Whisked away for the Weekend...

It wasn't on my list to go away for a weekend so near to our departure from Melbourne, but apparently my hubby had other ideas....so with very little warning and before I thought up all the reasons why we shouldn't go...we hit the road!

We headed towards Alexandra...which is located near the Goulburn River between Yea and Eildon and surrounded by rich pastoral land, mountains and forests.
The trees en-route were spectacular and reminded me of a cathedral which is fitting as we were heading towards the Cathedral Ranges.

We arrived at Stonelea Country Estate...see here for details.

We certainly felt the difference in the temperature and woke on our first morning to frost!
It's been many years since I've seen frost twinkling in sunlight on the plants, so I had to stop off on our way to breakfast to capture this shot. 

I began to think that this weekend was a gently nudge towards our imminent arrival in the UK and although I know it's not that cold thankfully there at the moment, it just gave us a gentle reminder as to what we might expect. Hopefully once we've experienced the summer first!

Maybe with the Aussie winter temperatures that's why we discovered a new friend...
Mr Wood Burner and we became rather attached to him! 

Gorgeous red gum wood roasting away to keep any chills at bay...a glass of red and cosy toes are just a great way to have the day come to a close. In fact it was just perfect to load up the stove and then let it carry on burning as we drifted off to snoozeyland. Its glow lighting the room with dancing shadows all around. A fantastic way to finish off after a brilliant day out exploring, in the crisp, fresh, winter sun filled countryside!  

Talking of which...look what we found....

Can you guess what made these footprints?

Here's the culprit below....or maybe one of its mob.

I think the one that left this mark must have been a big dude because I measured 17 of my footsteps (toe to heel) from one print to the next. You try that and see what distances these critters can hop in one go. 

I never realised....it's quite a shock!

Yes...they spotted me from quite away off...but still let me approach to take their photo.

But unfortunately I wasn't always quick enough with my camera. 

We did see some brilliant things and on one of our cycle rides we came across this hideaway!

Let's go in a little nearer shall we?
Hellooooooooo is there anybody there?

Looking at all the evidence around we came to the conclusion that it wasn't where Alice in Wonderland had her adventure...but probably a wombats abode. Now if you're like me you wouldn't have appreciated that wombat's can reach quite a size. This hole could well have hidden a small child. I suppose I should have stood nearby so that you could appreciate just how big it was...there is also a lot of evidence that this creature doesn't like to stray far from the nest in this weather even for the call of nature!
We had to watch our step very carefully! 

This photo was thalen of the lake that was virtually 20 steps from our country cottage....as the sun began to say farewell for the day. There are masses of birds here and I have even seen tiny finches which really were a treat along with huge flocks of cockatoos, kookaburras, galah parrots, sparrowhawks, water fowl, wrens, blackbirds....you name it ...the list goes on and on....

It's such a peaceful place here...it's a real break from all the madness.

The only trouble is that I don't want to leave because I know that this last week is going to be really tough!

But there's nothing for it...it's got to be done...

I'll just have to keep that kettle boiling...a good cuppa always helps don't you think?

When we are off exploring we like nothing better than a pit stop for a cuppa and sugar boost...

Ahhh.....

Now where was I....oh yes walking around the lake...

This is the view right outside of our cottage and there are lots of birds even in this photo, but they are well disguised...and very camera shy. 

I thought the tree below was fascinating...it looks like it has tattoo's don't you think?

Or could it be a zentangle? 

It certainly caught my attention but then you know how much I love trees!

We had a fabulous meal in a place called  Tea Rooms of Yarck. 

I'm not sure of the origin of the name, but really this is a very good restaurant and not just a tea room as the name suggests! It's more an Italian restaurant. Their cuisine is based on provincial Italian food with a focus on seasonal local and home-grown produce.

I had the most divine beef cheeks (apologies to any vegetarians reading this...but what can I say...I'm a meatetarian!) and my hubby had the trout. 

Of course we also had entrees, starters, and desserts plus tea and coffee. 

(Oops and a glass of wine) 
Oh there goes my waistband again!  :(

We couldn't fault the meal so if you're ever in the area give them a call and try it for yourself. 
Here's the details...click here

They also sell products and apparently their homemade bread is something rather special. 

Unfortunately for us the bread basket was empty!

That's just a snippet of the weekend's activities but I thought I'd just have a quick natter as once I arrive back home I've no idea what this next week will bring...

