Friday 28 March 2014

13/52 2014




Son and Son-in-law. Jarvis loves Guy. Or "Di", as Jarvis calls him. Every time he sees Guy he wants to copy what he is doing.

I watched the two boys on Sunday, through the veranda door doing repairs on Guys bike and thought that Guy's time spent with Jarvis is good training for this father to be.


Last year Jodi inspired me to pick up my camera and turn the focus inward. This year I have opted to continue with the series as I feel there are still so many family stories to be told through photos. So I will continue to Link up with Jodi  (the artist formerly known as Che & Fidel now Practising Simplicity) for the 52 Project.




Thursday 27 March 2014

WHAT I GROW IN MY GARDEN: ROSEMARY

Rosemary is an easy to grow herb. This herb love a warm, very sunny spot with good soil drainage. They don’t care how hot and dry it gets, but they really thrive in alkaline soils and love lime. If your rosemary isn't looking too healthy and you know your soil is acid, apply lime and see what happens. Rosemary doesn't need much fertilising (just a bit of slow-release fertiliser once a year is enough) and doesn't like too much fertiliser. Wet, humid summers and badly drained soils can make rosemary plants unhappy.


I grew mine from a cutting of a rosemary plant the neighbours were growing as a hedge. (Thanks random neighbour who has given me years of seasoning from my favourite herb) Just take 30cm long tip cuttings in spring, summer or autumn, pop them in a pot of potting mix, and they should strike for you.

Beside tasting amazing there are many health benefits associated with Rosemary. I have copied the below from a medical journal Dad got years and years ago when he was having radium and chemo. Not sure if all is accurate, but it does sound good.

16 Health Benefits of Rosemary
Rosemary is a Mediterranean herb with needle-like leaves and pink, blue, or purple flowers. The word "rosemary" comes from the Latin words ros (meaning "dew") and marinus (meaning "sea").
It is used in many culinary dishes and is commonly used to flavor soups, sauces, and meats. In addition to being used in cooking, it has also been used as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments over the centuries. Studies have found that our ancestors weren't wrong in using it medicinally.
I think you'll be amazed as we were to find out just how many benefits rosemary has. Here are 16 health benefits of rosemary that'll make you want to use it on a regular basis.
Cancer Prevention
Rosemary contains carnosol which has been found in studies to be a potent anti-cancer compound. Researchers have had promising results in studies of its efficacy against breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, leukemia, and skin cancer. In one study, researchers gave powdered rosemary to rats for two weeks and found that it reduced the binding of the carcinogen given to the rats by 76% and significantly inhibited the formation of breast tumors.
Improved Memory
Rosemary has long been believed to have memory-enhancing properties. In 1529, an herbal book recommended taking rosemary for "weakness of the brain." Today, research has found that rosemary contains a diterpine called carnosic acid that has neuroprotective properties that researchers believe may protect against Alzheimer's disease as well as the normal memory loss that happens with aging.
Remarkably, even the smell of rosemary has been found to improve memory. Test subjects in cubicles were given essential oil of rosemary to smell and they had better quality of memory and better overall memory than the control group, though their speed of memory was slower compared to the control group.
Mood Elevator
The same study that found that smelling rosemary improved test subjects' quality of memory also found that their mood was significantly improved compared to the control group.
Migraine Help
Rosemary has been a popular natural migraine remedy for centuries. Boil some rosemary in a large pot of water and pour it into a bowl. Place a towel over your head and lean over the pot to inhale the steam for about 10 minutes. Because smelling rosemary has been found to improve memory and mood, this method may also help with memory function and put you in a better state of mind.
Pain Relief
It not only helps relieve the pain of migraines, but essential oil of rosemary can also be applied topically as a natural treatment for arthritis, sore muscles, and other joint and muscle pains.
Anti-Inflammatory
Rosemary contains two potent anti-inflammatories, carnosic acid and carnosol. One study found that these two compounds inhibited COX-2, an enzyme that causes pain and inflammation in the body. They also inhibited the production of excess nitric oxide, which also plays a role in the inflammatory process.
Immune Booster
Rosemary boosts the immune system thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties. Because it is healing in so many ways, it boosts the overall health of the body.
Antibacterial
Studies have found that rosemary has powerful antibacterial properties against H. pylori (the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers) and Staph infections.
Digestive Health
Rosemary is often used to help treat digestive problems such as upset stomach, constipation, indigestion, and almost any other digestive related problem. It also helps to prevent foodborne illnesses when ingested with foods such as meat or eggs.
Hair Growth
There is a possibility that rosemary may stimulate hair growth. One study found that people with alopecia, a disorder that causes the hair to fall out, had significant hair regrowth after rubbing rosemary, lavender, thyme, and cedarwood into their scalps for seven months. However, it is not clear whether it was the rosemary or the other herbs that caused the regrowth.
Better Circulation
Essential oil of rosemary is often applied topically as a natural remedy for poor circulation, though there have been no studies to prove this effect.
Fresh Breath
Rosemary can be used as a natural mouthwash and is said to work very well. To make the mouthwash, steep fresh rosemary in a pint of heated water. Strain it and use it as a mouth rinse as often as you like. It will keep in the fridge if covered.
Diuretic Properties
Rosemary is a mild diuretic, which means that it can help get rid of bloating and water retention in the body. When rosemary is used regularly, it may help in the increase of urine flow and help the kidneys function at optimal levels to help get rid of excess water in the body.
Respiratory Health
Rosemary is a great natural remedy for respiratory problems. Breathing in the scent of the essential oil may help with congestion due to colds, allergies, respiratory infections, and the flu. You may also boil fresh rosemary in a pot of water, place it in a bowl, and breathe in the steam to help clear the lungs and throat. This will also help with any sinus or head pain associated with respiratory conditions.
Liver Detoxification
Rosemary has been used to treat liver problems for hundreds of years. Hippocrates prescribed it for this purpose. One study found that rosemary extract reduces cirrhosis in rats given thioacetamide, a toxic compound that is toxic to the liver. It also prevented liver damage from tetrachloride in rats and mice.
Anti-Aging
Rosemary is a popular ingredient in anti-aging skin creams because it helps reduce puffiness, stimulates cell regeneration, increases firmness, and improves overall skin tone. It is a natural anti-inflammatory and increases blood flow to the skin.
Precautions
For the most part, rosemary is considered safe with no side effects. However, pregnant women should avoid consuming large amounts of rosemary because it may lead to uterine contractions and miscarriage. People with high blood pressure should not take rosemary because it may raise blood pressure.

