tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66228194633540122792024-03-13T15:51:54.898+13:00HOMELY LIVING
I live in the fast-growing city of Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty New Zealand where our temperate climate enables my garden to flourish. My days are spent happily pottering about at leisure. Being creative, I enjoy sewing, handcrafts, cooking, computer, piano, and crosswords.. I believe life is what you make it. With a sense of humour and seeing the funny side of things, life is in perspective.
harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-31566241735146249082020-02-08T12:19:00.001+13:002020-02-08T20:19:18.029+13:00DOING THE CONGA.......<br />
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This plant is out of control... but enough lettuce to land in many more salads. Meanwhile, it has created interest. Reminds me of those good old days at the dances when we did the conga.<br />
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Desperately in need of new drapes for my bedroom, I dashed off into Harveys to see what they had to offer. What a surprise it was to stumble across these ready-mades. Reduced from $249.00 to just $95.00. I couldn't believe my luck! The French doors onto the deck took up most of the wall, the other window was considerably less. $190.00 in total to spruce up the room and plenty of material left over. Not sure what I will do with it, but cushions come to mind.<br />
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The good thing about this is that I am back in a sewing mood. Always the way isn't it after a good result. Being one of those people who likes to hold on to all the bits and bobs in the sewing department, they come in handy from time to time. At the moment there are pieces of material with other scraps appliqued onto them. Some will make up nicely into cushions, others may serve as a wall hanging. Who knows?<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-73334355277893287092020-02-08T11:05:00.000+13:002020-02-08T21:06:30.142+13:00SUMMER DAYS, FLOWERS, BIRDS AND OTHER THINGS <br />
What a beautiful day we have had here. There's a cool breeze coming into the lounge and tonight is quiet and peaceful. Such a wonderful place Tauranga is.<br />
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Although rain was forecast for today it didn't come to anything. The garden could do with a good soak and shortly I will gather up the hose and get on to it. Water restrictions are now in place with hand-held hoses after 8pm and before 7am daily. Just enough to keep the plants healthy.<br />
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We have noticed a haze in recent times coming from the Australian bush fires. What a terrible time they are having over there: So sad that the koalas are now functionally extinct. I haven't been fortunate enough to hold one, but I have a beautiful photo of my granddaughter Tanee doing just that.<br />
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We are fortunate to live as we do. Every day is spent wandering about without having to be anywhere in particular. If only it could be this way for many other families. Life is short and for those less fortunate it is stressful. I remember well how different things were when I was a child. From memory, most families lived above the breadline. Mums were at home taking care of the family, baking, sewing their clothes, knitting jumpers and so on. Children arrived home from school to find Mum there. Happy events were shared of the day and Dad would arrive home from work to a cooked family meal ... ready and on the table by 5 o'clock or thereabouts<br />
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After the dishes were done the family often played cards, listened to the radio or spent time with friends. Children played outside until dark before being called in for a bath and off to bed. Homework was done; children headed off to bed secure and well-loved.<br />
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I believe many problems that exist today are due to insecurity and difficulties at home. It's the way things are today. Both parents working to bring in enough income to cover the basics, rent, mortgage, and bills they struggle to keep on top of. The disparity that exists is wrong!<br />
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Time to change the subject ......<br />
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Craig's new diver's watch ... 200 meters water-resistant. He bought it today as his other needed replacing. His was a good buy, but mine was even better ...................<br />
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Just $9.00 ... would you believe? Bought from K-Mart last week. I stumbled across it out of the blue and did not expect it to last or keep the time. How wrong I was.<br />
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End of another day and soon enough it will be dark. I can hear the birds singing their last song of the day. All is well.<br />
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Red petunias peeping mischievously from their tub. Showing off as always.<br />
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Could it be survival of the fittest? Everything packed in together and loving every moment of it. Everything grows more healthily in the company of others. For a start, they respire. This in turn keeps the plants moist and less watering is needed.<br />
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I toned down the tomato planting this year and there's more than enough to keep us going for a good while yet.<br />
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Gardens well-mulched retain moisture, encourage insects, birds and the balance of nature is there.<br />
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More clippings left to dry and will end up being tossed around plants and trees. Ecology in full swing as nature intends.<br />
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Camellias, citrus and roses share space.<br />
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Our day is closing in. Time to catch up with the news.<br />
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Cuttings do well in the birdbath and Kit seems happy to hop up for a drink. The birds don't seem too fazed about the interlopers either. We all muddle along together and make way for each other. Just as life should be.<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-81162070837916749302020-01-27T22:59:00.001+13:002020-01-27T22:59:14.478+13:00GARDEN TREASURES<br />
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Time for a glass of wine, feet up, ponder over the day before catching up on a few programs. Just what is on I wonder? Netflix comes to mind, so time to check it out.<br />
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Before I settle down to it, I must share these photos of our ripening tomatoes. What to do them with them I wonder? Heard Craig muttering something about tomato soup earlier on, so perhaps they will be handy for that. I think browning them thoroughly would be a good start followed by a generous helping of caramelized onions. Mmmmmm ... drooling at the thought of this <span style="background-color: white; color: #52565a; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;">pièce de résistance. My </span>mind conjures up a myriad of culinary ideas. But why does it have to be special? It's only soup after all.<br />
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The place is getting a bit overgrown. Cutting things back is all right up to a point, but weighing up privacy and ease of access is a consideration.<br />