But before I sign off I thought I'd let you see what the car was reading on the drive back from the restaurant. 

If you look right at the centre of the dials...it shows the reading of 0⁰ celcius!

I didn't even know that this car could register that low...as it's never been out of Australia! 

So it's toodleloo from me...until next time.

I hope you had a fabulous weekend too and are ready for a fun pack week ahead. 

Bye for now and thanks for stopping by...I'm always thrilled to see you.

p.s. I know I haven't visited anyone since I said I would, but then I wasn't aware I was going away for the weekend. 

Will you forgive me?
I don't have a Doctor's note, but it was our wedding anniversary after all! 

Art Journaling Giveaway Prize arrives....whoohoo..

I've a confession today everyone...I've been very naughty! 

What have I been up to you may wonder? 

Well, I received a wonderful package that arrived in the post...all the way from America last week and I never got to thank two special people who instigated its arrival.

Firstly, Dion Dior who if you don't know her already is an amazingly talented artist that just blows me away with her incredible art every time I look at her work. She paints fantastic vibrant colours which remind me a little of my silk painting days.
Dion's creative blog specializes in art journaling, watercolour, acrylic and water soluble medium workshops, tutorials and online classes. There's something for everyone...trust me you will not be disappointed if you visit her blog. I'm wanting to join her online mastering twinks class but unfortunately it's crazy here with our move back to the UK, so I think I'll have to wait until I'm settled in my new studio before I start. 
But you could enroll and possibly win fantastic prizes too!
All you have to do is enroll for her class but you'll have to be quick because the enrollment closes at the end of June! 
Dion is a fantastic teacher and is so inspiring...just click on one of her tutorials to see her at work. 

Anyway, back to my prize package....
Once again Dion very generously had a giveaway and I was the lucky winner! YAY!
Here's the link if you want to read about the giveaway details.

My prize was a fabulous DVD from Gina Rossi Armfield.
'The No Excuses Approach to mixed-media collage.

I love the No Excuses Approach from Gina because that's just what I need...no excuses just do it!

If you would like to see Gina at work then click here  

If you don't know Gina then here's a little information:

Gina Rossi Armfield is a painter, photographer, wife and mother.  She lives in Southern California with her husband, Mark, two sons, Grayson and Payton, and a herd of furry critters. Gina started painting when she was six years old and was lucky enough to find many mentors along the way that encouraged her to pursue her talents. She grew up in Baltimore, Maryland and in addition to painting spent most of her time riding and showing horses. A passion for the four leggeds endures to this day and can be seen in much of her work. Gina received her degrees in Fine Art as well as Education. She has taught people of all ages and continues to enrich her life by sharing her gifts with others. She has always had an interest in combining her love of photography and the written word with painting–exploring this aspect in all facets of her work. Gina can be found teaching around the country and through her online workshops. You can find her on her website www.ginarossiarmfield.com and her art blog noexcusesjournaling.com.

Thank you so much Gina for my prize but also for your time and talent which you so generously pass on to aspiring artists. 

Check out Gina talking in an interview plus watch her work here.

I know I'm going to have such fun when I can use some of her techniques and advice...I can't wait. 

My mojo hasn't disappeared as I feared...he's just collecting ideas for when he can be unleashed! 

At least with having all of these projects lining up waiting....my move to the UK looks better and better. 

Roll on getting my new studio up and running asap...I can't wait! 

Enjoy seeing these artists at work and I hope to see you again soon.

Thanks again Gina and Dion I'm just sorry it took me so long to thank you both.

 

xoxo

What's on Your Work Desk Wednesday...WOYWW

I'm just nipping in quickly today to show a break down of my Mandala.

I've been asked could I show how it came about and I'm not one to disappoint...

...so here it is....

I simply started with a book (which is a constant in my life since I first started to read) and then I added patterns and shapes as I progressed outwards to make the circle. 

In the close up picture you can see (hopefully) some of the things that are important to me or things that I like. It's as simple as that.

I completed the whole thing in three sessions (or was it four)...not only to give my eyes a rest but to think about what should be added.

I should explain that the 'neesie natters' isn't actually written on the original design (other than on the little laptop in the mandala).

I added that before posting. 

And here's the finished design. 

There are about 40+ items contained within...can you count them all? 
I made some cards with the design to accompany leaving pressies and they were well received.