Tuesday 25 March 2014

JARVIS IS GOING TO BE AN UNCLE! BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, I AM GOING TO BE A GRANDMOTHER


And with one tiny being, a whole list of other people were created. A new Mum. A new Dad. A new Grandmother...the list goes on.

PS hop over to my Facebook page, give it a like, plus help me pick a name. No, not for the baby for me.

Monday 24 March 2014

MARCH MENDING

At the beginning of the year I set myself sewing goals. The post on this can be found here. For the first two months I achieved them with ease. However, for March I have deviated. Instead of following the list, I have found contentment in mending, in finishing all of those unfinished projects. Okay, I have not finished them all, yet I am finding a sense of growing happiness at the lessening of the "to do pile" and the growing of the 'done' pile.



Red Gingham Dress, is still there waiting to be finished, you can see her under a stash of fabrics that I am turning into baby wraps.

I have still managed to sew at least one, or more item per week, yet I have not posted about it. I have not practiced or learnt a new skill this month. Or sewn using my vintage patterns, yet I have been making for someone other. This last item is the thing that is bringing such happiness. That act of giving for no reason other than I want to. 


My boxer shorts are traveling around the globe for other people to wear. 

Friday 21 March 2014

12/52 2014


Just one, simple photo, from one simple moment. Sometimes it is the simplest things that make a Mumma/Mummum happy. (Tamika calls me Mumma, Jarvis calls me Mummum). Looking over and seeing your two children so comfortable and cuddling up on the couch.

This week Jarvis has learnt to say Tamika's name. Okay, not really, but for the first time he is actually addressing her by something. The unfortunate thing is, he is shortening Tamika, who sometimes gets Teak, to Dick. This week all he talks about is Dick, he will say "Dick home", his way of asking if Tamika is coming over. Lucky for him, Tamika has had dinner with us every night this week, bar for Thursday night. During the day he will ask "Dick home" and if I am not quick enough he gets my mobile and calls her. Yes, he knows how to unlock it and phone his sister.

