... and then on my morning ride, brief as it was, this was my top shot.
Now I am truly tired after an afternoon with friends drinking a few glasses of wine.
A good time was had by all.
Nite all.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Remember Lolly?
Remember Lolly, the little Tawny Fogmouth chick that I attempted to save a couple o month ago? Here is her sole surviving sibling ...
... and then on my morning ride, brief as it was, this was my top shot.
Now I am truly tired after an afternoon with friends drinking a few glasses of wine.
A good time was had by all.
Nite all.
... and then on my morning ride, brief as it was, this was my top shot.
Now I am truly tired after an afternoon with friends drinking a few glasses of wine.
A good time was had by all.
Nite all.
Friday, November 22, 2013
Better Attitude
Today was a better day.
I got a hair cut.
I didn't cook.
OB (the cockatiel) had a quiet day.
We had a lucky table at the club tonight (congratulations Lady Lynn!)
Adoring Husband won a frozen chicken, but when we got home and read the ingredients list - who'da thunk there could be so much rubbish in a frozen chook!
The ingredients list was about 15 items long and included sugar and preservatives and numbers and was only 82% chicken ... 18% other crap. No good for us. Disappointing.
We also won a $15 voucher for the local supermarket ... that's always handy!
I also have a keno ticket in my purse that could possibly be lucky.
Now there is rain, lots of rain, heading in our direction.
No photos to share and no other news ... besides ... it's Friday ... and you know how I am on Fridays.
Nite all.
I got a hair cut.
I didn't cook.
OB (the cockatiel) had a quiet day.
We had a lucky table at the club tonight (congratulations Lady Lynn!)
Adoring Husband won a frozen chicken, but when we got home and read the ingredients list - who'da thunk there could be so much rubbish in a frozen chook!
The ingredients list was about 15 items long and included sugar and preservatives and numbers and was only 82% chicken ... 18% other crap. No good for us. Disappointing.
We also won a $15 voucher for the local supermarket ... that's always handy!
I also have a keno ticket in my purse that could possibly be lucky.
Now there is rain, lots of rain, heading in our direction.
No photos to share and no other news ... besides ... it's Friday ... and you know how I am on Fridays.
Nite all.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Bad Attitude
Here is a very interesting read, which explains why today's wheat doesn't compare to the wheat we consumed 30 years ago. If it gets too heavy or intense for you, go to the bottom of the article for the list and explanation of wheat free options. You will find that interesting too.
I've had a miserable day today.
Nothing bad happened.
Do you ever open your eyes in the morning, and just know that you've got a bad attitude, and after you get out of bed, you just can't shake it?
Everything rubs you the wrong way and every tiny little annoyance seems like the biggest drama?
That's the kind of day I had.
Adoring Husband bore the brunt of it and I was mean and evil and bitter and twisted all day.
There were also a few hiccups during the day that didn't improve my mood any.
So I'm looking forward to going to bed and sleeping this mood away tonight .. hopefully, I will wake up in a happier frame of mind tomorrow.
One photo to share from the wedding. I definitely prefer The Nikonian's photo of the wedding rings, but I think this is nice enough to share here.
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Now I think I will go treat myself to a Cherry Ripe Delight.
Nite all.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Photos galore
As I was leaving the Seat of Knowledge this morning, a Whistling Kite began circling above. It circled lower and lower until this happened...
A macro shot from the back garden of a jumping spider ...
A butterfly from the front garden ...
and here is another wedding photo from our shoot in Coffs ...
I picked up my new prescription sunglasses today. They are polarised and the difference between my old sunglasses and these, is amazing! Very happy!
Nite all.
A macro shot from the back garden of a jumping spider ...
A butterfly from the front garden ...
and here is another wedding photo from our shoot in Coffs ...
I picked up my new prescription sunglasses today. They are polarised and the difference between my old sunglasses and these, is amazing! Very happy!
Nite all.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Personal Observations
At morning tea with the girls today, we were discussing the value of coconut oil and how effective it is as an antibiotic, and as a natural sunscreen, among other things.
Afterwards, when I arrived home, I sat down at my computer and co-incidentally, stumbled across this story ...
Natural Cures Not Medicine: Man Reverses Alzheimers Symptoms Using Coconut Oil...: Some of Steve Newport’s symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease reversed, thanks to the unlikely treatment prescribed by his wife,...
The more I read about coconut oil, the more excited I become about it... especially with regards to Adoring Husband's Parkinsons Disease, and possible positive effects that it may have.
So go to the above link and watch the video attached ... I bet you will be as amazed as I was.
I want to share an observation now.
Those of you who know me, know that I like to observe people, analyse their behaviour and figure out who they really are and why they are the way they are.
I was like this even as a kid, and in my teens, considered social work as a career option. Alas, my priorities changed and none of my career considerations (of which there were a few) ever came to fruition.
My first mother-in-law (yes I know you're there!) gave me some amazing insights into the human psyche and into MY psyche.
We had quite a few in depth chats, in my early 20s, and I remember many light bulb moments during our discussions.
Anyway, this is what I have observed recently.
Most men, the ones who have always felt strong and empowered throughout their lives...
...the males who have not experienced physical/sexual/mental abuse...
...the males whose life choices were always supported by their family and friends...
...the males who never had to second guess themselves and who's lives were pretty smooth sailing - aside from the standard financial hiccups, work stresses and maybe a marriage breakdown along the way...
...these males never seem to question authority. They seem to gain more strength from following, and agreeing with, other men, especially when those other men hold 'so-called' positions of power.
They don't question (and I'm using my favourite subject as an example) their medical treatment - in fact, they have complete trust in the medical profession, which is predominantly male based.
They have 100% trust, faith and belief that their male Doctor is giving them the perfect diagnosis, perfect advice and perfect medication.
They never question, disagree with or criticise their Doctor and are generally bemused by anyone who suggests that they should.
On the other hand...
...males who have suffered abuse in some form or another...
...the males whose power has been taken from them at some point in their lives, through physical/sexual/mental/emotional abuse...
...the males whose 'support system' has been questionable...
...the males who have broken free...
...they seem to question EVERYTHING and they ask different questions...
...they seem to search for different answers...
