist. Then lunch in the food hall.

After lunch - a trip to the supermarket for treats and those 'extra's' that are so personalised, of which are dependent on moods, fancies and wants - differing from week to week.

And rightly so. Why not.

Maybe another tea or coffee. Usually the time to plan or make arrangements for the week to follow. Hearing their concerns or complaints (sometimes whims) and deliberating how we can help them.

Usually, this routine can take up to five hours, when trips to the toilet, slow movement due to aching arthritic or gouty joints and breathlessness, meeting and greeting of friends and acquaintances and other unforeseen distractions are taken into account.

Today, for instance -

Mam and I were sitting on a bench - just outside of the supermarket entrance. An elderly chap, pushing a wheelie-walker came to join us.

"I can sit here with you ladies, can't I?"
"Most certainly you can", I assured him
"Mine [husband] has just gone to the loo, but you can sit there in the meantime.."
"Oh, ok. Thankyou"

The chap told us all about his experience with a faulty phone, and Telstra's incompetence and the long queues he had to wait in to get his new phone fixed. The conversation then changed course into the general lack of public privacy and the protection of personal credit cards.

As it happened, I had only just (today) bought two - yes two - not one, but two - credit card holders which claim the ultimate protection from credit card number theft. I reached into my bag and gave him one.

"For me? Are you sure?"
"Yes, please take it. I bought it as a spare"
"Can I pay you..."
"No. Honestly. You're welcome to it..."

Grandpa had returned from the loo. He was waiting - standing up against a wall - and I could tell he was getting impatient, as Granny, with her head tilted to the side was enquiring of the elderly chap where he had left his wife....

We said our goodbyes, got up to leave and I automatically grabbed Granny's wheelie-walker and proceeded to walk towards the coffee shop. She was left standing, holding my purchases, staring after me in disbelief. I was steering the walker as I would a baby pram - weaving it in and out of oncoming human traffic. But today, there was no baby and it wasn't a pram.

Chuckling, I turned to see where my mam was.

She was doubled over, laughing.

Grandpa was way in front. His long black with hot milk on the side could wait no longer.

A Random Day In The Life Of The Machinist's Wife

2017-02-17T00:06:00.002+11:00

I had to return to the microsurgery hospital today, so that the surgeon could check on the status of wound healing, after a procedure on both eyelids. This is the second time I've had small benign cysts of un-known origin removed from my eyelids. It seems that I'm 'prone' to get them. It pains me (yes!) that I may have to go regularly for blimp removal. (I have this picture in my mind's eye of huge carbuncles with hairs sprouting out of them, weighing my eyelid down). I know if I mentioned this to my daughters they would tell me not to be so dramatic.

Shhhhhhh....... don't tell them I thought that.

Then it was lunch at Ikea with Sarah and her baby, Lyla Melody (Sarah had offered for them to keep me company, in return for a few "keeping companies" I had done with them. Not that it matters. I would have gone with her to prenatal appointments anyway).

We made a pact that we would have lunch only; not wander around the rest of the store. We were strong and stuck to our resolve. Lyla was happy about that. Any time is food time for her!

Because of our uncompromising will-power (jesting), we were able to leave within a reasonable time frame and move on to our next chore: delivery of products to a customer on the other side of town. It was last on our errands list, and we were making good time (for us). My plan was to return home, (a 60km distance), then head in the opposite direction to visit my parents - the Grands.

I never made it in time to see the Grands before their scheduled dinner time. I only made it to the TV lounge at home, put my feet up and started watching re-runs of "Tabitha's Salon Makeover".

I was awoken by the Machinist -

"....coming for a dip in the pool, Babe? I've just got to scoop out some leaves and then she's ready to rock and roll....."

Oh the shame of being caught napping.

Not.

And later that evening "Babe, I thought you could do with being taken out. I thought we could go and watch a movie. How's about going to see The Wall. I've been wanting to see that...."

Cherished Kin

2017-02-15T23:43:00.001+11:00

I know and have known for some years now, that we, - the Machinist and I have a very unique situation. We view our situation very seriously and never take it for granted. In truth, words cannot describe our fortunate circumstance. We (separately) think about it each day. We talk about it most days. Sometimes, the sheer recognition, the joy of it all is overwhelming. Blissfully overwhelming.

Our children live and have lived with us through to adulthood. Those that have left home and have married live less than 500 metres away from us - with their children - our grand-children. Not only do they live with us and near us, they earn their living from our family business.

They show up, each work day.

They desire to be with us. Seek our approval. Ask our council.

"Mama's" large living room is a haven for regular family gatherings. In cheer and delight, in trouble and strife. In loud disagreements (sometimes furious) and peaceful accord (often without verbal apologies). Mediation and reconciliations.

The kitchen table is seldom clear. Not only topped with food and drink - but also crayons, play dough, baba bottles and dummies, bibs, hair ties and brushes, Lego, soft and cuddly toys as well as "interesting items to occupy the young". Oh - and blood pressure machines!

The kitchen table; - without a cloth, but rather - covered most days with chunky babies, passed around as if on a Party Susan.

In younger years, I could never even imagine a life like this. Nor could the Machinist. Although I, from a large family, and the Machinist an only child, both of us grew up painfully aware of loneliness.

We are often reminded that God setteth the lonely in Families.

And we are grateful. Truly grateful.

Mannequin Humour

2017-02-14T00:33:00.000+11:00

Every time I see this pic, I laugh out loud. I don't know why it tickles my funny bone so much.

Perhaps it reminds me of an occasion where my Mam and I were walking down main street Dundee, Kwa Zulu Natal - South Africa. We were chatting and I was in the lead (chatting, that is. I wasn't in front of her. We weren't power walking or running or anything silly like that).

Mam stopped suddenly and I looked at her to see why she had come to a sudden halt.

She was pointing at the window of Truworths Ladies Fashion, doubled over, laughing so hard, she couldn't speak. She was holding her belly with one hand, while gesturing me to look with her other.

There was a line up of mannequins wearing the latest fashions. The expressions on each of their faces were different. Mannequins manufactured in the 1970s were dramatic like that. Not like those pouty, alluring ones of today.

The one that held my Mam's amusement and humour so much had what I can only describe as a gazed expression. But with a wide open mouth - somewhat like the icon on Facebook that depicts "wow".

The eyes didn't match the mouth.

And to add more hysterical laughter (from both of us now), the short-bobbed blonde wig, styled with a block fringe was skew, covering one eye, while revealing the other and it's neighbouring hairless ear.

I can't look at a mannequin without smiling....or thinking of my Mam.

Jelly Belly Fan Club

2017-02-13T01:20:00.002+11:00

We were at the kitchen table and a pack of Jelly Belly beans was being handed around for all to choose a flavour / colour or flavour / flavour combination.

(This is an exercise in extreme patience as others carefully select their beans by referring to the flavour chart on the packet).

OK, so we all get that.

However....

We all decided to smell the packet, too.

"This smell just reminds me so much of younger days. I can't figure out what the dominant scent is, though..."

"Could it be pina colada?"

"Coconut?"

"Vanilla?"

Miss K, almost five years old, inhaled deeply

"It's Mama's house! The jelly beans smell like Mama's house!"

I can live with that.

I know what I have to do to keep up a sweet home fragrance.

Moonlight Imaginings

2017-02-12T16:30:00.001+11:00

Last night, I swam in the moonlight.

The Machinist had gone into the workshop to get the huge fan and bring it inside so that we could later enjoy it's prowess while watching a movie. Cezar was on the pool deck - tormenting himself with the prospect of joining his mistress in the water versus fighting his fear of heights. Polly was doing her usual panting routine - not wanting to take part in family activities, but whimpering (whinging) if any other canine did so.

A huge orange moon seemed to be perched on the pitch of the Machine shop roof in the East North East. Lightning flashes appeared above the ivy clad willow tree in the North West.

My delight and admiration of such beauty was broken by the sound of mosquitoes buzzing around my head. I plunged underwater hoping that said mosquitoes would be gone when I resurfaced. They weren't. I knew they wouldn't be gone. I knew it was one of life's great misconceptions. I didn't want to stay too long underwater either - cos - well - you know - the Jaws theme song.

By now, I was in the middle of the pool. Another sound. What was it? What did it remind me of? That's it... Anthony Hopkin's as Hanibal in the Silence of the Lambs, - the sound he made as he reminisced over brains and fava beans:

Flup-flup-flup-flup-flup.

But it wasn't Sir Anthony.

It was a ....

BAT!

Swooping me - just like a magpie in Spring.

Flup-flup-flup-flup-flup

I could feel my flesh instantly turn to chicken flesh at the prospect of that bat getting closer and - horrors!

what IF it got caught in my HAIR?

Flup-flup-flup-flup-flup

"Babe. BABE. BAAAABBBBEED!!!"

"What is it?"

"A bat. Swooping me....sob...."

"It's ok. He's probably thirsty"

"Yes, for my BLOOOD...."

And with that, I was out of the pool and the intense heat of a kitchen in an Australian Heat Wave never felt so good.

And comforting.

The Kitchen Sink

2016-11-13T20:02:00.004+11:00

We have a stainless steel double sink in our scullery; a deep main sink, and a smaller one next to it. I use the larger sink for pot and dish washing, and fill the smaller sink with bleach or disinfectant water for soaking the dishcloths. This is much more hygienic than using the dishwater to rinse the cloths in when wiping kitchen surfaces, as the dishwater contains a lot of grease from the pots and pans. Grease that sometimes cannot be seen floating, especially when the water is hot and soapy. It is so very tempting to dip the cloths in this prepared sudsy water, but submitting to this urge results in the countertops looking streaky. The grease particles are well behaved; they stay wherever they are spread. Until the next wipe.

If you don't have the benefit of a second sink in your kitchen, a plastic bowl, the shape of your sink unit is an ample substitute. There are round and rectangular bowls available to suit the shape of your sink. Kitchen sink bowls are so handy. Mobile too. The bowl can be filled with 'counter and benches cleaning water', and can be carried around to each kitchen destination requiring cleaning. While your sink is left to do what it does best; hold water for the soaking and later washing of dishes, pots and pans. Alternately, your bowl can be used for washing fruit and vegetables.

Many housewives in England use bowls at their kitchen sinks. It is a domestic tradition. If they have a round sink, they have a round bowl. If they have a rectangular sink, they have a rectangular bowl. My sweet mam used a bowl. She claims that if you place cups, saucers and other 'delicates' into the bowl, they wont have to mix with 'tougher' pots and dishes, which may cause them to crack. Items can be stored in the bowl in the same way they can be stored in the dishwasher. This frees up the sink and draining board and thus provides inspiration to tackle any necessary chore involving the kitchen sink. Mounds of stainless steel, pottery, porcelain, plastic and china, not to mention potatoe peel, spinach spines, carrot peel etc. are very off-putting.

My personal experience with kitchen sinks has been a learning one. I have 'gleamed' much. As a newly wed I thought that if my sink was clean and shining and all gruesome looking food particles were cleaned off the sink, tap and draining board, that everything was truly clean. Alas - that is not so. There's much unseen life there. What I do now, and what I taught my kiddos to do, is firstly, thoroughly clean and disinfect the entire sink area. Then, give the base of the tap and water spout a 'towel rub' with the cloth. Have you ever seen what comes off of there? It's like that song we used to sing - ".....red and yellow and pink and green, orange and purple and blue.....I can see the crud crumbs, see the slime balls, I wonder, can you, too?"

After the rub, I drizzle clean water over this area. Even more crud slithers away - down into the sink. As I watch this, a childhood song comes to mind - and it is as if the goopers are singing the song themselves - "row, row, row your boat, gently down the stream, merrily merrily down the drain, as Helen cleans and gleams". Off they go -down the plug hole! And just when I think they've all surrendered, another lost soul sets sail, down to the depths of the grease trap; via the grey water rapids....

After the 'sinking', I like to use my tea towel to dry the taps, spout and sink area so that it shines. Ready for the next shift....

Look For The Silver Lining

2016-07-28T17:44:00.002+10:00

The sun is trying to peek through fast moving clouds, and even though it's currently a smirk, I'm hoping that there is the possibility of it revealing a greater smile.

While I adore the rain and drizzle, I find that accompanied with dark and troubling times in everyday life, for longer than geographically normal, it gets overwhelming. Life becomes The Dark Cloud Looming Syndrome.

In more ways than one.

Times like this - the uncertainty, the not-knowing - the waiting - make me realise just how much I'm a creature that has to have things "settled" - in mind and deed. Truth be told, I'm concerned about both of my parents, and there's not much I can DO, - especially just yet. And that, my dear Watson, is a formidable thing.

Their care from here on is a major concern to me. It will involve and affect all of us. It already does really. The coordination of visiting, picking up, dropping off, helping in other ways - is constant and has to be planned and executed only after consultation with the Machinist and Young Adults.

There are still times of mental mayhem. Guilt driven pandemonium. I have, I think, always honoured my parents in deed, but not always in my heart.

Is this common, I wonder?

It's difficult to get on with things at home, even the fundamentals, as I'm expecting to be disturbed, interrupted. Not necessarily in a bad way, but it does affect momentum and achievement.

My Mam would often sing this song as she was doing her housework. I loved to hear her sing it.

Look For The Silver Lining by Judy Garland

As I wash my dishes, I'll be following a plan
Till I see the brightness in every pot and pan
I am sure this point of view will ease the daily grind
So I'll keep repeating in my mind

Look for the silver lining
Whenever a cloud appears in the blue
Remember somewhere the sun is shining
And so the right thing to do is make it shine for you

A heart full of joy and gladness
Will always banish sadness and strife
So always look for the silver lining
And try to find the sunny side of life

So always look for the silver lining
And try to find the sunny side of life

The Old, The Young and The In-Betweeners

2016-07-27T09:48:00.001+10:00

We planned to leave in convoy. Sarah with Lyla in her car, and I - in my brother's car.

I've enjoyed driving my brother's car. It is roomy, not too low to the ground and smooth. Furthermore, the boot is so big, it can fit two wheelie walkers, side by side, without threat to the upholstery. Plus shopping. It holds All of our shopping!

Sarah had a medical appointment, a date with the grocery stores and it was her day to visit with the Grands. I, on the other hand was accompanying her on her medical appointment and planned to pick up Grandpa so that we could both visit Granny in hospital.

Mam had been admitted to hospital last night. Paramedics had attended her at home, directed by a wonderful system called "Care Call".

(When Mam or Dad press a button on pendants worn around their necks, a call centre is alerted, details taken and an ambulance is sent straight away, if needed. Care Call then contact me - as the "Responsible Person" to let me know as many details as possible).

This is her second stint in hospital within one and a half weeks - due to completely different medical emergencies. It has been extremely hard getting answers as to her diagnosis. Nurses are run off their feet, doctors are doing rounds. Nothing new, even though one sort of expects time and surveys, coupled with political promises to improve conditions within hospitals. Eventually, anyway.

After being told that Mam was due to have x-rays, an echocardiogram and other tests, I stalled picking up Dad to visit her, as I knew this would fluster her. Being of the old school, she simply hates to "impose" in any way - including having visitors in her room at the same time as doctors nurses and other professionals and 'important' people. Just in case we get in the way or under their feet.

She looked pale. And tired. Her green eyes were deep set within her beautiful aged face. When she blinked, her eyelids closed and reopened as if in slow motion, just like you see on the movies. She seemed small and frail - nothing like the wiry woman I'm so accustomed to. The pillows looked too plumped, and seemed to envelope her frame. She was sitting with both arms upward facing, exposing blood filled needles within mini syringes, - taped to her crepe-like skin.

And how, pray, had she earned all those tiny bruises on her forearms?

"Hey up, Ma, what are you doing in here AGAIN?" I teased
"Hello love… it's my COPD. I couldn't get breath. They had to come for me. Was it Sunday, Brian?", she enquired of my dad, who was wearing his puzzled brow, trying to remember himself.
"No, Ma - it was last night - Monday"
"Monday? It seems longer than that…"

For the next couple of hours, Dad dozed off on in a high backed hospital chair, while mam and my conversations were prone to double handling: Mam's hearing aid was spitting and whistling, rejecting a used up battery, and most of my contribution was repeated, LOUDLY as she simply couldn't hear me. I was becoming ever-conscious of not only the lady in the bed opposite Mams, but wide eyed and enquiring looks from hospital staff as they passed in the corridor.

The lady in the bed opposite took the opportunity of getting involved in our subject topics and I was immediately promoted to the LOUD translator.

"She's a happy soul. I knew it", Mam observed, as "Debbie" was mid sentence in explaining her current unplanned weight loss problem. "I knew it from the moment I saw her…"

"My mam says you're a happy soul"
"Oh that's nice of her. Are you Irish?"
"No, we're from the midlands…"
"Oh, I thought you were Irish. I wasn't sure, though. Anyway, I'm Debbie. What's your name?"
"Mam, this is Debbie"
"Who?"
"Debbie, Ma"
"Debbie Lewis? Yes, I can see it on your board…"
"Debbie, this is Joan"
"Hello Joan, pleased to meet you"
"I can't hear a word she said, Helen. My hearing aid is playing up…"
Debbie laid her head back on her pillow, closing her eyes and smiled at the same time.

She really is a happy soul.

And later…

"Ma, Sarah is popping round to your place. Would you like her to bring anything else?"
"I can't really think. It's hard to think when you're like this.."
"I know it is, Ma. It'll all be ok"
"Could she bring my green cardigan? I got it ready with the other clothes I was going to wear before I came in here."
"Sure she can. I'll ask her to bring them, too - and I'll wash the clothes you came in last night"
"I've got a couple of shirts and pants. Blue shirts. Oh and some socks…" Dad joined in.
"She's talking about MY washing Brian…"
"Oh, of course. You can pick mine up later."

As I was about to answer him, his eyes had already closed and he was dozing again.

Later still…

"Isn't she a sweetheart. She knows you, Helen. She knows her mama. Look at her smiling at Helen, Brian…"

Lyla continued smiling at me. Staring at me intently. Her eyes smiled too. Sarah went to heat her bot-bot. I fed and burped her. Facing me, all rugged up in a pale pink hooded woollen jacket with woollen pants to match, she continued to smile at me as I sang to her softly.

That Evening…

Walking into the kitchen at home, Keiralea cam running to me "Mama, Mama, I was waiting for you!"
"Hello my daaaarling", I responded, picking her up and gently fairy kissing her head.
"Why do you do that, Mama?"
"Because I love you"
"I love you too"

Pathetic!

2016-07-22T14:12:00.001+10:00

I'm sitting here scoffing a gluten free Victoria sponge cake, laced with plum jam and topped with a showering of icing sugar. There's a cup of hot tea (no sugar) sitting on the other side of the pc and as I savour each sip, I'm thinking about what's ahead. The Diet of all Diets is approaching fast. On Monday actually ('cos all good diets start on Monday's).

Diets are not new to me. Fasting diets, Jenny Craig, Gloria Marshall, No Sugar, No Lactose, No Grain, No Pain, Low GI, No GI, GI Joe.

If I'm not on a diet, I'm thinking about going on one.

Professionals now tell us that we shouldn't consider a diet a diet; it should be more of a lifestyle change. I really do understand. But it's like the word 'fat'. People don't use that word much anymore. It's curvy or larger lady or bigger lady of full form. Still, though, we can't get away from it; fat is fat, just like pigs is pigs.

The Past:

I set a plan. I make a date to start the plan. I start the plan. Sort of. But not quite.

The Present:

The thing is, I have to get my head around it - I need to 'psyche' myself up for this.

I'm not going to go on the guilt trip, though.

I'm not going to think 'oh well, nothing lost plenty gained' and lose any drop of motivation I ever possessed. No, Alfredo. I need to do this and I will do this.

Vintage Glassware

2016-05-22T17:41:00.000+10:00

I love the shapes of these glass jugs, as well as the sugar container. They remind me of days gone by. Mothers of old would use them regularly, sometimes covered by lace doilies with beads attached to add weight and stop flies and fruit flies from falling into the milk.

The Nature of Our Village

2016-05-22T17:40:00.000+10:00

Many many years ago - in a land far away - my own Mam would take us children on regular Nature Walks. We lived close to a park which led onto a river. The river bank was rife with a variety of lifeforms. I would always imagine "Tales of the Riverbank" whenever we were there.

We also lived close to a canal, - deep in some places, shallow in others. Birds in reeds, frogs and spawn on rocks and in the water. Tadpoles were ever present.

Mam usually wore an apron with a large pocket. So many treasures, picked up as we walked were stashed in her apron.

She passed the love of nature, walks and picnics on to us.

The legacy continues - albeit in a foreign land with different flora and fauna:

The Host to our local treasures: The Village streets and the paddocks beyond....

The Barn

2016-05-22T17:38:00.000+10:00

This is the inside of our barn. I don't know why we call this little building at the bottom of our garden "the barn". It's not that livestock were ever raised in here. Nor did we store hay or grain inside these walls. Living things have entered herein, though. At one time, our Emma's horse would frequent part of the barn, but she never liked to stay inside for long. Maybe she found it austere.

With master cobwebs like this, I would too. Not to mention the decomposition of fallen willow tree leaves on the 'sky-light' part of the roof.

She preferred the outdoors. The beauty of the paddock.

I would too. If this was my only other option.

The Machinist uses the barn, though. A lot of his 'I-can't-find-a-place-for-this- I know - the-barn!' items are stored in - the Barn.

Generations of cats and kittens would play and frolic in the barn, too. As did mice (not for long, though). And once, while moving brand new fence sheeting off the bare-soil floor, the last sheet revealed a sleepy Tiger snake. (I will never forget it. Nor will my daughters. I won't forget the terror of the snake. They won't forget the terror of my voice when I saw the snake).

The Barn has played host to useful things, too. Like props we used when we ran our cafe, The Daily Pie

We would use this light - like a beacon at night when we were expecting customers for evening functions.....

It's original home was in a local Theatre within our Shire...

And of course there is the faithful, hard working, manual-labour lawn mower. Oh, the number of lawns this fella has mowed. If only he could talk. He would tell you! He'd be glad to brag, too.

Which is more than I can say for this old dear. I suspect he needs some attention....

Then there is the fire fighting pump. He's pumped about his important role in the protection of our property against prospective bush fires (that's a lot of 'P's'). We're glad he's here, though. But shhhh....don't tell him, or else it may go to his head. He already thinks he's the cleanest, shiniest piece of equipment in the room.

Another guy ready for action. I think my son was 2 when he learned to use the chain saw.

Just kidding. That would mean that I would have had to start it for him by pulling this chord. That would never have happened. I'm not that tenacious. Or patient. Especially when there is no fuel in it to keep it running, and I wouldn't even know the difference.

And what is this treasure, hiding under that semi-rusty shelving? Oh, that's right. I remember now. It's a birthday gift. A potting wheel. Never used. Except for the assortment of beetles, spiders and other critters passing through it's parts.

All this to say - the Barn is on our Projects List for this year. We've been slowly but surely clearing it out and I'm happy to report that these last items may be the Barn's last occupants before the Big Makeover. The walls will be lined. A ceiling put in. A floor, too.

Lights!!

Camera!!

Thoughts On Homeschooling

2016-05-22T17:37:00.000+10:00

We didn't know what we were in for - years ago, when the Machinist and I made the decision to homeschool our children. At the time, our eldest child was in first year high school. The other two were in Kindergarten and year one - at our local village school. We hadn't gone to great lengths to actually research homeschooling either, and nor were we then, or now - qualified or professional teachers.

We were moved towards this decision, from a variety of sources - all confirming that we were doing the right thing for our family.

It really doesn't matter why parents decide to homeschool their children. We had our own personal thoughts, views, reasons which were then and even now - ours alone.

Every family is different. What is right for one, may not be for another.

The most important thing that matters is that there is a love and vested interest in offspring. It's not even about education, but rather - to instil a love of learning in each child.

What we know, without doubt, is that if a child loves to learn, delights in every new snippet of discovery, is happy and well balanced - knowledge and understanding will follow.A child can be trusted to learn, as it is in their nature.

We have no regrets about taking our children out of mainstream schooling - to the learning environment of their home.... Absolutely none.

Non je ne regrette rien

And nowadays we continue in the tradition of instilling the love of learning in our grand-daughter and those still to come, whom we love already....

Goodbye, Summer

2016-05-22T17:35:00.000+10:00

Summer has gone. Even these foxgloves look tired and worn out. You know what they're singing? "Bend me, shape me, anyway ya want me...Long as ya love me...it's all-right..." Referring to the westerly summer winds, of course. Oh, and the bees, that were giving them love.

See the brick edging? These were recycled from an old chimney in our kitchen. Young Acorn actually laid these bricks. I'll wager, though, that she doesn't remember 'planting' a ten cent piece in the cement that holds the bricks upright. She will probably hound me to show her when she reads this post, and I'll probably keep her guessing. No egg hunt for her! Just a ten cent piece hunt. Ha!

Two faithfuls: Snow in Summer and Ajuga.

Hold on.... What...?

Oh, it's Rowdy Rusty on his pogo stick. He's hiding behind the Daphne.

Some of our pets are buried under these plants. It's Pet Cemetery corner.

RIP faithful friends!

Ceramic chicks having a natter....

"Ya know, Mable... I'll be glad when this heat is over.. "
"You said it, Fred. This sun will crack me up...unlike your corny jokes..."

The potted succulent cheer squad.

Dial-a-crowd.

And so... summer really is over.

It's gone.

As is Sasha - the Family Cat. She has vacated the front garden and now resides in the rear garden, where she now reigns over new territories AND a devoted canine.

A Path Going Nowhere

2016-05-22T17:32:00.000+10:00

A few years ago, we built our second workshop - the "Fabrication" Workshop on our village block, next to our house. At the time, it was distressing for me, because (sigh...) there was the most amazing view from our back deck; a mountain range, paddocks, sheep, cattle, and a number of dead, but still majestic gum trees, holding their branch arms upward - towards the Heavens.

Naturally, one's 'living' has to come before all of that, and so - I resigned myself to make the most of the situation. The building of the workshop has created the most unexpected, yet delightful 'micro-climate' situation-type situation, and has provided a much needed and welcome wind break from the notorious westerly winds.

It is Autumn now (a favourite of mine!) and this is what we planted on the weekend; a 20m garden bed - filled with perennials which runs alongside part of the workshop path.

Note the plastic taped to the corrugated iron? That's the Machinist for you. "At least it will delay a little rust, Babe. We won't have to bother about it for a few years..."

The pieces of corrugated iron which retain the top path-to-be were salvaged from an old corrugated fence which had 'grown' there since - oh - 1950?

Before my time, anyway.

And with all good plants, come some healthy snails.

Confession: I still CANNOT, to this day - kill a snail. I cannot squash it. I cannot bare the sound of the crunching of it's home. Instead, I throw them in the creek at the bottom of our property OR, if I'm pressed (is that a pun?) for time, I will hurl them "elsewhere", without consideration (forced oblivion) to the fact that they will painstakingly slither back.

OR, I get Polly to eat them.

"Sluuurp...woof....thank-you, Mamma. That was delicious"

Just kidding. She would if I let her though. This dog is STARVED.

I don't know why, but I get a pathetic sense of satisfaction and delight seeing these empty coloured pots - strewn haphazardly after planting. I gently pull the plant from the pot, nestle it into the pre-dug hole and then toss them behind me, in a non-caring fashion (I've tripped on them later, too).

Newly formed steps leading from the garden to the side Exit door of the Fabrication Shop

This is how the plants looked after watering. Can you see the willow tree branches hanging low, Sweet Chariot? Can you also see that the path leads straight into a colour bond fence. It goes nowhere. Unless, of course - one was to leap OFF the path, over the garden bed, and hit a sharp left turn into the barn.

Usually, I plant too many, too close. I've really had to control myself on this garden project. The plantings are wider apart.

You're welcome, plants!

And again.... We'll cut the plastic when we apply the mulch.

And again... Wait! What's that? A wwwweeed. It is poking through a hole in the old corrugated iron. This weed sure knows where it's bread is buttered. The Machinist and I both smiled and agreed that it was kind of nice the way it poked through there. What tenacity! (Of course I won't think the same way IF we allow it to live. And grow. And spread it's weed seeds.

I feel faint at the thought of more weeding, so early in the (planting) game.

Ok, then... I'm off to nip something in the bud....

#nomercyhavei

When Baba Comes To Play

2016-05-22T16:58:00.000+10:00

We raised our children in our family business. We taught them to multi skill in all areas of life - home, work and play. Nowadays, we are raising our children's children in the same manner.

On many occasion many people have asked if it is hard to live and work with family. We've never known any other way, so it's just normal to us.

Nowadays, while the younger generation Mommy and Daddy work, another family member steps in to care for the little one.

A day at Mamma's house looks something like this:

"Mamma eat toast?" (Vegemite Kid)

It's ~~Hammer Time~~....erm....Puzzle Time

Bathing the ducks in the sink with a lot more foamy handwash than shown here, while Mamma attempts to discipline her unruly hair with the help of 'Product', stored in the cabinet above. (Anything for a quiet life...)

Helping Mamma peg out the washing. (Every second peg was offered to Polly the silky terrier 'cos Baba knew she needed to chew on something. Just like her own puppy, Dexy does at home)

Preparing the canvas for when we return from the Park.

The apparatus at our local oval. In other words - the Park. Every single activity on here has a name.

A young Aussie version of Zola Bud. With shoes.

Climbing up "The Tube" and seeing Mamma's unruly hair - giving my hiding place away. (She's always onto me).

One of the many gum trees on our way home.

Lunch, a spot of painting, bot-bots and "Mamma Cot" awaiting....

Another day in Paradise....

While We Were Fasting

2016-05-22T16:55:00.002+10:00

While my daughter and I have been on a juice fast, I've made sure that there were good wholesome meals available for the Machinist. Preparation in advance has been such a help. Mealtimes have been a breeze (not to mention - clean up).

Whatever I've served to the Machinist is exactly what I intend to carry on with now that my juice fast is complete. And so - these healthy meals that I've prepared have been somewhat of a mini 'experiment'.

I've been making these salads in a jar. I didn't believe it, but they truly do last up to five days in the fridge. And.... they remain as crisp and fresh as when they first went into those jars!

Firstly, the mis-en-plas:

Then, to assemble the jars. Firstly, a squirt of the Ranch Dressing, topped with a teaspoon of Basil Pesto. Then, the layering of the vegetables.

Carrots, corn, onions and peas (the harder vegetables), followed by mixed capsicum, tomatoes, avocados (the softer vegetables [fruits]). On top of this - cheese (in this photo,- fetta cheese) and protein (in this photo - boiled eggs). Finally - the sliced lettuce.

When tipping the jar onto a plate, the contents forms a mound of salad, topped with the dressing(s).

On top of this, I sprinkled sunflower seeds and pepitas.

Somedays, I served it with smoked trout.

Sometimes - with steak or smoked salmon. Sometimes - with canned tuna and olives. (I like to wrap the protein in portions, for quick and easy assembly).

Sometimes, I added jalopenos, sundried tomatoes, Sauerkraut and my own home made cultured vegetables.

Juicing Fast

2016-05-22T16:55:00.001+10:00

My daughter Emma and I have been on a juice fast for the past 30 days. We've been juicing raw vegetables (and a few fruits) each day - which has been our only source of nutrition. Apart from glorious weight loss, this has helped with restful and deeper sleep for longer periods of time. It has also improved our general well being.

Our regular 'liquid gold' - (actually - green) daily juice has consisted of orange juice mid-morning and a combination of Silverbeet, rainbow chard, kale, parsley, carrot, celery, cucumber, fennel and lemon for subsequent 'meals'.

When we receive the fruit and vegetable delivery, we've separated, portioned it and wrapped it in BPA free Glad Wrap *tm. The skill is finding appropriate spaces and packing it in the fridge:

At the same time, we've been harvesting abundant fruits and vegetables from our own garden, which we've hardly managed to even give away.

Some years ago, I read a book by Jackie French -"Backyard Self Sufficiency" and remember how she wrote that it wasn't the planting or nurturing of food that was the hard work, but the harvesting and processing of the 'fruits of labour'. I never thought it would happen in my own yard. I never thought it would happen to me.

But it did.

After many - MANY - gardening failures, persistence and time itself has given us great rewards.

The Watcher

2016-05-22T16:55:00.000+10:00

The rear of our home garden sits between two metal workshops; - the Fabrication shop (or Fab shop) and the Machine shop. The Machine shop has windows which look out onto the garden. It also has a side door which leads out into the garden.

While weeding today, the side door opened and the Machinist, fighting through cobwebs hung between Bosc and Comice pear trees, advanced towards me....

"Babe, I just wanted you to know - if you get the feeling that someone is watching you, well - they are. It's me. Anyway...I just wanted you to know that...."

The Grands: On Aging - Part Two

2016-01-05T10:19:00.000+11:00

There is a fine line when assisting the aged. Their dignity must be retained, their independence supported and encouraged, but their frailties thoughtfully considered.

As the "Responsible Person" assisting in securing help for the Grands beyond what we can offer, many awkward (and unbelievably frustrating) situations arise, as I am also their cherished daughter. If ever there was a period of time in life for humility towards parents, this is it. Not quite as the humbling situation happens, but very shortly after and it is a persistent haunting. It preoccupies.

Heart: You should do more for them! You should see them more frequently!

Head: You have done all you can! You have assisted in making their lives as safe, secure and as peaceful as can be!

Some of the services in place for the Grands include:

Assisted showering
Ergonomic equipment
Meal delivery
House cleaning
Additional weekly transport to various venues
Hearing Impaired phone
Medical Alarm pendants

I am extremely grateful for the last item on the list. It was Grandpa who pressed the red button when Granny was coughing and choking, battling to get air and still stubbornly refusing to let him call us. We were notified within five minutes by the Medical Alarm service. We would have taken forty minutes to reach them. Paramedics were there within fifteen minutes.

#Gratitude.

Two days after her 87th birthday, Granny spent an eventful afternoon / evening tended to by Ambulance and ER staff. After he was told that his wife would not be admitted to the hospital that evening, Grandpa assured us that he would let us know when she was home safe and sound.

He didn't.

When we called him, he sounded somewhat irritated.

"Yes, she is home, and is still full of nonsense"

"How so?"

"She's grumbling about the fact that I put her evening meal vegetables back in the fridge just after the Paramedics took her away. How was I to know she would be back so soon...."

The Grands: On Aging - Part One

2016-01-05T10:14:00.001+11:00

My dad - "Grandpa" - had spent quite a few weeks in his local hospital. He hadn't meant to spend such a long time there; it just turned out that way. Not necessarily because of on-going ill health, but rather - hospital regulations.

He had been admitted with gout, and he could hardly walk. His feet and ankles were angry-red and swollen. He would often wince. Within a few days, his pain subsided, with great thanks to the reassessment of his Webster pack contents, and the addition of new (temporary) medications. He perked up and blessed many staff members with his gentlemanly ways, wit and charm.

It wasn't enough, though - it wasn't enough to gain his hospital discharge. His marching orders.

Hospitals require the aged to be as well as they can be - and in particular - stable and mobile before they are considered to return home. Furthermore, a "Services Package" had to be secured and put into place, courtesy of the Australian Government and currently available to our country's aged population.

Grandpa was fairly stable and he was mobile (with the help from a walker), but he wasn't mobile enough. He was transferred to Rehab, where he spent a further two weeks before leaving - just in time for his 90th birthday celebrations at our house.

Sarah - hanging the 'Happy Birthday' banner

Starting to set the table with snackage.

Grandpa has visited his local hospital a couple of times since this particular stay, - for gout, chest pain and dehydration and despite long family communal waits in the ER all visits were short lived. Needless to say, the staff know him by both of his names. They even shorten his first. They call him "Bert".

Bert!

It makes me smile every time I hear it.

The Grands have accepted the Service Package available to them. We suspect that they are well pleased. But shhhh.....

We haven't suggested this to them. We haven't even hinted at it.

To be Continued......

New Year's Eve. New Year's Day.

2016-01-01T01:41:00.000+11:00

Life is ever changing.

This eve - this new year's eve - is the first that the Machinist and I have spent ALONE together in 33 years.

It feels weird.

It is weird.

We see our children, their spouses and grandchildren every day. It's not as if we have special occasion get togethers, because we always have get togethers in the course of regular, every day life.

Like earlier on the last day of last year. We all went out to celebrate my mam's birthday. It was a "given" that we should see the Grands anyway. A regular weekly visit. It so happened to be her birthday, and cause for eating out at one of her preferred restaurants.

It's not as if we feel lonely or out of the celebrations, either, because even as I type, our local Hotel is hosting their New Year's Eve party, and the music is pounding out, equalled only by the vocal chorus of villagers, as they recognise and reminisce with the lyrics of familiar songs.

And yet .... somehow... new year's is different. There are (sort of) expectations of being with loved ones. Family or friends. Or both.

This change is probably going to be the first of many to come.

A(nother) new beginning.

Peace and happiness to you, Blogreaders!

Happy New Year!!

My Vocation

2015-12-27T23:29:00.001+11:00

I was reading through the description of my blog the other day. While it is as accurate today as it was when I first wrote it, I feel that there is so much more I could add. As the months and years go by and people and circumstances change, so do our roles. And priorities. More and more, I see definition...

"....I can see clearly now, the rain has gone...."

(Yep, there's always a song that relates to life).

My vocation as wife, mother (mamma) and homemaker has never been clearer than it is at this point of time. I am besotted. I am obsessed.

I suspect my blog will reflect this in the coming days and months. How can it not? Especially from something that brings such joy and fulfilment.

Yes.....

A vocation indeed.

Motherhood: The Hardest Work

2015-06-23T10:20:00.000+10:00

"It's the hardest work on God's earth - being a mother" - My mam would often say. She said it a lot when I became a mom for the first time. And later - as my children grew, and the workload increased, she would add "... you have to have eyes in the back of your head..." to her repertoire. Meaning; you have to be ever diligent in watching your children. You have to always have an "eye" on them for the benefit of their health, safety, attitude and moral character. It didn't matter where you rustled up that "eye" You had to have it ready as a beacon (or alarm); a call for necessary appropriate action.

These are the people she needed eyes in the back of her head for:

Child Number One, Two and Three

Child Number Four

Child Number Five

I've found my Mam's words to be all truth. Mothering is never ending, and yes - it is exhausting. It is hard and sacrificial. And yet... it is the most blessed and life changing of all careers.

Content Little Girls

2015-06-21T22:49:00.000+10:00

Sitting in the mall - enjoying coffee with the Machinist, it so happened that we were right next to a child's indoor playground. Neighbouring tables and chairs were strewn with handbags, bottles, snack boxes, nappy bags, coffee cups and tea pots, plates and napkins, little ones' clothing and shoes. There was shrieking, squealing, crying and moaning. Then, there was laughter and chuckling even.

"You know, Babe", began the Machinist. "You can tell the good parents. You can tell who puts great effort into their children, and those that don't. I'm not saying they don't love their children - ..."

"I know what you are saying. I know what you mean.."

"See that mother over there, with the two girls? I saw her give both of them the 'nod'. It was the 'time to go' nod. The girls made their way to the table, and mother directed them to put their shoes on. They got up, and started to run towards the exit. She told them not to run, and they immediately slowed down, waiting for her to catch up. And the best thing about it, they didn't complain or whine, and they seemed content. They obviously felt secure".

As the Machinist was telling me this, there was shrieking and shouting in the background. We were on our last dregs of coffee, and about to leave.

Father passed by, slouching over a full shopping cart. At least twenty steps behind him was Mother, struggling with a wriggling, shrieking toddler under her arm. An older child was walking next to her whining at pitch. Yet another child was running - ahead of Father and the trolley. Then back to Mother, banging into tables and chairs (and other patrons) as he ran. When this happened, the mother would give that 'kids. What can you do?' look.

And all the time, neither parent communicated with each other, or the children.

Learning to be Highly Effective - Ha!

2014-08-05T15:24:00.000+10:00

We have just returned from town and baby is now sleeping snugly in her "mamma's cot" - still in our bedroom from her sleepover - more than a fortnight ago. The Machinist has to shimmy around the cot to get to his side of the bed. Most nights he says "we'll have to move the cot back to the other room, Babe". We both agree on this, but still - it remains. Because our room is closest to the living rooms, it is warmer and more convenient, I tell myself. Others smile knowingly.

In other news - I am a flirt. I flirt most days, in all areas of life. I can't help myself.

I confessed this to the Machinist the other day as we were sorting out his office. He was / is so grateful to me for setting up systems within his space. He thinks I'm fab, but he didn't know that I had / have my own struggles - being able to focus on only ONE THING AT A TIME. Most of my undertakings stretch on because of this fact. I'm told that mom's (and business people) have to learn (unless they're that way inclined anyway) to multi-task. I still have not mastered this as yet. I don't hold much hope to do so, either.

And so - what happens is - I focus on one endeavour with such intensity, with such passion and then suddenly realise that other tasks are building up. Tasks which can't wait.

I am currently listening to an Audibles book by Stephen Covey entitled "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People". I would gladly get rid of all my other 'self help' type of books for this one only (even though I am tempted to buy the next book in the series; "The Eighth Habit"). I'm only on Habit Three, and already I am much 'enlightened'.

I've even recognised the Machinist to be in Quadrant One: the Important and Urgent quadrant, while I am a Quadrant Three type of girl - the Urgent (to me. I think. I'm sure), but not Important on the scheme of things. (The business. The Family. The World).

We both need to acquire balance and find ourselves in Quadrant Two: Important, not Urgent.

This, apparently, is the key to Effectiveness.

And so - I am learning....It won't happen overnight, but....it will happen!

Keiralea Ann

2014-04-10T19:25:00.001+10:00

So much life, growth and change between posts! She is my love, my blessed life vocation. And she knows it.

Love from Mamma x

The Machinist Takes An Afternoon Off

2013-10-04T02:11:00.002+10:00

The Machinist's first observation as I walked into the office were my new blue shoes. "Oh I liiiike theeem, Babe. You look too hot to handle!"

"I love the colour, but they hurt a bit - just on the top" I slid my forefinger between plump upper foot and shoe, demonstrating the exact area of discomfort.

"Oh don't worry about that, I can fix it with a soft hammer..."

I'm still perplexed as to what a soft hammer actually is.

Later in the day, there was rain, - followed by furious hail. We were scheduled to deliver newly manufactured laundry skips to The Canberra Hospital. Despite each skip being polished and sealed in plastic wrap, the Machinist didn't want to deliver in the wet weather.

With his main task thwarted, he gave himself the rest of the day off

("...and with having no battles on at the moment, he gave his lads the day off..." - from The Battle of Hastings)

As we walked down the Christmas isle in Costco (can't resist) a thought came to mind: There is nothing like a grandchild to bring back the joy of Christmas.

Later, dinner and movies added to the excitement of the Season.

Bats and Black Outs

2013-10-02T09:17:00.001+10:00

After arriving home late after visiting the Grands in their new home, I thought it would be very disciplined and organised of me to go straight to the office in the Machine shop and complete some bookwork before going inside the house. The Machinist was making some end-of-day calls next door. Bob was crying to go inside. Or be fussed. Or fed. I plumped up his cushion and told him to "go cushion", and he gave me 'those' eyes, but obeyed nevertheless.

The Machinist came in and sat on the chair next to me. "Ready to go in, Babe?"

"Nearly"

And then - a power cut. The computer, the heater - both off. And yet... the lights were still on.

"If you go out of the front, I'll lock up behind you and come in the back door"

I went to the car to fetch a few items and lock it. By then, the house and workshops were in darkness. The sky was black. And it was cold.

The front door opened and the Machinist shouted to me "Don't come in - there's another bat loose in the house!"

Don't come in?

Wow, he made it quickly through the garden, tip-toeing and avoiding the fuss, grunts and slobbery of the other dogs, through the house, locate the torch and out of the front door...

Don't come in?

There's another bat loose in the hooooose....

Another bat?

Whaaaat?

The phone rang. Fumbling through my bag and vowing to empty it (again) really soon, I answer the call. Our Sam.

"Are your lights out, too?" he asks
"Yep"
"I'll be down in a minute"
"Ok"

Then another call. Our Sarah.
"Electricity off?"
"Yes, and there is another bat in the house"
"Whaaaat?"

Sarah and Cam pull in the driveway. I climb in the back of their car as Cam jumps out the driver's seat, determined to help with bat eradication. Sarah and I swap bat fearing stories and sentiments when the other rear door opens and Sam slides in next to me.

"Not going in to help with the bat?" I ask
"No way!"

In due course, the bat had gone and we went inside to a kitchen lit with candles and the aroma of roast beef.

Sitting down to dinner, with the dim light shining on his cheerful face, Sam declared "Well, I thought tonight would be a bit of a downer, but this dinner has cheered me right up!"

A Day In The Life of The Machinist's Wife

2013-10-01T09:01:00.001+10:00

While feeding the baby her porridge, on the morning after her sleepover, - a terrible smell filled the dining room.

"is it the baby?" asks Sarah..
"No, she's clean. What about the mother dog?" I ask..

On inspection, we discover that Pepi had a terrible mess going on in her undercarriage which needed our attention -and fast!

Cam fetched the wheelbarrow, Sarah donned gloves, I brought out the hot water. Pepi sat in the water while Sarah washed her as I held her. Baby wanted to see what was going on and we had to distract her when she got too close to Pepi's splashes.

The phone rang. Machinist came around the corner from the Machine shop. "It's your mom, Helen" (Helen!).."..the movers won't pack their stuff. They need everything to be in boxes and your mom wants to know if anyone in town has any boxes they don't want..."

Hayley arrived to pick up Baby. Sarah and I made a dash to the Grand's cottage. It didn't look as if there was a lot of moving house going on that day. It looked like, and was - a removalist's nightmare. Small tubs, without lids. Buckets oozing their wares. Large tubs with lids - heavy and cracking with the weight they were bearing. A few flimsy cardboard boxes with an occasional content marker. Sturdy boxes - half empty waiting 'last minute items'.

There's a fine line between aged parent independence and necessary action for the good of all. The Greater Good.

Emma confided in Grandpa to leave the key under a pot at their new home, while she took the Grands for lunch and coffee. Sarah and I moved swiftly. Very swiftly.

Kitchen unpacked
Pantry and fridge stocked
Beds made
Clothes away
Correct distribution of tubs and wares
Removal of empty vessels and other rubbish
TV set up

And then, an impulsive but necessary turn into McDonalds drive through (uugh) for a large coke and fries. Diet tomorrow.

On arriving home, and after his meal, the Machinist asks..."Babe, come with me..." (Babe!)..."I've got something to show you".

I follow him to the kitchen, where he collects the torch. I follow him outside towards the Fabrication shop. "Look there!"

He spotlights a BRAND NEW FENCE. But oh! This is not only a lovely, high (privacy) beautifully fitted and welded fence partnered with a well hung and hinged gate. It is a SNAKE PROOF FENCE.

Aaahhh... Romance.

Later that evening, the Machinist and I are lounging back in soft brown leather recliners, sipping cold drinks and basically - living it large. We are watching a Very Scary Movie about alien invasion (the "Greys", FYI). We retire to bed and just as we are falling asleep - a sudden distinct thumping noise. Then again. And again.

The Machinist gets out of bed to check what's amiss. He's gone for a while, as I lay there and wonder if he has been abducted. Then he comes back to bed, lifts the covers, slides in...

"What was the noise?" I ask
"Oh, it was Emma. She had a bat in her room and I helped her guide it out the back door..."

A bat. A BAT. A BAAAAAT!

Thoughts on Sarah & Cameron's Wedding

2013-08-29T14:25:00.001+10:00

It is nearly three months since the (rush) and joy of Sarah and Cameron's wedding. It was beautiful, yet bittersweet; - a sense of loss and grief at the thought of 'losing' Sarah to Cameron (which is TOTALLY not the case and which I've learned is a common parental emotion) and yet - gain by the addition of another son, as well as a couple. Sarah and Cameron became an entity: The Couple.

When they left for their honeymoon, I remember thinking of our daughter as going away and becoming a changeling, and yet - on their return, I realised how silly I had been and that she was the same, as was her husband, Cam. They were the same; it was me who expected their change. They were still the children, as they had always been, expecting us, their parents to - well - parent as we had always done - with the same attitudes and methods as we'd always used. I, on the other hand had expected some type of change from them so much, that my own fathoming had changed me and I became the Changelings - towards them.

How confused and bewildered they must have been....(I'm confused and bewildered as I try to explain all of this.)

Sarah and I had a heartfelt discussion about this late one night. We cried together. And then, as quickly as this strange and yet common phenomena came upon us, it was gone, and family life, as we know it - had resumed.

To normal.

Well, as normal as normal is.

And so much normality has happened since.

Thank goodness.

The End.

Workshop

2013-05-18T08:03:00.001+10:00

It’s early in the morning – dark outside and the house is quiet, other than the odd creak as old roof wood contracts - stretching it’s corrugated tin counterpart. Sometimes, there’s a scurrying – probably a field mouse and I always wonder how they get up there.

When the westerly winds blow, and there is a constant chill my thoughts are towards my family in the Workshop. I’ve started a ritual of toasted crumpets with loads of melted butter and a swirling of maple syrup. With one hand, I pull open the huge door. Sparks are flying! Grinders are whizzing! And then… with the sudden disturbance and rush of cold air, the inhabitants – oftentimes in sync – lift their welding helmets or take off their goggles to see who is entering. Their curiosity is further piqued when they see a plate in my hand.

Emma - working the CAD

The Machinist - deep in concentration while using the milling machine

Sarah - grinding

Cameron - not sure what he is doing

Sam - not sure what he is doing either

I walk between them and their crooning necks to the rear of the workshop, to let the Machinist know that there is something for morning tea. “I don’t want you spoiling them, Babe..” he tells me, as he smiles and grabs one of the offerings, minding not to drip the sweet syrup over his hand or overalls.

Today, there will be no treats as Emma and I will be setting out to Sydney soon. We have to pick up a job from a sub-contractor and bring it back to the Machinist – post haste – for him to work his magic and meet an (unexpected) deadline. All of our other children (ahem – young adults – YA YA’s) will be working long hours this weekend. Hayley will be taking good care of our cherished Keiralea.

Sarah and Cameron’s wedding is just over two weeks from today. The brand new workshop we are currently building will be the venue for their reception – before the Machinist fills it with equipment. And so – a wedding reception in a building which is, as I write – not yet built.

This is typical of our family; thirteenth hour chaos, then calm.

As the Machinist says “It’ll all be good, Babe. We always deliver”

AN UPCOMING WEDDING

2013-05-10T16:04:00.004+10:00

Life in Review:

The workshop is being built. What I haven't mentioned is that Workshop B is to be the venue for our Sarah and Cameron's wedding reception. The thing is - it hasn't even been built yet, even though it is in the process of being built.

Their wedding day? THE SECOND OF JUNE.

THIS YEAR.

Can you feel it? Can you feel the urgency? The angst?

And yet, in my heart of hearts, I know it will be ok. It will be beautiful and it will all be ok.

The Way It Is.

2013-04-19T23:13:00.000+10:00

A lamb appeared in our garden late yesterday afternoon. It was breathing heavily, and had sought rest between the two photinia robustas. The lamb's woolly neck was blood stained, and yet - he was standing firmly, - alerted to our presence (Emma and myself, with grand-baba Keiralea in my arms). Just then, a huge Rottweiler also appeared and paused in it's tracks, head tilted back staring at us almost arrogantly (he reminded me of a scene from "Cujo"). Then there was the Machinist's voice behind me "Get inside, Helen, both of you - get away from that dog..."

The Machinist called the farmer who owned the lamb, and alerted the neighbour who owned the dog. Although it wasn't one of the farmer's flock, he took it away....

You can imagine our delight and joy, then, when we learned that the lamb had been stitched, pain killers and antibiotics had been administered and the lamb is currently doing well in his "parents" shed.

We later heard that the owner of the dog had taken his pet to be euthanised

Growth

2013-04-14T23:02:00.002+10:00

It is the eve before they start building our new Workshop. The Machinist has, for the most part, prepared all he can before the builders' arrival. He and the lads have moved tons and tons of soil and roadbase, in efforts to heighten the land which runs alongside our house on which the Workshop will 'sit'. A pad, if you will.

I have meant to take many photos of the paddocks beyond our land. When we stand on the back deck, we can see such beauty for miles, it seems. The willows, the tussocks, the variety of gum trees, the hills and my favourite scene of all and one which I've posted on before - the three dead trees which look as if they are performing modern dance, while having an air of the wise prophets of old. Very soon, this view will no longer be.

Instead, a growing business. A family legacy. Scary, yet challenging. Challenging, yet scary. Like many before us, everything on the line.

But by the Grace of God go I (we).

HURRY UP .... AND WAIT....

2013-03-15T01:33:00.001+11:00

After many fantasies and good intentions of blogging regularly I am left with a sense of disappointment towards self. I say to myself "Self, - even if the blog post turns out crappy - just pull your head in and do it.."

I speak tough, acquire a new verve, then go on to view the blog posts of others or take a (s)troll on Facebook.

Many wild and spontaneous adventures with the local Council are always up for grabs. These adventures make me feel drained and sad. But then, in a moment of clarity, I rob myself of the right to feel self pity over such trivialities when the rest of life is so BIG.

These thoughts and feelings are like foreigners to me. So is the urge to rebel.

I might go and play 80's One Hit Wonders - full volume.

There!

We may be on the verge of being granted a Construction Certificate, so that we can start building the second Workshop. The Machinist has hired a shipping container to store equipment until the structure is up and concreted. In the meantime, out of working hours, the girls and I are painting the house, as you do when you are in-waiting. Very soon it really will be 'all systems - GO!'

A Day In The Emergency Room

2013-02-24T02:46:00.004+11:00

One of the most intense studies on human nature is to sit for hours in the Emergency waiting room and watch as people come in, report to reception and take their seat (or not).

Grandpa was there today. We received an early morning call:

"Is that you, Andre?"
"Yes, Brian.. what's up?"
"Can you take me to the hospital?"
"What's wrong?"
"I think I've got food poisoning..."

Sarah and I spent 7 hours waiting for Grandpa at the local hospital. Grandpa didn't eat or drink in that time. He also had to wait hours for some type of pain relief.

It's a false sense of 'moving ahead' in the queue when you get assessed at the front, then ushered to the treatment room. There's another throng back there. All waiting for attention. Those who are caring for them are sitting in the waiting room, oblivious to them also still waiting and not being treated. As far as we know, tests are being taken. Blood is being let. X-rays are a-scanning. Questions are being asked, assessments made and medication prescribed.

I've performed the waiting-in-the-ER game several times for various family members (as a mother / daughter / wife does). Survival dictates that you have to occupy yourself and resign to be there for hours. People watching is a good source of entertainment:

Two men sitting together chatted loudly. One seemed quite anxious, as he paced, queried his appointment time at reception, searched with eager, desperate eyes - each time a staff member passed through the room. "We've got one and a half hours to get home and watch the footy..." came from his companion. "The staff here are mean. They don't care at all..."

They were waiting for meth.

An older man with a hoodie and pyjama shorts, revealing leg ulcers couldn't help but praise the staff and on his way out, leaned into the reception " .... thanks for getting things going, love..."

A mom (and her son probably aged about 9) was giving her details through the slatted glass window which said "Discharges". The receptionist asked for her phone number. The mom was relaying her number when the son shouted the rest of the digits out. The mom was silenced. Further questions were asked and relayed. The son decided to push right in front of his mother. Mom submitted and took a step back....

A large woman wearing knee length lycra and a spaghetti strapped top, revealing flapping upper arms, heavily tattooed. Her hair was wire-like, but fly-away. She had arrived with her daughter and grandson. The large woman was glaring at an older man, also wearing lycra. And she didn't hide it, either. Later, her daughter, attired in egg-shell blue track suit sat in the chair next to her mother, the sides of their bottoms firmly wedged together. She sat with her legs sprawled boldly apart. The little boy was sitting on his mother's upper abdomen, while her lower abdomen bulged out proudly, acting as a back rest.

Both women were talking with the meth men.

Methman one: "We're hoping to see the footy"
Methman two: "Yeah, if we make it on time"
Large woman: "Sure you will. It probably won't rain..."
Daughter: "Course it's gonna rain, mom. It's gonna piss down..."

A younger woman reported to reception, hobbling with crutches, scrambling through her bag for her mobile phone. She reported in and then, phone still in hand, sat over three chairs; bum on one, legs on another, crutches on the third. Her arched back prevented anyone from sitting behind her. Fourth chair: TAKEN!

Sarah asked if we could see Grandpa. We were told we couldn't as there were two emergencies in the treatment rooms and they didn't want excess people hanging around. The Machinist had called to see if we could run an errand. We explained this to nursing staff. They took our number and assured us that they would call if / when Grandpa was ready to be discharged.

Much later, we picked Grandpa up from the ER.
"Are you in pain?" I asked
"No, but I haven't eaten all day"
"We know. We were told you weren't allowed to until you had seen the doctor"
Grandpa nodded his head
"What did they say was wrong?"
"They don't know. Blood was ok, X-rays ok and I had a shot of morphine"
"Did they give you some pain relief for if and when the morphine wears off"
"No, but I've got some Panadeine Forte at home", followed by a cheeky, boyish grin.

As we were leaving town, Grandpa declared

"When I get home, I'm going to make some tea and crack open a packet of gluten free ginger biscuits. You should try them, you know..."

Reading the Newspaper

Our Motley Crew

2013-02-23T17:03:00.000+11:00

This is Bob:

Isn't he handsome? Two years ago, Bob was bitten by a snake and we saved his life by administering Vitamin C and B injections, along with strong black coffee and lots of love and care.

This is Polly:

She is such a faithful, loyal one-person (me) dog. She gets very jealous of any other dog around that comes near me. Sad to say, in Polly's jealousy, she killed my other faithful girl,

Woopie

And our youngster dog, Lilly:

Woopie and Lilly are buried in our front garden.

Polly had to leave home. She is now living with the Grands. The Machinist says she is the luckiest dog alive. She probably is.

This is Pepi. She is Lilly's sister and is in love with our Sarah:

This is Sasha.

She is also in love with Sarah, although she doesn't really care who strokes her and feeds her, cos she is delightfully plump and lazy. Sasha is the sole survivor from a litter of six.

This was Bucko (he didn't always look like this)
.

He flew into our garden when he was a baby. Actually, he didn't fly, he sort of nose-dived. Bucko had beak and feather disease. The vet gave him six months to live. He lived for almost three years and was a delight to us. Bucko is also buried in the front garden with Lilly and Woopie

This is Wilson as a lamb.

Obviously, he's much bigger now. Wilson is living with a local farmer, along with his friend, Leo. One day, as soon as the Machinist has time, we hope to fence in a paddock on the Block, so that Wilson and Leo can be closer to home.

We've had so many pets over the years. Some have gotten killed on the road. The others, by snake bite. Some, however, just went on their travels and didn't return home. I don't even want to think what happened to them.

Unless they are now living their happy ending. I do hope they are!

Farewell to the Willow. Hello to Progress.

2013-02-20T00:05:00.001+11:00

I'm constantly amazed at the speed in which willow trees grow. There is one at the bottom of our garden, next to the Workshop. Before we built the Workshop, (even before it was a 'glint' in our eye) we buried almost a whole litter of kittens under the willow. A few months later, a whole litter of puppies dug up their decaying bodies and scattered them around the trunk.

Yea, it is fertile soil.

A younger willow tree, on the edge of the receding creek

The Debco lads cut the willow tree down today. It was was cut so that a 'levy' bank could be created in its place - to protect our current Workshop A and the one we will soon be building: Workshop B from flash flooding.

I had heated words with the Machinist, 'cos in my mind's eye, all I could see was a levy mound, - the height of our back corrugated fence. I imagined that this newly formed mound would create a 'leg over' for any adventurous creek-dwelling snake (not that snakes have legs). The Machinist informed me that he was going to build a new (higher) fence. I knew that his new fence wouldn't come in the near future, - not for some time, in fact and in the meantime, reptile migration would be in full force.

I panicked.

He was adamant.

I angered.

He angered.

I retreated to the house.

Not long after, he followed.

I put the kettle on.

He explained that the mound would be the same height as our rear orchard bed. Two mounds, the same height with a corrugated (cemented in) fence between them.

We had coffee.

All was well.

It still is.

Good night.

The Tortoise and the Sound of Silence

2013-02-18T00:55:00.000+11:00

The Machinist has a tortoise. His name is George. He rescued him off the highway, just alongside Lake George. He's had him for a few weeks now, but we haven't seen George around much. The other night, however, the Machinist called me to the back deck.

"Babe, Babe! Come here.... Quick! Look over there! Can you see him?"

And there, up against the corrugated fence was George, - legging it at quite a fast pace (for a tortoise) His green mossy domed shell made his limbs seem extra gangly. We couldn't figure out if he was moving it because of the rain, or because he felt energetic at the time. And we'll never know.

Almost in the exact spot where we found George on the highway, the Machinist spotted a second tortoise. He glanced in the rear view mirror, then screeched on the brakes. "Turtle!", he declared.

(The Machinist calls turtles AND tortoises 'Turtles'. He must like the phonetics).

Keeping his eye on the traffic, the Machinist began reversing. Cars and trucks screamed past. The Machinist continued reversing, and was probably imagining two 'turtles' frolicking in our garden at home....

And then "...He's dead. They must have ran over him. Bastards!"

**********************************************************************

In other news - it's the second night filled with the Sound of Silence. The second night since our adult children Sam and Hayley, with their ten month old baba, Keiralea have moved out of our home and into their own.

The Machinist, watching the look of forlorn on my face attempts to comfort me:
"They're only down the street, Babe". And they are. Less than 500 metres away. A brisk 5 minute walk (and even less if I'm lazy and drive there!)

But it's not the distance. It's not about this particular dear little family moving out and starting their new life together. It's the realisation, - the actualisation of us beginning OUR new life as well - and the strangeness of it all.

It's also the knowledge of more changes to come in a fairly short time, as our girls come and go and leave as well.

Sarah and Emma

Sometimes, change is uncomfortable and disconcerting. So are surprises. I'm not fond of them at all. Surprises are shocking and my absorbers are feeling worn...

If Things Don't Change, They'll Stay The Same

2013-02-17T00:55:00.001+11:00

The Machinist, in conversation today declared that he thought summer was just about over and autumn was upon us. This made me smile, as I love autumn; even the thought of autumn. Last year, I remember kicking the fallen plane tree leaves in the centre of Civic, just outside Gus's Cafe. There were so many of them - on the pavement, hanging off the kerb and into the gutter. A thick and ample duvet for damp tarmac and cement.

After much talk and procrastination, the five of us are going to join the gym in Goulburn. Sam joined over a month ago and the Machinist signed up yesterday. I was going to as well, but when I arrived there to meet the Machinist and put my money where my mouth was, I backed out. I felt sort of angry. Angry that I was about to resort to going to a gym. Any gym.

A young trainer came over to where I was standing with Sam. "Are you going to sign up, too?" he asked, after spending time with the Machinist.
"I'm not sure"
"Not sure?"
"No. To be honest with you - I hate gyms". The trainer looked embarrassed and started to flush. Then he laughed, nervously.
"You hate them?"
"Yes, I hate them. They are monotonous and they bore me. They hurt as well. But - I know that if things don't change, they'll stay the same...."

While having a coffee with Emma and the Machinist at The Coffee Club today, I committed to her that I would, in fact, join her and we would attend gym together. She informed me that she was going to be my worst enemy and would drive me on if and when I faltered or complained in this resolve.

Here's looking forward to a beautiful autumn, even if it is peppered with pain and suffering (such drama!). And I know my heart will be most impressed.

You Have My Whole Heart

2013-01-28T13:08:00.000+11:00

Walking around some tourist-y shops in Mogo, I see this sign. I stand there, staring at it. The Machinist joins me. I walk away. He stands there staring at it. I cannot look at him. Then, from behind me I hear him "...you definitely have mine..." Then he walks away.

The End

Australia Day 2013 Part 2

2013-01-28T01:03:00.002+11:00

After fish and chips at the Boathouse in Bateman's Bay - fun and frolicking.

Stormy skies approaching.

The day's line up...."...altogether now, girls..."

A skeleton fish head, visible from the deck at the rear of the Boathouse. These seagulls always tempt you to feed them, despite the signs asking us not to.

Keiralea, having a chuckle and sporting FOUR teeth. She loves her Rabbie...

More stormy skies. Oh, do we have to leave now?

Ok, so I couldn't resist the temptation to feed the gulls. We gathered the scraps and fed them away from the other diners.

Keiralea determined to have more of her mummy's ice cream

It started to rain as we headed back home up the Clyde mountain.

I so wanted to get a good pic of Pooh Bear's cave. Alas, not. On the way down, though, we could see a dozen or more Pooh Bears having a tea party in the cave....

On the flat lands...still raining. This is why it's called the Southern Tablelands.

Dark already. Still raining, with the addition of thunder and lightening.

Try as I might, I just couldn't capture the huge streaks of lightening.

Almost home, but the rain was coming down so hard and fast that we had to pull over for about half an hour.

Finally, on the road again. Fortunately, the flash storm had not resulted in the Workshop being flooded out again. The dogs were delighted to see us, and spent the night indoors.

Australia Day 2013 Part 1

2013-01-28T00:46:00.001+11:00

An early morning drive to the coast via the dirt roads - just out of our small country town

Signposts

Arriving in Mogo, checking out the shops and people. Lots of people.

Sarah and Cam monkey-ing around and being 'Posers' - hugging a Totem pole

Our traditional and annual stick on tattoos, courtesy of a bubble gum wrapper. We have to walk around with these corny tattoos all day.

Stopping at a beach near Mossy Point. There was a lagoon, rocks and then the beach.

Crossing the laggoon

The rocks here were worn away and formed lines of honeycomb

Loving the rock pools and what hangs out in them.

Loved how the birds gathered here....

Tide coming in. Also, a storm warning....

The Machinist exploring the rock pools

Looking back to the shoreline

I looked down and this was 'waving' at me, flowing with the ebbs....

Can you see the worm tower in the sand?

Knock knock.... anyone home?

Multitudes of life and forms in one small area....

The Machinist wrote my name in the sand with his big toe

Another planet?

The Machinist and I were sitting on a rock together - away from the maddening crowd. A young boy suddenly appeared holding this crab. "Can I take a picture of your crab?" I asked. "Sure, but he's dead you know..." The boy walked away triumphant that someone else was interested in his find. The Machinist leaned over to me and whispered..."that boy is really pleased with his spoils of the day..."

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE MACHINISTS WIFE

2013-01-17T20:41:00.001+11:00

Wake at around 8am

Tea with the Machinist at the kitchen table

Check emails to see if there is any news from Council.

Coffee with the Machinist in my office. Hayley makes a wrap for her 'Daddy Andre' to munch on while we discuss Council issues on Flooding and Flood Levels in our local Creek, Building Class, Surveyors and The Building Code of Australia,

The Machinist then phones the Council while I check out another Engineering company's website, whereby the Machinist's eyeballs nearly pop out of his head, as he checks out photos of their machinery, - not missing a beat in his current conversation with a Council staff member.

Sarah comes in for her 'to do' list, which I have been compiling between phone calls and emails. She is still cleaning out the Workshop A, organising shelves, putting like with like (as much as a girl can put like with like when they're not sure what certain metal items are). Our barn is getting fuller, but at least various items are becoming contained in one place - like a 'one stop shop'.

Discussions with Council continue through lunch. The Machinist and I become flabbergasted at one of Council's requirements and we embark on a somewhat loud yet funny tirade of abuse against Policy Makers in general. Emma wafts in and puts her finger to her lips, then starts flapping her wings. "Just so you know, we can hear you in the kitchen".

That pesky baby monitor in the shape of an angel. It must have ears in the back of its head.

Emma is determined to finish the job she is on in the Workshop. She is transferring poems from local Poets using CAD and then sending them to the plasma cutter. These poems will appear as Tourist attractions throughout our Shire.

I've nicked a couple of the photos she took today, - pictures of when the sparks hit the fan:

Hayley sets off after lunch to paint what was once a food store in the pie shop (now called The Block), to apply water and mould proof paint, as said food store has been transformed into a bathroom. We are confident that she and our Sam will move in very soon. While Hayley is gone, I get to look after our darling Baba, Keiralea. "If she stands in her cot, I pick her up, lie her down on her back with dummy, then put Blankie Ted and Rabbie under her arms..." Hayley instructs me.

My intentions are always good and I'm all for following a mommy's wishes for her Baba. However, after ten or more sessions, I succumb to infant loveliness, swoop the darling up into my arms, give her 'fairy kisses' and rock her gently. Within minutes she is asleep and I transfer her to her cot, quickly scooting Blankie Ted out of the way with the back of my hand.

While Baba sleeps, I hand draw a Plan View of Workshop B - a silly requirement of Council, showing the positions of Plant & Equipment. Later, Emma will draw this up on CAD as well.

After work, we have cold drinks and some of us swim. Baba falls asleep in her pushchair and I wheel her into the lounge, set myself up on the brown leather lazy boy (girl) chair and promptly nod off....zzzzzzzz......

The Machinist takes the Baba and puts her in our laundry sink, which he has filled with bubbles and her yellow Duckie (a gift from her Pop). She loves splashing in this tub and it saves our backs. I dress her and feed her.

Right now, Sam and Hayley are frolicking with their offspring on the rug. Sarah has gone out with her fiance, Cam, and Emma is cooking. The Machinist is grilling kebabs on the BBQ.

I'd better be off... The Machinist just popped his head in my office door -

"Do you know how lonely it can get - barbequing kebabs?"

And later - "Did I tell you how hot you look today, Babe?"

THE THING ABOUT COUNCILS...

2013-01-17T00:34:00.002+11:00

Like many people who have experience with new builds, we are having 'difficulties' with our Council. The thing about Councils that I think one should be wary of; that the old saying "no news is good news" is not true of especially small town Councils. No news should prompt the applicant to inquire or confirm, so that a Conditional Bomb isn't let off at the 13th hour.

Still, we are hoping that there won't be too many conditions that the Planning Department want to enforce on our Development Application, especially seeing as this 7m high structure still remains our neighbour, even though it is, after 15 years - still unapproved and still standing:

It's not even that I dislike it. It's more of - well - a precedent issue.

Very soon, I will glance towards these three Prophets of old, as I like to refer to them, and I will no longer see them from our garden.

I will miss the sight of them.

But then, the new Workshop ( our new build) that will block their view will hold much promise and not only fulfill the Machinist's and my long term dreams, but offer a legacy for our children.

CLEANING THE WORKSHOP

2013-01-15T00:55:00.003+11:00

On our last day of the holidays, the Machinist and I walked around our workshop to take stock of all that has to be done in an effort to prepare for the expansion of our Engineering business. So much piles up so quickly.

I have made lists of all that has to be sorted and organised and over the next few days, (hopefully not weeks!) the girls and I will - hop to it!.

Even though our trade is metal fabrication and engineering, the accumulation of consumables that have nothing to do with the trade directly are apt to increase as the months go by.

Today, I made labels for tubs in preparation of organising the supplies: Cars (motor oils and spare globes etc), Electrical (every time the Machinist acquires a new tool or machine, there is a component of electrical work to be done) Plumbing (for both the Workshops and the Block), Garden (for hoses and fitments - especially to have our property bushfire ready with fire fighting pumps), as well as general Hardware.

The Machinist is delighted that we will be in 'his' territory. He says there's nothing better than a 'woman's touch' when it comes to cleaning and sorting and having all the tools and accessories in an orderly manner.

We anticipate lots of cuppas from the lads for our hard work!

Fitzroy Falls, Kangaroo Valley, Nowra, Berry

2013-01-06T16:45:00.000+11:00

I love it when the Machinist has time off work. We do unusual stuff. We go for drives. Here are some pics of one of our spontaneous getaways to Kangaroo Valley.

Firstly, a stopover at Fitzroy Falls. Here is the dam at Fitzroy:

The Machinist commented how we are always told what to do: "No this, no that, no the other..."

A beautiful misty scene:

Driving down the mountain into Kangaroo Valley. And talking of Kangaroos, note the black tape on the dashboard. This is the result of the airbags going off when we hit the kangaroo on our way home one night - a few months ago.

On previous visits to Kangaroo Valley, we would stop at this old store for ice creams. There is a sign outside saying "The World's Best Pies". Well, I don't know about that. Actually, I do. They don't have the best pies, but the ice cream was always the creamiest....

Part of the Valley:

More of the Valley.

We still have some pottery purchased at this old store - way back in around 1995:

Imagine having to travel on this. Talk about a bone-shaker!

A sample house in the old Gold mining village:

The famous Hampden Bridge:

The Machinist walking towards the famous Hampden bridge:

Mr Ernest De Burgh - Engineer

A plaque telling more about the Hampden Bridge:

A tow-path leading underneath the bridge:

Swimmers frolicking underneath the bridge. You can't see it in this photo, but there was a rope swing, which sent me on a diatribe to the Machinist about the rope swings I've played on in my younger years. I could have easily gone down there to have a go, but the Machinist held me back.

Please note that this post is not about Hampden Bridge!

We also drove up to Nowra for fish and chips, then returned via Berry and got lost on some very narrow, winding back roads.

Silver And Gold

2012-12-18T07:59:00.000+11:00

This badge takes me to a time long ago, when our children went to Sunday School. Sam didn't pay much attention in class. Sarah did, and she got all the questions right. Sam, on the other hand, winged his way through it. When singing "Silver and Gold", for the third line, he would always sing:

"....He was asked for his arms, but through in his palms..."

The girls called him T Rex.

These are the correct lyrics. YOU probably know them....

Peter and John went to pray.
they met a lame man on the way
He asked for alms and held out his palms,
and this is what Peter did say"
Silver and gold have I none,
but such as I have give I you.
In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, in Jesus' name rise up and walk.
The man went walking and leaping and praising God,
Walking and leaping and praising God,
"In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, In Jesus' name rise up and walk".

Growing the Business

2012-12-15T00:56:00.000+11:00

As I sit and type, I can hear the constant drone of the bobcat. It is our Sam, working on dispersing the mounds of soil in the paddock next door. This soil (fill) will become the 'base' for the concrete slab and the very beginning of our new venture - the addition of another Workshop - meaning the expansion of our family company.

I was talking with Grandpa this morning and we were discussing how many businesses in our own industry and other industries are having to close their doors and walk away from companies they've poured their heart and soul into. It saddens me to think about them, as we (the Machinist and I) know all too well how this feels - especially to be so close to - well- to closing down. I am constantly in awe as to how much work has come our way. But moreso - how the work has come our way. From the most unsuspecting sources: from acquaintances of friends, from other business associates and sometimes - even out of the blue.

In all of it, though - the excitement, joy and challenge, - the health and well-being of my family is of the utmost importance. My greatest quest, but also the most difficult task is to assist, to calm, to encourage, to nurture a house full of dear hearts – all of different ages, needs and desires. Oftentimes, I find it hard to motivate myself and sometimes, my dear hearts don’t want or need assisting! Oh and our home is not always peaceful either. As anyone who has experienced this will attest; living and working under the same roof is sometimes – well – difficult.

I think of my mam – Granny – at this point. In the midst of her many busy days when we were youngsters I would hear her say under her breath:

“God, give me strength…”

FIGURES, HIPS AND OOPS A DAISIES!

2012-12-10T09:51:00.001+11:00

For those of you who have read my blog for some time, you may have a sense of knowing how I roll. For those new to my blog, I say "Hello!" and "welcome" and "thanks for visiting". I have made some new adjustments, which you will see right at the top. I've added 'buttons' - (yep, I'm getting fancy!). These buttons will tell you a bit more about me, my family and my Manufactory. It may make what I write and ramble on about a bit clearer.

Chin chin!

Over the last months (since my brother's birthday post) I've taken the Grands to a number of doctors and specialists appointments, in various towns.

My brother went on holiday to the UK. On his return, mam and I went out with him to celebrate. (Celebration is good, there doesn't have to be a reason). Anyway, in our celebration mode, my mam turned too quickly, and even though her arm was hooked in my arm (singing as we went), she fell and I couldn't catch her and she was slipping away from me - ever-so sloooowwwly. I couldn't catch her and it was horrible. Mam was still laughing as she fell and hit the ground, saying "what a silly fool I am.." and then "...Helen, something's cracked..."

And so - hospitals, operations and more specialists. Mam is an ox. No partial hip replacement will keep her down. (I'm exhausted).

Still, you have to stay on the bright side, and even when I load the walking wheelie trolleys into the car, I chuckle, despite the skill it takes to load everything including the shopping.

What else?

Lots of paperwork for the Council, as we are building a new Workshop. Lots of paperwork for the bank, as we are hoping the Bank is going to pay for said Workshop. Lots of paperwork and book-keeping for the Accountant, as he is putting the numbers in an attractive way for the Bank. It's all in the figures. This is the circle of life....

Oh and we hit a kangaroo on the way home one night after a movie I enjoyed, but the Machinist disliked. (Ok, I'll tell you the name of the movie: Wuthering Heights). It's an horrific experience hitting a kangaroo. He stood there, suddenly but defiantly glaring into our lights. He hit the front light, then the windscreen, roof, landed on his stealthy legs and bounced off. From inside, we saw the windscreen shatter, but it didn't shatter in a glass-strewn-all-over-the-place type of way. More of a spider web getting bigger kind of way. Then the airbags exploded. White puffy clouds in front of us. We couldn't see a things. The Machinist guided the car to the centre of the highway. There was a sickening smell, with smoke coming out of the dashboard. I shouted to the Machinist "...get out - quick!" as I was convinced the car was going to catch alight. The Machinist, ever so slowly (????) got out of the car and started gagging. I was convinced that he had internal bleeding. The car neither caught fire and the Machinist doesn't have internal bleeding. The result? A massive bill for the windscreen and an even bigger one for the replacement of the airbags.

Machinist "....I knew I shouldn't have watched that stupid movie!"

BIRTHDAYS

2012-07-14T23:34:00.003+10:00

I love impulsive days where you just decide to do something because you FEEL like doing it at that time. Today was such a day. The Machinist took me into town and bought me new boots and clothes. We had burgers (even a gluten free burger!) and discussed our new health plan. Part of it will be food, the other - a change of lifestyle where LOTS of delegation and surrendering work to others takes a big part. I love the sound of it already!

Much later, we had dinner with my brother and ex sister in law. It's seldom that we can get together, because we are all in business and work hard and have little time for socialising. Today, however, was their birthday and I love that despite a marriage that ended some years ago, they are still best of friends and they love each other, and make the effort to be together on their birthdays.

And so - this is a birthday wish for both of them -

I love you both very much. I hope to share many more birthdays with you. I am so proud of who you both are and what you have achieved. Thankyou for all you have done for us. Thankyou for your generous hearts.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Oh, and B and W - thanks for paying the restaurant bill! You know it should have been our treat... but you are both so stubborn. And we all know who you get that from....

Calling A Diet A Diet

2012-07-12T21:35:00.002+10:00

It's very rare, of late to spend a whole day at home. On weekdays, I am taking the Grands to their doctor's appointments or keeping my own, along with the Machinist. Otherwise, there are jobs to be picked up or jobs to be dropped off in town (sixty kilometres away from where we live and work). Accountants to consult, banking to be transacted, hardware to be bought, vehicles to register.

And... blood to be let. At the Pathology clinic, that is.

Some months back, I booked an appointment at a Sydney doctor's practice for our Emma. In the meantime, Emma embarked on a new health plan and had no need to see this specialist doctor. And so - I took her place and I'm glad I did.

I, too will be embarking on a new health plan, - dare I call it a "diet". Although we all like to publicly refer to it as ' ...a new lifestyle...' or '...a new way of eating...', I'm convinced there's many of us that still use the term 'diet', and when we do, it makes everything clear and there's no questions needed to be asked and everyone knows what's going on.

The diet I refer to is the HCG diet. I've read about it and am reading more and more. I will even be adding to the diet blog I set up some time ago...

All being well, I will start tomorrow. The diet, not updating the blog...

Wish me ~~luck~~ good health!

Workshop Development

2012-07-11T00:12:00.003+10:00

The Machinist has received a lot of new work and challenging projects for our Engineering business. Some products are to be duplicated in the hundreds and some products are to be designed from scratch.

There is a need to build a second workshop to accommodate new machinery, as well as newly manufactured products and we are currently in the process of working on and submitting a Development Application to our local Council.

We were advised to seek and employ a Development Consultant, but true to our family trait, we are DIO (doing it ourselves).

For those of you who have dealt with (especially) small country town Councils, you will understand what we are going through.

In a way, - adding to the Environmental Effects Statement with additional comments and CAD drawings is a process which makes you think - really think - about what you have to do - the extent you have to go through to achieve the final result.

The Machinist and I are in total awe at the size and prospect of this extra workload. Where to start?

Suddenly, I break out in my best Julie Andrews impersonation (The Sound of Music)

"....Let's start at the very beginning....a very good place to start...."

We laugh. And laugh some more. Because deep down, we know that all will be well. Excitement reigns.

Hen Whisperers

2012-05-15T09:40:00.001+10:00

At one stage, we had over 50 ex battery hens. They were so gentle, and I admit - I talked to them. The Machinist took over my role as Chief Hen Feeder and he, too, began talking to them. Nowadays, we have one Rhode Island hen, and she is scraggly looking, seeing as it is time for her moult. I cannot bare to leave her alone in her (Rolls Royce) hen house, so I let her stroll the garden. She loves to climb the steps to the back deck and resume her roll as top of the pecking order. No more thieving magpies and no more kitties;; - they've migrated to the front of the house and guard it with a passion.

There are so many detailed things one has to do in the morning, sometimes, too petty to even mention. One that always makes me smile, however, is the ice-cracking of the water in the communal bowl. The dogs and the hen drink thirstily and peacefully together when the ice is removed or we've exchanged the cold water for luke warm. The hen then has first dibs on the dog food, throwing her scrawny neck back at each picking.

The Machinist asked me the other day if I thought we should get some more hens. Knowing us, I replied that it would be better to wait and allow the Lone Hen to savour her days without the introduction of potentially new upstarts. When we have a large flock, producing more work and cost we declare we shall have no more, but again, knowing us, we never do anything in halves.

Hmmmm.....

His Lady

2012-05-08T01:15:00.003+10:00

I didn't think it that important. I wasn't going to go. But I'm sure glad I did.

The ultrasound revealed I had a 20cm (8 inch) ovarian tumour.

"When did that happen?" "How?"

To cut a long story short, and not to downplay a major abdominal surgery, the tumour was benign and I'm now recuperating very well. (Thanks so much for asking!) 12 days after my surgery, our first grand-baby - the beautiful, gorgeous Keiralea Anne De Bruin joined our family.

I simply cannot describe the love. I tear up when I think of her, and sometimes - even - when I'm holding her, as I kiss her and feel her baba-soft cheek skin.

The Machinist insists I am now his Lady. His Lady of Leisure. I am his 'delicate' English rose. Sometimes, he calls me "... the Ruby he found and claimed from that small country town in Africa, never to return..."

I am currently in limbo. I am seeking projects. I have plans.....

Thankyou so much for reading!

xxx

My Valentine

2012-02-09T01:06:00.000+11:00

My daughter, Sarah, invited me to be one of her guest bloggers and to write about my love story in the lead up to Valentine's day. Why not pop over to Sarah's Blog, "Middlepaw" and see why the Machinist will always be my Valentine

Tying Loose Ends

2012-02-01T04:42:00.000+11:00

I can hear the gentle wooshing of the rain as I sit and type. The Machinist has finished watching his favourite program and has just walked through to the lounge, where I sit behind my desk with a dim lamp light. He draws the curtains. It is part of his evening routine, as he is such a creature of habit. He draws the curtains, locks the front door, goes to the bathroom, then takes his supplements. He's like clockwork and I love him for it, as he is a great support, dependable and reliable. He is steadfast and comforting and assuring even- especially in these times of uncertainty.

I find that there are so many projects that I want to complete, both in the house and also in the garden. Before I can whole-heartedly throw myself into these projects, however, I have to finish packing up the shop. My brother has bought most of our equipment, but there is always so much of the smaller items to deal with: glasses, crockery, cutlery, small appliances, stationary, table signs and numbers, menus, left over giftware, jams, sauces, honey and small quantities of dry goods like peppers, specialised flours, spices etc.

During the days of packing up The Daily Pie, I am also 'flirting' with a HUGE decluttering at home. Some days, I take things from home to the shop, and others - I take things from the shop - home. The rest goes into a huge trailer parked outside, ready to be towed to the local tip. Some days, it feels like I am getting "nowhere", as while I spend so much time in each day repeating this routine, I am not doing the regular chores like washing, cleaning, and even - shopping. We have plenty of stock in our home pantry, but lack fresh fruit and vegetables and other perishable items. Hence, we're still not eating as healthy as I would like us to eat. My waistline proves it!

And although we are still saddened by our elective closure of the Cafe, we are all excited about the future...

Galavanting

2012-01-24T00:19:00.000+11:00

The Machinist and I did a lot of gadding about during our Christmas break. We went on a few day trips around our region. I'm still grazing on the memories of drives we took in the new Land Rover Discovery. This is what it looks like:

What a pleasure to travel on hot days in a beautifully airconditioned car!

We went to the National Gallery of Australia:

The War Memorial:

The National Zoo and Aquarium:

We took a trip to the beach. Some of us swam, some paddled, some frolicked in rock pools and some, well - they just got sun burned.

Later in the Christmas break, the Machinist and I took a trip to Cooma, which is a town in the Snowy Mountains.

It wasn't snowing when we were there (ha!), and after passing through we descended the Brown Mountain, and spent the night at a quaint Bed and Breakfast, which was and still is the General store and Post office called The Two Storey B & B at Central Tilba

But... the one place that I truly adore and even dream about was the culmination of our travels, namely, the one and only Foxglove Spires Garden at Tilba Tilba.

What can I say? You can read more here.

I am truly besotted, especially as I read the creator and owner of the garden, Sue Southam's book: Velvet Pears.

And so, to bed! Where I can read more of these beautiful pages, and perhaps even dream of them!

Bittersweet

2012-01-18T17:24:00.002+11:00

Life is oftentimes bittersweet. The realisation that we had to close our beloved Pie Shop, The Daily Pie was one of those bitter times. While we packed and cleaned we had a constant knot in our throats. One day, Sarah and I went up to the shop, intending to take pictures and write descriptions for the sale of equipment. (I had been up there previously, alone on a few occasions, just wanting to 'think'. I was adjusting myself to the prospect of no longer having the shop). As she approached the pie display fridge, (which we endeavoured to keep choc-full of ample pies, beautifully arranged) she took a step back and declared "...it feels like I'm selling my soul.."

This little heart-declaration caused us to postpone the photo session until... well.....we still haven't returned for that, but we will.