Last year Jodi inspired me to pick up my camera and turn the focus inward. This year I have opted to continue with the series as I feel there are still so many family stories to be told through photos. So I will continue to Link up with Jodi  (the artist formerly known as Che & Fidel now Practising Simplicity) for the 52 Project.




Thursday 20 March 2014

WHAT I GROW IN MY GARDEN: ONION CHIVES

Chives are members of the lily family grown for their leaves and flowers. Both onion and garlic chives are grown and used in a similar fashion. Some gardeners use onion and garlic chives as a perennial edging or border plant in a flower border or an herb garden. I have mine growing with all of my other herbs in pots. Great for renters and for the option to move them around to chase the seasonal sun.


Onion chives are grown for their leaves and rosy purple flowers with a mild onion flavor.

Garlic chives also known as Chinese chives, are grown for their mildly garlic-flavored leaves and pretty white flowers. The leaves are flat, not hollow like those of onion chives

Chive plants grow in clumps. When the clumps get too large after a few years, they can be divided in early spring.
Chives prefer full sun, but plants also grow in partial shade, especially in the warmer climates such as we have here in Brisbane.

To be honest I just stuck my seedling in the pots, water it occasionally and hope for the best. It has survived three years this way.
However, here are some "instructions" on how to grow and care for your chives: Set out plants in early spring in soil amended with plenty of compost or a good slow-release fertilizer, placing them 8 to 12 inches apart. For fast growth, plant in rich, well-drained soil. (Plants are tough enough to withstand poor soil, but just won’t grow fast.) Be sure that the soil drains well. They need little care other than watering until well-rooted. It is recommended you harvest often, and fertilize every 3 or 4 weeks with a liquid plant food. Although the flowers are nice, the plants produce more leaves if you pinch off the flower buds.

If your plant starts to struggle, such as mine is just starting to, cut the plants back to the ground. They will come back in spring. I just cannot bring myself to do this as I cook with this herb several times a week.

You can begin harvesting leaves as soon as they are big enough to clip and use. Cut from the outside of the clump, about 1/2 inch above soil level, always leaving plenty to restore energy to the plant. Although fresh is best, you can store extra for winter use by chopping and freezing the leaves, or you can also preserve them in herb butters, oils, and vinegars, where they blend well with parsley and tarragon.

Not much of a food stylist, so Jarvis helped with the photography. He thought my images needed a bit of yellow car to complete the look. 

Friday 14 March 2014

11/52 2014





For our family day, we took a drive up to Mt Mee and Mt Glorious. Stopped off at D'Aguilar National Park for all of Jarvis's favourite things. A walk in nature that involved lots of sticks to pick up, piggy back rides, some chasey, and of course a game of hide.

Followed by a yummy lunch. Where Jarvis continued to play hide, in Daddy's shirt, even while attempting to eat chips.


Last year Jodi inspired me to pick up my camera and turn the focus inward. This year I have opted to continue with the series as I feel there are still so many family stories to be told through photos. So I will continue to Link up with Jodi  (the artist formerly known as Che & Fidel now Practising Simplicity) for the 52 Project.




Wednesday 12 March 2014

27 MONTHS


Growth & Appearance:
Not much has changed, in this area, this month. I think all of your effort has gone into other areas. Oh, you do have a new scar on/near your lip. Another one of your climbing adventures. I came home from work to find you covered in blood...


Eating:
You are still a gobble guts. But this month you have developed an addiction to "bena". Your Dad has always drunk ribena, and now you want it with him as well. I am aware of the extreme high levels of sugar in this drink, so we water it down and pack it full of ice.
I think you love cooking/baking with me, just so you can snack your whole way through the process.


Talking: 
So this was the month you opted to talk. Wow, so many new words we cannot keep up. Just this morning you clear as day, asked for a 'milk', a word you had not said before. You are talking in sentences. Not all is clear, yet you are trying so hard to make yourself understood.
Along with talking, you just cannot seem to help yourself breaking into song. You will sing all day. Often putting on 'performances' for anyone who will watch you.