As you can imagine things are pretty hectic around here at the moment, with moving from one part of the planet to the other...plus my hubby had 'man flu' over the weekend and has kindly passed it to me! 

Maybe I should have been more sympathetic! It's now come back to bite me :(
Oops nearly forgot to show my desk...or should that read dining table!
Yes I'm back into the dining room again...or sort of...as you can see there's not much here. 
Just the rental table and chairs as our furniture has just passed through the Suez Canal on its way to the UK.
The few bits that are sitting on the window ledge are my entire art supplies for now. 
Is it any wonder that my mojo has decided to take a break! 

 Sparse looking isn't it? 
Hey...but see that sun and light? That's winter peeps I kid you not!
Not bad eh? 

Anyway before I pass on any germs to you, maybe you should scoot and check out what's going on over at Julia's Stamping Ground and see more desks that hopefully won't be full of germs. 
It's a lot of fun and everyone is so friendly and supportive.  

I'll try to visit as many people as I can this week without passing on my germs but I'm not promising.   

Have fun everyone and enjoy your Wednesday! 

A Simple Woman's Day Book

FOR TODAY ~ Friday 14th June 2013

Outside my window...thankfully it looks so much better outside my window today than it did yesterday. If I'd have sneaked enough time to write my Day book yesterday, then I'd have been very negative because it was a complete washout! Dark and wet...in fact you'd possibly have thought that I'd already moved back to the UK! 

Thankfully the three days of virtual none stop rain seem to have emptied the clouds for now, although they are still hanging around. There is the odd little peek of sun but it's rather weak. 

The swimming pool is looking exceedingly full and I'm just wondering what will happen if we get more rain...eek! The grape vine is stripped of all its leaves and now looking very bare but the main stem always appeals to me...it's so twisted and full of character. 

I've found a few stray strawberries that were hiding on the plant which I have to say were a total surprise. I thought they'd be finished by now. But I don't think these few brave beauties will ripen...it would be a miracle if they do...but never say never! 

The wisteria is completely naked now which is quite sad as I've had to clear every last leaf but won't have the pleasure of seeing it bloom again! But I've just remembered that I have a wisteria waiting for me back in the UK and so I'll have that to look forward to so all is not lost! 

My orchids have been adopted and are settling into their new home. I know they will be very happy. Their new owner doesn't even know how spectacular they are or even what colour. So that will be a real treat. ;D

There's one last rose of summer sitting looking so pretty. It's a gorgeous yellow and the perfume is incredible and wafts as people come to the door. I'm so tempted to cut this last one and bring it in the house to enjoy. So far I've resisted but I don't think that'll last. It's like a burst of sunlight.

I am thinking...that I really have been a bad blogger recently because I haven't visited many other blogs. It's not that I don't want to...in fact I'm bothered what I maybe missing. Okay yes I know...I'm nosy and don't want to miss anything. But I find once you miss a few posts from your favourite bloggers it's really quite a task to play catch up! But if nothing else I'm determined, so I'll strive to pop into a comment box near you soon...I just ask that you be patient with me. It really is quite a task to move from one part of the planet to the other and unfortunately time gets swallowed up in huge chunks! 

I am thankful...for such much that it really is too hard a task to just pinpoint one....so today I'm not going to. I am an incredibly privileged and lucky person...but don't get me wrong, I don't take that lightly. Sometimes I don't feel it but it only takes a few seconds to be reminded. There is so much to be thankful and I intend to keep reminding myself of even the smallest thing daily! ;D 
Just to prove my point as I've been sitting here chatting with you...this has happened...life's full of surprises.

No matter what is going on in your life...it may not be going where you thought it might...but there's always something to be thankful for. Just take the time to appreciate it. 

In the kitchen...there's a gorgeous pan of homemade soup warming. My hubby has 'man flu' at the moment so I'm suffering! Yes you read that right...I'm suffering! There's nothing like a good homemade chicken and veggie soup to warm the cockles of your heart when you're not feeling 100%. 

The cupboards are getting slimmer (pity I'm not!) as I try to work my way through my store cupboard. I think a few friends might be getting odd provision pressies soon. 