There is so much that goes on behind the scenes in the hospitality industry. I knew straight from the start, that we would never have been as successful if it wasn't for the help of a VERY DEAR FRIEND of ours, fondly known as "Cheffy". He helped us regularly, without return or promise of return. He is generous of heart, methodical, punctual, reliable - a perfectionist and a true gentleman. The unsung hero (to us, anyway).

And so, it is farewell to the old, as the promise of something new breeds unpredicted, yet sweet excitement!

Our Pet Family

2012-01-04T01:00:00.007+11:00

I can't believe four months have past since my last post!

Wilson is a big boy now. He has a friend; also a poddy lamb which we raised to be his companion. Wilson's friend is Leo. Wilson, we've learned, is a Merino lamb and Leo is a Border lester cross. They eat and eat and eat in the paddock at the side of our house. They are truly 'Fat Lambs'. Somewhere in the paddock lies two lambs tails and two gonad sacks. The Machinist jokes about finding these body parts and using them to spur his lads into action, should they ever become slack while at work in the factory. The lads just laugh about the Machinist's threats, as they know his task of finding said parts would be like finding needles in a haystack.

In other pet news, my lovely Lilly - a Schnauzer cross Pug has been fatally mauled by Polly, our Staffy cross Silky. We were all out at the time of the alpha-female power struggle and poor Sarah had to come home to the end of the battle. We rushed Lilly to the vet, and all was looking good "No news is good news", the local vet advised our Sarah. And then, around 9.30pm that night, there was a phone call...

I still can't get over it. I've never grieved a dog like I do Lilly.

There is MUCH more news, but the Machinist is calling me to bed. We hope to visit Jenolan Caves tomorrow with the rest of my lovely family and we're hoping to make an early start (well, as early as one would like to call early while on holiday. Our first in three years).

More later....

RIP, my lovely Lilly xx

A Woolly Distraction

2011-08-05T00:16:00.000+10:00

In our quest to solve the lack of signage on the local section of the Highway to advertise The Daily Pie, the girls door knocked roadside landowners who may be prepared to 'lease' us a section of their land to erect a fixed sign. They also put notes in letterboxes, making their plea known.

A resounding 'yes' a couple of 'maybe's' as well as a few 'I'll have to think about its' were received and noted.

The Machinist and I went to visit the Farmer who was eager to help and who had given us full permission to check out his paddocks which run alongside the Highway, in order to find the best visual spot for passing traffic.

An Australian cattle dog met us, panting excitedly, running from the car back to his master on our arrival at the Homestead. The dog's master walked towards us, holding something long, floppy, bloody and covered with amniotic (glue like) fluid. "This is Julius, named after Julias Caeser, as I've just delived him by caeserean section. I had to put the mother down, as the crows had been at her backside and she was in a really bad way..."

Said in the true spirit of Aussie nitty gritty-ness!

"You can have him if you want, but I don't want to get involved if you both disagree", he said, looking from me to the Machinist.

"We'll have to find a blanket or something, Babe" The Machinist didn't hesitate
"So it's affirmative on your part?"
"We need a sheep to keep the grass down in the paddock next door"
"Yeah, that's true"

In the meantime, the Farmer had nipped off to find an empty sack "You can put the lamb in here, as you carry him home. I'll just nip indoors to see if we have any spare poddy lamb teats"

And that, as they say, was that.

Wilson is kept in front of the fire, inside a make-shift 'play pen'. He bleats, drinks, sleeps, craps and pees. But we don't mind. It means that he is working perfectly!

Signage

2011-08-03T17:00:00.000+10:00

The Machinist had disappeared from his 'post' as pie filler and I wandered outside to see where he was and what he was doing, so that I could haul him back and chain him to the stainless steel bench. Alas, he was talking with a Highway Patrol officer. "Oh no!", I thought (the usual 'what's the matter now' feeling you get when any type of Policeman enters your premises, even though you're not guilty of anything he could possibly be there for). On closer earshot, I learned that we had been 'officially informed' that we were not allowed to put our signage for the pie shop out on the Highway.

And so now begins the tedious task of many communications with bureaucracy....

Good Help

2011-07-25T23:55:00.000+10:00

The Machinist helped us a LOT at the Pie shop over the weekend. He is so willing to help, but insists that we always have something for him to do 'next', as he despises waiting around. What's so cool about the Machinist helping out at the shop is that we get to have breakfast. Because the Machinist makes us breakfast.

We've discovered a new brand of DOUBLE smoked bacon for the pies, and always order a bit more for us. The Machinist was grilling the bacon for our new Brekkyinapie breakfast pie. After retrieving it from the oven, he cautiously picked up a rasher, held it above his head, lowering it into his mouth. Chewing and mumbling at the same time, he asked

"...Anyone else for Aussie spaghetti?..."

Fridges, Flights and Axes

2011-07-09T07:37:00.000+10:00

The Machinist is up early. He and Number One Son are going to Sydney to pick up a cold display fridge that I bid on and won. Usually, the Machinist and I do the Sydney trips together, as we consider them a bit of business and pleasure. Pleasure being the opportunity to EAT out. Today, however, I have to make pies. Lots of pies. If I'm good and actually finish making the pies the girls are going to let me go home, so that I can chisel away at the mound of paperwork currently sitting before me as I type.

My Mam and brother are going to the UK in four days time. I'm all nervous. For them, and for me. I don't want my Mam to be stressed and tired, or worry about anything (as she often does). I want her to be calm and peaceful and enjoy her visit with her sisters and my brothers. I'm hoping my brother doesn't get too tired with all the arrangements and responsibility of the care for both of them (he has Tetralogy of Fallot aka 'Blue Baby Syndrome'). And for me - well - I'm gonna miss them. Seven weeks is a long time. Oh, and the goodbyes.....

Grandpa will be staying home. At an impressive 85 years he doesn't fancy the trip. He will be coming into the cafe each day for his coffee(s) and looking after "Blossom", their 8 year old Pekingnese. Blossom will need a lot of care. Yesterday, our Sarah took her to the vet and she has a heart murmer, is acutely obese, has a tired liver and possibly, even doggy-diabetes. Grandpa assures us that he will NOT be chopping wood for his fire, and he will leave that to us. (Even though he secretly bought another axe when he handed over his rather large axe to us). Several trips to the outpatients, due to axe trauma doesn't really bother him. I'm convinced he has his fingers crossed behind his back when he promises he won't EVER chop wood again, nor seek 'kindling' on the hill behind his cottage.

All Creatures Great and Small

2011-07-07T00:04:00.000+10:00

We have a lot of windows at the front of the Cafe, and they are usually kept clean and sparkling. While this is pleasing to the eye, it's havoc for some of our wild birds, as they fly straight into the glass, knock themselves out and fall to the ground. Unconscious. Oftentimes, we scurry to find boxes for the concussed birds to lie in while they recover.

Last week, a brightly colourful Rosella collided with the glass and while he was recovering, his mate fluttered nervously around him. Eventually, they flew off together. Happily Ever After.

Standing at the sink and gazing sleepily out of the window, a movement, just below the windowsill caught my eye. A Grey Shrike-Thrush was fluttering and then lurching his tiny body at the two hot water tanks, servicing the kitchen and bathroom.

The Thrush would flutter, lurch and then land on top of the tanks, croon his head and peck....

"Would you like a cup of tea, Babe?" the Machinist asked as he clicked on the kettle. "What are you looking at?"

I pointed to the curious activity of our avian friend. "He's picking flies and bugs out of the cobwebs", the Machinist continued. "I watched him just the other day. See?"

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Mathew 6:26 KJV

Disco, Disco, Disco

2011-07-05T23:47:00.000+10:00

We've been talking a lot about music and how our tastes vary. When we were young, back in the late 70's and early 80's, disco dancing were the 'moves' to be had. We love to tell our children how the floor was cleared as we strutted. Chilly's adaption of "For Your Love" (originally performed by The Yardbirds 1965 - not that I had heard of them) was, and still is, one of our all time favourites.

The Machinist confirmed this today. He took an early shower (brought on by the ferocious wind and rain) and came through to our home office, wrapped in a blue towel, looking somewhat like the Union Jack with his partly heat-scalded red and white (well, flesh coloured) torso. I watched his face light with recognition of the song and immediately he started to strut. And shuffle. And strut some more. And then, a few popular disco moves like "The Exit" and "The Mousehole", as well as "The lawn mower" and "The air hostess". It helped that the previous day we had checked out (and practiced) some sweet disco moves

Getting back to the group, "Chilly": - we didn't even know who they were or what they looked like. TV invaded homes in South Africa around 1975. There was only one channel and it was conservative, as expected. I sometimes think it was better that way, as music and rhythm and lyrics were loved (or hated) for what they were, not what they looked like, or the image they portrayed. After all, who, pray, could enjoy shimmering lycra, lots of pale blue eyeshadow and perfectly (page boy) styled hair worn by women (and men).

Nowadays, I often prefer remakes of older songs, as the older ones sound so 'tinny'. Take "Funky Town", performed by Lipps Inc, and later, performed by Psuedo Echo for example.

Ok, so now, I'm going to strut my stuff...

Yeah, Baby....

Not On My Lounge!

2011-07-04T00:03:00.000+10:00

A long time ago, when I was pregnant with my Emma-Lee, the Machinist and I went shopping for a bed. We came home with a brand new lounge and dining room suite, but no bed. We've kept both suites in immaculate condition over the years and are still in possession of them to this day. However, I've always longed for a leather lounge set; two doubles and two triple seaters, - in dark brown (of course). Earlier this year, the Machinist bought us a new leather lounge. To cut a long story short, the two two-seaters were taken to the Cafe, and placed in front of the combustion fire, to sit on and linger with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

Today, after the Machinist had put the Cafe signs out on the highway, we sat together with Sam, and his girl, Hayley. A young woman walked over to the leather lounges, plonked her baby down on one of them and proceeded to take the baby's pants off and change its nappy.

I couldn't take it any more. I had to get up and flee to the kitchen. This week, the two seaters will be removed from the Cafe and taken back home, where they belong.

We have no changing table. We have no parents room. It is a FOOD establishment. Whatever happened to changing your own child in your own car?

Which leads me to the next train of thought....

There are a lot of young women today - young mothers who carry on as if they are complete heroines for actually giving birth to and raising a child. Some of them think they can turn on fertility (or lack of it) like a light switch, at their own whim.

Mothers of old never abused this blessing of child bearing and rearing. They were honourable and would never impose their motherly duties on anybody.

Just saying....

Signing off,

(A wee bit) Cranky in Collector....

Winter Days

2011-07-03T00:00:00.000+10:00

Winter is here in the Tablelands. We've had lots of frost, but no snow as yet. I'm hoping we get snow, as it's the perfect weather for roaring fires, books, hot drinks and thick woolly socks. Of course, I don't get to do that much nowadays, but I remember. Oh yes, I remember well.

The Pie cafe is changing. We're learning all the time, tweaking our business plan, attempting to make things simpler, yet more effective. (I read an article which stated that oftentimes, business owners are efficient, but not effective). The transition we are planning is challenging, yet exciting. More on that later.

The Machinist has acquired more equipment for the workshop, as we have taken on new clients, who require a lot of manufactured items.

We have two new staff members, who are learning VERY FAST to become multi-skilled and very flexible. On any given day, they can be chopping wood for our fires as well as the Grands, loading woodchip onto our garden beds (in preparation for spring, and the weeds that it brings), helping out at the cafe in either wash-up or waiting or even - emergency barista.

My mam has been for an eye operation and it was absolutely thrilling to hear her say "Helen, I can actually see. It's like being re-born". In two weeks time, she will be visiting her sisters as well as having a reunion with three of her four sons in England. I sometimes imagine us all being together and the heart longing can be so strong, but in my 'head' I know and accept that this seldom comes to pass in the reality of life. One day, though, I would love to take my own family to the country of my birth.

The Machinist assures me "our time will come, Helen. You'll see"

For now, though, I will continue on here where I am needed most.

Relaxing After Work

2011-04-11T00:35:00.000+10:00

After a long and customer-busy day at the pie shop, there's nothing more relaxing than couch potato-ing it next to the Machinist. Our usual viewing line up is 60 minutes followed by Silent Witness on a Sunday. After this, we flick and flick, looking for snippets of shows that we may be interested in. American Idol flashes a full view of all three judges...

"Is that his real face?" I ask the Machinist of Steven Tyler.
"Yeah..."
"No nips, tucks, pinches or stretches?"
"I don't think so"

The dogs are all over me. Polly either at my feet or the chair next to me. Big Black Bob between the Machnist and I with his big head weighing heavy on my lap. Peppi curled up in a tight ball, on my lap and Lilly - laying across Big Bob's neck and onto my left side.

"I don't get it", says the Machinist "I feed and water them, administer medicine and care for them when they are sick, yet they're always sitting with you or on you. You're their Idol"

He's always making me laugh...

True Perspective

2011-02-20T08:44:00.000+11:00

"To withdraw for a brief moment from the hurly-burly and distractions of everyday affairs will afford both relief and fresh incentive; it will enable us to determine whether we are on the right road; it will give us the true perspective" - J.C.W.R.

We went out for dinner last night with fellow business associates, business owners and friends. Although the meal was scrumptious (antipasto, followed by rib eye, reduced red wine gravy, baked garlic, baked potato and then onto panna cotta), it was secondary to the company we kept. We spoke of other countries, childhood days, family, music, health and well being. And we laughed. We laughed a lot.

Throughout the conversations there was a 'knowing'. A knowing that we each understood the other's lifestyle, sacrifices and responsibilities. We all 'got it'.

On the way home, the Machinist had the windows open, driving down the main street of the city. The streets were filled with Youth, - deciding on their next move or destination. Mostly, - mere girls, looking beautiful with high heels and mini skirts that would make their mothers cringe (surely?). Here and there - a few groups of boys - well - they looked like boys - dressed very casually in T's and jeans or T's and shorts, seemingly no match, appearance wise for the girls.

Cars passed us, filled again with Youth holding beer cans or Maccas burgers, windows wound down and a 'doof, doof, doof' coming from their costly fully-sick sub woofas. And then, out of nowhere at the traffic lights (the Machinist still calls them 'Robots' from his South African days) a car full of Asian boys pulled up beside us. I watched them, wondering about their life and family and whether they were born here, and if they were happy and whether they called Australia 'home'. Instead of the beer bottles and cans and general junk food passed around, the front passenger passed around an amply filled plastic bag. Each of the back seat passengers took from the bag.

"Look, Doll... look what they're eating...."

Then, laughter.

In tune with their intrinsic culture, the young Asian boys were passing around a variety of fruits.

It truly was so refreshing to withdraw from every day affairs....

Melbourne Day 4

2011-02-17T23:26:00.000+11:00

We happened upon this beautifully laid out nursery on a main street in Brunswick.

We enjoyed the variety of metal art the owner had on display. I felt like Inspector Cluso with my camera taking these pics. I tried to snap them when the staff weren't around. Otherwise, they could have thought i was one of those secret shoppers....

More sneaky product pics...

Aaah... customers. Now I can take a few more shots

I have a 'thing' for this kind of gravel on garden paths. I love how neat it looks and the crunching sound it makes when you walk on it.

The Machinist is a poser. When the girls saw this pic of him, they declared that all he needed was a little white collar and he could pass as a Catholic priest. Naturally, the Machinist couldn't see it...

Melbourne Day 3

2011-02-17T22:32:00.001+11:00

This is Brunswick street.

It's an extremely LONG street by small country village standards and we walked the length of it several times. There were so many boutique / alternative (as they say) shops in this area of Melbourne and we LOVED them. Clothes shops, factory outlets, perfumery, coffee, boots, art, coffee, junk, goth, coffee... You catcha ma drift....

After shopping, we ventured back to South Wharf, hoping to see the movie "Hereafter". The girls went to buy the tickets, but were told that the whole cinema was booked out privately. And so - a dash for a tram, then another, then a train and we stepped off the station at South Yarra. The streets were packed full of people, bustling down narrow pavements. After a (very) brisk walk, we arrived at The Jam Factory (a mall) and on entering couldn't fail to see a Stan Laurel look alike figure hanging from the big hand of the massive suspended clock.

I could do with this skylight at home. I'd need a mansion to house it, though.

The city is beautiful at night. Full of lights and stained glass windows and solid stone decorative buildings like this one on Collins Street:

And this one, too....

And finally, bronze statues offering the European flair (and Atlas)

Melbourne Room With A View

2011-02-17T00:14:00.000+11:00

View from our hotel room, early morning, City of Melbourne:

Melbourne Trip Day 2 (Part c)

2011-02-16T23:51:00.000+11:00

In which we - yes - we talked to the (stuffed) animals.... Hey, let's sing it now:
"We are the world"

"We are the children"

"We are the ones who make a brighter day"

"So let's start giving"

"There's a choice we're making"

"We're (not) saving our own lives"

"It's true - we'll make a better day"

"Just you and me"

"la la la la la la......."

"Just you and meeee........"

Melbourne Trip Day 2 (Part b)

2011-02-16T23:21:00.000+11:00

Just inside the museum's doors stands this early 1920's van. I couldn't help but think of my mam, as she had to drive a laundry van at the young age of 14. She always knew that she could run much faster than the van, but felt priviledged to drive it anyway.

Through into the science section, we passed through a series of dinosaurs. Like this party animal overhead:

...And this well-grounded bro down below. Either way, they creep me out and it's a good job they don't roam the earth today.

The Machinist took my camera and snapped this shot of me. Need I say more?

Up close to one of the specimins. Even though they were behind glass, and most were dead, it would still be "Goodnight" for me if one was to fall on me, or take a stroll over my foot or land in my hair. I can't even begin to imagine one landing in my hair. I've got goosies just thinking about it.

Now these crawlies I don't mind watching. They were alive and well and eating their nom noms. They are the good guys, munching away at dead tissue and thereby cleaning the bones. Friends of the Curator dot com.

When their bellies are truly full and feasting comes to an end, this is the type of finish they end up with. Oh and by the way - this is the skeleton of a magpie. (I just can't imagine this guy swooping me)

Melbourne Trip Day 2 (Part a)

2011-02-16T23:03:00.001+11:00

We knew we wanted to visit the museum, but didn't know that it resided right next door to the Imax Cinema. Not sure what the girls are engrossed in, but would you look at the Machinist? He's checking out the general fabrication. Again.

The huge Rubik's cube in front of Imax cinema

We actually thought that this building was the museum. It's not. It's Australia's first Parliament House. For your information and interest, of course.

Check out Parliament's dome. These old buildings never cease to amaze me. They had less, worked harder, and the buildings were greater by FAR.

Alas, we came for the museum, and here it is. Excitement! (I'm such a nerd)

Melbourne Trip Day 1

2011-02-16T22:49:00.001+11:00

We recently flew to Melbourne on an overdue, longed for and promised mini getaway. Arriving early in the morning, we dropped off our bags at the hotel and took a tram over to Queen Victoria Market, housed under a massive awning type structure. The Machinist just HAD to check out the welds, angles, ID and OD thicknesses, as well as comment on the magnificent radiuses used 'back in those days...."

I was there for the food, especially the cherries at $3.99 per kg. We pay around $15 per kg in our neck o' the woods. (I sound like my mother).

While the girls were enthralled by artists and handsome thickset Kiwi men, the Machinist and I had a coffee here:

Later in the day, we took a taxi over to South Wharf and the Crown Casino, DFO shopping, dinner and movies (The Next Three Days)

Floods

2011-01-12T00:07:00.002+11:00

First the fires. Now the floods.

I have dear friends - isolated and marooned in their homes - unable to escape by themselves, waiting for the State Emergency Services to rescue them. Depending on a rescue, when all the time -not knowing if this is possible due to continuing weather conditions.

Such devastation puts everything into perspective.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Miller-Carters, those of the Murray Cod stock...xxx

Aquatic Drones: Good Guys Really

2011-01-06T08:24:00.001+11:00

One of the toilets at the Shop wasn't flushing with as much passion as it usually flushes. On inspection, the Machinist discovered that the submersible pump in Number Two Septic Tank wasn't working and grey water was building up and not seeping away quick enough - therefore, causing a sort of septic regurgitation.

He came into the kitchen to tell us that he had fixed the problem. "...and Doll, you should see the creatures we have in the septic tanks..."

The three of us looked up, waiting for more information.

"What?"

"The tanks"

"The pumps are fixed"

"No, the creatures...."

"You don't wanna be lookin'...."

The Kitchen procession began - out of the back door across to the septic tanks.

Rattailed Maggots and lest you think the tail is - well - the tail. It's not. It's their breathing tube.

A Bloke's Best Friend

2011-01-05T23:11:00.001+11:00

The front lawn had grown beyond recognition. It needed whipper snipper action before a conventional mower could have any effect. Even the path between the lawn and the house had lanky dandelions and grass roots emerging from the soft soil. Time was sparse and the Machinist moved swiftly, swinging his arms from left to right with skill, ravaging the rogue greenery - now bulbous and (almost) bursting with new life. Prolific seeds, waiting anxiously for their marching orders.
Suddenly, a pebble, lifted by the green chord shot up and hit the tall window. A crack, then another. Within seconds, the whole pane fragmented, but held in place.

That night, I heard crackling sounds. They woke me. By morning time, the Machinist had had enough of my ramblings about how the glass in the sliding door might "...suddenly burst and like shrapnel, disperse through our unsuspecting bodies...". He marched outside with bucket and broom, and 'relieved' the heaving pane. Not having enough time to clear up thousands of pieces of glass, the remains lay just outside our bedroom door.... waiting to be swept up 'later on'.

It's quite a few weeks later and the window has not been fixed. Instead, a huge piece of laminated cardboard protects us from the 'elements' (loud birdsong, loud cat crying and loud possum scrapping). On cooler nights, the wind almost whistles as the board flaps.

"Would you check that it's still in place? It sounds as if it's loose..."

The Machinist lifts the curtains to check his handiwork.

"It's fine. I'll get the glass man over tomorrow...Anyway, the Duct Tape's still in place..."

Thunderstorms and Flooding

2010-12-15T00:20:00.001+11:00

We were up at 4am two Friday nights ago - sweeping water out of the Workshop. Then again last Friday. This time, though, it was more than the average flooding; brown rainwater came in from both ends of the property. The creek at the bottom of our garden had risen so high, there was exactly three inches between the water level and the Workshop's concrete floor. The Machinist's brand new 'thousands of dollars' new machinery sat 10 metres away from facing the dreaded 'wet feet'.

The Machinist, the girls and I had spent the afternoon packing hundreds of sandbags in preparation of what was looming in the late afternoon sky. We were still filling, lifting, carting and dragging the heavy, (already)wet sacks when the storm began.

Equipped with several pumps, we attempted to suck the water away from the Workshop and pump it back into the creek. We'd made calls to the State Emergency Services, as well as our local Fire Brigade, to no avail.

"It's not just a back-yard shed," I pleaded "It's our bread and butter..."

I was so proud of my family that night. Our girls were real troopers, lugging sand bags on their shoulders, placing them around the perimeter of our property, through the trees, orchard, chicken coop and barn, bitten by bugs, treading on slugs (and having slugs stuck on their skin....yeowww).

You never know what you can do until you have to do it...

**On a sad note - we haven't seen Rognon since the storms. We can only presume she and her kittens were marooned someplace along the creek**

Where the Sun Shines

2010-10-25T22:52:00.000+11:00

When life gets hectic, and work piles up and the to-do list is overwhelming, it is a luxury and a comfort to gaze through the trees into the paddocks beyond. Grassy fields that could tell stories (if they could talk) of vagabonds and bushrangers, as well as immigrants who strived to make a new home on them.

How fortunate to own this view - directly across from the Shop!

Paperwork

2010-09-23T23:48:00.000+10:00

It's not easy running two businesses and a household. When I wrote out my profile on the sidebar of this blog, it was prior to establishing the pie shop, but I'm truly - truly - living it out now. We're always looking for ways to work smarter, not harder. We even own a book with the same title! Everything, simply EVERYTHING can be improved upon, but this takes time. For workable systems to be put into place it takes time, effort and a lot of mistakes have to be made in the process.

Take the paperwork, for instance.

In our home office, we have three paper trays, one for engineering, one for the cafe and one for the household accounts. Many times, the paperwork overlaps. The telephone account overlaps, because we have one for all three entities. Same with the electricity and gas accounts. Some expenses are shared by both businesses - like the petrol bills. Some expenses are shared by the cafe and ourselves - like various food items.

A and B, B and C, C and A.

(Doe, ray me, tea with bread, bread and jam...tra la la...)

Every purchase, invoice, cheque payment, direct deposit etc has to be recorded in an electronic acccounting system. Food and hospitality produces an enormous amount of paperwork.

Bank statements are the biggest headache. We have several. We collect them, you see....

3 x business statements, 1 x GST statement, 1 x private statement, 1 x mortgage statement, 1 x investment statement, 2 x superannuation statements (there's more, but I'm sure you don't want to hear about them...).

Reconciling them for quarterly tax reporting is always nightmar-ish. Imagine having several shop dockets with various tax codes for various items and having to separate them to record them accurately....

I remember watching documentaries on "Starting a New Life", whereby families would change their lifestyles completely. A few of them decided on hospitality; b & b, small hotels, restaurants, cafes. All of them declared that the hardest part of their new life was staying on top of the paperwork.

Hmmm.....

I get it. I really do get it.

A Taste of Spring

2010-09-21T15:31:00.000+10:00

I bought some petunias today. Petunias and stocks - in pinks and whites - some frilly, some smooth petalled. Oh, and a couple of silver leafed perennials to plant in between them, bringing out their beauty, while adding to their vanity. There were red and green cabbage flowers, too, which I left behind and now regret. I've always adored displays of fruits, vegetables, berries and twiggery which hold their own against the most brilliant of flowers. These aren't for our garden, though - they are for the Grands, and for mam to divide and replant. She's been wanting 'pots of colour' for their outside table since the weather warmed a little.
"When did you put those plants outside our door?" she asked "will we be going back to the plant shop? I'd love some primroses, too ..."
"Sure we can, ma... I just wanted you to have something beautiful to welcome spring"

Our garden at home has come alive and looks quite lush already .... with LOTS and LOTS of weeds. There's weeds between the vegetable beds and the garden paths have the thickest, greenest patches of lawn.

Should we mow it or scrape it up?

On each bed sits bulbous black bags, strategically placed and filled with semi-decomposed leaves; - a gift of labour from Grandpa when the leaves were carpeting the front of the house in early winter. They look like huge cocoons, waiting to burst open and spew out their contents. I'm hoping we can relieve them really soon.

Then again - I'm hoping to attend to a lot of garden exploits. Soon.

Ramblings

2010-06-22T23:05:00.000+10:00

The Machinist insisted we had a day 'off' and in town today. Who am I to argue with that? Firstly, though, we had to pack away the flour deliveries, as well as the fresh fruit and vegetables. It's a good job we're just 'down the road' from the Shop. There's always a feeling of 'I need to do this or I need to do that'. The Machinist says I should relax and rest on days that we are closed. I can't see this happening, as I cannot rest unless my house is clean and orderly, the washing is done or doing and the pets are tended.

The Grands are always willing to help with our workload. Grandpa forages for firestarting branches on the hill behind their cottage, and stacks the wood when we deliver it to him. Hard going for an 84 year old. They made them tough in 1925. Each afternoon, he pops in for coffee and a treat, then later returns to carry the outdoor tables and chairs inside. Like I said, they made them tough...

Granny also pops in with him, as she polishes the cutlery and folds the napkins. Some days (yay!), she takes a stroll down to our house and washes any dishes we may have as well as folds the washing. They made them tough in 1928, too!

Tomorrow, Lordwilling, the girls and I are taking a trip to Sydney with our Cheffy Rob to attend the Food Service Australia Expo.

Which means an early start...

Hope Rob is awake by then!

(If you read this, Cheffy, note that I AM JUST KIDDING. We all know you are like the sparrow...)

Soup..Er ... Meat Kitchen

2010-06-20T23:39:00.000+10:00

I didn't notice her straight away. Then, the kitchen light, shining out into the darkness revealed her eyes. She was so thin and tiny, almost skeletal. She came towards me, limping...

It's our mission to fatten her up. Her name is 'Rognons', 'cos her first meal was Steak and Kidney pie and she wolfed it down with great abandon. She is a nocturnal tabby. There is no sight of her during the day, and then, at night, with the clashing of pots and pans, and the ritual door-opening to let cool night air into the hot kitchen, she appears, waiting, wanting ... with faint meows...

Two nights ago, a pure black cat showed up, too. Rognons, although much smaller, growled at the newcomer, as she lapped up her evening milk. The larger black cat now waits until Rognons is finished before she approaches the bowls. The Machinist informed me earlier this evening that yet another cat; - a black with white patches feline attempted to claim Rognons' position as the Head Daily Pie cat. He continued on that he showed the other cat some 'Oliver Number 7' boot (he'd never do it. He just hates injustice).

I remember smiling with admiration at a local farmer - all of 84 years of age - who feeds the local ferral brigade. The cats don't remain ferral and a nuisance for long, though. They become tame. He names them and they become his. The dairy cows on his farm provide a bottomless dish full of lactose nourishment.

Perhaps we've started a trend akin to our local farmer. Maybe the feline community do their rounds. Meaty dinners, followed by warm milk in two of their favourite locations. Maybe, then, Rognons will become ours.

Smile....

Working Together

2010-06-12T01:27:00.000+10:00

We work together
We work as one
Though there may be times
When we don't 'get on'

We may not always
See 'eye to eye'
And sometimes we feel
Like saying 'good-bye'

When this happens
We shouldn't lose heart
For of 'something greater'
We are all a part

Each one of us
Has a role to play
In making this
A brighter day

We work together
For the good of all
It's in our hearts
Where we feel the call

Gods love lives within
Every heart that shares
and every soul
that really cares

So whenever you feel
like going away
Just listen to your heart
For it wants you to stay.

Janice Walkden

Strength in Weakness

2010-04-27T23:24:00.000+10:00

It's constantly amazing to me, how we get through things in life.

A week ago, things looked daunting. The Machinist had to go for an operation, Granny had to go for an operation, there were the prospect of long weeks ahead, full of events for The Daily Pie.

Who would roll pastry with me? Who would bake pies with me? Who would marinate and braise and slow cook meat fillings with me? How could I take care of these two loved ones at the same time?

The washing machine broke down, the water pump played up and the electricity at the Shop was constantly tripping...

There was a multitude of other things, too.

And yet....

My family pulled together and we got through it all....

The annual Pumpkin Festival is on this weekend, and we are expecting thousands of visitors to our tiny village of around 250. We will be baking meat pies, sweet pies, pumpkin pies and serving pumpkin soup. Pumpkin fever rages high, and I am tempted to enter a pie in the Pumpkin Pie competition.

If there's time for such frivolity!

Caring for the Sick and Injured

2010-04-18T00:37:00.000+10:00

"Hey, Babe, do you know any other guy who'd weld and machine during the day, after an early morning stint rolling pastry and making pies, only to return later that evening and help clean down the kitchen?"

"No, Babe. You're the man. You're. The. Man".

I feel so badly for the Machinist. Remember this story, where the Machinist was larking about with Number One Son and badly hurt the back of his leg / ankle? It turns out that the Machinist has actually broken his Achilles tendon. The ultra sound shows that it is only hanging on by a few 'threads', and very flimsy threads at that. Furthermore, there is a blood clot in the Machinist's lower calf and he is insistant that he '...ain't going on Warfarin*tm. Not that rat poison!...'

And I certainly can't blame him.

He's been helping us so much at the Cafe. We get there early (..ahem...) We roll, form and fill the pies by hand, then the Machinist and I drive in convoy out on the highway, where we leave his utility with a massive Daily Pie Cafe sign on the back (we're not allowed to leave fixed signs on the highway). Then the Machinist goes home, supposedly to get off his bad leg. He doesn't, though. Well, not all the time. He's busy quoting on machining jobs, making calls, costing etc. He makes things for the Cafe and fixes things and does repairs and maintenance on the house, Workshop and grounds.

Last week, I took mam for cataract surgery. The next day, she had a follow up appointment with the surgeon. In the same week, I went with the Machinist to the hospital where we waited over 8 hours to see a doctor. Good has come of it, though, and to cut a long story short, his tendon surgery is scheduled for next Wednesday. Mam also has follow up consultations next week, but one of the girls will take her into town. After placing food orders, I'd like to focus on helping the Machinist get well again.

We've got public holidays and a festival coming up in the next couple of weeks. Big days for the Cafe and staff (us). One day at a time, though.

By the grace of God go I...

I'm A Cafe Owner

2010-03-30T19:47:00.000+11:00

Well.....

Weeks of blur have passed. We're seeing through the fog and REALLY getting organised. Owning a cafe is nothing like you imagine before you open. Each day is tiring, because you're not only preparing, cooking and baking food, but you have to put your 'business brain' on, and think of the patrons. What they would like to eat, what they would like to see, how they would like to feel in YOUR establishment. Because really, without customers, the business wouldn't be. It is truly a service, and one that demands a theatre in it's own right. It doesn't matter what is going on behind the scenes; - as long as the whole, complete experience is 'just right', there lies the reality of it all.

There have been a few evenings, when the Machinist and I, when all is quiet and clean and scrubbed and packed and swept and mopped, - sit and reflect on all that has transpired. We tell each other "...we're cafe owners...did you ever THINK this would be?"

And yes, - it's true.

We pinch ourselves....

We are truly grateful and excited and challenged yet rearing to continue and develop and grow. The whole experience is so emotionally packed, that you feel like one of the stars on awards night....

"I'd like to thank so-and-so and so-and-so" and "...we're amazed..." and "...it's been an awesome journey..."

Etc. etc.

The Machinist and I are the pie-makers and bakers. We mix and roll and fill pie pallets and cover them with rough puff pastry. Our black aprons are lightly dusted with plain and baker's flour. We do a happy dance when we see the pie tops rise like souffle's through the window of the trusty old pie oven. We also do a lot of high fives, but the tone of the kitchen can change in a minute, resembling a kitchen akin to Ramsey's, if things go wrong.

Sometimes, the girls pop their heads in and ask "...can you keep it down in here. We have customers..."

Customers!

We. Have. Customers.

This weekend is the 'Easter' weekend and we are expecting a lot of passing motorists. Fish pie is on the menu: a seafood marinara filling boasting a piped mash 'hat', which we will serve with mesclun salad and a wedge from a BIG FAT LEMON. I will also make some fruit flans and apple pies - nice and plump and runny.

Mmmm....

Right now, though, there is a multitude of ordering to be done, and if I don't fall asleep at the computer, bobbing forward and cracking my head on the screen, I hope to do some paperwork, too.

Oops! There goes my floppy head!

Welcome to My Manufactory!

2010-03-21T08:39:00.000+11:00

I've missed blogging.

Then again - I've missed a lot of things.

No matter. This is a new chapter for all of us. I have to smile at the sheer variety and fullness life has to offer. On any particular day I could be doing the washing, making business calls, typing out quotes for the Machinist, grocery shopping with the Grands, cleaning commercial equipment, MAKING AND BAKING PIES, working at the local winery, ordering or picking up food for the cafe, mindlessly checking Facebook, holding metal sheets in place with the Machinist, sweeping and mopping the shop's kitchen floor, having a photo shoot at the Shop, dropping off marketing cards...The list goes on.

All of our children are hands on deck today. The Machinist and Son are doing the final touches to the cafe tables, as well as 'knocking up' some more pie tins and customising the baker's rack. The girls will be up at the cafe, unwrapping packets and boxes of coffee, sugar and tea, as well as arranging 'their' counter space. They'll also be doing the last of the painting; the toilets. We are using a deep purple colour called "Double Bass" by Dulux (same as the rear wall behind the counter).

We're all full of aches and pains. This is back-breaking work! The Machinist's leg / ankle is still troubling him. I suspect he has broken a bone, but I'm no doctor. I've booked him in to see our doctor AFTER the opening. Emma has fallen arches, so she is hobbling around, too - also putting her treatment off for 'later'. I think for all of us, though, the sheer strain of constantly lifting, carrying and moving is taking it's toll. Not to mention the long hours and late nights. Won't it be lovely when we're open and life is routine? Maybe a lot of work still, but nevertheless - routine.

I hope to update the pie blog soon, with pictures of pies, the kitchen and cafe, along with media releases. I'm hoping that on Tuesday of next week, we can mainly clean and titifilate the place up. Now that will be exciting...

We've Set a Date!

2010-03-07T23:45:00.000+11:00

The pie shop is coming along nicely. It has been a long, hard haul, but now we have an opening date: Thursday, the 25th March 2010. It's rather scary and exciting naming a day and date, which is a HUGE committment.

Getting the equipment into the kitchen was the easy part. What I find so tiring is carting various items from our home kitchen to the shop kitchen and organising them. I don't think you truly know how you want your working space until you're actually using it on a regular basis. We've been making a supply of pastry, - puff and shortcrust for the pies and storing them in the freezer. It's a good thing to have backup products. Tomorrow, there'll be more mixes and test pies in the making...

This evening, the Machinist called me "...come and help me with Bob, Babe. He's cut his foot really bad and the blood is dripping all over the place.." Our 'Miracle Dog' decided to jump over the deck fencing for his toilet duties. He can get over, but he can't get back upon the deck. He has been chewing the deck post, which holds the gate brackets (that the Machinist made to keep the dogs out of the big yard). In a desperate effort to get back with his pack, he has jumped, caught his back paw and cut it wide open. We've bandaged him up the best we can. For tonight. Tomorrow, we'll have to take a closer look and assess what needs to be done. It's the last thing we needed to happen...

We are all so weary and I wanted this to be an exciting post, but it's 11.45pm and I'm really tired.

More later....after all - as my mam says "...tomorrow is another day..."

The Ram Whisperer

2010-02-24T00:47:00.000+11:00

"I'm just going up to Nicole's place. She's seen a snake just outside of her shanty and wants me to get rid of it" declared the Machinist.

"Do you want me to go with you?"

"It's alright, I won't be long" (what help would I be anyway, other than the vocals?)

"I don't mind. I'll keep watch for you ..."

Nicole was standing in the doorway of her settler's hut, not wanting to venture onto the front verandah, nevermind the grass, which would lead to the main family home. And safety. The Machinist climbed out of the ute and grabbed the long handled spade which was on the back tray and proceeded to the front gate. Suddenly, he halted in his tracks.

"Will this ram go for me, Nicole?"

"It shouldn't. If it does, just grab it's horns"

"I'm not going anywhere near him. If he comes for me, I'm off"

With this, the Machinist darted behind a couple of broken down cars and stood cautiously, waiting for the ram to disappear. The ram decided he wasn't going anywhere. I called to the ram ...

"Come here, boy. Come on, then. There's a good boy..."

I stood stroking the rams nose and talking gently and calmly to him. "You're a good boy, aren't you? There's a good boy..."

The Machinist ran to the gate, lifted the bent wire over the post and pushed it open. The snake was nowhere to be found.

"Sorry to have to call you. I'm terrified of snakes. I'm really paranoid"

"So am I, Nicole...."

The ram was moving around me, pushing his hot woolly body against me, "It's allright, laddie". I continued stroking his nose, while heavy breathing, occasional snorting and exhaling noises came from his nostrils. Thoughts of my own pet rams back in South Africa came to mind. I would talk to them in the same manner and they would follow me, wherever I roamed. I would hide from them, and they would bleat until they could sight me.

"C'mon, Babe. That snake could be anywhere. Let's go"

I was keeping the ram entertained, while the Machinist made his getaway to the safety of the ute. I stopped stroking the ram's nose and as I suspected, he decided he wanted me to continue and nudged me (gently rammed me?) each time I stopped.

The Machinist started the engine. I took a sprint to the ute. The ram chased me. The Machinist held the passenger side door open to let me in. The ram tried to get in, too.

He didn't make it.

Hopalong Cassidy (ies)

2010-02-22T05:56:00.002+11:00

Further to my post on cockroaches, what I failed to mention was the Machinist's accident. Not a car accident, but rather - a trolley accident. The Machinist had 'knocked together' a trolley with swivel castors, - strong and sturdy enough to manouvre the heavy fridges from the top floor of a Canberra Mall to the awaiting utility and trailer. It was after hours and the only human life in the Mall were the auction staff, a few Mall staff and security guards, patrolling the different levels which were now closed to the public.

The fridges were loaded, the hard work had been done and it was time to play. Number One Son, Sam (our only son) was sitting on the trolley. The Machinist had one leg on the trolley, and was scooting his son at top speed. A voice was calling behind them in a broad Sri Lankan accent "Excuse me, excuse me, sir, you're not allowed to ride in the Canberra Centre". The Machinist slowed down and Sam climbed off the trolley. Not for long, though. As soon as they turned the corner, it was back to tricks. Scoot, scoot, scoot, then suddenly, a grinding halt, where the Machinist grabbed Sam's T shirt by the scruff of the neck, while his foot and lower leg acted as a human brake. Somehow, the Machinist's non-scooting foot had slipped between the framework of the trolley and was completely bent backwards.

The Machinist informs me that only on few occasions in his life has he recalled feeling such intense pain. The result is a swollen and bruised foot, ankle and lower leg. A recent addition to the site of the bruising are small, skin coloured itchy spots, which have now developed into a bright crimson rash. It looks so, so - nasty. I googled "rash at the site of bruising" and was most interested to learn about the rush of histamine to the site of the trauma, leading to an allergic skin reaction - hence the rash.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

My daughter, Emma, has had a swollen left foot for a couple of months now. Due to the nature of her work, she is on her feet for most part of the day, and this offers no rest for her 'bad' foot, as well as her other foot, which has gone in sympathy to the left foot. Now her legs are aching. She has been treated by an osteopath, and although this has offered some relief, there was increased swelling last week, so I took her to the Casualty department at our closest country hospital. We're still awaiting some results, which have been sent to Emma's GP.

The Grands had accompanied us to town, and after 4 hours (a quiet day) at the hospital, we met them at the food hall in the shopping centre. Granny couldn't wait to tell us that a couple of her 'special people' were also in the mall. (Granny's people = adults with mental disabilities. Yes, up to two years ago, Granny was still doing respite care in her local community). Granny's special friends ended up sitting with us while we ate a late lunch. We told them about our long wait at the Casualty department, and they nodded in agreement, offering their own waiting room experiences, as well as details on their own personal ailments.

Then suddenly, a booming voice from the table behind us, (another mentally disabled client of Granny's) asked

"What's wrong with her?"
"She's got a swollen foot"
"Tell her to elevate it"

Aahh... and this from the mentally disabled people who are oftentimes more 'with it' and normal than 'normal' people

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

On greeting each other in the morning, the Machinist says "hello Clubfoot" and Emma replies "hello Scooterboy

Orthopterous Blattidae

2010-02-16T22:56:00.000+11:00

I like to keep my 'eye' on property sales. I like to keep my 'eye' on auctions, too. I wasn't always like this. Experiencing the ups and downs of business leads you to really think before you buy anything at all. Not like before we inherited debt. One of my favourite auction sites covers so many things, but my favourite sections are the Hospitality and Catering (wonder why?) as well as the AFP (Australian Federal Police - the items that are stolen, recovered and not claimed).
Snowmaster has a good reputation for commercial kitchen equipment. To my delight, I spotted two underbench 4 door fridges for auction from some unfortunate person / people's liquidation sale. I cannot disclose here what amount we actually paid them for, but let me just say, a fraction of the cost of their true value.

The Machinist and son had to go and remove the fridges from the closed-down cafe, in one of Canberra's upbeat malls. They were there at least three hours, as each buyer had the responsibility of removing their own purchases on a set day between set times. My men were prepared; angle grinders, hammers, trolleys, plyers, screwdrivers - and a large amount of male grunt. It was hot and humid and my men were sweaty, but verile. Thank-you-very-much. Their male grunts turned to groans, however, when they started moving greasy, filthy, sticky kitchen equipment around to uncover colony after colony of -

COCKROACHES!

Any of numerous orthopterous insects of the family Blattidae, characterized by a flattened body, rapid movements, and nocturnal habits and including several common household pests.

"Babe, if I had a dollar for every cockroach we saw, we could pay off our mortgage"

For the past three days, 4 family members (including the Grands) have been cleaning the two underbench fridges. I won't go into how filthy they were, else you might catch something just by reading about it.

Grandpa had the task of removing thickened food grease from the fridge motors - armed with an old pastry brush, a screwdriver, a knife and dry steel wool. He unscrewed several electrical boxes within the motor to uncover even more life; survivors of severe dowsings of Mortein*tm.

Granny, passing yet another can of pest spray to me: "Make sure you have no crawlers on you, Grandpa. That's it, shake you pants. Those creepers make me ill..."

The result of all our high pressure spraying, bleaching, scrubbing, and pest control is a couple of new-looking, highly shined, fresh smelling fridges, which, when adorned with the Machinist's creative metal art, will become The Daily Pie's front counters.

Resourcefulness!

Romantic Interlude

2010-02-14T23:11:00.003+11:00

Happy Valentine's day to you, Dear Readers

And happy Valentine's day to me.

Earlier this afternoon, while at work and serving food to many hungry, wet customers, a familiar face appeared outside the kitchen window. The Machinist! The Machinist!

"There's my sweetheart"

"Who?"

"It's Andre"

In the middle of a shift, I was able to have a romantic interlude with the Machinist over rhubarb crumble, Bacci gluten free cake and a couple of flat whites. It was magical and memorable. The rain had turned to mist, and the slopes of netted vines, holding tight onto bunches of future bottles of Pinot Noir, as well as the view of the (once dried up) lake was utterly beautiful.

Oh, how fortunate are we, to live such a rich life!

Water Everywhere and Not A Drop To Drink 2

2010-02-14T08:28:00.000+11:00

For most of the time my family lived on farms in South Africa, I had to lodge with folk in town. It was a small, historic little town, (not far from the Battle of Blood River and Rorkes Drift), where my parents did their weekly grocery shopping and picked up chicken food.  And so it was during the course of our farm life that my parents raised over 4000 chickens. On the weekends, when they picked me up, I had to sit on the back of the truck (known as a bakkie) with huge sacks of meal, corn, grain etc. When we had to drive through the centre of town, I would lie as flat as I could, so that no fellow school mates could see me. My parents never understood this...

Sometimes, in between lodging with different people, I would travel into town with my dad and brothers, but that would mean a really early start - around 4am. Mam also had a part time job at the local hospital. During our stay at Hattingspruit, where it rained a lot, we were returning home on a wet and windy evening. The dirt road down to the house was winding and lined with huge boulders, which, for the most part of my childhood, I was convinced were dinosaur eggs (I had no reason to disbelieve mam's tales). The dirt was a deep rust colour and must have had a high clay content. The men in the family were quite skilled at driving, skidding and avoiding the boulders. One thing they couldn't control, however, was the depth of soggy soil. On this particular evening, the bakkie sank, the wheels spun and we were going nowhere fast. Mam and I had to get out and push, while dad worked the clutch. We were drenched; me in my school uniform and mam in her white nurse's uniform, complete with dinky hat. Just as we were gaining ground, the tyres spun, the engine roared and the bakkie lurched forward. So did my mam - head first into the red sludge. I began sobbing, shocked at seeing my mam lying on the ground. Then suddenly, she picked her head up, looked around at me, and with a faceful of mud pack, threw her head back, and laughed uncontrollably.   I could hardly hear what she was telling me and leant forward...

"...I'm allright you silly sausage...it's allright..."

It's only now that I am a parent and home owner that I can truly relate to my parent's plight. Home maintenance is ongoing; even when your home is complete and intact.

It's still raining this morning. I've just returned from a walk around our village. As I type, I can hear some of the rain running into the rainwater tanks, and the rest dripping into a mini-pool at the bottom of the rainpipes. Two large leylandi cypress pines are generous donators to gutter clutter. The Machinist has to monkey-climb the deck posts and onto the tin roof most times it rains.   I can't complain. The state of dryness inside the house has increased a hundred-fold since we took the kitchen roof off completely one fine spring evening and replaced rusty tin sheets with shiny new galvanised ones.

Somewhere under the house I can hear the faint croak of a frog.

There's never, ever a dull moment. Whoever said that living in the country was peaceful, has obviously never really lived...

Water Everywhere and Not A Drop To Drink

2010-02-14T01:13:00.000+11:00

We've had hot and humid days, with intermittent drizzle, followed by steady rain and cooler temps at night. There is a leak in the school room ceiling and we have to cover the floor with old towels and bowls. Shakin Stevens singing "This Old House" comes to mind a lot. Our house isn't that old, but I suspect it suffered neglect over the years as a petrol station, while the owners (back in the day) endeavoured to serve their customers.

My thoughts go to the many homes we lived in during our 13 year stay in South Africa. Apart from the first few months living in a caravan, each house offered a variety of surprises.

The first, - a beautiful 1920's house had floors that weren't attached to the walls by at least three inches.

A farmhouse in Wasbank had no proper water storage facility and the bore was dry. When it rained, water flooded the house, but there was no water to drink. Plus, one of the rooms off the back verandah (my brother Gary's bedroom) had a resident hornets nest. The opposite room off the back verandah was the outdoor bathroom. It was very 'outdoors', because it had no rear wall. We had to wash in a tiny sink, with our butts facing the great outdoors.

A farmhouse in Hattingspruit - dating back to the 1800's and made of stone had two rooms without floors and each time it rained, there was a stream running through the centre corridor. One night, my mam woke, wondering what all the noise was about. She stood in water up to the top of her ankles, turned round, dried off her feet and went back to bed. As she was dozing off, something 'big' landed on her face. She plucked it off her cheek and threw it into the darkness of the bedroom, and heard a distinct 'thud', as it hit the wall. To this day, we don't know what this creature was. A month or so later, two baby green mambas were entwined in the cavity of the old wooded window frame...

More to come...

Nocturnal Hustles

2010-02-11T01:56:00.000+11:00

I have a new profession of making trips to the bathroom during the night. It's my new vocation in life. I wear myself out and no longer scoff at my parent's generation who used chamber pots, even though I don't think I could use them myself. When there is one Shi Tzsu on the bed, I can make the trip, return, lift the mosquito net and face minimal puppy excitement before claiming my position and struggling with the sheet. When there are two Shi Tzsus on the bed, one of them is determined to follow, prompting her sister to do likewise. This poses a problem, in that while I am spending a penny or two, or simply 'tile-gazing', the puppies grow impatient and return to the bed, then to me.

The Machinist appears, blinking at the kitchen light

Machinist: What are you doing up, Babe?

Me: the usual...

Machinist: Thats it. These dogs are going to be outside in a kennel tomorrow night...

Me: why, what happened?

Machinist: I can't afford to be woken every night like this. Nor can you.

Me: What is it?

Machinist: I was in a deep sleep, then suddenly, the mozzie net came crashing down. One dog under, one dog on top. They're gonna have to go out!

Me: ok (chuckling and making a dash for the bathroom)

All For The Greater Good

2010-02-05T22:33:00.000+11:00

There is many a night I can't sleep, and tonight is one of them. Or should I say this morning? As I lie awake, thoughts of my family are foremost on my mind. I am so proud of the Machinist for caring for us and considering me the way he does. "I'm so excited for you, Babe. Are you excited, too? Your dream is finally coming true. Can you believe we are going to be shop owners?". I can't describe how grateful I am for his support and encouragement. Each time I worry about making pies (how will they turn out in bulk? How many should I start with? Will people like them? etc etc) the Machinist is fast to assure me that my pies will be 'absolutely delicious'. The other day, when we went equipment shopping, he was like a little child. Being a Machinist, he loves machines and equipment and has to scrutinise each button / knob / mechanism and function. His skill and knowledge gives me peace of mind. I know that we have the best we can afford. Even if we are up to our eyeballs in debt now...

I am also so proud of our children, too, who have each gone out to work elsewhere, seeing as the primary family business is quiet at this time. Less than four months ago, we all worked together. Now, the children set out to different destinations at different times on different days. One sets out at 'sparrows fart' (as the Machinist calls it), finishes early afternoon and waits for a lift home. One sets out at a decent hour and finishes at a decent hour, but has to pick up the other, in a different town. One sets out in the early afternoon and finishes late, arriving home even later. There's hardly a day when we are all at home, together. On the rare occasion that we are, we try and make it a memorable occasion.

"All for the Greater Good", we chide each other on.

I look forward to the day when we will once again work together in a new family business

Doggy Day Care

2010-02-04T20:32:00.000+11:00

We're still taking the puppies to the Grand's Day Care for Doggies each morning. Soon, and hopefully sooner than later, we would like to fit protective wire around the court yard, so that they can play outside in their own garden without the threat of Sneaky Pete reptiles. We still haven't found the snake, but we know he's out there somewhere. Some of us are 'game' to hang our washing on the line, but I'm not. Not yet. Until there's a capture, or a confirmation of death, via a rotting smell, I really don't want to venture out there, and truth be told - I MISS my garden.

I have a suspicion that the puppies won't want to sleep outside anymore anyway. They have been spoiled with extra fuss and attention; the Grands even play ball with them, and feed them treats. They won't admit that they feed them treats, but we know they do! Especially when their evening meals are only half-eaten. The young puppies start looking for places to snuggle around 9pm and one sleeps on Sarah's bed:

Pepi - Sarah's puppy

and the other, gasp, - on ours.

Lilly - Sam's puppy

"When did we change, Babe?" the Machinist asks. "There was a time that we wouldn't allow the dogs in the house, never mind on our bed..."

The Ragamuffins at play

Looking after young uns' is tiring and it makes you hungry and thirsty. Polly enjoys the refreshment bar:

And Bobby joins her... Check out his knobbly, rough elbows.

And Miss Blossom, the Grand's baby feels rather left out. "Where are the days when I got to play ball with my momma ALONE?"

Oh mercy! As if I haven't enough to do, here I sit blogging about the canines. It's a good job the Machinist keeps me busy during the day. As you can read here .

(As I sit, the lights keep going off, then on. Even the computer has shut down and opened up again. It seems that there is a problem with Country Energy, and we have lost a phase. The Machinist is like an anxious bear, checking lights, power, sound. I'd better go and see if he needs help and pretend I'm interested...)

The Road

2010-02-02T00:49:00.000+11:00

Emma and I went to see "The Road" at the movies this evening, and as the story unfolded, all I could think about was the way in which Viggo Mortenson's character cared for his young son likened to the same way in which the Machinist looks after me. He tucks me in, feeds me, sacrifices for me, defends me, encourages me, adores me. I started really missing the Machinist, even though I'd only left home an hour earlier.

I love you, Machinist.

Oh, and by the way - The Road, based on the 2007 Pulitzer Prize winner novel by Cormac McCarthy ('No Country for Old Men') is such a well-acted movie!

Familiar Roads

2010-01-28T22:57:00.000+11:00

Some time ago, a ferocious gust of wind blew the tarpaulin off the cold display fridge we had bought for sweet pies, and with it - the front curved glass. It was a dark morning, when I went up to the shop and found scattered, shattered glass lying around the base of the motor. The Machinist had to make a template and post it to a glass repair business in Sydney. Today, we went to pick up the new piece of curved glass. We also intended to purchase pie warming ovens and perhaps even a freezer (for the right price), and what did we come back with? Just a new piece of curved glass for the cold display fridge.

But....

We also returned with a lot of information regarding kitchen equipment, brands and warranties, and I am more confident, focussed and resolved in what needs to be done and bought; - knowledge which is more valuable than a few minutes of an accomplished salesman's charms and an unplanned purchase, even though the price was very attractive.

Taking the trip with the Machinist along the familiar highway caused me to reminisce about the many times I had travelled alone, or with the children, either dropping our recently manufactured commercial trolleys off for zinc-coating or picking them up. We would often go to the 'city movies' either after the drop off, or while waiting for finished products. Precious memories and trips that we may never make again, as many of the businesses we dealt with are either closed down or have moved, and beautiful souls who are now Young Adults and have their own committments and general busy-ness.

This evening is one of melancholy and I fear I am being a silly old sentimental bear (or old fool!). Is this pure exhaustion or common emotion indiginous to business owners. Or both?

Extreme Measures

2010-01-23T04:23:00.000+11:00

"Mam, Maaaammm!"

I only just heard her shouting to me above the noise of the washing machine as I was folding clothes. I looked out of the window, and Sarah had hoisted herself up and was balancing on the top of the picket fence, holding onto an arbour. Between our herb garden

and the arbour leading to the pool area, she had '...spotted the tail end of a small snake...'

I rushed to the phone and rang the Machinist up at the Shop

"Snake! Quick!"

Within minutes, the Machinist walked through the front door, long handled spade in hand "Where? How?" He went down the deck steps and cautiously poked at a clump of catmint, which was poking through the fence from the shrubbery garden within the 'Vegetable Garden'.

What Sarah thought was a small snake, turned out to be much bigger. The Machinist took three whacks at the slithering reptile with the spade

Site of the whacking: arbour leading to the 'Pool Room'

The snake slithered away. I stood on the back deck, watching and feeling physically faint. I watched it slither under the gladitsia bush, past a purple rose, then under a row of baby's breath, then....where? It had totally disappeared. We knew that probably injured, the snake would be angered. Due to the midday sun and heat, along with shadows from shrubs and bushes, Slithering Houdini had made his getaway... The trouble is - our garden is totally fenced in (goodness knows where he and the other villain entered in the first place). "They always travel in two's, Helen" I can still hear mam advising me on numerous occasions.

The dogs have spent the day indoors. I will not let them out until the snake is found. The Machinist insisted I go into town to buy aspirins. He has been told, from a reliable source, that crushed aspirin, mixed in a bowl of milk, will attract a snake from it's hiding position and kill it. While I took the trip into town, the Machinist whipped up four 'dish guards' from square mesh, to put over the bowls of milk, and thereby prevent the kitties from supping up the deadly concoction.

Extreme situations call for extreme measures.

I returned with the strongest of aspirins as well as Napthalene blocks. After the Machinist had crushed them and spread them around the perimeter of the dogs yard, we could detect that nasty moth ball smell from the front driveway. Even while we were still in the car.

The dogs will have to spend their days in the Grand's fenced in, snake-proof garden and nights in our house during the next few days / weeks - until we can assure their safety in the back yard.

In other news, we've applied three coats of clear epoxy to the 100 square metre plus gallery / cafe floor, as well as three coats of a coloured composite resin to the 45 square metre kitchen floor. Oh, and we've started moving the kitchen equipment in, too. You can read about it at http://www.thedailypies.blogspot.com/ .

I have a shift at the winery tomorrow. And so, for me it's - to bed!

A Love Story

2010-01-16T23:40:00.000+11:00

Twenty days after my birth, in cold sleet and sloshy England, my husband was born in the humidifying heat of South Africa. Miles apart. Nevertheless, already hand picked by the Creator of all, by the Lord, Who puts the lonely in families. Years later, because of the forever itching feet of my father, and the complete optimism of my mother, I came face to face with my husband, in a sleepy country town, in the state of Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa.

We met while we were both in school; Andre was on school holidays, with his mom and together they were staying at a friend's house in my hometown. The local pool and cinema were great highlights of our days. The minute I met him, I knew I loved him. I didn't even know him, but I knew.

We endured being apart during school, as he lived and attended school in another town. We endured being apart during my Technical College and his apprenticeship years. We endured being apart during the first half of his National Service in the South African Defence Force. And then - four months after the completion of his compulsory army service ~ we married. Childhood sweethearts, now joined as one.

The early days of marriage were filled with joy and excitement. We started off with a piece of carpet on the floor (which we used as our bed), a couple of blankets and one pillow. We slept fully dressed in winter, as two flimsy blankets aren't enough to keep the freezing damp air at bay. Friends and family donated furniture and accessories, and before long, we were piecing together our first nest. We would feast on rice with onion gravy, followed by coffee and Ouma's rusks. Now and again, we would treat ourselves to a chocolate bar and a trip to the two Rand drive- in, where we would park the Yamaha 175 and lie under the stars, enjoying every minute of being together. There's much to be said in building up a home together. Building it together. Not marrying into a fully furnished, pantry well-stocked, efficiently heated home, bur rather, doing it Hard Time.
Before long, and just after my husband had left for a stint in the army, I discovered that I was carrying a new life. Emma was born with large, dark eyes and little hair - blonde fluff, as we called it. We weren't in hospital long; we wanted to be home. The three of us were together just three weeks before Andre had to leave for a three month 'border duty' camp. Each day, I would write to Emma's daddy. Each day, Emma would sleep in her pram next to me, while I wrote and told him of every little insignificant thing that we lived through. And then, as the letters were completed, we would post them, hoping that there would be a return letter for us in the mail. Letters from my husband were few and far between. Those that we did receive were censored by army officials.

A year after the National Service my husband qualified as a fitter and turner. This meant more in the pay-packet and a chance to go forward in life. We were able to buy good food and lots of it. We were able to buy a new bed. We were able to buy many items that we had waited so long for. Despite our house developing into the cosy home we had long desired, it wasn't enough. My feet were itching, just as my father's had years ago. My husband's feet caught the same fever.

"It's the land of milk and honey, Helen...." my father would tell me, referring to the country in which we now live - Australia. "Things are going to get worse here. You'll have no regrets. We'll follow you soon. I promise."

Three years later, we had packed up our home and were waiting at my parent's home for the day that great Silver bird would take us to a foreign land. My parents and brothers promised me that they would only say a 'quick' goodbye. They lied. The day of our departure dragged on. I felt as if my heart was about to jump out of my throat. I ached all over; physically and emotionally. My mam slipped a book of verses by Helen Steiner Rice under my arm, as she squeezed me and implored me to "...go now, Helen" I read this on the flight, as the tears streamed down my face.

Time is a great healer. It's true.

My father was true to his word and joined us six months later. We have lived close by each other ever since.

With two more little Aussies, Sarah and Samuel our family is complete and the Love Story continues through generations.

Slowly. Almost There

2010-01-16T04:54:00.000+11:00

Any mother will tell you that the last few weeks - even the last few months - of pregnancy go by very slowly. The same is true of my new 'baby' - our pie shop. It's been about a year now, since we started work on renovating the building - mainly on weekends or stolen hours in between our regular business. The only tradesman we've hired is an electrician, because we've had to. The rest is all DIY, Baby.

It seems to have gone even slower these past four months, - ever since the family have taken on extra shifts elsewhere. While it has been needful, financially, for us to take on more work, everyone is so very tired when they are at home on those odd days off from outside work, catchup has been the priority. Add to that a holiday season and constant guests ....

"Babe, I don't want anyone staying next week, ok?" the Machinist pleads, as we work together in the kitchen. "Please Babe?" as he turns the gluten free sausages in the Jamie Oliver pan and I load another tray of dishes into the (commercial, thanks, Machinist!) dishwasher.

I assure him that I feel the same way.

Later, sipping coffee the Machinist asks me "What are we doing for Australia day?"

"I may have to work at the winery"

"Bummer. I thought we could ...."

How Our Dog Survived a Tiger Snake Bite With Vitamin C

2010-01-12T03:54:00.001+11:00

Bobby : 7 year old Staffordshire Terrier, weighing 35kg

Sometime on Friday the 18th December 2009, our Staffordshire Terrier was bitten several times in the head / neck area by a tiger snake. We didn’t know he had been bitten, as he showed no signs of distress as we enclosed him in his kennel, - along with two 8 month old Shi-Tzsu puppies on Friday night around 11pm. It was only on Saturday, 19th December, around 6am that we noticed and suspected that he had been bitten. His pupils were large and clouded, he showed signs of agitation, he staggered when he walked, he seemed generally disorientated and reacted slowly. We found the mangled tiger snake near the colourbond gate later in the afternoon.

We felt it important to move him indoors, keep him quiet and peaceful, cool, well-hydrated and with as few stressors as possible. It was handy to have lots of newspaper, blankets and old towels on hand. Later, we bought disposable toddler nappies (for up to 30kg), which made life much easier. Several times per day, we would change the bedding and newspaper. A temporary bed was made with a thick blanket doubled over and used as a mattress, which was inserted into a couple of large black dustbin bags. On top of the waterproof bin bags, we placed a large dry towel. We would also bathe the dog with warm water and Dettol, drying him gently and thoroughly. When the temperature reached almost 40 degrees, we sponged him down and placed a fan near him for a short period of time, until he had stopped panting. We moved him regularly, from side to side during the day, to avoid cramping.

We only started to feed Bobby on the third day of his recovery, as he couldn’t lift his head and could hardly swallow. When we did begin feeding him, it was with runny food in small amounts during the day, - firstly via a syringe and later, by spoon, very carefully and slowly to avoid choking. Each time we fed him, we had to hold his head, to allow him to swallow.

Each time we handled Bobby, we wore rubber gloves and sterilised all utensils.

Below is a summary of how we treated our Bobby with Vitamin C and strong black coffee, along with thoughts and observations on his daily recovery. At the time of writing (12th January 2010) Bobby has recovered completely from his ordeal. He has lost weight, and the bone in his ‘buff-head’ is protruding a little, but his appetite is as healthy as ever.

Saturday 19th December (8 or more hours after snakebite)

6am = 20ml vit C and ½ cup coffee

7am = 10ml vit C

11am = 20ml vit C by mouth (10 x 1000mg crushed Vit C in 150ml water)

1pm = water

8am = 20ml vit C and ½ cup coffee (4-5 teaspoons)

9.30am = 1 C water & antibiotic

3pm = ½ cup coffee

4.30pm = water

6.00pm = water

8.00pm = 10ml vit C

11.00pm = water

Able to move only slightly. Paralysed by late afternoon, although his tail wagged a little late at night. Lay on stomach in ‘frog’ fashion.

Sunday 20th December

8.00am = ½ cup coffee and water

9.00am = 10ml vitamin C & antibiotic

11.00am = water

12.30pm = 20ml vitamin C by mouth

Water throughout the day

Mainly paralysed. Minimal eye movement. Pupils smaller. Minimal tail wagging. Brown urine. Incontinent.

Monday 21st December

10ml vitamin C

Water throughout the day every 1 1/s hours

Vitamin C by mouth

Beef soup with carrots celery and pumpkin – spoon fed followed by water in syringe to wash down

Not much change.

Tuesday 22nd December

10ml vitamin C

Beef soup with carrots celery and pumpkin – spoon fed, followed by water in syringe to wash down

Water throughout the day every 1 ½ hours

Vitamin C by mouth – 20ml

Beef soup with carrots celery and pumpkin – spoon fed, followed by water in syringe to wash down

Swallowing water much better. The noise of the syringe encourages him to move his tongue, ready to receive. Good appetite, but only small amount of food administered by tablespoon (about 1/2C each time). Tail wagging. Eyes have lost that blank stare. Vigorous kicking of back legs when turned over to new position.
Wednesday 23rd December

10ml vitamin C

1.5ml vitamin B

Weetabix x 2 and cold milk

Beef soup with carrots celery and pumpkin – spoon fed, followed by water in syringe to wash down

Water throughout the day every 1 ½ hours

Vitamin C by mouth – 20ml

Beef soup with carrots celery and pumpkin – spoon fed, followed by water in syringe to wash down

Same as yesterday.

Thursday 24th December

Weetabix x 2 with cold milk

10ml vitamin C

Weetabix x 2 with cold milk

Water throughout the day every 1 ½ hours

Beef soup with carrots celery and pumpkin (mashed, not processed) – spoon fed, followed by water in syringe to wash down

Good appetite. Stonger tail wagging. Eyes have lost that blank stare. Tongue movement increased. Able to swallow chunkier food. Actually seeking food that had spilled out. Hot and panting. Cooled with damp cloth over body. Worked his way off the bed onto the cool tiles.

Friday 25th December

Weetabix x 3 with cold milk

10ml vitamin C

Chicken soup

Water

Chicken soup

Moved Bobby into the lounge for Christmas. Peeing a lot, change of urine colour from reddish brown to normal. Able to eat alone for most of his meals. Prefers to lie on belly, commando crawling.

Saturday 26th December

Chicken soup

10ml vitamin C

Chicken soup

Water

Chicken soup

Able to eat himself. Crawling on belly more and more. Getting stronger holding his head up for food. Able to roll off his side onto his belly. Having difficulty getting his paws from under his forearms. Had to put two nappies and a pair of old tights, cutting hole for tail. No poos for three days now, previously runny stomach. Much more responsive and wags tail at the sight of us, without even speaking.

Sunday 27th December

Weetabix

10ml vitamin C

Weetabix

Water

Beef, pasta, veggies

First day outside. Staggering on his feet, wanting to pee himself. Staggers, falls, gets up and walks, then staggers. Lifting his head. Drinking water by himself. Eating by himself from a dish. Quite content to be outside, even though heavy rain. Slept in the laundry.

Monday 28th December

Weetabix and bacon

10ml vitamin C

Beef, pasta, veggies

Spent the day and night in the kennel. Able to walk for longer distances. Prefers to go down the garden to ‘toilet’ area.

Tuesday 29th December

10ml vitamin C

1.5ml vitamin B

Antibiotic

Water from bowl

Cut up pieces of meat

Spent day in kennel, although very receptive to fuss, returning straight to kennel (for recuperation?). Eyes still a little weepy, but a lot better. Right eye is worse. Drinks lots of water from bowl. Comes out of the kennel when called.

Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st December

10ml Vitamin C

Regular meals and water

As above. Loss of weight

Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd January

10m Vitamin C

Regular meals and water

Good appetite. Very mobile. Barking and playing with other dogs. Still a little wobbly on legs and becomes tired and has to lie down for a while to re-charge. Right eye still weeping, but is able to open it fully.

Tuesday 12th January

Fully recovered. Needs to gain a little more weight. Still receiving 10ml Vitamin C by injection, as well as weekly 1.5m Vitamin B. We will administer this for another week, making it one month since being bitten.

Reason, Season, Lifetime

2010-01-10T23:27:00.007+11:00

People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person.

When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it, it is real. But only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant. Thank you, Reader, for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.

AUTHOR UNKNOWN

The Old School Room

2010-01-06T00:50:00.000+11:00

Yesterday, I showed you pictures of the disorganised section of my office. It wouldn't be right not to show you the rest of the office. I say office lightly, as the Machinist has booted me out of the Machine Shop office, and I haven't gotten around to eleviate this old School Room from - well - it's schoolroom atmosphere.

Poster depicting Australia's history from the Australian War Memorial

Another poster from the Australian War Memorial

Yet another poster from the Australian War Memorial. I particularly liked this one, because I like the mention of jobs. Especially when I have to give them away to another...

Precious cards - stuck on the wall above my computer

A dumpable mess. Keeping it real...

Reference books on business, cafes and interiors. My budget tin, and memorabilia from home-school days. Sigh....

My shelf of decorating magazines: - inspiration for the Daily Pie's cafe / gallery

This is going to be one of the backs for the cafe chairs - designed by the Machinist.

More memories from the Young Adult's childhood days... sob....

Yet another wall of memories. I really HAVE to change things in this room! Always loved the printer's trays, though. Oh, and all the books on this shelf - are my favs. Some read, some waiting patiently for me to turn their pages. Below this shelf, we used to have a whole wall of desktops. Now that was a bit too much...

Part of my bookcase, - all non fiction. Gardening, Cooking, Health, Home Education, Cleaning and Organising. What a freak I am.

I hope you've enjoyed your mini-tour. The Machinist would love to replace all this with a flat screen tv and sinkable couches. Hmmm... that doesn't sound too bad, given the way I feel right now, after FIVE hours vacuuming dust at the Daily Pie. See update here.

Middlepaw

2010-01-05T10:35:00.000+11:00

As always, one of my children have left me in awe. Read this child's thoughts here. I am so blessed!

An Organiser's Dilemma

2010-01-04T05:38:00.001+11:00

Woke at 3.26am this morning. Who needs an alarm? Our son, Sam, starts work in town (temporarily, as part of our BIG plan) at 5am and the Machinist or myself drives him in. Sam will be staying at a friend's house for his 3 days 'on'. When I ask the Machinist 'who will be taking Sam tomorrow?', he always responds "Whoever is awake". Well, that's an easy one; - it's always me that's awake - before the cock crows (not that we have a cockerel - just very generous hens). The Machinist has this knack of being able to spring out of bed at the last minute, wash his face and ready in a flash to take his turn by driving Number One Son into work. This talent never fails to make me smile...

I cannot go back to sleep until the Machinist has returned home - safe and sound - and use this time for reading or blogging. One of this morning's 'visits' was with a gal I've known for years - who wrote about her recent malady: an 'organising bug'. Now I know this may sound freakish, but I LOVE to organise and clean. It brings me great peace when I know where things are. However, at the moment, I have to shut my eyes to disorder, as this is what I see each day, as I enter the room which I now use as an office for both businesses; our old schoolroom:

These are the smaller items we've collected for the pie shop. Some of them are brand new, some second hand. Some are great bargains off Ebay. I can't wait to move them to the Shop and free up so much space here at home.

Sometimes, I can't remember what we have stored in all of these boxes. I know what we still need to purchase, though.

Well, at least I can see the mixing bowls, a few pie pallets and the cash register. Ka-ching!

All the larger equipment is kept either in the barn, on our back deck, out the front of the Machine Shop or inside the Machine Shop. The Machinist and I have this 'knowing', that soon, very soon... we will be rewarded with our respective 'work areas' and lots of space back again...

Can't wait!!

Reflections on the Festive Season Past

2010-01-03T08:37:00.000+11:00

I've been working a lot at our local winery over the Christmas / New Year period and although I enjoy it, I have to confess that it has been hard leaving home each day, as there is so much going on here. The Young Adults have been very Social Beings and have either had friends stay, or accepted invitations to go out. On each day, the Machinist and I have had to coordinate Who Is Available to help at the Shop, as there are certain jobs he cannot do on his own (see right hand side bar for updates on The Daily Pie Shop renovations). Furthermore, somebody has had to care for the pets while we are all coming and going.

We've hosted Christmas and new year's eve dinners. We've hosted a morning tea for my darling Mam's birthday - which was on the 31st. The most memorable time, though, was when the Machinist and I stole away from all the action at home and nipped over to the Grand's house for a nice and peaceful visit with them - just before we had to get ready to celebrate NYE across the road at our country hotel with our children. Although we hardly ever drink anything alcoholic, the Machinist packed a basket with a beer, lemonade and a bottle of Merlot. He poured mam a shandy, and a glass of wine for the rest of us. We sat in their cosy loungeroom, with the lights off, curtains open, a breeze blowing through from the kitchen to the lounge and only the light of the full moon shining in. Blossom, my parent's Pekingnese, was doing her rounds - sniffing and snorting (as her breed does), finally settling next to me, flashing her Betty Davis Eyes.

My parents often want to help in our busy-ness, and I know they must feel helpless at times, but if only they knew how much they do help - just by being 'available' to chat with, confide in and do all the other tedious little jobs like sewing rogue buttons back on garments, stripping and polishing old window latches, peeling vegetables when a wholesome meal is needed, and not to mention - sweeping collective spider's webs from our windows and eaves. I am going to make a point of letting them know their value to us regularly this year.

The house is quiet as I write. Emma has just left for work, Sarah and the Machinist are having a lie-in ; - they'll be working at the Shop today, fixing a 'boot' around the exhaust where the exhaust 'meets' the tin roof. Sam is at his young lady's parent's house - due to come home early to help at the Shop as well. Shortly, I'll put the coffee machine on, then get ready for work at the winery. Tomorrow, the Young Adults will all be at work, and the Machinist and I will be FULL SYSTEMS GO! determined to finish the big stuff on the Shop before the end of January.

Lord-willing.

Storms and Dogs

2010-01-03T00:04:00.000+11:00

When a storm is on it's way, and the charcoal clouds pile up, the dogs start throwing their furry bodies at the back door (sliding glass). Sometimes we hear them, and tell them off. Other times, we feel sorry for them and let them in. They come indoors and have an anxious look on their faces. It doesn't last for long, though, as they bound down the corridor, then through the lounge, then into the tv room, around to the old schoolroom, now office. They are constantly in search of someone to fuss them.

Bobby is doing so well. He is up on his feet now. He stands, walks, feels a bit wobbly on his legs, panics and dashes to his kennel. We have to talk to him "it's ok, Bob, it's ok" to sooth him. Each day, though, you can see he is stronger and stronger. This evening, with the threat of a storm in the air, he was trying to jump through the laundry window, as we didn't hear him at the door. His next best bet was to climb into the laundry, through the kitchen, then around to the tv room, where the Machinist and I were watching Murphy's Law. Emma heard his attempts at jumping, took pity on him and let him in. Works every time!

(I will be publishing Bobby's treatment schedule on the blog, so that others who have pets which are bitten may have some hope in saving them).

Anyway, more later.... xx

Boxing Day Blues

2009-12-27T00:27:00.000+11:00

We went to see Sherlock Holmes tonight. I couldn't hear much, because there was a young (probably 12 year old) boy behind me, who was giving his friend a running commentary on the film. I couldn't get mad with him, 'cos he was so carried away, and didn't even see me turn around and glare at him. His friend was trying to keep it low, and a couple of young girls smiled shyly. That will make it two Christmas movies so far, the other one being Avatar, which we all loved.

I fear that the Machinist is growing weary of all the constant care needed for Bobby. I've started to help him now, to encourage him to keep on just a while longer, as Bobby gets stronger. We have a sort-of routine for him, but who, pray, can ever be prepared for their pet being bitten by a deadly snake? Bobby is moving around more and more and peeing a lot. We have to wrap a disposable nappy around his middle, then pull on pantihose to keep the nappy on. We both chuckle as we do this. Gotta keep it light...

The rain has been falling steadily for two days now. Everybody is loving the cooler weather. Even the spiders. They're coming inside, despite our efforts of pest control. Sam found a huge white-tail spider on the corridor ceiling. "Make sure you kill it, won't you?" I asked him.

"Of course I will mom".

My point of view is this: when I venture out towards the creek, or through the paddocks, I expect to see all types of Australian wildlife. Creatures of all shapes and sizes and toxins. But woe betide when they venture into my home and garden.

I teased the Machinist that after 16 years of country living, I was good and ready for city dwelling.

We all know that's not true, but I am fed up with creeping and crawling things. There was even a couple of snails stuck to the side of the front door to greet us earlier this evening. While I dislike this type of invasion, I can't bare to kill them either. The Machinist has no mercy, knocking them down and crunching them....

Everybody is extremely tired. I think we all need a holiday from a holiday. We've lived in a blur this past week. I actually look forward to the dust and grime of the Shop, which starts on Monday. How can you truly 'rest', when, at the back of your mind, there's so much to do? So much potential?

Dreaming of a White Christmas (Even Tho We Have a Wet One)

2009-12-25T19:53:00.000+11:00

This Youtube video really tickled my funny bone - especially as if features bad boy Robbie Williams singing A White Christmas. I mean - you don't picture him singing such a family favourite, do you? Anyway, hope you enjoy!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T19:32:00.000+11:00

It has been raining all day and I am grateful, so grateful, because it is the closest thing I'll have to a white Christmas. Friends and family have been coming and going all day. We've just returned from wishing our neighbours a happy Christmas and our clothes are damp and pleasantly cool from nipping outdoors. Everything is prepared for tonights dinner with friends and we've moved our Bobby into the lounge, so that he, too, can be part of the celebrations. He is starting to move around more and more. Here is a picture of him next to the tree. 6 days ago, he couldn't move and we had to periodically turn him from side to side. Now, he is lying like "Frogman". The Machinist has to follow him around with a disposable nappy, so that he doesn't pee on the carpet. He is our Christmas miracle....

Merry Christmas to you all. Good will to each other...

With love,
The Machinist's Wife

Christmas Menu

2009-12-24T23:54:00.002+11:00

I spent the day in the kitchen today, preparing Christmas fare. We will be eating, sleeping, reading and swimming tomorrow. Preparation is the key for relaxation. How smart am I?

On the Christmas Menu:

Lunch: Potatoe salad (chats, mayonnaise, chives, spring onions and crispy bacon), BBQ Porterhouse steak, grilled chicken and seven layer salad (mayonnaise, eggs, crispy bacon, lettuce, avocado, cheese, garden peas).

Dinner: Warmed slices of duck on a circular bed of pan fried potato medallions, clothed in green oakleaf lettuce with a large (side) salad of cherry tomatoes, snow peas, asparagus, avocado, cos, roasted macadamia nuts and walnuts with an orange dressing.

Mini chocolate Christmas cakes with chocolate sauce, topped with holly and berries (green and red winegums, cut into shape)

Trifle: chocolate sponge (leftovers from the mini chocolate Christmas cakes) soaked in sweet wine and marsala, cherry compote, pitted cherries, custard, cream.

Ooops! What was that?

Another three kilograms have just crept up on me...

Strength to Strength...

2009-12-24T23:41:00.000+11:00

Would you believe that the day after Bobby got bitten, another baby snake crossed Sarah's path on the way to her car. Sam and his friend managed to kill the snake, chopping it into three parts. When the Machinist and I arrived home from having the Machinist's wound dressed, the head of the snake had 'travelled' about 600mm away from the very place Sam had left it.

Shudder...

Snakes. Horrible things...

Bobby is getting better each day, albeit slowly. He still can't stand up, but he's eating three meals a day now, with orally syringed water every one and a half hours. His nose is wet. He wags his tail. His bulging eyes have returned to normal, and although there is still discharge coming out of them, he doesn't have that 'far away' stare. This evening, when the Machinist was spoon feeding him his beef & vegetables, some of the food fell on the Machinist's hand, and Bobby eagerly stretched his neck, making sure he got all the morsels - just like a dust-buster.

This is very encouraging for the Machinist. "Babe, do you realise that the hand with my wounded finger, is the same hand that holds Bob's head so he can eat and get stronger?"

Pet and Home Maintenance

2009-12-21T19:01:00.000+11:00

Everybody has their strengths and weaknesses. I'm learning more about mine as the days go by - especially when faced with unpleasantries. I can set a good mood amongst family and friends. I can lift spirits. I can encourage and comfort. I can communicate well and enable others to communicate as they should. But... I cannot face the distress and helplessness of sick people and animals.

The Machinist, on the other hand, is excellent at caring for the sick and frail, as he did with our beloved Bucko here and here. I admire this quality in him so much. He checks his Bob every hour, waters him, via a syringe, changes his soiled bedding, washes his butt with Dettol and dries him down. Then he washes all Bob's soiled towels in water with bleach and eucalyptus oil. It's been three days and each day, the Machinist has administered vitamin C by injection and orally by syringe. All this from a man who couldn't change his own baby's nappies without dry renching.

And talking about dry renching, I think the Machinist's stomach for 'smells' is getting tougher. Today, he and I had to clear the blocked septic pipes. I check that things are working smoothly, going where they should go, into the septic tank, while the Machinist rams hoses down the septic pipes, via the breathing hole. It's a nasty business, but someone's gotta do it. Unfortunately, our pipework is old and consists of ceramic pipe, narrowing to polypipe. Each time we get a blockage, the Machinist declares that soon, real soon, he's going to '....rip all these odd pipes out and put plastic ones in...'.

Fun fun fun.

And with all that stinky trauma, on a hot and sticky day, we decided to claim some R and R for ourselves.

I need to work on rustling up a decent Christmas spirit...

Dramatics

2009-12-20T23:54:00.000+11:00

BOBBY

The Machinist had gone to let the dogs out of their kennel (if left outside, the young Shih-Tszu's bark all night and besides - Bobby keeps them company and calms them down). As he was making his way to his regular latrine, Bob was stumbling like a drunk. The Machinist's worst fears were confirmed when he inspected Bob's eyes and noticed that his pupils were dilated.
"Babe, will you just check out Bob for me? He doesn't look right. I think he's been bitten by a snake, but I don't know how it would have gotten into the yard..."

At the sound of 'snake', my heartrate increased threefold. I couldn't think, but wanted to 'do' and couldn't focus what to 'do' first.

"We need to get some Vitamin C into him. Oh, and Robert recommends strong black coffee, too. Where IS the Vitamin C? I put it in the medicine cabinet. It's not there now..."

"Here it is, Babe. Calm down..."

Bobby must have been bitten prior to 11pm Friday night, before bedtime, which means by the time we noticed his agitation, he would have had the neurotoxin circulating his bloodstream for 8 hours or more. This is way too late, and you have to identify the type of snake to receive the correct anti-venom, otherwise the administration of the incorrect anti-venom can be fatal. (We lost two dogs previously on the same day - 22 December 2002, due to snake bite).

And so - for the past 50 hours we've treated our beloved Bobby with Vitamin C injections, antibiotics, Vitamin C by mouth, strong, black coffee and lots of water. He is mostly paralysed and incontinent. He can hear us, blink his eyes, wag his tail a little, but he can't move positions. We have to turn him ourselves, (so he won't get cramps) change his bed, dry him, disinfect him. Our laundry is his intensive care ward....

THE MACHINIST

Between Bobby's various home treatment, the Machinist attempted to work at the Shop. He started cutting the alluminium coving for the kitchen floor and kitchen ceiling (skirting and cornice). Being pre-occupied with thoughts of Bobby's health, the Machinist cut his finger on the circular saw. It is totally mangled, and a friend had to take him to the emergency. I had to go to work at the winery, and the worst thing was not knowing how both were faring during the course of the (long) day. The Machinist now has to wear a finger pouch, and each time we tend to Bobby, I have to wash the Machinists hands and arms, as sometimes, the poison can seep through the skin (and fur) of the pet, onto the skin of a human, so it is better to be cautious and wash every time the 'patient' is handled.

The vet advised that Bobby has come through the worst part of the bite, and he has a good chance of recovery, even though it doesn't look like it at present. Paralysis can take a couple of weeks to get over (hopefully), so while my darling Machinist is the main care-giver for his pet, I will continue to be the main care-giver for my Machinist.

**Even though God created all creatures, I often fantasise about Him magnetising every snake off the face of the earth**

Shudder.....

The Multi-Functional Room

2009-12-20T18:43:00.003+11:00

The absence of our washing machine during the course of the past two weeks, due to the repairs of a faulty circuit board, has been extremely trying. Our laundry has been out of sorts too - somewhat like an upset stomach full of gas and bloating, only our laundry has been bulging with a collection (a vast one at that) of bacteria-infested clothing belonging to 5 family members, plus sheets, towels, tea towels and overalls. Talk about irritable bowel syndrome...

Alas, the laundryroom's regular tenant has now returned and many - MANY - items of clothing have since flirted between washing machine, tumble dryer and clothes line.

Today, however, the laundry has gained a new tenant: the presence of our lovely Bobby (The Staffordshire Terrier) has changed it's function from washing room to Intensive Care Unit...

Facebook: A No-Brainer?

2009-12-17T23:32:00.001+11:00

The ornaments were finally added to the tree. Not all of them, mind you. Some of them were boxed up ready to go back into storage. Some, I left out to attach to gifts; - not only Christmas gifts, but any-time-of-the-year gifts. The baubles always look celebratory and melodramatic. I like that about them. For added impact, Sarah has painstakingly popped bowl fulls of corn and threaded them, resulting in festive drapery with a movie-theatre aroma throughout our living rooms.

