tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59875852059566184482024-03-06T18:23:49.524+13:00Maven in trainingmusings on motherhood, homemaking, crafts and learning to live a simpler life.Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.comBlogger222125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-30576225020222164872013-12-07T09:06:00.003+13:002013-12-07T09:06:24.407+13:00This moment ~ joining in with Soulemama<div style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center;">
{this moment}</div>
<div style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center;">
A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-YZdTndI_qwgvUAR_1PbfzxPoBEYRm_9Uok_kgLk40xt6Hbv1ivNJJoRlc54enVfgZtpG7a7Hd1kQEfgXPaR_8hjJbnzrdyAZxrpf0KwXuTD45LUPwHl2rngtyYc-L6sVohXHj2de3r1/s1600/Cohen+Dec+092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-YZdTndI_qwgvUAR_1PbfzxPoBEYRm_9Uok_kgLk40xt6Hbv1ivNJJoRlc54enVfgZtpG7a7Hd1kQEfgXPaR_8hjJbnzrdyAZxrpf0KwXuTD45LUPwHl2rngtyYc-L6sVohXHj2de3r1/s640/Cohen+Dec+092.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-65307769302873167002013-08-08T14:41:00.001+12:002013-08-08T14:41:25.523+12:00The best kind of collaborationI love a collaborative project and this has been my favorite so far.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9GrzCV3wj1fg5QbmvYszCukftzHwY9GPOGNnG21xnd7fq5UZSJxfQN5oo7t6I5rXdgP7DrIDQYfRfvaz8uO7TR4QW266eAIJyEvboEu636RbnOiV8aUxdDDA05ZqOxvo4Fp3mqfbOH1v/s1600/aug+6th+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9GrzCV3wj1fg5QbmvYszCukftzHwY9GPOGNnG21xnd7fq5UZSJxfQN5oo7t6I5rXdgP7DrIDQYfRfvaz8uO7TR4QW266eAIJyEvboEu636RbnOiV8aUxdDDA05ZqOxvo4Fp3mqfbOH1v/s400/aug+6th+012.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
My little 2 year old often tags along fabric shopping and quite enjoys looking at all the patterns with mummy. On our most recent trip to the local kid friendly quilt shop he found some fabric with diggers, planes, trains and helicopters on it. So just like mummy does he picked up the whole bolt and walked over to the counter and pushed it over for the lady to cut. And if that wasn't cute enough he then went back for the other designs he liked too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAZwbos1SuVLK01K1pzIYFBSBCeeKurQQTD8-IMkt88YEd5SwAZWYpbBCtVV03imYgXA2WxfSNBNKd-HOyAtodUMAmPXpVxwEWQBhpBzG2PuxmXrmzM4Jl1BLTlNhkKO2t9jKU4wxN_1jO/s1600/aug+6th+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAZwbos1SuVLK01K1pzIYFBSBCeeKurQQTD8-IMkt88YEd5SwAZWYpbBCtVV03imYgXA2WxfSNBNKd-HOyAtodUMAmPXpVxwEWQBhpBzG2PuxmXrmzM4Jl1BLTlNhkKO2t9jKU4wxN_1jO/s400/aug+6th+013.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
My goodness i just melted, too cute for words, and yes mummy folded and bought some. It was good timing actually as he's nearly ready to go into a big bed and i'd been planning on sewing him a single bed quilt.<br />
<br />
So home we toddled and over the next week we have had so much fun, getting out the fabric and playing with it. I cut all the squares out and Cohen's job is to hand them to me to sew.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8fsuruWvUpMk3LYu3Hx_49fc37DWCFT5WVo3ZXAR-TstmUK4qq30BhEk2MyuipWikxK4pSd49-1oKml7ptbjxIwa3Z07rDDR_D25viRJ2D4WQ8prYjFGIc3kaSUqwiFewO7093Nt22rm/s1600/aug+6th+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8fsuruWvUpMk3LYu3Hx_49fc37DWCFT5WVo3ZXAR-TstmUK4qq30BhEk2MyuipWikxK4pSd49-1oKml7ptbjxIwa3Z07rDDR_D25viRJ2D4WQ8prYjFGIc3kaSUqwiFewO7093Nt22rm/s400/aug+6th+015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's been a lot of fun sewing with my little boy and i love his enjoyment of the fabric and the process.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGTH6Nak2oZTKHEUUglqpnkEsYsnE6KNV0Vr15TeQA5sfDlRa9KQNEgxf_p2iJOE8_DB9gFs8Fj_e1Y1hCoWsxXWEg5nfUz6iOtDeeIgFsqM1A0Bw4l6YuN-1FMEaChSs8umvE-wNfOX6/s1600/aug+6th+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGTH6Nak2oZTKHEUUglqpnkEsYsnE6KNV0Vr15TeQA5sfDlRa9KQNEgxf_p2iJOE8_DB9gFs8Fj_e1Y1hCoWsxXWEg5nfUz6iOtDeeIgFsqM1A0Bw4l6YuN-1FMEaChSs8umvE-wNfOX6/s640/aug+6th+017.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjikaae-_57PD2smblQ1XSbmQsBCFRVDprJQtywJaXUbM5Xb6VMkRyixbysntWxdiD3cDEmG3Xv9wwSc_8ryD4EQDgbyMLtBt4EkqMoJRu7-_RCYxQNIXGEJybQ45MiVh116g9tBHnHPeVo/s1600/aug+6th+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjikaae-_57PD2smblQ1XSbmQsBCFRVDprJQtywJaXUbM5Xb6VMkRyixbysntWxdiD3cDEmG3Xv9wwSc_8ryD4EQDgbyMLtBt4EkqMoJRu7-_RCYxQNIXGEJybQ45MiVh116g9tBHnHPeVo/s400/aug+6th+022.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Plenty of fun, laughter and a little bit of time for mummy to indulge her hobbies too. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a great week everyone and hopefully we'll have the finished project to show you soon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-20046052459231907262013-07-21T20:45:00.002+12:002013-07-21T20:45:12.630+12:00This moment with Soulemama<div style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center;">
<em>{this moment}</em></div>
<div style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center;">
A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.<br /><br />If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDKtsfON0m1ESkPOjSorGJgVB4DfHcgUAYcF7sOFP6TymmQJHsmIZdVcf21PLGVYtToWoHaCbJxm0Uw9zkF42L6AeoAM4FqVP3zTgqA7wWJxi1yMPF6sVWphhtu37YRr9P6Tzk1LbSecO/s1600/july+18th+039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjDKtsfON0m1ESkPOjSorGJgVB4DfHcgUAYcF7sOFP6TymmQJHsmIZdVcf21PLGVYtToWoHaCbJxm0Uw9zkF42L6AeoAM4FqVP3zTgqA7wWJxi1yMPF6sVWphhtu37YRr9P6Tzk1LbSecO/s400/july+18th+039.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-87780779087964843222013-06-15T21:30:00.000+12:002013-06-15T21:30:59.600+12:00Caramelised walnuts, salad and pizza nightSo this is one of my new favourite things, caramelised walnuts. I've seen this recipe all over the net but hadn't tried it. So finding myself with an abundance of walnuts i thought it was the perfect time to give it a go. The idea was to make a healthy, sweet snack to avoid the not so healthy kind but turns out i enjoy these more in a savory salad.<br />
<br />
Now these are super easy to make and last well in an airtight jar. I hope you'll try them out.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b>Caramelised walnuts</b></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b><br /></b></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Cups of walnuts</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 T honey</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
pinch salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Firstly toast the walnuts in a frypan for 3-4 minutes until golden. Stirring frequently. Be very careful to watch them, toasted walnuts can turn into burnt walnuts very easily.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS9WK9tjOI5vc5AtK0XVo_oPpFrmhFUet56oQ0XFfPP488Z_WSDnudOTGQ2mp9WNKrOmsQfSrqJIvBTjH7Ey0410kJYq4xR-E9z6PzYPj4PxlU1puoyNUeb_dwx0_qDnTOzJZG5cbraAMD/s1600/6thJune+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS9WK9tjOI5vc5AtK0XVo_oPpFrmhFUet56oQ0XFfPP488Z_WSDnudOTGQ2mp9WNKrOmsQfSrqJIvBTjH7Ey0410kJYq4xR-E9z6PzYPj4PxlU1puoyNUeb_dwx0_qDnTOzJZG5cbraAMD/s400/6thJune+020.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once toasted, add the pinch of salt and the honey and cook for a further 2 minutes on a low heat until caramelised. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc14jyUJitOtr6hE7KOC7yKn_ozXQrC5OzvUFYfMNdZjxlkcYxKoFhDLS8sIJoP5Xndb1YOSx_2u81EyENQRp7bQw1Wu_UYXySK28savBOnUvWnzolnNPTo7vsRFlBcgXRY7MdwXzOXrpu/s1600/june+15th+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc14jyUJitOtr6hE7KOC7yKn_ozXQrC5OzvUFYfMNdZjxlkcYxKoFhDLS8sIJoP5Xndb1YOSx_2u81EyENQRp7bQw1Wu_UYXySK28savBOnUvWnzolnNPTo7vsRFlBcgXRY7MdwXzOXrpu/s320/june+15th+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mine were on the borderline to getting burnt! but luckily i saved them in time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5RPCEE-gWCL5YE9TK5zl1o2EtREhII8JYLWdELxsVZEu-tVix7oQQkY4wacMHTGwrBxlvIh0SIPWalu3AkdTX-v7h-rjUKSLJztPM2e36AMBrPJaE58GpMKkFGNtNrO60WwiHfq0-fO6P/s1600/june+15th+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5RPCEE-gWCL5YE9TK5zl1o2EtREhII8JYLWdELxsVZEu-tVix7oQQkY4wacMHTGwrBxlvIh0SIPWalu3AkdTX-v7h-rjUKSLJztPM2e36AMBrPJaE58GpMKkFGNtNrO60WwiHfq0-fO6P/s400/june+15th+003.