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The other consideration is the birdlife. With so many birds visiting the garden daily, it doesn't make sense to change things. At the moment we have silvereyes, blackbirds, mynas, thrushes, ringneck doves, to name a few. The doves could become a problem if they bring their growing families with them. Hopefully, Kit will do what he does best and tear after them, giving them the encouragement they need, to move on .......... further afield!<br />
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Delightful dianthus. They continue to pop up everywhere: This self-seeding treasure is one in a variety of colours. So easy to sprinkle the dried seed heads about at random. These cheerful faces are a welcome sight and spending time each day tending the garden is therapeutic and so rewarding. <br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-86086336011605683062020-01-17T14:40:00.000+13:002020-02-08T21:28:13.560+13:00SUNNY WARM AND 23 DEGREES <br />
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A timely reminder to keep ahead of maintenance, particularly in curbing the growth of trees. Is this just another example of urban growth ... or could it be ... overwatering, overindulgence or whatever?<br />
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Job well done Craig! Any arborist would be suitably impressed, but more to the point ... has gardening grown on you. After all, I thought you hated it. Previously, an unnecessary chore tackled under duress.😊<br />
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Grapes coming along well. The birds will have to get up early to get this lot ... Oh, that's right ... they do! Two varieties growing over the pergola. One black, the other green.<br />
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The passionfruit seems happy enough in its new position. Nice and handy to the kitchen ... if it gets there. So easy to wander about picking this and that along the way.<br />
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Ballarat cooking apple is laden with fruit. Other varieties in the garden include Braeburn, Golden Delicious, Royal Gala, and Splendour. One of the trees holds three varieties which is just as well considering this is a fairly small section, but I could probably do with a paddock.<br />
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Pear espalier has just two speeds. In fact, it outpaced me and took off vertically like some wild adolescent anxious to let all and sundry know of his souped-up car. Before I woke up to it, the thing towered over me like an out of control triffid. Two varieties, Seckel and <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Doyenne du Comice. Yum</span><br />
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Firewood dried and housed under cover. Crazy talking about it at this time of the year I guess, but soon enough the temperature will drop and winter will be upon us yet again. I didn't get around to taking snaps of the blueberries and strawberries growing in tubs nearby. One reason being the fact that I have not had any success with strawberries, fair to say, they simply don't understand me. They sulk!<br />
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Dublin Bay deserves a place in any garden. Don't be fooled by her glamorous looks. She is reliable and non-demanding. She's no prima donna!<br />
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Wandered inside reluctantly and prepared lunch. Quickly threw an Apple Shortcake together, but missed the mark in assembling the lattice top. Oh, Blow it! Tastes good though.😊<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-16412593978190994012018-11-01T14:46:00.009+13:002020-11-05T14:34:03.591+13:00STRAWBERRIES AND OTHER THINGS...<br />
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Strawberries in tubs and pockets of them throughout the garden. These produce an ongoing supply for weeks on end; so much for the birds eyeing them from above. With Kit prowling around the place, they know to keep their distance. When he is not tearing up and down trees, he gets in first whenever leftovers appear on the lawn.<br />
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Hopefully, the seedlings popping up all over the place are from these Zinnias; so bright and cheerful. They last well in the vase and serve as a good groundcover. Apart from that, plants like the company and thrive in their joint surroundings.<br />
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Dublin Bay continues to flower, and like other climbers, heads off up at the speed of knots. Towering above the Zinnias, these deep red blooms enhance the various pinks of the ones below. The rose is a welcome sight from the kitchen window.<br />
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Well, I had a weak moment and lashed out on some more Lilium bulbs. Ordered online and arriving beautifully packaged, a further ten in a variety of colours arrived yesterday together with five pink Tiger lilies. I can't wait to see them all in flower.<br />
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Here's Kit strolling towards us as we arrive home after a quick visit to Mitre 10. We needed another sprayer and ended up with two, being on special: Another three refill cans of fly spray ... should be enough. After a couple of warm days, the flies soon appear.<br />
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This pear is soaring to great heights. Well covered in blossom, we will need to get up the ladder this year to pick them.<br />
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Ballarat cooking apple is a great asset in the kitchen. Having plenty of pulped fruit in the freezer is handy for Apple Shortcake for one thing. So easy to make and just 30 minutes in the oven.<br />
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I love these little daisies popping up here and there. Bees love them and it's great to watch them going from flower to flower.<br />
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I think we will regret the heavy pruning of the grapevines last year. It's too easy to make those drastic cuts in haste. Well, if this is the case, next harvest will be even better probably. However, time will tell.<br />
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Such a joy to see this flowering prunus visiting from next door. On a sunny warm day, it brings a small breeze over and some shelter for other plants. It also buzzes with the activity of many bees. <br />
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A few Cinerarias still appearing. Their self-seeding habit works out well... and of course, many winged and other insects forage in and around the wayward plants. This year has certainly been the year for Grey Warblers. They do not stay in one place for long, but their trilling is delightful. How can such a tiny wee bird have such a loud trill? I was looking for them on the internet recently and came across a video of one feeding a Cuckoo. Back and forth it went, like a little Mother hen. How do I ever get anything done I wonder? Well, I am very lucky. Craig does all the vacuum cleaning, endless cups of tea and coffee and all the grocery shopping. I am so spoilt! I am also very thankful.<br />
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'Now.............. just let me decide on my next move! Watch this! It's about to happen!'<br />
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'Now that I've got your attention.... watch this! I know - you missed the bit where I tore up the tree, but my next move is coming up.'<br />