"That must have taken her ages"
"Yeah, as if we haven't got enough to do"
"I wouldn't want to thread all that popcorn"
"You wouldn't catch me threading it, either. She was up really late and finally fell asleep, with her laptop and a Bob (our American Staffordshire terrier) on her bed - with bowls of popcorn all around her.."

It's fun eavesdropping on Mancubs*...

(*Man-cubs: Not a boy. Not a man. A boy becoming a man - MW interpretation)

I thought about the time it would have taken our Sarah to do this task, which she had planned and enjoyed. She knew there were a thousand more important tasks at hand, but this one had relaxed her. It was a no-brainer. She didn't have to think.

I have a serious penchant for jobs, projects and hobbies whereby I don't have to think. Facebook is one of them, - even though I've had a love-hate relationship with it for some time now. I am of the opinion that quality is better than quantity. I don't need 486 (or more) 'friends' to prove my popularity (or not). There's no way anyone could keep up with that number of people anyway. Nor could they offer each of those Facebookers the friendship they deserve by regular communication.

Recently, I went against my own self-induced grain. I 'friended' a lovely gal who I had known on a Yahoogroups*tm group some years ago. She responded very warmly. Before I could write back to her, I went through a few days of having to leave the house. I didn't want to fob her off with a 'how are you?" or such, and made a mental note to write a decent, chatty response.

Days turned into weeks turned into months...

Then, to my shame, I received this note through my email, courtesy of Facebook:

"Hello, do you use this? Wondering why you invited me here a month ago, only to get the silent treatment ???? I dont' mean that rudely, just really wondering what's up."

In my moment of regret, and not wanting to seem, or be - a hypocrite, I deleted this 'friend', amongst others who I hadn't communicated with in ages - from my Friends List. This morning, however, a note from my darling cuz, regarding a close childhood (but recently deleted) friend from England:

"Im so sorry to tell ya helen J.A. died today, bbe xxx"
And so I realise that Facebook is certainly not a no-brainer. I will be re-thinking my attitudes towards a few things, actually. But then again - it's that time of year for self-reassessments.

Anybody?

2009-12-11T03:49:00.000+11:00

This is what our dining room table has looked like for the past two days:

Hopefully, someone, somewhere, sometime, somehow will git the time and inclination to deck the halls with them. If not for a tree that looks shamefully naked, but also, that we can enjoy a festive dinner ON the table.

Paranormal Activity

2009-12-09T10:35:00.000+11:00

Last night, we went to see this movie:

I wouldn't recommend it, not because the story line took too long to get to the crux of the matter. Nor that it looked amateur-ishly made, as in all the scenes, a hand-held video camera was used. Not even because the sound quality was under par. But rather, for the reason that films like this Creep. Me. Out. I can handle ghosts, vampires, werewolves, axe-murderers, psychos etc, but the paranormal and supernatural are a fact of life and not to be messed with.

It didn't help that last night's storm brought with it dampened pollen spores playing havoc with my histamine excretions. It didn't help that mosquitoes rejoice with wet muggy weather and their appetites increase. Nor did it help that we had a late glass of orange juice. And each time I got out of my mosquito net covered bed, I thought on the movie and freaked myself out.

The house is awfully dark in the early hours of the morning. I have to pass through two rooms and a corridor to get to the bathroom and thereby the first aid / supplements / medical cupboard. The house is awfully noisy in the early hours of the morning, too. I have to pass through two DARK rooms and a corridor to stand in the light. Time slows down and a lot can happen - in the mind of an imaginative Machinist's wife during the course of the journey.

I am grateful that the Machinist was sleeping facing me. I am grateful that the Machinist was sleeping noisily. But most of all, I'm grateful for daylight...

Today, We Relax

2009-12-08T18:02:00.000+11:00

It looks as if a storm is approaching from the west. The dogs sense it - large pupils, pacing, panting. It's muggy inside. A variety of birthday scents fill the house; bubble bars, soaps, essential oils and fizzy bombs. In the kitchen there's still a lingering aroma of buttery lemon herby chicken, baked yams and carrots, sauteed cabbage and potato mash (pontiacs). This is overpowered by the familiar baked chocolate sponge cake - a prerequisite for the finale black forrest with chocolate ganache.

We're off to town to see a movie and the thought of an air conditioned theaterette is promising. The Grands won't be accompanying us, as we usually return way past their bedtime. They like nothing more than to have the security of a routine, which anchors and comforts them in their later years.

Today, there is no guilt, for it is the celebration of a birth. Today, we relax. Today, we live like kings and queens.

Another Main Player

2009-12-08T00:30:00.000+11:00

Happy birthday to my first-born daughter, Emma-Lee, who we renamed "Zola Bud" when she was three years old, 'cos she could run barefoot with the same speed. Things are different now, though, as she would rather create 3D images and dream of Pixar. Lots of love, me Emsie. Mwaaah xx

Family Bonds

2009-12-06T20:00:00.000+11:00

For most of their years, we've home educated the Young Adults (fondly known as the Ya-Ya's). Neither the Machinist nor I are qualified teachers, yet believe that parents have a vested interest in their children and thereby can bring about a love of life and learning in each of them. The transition from school educated to home educated wasn't always easy, but thoughts of self doubt - thankfully - didn't last for long. The exultation of living life together twenty four hours a day held us captive. We have flirted between home, work and pleasure for the past 16 years and oftentimes, these aspects of life have blended into one.

It's strange, really, when you consider our varied backgrounds. The Machinist is an only child, whose mother married thrice which resulted in traumatic and sometimes physically abusive relationships, neither of which were suitable to raise the Machinist in. He therefore spent his young years with his Ouma and Oupa who loved and cared for him deeply and completely. Nevertheless, his lonliness was always evident. I, on the other hand, although being born into a larger family, still experienced this same lonliness. My maiden family, to this day are dispersed over three continents.

Perhaps this is why we both cherish the notion of family.

There comes a time, however, when the chickens need to explore out of the coop. This fact of nature is not easy for the Machinist and I. The Ya Yas still live at home with us, we know that we truly have their hearts, yet their instrinsic destinies are calling them by invitation.

"All the more reason that you and I remain best friends, Babe", emphasises the Machinist.

And with tears in my eyes I respond "I know, Machinist. I know..." as I consider the joy of my first-love.

The Main Players

2009-12-03T22:57:00.002+11:00

Since the twentieth of November, we've had three birthdays in our family, which have kept us running, organising and scratching for gift-money. Firstly, the Machinist. I love this pic of him. My verile, hands on, get-the-job-done man (if you know what I mean). Gulp. We celebrated his birthday poolside.

Secondly, my dear dad - aka - Grandpa, who just turned 84 and still has an active mind - especially when it comes to his favourite topics: Politics and Christianity. (He's knowledgeable in most things, but those two are his first-loves).

Finally, my middle child, Sarah-Mechelle - aka - Miss Marple. Let's just say she has a knack for figuring things out. My homegirl just turned 21 and she still doesn't have a key to our (front) door. Please don't hate me for putting your pic on my blog, Poppet. Love you. Mean it.

There's still two more family members to go before the end of the year, but I'll be sure to ~~embarrass~~ feature them here on the Machinist's Wife's blog.

Oh, and in addition to our birthday-busy-ness, we've also been working on the Shop. More pics of that to come tomorrow....

It's Called Christmas

2009-12-01T22:53:00.001+11:00

The Texter Nazi

2009-11-29T23:48:00.002+11:00

One thing that really gets me going is when people text or talk on their phones in the movie theatre. The Young Adults always joke about mom's big brown eyes, boring into the rogue texter's head. "Muv will be watching the movie, and next minute, her head will jerk in the direction of a mobile phone's lighted screen. It's best not to make eye contact, 'cos she'll ask you to call the usher..."

The Machinist took me to see Twighlight: New Moon. Our seats were allocated; - row Q, - which was one row from the back, on the right hand side. Seat numbers 19 and 20. The Machinist took seat 19, which was right next to an Indian chap. I was on the end of the row, which suited me nicely, thank-you-very-much, as my plan was to hustle down to the toilets, return to my seat and drop my shoes off.

Bliss.

It wasn't long into the movie, when I caught the Machinist's head jerk towards the Indian chap next to him. "Excuse me. Would you mind turning that thing off?", he asked. The Indian chap couldn't switch his phone off fast enough and promptly assumed a rigor mortis position. I really don't think he dared to breath.

Later, a bright light appeared in row O, two rows in front of us on the opposite side of the isle. Without warning, the Machinist leapt out of his seat, passed me by and was about to make his way down the steps, when he stumbled and took a flying swan dive towards the texter. "Oh, no!", I thought..."he's tripped on my shoes..."

The Machinist landed with one hand on the back of Mr Texter's seat. I couldn't hear what he was saying, but he was pointing to the exit. When he returned to the safety of his own seat, I asked him what he had said. "I told him to put the phone away, or leave". (Translated, for censorship purposes). "..And what did he reply?"

"He looked at me with pure fear written all over his face and said 'I'm so sorry' in a startled rabbit kind of way. I was so mad at myself for tripping the way I did, that's why I swore at him..."

"Sorry you tripped on my shoes..."
"No, it wasn't your shoes, it was the umbrella we bought for Sarah. I did the Irish jig with the brolly"
"Oh..." I couldn't even look at him at this point, as I hadn't been to the toilets as I had planned.
"I probably looked like John Steed and people would be thinking 'who's this old fart that takes his umbrella with him two days in advance of rain, - just in case'"

Aaah...The Machinist: My Hero.

Derby Punks

2009-11-22T23:32:00.001+11:00

One of my favourite authors is Roddy Doyle. Not that I get much chance to read fiction nowadays. Most of the books I do read are on topics like business or food or renovations or interior decorating or or or ... you know - 'how to' books. And I do it out of necessity, seeing as we are doing everything ourselves, for the first time.

Eva.

Getting back to Roddy Doyle... many of his stories make me think of my own childhood and life at home with four older brothers. Let me show you:

From left to right: Brother Gary (3rd boy), Brother Alan (1st born), brother Brian (2nd boy).

Brother Robin (4th boy). And then, there's me, as you know:

Helen (1st girl, 5th and last child).

What always cracks me up about these old photos are our hair styles and the clothes we wore. Mam knitted almost every jumper that ever graced our tiny backs. They were usually bright colours, so that she could '...spot 'em in a crowd...' as she would say. They lasted for decades and were worn by all of us (and others in between). Usually, the pants were too large, hence the belts and / or braces holding them up, way above our waists. Gotta love the high waists!

Don't we all look like butter wouldn't melt in our mouths? Don't be fooled; - each and every angelic child you see above was once a gang leader in our Midlands neighbourhood. The Mods, The Troggs, The Dogs, The Bovver Boys, The Skinheads, The Slapheads, The Scrappers (in no particular order). Mostly, though, we were known (and feared) by our surname, and on any given day, in alley ways and entry ways, down streets with either terraced houses, semi or detached and even on the new estates, you could hear local kids shout out to their mams, in somewhat high-pitched, anxiety filled voices:

"Mam, mam! It's the Hudsons!"

Food Gardening and the Machinist Cooks!

2009-11-22T00:05:00.001+11:00

If you look carefully at the photo below, you will notice raspberry canes growing in between apple trees. I can just imagine both of them together in a pie....

I love permaculture and companion planting. My brother, Gary, told me years ago that the gardeners of old would plant by the moon. They somehow knew what to plant depending on the phase of the moon. When the Machinist's Ouma was still alive, she often attempted to share her love of plants, flowers and trees with us. Random gifts of greenery in washed out jam tins were common. A week at our home and their demise was common too. It didn't stop her green-generosity, though. The Machinist reckons she'd be smiling down from Heaven if she could see us now, knowing all her efforts were worth it.

She must have sensed our potential....

Today, our garden is brimming with life. When we are in the pool, we are surrounded by trees - most of them fruit bearing. It's gotten to the stage that I have to transplant and / or give plants away.

Said raspberry canes were recently tranplanted to a damper spot, right up against the back orchard fence (corrugated zinc-allum, dug into the soil and cemented, for snake-prevention because of my Ophidiophobia). The Machinist surrounded the canes with thick lucerne mulch, and covered them with square mesh frames. Rusted. (Not the tin roof the B52's sing about).

With bum in air and head to the soil, I scoured the rest of the orchard for weeds, tugging madly at dominating thistles, while protected with leather welding gloves. It's a good job I'm hidden in the garden. How the Machinist must love me....

And talking of the Machinist, he made a delicious meal tonight. Ground beef with sauteed celery, fennel, herbs, red onions and carrots over rice noodles.

"Would you like some more, Babe, or do you want to leave room for a surprise I have for you? Or, would you like both?"

"Both, please".

Come on, I had to. It's polite.

Later, the Machinist disappeared into the kitchen, and came back carrying two dishes of The Surprise. Cherries in Syrup with whipped cream.

Can you feel it?

A Legacy of Analysing

2009-11-21T10:36:00.000+11:00

Reading through my peeps earlier this morning and particularly the post by Grandma Nina, made me think of helping the Machinist the other day.

Together, we were working on the stainless steel walls for the Pie Shop's kitchen. Local council's don't mind stainless steel walls or tiled walls. Financially, it is cheaper for us to line them with stainless steel (a no brainer). Anyway, what the Machinist does is cut the length of stainless to size, fold the edges, 'rough' up the rear side of the steel sheet with an angle grinder, add glue along the roughed up lines, then add wood board to the steel sheet. The reason he does this is so that the steel sheets remain taught, as the wood gives them extra strength. It is a long, tedious and labour intensive process as each wall sheet weighs A LOT and we struggle to get them into place to match up with the steel framework and brackets the Machinist has already welded on the wall.

(That was a mouthful. Hope you can follow...)

To get back to Grandma Nina's thoughts on being particular about the work she does, (and in particular - parylisation by analysation), it struck me how alike she and I are in this particular 'field'.

Case in hand:

We had cut the stainless steel sheet to size on this machine:

Then we had to fold the edges on this machine:

We shuffle the stainless steel sheet into position, so that the marks on the steel line up with the folder guides. The Machinist looks to me and I give him the 'nod' (or not) and he then presses a button and the machine folds the steel. I was having trouble analysing whether the marked sheet lined up EXACTLY with the guides.

Me to self:

"Is it 1mm out?"

"What will happen when the guides come down - will they push the sheet a little?"

"Should I allow another one milimetre just in case?"

Then the Machinist to me:

"Are you ready?"

"Are you sure?"

"I'm waiting for a response from you. Don't give me the thumbs up. Give me the nod, then I'll know".

After all the heat in the workshop, it was unbelievingly, refreshingly good to take a dip in the pool, where all thoughts of accuracy, analysation and hot, heavy work faded into the depths of chlorine-shocked water.

A (Very Young) Machinist's Wife

2009-11-20T01:49:00.000+11:00

This is me, sporting one of mam's spaz-cuts, wearing a woolly ex-jumble sale frock (mam also made a lot of cotton frocks for me, 'cos I would change each lunch time. Don't ask. Just one of those things...). The school photo was probably taken after I'd had my morning bottle of milk, (hence the ample tummy) - gratis and courtesy of Southgate Infants School, Alvaston, Derby England. Circa 1965.

Fun Pics from Days Long Gone...

2009-11-19T22:53:00.000+11:00

The Machinist and I, and our first-born, Emma-Lee. She won the Crawling Race and Best Dressed Baby of the Day

Helen and Emma-Lee - posing for the local newspaper, with runner-up baby.

Pie Love

2009-11-16T11:40:00.001+11:00

"I was just wondering if you had an estimated opening date?

Myself and several mates regularly ride our motorbikes to Goulburn on weekends and would love to use your pie shop as our mid morning / lunch stop for food and drinks. Often we use the Bush Ranger hotel, but prefer to use this as our return stop on the way back to Canberra.

Looking forward to seeing you guys in business!!

Cheers"

~ Cranston ~

Life Work

2009-11-09T09:34:00.000+11:00

I've been thinking how life is full of chores. We are born and we work for survival. Some of us get paid for the work we do, others don't. If you think of each aspect of your life, and the work, time and effort involved in these aspects, it would tire you out before you even began. My mam always says that if a job is worth doing, it's worth doing well. I like to do jobs well. The Machinist says that sometimes, I go far too deep into things. Like when he helps me clean the kitchen. Now the Machinist never used to help me clean the kitchen, but now that all our family's work overlaps, everybody does everything. We've taught our children to be multi-skilled, too. As young whipper-snappers, they would never say "mam, I'm bored", because they would get a job to do.

Anyway, where was I?

Oh yes - the Machinist and the kitchen. When he helps me, I take the opportunity to wipe down cupboards, as I'm cleaning the counters. I take the opportunity to wipe sauce bottles and display jars as I'm cleaning the shelves. He tells me "Helen," - that's the name he uses when he wants to be firm with me. Or when he's cross with me "we're not doing the bi-annual spring / autumn clean. Just the necessities for now. I've still got to change the oil on Sarah's car and fix spot lights on our car..."

I think that looking after a family is a full time job. Not just the physical needs like clothes washing, feeding, teaching, health care etc but rather - their emotional and mental needs. Raising young adults is a full time job. Encouraging a husband is a full time job. Caring for aged parents is a full time job and helping to inspire them all is a vocation.

Sightings

2009-11-07T21:53:00.001+11:00

Over thirteen years ago, we (the children and I) sighted a UFO. The craft was rectangular in shape with lights on all four corners and it was moving in a way I can only describe as 'bobbing', as a boat would bob on the ocean. It bobbed for a few minutes then suddenly, took a 90 degree turn and sped into the dark of night. A few weeks later, I did a search for UFO sightings in our area and found this story, telling of others who sighted a UFO in our area around the same time.

On Thursday, 5th of November this week, the Machinist and son were driving into town at 4.15am. As they were leaving our tiny village, and had stopped at the 'T' junction, - preparing to turn right onto the Highway, they sighted a UFO above the gum trees straight ahead - which is less than 150 metres away. The craft was bobbing; moving in the same way as the one our son had witnessed years ago. Then suddenly, it disappeared. It didn't speed into the darkness; it just disappeared.

On their journey into town, they saw a lot of kangaroo carcasses on the side of the Highway, which is unusual, as the high traffic movement and noise usually deters the kangaroos from the roadside.

As they turned off the Highway, into a country road which links the New South Wales border with the Australian Capital Territory border, they were plagued with more-than-usual kangaroo activity on the roadside, between the trees

Could their earlier sighting have something to do with this indigenous marsupial's unrest?

Fords

2009-11-06T07:58:00.000+11:00

There's nothing like the natural beauty of the Aussie countryside

The sun-kissed earth...

The flora and the fauna...

Relics of times long past...

And young hooligans to bring us back to reality. Fords: TIMELESS

Will You Sponsor Me?

2009-11-05T00:23:00.000+11:00

In the year 2000, my brother and his family arrived in Australia from South Africa. They were jobless and (almost) homeless - mainly due to the criminal activity prevailent in the current South African government. Their right of passage to the land of milk and honey was a 457 Business visa, as the Machinist and I had sponsored them. Unfortunately, my brother could not meet the requirements (which change almost every six months) of the 457 visa and sadly (devastatingly so), they had to return to South Africa at about this time in 2004, which was the visa's expiration date.
You will understand, then, the whirlwind of emotions when I received this request through our business email:

To whom it may concern

I am a qualified Electrician with 20 odd years experience. I also have my Wireman's Lic. If I am lacking some experience I am a keen, quick learner.

We are currently living in South Africa. I run my own Contracting business for the last 16 years doing new house installations, upgrades to 3 phase, highbay industrial lighting, rennovations, lighting and general maintenance for homes, restaurants, gated complexes, etc. I am a perfectionist in my field and have excellent client liason skills.

We had a Sponsor and were meant to leave in January for Perth but the contract was cancelled due to the economic crisis. Are you in a position to Sponsor me? We would love to relocate to Australia. If you can offer any help or advice it would be greatly appreciated. If given the opportunity I would be loyal, hard working and give of my best at all times. I would like to give my family the safety, security and all the opportunities that Australia offers. I would need to do my Trade Assesment once in Australia because you have to apply for that particular state and not knowing where I shall get a job makes it difficult to do beforehand.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards, X

What Gives With This Generation?

2009-11-05T00:03:00.000+11:00

It's a hard thing - working for others when you've worked in your own business for most of your life. You tend to compare. You tend to compare a lot. You have to tell yourself "...self, don't worry about what others are doing. Focus on what you will be doing...what you want to achieve."

Number One son (third year apprentice fabricator) is working for a large, 24-hour-production engineering company in town. This company's finished components are rated (by themselves for quality control purposes) from one to five; - number one being of the highest quality. Number One son began producing a grade two component, and within a week and a half of his new employment, advanced to grade one components. His supervisor has informed him that should his performance continue, the company will consider promoting him to a 'team leader', with an offer of higher wages.

Please bare with me, as I tell you this not to brag on my son (although it is better to blow somebody else's trumpet, rather than them blowing their own) but to put a point across.

After spending the morning of one of his days off up the ladder, applying ESP to oil-based paint on the ceiling beams at the Pie Shop, my son and I sat on the front step and he was telling me of his trials at work.

"You know, ma, I always wondered what it would be like to work for somebody else and now I do, and it is no big deal. I thought it would be hard, but the truth is, nobody does more than what they have to".

"At about two minutes to three, everybody packs up, and waits to clock out, no matter what they are working on. There is no inclination to go further, to better themselves. They just seem to be happy to float along, just as they are."

"It's at the point that a few of them are getting mad at me, and fights are brewing, because now that the boss can see what can be done, he is expecting the same from them, and has, in the meantime - demoted them. They think I'm a smart-ass, when all I want to do is just go to work and do my job...."

"I don't want to talk to Dad about this, because I don't want him to think I'm bragging or doing more for my new boss than I would for him..."

Now I know that most of you who are reading this are older and wiser and will probably understand me when I say that I could have offered my son EXTENSIVE counsel as a response, but I often think that less is more and the most I could mutter was

"Speak to your Dad. He loves you and is very proud of you.."

Fed Up...

2009-11-03T10:57:00.000+11:00

I've just returned home from the first shift of the day in a torrid commercial kitchen. Bubbling pots, steamy dishwasher, radiant warming lights, hot cooking oil, scalding grill. It's 32 degrees outside. Hotter inside.

The Machinist has been working on a feacal-and-urine-infested horsefloat, and is aghast at what some fabricators can get away with as 'safe' and 'sturdy'.

Roll on the opportunity to create wonderful metal art, as well as artistic pies! Delays suck...

The Best (and Worst) of Two Worlds

2009-11-02T00:27:00.000+11:00

Mam always said that as you get older, you revert back to your childhood.

I always thought that getting older meant when you reach your late seventies or early eighties. It seems that getting older is where I am now (even though I'm thirty odd years short of old age, as it's known). I often think of my childhood in Britain. I often imagine how life would be now, if I were living in Britain, especially with my own family...

It seems that each time I see the green, undulating hills, the patchwork countryside, the old stone walls and buildings made from local rock- hundreds of years ago, I get the feeling that the land of my birth is calling me back, and I choke up.

The Machinist would never live in Britain. It's far too cold and wet for him, even though he adores the culture ( often declaring how he loves my 'Pommy Ways'). Our Young Adults would love to live in good old Blighty, so they say, but we all know how easy it is to speculate what life would be like in another land and how completely different it would be in real life.

I'm still content with my Land of Milk and Honey - even through the daydreams - and I find it quite a source of wonderment when I compare the two countries. Take today for instance; - on my way home from a shift at the Winery, I turned off the highway into our tiny village, and who should be heading into the undergrowth at quite a speed for his reputation?

Mr Echidna. (The Australian version of my beloved Mr Hedgehog). Mr Echidna always makes me smile. Granny tells me that Mr Echidna lives on the hill at the back of the Shop, along with Mr Fox ..."It must be a sign, Helen. These native animals must feel quite safe and peaceful to be hanging around on our hill ..."

Later, Sarah arrived home and she had 'that' voice on - "Dad, Dad, there's a snake on the road, just near the light pole. I've left the keys in my car. Do you want to come and sort him out?"

We all recognised 'the voice', and corridor doors, leading to Young Adult bedrooms were pulled open with gusto and in an instant, our whole family was assembled at the front of the house, squinting at the brightness, attempting to focus on the rippled tarmac, searching for The Ripple that would move and reveal itself as The Enemy. Frustratingly, The Enemy slithered into the embankment and was immediately camouflagued, as patrons at the Hotel watched quizzically. (Yesterday, a hotel patron had run over a baby snake and had excitingly headed towards the Hotel Kitchen to ask for a jar to preserve it so that the Hotel owners could add it to their snake-in-a-bottle collection). We have the tourists trained, too...

If only, in a perfect world you could pick and choose aspects of what you like and what you don't like about the world you live in....

Loosening My Jeans...

2009-10-23T08:03:00.000+11:00

I'm celebrating today. I'm celebrating with foods I want to eat, but shouldn't, 'cos if there's one day you should be allowed to do this, it is that one special day a year, right? Let's see ... a bowl of French Fries with tomatoe sauce. Creamy vanilla ice cream with raspberries, strawberries, blueberries and loganberries. (Times two helpings of berries). M & M peanuts by the handful. A coke float. Steak, egg and chips. And more coke.

Totally gorged.

It's hard staying awake for the DVDs.

I've got to behave myself this year. I know I should....

Dough Girl

2009-10-20T22:59:00.000+11:00

My first day at the commercial bakery today. I had to report to Ray from Slicing. My job was to pack two million and forty six (??) loaves of bread into towers of bread pallets for dispatch around three states of Australia. Each pallet held ten loaves which were stacked ten pallets high, two stacks per dolly. In simpler terms, 200 loaves per load.

Because I am a Machinist's wife, I find most machinery fascinating. I don't understand the mechanical parts or the technalities, nor do I care to, but watching How Things Work is always interesting to me. Including old bakery equipment.

Morning runs of bread included Multigrain, High Fibre, Wholemeal et al and the pace was pretty fast. By the afternoon, the factory was almost 40 degrees and I was feeling pretty doughy myself - especially when Ray switched on the White bread run, which came hurtling down the conveyor belt at even greater speeds. It seems that most folk still prefer their white breads.

I am certainly not a shirker, but can honestly say - today's 7 hour shift was the hardest work I've ever done. It's 11pm and only now am I cooling down. I ache from head to toe. I don't know if I can do this.

Tomorrow, I have a shift at the hotel. That's somewhat relieving. Nice and close to home.

And the Machinist. Gotta love coffee breaks with the Machinist!

Interest In Pies

2009-10-20T22:19:00.000+11:00

The other day, all geared out in chef's uniform, I was filling in my time sheet, head down, totally focussing on dates, hours started and finished, total hours etc, when I heard a chap's voice enquiring about the local pie shop.

"What do you know about The Daily Pie?", he asked the barman. "Every time we pass through town, I can see that progress has been made on the building, and there is a sign saying 'Opening Soon', but it's still not open. When do you think it will open?"

The barman went into dumb-mute mode (he's a lovely chap), looked over at me and replied "You'd better ask the chef".

Now the delayed opening date of our pie shop is a tender, emotional subject and I know and understand that the locals are wondering and becoming impatient. I cannot blame them for this. For a split second, my heart was heavy and I had no idea how to respond without going into a Great Explaination and 101 Reasons Why The Pie Shop Isn't Open Yet, but I refrained, lifted my head, looked the guest directly in the eyes and said "Good help is hard to find these days, especially in a small town like ours".

And thus, the awkward-ness dissipated with laughter, and that familiar nod of understanding...

Oftentimes, less is MORE.

It's Off to Work I Go!

2009-10-19T22:59:00.001+11:00

I've been job hunting.

Work has been merely trickling into our Workshop, and it seems that the (alleged) economic state of affairs has caused many to fear, and thereby - cease ordering.

Our children have been job hunting, too. It is a bitter-sweet time. Bitter because after 21 years of self employment, I am back in the workforce, along with the children, and the cosy, secure life we all grew to love and depend on - a life working from home, albeit fugacious, has been interrupted.

For now, anyway.

"Keep your eyes on the prize", I remind them. (The prize being our Pie Shop).

'Tis a sweet time, because in hardship, there is a newfound bonding. Oh, and laughter still lives here. In large doses.

"I'll be the stay-at-home-dad", the Machinist teases. "Only there'll be nobody at home but me".

Work on the Shop building is still of paramount importance, but there are a number of modifications to be made which require two or more pairs of hands and that is difficult, seeing as those pairs of hands are busy helping (and earning) elsewhere. Shift work, both in the workforce, at home, and the Shop is the order of the day.

I will continue to cook at the local hotel and when required, also work at a bakery in town. How appropriate is that!

Wishing For....

2009-10-03T00:19:00.006+10:00

A similar bounty this year....

Working Through the (Dust) Storm

2009-09-23T23:30:00.001+10:00

Despite the sky turning a 'mustard yellow' due to a dust storm yesterday, described by Josephine - the Tale Peddler, our garden mulching extravaganza continued. Right into the afternoon, we carted and distributed wheelbarrows of euc-y mulch. It always strikes me that before one job can be done, garden bed preparation has to be paramount. In our garden, you don't just lay a mulch covering; firstly, you pull larger weeds, poison smaller shoots, wait till said weed shoots turn yellow, carry a bucket and tongs to collect various sizes, textures and ages of dog-poop, move a variety of garden artwork (as in our Emma's face above, attached to the willow tree) and sometimes - even transfer plants to different locations BEFORE scooping on the thick layers that will serve and protect the plants during prospective summer droughts. And as the day ambled on, we sang many a ditty like "Oom Pa Pa" amongst others from Oliver Twist, as the rain soaked our clothes and hair, but never dampened our enthusiasm.

"Mulching the garden before the heat is like buying presents long before Christmas", I declared to the garden supplies lady, who wore a quizzical brow. "It is so accomplishing..."

And today?

Today was an 'indoor' day, the house being warm and cozy, thanks to the last dregs of logs in the woodshed, courtesy of the Machinist and Samuel-son, who spent many days cutting and chopping in blistery winds...

Thoughts on Earlier Days

2009-09-23T17:47:00.000+10:00

My thoughts of late have been towards the plight of the migrant. Leaving England as a child and migrating to South Africa, was far different to leaving South Africa and migrating to Australia as an adult and parent. Although many people live in places where climate and weather patterns are extreme and where creatures and 'odd' traditions are commonplace, it is nonetheless overwhelming for some migrants, who have lived "protected" lives away from such things. To leave one's family and move to a strange land is traumatic enough. To face additional conditions which are shocking and dangerous can sometimes lend a migrant to utter despair

While in South Africa, if there was a snake around our homestead, I would be the first to discover the snake. It was a known and accepted fact in our family. Rinkhals, cobras, mambas, puff adders and boomslangs. I've 'met' them all! And each time, mam would calm me down after the encounter, even though she herself was just as afraid.

In the dry creeks of the farms we lived on, we also encountered legavaans - similar to the monitor lizard, that become quite angered for no reason, it seemed.

One swish of their tail would put those of a slighter build on their back. Deadly scorpions would sometimes leave the rocks of the dry creek beds and venture into the brick crevices of the old farmhouses. My brothers would catch them and tease them. I still shudder thinking of the way their tails would curl over and twitch, ready to strike! I am still wary of opening a box of matches which may be hanging around the house, because of what may be inside.

I can't help but wonder in awe at the enduring spirit of the earlier migrants, who ventured on - despite many hardships which our modern day systems could now overcome. In the Australian outback there are numerous graves, belonging to unfortunate folk who were bitten by some strange creeping or slithering creature, unable to either reach hospital care on time or receive efficient care or antidotes. There are those graves hosting folk whose constitution just couldn't cope with extreme climatic conditions either. Especially the finer ladies and children. (A recent movie I enjoyed was "Jessica" - based on a novel by Bryce Courtenay - depicting the difficult life of early Australians).

And those who did survive have now become the great-grandmothers of our relatively young nation. Their letters and memoirs are recorded in our history books. I wonder if it ever crossed their minds that they would be instrumental in forming the grand nation we have today.

The Plumber and the Gardener

2009-09-20T23:53:00.000+10:00

This is the Machinist, working on the plumbing in the ladies toilets at the Shop. It's the first time he's ever had to do any plumbing himself, but being a man who can figure things out, he can't help but have a go at almost anything with "trade" attached.

For more updates on what the Machinist and our family have been doing at the Shop, take a peep here.

This is an area of my office and I'm not *game* to show you the rest at this time. It is a hive of planning and preparation and LOTS of paperwork.

While the Machinist has been busy plumbing, I've been busy carting this woodchip off the back of the ute, in an effort to lay mulch on the garden beds before its too hot

A view of the herb bed, emerging from its winter's rest, waiting to be mulched and planted.

Curious hens, waiting to see the results of the BIG MULCH -

Get the Buzz

2009-09-18T22:40:00.002+10:00

Cutting the Machinist's hair is a nerve wracking experience. Ladies, never, ever cut an Engineer's hair. He will measure it to the milimetre. He will haul out his micrometer to check the accuracy of the layers.

The Machinist says his hair looks like that of a cartoon character. He won't say which one.

I know now why they call them 'buzz cuts'.

Hmmm... could he mean Buzz Lightyear?

Vinca Major: Major Problem

2009-09-18T22:29:00.000+10:00

Every time I hear the word "Periwinkle", I think of Miss Marple's cardigan. It leaves me with pleasant thoughts of charming, peaches-and -cream old ladies in quaint country villages. Not this type of periwinkle, though:

Although beautiful to look at with a multitude of homeopathic uses, this type of vinca major is a tenacious, Australian-classifed weed. And we have plenty of it under the old lichen covered Granny Smith apple tree, thank-you very much. So much so, that it was climbing it's way up towards the new spring blossoms, at a menacing pace, threatening the season's prospective fruit crop. It had a faithful blood plum in it's sights, too.

I will go root away The noisome weeds which without profit suck The soil's fertility from wholesome flowers - William Shakespeare

We tugged at long tentacular vines. We dug clumps of young periwinkle from the garden path. And then... oh yes! and then, we brought out the Wippersnipper. Thick glossy leaves flew through the air. Long stringy stems wound themselves in coils and purple flowers disintigrated, - soggy and shrunken.

"Ma, ma, I've got snail livers all over me. Just look at this - massacred sluggy bodies on my skin. Euwww"

A promise of a trip to the movies was met with much alacrity and there was no more talk of molluscan kidneys and giblets.

A Day in the Life of the Machinist's Wife

2009-09-09T00:10:00.000+10:00

Get up at 5.50am

Decide to go back to bed at 6.15am

Wake again at 7.55am

Have early morning tea with the Machinist - (him - flat white coffee - me - Rooibos tea)

Put on a load of washing

Transfer 'smalls' to tumble dryer (phobia about hanging knickers on line)

Hang larger items of clothing on washing line while puppies jump up on the back of my legs. Start looking for fallen pegs in the wet soil / grass below the washing line. (a result of hurried young adults and / or mischievous puppies pulling washing - and pegs - off the line)

Start pulling weeds out of Sarah's garden bed (near washing line). Notice that the majority of rogue greenery is not weeds, but rather - self rooted valerian. "...It spreads as bad as the catmint, mam..."

Mid-morning coffee with the family at the kitchen table.

Go up to the Shop to assist in raising the exhaust hood into the ceiling cavity. Witness a lot of shouting and directing, due to the sheer weight and degree of difficulty in getting the exhaust hood in said ceiling cavity. Ask Grandpa if he would ask Grandma to make some sandwiches for a bunch of loud rebel raisers (the Grands are always wanting to help us in some way).

Have lunch with the Grands: cup o' soups, toast, boiled eggs, cheese, pickles, fruit tea and coffee. What a delight!

Go home and start weeding the garden at the front of the house. Azaleas, hellebores, Solomon's prayer, Daphne. Weed around garden seat. Set up two terracotta pots at each side of garden seat. Weed around front courtyard - banksia roses, more Daphne, snow-in-summer, photinias, phlox, dwarf Irish strawberry tree.

On the Machinist's request go up to the Shop again to check out the exhaust hood now fully bolted to the ceiling beams. "Look, Babe, no props!"

Return home. Cart wheelbarrow of weeds to the back of side paddock (where the Grandfather Brown Snake lives. Note: it's still winter). Machinist finds a heap of cut logs, so assist him in cutting more wood for fires.

Help the Machinist cut a pile of unwanted hardwood beams ex-Shop from the back of his ute, in the light from the Workshop. (It's handy having lots of hand tools on hand! Circular saw, waiting wheelbarrow).

Take pile of cut wood to the Grands "...we have two logs for tonight, Helen, but nothing to start the fire with tomorrow, and we light the fire early..."

Return home. Order curry and rice from the Bushranger Hotel across the road (Tuesday = Curry Night = A huge BLESSING).

Update blogs and research while the Machinist watches Biker Build Off.

"Ok, Machinist, I'm coming to bed now"

Goodnight All!

Tina's First Exhibition

2009-09-06T20:12:00.000+10:00

The Daily Pie Blog

2009-08-28T23:27:00.000+10:00

From hereon my intentions are to continue updating progress on the renovations to our Pie Shop bricks-and-mortar building, as well as our Test Kitchen escapades on a new blog - namely - The Daily Pie - http://www.thedailypies.blogspot.com/ . If you wish, check there regularly. Updates from my daughter, Sarah's point of view can be viewed on her blog - http://www.middlepaw.blogspot.com/ .

We are truly grateful for your support and encouragement!

Sincerely,
In Pies,
Helen, Emma-Lee and Sarah-Mechelle
(The Machinist and Samuel-son's talents will be showcased later at the Shop)

Thoughts on a Relaxing Summer..

2009-08-28T22:41:00.001+10:00

We bought the pool several years ago, at the height of summer's heat. It is one of those above-ground pools, but the Machinist built a deck around it and has covered the sides in with galvanised iron sheets, as they looked so ugly. I have since planted greenery around the base of the iron sheets. When you float on your back in the pool it feels as though you are in an oasis, and only birdsong breaks the silence. What lies beyond the greenery you see in this photo are acres of dry grasses and sorrowful remnants of saline-infused tree trunks.

Oh, and just the other side of the fence, amongst the blackberry bushes, there lives the grand-daddy of all reptiles - a huge brown snake. The Young Adults have seen and fled from him on a couple of occasions. Note to self; get the Machinist and Son to seek and ~~destroy~~ relocate. Otherwise, I don't think I could ever have a relaxing time this coming summer - especially not in the pool, knowing what lies just beyond....

Poem for the Machinist

2009-08-28T21:52:00.001+10:00

TO MY DEAR AND LOVING HUSBAND

If ever two were one, then surely we.

If ever man were loved by wife, then thee;

If ever wife was happy in a man,

Compare with me ye women if you can.

I prize thy love more than whole mines of gold,

Or all the riches that the East doth hold.

My love is such that rivers cannot quench,

Nor ought but love from thee give recompense.

Thy love is such I can no way repay;

The heavens reward thee manifold, I pray.

Then while we live, in love let's so persevere,

That when we live no more we may live ever.

The Old School Bomb

2009-08-28T00:55:00.001+10:00

Many years ago, in a far away land, and much to the Machinist's delight, the Machinist's wife worked for a motorbike company who specialised in Yamaha motor cycles. At the time, the Yamaha XT500 was 'the bomb' and the Machinist was determined to own The Bomb. As in all good tales, his wish came true - and for a while, the XT500 was the only means of transport for the Machinist and his wife. Until the Machinist's wife was with child and the Machinist's Ouma was so worried and insisted that her grandson obtain a vehicle for his growing family.

The Machinist loved his Yamaha XT500 so much that years later, he took it with him to the land Downunder. Due to reasons that escape the Machinist as he ponders his actions, the Yamaha was sold to another devotee and over the ensuing years the Machinist longed for his bike. He was lost without it.

No longer is the Machinist sorrowful and longing! His patience over the years of raising his family has been rewarded and tucked away, under a protective sheet in a dark corner of the Workshop, the (now) old-school Yamaha awaits his dedication to revamp and custom build. Just the presence of the Yamaha and what he can do to it fills the Machinist with great satisfaction ....

Fur Ball Invasion

2009-08-28T00:17:00.000+10:00

A while ago, the Machinist and Son were visiting a customer who is also a good friend of ours. This particular friend is a Showman or a "Showie" as they are called in Australia. He and his crew are always on the road and travel in convoy, housed in extremely large trailers, - fitted with all the mod-cons, replicating the comforts of home. An extremely important home-away-from-home pleasure for this family of Showies are their pets - a canine crew - who must be the most well-travelled dogs in the land. They are simply adored!

Earlier this year, a litter of puppies were born en-route, but later left at the home-base for the caretakers to - well - take care of and raise with - ahem - some stability and obedience training. The Machinist and Son happened to visit the homestead at the time of said training and immediately fell in love and eloped with not one, but two of the remaining litter. They were told that the puppies were from pedigree stock. Not necessarily the same breed, but pedigree nonetheless. Here they are - the Pug x Shih Tzu puppies.

This is Lilly:

And this is Pepi:

Our old girl, Polly, despises the two new girls. As this photos will show:

"I don't care and I'm not looking..."

Universal Soldier

2009-08-25T00:03:00.010+10:00

Many years ago, my oldest brother, Alan left home to join the British army. He signed up for two years yet his recruitment lasted seven years. I can only remember seeing him once in that time. We had driven to London to watch him in some sort of parade. I can't remember much about our visit with him, but I remember an awful lot about a brown paper bag (or two) in the back of my Aunt Mary's car, and the mess I made splattered on her car doors before I was given the paper bags.

During the course of Alan's seven year stint, my parents moved us to South Africa. They hadn't intended for us to stay, but rather, as my dad had assured my mam, "...We're going on a holiday of a lifetime ..." What started as a holiday, ended up a lifetime, as the six month return tickets my father had purchased expired and we were living on a farm with 3000 chickens just outside a small village called "Wasbank".

When Alan's time in the army came to an end, he joined us in South Africa. We often joke that you can take the man out of the army, but not the army out of the man. Although we are miles apart, I am delighted that because of technology and Facebook, I can still stay in touch with our Universal Soldier.

Alan (holding rifle) in Ireland fighting IRA - early seventies.

Alan (second from right) - in Ireland fighting IRA - early seventies

Progress on the Inside

2009-08-21T10:56:00.004+10:00

KITCHEN

New, false ceiling. To the right - cafe / gallery. To the left - toilets.

Doorway leading to scullery & kitchen

CAFE / GALLERY

Standing behind counter. View to right.

Standing behind counter. View to left (you can see the entry to the toilets)

Standing behind counter - looking directly in front

Standing behind counter looking directly in front.

Standing behind counter looking to the right.

Looking at area where counter will be built.

Looking at where the counter will be built (rear wall of shop)

Rear wall of shop - note the beams holding down lights.

There's the steps which once led to what is now the Grand's Cottage.

Direct view of back wall. Counter will be built in front of this.

Minding the Grands

2009-08-20T18:38:00.002+10:00

Nowaday, we never know which day of the week we will be going into town to do the grocery shopping. The Grands, being 'old school' type of people, like to know what day and what time and with whom - in advance. They like plenty of notice. It's in their make-up. We do our best to understand and accommodate this, and they do their best to understand our (somewhat spontaneous AND flexible) lifestyle, too.

We usually park the car on the top floor of the mall parking lot. It's easy (and quick) access to the food hall. Oh, and the toilets. Entering through the automatic doors I realised that I was walking between my mam and dad. Mam bustling in front and dad ambling behind.

What to do? Chase mam to slow her down, or wait for dad, who was about to evaporate in the sea of faces.

At lunch, dad hauled out his supply of silverside-on-wholemeal buttered rolls and began chomping at them, while the rest of us left him to keep the table as we sought our own lunches from the vast array of food vendors. "You like bringing your own, don't you?" I asked. "Yeah. It's better than choosing chips every time. Besides, I'm not paying those exorbitant prices they're asking for a sandwich".

Mam shook her head and bit into a six inch roast chicken and mayo roll from Subway.

It was agreed that we would meet outside the supermarket with our loaded trolleys three hours later.

"Where's your dad, Helen?"
"He was just behind me at the checkout"
"He's not there now. Are you sure it was him?"
"Yeah, it was him, Ma. I told him I was going to the butchery"
"Well I don't know where he is now. Probably vanished into thin air. I can't understand why I didn't bump into him while I was shopping"
"Maybe he's gone to the toilet"
"Maybe"
"I don't know what to think"
"Mam, I'll go and see if he's upstairs in the food hall"
"Ok, I'll look after the trolleys"

Seated at the table right in line with the escalator, sipping on a long-black-with-(cold)-milk-on-the-side was dad. He saw me walking towards him and his soft brown eyes began to smile at me, long before his mouth followed suit.

"I looked all over for you"
"And we've been looking for you, too"
"I came out of Coles and there was nobody to be found. I even went to the car, thinking that you might be waiting there for me".
"No, we were waiting on a bench, just outside of the store entrance - just like we agreed"
"Well I didn't see any bench"
"I'll go and fetch mam. I'm sure she could do with a cup of tea".
"Ok, I'll wait here..."

Mam and I travelled caterpillar-style up the escalator. "I hope you told him off, Helen. I certainly will".

I had no doubt about that....

Current State of Affairs

2009-08-19T15:08:00.004+10:00

Mornings in our village are icy cold, white, steamy and drippy and it takes a while to get in the swing of the day's work. Especially work which involves using hand tools and especially for us women. The other day our Sarah was up on a ladder, grinding flaking paint off a ceiling panel. The Machinist had asked her to wear a mask, but this had proved more troublesome for her "..Mam, when I wear a mask, the bits of paint falling off the ceiling hit the mask, bounce up under the protective glasses and land in my eyes. What's more - I can hardly breath. And so - I choose: Eyes or Dust up the nose? And I choose - Eyes..."

Most rooms at home are growing increasingly full with kitchen and food preparation equipment. The bigger items are stored together and on top of each other in a corner of the Workshop, which looks like a fort scene from Mad Max, the Movie. Tables and chairs are stored in the barn (I still look around caustiously when I enter - just in case, you understand? I don't want any more surprises, as I feel my shock absorbers, in the snake-discovery stakes - are thinly worn).

The other day I took the utility into town and bought a four drawer filing cabiet to house another business-worth of paperwork. Currently, my office at home has papers sprawled all over the floor. The two sofas have cardboard debris; the result of playful, teething puppies. The bench which supports the computer and printer is covered with stationary items in piles, waiting to be packed away. Most filing has been done and the drawers are organised; Paper. Notebooks. Envelopes and stamps. Computer disks. Printing cartridges. Stationary equipment. Pens, pencils, staples, clips, tacks, scissors etc. I am ready to roll.

My dedication to having workable systems at home in readiness for Opening Day doesn't come without it's down side, though. I am concerned about not spending as much time as I would like visiting the Grands. They made a BIG move by leaving Town life for Village life and they are dependent on our transporting them wherever they wish or need to go. It can't be pleasant, but they don't complain. They long to help in some way, and there isn't much they can do at this stage. Once the equipment is in the kitchen, it will need wiping down and disinfecting and I'm sure there will be a thousand and one smaller, forgotten jobs they can help with. Just not now. And so - they wait. And I feel a sense of guilt, as I know that most older folk wait around an awful lot in their senior years and that can't be nice, either.

Another not so nice occurance, when busy and tired and stressed and pushed for time and a deadline are the family arguments. Oftentimes, over the simplest of issues. Help and encouragement for me, however, comes in the form of wisdom, borne from the experience of a dear email friend (who is most keen to visit our country to sample our pies!). I am reminded to '...comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do..."

The puppies join us for movie watching most nights. They bounce up and down like jack-in-the-boxes at the kitchen door (sliding window). As soon as the door is pulled back, they race through to the loungeroom and make a mad scramble for prime positions on the couch. We have several couches in the movie room, but they choose to sit with the Machinist and I and we have to squash up and shift ourselves to fit and we cannot even move for canine mass. "When did it come to this, Babe? When did WE change?", he asks...

Contemplations

2009-08-07T10:20:00.003+10:00

It's hard to think that in a month and a few weeks we'll be opening a pie shop in a small country village in rural Australia. From my humble beginnings in a street full of semi detached houses in the Midlands of England to what could seem, to many British folk - the middle of nowhere.

Obviously, the wilds of Africa weren't enough adventure for one lifetime...

Sometimes, Grandpa gets into a pensive mood and reflects on whether he did the right thing by uprooting his family from Old Blighty soil. I always like to remind him that had he not, we would have been born, raised and probably die in the same house in the same street... a thought I couldn't even contemplate.

Besides, I would never have met the Machinist and had the wonderful family I have today.

I'm thankful for my father's itchy feet...

Jolly Old England

2009-08-06T23:11:00.005+10:00

It all started with a comment from my brother, who lives in South Africa, regarding a war medal that my grandfather earned, during the Battle of Mons, August 1914.

I had started researching our family's history about four years ago - mainly during the Christmas breaks, when we were still at work, but not open for business, if that makes sense. Hot summer days, spent in the cool of the school room, getting lost in another (older) world, far away. England. My homeland, the place where I was born-ded.

The social and domestic history pulls me, entrances me, each time I venture into it's world. The number of birth and death certificates I've ordered from the National Archives, hopeful that they would be gold dust to my thirst for familial knowledge. So many times, they proved to be dead ends. Today, though, when I could have spent time in the unending quest for an orderly business administration centre, I discovered the 1911 Census. And that, mi ducks, was the end of that.

"Hi Ho, hi ho, it's off to the Archives, I go..." tra la la

What Is It?

2009-08-04T22:02:00.002+10:00

This sculpture is our next-door-neighbour.

Question: What is it?

Tables and Chairs

2009-08-03T11:13:00.003+10:00

There was very little in the Shop when we first took it over a year ago. We knew we had to work on the Grand's cottage first, to get them in and settled and cosy. Their comfort and well being took preference over the amount of work we had before us which had to be achieved within a relatively short period of time.

We are now assessing what we can use from what was already there, and have concluded that it isn't much. There were a few chairs which we will re-cover and a few tables which were badly damaged. As I write this, the Machinist is ordering stainless steel sheets to cover the damaged tables. The table framework will be powder-coated in black early next week, so that they will only be awaiting their stainless steel tops. Black and silver. Classic.

I have to say, - the time is drawing near, and while scary - it's also so very exciting.

Stick With Me, Babe. You'll Go Places.

2009-08-03T00:05:00.007+10:00

"Stick with me, Babe. You'll go places", the Machinist declared as our food was delivered. "One minute, we're up to our eyeballs in dust and grime, and next minute - we're silver-service dining

at the local winery"

Scars of Work

2009-08-02T23:19:00.005+10:00

I haven't been enthused to blog for some time now, seeing as all we have been doing is working on the rebuilding of the Shop, and to many - renovation talk - is - BORING and doesn't make for interesting reading. Having said that, I was there today - alone with the Machinist, glueing and nailing villa board onto hardwood framework which will form the rear part of the cafe counter wall. The Machinist drilled indentations into the board, and I followed behind him, with the screwgun, inserting screws into said indentations. The Machinist was most insistent that the head of the screws had to be flush with the board and shouldn't stick out. I told him that the screws were flush with the board, and just as as I was assuring him of this, I ran my thumb over the head of my current insert and pulled it away like a lightning bolt, whincing as I did so. The heat of the screw left its imprint on my thumb:

Shortly after this incident, I headed home for tea. After all, - tea - for those in the 'wars', can lift the spirits far better than a Band-aid can.

Young Grease Monkey

2009-07-13T07:53:00.007+10:00

I see that my daughter has updated her blog with stories of working up at the shop - in particular the vast experience she has received in DIY plumbing and the subsequent discovery of a chunk of solidified fat that I was talking about in my previous post. She will probably explain the course of the day's work far better and with much more detail than I ever could ...

Flash of Genius

2009-07-12T22:46:00.006+10:00

I love the Machinist. He is such an honourable man, and has many other admirable traits.

If I had to describe his character, I would have to say it was akin to Robert Kearns, as he was portrayed in the movie Flash of Genius. The Machinist is also an inventor and currently holds an Australian patent. Why not check out the movie. Here's a five minute trailer. Hope you're inspired!

From

The Machinist's Wife

Couch Potato and the Grease Monkeys

2009-07-12T22:25:00.003+10:00

Another day on the couch....sigh....

Throughout the day, different family members came in to tell me of their progress; Number One Son was working on a beam for the shop's kitchen ceiling. Once the beam is in situ, we can add the ceiling panels. He had welded the beam, and was ready to clean and paint the welds. Later, he came in with a fully cut out stainless steel sink bench - complete with sticky plastic protective covering. This will be our prep sink bench. The hand-washing sink has already been made.

The Machinist and second daughter had been cutting into the cement floor to lay brand new plumbing and floor wastes. They had tested over 14 drains and lets just say they were satisfied to discover that all roads lead to Rome - ie - the grease trap and / or septic tanks and not just disappear underground or reach a 'Y' junction and not know which way to flow. During the course of the experiment, one particular drain proved difficult to clear and an arm was needed to extend into the hole and dislodge an unseen 'blockage'. And it wasn't the Machinist's arm that went down the hole, either. "Mam, I pulled this huge chunk of solidified fat out of the drain. It was massive. It was black coated, but the cross-section exposed white, solid fat. I didn't dare breath, because if I had of caught a whiff, that would have been job; over".

"Oh, and seeing as you weren't there, I've taken a photo of it, 'cos I knew you would be interested"

Lovely. Just what I needed.

Now I'm raring to go. Tomorrow, Lordwilling, I want to be gunning it like greased lightening...

Healing Love

2009-07-11T22:07:00.003+10:00

The Machinist has banished me to the couch for the past three days. Well, I'm 'allowed' to go to bed, if I so desire, but nothing more. At first, I wanted to resist, but now that I feel stronger, I'm glad I listened to him. He spoils me so much. He stops work during the day, comes into the house, walks over to me and asks "Is there anything you need, Babe? Anything at all? Can I get you anything?" Then, when I assure him that he has done all he can, I can hear him carting wood into the loungeroom, loading up the fire. "Gotta keep the house nice and warm for you, Babe". Then later, he comes through with pots of chai tea with honey and soy, - even pours the stuff for me and declares "I'm off to the Shop to do a bit more work. If you need me, here is the phone. I'm just a phone call away".

The Advertisement

2009-07-03T23:14:00.001+10:00

Rainy Nights and a Peaceful Heart

2009-07-02T23:06:00.003+10:00

Mam loves the sound of the rain on a tin roof and I always think of her when I hear it on our own. This follows a trigger reaction from the Machinist, too, as he says "It's your weather, Babe". I find it so peaceful and calming - almost comforting. It makes me sleep like a bairn. The Machinist, on the other hand, gets awfully nervous when there is heavy rain or blustering winds. He seems to think that something, somewhere might break or fly off or come loose or leak. He's the practical one and I'm the dreamer. He's often right, though, as whoever thought life in the country was slow paced and simple, has another think coming... It's hard work and constant repairs and maintenance and the familiar relationship one forges with grease traps and septic tanks is laughable.

The puppies are making a grand mess of the garden. They are automatic mulching machines. Where does all the poo come from? There's more that comes out than goes in. Surely? We've added wire and mesh to fences and gates, to prevent naughty, cheeky puppies from escaping into the vegetable garden and digging up the leaf mulch-covered beds. I've been working outdoors for the past week, and a routine has been set; pick up droppings with extra long set of tongs. Put in plastic lined bucket. Rake designated area. Pull large weeds and toss in wheelbarrow. Unable to leave smaller weeds, pull them, too. Take ages. Wheel away barrow and dump (recycle) in paddock next door. Repeat the process.

Emma and I had a productive day last week, cleaning around the septic tanks and grease trap. In the process, we cut and carted away a tree, which would have undoubtedly spread its roots and cracked the cement water tank. The Machinist came home and seemed somewhat forlorn at the size of the rubbish pile. It was bittersweet for him; he was glad and grateful we had cleaned up, but sighed at the prospect of yet another job for his list.

After a week in the garden, I've taken to the indoors and have been practicing my breadmaking skills. I no longer measure things out, except the bread flour. It's a pinch (or three) of yeast, a sprinkle of salt, a pinch of sugar, a splash of oil, a couple of finger-fulls of ground flaxseed and water to mix. I've been noting things like weather conditions, humidity, temperature, time, oven temp and length of baking. It's chemistry!

Paperwork always invades the day, however. I have to stay on top of it, as it can become so overwhelming. If all systems in the home are running ok, I am at peace. Chaos is simply blasphemous in my books.

Je Ne Regrette Rien

2009-06-20T23:42:00.003+10:00

I awoke at 2am this morning, went to the bathroom, slid back into bed to the comfort of the electric blanket (Number One Setting) and the steady breathing of the Machinist. And then I just lay there, - as an insomniac maniac. I had determined that I would NOT think about the snake, but many strange and unwanted thoughts come to you in the darkness of night. My mind kept wandering to what had transpired yesterday and I would consciously force myself to think of other things. Better things. Sweeter things. Sleep would still not come, so I arose and spent some three hours researching many things on the internet.

Oh, the grand ideas and plans for today!

Alas ... after pegging washing out, folding laundry, tea with Granny and cleaning and disinfecting items of furniture from the barn and organising their place in the house, numerous glasses of orange juice (with pulp), I found myself lolling around on the couch, with that tingly feeling in my ENT body area, which usually indicates the onset of a cold.

A cold and a case of The Guilts. For not having done more...

I'm my own martyr.

Tresspassers Will Be Annihilated

2009-06-19T23:56:00.008+10:00

There was some commotion early this morning and I soon learned that the Machinist had almost trodden on a mauled possum as he passed under the arbour on his way to the workshop. He put the cold, stiffened creature into a plastic bag and carted it off to the garbage bin... where yesterday's dead hen lay - also in a plastic bag. We weren't sure what caused the death of the hen, but the Machinist was certain that one (or both) of our cats had caused the demise of the possum. The cats prowess, followed by the Dutch courage of our puppies...

The girls and I spent the day on the continuation of Project Sort Barn. Uncovering, moving, carting rubbish to the utility, wheeling other items to their rightful places, establishing a 'U' shaped set of shelving within the barn - that we intend fitting out with containers of 'electrics', 'plumbing', 'hoses', 'motors', 'garden', 'hardware' etc, - seeing as we now have the two properties to upkeep. As the barn grew emptier, I would rake the 'moving out' mess and place it in the dustbins. The only thing left was to move a pack of corrugated iron sheets to another location in the garden.

Emma stood with the sturdy rake, lifting each sheet, while Sarah, with gloved hands, slid the sheets out of the barn, one by one. I went to ask the Machinist where exactly he would like us to put the galvanised sheets, and when I returned to the barn, the girls were excitedly debating about something Sarah had seen - which had retreated under the last sheet. Emma slammed the rake on to the metal, and several frogs jumped out from under it. Relieved that they were only frogs, Emma proceeded to lift using the rake.

Then we saw it - despite 'it' being in a state of semi-hibernation, a Tiger snake lifted its head and reared up. That's when the action began...

I just stood outside the barn, screaming. I surprised myself at the sheer fear in my voice. Sarah retreated down the garden path shouting "Dad! Dad!". When she got to the workshop door, she began doing a jig (later to be called "the Snake jig") while shouting "there's a snake in the barn. A snake!" Emma had moved swiftly backwards, in her calm manner, and stood ready for battle. I had screamed some more, and Emma was trying to calm me down. "It's all-right mum, I'm watching it..." I saw the Machinist slowly walking towards me. Slowly. Why was he walking so slowly?

"Where is it?" he asked.
"Over there, near the wall. Can't you see it?"
"Let me just get my eyes focussed.."

Why was he taking so long?

"Do you want me to pin it, Dad?", Emma asked.
"No, it's fine. You just stand back..."

"Have you killed it yet?", I asked hysterically

"Helen, calm down. I've got it."
"Why is it still moving then?"
"They always move like this when you whack them. It's a nerve reaction. I'm going to burn it. That's what they do in Africa. It sends off a scent and warns the others to keep away..."

And with that, the Tiger snake became Guy Fawkes.

That'll teach 'em to come on our property. Threatening my family and pets. Hummmph.

Six Days

2009-06-18T16:03:00.005+10:00

I was peeping at a friend who follows me blog and according to her statistics, I hadn't posted in 6 days. So I got to thinking why I hadn't posted in so long and where had all the time gone? One day I had been running errands and shopping in town with one of my girls, preparing for her convalescence after wisdom teeth extraction; chick flicks, yoghurts, custards, puddings, cup-o-soups, new jim-jams to loll about in, cream soda and ice cream.

Then came extraction day. I'm convinced that mothers suffer so much more with sheer worry.

On the following day, I was scheduled to go to Cookery School, to learn more about shortcrust and puff pastry with chef Christoffe . While at the class, I learned about Harry De Wheels, - a pie vendor, (established 1938) and Sydney icon - from a fellow student (thanks for the tip-off, Di!). The Machinist took good care of our dental patient while I was away (oops, nearly said mental patient! She would be pleased... not).

During the course of my gadding around, I must have picked up a chill, which was a great reason to keep said DENTAL patient company - for a whole day. Then it was back to the road, as we travelled to Mulgoa to pick up cafe chairs and secure an order for crockery and cutlery and other cafe-needful things.

Finally, a day catching up with paperwork was well over-due. It settles the Machinist's mind, too, knowing that all is administratively in order.

Today was spent in the barn with daughter Emma. She is strong and is able to move things and she keeps me on track. I call her Hitler...smiles... and salute her, clipping my feet together, in a semi-Nazi, semi-Julie Andrews -in-the-sound-of-music kind of way. We've had to sort the barn to make room for product storage. It's dirty and dusty and the amount of stuff in there has us at our wits end. The puppies have enjoyed it tremendously, because they get to sniff and explore and jump up on us and get fussed. You have to really keep your eyes open whilst in the barn, because there are nests of all kinds - mice, rats, bugs, spiders and all manner of creepies and hairy marys. "I'm surprised we've had no sleepers, muv" said Emma, kicking a pile of leaves / dirt / carpet fluff. By 'sleepers', she means snakes. I reiterated that if anything along those lines moved, I would be out of there in a (jumping jack) flash.

A bale of hay that the Machinist had bought for the chickens had to be laid in their coop, and as I hauled it over there, and opened the coop door, one of the hens lay cold and hard and all screwed up in a corner. Poor girl. There were marks on the back of her head where her fellow sistas had attacked her. I sometimes think that humans are akin to chickens, by the saying 'kick a man while he's down' and this sure gives new meaning to being 'hen pecked'. I've scooped her up into a bucket, which currently hangs on the latch - a task for the Machinist when he gets home. Truth is, I don't know what to do with her, as he usually deals with this type of thing.

Femme fatale...

For now, though, it's back to sorting what I can before the rain arrives.

Machine Shop Whimsy

2009-06-12T00:00:00.005+10:00

Prior to leaving for the city today, I worked on the wording for one of our websites (the wed wabbit wan awound the wed woses). Sarah had taken many photos of various home and machine shop scenes and I was going through them to see which ones were suitable when I came across this:

See the leopard print item in the left hand top corner? It's my brolly. A girls' gotta add a touch of feminista to an all-male arena, yes?

Here's another cracker:

See the clear plastic container on top of the plasma cutter? That was the puppies' take-away milk container. Goodness knows why it was left there. Do you know?

And what do we have here?

Old methods and new ones. The anvil blast from the past...

And lest you think you can escape, think again...

Committment

2009-06-10T23:48:00.004+10:00

The meeting was to be held between 9.30am and 10.00am, but I was at the Shop before 9.30. A sheet of glass, which we had moved outside just yesterday had fallen and smashed, as a result of a stong, icy westerly wind. The shards of glass were strewn underneath the trailer and utility tyres, and needed to be swept up before anybody could drive away in the vehicle. I went to get the broom, but forgot the cow-hide gloves, and as I was gingerly picking up the fragile pieces, a car pulled in.

"Hello Helen, nice to meet you at last. This place looks terrific. I just know you will do well..."

What a greeting! There was more to come, however, as the hours slipped by - all so very encouraging and timely.

All this to say that our first ad for the Daily Pie will be in the August / September edition of High Life Magazine.

After the meeting, I raced home to tell the Machinist all that was discussed and - all is well. The grunt, the moxie, the determination, the excitement has returned, and we are now committed to a month.

Roll on August!

The Machine Shop

2009-06-10T07:02:00.004+10:00

I thought I would show you some pictures of our primary business - the Machine Shop. This is where the Machinist and Number One Son hang out most days. They love this place. They love the smell, the feel, the look of it. They love the sounds in it, too. The girls and I prefer to have coffee indoors, so when it is brewed, we buzz the men on the intercom and they come inside and sit by the fire. We let all the dogs in, too, because otherwise they'll do crazy things because they get attention deficit.

Our children were raised in the Machine Shop. They know how to grind, drill, weld, cut, fold, notch and more of recent years - they can use the CAD system to transfer designs to the plasma cutter. Only the Machinist can machine, though. Number One Son is learning to machine, but as the Machinist says "...real skill takes time...", also adding the phrase "wax on, wax off, wax on, wax off..." (the Karate Kid).

These pieces of equipment are the backbone of our businesses (erm.. of course the Machinist is also the backbone...). They have made NUMEROUS trolleys for hospitals, laundries and hotels, as well as other ergonomically designed manual handling equipment. Now they are going to also create beautiful pieces of useful and needful metal art, under the Metalsmithery trade mark, which will be on display at The Daily Pie. Without further ado, let me introduce you to -

The Plasma Cutter:

The Guillotine:
Pedestal Drill:

One of the Machinist's Store Cupboards:

The Lathe:

Another shot of the Lathe. Note the window. The Machinist sometimes watches a variety of birdlife on the creek when things get a bit monotonous...

The Mill:

Walls: Gone!

2009-06-09T19:13:00.002+10:00

I often wonder what I should write on this blog. I meant it to be about homemaking, business life, starting a new, different business and how I attempt to do all three. Instead, I find I've ventured down a lot of rabbit warrens. The art of getting carried away, or going with the flow, whatever the flow is on any particular day. Thoughts, feelings, ponderings and facts. Maybe I should just stick to the facts.

Anyway, the facts....

Today was spent pulling down walls within the Shop, preparing for the commercial kitchen, which will be our bakery kitchen. The whole shop was built in the 50's and was formerly a Golden Fleece petrol station. I'm told that Golden Fleece memorabillia fetches in quite a lot now days. Not that we have any memorabillia. We were left with the chaff of a former-flourishing restaurant, situated on the side of a main highway. Our village has since been cut off from the highway, and anyone driving from A to B would have to exit to visit us. Fortunately, we are between the snow-fields and the city of Sydney, which still brings tourists in. Hungry tourists. Tourists needing petrol. Tourists who are running on the fumes of their last refill.

We've probably had around 25 cars pull into our parking lot over the past weekend, all wanting food, drink or petrol. The local corner shop has recently closed down, and there is only a cafe and a hotel to service them. I find it quite exciting to think that these could have been our customers, had we been ready.

Which drives me with more determination to do whatever I can so that we can open soon. For now, though, I need a bath, as I have a film of gyprock plaster on my face and my hair feels like a badger's brush.

Pantries

2009-06-01T22:27:00.004+10:00

While we are waiting for the Machinist and Sam to put up walls and ceilings at the Shop, we are busying ourselves with chores at home, attempting to make life smoother for further down the track when we won't be at home as much as we are now. One of the most important things to organise is food for the family. My intention is to set up systems within the household that any one of us could use, at any time. We all have to be multi-skilled and flexible. I have plastic containers in my pantry, all labelled with the type of foodstuff contained therein. This way, I can see what is getting low, and it is easy for anyone else to 'grab 'n go'. This is the main pantry:

These are jars on the kitchen shelf, which I use mainly for cold cereal, sugar, rice and spaghetti storage:

This is my baking cupboard. Here's where I keep dried fruit, flours - including all purpose, tapioca, potato, buckwheat, corn, polenta, soy, and brown & white rice flour (for gluten free baking).

There is also Dutch chocolate, spices, custard powder, jellies, baking soda, baking powder etc.

I'm also working on the laundry room. More on that in following posts...

Sunday Morning Thoughts

2009-05-31T12:27:00.003+10:00

The Machinist installed the Grand's new wood heater yesterday. He just has to tweak a few things on it - like securing the flue to the clip-lock sheeting on the roof and adding (even more) Roof and Gutter silicone around the rubber collar to prevent water seeping in. We've had our share of leaking rooftops...

Earlier this morning, I helped the Machinist load some of our wood supply onto the utility and together, we packed it next to Grandpa's shed. I know the Machinist feels as though he has yet another 'job' and responsibility; - to keep the Grands' wood supply up, but I keep assuring him that he will be blessed for his kind deeds. He knows this and tells me he is always grateful for what we have (not necessarily materialistic things). When the Grands are comfortable and warm and settled and happy, we are happy.

The girls are out working at their weekend jobs. I wish they didn't have to work weekends, but that's the way the cookie crumbles nowadays. They have both forfeited for the same goal of having their own business. And while they are forfeiting, they still need to earn to attend to their personal financial responsibilities.

Sam has been repairing a low brick wall that the local Council wrecked when they pulled out deep rooted, invasive bushes at the front of the Shop (where I've since planted a lawn). I appreciate the way Sam is ready to have a go at anything and by the time he is finished, he'll be a seasoned brick-layer. At the moment, he's having a shower, as we are about to set out to pick up more commercial equipment for the pie shop - a two hour drive away.

I get the feeling that the acquisition of necessary equipment and items for our new venture is akin to planting vegetables. It's one thing to locate and pay for items (plant and nurture vegetables); - it's another thing to travel and gather them in (harvest the fruits of labours borne). To actually collect the goods, especially from afar, is time consuming and breaks the momentum of daily chores and projects. Some would enjoy breaking the monotony, but for me - well I am just too eager and excited for the Shop to be open and our family to slot into an arduous, but yet comfortable role of daily routine. We know it's going to be hard work, but when routines are established and general business and homelife is organised, its a matter of just - doing it.

So I'm focussing on letting the games begin, while injecting fun.

Fun and games. Get it?

Duuuhhh...

Ebay: Feel The Love

2009-05-29T22:34:00.004+10:00

I am convinced that events in life are just meant to be. Chance meetings are meant to be, too. I love Ebay. Not only is it a medium for trading items, but also an opportunity to meet those you are trading with.

We were met by eight canine friendlies: Teddy, Honey, Rosie, Lindsay, Pickles, Alistair, Wallace and Leo, along with their Master, Keith who's repeated requests for his furry pack to be quiet proved quite futile. Visitors had arrived, and they couldn't contain their excitement. Keith scrambled through one gate and strolled towards us, opening the main vehicular gate so we could drive onto the property. "Would you like a cup of tea?" he asked.

A cup of tea? Really?

I knew instantly we would be friends. A cup of tea and a good chat. The stuff treaties are signed and sealed with.

A house full of character, depicting a love of dogs, nature, travel, people and all things home was a delight to be in. A garden with nooks, crannies, theme garden beds and naughty gnomes invited us, - urged us to inspect further. Paddocks containing projects in progress engaged us, and the glimpse of a river confined to the base of a group of cuckaburra-infested gum trees convinced us how fortunate we were to have had the pleasure of this new acquaintance. Saying goodbye was akin to farewelling old, familiar friends.

Product as described. Great Communication. Wonderful People. And dogs.

Merci Amis!

After Recognition; Gratitude

2009-05-28T21:27:00.006+10:00

There are times in life when joy ebbs away, and you fall, fall - to the depths of the pit of despair. It doesn't happen often, and by the grace of God, the darkness is never long-lasting. There is always - always something or somebody that is given or sent to heave you out again to the familiar land of ease and comfort that you know well. And returning to this old acquaintance comes the recognition, appreciation and gratitude of what you have, and who you are.

Just today Housewife Savant blogged about her affliction with Meniere's Disease. She is realistic about her condition, recognising what helps and what doesn't, while remaining the epitome of wit and good humour and retaining her faculties with dignity. Her plight has touched me and I am grateful for my health, and that of my family.

Then this evening I received a poem from my youngest daughter, Middlepaw.

Later, a deep, honest and raw discussion with my eldest daughter.

I am grateful we can all communicate and we do it well.

Something I have recognised for a while now, is the fact that when it comes to writing about how I feel about my children, I cannot. Just like the time when the Machinist and I had one of many interviews during the course of our fostering experience:

One of the assignments was to share what we loved about each of our own children. We started off with ease, and the more we thought about how and why we loved and admired them, the more choked up we became. Even the couple who were interviewing us were tearing up as we teared up. It was one of those totally unexpected reactions and we surprised (and shocked) ourselves.

Do most parents have difficulty in verbalising why they love their offspring, I wonder?

And It Came To Pass

2009-05-26T22:30:00.004+10:00

Two weeks ago, I sowed lawn seed onto a clumpy-soil area in front of the shop. Previously, large, out of control bushes had prevailed. Not anymore...

Two weeks ago, Grandpa began his ritual of watering the seeds, twice a day.

Two weeks ago, I made a note on my calendar to fertilise new grass with a seaweed preparation. I didn't know if the seeds would germinate and sprout in such a rough terrain. They did.

Three weeks ago, we put up this sign:

We're getting closer and closer!

Lovely Blog Award

2009-05-24T14:52:00.004+10:00

Vivienne from - ahem - The V Spot gave me the Lovely Blog Award. Thanks so much, Vivienne! Please go and check out her blog. She is not just a pretty face; she has good humour, an astute mind (smart ass) tremendous wit (smart-assery) and an extremely resourceful dad, Dave. You can definitely see it runs in the family from the quality of Vivienne's posts.

I am passing this award on to other lovely bloggers who I have not only recently discovered, but those who have inspired me for some time - bloggers who have a beauty that appeals to the heart, mind and eye, or are generally charming and delightful, - so here are my lovelies in no particular order:
Laeriss from A Heart In Provence - I was hooked immediately. Laeriss has a knack of finding the beauty in nature, and mixing it with odd and random objects to create wonderful themes.
Sarah from Middlepaw - My middle child who inspires and encourages me daily. I delight in seeing her perspective on our lives together.
Kelly from Housewife Savant - I love Kelly's knack of keeping things real, adding the humour, doubling the wit. Oh, and her Savantisms are addictive, so beware - or she'll Kel ya!
Emily from Thoughts and Biro Sketches - Emily is a young, talented and beautiful artist and you will undoubtedly get lost in her world...
Willow from Willow Manor - Willow's blog has absolutely and definitely something for everyone. You will be inspired by her love of and interest in - life.
Eloh@ from Elohssanatahw - An honest and humourous look at the reality of life from a lady who's been there, done that and probably has the weaponry to prove it.
Alison from Brocante Home - A single mommy with a vintage spirit chronicles her life stories and offers a variety of puttery treats for likeminded home-loving bodies.
Please go and visit these blogs. Thanks again for the award, Vivienne!

Septics, Ventillation and Hot Air

2009-05-24T07:54:00.007+10:00

Mam has this saying "...it never rains unless it pours...". I haven't heard this saying often, mind you (as the course of life goes), because my mam is ever the optimist. She has the wisdom, however, to know that when you are trying to pay one bill (for example), many bills come through your mailbox. Or, when you are busy with one thing, many unexpected tasks pop up - oftentimes for immediate action.
After the Pumpkin Festival, there was much home and garden maintenance, housekeeping to catch up on, as well as lots of paperwork, bookkeeping and general business admin. Our intention was to attempt to accomplish all the backlog within two weeks and then trot off down to the Shop, single file, singing "I owe, I owe, so off to work, I go" - after regular, every-day business as usual, mind you. But this was not to be.
Our septic system has quit working and after Bob, the sh@* man's inspection and professional advice, the verdict is, we need a new absorption trench. Sarah was the first to notice, as she was taking the puppies for their ablutions one crispy morning. "Mam, you've gotta see this, but your not gonna like it..." I could tell by the tone of her voice that it wasn't good. It had to be the tone, because had I checked out her face, I would have seen that she had a massive grin on it, which would have given me mixed messages (not hard). Until, of course, I realised she was speaking of the plumbing...

As serious and annoying problems with septics are, our family has this insane urge to laugh when the words 'septic problems' comes up. (Is that normal?). The Machinist is the one that suffers the most. He's got most septic maintenance tools down-pat (certain type of shovel, hose pipe, black agri-pipe, dead chicken), but still gags every two seconds. He tells me that sometimes, it's not the smell, its the feel and look of it....

There is a problem with heating at the Grand's Cottage, too. When we re-did the cottage, we installed an LPG gas heater, which the Grands could move around, should they so desire. The gas heater, however, needs ventilation, and the vent-holes were blocked in when we insulated and re-cladded the walls. Now the Grands have spent most of their life in England, and are used to cold weather, but they cannot and will not open a window in mid-winter ".. don't you see, Helen - if we open the window, all the hot air will rush out, and the cold air will rush in.."

So for the past three days, we've had discussions, made enquiries, checked out models and have finally come to the conclusion to purchase a slow combustion wood heater, and should it arrive in time (as per the salesman's assurance), we will fit it ourselves - next weekend.
Back at the ranch, I've been researching different aspects of business each night: cafe layout, kitchen layout, paint patinas, pie crusts and fillings, lighting, floor finishes and acid washes, budgets, themes and decor. I cannot even consider looking at the big picture, because for now, I have hundreds of baby ones surrounding me.
Oh, and remember how we had made the decision not to have the miniature pigs? The Machinist was cutting and welding a bumper bar for our friend's truck - the same friend who had offered us the pigs in the first place. I had just returned from town and went into the workshop to have coffee with the Machinist and our friend, Robert. During the course of conversation, Robert turned to me and said ".. hey, good news. Eva may be having piglets..."
Aussie, Aussie Aussie. Oink Oink Oink.

How Do I Love Thee

2009-05-20T23:04:00.007+10:00

You know when you're over tired and you get the giggles? Sometimes, over the most silliest of things? Well, I get the giggles AND I get the gabs, like one of those ventriloquist dolls (jerky head movements, slow-batting eyelids, mouth that can only go up and down, not side to side - therefore, no grimacing). Blah, blah, blah.

Something Housewife Savant wrote about make-up has caused me to recollect the first 'date' I had with the Machinist, many moons ago, when we were both 15. I had never been asked out before. I'd had a crush on a boy at school, but the most we would do would be to glance at each other, smile and look away as quickly as possible, as we hurried to the next lesson in a different section of the school grounds. That was the total extent of my flirtation. I didn't even know what flirting was and what it entailed. I'm only telling you now, 'cos as a fully grown up person I can think on it and identify it.

Anyway, I had met the Machinist one Friday night, as I waited with my friend for her father to pick us up from the movies. The Machinist had pretended to tie his lace, so that we would have to overtake him. To cut a long story short, he asked us to meet him and his friend the very next day at the local tea-room.

For some reason, my father (Grandpa) had always chosen to rent houses either in the country or on the outskirts of town. I allowed myself time to get ready AND walk into town. Usually, getting ready was a case of washing my face, and brushing my hair. Not on this occasion, though. This was, after all, a date. A date with the most handsome boy in town!

I spent ages on my hair which wouldn't do as it was told. Then I scratched through the dressing table drawers to find some makeup (that I didn't wear), but that my mam (Granny) had brought home from her place of work (an old wares / second hand shop). The makeup was brand new - salvaged from a Chemist shop that had burned down. Mary Quaint makeup.

Mary Quaint!

I dipped my finger into the pot of creamy, pea-green eye-shadow and smeared it on one eyelid, then the other. No eyeliner, no mascara. Just two commando style smears of mushy pea soup, sans ham, on my lids. No looking in the mirror afterwards, either, because had I looked in the mirror, I would have been tempted to re-do my hair.

Troublesome hair...

What to wear? Oh, I almost forgot.... Teresa's pastel green dress (Teresa was almost twice my height). I loved her dress, and seeing as it was rather long, it was an opportunity to wear four-inch platform strappy shoes. Brilliant!

The walk into town was long, hot and blistering, but the lime flavoured milkshake was most refreshing.

As I sat in the cool of the tea room, I thought "I'm going to marry that boy one day".

He must have really loved me back, too. Why else would he wed a highly flushed and blushed, curly haired green dream of a girl?

Let me count the ways...

A Farmer Makes A Plan

2009-05-20T19:43:00.003+10:00

Two of my four brothers still live in South Africa. Various types of crime are committed every day, several times a day against many South Africans, irrespective of race and colour. A shop owner in Johannesburg , South Africa , was tired of people breaking into his yard/shop so he came up with the idea of shaving his dog like a lion. Everyone in SA recognises a lion, and now he has no problem with thugs! South African ingenuity - we call it "'n Boer maak 'n plan" (A Farmer makes a plan).

Cyber Walks, Canals And Rivers

2009-05-19T22:44:00.006+10:00

I've been having a lot of fun on google maps (pathetic, I know), attempting to catch snippets and peeps of my childhood neighbourhood (mouthful) in good old Blighty. If you click on the arrows, you can actually cyber-walk down the old familiar streets, even though quite a few of the buildings have changed. There are still the damp, moss covered, red bricked terraced houses, their colourful front doors being the only source of individuality. There are still the semi-detached houses with side entries and coal / coke holes(like our own family home). Most of the corner shops, however, are either closed and boarded up, or have been returned to family dwellings.

Everything seems a lot smaller now. When I was a child, the streets were wider; the places we walked to seemed so far away and taxing for our tiny legs. The shopping districts (not malls) were widespread, the parks were vast, the ponds were lakes and the canal was full.

Aaahh.. the canal. Nowadays, the canal has been filled in and replaced with a 'bicycle' path. I remember it with reeds and grasses, frogs and spawn, tadpoles and mud - with the odd rusty child's tricycle or pram or car protruding from the middle - always a source of mystery and intrigue; "Who's was it?" and "Who put it there?" and "I dare you to wade out and get it" and "I dare you!"

At the side of the canal was a series of hedges, all connected, all intertwined. In autumn and winter, we would have races as to who could clamber the WHOLE LENGTH of the hedgerow in the SHORTEST POSSIBLE TIME. No child would be in that game to come second place, and this tenacity resulted in many - many - scratched, bruised, grazed, cut and bleeding limb to run home with, determined not to cry until home came into view.

There are so many memories from the first 13 years of my life in England, but the one that always comes to mind and which brings me a great source of joy and chuckles as I recollect the picture in my mind's eye is that of a series of carved-in-stone graffitti on an ancient bridge over the River Derwent. Three of my four brothers had plotted to carve our five sibling's names as a memorial to our family in the early days of hearing about my parent's intentions to leave Mother England. Each brother took it in turns to hang upside down to carve, held only by the strength of the other two, as they grasped an ankle with all their might. The height of the bridge, the body of water underneath the bridge, the constant traffic over the bridge played no part in their determination to complete their task.

The ancient bridge still stands today. If you look to the top of the bridge, amidst the weathered and lichen covered stone, you will see something written there and if you look very carefully, the names will become apparent:

Atts Batts = Alan
Keamo = Brian
Gaz = Gary
Root = Robin
Tammy Lock = Helen

Orthodontists, Chairs and Pigs

2009-05-18T21:47:00.006+10:00

I love to soak up every makeover show I can possibly lay my peepers on. I watch in awe as man and wife endeavour to work on their new projects, whether the projects be a new house or business. I prefer those establishing or improving or increasing a business, though. They seem more desperate and dermined and defiant, as there is more on the line....

Sam and Sarah both attended the orthodontist today. I never thought I would see the day where one of my children would drive the other to an appointment IN THEIR OWN CAR. For years, it seems, and as most mammas would testify, I have been their sole source of transport. It's even strange to stand back and watch them consult with a doctor or dentist without me in the room as well. Sam has reached the end of his 18-month-teeth-behind-bars experience and now goes into parole mode (retainers). Sarah, on the other hand, is at the beginning of her mouth-makeover. I often tease her: if you're having ALL of your wisdom teeth out, does that mean you won't have any more wisdom?

The Machinist appeared around the corner of my office and whizzed a chair from behind his back, planting it right in front of me. "Waddayathink?", he asked. The chair in question is one of 20 (I think), left for us at the Shop. Initially, we were going to take them to the tip, but on inspection, we realised we could transform them from ugly ducklings to swans. Our plan is to take off the back rest and replace it with a decorative metal back rest, re-powdercoat the frame work and recover the seat with some type of animal hide. More on that in days to come.

This evening, Sam came into the loungeroom and asked what I was watching. With his eyes on the television, he edged backwards, and without thinking, sat on my knee. Still not thinking, he extended his legs upon the rest of the couch. Polly looked warily at him. "Hmm.. what's he up to?" said her expression. I have to confess, I love having our children around and have NEVER desired for them to leave home, as some parents have expressed.

After much discussion, we have decided not to take the miniature pigs offered to us (I wrote about this previously). I'm glad the decision has been made now, rather than later. It's awfully hard to return or give pets away, once they've spent even an hour at our home. We'll still visit Onslo and Eva, though.

In the meantime, all donations of their nutritious (to growing vegetables) excrement will be gratefully received!

'Ere the Winter Storms Begin

2009-05-18T07:42:00.004+10:00

It's May here, which signals the end of autumn. Wisps of chimney smoke curl from rooftops regularly and there is a sweet woody smell in the air. Days have changed dramatically from bright and warm-enough-for-no-jacket to overcast with icy, noisy winds. Whenever the wind howls, I always think of a story from my childhood where the wind and sun wager who will be able to convince an unsuspecting man to take off his jacket in the shortest possible time. The sun always wins, which demonstrates that most things in life are achieved peacefully, quietly and with wisdom and forethought.

On taking the puppies out for their morning ablutions (usually our Sarah's job), I saw that there was frost on the ground, which was more noticeable on the vegetable beds, as they truly are 'beds' with their ample blanket of leaves. The girls and I had weeded, added generous amounts of chicken and pig manure and carted barrows of fallen leaves to cover them for a snug winter's rest.

"Which bed is that, ma?", Emma had asked

"We've got chicken, chicken, pig, pig ..."

"Hmmm.... I thought those two looked a lot darker..."

In truth, we haven't taken care of our food garden this summer past. Work at the Shop has taken everybody's spare time. It never ceases to amaze me how it still copes and how seemingly fast new life appears.

In the top orchard, we've removed two dead citrus trees, woody, clumpy daisies, hundreds of tall, easy-pull weeds and now the hens are permitted to scratch and discover. In front of the orchard, two rose bushes have been removed and replanted, as they were being compromised by enthusiastic raspberry canes. Shrubs with past flowering spires have been trimmed and carted away, as have squashed, pecked and browned fallen apples, reeking strongly of cider.