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Turn out onto a non-stick plate or mat to cool. Once cooled eat or store in a airtight container.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5CxO54VelvcBlSf08nPQ5w5HQqwXyK_rjboHwTkEWAV3leP-FtffS3dUTPNo-RuDofVMZywEjw_ctaqAiK-dPeJVkGHTC6LlJUxqVol5Sr0ya8IanemSUk6EOlBPc3YwT1Mau0HsqXApI/s1600/june+15th+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5CxO54VelvcBlSf08nPQ5w5HQqwXyK_rjboHwTkEWAV3leP-FtffS3dUTPNo-RuDofVMZywEjw_ctaqAiK-dPeJVkGHTC6LlJUxqVol5Sr0ya8IanemSUk6EOlBPc3YwT1Mau0HsqXApI/s640/june+15th+007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I sprinkled these on a green leafy salad with some shaved parmesan and a balsamic dressing. It was so delicious i had two helpings. The walnuts aren't super sweet so they were perfect on a salad. I think they would be yummy with some blue cheese too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvHSNMT0euuvOmAxIF7PHJxDbxgSpaxB0Tp_4bfX7Hk3IJbmvyqYJl8uZalMNvVKjI2NT0xkMseXLoils4qPnKqR3YzaP398X4r50Yb3UudM3_jjDhByHE08woOFtOILgickIFahV4shlm/s1600/june+15th+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvHSNMT0euuvOmAxIF7PHJxDbxgSpaxB0Tp_4bfX7Hk3IJbmvyqYJl8uZalMNvVKjI2NT0xkMseXLoils4qPnKqR3YzaP398X4r50Yb3UudM3_jjDhByHE08woOFtOILgickIFahV4shlm/s320/june+15th+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It made for a yummy dinner alongside some hummus pizza and my first movie night with my little man.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
'just keep swimming, just keep swimming' - excellent advice from Dory.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have a great week everyone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-15581002146719246432013-06-08T13:29:00.001+12:002013-06-08T13:29:24.327+12:00Back from the edgeHello toe everyone still following along. It's been a while since i have been in this space. Life definately took over this past month and i'm so so happy to be on the other side of that craziness. In short i took on some extra work over the past few months to prepare a group of organisations for audits. Please don't go to sleep quite yet, i know auditing is a not a riveting topic for most but for me i love helping an organisation to find value in an audit and to move forward to better and bigger things.<br />
<br />
So for the last month i have lived and breathed it and in truth - it was awful. As i've said i enjoy auditing but with a small son this meant extra long days, extra time in care, dropping out of activities like music groups, play group etc... <br />
I'd like to say first up that some mum's do an amazing job working full time and raising kids but i'm not one of them. The stress piles up, i stop doing as much housework, i'm checking emails while playing with Cohen, i stop eating and cooking, takeaways and snack foods start to take up residence. And the whole while i'm tired, frustrated, stressed and have no energy for my family. Everything i enjoyed dropped away - yoga, coffee with friends, crafts, this blog and quality play time with my son.<br />
<br />
And for all that - I am grateful.<br />
- Grateful my mum came and took up residence for the final week, cooking, cleaning and caring for my son. - That is the most valuable thing she could have done.<br />
- Grateful that it is finished.<br />
- Grateful i can choose not to do that again<br />
- Grateful i don't need to work more than is right for our family.<br />
- Grateful to be home<br />
- Grateful to be up to my elbows in stickiness, cartoons, cars and parks.<br />
<br />
Life is back in balance and nothing makes me feel better.<br />
So coming back is the crafts, the sewing, the cooking, the baking and the playtime. Life is good this week.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsGIGfj0QD1tkhYfD5mkhHj5me4DLnOnnPjfR7Hy0-nEOwoGypVRS46tbKGbj5Sst5JuW9peBRwDOmAxlJDOIz8xLYms04aovdMIoFRk6NfE6sU-HrYDXi3-Q2PDBAgrDM3B8tOVIDSaie/s1600/1st+June+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsGIGfj0QD1tkhYfD5mkhHj5me4DLnOnnPjfR7Hy0-nEOwoGypVRS46tbKGbj5Sst5JuW9peBRwDOmAxlJDOIz8xLYms04aovdMIoFRk6NfE6sU-HrYDXi3-Q2PDBAgrDM3B8tOVIDSaie/s640/1st+June+020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Simple broccoli salad</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 head broccoli, cut into florets and boiled for 2 minutes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2-3 rashers bacon, chopped</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
parmesan cheese</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 T pinenuts</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
oil</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In a fry pan cook the bacon in a little oil until cooked, then throw in the pinenuts and toast for 2 mins until golden.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then in a bowl assemble the cooked broccoli, bacon and pinenuts. Top with shaved parmesan to taste and a simple vinegarette.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 T balsamic vinegar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 clove finely crushed garlic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 whoelgrain mustard</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 t honey</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 T olive oil</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Serve cold alongside roasted meat or with a handful of cooked chickpeas as a main.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-79469583875004629512013-05-13T20:19:00.002+12:002013-05-13T20:19:40.965+12:00Loving... Grateful.....<i style="text-align: center;">My Monday night ritual to reset and start the week in a good place. Feel free to join me and tell me what you are grateful for in the comments. </i><br />
<i style="text-align: center;"><br /></i>
<i style="text-align: center;">~ Loving....</i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
- A little time to rest and relax amongst a busy schedule.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i style="text-align: center;"><br /></i>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFu6-od5Pv6Pc7y-ebo4FQoukKISnNbxelyLbkuVuUjQXxQTQdZP_VTsxQ9fanKIv1-NQcfW3JDQIGxiaUVFq1poeVe7xq6YGO7IwXNPidJHo1LE8Tn4rQNOmQVKVxwBZfwwjVb2Xrm9dA/s1600/2d+April+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFu6-od5Pv6Pc7y-ebo4FQoukKISnNbxelyLbkuVuUjQXxQTQdZP_VTsxQ9fanKIv1-NQcfW3JDQIGxiaUVFq1poeVe7xq6YGO7IwXNPidJHo1LE8Tn4rQNOmQVKVxwBZfwwjVb2Xrm9dA/s400/2d+April+017.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<i style="text-align: center;"><br /></i>
<i style="text-align: center;">~ Grateful</i><br />
<i style="text-align: center;"><br /></i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- For the safe arrival of a perfect little nephew this week. I can't wait to meet this lovely little man.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- That the busy times will be finished in a few weeks and we can go back to our regular routine. The routine where i have more time to play, laugh, bake and sleep! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- For photos like this that make me giggle. In case you are wondering this picture was taken inside a big blue toy bin which is over our heads. We're never too old to play and be a bit silly.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a great week everyone.