Pasta Night

Easter Sunday was pasta night at Doonan's Road. Chorizo sausage, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, a selection of fragrant herbs and spices and most importantly, the penne pasta. Given the choice, my favourite pasta. Rich red sauce on a cool Autumn night. Just what the doctor ordered for an apple a day does not always keep the doctor away (as Kirstie soon discovered.) A tasting of fine red wine before, during and after dinner. Absolutely essential components to the night's menu. Cheese, pate and grapes to follow. Delicious end to the day. The tranquility of Bubbling Springs so much appreciated. Thank you for letting us stay. Frogs sang as did the crickets and especially good; not a snake in sight, not even a green one.

Retracing Our Steps - Returning To Tamworth

Tuesday, April 26th saw us return to Tamworth for a much needed respite from all of the travel over the past six days. There was no better place than the Sleepy Monkey so there we sat. Alysia and Sam were able to join us albeit briefly for morning tea as they were both working. We sat in the sunshine, alfresco, along with dozens of other patrons to partake of some tasty sustenance. Coffees, pancakes (with no blueberries,) Portugese tart, banana bread and a chocolate brownie saw us more than satisfied.

Spicer's Hiddenvale Grandchester

What was it about Spicer's Hiddenvale that I liked the best? Was it the beautiful accommodation where the four poster bed welcomed the weary guest each evening? Was it the restaurant and the fine dining experience? Perhaps it was the views from both the back and front verandahs of our cottage. Maybe it was its proximity to the Laidley and its Saturday morning fresh produce market. It was not the tennis court that attracted me as I am more a spectator than an active player. In prior visits it was the infinity pool that invited me to swim in its cool waters. It was too cold for that on this occasion. Ahh! Could my favourite have been my relaxing massage where all that I was required to do for 90 minutes was to relax. Or was it the friendly staff who ensured that the stay was well catered for in every way that topped my list? Twice the late night thunderstorms in distant valleys created spectacular light shows for guests to marvel over while dining in the restaurant. I had wondered what secrets Hiddenvale would reveal during a tropical storm and I was not disappointed. Maybe it was the little wallabies who visited each day. Their nonchalance to our presence inspired the guest to feel connected is maybe what earned my favour. Manicured lawns and gardens supported the tranquility so all in all I'm really not able to pinpoint the specific feature that I liked the best.

Ma Ma To Glen Innes

"What is a Ma Ma?" you ask. A reasonable question. Ma Ma is a small village only a short distance from Laidley on the Laidley-Gatton Road. Why mention or visit Ma Ma? Another good question. On our return journey we had hoped to avoid Cunningham's Gap since the traffic delays there had been untenable on Good Friday. Google maps and NAVMAN did their best to confuse us with differing versions of the best route to bypass the Gap. Undeterred we listened attentively as Karen's dulcet tone calmly directed our turns via NAVMAN. Eventually we rejoined the Cunningham Highway. At Ma Ma when we paused to re enter our destination I spotted the most unusual car parked nearby. Not sure of its type or even who owned the gleaming car but it certainly merited a cameo appearance in my blog. Onwards for many kilometres where driving was shared through Stanthorpe and Tenterfield. Accommodation booked for Glen Innes and an overnight stay. A casual walk around the almost deserted town revealed few dinner options except KFC and the loacal RSL. ANZAC Day meant that the RSL might have beeen very busy with true grit characters so we gave that a miss and KFC too. Turning down a side street we discovered a pizza shop and yes, they would deliver to the motel room. Yay! A further stop at Woolworths for some staples, wine, cheese, dip, a knife, paper plates and a complete set of new chopping boards for pre pizza munchies. Sometimes the simple things in life are the most enjoyable.