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'Could age be catching up with me? It's a lot slower coming down and a few aching joints don't help.'<br />
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'Yep! A good stretch works out well!'<br />
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Bin day today.... but where are the trucks? This was quite funny; neighbours, including us, waltzed the bins back and forth daily for about a week or so, and still no sign of them. I know petrol prices have gone up, but that wouldn't be the case: Anyway, I think they use diesel. That won't be it either. It remains a mystery, but the good news is that they were collected this time. Oh, blow it! I must have better things to do than traipse around looking for rubbish trucks.<br />
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Craig shares his kiwifruit and avocados with the Blackbirds each day. This one appears to be loading up his beak to take back to the nest. What a good Dad.<br />
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Michelia Yulania nestles happily in a couple of tubs. The flowers are dainty and grow to about 70cm.<br />
Certainly, a better decision than the Magnolia Grandiflora I planted several years ago: It galloped like a mad thing, sky high with a spread that took over the place. Finally, chopped out and kept us in firewood for quite some time. Didn't that work out well! Being environmentally conscious, I imagine, we must be doing our bit in this area. Hopefully so.<br />
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Our new passionfruit seems to have taken off pretty well. This is about its second year I think. So useful to have and great in fruit salads, baking or just enjoyed straight from the vine.<br />
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Blackbird singing his last song for the day with the Sparrow joining in.<br />
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Well, it's bedtime for these little birds. The sky is looking a bit ominous and we are expecting thunder and more rain. I hope they will find a warm snug place.<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-28049194659746174212018-10-06T21:49:00.000+13:002018-11-01T14:59:01.043+13:00THE GLORIOUS DAYS OF SPRING<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spring seems to have been a long time coming this year. Now that it has, the warm days and blossoms are a welcome sight.<br />
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Second-year Braeburn apple and pretty well covered. Apart from spraying the apple trees for codling moth and copper spray to control curly-leaf on the nectarine, everything else is organic. Having an ongoing supply off compost is the answer to a healthy productive crop.<br />
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The Banksia rose is galloping around the front garden, climbing up and over everything in its way. Fortunately, it is thornless. With bees swarming around it, it's both noisy as well as colourful. Monarch Butterflies settle for a while before fluttering off.<br />
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This Clivia has done very well ... probably due to so much rain. They are very pretty and divided up from time to time provide more colour in other areas. I'm tempted to get the cream one next time I go to the garden centre. Good for picking and pretty in the vase.<br />
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Dianthus is happy in these pockets and flower for a long time. I think they had been eyeing their new home from the garden below, but the strawberries are now content in tubs and other places here and there. They are covered in fruit and yet to ripen.<br />
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This beautiful flowering cherry visits us from next door each year and welcomes many birds calling by for nectar. Waxeyes and fantails flutter back and forth; Tuis as well. This year, little Grey Warblers are daily visitors; it's lovely to hear them and often difficult to see them high up in the Agonis tree. They're such little birds, brown in colour and easily concealed among the branches. Foraging for insects crawling on the bark they warble away happily.<br />
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The self-seeding Aquilegia pops up everywhere. It will continue to flower throughout summer and fill up spaces. I like to pick a few for the vase and usually add little blue flowers like Grape Hyacinths, Violas or Cineraria.<br />
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This Viola is called Denim Jump Up. I bought four punnets of them a few months ago. It's such a pretty vibrant colour. As they self-seed there will be plenty of spaces to fill.<br />
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This pear is in its second year and has two varieties. Doyenne du comice and seckel. Necessary to have more than one as they do not self-pollinate. It's well covered in blossom, so a better crop is expected this season.<br />
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Few empty spaces left, but there always seems to be enough room for other things.<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-52750245162102031292018-07-07T18:47:00.000+12:002018-07-08T12:40:40.237+12:00WINTRY DAYS AND AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We don't get too many wetas, fortunately. This one turned up in a large carton and was soon encouraged to return to the hedge. His feelers are long which makes him look even bigger. There was a time when the mere sight of a weta was frightening, but these days, not so much. In fact, they are quite beautiful in their own way.<br />
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This is the coldest winter we have had for some time. The fire has warmed the lounge up and it's nice to be inside. So much for the pile of firewood. We are getting through it so quickly will need to take care not to use it up too soon. I took this photo at about five o'clock and it is looking pretty ominous. More rain on the way.<br />
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Been in a baking mood lately and made some chocolate crunch and cheese scones. I guess this is the problem with cooler weather ... it's tempting to get the oven going to warm the place up, and of course, lasagne, roasts, and casseroles are all part of winter fare.<br />
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Shedding the extra kilo or two will be a problem in a few weeks. Kit is hungry all the time and does well out of the leftovers. The birds know to wait for their share and there's plenty for everyone. It is amusing watching them swoop down, with others flying in to join them.<br />
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"How about throwing a handful of cat treats my way?" "Yeah! Right!"<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-3691170614554976952017-12-17T16:17:00.000+13:002017-12-17T16:20:15.872+13:00THE LAZY DAYS OF SUMMER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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First of summer fruit. Black Amber plums starting to ripen along with second-year nectarines... with all of ten fruit only. But who is complaining... certainly not us. 😎<br />
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I will not be writing much this time with ongoing pain after fractured shoulder. Hopefully, just another four weeks to go. I will know more after the appointment with Fracture Clinic this Friday. If operation needed I guess that means more recovery time... just have to wait and see. Next post should be more interesting with so much happening in both garden and what's cooking in the kitchen.<br />