Rosebushes from other areas of the garden have been transplanted as well, due to excessive growth of those plants and bushes surrounding them. We fought with a rogue blackberry cane that had taken dominion over the lilac garden and was heading strongly and speedily, up and over the arbour towards the herb garden.

Common mint is the conquerer of the herb garden for the most part. Parsley is ever-faithful, as is coriander. Thyme and oregano are good neighbours, but confess how they miss the seasonal basil (as I do). Sage and rosemary sit together, unassumingly, and we've had to trim the curry bush which had taken over the whole corner, stealing another's prime real estate. I have an on-again-off-again love affair with Fennel, which I think is rather handsome and adds a twist to vegetable drinks, but is rather tenatious at grounding itself deep in the soil and germinating prolifically throughout the back garden.

At the front of the house, thickly packed wood chip has kept many potential invaders at bay. Pigsface is loyal, gaining strength with each stealth-tendril. The banksia rose continues to cover the daphne and the mini Irish strawberry, which continue to survive, and surprisingly, thrive. Azaleas and helibores have a permanent lean, due to constant westerlies.

There is still so much to do, and I constantly wonder how our garden will transform if we don't get the time to care for it as we have in times past, due to new committments with pies and metal creations. But... I have determined to cross that proverbial bridge, if and when I get to it.

For now, though, " ... all is safely gathered in, 'ere the winter storms begin..."

Back to the Grind

2009-05-11T23:37:00.006+10:00

It is quite relieving, I find, to be able to work at the Shop again. For quite a few weeks, we were inundated with Pumpkin Festival coordination and normal every day work, leaving no time at all to dedicate to the Daily Pie building.

Earlier in the week, I sowed a 25kg bag of lawn seed for an area at the front of the Shop measuring 150 square metres. Grandpa has been watering the seeds twice a day. He is a man on a mission and determined to keep said seeds in a state of perpetual dampness, which they desperately need to germinate.

It's a good thing to keep Grandpa busy. Prior to his new project, I caught him on his hands and knees, weeding a summer planted garden bed at the Grand's Cottage. He had finished weeding half of the length of the bed, but my eye kept on returning to the first part. It seemed so 'empty' looking, compared to the unweeded half. On closer inspection, Grandpa had pulled several good plants out of their holes. "I wasn't sure whether they were plants or weeds", he said "... So when in doubt, pull it out. That's my motto". Granny, was not impressed "See why I do these things myself?"

I dug through the pile of uprooted greenery and found the 'good' plants which Grandpa had considered weeds. As he continued pulling REAL weeds, I edged behind him, replanting those good flowers and shrubs he had discarded...

On Mother's day, both of the girls had to work. I had breakfast with my men and went over to the Grands to cut Granny's hair. Surprisingly, it looks good - no thanks to my cutting skills, but rather to my mam's beautiful square face and hair-model head. We had tea and laughed a lot, and later, I mowed and edge-trimmed the lawns at the Cottage. Remnants of unwanted items, - all connected with renovating a house and Shop were cleared from the premises and packed onto the trailer, in readiness for the Machinist's trip to our local tip. We load the trailer as full as possible, hoping that if the Machinist loses his bartering power with the local tip guy, at least there will be value for (tipping) money.

After hard day's of graft - difficult manual labour for all, this is how the Machinist gets his kicks - by messing with our Staffy, Bob while he is in a deep doggie sleep: he gently lifts his lips and tucks them under ...

Savage dog (not)... and can you believe Bob's still in a deep sleep here?

On the other couch, Polly, ever-protective and possessive of me, sleeps with one eye open, while one of the 'twin puppies', - Lily is also in a very relaxed and dopey state. You can see where I got up and out of the coccoon blankie to take these pics ...

Small, foolish things.....

Doe A Deer

2009-05-09T00:03:00.003+10:00

Many moons ago, my Mam took my cousin, Mark and I to see "The Sound of Music". It is a movie I will always love and never forget. I seldom watch movies twice, but this one, I've watched again and again. I love it, and am a sucker for everything and everyone portrayed in it. My mam reminds me so much of Julie Andrews and in particular, the role she played in the movie, Maria Von Trapp.

You will understand, then, how happy I was to find this on Youtube:

Anniversary Celebrations

2009-05-07T22:10:00.007+10:00

Over 28 years ago, in a small country town in the middle of Kwa-Zulu Natal, the Machinist and I were married on the 1st May 1981. We were married in a registry office. There was no wedding party, except a few of the Grand's friends who gathered with us afterwards.

The Machinist and I have always known that it's not about the wedding; it's about the marriage.

The annual Pumpkin Ball took place last Friday, on the first of May. Our whole family had been busy with Ball and Festival preparations, and the Machinist and I had to dash home at the eleventh hour to get ready for the Ball. We had no sooner sat down and were eating supper, when the MC announced that somebody had a very important announcement to make.

Suddenly, our son, Sam, walked into the marquee, holding a bunch of flowers. I knew at that moment what was going down. My Homies had been conspiring to surprise us!

This is Sam, declaring that we are the best parents ever. He was very choked up...

This is the girl's table, applauding.

The Machinist and I. Fully sick emotional!

While we were Pumpkin-ing

2009-05-05T21:30:00.004+10:00

While we've been dealing with a lot of these:

A lot of things have been put on hold and ignored. Like this:

However, these cute little puppies wouldn't allow us to ignore them. The Machinist brought them home one night. A puppy for Sam, and one for Sarah. As if there wasn't enough to do, we're now cleaning numerous amounts of dog messes. Yeah!

Last Efforts for the Festival

2009-05-05T20:10:00.005+10:00

I keep on hearing "When the Carnival Is Over" by the Seekers in my inner ear. Instead, I want to sing "when the Festival is Over..."

Well, the Festival IS over and the last media release has been - released, which means we can now get back to 'normal life'.

MEDIA RELEASE 5TH MAY 2009

THE CHOSEN ONES

They were abducted from their warm, sun-drenched patch, held captive for a weekend and are now liberated into the arms and bags of their new owners. Such is the life of a pumpkin; whether in perfect condition or mangled and deformed, nevertheless selected for either decoration, competition, or simply to be baked - all in the name of Festivity, and in particular - the 6th annual Collector Village Pumpkin Festival.

The theme for the Pumpkin Ball, was ‘Masks and Enchantment‘. A heated marquee protected its masquerading patrons from a frosty autumnal Southern Tablelands evening. Dining and wining were amply catered for, served on tables draped in white linen, adorned with glitter and star-sprinkled pumpkins. The dance-floor was a mass of gyrating pumpkin-lovers, disguised in masks as diverse as their personalities and geographical locations.

On Festival day, an array of transformed pumpkins sat atop trestle tables in the community owned Hall, central hub of Pumpkin Square. Their larger, heavier siblings sprawled across the hall’s floorboards, where small children delighted in conquering their heights. Entries for the Pumpkin Scones and Pumpkin Pie competitions lay in waiting for judgement.

Over seventy stalls of food, wine, crafts, plants, clothing and produce lined not only Pumpkin Square, but extended down Pumpkin Lane. The Old Church yard played host to vintage cars, bikes, steam engines, tractors, farm animals, rides and demonstrations.

Thus enabling a mass seduction of over eight thousand patrons…

Flumoxed!

2009-04-22T14:41:00.003+10:00

Out of all the decisions we've had to make regarding the development of The Daily Pie, the most difficult for me has been the configuration of pie tins on a tray - known in the industry as a 'Pie Pallet'. Pie Pallets come in standard sizes to fit standard ovens. The oven we have purchased is a two deck Pizza Oven (used by many pie makers and also known as "Pie Ovens").

Ours, of course, is not a standard Pie Oven. We need a larger pie pallet to fit into our oven for mazimum economy (pie ovens use three phase power and gobble up electricity and your budget)

That's where the Machinist comes in. He is going to cut and paste. He will be cutting some of the trays and pasting (welding) them on to other trays to create a larger batch for the dessert pies. The meat pies are a different story. For them, he is going to manufacture a tray big enough for each deck of the oven, cut holes in it (like an egg poacher) and we will purchase loose pie tins to fit in the holes.

This pie pallet / pie tin ordering has had me flumoxed. I am no mathematician and don't have much of a logical brain at all. That's where the Machinist comes to the rescue again.

Ah, the Machinist. What would I do without him?

What's In A Sign?

2009-04-21T05:34:00.005+10:00

Everything. Your Time, your Effort, your Heart.

Realising that "Metal" wouldn't necessarily get the tourists and motorists off the highway and into our small country Village, the Machinist and I decided that a new strategy was necessary. We knew that "Pies" would get them off the highway to exchange their car seats for our cafe seats, and seeing as our new business was going to cater for both metal and pie products anyway, - The Daily Pie it is!

Together, the Machinist and I inserted screws and spacers between each metal letter and the galvanised sheet. Tip-toeing to the extreme end of the roof for a better view, I was overwhelmed with emotion at seeing the whole sign. More so when the Grands came out of their cottage to see what all the fuss was about. Grandpa wore a huge grin and both thumbs up, unable to speak with delight. Granny, being the more verbal of the two, surprised us by clasping both hands over her mouth, and with eyes full of love and admiration, uttered "it's beautiful".

And so, here it is - our new business is set in metal: The Daily Pie, not your average pie shop:

Pies and Metal.

Who would have thought?

Pumpkins and Paperwork

2009-03-27T00:14:00.005+11:00

It's past midnight and I'm busily tying the loose ends of stallholder coordinating for our Village's annual Pumpkin Festival. (Try saying that with a mouthful of pumkin fritter). My family and I have been involved in the management and Festival committee for three years now, and each year, I tell myself "self, don't get involved next year". But ... I never listen to myself and the truth is - the Festival is such a fun event, that the management thereof becomes an obsession. I just can't let it go. I'm smitten with Pumpkin fever.

As Festival day approaches, things get even more hectic here at home and in our family business, because life doesn't slow down just because there's some additional chores to perform.

For the past two days, I've been moving all administration out of the Machine Shop office and into the Home office, more specifically - the old school room. The Machine Shop office will be used mainly for contracts, projects and designs, and we've attempted to organise it in a way that the Machinist's paperwork life will be smooth and efficient.

What fella doesn't despise paperwork?

On the other hand, the Home office is more involved. The Machinist returned from town with another filing cabinet today, and now I have a cabinet for our Engineering business, a cabinet for our new Metal gallery and cafe business and a cabinet for our personal filing. I have ample stationary and postage supplies and feel extremely blessed.

By the beginning of next week, I hope to have all manner of paperwork completed, our Business Activity Statement done, and all accounting software transferred to my trusty HP Touchsmart.

Then the dusty, dirty manual labour at the Shop begins....

Which hat again?

Welcome to South Africa; When Reality Hits

2009-03-25T23:37:00.004+11:00

It was our first home in a new land. A humble 6 birth caravan, situated several kilometres out of town, on land that was once arable. Within a week of our arrival, a crowd of children were gathered near the ruins of an old stone barn on the grounds of the caravan park. Loud deliberation drew me nearer and as I approached, the sickened bellowing of a terror-stricken beast became audible. I edged through the crowd and before me was a large bull, tied with a chunky rope, yet still squirming. Every so often, the bull would take a lunge for freedom. Then another. And another. Realising that escape wasn't imminent, the bull began to paw the hard ground before him and snort. Cloudy puffs of nerve-breath pulsed from his nostrils.

Suddenly, a loud, authoritive voice behind me. “Move beck, now, ok?”

With this, the stranger motioned with his hand for the crowd to move away from the ruin. A mass exodus inched back, not too far, though, as prevailing curiosity is often a strong need to be filled. Furthermore, the stranger wasn’t telling us to go.. We just had to move back…

“Go on, move beck!” We moved back some more, like a choreographed troupe.

The stranger lifted his other arm and positioned the butt of a rifle, cradle-style in his neck. He aimed at the writhing bull. Silence. The stranger was standing very still. Then, slowly, his finger squeezed the trigger….

It only took one shot. The bull swayed from side to side. There was a gasp, and several cries from behind me. The once whitewashed walls of the old barn drew my attention: splatters and streaks of bright red blood, starkly shocking, defaced the aged patina. Then, as the bovine carcass thudded to the floor, a semi distorted mass of muscle and sinew, I realised what I had witnessed.

I had witnessed a slaughter.

60 Year Old Manual Muscle

2009-03-25T08:34:00.005+11:00

You could easily be forgiven for not knowing what this contraption is. For years, it has been banished to the fenced-in-and-hidden back yard of the Machine Shop. It's had a special reserved parking lot between the chemicals shed and a voluptuous willow tree for a long time. Recently, however, the Machinist resurrected it.

Oh, the delight on the Machinist's face as he navigated it around the empty bowels of the Shop.

"Look, Babe - it works - after all this time..."

The contraption is a hand operated 'Pallet Jack' and is primarily used for lifting pallets - encumbered with heavy loads. That's not what we've used it for, though. Oh no. This is our Manual Muscle, used in places where the trusty Forklift cannot nor will not dare to tread.

Case at hand: we had to remove a wooden post, which stood in the middle of the Shop. A lone, unwanted sentry. And yet - a sentry called for duty to hold up part of the ceiling. For days, Number One Son had been working on a 200mm thick piece of channel - at least 6m long to replace the need of the sentry and to house a spaghetti mix of electrical cable, and it was Mr Manual Muscle that saved the day by lifting the channel to the height of the ceiling while the Machinist and Son welded both ends of the beam in place. Naturally, I had the labour intensive job of moving the lever you see in the photo, heightening and lowering the tines, which never even blinked at the weight it had to bear.

Yes, there's much stamina and grunt in sixty plus year olds. Don't ever be fooled about that!

Metabo Love

2009-03-25T08:31:00.001+11:00

A tired, dusty servant ..... A bloke's delight.

Paint Supplies

2009-03-25T08:08:00.005+11:00

Part of the paint supply, including brushes and rollers. This is mostly external paint. See the little glass dish on top? That is used to hold the nasty burny stuff (paint stripper), which is brushed on to the glass windows. There's loads of 'forrest green' paint splatters from previous owners and previous attempts at dolling the Shop up on the glass. We often declare that said green paint must have been purchased as a 'job lot'.

Another part of the paint supply, surrounded by miscellany. When you're pushed for time, you tend to 'dump'. Let's see ... we've got a crate full of manual tools such as screwdrivers, clamps, chisels, hammers, and a metal saw. Tubs of nails. A box of dust masks. Plastic cups for impromptu bottles of soft-drink. A flood light. Wood preparations. A wooden ladder.

Oh, and see that stainless steel piece of equipment in the top corner? It's an old pie warmer, and came with the Shop. We're not sure if it works, because it needs to be cleaned and tested. That's another job for another day.

The Outhouses, Now In-Houses

2009-03-24T20:48:00.014+11:00

Here is the corridor you will be entering when you go to 'spend a penny'.

Here is the once-external window in the corridor.

This is privy one ...

And this is privy 2

This is privy 3 section A

This is privy 3, section B

Standing looking back into the shop from the corridor. Bob is sulking because he's not allowed in this corridor. Of course, you're not allowed in this corridor, too.

Yet.

Build It And They Will Come

2009-03-14T23:38:00.009+11:00

Time is flying by so fast, people are asking when we will be opening and sometimes, I panic thinking that we won't have the shop ready in time for our village's annual pumpkin festival on the first weekend in May.

The front door, wide open

Perhaps we we will be open and perhaps, we won't. It's hard to give an exact date when you don't even know yourself.

Looking out of the front windows

The simple answer is that we will open when we are - well - good and ready. When all that has to be done, is done.

Looking out of the side windows

I don't say this flippantly, because we are working so hard and there is a lot to do in a short period of time.

Site of the 8 metre cafe serving counter

This evening, I transferred all my notes from a variety of sources to one main, handbag-compliant diary which I bought yesterday. On one of the pages, I have a diagram, which looks like a scientifically depicted molecule; the nucleus is "Metalsmithery", with a number of 'appendages' - (sub-categories) - attached to it, as follows:

General Administration, MYOB, Suppliers, Budget, Legals, Packaging, Insurance, Marketing, Cafe, The Bakery, Printing, Advertising, The Gallery, Finance, Website, Blog, Council and Health.

Site of Gallery hearth

I know there will be more, as I delve deeper into each of these necessary sub-categories. I have to smile, though, because the whole project seems so close, and yet so far away. Soon, very soon, the bricks and mortar building to be known as Metalsmithery, will look beautiful and functional, and not messy and distinctively building site-ish.

The Machinist and Samuel-son... after a hard day's graft.

And I know, I truly know that if we build it, they WILL come.

To be continued....

We're Moving Inside Now

2009-03-04T23:56:00.007+11:00

I've been roller coasting...

Roller coasting mental thoughts. It gets like that when you don't know if you're Arthur or Martha, Coming or Going, Piggy or Twiggy (well, I know what I am in the latter example... oink oink ...). The outside Shop painting is now finished. As a bonus, my balance has improved a hundred fold and I can now scamper-climb like an African monkey on the forklift (and in other places), and so many local folk who pass by, seem to stare, half hanging out of their driver's side car window. It must look like that scene from the Sound of Music, where the Captain and his girlfriend are cruising and they see his children hanging from the branches in the tree-lined avenue. We'd be the children, - hanging - minus the clothing made from old drapery, plus the paint splattered T's and peddle pushers.

This week, I attempted to remove the vinyl tiles from the floor in what was once the outdoor toilets (they are now inside toilets). They are filthy dirty! The porcelain bowls are broken, and the urinal needs new stainless steel. The Machinist, in an effort to satisfy the concerns of the girls who will have to clean said urinal, assured them that he will manufacture a urinal to prevent boastful attempts of high flyers. The design he has in mind curves at the top, which would result in self-saturation.

That should trick 'em!

This evening we drew up a game-plan. The Machinist is to make a grand entrance step, manufactured from checker-plate and flanked by windows which were once doors. The girls and I are to sand the cement floor, ready for painting with a non-slip preparation, and Sam is to manufacture a supporting beam, which will eliminate the need for a pole in the middle of the gallery floor.

I love having a plan.

I'm also a list freak!

Octopus Ink is Good For You!

2009-02-27T00:29:00.004+11:00

I'm sitting at the computer desk, making final additions to the previous post concerning the (Wo)man in the Mirror and the Machinist walks in to give me a glass of water. In his other hand he has the bottle of Volcomin Forte, (which we both take at night) and what seems to be the largest tablespoon he can find in the cutlery drawer. Volcomin Forte is packed with minerals, which are received into the body on a cellular level, but it tasts morally offensive and wretchedly bad. I call it Octopus Ink. Actually .... it tastes like coal tar smells.

The Machinist starts pouring the Octopus Ink*tm into the ladle and holds it near my mouth. He has overfilled the ladle and the ink drip drip drips onto my shoulder. Without making eye contact, and no words uttered we break down in laughter. I swallow the ink, grimace, give the famous Maori open-mouth-tongue-hanging-out movement and shudder.

Ahh... True Romance. He calls me "Baby Girl". He's my Machinist.

(Wo)Man In The Mirror

2009-02-26T23:39:00.010+11:00

I don't often get angry and nag and carry on. It's a rarity, but when I do, I can feel my blood pressure rise, so to speak, and that's how I know that I'm in Angry Anderson mode... If I verbalise my anger, everyone is shocked and some - well - some kinfolk even feel the need to retaliate because they probably think the best form of defence is offence. Generally speaking, they don't get offensive often, because they don't feel the need to defend themselves often and ....

Oh, you get the picture.

Getting angry is simply no good for me. Nor is it any good for the person experiencing my wrath. It's not really their problem; it's mine. They may have done something improper or foolish and generally vexing, but the reality is - my anger at them or going on at them won't change the situation. It won't change them, either. Sometimes, situations arise that are very difficult and I despise the blame game, especially Family Vultures, because nobody wins and everybody becomes prey.

So I'm practicing a new form of yoga. It's called WOOSA

I'm Starting With The Man In The Mirror

I'm Asking Him To Change His Ways

And No Message Could HaveBeen Any Clearer

If You Wanna Make The World A Better Place

Take A Look At Yourself, And Then Make A ...

Change

Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson

And on a lighter note, here's Michael himself:

Testing, Testing, One, Two, Three ... Pies

2009-02-25T23:42:00.006+11:00

The Machinist and I took a day trip the other day, for research and development purposes, and while doing so we were determined to cheat on our diets. We've been good diet children and have adhered to a life of restraint and deprivation for over eight weeks now.

The day was gastronimically planned; coffee in one village, lunch in another. Afternoon coffee in yet another, smaller village. We left home too late for morning coffee and felt as if our stomachs were about to turn inside out and eat us, just as the big and small hand joined forces at twelve noon. We had arrived at our favourite cafe in time, but on entering, it was evident there was no seating available. We took a walk. Returned. Still no seating an hour later.

One has to sacrifice a lot when doing research and development. For instance - having to test several pies from several different cafes, bakeries and patisseries.

Food testing is a really hard job, and some of us just have to do it.

Food testing is especially hard when you have to check the quality of burgers, fries, coffee, friands and custard pies served on the 11pm late shift at Mr MacDonalds ...

Pensive

2009-02-24T23:36:00.005+11:00

It's been so long since my last confession ...

Er - post.

Days have passed with my hair, limbs and clothes splattered with Weather Worn*tm and Domino*tm Dulux low sheen acrylic. I've been in a paint roller-haze; vertical strokes, horizontal strokes, a quick roly poly across the top of the gutters, a pat-pat here and there, (dents from oversized trucks that didn't quite make it under the awnings), finalised by a dab-dab with a 50mm paint brush. An overly paint clogged paint brush at that.

I'm a messy, messy painter, but I get the job done.

I've been thinking about the simple but precious things in life - most of all - the richness of family and loved ones. Maybe it's because of the constant reports of the Victorian bushfire victims and heroes. Probably, it is. Makes you appreciate many things. Painting gives you lots of time to wax philosophical. You become a machine. A bristle wielding machine, but also a thinking machine.

Tonight, on Animal Rescue, there were several stories of animals that survived the fires. One that stuck out was the plight of 'Henry', a ginger tomcat. Henry's paw were badly burned and his face was singed, causing his eyelids to swell like two sets of pink pucker lips. Fortunately, Henry's eyesight wasn't damaged. The vets on duty were trying to locate Henry's family. He was wearing a green kitty collar, embedded with fish shaped bling. This was the clincher by which his owner's recognised him. When his mamma walked into the surgery and started talking to him and stroking him, he instantly started purring. He couldn't see his mamma, but he knew her. His family had ten minutes to flee from their burning property, just enough time to pick up their children and run. Thoughts of what had become of their beloved pet had haunted them. No matter. As long as his family had a home, Henry would have a home with them.

As if this wasn't enough to open the floodgates of hot, salty tears, and block the nasal passages, Finding Your Family was on next.

But I won't go into that now. I'm off to schnuggle with the Machinist ....

Singles Awareness Day

2009-02-14T21:59:00.007+11:00

Sarah: "Mam, do you know what day it is today?"

Me: "Yes, it's Saturday"

Sarah: "No, but what day is it"

Me: "The Fourteenth February"

Sarah: "No. Try again"

Me: "It's Valentine's Day"

Sarah: "No, it's Singles Awareness Day"

Me: "What? Who? When? Where? How? Why? Say again...?"

Sarah: "It's national Singles Awareness Day. Fancy that, they declare the Singles Awareness Day on Valentine's Day"

Me: "What are you supposed to do on Singles Awareness Day?"

Sarah: "I'm not sure. Maybe feel sorry for the singles ...."

Me: Sigh....

Sarah: " I think Valentine's day sucks. Usually, couples are happy. They have every day together. They're happy they're together. Why do they have to have a day for couples? I think they should get rid of Valentine's Day. It's people like me - the sad singles they should celebrate".

Me: "Yeah. Ban Valentines day"

Sarah: "Get rid of it!"

Me: "Shoot the cupid!"

Sarah: "Yeah..."

Bushfire Emergency

2009-02-13T20:19:00.010+11:00

There are so many stories coming to air about the Victorian bushfires - some heart-warming and some heart-wrenching. Many Australians have stood together, helped one another during this tragic time - the worst bush fire in Australian history. We all feel so deeply for the victims, and those of us who weren't directly affected are deeply grateful that it wasn't us. That's human nature. There's plenty of articles to read about the tragedy, but not much more to say, so I've enclosed some photos:

Painting

2009-02-11T23:13:00.005+11:00

What do you blog about when you've had a couple of days lifted high up on a forklift, painting an old service station building? Do you write about which brush to use? How to hold the roller? How to prevent a skin forming on the top of the paint? Balance, as you stretch to cover as much area as you can, so as to minimise climbing down the ladder, moving the forklift to a new position and climbing up the ladder again?

There are many - MANY thoughts that go through my head, but remember them when I get home?

No chance.

More later....

We're Progressing!

2009-02-09T23:56:00.003+11:00

The trees, bushes and shrubs in the front garden of the Shop / Metalsmithery have been torn down and taken away by friendly local council staff. The grounds look so much bigger, and I can't stop thinking about how I am going to landscape the 60 metre garden. A row of agapanthas? A line of spring blossoming quince trees? A burst of red hot pokers? A rock and native grass garden? A lawn? I'm so tempted to hook straight into this project, especially as the weather is much cooler, but I'm half way through something else. And don't you know - you have to finish one thing before you start another...

Eager beaver.

The Grands have been helping as much as they can. Granny sweeps the messes that are continually made and Grandpa keeps the cottage garden watering up, and makes me tea - even bringing it out to me in the late afternoon chill.

Everything is slowly coming together. There's still a lot to do, but we are seeing the progress.

I can almost smell the coffee... and taste the pies. Gluten free, of course.

Tales From Thrush Green

2009-02-08T23:18:00.006+11:00

For those who love gentle, honest books, as I do, the Thrush Green series is a must read. It seems that dieting, for ladies, has been a constant issue throughout the ages:

Miss Fogerty was looking forward to her cup of tea and one biscuit, with more than usual relish. She was on a strict diet, and quite frankly, she felt all the worse for it. All meat was banned, all white bread, and sugar of any colour whatsoever. Anything made with flour was out, and dairy products were forbidden.

'Boiled water only for the first two days', John Lovell had said, his eyes alight with a fanatical gleam. 'Then citrus fruits for three days, and after that perhaps a small apple. Then we can get you on to vegetables, particularly pulses. Pulses are absolutely essential to counteract any acid in the system'.

'But I shall be absolutely bursting with acid if I'm on citrus fruit for days', exclaimed Agnes. 'I really cannot take lemon juice or grapefruit in any quantity. Even oranges upset me.'

~ Tales From Thrush Green - Miss Read ~

Miss Read, or in real life, Mrs Dora Saint, is a teacher by profession who started writing after the Second World War, beginning with light essays written for Punch and other journals. She has written on educational and country matters, and worked as a scriptwriter for the BBC. Miss Read is married to a retired schoolmaster and they have one daughter. They live in a tiny Berkshire hamlet. She is a local magistrate and her hobbies are theatregoing, listening to music and reading.

Pugsley Buzzard

2009-02-07T21:50:00.004+11:00

There is a winery that we pass each time we take a trip into town, and in all the years we have lived in the country, we have never explored it. Today, however, the Machinist and I went out on a "lunch date" at the winery.

We sat in a temperature controlled room, lined with galvanised racks holding huge wooden wine casks and were carried away to another time, another place by blues singer, Pugsley Buzzard. On a forty degrees summer's day, this treat surely did the trick!

I could get used to dating the Machinist!

Scrumpage Apples

2009-02-06T22:48:00.005+11:00

I plucked a large apple from the Ballerina apple tree today. It had a velveteen covering over it, which I smudged off with my thumb and forefinger. Then, by instinct, I rolled it on my dress to make it shine. To shine an apple is one of those unspoken, unfathomable rituals. I took a bite. A big bite. The skin was warm, as was the flesh. For a few seconds, there was a heady feeling of rememberance. That of my younger years, scrumping apples from the local allotments. (Scrumping: Brit. to steal fruit (esp. apples) from trees ). My apple tasted like the apples on my scrumpage, all those years ago. Pure and unadulterated Rosaceae-family goodness.

The Machinist was floating in the pool. I handed him the apple, and he took it and bit into it without question. Then he took another bite. And another. Silently, he handed me the core. It was already turning brown - due to the intense heat of the day. I tossed the apple over the fence and into the paddock, and wondered if another apple tree would one day spring up in the middle of nowhere.

Summer-Brown Berry Coolie

2009-02-05T23:34:00.004+11:00

We've had intense heat for over a week now. Unfortunately, outdoor chores don't stop, just because Mr Sun decides to turn up the heat. I'm convinced that the best way to face outdoor chores in the heat is to get up early, start work in the coolness of the day, to enable the body to get accustomed to the temperature as it soars.

Mam commented on how brown I am becoming. "... As brown as a berry..." she says. I've always wondered "What type of berry?".
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

When we first arrived in South Africa from England, we lived on a caravan park for a while. Most of the families in the caravan park were Afrikaaner families with lots of children. I couldn't, at that early stage communicate verbally with the children, but I would run barefoot throughout the park with them. It was summertime, and the heat didn't affect me as it does now. Lots of sun, and swimming and before long, mam was saying "...you're as brown as a berry, Pooch..." **Poochie is my pet name**

I was starting to get the feeling that my newfound, non-verbal friends didn't want to play with me suddenly, and I didn't know why. Then one day, as I was running and laughing, an Afrikaaner child chasing me to 'tip' me asked -

"Are you a Coolie?"
"A Coolie? What's that?"
"Ag, jy weet..." (Oh, you know)
"What?"
"An Indian"
"No, I'm an English woman"
"Jy's nie a Coolie nie?" (You're not a Coolie?)
"No!"
"Okay...."

And even though apartheid loomed over us, from then on, I got my friends back again...

PS - the title of this post sounds like a cool refreshing drink for a hot summer's day...

Eggs

2009-02-04T23:56:00.006+11:00

The Machinist loves to spoil our hens. "They give us so many eggs, Babe, they deserve to be spoiled". He gives them layer pellets and scratch mix WITH molasses. They love it. They lay their 'gifts' to us all over the hen coop, and the Machinist delights in seeking and finding them. Each day, twice a day, he heads off under the rose arbour at the bottom of the garden to the hen house beyond. Each day, twice a day, he returns to the house embracing a shirt full of eggs, catches our eye, and counts the eggs, rather audibly, as he places them, ever-so-gently into the porcelain egg container.

"One, twooooo, threeee ....... fifteeeeeen, sixteen!"

That's right. Up to sixteen eggs a day from nine Isa Brown hens (and who knows if any from the older two white-feathered hens).

Mind you, Number One Son can eat the eggs as quickly as the Machinist gathers them.

The other night we were checking out Youtube, and came across this delightful, endearing video entitled "Screaming Eggs". We had such a good laugh and are still quoting these poor chaps:

Food for the Loved Ones

2009-02-03T19:58:00.005+11:00

I have been given quite a few cookery books as gifts from my children. My favourite cookery books are those that have stories behind the recipes and how the recipe maker / creator came upon specific ingredients and methods to cook any particular dish. Oftentimes, the one common theme - the reason for cooking, and the effort in bringing the recipe to fruition is impressed upon me: the gathering of family and loved ones.

Food and family. Food for the loved ones...

More and more families are eating out, eating fast, eating junk and sadly, eating alone. There is much to be said about the family dining table, wherever it may be situated in the home. My desire is to have us eat together at the family dining table as often as possible. Food brings family together, but family need to sit together in one place, at the same time to create their own memories. When we go through extremely busy periods, our family tends to eat at different times of the day (and night), and the notion of eating together, in one place at the same time becomes a faded memory for a while. It is a constant effort to facilitate the family home-dining experience.

I’ve been thinking a lot about nutrition and how important it is to continually feed my family tasty healthy food, hearty and wholesome. It is so easy to fall into the rut of making quick meals with little nutritious value when we have been extremely busy or feel over-tired. I comfort myself with the thought that generally speaking, food in general is an important part of a balanced diet...

I must confess - food is always on my mind and in my daily planning. Whether I have to gather it, buy it, pack it, store it, prepare it, cook it, delegate somebody else to prepare and cook it or eat it. Sometimes fab or flop, and sometimes fast or feast.

"I've been on a constant diet for the past two decades. I've lost a total of 789 pounds. By all accounts, I should be hanging from a charm bracelet"

Erma Bombeck

The Kitchen Sink (More Than You Need to Know)

2009-02-02T23:39:00.002+11:00

We have a stainless steel double sink in the scullery area of our kitchen; a deep main sink, and a smaller one next to it. We use the larger sink for pot and dish washing, and fill the smaller sink with bleach or disinfectant water for soaking the dishcloths. This is much more hygienic than using the dishwater to rinse the cloths in when wiping kitchen surfaces, as the dishwater contains a lot of grease from the pots and pans. Grease that sometimes cannot be seen floating, especially when the water is hot and soapy. It is so very tempting to dip the cloths in this prepared sudsy water, but submitting to this urge results in the countertops looking streaky. The grease particles are well behaved; they stay wherever they are spread - until the next wipe.

If you don't have the benefit of a second sink in your kitchen, a plastic bowl, the shape of your sink unit is an ample substitute. There are round and rectangular bowls available to suit the shape of the sink. Kitchen sink bowls are so handy - mobile too. The bowl can be filled with 'bench cleaning water', and can be carried around to each kitchen counter top requiring cleaning, while the sink is left to do what it does best; hold water for the soaking and later washing of dishes, pots and pans. Alternately, the bowl can be used for washing fruit and vegetables.

Many housewives in England used bowls in their kitchen sinks when I was growing up. It was a domestic tradition. If they had a round sink, they had a round bowl to fit neatly in the sink.

My mam still uses a bowl in her kitchen. She claims that if you place cups, saucers and other 'delicates' into the bowl, they wont have to mix with 'tougher' pots and dishes, which may cause them to crack. Items can be stored in the bowl in the same way they can be stored in the dishwasher. This frees up the sink and draining board and thus provides inspiration to tackle any necessary chore involving the kitchen sink.

Mounds of stainless steel, alluminium, pottery, porcelain, plastic and china, not to mention potatoe peel, spinach spines, carrot peel etc. are very off-putting. My personal experience with kitchen sinks has been a learning one. I have 'gleamed' much. As a newly wed I thought that if my sink was clean and shining and all gruesome looking food particles were cleaned off the sink, tap and draining board, that all was hygienically fresh. Not so! Occult microscopic life can still be present and in abundance. What I do now, (and which I have taught my children) is firstly, to thoroughly clean and disinfect the entire sink area. Then, give the base of the tap and water spout a 'towel rub' with the cloth (have you ever seen what comes off of there? It's like that song we used to sing - ".....red and yellow and pink and green, orange and purple and blue.....I can see the crud crumbs, see the slime balls, I wonder, can you, too?") After the rub, I drizzle clean water over this area. Even more crud slithers away - down into the sink. As I watch this, a childhood song comes to mind - and it is as if the goopers are singing the song themselves: "row, row, row your boat, gently down the stream, merrily merrily down the drain, as Helen cleans and gleams". Off they go -down the plug hole! And just when I think they've all surrendered, another lost soul sets sail, down to the depths of the grease trap; via the grey water rapids....

After the 'sinking', I like to use my tea towel to dry the taps, spout and sink area so that it shines. Ready for the next shift....

Summers Past

2009-02-01T15:23:00.008+11:00

This month is supposed to be the last month of summer in Australia. My thoughts today are of summer days in South Africa, as I was growing up. It was a shock to the system to leave the icy cold of Britain, straight into the heat of Africa. At first, we could hardly breath in the hot air. It was like sitting in front of the hearth with your mouth open, inhaling the radiant heat from the open fire. A complete meltdown.

Our family would often exclaim ".. i'n't it 'ot..", as we passed each other throughout the house. It became a family mantra. One would think you would tire of saying it, but no. Like most things in life, though, you eventually get used to it.

Those early days in a strange land were spent on a number of farms, in different directions - just out of, but surrounding a small town in Natal. Most of them had 'Kraals' on them; homes to the domestic and farm staff that worked on the land or in the farmhouse. These workers were always happy, contented people, who smiled a lot and sang a lot. They would dance, too, on their way down from the hill, through the dry creek bed, up to the homestead for each day's labour. Their children would sometimess accompany them.

At that time in South Africa, apartheid reigned, and the white children were forbidden to speak with the black children. Our family never observed this, though. The black people were human beings; with different lifestyles and customs, but they laughed, cried, bled and died, just like we did. The Bantu children taught me Zulu ditties, and would chuckle with glee when I sang them in my British accent. We hardly understood each other's language, but we laughed hard and often.

A popular African singer in the 1970's was Margaret Singana. Her smile alone could light up the veld (field). Here she is, singing Mama Thembu's Wedding Night. Take it away, Margaret

Marley And Me

2009-01-31T23:30:00.004+11:00

I've said it before - I'm really starting to love mattinees. Especially in the heat of the day, when you can sit in an air-conditioned cinema and relax, and try your best not to fall asleep, even if you are depending on a muffled nasal grunt to keep you awake.

Marley and Me is a beautifully light comedy / drama about a family and their beloved dog. My thoughts wondered to our two beloved mutts, Jock and Elibelle who one day decided to go a bit too far in their tug o' war game with a poisonous snake, resulting in their death. During the movie, I sneeked a peek at the Machinist, and observed his face, taught with emotion. Just the sight of him made me want to sob ...

Mutt love....

Anyway, here's the info for Marley and Me. Enjoy!

All in a (Random Day's) Work

2009-01-30T23:15:00.007+11:00

Wake at 6.30am and torment myself with thoughts of sleeping a little longer. Refuse to listen to myself, get up.

Load the hungry washing machine, switch on the tumble dryer - full of the previous laundry user's clothing. In this case, Sam's clothing (and bed sheets and riding gear, including gloves). Make an Isowhey shake with 1/4 banana and skim soy milk (not my first choice, but I've adapted). Sip on shake - slowly. Take meat out of freezer for lunch.

Head to the shop for more painting with second daughter. Become a mosquito's banquet while standing on a ladder; tray of paint in one hand, brush in the other. (They know when you are vulnerable, the mosquitos do). Keep on enquiring of the time. Grandpa points to a huge clock on top of his kitchen pantry. I can just see it if I bend my knees and peer, squintingly through the kitchen window.

Almost time for morning tea.

Feel very chuffed after completing western and southern gutters and eaves FOR THE THIRD TIME. Even before morning tea ...

Go home for morning tea.

Actually, morning espresso coffee. With almond nuts and a pear.

Dragged by the Machinist into the Machine Shop office to send a quote, record an invoice and relieve business creditors by performing internet banking direct deposits. (IBDD's), as well as writing cheques.

Lunch; meatballs with oregano and five spices, cinnamon, onion and tomato sauce with garden salad.

Check emails after lunch and fall asleep at the computer. Several times. Wake up with a massive whiplash. Go for a nap under the mosquito net in bedroom. Doze off. Woken by second daughter, Sarah, after ten minutes of deep sleep, as she opens the bedroom door to drop off her dad's boots.

Return to the office to finish bookwork and print off reports from MYOB.

Head to the Shop to complete painting the gutters and eaves on the Eastern wall. West, South, East?

Done!

Go back home. Peg out (more) washing. Jump into the pool - fully dressed. Frolick in the pool with the Machinist (even learn a new trick; - how to conquer the 'Big Daddy' floating bed).

Coffee with the Machinist.

Head off to mow the lawns at the Shop and Grand's Cottage garden with the Machinist. Take over the Machinist's new toy; a ride on mower. Create many dust storms on said ride on mower (due to making 'doughnuts' and tracks on dry, loose soil with mower). Feel very chuffed and rebellious about making dust storms.

Due to the darkness of the sky (8.45pm), load the push mower and whipper snipper onto the ute. Ride in convoy home. The Machinist on the mower, me in the ute behind him.

Quote

2009-01-29T23:56:00.003+11:00

Success comes to a writer, as a rule, so gradually that it is always something of a shock to him to look back and realise the heights to which he has climbed.

P G Woodhouse

Alan Marshall

2009-01-29T23:36:00.007+11:00

After an early morning painting session, the girls and I got ready to spend the day in town. Lots of errands and grocery shopping had to be done. It was one of those days that we were able to squeeze in a few simple pleasures, like a visit to "Memory Lane", one of our favourite haunts. We all found treasures! My delight was in the discovery of a book on Quotations, compiled by Fred Metcalf. And furthermore - "The Complete Stories of Alan Marshall" by - you guessed it - Alan Marshall - 1902 to 1984:

Alan Marshall was born in 1902 at Noorat in the Western District of Victoria. He died in 1984 at the age of 82. When he was six he constracted infantile polio and walked on crutches from that time onwards. He is best known for his autobiographical novel, 'I Can Jump Puddles', which was made into a film and has been published in 28 countries. In 1972 Alan Marshall was awarded the OBE for his services to handicapped people. He received the Order of Australia for his services to literature in 1981.

A Scene from I Can Jump Puddles, by Alan Marshall

Memory Lane sure is a treasure trove of the odd and curious finds...

Endless Projects

2009-01-28T20:56:00.005+11:00

On arriving home this evening with the Machinist, I lingered a little in the utility truck. Tall conifers on either side of me - the driveway completely hidden from the street. I looked around at the amount of projects on the go, that have to be completed within the next two months:

A ladies bicycle that we picked up at the tip, needing a new wheel and two new tyres. I can't wait to ride it!

A metal trunk which will be cleaned up and used as a prop for Metalsmithery

An old galvanised weed sprayer, with the name "Hudson" imprinted on the front. This will also be cleaned up and used as a prop for Metalsmithery.

Two wrought iron single bed headboards to be stripped and painted.

Four tressles used to support outdoor work benches when spray painting various items.

Gothic looking hinges and door supports for Metalsmithery's main door, made by the Machinist, awaiting spray painting.

An enormous hydraulic ram, which the Machinist intends to use on a piece of equipment he is going to make.

Long lengths of galvanised steel, awaiting manufacture.

A large trailer, quarter filled with garden refuse from the Shop grounds, awaiting weeds and home-garden refuse from the Head Gardener (me!)

A wheelbarrow loaded with bags of chicken poop, to be scattered and dug into the vegetable beds.

A large bag of pig poop, also to be scattered and dug into the vegetable beds.

Old wooden crates, to be chopped up into smaller pieces and used as firestarters for the Autumn months.

Various vintage metal implements, used as garden decor.

I'm sure there's more, but it will probably only come to mind as I trip over it, carrying coffee to the Machine Shop.

Comforting Early Morning Sounds

2009-01-27T23:02:00.006+11:00

When we first purchased the old Roadhouse, the cottage (the Grand's Cottage) connected to the Shop was constructed from various materials and had many colours. The whole building looked derelict and dilapidated. Over the past few months, we've endeavoured to make the whole building look connected, as one, instead of two separate entities, with the use of the same building materials and paint colour. Over the past two days, we've been painting the gutters and eaves of these two entities to 'link' them. The circumference is HUGE! We start very early in the morning and work on the western wall, in the shade. By 1pm, we've finished the southern wall as well and go home for lunch. We return at around 3.15pm and work on the eastern wall which is, by then, in the shade.

Prime coat. Top coat. Top coat.

"Round and round the circumference, like a teddy bear ...." tra la la

On both early morning starts, I've been comforted by the sounds of early morning rising. We are there before the Grands wake and get out of bed, but they're up shortly after. As they rise and shine, there is the sound of the toilet flushing; it's waste running to the septic tank. Then the bathroom taps are used, and the plumbing groans. If the hot tap is run, the Rinnai Instant Hot Water heater clicks into action, and a faint whiff of liquid petroleum gas seeps into the crisp dewy air.

In the kitchen, a gush of cold water runs down the drain and gurgles its way to the grease trap. The kettle is switched on and works itself into a panic as it reaches boiling point. More whiffs of gas, as the tea and coffee cups are rinsed under hot water. Muffled communication. Plates and bowls clatter - cereals are being poured. A frying pan clangs on the stove top. More muffled conversation...

The click of the front sliding door indicates 'wee wee' time for the beloved Pekingnese, Blossom. It's not long before Blossom has made her way around to the west to greet us.

Life.

A new day.

What will this day be like? I wonder...

What will my future be?

Australia Day 2009

2009-01-26T22:16:00.009+11:00

Today was momentus. For the first time, in over 20 years, we raised the Australian flag at the Shop (the old Roadhouse) - to be known as Metalsmithery & The Daily Pie. Grandpa had painted the flagpole, and the Machinist was really grateful that he did. The three men in my life raised the pole to their shoulders and carried it to where it would be erected. They marched proudly! Later, Sam brought the forklift around the building, and the Machinist and I climbed onto the platform, so that we could be lifted to the height of the flagpole bracket.

We had lunch at the Bushranger Hotel (formerly the Kimberley's Hotel) and later did the commemorative walk for Constable Samuel Nelson, one of our village's own:

"Shortly before 6pm on 26 January, 1865 bushrangers Hall, Dunn and Gilbert attacked kimberley's Inn at Collector. The local Police at the time were out searching the area for the bushrangers, and the only man on duty in town was the Lockup keeper, Constable Nelson. When news of the attack reached the Constable he remarked to his wife that he would simply "have to do his best" against the bushrangers. Approaching the hotel armed only with a Police carbine with bayonet attached, the Constable was shot by Dunn who had hidden behind a fence post. Nelson was initially hit in the chest by a shotgun blast, and as he staggered, Dunn fired again, hitting him in the face. He died almost instantly. The bushrangers then robbed the Constable's body of his personal belongings and the carbine, and escaped into the bush. The entire incident had been witnessed by one of the Constable's nine children, young Frederick Nelson, who was also fired upon by Dunn.

The Constable was born in 1823 and joined the New South Wales Police Force on 5 August, 1857. At the time of his death, he was stationed at Collector".

Here are the Ten Tenors singing "I Still Call Australia Home". Makes me cry every single time!

The Rooster & The Horse

2009-01-25T19:04:00.008+11:00

About a week ago I wrote about a sick rooster on a friend's farm. The rooster had been bitten by a snake and while at the farm, we had helped to give him a big wallop of vitamin C. On enquiring about the rooster the next day, we learned that although his organs were working ok, the rooster's nervous system had broken down. Mr Rooster was perky and alert, but he was paralysed.

Our friend, Robert decided to put the rooster out of his misery, and considerate of his wife's affection for all animals, he put the rooster in the basket of his four-wheeler, and took him for the (last) ride of his life to their 'pet cemetary' (other beloved pets had also been laid to rest due to snake bites). Robert begain digging a hole, deep enough to house Mr Rooster. He wanted to undertake the task as quickly as possible - the sun was rising high in the sky and beating down on both of them. Mr Rooster was placed in the hole and Robert began the rhythm of scooping dirt over him: shovel, twist, drop, shovel, twist, drop. The hole was filling quickly. Shovel, twist, drop. Shovel, twist, ... what the?

Out of the soil emerged a seizing chicken foot.

And with that, Robert put the largest boulder he could find (and move) over the grave site and fled on his four wheeler for the homestead ....

* * * * * * * * * *
Our Sam loves to ride his dirt bike. It has been said that there's not a patch or mound of dirt that he hasn't covered in our small village (and surrounding Travelling Stock Reserves). He was delighted, then, when his friend, Ben introduced him to a mound, in the middle of one of their farm's paddocks. The lads spent a good half hour in a bubble of dust, sweat, petrol fumes and roaring, overheated engines - competing for the highest jump, oblivous of their surroundings. Then, out of their zone -

"Ben! Ben! BEN! What the .... What are you DOOOO..ING?" It was Ben's dad, shouting from the car.

"C'mon, Sam, let's scarper ..."
"What's the matter?"
"Don't worry about it.. let's go ..."

A few hours later, when the dust had settled (in more ways than one), the lads returned to their new and recently compacted jump in the paddock. But not with the intention to - well - jump. Sam slid off his bike to take a closer look... there was a horse's hoof sticking out of the dirt, like a conquering flag on a mountain top.

Sam turned to Ben "did you know?"

"Yeah".

Housewife

2009-01-24T22:33:00.005+11:00

I love that name ~ Housewife. It evokes such a sense of belonging. I am the Machinist's Housewife. Although, having said that, I dabble a lot in various other things, too, like bookkeeping, advertising, design, and project managing.

I have always referred to any woman working at home, married, with or without children as a housewife. The world doesn't use the term 'housewife' anymore. It's not politically correct to do so, and some find it derogatory. The names 'home executives', 'housepersons', 'homekeepers' or 'domestic executives' are the preferred titles for women who stay at home and work.

The vacuum cleaner is my talisman. Cloths, brooms, pans, mops, buckets and DETTOL are my friends and when I have these items in my hands, my family know that I'm not merely taking the bus and going on the Summer Holiday that Cliff Richards sings about.

I am Mrs Moppit Mama.

I am ready to perform the White Lightening lickover.

I am the Retro Housewife.

Retro Housewife; A married woman who embraces the role of wife, mother and homemaker, rather than adhering to the current paradigm of women assuming roles that are traditionally male

Fruit of Labours

2009-01-23T11:49:00.012+11:00

I've always wondered how other small business owners who work from home organise their lives. The private life from the business life. Is there a distinction, or does one simply flow into the other? Does the whole family work in the business as ours do?

For years, we've had a home & productive food garden, a home-school and an engineering workshop with an office enclosed - all on the same piece of land in the country. Three separate entities to manage and coordinate. Nowadays, we still have the home and semi-productive food garden, (Homelife / Garden) the home-school room has been turned into an office / studio, and the engineering workshop (Machine Shop) has expanded. We have also purchased an old petrol station / roadhouse (the Shop) - just up the road from our home - which will one day become a retail outlet for metal creations (Metalsmithery) and have it's own coffee shop (The Daily Pie) enclosed. Later, there will also be a pie bakery (The Daily Pie) in the same building. At the rear of the old petrol station / roadhouse (Shop) we have practically rebuilt a three bedroom cottage (Grands Cottage), where my parents now live.

Big plans and dedication. Lots of work. Enormous amounts of motivation. Many sacrifices.

You know how you go through life sometimes and wonder what you've actually done - especially on non productive days? As I write all this out and think about the enormity of it all, I can only wonder how we've done what we have, and know - truly know - whence cometh our blessings and am truly grateful and thankful.

May God give us the strength, patience, tenacity and all the rest we need to continue with these graciously granted dreams - now reality.

Amen.

The Wealth of Home

2009-01-22T23:57:00.009+11:00

You don't have to be wealthy to be rich. A certain mindset, particularly one of gratitude helps you realise just how rich you are. I love this poem by Sarah Hale 1788 to 1879

Sarah Hale

We need not power or splendour,

Wide hall or lofty dome;

The good, the true, the tender,

These form the wealth of home.

Maximilian the First

2009-01-21T22:32:00.004+11:00

I bought this second hand, wood-framed print today:

I knew nothing of this chap at the time of purchasing his portrait, but it seems that he is Maximilian I, Roman Emperor-elect; Archduke of Austria; Duke of Burgundy - born March 22, 1459 – January 12, 1519. He is often referred to as 'the lask Knight', and has a generally excellent rap, despite having had three marriages! According to the inscription on the print, translated from Latin:

"The most powerful, the greatest, and most invincible Emperor Maximilian, who surpassed all the kings and princes of his time in justice, wisdom, magnanimity, [and] generosity, but especially in martial glory and strength of courage. He was born in the year of human salvation 1459, on the day of March 9. He lived 59 years and 9 months, 25 days. He died, however, in the year 1519, in the month of January, on the 12th day. Whom God the Best and Greatest may wish to restore to the number of the living".

In the portrait, Maximilian is holding a broken and bursting open pomegranite, which, in his day, was a symbol of the fullness of Christ's suffering and resurrection.

This is a self portrait of the guy who painted Max - Albrecht Durer, generally regarded as the greatest German Renaissance artist

All this history. And to think that I only bought the print because I liked the way it looked...

Coping With Laundry

2009-01-20T23:28:00.009+11:00

Each week, we wash around ten loads of laundry. I'm so grateful that the washing machine is in working condition, as it didn't want to spin properly the other day, but the Machinist took it outside and whooped it into a good behaviour bond

I've tried several methods to prevent drowning in a sea of 'yesterday's heroes', as well as baskets of clean and folded piles all over the house

Currently, I'm in the throes of executing a new plan of action. Each family member already has an allocated dirty laundry bin, fitted in the laundry room, RATHER THAN a laundry basket in their bedrooms. Instead of attempting to do everyone's clothes washing on different days of the week, the Young Adults are now responsible to do their own, including their coloured towel(s) and bed linen on a specified day of the week.

Here's the deal: they are to get their laundry completely finished from dirty clothes to clean clothes, folded and in the drawers and cupboards that day. My job is to make sure this happens. Naturally, I have my own laundry day, and I do the Machinist's clothes, overalls, tea-towels, bathroom towels and any other miscellaneous items lying around (not the cats and dogs!).

I have a large yellow wheelie bin, situated just out of the laundryroom on the back deck. If I find anything that doesn't belong in the laundry on any specific day, it goes in the wheelie bin. This includes wet, dry, clean or dirty clothes that don't belong to the person who is using the laundry on that day.

Clear as mud?

At least we don't have to use this (for which I am truly grateful)

Third Daughter

2009-01-19T23:39:00.003+11:00

I have this print by John Brack on my wall at home:

John Brack was a Melbourne artist who in his work engaged with an urban reality, one which the great majority of Australians experience in their daily life.

In 1954, he began to explore the techniques of printmaking and created a series of four small, intimate images in drypoint, one of each of his daughters. Third daughter is a little gem in characterisation, where the stark frontality, the clenched fists and the scowling expression denote defiance.

Gladys on Food

2009-01-18T21:31:00.004+11:00

For anyone known as a "born cook", reducing approaches anguish. It is no laughing matter to skip lightly into the kitchen and fix barbecued spareribs, juicy and rich and spicy and abounding in calories, and watch the family smack their lips over the platter while you eat a lonely lamb chop - broiled, fat cut off, fat being the best part - and a dish of shredded cabbage garnished sweetly with a slice of lemon.

But I like the fresh green vegetables, too. The first thinning of beets and onions steamed in butter is also a dish that might go on any heavenly menu.

Gladys Taber - April 12, 1899 to March 11, 1980

Old McDonald... The Aussie Version

2009-01-17T23:56:00.003+11:00

I love the country life.

"I'm gettin' some chooks, Andre. Would ya like our old ones? If so, could ya come over and help us trim the wings and dust 'em all?"

After trimming the wings and dusting the chooks, we noticed that the gentle, majestic rooster wasn't looking too well. He had been lying far too long in the sun - too long for a dirt bath. He couldn't walk far, either. He'd amble along, then fall, head over spurs, into the dust. After a phone call to the vet, we learned that the magnanimous King Pin rooster had been bitten by a snake. He was promptly put into a cage and carried to the cool of the verandah.

Good farmers will always have medical supplies, for both humans, pets and livestock in their pantries or fridges. The Machinist helped to administer 5ml of Vitamin C and gently rubbed the rooster's throat. Chooks can't take injections; any medication has to enter their poultry bodies via their beaks. Fortunately, all the Vitamin C went down the gullet, followed by several shots of water, so that dehydration wouldn't set in.

Farm dogs are like their owners; friendly and welcoming. The 'outside' dogs and the 'inside' dogs fall into this same category. While the Machinist and I were having the refreshments offered to us, Russell - the Jack Russell - simply couldn't help himself. We had our backs to him, ignoring him, but this didn't douse his enthusiasm for fuss. He jumped up our backs, squeaking as he did so. I know dogs, in general, don't squeak, but Russell does. He backanswers you, too. In comparison, Jake, a leggy wolf hound, likes to walk right next to you, with his wirey-fur clad body which touches you constantly, as if he would be "out" if he wasn't actually touching you.

Ducks and ducklings (teenage ducklings) were making their way around the house, travelling in covoy.

Eva and Onslo, the miniature pigs we will be adopting paced the length of their pen as we passed by.

Their neighbours, the black pigs weren't as energetic, though. They sat like a couple of elderly villagers, at the doorstep of their sty. The farmer noted that one of Mr Black Pig's tusks were missing.

Four young sassy saddlebacks scoffed down their meal as we watched. The male saddleback kept on snouting the others out of the food bowl, but he was kept in line with a branch of eucalypt, distracting him from his 'hoggy' ways, leaving opportunity for the girls to tuck in.

The two hand raised lambs were freed from their pens. I'm sure they love weekends when their mistress is home!

We left the farm with a cage of hens and five bags of chicken poop! Waste not, want not.

The Machinist will undoubtedly call and see how his patient, King Pin Rooster is tomorrow...

I Am Otter

2009-01-16T08:20:00.005+11:00

I am in love with Sam's art, as are my family! It is too cute for words. Sam loves to create Otter art, but his talents are varied. Sam lives in London, and although I don't know much about Sam (yet), I am sure we'll soon get to know more about him. He has graciously allowed me to feature his art on my blog. You can view more of Sam's art by clicking here. His otter diary reminds me of the modern-day-male-form of Beatrix Potter stories. What do you think? Perhaps you could let Otter know what you think... She loves mail and both she and the Otter Keeper get so very excited when it arrives. Don't worry, they'll pass the message on to Sam...

This is Otter Keeper on his motorbike with sidecar. Next to him is Otter. Otter really loves Otter Keeper. She misses him when he isn't at home, and if she ventures out herself, via the Otter door in their flat, she misses being home with Otter Keeper.

This is Otter Keeper at home, listening (or pretending to listen) to Otter. She loves to chat to him, but isn't sure if he's 'all ears', all of the time

After all, it is all about her. It's all about Otter...

Floating with the Puppy

2009-01-14T20:40:00.006+11:00

The Machinist loves the pool more than any other family member. The pool takes a lot of attention to keep clean and to maintain the right chemical balance, but the Machinist is prepared to put the time in to keep it "just so". If he is extremely busy in the workshop, he'll be sure to delegate somebody else to get the leaves / pine needles and other fly-by-night-end-up-in-the-pool critters out of the pool. In turn, we've bought him pool accessories like a hammock, as well as various floaties, pool games and toys.

I was lounging on one of the Machinist's floaties the other day - his "Big Daddy" floatie. It's not often that I go in the pool, but a girl has to keep cool, especially one with English blood flowing through her veins. The Puppies, and the Kitties, took their turn in climbing up the steps onto the pool deck to see what was going on, as it wasn't a common occurence for their mistress to be in the pool. They did their checking, saw that all was well, and retired to the cool of the shade.

Absorbing the heat from the pentrating rays on my arms and legs, it wasn't long before my eyes began to droop. Lying flat on my back, all I could see was blue sky with cirrus clouds, framed by an assortment of trees: the willow, the pine tree, the apple trees, the plum... My lids were closing fast now. I couldn't lift them! I could hear the sound of buzzing insects. Probably Christmas-beetle laggers. As long as they weren't close-by buzzing insects, I wasn't worried. Now and again, the bang of a hammer on steel, echoing from the workshop.

Drifting...drifting....

Then, the familiar sound of a Puppy snorting. Polly was on the pool deck, crooning to get to me. I swear, if my body had a hatch door and could open, that particular puppy would jump straight in. I grabbed her collar and pulled her on to my belly. For a few minutes, she was unsettled, as the floatie was swaying. Then she started to relax and I dipped my hand into the water, and stroked her head and face.

It was tempting to drift some more, with the Puppy on my belly, but you know - duty is always calling...

Mr Green of the Midlands

2009-01-14T00:25:00.004+11:00

Mr Green, an elderly neighbour of ours in England, had a wonderful greenhouse. I always thought his name was "Mr Green" because he had a greenhouse with green plants in it, and his house was painted with a green trim, too. Mr Green wasn't over protective over his greenhouse, as some are; on the contrary, every time his grand-daughter, Kathleen from London, came to stay, he would allow us to play in his greenhouse, especially when it was raining or cold, as it was always the same, warm temperature inside.

Mr Green was so kind and generous in many ways. He would serve us treats and arrange them so prettily on a blue and white plate. Naturally, we shared our feasts with our dollies. They, too, appreciated Mr Green's thoughtfulness.

When the weather was fine, or the greenhouse became too hot, we would play in the garden, which was like an adventure playground, without the apparatus. Our form of entertainment was hiding in all the little nooks that Mr Green had created with his gardening knowledge and skills. Our favourite outdoor area was the goldfish pond. We would lie flat on our bellies, heads dangling over the edge, looking at our (often distorted reflections) and watch the life in the pond. As long as we didn't 'touch' anything in the pond, we were allowed to lie there as long as we would like...

Mr Green's house was furnished with cobblestones, leather seating, lots of pictues in gilt frames and oakwood furniture. His kitchen was clean and scrubbed and had the fragrance of Sunlight soap. Although a widower, his clothes were always clean and well pressed, the little hair he had left was well groomed. His shoes were highly polished.

And... who knows why my thoughts are of Mr Green? Perhaps its because of my gardening marathon. Perhaps it's because I've been watching my reflection in the pool. Perhaps it's because I've had a recent hankering to inhale the summery fragrance of Sunlight soap of late.

Perhaps it's because I'm getting older and you know how they say that your memories revert a lot to your childhood?

Er... no.... I think I'll settle for the former list of possibilities....

Botanical Eviction and Eradication

2009-01-13T23:10:00.007+11:00

The sun dictates where I will work each day in the garden. Early, (very early) in the morning, Sarah's garden is in the shade. If I play my cards right and get to bed early the night before, I can beat Mr Sun. Invariably, though, Mr Sun cheats and rises earlier than predicted.

And so - as the song goes "... Mad dogs and English (wo)men go out in the midday sun..." I love to keep to tradition.... thanks to Noel Coward ...

Lambsears were totally evicted. MILLIONS of earwigs began crawling up my legs and scurrying across my feet as I air-lifted these clumps out of Sarah's fenced garden. The recollection of seeing the earwigs simply daunts me. (Later, I squashed one on it's way to my knickers!). Valerian, a gift from Sarah's piano teacher was hacked beyond recognition. The once bushy, evasive plant was reduced to cluster of stumpy green alien-like fingers. Although left unharmed - just merely grazed by the shears, the scent of catmint filled the air (I've never seen any of our cats roll around in the multitudes of catmint we have planted for them).

Granny's bonnets breathed a sigh of relief, as did claustrophobic English lavender. Even a thorny rose appeared; the tallest of the (formerly hidden) botanical population. And at the base of the rose - a clump of variegated violas - courageously anchored firmly amongst giants.

A terracotta pot, half buried in moisture retentive soil hosted a family of carbuncle-like snails. Other slug family creatures preferred to live in the dark, under a home-made stepping stone.

Later in the day, when a dense plum tree and hardy conifer offered shade, I decided to end the reign of common mint and tentacles of periwinkle from the washing line garden, watched closely by the Machinist who desperately tried to persuade me to accompany him in the pool. Sarah was already in there, floating on her back.

"C'mon, Babe, I've got the pool leaf free for you..."

But, Machinist, don't you know - Gardens are not made by sitting in the shade!
Rudyard Kipling - 30 December 1865 to 18 January 1936

You Can't Rush These Things

2009-01-12T23:08:00.007+11:00

Patience is bitter, but it's fruit is sweet - Aristotle

When I first started creating our garden, I had one idea in mind - that I would never be able to fill it. It's not a large garden, but experience has taught me that even cultivating and planting a square metre of garden is laborious and time consuming.

To Garden is akin to Diet; you expect to see results very quickly.

My patience has been sorely tested, but looking around our garden plot now, soaking in the greenery I never expected to grow, I am in awe of the abundance.

Yes, patience is bitter, but it's fruit is sweet ...

One of Those "Moments"

2009-01-11T21:58:00.004+11:00

I'd almost finished weeding and pruning one particular area of the vegetable garden. The perennial wallflowers were trimmed and the bog sage slashed. Their excesses were loaded onto the wheelbarrow. Cumulonimbus clouds were approaching fast from the west and now and again, with distant muffled rumbling. The puppies circled me constantly, stopping frequently between the rake and I, causing me to pause and reassure them "..it's allright, puppies, we'll go indoors before the rain comes..."

Excitedly, and in anticipation, they rushed off to the back verandah, waiting for an invitation inside. I was left alone in a secluded area of the garden near one of the arbours, surrounded by greenery. Looking over to the orchard, I watched lacy-brown apple leaves rise and fall, rise and fall and twirl to the ground. The willow tendrils were swaying. Noisy parrots and cockatoos argued overhead. There was the steady, burring, methodical sound of the ride-on lawnmower, operated by the Machinist in the paddock beyond; a comforting sound, almost rhythmic. A strong fragrance of roses and mint flirted in the cool air - together... Soft, gentle raindrops fell on my chin, and as I tilted my head heavenward, more fell on my eyelids...

My Gardening Inspiration: Foxglove Spires, Tilba Tilba

2009-01-11T00:54:00.006+11:00

Each year, the Machinist takes us down the coast and usually, we end up at Tilba Tilba, but more importantly, I get my annual fix at Foxglove Spires open garden.

Last year, (sounds long ago) we were too busy with renovating the shop to go to the coast and the little time we had off over Christmas and New Year was spent idling on the couch and getting the Young Adults to bring us food and drinks....

I've been working in the garden, and when I do, I always think of the magical Foxglove Spires. I wrote about the garden experience some time ago, and thought I would enclose it again in this post, as follows:

Snuggled between green hills, and almost as if one has been 'telepod-ed' to the English countryside, 'Tilba Tilba' oozes her beauty and charm to all those who happen upon this quaint Australian coastal village. Each year she calls; a calling to which we gratefully submit. Each year there are changes. New businesses spring up; their owners excited and challenged at the prospect of operating in this rural locality. Old world lolly shops, a cobbler, a cheese factory, gift shops, a tanner, a bakery, a toy shop, coffee shops, a woodturner and gallery, a general store and a couple of hotels and bed and breakfast establishments line the main street. A street that could splutter out much gossip, if ever asked.

There is one business, however, that has been there for some years now. An open garden. A garden that began life as a bare paddock, with horses and a few trees. A garden that became a young mother's obsession. A garden that has now, in more ways than one, bared fruit. Fruit on the trees and the fruit of success from labours borne. The garden, Foxglove Spires, consists of three and a half acres of feasting for the eyes. From the moment one 'floats' beneath the 100 metre stretch of Espalier pear arbour, ~ the entrance to the garden ~ there is much striving to absorb the abundance of beauty. Striving and wrestling in the anticipated frustration of knowing that not all will be seen in one visit.

Two gigantic Norfolk Island pines guard the homestead, like wise men of old. Wise and wary and forever watching. Soldiers perhaps. Guards. They tower over the rest of the garden. They watch as one roams through the many garden rooms and walks......

Lining 'Crabapple Walk' are the purple and pink shades of foxgloves, the garden's namesake, which seem to stand so strong and upright for their height. Proud almost. Forget-me-nots and lambsears sit faithfully at the base of their stalks. Suddenly, a pond - lined with water irises and Lombardy poplars. A Redwood stands nearby. Wild ducks on the pond, their necks turned and tucked, floating dreamily - in their own perfect haven. This is surely a place to sit and ponder - even reminisce, soaking in the tranquillity. A mock church ruin, grown between the weeping willows adds to the setting. A 'live' set. A set which any and all visitors play a part, should they perchance to dream.....

Further along is the camelia and azalea walk, which seems to 'serve' the line of liquidamber and prunus trees, growing behind. An explosion of colour, and so perfectly matched. Purple-burgundy/ lemon-lime. Gently sloping now to Cedar Hill. Canopies touching, creating tunnels. Shade. Muddy and sometimes slippery paths underneath. It is here that the smell of the earth provokes a sense of wonderment. Earth; the substance. Earth; the base for the growth which spreads in all directions. Breath-catching. Emotionally choking. Delightful!

From Cedar Hill, and walking into the sun, there is a quandry of which path to take; the one to Bluebell and Oak wood? Pear Circle and Daffodil ring? Citrus Walk? Wild Rose Garden? The Shadehouse? A bench, perched in the centre of the garden, surrounded by Iceberg roses, provides a place to decide. To wrestle further. From here, Mount Dromederry can be seen peeking above the tree tops. Wherever one finds oneself in this bounty, there is continual fragrance, as well as plant life grown in wild abandonment. Every room with it's own atmosphere, calling on each visitor to use their senses.

Which path again?

Pear and Daffodil Circle, ~ pear trees, encircling a patch of a variety of daffodils. Bluebell and Oak Wood, ~ a path running between the trees, with an old gate at the top end of the wood, standing alone with no fence. Citrus Grove, ~ a grove of lemon and orange trees, planted in an arc, with a bench in the 'belly' of the arc. Wild Rose Garden ~ old world roses grown in a formal diamond design, with pebble paths dividing each patch. The Shadehouse ~ a cool, dark place. A room covered in rambling honeysuckle.....

Nut Walk, which flows into Apple Tree Lane often claims the victory of previous indecision. 'Latticed' apple trees grow on one side of the lane, while on the other side, berry bushes mixed with honeysuckle spill over. Structured disorder.

The vegetable patch indicates that the old homestead is nearby. The house and then the garden exit through Foxglove Spires' Nursery. Medicinal and culinary herbs are mixed with a variety of vegetables in the pottager. They are planted using the companion plant method. A few pansies, violets, marigolds and nasturtiums are grown for colour as well as protection to other plants. Doctor plants. Moments are spent noting what thrives. Alas, time has slipped away yet again......

But......before leaving, a peek at the coop! Greenery planted around the coop, bales of hay within. Feathered friends of multicultural backgrounds peck, hop, run, cackle, perch and doze. They live in a 'Rolls-Royce' hen-house. Happy chickens. Complacent ducks and geese. Peace. Harmony. Not only here, but throughout.....

Walking through the nursery exit, there is always a sense of exhale. Unsurpassed beauty has been experienced, lived. Could Foxglove Spires be remotely akin to the beauty of Eden? If not, then what is to come is uncomprehensible ....

A Profound Comment

2009-01-10T00:28:00.003+11:00

"Mom, I've been thinking about new year's resolutions. I don't want to make resolutions of what I want to do. I want to make resolutions of how I want to be".

~ My daughter, Emma ~

A Feathered Visitor

2009-01-08T23:17:00.008+11:00

A couple of days ago, my son came bounding into the house, anchored by his cumbersome motorcycle boots. "Mam, mam, you've got to come and see what we've got..."

In the rather large animal-transport-to-the-vet cage, was a brawny cockatoo, completely unruffled by the fact that there were many humans surrounding him. His main objective, it seemed, was to perform as many party tricks for his audience as possible by flapping, and clawing, as well as using his beak to climb up, then down, then across the cage. Momentarily, he would stop his antics, as if waiting for applause.

Was it fate, chance, that this healthy cockatoo should cross our family's path after the passing of our beloved Bucko, who was unfortunate to contract beak and feather disease at birth?

The temptation to keep the bird was great. The desire to keep the healthy bird in a cage for most of his long life expectancy years was not.

Last night, before any of us could take the slightly injured friend to WIRES, the Machinist let him out of the cage, and watched as he fluttered across the garden, climbed up the fence and sat contentedly, plucking at the leaves of a photinia robusta bush, in true cockatoo fashion. Later, he made his way across the road from our house, and was joined by a flock of locally bred cockatoos, squawking loudly, as if cheering him on. An avian 'support' group.

We're all hoping that our feathered visitor will have a long and fruitful life of destruction and - flight.

It's ON!

2009-01-07T23:31:00.003+11:00

The Machinist, eldest daughter, Emma and I are on a diet together. We are on the same plan. This is a first in our family, and there is a sense of relief on my part, because in past times, whenever we've dieted, I've had to think of different plans for different people and always feel that I am chasing my tail, letting somebody down if I haven't prepared or bought a special foodstuff. It's always been hard enough thinking about my own efforts towards weight loss, never mind being responsible for others. The difference now is that each of us know what and when and how, can simply get on with the business of losing and we can share about bodily function and actually relate!

Oh, and seeing as we are all so darn competitive, well, let me just say, it won't be me, buddies. You may think it will be, but it won't. I'm persevering on this while my body rearranges itself!

Bring it on!

30 Things About Me

2009-01-06T14:15:00.003+11:00

1 I was born in England on October 22nd
2 We left England when I was 12
3 I lived my whole 12 years in England in the house I was born in
4 I grew up in South Africa
5 We moved house 11 times in South Africa
6 I met the Machinist in South Africa when we were both 14
7 I married the Machinist on 1st May 1981
8 We married in a registry office in a small country town in South Africa
9 I gave birth to our first daughter in South Africa
10 We celebrated our 27th wedding anniversary on 2008
11 I now live in Australia
12 I gave birth to our second daughter and only son in Australia
13 I have lived in Australia for 23 years
14 We have moved house 12 times in Australia
15 I have lived in the country for 15 years
16 I love living in the country and dislike the city
17 I have four brothers
18 I am the youngest of five siblings
19 I have 1 brother in England, 2 brothers in South Africa and 1 brother in Australia
20 The Machinist has no siblings, one aunt, one cousin. He is an only child. Unlike me.
21 I have no nieces or nephews
22 My parents live less than 500m away from me
23 I have 5 living aunts and uncles out of 14 on my mam’s side of the family
24 I have 0 living aunts and uncles out of 2 on my dad’s side of the family
25 I have 9 living cousins out of 11 on my mam’s side of the family
26 I have 3 living cousins out of 3 on my dad’s side of the family
27 Genealogy is one of my hobbies
28 I have 2 pet dogs, 2 pet cats, 2 pet hens and a horse
29 I would probably have more pets if the opportunity arose – including miniature pigs
30 I still have a British accent

Eating Her Curds and Whey

2009-01-05T23:31:00.005+11:00

I knew it would come. I knew the psyched state of mind would eventually thick-set, readying me for embarking on a new eating plan.

On Christmas morning, I had wanted to tell my friend, Margaret, of the intentions I had and what product I had chosen to assist me in losing weight. "Oh Margaret, I must tell you about this product I've been researching, which I'll be ordering early in the new year.."

"I have one, too, Helen - it's called Isowhey. I only had to use it for three days and already, I feel so much better".

Well!

Snap. That's all I can say, Margaret. Thanks for bursting my bubble.

Yeah. Thanks a lot.

Farewell, Christmas Tree

2009-01-03T23:18:00.008+11:00

Taking down the tree .... Until next year - farewell, my friend

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

2009-01-03T23:18:00.005+11:00

After our Chinese meal and ten pin bowling stint (I wooped the Machinist), a wonderful two-hour-forty-five-minute-movie, where our friend, Mary Ann cried so much, she had to use her top to wipe her tears...

Chinese

2009-01-03T22:53:00.004+11:00

In all my years, today was the first time I have eaten at a gen-u-ine Chinese restaurant. I hesitate to call it a restaurant, though, as it was more of a family and extended family eating house. For simply ages, the appearance of red bodied ducks (and other unidentified meat), hanging in the window on butchers hooks had put me off even trying Chinese food. Our Aussie Chinese friend put all those fears-of-the-unknown-allegedly-edible creatures to rest.

So impressed was the Machinist and I that after our meal (which left us amply satisfied, but not stodgy-full) we went shopping at the Asian supermarket next door.

On advice and full recipe details from my friend, Mr Doon, my purchases included:

Jasmine loose leaf tea
Sweet Chilli Sauce For Chicken
Won Ton Soup Base Mix
Chicken Bouillon Powder
Hoisin Sauce
Plum Sauce
Mixed Ginger Pickles
Sweet and Sour Sauce
Char Siu Sauce

Oh, and as a fragrant addition - Sandalwood Soap - Bee & Flower Brand!

Animals

2009-01-02T23:19:00.009+11:00

Still loved and missed: Woopie Chookie Lucky Puppy Miss Piggy Wiggy

October 1996 to November 2004

I hate cruelty of any kind to animals of any kind.

I have no problem with killing animals humanely for food, or because they can become a menace to farmers, or threaten the well-being of mankind (there has been many a debate in our Capital city, as the kangaroos are using up and contaminating our dwindling water supplies, as the drought continues).

I can raise chickens for eggs, but I cannot kill them myself. If I were tohave to raise them for meat, I would eat them, but I'd still have to get somebody else to kill them. Having said that, I KNOW I would be able to slaughter them if I HAD to, but I don't have to right now, so I choose not to.

A friend of mine raises joeys that are orphaned. She carries them around, as she does her housework, or hangs them in hand made 'sacks' on the door handles around her home. I couldn't or wouldn't go that far.

I love my dogs and cats, but they sleep outside. I couldn't or wouldn't be cruel to them. I can't bear the thought of cage-raised chickens. I prefer free range. But.... in times of need, I would eat them. I don'thave to right now, so I don't.

As for tube raised chickens ~ I don't think I would eat them. I don't like mankind messing around with conception or test tubes. It perterbs me. You wouldn't know what you'd get in that 'chicken'. Maybe even some human DNA!

We often talk about the birds in our garden. Sam used his catapult to scare them away. I followed suit - until I developed a tennis elbow. Cockatoos are a menace to farmers as they eat their crops. (They eat our fruit crops, as well!) Too many of them, and the whole season's crop is gone!

Wombats dig huge holes in the land, and destroy good pasture. Foxes kill chickens, ducks and new born lambs. The farmers in our area plant bait to kill the foxes.

I've taught the children that it is ok to kill for food, or if they are ever bothered by animals that threaten their livlihood, but woe betide any of them if they kill for fun or sport!

Old Long Since (Auld Lang Syne)

2008-12-29T23:45:00.002+11:00

Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind?
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and old times since ?

For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.

And surely you’ll buy your pint cup!
And surely I’ll buy mine!
And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.

We two have run about the slopes,
and picked the daisies fine;
But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,
since auld lang syne.

We two have paddled in the stream,
from morning sun till dine;
But seas between us broad have roared
since auld lang syne.

And there’s a hand my trusty friend!
And give us a hand o’ thine!
And we’ll take a right good-will draught,
for auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne,
my dear,for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.

Rick Stein

2008-12-28T23:46:00.005+11:00

The Machinist and I have decided that our favourite chef would have to be Rick Stein. His views on food and family are unsurpassed.

I love the way he describes the food he is fortunate enough to sample as he travels. Chestnut flour, water, herbs and olive oil, mixed by hand for over half an hour is described as having "... a flavour like the middle of a pine forrest...". His mantra is fresh food simply cooked.

Rick's philosophy is that "... cooking and eating together are generous activities, which should be taken seriously, but should also resound with joy..."

And the memories of the places he has travelled, the people he has met are kept and stored, just like food is kept in preserving jars - to savour well past their prime

Click here for Rick Stein's website

Genealogy and Thunderstorms

2008-12-27T23:22:00.005+11:00

More genealogy research today. Much more. More finds. More contacts. My wish is to create a family tree for my dad - Grandpa. It's the little things he mentions that have actually resulted in different leads. Sometimes, like a rabbit warren. Sometimes, with great promise. I've learned that you just can't rush these things.

And what a better day to go back in time, than one with skies full of thunderstorms and the deafening sound of rain - heavy rain - on a tin roof. Oh, and the company of two dogs. Two spoiled dogs that were constantly underfoot, in case the lightening should strike them. They seem to sense thunder and lightning before it happens. Bob gets a wistful look in his eye, and Polly starts to pant...

There was no chance, then, for these two furry friends accompanying us by moving from the warmth and comfort of the old schoolroom, where they can often be found under the desk, when the Machinist called us to help sweep out excess storm water from the workshop floor.

Woosies!

Christmas Time Means Family

2008-12-25T23:55:00.004+11:00

Christmas is all about family, isn't it?

Christmas cuddles between the Youngest generation. And after the festivities it was home to genealogy research and the ordering of more certificates from the UK BMD records, in hopes that one day, it will be "genes reunited" for me. Real, living family.

Looking through past notes and records, I did a whole lump of genealogy research at the same time last year.

Yes, it must definitely be the season ....

Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T23:26:00.003+11:00

Christmas eve at the shops - just me and the Machinist with the Grands. Firstly, though, scrumptious fare at The Roses cafe, where they make hand-shaped pies with voluptuous fillings.

And while we shop, amidst the lights, and glass and glitter - the Young Adults are preparing Christmas Eve dinner: ham (with a bone in it) smothered in orange marmalade, mash, baked yams, green beans. Followed by cinnamon rolls (Norwegian) with a selection of gluten free, for those of us who are the celiac maniacs.

How I love Christmas!

Diet? What Diet?

2008-12-22T22:22:00.006+11:00

I had searched my baking books for a chocolate cake with a difference. Nothing too lengthy, but distinctively different and most importantly, moist. Then I came across this "how to" video from the dependable Nigella. I had no sour cream, and so substituted with pouring cream. The result was.... memorable.

Firstly, though, I made a couple of coconut cream pies, with whisked eggs, cream and dessicated coconut, topped with toasted coconut:

Then, while the oven was still warm, in went the chocolate cake. I used one pan and had to cut the cake. See the steam? I had to wait until the sponge was cool before dousing it with the chocolate icing:

Finally, the chocolate cream icing, also made with cream. Mmmmm.... it's always wise to make a little more than needed, to leave some for the licking bowl.

Hands

2008-12-21T23:23:00.004+11:00

"Does our heart, our nature, move us to use our hands to help others in need, in sickness, to make the lot of others brighter, to help make lighter the heavy burden which others bear? Have we clean hands in that sense?"

"If we see that something is necessary, do we go out of our way to do it? If we are asked to do something, are we dependable? Can we do those things quietly, without attracting undue notice?"

GERTRUDE B GOTTS

The Southern Highlands

2008-12-18T21:35:00.006+11:00

A day trip to the Southern Highlands:

The Pedlars and Gypsies of England

2008-12-17T13:08:00.005+11:00

I always thought a Pedlar was the same as a Gypsy, but they are not. A Gypsy is often a Pedlar, but a Pedlar isn't always a Gypsy.

Gypsies and Pedlars weren't welcome in many districts of England in the early sixties. In our small Midlands village, some locals would chase them away, or call the police, often thinking of them as trouble makers. Mam always made them welcome, though, and often bought their wares when she could afford to. On one occasion, a newsreporter interviewed my mam and asked her opinion on the Gypsys who were camping nearby (actually, in the fields at the back of our house. You could see them clearly if you climbed right to the top of the tallest cherry tree in our garden). The good rap my mam gave them, obviously helped to save them from eviction, because I'm told that they eventually moved on of their own accord...

Mam knows this poem, word for word, and learned it when she was around 8 years old at school in England. She has often recited this poem to us:

THE PEDLAR'S CARAVAN

I wish I ived in a caravan
With a horse to drive, like a pedlar-man
Where he comes from nobody knows,
Or where he goes to, but on he goes!

His caravan has windows too,
And a chimney of tin, that the smoke comes through;
He has a wife, with a baby brown,
And they go riding from town to town.

Chairs to mend, and delf to sell!
He clashes the basins like a bell;
Tea-trays, baskets, neat and trim;
Plates, with alphabets round the rim!

The roads are brown, and the sea is green,
But his house is like a bathing-machine;
The world is round, and he can ride,
rumble and slash, to the other side!

With the pedlar-man I would like to roam,
And write a book when I came home;
All the people would read my book
Just like the Travels of Captain Cook!

WILLIAM BRIGHTY RANDS

A Day in the Life of the Machinist's Wife

2008-12-15T22:38:00.008+11:00

MONDAY - 15TH DECEMBER 2008

Wake and have tea with the Machinist.

Put smalls in dryer, larger clothes on the washing line.

Pull some weeds on the way to the washing line.

Stroke the kitties, who are lying on their backs, rolling around and waiting for fuss.

Pull more weeds. End up pulling piles and piles of weeds and leaving them next to the washing line post.

Greet Grandpa through the rose arbour.

Make coffee and chat a while with Grandpa, then see him on his way home.

Go to the office. Sort paperwork. File. Pay bills on line. Update accounting system, save work, exit accounting system.

Make lunch and call the family in to have lunch.

Greet Granny. Sit and reminisce with Granny. Take Granny on a garden tour, cut some flowers and then take her home.

While at the shop / Grands cottage, discuss plans for the gallery and admire the work that the Young Adults have completed; sanded windows, jack-hammered floor.

Return home. Wash dishes, prepare dinner.

Fetch washing in off the line, fold and leave on the kitchen table, awaiting owner collection.

Dish up food, eat, stack dishes. Let the Young Adults off the hook for kitchen cleanup.

Retire to the lounge. Chat with the Machinist a while.

Go online to source gifts.

Achievement satisfaction rating: 36%

Note to self: Tomorrow is another day. Perhaps it will be less dis-jointed and more productive.

Pumpkin Fever

2008-12-15T00:01:00.008+11:00

Our small village is revving up for the start of the annual Pumpkin Festival. Today, we hosted the launch of the Collector Village Pumpkin Festival 2009. My daughters are the coordinators for the Pumpkin Ball, and I am coordinating the stall holders. For the next six months, local residents can expect to see lots of orange...and green.... in many forms.

The pumpkin website is http://www.pumpkinfestival.com.au/

Ah, pumpkin fever..... Gotta love those pies!

Not Yet Floored the Floor ...

2008-12-13T23:21:00.008+11:00

I've been thinking a lot recently about people and what events in their lives shaped them to be the way they are, while leaving certain impressions on others. I've also been thinking about what happened in their lives, for them to do the things they do.

Each time we work on the shop, I can't help thinking about it's former owner. About her experience as a shopkeeper in a small country town as ours. Why she carried out certain renovations to the building, and how she coped with multitudes of maintenance jobs, while conducting day-to-day business transactions.

One of the many changes / renovations we have made to the shop is lifting up the ceramic tiles that were on the floor of the main restaurant area. Our intention is to "industrialise" the floor, by taking it back to cement, finely sanding and then applying a non-slip, transparent finish. The Machinist hired a floor sander, but as he suspected, the equipment didn't address the problem, as patches of paint (not necessarily floor paint) and tile adhesive melted and stubbornly, would not budge when the heat / friction of the sanding pads were applied. After a couple of hours of sanding, chipping paint, blisters and choking on adhesive fumes and cement dust, we still faced this:

As a result of the trevail, the Machinist disappeared for half an hour and returned with his own contraption: his trusty Hilti drill, fitted with a long rod with a 150mm chisel on the end. For removing paint only, he also made up a long-handled chisel; with ultra-sharp tip.

And if this doesn't seem enough hard work, here are a few pictures of the old restaurant, fully gutted, awaiting a completely new look:

Where's Etienne?

2008-12-12T16:55:00.005+11:00

I had such a chuckle at this picture:

Now where, pray, do you think Etienne, the escargot is dashing off to? What destinations does this petit gris have on his travel itinery?