Laidley To Toowoomba

Breakfast on the verandah of the restaurant followed by a quick detour to Doonan's Road where Kirstie awaited our arrival. I was most interested to take in the Saturday morning markets at Laidley. None of us had been previously so it was an unknown quantity. Lots of cars and tents so it was obviously popular. Rows of stall holders pedalling their wares which ranged from live ducks to fresh produce. Fruit and vegetable vendors were my draw card for I desired fresh for our barbecue dinner. Laden with strawberries, grapes, rock melon and other assorted bits and pieces our next stop was Toowoomba. The Toowoomba Easter Fest suggested as a possible place of interest for tourists such as myself. However, upon arrival at Toowoomba it was clearly not for the feint hearted. News reports estimated that a 30 000 crowd had made its way to Toowoomba for the annual festival. The streets were humming with throngs of people in every street, campers in the park and enormous circus tents too. Our secondary mission was to investigate camera packages. Chats to people who knew about lenses and light exposures highlighted my meagre knowledge of the subject. A surprising discovery of a book/coffee shop provided welcome respite from the bustling and enthusiastic festival goers. Loved the comfy lounges, the friendly service and most of all the citrus tart. Meyer and Dymocks allowed us to shed a few dollars before another discovery that probably pleased me more than my ever so patient husband. Trade Secret, what does that sell I inquired of my Doonan's Road, local expert? Fashion. How lucky was I? The retail therapy outlet allowed one to purchase brand labels at a fraction of their usual cost. The outlet was almost as vast as our local Bunnings so for those doing comparisons you can imagine just how many racks of clothing awaited my scrutiny. Some days you just get lucky. This was my lucky day. An hour later purchases stowed with the fresh produce and we were off back down the steep descent; destination Plainland. A post script to this day was to wake on Sunday morning and read in the online news that Toowoomba's festival had been hit by overnight storms, flash flooding and the collapse of one of the circus tents. How quickly things transform and change at the force of a rain shower. In January of this year Toowoomba had tragically suffered loss of life and widespread destruction from a severe storm event that is still visible to this day and more likely than not, to be apparent for many months to come.

Are We There Yet?

The much anticipated road trip saw our first leg to Tamworth pass with ease. Left home at 8:50 and arrived in Tamworth with plenty of time to cruise the shops and take in afternoon tea. How pleasing it was revisiting the shopping precinct to discover its many changes since my last visit. The commercial centre was a hive of activity; so different from that of our hometown, Maitland. Tamworth had a vital feel to its streets and arcades. The variety was appreciated. Bought a few treats for myself before checking into Tamwell. Tamwell is well situated to Piper Street so that made it a perfect choice for a late night dinner and wine shared with family. As we entered town I made a hurried stop to snap a picture of the famous 'golden guitar.' Stephen was a little incredulous but ever so patient whilst I parked (my turn to drive.) I then dashed to the golden structure so designed for tourists to stand, smile and retreat before the next group arrived for a photo op. Little nap, then a delicious Thai dinner with Alysia and Sam. A troubled and disturbed sleep for reasons unknown to us both thence a 6am revelry. No breakfast, too keen to hit the road again. Hotel room coffee and off we went. Glen Innes was the next stop where fuel was considered an important need so tank gassed with little time lost. The road to Ipswich was well maintained with the occasional reminder of the January floods along the way. One of the most significant being the crossing of Cunningham's Gap. Although we'd been advised re the road delays we had not fully realised the extent of the traffic disruption until an alternative route was out of the question. 23 minutes to travel 7 kilometres down through the gap was indeed surprising. Holiday traffic travelling south had parked on the steep rise from top to bottom. The queue seemed tolerant of the wait but one can only wonder how long before tempers freyed. The traffic travelling south appeared to be in for a wait of several hours due to the sheer volume of holiday makers.

Road Trip To Grandchester

This Easter Stephen and I shall be taking a road trip all the way to Grandchester. Our first road trip since Melbourne. We used to travel for twelve hours, by road, to Marysville, usually with an overnight stopover to visit our daughter. Unfortunately most of Marysville was razed to the ground in the fires of 2009. Hence, the journey to Queensland. Yes, where in January 2011, the worst floods swept through much of the state with unprecedented devastation. The last time I took a road trip to Queensland I was in Year 10 at high school. Forty plus years have since past so one may presume that this road trip will very different from the previous. Travelling on Good Friday we should avoid much of the traffic. I am predicting that there will be no fires or floods to contend with and that Easter will be fun filled with copious amounts of chocolate, a spa or two and most definitely, a soothing massage, for the travel weary bones.