I am wearing...no thermals. LOL but that's because the heating is gently wafting through the house. Starting at my feet I'm wearing trainers (only because I nipped out earlier and just haven't got around to taking them off yet ~ naughty I know but hey who cares?) Jean's and a long-sleeved t-shirt under a white cotton jumper. There's a white, blue and black patterned pashmina cuddling my neck just in case I feel the heating isn't sufficient enough ;D

I am creating...nothing at the moment. I think my creative juices have dried up for this week which isn't surprising with what's been happening here. It's been rather hectic as we enter the last few weeks of our Aussie life, but I'm hoping that my mojo hasn't abandon me but just taking a little break. 

I am going...to get fat with the way I'm eating at the moment. Seriously with so many meals and lovely leaving events lately my waistband feels in serious threat of pinging! And there's still so many more to go...I'm seriously clocking up the calories! 

I am wondering...who opened that new bar of chocolate in the fridge? I think we may have a serious choco-goblin that visits at night! It wouldn't be me would it? Not with all of those calories lining up (as she pops yet another square into her mouth....Mmmm)! 

I'm reading...The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

(Details taken from Booktopia)

Don Tillman, professor of genetics, has never been on a second date. Then a chance encounter gives him an idea. He will design a questionnaire—a sixteen-page, scientifically researched document—to find the perfect partner. She will most definitely not be a barmaid, a smoker, a drinker or a late-arriver. 

Rosie Jarman is all these things. She is strangely beguiling, fiery and intelligent. And she is also on a quest of her own. She’s looking for her biological father, a search that a certain DNA expert might just be able to help her with—even if he does wear quick-dry clothes and eat lobster every single Tuesday night. 

When rights to a debut novel are sold in more than thirty countries, you know a book is generating serious buzz. I am glad to say that this feel-good debut delivers what the hype promises.

I'm really enjoying reading this charming and amusing book and recommend it.

About the Author:

Graeme Simsion was born in 1956. He is an IT consultant and data analyst with an international reputation. He has taught at four Australian universities and is currently a Senior Research Fellow at Melbourne University. He is a founder of Pinot Now, a wine importer and distributor, and is married to Anne, a professor of psychiatry who writes erotic fiction. They have two children. 

In 2007, Graeme completed his PhD in information systems and enrolled in the professional screenwriting course at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. He has made a number of short films and his screenplay, The Rosie Project, won the Australian Writers Guild / Inception Award for Best Romantic Comedy Script in 2010. While waiting for The Rosie Project to be produced, he turned it into a novel which in June 2012 won the Victorian Premier’s award for an unpublished fiction manuscript.
Readers of The Rosie Project will know that Graeme Simsion has a first-class sense of humour. At professional conferences he has given addresses from on top of a ladder, dressed as a duck, and he once engaged a group of spellbound chartered accountants in community singing.

I am hoping...you didn't see me nip back to the fridge for a few more squares of choccy! ;D

I am looking forward to...starting a whole new veggie plot with raised beds in my new garden. I think I might be up with a fight to keep the wildlife away from my produce but hopefully I'll be able to grow enough that we can share...I'm keeping my options open. My hubby is suggesting I get a rabbit recipe on hand but I don't think  I like that thought! I'm thinking that Muffy won't be much good as a guard dog but you never know. She may think it's a whole new circle of friends! ^..^

Around the house...All ship-shape Sir! Even though we aren't open for a house inspection this weekend. With having so little of our furniture and belongs with us now, it's easy to keep clean and tidy. My hubby is getting into this minimalism but I'm afraid I like all my belongs. I can't wait to be re-antiqued with them all.

A favourite quote for today...(an image courtesy of Google Quote of the Day)

One of my favourite things...obviously chocolate by the look of this post but I've mentioned that before possible numerous times so I'll say something new...if only I could think of something...mmmm...

I love to hear the wind and rain lashing and bashing the house when I can snuggle further down under the duvet (dunna) where it's all cosy and snug. It's probably just as well because come next winter that may well be how I will spend most of my days LOL 

I'm looking up how to survive hibernation...well I'm doing well on storing up with the excess fat already, so I'm half-way there already! 

    

A few plans for the rest of the week: Well thankfully we're just heading into the weekend. But I don't think they'll be much resting time...we're trying to make the most of each day until we leave :D 

A peek into my day...well maybe that should read a peek into last night. 

This photo was taken as the seafood bomb arrived at our table.  

But then there was so much more....

 So that's it for this week; I hope you enjoyed your visit and if it's your first time reading my day book entry, I hope you enjoyed it.