...they seem to know that the world around us is much bigger than what they see or what they are being 'shown' and they look beyond the 'mainstream' to find answers.
Observing people through social media, gives a different insight altogether and you could just about put a line down the middle of your monitor, placing 'mainstream/conditioned' humans on one side and 'curious/nonconformist' humans on the other.
My observation is that people whose power has never been taken from them, are blind followers, and they subconsciously conform ... maybe it's the 'strength in numbers' scenario.
People whose personal power has been taken from them at some time in their lives, but they have broken free, are less trusting of the information that is put before them. They may not do it confidently or overtly, but they question almost everything.
Of course, there are exceptions to the rule - not everybody falls into my categories - but these have been my recent observations.
Honestly, we laugh at the TV show 'Big Brother', but the whole world is one big social experiment and is so interesting if you just stop, look and listen.
One more thing for you to consider on this fine Tuesday, with Christmas and associated gift giving just around the corner ...
Nite all.
Afterwards, when I arrived home, I sat down at my computer and co-incidentally, stumbled across this story ...
Natural Cures Not Medicine: Man Reverses Alzheimers Symptoms Using Coconut Oil...: Some of Steve Newport’s symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease reversed, thanks to the unlikely treatment prescribed by his wife,...
The more I read about coconut oil, the more excited I become about it... especially with regards to Adoring Husband's Parkinsons Disease, and possible positive effects that it may have.
So go to the above link and watch the video attached ... I bet you will be as amazed as I was.
I want to share an observation now.
Those of you who know me, know that I like to observe people, analyse their behaviour and figure out who they really are and why they are the way they are.
I was like this even as a kid, and in my teens, considered social work as a career option. Alas, my priorities changed and none of my career considerations (of which there were a few) ever came to fruition.
My first mother-in-law (yes I know you're there!) gave me some amazing insights into the human psyche and into MY psyche.
We had quite a few in depth chats, in my early 20s, and I remember many light bulb moments during our discussions.
Anyway, this is what I have observed recently.
Most men, the ones who have always felt strong and empowered throughout their lives...
...the males who have not experienced physical/sexual/mental abuse...
...the males whose life choices were always supported by their family and friends...
...the males who never had to second guess themselves and who's lives were pretty smooth sailing - aside from the standard financial hiccups, work stresses and maybe a marriage breakdown along the way...
...these males never seem to question authority. They seem to gain more strength from following, and agreeing with, other men, especially when those other men hold 'so-called' positions of power.
They don't question (and I'm using my favourite subject as an example) their medical treatment - in fact, they have complete trust in the medical profession, which is predominantly male based.
They have 100% trust, faith and belief that their male Doctor is giving them the perfect diagnosis, perfect advice and perfect medication.
They never question, disagree with or criticise their Doctor and are generally bemused by anyone who suggests that they should.
On the other hand...
...males who have suffered abuse in some form or another...
...the males whose power has been taken from them at some point in their lives, through physical/sexual/mental/emotional abuse...
...the males whose 'support system' has been questionable...
...the males who have broken free...
...they seem to question EVERYTHING and they ask different questions...
...they seem to search for different answers...
...they seem to know that the world around us is much bigger than what they see or what they are being 'shown' and they look beyond the 'mainstream' to find answers.
Observing people through social media, gives a different insight altogether and you could just about put a line down the middle of your monitor, placing 'mainstream/conditioned' humans on one side and 'curious/nonconformist' humans on the other.
My observation is that people whose power has never been taken from them, are blind followers, and they subconsciously conform ... maybe it's the 'strength in numbers' scenario.
People whose personal power has been taken from them at some time in their lives, but they have broken free, are less trusting of the information that is put before them. They may not do it confidently or overtly, but they question almost everything.
Of course, there are exceptions to the rule - not everybody falls into my categories - but these have been my recent observations.
Honestly, we laugh at the TV show 'Big Brother', but the whole world is one big social experiment and is so interesting if you just stop, look and listen.
One more thing for you to consider on this fine Tuesday, with Christmas and associated gift giving just around the corner ...
Nite all.
Monday, November 18, 2013
Back to School
I'm sending Adoring Husband back to school.
I was just telling BGWLBH about our trip to Bundaberg.
We attended AH's Specialist Appointment today and were charged $135 for 15 minutes.
This equates to:
For 1 hour = $540
For an 8 hour day = $4320
For a 5 day week = $21600
Less one month holiday
For a year = $1,036,800
Ok, so we really should give him an hour for lunch every day, my calculations are a teensy bit out.
But seriously?
That's a lot of money for a trained monkey!
Nite all.
I was just telling BGWLBH about our trip to Bundaberg.
We attended AH's Specialist Appointment today and were charged $135 for 15 minutes.
This equates to:
For 1 hour = $540
For an 8 hour day = $4320
For a 5 day week = $21600
Less one month holiday
For a year = $1,036,800
Ok, so we really should give him an hour for lunch every day, my calculations are a teensy bit out.
But seriously?
That's a lot of money for a trained monkey!
Nite all.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Close Call
I watched it coming on the BOM radar and from the front lawn.
I heard it coming, firstly with the low rolling thunder and then the loud cracking thunder that followed the bright stark lightning bolts that broke free from the black clouds and slammed straight down to the ground!
But when I saw this photo in facebook ...
THAT'S when I began to worry!
Not long after that, I very gingerly found my way outside to capture this ...
... right above our house! I can't tell you how afraid I was!
The storm lasted a long time and I was feeling terrified until I could hear the thunder finally fading into the distance.
So I survived my first big storm since the tornado in January. I think that takes me a step closer to healing my post traumatic stress.
I know I'll still be afraid when the next storm rolls in, but I'm sure that eventually, the fear will fade into insignificance, and I'll get through them without a second thought.
On a brighter and happier note ... THIS arrived in my email today, from Vegan Chickie.
I get to see her again next Monday :) *happy dance*
Nite all.
I heard it coming, firstly with the low rolling thunder and then the loud cracking thunder that followed the bright stark lightning bolts that broke free from the black clouds and slammed straight down to the ground!
But when I saw this photo in facebook ...
 |
| Photography by Sarah Slattery |
Not long after that, I very gingerly found my way outside to capture this ...
... right above our house! I can't tell you how afraid I was!