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Merry Christmas Everyone! Hope you all have an enjoyable holiday and definitely make the most of the glorious summer days ahead.<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-26527990430441187422017-11-15T18:25:00.000+13:002017-11-17T12:54:14.804+13:00ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL DAY IN TAURANGA<br />
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Lovely sunny day today listening to birds and strolling around the garden. This bumble bee has been pretty busy gathering pollen from the Hyssops. The thing I love about having these is that they self-seed and bring colour as well as cooling the garden down. Popping up everywhere!<br />
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Well, I am not sure that the birds are too happy about sharing their birdbath with the cuttings. Kit manages to jump up for a drink from the dish... not much fazes him.<br />
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We are feeling rather excited about the nectarines this year. Although many have fallen from the tree, a fair few continue to hang on... for now.<br />
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Hopefully, as the tree matures it will produce more healthy fruit. The copper sprays are certainly working well in controlling the leaf curl. I continue to pick off infected leaves as I go.<br />
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With several strawberry plants in tubs and here and there in the garden, we are making the most of them... and they are delicious!<br />
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These ones enjoy being tucked up in their little beds and quietly observe the beady-eyed blackbirds from under the netting. The funny thing is that a lot of the birds concentrate more on the scraps Craig throws across the lawn for them. Could it be that they have become complacent?<br />
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Westerland is reflecting in the sun as the little ones scamper up hastily to join her. A couple of warm days do the trick and, at the moment, there are gorgeous blooms everywhere. Such a joy it is to have them.<br />
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Not to be outdone, Schoolgirl flaunts her beauty. These two roses grow side by side to ensure the blooms continue for longer. As much as I love Schoolgirl, the flowers drop off early.<br />
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Crepuscule is another climber that will clamber over the garden shed. KAITERI GOLD CLIMBING ROSE is a must when looking for an excellent performer. The blooms stay on for a long period, my first one has been just perfect for a week already. It is a large bright lemon rose with well-formed petals. A strong healthy plant that never disappoints.<br />
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This photo does not do Kaiteri Gold justice. I will put up a better photo when the next bud opens.</div>
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Craig is glad to have a sit down after another long walk home with a heavy load of groceries. He often walks two or three times a day. Fit as a fiddle! Kit adores his dad... it's not just cupboard love even though Craig fusses over him with many treats. Yesterday it was fresh fish nicely browned in the pan just as he likes it. It's a wonder he has room after all the grazing that goes on. Whiskers cat pouches and cat biscuits throughout the day... but just look at him! Not a bit of weight anywhere. Guess it's all the tearing up and down trees!<br />
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I digress. But, it's hard not to sit down in front of the computer and before you know it... a couple of hours have flashed by.<br />
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I don't know what happened to the mobile phone earlier today, but panic set in when I discovered it had frozen on something-or-other.... can't remember what it was! Thanks, Craig! If he had not quietly taken it in hand and brought it under control I would have definitely been in need of a chill pill! Thankfully, it's behaving now and I can get back to swanning about. 😊<br />
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Dublin Bay is thriving in the sunny position as it climbs up towards the pergola. With repeat flowering, this beautiful rose adds colour and beauty for months on end.<br />
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Here is Kit checking out the comings and goings. Boy! does he enjoy life.<br />
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Cineraria flowers have sprung up all over the place. I wonder if they may soon be coming to an end. I will miss them, but there will be other plants to take their place.<br />
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Three of these little birds turned up in our Agonis tree a few weeks ago. I heard a strange bird song which sounded like a descending scale before dashing outside to see. It took a while to find them in the large tree, but soon enough, there they were. I watched until they fIew off before a Google check soon identified them after listening to it on a nature site. Whitehead Popokatea is a threatened species here in New Zealand and with a dwindling population in different parts of the country, the Conservation Department was keen to hear of their first reported siting here in Tauranga.<br />
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A few Cinerarias and Aquilegia in the vase lasted a few days. Very pretty while they lasted... short and sweet...<br />
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Not a lot happening in the kitchen today.... Hmm..... I think a Lemon Meringue Pie might be a good idea. Craig has got through so many lemons lately with all the drinks he has been making because of his cold. Feeling a lot better today.... but this hasn't stopped his walking.<br />
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A camellia and some citrus trees have reached out to form a garden arch. The balance of nature never ceases to amaze me. A wonderful gift we should never take for granted!<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-48292982876663112582017-10-31T01:30:00.013+13:002020-08-11T13:51:22.301+12:00MEMORIES <br />
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What a handsome boy Kit is. He's certainly interested in something outside, or perhaps, it is his reflection. There is so much for him to do each day and tearing up and down trees is great fun.<br />
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And these three handsome boys at the Auckland Airport waiting for the call to board. Karl is off back to Australia after a couple of weeks spent with us. Craig is standing to his right looking sad knowing it will be a while before he sees his brother again. Pop is proud of his grandsons and has kept us all up to date with his flying.<br />
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Both my parents would fly down in a Piper Cherokee right up until Dad was seventyfive. He would bring a stool to ease Mum down from the plane; she was a couple of years his senior and had all the faith in the world in his flying skills.<br />
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Here is Mum on another occasion at the airport; once again, seeing Karl off. At the time, she had broken her wrist after a fall down onto concrete. Karl is raring to go but Craig is looking a bit sad. Mum and I were chatting on as usual.</div>