Don't forget to pop over to The Simple Woman's Daybook and check out the other day book entries.

 I hope to see you again soon...Have a wonderful weekend.

Have fun and hopefully the sun will shine!!!

Afternoon Tea at The Hotel Windsor

The quintessential sound of a silver teaspoon stirring tea in a porcelain china cup can take you to another era...one where the refinement of a tradition has delighted for decades. 

That tradition is to partake in Afternoon Tea. 

I had the opportunity of indulging in such a tradition last week...
Afternoon Tea at 'The Hotel Windsor' or 'The Duchess of Spring Street' no less.

For someone who adores drinking tea and is a total teapot like me, then as you can imagine I was thrilled. 

To visit The Hotel Windsor for afternoon tea has been on my tick list since we arrived in Melbourne and it's one that nearly got away. But thanks to my lovely girlfriends at my book club they made sure that that tick was firmly in the box! 

Even on approaching The Hotel Windsor you can't but help to be impressed with her grandeur.

The Hotel is located in Melbourne's central business district on Spring Street, in close proximity to the corporate, financial and fashionable heart of the city.

Many of the city's best theatres, landmark attractions and sporting venues are within a comfortable walking distance. I arrived at the Parliament train station which is located right at the hotels's door step! 

Before we enter into the lobby....let me give you a little of the Hotel's history...just to set the scene.

It was built by George Nipper in 1883 and designed by Charles Webb, during this time it was known as the Grand Hotel. It pre-dates The Ritz and Savoy hotels in London, Raffles in Singapore and The Plaza in New York, and is the only surviving hotel of its type in Australia....now how's that for a pedigree?

The hotel changed hands in 1886 and the new owner James Munro, burnt the hotel's liquor licence and changed its name once again to the Grand Coffee Palace. The experiment failed and in 1897 the hotel began selling alcohol once again. The hotel became known as 'The Windsor Hotel in 1923, in honour of a visit by The Prince of Wales.

This photo is courtesy of The Hotel Windsor's Heritage webpage...

Under the threat of demolition in 1976 (which is unthinkable) The Windsor was bought by the Victorian Government to ensure the conservation of an essential part of Victoria's heritage. 

Lastly in November 2005 The Hotel Windsor was purchased by local parties committed to creating the most exciting period of the hotel's history to date.

If you'd like to see some fantastic old photographs, or to read more about this grand lady then click here

So now you have some background information...let's take a step inside. 

"Good day to you too"....

Now I'm aware that my blogging and photo shoots can get in the way of just chatting and meeting up with friends, (some don't know or do blogging...shocking that that fact might be to some, but there you go..it's true) so I have to say I tried very hard to get a snippet of events for you, without hopefully offending anyone. 

Trust me I could have gone mad.
I knew I was in trouble when I nipped to the 'Ladies Powder Room' and there was a very smart lady ready to do whatever was needed, in her crisp white apron! It's okay I resisted asking could I take a few photos whilst in there...I don't want people to get the wrong idea but it was tough! ;D

But let's get to the afternoon tea....pinkies poised people!

(for those who haven't heard that expression before...it means hold up your little finger when drinking from a china teacup...a la posh!) 

Once the ladies were seated our waiter came and introduced himself to us in his crisp white apron and before we knew it a bottle of sparkling wine appeared. Cheers!

Followed shortly by afternoon delicacies of freshly baked scones with jam and cream, exquisite pastries and finger sandwiches on tiered silver stands plus unlimited freshly brewed tea and coffee.

For those who may be a tea fanatic like me...here's the list of tea's that were available (click here)

So how did this tradition begin?
And what's the difference between High Tea and Afternoon Tea?

Afternoon Tea itself came about around the time that gas lighting was introduced in the 1800s in Britain. This meant people were able to stay up later into the night, and therefore sought to eat their evening meal later too. This shift left a large, food-less gap in the day.

 Legend has it that in 1840 Anna, the Seventh Duchess of Bedford (one of Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting), began to request tea and a small meal of bread and butter, cakes and biscuits in the afternoon to tide her over until dinner. Her innovative (and somewhat indulgent) habit became a highly social occasion, with friends coming to share the hot beverages, delicate snacks and convivial conversation. By 1880, the trend took off and afternoon tea spread to the homes of the upper classes with tea shops later springing up across the country.