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pause, breathe, be kind, be grateful</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-14478754555214890942013-04-30T12:40:00.003+12:002013-04-30T12:40:49.168+12:00Red garden soup <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made this soup at the end of autumn with the last of the seasons tomatoes. Yesterday i was feeling a bit under the weather with a cold and thought it was the perfect time to pull a bowl of soup out of the freezer. It is such a delicious nourishing soup recipe, packed with veges and perfect for those cold, damp days, i thought it was about time i shared it with you all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Red garden soup</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So into a pot put 2T oil and heat. Throw in</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2-3 sticks celery, chopped</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2 carrots, chopped</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2 onions, chopped</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and 1 bay leaf</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Saute for about 10mins</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBuaO6vnxDWSqrS-8bFVBarLmxO29EctbqE_t8ZZFk9xxG5aORBQwkG_gj0UmAVacgT4kFQzc7jBPzQRXAOMBW8QMT7j4eM_MHKgx7xPwaY0RfGapDty3T68F0vJXIXp2a8fNoA_6_N9X/s1600/april+12th+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBuaO6vnxDWSqrS-8bFVBarLmxO29EctbqE_t8ZZFk9xxG5aORBQwkG_gj0UmAVacgT4kFQzc7jBPzQRXAOMBW8QMT7j4eM_MHKgx7xPwaY0RfGapDty3T68F0vJXIXp2a8fNoA_6_N9X/s640/april+12th+036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then throw in your tomatoes. I chopped the bigger ones but left the little ones whole. I used about 1.5kg of tomatoes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9N_wlGtaMoPVPyLguF5xEWFfLa6pokYdpTDZLPKL78StrN0xudEC3osYTOKmV9CPDQIDejrja9Qj0MsomuyoRCRCJXP0ghXx_HbBPwr4GO9sKeQOc6ZyzlLag_RbZVBFD4sKg0azQUmE6/s1600/april+12th+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9N_wlGtaMoPVPyLguF5xEWFfLa6pokYdpTDZLPKL78StrN0xudEC3osYTOKmV9CPDQIDejrja9Qj0MsomuyoRCRCJXP0ghXx_HbBPwr4GO9sKeQOc6ZyzlLag_RbZVBFD4sKg0azQUmE6/s640/april+12th+037.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pour over 3 cups of chicken stock.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Season with salt and pepper.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Simmer for about 30mins until all the veges are soft.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Remove the bay leaf.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blend with an immersion blender.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you like a smooth soup you can also push the soup through a sieve. This is good if the tomato skins are a little tough.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZiOmPCfvtg44AhXbb-KtW43fjMR9dvoqNdCrSrNKx69DS3TQkRt1bGPGX4Mpn8UqqZXLp3f1dTjNw0ySTCEbmh89LEb_OJKelZbtrUh1ekH17z-0gGVEHM-FgMuRWgZWw355SE6Q1MxN-/s1600/april+12th+043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZiOmPCfvtg44AhXbb-KtW43fjMR9dvoqNdCrSrNKx69DS3TQkRt1bGPGX4Mpn8UqqZXLp3f1dTjNw0ySTCEbmh89LEb_OJKelZbtrUh1ekH17z-0gGVEHM-FgMuRWgZWw355SE6Q1MxN-/s640/april+12th+043.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Serve with warm toast and butter, or you can add a dollop of unsweetened yoghurt and some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or coriander for something a little different.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a warm, happy day.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-81407884251568767822013-04-22T21:54:00.001+12:002013-04-22T21:54:44.612+12:00Loving... Grateful....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>My Monday night ritual to reset and start the week in a good place. Feel free to join me and tell me what you are grateful for in the comments. </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~<i> Loving</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The last of the summer tomatoes being made into a nourishing soup as we head into winter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogvEJUlYrIeMxnWygnnHb09CRIkbr4XK_tcsjo8W19Dl2ilZYY5dT7DpolR4aPM15U0CLQS-Hd0XIH9RrUj0JP9EYK4aZ1n6MNYzLZFEpLHW5a4kqcOxhmSps5Kb3zUoljPXYmhPYKHsh/s1600/april+12th+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogvEJUlYrIeMxnWygnnHb09CRIkbr4XK_tcsjo8W19Dl2ilZYY5dT7DpolR4aPM15U0CLQS-Hd0XIH9RrUj0JP9EYK4aZ1n6MNYzLZFEpLHW5a4kqcOxhmSps5Kb3zUoljPXYmhPYKHsh/s640/april+12th+037.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Grateful.....</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ For new opportunities</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ for family coming to stay</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ for said family doing a heap of those jobs i never quite get round to</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ hand dyed wool</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ for finally getting the hang of knitting</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ baby snuggles</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
~ chatty toddlers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Life is good.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a great week everyone.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-58452009583251138882013-04-20T13:11:00.001+12:002013-04-20T13:11:10.100+12:00This moment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px;">Joining in with<a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/" target="_blank"> Soulemama</a></em></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px;">{this moment}</em><span style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 19px;"> - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhij3cr3IsvebW6eVjuKH7TN8mNPjWILoTbTk_OIo_gJ8ZxaNXX9sZ05SJG8mZqqFAqHZbQqjv_-VtlewhvoC1OsLafOZaVt3-3f9yR6Fjl9pwxZDuzsUVRnWWC7QCdkpXMYhrnCLnfZ-mh/s1600/april+12th+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhij3cr3IsvebW6eVjuKH7TN8mNPjWILoTbTk_OIo_gJ8ZxaNXX9sZ05SJG8mZqqFAqHZbQqjv_-VtlewhvoC1OsLafOZaVt3-3f9yR6Fjl9pwxZDuzsUVRnWWC7QCdkpXMYhrnCLnfZ-mh/s640/april+12th+020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Enjoy the last of the summer sun.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
<br />Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-88739703104111894422013-04-16T20:12:00.001+12:002013-04-16T20:13:33.581+12:00Weetbix slice - thanks FatmumslimInspiration was lacking today, it's baking day but between the housework that needed doing and the sad news of Boston on my mind inspiration was sorely lacking. I'd decided it would be store bought biscuits for afternoon tea until i saw fatmumslims post for her childhood favourite - weetbix slice. Sold. I too have fond childhood memories of this slice, weetbix slice it is.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghF-TL4Ewbxkvljin5qrn7sand7_QTn1YvtkK2kXVYrGEP3dow_Dd0EV2gLEmqr6uaE0aqKtOKJzRxX1q6HfyeDHHqfp2OXQnxtynKipVST_lkPR_zd_tUYLtHQnQBAFjYa2ojQtb09MgX/s1600/april+16th+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghF-TL4Ewbxkvljin5qrn7sand7_QTn1YvtkK2kXVYrGEP3dow_Dd0EV2gLEmqr6uaE0aqKtOKJzRxX1q6HfyeDHHqfp2OXQnxtynKipVST_lkPR_zd_tUYLtHQnQBAFjYa2ojQtb09MgX/s640/april+16th+006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A lovely crunchy weet-bix base.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGfpBBJCpgjOCBxohBGLj6wf6QItCBRwlpd3j_0EAqtyrZROjJyZVsHxQoMTutbs1ornqTXYxc4MEeSDbz6E_1ZV9HoJ7_84FPY6hbSeT_lVrAe7jyWKAG8qGsOGDEDj-cQs6cGdkj-Vy/s1600/april+16th+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGfpBBJCpgjOCBxohBGLj6wf6QItCBRwlpd3j_0EAqtyrZROjJyZVsHxQoMTutbs1ornqTXYxc4MEeSDbz6E_1ZV9HoJ7_84FPY6hbSeT_lVrAe7jyWKAG8qGsOGDEDj-cQs6cGdkj-Vy/s640/april+16th+011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Topped with some soft chocolate icing. A bit of a treat for little tummies.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you want to give this one a go you can find the recipe over <a href="http://fatmumslim.com.au/childhood-fave-weetbix-slice-with-chocolate-icing/" target="_blank">here </a>at FMS.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy baking everyone and hug your loved ones close.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-47526743768539606852013-04-15T21:42:00.002+12:002013-04-15T21:42:42.665+12:00Loving... Grateful...<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;"><i>My Monday night ritual to reset and start the week in a good place. Feel free to join me and tell me what you are grateful for in the comments. </i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;"><i>It's been a few months since i last did this, but it feels like it is more than due to start again</i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">All that we are is the result of what we have thought. - Buddha</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">Loving ....</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">The last of the summer sun.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3f9Xth3M-MkUgr0MzhnkAekjZBEzGJUDI6NSTbsK6N8OMGS5jH24tclGLwTmSMxBJwPnXcI-2POYnO5R4DR05tNhJsXotmMe_ty9Wr3Lu-NlLulnrnqKX0E07tSlgEtGWbawsW0zrXXx/s1600/april+12th+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3f9Xth3M-MkUgr0MzhnkAekjZBEzGJUDI6NSTbsK6N8OMGS5jH24tclGLwTmSMxBJwPnXcI-2POYnO5R4DR05tNhJsXotmMe_ty9Wr3Lu-NlLulnrnqKX0E07tSlgEtGWbawsW0zrXXx/s640/april+12th+021.JPG" width="480" /></a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: start;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grateful....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ for time</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ for choice</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ for the love in my life</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ for hot cocoa on a cool night</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ for my little baby who is rapidly becoming a little boy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ for yoga which stretches the body and releases the mind</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