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Here is a photo taken years ago of my three sons and young brother Ross on the left. Craig, Karl and Nick to his right. With little more than three years between Uncle Ross and Nick, they were more like brothers. Mum was pretty surprised at the unexpected, soon to be arrival; Dad of course, was crowing with delight. At the time I had just started work and tore off to put a pram on layby... it was such exciting news.</div>
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I think the most amusing occasion was when my elder brother Graeme and I visited Mum in Campbell Johnston in Hamilton at 6pm, or thereabouts, and I was promptly ordered out by a nurse saying husbands only allowed on evening visits. With that Graeme, a tall eighteen-year-old of six feet four went on in without batting an eye while I stomped off and caught the bus home. The thing that annoyed me most was that I had worn a new hat and felt pretty grown-up. 😋 So funny!</div>
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Another photo was taken so long ago of Nick setting off for school. He was eight and very proud of his new bike.</div>
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Okay... enough reminiscing! Can't a cat have five minutes peace? All that muttering and worst of all... cursing that darned computer!</div>
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harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-49347899090925935112017-09-17T00:33:00.000+12:002017-10-26T00:21:04.880+13:00JUST ANOTHER DAY....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have had enough of rain and cool temperatures... roll on summer! A time to pick a few flowers for the vase, stroll to the shops without an umbrella, and have a natter to someone without a shower or gust of wind blowing my hair about. </div>
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I feel a baking mood coming on..... Apple crumble for starters. </div>
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This is how they looked last season. Can you ever have too many fruit trees? Absolutely not! It is amazing how much can grow on a small section. It doesn't take a paddock!</div>
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Blueberries do very well in tubs and with just three, we have masses of them every year. However, I finally decided to take out the boysenberries before any more escaped ... They were coming up everywhere! I had visions of blackberry bushes and the problem of getting rid of them. An overreaction maybe, but better to be sure........</div>
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Well, just what is happening weatherwise? A trip into town, shopping list ready and bus due any moment and darn it! Grab the umbrella, throw on a jacket and tear out the door with seconds to spare. Once there, pushed along by a tail wind, battle with umbrella, handbag and composure and all I can think of is roll on summer!</div>
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harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-70819476190226915532017-08-26T14:30:00.000+12:002017-08-26T17:41:24.427+12:00SPRING GROWTH<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Newly planted strawberries hanging from inside the arch in individual beds. After a steady shower this morning I dashed out and poked several holes in the pockets to allow drainage. It will be interesting to see how well they do.<br />
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Sewing six pockets each side and a hem in the middle to hold it up was easy to do. The tarpaulin came from Bunnings and I bought two at the time. Before sewing the next one, I must buy some good sized eyelets for the drainage.<br />
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The leaves on the lemon trees are yellowing a bit and need Epsom salts. Apart from that, the trees are healthy and thriving in the compost.<br />
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Nectarine in blossom... Hopefully, following the copper spraying program, there will be a successful harvest this year. The final spray is due after petal drop.<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-25546348176412724262017-08-13T00:15:00.000+12:002017-08-22T00:21:15.094+12:00IT HAS BEEN A BUSY YEAR...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Replacing the rusty sections of the flue with stainless steel brings all the maintenance up to date and will be done once spring arrives. The do-up has involved many weeks and quite an upheaval. Decluttering and disposing of things was a drag... with little time lost in the process. Everything is in place now with cupboards and drawers neatly stacked. Knowing where things are is heaven.<br />
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New carpet and vinyl planks are proving to be practical and should not date. Lifting the ceramic tiles was an all-day messy job and completed steadfastly by a man of few words. He was amazing! Just wanted to get it over and done with!<br />
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Thank goodness we ordered plenty of firewood. It hasn't been particularly cold, but there's something about putting a match to the fire. Homely living and comfort are pretty high on the agenda here.<br />
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Here's Kit looking rather pleased with himself and with good reason perhaps. He has two new cat friends. Possum strolls over from next door and they chase after one another. But recently, Kit has been sending her off back home. Maybe it's just a territorial thing or sharing leftovers scattered on the lawn is not to his liking.<br />
Birds flocking in for their share is bad enough so chasing after them is to be expected. Possum may be treading on his paws with her shared interests and sending her packing is what any self-respecting cat would do.....<br />
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Mabel is his other not-so-little friend. Isn't she lovely? Like Possum she weighs a ton. Don't know what they're being fed... Certainly, they are very well looked after.<br />
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The nectarine has been sprayed twice already with Liquid Copper and the last spray will be after petal fall.<br />
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Kit with the cobweb on his head... so funny!<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-19243774210223782012017-07-28T22:49:00.001+12:002017-09-09T14:59:19.348+12:00JUST A FEW MORE WEEKS OF WINTER...<br />
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Five pumpkins from a few scattered seeds are looking pretty good. After last year's flop which ended up with all being tossed out due to being watery and tasteless. It seemed like a good idea to string them up to dry with air circulating around them... I guess the proof will be in the eating.<br />
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Sparrows wait patiently for scraps, bread and so on. Starlings, mynas, and finches join in the daily feeding frenzy while blackbirds pluck worms from under garden scraps... All settle down happily at the end of the day after their last meal.<br />
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Thank goodness the flowering narcissus heralds spring. It has been a wet and wild winter, but cosy inside by the fire. We are fortunate to be in Tauranga away from the slips and floods. Other parts have not been so lucky. Climate change is a serious issue.<br />
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Violas and pansies with the occasional strawberry plant find a space wherever they can. If it is a case of the survival of the fittest they are all pretty much on a par.<br />