The rain has been steady all day. It's wonderful and comforting and peaceful. I went to the front door to just watch the rain (as I often do when it rains). To my left, is the native garden and part of the large arbour:

Straight ahead is the courtyard and front gate. Note the Number One Son's riding jacket sprawled over the chair. Note the carpet of banksia petals, waiting to be raked. Hey, just keeping things real ....

To my right is a perrenial border, leading to the lawned garden:

Then, exhilarated and turning to go back indoors, look who I found on the door post -

It's Etienne!!

Old Country Places

2008-12-11T23:40:00.004+11:00

"To have a small country place requires determination and faith in the future, and a cash income, small or large. You can't make a fabulous fortune raising things, whether it be mushrooms or muskrats.

Of course, if you buy an old house, you must be very strong minded, or it will eat up all the money you have as fast as you get it. An old house demands.

You may dream of living in it as it is, camping out, but just move in and you will be bending every effort to satisfy the little darling"

Gladys Taber - The Book of Stillmeadow

Acai Berry Fool

2008-12-10T20:28:00.006+11:00

I was doing a google search the other day and found a couple of websites with information on Acai berries - the mother of all antioxidants. I ordered some. I take a heaped teaspoonful in the morning and (when I remember) another one at night. Although I haven't noticed anything different over a short period, mam was watching me work in the garden, hauling heavy wheelbarrows of soil and scooping them out.

"When you order your next lot of that good stuff, will you order some for me, too, Helen?" she asked.

Mam, being a mam, had obviously noticed something about me that hasn't come to my attention as yet.

Often waking in the night with so many plans and ideas, and finding it hard to fall asleep again, I have decided not to lie in bed and wait for sleep, but rather - to go and do something. That something could include making lists, researching, doing the washing or trying to read a book. Sometimes, I can occupy myself right until the sun comes up, devising game plans and great intentions for the day ahead.

One game plan was to have the acai berry drink really early, so that I wouldn't forget it and end up taking it past mid-morning. I felt so righteous, taking the glass of good health so early, and not long after, that pleasantly sleepy mood came over me. I succumbed.

On waking from slumber, I heard the Machinist say "Cup of tea, Helen?"

"Yes please"

"Would you like me to bring it here?" (he's so considerate with my hayfever and insomniac ways)

"No, it's ok, I'll come to the kitchen"

I felt lethargic, and not the usual jump-out-of-bed-and-greet-the-beautiful-morn self. I rubbed my eyes, fluffed my hair and headed to the kitchen, where I could hear the sound of the kettle boiling. The Machinist looked at me. Then he looked again. Then he said nothing.

I smiled at him, again, fluffing my hair and battering my eyelids. Still, he said nothing.

I went to the bathroom, glanced in the mirror and gasped at the person looking back at me. The acai berry had left a wide purple 'moustache' on my face, that would put Heath Ledger, as the Joker, to shame.

What a berry fool ....

Happy Birthday to Emma-Lee

2008-12-09T22:14:00.005+11:00

It was my eldest daughter, Emma-Lee's birthday yesterday. I had wanted to post something about Emsie and her special day, but by the time we were home, had watched several movies, and gutsed out on scrumptious food, I had missed the blogger time/ day cutoff.

Typical.

When Emma was three, she would run as fast as the wind, - barefoot - and seeing as she was born in South Africa, we nick-named her Zola, after Zola Budd - the champion sprinter (who, incidently, could have easily had Mary Decker eat her dust!). Emma changed her sporty ways for books, art in various mediums and - well - dreaming.

She has the most vivid imagination, the quickest wit, the bestest ears for listening, - especially when others need comfort and support, a tender heart - worn best on her sleeve, an irresistable humour and a hearty chuckle that causes those who hear it to roll around on the floor...

At the moment, Emma is following her dream; 3D animation for gaming and film.

I love you, Emsie! Go for it!

Midway

2008-12-07T22:53:00.007+11:00

In the schoolroom (the room we started off using as a schoolroom when we first started home-schooling the children) there is a cupboard full of see-through plastic boxes. The boxes are labelled and every so often (because I like changing stuff around), I sort and re-pack the boxes, as our needs change.

One box which has remained constant throughout my box storage career, though, is the one full of information on opening a shop - my own shop, which will be the culmination of nine-years-worth-of-dreaming. The information in this particular box is detail information; the finer points, the decorative style, the supplier contacts, the floor plans, the legalities, the real fun stuff. The information to be used as the opening day draws nearer. I'm not saying that preparations for the refurbishment of the shop aren't fun. (Well, some are, some aren't). But, oh, - the fine detail...

Sigh....

I had a peek in there this evening and found myself nodding approvingly (longingly), as I probed through the paperwork and samples (nodding is surely better than talking to yourself - it's less worrying).

This moment in time is bittersweet, because there is a lot of dirty and dusty work ahead, scraping, grinding, painting, scrubbing, plastering and who knows what else, before we can apply the decorative touches, but it is also nearing the time that contacts have to be made, orders placed and deliveries arranged.

There is a recognition and acceptance that my insomnia, - it's root cause in mirth - reigns!

Pet Parade

2008-12-05T23:16:00.005+11:00

This is Miss Blossom - a thoroughbred Pekingnese. She has the heart of a lion. Now living with the Grands...

This is Miss Polly. She is a Staffordshire terrior, crossed with a Silkie. She is my shadow.

This is Bob. He is a Staffordshire terrior. He was 'adopted' for the Machinist, but likes to hang out with us girls...

Beautiful Young People

2008-12-04T21:34:00.005+11:00

This is my homeboy, Sam (right), with his best friend, Luke. They're always having a good larf and somehow make others larf with them.

They love to do this:

And ride these:

Sam's dearest friend, though, whom he loves to be with is his gorgeous Hayley. She's sweet and funny and delightfully playful. They've known each other for over a year now.

Today, was Hayley's year 10 Formal. Sam and Hayley have been looking forward to going for some time. Luke was also invited to the Formal.

It's seldom an occasion we see the lads dressed like this, though.

They look rather smart and - well - civilised...

Sam wanted to impress his lovely young lady so much. He even took his hat off...

I'm sure he was VERY impressed with her. Isn't she beautiful?

Hope you have a wonderful evening, young 'uns!

A Christmas Home

2008-12-03T22:50:00.004+11:00

Wind, Dust, Weeds and Flies

2008-12-02T21:37:00.005+11:00

For the past two days, the girls and I have been doing more clearing in the parking lot at the Shop. This involves digging out weeds from the cracks in the tarmac, removing tons of dirt, in different stages of decomposition, cutting down branches that hang over the parking lot, loading, then unloading all of the above on the next door block which adjoins the Shop Block (Another story for another time).

A strong westerly has been blowing, resulting in many dusty, puffy mini whirlwinds, causing havoc with our tender sinuses. It's really gruesome, - digging, raking and loading soil, leaves, twigs and pushing wheelbarrows, while our hands are tied and noses are running. As if that isn't bad enough, there are about five flies at one sitting, feeding on said snot.

Yes, really gruesome.

Fortunately, we were finished by midday, just in time for lunch. Later, though, the Machinist and I returned to the Shop, to trim and mow the Grand's garden, as well as spray poison on tiny tufts of grass that have started to show on a previously weeded side of the parking lot. As the Machinist sprayed the Roundup on troublesome spots, I walked alongside him, telling him how to spray ... as well as pointing out areas that he had missed.

Ha! Just kidding...

Half way through the ghostbusting.. er ... I mean weed spraying, the sprayer stopped working. The Machinist disassembled the various parts of the sprayer, but couldn't find any reason for its refusal to work. He was utterly baffled.

Poison Content: check
Pressure pump: check
Release valve: check
Spray wand: check
Spray nozzle: check
Lizard floating in poison:

What the...

Sure enough - there was a tiny lizard, clogging up the top of the inner tube.

And with that, the Machinist emptied the rest of the poison (and tiny lizard) over a stubborn cluster of blackberry roots and plum tree stump and we called it a day.

Happy Birthday to Sarah

2008-11-30T18:58:00.006+11:00

Today was my middle daughter, Sarah's Birthday. We have a family tradition of waking the birthday person and singing happy birthday to them, while bearing gifts. (I've told of this before).

I had a number of photos and more to say about Sarah's birthday, but I've forgotten, because our internet has been down, and if I don't do it the same day, facts escape me! Besides, the little scamp has beaten me to it, as she has written about her birthday here: http://middlepaw.blogspot.com/2008/12/yesterday-was-my-20th-birthday.html

One thing I wanted to show you, though - not that this has anything to do with birthdays and presents, but it is something about my homegirl that always makes me smile:

Her workboots!

She is feminine and classy, has great taste in many things, is friendly and fun, motivated and encouraging. She is of slight build with the hugest biceps I've seen on such a tiny young woman. She works hard in whatever she does, with good conscience. In the workshop, alongside the men, she likes to retain her feminine look; - wearing foxy earings and pillar box red nailpolish. It is her workboots, though, that make me smile each time I see her in them. They are such a far cry from the beautiful shoes she owns, and the personality she possesses.

But I guess that's one of the umpteenth reasons I love her - for she has such flexibility. So it's not "put on your dancing shoes, birthday girl", but rather "put on your steel-toed, hob-nailed boots, Esmerelda"

As Sarah explains to me: "Mam, if you want to get some, Redbacks are the best. They are so comfortable and conform to your foot shape. You'll have to buy some thick socks, though. You can wear thinner socks, but the thicker socks are even more comfortable".

Yeah. Whatever.

I love you, Beaver Marple!

Australia

2008-11-30T00:02:00.003+11:00

Australia - the movie - go see it!

Happy Birthday to my Dad (Grandpa)

2008-11-27T23:25:00.003+11:00

Grandpa celebrated his 83rd birthday today. I wrote on his card: " We love you, let's set a regular date.."

Two days ago, he was hacking into the most awkward, prickly, twisted bush, determined to spit on it's grave by the end of the afternoon. And - he did. I love to see that tenacity at his age.

I am so grateful that my dad promised my mam the 'holiday of a lifetime' and took her to Africa. Thirteen years later, he took her to the 'land of milk and honey' and we are still reaping. There are times, when my dad's eyes gloss over and he regrets things he has done and things he hasn't done. When this happens, I remind him of all the good that came from his decisions.

Grandpa, I love you! Let's make regular dinner dates on this day each year?

Love,
Poochie

Battlefield History 101. F.Y.I.

2008-11-25T23:49:00.006+11:00

I spent all of my teenage years living in South Africa, and one thing I have come to terms with is the fact that although not my original homeland, Africa, as a whole has a hold on a person. I will never forget it. I will never forget my life there, how we lived, where we lived. It will always have a piece of my heart.

We lived in a small country town in the province of Natal (now known as Kwa Zulu Natal). Dundee was and still is, famous for it's history and particularly it's proximity to the site of the Battle of Isandlwana, which occured in 1879. (see http://www.zuluwars.co.za/index.php) . One thousand, six hundred Red Coats (British) were killed at the foot of Isandlwana by around twenty thousand Zulus. Wherever a British soldier fell, a cairn was erected over him.

Each year that we lived in Dundee, a commemorative walk was held and promoted by the local MOTHs (Men of the Tin Hats) - an organisation akin to the RSL (Returned Soldier's League). If you completed the walk from Isandlwana to Blood River, via Fugitive's Drift, you were rewarded with a braai (BBQ), cool drinks and later - a certificate to prove you ventured through the rugged terrain in the footsteps of the unfortunate men who fell there.

One year, a local historian was giving a lecture on what had happened at the site all those years ago. My mam was standing next to a cairn and while listening to the lecture, began to 'doodle' with her foot in the red dirt. Imagine her horror, if you will, as she uncovered a humerus bone whilst mid-doodle. The bone was taken by the organisers and I have no idea what happened to it.

A documentary on the Battle of Isandlwana was featured on the History channel this evening. Sarah was sitting next to me. She's heard my stories of life in S Africa many times, and was gracious enough to say nothing when I continued to utter "Amazing" and "Can you believe it?" and "I actually walked there. Each year, I walked there" and "Did I tell you Granny uncovered a human bone near one of those cairns?..."

Like I said.... South Africa has a hold on me. I'm constantly aware of this fact 'cos after all - the Machinist is a Serf Efrican through and through, and in his Ouma's words "Hy is 'n Boer en hy bly 'n Boer"

Mi Lad

2008-11-24T23:57:00.007+11:00

December 2005 to 22 November 2008

R.I.P. Sweet Bucknuckle B. Knucklehead. We will miss you very much.

http://machinistswife.blogspot.com/2007/10/he-doesnt-look-ill-or-anything.html#links

http://machinistswife.blogspot.com/2008/09/now-that-weather-is-warming-up-my.html#links

Help At Hand

2008-11-24T23:21:00.006+11:00

I felt woeful today. I can't say why. It's just one of those things, and to try and analyse it would drive me bonkers. When I feel this way, I remember my mam's words: "Helen, keep busy". My days are always busy. For the most part, they are productive, too. Which helps. Oh, productivity helps a lot! The sense of accomplishment after productivity is the cream of the task.

And so, with mam's words chorusing in my ears, I drove my woeful self up to the shop in the Machinist's ute, with garden tools on the back. (There were still branches of privet and blackberry canes, not to mention grassy clumps to be loaded onto the trailer). I just had to do something physical. Some hard yakka.

As I pulled in, Grandpa was searchin for one of his garden tools. He came over to me and asked what he could do. I showed him one of the bushes which had to be cut out, and for a moment, there was that pesky-boy look - just a miniscule second of a glint in his eye. (Grandpa loves to cut down trees. We have the totum poles to prove it). He disappeared for a few minutes and returned with his arsenal of saws and clippers, distributed evenly over both of his hands. "Can you believe I picked these up for five dollars?" . He was set for an enjoyable afternoon.

The Grand's cottage gate creaked and Granny appeared. "Would you like me to clip some bushes, Helen?", she asked. After my mam's torturing experience with cellulitis, there was no way I wanted her caught on brambles, thorns and bacteria piercing her skin, so I suggested she might want to sweep parts of the driveway if that suited. "Oh sure!" And with that, she promptly took the broom and started sweeping tiny leaves, branches and loose pebbles into piles.

For quite a while we were silent as we laboured, and as I lent on the spade handle to wipe my brow (ha!), I caught sight of a female form walking towards me. The sun was behind her and rays emanated from each side of her body. An angel. It was our Emma!

Just when I was lowly, lacking inspiration, motivation and gumption, I was humbly reminded that help was, indeed, - at hand.

Some of the weeds and grasses we have been digging and clearing from the driveway at the shop.

The Path Often Travelled

2008-11-23T23:47:00.004+11:00

At the end of the day, this is the path the Machinist takes, as he follows his nose to the kitchen...Firstly, though, he washes his hands under a tap at the side of the grapevine, getting rid of workshop grease and nonsense. On the right is the tiny pumphouse and hens, surrounded by roses and a fig tree. On the left - damsens, quince and ballerina apples leading under the arbour to the 'pool garden'

Standing in the pool garden, looking to his left at the vegetable garden (and probably sighing at the way the Head gardener - me - has let said vegetables go to seed)

Looking to his right, the old apple tree, surrounded by 'fans'. (I can never remember the name of these groundcovers. A kindly lady from an even smaller country village sent cuttings to me, via her husband, knowing that I had a huge back yard to fill. She told him to tell me "this should do the trick..")

Then, passing 'Sarah's Garden' with one more arbour to go through to the cemented courtyard at the bottom of the deck, the Machinist is greeted by his dog, Bob, who seems to be saying "Had a hard day at the workshop, dad? No matter, come inside... Let's go and eat and be merry..."

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's Off To Work We Go...

2008-11-23T23:25:00.002+11:00

Once upon a time, our back yard consisted of grass, a willow tree and an old apple tree. I always wondered how I would ever 'fill' it up. As we made 'garden rooms' the only thought was to fill each room with desired plants and hope they would grow quickly, before the weeds came. Now those rooms seem to collectively say "Sorry, no more room at the Inn".

This is what we pass when we are on our way to work, just off the back deck:

Wind, Rain & Hail

2008-11-22T22:57:00.007+11:00

Despite the wind, rain and hail, the Machinist didn't let me off the hook when it was time to go and work on the grounds at the shop. At one point, the hail came down so hard, it felt like tiny pebbles catapulted at my face. He was relentless and forced me to continue on with spade in hand, like a garden gnome; a fixture of the outdoors.

Just kidding....

About the Machinist forcing me, that is. Truth be known, I love to be out in the wind and rain. I love the way my cheeks go from icy to hot. Even my earlobes resemble embers after working outdoors.

We were pulling down rampant blackberry bushes, which had entwined themselves in the vegetation - planted at the front of the property years ago and extremely overgrown. At one point, a thorn ripped at my ear, and it was only later, when chatting with a neighbourly couple, that I rubbed my ear, and actually pulled the thorn out. They looked at me enquiringly. "Don't worry about me, I'm just doing an Amazon woman thing..." I remarked.

Over the years, a lot of silt has run off the hill behind the shop each time we've had rain, and that, coupled with fallen leaves, tiny twigs, berries and pods has resulted in the most amazing black soil. We separated the 'good' soil from the matted couch grass, which has acted like a spider's web, entangling faded drink cans and broken bottles, as well as oddities such as reflectors, rusty petrol caps and even an odd window wiper. Motoring stuff. The trashy soil and branches were loaded on the trailer, and later in the week, I hope to transfer the good soil to the Grand's garden. It will become the marrow of their future cottage garden.

I am pleasantly tired and somewhat achy, but feel satisfied and accomplished which is a great thing. The rain is still falling gently. I'm grateful for that. After all, it would be really horrid to have to run out to the Machine shop this time of the night and start moving tools and equipment as well as sweeping out generous puddles from insufficient country storm water drains.

Still, I know where my bread is buttered. I love my home. I'm not a nabob, but I sure do live like one....

Happy Birthday to the Machinist!

2008-11-20T22:39:00.005+11:00

It was raining fast and hard last night and there is nothing more comforting than the sound of rain on a tin roof.

Not so comforting for the Machinist today, though. Especially on his birthday. This is what he walked into as he entered the workshop:

And so... the Machinist sprang into a plan of action. Here he is talking logistics (ha!) with his son, Sam, our second year apprentice:

I have to confess; it's not all fun all day every day. We were determined, though, to make the Machinist's day a special one, so later, bundling up in the car, we headed to the driving range. Now the Machinist is not a golfer, nor are any of the rest of the family. We have one thought in mind when we go to the driving range; hit the ball as hard and as far as possible. I was the delegated camer(wo)man and before I could post some shots here, Middlepaw, nickname for our middle child, posted them here: http://www.middlepaw.blogspot.com/ .

A later dinner in town and the movies cheered up the Machinist no end.

We love you Machinist!

Waxing Domestic

2008-11-18T22:18:00.004+11:00

What happens to all the domestic jobs at home when Metalsmithery and the Daily Pie open?

They still hang about. They wait to be done. They are patient. Well, some are, others not. Sometimes, they dance before us, tauntingly. Sometimes, they scare us when we happen upon them. And some scare us very badly. They're nasty.

I've learned how to be domesticated over the years, and I must confess - I enjoy housework. (Not ironing). But I just cannot live in a frowzy house. I like order. I don't always get what I want, but I like organising and having places for things. I also like to read about how to be better organised and even more domesticated;

Freaky, isn't it?

I've recently redone the chore schedule. It's simple. I get to do it all. Apart from doing the dishes and kitchen after dinner.

Hopefully, this will free up the Young Adults to do physical hard labour at the shop, 'cos there's always something to do. (the lists prove it!).

And at the end of the day, we join Bar-Ram-Ewe and schnuggle on the couch:

Daily Grind

2008-11-17T13:32:00.004+11:00

The workshop phone rang.

"It's for you, Doll. It's Danny, the accountant"

Oh drat! My 'bookkeeping' brain wasn't around anywhere. I think I left it under the desk a couple of weeks ago, when I finished the last Business Activity Statement. If the relevent 'brain' isn't on, it's really hard to focus. Still, the Machinist had the telephone in one hand and a heavy grinder in the other. I had to take the call.

The word "accountant" puts fear right to the cockles of the heart. I don't know why. It's like "policeman". There's good and bad in both professions, but they still seem to have this effect on me. I've never been in trouble with either, so I'm still flabbergasted why I should feel this way. Ok, so I have issues and will have to ponder this phenomenon in my spare time.

By the time I went back into the kitchen, the loaves of bread were overflowing their tins, and the oven roaring with anticipation. No sooner were the loaves slid inside, there was a "click" coming from the laundry, which indicates the completion of the washing cycle. Time to peg out the overalls. With four domestic pets in tow (competing for attention, and zig-zagging between my feet, almost legging me over), a heavy wash basket and flies buzzing around my face, I let go with one hand to brush them away, and the load came toppling out. The kitties scarpered for a second; but only a second. Soon they were back, seeking the shade, cast by the washing in the basket.

Note to self: buy more pegs - the coloured ones seem stronger, last longer, as well as set up some type of peg bag, instead of picking the pegs up off the ground, covered in dirt.

Another note to self: Weed! Especially the dandelions. They have massive seed heads, ready for wind distribution. The lillium beds are chock full of dandelions. That bed alone looks like a mini-amazon.

And talking of Amazon...

The Acai berries arrived! Full of goodness. They will be added as a supplement to our menu.

Afternoon administration consisted of writing huge lists for Metalsmithery and the Daily Pie, as well as odd jobs to be carried out on the Grand's Cottage. A general floorplan and coffee counter diagram were added to the rather large jotter - reserved for brainstorming and - well - lists. When the Machinist arrived home from taking a job to the powder coaters, he ventured out into the garden, towards the Workshop. I buzzed him on the intercom:

"Can I show you my list"

"Yeah", he sighed "I'm just locking up"

The Machinist is always willing to see what has to be done, even though he and I don't always want to do what's on the list. Usually, though, his first question is:

"How many pages?"

Mam and Daughter's Day Out

2008-11-15T18:50:00.006+11:00

"It's just mam and her only daughter today", mam declared as she wrapped her arm around my shoulders. We were on the main street of Bowral, walking behind a crowd of teenage girls, who were loudly discussing how bored they were and that there was absolutely nothing to do in Bowral. Ever.

I squeezed mam's hand tight as we continued walking. It's always harder to commit to a time and day, than it is to take that time and day and actually do as you intended. I was truly glad that our plan had 'come to pass'. Mam loves the boutique shops as it reminds her of 'ome; England the Brave.

"You don't always have to buy anything, do you Helen? You can still get ideas for many things, just by looking around".

We saw thin, white crockery, vintage soup ladels, basketware, wrought iron, tinware, candles and candle wreaths, baking pans, cookie cutters, French wine glasses, chunky jewellery, silk scarves, foxy handbags and lots of bling. Antiques, old school benches, British porcelain, photos of HRH the Queen in gilt frames, photos of happy couples snogging and hugging in some dreamy European village, bunches of large flowers with long thick stems....

We lunched at a European bakery, then later, had half strength flat whites, apple and rhubarb cake and honey cake - both with clotted cream - served on huge, white plates at the most unusual coffee shop - "The Elephant Boy Cafe" - http://www.elephantboycafes.com/. Dim lighting, cushioned seats, dark wooden bookcases laden with hard covered, sepia paged books ("... and I've nowhere near read them all..." ) added the proprietor as she delivered our afternoon treats to the table.

We discussed family - both here, in England and South Africa and marvelled at its dynamics.

On the way home, we stopped in Berrima and bought locally produced fragrances...

"Would it be ok if we looked for a shop that sells pies before we go, as your dad and I can have them for dinner tonight with the leftover vegetables I cooked last night..."

On the counter of the old General Store, and while the Storekeeper was packing the pies (chicken and asparagus / chicken and mushroom), we spied old fashioned bread and butter pudding, cut equally into large, single chunks sitting temptingly under an ample glass dome.

"You say these bread and butter pudding slices are single serves? That one piece could feed a family of five, I'm sure. Who makes them?"

"I do", said the Storekeeper, smiling.

Mam said nothing, until we were outside, sitting on the courtesy iron and wood tables and chairs, in front of the store and scoffing Heaven ice creams...

"If that man really can cook like that, he'll be really useful at my house."

Metal in the Country

2008-11-14T23:50:00.004+11:00

In the 15 years we've lived in the village, this was the second time I'd actually had a coffee at the General Store. Not because I haven't wanted to. On the contrary, I love the idea of morning or afternoon coffee at the local Store. It's just that the Machinist keeps me busy. Really busy.

The Storekeeper took the opportunity to sit outside with me so she could light up a cigarette. The day was warm and bright (not like the weather depicted in this photo of the General Store). Birdsong drowned out any potential audible distractions. Suddenly, the roar of an engine approaching. Customers wanting fuel.

A young Indian chap left the car to pay. The Storekeeper went inside to take his money. I was left alone. Time to think. Great. There's never enough time to think.

Out of the corner of my eye, I could see a man approaching my table. The very same man I presumed to be the Indian chap's father. I was right. In a broad, Sri-Lankan accent:

"Tell me - do you ever get bored in this place?"

"No, never."

"You don't? I have to confess, I don't think I could live here. It's so quiet. And you don't mind that it is so quiet?"

"We came from South Africa. We've seen many horrible things. We love that it is so peaceful and quiet here"

"But what is there to do?"

I nearly choked on my bubbly cappucino. What is there to do? What is there to do? If only he knew how busy we usually are.....

"Well, I'm usually so very busy with our family business". I didn't sound convincing, because the sun had made me lazy, and I'm sure he could tell by my slow-blinking eyelids, as well as the angle I was sitting on the bench. A relaxed angle.

"You have a business? What, here? In this town?"

"Actually, we have two"

"What do you do?"

For the next ten minutes, I filled the stranger in on what we do and what we propose to do in the future.

"That's very interesting. Do you have a card?"

"Sorry, I don't seem to have one on me" Now who, pray, takes their business cards with them when they go up to the local store for coffee with the Storekeeper?

"No matter. I will look up your company name on the internet. Do I just put in the search engine 'Metal in the country'?"

Developing Garden

2008-11-12T17:32:00.006+11:00

I love these photos portraying the early development of our back garden, and thought I would share them with you:

This is a view of the garden from the back deck. The whole garden was weedy grass when we first moved in. Every time it rained, the creek would overflow, flood into our garden and the chickens had to spend weeks on their perches, never to come down for food and eventually pass out - weak - due to hunger.

Not really. The chickens passing out that is.

We carted tons of soil to form a levy bank and also added some soil to the flat area of the garden. To level the surface, the Machinist tied a piece of metal mesh to the bumper of our old Renault car. The children sat on the mesh to add weight, and the Machinist would 'doughnut' around and around, dragging the three siblings. They squealed with glee! "More, dad. More!"

The path leading to the (new) chicken coop, through the arbour. The gate on the right leads to the vegetable garden. It is fenced so that the puppies don't tramp or poo over the vegetation.

The orchard in its early stages. We were still busy building a perrenial border around the base of the orchard floor to create separate garden rooms and to contain the straw.

Part of Fruit Tree Walk (and the base of a Ballerina apple tree) which surrounds the vegetable garden. Beds and paths in the making.

The old vegetable garden. Raised beds were built and framed with old sleepers. This garden became very full very quickly - hence the need for a larger vegetable growing area.

Our first corn bed. I planted far too many seedlings!

Capsicum interplanted with shallots. Corn is getting taller and taller.

I'll have to really contain myself next time....

The Walk to the Workshop

2008-11-12T17:24:00.004+11:00

"Mam, will you be trimming the plants anytime soon?" (I'm Head Gardener)

"Why, son?"

"Cos each time I walk to the workshop, I have to screw up my face like this.." he demonstrates; - eyes and lips squeezed together tightly, as if with a smearing of super glue. Shoulders hunched and leaning more to the right - like an off-balance Quasimodo double.. "so that the overgrowth doesn't touch me. Otherwise, the sneezing fits start."

The end in sight - the Workshop side door:

Morning Walkies Around the Village

2008-11-11T22:50:00.004+11:00

Paddocks

The Playing Oval

The Recreation Centre entrance - aka the Oval

The Anglican Church

A typical street.

The Catholic Church

The Uniting Church (was the Wesleyan Church)

The Uniting Church Cemetary

Happy puppies Bobby (black dog) and Polly (hiding behind the Machinist)

The General Store

Our Street

The view from our garden.

Revving Up with the Vitality 600

2008-11-07T17:16:00.009+11:00

In the sidebar of my blog, I've stated that the Machinist spoils me. I am truly a lucky girl. The Machinist supports me in whatever I want to do, and I never, never, abuse his kindness and generosity. I must confess, - it is seldom that I actually ask for anything, - materialistically - and so the Machinist was most curious and enquiring when I told him of something I would really, really like.

I was quite surprised that the Machinist didn't even batter an eyelid when learning about the product I wanted. Mostly, because what I wanted was actually GYM equipment, and he knows how I despise gyms and any type of contraption used within them. Team sport is a different matter, though:

I love team sport. It has a purpose.

Back to the exercise machine - I could have stated many reasons why I needed it; the heat (I'm English!), the flies (they're slow and sluggish and sit on your nose and lips), the mosquitoes (Bloodtype A), the snakes hiding in the grass and storm water drains at the side of our country roads - we have no pavements (Ophidiophobia) the pollen and grasses (hayfever). All valid reasons to want to "exercise" indoors, at home. But I didn't have to explain any of this.

"Order it", he proclaimed. "Really, I want you to have it".

And so - here is the Machinist's gift to me. The Vitality 600:

The Vitality 600 - for all those Jiggly Bits.

Of which I have many.

Two Monkeys

2008-11-05T14:11:00.002+11:00

Granny loves to knit. She especially loves to knit soft toys. Here is the sock monkey she made for me, which now sits proudly between our two couches in the family room. This sock monkey wasn't knitted by Granny, though. She did, however, make it from a pair of Rockford Red Heel Socks, which I ordered from the US quite a few years ago. Just because she knows I love monkeys.

Here is the other monkey I love. This one was made by the Machinist and I.

The Daily Pie (And An Ode to Nancy)

2008-10-31T18:41:00.008+11:00

It is over fifteen years ago since we moved to what we now consider our "home town". The house that we call home was once a rural petrol station, which sold all manner of items for the traveller, and catered mainly for the truck guy. One of the main attractions of our petrol station-now-home were the pies they sold here. Interstate travellers and reps used to refer to it as "the old pie shop". To this day, when I try and explain where exactly we live, people often say "oh, I know where you mean - the old pie shop that was once on the main highway".

One particular villager would always urge us to re-open the shop. "How can we open a shop in our home? We live here... We homeschooll our children and work here, too" we would respond.

But that was a few years ago now. Things have changed.

Our children are grown, and are no longer formally 'schooling'. They are all working, and allthough we have never opened (or re-opened) a shop in our home, we've often thought about it. We've even considered building a little hut in our front garden to act as a retail outlet for metalwares, needlecraft and surplus fruit and vegetables that have grown in our back yard.

But there's no need for that now, either. The hut, that is. Not now that we own the (other) old petrol station up the road.

It's still unbelievable to us - to actually own the other petrol station! In the early days of country life, we would shop and collect our mail from the petrol station (the shop), as well as fill up the car. Then it closed down and was void of human life for many years. Grass, weeds, bushes, blackberries, creepy crawlies and vandals invaded. Our job has been, and still is, - huge: to restore the building to some of it's former glory, as well as change it where appropriate.

Each and every time we work on the building, we think of it's former owner, Nancy - a single mum who cooked, cleaned, made burgers, chips, coffee, sold newspapers, milk, cigarettes, ice creams, sorted and handed out mail to local residents and also served petrol to motorists.

How, pray, did she do it all?

So here's to you, Nancy. Wherever you may be, whatever you may be doing. We hope it was all worth it and that you are happy and healthy! Good job! We promise we will take good care of your former home and business and do our best to turn it into a famous pie shop; The Daily Pie, which in our opinion is long, long, overdue.

Love,

The Machinist's Wife

Progress On The Outside

2008-10-29T17:41:00.007+11:00

I thought you might like to see progress on the exterior walls of the Shop To Be Known As METALSMITHERY AND THE DAILY PIE CAFE.

This is the eastern wall of the Shop. We have used a fire proof covering, as there will be a slow combustion heater inside.

Another shot of the eastern wall. To the left, the old fence which surrounds the Grand's cottage, to the right, part of the fire proof wall.

The eastern wall again. This time, you can see the walls, having been rendered, which keeps the whole building uniform. This shot is taken from underneath one of the car bays. The windows you see on this side of the Shop will remain glass.

Moving around the corner now to the front of the shop, which faces north. That writing on the windows has been there for over 14 years. Over time, vandals have broken in - hence - boards at the windows.

The full, northern frontal. This is where the bowsers were situated. There were two doors; one for the restaurant and one for the general store.

To the right of the front door, there were two entrances to the ladies' toilets, as well as a window. We boarded them up, ready for rendering.

Looking at the shop from the north west. This is how it looks after rendering.

The western wall. The door on the left was the gent's toilets, boarded, ready for rendering. The door on the right will be replaced, but this will become the kitchen entrance, for all food deliveries.

A longer shot at the north western wall, after rendering. See that cute ball of fluff? That's Blossom, with ears blowing in the westerly breeze.

This is the southern wall, which will also become the rear kitchen / bakery wall. Hot water systems, pumps, gas bottles and other utilities will be hidden here.

I hope you've enjoyed this mini tour of before and after rendering. The building still needs a lot of work, both outside and inside, but we're taking it all one day at a time.

Creepy Season

2008-10-29T17:10:00.004+11:00

There's been plenty of paperwork - for both businesses - arriving in our mailbox of late, so instead of me doing the weekly grocery shopping, I sent my middle girl to do the honours, while I completed the FOURTH day of MYOB (Mind Your Own Business accounting software) catchup.

My firstborn girl had taken the Grands into town mid-morning, and later met up with her sister, who brought the Grands back home. Each time the Grands go into town, their sweet little Pekingnese, Blossom, comes to play with our dogs, so before the Grands go home and settle down for the night, they have to pick up Blossom from "daycare".

Today was no different.

Blossom and I met the Grands as they pulled into our driveway with my middle child. There was much chatter about what had transpired on their shopping trip. There was also a discussion about the brown snake and other creepy crawly things.

"'Tis the season to see creepies, tra la la la la la la la la ...."

Mam proceeded to tell us how she had moved a piece of old fencing in her garden (we're busy putting up a new fence for the Grands), so that whoever was to mow the lawn would have a clear run, and in moving the piece of green plastic lattice fence, almost put her hand on "...something big and brown, with a fur coat, AND a waistcoat - with legs thicker and meatier than my own ...".

"And what did you do, Granny? Where is it now?"

"I don't know and nor am I going to look for it. It was so big and furry that if I had a brush on me, I could have combed it's hair.."

So beware, folks. Beware of nooks and crannies and especially old fencing....

Snakes

2008-10-29T14:46:00.005+11:00

I didn't hear the knock at the front door, but my girl did and soon returned to the kitchen with a look of disgust on her face - "Mam, that was Helen. She came to tell us that there is a large brown snake up at the bus stop, and thought that we would want to know".

I trained my girl well!

Very soon, the brown snake was common knowledge throughout the family, not only here at home, but up at the shop as well (which is directly across the road from the village bus stop, and home to the Grands). The Machinist and my lad went up to check 'things' out, but the snake had already met it's demise; somebody had ran over it with a car.

Most farmers in our area won't tolerate snakes. Even though they are protected by law, (the snakes, that is), there is a common bond and understanding of 'relocating' deadly snakes. That understanding is not to capture the snake and relocate it to another area (from which it will return to it's last port o' call - ie - probably an unsuspecting resident's garden), but rather to relocate the snake's head from it's body with a swift flick, clout and chop, using the average garden spade.

I'd hoped not to hear any snake stories for at least another couple of weeks, but it seems that the "Whispering Smiths" (as my mam calls them) are truly up, out and about. I'd also hoped to do more gardening before the heat and serious Ali-G's (allergies and hayfever) set in, too. In fact, just to whet my gardening appetite, my middle girl took this photo last week. She knows I love the rain and she knows I love to garden. These photos were taken by her just before large storm clouds billowed over our village:

Granny's bonnets, lambsears, catmint and a rosebush - struggling through the mass hysteria

The golden ash I planted in the olden days. I had no idea how large it would grow.

Our above-ground pool, like a small oasis, surrounded by fruit, berries and vegetables. Hmmm... so much gardening to do, such little time, too many snakes....

Happy Birthday to Me

2008-10-22T22:32:00.005+11:00

When I awoke this morning and headed to the bathroom, my daughters had already started mixing a cake. I wanted to investigate as to what type of cake was almost ready to be put into the oven, but The Machinist ushered me back to the bedroom, in order that our family tradition of birthdays could ......... well ............ continue as a family tradition.

(The birthday girl or boy has to wait in their bedroom, until the rest of the family come traipsing through, bearing gifts, or not, with mis-buttoned pyjamas, dishevelled hair and sandman dust in their eyes. Then, the croaky throated chorus begins, followed by a 'hip-hip-hooray') Aaah... this is surely the stuff legends are made of.

The Grands came over for my birthday morning tea, and we scoffed down the gluten free Medeira cake, complete with vanilla icing and thick, clotted cream. Grandpa was introduced to the game of "Jenga", and after a bit of poking and gentle tugging, to acquaint himself with how it works, there was no stopping him. I'm not playing against him again! Never let age fool you.

We went to see a matinee. Get that? A matinee. A daytime movie that older people go to. The content was great, though. Even though it left the three of us girls with mixed feelings of sadness and annoyance: http://www.theduchessmovie.com/ . Our Emma later asked me "Aren't you glad you weren't born in the olden days, ma?"

The tone changed much later after dinner, though, as we went to see another movie in another part of town, really intent on living the high life (like Pinnochio in Pleasure Island). The Machinist and Son were with us, and there was no way we could drag them to another girlie movie. Instead, we settled for http://bodyoflies.warnerbros.com/index.html .

The Duchess or Arab terrorist action?

Hmmm... that's a hard one.

Not.

The Call of the Garden

2008-10-21T20:19:00.003+11:00

After weeks of post-nasal drip, cough, headaches and snot, hayfever season is upon us. First comes the itchy area around the eye, and then, very sneakily and randomly, there's a little sneeze here, and another there....

Hayfever or not, I cannot resist the garden.

Stumpy rye grass has pushed through the bales of hay, which was laid as mulch beneath the apple and nashi pear trees in the orchard. The puppies love to join me in the orchard, because they love the grass that grows there. Both Bobby and Polly sit at their own clump of grass, pulling blades free from interwoven roots. Euphorically, with eyes half shut it seems they can't tug fast enough. Suddenly, Bobby coughs and splutters, half-choking, opening his mouth as wide as possible and depositing a frothy ball of droopy, soggy grass. Evidence of him biting off more than he could chew.

I hear the side door to the workshop close, and the Machinist's footsteps, as he walks towards the garden tap. Water splashes onto the stained compacted ground under the tap; stained from years of hand washing with degreasing cream. I have the insane urge to leap out of the undergrowth and give the Machinist a scare, as he passes by the "Lilly Marlene" rosebush, but I refrain. After all, the rain clouds are approaching fast, and there are a LOT of weeds and grass clumps to pull. "Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today", I can hear my mam saying in my auditory memory library.

Several piles of spring-green grass, prickles and other weeds begin to form throughout the orchard. Rain clouds loom overhead. Not that a bit of rain hurts anyone, but daylight is diminishing fast.

The kitchen door slides open and the Machinist's voice booms through the thick growth of apple leaves and raspberry bushes

"Do you want me to turn the heat down on the potatoes? I think they're done...."

Off To Town

2008-10-03T15:40:00.003+10:00

I love days like this.

Spring days. Days of hope and anticipation. Renewal of life in so many forms and in so many species.

We are all having an early mark from work. The Machinist is taking us into town. Oh, either of us could go to town at any time, but it is so much more FUN when the whole family go together. We'll probably have a late afternoon tea or early supper.

Maybe do some early Christmas shopping

There could even be the chance of a late movie

Must go - everyone is ready. And waiting for me....

Websites & Blogsites

2008-09-21T13:13:00.006+10:00

My computer seat is hot, hot, hot. That's because I've been on it a lot, lot, lot.

Of late, anyway. You see, I've been busy working on websites and blogsites in readiness for the development and opening of Metalsmithery.

Metalsmithery will be our retail outlet for metal creations and accessories that go with those creations. There will be a metal shop, a cafe and eventually, a small bakery. All in the same building; - an old derelict roadhouse, abused and abandoned, situated in a small rural village of NSW, Australia - '..in the middle of nowhere, on the road to everywhere.." - according to J McKay - a local resident.

Metalsmithery has been my 'dream' for years and years. I wanted to somehow combine hospitality and baking and coffee (me) with metal fabrication (the Machinist).And in the process, drag the children in, too - kicking and screaming and wailing.

Just kidding.

My girls are great baristas, though. And their baking skills? Oh, man... it's a good job I can't see my butt, or I know I would go into a week-long depression. Until the next Lindt chocolate gluten free friand....

The Metalsmithery website is almost finished and more will be added as products are manufactured, photographed and - well - uploaded.

I will be detailing the merchandise and life as a shopkeeper via the Metalsmithery blog, otherwise known as The Metal-Shop Keeper blog.

Someone still has to hold the fort, though, and that would be the Machinist and Son, at our fabrication shop - the Machine shop - Debco Engineering Pty Ltd. I've also set up a company blog relating to this more commercial / industrial side of our operation - namely - Debloggery.

Over the coming months I will be flirting with all of these blogs:

Debco Engineering = Debloggery

Metalsmithery = The Metal-Shop Keeper

Home, Housekeeping and Family = The Machinist's Wife

Clear as a muddy puddle in clay soil? Welcome to my Manufactory!

Family Neighbours

2008-09-20T16:59:00.004+10:00

During my early years of marriage to the Machinist, I really missed my mom and dad. I loved being with the Machinist and still do, but it was quite an adjustment for a young naive girl to leave her childhood home and create one all of her own. With a stranger! (My mam always said that you never really know anyody until you LIVE with them).

The Machinist and I lived just over 100km away from my parent's home, and we would see them maybe once a month - when the Machinist's monthly salary was deposited into our account. I fantasised about my parents living closer to us, so that we could visit.

Even when we left the Machinist's homeland, South Africa and moved to Australia, my parents followed, but we still lived kilometres apart. I secretly longed for them to be 'just up the street', but I never told the Machinist, because he would have thought I was a baby.

(I AM a baby).

My dream has finally come true. My parents, the "Grands" now live in our hometown. Not only do they live in our hometown, but they live less than 500m from our house. Imagine, then, the joy when my dear dad pops in for a cup of coffee as he passes our house on his way up to the general store for the local and national newspapers. Although my mom is still (slowly) recovering from cellulitis, and is not out walking long distances as yet, I excitedly await the day when she calls in for a 'cuppa'.

A cup of tea, a piece of cake and a good larf.....

"Hello, nice to see you..."

Avian Cleansing 101

2008-09-18T12:57:00.008+10:00

Now that the weather is warming up, my daughter puts our pet cockatoo outside on the back deck, so that he can soak up Vitamin D on tap.

I've posted about our "Bucko" before. He has beak and feather disease, and we were told he would only live a year. That was over two years ago now. Although Bucko still doesn't have feathers, and his beak often cracks and my daughter and the Machinist have to gag and bind him to file down his splitting beak, he still seems happy with a good outlook on life. Sometimes, he catches one of his claws on the poles and we find blood splattered newspaper at the bottom of his cage. The other day, we let him walk around the workshop, and he once again caught one of his claws which bled like a human head wound. Bucko didn't seem perturbed, though. He continued exploring the concrete floor, while leaving a paisley pattern from his blood stained toe.

Today, at lunch, the Machinist asked "Why does the bird keep on pecking his butt?"

"He's massaging his oil gland, Dad"

"An oil gland in his butt?"

"No, it's the little lump you see just above his butt. It looks like a wart. He uses the oil to prune himself."

Sure enough, Bucko began his bird boudoir right before our eyes. He used his beak to spread oil to his toes. Using his toes, he stroked his head and gangly neck. Lifting the one wing, he seemed to 'nibble' at his armpit. Then the other wing. Finally working his beak down his back, looking like an avian contortionist.

Straightening up, he was still for a moment on the perch (probably allowing his blood pressure to adjust and to 'sit out' the dizzy spell). Suddenly, a couple of full body shakes, a few more prods here and there with his beak and he was done.

His cage stopped rattling. The cats lowered their heads and resumed their nap.

Where Does Mr Time Go?

2008-09-17T23:03:00.009+10:00

It's late here in Australia, and the Machinist is calling me to bed.

Each day when I wake, I have so many great intentions of getting great things done INCLUDING blogging. Most days, I dont fit everything in, and it is especially frustrating for me NOT to blog, because I... well.... I ..... I like to blog. Some days, I get the opportunity to blog, have so much to say, but can't seem to get it out and on here. Then I start reading about other people's lives and run out of 'awake' time and get frustrated with myself all over again. Perhaps I should read Don Aslett's book. Again. For the umpteenth time:

I suppose many bloggers have this problem, after all - there is nothing new under the sun and tomorrow is another day...

For now, though, it's off to bed, sleepy head. I'll be thinking about the scenes and stories from Gladys Taber's writings - http://www.gladystaber.org/ . Beautiful. Sorry, Don, but I'll get to you later.

Hopefully.

Water Everywhere

2008-09-14T23:09:00.008+10:00

The rain to the wind said, "You push and I'll pelt." - Robert Frost

And they must have had this conversation today.

The Machinist and son were up at the Shop, erecting a wall, which will one day surround the commercial kitchen of Metalsmithery Cafe. I was on the sofa, wearing the Machinist's dressing gown (which I bought for him and which he has never worn) watching a makeover: home edition show on tv. It was the second day of feeling out of sorts and my mind was spinning with thoughts on what had to be done. You know how it is - you try and rest and not think about work or washing dishes, or putting another load of laundry on, but pictures of you actually performing these tasks stubbornly remain in the cinema of your mind's eye. Then you feel obliged to re-enact them in 'real life'.

Before I got up from the sofa, the howling began. In the distance, I could hear a loose piece of corrugated iron fence, flapping against a wooden post as it submitted to the wind's fury. It wasn't long before the rain came. I had to fight the temptation of sitting back down again, while pulling the chocolate-brown, fluffy blankie over me.

But.... I knew. I knew I had to go and check the Machine Shop. Our small country town, although situated in the Tablelands, can cope with days and days of rain, but when the rain comes down fast and furious, the stormwater drains overflow very quickly, and being on the lower side of the street next to the creek, the Machine Shop always floods with the surplus. It takes at least two people to sweep the water out of the workshop and into the drain, and they have to do it fast.

I shut the puppies in my office (with the heater on) and started to remove some jobs the Machinist had left near the sliding door. I heard voices. The Machinist and son had returned. Yay! They had suspected the workshop was flooding. I graciously left them to the sweeping and retreated to the office to comfort the puppies who are both scared of thunder. (I just had to console them!).

The rain pelting loudly on the tin roof didn't last long. The sun was trying to shine, too. Suddenly, the silence was broken by the phone ringing.

"Ok, I'll come up now", assured the Machinist and put the phone back in it's cradle.

"I've got to go up to the Grands. Water is bucketing into their kitchen..."

After Grandpa, the Machinist and Son had mopped the kitchen floor, and I had mopped the kitchen benches, I decided to hang around and help the Machinist by passing him the last few screws for the villaboard at the Shop.

"A girl can't even rest on her sickbed", I mused. The Machinist smiled.

"I'm so glad I picked a strong girl like you, Helen...."

Ready, Set, Action!

2008-09-14T22:11:00.004+10:00

One of the many things I love about my children is that they are all able to amuse themselves. Not only do they amuse themselves, but they amuse the Machinist and I, too. A funky walk, a spastic dance, a belly giggle, a foreign (feigned) accent, a lively debate, a passionate argument, - all make for good entertainment.

It came as no surprise, then, when my son came home with this footage. I love how boys (man-cubs) get really creative with scrap items.

Perchance to Dream

2008-09-11T13:54:00.004+10:00

After rushing to have the Grand's cottage ready for an agreed date, mam getting sick, hospital trips, more bits and pieces to attend to at the cottage, unrelenting work at the machine shop and continuous housework, all I want to do is design the products I would like the Machinist to make for our lifestyle retail store, Metalsmithery.

Thoughts on a floor plan, decor, vignettes, the Metalsmithery cafe - haunt me. Continuously. Half way through loading the washing into the machine, I start to dream, chasing ideas by looking them up on the computer and getting lost in (even more) research. Eventually pegging out the washing, and passing through the rose arbour, I inspect its design and determine what can be changed for the creation of more, authentic, indoor and outdoor arbours. As I put the stash of commercial crockery through the dishwasher, I imagine each plate with a voluptuous piece of pie, partnered with a dollop of clotted cream. Vacuuming the carpets, I can almost 'taste' the dust which will be created when we use the commercial cement grinder to 'industrialise' the currently tiled gallery floor. Changing the bed sheets, I envision wrought iron beds with plasma-cut head and footboards, dressed with fine linen....

"I need you to type up a quote, Doll", the Machinist interrupts me, "and would you be able to pay the hardware account when you go into town later today?"

Did I plan on going into town today?

To go or not to go. That is the question.

Can you tell I need to let the creative juices flow a little?

Grand's New Kitchen

2008-09-04T17:00:00.006+10:00

As promised, here are the updated photos of the Grand's kitchen. Before:

After:

Out of the window, you can just see the back end of the shop area that housed the old cool room. This wall will be rendered in the same material as the cottage. You can also see part of the wooden cool room in the distance, soon to become Grandpa's shed (with a galvanised pitch roof added, as well as some climbing roses).

We'll be working on this section of the shop on the weekend.

Conversations at the Bank

2008-09-04T00:38:00.005+10:00

A lady on the Information desk at the bank today:

"Hello, please excuse my desk. It's messy, but I really am an organised person"

Me: "Oh, I know what you mean - I love organising myself"

Banklady: "One wouldn't think by looking at my desk right now that I'm not very organised, but I am"

Me: "Organising gets messy"

Much laughter between us ....

Banklady, absent-mindedly as she checks out our accounts on the computer: "I've had a few divorced or going through divorce customers in today"

Me: "It's easy getting a divorce nowadays. Nobody wants to persevere in their marriage" (That should do it! Did she think I was going through a divorce, too?)

Banklady: "Me, myself - well - I'm a bit of a prude"

Me: "Me too"

Banklady: "Us girls at the bank - we get a bit wild, but only after hours when the doors are locked. We have a good laugh"

Me: "A good laugh-till-you-pee-your-pants?"

Banklady: "Actually, yes. I must tell you what happened to me....."

The Banklady proceeds to tell me of the times that hearty laughter had caused her to pee her pants. I reciprocate with my own stories.

Sad, sad, sad....

Our Local Tip

2008-09-02T00:38:00.003+10:00

Our local tip has changed. It was once a shopping mall for recycled, but organised products. That's when our local man, Peter overseered it. As you would drive in and pay for your deposit, Peter would direct you to the appropriate department:

"Metals? Over to the right, love" and "Domestic waste only? Straight up ahead, take a right at the 'Y' and throw it in the big pit".

Before we moved our engineering business to the home block in the country and the Machinist worked in town, the weekly garbage run was my responsibility. The children and I would load several rubbish bins onto the back of the ute, drive to the tip and head towards the correct area for dumping our waste. Sometimes, we nearly fell into the Big Pit, as we were tipping the bins upside down. (I come out in a rash just thinking about this).

On occasions when the Machinist had the opportunity to do the tip run, he would return with 'salvageable, valuable items'. The Machinist could always see the potential of many products in several departments of the tip, and often had fantasies of what he could make with them. To this day, we have overpacked mezzanine floors in the workshop - a testament of said fantasies.

Nowadays, however, we are not allowed to select products from the tip when dumping "the weeklies". Fees to dump have increased. Although there are Council employees at the gate taking the money, they have no passion. Several departments have been amalgamated, so even if one was allowed to shop, one would have to search high and low through several other items to find (or discover) the product one would want. Oops, I meant need.

Change sucks.

This past weekend the Machinist and I took a trip to our local tip. We had a ute and large trailer load full. The Machinist bartered with the guy on the gate.

"You've got a lot there, mate", observed the gatekeeper.

"Yes, but most of it is metal for recycling"

"Okay, let me think what to charge you for ...."

"Fifteen dollars should cover it, yes?"

The gatekeeper was silent for a while, his eyes speedily scanning the contents of our vehicle.

"Ok. Fifteen it is. That'll do."

The Machinist passed me the money to give to the gatekeeper. I couldn't even look at the guy, and merely held out my left hand so that he could take the fee, muttering a weak, hushed 'thank-you'.

The Machinist sure can drive a bargain, but I hate to be around when he does!

Hoisting

2008-08-30T22:54:00.003+10:00

I was woken by the Machinist's footsteps this morning as he re-entered our room. "Would you like a cup of tea, Doll?" he asked. He always offers me tea in the morning, especially when he wants me to wake up and talk with him. With major work on the Grand's Cottage behind us we were free to begin renovations to the shop. The Machinist needed to discuss a plan of action with me. Urgently.

Granny still in hospital, my girls both working, my son at a friend's house for the weekend and grandpa unpacking and sorting what only he could unpack and sort, left the Machinist and I alone to do the heavy work. Real heavy work. Dirty and cobweb-y, too.

Hobson's choice dictated that the old, wood panelled cool room, encased in it's own room within the old service station (which we call "the shop") had to be removed first. Colourbond (garage) sheeting was pulled down by the Machinist (while I completed my morning ablutions at a snail pace), revealing the lumber relic, complete with an inscription that reads "Tommy was here. 1968"

Anybody know Tommy?

We hoisted the coolroom up, courtesy of a trolley jack and two heavy duty planks of wood which we used as 'sliders'. Once the coolroom had taken 'one foot outside' of it's forty year old, cavenous resting place, the Machinist forced me to climb up on the forklift and proceed to 'lift', 'reverse', 'lean it back', 'up', 'down', 'forward' it for the rest of the day, while he carted around a variety of wooden blocks, removed obstacles in my way and shouted out emphatic steering directions to me above the din of the motor.

It's wasn't only dirty, dusty, heavy, cobweb-y work, but operating the forklift after such a long time, was nerve-racking, too.

Hear that Machinist??

An Evening at the Hospital

2008-08-25T22:48:00.003+10:00

I went to see my mam in hospital this evening. Oh wait....that's right - I've been to see my mam in hospital each day ever since she was admitted last week. Tonight was different though. I saw not the tired looking, slurrrrry talking (panadeine forte) reluctant mam who initially didn't even want to be admitted. I saw a new woman -fiesty and lively and full of authority. Over the nurses, that is: "Is it time for my next load of antibiotics, nurse?" and the patients sharing her ward: "Let me call someone to help you, sweetie. Don't you move...".

My mam is back to her old self - pre cellulitis. (I was worried there for a while). She's not over the physical cellulitis infection as yet, (her leg is still a shade of angry red with lighter areas of mottled pink), but her emotional self, her soulful self has resumed.

Hallelujah!

Mam has acquired yet another new friend: Diane. Last night, she and Diane broke their ward's 'lights out, time to sleep' rule. Oh yes they did. Diane hauled out her new DVD player, inserted "The Land Before Time" DVD, lassood over a spare set of (extra long) earplugs to mam's bed and together, all wired for sound, they proceeded to watch with glee and a large dose of rebellion.

Oh, and they've placed their order for pop, popcorn and chocolate for tomorrow night's viewing, as Diane insists that she will still be around for the fun....

Our Next Project

2008-08-24T17:56:00.004+10:00

Here is the old service station we bought in June of this year. It has been empty for over ten years and was badly vandalised. The property consists of a shop, restaurant, kitchen, with a residence attached. We have recently renovated the residence, which we call the "Grand's Cottage". Next item on the agenda is the remodelling of the shop and restaurant, which will become a retail gallery for "Metalsmithery" - respectable ironwares for the home and garden. Metalsmithery will also have it's own cafe - "Metalsmithery Cafe". Finally, the commercial kitchen will be re-fitted.

More on all of this as the weeks and months go by.

Here is the customer carpark. You can just see the one side of the Grand's Cottage before renovation. The hill rises at the back...

The front of the old service station. To the left, the old shop, to the right, ladies toilets.

Another frontal shot. The right hand door was the shop, the left hand door opened into the restaurant.

Standing on the west looking eastward. The awning, and the site of the bowsers. This service station was once known as The Golden Fleece.

As you can see - we have our work cut out for us. Life as we knew it has changed forever....

Grand's Cottage AFTER Pics

2008-08-24T15:54:00.007+10:00

Here are some Grand's Cottage 'after' pics. Unfortunately, I was too late to capture some shots before we started moving the Grand's furniture inside. These were taken as we were unpacking, sorting and organising. Hence - the messiness. Things in odd places, etcetera etcetera... The wall paint is called "Macadamia Cream" by Pascol, mixed in a Dulux base (nothing I do is ever simple).

This is the front sliding door. The old, smashed in and vandalised exterior fibro walls were cladded with huge sheets of white styrene and then Don, a hard-working, travelling cement worker, finished the walls with his special mix of cement render. We will paint the exterior at the same time as we paint the shop (when we get to refurbishing and setting up the shop).

See the contraption on the right of the photo? We call it the "Bunny". It is a huge gas bottle and heater on an RHS metal frame with wheels. It was our best friend on those cold, cold nights. Can you see the trusty old red barrow in the reflection of the glass? This carted tons of all types of nasty stuff.

Remember all the hardwood framework and dangly-bit electric wires? Well, this is the wall they are now encased in and it divides the living room from the kitchen. (Can you see a corner of the Westinghouse fridge? I told you there would be odd things in odd places). The picture on the wall is one of my parent's favourite pictures. They bought it over twenty years ago, when we lived in South Africa.

This is a shot standing at the kitchen entrance, looking back towards the front door. A sofa is 'nursing' a tv, and my dad has only half filled his desk and bookcase. It looks like a nuclear bomb has gone off outside....

The cottage actually had three bedrooms, but we turned one into a utility room with a back door. Here is the left side of the utility room, with chairs to sit and ponder on a hot summer afternoon, or to curl up with a blankie on a cold winter's day, waiting for the washing to finish in the machine. Again, the nuclear bomb outside...

The right hand side of the utility room with a laundry area for Grandparent washing days...

The storage cupboard in the utility room, fitted with 'white glass' doors. All the bedrooms had this type of cupboard and doors fitted.

The shiny, bright, white bathroom with a twist of black.... This room was horrid. The windows were painted, the walls were cladded with rotten wooden boards, and the only means of bathing was a minute bird-bath-type-shower-thingy made from chipped enamel.

Part of bedroom 1, just to show you the finish. The carpet colour is "Cappucino". Quite apt, Hastings. Quite apt.

Another part of bedroom 1. See the window? We spent days on these old cedar frames.

Remember the buttercup alley corridor? Now it's Macadamia Cream walk. Much more serene. This is a view from bedroom 2 looking into bedroom 1. First door on the right is the bathroom, second door on the right is the utility room and back door. The only door on the left leads to the living areas.
This is bedroom 1 looking into bedroom 2. Can you see my galvanised mop bucket? At that stage, it kept on calling my name.

You may notice that I haven't posted pics of the kitchen. The reason for this is that the Machinist had some final adjustments to make on the kitchen cabinets which we picked up for a song on Ebay (viva la Ebay!). He has made a stainless steel benchtop for the bottom kitchen cupboards and I'll post a picture of the kitchen - complete - when it is er - well, when it is ABSOLUTELY complete.

More later....

Grand's Cottage Encounters

2008-08-24T15:12:00.008+10:00

Here are some photos of what we have encountered working on the Grand's Cottage.

Firstly, I think this is an extremely complex photo, don't you? You really have to focus on it, have a bit of an understanding (??) what is going on to actually know what you are looking at. Let me explain. At the very bottom of the photo, you can see the tip of my workboots (Colorados) as I'm taking the picture. This should give you some perspective (what?). I'm standing on a 20cm thick chunk of hard, 30 year old concrete (the older, the harder). Why this chunk of concrete was laid at the back of the cottage, we will never know. The dirt part of the photo is the 'stormwater' drain. I say 'stormwater drain' very loosely, because it is so shallow and unlevel, that all it does is hold rainwater from 150 years ago and act as a cesspool for the bad-side-of-town-mosquito dropouts. The pale yellow, flakey panels are (were) the exterior fibro walls of the cottage. You can just see the bottom end of a board we used to cover up a window, as most of the window glass had been broken.

Here is a closer look at the stormwater drain. It contains bits of dried grass (from the jungle we mowed and hacked down in the garden), moss, leaves, sludge, paint flakes, and - surprise! - dirty chunks of foam. If you're baffled about the story behind the foam chunks, don't feel alone. The mind boggles.

My strong, hunky men, about to break up the sea of concrete. Note the holes in the exterior fibro walls. Note the stench pipe - going nowhere. Note the boards we used at night to block up the windows and remove the next day, so that we could run electrical cords.

The Machinist and Mr Jack Hammer.
" ....The first cut is the deepest, baby, you know - the first cut is the deepest...." tra la la.....

Like I said - the older the concrete and the longer it has 'matured' - the harder. Mr Jack Hammer didn't want to earn his living at first, but with insistence from the Machinist, we were soon carting wheelbarrow loads of broken down, submissive chunks to the utility, for cartage to our local tip.
This is one of the many encounters we've had, working on the Grand's Cottage. We expect to find more, and experience more "challenges" when we start on the old petrol station section, along with the shop. If you're not completely bored by now, I'll send in a sneak preview of what we have to work on next.
Starting next week!

Cellulitis

2008-08-21T23:35:00.004+10:00

Now I know what I have to do.

Whereas my mam wanted to do all the unpacking and arranging herself, she has given me permission, from her hospital bed, to go ahead and make her new home orderly and pretty and ready to move straight into. Her new home, that she hasn't even had the pleasure of seeing fully completed as yet.

My mam has cellulitis. Cel - u - lie - tus. It is an infection of the skin and sub-cutinous layers. We are told that microorgnisms have permeated her skin and have wrought havoc with her skin cells, causing them to become hot, red and - oh my - angry. The antibiotics she was receiving once a day via infusion were simply not strong enough to combat the formidable, occult microscopic invaders. An increase of administration and antibiotic strength was needed - hence her admission into hospital.

"Why?" and "How?" and "Where from?" are all questions on our lips, if not already spoken.

Although my mam is of good spirits, it is just terrible seeing her half sitting, half lying in a stiff hospital bed. Mam is usually the carer, not the cared for. It is as hard for her to be cared for as it is for us to see it. She is being a good patient and eating all her food and drink, and taking all her medications, and enduring some rough and some not so rough nursing staff taking blood from her usually well-behaved veins. Already, she knows the life stories of those in bed next to her, and those across the ward from her. Instead of reading or knitting or fathoming crosswords or finishing off woolly wombats as gifts for fortunate recipients, or doing other Granny related activities, my mam prefers to 'people watch' and offer sympathy and understanding to those around her who are at their most vulnerable.

We will be visiting her each day, and are prepared to be spellbound at her recovery and human life stories.

And while we are waiting for her return home, I will continue to unpack and organise and make her home inviting, comfortable and so very cosy.

Steelbashers

2008-08-21T16:21:00.006+10:00

Welcome to the world of the Steelbashers. I should be catching up on long overdue bookkeeping, but couldn't resist showing you three of the 7 men in my life.

This is my dad, aka "Gramps" or "Grandpa" (depending on who is addressing him). He is the older side of "The Grands". He has worked around the world as a coded welder, and his favourite saying is "Lincoln Bullet DC". He is referring to his favourite welder and method of welding. Can you see his welding gloves? The dirtier, holier, more used-looking the better. This fills him with a sense of achievement and convinces the unsuspecting that he has been working really hard.

This is the Machinist. I love to capture these action shots of him. He likes to play it cool, but I love to see the Machinist in the midst of sparks and flashes, looking so virile. He makes such an artful statement.

Another shot of the Machinist. Precision is his middle name.... "You, you light up my life...." tra la la ....

This is my favourite Number One son. (My only son). He was working on his hundredth frame. Can you see the enthusiasm written all over his face? Check out his kapuchi lips. Move over, Mick Jagger, the third generation Steel Basher's in town.

Grand's Cottage BEFORE Pics

2008-08-20T19:16:00.008+10:00

As promised, here are the pics of the Grand's Cottage BEFORE we got to it...

The corridor ceiling. Buttercup yellow!

Bedroom 2 leading to Bedroom 1, via Buttercup Alley:

Bedroom 1. What a colour scheme. Check the newspaper on the floor. Despite our diligent efforts, we still spilled and splashed paint on the floor. Lots of it!
Part of Bedroom 2. This wall had to come down, as it was soggy soggy soggy. This fact didn't seem to matter to Miss Hairy Mary, though. She spun a grand palace in this particular section of the hardwood 'T' junction:

The bathroom window. Every set of upper windows in every room were blocked in and painted:

This is the lounge room, looking towards the front (sliding) door:

This is the lounge room, looking towards what was the kitchen AND laundry:

This was the floor in the kitchen:

Looking up at all the dangly bits in the kitchen. Walls still had to be built:

This is the bathroom, just after we put villaboard on the walls, which were covered with horrible wooden planks that were damp and mouldy:

Here is a pic of one of the windows with commercial paint stripper applied. I wrote about this in an earlier blog. Hubble, bubble, toil and trouble....

Anyone for sandwich spread?

My Poorly Mam

2008-08-19T20:11:00.005+10:00

(I can't believe) it's been so long since my last confession....

Er.....

My last post.

The Grands cottage is finished. Sort of. We've practically lived there for the most part of 12 hour plus days, but it is delightful to see the fruits of our labours and how the cottage has transformed into something lovely.

The Grands are now residents of our small town! They are our neighbours. Well, they're not our neighbours just yet, as they are guests in our home. We've moved all their furniture into the cottage, but they are living with us for the time being, as my mam has a nasty streptococci infection in her leg and needs looking after. My dad does a good job of looking after her, but I believe that the womenfolk are better at handling illness in family members, so I am now part of the Granny Care team.

Mam suddenly started vomiting and shaking as if she was completely frozen. Then she had a day of sleeping and not eating. A couple of days later, she told me that her ankle was aching and I rubbed Tiger Balm into the area between the side ankle knuckle and the back of the ankle bone. This eased her pain a lot. However, the next day, her leg was redder and swollen and we insisted on taking her to the hospital. Thats when we learned about the infection. So, for the next week or so, we will be taking her into the hospital each day to get her antibiotic 'fix', via intravenous infusion.

I hope to post more about the completion of the Grands cottage and (gasp) even post some photos.

Stay fixed....

When I'm Cleaning Windows

2008-07-19T23:16:00.007+10:00

"Oh, in my profession I'll work hard
But I'll never stop
I'll climb this blinkin' ladder
Till I get right to the top.

When I'm cleaning windows..."

-George Formby-

I couldn't get this song off my mind today. My mam would sing it as she went about her daily duties. Sometimes, she would even whistle the tune (and I'd try and copy her). We had the song on a scratchy LP record, too. I never knew each verse; just the chorus.

And cleaning windows was my profession today. Not actually cleaning the glass, but rather - applying paint stripper (professional brand. Nasty, burny stuff), leaving it on for ten minutes until the paint bubbles, then scraping it off with my trusty 38mm AND 50mm paint scrapers. Man, those scrapers are handy tools. So multifunctional!

Tomorrow, I get to use POWER TOOLS. The sanding machine, in fact - to smooth off any excess glossy paint.

No, wait.

I won't be able to use the power tools tomorrow, for the Grands are coming over. The Machinist phoned them yesterday and invited them for Sunday roast. I get to resume my domestic duties instead.

While I was singing my rendition of "When I'm Cleaning Windows", mixed with sudden outbursts of "Play that Funky Music, White Boy" and pondering why I put the two together in the first place, the Machinist was right next door, in the laundry room, fitting the back door and window. Definitely not the vocal malingering type, he, too, belted out his own version of the White Boy song.

I don't think the Machinist knows the Windows song at all. If he does, he didn't let on. If the neighbours who live over the hill at the rear of the Grand's Cottage didn't know either song, quite well before, they will now....

Eave Cleaning

2008-07-19T08:09:00.006+10:00

Another day of icy, sleety, windy rain and working on the Grand's Cottage with the Machinist. This time, wearing my own brand of Armani tracksuit pants and son's jacket, which the Machinist had zipped and buttoned for me - right up under my chin (when you're wearing those leather labourer's gloves, you're all fingers and thumbs). So there I was - a picture of beauty, with stray strands of hair, rebelling against their ties. "I look really attractive today, don't I, Machinist?"

"Of course"

Number one son started chuckling.

"The Machinist thinks I always look beautiful, don't you?" I asked, looking up at the Machinist from the task of unpicking a roll of masking tape.

"You know I do..."

Ahhh.... So utterly reassuring....

I was supposed to be painting the eaves and guttering with Duragal, but as everyone knows, you can't paint in the rain, so the Machinist set me to the task of cleaning inside. Lots of empty tile boxes, plastic wrap, crumbled cement and grout, the Tiler's (numerous) cigarette butts, crushed pieces of chalky gyprock left over from tearing down mould-infested walls, a variety of broken tiles, the Tiler's snack wrappers, crumpled newspapers fully of paint-stripped paint (the girls have spent four days stripping many years' worth of lead and non-lead based paint from one window frame alone), sanding dust, broken pieces of quad (used in lengths to cover the joints between pieces of gyprock in the 'olden days'), villaboard off-cuts.

I was thinking about grouping tools and materials together and labelling them - "Plumbing", "Electrical", "Painting", "Gardening", "Power tools" etc etc, while gathering yet another pile of waste with a stiff bristled broom, when I heard the Machinist calling my name.

"I need you to help me divert the water from the rusty gutter, as well as finish scraping the flaking paint from the eaves before the weather gets worse"

Don't you hate it when you're just getting 'into' something?

"Ok, I'll be there just now. I first want to finish sweeping my 99th pile of dirt..."

And so - there was the Machinist and I - up on ladders in the drizzle, scraping old paint from the eaves in readiness for painting. We worked towards the corner of the building and met, looking upon each other. The Machinist blew me a kiss, and I blew one straight back to him.

Love is....

Drainpipe Finds

2008-07-09T23:45:00.003+10:00

The new kitchen in the Grands cottage started life as two rooms; a kitchen AND a laundry. Neither were big enough to swing a cat by its tail in, so the Machinist decided to break down the wall and make one large kitchen instead. Oh, and he let our kitties off the hook, too.

(It was a fun day knocking down that dividing wall. The Machinist couldn't stop laughing as I took "girlie" swings at the brittle villaboard, while delighting in the sound it made as vila-shrapnel hit the tiled floors).

On the downside, we were left with a solitary drainage pipe, growing out of the middle of the new kitchen floor.

Today, while visiting with the Grands in their current home, their phone rang.

"Get that, will yer, mi duck?"

Translation: "Answer the phone, will you, my dear?"

I picked up their phone:

"Hello?"

"Hello, guess what I found in the drain pipe?" said the Machinist, exitedly.

"What?"

"Two screwdrivers. Can you believe it? How anything ever drained from this laundry, I will never know.."

Yeah, I know, my darling Machinist.

I know.

The Mystery of the Sign or The Sign of Mystery?

2008-07-09T00:28:00.006+10:00

Looking more like a troglodyte by the minute with damp, wind matted hair, wild eyes, and wearing wet-at-the-knees track pants (belonging to the Machinist) and a baggy corduroy, fur lined jacket (owned by Number one son), I trudged towards the sign.

I could hear voices, coming from beneath the awning. It was the Machinist talking with a delivery guy. I could only see the Machinist from where I was standing and he could see me. He gave me that "what are you DOING up there?" look, and was just short of giving me the head flick, (indicating that I should disappear - quick smart), when I noticed a pair of feet, then legs, then a waist ..... then....

I was outta there, baby!

Prefering to resume my quest and actually touch the sign (rather than being seen by the delivery guy in my raggedy state of disarray), I tip-toed over a network of 'I' beams, with the skill of a trapese artist. There was a gap between the 'E' and the 'S' of 'RESTAURANT'. I pulled the 'S' (perspex) panel out a little to peer inside the (non-working Neon) sign. I've no idea what I expected to find, but I did, in fact,find something. A screwed up bundle of clothes was wrapped around the inner framework. The only reason I actually PUT my hand inside the sign was because it was daylight and I could see that there were no creepy insects, vermin or reptiles.

The panel bulged as I pulled the items of clothing from their harbinger of who-knows how many years. The first item was a navy blue ladies tracksuit top. Size medium. The second item was a navy blue ladies tracksuit pants. Also size medium. I left them - crumpled and forlorn on our wet tin roof. I knew what I had to do....

"Hello, Constable ----. How can I help you?"

"Oh, hello, this may sound strange, but I've just found a complete ladies tracksuit stuffed into the roof sign on the old Roadhouse..."

A policeman called around to our Shop later that day. He even climbed up the ladder onto the roof to inspect the clothing and confirmed that the dirty streaks on each item of clothing were definitely not blood stains. He promised to speak with his detectives about missing persons in our area, and call back to let us know whether to keep the 'evidence' or dispose of it. Early the next morning, he phoned and spoke to the Machinist.

We are to dispose of the evidence.

The mystery still remains, however.

Signing out,
Miss Marple.

Things You Find on a (Wet) Tin Roof

2008-07-08T23:26:00.005+10:00

The Machinist is concerned with the insufficient water drainage at our Shop. The Shop roof coverage is huge, which means we SHOULD get a river of water running into the two concrete water tanks when it rains. The trouble is - we don't, because the gutters, although surprisingly still in good condition, are full of ten year's worth of leaves and pine needles, - rotted down into moss covered thick sludge. The gutters run the whole perimeter of the Shop roof, but there are only four downpipes, so when the rain comes down, it simply spills up and over the gutters, sometimes seeping into the eaves, but more than often, - dripping onto the ground around the building's foundations.

I sense this is not good. No wonder some of the rooms have mouldy inner walls....

The stormwater drains at the bottom of each downpipe are too small to cope with a sudden, fast influx of rainwater, and the ground surrounding the drains - particularly at the back of the Grand's Cottage - makes a squishy sound when we walk on it. We have skidded a few times, too, on the mud rink.

I was not surprised, then, when the Machinist set up a ladder, and pushed me up the ladder to scoop the organic material out of the gutters. I didn't want to go up there, but he pushed me....rung by rung.

I have to tell you at this point that a gutter scooper simply does not work. It scoops the material along the gutter, but when you want to lift the scoop out of the gutter and toss your bounty to the ground with a satisfying splat, most of it falls right back into the gutter again. (A 38mm paint scraper and a flick of the wrist works much better!)

Scooping gutter crud by kneeling on a tin roof is hard on a girl's knees, too. Every meter or so, I had to stand, stretch and bend at the waist to scoop, with my butt in the air, just so that my knee caps could feel the blood rush through them once again. Rain, wind and cold wet patches on - ahem - the Machinist's track pants that I was wearing weren't motivating factors for the job, and soon enough, I became bored and decided to investigate the expanse of tin.

On my expedition, I came across a multitude of odd items; items one would not expect to find on a wet tin roof. I told myself off for forgetting to bring the digital camera with me (yet again); the Machinist would be riveted with pictures of my finds. Surely.

I began gathering the items and displayed them together on one of the tin roof sheets. Large stones (had someone been pegging the magpies and cockatoos?), broken glass from a bottle, many rusty screws with washers attached (why hadn't the roof repairer moved them?), a long, pointy nozzle applicator for a tube of silicone, a paint brush handle (no bristles attached), a rusty tin lid, an electric switch box, pieces of electric chord, scattered balls of magpie regurgitation, a vignette of moss covered chicken bones (I think they're chicken bones, but I've often been wrong about these matters), and larger, more fossilised bones.

"What the....?"

I had been so consumed with my treasure hunt that I hadn't realised how close I was to the front awning, stretching over the old petrol bowsers and supporting the huge sign which reads
R E S T A U R A N T (and will one day soon read M E T A L S M I T H E R Y).

More on this tomorrow, for tonight, my lids are closing.... Please stay tuned.

Settlement and the Septic Systems

2008-07-02T21:54:00.008+10:00

At last, settlement has taken place.

We are now owners of an unused petrol station - known as the Old Roadhouse, on a section of road which has been by-passed from the main highway for well over 15 years. Travellers still love to take the detour, though. Perhaps it breaks the monotony of highway driving, as they enter our small town, follow the main road and exit further along, back on to the highway. Or, perhaps they have a warped fettish to be embroiled in a scene like something from "The Hills Have Eyes".

Either way, venture into our small town and be lucky if you get out the other end... we will keep you here....

Snigger snigger... snort...

The Old Roadhouse (soon to be known as "Metalsmithery", but we sometimes refer to it as "the shop") comprises of a large gallery, a 16 metre commercial kitchen (gutted), an old cool room which still has ancient wooden panels, dark and dingy store rooms, a kitchen once used by the truckies (who travelled through our town when the old bridge was stronger and could take the truck weight), male and female toilets and a three bedroom cottage attached.

Did I just say "toilets"?

Since our takeover, we've bashed down mould infested walls, replaced broken windows, ripped a bathroom and kitchen apart, hacked down 10 years of undergrowth (in the cottage garden alone), removed trailer loads of rubbish, cleaned toilets, chain sawed old trees, ...

What? What was that? Toilets?

10 years of non cleaning, non disinfecting, non flushing toilets seem to have been the reason for my existence during the past couple of days. Indigent toilets and grease traps and septic tanks. Indigent of regular water flushes, and suction maintenance performed by our trusty A1 Cleaning man, Bob.

Bob is a force to be reckoned with. He has a huge red truck with a huge tank fitted on the back of the truck and a huge hose attached to the side of the tank. Bob stores his "working gear" on the side of his truck, but wears the same hat in and outside of the cabin. His winter beanie hat reads "Same Shit Different Day".

Sorry about that swear word, but it's just so fitting, 'cos that's what Bob has to deal with. Every day. It doesn't bother him, though, as he is just so pleasant and sports a good attitude at all times. Even when the wind and rain laces his face while loading his pumps, he is passionate about his vocation in life and will gladly explain the process of "sludge", "water" and "crust" to any who will hear.

It's me I worry about, though. What a sad state of affairs when one refers to one's septic tanks with pet names because one has spent quality time getting to know them. Helping to lift their lids, carting water while Bob stirs the sludge and suctions it out, as well as devising a plan to eradicate the Old Plum Tree's roots which have found their way into the dark depths of the tank's bellies.

"Motherload", "Sister Act" and "Cus"

Help! I need a life!

Progress

2008-05-22T22:50:00.004+10:00

The annual Pumpkin Festival is over and the house is getting back to normal.

Sort of.

The pantry is fuller, as are the fridges. The frozen meat storage supply is dwindling, which means that we've actually had home-cooked meals once again. The Machinist is happy.

Autumn leaves have been raked from the front garden, carted to the back garden and recycled as blankets for harvested and weeded vegetable plots which have been - well - put to bed for the winter. Fruits have been salvaged and stored in crates before being ravaged by birds and insects. Other fallen and rotten fruit has been scooped up and removed. The Machinist is happy.

Ample laundry bins are now empty. Mount 'Fold Me' has disappeared and the whole family have wardrobes and drawers full of clothing they didn't know they had. There's no longer a need to go searching for something to wear in the chill of the early morning. The Machinist is happy.

The office 'IN' tray looks lonely and yet the file cabinet bulges with delight. Accounts are in order. The phone is silent. The Machinist is happy.

The purchase of property is moving ahead and settlement takes place in early June. Metalsmithery is now more than a dream. It IS REALITY.

The Machinist is happy.

Hand Tools

2008-03-17T23:16:00.004+11:00

It's almost time to advertise our new business "MetalSmithery", and the Machinist and Number One Son are busy with plans on what type of metal designs they will make for the launch. It's important to always stay at least two to three months ahead of time and work on items relevant to specific holidays, seasons and up and coming event themes that aren't happening now, but in the near future. I learned this from many homemaking and country magazines that the Young Ladies and I read. For instance, the editors and staff work on Christmas topics and themes in October. Or summer fun and lots of outdoor eating and decorating in September.

It's my job to send photos, artwork and logos to the company who are busy building our website, and I find this very challenging, because I can't think 'creative' while I'm busy thinking and applying 'practical' to the here and now. I've realised, with chagrin, how underskilled I am at doing several things at once. A friend once declared that '...all mothers can do several things at once....'. I had to enlighten her to the fact that this particular mother could not. Fact is, I never could. I'm an all or nothing type of girl.

But you know - I try. I really do.

The Machine Shop has been steaming hot, as we have no insulation. The Machinist keeps both of the roller doors open for maximum breeze and air circulation. I am horrified at this, because I always have images of pesky brown snakes slithering in when we aren't looking! The cats and the puppies venture in and out all day long. They like to be with us, but ... well.... when the temperatures soar, they don't like to be with us that much, and they return to the cool of the plum or quince tree.

It was on one such hot day that I attempted to take my own photos of the Machine shop. I gathered some of the Machinist's HAND tools of trade, spread them out on a welding-splattered iron bench and proceeded to take the shots, trying to be really creative by using settings on the digital camera that I've never used before. One in particular called "Collections". I don't know if it's much different to the regular setting I use. I sent some to the Webmaster, so that he could spin his magic. (Thanks, Vent - www.ivent.com.au )

I'm waiting for the results and will post here when all is done...

Walking the Puppies

2008-03-11T22:15:00.005+11:00

This is Bobby.....

And this is Polly .......

The Machinist made them a recherche ground floor apartment, situated under the back deck. Now that there is a nip in the air, the 'puppies', as we still call them, aren't too eager to leave their cosy kennel and throw themselves at the back door, (as they usually do in the morning) in an attempt to gain entry into the kitchen. Instead, they wait until they hear the sliding door open, scramble out of their blankies and race to the open door. They won't come in until invited, though, as that would be thoroughly bad manners.

The Machinist positions me at the front door. I hold it wide open, and hide behind it. Then, he opens the back door, greets the puppies, (who are at this stage yelping with excitement) and tells them "walkies". They race through the kitchen, then through the front room and straight out of the front door, where they suddenly slam on their paw-brakes.

"Where's the mistress?" they seem to ask, looking around the front garden for me.

The puppies are just too cute, and I can't stand it any more, so I step outside and fuss them, while the Machinist clips their leashes onto their collars.

It's usually around 6.45am when we go walking. There is a thick line of mist at the bottom of the range, while the top is burned amber. There is dampness in each breath we take. The smell of ripe berries on hawthorn bushes fills the air. Neighbourhood dogs bark as we pass their territories. Garrulous cockatoos are common, early morning rioters. A daring rabbit crosses our path, and the puppies begin to tug....

The Machinist tightens his grip on their leashes.

We arrive at the oval. Time for the puppies to be let loose and race against each other. Bobby is unclipped first, and he goes for a pee in the same place each day. Polly copies him, determined to have the upper hand. As Bobby takes off, Polly barks at him, as if she's reprimanding him to slow down, or to let her go first. Bobby ignores her, and begins to race around the perimeter of the oval. Polly chases him, running as fast as her short, stocky legs will carry her. Suddenly, she trips over a large sod of grass, and her chin slides along the hard, compact earth. Only for a microsecond, though.

Yes, Polly is really determined.

The rest of the morning walk is usually uneventful, as the puppies are wet from the morning dew (they despise being wet), tired and panting. The Machinist lets them off a little before our driveway. Bobby does his usual pee, Polly copies him, then they race to the house.

And the winner is.......

Bobby!

Musical Distractions

2008-03-06T22:34:00.007+11:00

This is a pic of my dear Da on my son's drums. He and mam had come to visit for the day and just after lunch, while the Responsible Adults were chatting around the kitchen table, Number One Son started pelting on his musical instruments.

Drums. Guitar. Drums. Guitar. First a blast from one, then the other.

Not wanting to miss out on the fun and the action, Grandpa left the table, walked down the corridor and poked his head around his grandson's bedroom door, knocking half heartedly, while already propping his right foot between said door and doorframe. Then, he was in the room, with drumsticks in hand, still musing how much he prefered the Uke to any other instrument. He began to ra-ta-ta-ta on the drum, now and again clashing the cymbals with a mere flick of the wrist, while all the time, sporting a cat-eating-cream look on his face.

Not long into the jamming session with his grandson, Grandpa was left aghast, as Granny, having moved stealthily and swiftly across the room, gently took the drumsticks from her dearly beloved's hands and proceeded to have her turn at the set;

Here she is thrashing it out with Number One Son.

Note that granny has one of the girls' black aprons on. She won't work in the kitchen without it, so we make sure there are plenty of aprons in the drawers when Granny visits. We're getting a little worried now, though, as Granny's distraction is evident; she'd rather have fun with instruments than kitchen duty.

Sheesh, what's this world coming to?

The Machinist is Having an Affair

2008-02-26T00:09:00.001+11:00

The Machinist is having a love affair with the secretary. It’s true. He can’t keep his eyes off her. She walks into the machine shop, and he stops what he is doing. Sometimes, when he is welding, he will detect her perfume (White Linen, Estee Lauder) and suddenly, cut the arc, reaching for his welding helmet to lift up the visor. He confides in his workmates that the secretary is really ‘hot’. He also confides that he gets the secretary to sit on his knee in the office. Fortunately, his workmates are diligent to remind him that the office door has glass in it and that they can see right in. The Machinist says he is the luckiest, most blessed man alive to have a love affair at work, in the tranquil setting of the Australian countryside…

A Random Day in the Life of the Machinist's Wife

2008-02-18T10:31:00.012+11:00

I wake up, and go to the bathroom. On the way back to the bedroom, the Machinist asks "Would you like a cup of tea, Doll?" To which I reply, "yes, please". Get dressed. Return to the kitchen. The YA YA YAs have started putting raisin bread into the toaster. There's a bit of discussion about the health and taste benefits of ground coffee beans in espresso as opposed to instant coffee.

The Machinist and middle daughter have the last of the coffee beans. (First up, first served). Eldest daughter and number one son settle for instant coffee.

The toasted raisin bread pops up, and number one son starts to butter his piece. We sit together at the kitchen table. The ladies are dressed in overalls, for a hard day in the workshop. Pretty hair combs and red lipstick, with blue logo workshirts and metal capped boots.

The workshop crew leave the kitchen. "Have a nice day at the office, dears". I can't help myself.

I load up the faithful old Simpson washing machine and turn it on. Then, moving quickly through the front room and the family room, picking up, making neat, fluffing cushions, taking away used dishes from last night. Open all the curtains, and windows throughout the living areas. The lace instantly billows with the gentle and (gratefully) cool breeze.

Then outside to fetch the washing in off the washing line, leaving it ready for the day's load.