~ for rest.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Breathe, be grateful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
</span>Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-10209438241337972432013-03-29T21:31:00.002+13:002013-03-29T21:31:40.786+13:00Hot cross bunnies (fail)Easter calls for freshly baked hot cross buns and this year i tried adding a little twist. It was semi successful.....<br />
<br />
With visitors coming for easter and being unsure if they ate traditional hot cross buns i decided to split the batch and make half traditional and half chocolate hot x buns. Then for a little fun i thought i'd make a few of them bunny shaped like the many you see going around pinterest and facebook sometimes.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bunny Rolls" src="http://media-cache-is0.pinimg.com/192x/c1/59/74/c15974cd0525c1cfa340064744d938dc.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ah aren't they cute! Unfortunately mine weren't all that successful and came out looking a little more hamster like. lol.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKA24-cq2ujl7Orb3iGncNPAKnZs0xh1-ebC165pAGPdyiW9uIXCD-GxqDJAZrlg-W3DkGGurOc1_gj9cuIBrbHd4hghu3yj1OuZXRfKFFcgwebW_qT1FMQehGH6RVnFcVEJaSL6UFhx5P/s1600/29th+march+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKA24-cq2ujl7Orb3iGncNPAKnZs0xh1-ebC165pAGPdyiW9uIXCD-GxqDJAZrlg-W3DkGGurOc1_gj9cuIBrbHd4hghu3yj1OuZXRfKFFcgwebW_qT1FMQehGH6RVnFcVEJaSL6UFhx5P/s400/29th+march+012.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hahaha that's even funnier in a picture! I won't be giving up my day job yet. On the up side they were super yum! With big chunks of chocolate and just a little spice.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the other side of things the hot cross buns came out great. This is my go-to recipe if you feel like trying some this weekend.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hot cross buns</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="LEFT" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Preparation
time 3 hours</span></span></span></div>
<div align="LEFT" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cooking
time 20-25 minutes</span></span></span></div>
<div align="LEFT" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Ingredients</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">1½
teaspoons active dry yeast</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">1
cup warm milk</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">100
grams butter, softened</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">2
eggs</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">4
cups high grade flour</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">1
teaspoon salt</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;">2 teaspoon each ground allspice, mixed spice, cinnamon and nutmeg</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">¼
cup brown sugar</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">1
cup raisins</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">milk
or egg wash to glaze</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Method</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Stir
the yeast and milk together and set aside in a warm place for 15
minutes or until the mixture is frothy.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;">Beat
softened butter and eggs into the frothy mixture.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Put the flour,
salt, spices and brown sugar into a food processor and pulse to sift.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture mixing until it forms a soft dough. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyekbWvZB0F52QrWnMwD3GEoXvJxRcaMhjx53qFDR-RzLQQ6uEXPxlYpG_EBUf_EnBgP2j4s2HX73TojnICYbRHFkniHXcsvjqgS6haeACRSEr_PgQXYsYJEZ3PU7aA01Bd4R4yG7cyQKV/s1600/29th+march+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyekbWvZB0F52QrWnMwD3GEoXvJxRcaMhjx53qFDR-RzLQQ6uEXPxlYpG_EBUf_EnBgP2j4s2HX73TojnICYbRHFkniHXcsvjqgS6haeACRSEr_PgQXYsYJEZ3PU7aA01Bd4R4yG7cyQKV/s400/29th+march+004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Process for 1 more minute.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Add the dried
fruit and pulse to just mix.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Turn
the dough into a greased bowl, turn over and cover with greased
plastic wrap. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Set aside in a warm place for about 1 hour until the
dough has doubled in size</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">Divide into 12-14 pieces roll into a ball and place on a tray, put them about 1cm apart. I like to put them in a round tin.</span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhDrF3ZCGceff0QzpOodfPBgR2gRcHFUbccCm7bzww6fMKm_3PtqE6CDRtLfiZONM2AH4IMvfFIDymrJ-1Bl0TxDQrdub3JfYlrIL_lkUyhf2Z6LyO7kfOCaFY5JMpjl8f_lo8URnbTJk/s1600/29th+march+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhDrF3ZCGceff0QzpOodfPBgR2gRcHFUbccCm7bzww6fMKm_3PtqE6CDRtLfiZONM2AH4IMvfFIDymrJ-1Bl0TxDQrdub3JfYlrIL_lkUyhf2Z6LyO7kfOCaFY5JMpjl8f_lo8URnbTJk/s400/29th+march+005.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">Cover with a tea towel and set aside for 30 mins.</span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 8pt;">Preheat the oven to 190 ºC.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brush
the buns with milk or egg wash to glaze. Pipe thin crosses onto the
buns with the cross paste.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; text-align: left; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bake for 20-25 minutes.</span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5_DEpAfS4Dnr7urcGri-vAzKe5xdnXpuL24OBdeab-8wAAzXCnYT5yu_6DCCj01xUESNCOiB6JzDZeDOyiQbh7TngLyU6rjlBa9LvZpY8LXfWoK_Sx5w7JKah_yY8Xdm8ax2u37barcrz/s1600/29th+march+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5_DEpAfS4Dnr7urcGri-vAzKe5xdnXpuL24OBdeab-8wAAzXCnYT5yu_6DCCj01xUESNCOiB6JzDZeDOyiQbh7TngLyU6rjlBa9LvZpY8LXfWoK_Sx5w7JKah_yY8Xdm8ax2u37barcrz/s640/29th+march+010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">I don't usually bother with the crosses but if you want to add them</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cross paste</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">½ cup flour</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">¼ teaspoon baking powder</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">1 tablespoon butter</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">about ¼ cup milk</span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">For chocolate buns - omit the spices and raisins from the above recipe and add in 1 t cinnamon, 1 T cocoa and 1/2 -1 C chocolate drops.</span></span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-61602879470773936952013-03-27T20:45:00.000+13:002013-03-27T20:46:37.099+13:00Sweet treats and busy weeks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The days seem to be flying by with not enough hours in the day. I have a sense of rushing through my days, my tasks and my food. It's only now i take a moment to breathe tonight that i realise how i'm letting the time pass by without taking time to really be in the moment. You miss so much that way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But for me it's a natural state when i'm under stress, work faster and more to try and reduce the pressure. But it really doesn't work that way, i need to slow down breathe and get everything back into perspective. The world will not end if i don't finish a report on time! So after all that ranting, i'm going to take a deep breath, slow down and tell you about a few sweet things from the week past.