Dam Rain

www.bom.gov.au suggested that our area was to have between 10 and 40 mm of rain on Friday. By Friday lunch time I was quietly scanning the sky for clouds hoping that the anticipated rain would eventually make its way to our yard. When no rain transpired I guessed that the bureau's forecast was off the mark for there was no rain on my umbrella. That was Friday. The new neighbour's were probably disappointed too that the forecasted rain didn't make its way to Windella. Last week the neighbours had two of the property's dams deepened and cleared of reeds. A good idea to protect against water shortages next Summer. The dam closest to our fence line was reduced to a small pond for not a trickle fell to boost its capacity. Then on Saturday morning as I was leaving to shop a few light drops of rain drops splashed on to the windscreen. By the time that I had travelled to Hexham and thence, to Salamander, the pavement was awash and huge walls of water were thrown by passing motorists. Sheets or rain drenched the roads all the way there and back. The journey was particularly scary as visibility was limited. At times the car's wheels seemed to float across the tar before regaining traction. All day long torrential rain showers reinstated my opinions of the accuracy of the weather bureau's forecasts. Sorry guys. On Sunday morning the downpours gave way to isolated falls. The point of my story is, that the pond over the fence, had, in 24 hours, transformed into the dam that I knew when I first moved here over twenty years ago. According to http://www.bom.gov.au/ 75.8mm of rain fell here on Saturday. Good rain for the dam.

Who will notice?

When Stephen went to work today the bush saw was in my thoughts for I had decided to remodel the garden that leads to the side, entry door. I had chatted to him re the possibility of taking out the old conifer eyesore for it was browning from top to bottom. Our latest discussion noted that tree loppers could remove it when they came to take the Cocos Palms. As I had been in the garden all of last week I considered the ease with which I might tackle the tragic specimen of a conifer. The first branch was sawed without too much difficulty and so too the second. Only one last branch left standing and I was determined to take it all. How challenging could it be? After all, the first two were a breeze. Hindsight is a good thing. I guess that I should buy myself a lottery ticket for I am indeed the luckiest gardener in Windella. As I was happily sawing the biggest and thickest remaining trunk (I mean branch,) it fell. Yes, it fell all by itself; towards the house and the windows. I stopped breathing for a moment as I realised that this branch required no additional tugging or encouragement to come down. As if filmed in slow motion the tree dropped silently to the gravel walkway. Whew. It missed by that much! A small stump is all that remains to tell the story. To fill the gaps and to divert attention I've strategically placed some of the potted fountain grasses. Who will be the first to notice?

Autumn Makeover

Recent weather conditions have taken their toll on all of the gardens so it is time for some serious cosmetic surgery. Plants have shrivelled and tree branches lost leaves. Cracks have developed all over the yard despite rain showers in past weeks. The extreme heat of Summer was not as damaging so I find it bewildering that Autumn garden displays feature tortured, brown and withered plants. It is time for action. A 'call to arms' in a literal sense. Armed with garden shears and a bush saw I felled the skeleton of an old tree and I lopped dead or dying branches from numerous trees. I have turned my spade to remove and relocate the dwindling numbers of dietes and agapanthas to hopefully more suitable locations within the garden. Watering has started in earnest in an attempt to halt the pattern of dead and dying all through the garden. I'd like to water in the seaweed fertiliser but I have recollections of the last time I did that; when the self watering container malfunctioned and I was showered in the oh so unpleasant fishy mixture. It took some time to wash away the odour. Unsure as to how to resolve the issues with the container it remains mostly full so it would be a good source of nutrients for the plants if only I could accommodate the possibility of another seaweed shower into my daily routine. I am working on that perspective. The body is willing but the nose is still refusing to accept the stench that accompanied the previous episode. Ever positive, I've purchased ten new pots of purple fountain grasses that beckon the spade to plant them before the weather cools further. As I sit I concede that while I am blogging I am not gardening. Surely before and after pics are warranted. The ground resembled concrete both in texture and in endurance. Its endurance was greater than mine, for even the newest, sharpest, spade (see the still intact label) created not even a dent on the soil. My beautiful yellow spade left no impression on the site designated for transplanting the old. In defeat I sit and write for the earth has beaten me temporarily. Tomorrow is a new day where I'll bring new ideas if not a pick and hoe to the scene.