The name 'High Tea' actually refers to a similar practice adopted by the working classes midway through the Industrial Revolution. It involved a heavier meal served with tea at 5.00pm, upon returning home from work. As it was served at high tables it became known as 'high tea' whereas the more sophisticated afternoon tea was technically named 'low tea' in reference to the low drawing room tables that the upper classes would sit around to carry out the ritual. 

(photograph courtesy of The Hotel Windsor website)
If you'd like to make a booking for afternoon tea click here

Along with our book club, the hotel has also welcomed a long list of international celebrities, politicians and royalty. 
The Hotel Windsor also has a collection of 15 paintings by the Australian traditional representational  artist Ernest Buckmaster (1897~ 1968) on display in the hotel lobby. 
Unfortunately or maybe that should read fortunately, I didn't take photos of the paintings, because since that afternoon I've tried to find them on the internet and I can't find any? 
So maybe it was a good decision not to take them because maybe I've missed a copyright issue!  

The fact that I was too busy talking and saying farewell to my friends had nothing to do with it. I'd have obviously asked the concierge permission first. ;D

But I've added this link so that you can see the paintings that are on display if you want to.

Well I think it may well be time to pop the kettle on for another cuppa now. 
Maybe I should have done that at the beginning of the post.
I hope you've enjoyed your visit to The Hotel Windsor...I know I did.
 TICK!
 
Hope to see you again soon...in the meantime remember...

Yesterday the Past,
Tomorrow the Future,
But today is a gift...that's why it's called Present! 

APR ~ Favourite Mug #60

How could I resist when I heard that Jenn's Artist Play Room challenge this week was to draw/paint something that is very dear to my heart! 

...My Mug!...

Not my face ~ not that kind of mug ~ the drinking kind.

So even though I have limited art supplies (well that's a gross understatement...I've a few pens, a pencil, eraser and a small travelling water colour kit) I've actually managed to complete a painting for this week. Although Jenn asked for our favourite mug or cup I've decided to show you one, but I painted the other. 

Yes...call me fickle I have two favourites!  

I love the look and feel of the Whittard of Chelsea china mug below. 

My daughter bought two as a present, but unfortunately one had an unfortunate accident during one of our many moves! It lost its handle.  

(Whittard of Chelsea (Anita Jeram) 2006)

The china mug is perfect for a cuppa but the practicality is that I need something more robust! 

A Denby pottery mug fits the bill...it keeps my tea hotter for longer. I'm one of those people that have to drink my tea at the molten lava like temperature. Even with this mug I can become distracted and it can 'go off the boil' as it were (now don't think I don't know that for a proper cuppa you're not supposed to use boiling water ~ I do know all about that ~ BUT I LIKE MY TEA HOT!!!

The only time that I can forget my cuppa is when I'm busy or engrossed creating art! 

At any other time it's my top priority :D

From my first cup in the morning to my last cup at night...it has my full attention.

Going back to the 'meecie mug' 

(HA! Neesies meecie mug...I like that...yeah I know...small things and all that) 

Here's the designs that sits around the cup. 

Aren't they cute? 

And here's my painting....there's lots of tweaks needed but time is of the essence as they say and I wanted to meet the time scale for APR...so perhaps I'll tweak later. 

Whilst I'm here I might as well show you some other things that have mysteriously arrived in my journal. 

I've no idea where I got the time, but I do know that they've helped to keep me in a sane state of mind in what has been a really terrible week.  

I've wanted to draw a Mandala. for quite some time. 

For those who may not know...a Mandala is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing the Universe.  

But I wanted to do my own version...showing my universe or at least some of it. 

It's my story so far...or at least some of it! 

There are lots of details contained within the mandala if you look closely....

I really enjoyed drawing and creating this pattern and thought it would be a great idea to do a Mandala for others...just pick 15/20 key things that are relevant to you and have them enclosed within your own personal pattern. Just drop me a line is you're interested.... ;D
I've also published the design onto cards. 

I've counted approximately 45 specific personal icons enclosed within my Mandala that are special in some way to me...can you spot any?

Well that's me done for this week...but why not head over to Jenn's Artist Playroom and see if you can see your favourite mug or why not pick a new one!
They'll be lots of different designs to choose from...