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A blueberry underplanted with violas is still dormant, but soon enough the blossom will appear followed by loads of fruit. Three tubs in all and never disappointing.<br />
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Kit can't seem to make up his mind about whether he should stay by Craig or dash out and chase off the birds.<br />
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This week I will remove dead flower heads and sticks from the hydrangea which will mulch down nicely here and there. With a hot summer ahead of us, all the plants roses and so on should cope well.<br />
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An example of dried bits and pieces including bark from the grape vines ensure a healthy environment and encourages earth worms. Everything flourishes in this situation and stays lush throughout the summer months.<br />
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Time to rake up the camellias and toss them around. As for the slate in front of the deck... apart from the fact that I like the look of it... falling on it when stepping up to the deck was not one of my better moments. Being carted off by ambulance to have stitches in my wrist hadn't been on the agenda either, but was a timely reminder to keep an eye on the ground instead of gaping around.<br />
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Still a few navel oranges left on the tree, some mandarins and a good crop of tangeloes yet to ripen. Meyer lemons still a way off. Refreshing when squeezed into drinks.<br />
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Cheese scones are so easy to throw together. Fifteen minutes or so in a hot oven and they are ready. Flinging a few ingredients together with surprising results makes baking interesting rather than a chore, and of course, there are always birds just waiting to swoop down on anything from the kitchen... including the odd baking failure.<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-68160373939805676762017-03-28T14:45:00.003+13:002017-09-04T04:43:55.097+12:00GETTING THINGS DONE...Autumn is upon us and there is plenty to do. Apples and pears produced a small crop with grapevines in need of pruning. I found a large weta tucked up under the pergola yesterday. Hopefully, he won't come inside when it cools down.<br />
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Golden delicious and Royal Gala apples are ripe with just a few on the young trees. I toned it down a bit when putting in this season's tomatoes with considerably less than previous years.<br />
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We seem to be on top of the Green Shield Beetle problem for now. Regularly removing by hand before disposing of them is the only way it seems.<br />
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Once all the leaves are off the nectarine I will spray the tree thoroughly with Liquid Copper to control the curly leaf. Another couple of sprays later in the year before and after blossom should ensure a reliable crop. Spraying times are essential. Last year there was only one nectarine left on the tree with lots of small shrivelled fruit and dead leaves falling to the ground.<br />
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After yesterday's heavy downpour Kit was pleased to be inside. He is more settled now sleeping away most days before roaming around outside at night. Needless to say, landing home with a few battle scars is not unexpected.<br />
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The decorators are busily painting throughout. New carpet, recovered chairs and drycleaned drapes and blinds will bring the place up to scratch. What an uplift this will be!<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-47864884702204718562017-01-01T20:25:00.000+13:002017-01-03T19:16:17.521+13:00THE START OF ANOTHER YEAR...<br />
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Just taking it easy today. Kit has had a bad time lately after two or three fights with a cat that always gets the better of him. A large white cat is hanging around at the moment and we are wondering if he may be bullying him. Needless to say, keeping Kit inside at night is not to his liking, but preferable to the nasty wound he came home with last time. </div>
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As for sprawling comfortably up on the table... Hopefully, he won't get too used to the idea. Of course he is being really fussed over by Craig with a variety of treats landing in front of him. In fact, so much so, some of those treats lie in wait.....</div>
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Our summer jumps from hot to cool at a moment's notice and we are not the only ones noticing it. The strawberries, in particular, are not doing well with other berries lagging also. The fruit trees got off to a bad start with poor pollination, probably due to so much rain and a shorter period of time. Bumble bees work on, but there were not enough of them. Other pollinating insects kept under cover somewhere and by the time the days were clearing up, it was too late.</div>
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On the positive side, I guess the rested trees and vines will be at their peak next season. Well, here we are into another year. Wishing everyone the very best for a happy and prosperous 2017.</div>
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harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-3406777546331562912016-12-19T16:18:00.000+13:002016-12-19T21:01:40.374+13:00TEN GREEN BOTTLES.........<br />
Craig headed off down to the supermarket after making his list of things to get. Being methodical, he keeps ahead of things and we never seem to run out of anything. So much so, that we have a considerable surplus of most things......... which is really convenient even if a little over the top.<br />
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Recently, we started singing 10 Green Bottles which is always good for a laugh. Such a happy home and fun place to be.<br />
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Down to nine.... with the last bottle in the dishwasher at the moment.....<br />
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Only six of these.... Better top up. As for toilet rolls and packets of coffee... They always make their way on to the list and there are packets of them everywhere. 🙂<br />
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We are expecting a few showers this afternoon so making the most of today was worthwhile. A nice time spent picking a few flowers for the vase before getting on with pruning back some of the roses. Isn't it amazing how they can reach out and lunge at you with their thorns. Beasts of things that they are, but I love them all the same.<br />
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Excuse the messy bench... I have been busy dealing with priorities...<br />
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This little kitten is so adorable and cute. She is well loved and doted on by her new family who live opposite us. Craig has a good hold on her much to Bernie's amusement.<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-60441309458424620992016-12-10T15:06:00.000+13:002016-12-11T01:54:03.950+13:00THINGS GETTING BACK TO NORMAL...<br />
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Strawberries and rhubarb from the garden and a few apples to go into the shortcake. The strawberries seem to be appearing in dribs and drabs and I wonder if adding more fertilizer has caused the plants to throw up more growth than fruit, They need potash so a trip to Palmers Garden Centre next week is on the list of things to do.<br />