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So on Sunday i attended a dessert making class. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhq9-EEvFJJrSM-rRas6T1ASqkkI2_OS6AVpwd7aofFflVnEx05j0t7xXgefu4-WegzdzmWkHl1DJ_2QSZC8iFgQWS61NcO22oG2RnDnsLTmxAWx5QvKwoaLihyphenhyphenJBqnB1qJnRdvQlPAmE/s1600/march+27th+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhq9-EEvFJJrSM-rRas6T1ASqkkI2_OS6AVpwd7aofFflVnEx05j0t7xXgefu4-WegzdzmWkHl1DJ_2QSZC8iFgQWS61NcO22oG2RnDnsLTmxAWx5QvKwoaLihyphenhyphenJBqnB1qJnRdvQlPAmE/s400/march+27th+005.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We made chocolate tarts, vanilla panna cotta</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Y06sgutAmHq1xZtf-sXRtPA2YLzFoF1AXOmWkNvV-E9taNcAHGEsU29zofHMBmDmr_O803jhZJFU5g9fb9BVhhw8YYTpK8eseoGpaahs6U9MJNG-X95nlxDQdBANpI5ZssCxaER6_6yZ/s1600/march+27th+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Y06sgutAmHq1xZtf-sXRtPA2YLzFoF1AXOmWkNvV-E9taNcAHGEsU29zofHMBmDmr_O803jhZJFU5g9fb9BVhhw8YYTpK8eseoGpaahs6U9MJNG-X95nlxDQdBANpI5ZssCxaER6_6yZ/s400/march+27th+001.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
and tiramisu. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was great fun and i've developed a new love for panna cotta. A creamy italian dessert where the cream is cooked with sugar and flavours and set almost like a cream jelly. Not a great description but very luscious.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
With all the rushing around i have been doing there's been little time for craft lately, another sign i'm working too hard. So tomorrow i'm taking a break. Off to the pools with my little man in the morning and some crafting tomorrow night hopefully, and maybe a little Easter baking to share with you all.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Take care everyone. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rest, relax, breathe</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-17504377586662508862013-03-22T21:17:00.003+13:002013-03-22T21:17:33.155+13:00Lunchboxes - Broccoli and chickpea saladI'm still feeling very time poor around here and struggling to get everything done in a week. I need to become one of those super organising people who can whip any week into shape and get everything done. I also need to get a unicorn. Not sure which one is more likely to happen.<br />
<br />
For the meantime i will plod along trying to get enough done to keep my house from falling apart and my family happy. So here i am tonight to share with you a quick healthy lunch from my week.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Something a little different.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b>Broccoli and chickpea salad </b></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b><br /></b></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Half a head of broccoli</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 drained tin of chickpeas</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 C crumbled feta</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 C pine nuts</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Note - You can add any salad veges you have like tomatoes, chopped spinach, red onion but my cupboards were otherwise bare that day and i love a simple salad some days.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Dressing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 T balsamic vinegar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 t wholegrain mustard</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 finely chopped clove of garlic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 C olive oil</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 t honey</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
pinch salt and pepper to taste</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mix together and set aside</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBX8lv0tR8FWy-TWBopueWuZyVoS2rIbLlrSZ81IHc_C446wX8iZQv4uf8Ec4uCRIsqVukL00V54Mz9uEdA9l3hQqQruvwDRg-FIBM7Xe3ZL7JUVd1pqK-tRn2LfYFUBGPonwN2g6ZDwVC/s1600/March+22nd+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBX8lv0tR8FWy-TWBopueWuZyVoS2rIbLlrSZ81IHc_C446wX8iZQv4uf8Ec4uCRIsqVukL00V54Mz9uEdA9l3hQqQruvwDRg-FIBM7Xe3ZL7JUVd1pqK-tRn2LfYFUBGPonwN2g6ZDwVC/s400/March+22nd+009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cut the broccoli into small florets and blanch by throwing into a pot of boiling water for 1-2 mins (depending how crunchy you like it), strain and run under cold water to cool and stop the cooking process.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Chuck in a bowl with the chickpeas and feta.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsV-i_iGh3c-na1iy_M1FC2kcDyMHr0PEOkWBdIwPhRX8Szugbn70njOH4ngflHJP5kErrNBeOKCYJh45tBbhizu-lJVIHvX7WMY0_AV8UDtKCyIFatnCfDFJYPBzS4RJeBj4bOfJ7L37g/s1600/March+22nd+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsV-i_iGh3c-na1iy_M1FC2kcDyMHr0PEOkWBdIwPhRX8Szugbn70njOH4ngflHJP5kErrNBeOKCYJh45tBbhizu-lJVIHvX7WMY0_AV8UDtKCyIFatnCfDFJYPBzS4RJeBj4bOfJ7L37g/s400/March+22nd+006.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stir through the dressing. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03tOju3u66R1AywNnqnJeXqw2j-Sp87_H9DaDWLn2SwhlyBJMLmoXcgzaXm3HUlXJizdiDFuA0Fph1kunhAR1hsvEOiMRkzkNApO8rmGPIxXrPFhqIKzlCWMp7TjH9U7Bq9yR31TrVpuA/s1600/March+22nd+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03tOju3u66R1AywNnqnJeXqw2j-Sp87_H9DaDWLn2SwhlyBJMLmoXcgzaXm3HUlXJizdiDFuA0Fph1kunhAR1hsvEOiMRkzkNApO8rmGPIxXrPFhqIKzlCWMp7TjH9U7Bq9yR31TrVpuA/s640/March+22nd+010.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Done.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I find this is better eaten on the day it's made as the broccoli goes a little soft the next day. It's still tasty though and a good healthy lunch for busy weeks.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a great weekend everyone</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-41565911277671051342013-03-19T20:30:00.003+13:002013-03-19T20:30:55.588+13:00Womad 2013Well we are back from the NZ Womad festival, and we are very tired and damp! The weekend was one of many discoveries. There was some amazing new music, the discovery that my little boy can run much faster than i thought and the reality of camping at a music festival for 3 days with a nearly 2 year old. Yep it was interesting, tiring and wonderful and maybe something i don't want to repeat for awhile.....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGMoeq9XSjY1_KbGH50P4DCjd1WV0gqEi0JhzsMH4NHKUGjyljlM9uO-VU9DFsCUdZrdKKIVyEbHrWIQVH4L457tonJQxO-RKjVY-PNPzD7C5ncgkiwTFMor0mzzwKuWFMyPreXmKpaUr/s1600/March+19th+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGMoeq9XSjY1_KbGH50P4DCjd1WV0gqEi0JhzsMH4NHKUGjyljlM9uO-VU9DFsCUdZrdKKIVyEbHrWIQVH4L457tonJQxO-RKjVY-PNPzD7C5ncgkiwTFMor0mzzwKuWFMyPreXmKpaUr/s640/March+19th+002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGSpt66QKa3lZqcevPolqOaGKb-JTlaxTHDPczqwHjEFRIpvccl4xf2qCcPffsvVqO29MIyt81yy73HVnmW4i7i0ZcSWheqq9IP4hnnSgKomsGMzF6iImUsjmVLJs8KpNukGaihGNLAoH/s1600/March+19th+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGSpt66QKa3lZqcevPolqOaGKb-JTlaxTHDPczqwHjEFRIpvccl4xf2qCcPffsvVqO29MIyt81yy73HVnmW4i7i0ZcSWheqq9IP4hnnSgKomsGMzF6iImUsjmVLJs8KpNukGaihGNLAoH/s640/March+19th+016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32S8b0oP8etr9wqZYHZthzypvmGRTI4cXgQge9XxFGE4A-AzA_fU3hd-rp-NmuXPVUbYud1bF8h9_HMW5d7Se0BfD0-KPBV-QVA7UTTcbUF9MzOC7qIuSw2QV50VHYXljjOA53eLYygU-/s1600/March+19th+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32S8b0oP8etr9wqZYHZthzypvmGRTI4cXgQge9XxFGE4A-AzA_fU3hd-rp-NmuXPVUbYud1bF8h9_HMW5d7Se0BfD0-KPBV-QVA7UTTcbUF9MzOC7qIuSw2QV50VHYXljjOA53eLYygU-/s640/March+19th+020.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3b_KNtA-Wd_bno9ipDc380b_MB_XPNCR8iHjuL3lK1puLhfAh6xqQ-3sSn0DzAC2_MwR8EwEI-6vgZ3tNKBlW_I7MkoUQZWoBW8KltNrMoABeiP6T-m5q1q5gPNj1y9ggN5Deg59dPnZ/s1600/March+19th+024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3b_KNtA-Wd_bno9ipDc380b_MB_XPNCR8iHjuL3lK1puLhfAh6xqQ-3sSn0DzAC2_MwR8EwEI-6vgZ3tNKBlW_I7MkoUQZWoBW8KltNrMoABeiP6T-m5q1q5gPNj1y9ggN5Deg59dPnZ/s640/March+19th+024.