The storm lasted a long time and I was feeling terrified until I could hear the thunder finally fading into the distance.
So I survived my first big storm since the tornado in January. I think that takes me a step closer to healing my post traumatic stress.
I know I'll still be afraid when the next storm rolls in, but I'm sure that eventually, the fear will fade into insignificance, and I'll get through them without a second thought.
On a brighter and happier note ... THIS arrived in my email today, from Vegan Chickie.
I get to see her again next Monday :) *happy dance*
Nite all.
Saturday, November 16, 2013
More Food
After making two batches of ice cream in 3 days, each requiring 5 egg yolks, I had 10 egg whites sitting in the fridge waiting to be used.
Since Adoring Husband and I are both sugar free, the usual pavlova was out of the question, so I went on the hunt for something else.
This is what I found - Coconut Flour Tortillas. A batch of 5 tortillas, uses 5 egg whites. It's gluten free, grain free, sugar free, dairy free and actually delicious!
Ingredients:
5 egg whites
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (my almond milk was out of date, so I used raw milk instead)
1/4 cup coconut flour
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Put all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix for about 30 seconds. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes so that the coconut flour can hydrate.
This mixture sticks to the pan, so you either need a good non-stick pan or use oil.
Once the pan is hot, pour some batter into the centre and tilt the pan so that the mixture spreads evenly over the bottom - about 7 inches in diameter.
Put the pan back on the hotplate and let it cook until the top is no longer shiny. Flip the tortilla and let it cook for about another minute.
Take it out and place on paper towel, while you cook the others. Try not to let them sweat, or they go soggy.
Fill them with whatever you like. I made this filling:
Tortilla Filling Ingredients
1 cup of finely shredded cabbage
1 medium carrot - grated
1 small onion - cut into fine rings
1 chicken breast - cut into fine strips
2 T GF soy sauce
2 T pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon of chilli paste (I make my own)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fry it all up in a pan with a little butter. If it gets too dry, add about a 1/4 cup water.
Spoon the mixture into the tortilla, so that it looks like this ...
I had two for lunch yesterday and then 3 for dinner last night (which made me uncomfortably full!). They are very filling
I also made some banana bread during my cooking frenzy ...
It's quite nice, but if I used this recipe again, I'd add more walnuts and I wouldn't use chocolate chips. It's very heavy and very filling.
If you're interested in the recipe, leave a comment and I will post it on here for you.
Yesterday morning, Adoring Husband came with me to see the Tawny chicks. My favourite, who I have named 'Ethel', didn't like his visit and showed her discontent!
Don't you agree, they have the most interesting and amazing mouth?
It seems AH has just arrived home from his SES training, so I'm off to give him a warm welcome.
Nite all.
Since Adoring Husband and I are both sugar free, the usual pavlova was out of the question, so I went on the hunt for something else.
This is what I found - Coconut Flour Tortillas. A batch of 5 tortillas, uses 5 egg whites. It's gluten free, grain free, sugar free, dairy free and actually delicious!
Ingredients:
5 egg whites
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (my almond milk was out of date, so I used raw milk instead)
1/4 cup coconut flour
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Put all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix for about 30 seconds. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes so that the coconut flour can hydrate.
This mixture sticks to the pan, so you either need a good non-stick pan or use oil.
Once the pan is hot, pour some batter into the centre and tilt the pan so that the mixture spreads evenly over the bottom - about 7 inches in diameter.
Put the pan back on the hotplate and let it cook until the top is no longer shiny. Flip the tortilla and let it cook for about another minute.
Take it out and place on paper towel, while you cook the others. Try not to let them sweat, or they go soggy.
Fill them with whatever you like. I made this filling:
Tortilla Filling Ingredients
1 cup of finely shredded cabbage
1 medium carrot - grated
1 small onion - cut into fine rings
1 chicken breast - cut into fine strips
2 T GF soy sauce
2 T pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon of chilli paste (I make my own)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fry it all up in a pan with a little butter. If it gets too dry, add about a 1/4 cup water.
Spoon the mixture into the tortilla, so that it looks like this ...
I had two for lunch yesterday and then 3 for dinner last night (which made me uncomfortably full!). They are very filling
I also made some banana bread during my cooking frenzy ...
It's quite nice, but if I used this recipe again, I'd add more walnuts and I wouldn't use chocolate chips. It's very heavy and very filling.
If you're interested in the recipe, leave a comment and I will post it on here for you.
Yesterday morning, Adoring Husband came with me to see the Tawny chicks. My favourite, who I have named 'Ethel', didn't like his visit and showed her discontent!
Don't you agree, they have the most interesting and amazing mouth?
It seems AH has just arrived home from his SES training, so I'm off to give him a warm welcome.
Nite all.
Friday, November 15, 2013
TGIF
It's Friday.
You know how I struggle with Fridays.
So this is for you, to make it easier on me *insert smiley face here*
Nite all.
You know how I struggle with Fridays.
So this is for you, to make it easier on me *insert smiley face here*
Nite all.
Cherry Ripe Delights
One food that I have really missed in the last two years since I went gluten free, is Cherry Ripes.
So, today, I decided to create my own Cherry Ripe.
Here is the recipe for my Cherry Ripe Delights.
For the Chocolate
1 Cup of solid cacao butter
1 Cup of cocoa powder
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
1/2 Cup of liquid sweetener, like raw honey, pure maple syrup or coconut nectar
For the Cherry Ripe Filling
250 g Glace Cherries (mine had no sugar and were organic, but not sure what brand because I threw the packet away)
1/2 Cup of raw cashews, soaked in water for 4 hours (then drain the water off)
1/2 Cup of dessicated coconut
1/4 Cup coconut oil
1/4 Cup of water
You will need a high powered blender or food processor. Mini patty papers. Tray or plate that will fit in the freezer.
Method
Chocolate
Once done, put the tray in the freezer for about 10 minutes, until the chocolate is set.
Remove from the freezer and spoon a small amount of cherry mixture onto the chocolate, then pour more chocolate over the top until the cherry mixture is covered.
Place the tray in the freezer until set. Store the cherry ripes in the fridge.
This is the healthiest form of chocolate that you can eat, but it melts easily in your hands and also when they are out of the fridge. That's the price you pay for healthy stuff.