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Mind you, the only tripping I will be doing this time will be by bus. It's been a month since that heavy fall on to a concrete path followed by another fall a couple of weeks later. This one was onto the flat slate slabs in front of the deck when I missed the step up and landed unceremoniously across them, resulting in a deep gash to my wrist. A trip by ambulance to the hospital and several stitches before we caught the bus home in time to catch up with our favourite programmes.<br />
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Now that the stitches have been removed and infection cleared up things are back to normal thank goodness.<br />
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There have been so many things happening one way and another. John Key has stepped down and Bill English is taking over the reins. With Paula Bennett as deputy the transition will go smoothly I am sure. All done with the minimum of fuss.<br />
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Things seem far less straightforward in the States. The President-elect will be well challenged with a mountain of paperwork to wade through for one thing I imagine, and goodness knows how many aides and advisers surrounding him, for another. Perhaps he will simply end up throwing the toys out of the pram before stomping off.....<br />
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Rhubarb and Apple Shortcake just out of the oven and smells delicious. Having the new oven and cooktop has made a difference. So reliable with great results and I do not miss the gas hob at all. Clean pots and the smoke alarm isn't going off all the time. The oven is a pleasure to use with the pyrolytic cleaning feature keeping it clean.<br />
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Both are Smeg appliances and once you figure out how to use them they are fantastic. I found by following the instructions carefully and doing a bit at a time it wasn't so difficult to master.<br />
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Mmm..... Time for a cuppa.<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-48256379122016381602016-09-25T16:06:00.001+13:002016-09-25T23:00:18.349+13:00LOOKING FORWARD TO THE WARM DAYS OF SUMMER<br />
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After so much rain spring has finally arrived bringing many birds into the garden and colorful blossoms abound. We are still lighting the fire at night, mainly due to my love of comfort and, before long, opening the door to cool down.</div>
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This blackbird is a regular visitor and waits patiently for the leftovers. He's not the only one of course and soon shares the bounty with a variety of birds. Sparrows in particular fight among themselves and give the starlings time to clean up.<br />
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It is good to see Monarch butterflies making the most of the nectar from the nectarine and just fluttering about in general. Their quick movements have kept them safe as they steer clear of Kit.<br />
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He is on the go all day heading off all around the place visiting. Masses of energy and plenty to do. He doesn't even settle down to sleep throughout the night and has Craig backwards and forwards letting him back in.<br />
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Does Craig mind?....... Not one bit. He just makes a great fuss of his cat.<br />
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How does Kit feel about all this? ........... I think he would rather tear up and down a few trees...<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-45994678263444777682016-08-12T16:43:00.000+12:002017-03-27T14:51:01.015+13:00ARBOR CARE TO THE RESCUE...<br />
It's that time of the year once again to clear out a lot of surplus growth. Arbor Care arborists Daniel and David working well and doing a great job.<br />
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This Yellow Sunburst Gleditsia shades the garden thoughout summer with many birds fluttering about among the leaves.<br />
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Our Agonis has stood its ground here for several years and a much needed trim back and reshaping has not come too soon. Next year's citrus will benefit with more sun as will the roses nearby.<br />
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It is good to see new buds on the fruit trees. The nectarine should produce its first crop this season. Pears, apples and plums should have bumper crops.<br />
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Last year, the grapes did not do well at all for some reason and as for the pumpkins... they were a <br />
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Our firewood is on its last legs after a pretty cold snap. Hopefully, it will see us through and with spring around the corner and warmer days ahead we should be alright.<br />
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What do they say about things coming in threes? Well, the oven packed up and left us with an uncooked lasagne. Our new oven and cooktop arrive on Monday. The good news is that it is a pyrolitic model which should take care of the cleaning and we are replacing the gas cooktop with a ceramic one. No more blackened pots!<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-65868192935541236382016-03-18T14:39:00.001+13:002017-10-12T22:51:48.297+13:00SHOWERS AND COOLING DOWN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So much for weed spraying today. The oxalis will have to wait and staying inside probably makes more sense.<br />
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Yesterday was busy with a couple of bus trips to town for a wireless mouse, down to the supermarket and a visit to the Vet Clinic for flea treatment for the cat before the usual rounds of... 'Catch me if you can.' Kit goes to lengths to dodge this indignity and hiding behind the frig was the latest. Craig heard his unhappy wails as we walked in the door and soon retrieved him. Needless to say, a short reprieve was needed and agreed upon.<br />
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I can hear the vacuum cleaner flying around downstairs and take it as my cue to ready myself for the spray mop, being my part of the bargain. Oh, blow it! It's not even 10 am yet.<br />
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Our Ultra Fast connection is not too far away with holes dug and underground cable shunted through. Some of the brick paving was taken up to make way and the men did a great job. Everything put back as it was and a roll left in readiness for the final connection in about three weeks. I quickly flung a batch of scones into the oven for their morning tea break before setting off for a mid morning appointment.<br />
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Yup......... Just remember what we agreed on!<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-69211394381169346482016-03-10T22:44:00.000+13:002016-03-10T22:44:17.353+13:00AUTUMN HARVEST<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Making the most of another beautiful day pottering about outside. I moved this Begonia outside where it continues to flower happily, sheltered with just enough sun and out of the wind. It was a gift from Margaret and Russell when they called in to see us a few weeks ago on their way to spend a couple of days with family in Whakatane. Time had got by and it had been a good while since we last caught up. It was so lovely to see them.<br />