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDNWMfKDwy6wby0IuGVQlmmOfLC4NU3eGry1sVdoKHIljQtkk4gkJgIi5L7i1MaT4ldoj72_TOpsITa3hDqKyNbu4uBp9sxkXAXNqjCcUhT9oI_jSLpGiiqJ4TLi7mYzeH9HRnACiWWOqP/s1600/March+19th+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDNWMfKDwy6wby0IuGVQlmmOfLC4NU3eGry1sVdoKHIljQtkk4gkJgIi5L7i1MaT4ldoj72_TOpsITa3hDqKyNbu4uBp9sxkXAXNqjCcUhT9oI_jSLpGiiqJ4TLi7mYzeH9HRnACiWWOqP/s640/March+19th+013.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXjt32KKYz-b7cD5G3HNlUB8tJBWURkfT_Ebh3z4a6_cVIOB2wY20ELyXge7L_uoueQvth7_Vd3mXEi_9wD6b-9tBl3PaARj3i96pp7UHax5KJ1oWzvFkEmBz0gM0XULgoRcYkIbcx0Yw/s1600/March+19th+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXjt32KKYz-b7cD5G3HNlUB8tJBWURkfT_Ebh3z4a6_cVIOB2wY20ELyXge7L_uoueQvth7_Vd3mXEi_9wD6b-9tBl3PaARj3i96pp7UHax5KJ1oWzvFkEmBz0gM0XULgoRcYkIbcx0Yw/s640/March+19th+029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTFg1rPmjvlqBiOY1LsLOI_gKg_aY-A_iTYGwABWtu3XreIUwMzOUKzaveMliAtcKslU3i35XR6vaSPV6gY0zo0quWO1FiM-jJKKG611jtOB5IIMlHUQT3sERkhCAKTwvWUIo7QPxh0Kr/s1600/March+19th+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTFg1rPmjvlqBiOY1LsLOI_gKg_aY-A_iTYGwABWtu3XreIUwMzOUKzaveMliAtcKslU3i35XR6vaSPV6gY0zo0quWO1FiM-jJKKG611jtOB5IIMlHUQT3sERkhCAKTwvWUIo7QPxh0Kr/s640/March+19th+030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Yes it rained, an extra delight with a little one when staying in a tent. Little man had a blast in his wet weather gear and little dragon gumboots. Definitely a family weekend to remember.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Right 9 loads of washing down, 2 more to go!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Take care everyone.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-620698455248770902013-03-13T22:16:00.002+13:002013-03-13T22:16:45.445+13:00More fabric and helpful toddlersI seem to be very time poor lately, running from one thing to the next with little time to sit and be still. Have i mentioned the toddler we co-habitate with? Might have something to do with that. Anyway i'm still trying to fit in a little bit or sewing or knitting to keep a bit of balance. With the toddler sleeping a little less these days i've been carting him around to fabric stores and the like so i can at least get a few things done. You know the really important stuff like - BUYING FABRIC FOR MUMMY. I'm sorry i'm not shouting i just felt it deserved capitals, it's just that important.<br />
<br />
Anyway i'm ranting today but here's a few pictures of what happens when you try to measure out fabric with a toddler sewing apprentice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8iCKAOHqRi4zoE9EX4XdoLKISr5JCWFkqyKy-LUasza-7Qg2SfkKfUcyeG-G90l4v7gdwZOk5tTWbqZkwLYHGvOMYRtKpn4YGP59SoEKXeOwsk2soE2c4WrC6fwpja41yUOBNTH_apQuf/s1600/march+13th+034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8iCKAOHqRi4zoE9EX4XdoLKISr5JCWFkqyKy-LUasza-7Qg2SfkKfUcyeG-G90l4v7gdwZOk5tTWbqZkwLYHGvOMYRtKpn4YGP59SoEKXeOwsk2soE2c4WrC6fwpja41yUOBNTH_apQuf/s640/march+13th+034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KSG2vKICfe-Cfwvzyb5IM4BIUpopOmR6AX8dRaLT2NNr1xWS16KkXMML_23XobYBCyVkXtfj_dY_B1tl174Or5iJzslKT2VW8r3dwt6Iql2Xm332a4SDRUC9p0Uu4nxHnOR7E9eBh4Hj/s1600/march+13th+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KSG2vKICfe-Cfwvzyb5IM4BIUpopOmR6AX8dRaLT2NNr1xWS16KkXMML_23XobYBCyVkXtfj_dY_B1tl174Or5iJzslKT2VW8r3dwt6Iql2Xm332a4SDRUC9p0Uu4nxHnOR7E9eBh4Hj/s640/march+13th+035.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBsDs2k0yit0caIiDEtU26zsu714c4q82Sf4mpDm2q_KUI28rOgOt61sECZhAH9-No9IpI6j5o5QydisXOkYeUh8KvV3KMX8xvD2QSay-sVNQ0648vs9CoeFY8944q-AuqQV5r39BlJEaP/s1600/march+13th+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBsDs2k0yit0caIiDEtU26zsu714c4q82Sf4mpDm2q_KUI28rOgOt61sECZhAH9-No9IpI6j5o5QydisXOkYeUh8KvV3KMX8xvD2QSay-sVNQ0648vs9CoeFY8944q-AuqQV5r39BlJEaP/s640/march+13th+036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Helpful right? But seriously who could be mad at those adorable little feet.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And just for more amusement here's what happens when elastic shirring thread accidentally gets pulled into the sewing machine and tangled in the gears. Sheer talent that was.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7LJBphadospeXwFeWeMnZ2NFLHyu-I1hEG0tX5LyvKnxwQshQWo20LLmJTYRQYF5wGL5A4MsvN8_rP0gokH5SaW9g_j-igza5sZlE8ptEzGeVAUjPv2XHSfjm7H7A5TF0cZ9RCvzIgKTL/s1600/march+13th+052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7LJBphadospeXwFeWeMnZ2NFLHyu-I1hEG0tX5LyvKnxwQshQWo20LLmJTYRQYF5wGL5A4MsvN8_rP0gokH5SaW9g_j-igza5sZlE8ptEzGeVAUjPv2XHSfjm7H7A5TF0cZ9RCvzIgKTL/s640/march+13th+052.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now this is why i love my old crappy bernina machine. It's over 30yrs old and comes with it's own repair kit so i was able to fully open it up and with a little help it was back up and running in 10 minutes. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Which is great cause i have more sewing to do before we head off to the NZ womad festival in the next few days.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So excited! Expect to be swamped with pics soon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
<br />Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-65449711305381696992013-03-08T22:00:00.001+13:002013-03-08T22:00:18.666+13:00My house is covered in fabricOk not all of it, but yep quite a bit. I have so many projects on the go and every time i get up i seem to have collected more wayward threads from the last sewing session. Maybe i should vacumn more and sew less. Lol yeh ok not even i believed that was an option.<br />
<br />
Since finishing the washi dress i've been obsessed with getting more fabric and making more clothes. Suddenly shopping for pre-made clothes has become sooooo boring. Everything is the same! the same colours everywhere i turn, the same styles - all of which seem to be unflattering on a pear shape at the moment. It's all so boring and now a whole world of sewing has opened up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_Ypx5ImS0QT9Q7uSjX_3R5TqsH9NRvMJywmMTtW9tn3YkgxrgTbmjTzNy5dA71I0mqQEZKty9mPmx_yW1ayJ2fSsy_vx-GWGpOD_bQUmUv5aRR0F93ATbF3QfV_Tp3Q0ELmIlgMtWKaN/s1600/march+8th+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_Ypx5ImS0QT9Q7uSjX_3R5TqsH9NRvMJywmMTtW9tn3YkgxrgTbmjTzNy5dA71I0mqQEZKty9mPmx_yW1ayJ2fSsy_vx-GWGpOD_bQUmUv5aRR0F93ATbF3QfV_Tp3Q0ELmIlgMtWKaN/s640/march+8th+003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the fabric covering my sofa at the moment waiting to be made into this lovely skirt.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51IxsTLf2N91fa-BBwImc7uRVobTWH5wWCNSaSU9IvMavC9h8wMbHKRx1oQugxaCsBANtBZt_f9DK-Hk3uuItc9lffHexleAhRnxjm-Un2dxfNxpiFuRJJOAJIJObpjSeNygmZlXWbkD7/s1600/march+8th+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi51IxsTLf2N91fa-BBwImc7uRVobTWH5wWCNSaSU9IvMavC9h8wMbHKRx1oQugxaCsBANtBZt_f9DK-Hk3uuItc9lffHexleAhRnxjm-Un2dxfNxpiFuRJJOAJIJObpjSeNygmZlXWbkD7/s640/march+8th+005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a classic wrap skirt from the book<a href="http://heatherross.squarespace.com/books/" target="_blank"> Weekend Sewing</a> By Heather Ross.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://heatherross.squarespace.com/storage/weekendsewingj_web.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1272387906852" /><br />
<br />
A lovely wee book i picked up at the library while chasing the toddler up and down the aisles. Cause that's what library are for, running, squealing and hiding from mummy. On another note if anyone has any advice on dealing with running, squealing, hiding toddlers who thinks it's the best game ever let me know. And it turns out ignoring the behaviour results in loosing him entirely for a few stressful moments, so maybe not that approach again.<br />
<br />