What a shame (she says with a sarcastic tone) that Adoring Husband is on a liquid diet and can't eat any of these delicious little treats!
It's ok, I made him some apple and blueberry ice cream for his liquid treat.
It's been a rainy stormy day today and now it's after midnight!
I climbed into bed last night, 3 hours earlier than usual, and then woke up at 3am, which is 3 hours earlier than usual! I can't believe that I am still awake now!
Must be the magic Maca Powder that I'm taking. I'll tell you about that one day soon.
Nite all.
So, today, I decided to create my own Cherry Ripe.
Here is the recipe for my Cherry Ripe Delights.
For the Chocolate
1 Cup of solid cacao butter
1 Cup of cocoa powder
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
1/2 Cup of liquid sweetener, like raw honey, pure maple syrup or coconut nectar
For the Cherry Ripe Filling
250 g Glace Cherries (mine had no sugar and were organic, but not sure what brand because I threw the packet away)
1/2 Cup of raw cashews, soaked in water for 4 hours (then drain the water off)
1/2 Cup of dessicated coconut
1/4 Cup coconut oil
1/4 Cup of water
You will need a high powered blender or food processor. Mini patty papers. Tray or plate that will fit in the freezer.
Method
Chocolate
- Gently melt the cacao butter in a pot or double boiler.
- Once melted, add the cacao powder and vanilla essence to the pot and stir to combine.
- Next, add your liquid sweetener of choice. Stir
- Set aside.
- Put the cashews, coconut oil and water in the blender and blend until creamy (it doesn't matter if there are a few chunky bits - that just adds more texture).
- Add the cherries and dessicated coconut and 'pulse' a few times until the cherries are well chopped, but still a bit chunky.
- Put mixture in a bowl.
Once done, put the tray in the freezer for about 10 minutes, until the chocolate is set.
Remove from the freezer and spoon a small amount of cherry mixture onto the chocolate, then pour more chocolate over the top until the cherry mixture is covered.
Place the tray in the freezer until set. Store the cherry ripes in the fridge.
This is the healthiest form of chocolate that you can eat, but it melts easily in your hands and also when they are out of the fridge. That's the price you pay for healthy stuff.
What a shame (she says with a sarcastic tone) that Adoring Husband is on a liquid diet and can't eat any of these delicious little treats!
It's ok, I made him some apple and blueberry ice cream for his liquid treat.
It's been a rainy stormy day today and now it's after midnight!
I climbed into bed last night, 3 hours earlier than usual, and then woke up at 3am, which is 3 hours earlier than usual! I can't believe that I am still awake now!
Must be the magic Maca Powder that I'm taking. I'll tell you about that one day soon.
Nite all.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Sneak Peeks
A rare tropical cyclone hits Somalia - the deadliest in it's history.
Somalia experienced one of the deadliest tropical cyclones in its history. Tropical Cyclone 3A made landfall in north-eastern Somali region of Puntland on November 10–11, 2013. Tropical Cyclone 3A hit the Eyl, Beyla, Dangorayo and Hafun districts along the eastern coast and across to Alula at the tip of the Horn of Africa. Strong winds, heavy rains and flash floods caused more than 100 deaths. Hundreds of homes were destroyed and thousands of livestock killed. According to the International Disaster Database, EM-DAT, this is the deadliest tropical cyclone in Somalia's history.
Somalia experienced one of the deadliest tropical cyclones in its history. Tropical Cyclone 3A made landfall in north-eastern Somali region of Puntland on November 10–11, 2013. Tropical Cyclone 3A hit the Eyl, Beyla, Dangorayo and Hafun districts along the eastern coast and across to Alula at the tip of the Horn of Africa. Strong winds, heavy rains and flash floods caused more than 100 deaths. Hundreds of homes were destroyed and thousands of livestock killed. According to the International Disaster Database, EM-DAT, this is the deadliest tropical cyclone in Somalia's history.
The typhoon in the Philippines, the most catastrophic of them all, seems to have the spotlight and mainstream news hasn't covered this dreadful disaster in Somalia.
I wonder what is causing these 'deadliest/worst/biggest/strongest in history' tornados, typhoons, cyclones and other disasters, if it's not, as our Prime Minister insists, global warming?
but don't get me started ...
... on a happier note
I'm excited to be able to share some photos from the wedding that I attended with The Nikonian on the first weekend of November.
These are The Nikonian's edited photos.
I LOVE her work.
These are photos that she has already shared on facebook with the bride and groom, and she gave me permission to share them with you too.
One from mine ..
This is my workspace. It's too cluttered and I'm struggling to stay focussed on my work, so it needs cleaning ... I think it will be my priority tomorrow morning.
The first photo is how my workspace looked when it was shiny and new. The second photo is taken 6 months later .. I need to make it look shiny and new again!
There are a lot of nasty storms all over Queensland tonight. None in this area, thankfully, but I am thinking of our friends down south who are in the paths of some of the storms. There have been some terrible damaging storms lately, containing mini tornados. Heart breaking for those affected.
Nite all.
I'm excited to be able to share some photos from the wedding that I attended with The Nikonian on the first weekend of November.
These are The Nikonian's edited photos.
I LOVE her work.
These are photos that she has already shared on facebook with the bride and groom, and she gave me permission to share them with you too.
One from mine ..
This is my workspace. It's too cluttered and I'm struggling to stay focussed on my work, so it needs cleaning ... I think it will be my priority tomorrow morning.
The first photo is how my workspace looked when it was shiny and new. The second photo is taken 6 months later .. I need to make it look shiny and new again!
There are a lot of nasty storms all over Queensland tonight. None in this area, thankfully, but I am thinking of our friends down south who are in the paths of some of the storms. There have been some terrible damaging storms lately, containing mini tornados. Heart breaking for those affected.
Nite all.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Busy Kitchen
I began cooking yesterday at lunch time.
Yesterday, I made Bombay Honey Chicken, Sweet Potato Chips, Jacket Potatoes, Herbed Feta Cheese, and Chilli Feta Cheese.
This morning I made a big batch of Tropical Fruit Smoothie and then I was busy for the first half of today with the girls.