The Wedding

Yesterday afternoon the weather was perfect for Tamara and Aaron's wedding. The Leaves and Fishes venue provided an amazing outdoor stage for the ceremony. Dressed in their finery guests gathered in the courtyard awaiting the arrival of the bride and her attendants. The warmth and sunshine ample encouragement for the guests to relax and enjoy the afternoon's proceedings. Tam arrived in a glamorous gown proudly escorted by her Dad. The dress so elegant and sophisticated; a tribute to her good taste and I am sure Anne's too. The ceremony had notable inclusions and references to Captain Corelli's Mandolin as vows were exchanged. Cones of rose petals allowed guests to share the celebration as they showered the happy couple with their contents. Thereafter, refreshments and canopes were the served along with champagne and a crisp, fruit flavoured punch on the lawn where guests were also invited to croquet or boules whilst the wedding party hastened to a photographic session. Once inside the table's floral arrangements and place settings supported well, the bride's chic style. Serving staff ensured that everyone was catered for with attention to detail. Family and friends shared an occasion to remember.

Not For Slimmers Dinner

Out on the patio we sat. 'What's for dinner?' he asked. I wanted comfort food. The first hint however, subtle, of the soon to arrive cold weather must be treated with great respect, for it was a sign of things to come. Me, dressed in a cardigan, for the first time. Autumn, a pleasant break in the year. I was feeling a little adventurous. 'Shepherd's pie,' was my reply. Thence, a list of questions. Did I want au gratin? Possibly not. I had other notions. Was I going to blind bake the pastry? A concession, yes we would. A not so traditional Shepherd's pie for this was to be layered and plied with a generous number of vegetables to lift its colour and texture. Into the pan-diced carrots, a drizzle of teriyaki, shaken cumin seeds, dry basil flakes, a splash of red wine, an enthusiastic serving of milled pepper corns, gravox, sliced onions, chopped red and green capsicum along with some egg plant rounds. Didn't need a gym after all that dicing and chopping. Mushroom slices formed a fine layer between the rounds of pink and sweet potato that were to intended to dress the pie's top and add a touch of elegance to the dish. Truss tomatoes and grated cheese the finishing touches before the oven's curing. Lastly, peppered zucchinis zapped in the microwave to ensure the daily dose of Vitamin C. A completely balanced meal I think not but it was fun responding to all the questions generated by my whimsical decision to have Shepherd's pie for dinner. I had walked around all day at work hitching up my pants for I had raced off to work in such a rush I hadn't remembered a belt so tonight I lashed out and included pastry with my dinner. Tomorrow I must source some braces to have at hand for such emergencies. So many decisions ...

Thank you for coming when I cooked dinner ...

Traditional, classic, old fashioned, customary, out-of-date, outmoded, outdated are probably the best synonyms to describe my particular culinary, style of cooking. Not adventurous in any way but it is also fair to say less flair, less fuss and it allows me to enjoy the cooking experience since recipes and I don't see eye to eye. I always ponder the great skill and ability of others able to successfully recreate a delicacy that looks just like the picture in the cook book. I am convinced that such people function on a plain different to myself. The pictures suggest that one will be tantalised as one partakes of the image now plated before them. However, consider this for a moment. The traditional requires no recipe or coloured photograph so the final product cannot be compared with a glossy image. Secret to my style of cooking no one really knows what to expect when I am doing dinner. Past misdemeanours such as brown sugar for bread crumbs. At the time I believed it to be a common enough mistake but family members on that occasion didn't seem to agree. Hence, who will know whether my final products worked or not? That is my preferred position when serving my dinners to family and friends as I have in previous years discovered my limitations when it comes to making and baking. Usually I don't remember to put some vital component on to cook as the prescribed time so as to be ready with other accompaniments. So often my husband kindly rescues me and pops the potatoes in to bake just in the nick of time. I must be like his apprentice. He nurtures and gently reminds. It almost happened again the other evening. I was chatting and partaking of the before dinner platter that I once more forgot the vegetables for roasting until they were at risk of being served too al dente. Guests were kind enough to remark that they liked their carrots al dente. So gracious. To mention that I thought that I was roasting lamb but as it turns out it was indeed pork. What a surprise! It tasted fine with the only gravy that I know how to make. I use the KISS method for making gravy. Keep it simple st.... - wholegrain mustard, a splash of red wine and a heaped, wooden spoon of gravy powder with a dash of water to make the paste, lump free. Roasting capsicum, potatoes, slim eggplants and carrots in olive oil and sprinkled with rock salt, too easy; as long as you remember to put them in the oven. Home baked apple pie served with berries, ice cream and double cream also easy. Please note the fancy decorations on top of the apple pie. Who would like to join me for dinner when I am cooking?