Anyway weekend sewing here i come, the skirt is all cut out and ready to sew, if the book's claim is accurate i should be able to whip up a new skirt tomorrow - running, squealing, hiding toddler depending.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a great weekend everyone.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-6004082768774718132013-03-05T20:28:00.001+13:002013-03-05T20:28:17.070+13:00Working WashiSo i decided to join the <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/2012/09/washi-madness/" target="_blank">Washi dress </a> bandwagon after seeing a<a href="http://ivynest.blogspot.co.nz/2013/02/summer-wardrobe-washi-dress.html" target="_blank"> dress made by Tania at Ivy nest</a>. Such a lovely dress and it looked so comfortable. Even better i thought it just might work with my rather ample pear shape that can be so difficult to dress well. Now i love to sew but it's been years since i sewed an item of clothing. Put off by so many patterns that just didn't fit properly at the end it always felt like a waste of time. A few years, a lot more sewing experience and the perfect pattern and we have success!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJWLs_1d79F-k_1j3whKnyt1veVQx5RAvBIPLFTrEpDCacRQSGZ_W4TbMqu-aLMWrm6g8lo9eX47utoU8ueUFOtmIpCn9RyJ7HpoeMRLEv2IufOOM1jRc4rnDEzQfcP1GltKs2Hh3uDo6-/s1600/march+5th+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJWLs_1d79F-k_1j3whKnyt1veVQx5RAvBIPLFTrEpDCacRQSGZ_W4TbMqu-aLMWrm6g8lo9eX47utoU8ueUFOtmIpCn9RyJ7HpoeMRLEv2IufOOM1jRc4rnDEzQfcP1GltKs2Hh3uDo6-/s640/march+5th+004.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Please excuse the rather bleary 'running off to work, quick take a photo' look on my face.<br />
What can i say i'm not a morning person.<br />
<br />
Now this is a pretty plain fabric for a washi, and with good reason. This was some leftover fabric i decided to use to make a 'mock up' dress before starting on the real thing. But as it came together i thought although it was plain, it might just work. And it does, it looks slightly formal but is still extra comfy for a day at work.<br />
<br />
What an amazing pattern this was to make. I have so many plans for future Washi dresses and tops.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Check out the other Washi pictures and buy the pattern over at Made-by-Rae and also check out her celebrate the boy week. So many cool things to make for the little men in our lives.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a great week everyone.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-92101930038933285752013-03-02T21:56:00.001+13:002013-03-02T21:56:45.945+13:00This moment - with Soulemama<em style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; text-align: center;">With<a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/2013/03/this-moment.html" target="_blank"> Soulemama</a> {this moment}</em><span style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 19px; text-align: center;"> - A Friday ( Saturday in NZ) ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnUjItE6ecxW_bhSYqm_QDBoAmq6_Ay-lFrYyZwMPigfFzCX7h9m2DAB-zWyrAHIUzk3b-R7L-Y_4MOU8EOUML5o1ny2KMoAmc7tf0V8aLPNKXjD8MqAOmiRFhgvoLbvqPf1SjqwE9YqTW/s1600/March+2nd+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnUjItE6ecxW_bhSYqm_QDBoAmq6_Ay-lFrYyZwMPigfFzCX7h9m2DAB-zWyrAHIUzk3b-R7L-Y_4MOU8EOUML5o1ny2KMoAmc7tf0V8aLPNKXjD8MqAOmiRFhgvoLbvqPf1SjqwE9YqTW/s640/March+2nd+028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br style="background-color: #fbfaf8; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; text-align: center;" />Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-16221759686791750392013-02-25T20:18:00.002+13:002013-02-25T20:19:45.958+13:00Floor pillow fancy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Finally it's finished! The giant floor pillow i posted a pic of a few weeks ago finally has the central buttons sewn in. After a few misadventures i have learnt some important lessons - while nylon thread is wonderfully strong it will rip through your fabric in a heartbeat if it is tensioned too much. A sad lesson to learn when the center of the points ripped through and i had to try to repair it. It's not perfect but most of the damage is hidden by the central button and hopefully won't rip further.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhphvTO1oILDMpbfq5Ej0T1fV8oQoGCgaXjqgJCJnhFaANjxF92RVTDZdasUuJAG4nc5DVuEBaIUCqRKbL76ZbAlntvZ-l96yAJhB5BOYCtUJjrxcQ_1p3quowlRfyFdFKO1kcocSJuPvHx/s1600/feb+24th+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhphvTO1oILDMpbfq5Ej0T1fV8oQoGCgaXjqgJCJnhFaANjxF92RVTDZdasUuJAG4nc5DVuEBaIUCqRKbL76ZbAlntvZ-l96yAJhB5BOYCtUJjrxcQ_1p3quowlRfyFdFKO1kcocSJuPvHx/s400/feb+24th+010.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_1094123163"></span><span id="goog_1094123164"></span><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaFV8JZjBE41uI9Oko_3XKjsjWkQ5JrkdxJmEkhVoh871AFZoTyytGqT0DpL3Cis0QYVhG0KDUqBZjsEfPeIWoAC-ubyIxZ1WnanUc3BcLVeO08jXp5PpClq2iVKW6RWGOaTFHpXzEuVP/s1600/feb+24th+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaFV8JZjBE41uI9Oko_3XKjsjWkQ5JrkdxJmEkhVoh871AFZoTyytGqT0DpL3Cis0QYVhG0KDUqBZjsEfPeIWoAC-ubyIxZ1WnanUc3BcLVeO08jXp5PpClq2iVKW6RWGOaTFHpXzEuVP/s640/feb+24th+002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBdhO7J3RjCJgjl9io7uMUoXn7X8826Y_s2XwH-eyg3wLJ_UPbo06PKA0z7deETfh-aRsGA-oQrFghkS9OQoGfAciiAg4y1eGlxurJbdAtYBqIfmDKXB2M4kqjR0ynMag_7jtOioJYTL7H/s1600/feb+24th+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBdhO7J3RjCJgjl9io7uMUoXn7X8826Y_s2XwH-eyg3wLJ_UPbo06PKA0z7deETfh-aRsGA-oQrFghkS9OQoGfAciiAg4y1eGlxurJbdAtYBqIfmDKXB2M4kqjR0ynMag_7jtOioJYTL7H/s640/feb+24th+005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It really is lovely though and after my initial reaction on finishing it - It's huge! where on earth are we going to put it! - I'm pleased to say it lives right in our lounge, we use it every day and love it.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
<br />
<br />Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-43666194476489895922013-02-23T16:52:00.003+13:002013-02-23T16:52:35.866+13:00This moment with Soulemama<br />
<h3 class="entry-header" style="background-color: #fbfaf8; border: 0px; color: dimgrey; font-family: Courier, 'Courier New', monospace; font-size: large; font-weight: normal; margin: 1px 0px 10px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/2013/02/this-moment-3.html" target="_blank">{this moment}</a></h3>
<div class="entry-content" style="background-color: #fbfaf8; clear: both; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 19px; margin: 10px 0px; position: static;">
<div class="entry-body" style="clear: both;">
<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center;">
. . . . . . . . . . </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center;">
<em>{this moment}</em> - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.<br /><br />If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4CKN1VYujjHrCvkZ5w0JqcOLmFI9UvyXc6i-8XIOC84NoLPVxSYjPCsQgG6vIFqP0urX78CAJyP2xJcYxCwN9cV896anluABhux-CbyOPz9ytqk1bO3G7yV_AY7ISdXBMXb7IR32bZZJ/s1600/feb+23rd+041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4CKN1VYujjHrCvkZ5w0JqcOLmFI9UvyXc6i-8XIOC84NoLPVxSYjPCsQgG6vIFqP0urX78CAJyP2xJcYxCwN9cV896anluABhux-CbyOPz9ytqk1bO3G7yV_AY7ISdXBMXb7IR32bZZJ/s640/feb+23rd+041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-31327559830475469712013-02-14T19:54:00.000+13:002013-02-14T19:54:42.715+13:00Slow down, be still, be mindful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sleepiness was the theme of the day after an uncharacteristically early start from my boy in the dark wee hours. He's usually a late sleeper like the rest of us and usually doesn't stir till around 7.30 - 8. So this was a bit of a shock to the system and made me think back to the newborn days when every day seemed to start in the dark. Needless to say by 8am he was a sniffling mess and needed to head back to bed. So the day routine was thrown out the window with much crying, sleepiness and out of sync naps and wakings. I found we automatically went back to our newborn survival tactics of living in the moment and took each change as it came.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can happily say we have survived and i think the culprit is a brewing cold so we will just ride it out for now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I remember the stress of the newborn days. This little man had colic, reflux and cow milk intolerance. He was so hungry all the time but feeding caused him so much pain that we couldn't consider planning a minute ahead. We literally had to live minute by minute until the pain became more controlled and the rather impressive projectile vomiting reduced many months on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh how tired i was in those early days and months. My mind was a constant fog. I couldn't make a sandwich or get on a load of washing in a whole day sometimes. Yeh ok, many times.