From 2pm I made Tomato Soup, Apple Pie Ice Cream, Chilli Paste (with help from Adoring Husband) and Veggie Soup.
The kitchen is now closed *wipes sweat from brow*.
Adoring Husband is on fluids for the next week or so.
This means fresh juices, fresh fruit smoothies, home made soups and delicious sugar-free ice creams.
The Apple Pie Ice Cream really does taste like apple pie! (One that you don't have to chew)
Delicious!
The first half of my day was filled with time at the Seat of Knowledge, the usual Tuesday morning tea with the girls and then a lovely lunch at Goody's in Toogoom.
On Friday nights at the Club, the girls and I each contribute $2 and then buy a keno ticket, choosing two numbers each. A few weeks ago, we won a nice sum of money and decided to use the winnings for a lunch together.
Our original choice of restaurant advised us today, that they are no longer open for lunch, because there aren't enough people around. We were very disappointed and headed over the road to Goody's, the only other choice in Toogoom.
It was a lovely day and there was a pleasant breeze blowing in the outdoor eating area, so we chose our table and made ourselves comfortable.
The service was warm and friendly too.
The food was average.
Two of us had gluten free Pork Belly with fries and red capsicum chutney. One of us had Twice Cooked Duck Salad. One of us had Roast Pumpkin Salad. One of us had Chicken and Mushroom Pie.
The chicken in the pie was not cooked properly, so it was returned and replaced with Twice Cooked Duck Salad, which apparently was very nice.
My Pork Belly was very dry.
I don't think I will go back in a hurry.
The company was fabulous and I really enjoyed myself.
Adoring Husband played golf and then had a busy afternoon helping a friend and then doing a chore for the SES.
So it's been a pretty full day for both of us.
Oh and look what I found this morning!
Warm and fuzzy ... I'm certain that they recognise me!
Nite all.
Yesterday, I made Bombay Honey Chicken, Sweet Potato Chips, Jacket Potatoes, Herbed Feta Cheese, and Chilli Feta Cheese.
This morning I made a big batch of Tropical Fruit Smoothie and then I was busy for the first half of today with the girls.
From 2pm I made Tomato Soup, Apple Pie Ice Cream, Chilli Paste (with help from Adoring Husband) and Veggie Soup.
The kitchen is now closed *wipes sweat from brow*.
Adoring Husband is on fluids for the next week or so.
This means fresh juices, fresh fruit smoothies, home made soups and delicious sugar-free ice creams.
The Apple Pie Ice Cream really does taste like apple pie! (One that you don't have to chew)
Delicious!
The first half of my day was filled with time at the Seat of Knowledge, the usual Tuesday morning tea with the girls and then a lovely lunch at Goody's in Toogoom.
On Friday nights at the Club, the girls and I each contribute $2 and then buy a keno ticket, choosing two numbers each. A few weeks ago, we won a nice sum of money and decided to use the winnings for a lunch together.
Our original choice of restaurant advised us today, that they are no longer open for lunch, because there aren't enough people around. We were very disappointed and headed over the road to Goody's, the only other choice in Toogoom.
It was a lovely day and there was a pleasant breeze blowing in the outdoor eating area, so we chose our table and made ourselves comfortable.
The service was warm and friendly too.
The food was average.
Two of us had gluten free Pork Belly with fries and red capsicum chutney. One of us had Twice Cooked Duck Salad. One of us had Roast Pumpkin Salad. One of us had Chicken and Mushroom Pie.
The chicken in the pie was not cooked properly, so it was returned and replaced with Twice Cooked Duck Salad, which apparently was very nice.
My Pork Belly was very dry.
I don't think I will go back in a hurry.
The company was fabulous and I really enjoyed myself.
 |
| I dub thee 'Red Velvet' (because she makes the BEST red velvet cupcakes!) |
So it's been a pretty full day for both of us.
Oh and look what I found this morning!
Warm and fuzzy ... I'm certain that they recognise me!
Nite all.
Monday, November 11, 2013
Tested
I had my eyes tested today.
My distance vision hasn't changed, but my reading vision has deteriorated slightly, so I need new reading glasses.
I also ordered some new prescription sunglasses ... I'm so tired of having my current sunglasses repaired every month!
After we finished with OPSM, we did the tour of the organic and health shops in town and spent quite a lot of money on some more organic health foods that I didn't think were even available in Australia.
In tomorrow's post, I'll share some details of what we bought, why we bought it and some recipes in which to use them.
I would have shared the information tonight, but I am feeling pretty tired, so please accept a rain check :)
We arrived home just before lunch and then after lunch, Adoring Husband had to leave for a Drs appointment.
After he left, I had to pedal to the Post Office to mail a prize to the 104 group's monthly winner (a necklace with a camera charm) and after returning home, I began the long cheese making process - which reminds me - I must turn it before I head off to bed.
I took some scissors out to the garden and picked all the chillies off the plants to make some chilli paste.
After the Drs, AH had to go to the gym to begin a special exercise plan which will hopefully help ease his Parkinson's symptoms.
So I started to prepare dinner and he arrived home to advised me, that he is on a liquid diet for the next week or more.
He had pumpkin, cauliflower and garlic soup, while I enjoyed my Honey Bombay Chicken with home-made sweet potato chips and potato in it's jacket.
By the time I cleaned the kitchen after dinner and finally sat down, my body told me that I had done enough for the day.
I am now too pooped to pop.
Nite all.
My distance vision hasn't changed, but my reading vision has deteriorated slightly, so I need new reading glasses.
I also ordered some new prescription sunglasses ... I'm so tired of having my current sunglasses repaired every month!
After we finished with OPSM, we did the tour of the organic and health shops in town and spent quite a lot of money on some more organic health foods that I didn't think were even available in Australia.
In tomorrow's post, I'll share some details of what we bought, why we bought it and some recipes in which to use them.
I would have shared the information tonight, but I am feeling pretty tired, so please accept a rain check :)
We arrived home just before lunch and then after lunch, Adoring Husband had to leave for a Drs appointment.
After he left, I had to pedal to the Post Office to mail a prize to the 104 group's monthly winner (a necklace with a camera charm) and after returning home, I began the long cheese making process - which reminds me - I must turn it before I head off to bed.