When the washing machine is full, on goes the second-hand commercial dishwasher, which the Machinist INSISTED I have. I gather the dishes from around the kitchen, scrape them and stack them, ready for their turn in the stainless steel box of diluted bleach, power-spray fury. With each basket load, I challenge myself. Dry and pack away, as well as reload spare basket before wash cycle is complete. I win every time!
Washing machine finishes cycle. I put another load on, then peg out clean clothes.
Counter tops now clear and disinfected, I begin making bread. Two loaves today, as Iwill be in the city tomorrow. Number one son comes in, searching for food. He's always hungry. I promise to make him more toast, and to take it out to him. I start that straight away, as I know that production is low when stomachs are low.
While the bread is rising, I take a plate of hot buttered toast out to the workshop. The Machinist is delighted "We didn't have breakfast that long ago...", he muses, as he takes the thickest piece of toast off the plate. I go into the office and check for any business emails while I am in the machine shop. None. The pesky fax machine is still playing up. It won't receive. It will scan, print, copy, send, but not receive. Is it a telephone line or equipment problem? Note to self: try another angle on the fax machine problem. It has to be sorted. This is a business.
Back in the kitchen, I note that the first rising of the bread is complete. The dough is punched, split and rolled into four balls; two for each bread pan. More rising time.
Another load in the washing machine. More clothes to hang outside.
Bread goes in the oven. As it bakes, I chop mushrooms, squares of real butter and add to pan (Jamie forever!).

I then chop green and red capsicums and onions. They go in another pan with olive oil.

Both pans put on high, then turned down to low.

Whisked eggs are added to the capsicum and onion pan and left on low heat.

I carve the bread, but it's 'doughy' in the middle so I have to toast it.

While the bread is toasting, I go out to the front of the workshop and see oldest daughter cleaning stainless steel products. She sees me. I point to the house.
She turns to the rest of the crew. "Lunch!" she cries
BREAK
Lunch is over, there are dishes to wash, but I really need to hang out more washing.
The Machinist hopes to finish early today, as we are going into the city to pick up second daughter's first car from a migrant family staying in a motel who are leaving the country on Wednesday. Before we go, I have to prepare business papers and summaries, along with application forms for our accountant. I also have to write a few business letters. After we pick up the car, the Machinist will be driving said car back home, along with number one son. Middle daughter and I will be taking our second lesson in Italian.
Areva derci!

Country Roads, Take Me Home...

2008-02-17T22:59:00.009+11:00

This is what the highway looks like as we travel home from the city......

To the left of this picture, are a series of vineyards, draped over the hillside. The bushes on the right were 'sprayed' on to the nature strip, which divides the two double-laned highways. When the road was first built, the nature strip and sides of the road were sprayed with a pink mixture. From this grew a variety of native shrubs, and these are what we can see today.

Ever since the new highway has been built, a lot of our area is flooded out in flash rainfalls. The land is so flat and low; that is why it is called the "Southern Tablelands" of New South Wales.

This is the view of our road, just as you turn off the highway....

Further down the road, towards our tiny village.

Another shot of the home road...

This bridge dates back to the 1880's. "It is safer to drive on the right hand side of the bridge", my dear dad insists (as it appears here). "The termites have eaten most of the support poles on the left hand side". He should know - he's been under there, camera in hand, shooting close ups of the crawlers!

This is the creek which runs under the bridge, as well as the back of our garden. Ibis, ducks and pelicans love to hang about at the local creek!

The Young Adults use the trip home as a chance to catch up on a bit of light reading.

Country Life

2008-02-15T17:29:00.006+11:00

As I sit and type, I can hear the mechanical grinding and clanging of an old, but trusty slasher, dodging the many pot-holes as it cuts the grass in the paddock next door to our house.

The thing I love so much about the country is the way one can barter, or perform favours, and often – well – just do something for someone because you want to. Such is the case with one of our locals – Michael, the guy doing the slashing. The Machinist had offered to pay him to cut the grass in our paddock. “What makes you think I want to charge you?” Michael asked.

“I’m used to paying”, the Machinist responded.

I have to chuckle, because every now and then, the slasher blades will hit a high point and it sounds like Mother bashing the gong to call her children home for lunch. Sometimes, it seems that odd items actually ‘grow’ in the long grass next door. Items that were probably lost long ago seem to surface after so many years and present themselves, proudly and nobly, just as a set of sharpened mechanical blades happen to whir over them.

So far, we’ve found and old whistle, numerous medicine, beer, and apothecary bottles, a man’s bracelet ( a human-looking bone was unearthed next to the bracelet), old tins, animal skulls, rusty tools, bricks, thick, wooden fence stumps (that weren’t there at the last Cutting of the Grasses) and oil / petrol cans.

Logistics

2008-02-08T23:16:00.005+11:00

Pumpkin Seeds for Sale:

These past few days have been abounding with arrangements for the annual Village Pumpkin Festival, which attracts over 5000 people to our tiny (200 resident) hamlet. What do they call arrangements nowadays? Logistics? I have seen that word splashed around regulary (and wondered what it meant) on copious amounts of business brochures, and even as paid advertising on the sides of huge trucks that we overtake on the highway as we drive into the city.

(Logistics. Sounds quite technical really. Hmmmm... the logistics of housekeeping? Now that's something I'm proficient at. Ask the Machinist).

When I volunteered as secretary to the Festival, I thought I would be typing up letters, agendas and minutes of meetings. Little did I know back in October 2007 that I would be shopping for groceries, decorations, stationary, organising caterers, taking bookings for bashes and balls, banking, calculating profit and losses, debating risk assessments, conferring with council men, refereeing committee members, nursing hurt egos, taking bookings for stall holders, coordinating stall holders, smoothing stall holders' squabbles,

What was that?

Smoothing stall holders' squabbles?

Letters to Stall Holders:

(and all she ever wanted was happy Punkin People.....)

BLACKBERRIES; THE EATING KIND

2008-02-04T23:19:00.001+11:00

Each year, my mam asks me when we are going blackberry picking. As a child, she picked blackberries with her sisters, and ate more there in the brambles and undergrowth than she took home to her mam. My nan would always know, though, as the girls came home with blue fingertips, or blue lips, or tiny seeds caught in their teeth.

Mam still loves to go picnicking and picking fruit. While my dad was away in Yorkshire, and later Hong Kong, mam often took us on walks. Golden Gates, Elvaston Castle, Borrowash Dam. Those are the destinations I remember the most. Mam would lug bags of food and drink for the five of us, while periodically ordering "get down off there", or "hold Gary's hand", or "Stop fighting!" or "hurry up". And all the time she had one eye on us, she had the other eye on the hedgerows. Scanning the countryside, searching frantically for blackberry bushes, not wanting to stop, otherwise we would all stop, and it would be hard and tiring to get us all moving again.

Years later, the contageous blackberry picking fever has been passed on. Her grandchillens go blackberry picking too. In Australia, a blackberry bush is a 'noxious weed'. It gets poisoned. The park rangers spray poisons on the blackberry bushes. In the supermarkets, we pay $7 for a punnet of sprayed, noxious weed blackberries.

Not today though. For today, we have organic blackberries by the bowl full. Thanks to the YA YA YAs who went picking in the rain...Getting their faces distorted in the brambles, and coming home with dermographic hands... Resulting in this bounty:

Mmmmmmm.......

Mmmmmm.........some mmmmmmore...........

Thinking of you, my mam!

PS - Promise I will save you some. Promise.

Riding in Cars with the Machinist

2008-02-03T00:41:00.002+11:00

The time has come for our middle Young Adult to buy her first car. When asked what car she would like, she answers “a red one, preferably automatic. Oh, and it must have air conditioning”.
The weather forecast predicted that it would be cooler, with drizzle. Instead, hot, hot sun, bright and high in the sky. Walking from car yard to car yard, made our shoes smell like the rubber on the parked car tyres themselves. For a couple of car yard inspections, I remained in our car, reading the motor sale ads in the paper. Not many of these ads ended up circled, as price almost always dictates what car most of us will end up with.

I reflected on what extent of subterfuge some car dealers used to make sales. On one occasion, we entered a more popular car yard, checked out the best in stock around the front, and then moved to the back where the cheaper, first car owner’s prospective purchases were parked. Not even Tweety, Lighty, or Twiggy could have squeezed between them, so tightly were they crammed together. (What’s with that mindset? If customers can’t get to see the cars, touch them, sit in them, twizzle the steering wheel, pump the clutch, move the sun visor and play with the buttons, how will they be sold?)

As we were leaving said establishment, a young cocky salesman accosted us.

“See anything you like, Sir?” he asks the Machinist. The Machinist, pre-occupied with checking out older styled cars, muttered “We’re just looking, thanks”

“What were you looking for in particular?”

“A small, preferably automatic car and it must have air conditioning”. The Machinist was too much of a woos to tell him it had to be red. Men don’t bother about the colour of a car. Two out of three. Not bad.

An older, sun scorched prune of a man, with an enormous cowboy hat on his head interrupted “You’ve got two chances of finding a small, automatic car: Zero and Buckleys” he uttered, in a legendary Aussie drawl.

Zero and Buckleys? Zero and Buckleys? Nah. Sounded too much like a chain store. Angus and Robertson. Marks and Spencers. Pick and Pay. My mind wandered..... So did my feet – swiftly off the property. Even if they had a red, automatic, economical, small car with air conditioning for $100, I knew I wouldn’t buy it there.

The Machinist obviously felt the same way. He caught up with me. “Did you hear that, Doll? Zero and Buckleys? I knew straight away I wouldn’t buy anything from them. Just that attitude puts me off. They looked like they’ve just arrived in town from the farm”.

No disrespect to farmers. We really appreciate all they do, and how undervalued they are, but these guys didn’t seem to have an idea about customers, discretion, older model cars, and the plight of a young adult looking for her first car. I constantly find it amusing, though, – the way in which we sort of call people names or use (sometimes derogatory) statements about them when they don’t do or say or behave like we would like them to do or say or behave.

Feeling really hot and bothered and fed up and and and and about ready to beg the Machinist to take me for a coffee, and not wanting to look at another car for the next ten years, I suddenly felt revitalised; for there it was – in all it’s classic glory and splendour; a Jaguar. A white one. I knew it was a Jag, not because I’m a boffin at identifying cars, but rather that I love the classics. (After all, my dad had worked for Rolls Royce in Derby, England, as a coded welder).

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” asked the salesman, from his shelter under one of those enormous canvas umbrellas, wiping his dripping face with a white piece of towel. “Would you like to take it for a test drive?”

By this time, the Machinist had joined me. His eyes turned into Betty Davis eyes and became glassy. The Machinist isn’t a man of many words; his body does the talking. It took Zero and Buckleys persuasion to slither into the Jaguar, inhale the fragrance of aged dashboard, engage the chromed, slender gear into the ‘D’ slot, and drive away. I had this insane split second thought to just drive away and not return the classic piece, but fortunately, it was just that; a split second thought. Insane. The Machinist pulled over and ordered me into the driver’s seat. “You look like you belong there, Doll. It suits you. You suit the car”. Great! Old and classic.

The next few minutes were oblivion, as I took my turn behind the imitation wood, small wheel with power steering. I can’t remember much about that short drive at all, other than the fact that we seemed to float down the side streets of the industrial area. I wanted this car. I wanted it bad...

On our reluctant return, Mick the Irish born salesman, (we were now on a first names basis. It’s common in Australia) kept the engine running a while. “Listen to it purr”.

It wasn’t a purring sound, it was more like the snarl of a lactating lioness. Deep, gutsy and throaty. No convincing necessary.

“If we bought this car, it would be pure indulgence. You don’t even consider fuel saving with something like this”, the Machinist declared.

I know. I want it. I still want it. It’s all about me. Machinist, if you’re reading this, I want it.

And what of the middle child’s first new car? Wasn’t that our priority for the day? What chance did the poor girl have once we clapped eyes on the Jaguar?

Zero and Buckleys.

Productive Production

2008-02-01T00:09:00.000+11:00

The Machinist and the YA YA YA's have been extremely productive. They have been welding, cleaning, buffing and polishing stainless steel frames for a local kitchen fabrication company These frames are referred to 'sleigh frames'. It's monotonous work, but someone's got to do it. I find if there is joking and larikan-ing around, it helps. Not too much, mind you, otherwise the YA YA YAs could get carried away. Everything's competitive. The Machinist hates to leave his post in the welding bay, as he doesn't want the others to be ahead of him. The YA YA YAs have their own inter-sibling competitions, too. It is quite the study on human nature, although sometimes, the competition isn't human!

During the morning coffee break, I took a few close-ups of the Machinist hard at work. He shouldn't have been working, as his coffee was going cold, and the froth was 'dying' as his daughters call it. They should know; they're both baristas. I just love to watch the Machinist at work, and I especially love it when he welds. It's the sparks, you see. They're mesmerising. The Machinist, aware of my looming presence always tells me not to stare at the arc, as it gives you 'welder's eye'. I assure him that it's not me looking at the arc, but the camera.

I move over to the YA YA YA's, who are debating who is going fast, who can't keep up, who does the best finish on stainless steel. Blah blah blah. I ask them to pose for the camera (not me, the camera. The camera with character!) They oblige, and each of them grab a sleigh frame, hold it up, single-handedly, and frame their faces.

The Machinist and I - we love putting the YA YA YAs to work!

Meat Pies Part 2

2008-01-30T23:08:00.001+11:00

We didn't have to be in Australia long (a weekend) to find out that it's national food is meat pies. Usually, with tomato sauce. In the early years of life here, tomato sauce was handed out freely with the purchase of a meat pie. Nowadays, tomato sauce is extra. Consuming a meat pie in Australia, put simply, is simply a messy affair. I don't think anybody can work out how to correctly open a sachet of tomato sauce. No matter how much you think you've got each brand, each packaging mastered, you're proven wrong. Crumbs and stains and a facial essence of vinegar, with shreds of flesh on the side (of your teeth!).

Raising little Aussies the right way is teaching them to eat (and love to eat) meat pies. It's tradition. I taught them young. On one particular occasion:

"Could I have four steak and kidney pies, please?"
"Would you like sauce with that?" (we all know she meant tomato sauce. No need to clarify)
"Yes please"
"Help yourself to serviettes" (she knew the mess they would make)

With that last instruction, I loaded one child with two pies, another with same and the third with tomato sauce, knives and forks (even though I knew they wouldn't be used. It's polite to take the cutlery, even though we all know any self respecting pie lover would not use it). I then grabbed sixty serviettes and directed the chillens to a table outdoors.

It was cold and windy and the table was wobbly. Serviettes were flying away quicker than I could tuck them into tops, or place them on laps, or lodge them under plates. A toy had been left somewhere on a previous errand and this was causing extreme woe and somebody needed to pee. NOW.

I began relating a story, to distract the luncheoners. A story about a man in England who would bake the most delicious pies. My mam had told me this story years ago. I couldn't remember the whole story. Just the gory bits. I related how this man would creep out at night, find some unsuspecting victims, kill them, take them home, chop them up, mince them up, stew them, put pastry on top of them and bake them.

Their eyes grew large, as they caught their breath....

"Did people eat the pies, mummy?"

"Oh yes, they would eat them and think they were so yummy and go back for more and more"

"They ATE the pies with people in them?"

"Yes, they ate them and this man who made the pies became very rich"

My middle daughter screwed up her face and looked down at her plate containing the partly broken pie with a trickle of gravy oozing out of the pastry shell. I knew she wouldn't be eating lunch that day.

"What happened?"

"Well, somebody was eating a pie and they found a finger in the pie".

All together now "Yuuuuukkkkkkk".

It was a long time before middle daughter ate another pie. Today, however, she is a self confessed meat lover. Oh, and she actually watched Sweeny Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street, without even a flinch.

Nor is she scarred for life.

Go Aussie!!

Meat Pies Part 1

2008-01-29T21:13:00.001+11:00

We discovered Alpha pies during the first year of our marriage. We seldom afforded them, but when we could, we splashed out and bought two pies AND a custard tart - to share. Alpha pies were always memorable; they were made with the tenderest steak (no gristle or giblets), and the chunkiest pieces of kidney. I was never sure what type of animal donated the kidney, but I knew it wasn't chicken kidneys. One chunk would have been a whole chicken kidney, and chicken kidneys were not square.

Alpha pies were made with puff pastry, which would always crumble and end up on my 'breastlplate'. Flakes that didn't end up ON my breastplate, would end up BETWEEN my breasts.

The buttery pastry would always stain my clothes, too. There was no chance of sneaking and scoffing an Alpha pie on my own; the Machinist always found out, and I was convinced in those early years of getting to know him that he was psychic. His knowledge of my solo pie eating extravaganza would almost - well - anger him .

When you bit into the Alpha pie, the meaty, herby gravy (sage, perhaps? Definitely cracked pepper...) would trickle down your chin and dollop onto your top. There was no way of stopping this, nor did you care to stop it; devouring the pie was all consuming; there was no stopping or saving some till later. Once the first bite was taken, it was sound doctrine to finish it.

Word travelled fast and Alpha Bakery soon became famous and made a killing on their steak and kidney pies. They made other scrumptious pastries too, but the savoury pies were the money spinner. Visitors from far and wide would stop and stock.

Alpha Bakery and Alpha pies were happy times, and our relationship lasted for many years.

Not long before we left town (and the country), we noticed that the quality of Alpha pies was deteriorating. During mastication the steak would be rubbery, gristle-y and giblet-y! The pie was also void of kidneys. We would joke that you never quite knew what was IN the pies. Each one was different, had a different texture, a different amount of meat, a different type of meat.....
The situation with Alpha Bakery, like a lot of other aspects of the country at that time (1986), was more fodder that fed the conviction to migrate to the "Land of Milk and Honey"

Hands, Knees and Oops-A-Daisy

2008-01-28T00:10:00.002+11:00

"Doll, - quick! Quick", urged the Machinist, as I was about to cook him some 'just done' scrambled eggs. I ran through (yes, you read that right - ran) to the front room, extremely aware and cautious of our front door being unlocked. (At at any given time, young or old homo sapiens have entered, without so much as a knock).

I gingerly lifted the lace curtain, not wanting anybody to see it move, as I was STILL in my silky slumber number.....

The sounds of merriment and clapping (albeit out of rhythm. The clapping, that is) were evident before I caught sight of what was occuring. Then I saw pillar box red 'something-ma-bobbies' doing just that; bobbing up and down. Mid morning sun was bright and it took a time to focus....

The Machinist, on my request, took some pics to show you. Here's four of our virile local lads, pleasantly (you should have seen them jig) ENDURING a photo shoot in all the habiliment of days gone by. They've written a song about our village (once rampant with bushrangers - some more notorious than others, some just plain mean) and this was their chosen publicity gig.

Watch this space for updates and news concerning our very own celebrated, song-writing, shimmying quatro....

Australia Day 2008

2008-01-26T18:35:00.001+11:00

Australia's National Flag

In 1901, the Commonwealth of Australia was formed. Until this time, Australia used Britain's flag, the Union Jack. A competition was held to find the design for our own flag. Five designers shared the prize because they came up with similar ideas for our flag.

In the top left hand corner is the Union Jack. This shows that Australia is part of the British Commonwealth. Beneath the Union Jack is a large white star with seven points. The points represent the six states and the territories. Originally this star had six points. The seventh point, for the territories was added in 1908.

On the right hand side are the stars of the Southern Cross. The southern Cross was chosen because it can always be seen in the Australian sky at night.

Communication

2008-01-25T10:33:00.001+11:00

The Machinist and I had terrible “words” this morning. Over something silly, of course. Like the PHONE. I’ve asked the Machinist on many occasion that if I receive a call, to please take the number of the caller, or a message. I don’t expect the Machinist to – well – leave his machines and come and look for me, just to hand me the phone. I could be anywhere on the home block, and hiding and seeking could easily break his momentum – and – gasp – motivation. Being the good guy he is, it isn’t often that he’s done as I’ve asked in this regard, and continues to call me / look for me when the phone rings for me. It’s not often that I receive calls via our business phone. I always request email contact, or I give my mobile number, as not to disturb the smooth running of the workshop and those who work therein.

I was going through pictures of our workshop on hard drive, with the aim of selecting some for this blog and our new Metalsmithery website. The Machinist came through the door, phone in hand..

“It’s ....... for you from ......”

“Can you take a message for me?”, I asked. This was sort of pushing it with the Machinist, because he had left his momentum behind in the workshop, passed the distractions of our pet Cockatoo, Bucko calling from his cage, almost legged over the two ‘shadow dogs’, fell into the front door to make his way to me and my HP Touchsmart. But... I hadn’t thought of all his trevail when I asked this of him. I was just so miffed that this person had phoned, after I had asked for email contact, and I hadn’t even had the chance to consult with the Machinist about the issue. Email gives one TIME to THINK. Phone communication doesn’t.

The Machinist got mad. I got mad and then I cried. The Machinist went back outside...

Later, I heard his footsteps in the house again (I know each family member’s footsteps. I know the pace they take, the pressure they put down on their feet...). Suddenly, I could see him out of the corner of my eye, and not ready to talk with him, I kept my eyes focussed on the screen. I saw his hand slide onto the desk and deposit something next to the mouse.

“Here’s something to keep you company”, he said, and then he was gone.....

Did I tell you how much I love the Machinist?

TEMPERED STEEL

Tempered steel

in furnace burns

golden crimson fire

beaten bandied

folded too

emerging stronger yet.

So must our love be tried

furnaces fired

with passions belows

tested

tempered

tried again

emerging unbreakable.

A worthy life long quest.

~ F Michael Sigler ~

Garden Tour Part 2

2008-01-24T07:41:00.001+11:00

More clearing of the hard drive....

This is the view from the back fence, (which the Machinist has cemented into the ground, to prevent snake invasion. We get Tiger and Brown snakes in this area). I just love the trees; they remind me of 'tree prophets of old'. They've probably got a lot to say, if they could talk. We're told, by knowledgeable environmentalists, that salt (yes, salt) did this to them. Apparently, salt rose to the surface and killed the roots.

Another view from the back fence. This is looking into the willows, where there was once (many moons ago) a piggery. I wouldn't mind that now. Imagine.... little piglets running around. "Babe, Babe, where are you?"

Raspberry canes, dancing with apples...

Looking up into the Ballerina apple. The branches are so heavy with fruit - hence - the peek into the sky.

Eldest daughter's artwork. We didn't know what to do with it, so we put it in the garden. Looks sort of creepy, like a shrine or something. I'ts not meant to be. Although... seeing those apples that the cockatoos rejected (John West trained them well), makes one think of sacrifice. Yikes!

Fig tree. We planted two. One thrived, the other is being rather lazy. Reminds me of Eden...

This rose cost me $5. It was established, in a pot, but I didn't know what colour it would be. So glad it turned out like this. Delightful. I'm told that this particular rose is called "Peace". Peace.

Some more of the half eaten and wasted apples, semi-raked together for pickup, before the pesky fruit fly attacks. From one pest (cockatoo) to another....

Nashi pears. Have you ever tried one? They are so utterly juicy. You get a river of Babylon running down your jowls when you bite into them.

This is the garden in the middle of the orchard. Somewhere in there, is a crimson rose. Somewhere in there are lavender and rosemary bushes. Somewhere in there are lots of marbles that Number One Son and - ahem - others catapulted, in efforts to rid the trees of thieves (Australian birds).

Oh, there's many more photos of the garden, in different stages. Rather overwhelming, though, for those who haven't got one green limb (nor an inclination to own one) in their body.

Garden Tour Part 1

2008-01-23T23:05:00.001+11:00

I've wanted to show you our garden for a while now. A dear friend reminded me the other day to still stop and smell the roses in between all the busy-ness of having a business at home and a family to rear. I had recently been out to take photos of the garden, walking through the "lanes" and "arbours", "tunnels" and "walks". Quite timely to put them here for you to see.

One of several plum trees. I planted these trees in such haste on a drizzly September day, that I forgot to take note of each species. There are multiple lists of plantings in my "Garden" folder, all smudgy and muddy, and I'm supposed to know each of them, but if I don't keep the lable, I'm lost. Both of my daughters and the Machinist have this thing about keeping lables on any type of merchandise. They say it's uncouth and looks dastardly. I'm mindful of this, and was obviously super mindful of this when I planted multiple trees several years ago. Dork.

This is one of the white grapes, interplanted with a fennel, which has gone to seed. I love it when plants go to seed. Except weeds. I planted one red grape bush, one white grape bush. One red grape bush, one white grape bush - all along the pathway which runs the length of the Workshop. The fennel plant just sprung up out of nowhere. I didn't PUT it there. It just grew. I really like the way it look, though. And the way it smells. Each time I use the side door I can't help plucking some of the ferny-type of leaves from the thick stems and rubbing them between my fingers. Reminds me of Bassets Licorice Allsorts...

Aaaah... Our very first season of pears! I had promised the two pear trees (a pair of pears), that if they didn't fruit this year (almost 10 years of my patience!), up they come. Obviously, they listened, and although there are only a few pears, there are - well - still pears. And I love them for it...

Here's where the grapes entangle themselves with the damsons. Whispy rogue tendrils wrap themselves around the damson branches before I can stop them and train them to take another route. The damsons don't seem to mind, though. Maybe they like the cuddles?

Faithful, oh so faithful quinces! How I appreciate thee... By the way, your jelly is scrumptious. Maybe not so sweet next time.

I well remember the day I prepped and prepared the herb garden. Barrows full of festy manure and loads of flies buzzing around my head and sweat pouring down my back and a hot, red face. I hate sweating. After a fortnight, (time enough for the amonia to break down), I planted seedlings of all the culinary herbs we use in the kitchen. The Machinist had cut several 10cm pieces of white polypipe to surround the herbs (so the snails wouldn't get at them). They took ages to actually look like they would survive. Probably because I over watered them on a regular basis. As you can see, survive, they did!

I don't know the name of this shrub and I planted three of them - very close together. They are so huge now, that they are competing with the rambling roses, to grow up and drape themselves over the arbor. Each morning, on his way to work, the Machinist has to walk sideways down "Rose Tunnel", as to avoid the onslought. Especially when it has been raining. He's wet through by the time he gets to work (less than a one minute walk), and contemplates returning to the house to change into something dry. (yeah, right) Other mornings, unidentified spiders have spun their webs and whoever passes through first, fights their way forward, arms outstretched bearing imaginary Panga knives, akin to those used by Dr Livingstone.

Another faithful "giver". The trusty crab apple tree, shown here in the forground with pink rambling roses to the side, and monstrous rhubarbe leaves in the background. Oh Crab Apple, you taste delicious in sweet and sour chutney.

Green plums. When can you tell if they are ripe?

Attention Seeking Men

2008-01-23T21:56:00.001+11:00

The Machinist and I love to have coffee together. The Three Young Adults love to have coffee with us, too. Even when they don't fancy a cup of coffee, they like to listen in on our conversations. They're nosey. There is constant competition between the Machinist and Number One Son (we call him this because when he was a baby, we bought him a bib which read: Number One Son. He's our third-born). As I was about to take a sip of coffee, Number One Son (NOS) walked into the school room (a room still called the "School Room", even though no school is held here), slightly crouched over to the left, and holding his left wrist with his right hand.

"Mam, have you got anything for burns?"

"What have you done?"

"I've burned myself with the welding rod..."

Then from the Machinist: "C'mon. C'mon, you're not soeking about a tiny burn. Are you?"

NOS had a cheeky smile on his face. "But it's SORE, Pappie"

"Huh, that time I burned the top of my leg, I didn't get one ounce of attention. From anybody. C'mon, get back to work and don't be such a baby!"

NOS ambles out of the schoolroom.

Then later, he returns with the first aid kit and an ice pack.

"Mam, do me a favour? Would you tie a bandage around the ice pack" he chuckles.

I'm not very good at fixing up sores and scrapes and burns and the result of this endeavour was a huge wadding of white, mummified wrapping around NOS's wrist, complete with an over-exaggerated bow. NOS disappears and returns within a few minutes.

"What did dad say?" I ask

"He's still moaning about the lack of attention he received when he burned himself and wants to know where I'm going now..."

Organising the Mosquito Mosque

2008-01-01T00:24:00.001+11:00

It's really strange 'cos you start blogging in one year, and end up in the next and the time just blends and you are oblivious as to whether you are writing in current or past tense!

Mam and I have been doing a lot of sorting. We emptied each and every bin in the schoolroom cupboard and made the *required* organising piles to give away or throw away. New labels were made for each bin and there is a great sense of satisfaction in an orderly storage system. You almost don't even want to put your hands on any of the items within the bins, lest you put them in disarray. We now have bins containing computer disks, files of guarantees for every appliance we own, sewing in progress, sewing notions, pumpkin festival information, household hardware (hooks, eyelets, tacks, nails, brackets etc), craft, paints and numerous other items.

While I thought mam and dad were sleeping the other night, they weren't. Their bedroom light was on at about one in the morning, so I went to see what was wrong. Mosquitos had invaded their room! Dad was frantically searching for bug spray, while mam was lashing out to squash any mosquitos in her reach. Eventually, we had to use the dreaded mosquito coils, and now, the whole corridor smells like a mosque!

Ahem... Mosquito Mosque....

Hey, happy new year!!!

Love

Helen

One More Day in 2007

2007-12-30T23:02:00.001+11:00

About a month before Christmas, the Machinist bought me a brand new computer. It's one of those large screen, HP Touchsmarts, with no bulky hard drive needing space on the desk. You just put a printer behind the computer and the documents actually come out what seems to be the 'mouth' of the flat hard drive, which is attached behind the actual screen. I still can't get over how fast it prints, and how cool it is to watch the A4 come out the said 'mouth', and on to the back of my hands WHILE I'M TILL TYPING. Really cool. As I'm typing, tiny summer gnats and flies are attracted to the bright screen, and as their tiny bodies touch the screen, it beeps. Sometimes, before I can scoot the midgies away, they've already switched screens for me. That's how sensitive it is. To think that such teeny tiny creatures could have a great affect on technology... I'll be typing then suddenly I'm on another web page, or the hyperlink box appears.

Mam and da are staying with us for a few days. It's mam's birthday tomorrow. 31st December. She says that her mam was always rushing and just managed to have her before the old year ended and the new year crept in. I so wanted to give my darling mam her birthday gift today, and she was thrilled about it, chuckling with delight (as she still does), but declined the offer to wait until morning. It's nearly 'morning' now, but mam is fast asleep in her comfy granny nightie. She says she still wears long sleeve nighties in summer, because then she doesn't have to have heavy duvets or blankets over her. Such a dear cock-bod!

I hope it's not too hot tomorrow. Mam and I will be sorting the schoolroom (loads of plastic bins in the cupboard to go through), and dad will probably be out in the workshop with the Machinist, scrounging some work off him. I hate that the Machinist has to work tomorrow, along with Middle Daghter and NOS, but it is a good feeling to have a lot of large projects lined up as we go into the new year.

I hope to see you tomorrow, but if we get too carried away sorting and organising, I wish you all the happiness for the new year!

Helen xoxoxoxo
PS I only recently learned what the xoxoxoxos are. They're hugs and kisses. How about that...

Christmas Time

2007-12-25T16:50:00.004+11:00

I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round, as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys.

~Charles Dickens

Merry Christmas to you and your precious families!

Happy Birthday to the Machinist!

2007-11-21T22:14:00.001+11:00

Happy Birthday to the Machinist!

20th November 2007

What a pity the Machinist had such a lot of work to finish on his birthday! Sweat on his brow, and determination on the rest of his face, he laboured on....and on, knowing that the project would very soon be finished. Each time the Machinist works on a large project, he has a saying; "I think I've found it. I've been looking for it, but I think I've found it", meaning that he has just finished manufacturing the last product for any particular customer's order.

The Machinist's birthday dinner was a braai with roast potatoes accompanied by a scrumptious side salad made from mixed lettuce, tomatoes, spanish onions and sliced apple - mostly from the garden, topped with 'Paul Newman's' salad dressing and hand made by the young ladies. A rhubarb, apple and custard tart followed this, but not straight after the main meal; oh no. The Machinist enjoys this type of treat later in the evening, and his birthday night was no different as he watched '300' on Box Office.

This is the way the Machinist and his family celebrate their special days; quiet and simple, yet more importantly - together.

Busy Punkin' Heads...

2007-11-20T22:08:00.002+11:00

The past few weeks have been long and tedious, and the manufacture of linen skips and their delivery to a local hospital has been gruelling for the Machinist and his family. 35 degree heat and working in a non-insulated workshop makes a lady ...ahem... more than glow; It gives her delicate skin the appearance of embers. Fortunately, there has been relief from the heat, as after lunch each day, the swimming pool (now perfectly 'chemicalised' with the right ph, sunfilter, chlorination etc) has had a delightful workout. The Machinist says that the daily dip cools down his 'core' and encourages his family to cool their cores, too.

During the course of hard labours borne in the workshop, the planning and organising of our Village's annual pumpkin festival has also been consuming time which we knew not that we had. Taking bookings for the Pumpkin Lovers' Christmas Bash, writing to prospective stallholders, meeting with prospective sponsors is extremely overwhelming, yet oh so necessary at this time, so that all is in place and working like a well-watered-and-manured pumpkin by Festival weekend in May 2008.

The Pumpkin Festival Blog is a sheer delight to update and is done so regularly, with a dash of quirkiness and a twist of pumpkin. Click here for the latest developments.....

The Brocante Home Puttery Treats Challenge

2007-11-18T00:06:00.001+11:00

Alison May of Brocante Home has put out a challenge to her readers! How can we resist? She wants us to select one (sigh...) of her "Puttery Treats" from a generously vast collection and... well... blog about it. The difficulty is; how can we select just one? They are all so tantalising and seducing....
I have chosen a few of Alison's Puttery Treats, because I couldn't make my mind up about just one. It is late spring here in Australia, but because I ADORE harvest time, I simply could not refrain from reminiscing Autumns past...

Thanks for the memories, Alison!

"Spend baking day this week filling your freezer with warming soups. Nothing is more homely than having a big vat of chunky vegetable soup on the go: the smell alone is enough to make you never want to leave the house. Serve with heavy multigrained homemade bread and lunch in the glow of candlelight".
This is where the ladies do all their cooking and baking. The Machinist made the stainless steel benches and they are wonderful to use. He bought the steel from a local second hand dealer, and was absolutely thrilled at the price! (Much less than he would have had to pay from a stainless steel supplier). The stove you can see holds at least five massive pots and the whole kitchen starts to look like a Turkish sauna when the soups and stews are bubbling away. In fact, it is quite risky business when any attempts to stir the soups are made, as the juices sometimes erupt up and onto the ladies' faces.
Horrrors!
All scraps from the peeled and tipped veg-a-buls go into the galvanised chicken bucket under the bench, and the hens love to peck and scratch these offerings (we're careful not to put any garlic / onion skins in there, as they are not good for hens). The puppies just know they're in for a treat when they smell the aroma of smoked bacon, and don't seem to mind a few appendages of burned mushy pea clumps stuck to the bones. Nothing goes to waste.
The Machinist and Favourite Son often comment that they can detect the smell of the soups from the workshop, and that it calls them home....
If a large portion of time has been spent on preparing and cooking the soups and stews, home-made bread is mixed and allowed to rise in the trusty bread making machine. But....it is one of life's simple pleasures, and so satisfying to hand knead and drop the raw, stretchy dough into old and somewhat rusty bread tins and watch the (oddly shaped) loaves rise in the oven.

"Harvest the apples on your trees and spend an afternoon making puree, chutneys and pies. Leave a basket in the garden for collecting the fruit".

When mam comes over to visit, she insists on taking a basket of apples home with her. She seldom takes the unblemished apples, but prefers those with nodules or tiny cankers, as they are "more tart" for her concoctions. It's the same with the plums, as she has her 'favourite' plum tree and persists that although it's branches are sparsely endowed, the tiny fruits still reign as palate champions.
This picture shows jars of apple sauce (for pork), cinnamon apple butter (for custard or when we fancy something sweet, straight from the pot), spicy apple chutney (delicious with bread and cheese) and curried apple chutney (no particular partner/s needed - it goes with everything). There's also jars of locally grown honey, transferred from huge tubs; ~ gifts from the Village Bee Keeper.
The fruit and vegetables are always collected in baskets, as we have many, and there is something so very 'country' about collecting a harvest in a basket. Sometimes, in really busy periods, we leave the fresh produce in the baskets, but later regret it when we discover that some of the fruits have matured too quickly and spread their aging juices - liberally - on the other varieties.

"Start squirrelling away some groceries for the times later on in the season when it is just too cosy to leave your house and face the flourescent horror of the supermarket. Add gingham tops to jars full of homemade jams and display on your counter tops. Autumn is all about abundance..."

"Come ye thankful people, come, Raise the song of harvest-home; All is safely gathered in, Ere the winter storms begin; God our maker doth provide, For our wants to be supplied; Come to God's own temple, come, Raise the song of harvest-home"

It seems that the Autumn harvest and gathering of food is synonymous with this poem by Henry Alford. The ripened produce. The Housekeeper stocking the larder with non perishable foods. The preparation of the house for winter.....

These jars were about to be sent to the tip, but we salvaged them. (They once contained sun-dried tomatoes, olives and artichokes). In cooler months, country mice tend to visit the kitchen and are always destructively hungry. The jars prove most effective in keeping dried foods uncontaminated from mousy antics! The ladies made green gingham toppers for the jars, but because they are used so often, the ties for the toppers became a mennace. Not only the ties, but the toppers themselves tended to become grotty very quickly. Fortunately, the lids to the jars are all the same colour - green, so they look uniform, but the ladies are still 'thinking' about grinding the paint off the lids and polishing them, so that they will have the appearance of stainless steel.

"To match the rest of the kitchen..." declare the young ladies

At the moment, this is just a 'thought' - along with many others....

Manufacturing Skips

2007-11-09T00:25:00.000+11:00

The whole family have been working in the workshop for the whole week this week (What a mouthful!).

The Machinist received a large order for Ergo Skips (designed, patented and manufactured by the Machinist - you can read about our Ergo Skips here if you have the time or inclination).

The Ladies of the House often have a chuckle and ponder how vastly different their roles in life are. One day it's glorious housework and homemaking. The next, planting, weeding and general gardening. Some days are all about cooking (and sometimes, even baking). And then, when the Machinist is extremely snowed under (ha! It's currently snowing in our Village in late spring. Delightful!) the Ladies don their worst attire and help out in the workshop and fearlessly, they brave dust, grease and metal chips. Here are a couple of pics which show part of the manufacturing process:

The Machinist and Favourite Son weld these frames together. The Ladies buff and polish the welds on the frames.

Then, the whole family work together on the folding machine to make several folds on what will become the base of the skip.

Tomorrow, there will be more folding (and buffing and polishing). We're all looking forward to the weekend, when hopefully, a touch of household normality may return.

Remember, Remember the Fifth of November...

2007-11-05T23:02:00.002+11:00

Glancing at the date on my last post, I was immediately transported to memories of my childhood in England. The Fifth of November: Bonfire night and Bonfire Toffee. 'Penny for the Guy, sir?'

"Guy" was a home-made and always unique looking dummy, and days before Bonfire night, Guy was transported around the neighbourhood in an old pram, and was doomed to be burned on the bonfire, while excited children watched with glee.

Bonfire night was traditional, in remembrance of Guy Fawkes ~ a rebel character in British history who plotted, unsuccessfully, to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

"Remember remember
The fifth of November
Gunpowder, treason and plot.
I see no reason
Why gunpowder treason
Should ever be forgot"

Sweet, sweet memories!

The Shoe Rack

2007-11-05T22:29:00.001+11:00

The Machinist made this rack for our deck wall at the back of the house. The ladies of the house do not enjoy the experience of faint flutterings or shuffling of any live, abeit tiny ~ creature on their delicate feet. Hence the need to suspend said footwear upside down. It's not that the ladies think that little beatles or Hairy Marys can't crawl up the wellies; they can. But turning them upside down gives a somewhat sense of peace.

On the rack are a pair of trusty Colorado shoes, that got drenched on the day of the downpour. The green wellies are apparently posher than the hard-wearing clumsy black ones. The red Crocks were bought for the Machinist's wife. All pairs of footwear are interchangeable between the ladies, and are easy to slip on when a sudden dash to the washing line is required. Or when the hens need feeding first thing in the morning (the Machinist insists that 'his' hens are as regular as clockwork and love to be fed at the same time each day. "Breakfast at 7, eggs by 11").

Another reason for the shoe rack is that if ever any sandals or shoes or wellies are left on the back deck, or the pool deck, or elsewhere in the garden, the Puppies will tear them apart.

Oh, and we simply couldn't resist the leopard-print umbrella. Looks so foxy in a rainstorm....

Wives and Mothers

2007-11-05T22:20:00.003+11:00

"Being good parents is, in my opinion, a rewarding if difficult career. Women who are bored with homemaking and being a wife and mother should take a long look at themselves. Being bored comes from within themselves. Boredom is, in fact, easily cultivated if you work at it, and it is a kind of blindness.

There is enough drama in any family to provide a challenge, and whatever intelligence a woman has gets full exercise. As for rewards, they cannot be counted. nobody in any so-called career is indispensable, but when a wife and mother so much as goes off for a change and rest, a replacement is impossible. And I believe it is basic in the feminine termperament to long to be important, to be needed. I think we are more personal than most men, because nature has made us that way. "

Country Chronicle by Gladys Taber

Alberto & Maria

2007-10-31T16:27:00.001+11:00

Here is a picture of "Alberto and Maria", made by the Machinist as a gift to me and so named after our fond recollection of an 'Earthy' Italian couple. They are both carrying lettuce seedlings. The garden bed in the background has now been converted in to an exclusive herb bed. The great westerly winds that blow through our Village have often caused Alberto and Maria to fall over, so now they are firmly planted IN the revamped herb bed, and not at the gate.

Sunday In The Garden

2007-10-28T22:57:00.001+11:00

The days seem to move so much faster when we are in the daylight saving mode. My mam tells me that when we were all wee snappers, she would have to put up heavy blankets at our bedroom windows to get us to sleep! The days went too fast back then, and they still go too fast now. Mam says that the Lord gives us all the same amount of hours, and it is up to us how we will use them.

Weeding, weeding and more weeding today. When it began to drizzle, Polly (Staffy cross with a Silkie) and I rested under the canopy of our faithfully-fruiting Quince tree. Before long, Sasha, the tabby joined us, but Polly 'smiled' at her; that is ~ bared her teeth. Sasha doesn't have to be told twice. She darted to the verandah for cover. I heard the side door to the workshop slam shut, and observed the Machinist moving rather quickly down 'Grape Walk', not wanting to get wet. On his return, I whistled to him, and when he saw me sitting under the Quince, he found it quite amusing. "You're enjoying yourself under there, aren't you?". He knows, you know....

For some weeks now, there has been a variety of weeds and miscellaneous green life, sprawled lifelessly in the bottom of our ancient hole-y wheelbarrow. Said greenlife has now turned to soil. When did that happen? How did I not see it? I passed it several times during the day, each day.... The Machinist says that it isn't good for an ancient wheelbarrow to be left abandoned with a full load. Adds to the holes. And rust. I mention the wheelbarrow, because before performing any sort of garden chore it is like opening a Pandora's box. The mis-en-plas of gardening: Gather the tools. (Where did I leave the fork?). Push (drag) the wheelbarrow, meandering past the vegetable beds, hoping contents of wheelbarrow doesn't fall into the vegetable beds. Search for the dog poo bucket and tongs (always elusive). Struggle with water fitment at each garden tap, so that the bore water doesn't come splurting out ~ usually in the direction of the mouth. Yuk!

It's still fun though. Gardening. The Machinist says that if his Ouma was alive she would be so very happy that we both have a penchant for plants (hey, that goes!). A penchant for plants...

Planted five pots of Pigsface under the apricot and plum trees. Also transferred several 'wild' seedlings of white Valerian to the base of the Ballerina Apple. The empty vegetable beds are ready for seeds now. Pumpkin seeds (more on pumpkins in another blog...) They've been dug over and raked, and we all hope that the kitties will not seek to use the freshly made beds as their giant kitty litter, or Bob (black Staffy) will not use them as a burial site for his archealogical 'dig', returning his treat of an enormous cow bone ~ dust to dust. The pebbled path in the orchard has been raked of excess straw (a result of the puppies having the mad half hour), as have the paths between the two rose arbours. The fenced herb garden has also been weeded, and 'Alberto and Maria' (two metal figures that the Machinist made for me) have been transferred to the top of the herb bed, so that they can watch over the growth.

I think a constant 'to do' list is in order for garden chores, as one job leads to another. And another. The front garden is next. A more 'showy' garden. Non-edible. The lawn patch is far too long, and I really must try and create some type of wind break so that each azalea bloom isn't overwhelmed by a sneaking suspicion that they could, at any time, be lynched by something they can't even see...

Day After Deluge

2007-10-27T17:00:00.000+10:00

It's the day after the deluge, and the Machinist is really happy that the workshop has dried out. Sun shines brightly, and a man from the local Council has called around to inspect the current (lacking) stormwater drains. Which makes the Machinist even happier, as there is a promise of "...something has to be done about this, that's for sure..." Declared on a Saturday, too. The creek at the bottom of our garden is full, and the Machinist has perfect 'Lake Views'. "Where on earth could a person work on his lathe, gaze out of the window (from said lathe) and watch wild ducks and Ibis?" he asks.

Yes, where?

The girls will be finished work soon, and the Machinist has promised to take us out to the movies. We were scheduled to go last night, but none of us wished to venture out after the water fight. And besides ~ what if it decided to rain heavily again while we were out? There's always areas of our old house and grounds that needs to be 'kept an eye on' when it rains. The Machinist informs me that we received 53mm of rain yesterday. Not bad.

As I write, there is only the sound of silence and cricket song. At least I think it's crickets. It could be frogs. Cricket song? Frog Song? Either way, it's a peaceful sound....

When It Rains, It Pours!

2007-10-26T17:13:00.000+10:00

I've always said how much I love the rain. My children have grown up, witnesses to the fact of how much I love it. They, too, love nothing more than to venture out ~ well clad or not so well clad ~ to frolic in pure fall and inhale the pre-pavement ozone. However, ... in a (usually) dry land, endowed with a generous impermeable membrane, the results of a deluge of spring rain can be rather chaotic. Hazardous, in fact.

Such was the case today. Rain fell and fell some more. The Machinist scurried past my office with broom in hand. Before long, the Machinist and his girls all had brooms in hands, sweeping the twiggy, gritty, weak gravy mix that had started, quite rapidly, to pool into our workshop. "Quick, pick up the electric chords", the Machinist urged. The puppies (they're fully grown, adult dogs, but we still call them 'The Puppies') retreated, tails between legs, thinking that they had done 'bad' things. Mi Lad, the cockatoo, started to retreat further into the workshop as well. Not because he thought he had done something bad, but because he didn't want to get his claws wet.

Favourite Son was frantically digging a diversion channel at the front of the workshop. His overalls, so thoroughly drenched, looked like blue, droopy, excess skin. Rain fell harder, and the Machinist and his girls resembed broom machines as they methodically and rhythmically pushed the murky waters out of the workshop, into the already bulging stormwater drain. Had it no end?

Just when the Machinist began making plans for greater protection, the downfall eased to a drizzle. Favourite son called us into the deserted country road and egged on by his mischievous sisters, here he is, semi-clad in the make-shift wading pool, which we call the main road of our tiny Village. The other pic shows how our workshop was flooded.

At least the orchard had a watering! Greenlife is, in fact, greener. The air is fresher and our swimming pool is spilling over....

"He doesn't look ill or anything....."

2007-10-25T17:03:00.001+10:00

This is our pet cockatoo ~ Bucknuckle B Knucklehead Esq. or "Bucko" or "Mi Lad", as we fondly call him. Well, we think it's a 'he'. No-one's sure. Not even the vet. Mi Lad crash landed in our front garden one March morning. One of his legs were broken. Catherine the tabby was most inquisitive, and Mi Lad hop-hopped through the golden cypress trees, attempting to escape her potentially bacteria-infested feline teeth. We were quick to rescue him and later travelled the dirt road to our friendly (and extremely funny!) Polish vet.

The Machinist painstakingly crop-fed Mi Lad for two months or more, as he couldn't eat seeds, or peck off fruit; his diagnosis was 'beak and feather' disease and wild birds with this malady usually don't last a year.

Mi Lad will be two this December. He can speak English and he can act like a professional (he limps when you watch him and hops confidently when he thinks you're not watching him). He has spent the winter inside the house with us, and I'll wager he hates being back out in his cage now that it is springtime. We have to pass his cage as we enter the workshop. If one of the girls pass his cage, he whimpers. On the other hand, if one of the boys pass his cage, he squawks. When we are gardening, he follows us around.... intent on ruining as many plants as he can.

During coffee break, there's much chatter and laughter and messing about. Mi Lad can hear the commotion and he calls to us, so we let him out of his cage. He dodges metal shavings with much agility and precision, despite his disability.

Today was no different.

Favourite Son had made refreshments. We were watching Mi Lad amble around the workshop floor, with a pompous and indifferent air, despite the other pets who sat around watching him. The Machinist tilted his head to one side, pensively. "He doesn't look ill or anything, does he? He doesn't act like he's sick. You wouldn't think...."

Explosions of Toby's Estate*tm Coffee showered the concrete, and faces creased with laughter. After a while, the Middle Child managed "Not unless you were an outsider!"

All Kinds of Everything

2007-10-25T07:55:00.002+10:00

Mam would often sing or hum when she was busy around the home. Songs and ditties that we, her offspring, remember to this day. She would sing when she was sad, too. Much of our repertoire, as teenagers was not always the current Top of the Pops, but many songs that preceded our birth by twenty or thirty years.

When I think of the Machinist I wonder "..How do I love thee..Let me count the ways...". My love for the Machinist is vast and unlimited and it just IS. It is for All Kinds of Everything (Dana at the Eurovision Song Contest, 1970s, and a favourite of my mams) that I love him.

Our life together is All Kinds of Everything. When I began to think of a theme for this blog, there was no particular aspect of life that stood out that I wanted to write about. I want to write about everything. All Kinds of Everything.

And so, with this in mind, dear Readers, let me now consider each of our days and count the ways...

HOME LIFE

2017-03-02T20:46:00.000+11:00

We arrived in Australia in 1986. After spending 7 years in the city, and moving almost every six months, we bought our current home in a tiny village and started to grow country roots.

I had always worked in the Hospitality industry, as well as being a Temp in Secretarial and Administration. I had always worked simultaneously in our own Company, too. And so - it was absolutely F-R-E-E-I-N-G to be able to stop working outside of our own business and stay at home with our children.

We took our children out of public school and home educated them in many aspects of Life. Especially Home Life and all it's commitments, duties and responsibilities.

I have never, ever worked so hard in my LIFE! (so dramatic)

Living in the country educated us all. "Country" life is not "Simple", even though the two words are often put in the same sentence. We are still learning this.

It is a privilege to live in such a quaint, historical village, on a different continent - far from where the Machinist and I started our early life together. I now get to live and work in that same village. Even the same street. And even - on the same property. Sometimes, it gets really busy, and I don't walk down these country lanes as much as I should....sigh....

In the Home Life section, I share aspects of Garden, Food, Decorating, Health, Fashion, and many Contemplations. Yes, - many Contemplations.

Just contemplating this plate now makes me long for winter comfort food...

Love,

Helen

WIFERY

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MOTHERHOOD

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THE FAMILY

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The Family

The Machinist is my childhood sweetheart and adulthood husband. We met when we were 15, in a small country town, somewhere in South Africa. He loves machinery, bikes (especially the English bobber!), knives, guns (and other weaponry). Being a Machinist, he can make all of the above, too. In fact, he can do and make many things with his hands. He is an only child, but has a great passion for family.

Emma-Lee, Sarah-Mechelle and Samuel Thomas are our children. Actually, they are Young Adults now. They have all worked in both the Hospitality and Metal Fabrication industries. In fact, they still do!

Hayley has also joined our family. She is Sam's wife and they are blessed with the addition of a beautiful baby girl. Her name is Keiralea. I am truly besotted. We all are. Sam and Hayley live at the "Block"

Cameron is Sarah-Mechelle's husband. Cam and Sarah also live at the "Block"

The Grands are my Mom and Dad. They live in a town close by. They are both in their late eighties and early nineties, and although they are independent, we still like to 'keep our eye' on them.

The Machinists Wife is me - Helen.

Thankyou for taking the time to read my blog.

Love,

Helen x

THE BLOCK

2017-03-02T20:28:00.000+11:00

In 2008 we purchased a block of land (The Block) situated in our village which included an old and dilapidated Golden Fleece Roadhouse. It looked like this when we bought it:

View from the side:

View from the front:

At the rear of the main commercial section of the building, is a residence, which we named "The Cottage". This is how the gate, via the car park leading into The Cottage looked:

This is the Machinist and son, on a cold and frosty morning, breaking up concrete at the rear of the Cottage . Check out the state of the walls. Some of the rooms had grass and weeds in them.

The Grands moved in two months after we bought the property. Then we started renovating the commercial section at the front of the building, where we operated a Cafe / Pie shop for just over two years. It was known as "The Daily Pie" and we ran this business simultaneously with our other business, Debco Engineering Pty Ltd.

In early 2012 the stress of running two completely different business took its toll on our family.

Although The Daily Pie is now closed, you can read more about it and view a gallery of how it looked when we first purchased it via our

Daily Pie Blog.

The former Cafe has been transformed to an open plan, Industrial style living space and is a home to our Young Adult children.

BUSINESS LIFE

2017-03-02T20:25:00.000+11:00

The Machinist had always dreamed of owning his own business - doing the work he truly loves. Two years after our arrival in Australia, the Machinist and I went into business.

We became Directors of our own Engineering Company, namely Debco Engineering Pty Ltd.

After operating our Business in the city for over fourteen years, we decided to move the whole operation to our 'Home Property' in the country. And so - we built the Machine Workshop ourselves which runs the length of our village block, and stops just in front of the creek! Oops!

The Machinist still delights in glancing out of the Workshop windows, distracted by Ibis or even seagulls in the weeping willows...

As our business grew, we built a Fabrication Workshop on the other side of our house. It also runs the length of the block and stops at the creek.

We refer to the Workshops as "The Machine Shop" and "The Fab Shop"

ABOUT

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Hello!

I'm Helen - also known as The Machinist's Wife. I am sweetheart to Andre, the Machinist and mother of three.

I am British by birth,

but due to the wander lust of my Father, and the optimism of my Mother, our family spent thirteen years in South Africa, - just for the adventure.

This is where I met and married the Machinist.

Because of my inherited wander lust, optimism and sense of adventure, the Machinist and I (along with our then three year old daughter) migrated to and settled in Australia.

Two more children - made our family complete.

We all live in a tiny country village where Bushrangers once roamed.

I hope you enjoy my blog. Welcome to my Manufactory!

Oh bless him, he sounds like quite a character:)
2007-10-27T10:01:00.000+10:00
Oh bless him, he sounds like quite a character:)

Thanks for dropping in to visit me. I hope you will feel welcome to come back anytime.

Rhonda

I can't think of any better inspiration:) Welcome...

2007-10-27T10:03:00.000+10:00

I can't think of any better inspiration:) Welcome to the blogging world.

The little girl in the picture is so precious, is it you?

Rhonda

Thanks for the welcome, Rhonda. Yes, that's me in...

2007-10-27T11:54:00.000+10:00

Thanks for the welcome, Rhonda. Yes, that's me in the pic.

dearest Helen- I miss our conversations and you te...

2008-03-10T07:02:00.000+11:00

dearest Helen- I miss our conversations and you telling about the "ya ya ya's" LOL I know how much they like that, mine says don't talk about me mom- especially #3 child. I miss hearing about gardening etc. I can't believe we are just now finding out about your blog young lady- wooden spoon is out- LOL I know you are busy. I need to hear from you more- when you were gone- felt like we lost a family member. hugs Lynda

Who would have thought that in a day of Bushranger...

2008-04-17T06:54:00.000+10:00

Who would have thought that in a day of Bushranger hold-ups, cycling over lake George and interpretive dance, the hardest part would be clapping in time!

Hello Helen- post e-mail some time. I am cleaning...

2008-06-18T12:01:00.000+10:00

Hello Helen- post e-mail some time. I am cleaning out. With us being down to 2, we don't need all this stuff. I think it is shocking dh as he looked at linen closet- said you don't have enough towels-- we have 10 or more- how many can 2 people use. LOL.
Maybe you'll post more- run over to my blog see what I am up to.

You wear so many different hats! Domestic Goddess ...

2008-07-20T20:37:00.000+10:00

You wear so many different hats! Domestic Goddess Extraordinaire!!!

Windows --- do we do windows?? I hate to admit I d...

2008-07-25T06:15:00.000+10:00

Windows --- do we do windows?? I hate to admit I don't--- guess I would if I were at my ds-- he has 18 windows in his new house.

You do so much! Helen- I need a tea party-- can't you possibly come. LOL

post your picture and dh by your new project. ( :

2008-07-25T06:18:00.000+10:00

post your picture and dh by your new project. ( :

I have hear of what your mam has. It is uncomfort...

2008-08-22T04:03:00.000+10:00

I have hear of what your mam has. It is uncomfortable. I also learned if you take people in hospital cut flowers put bleach in with it keeps "Staff" Seph something germ arather from growing, you know that stuff can be mean. Tell your mom get well soon. You take care - Love ya!

Lots of work dear. If I were near by I'd take a v...

2008-08-22T04:08:00.000+10:00

Lots of work dear. If I were near by I'd take a vacation and come help you. This Sat. we are going out to my oldest 30min way in a little town. Help him organize his boxes to get unpacked. He's a real junk packrat. But he didn't buy a nice older home. This is one, we want to set your dd up with. LOL

I do love the kitchen and it's bright yellow paint...

2008-09-11T20:01:00.000+10:00

I do love the kitchen and it's bright yellow paint. It will be cheer once your mama is in it- sorry she's been laid up. I am back from my trip. My Marine boy's leave will be ending too soon. He is handsome and grown up. I will send pics later. Wish you were here- I'd make us Tea and Pumpkin scones. Love you! enjoy your blog.

Hi...just found your blog and thought I would say ...

2008-09-18T09:22:00.000+10:00

Hi...just found your blog and thought I would say hello. I couldn't help but notice the reference to Gladys Taber. I hope you'll stop by my site for a visit. I'm another fan of Gladys Taber. :)

http://groups.msn.com/StillmeadowFriends

I am glad you are blogging more Helen- I can keep ...

2008-09-18T15:05:00.000+10:00

I am glad you are blogging more Helen- I can keep up with a little bit of your life. I hope you know about www.bloglines.com it helps you keep up with blogs. Go to my blog and see pics of my handsome Marine son. www.ebelcousins.blogspot.com

your momma is looking well there. Our fall season...

2008-09-22T05:29:00.000+10:00

your momma is looking well there. Our fall season is arriving- temp are a little cooler. I love this season except I can't seem to get by without an allergy induced asthma attack or s. Its great you are able to blog more. Do keep well.

I've been watching bloglines with anticipation of ...

2008-10-04T05:41:00.000+10:00

I've been watching bloglines with anticipation of your posting. I need to update my blog. It seems strange that you have the reverse seasons from us. It is fall here- the garden is just about finished. Anticipating tomorrow when our youngest calls us from the Marine posts, I am hoping since his next school is backed up he will get to come home and help the recruiter.
dh may go on business trip. Wish you were nearby I'd say bring the girls, we will have a slumber party, so much to do, so much to visit about! sending hugs from my side of the world.

your garden looks good. My garden is finished, I ...

2008-10-22T12:53:00.000+11:00

your garden looks good. My garden is finished, I need to pull up the tomato plants this weekend and put them in the back pile. Chop up the peppers. But fall alergies/asthma has taken a toll on my energy level. We're having Pumpkin milkshakes here. Soon I'll need to start planning Thanksgiving dinner. It will be sad without my Marine son, he is at his MOS school in MO. now- misses the sunny San Diego, Calif weather 70 -80's yr around. I miss the sun - we are 50's now and kind of getting grey.

Hi Helen I was so glad to find your blog. I will s...

2008-11-01T03:16:00.000+11:00

Hi Helen I was so glad to find your blog. I will see if I can send this thro if so I"ll comment more later
Lauraleah in Missouri

Helen , I loved the pics of your shop and your pie...

2008-11-01T03:20:00.000+11:00

Helen , I loved the pics of your shop and your pie store. congrats
Things are much the same on the farm here except our grandson is in bootcamp training at the Naval Training center in Great Lakes ILl
Caitlin is a sophomre now gee how time flies, remember when they were only 4 and 7.
Glad to have found you I miss you posting to the list
Lauraleah in Missouri

I emjoyed The Duchess - and the next night went to...

2008-11-02T09:35:00.000+11:00

I emjoyed The Duchess - and the next night went to see Taken with my dh! So, a contrast in movies, as you experienced....

Good to see your progress. I can hardly believe y...

2008-11-07T03:51:00.000+11:00

Good to see your progress. I can hardly believe you are no longer homeschooling either. Life changes seasons too fast, I want to go back a couple and give me the energy to go with it. Lynda in IN

how nice. I hate going out to exercise too. I ju...

2008-11-08T03:55:00.000+11:00

how nice. I hate going out to exercise too. I just don't have the space, maybe if I get rid of half what is in my sewing room.

smiles a man who can make a fine bread and butte...

2008-11-18T11:01:00.000+11:00

*smiles* a man who can make a fine bread and butter pudding has a use at my house too! What a lovely outing you two had; Berrima is one of my favourite little spots - I love the ceramics in the gallery and homemade jams and preserves (I am very partial to a good homemade jam or marmalade). And don't ever start me on a homemade pie...

My oh my what a fine garden - thank you for sharin...

2008-11-18T11:03:00.000+11:00

My oh my what a fine garden - thank you for sharing these photos! There's nothing so lovely as corn from the cob (from the stalk)

your garden is beautiful. I love your flowers and...

2008-11-24T12:47:00.000+11:00

your garden is beautiful. I love your flowers and all the greenry. very cold here in the 20's. Of course, all our garden spotsf are cleared. I am going to have to do research- I want a herb garden. Come for tea, dear Helen.

I love all this green, so entirely! This is a good...

2008-11-24T20:41:00.000+11:00

I love all this green, so entirely! This is a good path to take - especially past roses, the vegetables and Sarah's garden - and that lovely, dog, too.

It's nice to have a fan...

Now to make the ...

2008-12-04T22:12:00.000+11:00

It's nice to have a fan...

Now to make the house smell of Christmas too!

Well hey, how many kids can say they've woken up t...

2008-12-11T09:02:00.000+11:00

Well hey, how many kids can say they've woken up to see the joker in their kitchen??

*I raise my hand...*

I love you, berry fool!

A pumpkin ball! and stalls... How glorious.. I do ...

2008-12-17T09:11:00.000+11:00

A pumpkin ball! and stalls... How glorious.. I do love balls I do. My dad is an avid Australian folk dancer so when I'm lucky he'll take me along to one or two. I never knew Collector for its pumpkins but I think I will have to make a visit especially for it now.

Howdy! I recently wrote a little piece on weight l...

2009-01-09T02:05:00.000+11:00

Howdy! I recently wrote a little piece on weight loss. So I can easily relate to the way you feel. I am now trying magical spells to see if I can keep the sweets out of my mouth (OK, I am joking but you never know what might help). Anyways, Thank you for visiting my blog. You can stop by anytime you like. There's some café con leche on the stove, so help yourself.

"how I want to be" - Amen to that Emma! She speaks...

2009-01-10T18:43:00.000+11:00

"how I want to be" - Amen to that Emma! She speaks the truth!

I have every confidence that this will be a sucess...

2009-01-10T18:45:00.000+11:00

I have every confidence that this will be a sucess for both of you, and well, may the best outcome be that you both feel healthier and happier (which always comes in different shapes).

What an absolute pleasure it was finally meeting you!

I closed my eyes and for a moment felt like I was ...

2009-01-12T08:46:00.000+11:00

I closed my eyes and for a moment felt like I was back in your garden, feeling those raindrops. Your writing is always so beautiful and heartfelt, and what a pleasure to read! These are moments to treasure.

Your description is so lovely and nurturing...comf...

2009-01-13T10:40:00.000+11:00

Your description is so lovely and nurturing...comforts my soul. Your garden must be thanking you for weeding it with love and attention.

Hi Helen... It's Liz, the "other" Machinist Wife. ...

2009-01-14T07:30:00.000+11:00

Hi Helen... It's Liz, the "other" Machinist Wife. Love your blog! It's beautiful. I was truly surprised to see your comment on my blog. I just write and really never expect anyone to read it. But it does feel good to write about the experience of running a business, both good and bad. FYI: ISO is the International Organization of Standards. It is a big deal to get certified, lots of paperwork on our behalf to say that we are doing all things correctly to ensure the best product for our customer. Some people believe it is malarky, and they may be right to an extent. We've found, however, that it seems to be necessary to get the work we really want, which is mostly aerospace. So be it. A royal pain in the arse, as they say!

Happy Blogging to you!

Liz

I absolutely adore otters! Oh yes, I made us go ho...

2009-01-19T10:47:00.000+11:00

I absolutely adore otters! Oh yes, I made us go hours out of the way just to a otter sanctury in Scottland just to see them. And am thinking I would like a nice little creek by the side of my house for them to live in. And those illustrations are wonderful.

I adore this. So completely (but this you know alr...

2009-01-21T19:48:00.000+11:00

I adore this. So completely (but this you know already :p)

yes- tis nice. I love reading on your blog, it's ...

2009-01-25T10:11:00.000+11:00

yes- tis nice. I love reading on your blog, it's like seeing your life. My youngest is not far from you in Japan. I miss him terribly.

Hello Helen, :)
Thanks for stopping by! Hoping ...

2009-01-25T16:55:00.000+11:00

Hello Helen, :)
Thanks for stopping by! Hoping all your family are well. You seem very busy, but blessed. Amen! ;)
Will keep in touch now that i have your blog. Dan and i are well, as well as our little Abby. :) Our precious little puppy. she is a darling. Hehe :)
Good Luck with all the plans, and the shop! Cant wait, will have to come visit. :)
Keep in touch eh?
Love
Melissa

Hehehe...I like the idea of the wheelie bin! Thre...

2009-01-25T20:01:00.000+11:00

Hehehe...I like the idea of the wheelie bin! Threaten 'em into submission! If you're like me however, they know that you won't *really* do it...will you? ;)

I haven't come across this poem before. It's love...

2009-01-25T20:11:00.000+11:00

I haven't come across this poem before. It's lovely - thank you for highlighting it. :)

Retro Housewife. I like that. It is a pleasure, as...

2009-01-25T20:48:00.000+11:00

Retro Housewife. I like that. It is a pleasure, as always, to read your thoughts and insights. There is nothing simple about being a housewife - as none of us should be confined to "single roles" (and in day to day life perform so many!) mothers and housewives certainly shouldn't!

I love being a housewife. Its a 'job' I am good at...

2009-01-25T21:07:00.000+11:00

I love being a housewife. Its a 'job' I am good at. Excellent post, I enjoyed reading it X

Woah...Gruesome! On both counts!

2009-01-26T19:22:00.000+11:00

Woah...Gruesome! On both counts!

Sounds like you had a good day. I love your photo...

2009-01-28T17:19:00.000+11:00

Sounds like you had a good day. I love your photo by the way - is this your newly unfurled flag?

I loved going on the audio adventure with you! I c...

2009-01-28T21:45:00.000+11:00

I loved going on the audio adventure with you! I can imagine all of those sounds, gurgles, flushes! I love how sensitive we become in the early morning to sounds and light; the mind and body waking up out of dreams to embrace another day - and how comforting certain sounds can be. I love hearing the magpies warble and hearing the garbage truck on days I know I can still sleep in for an hour or two more!

Hello Helen!

Thanks for the comment on my b...

2009-01-30T10:02:00.000+11:00

Hello Helen!

Thanks for the comment on my blog. :-)Hope we can get out to visit you soon.

Jessica

Hi Helen, :)
Sounds like your going to be busy ...

2009-01-30T18:04:00.000+11:00

Hi Helen, :)
Sounds like your going to be busy busy busy! Some of your projects sound exciting, fun, and some even smelly! haha. Would love to see pics of them when your done. :)
xoxo

I love the early morning and I love your descripti...

2009-01-30T23:08:00.000+11:00

I love the early morning and I love your description here. Sound does carry differently through the air at the start and at the end of the day. It's interesting how your description of the sounds really helps to conjure up a mental picture of the scene.

Oh that's heartbreaking! Our pets are very much m...

2009-02-01T23:34:00.000+11:00

Oh that's heartbreaking! Our pets are very much members of the family and it's just devastating if you lose one suddenly.

And don't forget the apron, my mantle of authority...

2009-02-02T06:44:00.000+11:00

And don't forget the apron, my mantle of authority! Although I do love the term "homemaker" and prefer it to housewife - it has such a soft sound to it and encapsulates what my cleaning, cooking, organising, decorating etc is all about - making a Home.

Oh, I love this poem!

2009-02-02T06:59:00.000+11:00

Oh, I love this poem!

LOL haven't we all seen our kids like this at one ...

2009-02-02T07:01:00.000+11:00

LOL haven't we all seen our kids like this at one point or another?

How lovely!

2009-02-02T08:32:00.000+11:00

How lovely!

LOL I love it!!

2009-02-02T08:41:00.000+11:00

LOL I love it!!

It's something that's important to me, and I'm gra...

2009-02-05T01:37:00.000+11:00

It's something that's important to me, and I'm grateful that my boys are still young enough that they stay close to home and on a routine schedule so we can have our meals together at the kitchen table.

The girls in our house joke that men, in general, ...

2009-02-05T03:06:00.000+11:00

The girls in our house joke that men, in general, seem to have a 'thing' about with eggs. Left to their own devices eggs would probably figure on the menu each and every day...and then some! :D

I have always wanted to have chickens! Gathering e...

2009-02-05T07:08:00.000+11:00

I have always wanted to have chickens! Gathering eggs would be so rewarding.

hahahaha, Helen, that video was sooo funny! I can...

2009-02-05T13:40:00.000+11:00

hahahaha, Helen, that video was sooo funny! I can just imagine you all quoting and giggling about that. :)

A poignant reminder of how the world was and how i...

2009-02-07T02:43:00.000+11:00

A poignant reminder of how the world was and how it has changed. It's particularly sad when young children show signs of prejudice because you know it can only have come from one source - the trusted adults at home.

Hello Machinists Wife...

I had to chuckle a...

2009-02-07T08:01:00.000+11:00

Hello Machinists Wife...

I had to chuckle at your blog...scrummping, a definite 'right of passage'...great childhood memories...thanks.

My mouth is watering for one of those crunchy appl...

2009-02-07T08:38:00.000+11:00

My mouth is watering for one of those crunchy apples right now!

Your lunch dates sound a little more up-market tha...

2009-02-10T22:42:00.000+11:00

Your lunch dates sound a little more up-market than ours. Our latest was lunch at the burger stand by the beach on Sunday!

This is not an author I'm familiar with but then I...

2009-02-10T22:45:00.000+11:00

This is not an author I'm familiar with but then I hate to admit that I'm not a 'big reader' (ooops, did I just say that out loud). :)

I think it's lovely the way your family are close ...

2009-02-11T23:42:00.000+11:00

I think it's lovely the way your family are close by and all are still involved in ongoing projects. It's just the way things should be.

Re you other post - I think you just wrote it!

BTW, I left comments on both of your previous posts and neither showed up...so I hope this one reaches you. :)

I'm just trying this one more time. I'm leaving c...

2009-02-13T20:08:00.000+11:00

I'm just trying this one more time. I'm leaving comments here but they're not showing up!

Hope the painting continues to go well.

Have a good weekend.

Yes, as you say the stories we are hearing are fri...

2009-02-15T05:23:00.000+11:00

Yes, as you say the stories we are hearing are frightening and hard to take in and fully comprehend. It's desperately, desperately sad.

hehe, I wish I was a fly on the wall in this conve...

2009-02-15T21:34:00.000+11:00

hehe, I wish I was a fly on the wall in this conversation!

LOL I still say we should match make- tell Sarah ...

2009-02-16T12:57:00.000+11:00

LOL I still say we should match make- tell Sarah I have a good looking Son. She'd have to come here- US.

This is truly heartbreaking, Helen. My heart goes ...

2009-02-23T00:18:00.000+11:00

This is truly heartbreaking, Helen. My heart goes out to Australia.

Hehehe....needs must 'n all that....!

2009-02-26T20:40:00.000+11:00

Hehehe....needs must 'n all that....!

Oh my! You ARE brave to swallow it... I don't thin...

2009-02-28T14:32:00.000+11:00

Oh my! You ARE brave to swallow it... I don't think I could. But I'd definitely paint a portrait with it :)

Its hard to admit it when we have problems with an...

2009-02-28T14:39:00.000+11:00

Its hard to admit it when we have problems with anger/frustation etc. My sister for one, has broken her door a couple of times from slamming it... and shattered the shower door by kicking it once. And she's not some hyper-energetic-angry persom but just on the occaision. And I really have to learn to calm down when things get me angry; usually at snide political/religios/racist/sexist comments where I just fume up and/or burst into tears.

Have you ever tried the yoga poses "chopping wood" or "lion" because they have a wonderful calming effect... releasing out all that stale, angry air. And you get to make funny noises too!

Oh my its looking great! I especially love the doo...

2009-03-18T19:49:00.000+11:00

Oh my its looking great! I especially love the door. And am becoming increasingly excited about the Pumpkin festival - and spending more time with your lovely family of course.

It's looking good and I feel very excited for yo...

2009-03-19T20:59:00.000+11:00

It's looking good and I feel very excited *for* you. This is going to be a great new venture when I'm sure all your hard work will be repaid tenfold. How lovely too that this is a project that the whole family can be involved in.

As we're about the business of tearing up our kitc...

2009-03-25T09:56:00.000+11:00

As we're about the business of tearing up our kitchen we're using phrases like "job lot" too, and "construction grade."
If it's everywhere and inexplicable, it's job lot.
If it's poor quality and unreasonable, it's construction grade.
I HATE those phrases and the garbage they stand for.

Then again; forty years from now WE'LL be the "What-on-earth-did-they-think-they-were-doing?" people, when another fam lives here and does reno.

FYI kitchen reno plus daycare means the table is piled with Licoln Logs and action figures, baby wipes, Liquid Nails, drill and extension cord, baby water and cans of formula powder. Clean bottles are stacked on the countertop next to the boxes of nails. Where ELSE wouldja have 'em?

I haven't come across one of these machines before...

2009-03-25T18:00:00.000+11:00

I haven't come across one of these machines before but if I ever do I must remember not to ride on it (sign on front)!
...There's always one nincompoop isn't there?!....
:D

You know mechanical things most of us will never e...

2009-03-25T21:52:00.000+11:00

You know mechanical things most of us will never experience.
I would have blogged all about Riding Prohibited.
The mere NOTION would have tortured me and I might have...
Never mind that. That would be a bad idea.
I am that noncompoop to whom Jayne referred.

That's it my friend.
You did it.
I'm eating ...

2009-03-26T00:59:00.000+11:00

That's it my friend.
You did it.
I'm eating pork today.
Happy?

Seriously; can I say this was a lovely post, considering the event?

Ooh, nasty. Tell you what though - it's probably ...

2009-03-26T02:12:00.000+11:00

Ooh, nasty. Tell you what though - it's probably made you appreciate for evermore just where meat comes from. It's too easy to forget that when it comes all shrink-wrapped in neat plastic trays.

Please. Nobody commented on this?
It must be Y...

2009-03-26T04:23:00.000+11:00

Please. Nobody commented on this?
It must be You and Me against the world. This is one of your Most Memorable Posts IN MY HEAD.
First a disclaimer; my current sink is old and unsightly. We're in kitchen renovation, but I am a clean sink freak, and this post is like poetry, like the bull slaughter post, without the killing (unless killing GERMS counts.)
I hate a dirty sink. How can you justify cleaning dishes or countertops from a murky sink?
So even my run-down-soon-to-be-replaced-sink is scoured often.

I fear bleach. I'm too stinkin' messy to come away unscathed, so I don't use it daily. Admittedly I'm still a Dirty Girl on the microscopic level, but those invisible germs are swimming in a sea of scalding hot water and other solvents that don't affect my colored tops and tshirts.

My own brand of crazy is that I refill with new dishwater 2 or 3 times. I hate dirty, greasy H2O. It's got to be scalding hot, which is soothing to my arthritic hands as a bonus.

I use a sink basin, similar to the bowl. It protects glass from the unforgiving surface of my thousand-year-old cast iron sink. I'll still use it when I go stainless.

One of the most exciting parts of kitchen reno is selecting a new sink. I'm getting one just like yourn - big and little sides.

I love this post [as a single tear runs down my cheek].
Tell me we're not crazy.

Oh, the joys of selecting new sinks! We had to ch...

2009-03-26T04:32:00.000+11:00

Oh, the joys of selecting new sinks! We had to choose one for the Grand's cottage. Mam loves it! What neither of them use, though, is the plug. It's one of those lift-up, push down fitted contraptions. They take that out and use the old school rubber plug, with a piece of chain attached.

Are we freaks, or what?

Hi Helen!
You're comment on Dietgirls blog made...

2009-03-26T07:10:00.000+11:00

Hi Helen!
You're comment on Dietgirls blog made me curious, so I had a peek at your blog. Imagine my surprise to find you are living in my old childhood town! My mum and dad still live there, while I'm living in Denmark. It's wonderful to hear the roadhouse is being renovated! You write well. I'll be stopping by your blog from time to time. Best of luck with your projekt!

I'd rather do pumpkin fest forget the paperwork! ...

2009-03-27T17:08:00.000+11:00

I'd rather do pumpkin fest forget the paperwork! How are you? Glad you started a blog as I miss all your e-mails.

Fun that you're all about pumpkins and we are now ...

2009-03-28T09:33:00.000+11:00

Fun that you're all about pumpkins and we are now about daffodils!

I've been meaning to email with questions about th...

2009-04-02T05:52:00.000+11:00

I've been meaning to email with questions about the plan for the shop. I was unclear.
Finally searched "Shop" on your blog to get to the earliest posts.
I knew there was metal arts coming.
I knew there'd be a cafe-ish area.
I wondered; who on earth are The Grands?
Aha! Savant knows all now.
Some people can't handle knowing everything. They lose humility. That'd never happen to me. If I was going ot have issues with pride; it'd be over my incredible wit, charming personality and/or movie-star good looks. I'm strong enough in character to handle knowing absolutely everything without braggin' over it.
Do you have a target date for launching the business?
How exciting! I won't take my EYES off your posts!

IT'S BEAUTIFUL! I knew it would be. Your "Grands" ...

2009-04-21T08:38:00.000+10:00

IT'S BEAUTIFUL!
I knew it would be.
Your "Grands" are awesome. Makes me miss my mom (for more than just telling her she was married to a bum.)
I can't wait 'til you're up and running, unless of course that keeps you from your bloggy friends...!

Very exciting and the Grands must be thrilled. It...

2009-04-21T21:21:00.000+10:00

Very exciting and the Grands must be thrilled. It sounds as though opening day is imminent??? Very best of luck with your new venture - if I lived nearby, I'd be heading your way to get me some of those pies!

You would probably do math. I doubt that you'd we...

2009-04-22T20:49:00.000+10:00

You would probably do math. I doubt that you'd weld, or do metal, but you'd take out the trash. Gasp.

I have (THREE TIMES, all the way to the Can, since Mr. left) and there's no end in sight.

[Cue the music. Henceforth this is About Me, and My Suffering.]

Actually, the trash is the worst, and it wouldn't be so bad if it didn't weigh 40 lbs, if someone didn't stuff it full, in an attempt to...What? Make it last until Mr. gets home Saturday? Sheesh.

Here's to Mr's to the rescue!

*Note that the above remark is a lot like a toast and fundies would shat themselves over it.

Wish I could stop over to the daily Pie! You are ...

2009-04-23T05:41:00.000+10:00

Wish I could stop over to the daily Pie! You are coming right along. I've enjoyed seeing your pictures!

I posted an award for you today my dear. I know y...

2009-04-29T11:20:00.000+10:00

I posted an award for you today my dear. I know you must be crazy/busy with the pumpkin festival, but you've got to come over and read.
Pick it up only if you want to.

You've got puppy clothing already! I predict sever...

2009-05-05T22:10:00.000+10:00

You've got puppy clothing already!
I predict several mentions of these dogs in your blogging future....
Do they have names?

Yeah, baby. The one in the pink coat with "Angel...

2009-05-05T22:31:00.000+10:00

Yeah, baby.

The one in the pink coat with "Angel" written on it is 'Lily' - Sam's puppy. The other, in the black coat with "Rebel" written on it is 'Pepi' - Sarah's puppy.

Oh, you are so right - I'm sure they will be mentioned. There's nothing like your toes being licked, then bitten, then licked, first thing in the morning, when you traipse through to the bathroom in your nightie. There's nothing like squashed squelchy S%@! between your toes, either.

Oh they are so stinkin cute!!! :) Hehe What a love...

2009-05-07T09:19:00.000+10:00

Oh they are so stinkin cute!!! :) Hehe What a lovely suprise!

I love it! I love it! I love it! Congrats to you...

2009-05-08T05:01:00.000+10:00

I love it! I love it! I love it!
Congrats to you!
Your kids are the best. What a great big deal. So cool!
The pix look great. Makes me wanna come for next year's festival.

There's nothing like housetraining a pup. Well, in...

2009-05-09T01:13:00.000+10:00

There's nothing like housetraining a pup.
Well, infants without diapers perhaps but that would just be dumb.

Happy Anniversary Helen and Andre. :) How sweet, w...

2009-05-11T12:09:00.000+10:00

Happy Anniversary Helen and Andre. :) How sweet, what sam did. :) Looks like you all had a ball. :) no pun intended. Hehe
Melissa

Oh dont worry, i know what you mean. I LOVE that m...

2009-05-11T12:11:00.000+10:00

Oh dont worry, i know what you mean. I LOVE that movie, one of my favs. :)
Melissa

Isn't this just the most fun thing to watch - I lo...

2009-05-16T17:43:00.000+10:00

Isn't this just the most fun thing to watch - I love it. xv

oooh dogs are awful

2009-05-17T21:41:00.000+10:00

oooh dogs are awful

I enjoyed the tour through your garden, you write ...

2009-05-18T14:18:00.000+10:00

I enjoyed the tour through your garden, you write so well. It's strange to think that while we're waiting for the Summer, you're hunkering down for the Winter. Winter is good pie weather though - hope the business is going well and all your hard work is being rewarded.

Should I be surprised that you've been busy? Nah....

2009-05-19T12:23:00.000+10:00

Should I be surprised that you've been busy? Nah... Never a dull moment.
I had declared '09 to be the year I gardened. Instead, we had the storm and cut down all our trees.
Okay, I hereby declare 2010 to be the year I'm gardening. [sheesh]
You've got new stuff on yer blog and it's lovely.
I peeked at your dau's site. She's delightful.

One day Mother we will take real walks down those ...

2009-05-20T08:23:47.596+10:00

One day Mother we will take real walks down those streets together.

And laugh with joy at finding those names carved in stone!

Was childhood in England really so much more inter...

2009-05-20T20:52:25.728+10:00

Was childhood in England really so much more interesting than childhood in Northern Wisconsin USA? or is it just your cheerful perspective and writing talent? or are you drinking copious amounts of pumpkin wine while posting?

This is a delightful post!
Your brothers were crazy!

I remember Mary Quaint makeup! This is a great po...

2009-05-21T01:19:55.177+10:00

I remember Mary Quaint makeup!

This is a great post. You painted a crystal clear and hilarious picture, and made me larf.

But I fear you may have left something out.

I added it to my visualization regardless -- a mouth stained green by the lime mildshake.

So, The Machinist was the most handsome boy in town. What does he recall about his green-come-true?

Wow, I'll bet you're glad there are no pictures......

2009-05-22T11:54:53.553+10:00

Wow, I'll bet you're glad there are no pictures....or are there?

I wonder what the dog thinks of all this? It woul...

2009-05-22T11:57:43.880+10:00

I wonder what the dog thinks of all this?

It would be my luck to be a lady lion and fall in love.

that was lovely. I did flirting like that - face s...

2009-05-22T21:46:25.689+10:00

that was lovely. I did flirting like that - face suffused with red, gulping away like mad and just for a glance. Not programmed to cope with modern ways of straight to cleavage (pillowy flesh indeed!)
Thanks for coming by my blog. I've enjoyed the return trip.

I love this story! So funny (and a little painful...

2009-05-23T03:45:40.829+10:00

I love this story! So funny (and a little painful) to imagine! It seemed to turn out well for you though!
:)

I have an award for you, please come by and pick it up.

I want a dog shaved like a lion!! :) So cool.

2009-05-23T13:00:01.533+10:00

I want a dog shaved like a lion!! :) So cool.

I doubt if this will let me post on an older entry...

2009-05-23T14:19:30.448+10:00

I doubt if this will let me post on an older entry, but I had to tell you how much I too adore this video.

I was discussing something with my nephew a couple months ago and made the MISTAKE of Googling the real Maria . . .oh my gosh

Hey, I feel for you on the septic troubles. May...

2009-05-24T12:03:01.123+10:00

Hey, I feel for you on the septic troubles.

Maybe if you start talking about pork chops it will keep the pigs at bay. However, they can be quite useful creatures.

I don't know if you saw my "pie" posting. I highly recommend it. When we have a Church get together it is "expected" of me to bring at least six. They can be made to look very fancy and no one ever believes me that they take two seconds to make.

I shared this receipt with my son's (older) French girlfriend about six years ago. She's the one that put chocolate syrup in and decorated the top with chocolate curls. It's an easy receipt to keep in your back pocket.

Good luck with your cafe.

Oh, and wood burner, that's where my vote would ha...

2009-05-24T14:58:27.421+10:00

Oh, and wood burner, that's where my vote would have gone. Excellent idea.

I had one that was already installed in a house I bought years ago. They hadn't used it much. I had the pipe shortened,wired and capped. The folks that had it put in only thought about the inside of the house and not the direction the winter wind blew.

Thanks for visiting me- I'm having a wander around...

2009-05-25T02:28:12.753+10:00

Thanks for visiting me- I'm having a wander around your site and there's so much to see.

How I've always wanted a greenhouse or maybe what I want is a conservatory- large enough to sit in and perhaps- invite some guests.

How exciting to set out on this adventure- so much...

2009-05-25T02:34:28.519+10:00

How exciting to set out on this adventure- so much to do but, I'm sure it will all get done. The best of luck to you.