Tat tar for now...have a wonderful weekend everyone...see you again soon I hope

A Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY ~ Wednesday 5th June 2013

Outside my window...There's a cool wind whipping around this morning which is causing the few remaining leaves to dance and twist as they fall to the ground. There's not many left to fall by the look of it, but they keep coming! It's surprising how little time it took for the cold to come calling. The heating is going up and down like a fiddlers elbow!

There are buds on the hibiscus and the lilac bushes just outside the dining room window, but I'm reminded that I won't see them spring into life. I'll have to make sure my new garden holds lots of delights. I haven't seen that garden for over 12 years other than photos, so it will be wonderful to get reacquainted once again. It'll be like meeting an old friend.

Even though I scooped the pool of leaves yesterday...the wisteria leaves have fallen like confetti covering the surface, but I'm trying to ignore them for today. I can hopefully delegate that job tomorrow. 

I can hear all the noise from a demolition of a house nearby which always seems sad to me. All the stories and history are being loaded into a truck. I'm hoping that they are going to be sympathetic and do a good job giving the old house new life, but I don't think I'll still be here to see how it takes shape. 

The sky is heavy today with light grey clouds although they don't look heavy enough to carry rain so maybe we'll be lucky. The birds seem to have disappeared...I can't see or hear any. Maybe they know something I don't?

The radio is on low with perfect background music to accompany my blogging and art work. I've got lots planned and I'm determined to do them first before I tackle a little ironing. I'm feeling pretty smug because I cleared the whole of my ironing before the freight left, so I only have minimal bits and pieces...namely work shirts today...so it's all manageable. 

Muffy is curled up beside me but a little nervous with all the banging from the demolition...I think she thinks it's another thunderstorm like the one we had midweek. The thunderclaps had her quivering and quaking. She stares at the door expecting a huge salivating fanged monster to come crashing through to get her! (Imagination may have got a little out of control there) It's such a shame. 

I am thinking...of the very tragic loss of a young man's life last weekend. His funeral will be held on what would have been his 21st Birthday and my heart is so heavy thinking about how his family will cope without him. He was one of my son's friends and it's been terrible watching my son trying to cope with the shock and acceptance that he's mate is no longer around. I'm so proud of him but it hurts to see his pain.  

I am thankful...for every member of my family and friends! 

In the kitchen...clean as a whistle as they say! There's no baking and not much cooking going on these days because basically my entire kitchen has gone ~ oh how I miss them. Each meal is an invention test as on Masterchef. All my equipment is rental and therefore it feels like I'm cooking with strangers. They don't know me and I don't know them. So far we're managing to get along but it's certainly different! 

I can't tell you how many times I've gone to a drawer or cupboard for something before I remember it's no longer there. I guess you can't teach this old dog new tricks! 

I am wearing...warm clothes because apparently I'm being told constantly to 'hunker down' and how cold it is here at the moment. Now let me explain that it may well be heading towards winter for Melbourne and for an Aussie it may well be cold, but really I can't say that 14 or even 12 degrees celsius necessitates hibernation   

I'm sure I've softened up over the years living in warm climates but with our UK move coming up, I'm trying to toughen up. Just between you and me the fact that I'm wearing thermals has nothing to do with it! 

I am creating...Oh I'm so excited. I've got a few designs up my sleeve and plan to draw later today. Hopefully I'll be able to post them before the end of this week. It's a lovely feeling having that delight ahead. It's been a really tough week so far, so I'm going to use this drawing session as a special treat to help me take my mind away somewhere...I know not where ;D

I am going...to meet my girlie friends for an afternoon tea. I'm so looking forward to this as it's been on my tick list for some time. Who knows I may even get to write a post on it but I'm not promising...you know what us girlies are like when we get together. I'm getting my pinkie perked and ready for my china teacup! 

I am wondering...why my big toe nail doesn't grow at the same rate as all of my other toe nails...it seems so slow and there again they are slower than my hands nails. Why is that I wonder? 

I'm reading...The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

(Details taken from Booktopia)

Don Tillman, professor of genetics, has never been on a second date. Then a chance encounter gives him an idea. He will design a questionnaire—a sixteen-page, scientifically researched document—to find the perfect partner. She will most definitely not be a barmaid, a smoker, a drinker or a late-arriver. 

Rosie Jarman is all these things. She is strangely beguiling, fiery and intelligent. And she is also on a quest of her own. She’s looking for her biological father, a search that a certain DNA expert might just be able to help her with—even if he does wear quick-dry clothes and eat lobster every single Tuesday night. 