I took some scissors out to the garden and picked all the chillies off the plants to make some chilli paste.
After the Drs, AH had to go to the gym to begin a special exercise plan which will hopefully help ease his Parkinson's symptoms.
So I started to prepare dinner and he arrived home to advised me, that he is on a liquid diet for the next week or more.
He had pumpkin, cauliflower and garlic soup, while I enjoyed my Honey Bombay Chicken with home-made sweet potato chips and potato in it's jacket.
By the time I cleaned the kitchen after dinner and finally sat down, my body told me that I had done enough for the day.
I am now too pooped to pop.
Nite all.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Recovery
I think I'm almost back to normal after 2 weeks away from home.
A couple of days of 'down time' has rejuvenated me, along with some freshly squeezed juice and a big meal of veggies, as well as lots of water and some morning sunshine.
I spent a little time on the wedding photos today and really wanted to share this one that I took of the bride as her make up was being applied.
She looks so radiant and her eyes are sparkling and clear. I really love this photo of her.
I've decided to spend some time clearing my desk so that I can work on the photos without feeling so cramped and cluttered.
I'm not sure how it happened but it's difficult to see the desk for the mess that I have spread all over it .. a before and after shot is in order I think!
I must also endeavour to keep it clear every day.
I forgot to mention that I won the 'Macro' flickr challenge with this photo ...
... bit of a surprise!
I'm having my eyes tested tomorrow, and my appointment is quite early, so I'd best go get some sleep.
Thinking about The Nikonian whose house was very close to a large bushfire raging in the area. I hope the danger has passed and everybody is safe.
Nite all.
A couple of days of 'down time' has rejuvenated me, along with some freshly squeezed juice and a big meal of veggies, as well as lots of water and some morning sunshine.
I spent a little time on the wedding photos today and really wanted to share this one that I took of the bride as her make up was being applied.
She looks so radiant and her eyes are sparkling and clear. I really love this photo of her.
I've decided to spend some time clearing my desk so that I can work on the photos without feeling so cramped and cluttered.
I'm not sure how it happened but it's difficult to see the desk for the mess that I have spread all over it .. a before and after shot is in order I think!
I must also endeavour to keep it clear every day.
I forgot to mention that I won the 'Macro' flickr challenge with this photo ...
... bit of a surprise!
I'm having my eyes tested tomorrow, and my appointment is quite early, so I'd best go get some sleep.
Thinking about The Nikonian whose house was very close to a large bushfire raging in the area. I hope the danger has passed and everybody is safe.
Nite all.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Exhaustipation
Yeah, I know, no such word as 'exhaustipation', but it describes how I feel.
I was just too tired to even post here last night and was in bed by 8.30pm. I was awake for two hours between 12.30am and 2.30am, so I probably should have attempted a blog post then, instead of desperately trying to get back to sleep!
We had a 60th birthday party to attend tonight and I even had a short nap on the couch before we left.
I got a late start to the Seat of Knowledge this morning and stopped on the way to see how my Tawnies were faring.
To my surprise, they are out of their nest and sitting in the tree that their Mum used to frequent .. nice and low for me to get a good shot.
The only other thing I did today, was make some home-made muesli for Adoring Husband's breakfast tomorrow .. although I couldn't find my recipe anywhere, so I just had to wing it. It turned out ok, because AH snacked on a bowl of it when we came home tonight.
We shopped at an Organic Supermarket in Gympie on the way home from the Sunny Coast yesterday and bought all sorts of delicious goodies. Unfortunately, our supply of nuts and seeds is now somewhat depleted, so we will have to make a trip into The Bay to restock.
I have an appointment to have my 2 yearly eye check on Monday in The Bay, so we'll restock then. I think I'll need new glasses .. I can feel that my eyesight is weaker now.
Anyway, I'm off to bed .. another early night. I hope I'll be much more alive and spritely tomorrow.
Nite all.
I was just too tired to even post here last night and was in bed by 8.30pm. I was awake for two hours between 12.30am and 2.30am, so I probably should have attempted a blog post then, instead of desperately trying to get back to sleep!
We had a 60th birthday party to attend tonight and I even had a short nap on the couch before we left.
I got a late start to the Seat of Knowledge this morning and stopped on the way to see how my Tawnies were faring.
To my surprise, they are out of their nest and sitting in the tree that their Mum used to frequent .. nice and low for me to get a good shot.
The only other thing I did today, was make some home-made muesli for Adoring Husband's breakfast tomorrow .. although I couldn't find my recipe anywhere, so I just had to wing it. It turned out ok, because AH snacked on a bowl of it when we came home tonight.
We shopped at an Organic Supermarket in Gympie on the way home from the Sunny Coast yesterday and bought all sorts of delicious goodies. Unfortunately, our supply of nuts and seeds is now somewhat depleted, so we will have to make a trip into The Bay to restock.
I have an appointment to have my 2 yearly eye check on Monday in The Bay, so we'll restock then. I think I'll need new glasses .. I can feel that my eyesight is weaker now.
Anyway, I'm off to bed .. another early night. I hope I'll be much more alive and spritely tomorrow.
Nite all.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Homeward Bound
Adoring Husband is driving here tomorrow so that we can travel home together.
It has been a long time away from home and quite busy with photography and grandmothering, so I am looking forward to sleeping in my own bed tomorrow night, and then spending some quiet time working on the photos from the wedding last weekend.
I'll be back again in two weeks and then again two weeks after that. I think we'll be in need of a quiet Christmas!
Chicklet and I had a little 'incident' today while we were out and about in the stroller, and her arm got quite badly pinched by a part of the stroller.
I think it was more distressing for me than her, although she did let out a pretty good squeal! The promise of a cuddle from mama and a bandaid for her 'owie' helped calm her a little til we arrived home.
She's growing up so fast.
While The Nikonian and I were in Coffs Harbour on the weekend and exploring the resort grounds for locations to shoot the 'before' and 'after' ceremony shots, she took a few practise photos with me in frame.
Some of them were taken at just at the right distance to make me look 'acceptable' in my eyes.
... and some of them were dreadful, as were some of the shots that I took of her ... so they will never be shared with anyone and never shared on here!