Thanks Helen, I had my daughter help me grab it u...

2009-05-25T03:37:05.443+10:00

Thanks Helen, I had my daughter help me grab it up. Wow, thanks for thinking of me.

Thanks for looking in, and joining me in France!

2009-05-25T20:07:22.834+10:00

Thanks for looking in, and joining me in France!

When I hear septic tank stories I get on my kneew ...

2009-05-26T00:58:49.028+10:00

When I hear septic tank stories I get on my kneew and thank God we are on the city sewer system where we live and can say "Not my problem!" if anything goes wrong.

I completely get it as far as your "baby pictures" keeping you from seeing the "big picture" as that's how mind works too.

Thanks for the nice comments. If you haven't pat...

2009-05-26T01:02:52.971+10:00

Thanks for the nice comments.
If you haven't paticipated in "Friend Makin' Mondays" yet, click here to join in:
http://kaseyhelder.blogspot.com/2009/05/hello-and-welcome-friends-for-those-of.html

It's how I "met" a lot of new bloggers and they met me.
:)
(There are also several recipe swaps on Tuesdays. Great way to meet new peeps.)

Lookin' good. What kind of parking plans do you h...

2009-05-27T06:09:22.531+10:00

Lookin' good. What kind of parking plans do you have? To keep folks off your new grass.

It really looks nice.

Opening Soon! Opening Soon! Opening Soon! Woo-hoo!

2009-05-27T06:58:50.767+10:00

Opening Soon!
Opening Soon!
Opening Soon!
Woo-hoo!

The grass is growing! The Sign is up! I'm getting ...

2009-05-27T08:29:53.897+10:00

The grass is growing! The Sign is up! I'm getting excited :)

You are opening soon? I can't wait to hear more ab...

2009-05-28T01:06:56.924+10:00

You are opening soon? I can't wait to hear more about it!
God bless!
love from Mrs. White

I don't have a hard time saying why I love them. ...

2009-05-29T03:24:03.467+10:00

I don't have a hard time saying why I love them. I have hard time letting go. It is hard when they make choices you never raised them to make--- it causes heart break. You just pray and pray. I love seeing yo9u blog everyday, keeps me up with your life. My son is in Japan with the Marines- doing well, they sometimes deploy to Australia- I tell him he needs to visit Australia.

I love this! I had similar enlightenment. I wante...

2009-05-29T03:41:09.613+10:00

I love this!
I had similar enlightenment. I wanted to post seperately on each of my kids but couldn't.

I don't have trouble telling THEM I love 'em. There can be smooches and cuddling and hugs. Words don't have to be smooth when it's one-on-one and love can be shared a skillion ways mom-to-kid, but to describe it in summation; verbally or in writing leaves me with "uh...um...er..."

Mute Savant...who would EVER think it?

Thanks for the kind words.
Ironically, I'm mentioning YOU today.
And vomit of course, cuz it's like a theme for my blog now.

xo

It took massive tragedy to get me to say those wor...

2009-05-29T07:37:06.756+10:00

It took massive tragedy to get me to say those words to anyone. I haven't missed a chance to say it repeatedly in 17 years.

I was brought up that the show of any emotion was a sign of weakness.

My oldest daughter has never told me she loves me, just breaks her back trying to show it.

Strange what we pass on to our children from our own childhood.

Isn't it nice when you get little gifts like that?...

2009-05-30T01:35:24.161+10:00

Isn't it nice when you get little gifts like that? It makes the world seem a nicer place to be.

I rarely have a hard time saying anything. That w...

2009-05-30T01:39:57.433+10:00

I rarely have a hard time saying anything. That works both for and against me. I have no problem telling them (or anyone) about how much I love them. I am equally free with expressing displeasure. Gotta work on that...

This is an inspiring post. It makes me want to red...

2009-05-30T07:29:43.055+10:00

This is an inspiring post. It makes me want to redecorate my yard, my house, etc. with whatever I have on hand. And, perhaps, even re-arrange all my furniture. (smiles)
Blessings
Mrs. White

I am able to tell them I love them and why I love ...

2009-05-30T07:59:27.466+10:00

I am able to tell them I love them and why I love them. I find it hard to tell others why I love them.

Strange.

It's like a bonus on your ebay transaction. Wonde...

2009-05-30T08:13:48.201+10:00

It's like a bonus on your ebay transaction. Wonderful!

Like starting a blog and meeting a liberated believer who lives on the other side o' the world.

Win-win.

I agree; the monotony of routine is preferable to ...

2009-06-01T00:32:45.838+10:00

I agree; the monotony of routine is preferable to interruption.
Of course, I'm a complete home body (read: lazy housewife.)

First off; I thought it was titled, "Panties." I f...

2009-06-02T01:48:08.395+10:00

First off; I thought it was titled, "Panties."
I figured, "Helen's getting real today," and prepared myself for something shocking.

Then I realized/thought it said "Pasties" which may be hand-held [savory] pies or glue-on nipple decorations for strippers. Shocking indeed.

In the end it was a display of how industrious and organized you are, and I am a hopeless slacka**.

Thanks for sharing.

In all seriousness; my ridiculous pantry is in for a rude awakening after our kitchen overhaul.
It'll be "Ship Up or Shit Out." For sure.

Confession Helen: Why the jars? I have to even k...

2009-06-02T06:59:19.411+10:00

Confession Helen: Why the jars?

I have to even keep my salt in a sealed jar! There is no way to keep out the Southern Humidity. I'm also a bug a-phobic so everything is locked down tight. I can never stop the ants, some years we have them and some years not, nothing I do seems to make a difference. And palmetto bugs (the scourge of the south) I had people take one look and not stop running till they hit the Canadian boarder. They look like huge 2-3 inch cockroaches and they fly where ever they can get. Every season we will get four or five get in the house and I don't sleep until I have hunted it down.

Your jars made me think Uh-o wonder what Helen is battling.

I just have a thing about spelling border wrong . . .

2009-06-02T07:01:55.862+10:00

I just have a thing about spelling border wrong . . .

I have to admit... I felt very happy and comfortab...

2009-06-02T17:48:26.114+10:00

I have to admit... I felt very happy and comfortable in your well organised (and stocked) pantry; and don't even start me on those jars of cereals, pasta and nuts (you know I loved them too)

How exciting to have customers before you're r...

2009-06-09T23:09:58.539+10:00

How exciting to have customers before you're ready for them. It sounds as if you're getting closer to being done every day. The last bits always seem to take the longest.

I e-mailed you a note to a link you may find inter...

2009-06-10T01:18:36.671+10:00

I e-mailed you a note to a link you may find interesting. Then had to e-mail again because I forgot to put the link in. Some of my days are much better than others.

I am so excited for you and your store. Will you be able to put a sign up on the new road near the cut off?

...uh, what's a badger's brush...? That a...

2009-06-10T01:23:24.166+10:00

...uh, what's a badger's brush...?

That all sounds very exciting,and it's like you're racing yourself to get the job done so you can serve the customers. Good luck!
You should post pictures as you do all of this work.
(You ARE taking "before" pictures, right...?)

I think anything you share hear is good.So excited...

2009-06-10T04:39:53.352+10:00

I think anything you share hear is good.So excited about your store.

I remember the first time I went into the shop whe...

2009-06-10T09:30:07.010+10:00

I remember the first time I went into the shop where Mr Savant worked.
"Machines?" I smirked. "These are ROOMS, with moving parts inside."
It's all Greek to me, but I can see you have serious equipment.
I'll have to let my Mr. take a gander at your pix.
This stuff's like porno for these old Machining guys.

Housewife is right..that is some serious stuff the...

2009-06-10T09:50:01.725+10:00

Housewife is right..that is some serious stuff there....noticed hubby's shelves were just as neat as yours....a family trait? hummm

I love that - "porno for the old Machining gu...

2009-06-11T00:16:11.768+10:00

I love that - "porno for the old Machining guys.." - so true. Including old sheds and junk yards.

A note from our Sarah: "I sorted dad's cupboard, that's why it's neat".

And yeah - a family trait. I learned it from Sarah.

Yay Helen! This is so exciting.

2009-06-11T02:43:14.374+10:00

Yay Helen! This is so exciting.

I see I'll have a magazine to buy. Can't ...

2009-06-11T03:07:34.913+10:00

I see I'll have a magazine to buy. Can't wait.

I can't wait to see pictures of everything fin...

2009-06-11T03:07:45.289+10:00

I can't wait to see pictures of everything finished. Wish I could stop by for some pie!

I love pix from your shop, ESPECIALLY with touches...

2009-06-12T02:44:25.858+10:00

I love pix from your shop, ESPECIALLY with touches of real life included.

What's a brolly Helen?
All of America wants to know.
(Or maybe some of America knows already and I'm a dumba**. Probably that.)

Mrs. DeBruin, You are so entertaining! I love your...

2009-06-12T14:44:01.393+10:00

Mrs. DeBruin,
You are so entertaining! I love your shop.
Have a wonderful day!
Love and Blessings
Mrs. White

A 'brolly' is short for an umbrella. I...

2009-06-12T18:48:33.977+10:00

A 'brolly' is short for an umbrella. I've called it brolly all my life. That's 'cos my mam taught me to.

2009-06-12T18:56:20.057+10:00

This comment has been removed by the author.

2009-06-12T18:56:39.482+10:00

This comment has been removed by the author.

Hi helen, :) All so exciting! Wish you all the bes...

2009-06-18T09:19:57.198+10:00

Hi helen, :)
All so exciting! Wish you all the best with the shop. will most definately have to come see when all set up :)
xo
Melissa

You are So Much Cooler than Julie Andrews. I misse...

2009-06-18T21:03:53.487+10:00

You are So Much Cooler than Julie Andrews.
I missed you for Six Days!

What a lovely post. Such a nice visit. Your advent...

2009-06-18T21:22:24.775+10:00

What a lovely post. Such a nice visit. Your adventures at home and with the shop are a treat to read!
Blessings
Mrs. White

I don't know where the time goes but it does- ...

2009-06-21T02:58:03.458+10:00

I don't know where the time goes but it does- taken up by housecare, childcare and care of everything else. I spend much more time thinking about my blog than I spend actually posting. But, that's good because it gets me thinking about finding a balance in my days.

And, I'm very glad that I'm not clearing out a barn.

When you were talking about cleaning the barn...al...

2009-06-21T03:26:39.806+10:00

When you were talking about cleaning the barn...all I could think about were all those dangerous snakes you all have and how barns are such a lovely place for them.

I'm impressed with your courage. You didn'...

2009-06-21T04:36:16.900+10:00

I'm impressed with your courage. You didn't curse. You didn't pee your pants.
You done good.

I would have been doing the snake JOG getting as f...

2009-06-21T09:06:17.526+10:00

I would have been doing the snake JOG getting as far away as possible while screaming for my kids to follow me.

Well done.

Baaa haaa haaa! I can just picture you all there i...

2009-06-22T12:58:28.104+10:00

Baaa haaa haaa! I can just picture you all there in hysterics over a snake. Oh my a snake jig!?!? What next?! I am glad that was the end of that snake, best place for em i reckon! :) Glad no one got hurt, thanks for the laugh.. at your expense of course, ;) Hehe
xo

I've often fondly wondered what it would be li...

2009-06-23T01:26:41.232+10:00

I've often fondly wondered what it would be like to live in Aussie ...and then I think of the snakes and spiders. Maybe you just get used to co-existing but your experience today would terrify me!

You and me both. I thought about haveing my statu...

2009-06-25T07:23:58.839+10:00

You and me both. I thought about haveing my statue made while I am still alive and can "control" the whole aura of the thing.

Sum daz i spel beter thin othez.

2009-06-25T07:25:42.548+10:00

Sum daz i spel beter thin othez.

Yes, poor puppies seem to be all poo and big sweet...

2009-07-03T06:05:26.929+10:00

Yes, poor puppies seem to be all poo and big sweet eyes so you forgive them. aahhhh

I lie awake when it storms wondering what's be...

2009-07-03T08:52:19.050+10:00

I lie awake when it storms wondering what's been left out to ruin, what will blow away, where will it leak...
As if I can make a difference with anxiety.
Mr. sleeps like the dead.
Because he's so dang satisfied having such a lovely wife.
And he knows I've got the worrying covered.

I'm with you all the way. I kinda love rain s...

2009-07-03T14:24:26.177+10:00

I'm with you all the way. I kinda love rain storms, too, but our summers are so short as it is, that I want a little summer right now. I've also tried to work outside all week in between the rain and I pretty much have the same weeding routine as you. And I also hate chaos. I have to have things organized, clean and in order. Then I can relax.

Best of Luck!! A novel idea.

2009-07-03T23:22:19.185+10:00

Best of Luck!! A novel idea.

That is a great ad! The images make me want to re...

2009-07-04T01:09:55.530+10:00

That is a great ad! The images make me want to read the text. The text makes me want some pie.
Well done! :)

Oh holy fried pies, if you lived in my hometown yo...

2009-07-04T02:56:58.466+10:00

Oh holy fried pies, if you lived in my hometown you'd only be a couple blocks away. I'd weigh 300 pounds by November.

Brilliant ad by the way.

What a delightful ad! I would shop there every wee...

2009-07-04T05:16:00.229+10:00

What a delightful ad! I would shop there every week if you were nearby!
Blessings
Mrs. White

I agree with @eloh. I'd be an all-too-willing...

2009-07-04T05:31:27.803+10:00

I agree with @eloh. I'd be an all-too-willing helper (understanding "helper" means sampler of pies.)
Yum!

The ad is great!

The ad is great. I love a good pie. Wish I had s...

2009-07-04T11:53:35.302+10:00

The ad is great. I love a good pie. Wish I had some of yours right now.

Helen, thanks for stopping by. I love the Metalsmi...

2009-07-04T12:16:57.213+10:00

Helen, thanks for stopping by. I love the Metalsmithery chart. The shapes are wonderful. If you have machinery parts around, I'mn sure they'd look lovely in your garden!!

I love the sound of rain on the roof too - there&#...

2009-07-06T09:17:37.771+10:00

I love the sound of rain on the roof too - there's something very comforting about it. My teenage son recently downloaded a recording of a rainstorm, complete with distant thunder. He said it helped him relax. Maybe it's a genetic thing.

oh oh oh how I WILL savour your pies!

2009-07-08T12:42:01.769+10:00

oh oh oh how I WILL savour your pies!

Thank you for the nice note! I love your blog pag...

2009-07-12T00:53:26.510+10:00

Thank you for the nice note! I love your blog page and boy do I love pastry - too bad we are so far apart! Best wishes for huge success!

WHAT HAS HAPPENED? One minute we are admiring you...

2009-07-12T09:27:31.752+10:00

WHAT HAS HAPPENED? One minute we are admiring your sign, the next you are confined to rest...

So glad you stopped by, it means you are up and go...

2009-07-15T11:15:11.092+10:00

So glad you stopped by, it means you are up and going some. Are you better? Didn't want to hit you up with a load of questions, just concerned.

What's your malady? I was away on vacation an...

2009-07-22T20:05:09.786+10:00

What's your malady? I was away on vacation and came home to find I'd missed these posts.
I can't wait to read about a big gob of fat (unless it's a reference to me in my vacation bathing suit), but I've got to know - what's ailing you my friend?

Oh my. I LOVE that child. She took a picture. Lov...

2009-07-22T20:06:57.159+10:00

Oh my. I LOVE that child.
She took a picture.
Love. That. Child.

Ouch!

2009-08-03T04:52:17.576+10:00

Ouch!

What beautiful pictures!! Blessings Mrs. White

2009-08-03T10:06:04.190+10:00

What beautiful pictures!!

Blessings
Mrs. White

Yikes ~ that is certainly a proof of work. Bless ...

2009-08-03T10:58:19.706+10:00

Yikes ~ that is certainly a proof of work. Bless your heart for working right along side your man. To me there is great joy in that, wounds or no.

Pretty soon the work will be done and you can enjoy the fruits of your labors.

FlowerLady

I feel your excitement, and I can imagine the stre...

2009-08-03T22:21:33.123+10:00

I feel your excitement, and I can imagine the stress. Too bad I won't get to sample the pies.
.

That is a good question that I don't know the ...

2009-08-05T03:32:15.583+10:00

That is a good question that I don't know the answer to. It is a very interesting piece and I would like to know the history of it.

FlowerLady

You showed this when you gave us a tour of your vi...

2009-08-05T05:05:23.062+10:00

You showed this when you gave us a tour of your village.
I didn't know then.
But I like(d) it anyway, which must make me one of those art appreciatin' people.
Highbrow even.

It can be anything you want it to be. There was go...

2009-08-05T23:00:56.203+10:00

It can be anything you want it to be. There was going to be an art studio behind the 'facade', but the council halted work on it. No approval and they declared a 'stop work' order. All very nice if it were in the middle of a field somewhere, but right next door? - well - you be the judge

It reminded me of the sculpture at Dachau...which ...

2009-08-06T06:32:43.379+10:00

It reminded me of the sculpture at Dachau...which reminded me of being there etc into a post.

I think I would LIKE to be interested in my herita...

2009-08-07T05:26:14.432+10:00

I think I would LIKE to be interested in my heritage.
One of my aunts has a buttload of info dating waaaaaay back, and we were both historical and scandalously "famous" in our roots.
(Or it's all bullsh*t.)
I tell myself it'd be fun to investigate.
It'd be fun to knit too.
And I really would like to learn how to do calligraphy.
I ought to vacuum. I should iron.
Nah.
I'll blog.

I don't know what it is but in looking at it, ...

2009-08-07T08:42:11.002+10:00

I don't know what it is but in looking at it, I thought it could be a representation of the Trinity (Father, son and Holy Spirit). It is kinda nice but I guess one may not want to look at it every single day, esp. if it is a large piece.

I second that. Simply beautiful!

2009-08-07T15:42:57.935+10:00

I second that. Simply beautiful!

I too am very interested in my heritage. It is ama...

2009-08-07T15:45:24.194+10:00

I too am very interested in my heritage. It is amazing how God really brought all the right information my way when it would have been impossible to find it all on my own. I actually have relatives in Aussieland too. I got to meet some of them. That was cool!

I enjoyed your reminiscences of summers past in So...

2009-08-07T16:10:55.768+10:00

I enjoyed your reminiscences of summers past in South Africa. I also enjoyed the Wedding Song.

When "British History" put some archives...

2009-08-08T02:39:33.181+10:00

When "British History" put some archives on line, I finally learned why a GX grandfather was beheaded at the Tower. I knew the date but not the why.

Seems he was a Catholic when it was out of season.

My dad's family goes back to the year 862. It has been fun running those "side lines". I hope one day I can get back to it.

I love your blog! It's been a while since I...

2009-08-09T00:46:31.751+10:00

I love your blog! It's been a while since I've been here. Cool-cool look.

Very sweet. Blessings Mrs. White

2009-08-09T06:51:10.446+10:00

Very sweet.

Blessings
Mrs. White

The closer you get to opening the hungrier I get f...

2009-08-09T15:29:11.700+10:00

The closer you get to opening the hungrier I get for pie...any pie.

If I lived even on the same continent, I'd be camped out in the parking lot.

I look forward to hearing all about your pie shop....

2009-08-10T03:06:11.840+10:00

I look forward to hearing all about your pie shop. Will you be doing all the making and baking yourself? How did you get into this? I wish you well and also want to see pictures of your shop inside and out.

Living in a small country village sounds wonderful to me.

Hugs ~ FlowerLady

Well, you may have stayed in that same street in E...

2009-08-11T15:36:35.482+10:00

Well, you may have stayed in that same street in England and met some Johnny Depp look alike millionaire or of course been run over by a truck! It's always fascinating to think about the alternate lives we may have lived isn't it? I nearly threw in my art school at one stage. In fact, I did and a woman (who became a close friend) spied me crossing the street and called me over on impulse, invited me for a coffee and to talk over my hasty decision. I was off to Byron Bay to live a glorious life in the sands. This friend (Artschool Annie) talked me into staying. Then Dear Reader I moved in with her friend who became the father of my child. I often think about that alternate life if she hadn't obeyed an impulse to call out to me. Perhaps I would have become an idle flame thrower or perhaps I would have met a rich film producer on holiday. Who knows? How fickle our fate can be!
Pleased to meet you Helen. Thanks for your lovely comment and I look forward to hearing about your pie-shop adventures. I'm so glad I'm not running a pie shop as I would look just like a pie I'm sure in a few weeks time! xx

I agree, family history research is totally absorb...

2009-08-12T20:00:40.870+10:00

I agree, family history research is totally absorbing and the 1911 Census provided me with some very valuable information and more direct 'twigs' of the tree to research. Now I just need the Irish records office to hurry up and get their act together!

Ohhhhh, I'm so looking forward to reading all ...

2009-08-13T11:37:01.237+10:00

Ohhhhh, I'm so looking forward to reading all of your blogs! You will be taking me on wonderful adventures. Please send me a pie! Good luck with your grand opening.

Seeing the world or living in different places exp...

2009-08-16T19:09:20.864+10:00

Seeing the world or living in different places expand's one's horizons. Look how much you and Grandpa (and family) have been able to experience due to Grandpa's decision to move to SA and onward :-) Best blessings with the pie shop.

I am almost embarrassed to admit that it's bee...

2009-08-19T20:35:32.452+10:00

I am almost embarrassed to admit that it's been nearly a year since kitchen renovation started here.
We are doing it ourselves, learning along the way, and saving money.

Daycare Kid's cancer didn't exactly speed things up.
Our house has been in constant upheaval, but the sheer size of our messes pales in comparison to everything that's on your plate.

I plan to make huge headway today.
(But SHOOT; I plan that every day.)

How sweet of you to call your email friend wise and dear. I bet she's gorgeous and fun to be with, and you coulda probably said that too. Haha. xo

Glad to hear things are progressing along, in spit...

2009-08-19T20:54:13.727+10:00

Glad to hear things are progressing along, in spite of little arguments and piles, and snakes. Pretty soon this part of your pie business will be all behind you and you can enjoy creating wonderful treats for people to ooohh and aaahh over.

Hugs ~ FlowerLady

Progress...maybe that is enough for right now.

2009-08-20T05:44:56.873+10:00

Progress...maybe that is enough for right now.

So much going on for you. Sounds like a lot of ha...

2009-08-20T10:19:33.814+10:00

So much going on for you. Sounds like a lot of hard work, but I'm sure it will be worth it. Would love to be able to taste those pies in a bout a month.
Take time to enjoy kids, dogs, and husband.

Even in the midst of the busy-ness and occasional ...

2009-08-20T20:26:29.614+10:00

Even in the midst of the busy-ness and occasional burdens; I wish I ended up with living parents I could tolerate.

I get jealous of others who have [extended] family that keeps in touch.

There's my crap, in your comment section.

What's silverside?

I know I am most fortunately blessed. I know it. ...

2009-08-20T20:33:47.567+10:00

I know I am most fortunately blessed. I know it. Oh, and you can post your crap in my section anyday (not kitty crap).
Silverside is a deli cut meat - with a silver sheen - hence the name. The 'silver' side of the cut.xx

HS - We are doing everything ourselves, too - exce...

2009-08-20T20:42:42.088+10:00

HS - We are doing everything ourselves, too - except the electrics. I had to restrain the Machinist from messing with wires. BTW my email friend IS gorgeous and fun to be with.

Flowerlady - I can't wait to start creating those treats. I can't wait to have flour all over my brows (I just know the Machinist is going to 'christen' me).

Eloh - You're right. Progress IS enough. and what's more - there's been a tremendous amount of progress in the last couple of days. Yay!

GN- It sure is hard work, but I don't want to complain about it, you know? I still can't believe we have this opportunity. And I will do as you say - I WILL enjoy the kids, dogs and husband. (Not necessarily in that order...smiles..)

That's lovely Helen. I often smile to myself w...

2009-08-20T21:23:26.671+10:00

That's lovely Helen. I often smile to myself when I'm in the city shopping (hate shopping!) at the men lagging behind their wives and girlfriends. You can see all over their faces and body language where they would prefer to be! xx

It's always a pleasure to discover a new quali...

2009-08-21T01:35:54.318+10:00

It's always a pleasure to discover a new quality blog. I have a feeling I will be back.

Hi there, Love your writing style. It's so d...

2009-08-21T05:55:32.839+10:00

Hi there,

Love your writing style. It's so descriptive. I can "see" the things you tell us. Thanks so much for stopping by my blog and leaving a comment on my purple post. And yes, we purple lovers are now "in".

I love to hear about the life in Australia and thi...

2009-08-21T06:01:51.773+10:00

I love to hear about the life in Australia and things we're not familiar with here, such as "silverside", "trolleys", "butchery", "long black with milk on the side". I feel like I can hear you talk when I read you. But somethings are universal (well, a lot of things), and that's people, adult children with their parents. It could have been my families' conversation. Very much enjoyed this.

A lovely feel happy blog ... so pleased you droppe...

2009-08-21T09:14:49.809+10:00

A lovely feel happy blog ... so pleased you dropped into 70 Plus and Still Kicking so I could meet you.
Cheers
June also in Oz

How exciting to see the start of the best pie shop...

2009-08-21T16:33:27.987+10:00

How exciting to see the start of the best pie shop in Australia! Thanks for looking for my books sweet pea. The publishing company no longer has that fiction imprint so the fantasy ones can be tricky to find. They pop up in some stores and on EBay as well from time to time. If Fantasy is your bag then I can send you a copy if you have trouble finding them. Or if you prefer mystery then wait until Poets Cottage and The Witches of Paris are picked up! xx

It is really going to be beautiful. So much LIGHT...

2009-08-21T16:57:56.602+10:00

It is really going to be beautiful. So much LIGHT!

I saw an new picture of what I assume is your home...I collect antique bottles too!

It's 5:30 AM, and I haven't had enough cof...

2009-08-21T20:28:20.621+10:00

It's 5:30 AM, and I haven't had enough coffee to imagine the work you've done/the work you've yet to do.

I should say something encouraging, cuz I love you....

[thinking]....

Mmmmm...coffee is good.

(It looks great Helen!)

I am suffering from having just started following ...

2009-08-22T00:00:34.212+10:00

I am suffering from having just started following this blog. I need to know more. What exactly is a "pie shop" (or is it simply the obvious - a shop that will sell pies)? Whatever it may be, it looks very smart indeed.

Thanks for all your sweet words of encouragement. ...

2009-08-22T00:12:55.406+10:00

Thanks for all your sweet words of encouragement. It really goes a long way and we appreciate it so much. We truly do! (I read the comments to the Machinist).
Alan, just to fill you in - yes - it will be a pie shop selling meat pies (with pastry lids), as well as sweet pies (cream and fruit, as well as seasonal - like pumpkin in the harvest season and mince pies at Christmas). We'll also sell real coffee, coffee syrups, teas, milkshakes and soda fountains.
When you look at the photos, you'd be forgiven for thinking that it will take ages to complete it. The hardest work has been done. The easy part is the addition of stainless steel sheets on the kitchen walls (regulations), painting the cafe / gallery ceiling and walls and the addition of a two-part epoxy on the floors. Thanks for your interest!

Hi Helen, thanks for following me at Mystical Jour...

2009-08-23T11:27:35.782+10:00

Hi Helen, thanks for following me at Mystical Journeys...I love the way you write and your blog is amazing! How did you do the picture of the machine shop? How do you put all the advertisements and sayings on there? I am so new to blogging, I have not figured out all this stuff yet...Nice to meet you fellow blogger...

I have a few thoughts about military life myself.....

2009-08-25T08:17:28.303+10:00

I have a few thoughts about military life myself...I agree 110% with your brother. On my blog and in my head and heart...can't shake it...and it isn't always a good thing.

Geez Helen, is your family trying to take over the world? One country/continent at a time! I remember the dog/lion photo from your brother that you posted way back. It would be interesting to hear more about your moves.

I so enjoy reading your blog. It's going to t...

2009-08-25T11:44:40.952+10:00

I so enjoy reading your blog. It's going to take some time to understand some of the words: "silverside on wholemeal" and "long black".

I love the way you narrated the conversations. I felt as though I was along with you.

Thank you for your kind words on my own blog. I am so happy to have you to follow and be followed by.

How's the pie shop coming? Loved the pictures.

It looks like renos are coming along nicely. If I ...

2009-08-25T15:20:57.649+10:00

It looks like renos are coming along nicely. If I ever get to your neck of the woods, I know where to drop by for some delicious sounding food :=)

Fascinating post, thanks for sharing--and yes, you...

2009-08-26T00:39:32.646+10:00

Fascinating post, thanks for sharing--and yes, you are a traveling bunch, aren't you?

Eloh, the Machinist also has the military in his b...

2009-08-26T09:05:35.791+10:00

Eloh, the Machinist also has the military in his blood. Once bitten twice shy. This is the same brother who sent me the dog/ lion pic. I will satisfy your interest with more 'moves' stories soon.

PT - on our coat of arms, there is a shell, which is supposed to mean that we travel. Is it on yours, too? smiles...

Lovely post. Alan sure looks handsome in that bere...

2009-08-26T09:13:22.646+10:00

Lovely post. Alan sure looks handsome in that beret.

Loved the comment on investing in the legacy of trees!

Look at Willow checking out the army men! They are...

2009-08-26T16:03:13.361+10:00

Look at Willow checking out the army men! They are great pics Helen and yes, Facebook, Twitter etc is great for keeping in touch with people in that way. If I ever need research material for a novel I know where to come...

Yes, your brother does look handsome in his unifor...

2009-08-26T16:31:29.227+10:00

Yes, your brother does look handsome in his uniform :-)

Ooooo.... It's like me, when there's a ch...

2009-08-28T03:32:37.412+10:00

Ooooo.... It's like me, when there's a chocolate cake on the counter, except the Machinist won't eat the whole thing in a single sitting.

I JUST told Mr. today that he needs to see a certain motorcycle that's for sale by our Dolls' school. He had one like it in The Day, and I know the spark is still there.

Men and their toys...

Sounds like one happy machinist.

2009-08-28T03:37:15.559+10:00

Sounds like one happy machinist.

Ahh yes, sibling rivalry.

2009-08-28T06:13:52.905+10:00

Ahh yes, sibling rivalry.

Ah, and partially obscured by the bike is a nice a...

2009-08-28T13:52:28.938+10:00

Ah, and partially obscured by the bike is a nice assortment of hammers and peens!

Ever since we saw that deadly Eastern Massasauga s...

2009-08-28T23:01:09.055+10:00

Ever since we saw that deadly Eastern Massasauga snake in the yard this spring, I've been too afraid to weed the beds in the front of the manor. They are such a sorry mess.

(The Machinist and Samuel-son's talents will b...

2009-08-29T02:13:12.966+10:00

(The Machinist and Samuel-son's talents will be showcased later at the Shop)

That would be the "eating" of the pies in the name of "testing".

If only I were on the same continent...I'd buy me a suitcase full of clothes a few (many) sizes larger and come be a "tester".

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMM....Pie.

Dear Helen, I've enjoyed reading this blog so ...

2009-08-29T10:01:38.599+10:00

Dear Helen, I've enjoyed reading this blog so much. Thank you for your thoughts, musings, photos and stories.

And I really can't wait to savour a daily pie or two or my own.

That is lovely Helen. Are you celebrating somethin...

2009-08-30T17:34:44.264+10:00

That is lovely Helen. Are you celebrating something special? xx

Really love your header picture!

2009-08-31T04:25:51.931+10:00

Really love your header picture!

I also owned an XT over here in the UK.And of all ...

2009-08-31T04:31:30.118+10:00

I also owned an XT over here in the UK.And of all my bikes it gave me the most enjoyment

It looks lovely. I'd like to lie on my back in...

2009-08-31T13:35:57.176+10:00

It looks lovely. I'd like to lie on my back in it.

Beautiful poem, Helen. Did you write it?

2009-08-31T13:36:54.870+10:00

Beautiful poem, Helen. Did you write it?

Yes, if I lived near you, I think I would be in yo...

2009-09-02T13:01:33.669+10:00

Yes, if I lived near you, I think I would be in your shop all the time. I've just had English Sausages for breakfast today. There is a man who sells them to the tea room I used to work at and I have a friend who still works there who picked them up for me. He makes them in the US but to an English recipe and they are the closest we have ever come to tasting a bit of Old Blighty sausages. Good luck on your new venture.

I thank you very much for your link toward
2009-09-05T19:09:36.221+10:00
I thank you very much for your link toward A Heart in Provence, I'm very flattered.
So I linked your blog here : "My readers"
Best wishes.

What delightful creations. I apologise for the ign...

2009-09-06T20:58:46.066+10:00

What delightful creations. I apologise for the ignorance of a latecomer to your blog but tell me more about Tina whom, I assume, created them.

Those are beautiful. What a wonderful talent she h...

2009-09-06T23:57:42.147+10:00

Those are beautiful. What a wonderful talent she has.

FlowerLady

Oh WOW, this is soooo beautiful ! You have the mo...

2009-09-07T00:29:08.457+10:00

Oh WOW, this is soooo beautiful ! You have the most gorgeous site here and I had to drop by and leave this comment for you - and say hello of course ! Your posts are lovely and you have interesting pictures. It's all perfect so thank you for sharing them all and best wishes....

Those are really beautiful. Will she have a place...

2009-09-07T04:08:35.876+10:00

Those are really beautiful. Will she have a place to display her wares at the Pie Shop?

They're beautiful creations, aren't they? ...

2009-09-07T16:22:26.406+10:00

They're beautiful creations, aren't they? Made by a friend of ours, - Tina - who we hope will also add her touch to our metal products (Metalsmithery brand). They will be sold at The Daily Pie. And so - you can have a cup of real coffee (or tea), with a savoury or sweet pie, and peruse the array of metal (and glass) art.
Thanks, everyone for your encouraging words. You are all so kind.

That is a great idea to sell local artworks at the...

2009-09-07T20:44:32.661+10:00

That is a great idea to sell local artworks at the Pie Shop. My favourites are the mushroom ane the black and white one. xx

Those are all beautiful. Hard for me to pick favou...

2009-09-08T21:21:12.772+10:00

Those are all beautiful. Hard for me to pick favourites. CAn you tell us what the range of prices would be for these works or can I find that information somewhere on line? Drop me an email at my blog addy. Thanks!

The Bushranger Hotel across the road? How fun to h...

2009-09-09T00:39:20.603+10:00

The Bushranger Hotel across the road? How fun to have carry out so conveniently located! I'm afraid I would use it all too often!

PS~ Your Libra symbol looks awfully familiar! :^)

2009-09-09T00:40:14.858+10:00

PS~ Your Libra symbol looks awfully familiar! :^)

About that weeding business ... oh, never mind, so...

2009-09-09T03:40:45.140+10:00

About that weeding business ... oh, never mind, some people just can't help it!

And so to bed (as an earlier blogger used to say)

2009-09-09T08:45:07.139+10:00

And so to bed (as an earlier blogger used to say)

A phobia about hanging your knickers on the line? ...

2009-09-09T18:53:24.063+10:00

A phobia about hanging your knickers on the line? Interesting...

I have awarded your Blog an award dear Helen. The details are on my Wednesday post.
Nighty Night xx

What a wonderful post. I love reading about how p...

2009-09-10T02:39:33.653+10:00

What a wonderful post. I love reading about how people spend their day... I especially love reading what people eat. Not sure where this fascination comes from. A lovely blog and a lovely post :)

wow, you have busy days!

2009-09-12T17:57:16.071+10:00

wow, you have busy days!

What a beautiful poem...

2009-09-18T02:55:41.336+10:00

What a beautiful poem...

Tell him a really good machinist would design an a...

2009-09-19T00:27:41.588+10:00

Tell him a really good machinist would design an automatic self haircutting device.

Indeed the picture at the head of your blog looks ...

2009-09-19T01:43:17.172+10:00

Indeed the picture at the head of your blog looks like an automatic self haircutting device.

Weeds are so bothersome... but I am always gratefu...

2009-09-19T02:05:57.101+10:00

Weeds are so bothersome... but I am always grateful when they at least have a flower. That way I can tolerate looking at them until they are pulled out!

I wouldn't dare cut my husband's hair. If...

2009-09-19T02:06:51.486+10:00

I wouldn't dare cut my husband's hair. If I messed up I would never hear the end of it!

I always told my sons, the only difference between...

2009-09-19T04:38:59.651+10:00

I always told my sons, the only difference between a good hair cut and a bad hair cut is two weeks....and if they didn't like it...save their money up and use a real barber...sometimes free stuff looks free...

Your hubcap is a brave chap, and that is all I'...

2009-09-19T11:02:56.811+10:00

Your hubcap is a brave chap, and that is all I'll say on that subject!
Now, we finally got around to posting our lovely award, thank you so much! Hope you approve.
The Prodigals

Best of luck with the renovation and the plumbing....

2009-09-21T03:09:41.062+10:00

Best of luck with the renovation and the plumbing... you are very lucky to have a husband that is interested in all things "trade" xo

It all looks to be coming along just fine. I love ...

2009-09-21T09:58:32.921+10:00

It all looks to be coming along just fine. I love the reminders that we live at different ends of the planet - whilst you are just coming out of your winter we are just entering ours.

Wow. I'm so jealous you have real live cluckin...

2009-09-21T19:45:21.281+10:00

Wow. I'm so jealous you have real live clucking hens! I remember gathering eggs when I was little and how yummy they tasted! xx

I love the pictures of your hens! Last spring we g...

2009-09-22T02:23:35.537+10:00

I love the pictures of your hens! Last spring we got nine and over the course of the winter lost them all to foxes and racoons.
My husband is a steel contractor so we have lots in common. Loved the pics of all the metal, I can totally relate!
Stephanie

Isn't it marvelous to have a handy Husband?! ...

2009-09-23T09:11:53.361+10:00

Isn't it marvelous to have a handy Husband?! Mine is so handy also. So you are approaching spring, while we go into fall. I do so love fall, except that it leads into winter!

Looks like a lovely herb garden, and oh my, hens too. I am now officially jealous. :)

Helen, you're not selling South Africa to me l...

2009-09-23T20:41:37.580+10:00

Helen, you're not selling South Africa to me love! No way could I live there. As a child I did live in Papua New Guinea and can still remember the pythons and bird eating spiders. Not to mention the headhunters still in the jungle. If you ever see a book called Tour to Hell by David Levell pick it up. It's a non fiction book about early settlers in Australia and written by my Scribe :) He really bought what the bush and that experience was to life in my totally unbiased opinion. Hope all is well. xx

I've always thought we Yanks to be a melting p...

2009-09-23T20:54:39.727+10:00

I've always thought we Yanks to be a melting pot of migrants, but there is something to be said for the tough and scrappy Australian migrants and all they had to endure. Great post.

Great post... I am dealing with 'migrating'...

2009-09-24T02:01:55.382+10:00

Great post... I am dealing with 'migrating' to England probably in 2010. Moving there permanently is intimidating for me even though there are not snakes :) It is the great unknown- not being surrounded by what is familiar to you...

I'm curious what you do with the "weeds&q...

2009-09-24T04:36:43.481+10:00

I'm curious what you do with the "weeds" as some are poison. Same problem we have here in the Deep South. The smoke from them burning can actually kill some people. I didn't know this, we have several that will blister the skin but the smoke will blister the lungs.

You are brave to continue to work in such conditio...

2009-09-24T06:03:20.320+10:00

You are brave to continue to work in such conditions... bravo!

We have horrible dirt storms here too. At least it...

2009-09-24T09:06:49.636+10:00

We have horrible dirt storms here too. At least it wasn't a mud storm. I really hate those! Your car always looks like someone threw mud balls at it, LOL!

I can remember some years having to wear a surgical type mask while I worked the garden because there was so much dirt in the air. Ugh!

Hee hee, that sounds like a far more exhausting da...

2009-09-24T16:58:54.150+10:00

Hee hee, that sounds like a far more exhausting day than mine! That is a great quote as well. There is no finer feeling than have all your presents bought early for Christmas! I saw in the department stores in the city they already have the Christmas decorations out! xx

The Pumber and the Gardener Thanks for sharing

2009-10-02T19:08:32.375+10:00

The Pumber and the Gardener

Thanks for sharing

That looks ... oh the work you had to have put int...

2009-10-03T03:20:19.709+10:00

That looks ... oh the work you had to have put into all that! It looks so wonderful!

Amazing! I am so envious...

2009-10-03T04:17:37.166+10:00

Amazing! I am so envious...

Your garden is truly lust worthy indeed. What a ha...

2009-10-03T05:42:20.471+10:00

Your garden is truly lust worthy indeed. What a harvest you will have!

Fantastic garden!

2009-10-04T18:36:16.661+11:00

Fantastic garden!

WOW!! Very impressive garden, and so well designed...

2009-10-15T05:23:04.245+11:00

WOW!! Very impressive garden, and so well designed! My Dad would have been impressed as well. I used to garden when I lived in CA, but literally living on a mountain, the ground is so hard here, it is like mining!

Must be a very busy pie "ing" in the lan...

2009-10-19T01:10:05.335+11:00

Must be a very busy pie "ing" in the land down under.

I am so happy to read an update! I have been wonde...

2009-10-20T01:32:39.469+11:00

I am so happy to read an update! I have been wondering where you were and what you were up to!!

hugs and love
Blessings
Mrs. White

Hope the job-hunting is successful - but is only a...

2009-10-20T01:48:23.103+11:00

Hope the job-hunting is successful - but is only a temporary delay in achieving your dream pie shop.

Good luck to you and yours along this journey. I ...

2009-10-20T02:14:33.858+11:00

Good luck to you and yours along this journey. I believe in keeping your eyes on the prize too.

It's great to hear from you again... I wish yo...

2009-10-20T03:26:57.781+11:00

It's great to hear from you again... I wish you and your family the best of luck. Keep your eye on the prize is great advice... my favorite is: "This too shall pass"! xo

Yes, Jennifer said it beautifully, 'this too s...

2009-10-20T18:10:30.223+11:00

Yes, Jennifer said it beautifully, 'this too shall pass' is one of my favourite sayings. Best wishes for the job hunting, Helen. Fingers crossed for something that is enjoyable for you. Definitely keep your eyes on the prize (you never know - this could be another way of getting you to it quickly) xx

Thank you, dear friends, for your support and inte...

2009-10-20T22:22:21.842+11:00

Thank you, dear friends, for your support and interest in our ventures. Your kindness really means a lot to me. I want you to know that..

Lovely to hear....Keep writing when you have time....

2009-10-21T00:55:52.210+11:00

Lovely to hear....Keep writing when you have time. You have quite an audience!

hugs and love
Blessings
Mrs. White

Oh - your vegie patch is to die for !! I am just e...

2009-10-21T14:18:03.763+11:00

Oh - your vegie patch is to die for !! I am just embarking on my own this season, so it's inspiring to see what can be achieved ! Thanks also for your comment on my post, and for following along with me ! I love your blog and am now a follower of yours also ! (I also heartiliy agree with your 'Mothers and Pie' quote - how true !) Love to you and yours. XX

I don't think I'll be able to look at my w...

2009-10-21T21:51:59.956+11:00

I don't think I'll be able to look at my wholemeal ever again without thinking of you! It had never occurred to me to ponder where that bread came from. I thought it was born on the supermarket shelf. xx

That is a LOT of bread!! My hat is off to you. Hop...

2009-10-22T02:45:35.764+11:00

That is a LOT of bread!! My hat is off to you. Hope tomorrow's easier.

2009-10-25T16:44:19.000+11:00

This comment has been removed by the author.

A girl after my own heart :-) Sounds scrumptious. ...

2009-10-25T16:45:13.494+11:00

A girl after my own heart :-) Sounds scrumptious. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU....

I missed out on what you are celebrating. Sounds ...

2009-10-26T05:08:44.100+11:00

I missed out on what you are celebrating. Sounds like a yummy one.

I hope things level out for you in the land down under.

Ladies, thanks for the well wishes. Another birthd...

2009-10-27T22:24:53.769+11:00

Ladies, thanks for the well wishes. Another birthday been and gone...
Eloh, I'm sure things will level out in the land down under, as you say.. tee hee...thanks!

Happy Bithday! Sounds yummy, apart from the coke ...

2009-10-28T21:31:42.766+11:00

Happy Bithday!

Sounds yummy, apart from the coke float ... too much fizz for me.

I am glad I found your blog. I have presented you with an award. Come pick it up on my blog. Well done. :)

Oh yum...wait a sec and I'll join you! hee!

2009-10-31T07:08:10.580+11:00

Oh yum...wait a sec and I'll join you! hee!

happy belated burfday and hello too!.. are those y...

2009-11-01T23:48:50.928+11:00

happy belated burfday and hello too!.. are those your own illustrations? they are excellent! really like it round your place :-)
oh! and YUM...... PIE.......

Thanks again for the birfday wishes! Watercats, th...

2009-11-02T00:42:15.261+11:00

Thanks again for the birfday wishes!
Watercats, the main illustration is courtesy of Sam, www.iamotter.co.uk. See the otter on my left sidebar? Just click on him. Enjoy!

I know exactly what you are talking about. I miss...

2009-11-02T02:35:38.779+11:00

I know exactly what you are talking about. I miss so many things about Iowa...but I so love the deep south. When I spent that year up there looking after mother...it had been 17 years.

I loved walking around bare foot in the grass, outside, in the dark, to lay in the grass and look up at the stars....it was lovely.

I had actually forgotten it was possible.

Live there again.... Never

I can totally relate to this post. I am from Cali...

2009-11-02T02:59:06.022+11:00

I can totally relate to this post. I am from California and my husband is from London... One day we will move back to London. I am like your husband- love English culture- but DETEST the weather. I'm sure I will find myself longing for the California coast once I'm there... I guess the trick is to "bloom where you're planted" no matter where that be :)

I also was born and raised in England,but when i m...

2009-11-02T06:54:10.205+11:00

I also was born and raised in England,but when i married,most of my life was spent globe trotting because of my husbands job. When we returned,to settle down with our family,we found England had changed,for the worse.We did not want our children raised there so we settled in Southern Ireland about 25 odd years ago and we love it.The children now in their 30s and 40s also love it and do not want to go back to England at all and our grand children were all born here.
Glad you met the watercats, Mrs watercat is my daughter,very talented,
but then i am her mum !!!

Thank you for supporting my blogspot,you do not kn...

2009-11-02T21:09:44.816+11:00

Thank you for supporting my blogspot,you do not know how happy you have made me today.You are very welcome to my world at the castle ,up the mountain.

I'm so sorry. Just remember THIS TOO SHALL PA...

2009-11-03T14:17:51.851+11:00

I'm so sorry. Just remember THIS TOO SHALL PASS! Hope that helps xoxo

Yup, we usually do survive most things that make u...

2009-11-03T14:25:01.764+11:00

Yup, we usually do survive most things that make us crazy. Does that mean we're insane because we keep doing the same thing, getting the same results, yet expect different results? Perhaps, but sometimes I can be such the optimist, LOL!

It's temporary...possibly even a lot longer th...

2009-11-03T19:22:39.793+11:00

It's temporary...possibly even a lot longer than you really care to contemplate, but oh how much the sweeter when the dream becomes reality.
Hope you have a better day today.

DC, thanks for your understanding, and yes, just c...

2009-11-04T20:35:33.381+11:00

DC, thanks for your understanding, and yes, just commenting and considering do help!

SP, I remember hearing long ago that the thing we learn from history, is that we don't learn from history! I am like you - I EXPECT different results..hee hee...

KD , you're right - it's temporary and who knows really how long it will take with all the finer, minor details. Thanks for reminding me of the prize. Oh, and I had a much better day!

I know only too well how you felt on your first sh...

2009-11-04T21:19:45.584+11:00

I know only too well how you felt on your first shift.I can tell you,through first hand knowledge that it will get better,or rather,you will get used to it.
After a career nursing,i retrained as a cook and dietition and took a job in a small hospital.I worked 4 nine hour sifts in a kitchen described by you.The responsibility of getting out three meals a day to 65 residents plus staff ,was at first daunting,but i loved the job and the end was result was happy well fed residents.
Rejoice and pat yourself on the back and remember the fruits of your labour are what counts.

So, will you sponsor them?

2009-11-05T00:54:01.222+11:00

So, will you sponsor them?

Oh, Alan - I would in a flash, BUT... there is so ...

2009-11-05T00:58:36.420+11:00

Oh, Alan - I would in a flash, BUT... there is so much to this sponsorship thing. I know this, though - I will be looking out for businesses over here that are in the same field of work as he is (we are engineering). Ha! don't tempt me. I'd open a soup kitchen if I had the means...

Hello there - I saw your little button amongst my ...

2009-11-05T02:42:05.697+11:00

Hello there - I saw your little button amongst my collection of followers and when I clicked on it it didn't work (boo) so I googled you and here I am.

I love the look of your blog and am very impressed that you can make pies. My hands are a bit too warm to make good pastry.

I did have some cousins that emigrated to Australia but they are now all back in Europe now. It seems it is not for everyone.

Anyway I hope to come back and see you soon

You have a son to be proud of and he should be pro...

2009-11-05T02:45:42.879+11:00

You have a son to be proud of and he should be proud of himself,but i do feel sorry for his situation.I am a perfectionist rather than a clock watcher,i know how uncomfortable he feels that his ethics upset his colleagues.He deserves his promotion,it will be hard to begin with but he will get through it.Let the others clock off,a good boss notices these things,your son will go far.

I really feel for your son. I think it's been...

2009-11-05T03:38:25.561+11:00

I really feel for your son. I think it's been that way for a long time though, as I have had different jobs through the years and there have always been people who just stand around and do the bare minimum. It's too bad that he's being turned into an outcast, when all he wants to do is his job and be good at it. I hope things go well for him. It sounds like his boss already appreciates your sons work.

FlowerLady

Yes, that's my experience with working for oth...

2009-11-05T04:40:50.059+11:00

Yes, that's my experience with working for others too. Your son should be proud to be different. He isn;t in the wrong here. No one ever kicks a dead dog! You obviously brought him up well. Well done!

Wow! is it the 5th of Nov already? That's the...

2009-11-05T04:44:09.922+11:00

Wow! is it the 5th of Nov already? That's the first time I've posted a comment into the future. Speaking of the future, I forgot to say that your son definitely has a bright future.

Helen, I know what this is like. What a situation!...

2009-11-05T04:59:20.074+11:00

Helen, I know what this is like. What a situation! I have joked with our children saying (because we've mostly been self-employed for so long), that I raised my children to do ALL the work wherever they are and they have major job security because no boss would fire them. Why would he if they are the only ones working??

My husband says it this way, "They carry the show." - meaning do all the work. They are just like their Dad.

Blessings
Mrs. White

FORD = Fix Or Repair Daily (heh-heh) Great pics!

2009-11-06T23:13:50.084+11:00

FORD = Fix Or Repair Daily (heh-heh)

Great pics!

Great pictures. Great story-line. Why do old truck...

2009-11-07T01:42:40.160+11:00

Great pictures. Great story-line. Why do old trucks left to fade away always have their bonnets (hoods) open?

An old lady i know,collects derelict cars,puts the...

2009-11-07T02:17:37.591+11:00

An old lady i know,collects derelict cars,puts them on her farm and lets the animals use them to sleep in.there are baby pigs,goats,chickens.peacocks,dogs,cats,etc all roosting,sleeping and eating in these rust buckets
But seriously,why do people litter the beautiful countryside with cars,old beds etc.It is not just Australia that has this problem,it is widespread here in Ireland and we do not have any 'outback' to hide them.
Great pictures,that truck looks to be in better condition than my daughters car !!

Just been catching up on your few posts... what an...

2009-11-07T02:21:29.420+11:00

Just been catching up on your few posts... what an eventful few days!.. Love Willow's thing for ford, lol! As for delays... I knows dem, fortunately my days are now full of my own time... laaaarge amounts of it :-)
hahaha, word verification, 'piediss'..

maybe the roos are the culprets?... they are a bit...

2009-11-08T01:57:50.815+11:00

maybe the roos are the culprets?... they are a bit weird as far as animals go... I think perhaps they keep teleportation devices in those pouches. The dead one on the road came across a black hole mutation, casualties are bound to happen in the ongoing kangaroo conspiracy. Just my opinion :-)

How exciting! I wonder if anyone else saw anythin...

2009-11-08T02:10:27.093+11:00

How exciting! I wonder if anyone else saw anything this time?

Wow how thrilling! Poor Kangaroos though :(

2009-11-08T04:25:35.772+11:00

Wow how thrilling! Poor Kangaroos though :(

I think a couple blogs I follow may have some info...

2009-11-08T07:00:43.779+11:00

I think a couple blogs I follow may have some information. That is a hard situation. One of those things that are really funny, until it happens to you.

IT'S ONLY ME FLYING AROUND HAVING FUN! I didn&...

2009-11-08T22:55:20.294+11:00

IT'S ONLY ME FLYING AROUND HAVING FUN!
I didn't hurt any roos though!

Amen to that. Yes looking after a family is a ful...

2009-11-09T13:38:23.215+11:00

Amen to that. Yes looking after a family is a full time job that unfortunately does not have monetary compensation! But I suppose you get paid with the love you receive back... :)

Helen, that is really eerie. When you saw the firs...

2009-11-09T17:26:09.896+11:00

Helen, that is really eerie. When you saw the first UFO what did you feel? What do you think it was? Some army thing out there somewhere or some other form of intelligence? Poor Kangaroos! xx

I could have sworn that was my wife Bev speaking! ...

2009-11-09T19:00:32.781+11:00

I could have sworn that was my wife Bev speaking!
Sounds like your existence isn't far removed from ours.
Actually, I really like doing the dishes...sometimes MIL allows me and sometimes I have to re-do them in secret as her eyesight is failing her.

I'm a blitzer. I do the every day minimum most...

2009-11-09T21:04:34.072+11:00

I'm a blitzer. I do the every day minimum most of the time, then about once a month blitz everything. About twice a year I do EVERYTHING; pull out whole rooms, chuck stuff out etc. I struggle to keep busy.. I need more animals or something :-)

Yes they are all full time jobs. And now I just te...

2009-11-10T02:10:41.271+11:00

Yes they are all full time jobs. And now I just tend to sit here and worry about all of them. How's the wife going on in her meeting at work? Has the Lad done his weekly Anatomy Test? Has Amy got fleas? Worrying is a full time job.

I am lucky because my husband always helps with th...

2009-11-11T06:25:16.633+11:00

I am lucky because my husband always helps with the housework,but when he gets to the kitchen and i am not there to supervise,he rearranges it.This drives me mad,i can't find anything !!Nothing is put in a logical place,i like my kitchen the way i arrange it.
I totally agree that caring for a family is a full time job and as i have discovered,it does not end when they grow up and leave,thats when you start worrying about them AND the grandchildren !!

Helen, well said. And thank you for visiting my b...

2009-11-12T01:14:41.514+11:00

Helen, well said. And thank you for visiting my blog. I love your header picture and the one at the end of the first page. You have a neat blog and I will try to keep up with it. Best, John

My kids never dared say they were bored either. &q...

2009-11-12T03:16:43.678+11:00

My kids never dared say they were bored either. "I'm sure I can find a job for you."

I enjoyed my visit here and look forward to coming back.

Hello Helen, This post made me think of the old br...

2009-11-13T14:20:00.951+11:00

Hello Helen, This post made me think of the old broken down truck on our property. In this part of the country, everyone seems to have one, and I figured out why they keep it that way even though it is an eyesore in the beautiful country. Everyone has an old beat up truck that does not work, because they do not want anyone to think they are doing too well. That way, they will not be envious.
Lydia

Yep - I agree with all your points and feel very l...

2009-11-14T02:16:19.005+11:00

Yep - I agree with all your points and feel very lucky that my life is a fairly trivial one - I don't go out to work and have all day to do house stuff - and Mr FF helps me with the heavy stuff because of my weak back.

In fact I've got to confess to feeling a bit of a slob because I very seldom clear out all the shelves, wardrobes, drawers etc. Like mother like daughter - my mum hated housework and did her best to avoid it.

So, when can I expect to ride into the parking lot...

2009-11-16T19:06:31.853+11:00

So, when can I expect to ride into the parking lot, dust myself down and pull a chair up to one of those delicious pies?

I'm a pie girl. If I have to chose between cak...

2009-11-16T23:34:56.944+11:00

I'm a pie girl. If I have to chose between cake and pie it would always be PIE!!

Make the pies and they will come!

2009-11-17T16:21:35.183+11:00

Make the pies and they will come!

Hope we all get an invitation to the opening of th...

2009-11-18T00:56:27.388+11:00

Hope we all get an invitation to the opening of the much awaited for pie shop.I if i lived many thousands of miles nearer,i would be your first customer.Please give us a taste of the shop by putting up some photo's of the opening.

did someone say pie!?.... it's a watercat'...

2009-11-18T08:48:27.977+11:00

did someone say pie!?....

it's a watercat's main sustainance you know!
(hence the ample flesh in our family) :-)

If only you could work out a way to put your pies ...

2009-11-18T23:14:35.997+11:00

If only you could work out a way to put your pies online and then ship them to Europe. I know it is impossible to do but what a grand fantasy. I love pies, me.

The mum far left looks as if she's about to th...

2009-11-20T00:38:32.799+11:00

The mum far left looks as if she's about to throttle the loser. Cheers.

I like The Machinist's shirt...

2009-11-20T00:45:52.010+11:00

I like The Machinist's shirt...

Aw, look at the two of you! Love it!

2009-11-20T00:48:01.427+11:00

Aw, look at the two of you! Love it!

I love photos! I love the fact you can imagine a w...

2009-11-20T02:15:03.917+11:00

I love photos! I love the fact you can imagine a whole exsistance by looking at them. That little kid, staring out, her whole life ahead of her, and all the stuff that happens... who'd have ever thought it!?...

You were absolutely precious!

2009-11-20T04:23:19.533+11:00

You were absolutely precious!

Ah, a Derbyshire lass I see. You do indeed look cute.

2009-11-20T11:28:30.799+11:00

Ah, a Derbyshire lass I see. You do indeed look cute.

At that age i was given a similar hair cut,i also ...

2009-11-21T02:40:08.183+11:00

At that age i was given a similar hair cut,i also gave my daughter the same hair do,she has never let me forget it !!!!!!

Well, at least she used a bowl and not a pie plate...

2009-11-21T06:55:39.970+11:00

Well, at least she used a bowl and not a pie plate.

My mother was a Beautician, I looked like a frightened poodle at that age.

How adorable. I love your description! Blessings ...

2009-11-21T09:34:39.784+11:00

How adorable. I love your description!

Blessings
Mrs. White

Such fun to see. hugs and blessings Mrs. White

2009-11-21T09:36:12.940+11:00

Such fun to see.

hugs and blessings
Mrs. White

Sounds like a well deserved dip in the pool!

2009-11-21T19:57:21.937+11:00

Sounds like a well deserved dip in the pool!

We are similar in that to get way from the cold, d...

2009-11-21T20:56:37.368+11:00

We are similar in that to get way from the cold, damp and windy weather, we take a hot steaming shower. Okay, perhaps it isn't quite the same.

I enjoyed the post...It's funny! It's life! It's warm and human!

I'd love to see pics of the progress of the pie shop.

I reckon it'll have the biggest on-line opening in the history of pie shops.

I'm exhausted just reading! I think my brain w...

2009-11-21T22:27:37.536+11:00

I'm exhausted just reading! I think my brain would just explode.. along with my temper probably... I can't remember the last time i went swimming..... ?

Ha, you're clamped to my sidebar now so I don&...

2009-11-22T02:00:26.441+11:00

Ha, you're clamped to my sidebar now so I don't miss anything.

The Bretons that I live amongst still plant by moonlight and you can always see the little almanacs for sale listing all the lunar configurations (or whatever the fancy word for that is). I think Vita SW also did the same.

Me - I'm not exactly the world's most energetic gardener by daylight. Any nocturnal visits would usually be Mr FF and his gian telescope being wheeled into the garden.

That meal sounded divine btw. I suppose when you're busy cooking pies all day it's nice not to have to do the evening meal as well

There is a splendid song by Flanders and Swann cal...

2009-11-22T04:17:01.668+11:00

There is a splendid song by Flanders and Swann called Misalliance about two plants growing together. The first verse goes as follows :
The fragrant honeysuckle spirals clockwise to the sun,
And many other creepers do the same.
But some climb anti-clockwise, the bindweed does, for one,
Or Convolvulus, to give her proper name.
If you don't know the song you can find it at :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF-1yd97igI

Steps forward, you all will need a vacation once s...

2009-11-22T13:28:38.669+11:00

Steps forward, you all will need a vacation once she's finished before you open her up!

Planting by the moons cycle really does work,my da...

2009-11-22T21:25:11.199+11:00

Planting by the moons cycle really does work,my daughter had an old book telling you how and when to plant.The veg she grew was the biggest and best i have ever seen,she also did companion planting and did not use pesticides or chemicals.
I wish my other half could cook,your husband sounds a gem,and your dessert sounds like heaven,cherries are my favorite fruit and with cream---just wicked !!!!

Oh you are all adorable! I go through phases wher...

2009-11-23T03:46:13.420+11:00

Oh you are all adorable! I go through phases where I read nothing but fiction- then I can't stand fiction and read nothing but non-fiction, self help or how to books... so funny. I wonder why that is?

I cannot even imagine any of these sweet children ...

2009-11-23T04:15:30.659+11:00

I cannot even imagine any of these sweet children bringing fear into their neighborhoods! (smiles

love and hugs to you
blessings
Mrs. White

Tell us more dear Helen..... Blessings Mrs. White

2009-11-23T04:17:07.182+11:00

Tell us more dear Helen.....

Blessings
Mrs. White

Are you suggesting there should be police booking ...

2009-11-23T04:55:33.895+11:00

Are you suggesting there should be police booking numbers held by each in the photos?

Not the Hudson's from Derbyshire?? Oh, my goo...

2009-11-23T05:47:47.822+11:00

Not the Hudson's from Derbyshire?? Oh, my goodness!!

I am sure I was warned about you lot when I was yo...

2009-11-23T06:45:10.303+11:00

I am sure I was warned about you lot when I was younger. Enjoyable post.

Oh how crafty was your Mum? And to use the bright ...

2009-11-23T14:01:45.612+11:00

Oh how crafty was your Mum? And to use the bright colours so you wouldn't get lost! Brilliant. How great to have all those male buddies. I had two sisters and so we were all very girlie. xx

Hi Helen: What delightful photographs of you and y...

2009-11-25T10:30:39.121+11:00

Hi Helen:
What delightful photographs of you and your brothers. What a cool Mom to knit with the bright colors!!!
I am now a follower of you and will keep in touch. I have only been to Heathrow airport flying through and would love to visit, one day, your wonderful country.
I am glad to meet you and I will be back.
Peace & hugs
carole

This story of you and your brothers appears well w...

2009-11-25T18:07:37.825+11:00

This story of you and your brothers appears well worthy of a longer tale. Four older brothers? Was your table set before you had a chance to decide what the dinner might be? No doubt, a tough girl you are. Or, perhaps the best athlete in the group?

never, ever force home knits on your children. Unl...

2009-11-26T02:43:50.563+11:00

never, ever force home knits on your children. Unless of course you're taking photos for future amusement.

I was roughly halfway down my family of seven but ...

2009-11-26T10:20:48.716+11:00

I was roughly halfway down my family of seven but the one in front of me was a girl so hand-me-downs was bad news!

I perceive a posh pie shop progressing. Good luck.

2009-11-27T17:21:51.878+11:00

I perceive a posh pie shop progressing. Good luck.

Yes you do all look very cute - you Hudson kids!

2009-11-28T00:19:34.425+11:00

Yes you do all look very cute - you Hudson kids!

Great blog. I can identify.

2009-11-30T02:04:38.153+11:00

Great blog. I can identify.

Aye the best of intentions! Nice quiet night out t...

2009-11-30T05:28:35.173+11:00

Aye the best of intentions! Nice quiet night out then.

Sounds a fun evening - I also hate texters.

2009-11-30T05:42:41.231+11:00

Sounds a fun evening - I also hate texters.

OMG! I am still laughing and snorting. Very funny ...

2009-11-30T08:49:44.150+11:00

OMG! I am still laughing and snorting. Very funny stuff and you just can't make that sh*t up.

It drives us crazy too... okay, maybe just me. But come on! I remember the days when you heard nothing but the movie in a movie theater.

Excellent, funny post!

That was so funny! Bev went to see the same film ...

2009-11-30T09:32:57.049+11:00

That was so funny! Bev went to see the same film but without the fireworks!

You'll be pleased to know I don't even car...

2009-11-30T22:00:30.225+11:00

You'll be pleased to know I don't even carry a mobile. I own one, it has been dead for several months and without credit and I refuse to spend my life carrying one. I'd never have the balls to ask someone to turn one off though! :0)

I can picture the the whole event,as you described...

2009-12-01T21:26:39.405+11:00

I can picture the the whole event,as you described it so well,hilarious .
The machinist sounds just like my other half.

That's different, good post, thanks.

2009-12-02T01:40:53.535+11:00

That's different, good post, thanks.

hmmm...true but how odd a video! I note your 3 fla...

2009-12-03T19:53:44.508+11:00

hmmm...true but how odd a video! I note your 3 flags. how very nice to see. thanks for joingin my blog. I will check back here again when not quite so tired. Still recovering from my Xmas Tea, no less.

Three generations of a lovely family.

2009-12-03T23:33:29.261+11:00

Three generations of a lovely family.

Hi Helen Nice to meet some of the family! I thoug...

2009-12-04T00:24:12.285+11:00

Hi Helen
Nice to meet some of the family! I thought I had a busy time around Christmas...then I read your blog!

Looking forward to more pics.

Your family is absolutely gorgeous- Thank you so...

2009-12-04T14:44:52.458+11:00

Your family is absolutely gorgeous-

Thank you so much for your kind comments on my blog- I really appreciate it! xo

Aww can you send that husband around here. He look...

2009-12-04T16:06:07.987+11:00

Aww can you send that husband around here. He looks mighty handy! I need a husband to fix things everywhere. What lovely pictures of all three members of your tribe. Your daughter is beautiful. xx

I love seeing family pics and yours are an attract...

2009-12-05T04:16:21.233+11:00

I love seeing family pics and yours are an attractive lot - come on, more please and don't let your daughter beat you up - she's lovely and we can all see her now

belated happy birthday to all of them... family l...

2009-12-05T08:31:44.391+11:00

belated happy birthday to all of them...

family looks beautiful!

TMW..You are due a fortune, if your pies turn out ...

2009-12-06T04:10:03.819+11:00

TMW..You are due a fortune, if your pies turn out half as tasty as your offspring. That should drop you in it!! Children are all the same' ignore their parents but never fail to check their blogs!

I like the '3 Lions' shirt - even though I...

2009-12-06T06:52:55.369+11:00

I like the '3 Lions' shirt - even though I'm Welsh!

** There comes a time, however, when the chickens ...

2009-12-06T22:24:35.485+11:00

** There comes a time, however, when the chickens need to explore out of the coop. This fact of nature is not easy for the Machinist and I. The Ya Yas still live at home with us, we know that we truly have their hearts, yet their instrinsic destinies are calling them by invitation.

********************

"All the more reason that you and I remain best friends, Babe", emphasises the Machinist.

And with tears in my eyes I respond "I know, Machinist. I know..." as I consider the joy of my first-love.

****************************

That was absolutely beautiful! If you hadn't been loving best friends first, your ya-ya's wouldn't be the loving people they are. They will not forget the love, laughter and closeness of where they came from.

Not everyone is so blessed. You both gave your children what you did not have while you were growing up.

Bless your hearts, bless your love.

FlowerLady

This is such a loving an touching post.I too came ...

2009-12-06T22:57:33.092+11:00

This is such a loving an touching post.I too came from a large family and yet was lonely,as we were not a happy family. Like you I put all my love into my own family and we have remained close,even though they have left home and have families of their own.I remember only too well the day my youngest left to go to England,I was heart broken and did not want her to go.My husband,in his wisdom said,let her go,don't make it hard for her,that way she will return.Wise words indeed because she got homesick,her relationship with her partner failed and she came home with the knowledge that we loved her and would not be critical of her.
Your YA-YA'S will thank you for letting them fly the coop,and never stop returning the love you have given them.

I can only imagine the warfare that would break ou...

2009-12-06T23:00:31.324+11:00

I can only imagine the warfare that would break out in our house if I tried to home school the kid, we conflict over homework or teaching her to ride a pony is bad enough... my place is to tuck her into bed at night and be there for answers.. that's enough for me :-)

If you have their hearts you have each other forev...

2009-12-07T04:40:59.423+11:00

If you have their hearts you have each other forever and will never feel alone... life gets sweeter and deeper because of it.

We would have liked the option to teach ours at home but as you know, it isn't possible in England. Fortunately they survived our crazy educational system with some real crackpot teachers.

I agree 100% with the best friends policy and continuing courtship throughout.

A very touching post.

I also homeschooled. I only wish I had been abl...

2009-12-07T10:01:07.583+11:00

I also homeschooled.

I only wish I had been able to do it for all four of my children and not just the two youngest.

The differences are so much more than just a better education. A connection to the soul.

I think yours sounds such a lovely family unit and...

2009-12-08T00:04:57.888+11:00

I think yours sounds such a lovely family unit and all the while the smell of pies cooking in the background. Don't disillusion me please,

How old are the Ya Ya's ?

Happy birthday oh daughter of blogger. You look lo...

2009-12-08T03:15:42.369+11:00

Happy birthday oh daughter of blogger. You look lovely

Happy birthday . May you grow up to be as charming...

2009-12-08T04:03:59.940+11:00

Happy birthday . May you grow up to be as charming as your mother obviously is.

Happy Birthday Emma-Lee/Zola Bud. I think those a...

2009-12-08T04:50:25.261+11:00

Happy Birthday Emma-Lee/Zola Bud. I think those are lovely names and you are a lovely young lady. May your year be filled with love, peace and happiness.

FlowerLady

Happy Birthday! Your daughter has such beautiful e...

2009-12-08T13:25:09.370+11:00

Happy Birthday! Your daughter has such beautiful eyes Helen! Does she look like you? xx

TMW, have a good time, sure it's a storm or ha...

2009-12-08T23:54:56.335+11:00

TMW, have a good time, sure it's a storm or have the dogs been at your herb garden. The symptoms are vaguely familiar from a misspent youth.

Alan, thanks for the lovely comment. It's very...

2009-12-09T00:12:59.661+11:00

Alan, thanks for the lovely comment. It's very kind of you.

Ken - I really DO intend putting more pics on the pie shop blog, but will let you know when I do via TMW

Jennifer - thanks for your kindness, and I'm so glad things have worked out for you and yours.

Josephine - The Machinist was thrilled with your comments. He really is a handy man to have. I trained him well, yes? tee hee...

FF - Thankfully, my daughter didn't beat me up! HA..and this spurs me to post more of her..hmmmm...

sp.ajay - thanks for the birthday wishes. I've let them all know and they are delighted.

Adrian - Oh, wouldn't a fortune be luvverly? Tasty offspring, tasty pies. Good combination and enough to thrill the customers. You're right = my girls have each post sent to their email address.

JPT - My brother gave the Machinist the T shirt. I've always liked it on him, even though he is a South African.

Flowerlady - what a sweet blessing. The Machinist ...

2009-12-09T00:27:56.855+11:00

Flowerlady - what a sweet blessing. The Machinist and I met in a small country town in South Africa when we were 14 turning 15. We're still best friends and I never have regretted marrying him. You're right; we try to give our children what we lacked, except materialistically.

Matron - we are fortunate to have wise husbands to keep us 'well grounded', yes? We women so often act on our heart without thinking logically. I'm so pleased that your daughter has returned because she longed for you. Oh, and with such a beautiful home as yours, who wouldn't?

Watercats, - I've always believed that parents have far more influence and 'clout' than they think. I hope your girl shows you that real soon. xx

Ken, I know what you mean about the crazy education system - that's why we took ours out. Fortunately, homeschooling is allowed in England now. I'm so pleased to hear it. Thanks for the encouragement in keeping their hearts.

Eloh - you're right about homeschooling - it's not just education, there's so much more. To be honest, "education" wasn't high on our priority list, but more character building and to instill a love of learning. Hard work, daily work, but well worth it. I see it doesn't stop when they get old, either...

FF - Thanks for the compliments on my family unit. Not pies, but cakes and soon - the test kitchen for breads (high protein) AND pies, but that needs to happen in the commercial kitchen where I hope to (ahem) not be disturbed...

FF - Thanks for the birthday wishes.. I have passe...

2009-12-09T00:34:04.593+11:00

FF - Thanks for the birthday wishes.. I have passed them on to her. She's delighted.

Alan - How can I not help but love what you write? smiles...

Flowerlady - Thankyou for the birthday wishes. I'm glad you like the names.. tee hee... Can you remember the Zola Bud / Mary Decker incident?

Josephine - Yes, Emma's eyes are beautiful aren't they? She is so funny and full of wit. We larf a lot. And yes - she's the only child that looks like me. The other two look like the Machinist, even though they have certain body parts that are "mine" or "his". Oops.. I'd better not disclose them, 'cos it's a constant source of hilarity and embarrassment.

Adrian, thanks. Yes, the storm was lovely. The dog...

2009-12-09T00:37:11.516+11:00

Adrian, thanks. Yes, the storm was lovely. The dogs do get in the herb garden, despite it being fenced. But hey, you're a good boy now. That's all that counts... Isn't it?

sounds good to me!.. a bit of stifling heat and ch...

2009-12-09T00:44:00.379+11:00

sounds good to me!.. a bit of stifling heat and chocolate cake... I haven't had either for far too long.... *dreams......

Watercats - thing is - the chocolate cake was melt...

2009-12-09T00:49:59.219+11:00

Watercats - thing is - the chocolate cake was melting as quickly as I was putting it together. The cream in the middle of the sponges was the right texture, but that on top - let me just say - someone asked "what's with the cream cheese on top?"

Stress...

Honestly, give me cold, rain and snow anytime. At least you can dress to keep warm. When you've got this heat, it's hard to keep (your) cool..ha ha...

Wonderfully atmospheric, I could smell that storm ...

2009-12-09T02:20:46.392+11:00

Wonderfully atmospheric, I could smell that storm coming and that chocolate cake.

I can almost smell your lovely kitchen from here. ...

2009-12-09T03:26:32.150+11:00

I can almost smell your lovely kitchen from here. Have a great time and come back with a film review

You have such a wonderful gift for describing atm...

2009-12-09T06:15:00.101+11:00

You have such a wonderful gift for describing atmosphere,I could smell and taste your meal,it was delicious !!
I do not envy the heat you have at the moment,I do not tolerate muggy heat well.Except for the huge amount of rain we have had this year,the Irish climate suits me down to the ground.
Hope the Machinist did not fall over his umbrella again !!!

The mention of all the goody food made me hungry. ...

2009-12-09T07:47:00.334+11:00

The mention of all the goody food made me hungry. I could smell it all the way here in the US of A. Have fun, but I guess you're back home by now!

Very atmospheric...nice to read the smells. Hope ...

2009-12-09T09:47:37.096+11:00

Very atmospheric...nice to read the smells. Hope you had a good time because it sounds like you both need and deserve it. Be sure to let us know what you went to see.

LOL- I actually really enjoyed this film! I love a...

2009-12-09T15:07:23.243+11:00

LOL- I actually really enjoyed this film! I love a good scary movie and this one was innovative. Lucky you had the Machinist to keep you company :)

hello madam!.. nice post!.. even i saw this movie ...

2009-12-10T03:06:21.301+11:00

hello madam!.. nice post!.. even i saw this movie a few days back and i was scared like anything... as it is i am very much afraid of ghosts.. but this movie was really scary!.. my friends made me watch it at night and then i never had the courage to go to the toilet that night!.. :)

I am not into blood and guts horror,but I do like ...

2009-12-10T05:42:04.049+11:00

I am not into blood and guts horror,but I do like the paranormal films.There is something about them that makes me wonder if there is some truth in the unknown.I have never seen this film,but looking at the clip,it looks quite scary.You must get a good torch or get the Machinist to install more lights be fore you see another of these films.

I with you in not messing with things better left ...

2009-12-10T06:41:33.696+11:00

I with you in not messing with things better left alone. Those footprints reminded me of something that happened to me one time.

After your review, I kinda looking forward to getting the bajeebus scared outa me.

So funny! Great to read. WHY do you put yourself t...

2009-12-10T09:25:31.530+11:00

So funny! Great to read. WHY do you put yourself through it? I won't go to see such a movie on my own because I'm a coward and Bev will NEVER dare go see it.

In made me scared just reading your post and your ...

2009-12-11T02:40:36.568+11:00

In made me scared just reading your post and your description of your dark house. I don't think the film will be for me.

I don't like creeepy films of any sort and as ...

2009-12-11T04:55:48.537+11:00

I don't like creeepy films of any sort and as for a kitchen scene and the camera lingering for a moment on a knife block - it's the quick exit for me then.

The little red hen will do it!

2009-12-11T04:59:07.332+11:00

The little red hen will do it!

What wonderful, sparkly colors. I just went int...

2009-12-11T07:14:55.198+11:00

What wonderful, sparkly colors.

I just went into the attic this morning and got things down to decorate with. Seeing peoples Christmas blogs got me inspired.

Looking forward to seeing your decorated home.

FlowerLady

Lordy Helen, I need a nap just looking at it all.

2009-12-11T08:23:52.680+11:00

Lordy Helen, I need a nap just looking at it all.

It all looks very jolly, Mind you I have never wor...

2009-12-11T11:37:43.110+11:00

It all looks very jolly, Mind you I have never worked out how you cope with all the snowy, icy stuff in the middle of your summer. Incongruous seems to come to mind.

Oh I think they look just perfect sitting in the b...

2009-12-11T12:39:05.895+11:00

Oh I think they look just perfect sitting in the bowls :)
What pretty colors and variations.
How organized you are !

Hard not to get in the spirit after seeing your pi...

2009-12-12T00:45:48.560+11:00

Hard not to get in the spirit after seeing your pictures.

Hi Helen They look lovely and will be worth the tr...

2009-12-14T22:17:37.985+11:00

Hi Helen
They look lovely and will be worth the trouble when finished. Make sure you post the results.

Beautiful, beautiful bulbs. Don't sweat over C...

2009-12-15T19:08:40.907+11:00

Beautiful, beautiful bulbs. Don't sweat over Christmas though I know it is easy to fall into this trap. If you run out of time, why not simply put baskets of your coloured bulbs all over the house? Just like they are now, except off of your table so you can dine there. I hope you will be able to rest, relax and enjoy the best of the season with your loved ones. Peace.

It's so easy to plonk things down and just lea...

2009-12-17T00:10:41.930+11:00

It's so easy to plonk things down and just leave them there - I've got piles of papers on our sideboard and every time I pass them I think oh tut, I must sort them out and then dismiss it from my mind. A bit like your bowls really.They do look pretty all laid out like that though.

Don't do too much re-assessment. Facebook shou...

2009-12-18T03:19:20.784+11:00

Don't do too much re-assessment. Facebook should be a no-brainer. If meaningful conversations are required then lets talk or write letters or whatever. I like Facebook just because there is no pressure with it.

hey friend me on face book. Linda H.

2009-12-18T07:48:39.279+11:00

hey friend me on face book. Linda H.

What a thoughtful post -- thanks for sharing, Hele...

2009-12-18T08:50:16.782+11:00

What a thoughtful post -- thanks for sharing, Helen.
(And you've got your tree up already! I'm way too late this year, yikes.)
Very happy holidays,
Michael

Keeping in touch with people takes so much effort ...

2009-12-18T23:59:23.968+11:00

Keeping in touch with people takes so much effort and I know myself how one means to email/write/phone people and then the days become the weeks become the months etc.

I pop in and out of people's walls on Facebook and thoroughly enjoy it.Don't beat yourself up too much or for too long - it won't change anything and will just make you upset.

Not keen at all on Facebook myself but MANY people...

2009-12-19T08:23:28.879+11:00

Not keen at all on Facebook myself but MANY people (inc my wife) love it.

Indeed it is that time of year. Keeping up is most...

2009-12-19T18:08:39.197+11:00

Indeed it is that time of year. Keeping up is most difficult. But then again, so was letter writing years ago.

Question: Why is it so difficult to get those ornaments on the tree? We do everything else and then that last seems such a chore. Oh, well. Mine are on for another year. Some year I'll learn how best ot hang them.

Your header is delightful. I've wondered if t...

2009-12-20T04:50:21.955+11:00

Your header is delightful.

I've wondered if the strings of decorations I've seen in pictures are pop-corn. Now I know. They are.

What a brilliant idea to dramatise parcels with Christmas tree decorations. I realise I've been a bit utilitarian in my wrapping.

Facebook puzzles me. I suppose I don't want to put my life on show.

Was glad to read this.

Sorry about your friend though. It's strange when people who 'ought' to be here - no longer are.

Lucy

Oh dear, my heart and prayers go out for you, your...

2009-12-21T01:31:30.096+11:00

Oh dear, my heart and prayers go out for you, your DH and dear Bobby too. May you all feel God's love, peace and healing flowing through and around you.

Hugs ~ FlowerLady

Oh that's terrible - I don't know which st...

2009-12-21T03:13:31.388+11:00

Oh that's terrible - I don't know which story is worse (I'm a very doggy person). Maybe the dogs should be inside if the snakes are so common out there. Do they live outside all year round (the dogs not the snakes) ?

(worried now)

Hope hubby's finger heals ok (see, I worry about humans as well - but more about dogs really as they are helpless)

Scary living. Poisonous snakes, wow. Wishing a s...

2009-12-21T05:02:48.124+11:00

Scary living. Poisonous snakes, wow. Wishing a speedy recovery for both.

Hi Helen Just when you think everything but the ki...

2009-12-21T06:00:41.723+11:00

Hi Helen
Just when you think everything but the kitchen sink is being thrown at you, the washing machine, saw-bench, poisoned dog and venomous snakes vie for centre stage. Your family really are going through the ringer at the moment. You'll be glad when this year is behind you no doubt.

Give my regards and best wishes to the Machinist who probably can't quite put his finger on why all this is happening to you all (sorry!)

Have you ever thought of having a few mongooses ar...

2009-12-21T07:47:55.740+11:00

Have you ever thought of having a few mongooses around? I've seen them in action against the habu, very impressive. You could pretend they were "outdoor ferrets" or the like.

Here we put cotton poison in a perimeter, usually around the house. It's probably more akin to a ring of salt to keep the witches out...but it has always made me feel better.

Best wishes for your pup and man.

Hope all resolves it'self . All you need at th...

2009-12-21T14:42:36.545+11:00

Hope all resolves it'self . All you need at this time, or any time of the year. Good luck.

Isn't it astonishing how strong we can be when...

2009-12-21T20:18:41.577+11:00

Isn't it astonishing how strong we can be when things come to test us. I'm a very squeamish person who retches easily but our rescue bichon Poppy has tested this more than any other dog I've had. Because she was nearly starved to death she has a lot of food issues and, early on, ate anything she could find within her reach - candles, wood, etc. I've never had to clean up so much diarrhea in such a short space of time - on her bottom and in her house. I just felt so sorry for her and got on with the cleaning. How could I be cross?

Three cheers for your wonderful husband - he loves that dog as much as we love ours. I hope his finger is improving and of course - it goes without saying - that I wish Bobby a quick quick recovery. Oh, that poor little dog - my hears goes out to him

I mean in our house not her house. These are two s...

2009-12-21T20:19:55.730+11:00

I mean in our house not her house. These are two spoilt bichons; they have car look out seats and sleep on our bed.

This all reminds me of a Christmas nursing a diein...

2009-12-22T17:57:15.096+11:00

This all reminds me of a Christmas nursing a dieing Golden Retriever while her girl was on vacation. I was more sick about how to tell my daughter her dog passed. Everytime I went to the dog I'd sit on the steps just sick that I'd open the door and find her dead... I boiled chicken and sat giving her broth and bites, washing and cleaning her bedding, turning her...

One day I just knew she couldn't hold on much longer... the bed was empty..she was slowly walking back up to the workshop... she lived several more years.

The menu sounds great. Hope you all have a nice Ch...

2009-12-25T04:04:14.713+11:00

The menu sounds great. Hope you all have a nice Christmas and a happy new year

Hi Helen That was a day well spent. It sounds abso...

2009-12-25T04:13:09.724+11:00

Hi Helen
That was a day well spent. It sounds absolutely fantastic. Don't forget to set a space for visitors from England...we'll come a long way for such treats.

Have as good a day as is promised and more besides.

Oh my, that is a lot of work... I know all will en...

2009-12-25T08:13:04.207+11:00

Oh my, that is a lot of work... I know all will enjoy the fruits of your labor.

And thank you so much fo that link/video... I did get to see the first of them back in the '70s..overseas.

Merry Christmas Helen to you and your lovely family.

It all sounds good to me!

2009-12-25T08:14:17.027+11:00

It all sounds good to me!

Strength to strength ~ bonding and healing between...

2009-12-25T09:09:36.176+11:00

Strength to strength ~ bonding and healing between two old friends. Glad to hear Bob is doing so much better and hope your DH's finger is healing nicely also.

FlowerLady

I don't know how I missed this post...getting ...

2009-12-25T10:47:24.422+11:00

I don't know how I missed this post...getting older by the day.

So glad to hear good news on your Bobby.

Glad you're enjoying the rain - I like it too....

2009-12-26T04:09:09.127+11:00

Glad you're enjoying the rain - I like it too.
Over here (Wales) we had snow yesterday morning (early hours) - about 2 or 3 inches - followed by freezing fog all day.
Today we've had a bright day with temps up to 3c and for the next few days we're promised rain sleet snow fog and frost!

I see his dew claws, always told a dog with a dew ...

2009-12-26T04:44:25.023+11:00

I see his dew claws, always told a dog with a dew claw could survive one of our snake bites.

A Christmas you won't soon forget. Merry Christmas!

Greetings from this side of the world,nearly a whi...

2009-12-26T23:00:42.125+11:00

Greetings from this side of the world,nearly a white Christmas but most of it ice...xx

Hope you get some much needed rest, and hope Bobby...

2009-12-27T03:31:02.255+11:00

Hope you get some much needed rest, and hope Bobby continues to get better.

I don't like creep crawlies inside either.

Hugs ~ FlowerLady

Sorry to hear you dog was bitten. On a practical n...

2009-12-27T16:00:47.394+11:00

Sorry to hear you dog was bitten. On a practical note, I had a special wrap for a recent male foster dog prone to marking in the house. It consisted of a length of fabric with elasticated sides and velcro to fasten on his back. It went under his tummy/pee-pee section and held incontinence pads or maxi-pads in place. He still peed but no harm, no foul. Change pads as needed. I think they sell them at pet stores but it would be very easy to make.