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Time for lunch before picking more ripening tomatoes. There's little freezer space left to cram more in so I will take out a bag of plums and make more jam.<br />
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A few jars at a time and with citrus coming on, marmalade to follow. It is good to have a regular supply of home grown fruit and vegetables which even the smallest section will produce.<br />
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Our first year apples are ready for picking now. Sweet navel orange to the left and pumpkins wandering about merrily. Shooting up trees and over fences, their presence is felt everywhere.<br />
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Well, the new passion fruit is taking its time clambering up. Needless to say, we are not expecting anything this time. Funnily enough, since buying the plant, I have come across lots of little seedlings springing up all over the place. I'm sure they will find new homes somewhere.... but not here....<br />
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A Crown pumpkin snakes its way along without so much as a by-your-leave. Both Crown and Buttercups are travelling at speed in some sort of crazy race to prove a point.... Are they really this competitive?<br />
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Ripening grapes are a sight to behold. This black grape is about a month away I think. Other years, we have been picking the green variety by now. For some reason, it's slow this year.<br />
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Looking out across the estuary is luring me away from the computer, but there are things to be getting on with, so I will stay put.... for now.<br />
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So much for another blissful day in Tauranga. What more could anyone wish for..........<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-5569617358932911492016-02-13T18:30:00.000+13:002016-02-13T18:59:33.058+13:00AUTUMN JUST AROUND THE CORNER...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Golden Delicious, Splendor and Royal Gala are three varieties ripening on this tree. Nearby a curious pumpkin sidles up to take a look.</div>
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I have had the time of my life at Palmer's Garden Centre this year. It's all too easy to get carried away with little thought of where things will go. Funnily enough, plants seem to find their own way and soon nestle alongside one another.</div>
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It's that time of the year once again and keeping ahead of the harvest fills the glorious days we are having at present. Boysenberries are on their last legs with blueberries barely holding on. This is Ballarat. It's a cooking apple and is producing well. It's a large variety with fruit swelling daily.</div>
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Pumpkins growing everywhere... up through trees and against fences. This buttercup is one of many and has elbowed the boysenberries out of the way while taking over the archway. Of course, there is always plenty of company with Green Shield beetles, Vine Hoppers and the like, putting in an appearance. </div>
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Crown pumpkin from last year has usurped territory from a patient Camellia whilst an espaliered apple peeps through from the other side. I really believe intensive planting works well. They sure like company.</div>
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The last of the Burbank plums and a few tomatoes join the crowd in the kitchen. Jams, stewed fruit and preparing vegetables for winter has kept me busy. With grapes starting to ripen and the last of the rhuburb to freeze, there's still much to do.</div>
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Muesli with blueberries, boysenberries and banana is a daily thing here. So delicious!</div>
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Time for a tidy up I guess, quick catch up of the news, then back to the family tree. It is great going back in time and discovering our ancestors. Time consuming but very interesting. I have gone back about four hundred years so far... can't wait to go further.</div>
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harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-7470702067631605812015-12-28T22:32:00.000+13:002015-12-28T22:33:19.914+13:00LOOKING FORWARD TO A DECENT HARVEST AND GREAT NEW YEAR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has been another good year for boysenberries, but they are coming to an end now; Meanwhile, the Vine Hopper nymphs have taken over throughout. Easy enough to control with soap spray and it is necessary to control them at this stage.<br />
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I see a little spider has made himself at home on the apple tree. We are expecting a good crop of these reliable cooking apples. Great for freezing once stewed up.<br />
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The is a climbing rose called Westerland . It has really taken off in the few months since it was planted.<br />
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Bantry Bay flowers for months on end and lasts reasonably well inside. Another reliable climber.<br />
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There are plenty of pumpkins growing all over the place. Training them up over every available space works well and this year we decided on Buttercup.<br />
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It has been hard to drag myself away from my new toys.... Laptop for one. The place is far less cluttered since moving the desktop out of the lounge and all those annoying wires have gone at last.<br />
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Well, this year has got off to a good start and I think we can look forward to a great year. Wishing everyone all the best for a happy and prosperous 2016.<br />
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<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6622819463354012279.post-79284001596660170072015-11-30T22:11:00.002+13:002015-11-30T22:18:10.823+13:00TIME TO UPGRADE<br />
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Strawberries producing in dribs and drabs and hopefully, after adding fertiliser, they will do better. Taste great straight from the garden.<br />
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Well, it's been an interesting few days. After much excitement over the new laptop and mobile I am still having difficulty syncing everything. I am very lucky to have a great neighbour who reconfigured my bungled attempts and finally got everything online. Boy! she makes short work of it! Anyway, I am still having problems with the password. Can't figure out why. Does it really need to be so pedantic?<br />
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The laptop is an Acer something or other.... 8G should be enough data to keep me out of mischief for while. The Samsung 6 mobile is fantastic... and once everything is behaving, I will be off and away and not much else will get done.<br />
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The idea was to disconnect the landline having Naked Broadband instead which works out cheaper and gets rid of the clutter. We went to Harvey Norman for a look and got caught up in all the excitement! I get so much pleasure out of the computer.<br />
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Craig says it's an early birthday present as well as for Christmas........... Lucky me!<br />
<br />harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09995910996834720938noreply@blogger.com0