It seems that our SEB (the cockatiel) laid seven eggs! I could only see three between the wood shavings before I left, so I'm surprised that there were seven. None of them were fertile, so this season, at least, there will be no bubbies.
I must say that I'm relieved!
Seems I'll be having an earlier night than usual tonight!
Nite all.
It has been a long time away from home and quite busy with photography and grandmothering, so I am looking forward to sleeping in my own bed tomorrow night, and then spending some quiet time working on the photos from the wedding last weekend.
I'll be back again in two weeks and then again two weeks after that. I think we'll be in need of a quiet Christmas!
Chicklet and I had a little 'incident' today while we were out and about in the stroller, and her arm got quite badly pinched by a part of the stroller.
I think it was more distressing for me than her, although she did let out a pretty good squeal! The promise of a cuddle from mama and a bandaid for her 'owie' helped calm her a little til we arrived home.
She's growing up so fast.
While The Nikonian and I were in Coffs Harbour on the weekend and exploring the resort grounds for locations to shoot the 'before' and 'after' ceremony shots, she took a few practise photos with me in frame.
Some of them were taken at just at the right distance to make me look 'acceptable' in my eyes.
... and some of them were dreadful, as were some of the shots that I took of her ... so they will never be shared with anyone and never shared on here!
It seems that our SEB (the cockatiel) laid seven eggs! I could only see three between the wood shavings before I left, so I'm surprised that there were seven. None of them were fertile, so this season, at least, there will be no bubbies.
I must say that I'm relieved!
Seems I'll be having an earlier night than usual tonight!
Nite all.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Top 3
As I was washing the dishes tonight, I could see through the window that the cloud formations were looking pretty special and that an amazing sunset was on the cards.
Before I knew it, the sky began to change colour, so I grabbed my camera and an extra lens, choosing not to carry my camera bag, because it's so heavy and I knew I had to move pretty fast so as not to miss the sunset completely.
I partly power walked and shuffled a jog to get across the road to the river bank as quickly as possible!
The tide was low and on the turn, so the water was still and smooth, almost like glass.
The clouds were rippling across the sky, just as water does when you throw a pebble into it's stillness, and the colour from the setting sun was moving across the ripples and filling the sky with pinks, reds, purples and orange.
All of this was reflecting beautifully onto the still water as a pelican glided toward me, it's reflection also glistening perfectly in the colour.
A flock of birds flew above me and silhouetted against the golden light of the setting sun, and that golden light shone onto a beautiful yacht rocking gently on the still water.
As my mind tried to figure out which direction to photograph first, I tried to check what my settings were on the camera, when it didn't respond to my button pushing.
I turned it off and then on again, realising suddenly that the battery was flat and my 2 spares were in my camera bag, which was on my bed at Vegan Chickie's house.
*insert sad face here*
I almost came home in a huff, when I realised that the very least I could do, was watch it and enjoy it's beauty .. which surprisingly, is a very difficult thing to do, when bitter disappointment is surging through your veins.
Just to rub salt in the wound, it turned out to be spectacular enough to earn a place in my top 3 sunsets of all time.
It didn't matter which direction I looked, the sky, the light, the view was breath taking and I could see at least half a dozen spectacular shots going to waste.
People were pointing their little cameras and capturing this beauty, while I stood on the wet sand, my camera swinging around my neck and the spare lens in my hand, unable to do a thing. I did get some strange looks from a couple of people.
Hopefully, my visits in the future will be filled with more sunset opportunities, just as special, or more so ... my lesson learned, is always take the camera bag ... it is full of all the resources that I need, should anything like this ever happen again!
*sigh*
Nite all.
Before I knew it, the sky began to change colour, so I grabbed my camera and an extra lens, choosing not to carry my camera bag, because it's so heavy and I knew I had to move pretty fast so as not to miss the sunset completely.
I partly power walked and shuffled a jog to get across the road to the river bank as quickly as possible!
The tide was low and on the turn, so the water was still and smooth, almost like glass.
The clouds were rippling across the sky, just as water does when you throw a pebble into it's stillness, and the colour from the setting sun was moving across the ripples and filling the sky with pinks, reds, purples and orange.
All of this was reflecting beautifully onto the still water as a pelican glided toward me, it's reflection also glistening perfectly in the colour.
A flock of birds flew above me and silhouetted against the golden light of the setting sun, and that golden light shone onto a beautiful yacht rocking gently on the still water.
As my mind tried to figure out which direction to photograph first, I tried to check what my settings were on the camera, when it didn't respond to my button pushing.
I turned it off and then on again, realising suddenly that the battery was flat and my 2 spares were in my camera bag, which was on my bed at Vegan Chickie's house.
*insert sad face here*
I almost came home in a huff, when I realised that the very least I could do, was watch it and enjoy it's beauty .. which surprisingly, is a very difficult thing to do, when bitter disappointment is surging through your veins.
Just to rub salt in the wound, it turned out to be spectacular enough to earn a place in my top 3 sunsets of all time.
It didn't matter which direction I looked, the sky, the light, the view was breath taking and I could see at least half a dozen spectacular shots going to waste.
People were pointing their little cameras and capturing this beauty, while I stood on the wet sand, my camera swinging around my neck and the spare lens in my hand, unable to do a thing. I did get some strange looks from a couple of people.
Hopefully, my visits in the future will be filled with more sunset opportunities, just as special, or more so ... my lesson learned, is always take the camera bag ... it is full of all the resources that I need, should anything like this ever happen again!
*sigh*
Nite all.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
More Pain!
Just when the pain from the weekend's marathon effort had eased, I jarred my back and shoulder while playing with Chicklet today and I'm feeling a little the worst for wear tonight.
I don't want to wait any longer to mention the wedding shoot, because I'm already forgetting so much of it.
The Nikonian is an amazing photographer, a brilliant organiser and so generous with her knowledge, skills and expertise.
I can't begin to explain how much she has taught me. She has a freakishly absorbent brain for technical and artistic details, which she happily shares with me and it's thanks to her critique and advice, that my photography has improved so quickly since I've known her.
I am useless with technical details, but she has a way of explaining, in plain English, so that my brain accepts more than it rejects.
On the weekend for the wedding, she worked so well under pressure.