Hi Helen: I hope Bobby feels much better quickly. ...

2009-12-28T01:48:03.739+11:00

Hi Helen:
I hope Bobby feels much better quickly. no poisonous snakes here just the garden variety here.
I hope your holidays are merry and the coming New Year all that you need and want it to be!!!
peace
carole
I bet Sherlock Holmes was good; Johnny Depp is a super actor

Looking after a sick animal is very wearying and I...

2009-12-28T07:14:08.041+11:00

Looking after a sick animal is very wearying and I wish you all well. It's a worry to live somewhere with so many of the crawling things that would make me feel a trifle anxious. You are doing a good job of coping though and you'd probably miss it if you left

Anyway Helen - have a lovely end to a not so lovely week and I hope that 2010 sees you and the gang - animal and human - avoiding all problems

Our eldest two are eleven and fourteen and have ju...

2009-12-29T00:17:47.150+11:00

Our eldest two are eleven and fourteen and have just returned to school after having been homeschooled for three years.

The school looked down their noses at us when I first tried to register them but I had to smile when after having been tested they were both placed in the top groups for everything!

Our four will flee the nest one day. I am dreading it in one way and will be so proud in others.

Good blog: will link to it.

Awwww Helen i feel so sorry for poor bobby! :( How...

2009-12-29T15:06:46.060+11:00

Awwww Helen i feel so sorry for poor bobby! :( How sad to see your pets in such pain and misery. No fun! I hope he gets better really soon! Hope you guys had a great Christmas. :) Would love to see you again sometime when your in town next! Let me know ok if you can? :)
Have fun working at the shop! I cant wait till it opens. Hehe
Love,
Melissa

Hi Helen The two films you mention are the very tw...

2009-12-30T00:30:33.058+11:00

Hi Helen
The two films you mention are the very two we'll see in the next week or so.

I enjoyed reading this post and I look forward to how you cope with what 2010 throws at you. I know it won't all be good but I sense you will all come out of it stronger.

Like Melissa and so many others, I can't wait for the shop to open either!

Sorry to hear about your dog! I often wonder how a...

2009-12-30T01:39:39.382+11:00

Sorry to hear about your dog! I often wonder how anyone sleeps soundly in Oz.. everything there seems to want to kill you, or at least is capable of doing so, is the general rule of thumb "don't touch anything"?, lol..
Here's wishing you an excellent new years, and hoping your old dog gets back to form asap.. cheers!

I hope you manage to find some rest before you sta...

2009-12-30T08:38:31.668+11:00

I hope you manage to find some rest before you start work again. But I know what you mean about not being able to rest because 'there is so much to do, so much potential'. We are the same here. I find it hard to stop and look at what we have here because there is so much to do. I feel like I'm on a continuous working holiday! Blessings to you and your family, and your wounded animal.

Home cleaning is a very important aspect...the wat...

2009-12-30T15:45:37.589+11:00

Home cleaning is a very important aspect...the water let outs that is the pipes,the basement,the roof...everything needs to be taken care of.

Happy New Year to you.

2010-01-01T08:58:53.370+11:00

Happy New Year to you.

WEll, sorry bout the movie experience adn all but ...

2010-01-01T19:15:25.276+11:00

WEll, sorry bout the movie experience adn all but I do hope you have a very happy new year!!

Glad he's on the mend, a close call.

2010-01-03T01:13:11.137+11:00

Glad he's on the mend, a close call.

I even feel sorry for my inside dogs when there is...

2010-01-03T01:45:04.709+11:00

I even feel sorry for my inside dogs when there is a storm. They get so scared.
Glad that Bob is on the mend.

Hi Helen You are all big softies really...which is...

2010-01-03T05:47:19.096+11:00

Hi Helen
You are all big softies really...which is exactly what I would be if I had a dog.

I have just read up about your shop, and am awed b...

2010-01-03T22:00:34.897+11:00

I have just read up about your shop, and am awed by the task you and your family have taken on. Makes me feel better with the equally huge task we have taken on here! Looking forward to reading how you get on during the coming months.

Let's hope things quieten down enough to see y...

2010-01-04T03:13:01.090+11:00

Let's hope things quieten down enough to see you meet your project deadline. Mmmm - I'll be able to smell the pies from here - and I bet the photos will make me drool - I'll have to get a cover over my keyboard

Hi Helen I did't realise that you had blogs co...

2010-01-04T04:51:11.951+11:00

Hi Helen
I did't realise that you had blogs covering the pie shop and metalsmithery. I never thought to explore the side bits.
I really enjoyed looking through them. Well done! You all deserve a medal!
I'm looking to you being open and super successful.

The Daily Pie has displaced the barrier reef as my number one destination in Australia.

Good luck.

2010-01-04T08:39:48.944+11:00

Good luck.

Glad I'm not the only one awake at an unearthl...

2010-01-05T02:01:58.360+11:00

Glad I'm not the only one awake at an unearthly hour - but, after I've let the dogs out at 05.30 and then given them their brekkie, I do go back to bed with a cuppa and a book. It's become quite a habit and means I can even sometimes get another hour or so asleep.

Here's to the opening

I like to be up reasonably early so I can get a he...

2010-01-05T06:03:12.499+11:00

I like to be up reasonably early so I can get a head start to the day, otherwise the day seems to run away with me, and I can quite connect with you about needing to know where things are. Since moving here eighteen months ago 99% of our possessions have stayed boxed up, which quite frankly often gets on my nerves. Sort of makes my head feel scrambled! But at least you will get sorted out soon, and be on your way to being a super duper baker person.

I see that you have listed England as one of your ...

2010-01-05T13:32:47.779+11:00

I see that you have listed England as one of your interests! Maybe you would be interested in my new blog:

http://picturesofgreatbritain.blogspot.com/

As often as possible I will post photographs of glorious vistas, charming close-ups, and interesting tidbits of life in Great Britain for the pleasure of Anglophiles everywhere!

I see that you have listed pies as one of your int...

2010-01-05T22:32:26.754+11:00

I see that you have listed pies as one of your interests. I was going to mention Asda's Apple pies but your pie in the sidebar picture looks like it could beat their's. But to hell with pies and with England. You have a sweet, beautiful and talented daughter.

That was beautiful! I can see why you are in awe....

2010-01-05T22:54:08.288+11:00

That was beautiful! I can see why you are in awe. She really has a way with words, spoken from her heart.

You have a lovely and loving family.

FlowerLady

I like the golliwogs!

2010-01-06T07:09:07.733+11:00

I like the golliwogs!

Oh to have shelves as well! And the clutter! I so ...

2010-01-07T02:41:38.092+11:00

Oh to have shelves as well! And the clutter! I so miss having a space in which I can put my things all around me. Not to worry, though, having a look at your space gave me the patience to continue waiting until I can have my space too.

Love those posters,are they originals or prints ??...

2010-01-07T03:22:09.494+11:00

Love those posters,are they originals or prints ?? I love old posters and would have the walls covered with them if I had room.Will have to find a room,like yours,that I can call my own,I would make it a poster heaven,with lots of shelves for all my old junk that no one else likes,that is packed away in boxes.
I have been looking in at the pie shop blog,looks like you are getting there,pics now required of interior.

PS forgot to say--the chairs for pie shop are grea...

2010-01-07T03:25:43.471+11:00

PS forgot to say--the chairs for pie shop are great,love them,well done Machinist !!

Hi Helen Did the school just close with everything...

2010-01-07T20:28:22.789+11:00

Hi Helen
Did the school just close with everything left untouched inside?

It sounds a fascinating place. What's the history?

JPT - I've always loved and collected Golliwog...

2010-01-09T08:05:50.201+11:00

JPT - I've always loved and collected Golliwogs - even when Robertson's Jams used to give them away for free. Ooopps! Should we be saying "Golliwogs"? Absolutely!

Vera - the Machinist lined the whole room with benches and drawers and shelving for us. It was a 'naked' room, just off the kitchen, and the previous owner used it as a spare bedroom. I've had my days of waiting and waiting, and it sure is worth it. I hope you get your space soon!

Matron - they're prints. I, too, love the old prints and old ads. I still have boxes of my own junk, too. Actually, a lot of it is stored in old suitcases, on top of each other. BTW = I hope to update the pie shop blog more regularly now, as things are starting to MOVE..

Ken - when I say 'schoolroom', I mean a room in our house that we call the schoolroom, from when we homeschooled our children. It's the one in this picture, but the children don't hardly go in this room anymore. Ha! wonder why...Probably reminds them of grammar. Our home was also an old service station - back in the 60's and 70's. It later became a truck stop and get this - known as the 'old pie shop', because the couple who ran it started to sell pies to the truck drivers. The other building we're turning into the pie shop was also an old service station (roadhouse). Can you see a pattern forming?

Alan - you know that I'll now have to go and l...

2010-01-09T08:12:22.758+11:00

Alan - you know that I'll now have to go and look up Asda's applie pies. I made an apple pie just the other day. I like the apples 'el dente' with almost caramelised brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg, but the Grands didn't like it. Said it was 'raw' - ha - even after a long baking time. Thankyou for your compliments. My daughter is thrilled to hear from you.

Flowerlady - Thankyou for your continued support and sweetness! I've passed your message on to her as well. I hope she'll write more. It's fascinating for me to 'see' her view on the life we share together.

FF and Vera - there are many postitive reasons to ...

2010-01-09T08:20:58.134+11:00

FF and Vera - there are many postitive reasons to getting up early, aren't there? The only trouble with it is I get hungrier earlier. Ha! And so - I eat more. Sometimes, when I go back to sleep, I feel even more tired and often wonder if others get this too.

I love this. Very well said and definitely worth ...

2010-01-11T03:50:16.725+11:00

I love this. Very well said and definitely worth contemplating.

Oh! Was startled at your change of photo up top! B...

2010-01-11T06:35:35.892+11:00

Oh! Was startled at your change of photo up top! But loved the words in this piece. Made me think.

Hi Helen Now that's a bit deep. Very interesti...

2010-01-12T00:38:06.087+11:00

Hi Helen
Now that's a bit deep. Very interesting! I read every single word twice.

A thought provoking topic and very interesting.I a...

2010-01-12T01:06:23.271+11:00

A thought provoking topic and very interesting.I am going to sit down with a cup of coffee and contemplate my life,recall all the people that have come into my life and why,when and where.It will be interesting to see which category they fall into.It is true that people have come into my life and fulfilled a need at a time I needed help. Strangers who appeared in my life with out warning,some remained and some I have never heard from again but I remain grateful to all of them.
Thank you for this post.

That is both clever and meaningful. You should be ...

2010-01-12T01:20:41.434+11:00

That is both clever and meaningful. You should be proud of it.

Hello All A friend sent this to me. Nobody seems...

2010-01-12T02:05:24.637+11:00

Hello All

A friend sent this to me. Nobody seems to know who wrote it. I, too, had to go through it several times, as I find it so meaningful and when I think back to the people I have met in my life, I see the reality in it. Makes me want to disect each part and add my own truths. Glad you enjoyed it!

Wow. What devotion to your Bobby. He is one luck...

2010-01-12T05:00:24.865+11:00

Wow. What devotion to your Bobby. He is one lucky dog.

TMW, this is very good, as you know in the UK we o...

2010-01-12T05:00:33.573+11:00

TMW, this is very good, as you know in the UK we only have adders, have been bitten twice and am immune just like a big wasp sting. Vitamin C never knew that. I eat D+ Marmite seems to do the trick.
Can't imagine walking about and being bit by anything that nasty. Give him a hug from us and tell him he's a lucky dog. Congratulations!

Hello Helen, these days I find myself missing when...

2010-01-12T05:13:28.083+11:00

Hello Helen, these days I find myself missing when our list was going. It is cold and snowy here. I enjoy looking at all your pictures and posts. Hearing what everyone is doing. You are indeed a blessing, dear friend.

Thank goodness he pulled through, and by natural m...

2010-01-12T05:36:07.135+11:00

Thank goodness he pulled through, and by natural means as well, plus the love he must have felt coming from you all during his time of recovery. That, I would think, must have been the strongest factor: the love.

When I saw his picture I smiled and pet him with m...

2010-01-12T12:25:47.700+11:00

When I saw his picture I smiled and pet him with my cursor. Good dog. Bless his heart and yours too. Your love and devotion have brought him to where he is today. I love the look in his eyes. He is looking into your soul.

Love and hugs ~ FlowerLady

Very well done you.at least he's now probably ...

2010-01-12T16:48:11.548+11:00

Very well done you.at least he's now probably snake proof.

So glad to hear the dog has recovered so well,but ...

2010-01-13T00:56:11.578+11:00

So glad to hear the dog has recovered so well,but what a worry you must have had.We do not have snakes in Ireland,St Patrick banished them !!!
One of our dogs was poisoned by rat poison a few years ago,I remember only too well how worried and concerned we were at the time,thankfully our dog made a full recovery thanks to our vet.

The only snakes we have are in the House of Common...

2010-01-13T07:49:14.024+11:00

The only snakes we have are in the House of Commons and they regularly attack us. I'm pretty certain that it wouldn't be vitamin 'C' I'd be administering to them.

Bobby is one lucky fella to have such loving owners and I really mean loving. You are life savers. If he was able to Bobby would certainly put you forward for a paws award.

It's always so rewarding when you help an anim...

2010-01-13T09:11:21.696+11:00

It's always so rewarding when you help an animal win a battle like this. I can understand why vets do what they do. well done on the devotion you showed, nature is fantastic at sorting itself out if you give things half a chance.. :-)

Poor Bobby. What do human's do if they are bi...

2010-01-13T11:08:58.364+11:00

Poor Bobby. What do human's do if they are bit. I'd love to visit Australia- but don't fly and terrified of snakes.

Having received round the clock care from loving a...

2010-01-13T18:57:22.799+11:00

Having received round the clock care from loving and devoted humans, I know that Bobby will return this to you a thousand times over. I'm so pleased he's well again.

Glad Bobby recovered! Thanks for Your stop. :D

2010-01-14T09:14:50.044+11:00

Glad Bobby recovered!
Thanks for Your stop.
:D

so hard, sometimes, to find the reason...

2010-01-14T09:16:00.611+11:00

so hard, sometimes, to find the reason...

Helen -- Thank you so much for your wonderful post...

2010-01-14T09:18:40.220+11:00

Helen -- Thank you so much for your wonderful posts; you are a very sweet person, hope you know that!
And guess what: I'm the biggest dog lover! And Bobby is so cute. (I'm partial to black dogs; the two shelties we used to have in Seattle were both black.) Poor Bobby, having to contend with snakes! But he's got you to watch out for him. :-)
Take care, Helen.
XO
Michael

Thank goodness you and your hubby were so vigilant...

2010-01-14T21:21:42.099+11:00

Thank goodness you and your hubby were so vigilant with saving this poor dog. Has he moved indoors permanently now? I would worry the whole time about my little bichons outside if I ever moved to Oz - which would never happen in a million years (the insects and the heat would bother me too much)

Can almost smell them cooking from here.

2010-01-16T17:47:00.088+11:00

Can almost smell them cooking from here.

Oh I so love the way that you write in sharing lif...

2010-01-16T20:09:11.908+11:00

Oh I so love the way that you write in sharing life's experiences.
I guess we are what we are and we get through what we can. It's life made all the better through the challenges we face.

We have the same problems with working and not hav...

2010-01-16T21:43:39.308+11:00

We have the same problems with working and not having enough energy left to do other things that are equally important: such as filling the walls in the half barn so we move in there, or going out into the fields and digging up the docks! Ah well, better to have too much to do rather than too little.
Thanks for the update, and look forward to enjoying, albeit via cyber space, your cooking!

What a wonderful story. I think a tear fell into ...

2010-01-16T23:54:17.443+11:00

What a wonderful story. I think a tear fell into my coffee :)

Yes Helen, we do share similar experiences...espec...

2010-01-17T02:25:05.021+11:00

Yes Helen, we do share similar experiences...especially about early days of marriage. I agree, there's a lot to be said for saving for things and doing without if money is tight.

I enjoyed reading about how you ended up in Australia.

Lester, my Hubs, was also in National Service in A...

2010-01-17T02:29:40.447+11:00

Lester, my Hubs, was also in National Service in Africa. In the police. I was in the UK. Like you, miles away. When his service was done, he left South Africa, leaving his parents and brothers behind. He came to the UK, staying with his uncle in London. He enrolled in the Open University, studying Science. I was in north Kent. I enrolled in the Open University, studying Science. The Universe then continued it's efforts to bring us together when we chose the same week to attend Reading University. Sitting in the lecture hall, turning round, and it was if I had been shot in the stomach such was the impact of that first sighting. Then we began. That was 12 years ago. The Universe then did another lurch and we became shipped out to France, where we are setting up a home from scratch. Like you, I feel blessed that this has happened, that from different countries we were connected. I think that God is a tremendous mover and shaker when it is right for two people to be together!
Lovely blog, and got me into a better humour as was having a bit of a gruff day.

What a beautiful love story! Doing without, and ...

2010-01-17T03:23:21.402+11:00

What a beautiful love story!

Doing without, and making do, can bind hearts together. We learn as we live. We appreciate so much more when we have had to do without.

Love and hugs ~ FlowerLady

I loved reading your love story,it was wonderful. ...

2010-01-17T03:24:41.662+11:00

I loved reading your love story,it was wonderful.
I met john when I was 16years old,he was staying with his aunt who lived next door.Like you,I knew I was going to marry him even though I was so young.We have now been married 45years,have 2 daughters ,2sons and 7 grandchildren,I agree that God knew what he was doing when he paired some of us up together.
May you both have many,many more happy years together.

Adrian, you then know where you can follow your no...

2010-01-17T07:20:38.538+11:00

Adrian, you then know where you can follow your nose, should you ever visit the land down under.

Ken, I'm learning to just 'rest' and accept what we have to do. There was a time when I would sort of fight it or try and change it. Now I just plod on and I often think of 'slowly wins the race'. Oh, and automatically, without knowing it, life's challenges actually change you. Not the other way around..

Vera - When I was much younger, my mam tells me that I was always saying 'I'm bored'. She is the type of woman that 'gets on with the job' and didn't stop to show me how to do things, and I often think (and we have talked about this)that had she done so, I could have helped her a lot more. However, my own children never used that term. If they did, they would be given a job. Thing is - jobs never go away. There is ALWAYS something to do and I enjoy people who can SEE this, as some can't. I'll let you know when we're baking...

Thankyou all so much for your encouraging comments...

2010-01-17T08:26:36.290+11:00

Thankyou all so much for your encouraging comments on our Bobby's recovery! I read them all to the Machinist, and he was very moved. Not a man of many words, but choked up, nonetheless.

Stephanie - Yes, we call him lucky dog or miracle boy now...

Adrian, - I didn't know there were adders in England! Then again, I was 13 when we left, and never came across anything so creepy in the fields we used to play in. So you take D plus C and marmite for immune building? We have the constant sun for vitamin D absorption (my dad is often walking around shirtless to get his daily rays). Interesting stuff...

Vera, I do believe you are right about the love we showed him during his recovery. He couldn't even move, but we could see by his eyes that he could hear us and was comforted by our presence.
I would choke up when I watched the Machinist stroke him and tell him that he needed to get better!

Flowerlady, this is such a precious comment. As I read it, I automatically started petting Bobby's photo with the curser, too. Bless you! And thank you.

Geraldgee - thank you. I'm not sure if Bobby is now snake proof though. I've heard of other dogs being bitten more than once and getting sicker each time. Then again, I'm not sure if they were bitten by a different type of snake. We have to contend with Brown snakes and Tiger snakes in our area. Yuk yuk yuk...

Matron - not only is Ireland beautiful, but there goes another reason I could easily move over there. Snake free! Yay! I also recently learned that New Zealand doesn't have snakes, either. Oh, it's tempting. The Machinist has two worries about snakes; one is contending with the devastation of a pet being bitten. The other is calming me down and talking me out of wanting to move to the concrete jungle..

Ken - I agree about the reptiles in the House of C...

2010-01-17T08:26:55.377+11:00

Ken - I agree about the reptiles in the House of Commons. Too funny. Also, I would gladly and proudly receive the paws award. The Machinist deserves it more, though.

Watercats - it is most interesting to watch nature take it's course. I believe our bodies are self healing if we give them the chance. It is so scary, though, watching a pet in such a state and not knowing the outcome. There were times I pleaded with the Machinist to take him to the vet, but the vet assured us there was nothing he could do that we weren't already doing. Thoughts like 'are we prolonging agony' were constantly going through our minds..

Linda - I've never known anyone who has been bitten. I saw a movie called "Jessica" by Bryce Courtney and someone was bitten in that movie. Death was inevitable back then. Nowadays, they have antivenom. You have to know the type of snake before they administer it. Some hospitals have a general antivenom, but not all. This worries me greatly, as snakes are all over the place. Double yuk. Some say that you bandage the limb and get to the hospital within 20 minutes. Others have lasted longer before antivenom. I would always recommend a super large dose of Vitamin C in the meantime, though..

Angelcel - you're right. Bobby is returning The Love. He is so sooky now. He wants to sit next to us all the time. He 'noses' the door to get in and whimpers. If we get up to walk into another room, he follows us. All new behaviour.

Massi - thanks for your well-wishes. And I really enjoyed my visit to your blog!

Michael - such a sweet comment, coming from a sweet man himself. There's something about owning a dog, isn't there? It completes your life and family. Each time one of ours passes away, we say 'no more'. Hmmm... I don't think we've lasted a month. I can't remember not having a dog. Actually, I can't remember not having a pack. Good job the Machinist is tolerant of my 'bring 'em home' ways!

FF - Although Bobby is an 'outside' dog, you wouldn't really know it. He's more inside nowadays. He's very clean and waits at the door for wanting to go and pee. If we don't see him, he will come and fetch us. I worry about our other dogs, too, as I don't know what they would do if they saw a snake. Some dogs rear away. Some, like Bobby, are territorial and will go for the snake. Very scary stuff. FF, I have NEVER gotten used to the creepies, insects and heat. I battle with them constantly, so I hear you..

Home cleaning becomes very essential also when the...

2010-01-19T16:34:30.834+11:00

Home cleaning becomes very essential also when the pets are around as they litter and make the apartment dirty,if the ways are not known then it is best to hire professionals for the purpose.

Aloha Helen, I feel very honored to read about you...

2010-01-19T23:17:52.319+11:00

Aloha Helen, I feel very honored to read about your journey in life. That is what got me blogging, I wanted to journal for my family history.It was to hard to start from the beginning, so I just started from where I was and then it all has taken a life of it's own since.I love the fact that blogging allows me to share me my perspective about my journey. I happen to have family journals from 6 generations back. I'm sure they had no idea that I would be reading about them and their lives, I'm so glad I have these precious writings. I know your posterity will love you by knowing you through your written memoirs...:)keep sharing. it's lovely
Aloha from across the sea
Brandi

What a wonderful story of love and devotion! So gl...

2010-01-20T12:19:02.573+11:00

What a wonderful story of love and devotion! So glad your pet is on his way to a full recovery! He must love you so much!
Enjoying your blog a lot!

Lovely to hear from you again, Helen, and I do so ...

2010-01-23T08:38:18.811+11:00

Lovely to hear from you again, Helen, and I do so hope you find that snake. After your recent experience with your dog, I would think you will be very on edge until the snake is found. Am pottling over to see what you have been doing with your kitchen now.

Hi Helen My knowledge of snakes has increased 100%...

2010-01-23T09:26:51.412+11:00

Hi Helen
My knowledge of snakes has increased 100%. Thank goodness we don't have to consider then here. Let's hope your concoction does the trick.

Like Vera, while you are asleep I'll nip over to see how the floor is getting on.

Oh Helen, I can imagine you so unsettled until you...

2010-01-23T17:47:10.214+11:00

Oh Helen, I can imagine you so unsettled until you find it and its friend. Interesting that the aspirin scattered around will deter them from coming nearer.

As for Ken's remark - sorry Ken but there are adders in Brittany. When we first moved here our neighbours told us that come the spring and the first warmer sunshine it is good to stamp around one's garden and get them to slither away. In our seven years here I've seen about four.

I'd never heard that snakes travel in twos. G...

2010-01-24T05:10:50.461+11:00

I'd never heard that snakes travel in twos. Good move on your girl's part to hop up on the fence. Scary!

Thank St Patrick that we do not have any snakes in...

2010-01-24T23:05:53.643+11:00

Thank St Patrick that we do not have any snakes in Ireland,I would totally freak out if I saw a snake,especially the kind that bite dogs and the large kind your daughter found !!
I never knew that sakes travel in pairs or that asprin deters/kills them,will remember that for when I go to Portugal again,because we do have snakes in the old vine yard there.
Glad to hear the Pie shop is getting closer to production,can't wait for completion !!

Helen, please stop by my blog for a sweet surprise...

2010-01-27T07:56:57.826+11:00

Helen, please stop by my blog for a sweet surprise...

Don't look back Helen, the past is where it sh...

2010-01-29T03:36:41.061+11:00

Don't look back Helen, the past is where it should stay and the future is bright if you remain positive.

Like you and millions of others, the past holds warm memories for me...and not so warm ones, but nothing can hold a light to the unchartered, exciting prospect of what hasn't happened yet. The great thing is that we get to shape and create it.

I understand your sentiment ,we all miss things th...

2010-01-29T20:56:36.135+11:00

I understand your sentiment ,we all miss things that we have had or things we have done,but I agree with Ken Devine,what you have done is gone but the future is there for the taking and you can forge new contacts ,friends.
The ability to change and adapt is one of the wonderful things about being human.I wish you a happy journey on your new ,chosen path.
Carolyn

So sorry about the glass. What a terrible thing t...

2010-01-30T02:08:44.073+11:00

So sorry about the glass. What a terrible thing to wake up to.
I also get very sentimental about old pictures, Grandma's house that we now have to sell, old furniture that I hate to get rid of even though I can't use it, and other things like that. And when I'm tired, I'm more emotional.
I understand your feelings.

I loved the book, so You suggest the movie too?

2010-02-02T03:47:44.739+11:00

I loved the book, so You suggest the movie too?

I do love Viggo.

2010-02-03T14:10:57.006+11:00

I do love Viggo.

The puppies are beautiful and look so playful.I lo...

2010-02-04T22:23:29.555+11:00

The puppies are beautiful and look so playful.I love dogs,any breed,these little ones would suit me fine.My daughter keeps on at me to get a companion for Charlie as he misses Oscar,the wolf hound that died,I think she is right.Hope you find that snake soon.!!

Odd isn't it here am I thinking it a rare trea...

2010-02-04T22:47:03.301+11:00

Odd isn't it here am I thinking it a rare treat to see a snake and you avoiding them. Aren't yours shy? I know they are deadly, ours aren't of course which makes a big difference.
Lovely wee dogs, congratulations to the mum.

Lovely dogs and I'm all for letting dogs sleep...

2010-02-05T00:30:29.338+11:00

Lovely dogs and I'm all for letting dogs sleep in the house (and on our beds) - I don't know why anyone would want to keep them outside.

Great pictures

I also live with several "free range" vi...

2010-02-05T05:29:33.674+11:00

I also live with several "free range" vipers. People up North mostly just don't understand how folks in the South don't seem to mind.

I've heard it over and over... Northerners complain about their weather, but won't come South because of the vipers.

A little common sense keeps the venom outa the veins.

AHHH, I should have added that a while back I had ...

2010-02-05T05:33:56.150+11:00

AHHH, I should have added that a while back I had to live up North for a year and the "break" was heaven.

I did things I did as a kid, walked barefoot in the grass, took a blanket and lay in the yard at night and enjoyed the stars, and of course.... the big most exciting one.... went to the clothes line after dark... and it was wonderful.

Made more so I'm sure because we were doing very very forbidden things if we had been home in the South.

I think the doggies are lovely! But how not so goo...

2010-02-05T08:56:02.842+11:00

I think the doggies are lovely! But how not so good is the news that you still have a snake in residence. Hope it is caught soon so you can get back into your garden. Our fields are grassed now, and will have to be left to grow into mature grassfields so we can eventually graze animals. Which means snakes, adders at the very least. But at least our garden should be OK.
Hope your pie project is picking up a pace for you.

I am happy and excited for you and your whole fami...

2010-02-05T22:49:07.752+11:00

I am happy and excited for you and your whole family. It's a blessing that The Machinist is behind you in your dream and that is is becoming a reality. I look forward to pictures and stories of your adventures in this. I wish you well, peace, happiness and much success.

FlowerLady

What a wonderful family you have, all pulling toge...

2010-02-06T07:03:05.623+11:00

What a wonderful family you have, all pulling together as one team. With such support you cannot fail in your future endeavours, especially in regard to the Machinist. My Hubs is just as great, - we are fortunate ladies indeed!

This is what family is for and about. Not all are...

2010-02-07T02:56:17.162+11:00

This is what family is for and about. Not all are as lucky as you in this way. I am one also lucky in this way to have a wonderful family. How exciting for you in your new venture. I know it must be scary, too, but I know it will be a success for you. All for the greater good!
Indeed!

To have such love and faith in each other,is wonde...

2010-02-09T23:44:41.077+11:00

To have such love and faith in each other,is wonderful and I am sure you will all achieve your goals.Your family and their commitment to getting the pie shop up and running will ensure it's success,I wish you all well and look forward to the opening day,then all of your sacrifices will have been worth it.

Only small dogs, a chamber pot each would maybe so...

2010-02-11T04:25:33.823+11:00

Only small dogs, a chamber pot each would maybe solve the problem.

Aloha, I can see your light on all the way from he...

2010-02-11T05:55:15.913+11:00

Aloha,
I can see your light on all the way from here...why? cause I'm up too on the same run...we should race?
Aloha hugs
Brandi

When you have to go, you have to go.

2010-02-11T09:27:28.968+11:00

When you have to go, you have to go.

Midnight loo trips: squeeze and twist to get out o...

2010-02-11T10:03:25.071+11:00

Midnight loo trips: squeeze and twist to get out of the caravan bed which has walls on three sides, plus Hubs in it as well. Gingerly put foot down on floor, trying to make sure Bools isn't stepped on. He sleeps in the narrow gangway on the getting out side of the bed. Carefully edge my way along passage, trying to avoid boots on floor, and Gussy. Into Loo. Job down. Now similar return. And all in the dark. It is a squeeze, us four in the caravan! But as has been mentioned, when you have to go you have to go. So by the time I get back into bed, Hubs decided it is his turn to go. So he repeats the above, plus rolling over me to get out of the bed. Sleeping and looing in a caravan is certainly a cosy crush.

What is it about us ladies,that so many of us suff...

2010-02-11T19:57:08.247+11:00

What is it about us ladies,that so many of us suffer this nocturnal plight.?
I combat it by not drinking anything after 7pm,if I do have to get up,I have to step over the dog who sleeps on the floor at the foot of the bed and will not move.I do have the luxury of having a loo attached to the bedroom,so I do not have far to go.
I do remember the difficulty I had with mosquito nets when we lived in Singapore,thank heavens I do not have to get tangled up in those now.!!

Hi Helen Yep! It's a feminine nocturnal activi...

2010-02-12T19:32:00.110+11:00

Hi Helen
Yep! It's a feminine nocturnal activity for sure. It's funny that it's recognised the world over. Did you see our light on last night?
Have the dogs been evicted or was it just an idle threat?

TMW, and I thought my life was exciting!Thought ab...

2010-02-14T05:04:55.169+11:00

TMW, and I thought my life was exciting!Thought about emigration all my life but just knew if I went then there would be no coming back. Didn't fancy that bit.

Massi, I never did read the book, but the movie wa...

2010-02-14T08:54:16.475+11:00

Massi, I never did read the book, but the movie was touching and memorable. They say the movie is never as good as the book, as it leaves so much out, but I'm always curious to see what they do with the movie, you know? I hope you enjoy it...

Eloh, I understand!

Matron, the puppies came together. They are siste...

2010-02-14T09:04:43.628+11:00

Matron, the puppies came together. They are sisters from the same litter. One is really playful and the other, really serious. They love their 'mad half hours' though. I agree with your daughter about a playmate for Charlie. It's interesting to see how they behave in a pack (as Caesar Milan says).

Adrian, I think because of the fact that our snakes are deadly makes them undesirable to be seen or 'harboured'. Yes, they are shy, apart from mating season in early spring, where the tiger snake is known to actually seek and destroy.

FF - I do like the dogs inside, but when I'm cleaning and organising, they get under my feet. Seeing as we don't have a doggy door, I have to remember to let them out, which I often forget to do, and the result is - I give myself more work!

Eloh, when you say 'vipers', it makes them sound extra scary - to me, anyway. I think if I lived in your country, I would stay up north. I love the colder weather, anyway. Regarding common sense, most of the snake bites are made when people mess with them, either to catch or tease them. Sometimes, though, when a snake is startled by a human, it is known to lurch (shudder), so we tend to tread heavily around the garden and when in the 'bush', as the snake can't hear, but senses vibration.

Vera - as of today 14 Feb, we still haven't found the snake so our routines are still upside down. Our village is surrounded by grassfields (paddocks) and the wild blackberry along the creek is getting out of hand. Do the snakes ever slither into your garden? do you have snake protective fencing?

Flowerlady - you are such a kind and joyful soul. ...

2010-02-14T09:12:19.718+11:00

Flowerlady - you are such a kind and joyful soul. Thanks again for your encouragement. The Lord knows - we need it! Very soon, I hope to post pictures of the building 'then' and 'now'.

Vera - Yes, we are fortunate ladies, aren't we? Not that family life always goes smoothly. I don't want to give the impression of 'roses' all the time. There's many a colourful family argument, make no error! Ha! But... we get over it and move on. I'm so proud of all the children, and ya'll know how I feel about the Machinist!

Grandma Nina - this venture is extremely scary! Sometimes, I wonder what I'm doing. We make no claim to vast baking experience and knowledge. Just a genuine desire to produce a wholesome, tasty product. I can see that you, too, have a wonderful loving family. We are so very fortunate...

Matron - The Machinist sometimes tells us of his life in the army, where you had to depend on your fellow soldiers. Families are like that too, not that it is a military camp or anything like that, but there are many aspects to family life, besides the fun! I look forward to the opening day soon. You will know about it soon...

I wanted to thank you for the thoughtful comments ...

2010-02-14T14:13:43.360+11:00

I wanted to thank you for the thoughtful comments you left on my blog

life in the country is never dull, lol! Today I...

2010-02-14T21:28:10.107+11:00

life in the country is never dull, lol! Today I'll be clearing up the yard after our winter. We lagged the pipes from freezing with wool left over from the landlord's shearing.. now the dogs have managed to drag most of it all over the yard. Then there's the hay and sawdust from cutting wood... but the sun's out today!
Enjoyed catching up on your posts :-)

I enjoyed reading this and the previous post very ...

2010-02-14T22:30:40.418+11:00

I enjoyed reading this and the previous post very much,you always manage to bring such vivid 'mind pictures ' through your writing,I could see the colours ,hear the rain etc.can't wait for the next installment.

Adrian, chamber pots indeed! Ha, I would probably ...

2010-02-14T22:31:48.447+11:00

Adrian, chamber pots indeed! Ha, I would probably fall over mine and create even more work for myself...

Brandi, I see your light and - race you!

Alex - wiser words never spoken

Vera - so very funny. I can relate, even thought we are in a house, not a caravan. The space in the bedroom and the manouvring is the same. Move and one of them wants to follow you. thing is, there is so much drama just to go to the loo, that when you are back in bed, you're wide awake.

Matron - At what point did all this night travel start? I just can't remember. Sometimes, I don't even have to drink. It's like the bottomless cup and it's ONLY at night. I can refrain all day, but bring on the night...?

Ken, I saw your light on last night, too. The Machinist remains in slumber. I could get strangled or anything. hee hee..And no, the dogs haven't been evicted, but what did I expect? Merely idle threats...

Adrian, my dad applied for Australia years ago, wh...

2010-02-14T22:35:06.458+11:00

Adrian, my dad applied for Australia years ago, when we were all very young. It didn't work out. Then, in the 70's, he got itchy feet again, and South Africa was very welcoming. imigration is a BIG deal. It affects you for life!

Alex, it's a pleasure. Your blog is lovely. ...

2010-02-14T22:45:24.958+11:00

Alex, it's a pleasure. Your blog is lovely. And funny!

Watercats - I had to chuckle reading how the dogs made off with the wool from the pipes. Ours would have done the same thing. They have an area at the back and if you should dare to leave anything there.. well... forget it.

Matron, thank you. This is how I read yours, too....

2010-02-14T22:46:23.432+11:00

Matron, thank you. This is how I read yours, too. My family can't believe that you own a castle. They think it is so cool! I will never forget your story about the Titanic crew...

Blessed you are! Enjoy the love you share. Flowe...

2010-02-15T05:11:41.513+11:00

Blessed you are! Enjoy the love you share.

FlowerLady

Hi Helen If that's how he makes you feel midwa...

2010-02-15T08:12:37.876+11:00

Hi Helen
If that's how he makes you feel midway through a shift amidst rain, rhubarb crumble and cake, it must be true love of the highest quality. Yes, you are indeed fortunate...but more blessed!

Awww, what a sweet post. And so beautifully written.

2010-02-16T13:15:16.259+11:00

Awww, what a sweet post. And so beautifully written.

Happy Valentines day to you too.

2010-02-16T13:16:48.608+11:00

Happy Valentines day to you too.

This pie shop really does seem to be coming along....

2010-02-17T01:08:15.665+11:00

This pie shop really does seem to be coming along. I will have to plan a trip to Australia to check it out.

Glad to see you had the sense not to offer advice ...

2010-02-17T01:53:20.003+11:00

Glad to see you had the sense not to offer advice from the doorway! most ladies couldn't have resisted that windup.

Methinks that cafe deserved to go bust?

2010-02-17T03:23:38.538+11:00

Methinks that cafe deserved to go bust?

What a brilliant story. I can't wait for the b...

2010-02-17T07:09:19.847+11:00

What a brilliant story. I can't wait for the big day! Will you consider a temporary board to display messages of goodwill from around the world?

cockroaches what a name. Could they not have come ...

2010-02-17T11:27:24.272+11:00

cockroaches what a name. Could they not have come up with a better name? How about Footroaches.

I take my hat off to you and your family for tackl...

2010-02-20T09:02:50.553+11:00

I take my hat off to you and your family for tackling that epic cleaning job.I have seen a few of these horrors my self,not the roaches but grease ridden unhygienic catering equipment,it is no joke sanitizing them.I am glad you managed to do it and that you now have a usable hygienic bargain.

I think it's called sweat-equity. Well done.

2010-02-21T13:06:36.930+11:00

I think it's called sweat-equity. Well done.

Oh dear me, I hope both of your woundeds heal quic...

2010-02-22T06:03:37.517+11:00

Oh dear me, I hope both of your woundeds heal quickly.

FlowerLady

anti-inflammatories rule!

2010-02-22T15:11:50.488+11:00

anti-inflammatories rule!

You just never know what's around the corner. ...

2010-02-23T00:45:20.488+11:00

You just never know what's around the corner. Lets hope they are fit enough for the final push towards the grand opening...however long that might be!

It sounds so painful.

2010-02-23T07:20:13.520+11:00

It sounds so painful.

That's a wonderful little pen picture of life ...

2010-02-24T01:06:46.502+11:00

That's a wonderful little pen picture of life in rural Australia

What a GREAT story! I really enjoyed it. FlowerLady

2010-02-24T01:28:35.215+11:00

What a GREAT story! I really enjoyed it.

FlowerLady

What a lovely story - I really miss visiting my si...

2010-02-24T04:29:21.230+11:00

What a lovely story - I really miss visiting my sister-in-law in rural NSW - no snakes in our garden in rural Wiltshire! Best wishes, Susie

Lovely writing about the ram.... has made me feel ...

2010-02-24T09:04:23.861+11:00

Lovely writing about the ram.... has made me feel less intimidated about getting close to our sheep when they eventually arrive.

To be honest I was completely lost but still enjoy...

2010-02-24T09:13:32.565+11:00

To be honest I was completely lost but still enjoyed it strangely enough.

A smashing sketch of life as we don't know it ...

2010-02-25T00:40:16.192+11:00

A smashing sketch of life as we don't know it in surburban Nottinghamshire. Nice to read.

Aloha, I love adventures!!! you go girl to bad no ...

2010-02-25T08:07:49.061+11:00

Aloha, I love adventures!!! you go girl
to bad no one had a camera, glad you are all safe Hugs from Hawaii
Brandi

Alan - wouldn't it be lovely if you could come...

2010-02-25T08:24:10.274+11:00

Alan - wouldn't it be lovely if you could come over and check it out. You never know...

Adrian, I'm glad I wasn't there. The Machinist says that if I had of seen all those roaches, we wouldn't own those fridges today.

Gerald - I suspect the cafe went bust because of health issues. It's like they just walked out and left it all. Even a board with their shopping list on it says to buy "Mortein"

Ken, again, thanks for the encouragement. We have a Facebook page. I know not everyone is on FB, but we're learning to get around it.

Alex, you're right. What a silly name. Where did it come from, I wonder?

Matron, I find great satisfaction in the clean product, and have my tools of trade; old toothbrushes, knives, wire etc. Old grease has a horrible smell, and it's a pity that some cafes and restaurants are not strangers to it.

English Rider - I love your name for the hard labour of well - hard labour. Sweat equity. Yes!

Flowerlady - They are both on the mend. The Machi...

2010-02-25T08:27:45.351+11:00

Flowerlady - They are both on the mend. The Machinist's histamine rash is fading slowly but surely. Emma's foot is on again off again, but she sees the doc today. Yay. About time.

English Rider - Aren't anti inflammatories the BEST? Within moderation of course. Hey do you think we could go concave with too many?

Ken, That's what I'm aiming for. Family health and fitness to get through the grand opening and thereafter. I suspect at least two years of really hard graft before relaxation.

Alex - it was so painful for the Machinist. He said to me "now I know what someone who gets shot feels like..."

Hi Helen Fantastic! It's in my diary. I'm ...

2010-03-08T02:03:37.704+11:00

Hi Helen
Fantastic! It's in my diary. I'm really pleased for you and I'm certain it'll be a great success.

Sorry to hear about Bob. Hopefully he'll heal very quickly.

Best of luck on the 25th... Hope that foot heals s...

2010-03-08T03:13:25.763+11:00

Best of luck on the 25th... Hope that foot heals soon.

How exciting! I wish you the best of luck and suc...

2010-03-08T04:33:08.920+11:00

How exciting! I wish you the best of luck and success. Again, I wish I loved close so I could be there.
Hope Bob's paw heals quickly.

Wonderful news!!! I am so excited for you!!! hugs...

2010-03-08T09:56:56.460+11:00

Wonderful news!!! I am so excited for you!!!

hugs
Blessings,
Mrs. White

Congrats on setting an opening date. I know it mus...

2010-03-08T10:52:30.697+11:00

Congrats on setting an opening date. I know it must be exciting and nerve wracking at the same time. Very sorry to hear about the dog's paw. That is a real shame and I do hope it heals well.

Helen, I thought you might be interested in seeing...

2010-03-09T12:25:37.083+11:00

Helen, I thought you might be interested in seeing this... seems very familiar....your brother in South Africa would probably really be interested in this.

I controlled my "urge" to point out to him that these pictures were from a year ago and a world away. He seems to try to run a good site.

http://forteanzoology.blogspot.com/2010/03/richie-west-new-mexico-dog-lion.html

Aloha, I would like to know if you will ship to Ha...

2010-03-12T21:59:35.407+11:00

Aloha, I would like to know if you will ship to Hawaii?? YUMM
can't wait and CONGRATS
xxoo
Brandi
p.s. do I see your light on?:)

Well the long wait and the hard work will have bee...

2010-03-17T07:22:45.849+11:00

Well the long wait and the hard work will have been worth it and now you have an opening date,CONGRATULATIONS.I wish you all well and a prosperous new adventure.
.......................................................
Happy St Patricks day wishes from Ireland.

Congratulations - looking forward to hearing all a...

2010-03-18T20:10:55.532+11:00

Congratulations - looking forward to hearing all about the new shop - all the hard work will hopefully start paying off! Best wishes, Susie

Hi Helen I suspect that life will never be the sam...

2010-03-21T11:03:52.528+11:00

Hi Helen
I suspect that life will never be the same again. I hope you find time to enjoy the occasion and I hope things will settle into a manageable routine sufficient to allow bones to heal and aching muscles to recover.
I'm looking forward to the day and will be thinking of you all.

Echoing Ken's comments, Helen, your life will ...

2010-03-21T18:28:08.175+11:00

Echoing Ken's comments, Helen, your life will never be the same, but I think it is best to be busy and have a full and interesting life. At the end of the day, best to be falling over with tiredness through being busy and productive, rather than be bored and unproductive. Good luck with your shop opening, and I look forward to seeing the pictures.

I am looking forward to reading all about the gran...

2010-03-21T23:02:21.606+11:00

I am looking forward to reading all about the grand opening. I must start planning a trip "down under".

Hey welcome back to blogging! I can't wait to ...

2010-03-29T05:03:41.610+11:00

Hey welcome back to blogging! I can't wait to see the endless pictures of pies ;) thanks for posting!

Congratulations and well done.

2010-03-30T19:52:11.325+11:00

Congratulations and well done.

Ah congratulations - I am sure all the hard work w...

2010-03-30T21:34:26.005+11:00

Ah congratulations - I am sure all the hard work will be worth it. I am looking forward to you opening your "pies by post" service.

Congratulations - I am excited for you and your DH...

2010-03-30T21:36:19.817+11:00

Congratulations - I am excited for you and your DH and the rest of your family too. May you have a wonderful Easter weekend serving delicious pies to many who visit your cafe. They will be so delighted they will spread the word far and near.

FlowerLady

Oh well done you! And Hubs! And family! I love hea...

2010-03-31T01:47:19.713+11:00

Oh well done you! And Hubs! And family! I love hearing how people try to turn their lives around by having a go at something new. There aren't too many people who have the guts and courage to do this, so you are special people. Hope you have loads of customers over Easter, and beyond.

Hi Helen I think Vera put it quite well. Really ve...

2010-03-31T04:51:34.801+11:00

Hi Helen
I think Vera put it quite well.
Really very pleased to hear of it all coming together after all that hard work. I guess the hard work bit will continue. I was thinking of you all on Thursday.
I hope you keep us updated.

High five!

2010-03-31T04:52:37.935+11:00

High five!

Well done all of you. There is a vibrant buzz eman...

2010-03-31T07:59:27.574+11:00

Well done all of you. There is a vibrant buzz emanating from your post.

Hello dear friend and pie-maker-extraodinaire! the...

2010-04-09T15:55:39.082+10:00

Hello dear friend and pie-maker-extraodinaire! there really is a vibrant buzz to this post. And I really cannot wait to drive down for a visit, and a pie..

Oh my, may The Machinist's surgery go well, an...

2010-04-18T01:48:55.215+10:00

Oh my, may The Machinist's surgery go well, and healing be swift. May your Mom do well too. May you be blessed with strength and peace as you take care of family and business.

FlowerLady

Take care and make him take the doctor's order...

2010-04-18T04:23:26.740+10:00

Take care and make him take the doctor's orders seriously. Good thoughts to you.

Hi Helen You can't keep a good man down. Behin...

2010-04-18T07:44:32.913+10:00

Hi Helen
You can't keep a good man down.
Behind every great man is a greater woman.

Business must be good to keep you busy but when do you relax?
All the very best.

Praying you and that incredible machinist of yours!

2010-04-18T14:04:25.326+10:00

Praying you and that incredible machinist of yours!

All your hard work will be worth it in the end, an...

2010-04-19T05:00:26.768+10:00

All your hard work will be worth it in the end, and I hope your man heals soon. With a good woman such as yourself looking after him, I am sure he will be up on his feet again in no time.

It seems that you have more on your plate than pie...

2010-04-23T07:31:24.695+10:00

It seems that you have more on your plate than pies at the moment.
Seriously though,I hope all goes well with the machinist and your mum and that you have the strength to cope with all of this and the pie shop.
I wish you all well.

I would enter only if you can be sure of a win!! T...

2010-04-27T23:55:25.115+10:00

I would enter only if you can be sure of a win!!
Things can only get better. I admire your stamina. Good luck in the future.

It is in the strength of a family that when things...

2010-04-28T00:52:47.108+10:00

It is in the strength of a family that when things are tough going that they support each other. You are blessed in that you have such a family, and I hope that your pie making project goes from success to success.

Glad to hear that you are getting through all the ...

2010-04-28T01:07:07.857+10:00

Glad to hear that you are getting through all the various problems with the strength and resolve I would expect of a pie-maker such as yourself. Enter, you'll win (and if not, they're fools)

Hi Helen I suspect you can and will get through an...

2010-04-28T03:19:38.312+10:00

Hi Helen
I suspect you can and will get through anything that's thrown at you.
What's wrong with frivolity? Go on, you know you want to.

Glad to hear your are all pulling together and get...

2010-04-30T22:12:50.143+10:00

Glad to hear your are all pulling together and getting through it all. Somehow it just helps to plug through it all. I'm sure you will be a big success with the festival and your new pie shop. Hugs

Aloha Sweet friend, I have missed my visits with y...

2010-05-23T11:49:40.804+10:00

Aloha Sweet friend,
I have missed my visits with you!, crazy month but I found a few minutes to see how your doing.
If I was closer, I'd bake with you anytime girlfriend, you can count on me.
My light was on last night did you see me?lol...
All my Aloha
Brandi

I am excited to start reading all of your blog pos...

2010-06-04T08:10:30.512+10:00

I am excited to start reading all of your blog posts, especially the Pie blog

Hi Helen Are we to assume there is heat in the kit...

2010-06-12T08:08:42.456+10:00

Hi Helen
Are we to assume there is heat in the kitchen?
Hope all is well...really!

A beautiful sentiment and well put.

2010-06-12T08:39:58.134+10:00

A beautiful sentiment and well put.

So glad to see you in blog world again.hope all is...

2010-06-13T19:14:49.544+10:00

So glad to see you in blog world again.hope all is going well at the pie shop and that you have lots of well fed customers.
The poem sums up how we all feel at times,so well put.
Best wishes from Ireland.

Ken, the heat is always in the kitchen. Even in t...

2010-06-16T07:38:29.684+10:00

Ken, the heat is always in the kitchen. Even in the deep mid-winter. The girls come through from the cafe and ask if we can stoke up the fire, and they're met with two glowing embered faces!

Martyn, I loved the poem, too. I mean - this is how life is, yes?

Matron, we were busy on opening, then went through a quiet period. Nowadays, it's snow season, and lots of travellers passing through. Two days this past weekend, we've sold out! What a blessing...

Wonderful to hear your business is going well. Sup...

2010-06-20T21:34:09.921+10:00

Wonderful to hear your business is going well. Super..just super after all the very hard work you and your family have put it. Continued success. xx

The only greater good you can aspire to is to spay...

2010-06-21T02:15:36.473+10:00

The only greater good you can aspire to is to spay and neuter. Keep up the good work.

We had a frequent visitor that we nicknamed 'f...

2010-06-21T06:50:47.794+10:00

We had a frequent visitor that we nicknamed 'fatcat' because that's what he soon became...so much so that he wasn't able to move fast enough to avoid the speeding cars en-route to his next stop. We miss him loads.
It's a really good thing you are doing.

I would think your visitors also lighten early mor...

2010-06-22T04:04:32.598+10:00

I would think your visitors also lighten early morning fogginess as well. Hope your pie emporium is doing well, and hope your energies are running high.

Hi Helen They also made 'em tough in your era ...

2010-06-24T05:19:25.887+10:00

Hi Helen
They also made 'em tough in your era (dare I say the 50'S or are the 60's more accurate?)
I'm glad you are resting when you get the chance.

Such a lovely story! Are you certain these feline ...

2010-07-12T22:20:33.232+10:00

Such a lovely story! Are you certain these feline freeloaders are all feral? LOL - recently, 'Intruder Kitty' has made appearances in my kitchen, solving the "why am I buying so much cat food?" question. Intruder Kitty looks quite well-fed (perhaps coz he's been nicking MY cats' food for ages???) He's very timid though. The downside to his visits is that he has turned MY cats into 'Territorial Kitty' types. SOMEONE is now marking the territory. Eeeewwwww, stinky!!!

Made 'em tough in all our eras didn't they...

2010-07-21T15:56:51.568+10:00

Made 'em tough in all our eras didn't they? It' s having goals and challenges that keeps you fit and young!

Hi Helen - your blog's been quiet lately - hop...

2010-08-28T06:20:27.111+10:00

Hi Helen - your blog's been quiet lately - hope all is well. Would you point me in the direction of where to find the opening days/times of the Daily Pie?

Ta
Sue

fab post and I hope that you continue posting and ...

2010-09-05T02:36:23.265+10:00

fab post and I hope that you continue posting and keeping us 'readers' up with your news.

What a lovely post Helen - it was a joy to read. Y...

2010-09-13T13:12:42.053+10:00

What a lovely post Helen - it was a joy to read. You are the perfect example of someone who does what they love & loves what they do.
Millie ^_^

I hope all is well Helen. Miss you.

2010-09-16T22:42:13.618+10:00

I hope all is well Helen. Miss you.

It's good to see you again. Have missed hearin...

2010-09-21T20:42:56.631+10:00

It's good to see you again. Have missed hearing about The Daily Pie and hope all is going well with that new venture in your life.

Enjoy your spring.

FlowerLady

Hi stranger! Hope all is well in the garden of life.

2010-09-21T22:36:19.235+10:00

Hi stranger!
Hope all is well in the garden of life.

Handing Spring and Summer over to you, as we head ...

2010-09-22T06:19:55.649+10:00

Handing Spring and Summer over to you, as we head towards Autumn and Winter here in the Northern Hemisphere! Hope your pie shop is going well, and that you make sure that you take time out for yourself.

Greetings from Ireland,good to see your post.I env...

2010-09-22T07:44:58.778+10:00

Greetings from Ireland,good to see your post.I envy the fact that you are having your spring,we have autumn,but it is very cold,not looking forward to winter.
Hope the Pie shop is prospering,I guess you are kept on the go.

Don't worry Mam, SOON we will have dirty hands...

2010-09-22T12:23:32.636+10:00

Don't worry Mam, SOON we will have dirty hands together.
And wonder where we shall go with the wheelbarrow full of weeds!

Love love!

i love this post, very beautiful and it makes alot...

2010-09-22T23:38:12.660+10:00

i love this post, very beautiful and it makes alot of sense too. in life, there are times when we have to work as a team but at the same time, remain that individuality. kinda a paradox but that's perhaps the way life is.

That's the "Facts of Life" speech th...

2010-09-24T00:37:13.173+10:00

That's the "Facts of Life" speech that no-one ever tells you about. I have a refrigerator magnet that says "The only thing more overrated than natural childbirth is the joy of owning one's own business"
All I can say is that you are not alone:)

Right with you here! The Man-of-the-House works a ...

2010-10-01T12:56:53.610+10:00

Right with you here! The Man-of-the-House works a 6 day week in his business.....that leaves a few precious hours on Sunday to do invoices, written quotes, bill paying & bank reconciliations, plan for the following week, act for the Govt. as an unpaid tax collector re BAS/GST paperwork, renovate a whole house & maybe, just maybe, have a couple of moments shuteye & rest on the sofa before it starts all over again early Monday morning. Why do we do it?
Millie ^_^

I get it too! Even though I don't have a busin...

2010-10-11T07:57:26.608+11:00

I get it too! Even though I don't have a business I definitely have a lot of paperwork to deal with and even that is a headache and a never ending chore.

Glad to see you had a few moments to spare to post...

2010-10-26T02:01:46.216+11:00

Glad to see you had a few moments to spare to post the delightful photo,sometimes all it takes is a short break from your hectic schedule to cope with the rest of the day.
I am coming to Australia next spring to stay with a cousin in Queensland,I know this is the opposite end of the Country to you,but a visit to the pie shop is on my wish list.I am looking into it,you never know,I might just turn up.!!!
Hope you and your family are well,best wishes from Ireland.

The thing about Nature is that it is ever-changing.

2010-10-26T02:38:25.079+11:00

The thing about Nature is that it is ever-changing.

Nice to see you come up for air.

2010-10-26T04:53:31.430+11:00

Nice to see you come up for air.

for me it was the canola fields,I miss them now th...

2010-12-02T15:12:03.245+11:00

for me it was the canola fields,I miss them now they are gone.

Wow, you are going through a lot! God bless you al...

2010-12-15T00:46:32.989+11:00

Wow, you are going through a lot! God bless you all!

((HUGS))

Mrs. White

There's nothing like a drama for creating lead...

2010-12-15T01:01:32.992+11:00

There's nothing like a drama for creating leading ladies and stars.
It's nice to hear from you Helen.
Hope all is as it was before the storm.

The current weather is diabolical! Hang in there -...

2010-12-17T23:30:56.537+11:00

The current weather is diabolical! Hang in there - there's still some more to come. Kudos to all of you for the sandbagging effort!

I hope Rognons & kittehs are ok! xox

So sorry to hear of the weather problems. I pray t...

2010-12-19T10:29:50.858+11:00

So sorry to hear of the weather problems. I pray that things are getting resolved in your favour now. You have every right to be proud of your family for their efforts to save your property from damage. Blessings.

It's Christmas Eve here and I just wanted to w...

2010-12-25T05:25:20.298+11:00

It's Christmas Eve here and I just wanted to wish you and your family a very happy Christmas and New Year.

Just Beyond The Sunset Just beyond the sunset Som...

2011-01-04T15:35:52.673+11:00

Just Beyond The Sunset

Just beyond the sunset
Someone waits for me
Just beyond the sunset
Lies my destiny
Where the purple mountains
Lie in deep tranquillity
There I’ll find the treasure
Of love eternally

Just beyond the sunset
Waits someone so fair
Just beyond the sunset
All alone they wait there
Their hair is golden
The colour of the sand
Their eyes sparkle in the night
Like diamonds in your hand

Just beyond the sunset
Lies a home for me
Where the world is peaceful
Like a paradise should be
Just beyond the sunset
Someday is where you’ll find me.

I really like this poem.

Ah, duct tape..... where would we be without it?

2011-01-06T05:07:59.744+11:00

Ah, duct tape..... where would we be without it?

Oh Yummy!

2011-01-06T09:05:13.422+11:00

Oh Yummy!

Whow! The wonders of the septic tank, never ceases...

2011-01-06T10:26:47.451+11:00

Whow! The wonders of the septic tank, never ceases to amaze what's going on in there!No wonder my dad was an tank addict!

Aaaagh! Why did I look? I guess I'm destined f...

2011-01-07T09:28:01.715+11:00

Aaaagh! Why did I look? I guess I'm destined for another nightmare.

Breathing tube? It breathes through its bum? I'...

2011-01-09T04:50:12.416+11:00

Breathing tube? It breathes through its bum? I'm fascinated now - in the same way that a person might be fascinated by a train wreck, where you just KNOW you shouldn;t look. Do they use the breathing tube like a little snorkel while they wriggle around, submerged in...never mind...

We are watching the nightly news reports. Hope eve...

2011-01-14T11:49:15.008+11:00

We are watching the nightly news reports. Hope everyone gets through this O.K.

I just can't begin to understand what people m...

2011-01-14T19:38:41.797+11:00

I just can't begin to understand what people must be going through. I hope your friends are ok.

Hang in there Helen! I hope you and your friends ...

2011-01-14T19:44:36.867+11:00

Hang in there Helen! I hope you and your friends are safe. We have been watching on the news. I was so touched and saddened about the little boy who insisted his baby brother be rescued first, and then he and his Mother were swept away and drown. My heart still aches thinking of his bravery and sacrifice.

watch out you might get Lost flying from Australia...

2011-02-01T03:53:22.650+11:00

watch out you might get Lost flying from Australia some time. :) well thanks for the read! Nice artwork, are you the artist? Well, see you around!

Is that an owl I spy in flight, in one of the pics...

2011-02-18T05:23:27.664+11:00

Is that an owl I spy in flight, in one of the pics? Brilliant!

What a lovely time you must be having! I love Melb...

2011-02-18T05:29:23.299+11:00

What a lovely time you must be having! I love Melbourne...

Beautifully rusted sculptures - yes~

2011-02-19T16:09:22.452+11:00

Beautifully rusted sculptures - yes~

Thanks for these beautiful images and for letting ...

2011-02-20T11:20:52.054+11:00

Thanks for these beautiful images and for letting me 'see' my city from a fresh perspective. I want to go to there!

oooh! I love the goat.

2011-02-20T13:30:28.221+11:00

oooh! I love the goat.

Hi Helen I've been enjoying the photos and wis...

2011-02-21T03:34:04.685+11:00

Hi Helen
I've been enjoying the photos and wishing for a similar vacation.

That was a nice story about the fruit.

We've been watching quite a lot of TV about Australia lately (not the soaps). It certainly has a lot going for it.

It's nice to be hearing from you.

I will pass the fruit suggestion onto all our Hoon...

2011-02-25T19:20:28.439+11:00

I will pass the fruit suggestion onto all our Hoon-Mobile Doof-Doof sons. I'm sure they will skip down to the Fruit shop immediately - I WISH!!! Lovely story.
Millie x

Sounds like a happy family enjoying time together....

2011-04-11T06:15:47.983+10:00

Sounds like a happy family enjoying time together. Nice to hear from you, Helen.

I guess they love mummy more? lol ;) So cute. :) ...

2011-05-05T11:21:33.141+10:00

I guess they love mummy more? lol ;) So cute. :)
I challenged you to a list of questions. :) Pop over to my blog to copy them and answer them if you want. :)

xo

“The sun shines and warms and lights us and we hav...

2011-05-26T15:54:41.983+10:00

“The sun shines and warms and lights us and we have no curiosity to know why this is so; but we ask the reason of all evil, of pain, and hunger, and mosquitoes and silly people.”

lovely poem's thanks for all of you for sharin...

2011-06-02T14:15:28.275+10:00

lovely poem's thanks for all of you for sharing these nice poem's here. And thanks also for the Author who post this blog.

Hi, I have read your post and I appreciate the inf...

2011-06-08T14:36:07.500+10:00

Hi,
I have read your post and I appreciate the information which you shared here. It is really good read to me.

Thanks

Glad to see you back.......sounds like nailing a j...

2011-07-03T00:22:07.283+10:00

Glad to see you back.......sounds like nailing a jelly to a ceiling.....you are young enough......keep plugging away.

Wish I shared your romantic view of the cold, Hele...

2011-07-03T06:09:59.340+10:00

Wish I shared your romantic view of the cold, Helen - I'm a mopey little icicle at the moment. (Note to self: hot chocolate may assist)

Great news about your mum's eye op!

You would have been well within reason to tell her...

2011-07-04T08:19:33.276+10:00

You would have been well within reason to tell her that health codes would not allow such a thing. I once saw a child being sat upon his potty under the table of an ice cream parlor in the South of France. I'm ashamed to this day that the perpetrators were British. Some people are too common to be allowed out in public!

Hi Helen The settees in the cafe are a good idea. ...

2011-07-04T17:20:09.340+10:00

Hi Helen
The settees in the cafe are a good idea. All you need to do is educate your clientele.
I agree fully with your comments regarding young women but we live in a totally different world today.

I totally agree with your thoughts about young mot...

2011-07-05T05:14:48.566+10:00

I totally agree with your thoughts about young mothers today. They do make such a fuss about things. Us older mums just got on with things, didn't they!

You be careful........therein lies the route to ca...

2011-07-06T01:02:22.830+10:00

You be careful........therein lies the route to casualty.

Need to come dancing with your chillens! Disco all...

2011-07-06T13:35:24.027+10:00

Need to come dancing with your chillens! Disco all the way I say!

"Brightly Colored" is the understatement...

2011-07-07T07:14:36.262+10:00

"Brightly Colored" is the understatement of the century. I used to have a pair of suede shoes in those colors. I loved them so.

Lovely colours. Would writing or logo stickers on ...

2011-07-07T19:50:55.124+10:00

Lovely colours. Would writing or logo stickers on your windows help...tastily done of course?

They'll have the time of their lives but will ...

2011-07-11T02:45:15.878+10:00

They'll have the time of their lives but will probably be ready to come home after a month...missing your pies:)

hee hee. haa haa haa. It IS hard to get good help...

2011-07-27T14:21:10.430+10:00

hee hee. haa haa haa.
It IS hard to get good help sometimes.

hee hee.

Oh that's funny! And you have made my mouth wa...

2011-07-30T16:28:48.606+10:00

Oh that's funny! And you have made my mouth water with your mention of the bacon. The French don't 'do' bacon, so we can only buy thin slices of what they do sell, which you can almost see daylight through because they really are so thin!

I've just got back from France and, as Vera sa...

2011-07-31T04:32:37.161+10:00

I've just got back from France and, as Vera said, they don't do bacon. Guess what I had a full pack of this morning? I should have done what the Machinist did:)

need some recipes dear! I miss you, please write....

2011-08-02T08:54:36.005+10:00

need some recipes dear! I miss you, please write. Linda in IN lynhead52@gmail.com

Was there a reason for this? What's the philos...

2011-08-03T20:20:29.069+10:00

Was there a reason for this? What's the philosophy behind it? (Billboard owners getting cranky?) Have other businesses been told this as well? Perhaps if you all put your heads together and make a group "case" for your signage???

Oh boy, that is a rule in many places. Signage has...

2011-08-03T20:59:04.726+10:00

Oh boy, that is a rule in many places. Signage has to be on the wall, not on sidewalks or out on the streets. Can you have one on the drive into your place, just not out by the edge of the road?

Hope this can be worked out for you.

FlowerLady

Oh that's a bummer. Hope it gets sorted out f...

2011-08-04T15:48:39.644+10:00

Oh that's a bummer. Hope it gets sorted out for you.

Sue, we were given an Act to refer to. It has noth...

2011-08-04T23:14:36.187+10:00

Sue, we were given an Act to refer to. It has nothing to do with mobile signs, so we are taking it to the local politician. Will let you know. And yes, everyone had to take their signs down.

Flowerlady, our little business is in a small country town just off a main Highway. If we don't have signs out there, not many will know we exist. Yikes!

Vera, thanks, will write about the updates as things happen...LOL>...

Thankyou all for thinking of us xx

Well nothing like a pet sheep for company.

2011-08-05T01:34:07.402+10:00

Well nothing like a pet sheep for company.

I hope all goes well with your sign, and what a sw...

2011-08-05T02:02:05.003+10:00

I hope all goes well with your sign, and what a sweetie Wilson is.

FlowerLady

Adrian - yeah right. It's the children that s...

2011-08-05T06:57:43.135+10:00

Adrian - yeah right. It's the children that should come home with stray this and that, not the parents - especially when they are out together....

Flowerlady - thanks for the encouragement re the sign. I wish some 'Body' would hurry up and decide who should - well - make the decision. Wilson is so cute. He couldn't get his milk quick enough the other day and started stamping his foot in a stroppy manner. How do they know this so very young???

Love the name. Love the photo. How kind of you to ...

2011-08-05T14:37:20.625+10:00

Love the name. Love the photo. How kind of you to take him.

Hope the sign works out.

Thank goodness I don't live anywhere sheepy, o...

2011-08-06T09:30:38.625+10:00

Thank goodness I don't live anywhere sheepy, or I'd have to have one too. How very special.

Amazing! You won't have that kind of experienc...

2011-08-06T23:28:42.467+10:00

Amazing! You won't have that kind of experience in Derbyshire, Helen:)

too cute!

2011-08-07T17:47:44.495+10:00

too cute!

What a beaut story! (poor mummy sheep though...)

2011-08-07T19:20:44.375+10:00

What a beaut story! (poor mummy sheep though...)

Sorry, didn't really read the story but I LOVE...

2011-10-22T13:00:21.680+11:00

Sorry, didn't really read the story but I LOVE THE GRAPHICS :D

hello there & happy birthday from sarah~mechel...

2011-10-23T02:52:58.231+11:00

hello there & happy birthday from sarah~mechelle's pen buddy! : )

Awwwwww... cuteness overload! Just for that, you&...

2011-12-17T01:13:56.306+11:00

Awwwwww... cuteness overload! Just for that, you're invited to my birthday party. Stop by my blog for a cocktail weenie and a whiskey sour. 8-)

Oh it's so lovely to be here! What a beautiful...

2011-12-24T08:00:08.910+11:00

Oh it's so lovely to be here! What a beautiful blog you have. I love your header image - delightful! This post was so precious. That lucky, lucky little lamb. He may just not have made it past the dinner plate in a few months time if you guys hadn't come along;) I'll be back very soon. Thanks for following at Feather & Nest too. Warm wishes
Kim

So sorry about your loss... It is always nice to r...

2012-01-04T02:31:55.402+11:00

So sorry about your loss... It is always nice to read an update!

hugs!
Blessings
Mrs. White

Sorry to hear about Lilly. Animals impact us in s...

2012-01-04T05:03:27.091+11:00

Sorry to hear about Lilly. Animals impact us in so many wonderful ways. And sometimes we don't realize how much we are endeared until they are gone.

All the best in 2012 to you and your family!!!

Sorry to hear about Lilly. Pets really are so end...

2012-01-04T05:42:13.029+11:00

Sorry to hear about Lilly. Pets really are so endearing and we do grieve for them when they die.

All the best in 2012!

Our poor Lilla! Tongue out and everything. Good t...

2012-01-04T07:50:10.265+11:00

Our poor Lilla! Tongue out and everything.

Good to see some action happening here.

Love you!

Sorry to hear about Lilly. It is so sad when a tru...

2012-01-06T09:33:43.165+11:00

Sorry to hear about Lilly. It is so sad when a trusted family pet dies.

I hope 2012 will give you much joy and happiness with the other pets. :)

I am so sorry to hear that you have closed the Pie...

2012-01-18T20:44:51.231+11:00

I am so sorry to hear that you have closed the Pie shop.I so enjoyed your blogs while you were setting the venture up,the photos,your families hard work etc,I was swept along with your enthusiasm.You have your reasons for closing,whatever they are,but I am so sorry that it did not work out for you.
I hope the future gives you a new dream and happiness.

Thank you for the comment you left on my blog about my beloved Charlie,and I was so upset to hear about your little dog,you must have been devastated.
Carolyn.

Oh my goodness, I'm sorry to hear about the cl...

2012-01-18T22:54:42.328+11:00

Oh my goodness, I'm sorry to hear about the closing of the pie shop also. Your whole family was so excited and did so much work on setting it up.

May whatever comes your way next fill the void and heal your hearts.

Love and hugs ~ FlowerLady

I feel your pain, closing and selling one's dr...

2012-01-19T08:04:39.277+11:00

I feel your pain, closing and selling one's dream is not easy. Having said that, you have the right attitude "...as the promise of something new breeds unpredicted, yet sweet excitement!" Indeed, something sweet is just around the corner. Best of wishes on your next endeavor.

Oh my word...that is such a surprise. I'm so s...

2012-01-20T06:32:39.938+11:00

Oh my word...that is such a surprise. I'm so sorry it didn't work out. If I feel sad (and I do) I can just imagine what you and your family feel like after putting your heart and souls into it.

You will bounce back because you are the type of family that can never stay down too long.

Our trips to Canberra (very infrequent), and hence...

2012-01-20T08:18:50.494+11:00

Our trips to Canberra (very infrequent), and hence past Collector rarely coincide with business hours otherwise I was going to pop in for a pie. I think I could have made it (as a solo, tired motorcyclist this time) in May, but only on a Saturday. Ah well, it wasn't to be.

All the best for your future endeavours, I look forward to following them here.

I am so sorry to hear about the closing down of yo...

2012-01-22T07:10:19.523+11:00

I am so sorry to hear about the closing down of your shop, but I guess that you have good reasons for having to do so. Wishing you well in your future endeavours.

What a lovely account of your travels... I miss Au...

2012-01-24T09:43:31.553+11:00

What a lovely account of your travels... I miss Australia!

I am sorry you had to close your shop. Change is ...

2012-01-29T04:52:04.012+11:00

I am sorry you had to close your shop. Change is hard. I am not sure when it gets easier. I'd love to hear from you! Linda in IN

Ah..... decluttering... shudder.

2012-02-01T06:46:11.867+11:00

Ah..... decluttering... *shudder*.

The process of de-cluttering can clear your mind, ...

2012-02-01T23:17:08.483+11:00

The process of de-cluttering can clear your mind, but be careful to not be moving too much stuff to your home.

The process of the journey is the most rewarding. Can't wait to see what's in store for you next.

Sweep out the old and in with the new! I admire yo...

2012-02-03T20:33:49.997+11:00

Sweep out the old and in with the new! I admire your attitude! Good luck with the de-cluttering...it'll be well worth it.

Foxglove Spires is such a special place. I could v...

2012-02-04T05:18:00.311+11:00

Foxglove Spires is such a special place. I could visit there everyday and still have plenty more to see. I love Velvet Pears. I got it on the day that it was released in our local book shop. I had to savour every page as I never wanted it to end. I'd force myself to close it up and take a break so as not to end the adventure. It was a painful process! But oh so lovely! And I love her velvet pears recipe and her chocolate cake one {the one her girls grew up on:)}. So lovely! xx

2012-02-14T13:56:29.292+11:00

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

I'm so glad your pup survived! Thank you for t...

2012-04-24T10:55:49.674+10:00

I'm so glad your pup survived! Thank you for taking such great care of him, & you should be commended for using Vit C (I assume you injected it?).It's OBVIOUS Bobby was envenomated by his symptoms, & the 'C' was most likely what saved him...I'm so sick & tired of people calling this an "old wives tale", or B.S. It works, everyone should know. They should also know it works on humans per the work of Dr Frederick Klenner MD. Thnx for sharing your story!

I missed a lot, obviously. So sorry you had a heal...

2012-05-15T13:19:56.200+10:00

I missed a lot, obviously. So sorry you had a health scare but always good to live in the era we do of medical progress and achievements. Recuperate fast and milk it for all the care and attention you deserve.

I am so very happy for you!! love from Mrs. White

2012-06-28T22:32:10.214+10:00

I am so very happy for you!!

love from
Mrs. White

Hey you, nice blog! Did you design it? In need of ...

2012-07-11T07:42:17.470+10:00

Hey you, nice blog! Did you design it? In need of a lunch soon, madly busy setting up food stall at epic, but will settle down soon.xoxo

As per my perspectives diet is good for health. Yo...

2012-07-13T03:37:12.086+10:00

As per my perspectives diet is good for health. You have to try it and try it regularly. It helps you to reduce weight and stress is well.

akupunktur ile zayiflama

Wishing you good health and a successful diet jour...

2012-07-14T03:33:57.634+10:00

Wishing you good health and a successful diet journey. I've changed my diet over a year ago and it serves me well... mostly trying to become "raw" "vegan" drinking daily green smoothies.

Very good article. Congratulations.

2012-07-30T20:02:01.289+10:00

Very good article. Congratulations.

Sooo deep. Makes my rant about the absurdity of fa...

2012-09-30T02:01:31.839+10:00

Sooo deep. Makes my rant about the absurdity of fashion feel sort of obselite.

nice blog

2012-11-23T00:52:15.253+11:00

nice blog

Interesting photos! Unfortunately I have never bee...

2012-12-14T08:03:01.632+11:00

Interesting photos! Unfortunately I have never been to South Africa. I have a friend who just returned from a trip and told me about it's beauty. Thanks for joining my blog! Christa

2012-12-20T01:14:52.202+11:00

This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

what neat pictures- so often I've thought abou...

2013-01-12T16:38:34.877+11:00

what neat pictures- so often I've thought about you. Wished that you'd come back with a list again. I miss you. Life goes on here. we must catch up- please e-mail me. lynhead52@gmail.com

Helen your message must be lost in outerspace some...

2013-01-18T01:17:32.238+11:00

Helen your message must be lost in outerspace somewhere. Makes me sad because I so enjoy all you write. Hoping you continue to blog and do not mind that you have a devoted follower. ~Paula~

congrats on grandbaby- she is cute. I miss you on...

2013-01-18T06:42:02.012+11:00

congrats on grandbaby- she is cute. I miss you on list. I put you on reader so I can see you writing- I second what Paula said don't quit writing! Linda in IN

So very awesome...thank you for sharing.

2013-01-28T13:27:21.186+11:00

So very awesome...thank you for sharing.

4101urmuthou

2013-01-28T13:28:51.700+11:00

4101urmuthou

So simple, so touching - so true.

2013-01-28T13:42:06.324+11:00

So simple, so touching - so true.

Oh my, this makes my eyes fill up. Beautiful beyo...

2013-01-28T23:19:06.558+11:00

Oh my, this makes my eyes fill up.

Beautiful beyond words.

FlowerLady

Great post, you have pointed out some superb deta...

2013-01-29T17:39:43.020+11:00

Great post, you have pointed out some superb details, I will tell my friends that this is a very informative blog thanks.

awww, I bet you knew that already! :)

2013-02-07T09:23:55.563+11:00

awww, I bet you knew that already! :)

Awe!!!!!

2013-02-10T04:06:58.614+11:00

Awe!!!!!

Emergency Rooms are similar, the world over. I usu...

2013-02-24T09:20:30.799+11:00

Emergency Rooms are similar, the world over. I usually get invited in to translate (and advocate) for my husband. At least, I know what's going on, although some sights you can't un-see.

It's always a nerve-wracking experience, and I...

2013-02-26T06:39:24.636+11:00

It's always a nerve-wracking experience, and I dread the moments I'm ever waiting for someone in the ER.

4319I love how you were able to pass your time in ...

2013-03-03T05:05:42.446+11:00

4319I love how you were able to pass your time in the ER. I enjoy people watching but not usually in the ER, mostly I sit with eyes firmly into a book I've brought to pass the time away. Luckily, I can't recall the last time I visited an ER. :)

I love your site! You will be in our prayers and t...

2013-03-28T16:36:34.128+11:00

I love your site! You will be in our prayers and thoughts! Nice and informative post
on this topic thanks for sharing with us.Thank you
epoxy coatings
glue removal
floor levelling
Polished concrete sydney
concrete repairs
concrete coatings

The scenery will still be there. You will have to ...

2013-04-18T09:37:11.676+10:00

The scenery will still be there. You will have to walk around your new building in order to see it. You will enjoy it even more for that effort. Plan B would be to paint a picture (take a photo) and bring it inside.
Family businesses seem to go from one do or die decision to the next. You have done so much already. No doubts here. You will succeed and grow. (Who needs sleep?)

Hard to follow that random comment about cars. Tha...

2013-04-20T07:21:21.336+10:00

Hard to follow that random comment about cars.
That lamb was of the resilient kind and very lucky to live to gambol another day. The dog's owners did what must be done. It makes no one happy.
Here, in California,they would just as likely have blamed the lamb, because their dog/child/brother can do no wrong.

I know its been far too long since I commented on ...

2013-05-10T17:38:20.917+10:00

I know its been far too long since I commented on here - but how wonderful that Sarah will be married soon (and in a hand-build shed no less!) - I remember how beautiful that pumpkin ball was and I suspect this reception can only be lovelier! Blessings to you in these busy planning days xx

I love your site! You will be in our prayers and t...

2013-06-01T16:32:11.698+10:00

I love your site! You will be in our prayers and thoughts! Nice and informative post
on this topic thanks for sharing with us.Thank you
epoxy coatings

spot on with this write-up, i like the way you dis...

2013-06-05T17:43:02.413+10:00

spot on with this write-up, i like the way you discuss the things. i'm impressed, i must say. i'll probably be back again to read more. thanks for sharing this with us.

Lee Shin
www.trendone.net

This is cool!

2013-07-18T14:06:27.476+10:00

This is cool!

Insightful and oh so encouraging!

2013-08-29T14:54:21.169+10:00

Insightful and oh so encouraging!

2013-08-29T14:54:50.706+10:00

This comment has been removed by the author.

And such a beautiful couple!

2013-08-29T14:55:27.319+10:00

And such a beautiful couple!

This was a lovely, heartfelt post, thank you for s...

2013-08-29T22:07:23.216+10:00

This was a lovely, heartfelt post, thank you for sharing.

The photos were wonderful. It was good to see you and the Machinist.

Your daughter is lovely and her husband handsome and look like they are right out of a romantic fairytale.

May their love continue to grow each and every day.

Love and hugs to all of you,

FlowerLady

Lovely pictures says it all. :)

2013-08-31T06:24:21.069+10:00

Lovely pictures says it all. :)

What a lovely couple! I can see where you would th...

2013-09-17T22:33:59.989+10:00

What a lovely couple! I can see where you would think they would change. The only change I've noticed, is the phone numbers and the locale. She must be the first to wed. I had to smile. Your Sarah made such a beautiful bride.

Wonderfully written! I could smell the dog, share...

2013-10-01T15:31:43.216+10:00

Wonderfully written! I could smell the dog, shared the despair of the poorly organized clutter and shared the relief at the end of the day. And of course, the realisation that no fence is bat-proof... Loved it!

I enjoyed your story this morning. Thanks for shar...

2013-10-02T02:48:13.249+10:00

I enjoyed your story this morning. Thanks for sharing it!

You have a wonderful BlogSpot! Thanks for writing...

2013-12-09T08:36:50.706+11:00

You have a wonderful BlogSpot! Thanks for writing!
I love your story about - power-off & bats-in-the-house! Keep posting! I'm glad you sat down to a nice dinner! Take care!

RETA@ http://evenhaazer.blogspot.com

I miss you Helen- Linda in Indiana

2013-12-13T17:48:57.250+11:00

I miss you Helen- Linda in Indiana

It sounds like you are living a dream! I have dre...

2013-12-19T05:35:08.483+11:00

It sounds like you are living a dream! I have dreamed of owning my own business. Can you post some pictures of your shop and how you built it?

Best,

Julian
Dallas, TX

www.cncgods.com

wow, a lot has changed. You've empty nesters ...

2014-01-28T05:06:23.549+11:00

wow, a lot has changed. You've empty nesters now? Me too- both boys on West Coast, I miss them terribly.
---bats in house-- I know about that one- we had a bat in Evanston apt. dh caught it- I had animal control come let it out- I too am a chicken but I will take that over a snake.
Wedding pics are beautiful. My daughter is getting married in Oct. Mike is sweet- he's a fireman. write me. ( : hugs

Adorable shots! I'll bet she is a whole lot of...

2014-04-11T21:49:46.296+10:00

Adorable shots! I'll bet she is a whole lot of fun!

Cuteness beyond words.

2014-04-13T08:59:49.637+10:00

Cuteness beyond words.

At least you have a plan:)

2014-08-06T02:55:48.761+10:00

At least you have a plan:)

Same planet, different worlds:(

2015-06-22T01:51:53.787+10:00

Same planet, different worlds:(

Absolutely!

2015-07-10T22:00:09.440+10:00

Absolutely!

Truer words have never been said.

2015-08-16T04:28:46.341+10:00

Truer words have never been said.

Wishing you more of family get togethers and etern...

2016-01-02T00:49:45.160+11:00

Wishing you more of family get togethers and eternal happiness. Happy New Year!

Thankyou, Angelina.. Same to you! Happy new year ...

2016-01-03T23:21:14.496+11:00

Thankyou, Angelina.. Same to you! Happy new year to you and your loved ones~

How fine that they can each still drive the other ...

2016-01-06T07:01:13.372+11:00

How fine that they can each still drive the other mad !

I have an elderly parent, so I've adopted the ...

2016-01-06T08:25:08.410+11:00

I have an elderly parent, so I've adopted the attitude that each and every time I am with her, I view it as a blessing.

As lucky as you are to have both parents, and that...

2017-03-05T04:25:53.812+11:00

As lucky as you are to have both parents, and that they are mentally intact, this dilemma is real and well expressed.I have only sympathy for what you are feeling, and the suggestion that there must be others out there who have had this experience and can share some ideas that worked for them. Lovely photos accompanying your post.

God bless you and your dear parents! love and hugs!

2017-05-03T11:43:41.439+10:00

God bless you and your dear parents!

love and hugs!

oh, I love this!!!!

2017-05-03T11:46:22.325+10:00

oh, I love this!!!!

You've been busy! Fascinating trips you'v...

2017-09-26T09:01:07.585+10:00

You've been busy! Fascinating trips you've been taking, I had no idea about the castle. I'm a bit partial to Civic myself. There's a hole in the wall type of Korean-Japanese fusion place that I love to get lunch from.

I am so sorry. You are never ready -this has been...

2018-03-29T09:28:43.984+11:00

I am so sorry. You are never ready -this has been a rough 2 yrs for us. We lost dh mom, killed out front of her house. Next yr my sister in law, we'd over seen her care. Last Aug dh was diagnosed with colon cancer. I still miss you and the list. Do write me lynhead52@gmail.com

I am sorry your Brother is no longer with you in p...

2018-04-05T05:27:40.493+10:00

I am sorry your Brother is no longer with you in person. This post has a warm glow, despite your loss, and shows how much you loved him and how his spirit and memories will not be extinguished. (We had the theme music from The Dam Busters for our father)

I am so sorry for your loss. What you wrote is ve...

2018-04-08T04:58:15.047+10:00

I am so sorry for your loss. What you wrote is very helpful to others. Thank you.

love Mrs. White

I am so sorry for your loss, grief indeed can help...

2018-05-22T20:49:37.929+10:00

I am so sorry for your loss, grief indeed can help us be in the moment.

Love it -- our funniest times are often around the...

2018-10-18T18:49:30.983+11:00

Love it -- our funniest times are often around the coffee/tea on breaks. The hidden gems of being self-employed!

Looking forward to it. As a hobby machinist, I...

2018-11-01T08:18:13.700+11:00

Looking forward to it. As a hobby machinist, I'd love to see the kinds of projects you guys build.

The Machinist's Wife

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BLOOD AND TEARS. NO SWEAT!

LUNCHEON WITH MAM

Machinists Wife on Debco Engineering

Farewell to Thee, My Father

Farewell to Thee, My Brother

Commonwealth Park and Civic Central, Australian Capital Territory

Goulburn Railway, Riverside and Wetlands, Goulburn New South Wales

Lake Burley Griffin 4, Australian Capital Territory

Lake Burley Griffin 3, Australian Capital Territory

Lake Burley Griffin 2, Australian Capital Territory

Lake Burley Griffin 1, Australian Capital Territory

Cotter Dam, Australian Capital Territory

Kangaroo Valley Bushland, New South Wales

Pioneer Farm Museum, Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales

Fitzroy Falls, New South Wales

Iandra Castle, near Greenethorpe, New South Wales

Independence and Dignity

Dishwashing 101 with Miss Keiralea

The Predator of Dusk and Dawn

Grand Escapades

A Random Day In The Life Of The Machinist's Wife

Cherished Kin

Mannequin Humour

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