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But i don't look back on those days as depressing or horrible. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stressful as they were it was the best lesson of my life.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Be still mummy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Slow down mummy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Housework really can wait </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sleep </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Eat</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Be mindful</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Live in the present</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Love this baby</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nourish yourself</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As i thought back on all this and remembered how it all felt i thought, yes, this is what i need today.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Slow down</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Be still</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Let the housework wait</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Live in the present</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Be mindful</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cuddle and love this child</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nourish yourself</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwDfN322SzLyB6RVZ5nbK65PJMaN8M0-5Zm8188sbNuHrpMrieOPdKzu5At0BbnmlcGwzOtdI767jO42yhFyBEE-x8d2bY_7Xf2Vczg17RZtpafCLQhl4LPTnTLWH9vK7kvNjt44IxhvW/s1600/feb+14th+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwDfN322SzLyB6RVZ5nbK65PJMaN8M0-5Zm8188sbNuHrpMrieOPdKzu5At0BbnmlcGwzOtdI767jO42yhFyBEE-x8d2bY_7Xf2Vczg17RZtpafCLQhl4LPTnTLWH9vK7kvNjt44IxhvW/s640/feb+14th+003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So here i sit at the end of the day, tired and walking in a daze and taking some time to nourish myself with a healthy dinner, some time to think and of course a good cup of tea.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thankyou all for being here with me today in this moment. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
<br />Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-89683416890044428662013-02-13T20:36:00.003+13:002013-02-13T20:36:58.688+13:00Green zebra cakes (or zucchini and chocolate)Like a lot of you on this side of the world we are currently being inundated with zucchini from the garden. We've been eating steamed, boiled and saute zucchini, zucchini slice, quiche and fritters and still we have more. Recently a friend mentioned one of her favourite ways with zucchini is in chocolate cake.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTkTWrIYwqxKEhGe-ILobuEvywlgGXNFnnskfDIVeDWz_xxp5p8ePmqddtBKV1n9VlmznTW70Nf1v1Cj7mbzTlJQF9Z1_gb78tidDinnW8us3_qmtWQQzG4CjHaNWVa2Q-Xzk4rvw0GtYQ/s1600/feb+13th+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTkTWrIYwqxKEhGe-ILobuEvywlgGXNFnnskfDIVeDWz_xxp5p8ePmqddtBKV1n9VlmznTW70Nf1v1Cj7mbzTlJQF9Z1_gb78tidDinnW8us3_qmtWQQzG4CjHaNWVa2Q-Xzk4rvw0GtYQ/s640/feb+13th+009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Now i'm not usually a fan of the whole, grate veges into a cake to make it healthier. I believe cake has one purpose in life - to taste good, really really good....<br />
But given we are at risk of being overtaken by marrows i thought i'd give it a go.I had low expectations but i was pleasantly surprised, this cake is amazing. So amazing i think it will be my go to chocolate cake recipe from now on. It's like yummy chocolate cake but super super moist.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNT1c_lflaHKeMF2-zThBsFQu73FTt5ZI9tOJtyKxQnfPQYscqsFqoZxiaLWsoECvpXGowMVkf1A_67c05I836bym328vsHlH_lKEepaNzG2ulVv-pNnAD1VzgnidzS7DA-FCDaZjRw0nj/s1600/feb+13th+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNT1c_lflaHKeMF2-zThBsFQu73FTt5ZI9tOJtyKxQnfPQYscqsFqoZxiaLWsoECvpXGowMVkf1A_67c05I836bym328vsHlH_lKEepaNzG2ulVv-pNnAD1VzgnidzS7DA-FCDaZjRw0nj/s400/feb+13th+013.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The little green flecks is where it gets the name green zebra cake. I thought it was a cute friendly name for the little ones i know. I used this recipe <a href="http://tvnz.co.nz/content/1798380/2527449/article.html" target="_blank">here </a>. The cinnamon tastes great in this cake and isn't strong at all but i really didn't like it with mixed spice when i tried it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZthGDfQ1cT1mJtdP95bmrfGRM_JnQIXHPvYB4CTcCtODryW32-BMJrR0M0h2aLDd9zz2mQeLz5uYlENRpjXEXEG-hE4sq3pwxl4_rlgKf9c0XS0zlUL7HDHbroSTZDnQwKb9B_ZQKLCN/s1600/feb+13th+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZthGDfQ1cT1mJtdP95bmrfGRM_JnQIXHPvYB4CTcCtODryW32-BMJrR0M0h2aLDd9zz2mQeLz5uYlENRpjXEXEG-hE4sq3pwxl4_rlgKf9c0XS0zlUL7HDHbroSTZDnQwKb9B_ZQKLCN/s640/feb+13th+016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The only change i would make is maybe to use a little more cocoa. And don't leave off the chocolate chips they work perfectly. A great cake though and it stays super moist for days.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Your little ones will love this. Not a crumb has been wasted in this house.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a great week everyone. xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-10190266073667571242013-02-06T13:59:00.000+13:002013-02-06T13:59:14.118+13:00In the momentI love that moment when you can feel the change in the season coming. The sunlight streams in through the windows but the air is gentle and crisp, foretelling the coming autumn. Although many people love nothing more than a hot summer's day, it's not the time of year i enjoy the most. The generations of Scottish blood and the position of New Zealand under the hole in the ozone layer means the heat of the sun is a formidable foe.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidn4TEsz1wTVjC9_SErETG9BaPznN0LDWINNQD3T62mO8nnd4PZytElT8jLnVWRJ9IMdXG5zD2tlVpJZHTaAagWHjzfNOUgMgR5CHmSXEhiAT7OZ-50waWMGSkSCkFP-bDMs5qultzBO9a/s1600/feb+6th+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidn4TEsz1wTVjC9_SErETG9BaPznN0LDWINNQD3T62mO8nnd4PZytElT8jLnVWRJ9IMdXG5zD2tlVpJZHTaAagWHjzfNOUgMgR5CHmSXEhiAT7OZ-50waWMGSkSCkFP-bDMs5qultzBO9a/s640/feb+6th+013.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
But that crisp bite in the air fills me with glee. Autumn is coming! As i sit here with my knitting, which is finally taking shape, watching an episode of<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lark_Rise_to_Candleford_(TV_series)" target="_blank"> Larkrise to Candleford </a> ( thankyou<a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/" target="_blank"> Soulemama </a>for introducing me!) i feel calm and peace wash over me. A change of season, time moving forward to new pleasures.<br />
<br />
Time to head outside with the little one and get a few minutes of sun before this season passes me by.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blessings to you and your family.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5987585205956618448.post-91413331170308485352013-02-03T21:27:00.001+13:002013-02-03T21:28:22.101+13:00Floor pillowMy mammoth floor pillow is almost complete! I just need to buy even more stuffing and a couple of buttons. But so far I'm pretty happy with the result.<br />
<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmuCRGgAlbEPUeXMYYDgaPcGIArR7w5NYvZhyphenhyphenvdCIXESPTW45UiqmUIZ3BoLlC2CI1nNbwpqK8D9XReCiG2lF_2nUd9rTW8Hy-RN5W5qTFNCa5CpwoY0niRrkLksDGGf0gXXDJPNDKvSz/s640/blogger-image--1747528115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgmuCRGgAlbEPUeXMYYDgaPcGIArR7w5NYvZhyphenhyphenvdCIXESPTW45UiqmUIZ3BoLlC2CI1nNbwpqK8D9XReCiG2lF_2nUd9rTW8Hy-RN5W5qTFNCa5CpwoY0niRrkLksDGGf0gXXDJPNDKvSz/s640/blogger-image--1747528115.jpg" /></a></div>Rachealhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10593695947359729635noreply@blogger.com2