Sleeping: 
You, have only had one nap, a day, for the last month. Most days it works well, some days I can see how tired you are, come bedtime. You sleep during the day in your bed (no nappy) and at night next to us (with a nappy).

Development:
Up until two weeks ago, I was still putting you in a nappy for big trips out, and long car rides. Two weeks ago, we went to Movieworld, and you decided that day you would no longer wear a nappy. Two weeks, and no accidents. I am so proud of you. Kid you were the easiest thing ever to toilet train. I am only putting a nappy on you now for your night sleep.


Favourites: 
"Hide" with Daddy, is one of your favourites this month. You are not very good at hiding and will not do it alone. You like to hide under the sheets, insisting Justin lay next to you. I have to stomp around the house, yelling "where is Jarvis", which will set you off into fits of giggles.
You also love drawing chalk onto the pavers. So you will often walk around with a little multi coloured butt. So cute.
Water, water, and more water. You love swimming lessons with your Daddy. Hosing the garden with me. Plus, bath and shower time. You would stay in until wrinkly and there was no hot water left, if I let you.


How I am thinking/Feeling:
My baby, has gone. In his place is this strong, determined child. You are the reason I want another child. Not only are you a delight, I would love to give you a sibling to play with. You adore Tamika, but the age difference is too great. Watching you cart your Bunny and Bear around, calling them "baby" and feeding them and sitting at the table with them having morning tea. Oh, Jarvis how this makes me wish with all my heart I could have another child. I feel great sadness and emptiness that this cannot happen. It also makes me want to hang onto you with all my might as I know how quickly you are growing up. 


Saturday 8 March 2014

10/52 2014


Jarvis thinks undies are the funniest thing, he is a boy who prefer to go commando under his pants.


Our mid-week week-end was spent at the Museum. It was a nice slow day. Checked our emails before we left. Took our time getting dressed. Then stopped for a snack before entering the museum. Slow days, with Justin and Jarvis. A much needed day off when working almost full time for the next couple of weeks.

(Note: Jarvis is not drinking coke, or any other softdrink. When we went to the movies this is what his popcorn came in, and now when ever we hop on line he likes to set himself up with my laptop and empty popcorn container)


Last year Jodi inspired me to pick up my camera and turn the focus inward. This year I have opted to continue with the series as I feel there are still so many family stories to be told through photos. So I will continue to Link up with Jodi  (the artist formerly known as Che & Fidel now Practising Simplicity) for the 52 Project.



Wednesday 5 March 2014

WHY I AM NOT MARRIED

 People often ask why Justin and I are not married. My answer is that it is impossible to compete with his many other loves.

Justin developed his first love when he was still at school

His second love came while he was at university.

"The Wife" and he have been together almost two years now

But thanks to Matt at Dad Down Under, Justin now has a Mistress.


His love for his Mistress is strong, however, he likes to share her around. Justin cannot wait to offer visitors a taste from his new Mistress. I guess, I can be happy he is not wandering the streets searching for satisfaction, he can now find it in our own kitchen. 

Tuesday 4 March 2014

GUEST POST OVER AT LITTLE OLD SOULS

This week I seem to be getting around. Today I am guest blogging over at Little Old Souls. Bettina has this amazing feature going, where she not only introduces wonderful blogs, those bloggers in turn recommend some of their favourites. I have found so many new blogs to become addicted to.  Make sure you pop over and read my post, then back read all of the other blogs Bettina has featured. 



Monday 3 March 2014

GUEST POST OVER AT UNDER LOCK AND KEY. STAY AT HOME MUM OR WORKING MUM?

Stay at Home Mum? Working Mum? (Though I hate that title, as ALL Mums work!) The choice is never going to be easy. How to balance children, work and still trying to have time for yourself. Some choices are so hard to make.

Not all things in life are painless. 

Today I am over at Under Lockand Key writing a Guest post for Trishie who is a new Mum to the adorable Alexander. Trishie is posting a series of blogs from other Mums who have had to make the choice about returning to work. Pop over to her blog and have a read of my post. 

But as long as I have both my children with me, I can endure all most anything