We tried so hard to be organised, with lists of all that we wanted to achieve, but the Gods worked against us ... or should I say, the hairdressers and the make-up artists and people worked against us.
With so many people coming and going from the room, it was difficult to get the detail shots on our list - we did get them all, but it wasn't easy.
The hair and make-up began at approximately 9am and lasted for 5 hours!
We were left with very little time to spend with the girls prior to the wedding, to get those special shots.
Cutting it very fine, we had only 30 minutes with the boys, pre-wedding for their special shots.
Finally, we only had one hour to get all the group shots with the Bride, the groom and the wedding party ... and such a large area to cover at the resort.
We really were under pressure, especially in the 90 minutes prior to the ceremony and the 90 minutes straight after.
Taking all of that into consideration, the number of great photos that we took is pretty darned impressive and by the time we've finished editing them and are ready to pass them onto the bride and groom, I think they will be over the moon with the results.
I won't be sharing any more photos from the wedding, until we've finished editing and processing and have passed them on to the bride and groom.
After that, you'll get to see the results of the fabulous teamwork that The Nikonian and I had together.
I'll take this opportunity to thank The Nikonian for sharing with me the experience of a lifetime. One that has given me a whole new respect for professional wedding photographers and also provided me with valuable new skills that can only be an asset to my future photography.
Your generosity and friendship is priceless.
Please feel free to call on me again if you need assistance - it can only get easier! Surely!
I had a great weekend. The families were lovely, warm and welcoming. They were so appreciative of our efforts and I never once felt like an outsider.
It was a beautiful ceremony in beautiful surroundings and the speeches during the reception were a highlight of the evening for me.
We were utterly exhausted by the end of the day, but knew we'd done well.
So that was our weekend, but the work is not over yet - hundreds of photos to scour through and edit - a lot more hours involved.
I will never question a wedding photographer's value again.
It's like having a baby .. you can never fully understand, until you experience it yourself.
Now I'm off to sleep my pain away.
Nite all
I don't want to wait any longer to mention the wedding shoot, because I'm already forgetting so much of it.
The Nikonian is an amazing photographer, a brilliant organiser and so generous with her knowledge, skills and expertise.
I can't begin to explain how much she has taught me. She has a freakishly absorbent brain for technical and artistic details, which she happily shares with me and it's thanks to her critique and advice, that my photography has improved so quickly since I've known her.
I am useless with technical details, but she has a way of explaining, in plain English, so that my brain accepts more than it rejects.
On the weekend for the wedding, she worked so well under pressure.
We tried so hard to be organised, with lists of all that we wanted to achieve, but the Gods worked against us ... or should I say, the hairdressers and the make-up artists and people worked against us.
With so many people coming and going from the room, it was difficult to get the detail shots on our list - we did get them all, but it wasn't easy.
The hair and make-up began at approximately 9am and lasted for 5 hours!
We were left with very little time to spend with the girls prior to the wedding, to get those special shots.
Cutting it very fine, we had only 30 minutes with the boys, pre-wedding for their special shots.
Finally, we only had one hour to get all the group shots with the Bride, the groom and the wedding party ... and such a large area to cover at the resort.
We really were under pressure, especially in the 90 minutes prior to the ceremony and the 90 minutes straight after.
Taking all of that into consideration, the number of great photos that we took is pretty darned impressive and by the time we've finished editing them and are ready to pass them onto the bride and groom, I think they will be over the moon with the results.
I won't be sharing any more photos from the wedding, until we've finished editing and processing and have passed them on to the bride and groom.
After that, you'll get to see the results of the fabulous teamwork that The Nikonian and I had together.
I'll take this opportunity to thank The Nikonian for sharing with me the experience of a lifetime. One that has given me a whole new respect for professional wedding photographers and also provided me with valuable new skills that can only be an asset to my future photography.
Your generosity and friendship is priceless.
Please feel free to call on me again if you need assistance - it can only get easier! Surely!
I had a great weekend. The families were lovely, warm and welcoming. They were so appreciative of our efforts and I never once felt like an outsider.
It was a beautiful ceremony in beautiful surroundings and the speeches during the reception were a highlight of the evening for me.
We were utterly exhausted by the end of the day, but knew we'd done well.
So that was our weekend, but the work is not over yet - hundreds of photos to scour through and edit - a lot more hours involved.
I will never question a wedding photographer's value again.
It's like having a baby .. you can never fully understand, until you experience it yourself.
Now I'm off to sleep my pain away.
Nite all
Oh the pain!
Yes, I am still in pain ... not as much pain as yesterday, however, it is still uncomfortable and I struggle to get out of a chair, or climb the stairs!!
Ugh!
I thought I was reasonably fit and I am very surprised that we are hurting so much.
Anyway, it's after midnight, so here are a couple of photos to fill some space ... the two most loved granddaughters on the planet.
Mine ...
and The Nikonian's
One of these days soon, I hope to find the time and the energy to write about the weekend and the 'wedding photography' experience.
Every photographer should experience it at least once in their lifetime.
Intense.
Nite all.
Ugh!
I thought I was reasonably fit and I am very surprised that we are hurting so much.
Anyway, it's after midnight, so here are a couple of photos to fill some space ... the two most loved granddaughters on the planet.
Mine ...
and The Nikonian's
One of these days soon, I hope to find the time and the energy to write about the weekend and the 'wedding photography' experience.
Every photographer should experience it at least once in their lifetime.
Intense.
Nite all.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Marathon Girls
The Nikonian and I feel like we have run a marathon.
We can hardly walk due to all the walking, running, climbing, bending, carrying, moving furniture etc that we did yesterday for the wedding shoot.
So I have no mental or physical energy for writing long blog posts tonight - maybe tomorrow.
Here is one of my photos from the wedding. The second photo that I've processed so far, and this is Lizzie, one of the beautiful bridesmaids.
She is amazing.
I am exhausted... still.
Nite all.
We can hardly walk due to all the walking, running, climbing, bending, carrying, moving furniture etc that we did yesterday for the wedding shoot.
So I have no mental or physical energy for writing long blog posts tonight - maybe tomorrow.
Here is one of my photos from the wedding. The second photo that I've processed so far, and this is Lizzie, one of the beautiful bridesmaids.
She is amazing.
I am exhausted... still.
Nite all.
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