When rights to a debut novel are sold in more than thirty countries, you know a book is generating serious buzz. I am glad to say that this feel-good debut delivers what the hype promises.

I'm really enjoying reading this charming and amusing book and recommend it as your possible next book.

About the Author:

Graeme Simsion was born in 1956. He is an IT consultant and data analyst with an international reputation. He has taught at four Australian universities and is currently a Senior Research Fellow at Melbourne University. He is a founder of Pinot Now, a wine importer and distributor, and is married to Anne, a professor of psychiatry who writes erotic fiction. They have two children. 

In 2007, Graeme completed his PhD in information systems and enrolled in the professional screenwriting course at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. He has made a number of short films and his screenplay, The Rosie Project, won the Australian Writers Guild / Inception Award for Best Romantic Comedy Script in 2010. While waiting for The Rosie Project to be produced, he turned it into a novel which in June 2012 won the Victorian Premier’s award for an unpublished fiction manuscript.
Readers of The Rosie Project will know that Graeme Simsion has a first-class sense of humour. At professional conferences he has given addresses from on top of a ladder, dressed as a duck, and he once engaged a group of spellbound chartered accountants in community singing.

I am hoping...that our move back to the UK goes smoothly and we settle back quickly. There's so much planned I don't think our feet will touch the ground till at least September! I just hope that by Christmas we can switch off and relax...get the fires roaring, Aga churning out fabulous food, family and friends visiting and generally enjoy being settled at last! 

I am looking forward to...seeing my family up close and personal again. I haven't seen then for three years! I can't imagine where that time has gone. It's so frightening. I spent three hours on the phone to my sister on Saturday so just imagine how many hours we'll spend nattering when we're together. 

Around the house...there's only minimal furniture due to our impending move. Everywhere is clear and clean within an inch of its life as this week we have had the pleasure of having to have noisyparkers..(cough)... stickybeaks...I mean... potential tenants to view the house. I'm hoping that the first family to come through the door wants to live here so that we don't have to keep having inspections. 

I wish I could say I've found my reading glasses somewhere in the house but unfortunately there's no sign of them turning up yet. Maybe as a friend suggested they might appear at the other end in a packing box. I think they decided to go AWOL on our doggy walk, but I like to think that they'll be found on the other side as it were. I'll certainly let you know if that happens. They'll probably turn up when I buy a new pair...isn't that what always happens?!?!?

I've possibly binned heaven knows what over the last few weeks because I've found a bag of chilli seeds and scrunched up kitchen paper in a bag in the freezer yesterday. Don't ask me????? 

Lock me up NOW!

A favourite quote for today...Seize the day!

One of my favourite things...I always find this question a tough one to answer because I have so many favourite things. I've probably told you a good few of them over the last year or so...hmm...which to choose for today?
I'll just go and pop the kettle on whilst I think....
Well I suppose by what I've just written it should be a cup of tea. It starts my day. I was going to challenge my son that if he gave up drinking coke I would give up my cuppa...for a whole month! Thank goodness he didn't take up the challenge because quite frankly I don't think I'd have been able to do it! 
There's music too...it surrounds me.
My artwork that went missing for so many years and I'm so grateful that we've found each other again. I realise now it's who I am! 
Looking across at a vase of flower...they make me smile and I don't think I could live in a world without trees and flowers. 
Oops...it says one of my favourite things...okay I'll stop there but before I do obviously my hubby and children would always be my most favourite things. That goes without saying! :D

    

A few plans for the rest of the week: Work, rest and play but not necessarily in that order...I'm making the most of each day : D 

A peek into my day...Well it's actually 3 peeks into my day! 

We've been visited each morning by a flock of corellas and this morning they made so much noise that they disturbed Muffy from her snoozing! 

And this is what she was keeping a close eye on...

Here's a close-up but unfortunately all of these photos were taken through our bedroom window, so they aren't as clear as I would have liked...

Who's a pretty boy then?

 So that's it for this week; I hope you enjoyed your visit and if it's your first time reading my day book entry, I hope you enjoyed it.

Don't forget to pop over to The Simple Woman's Daybook and check out the other day book entries.

 I hope to see you again soon...Have a wonderful week everyone...whatever is on your plan.

Have fun!!!