Farewell 2013

A Moroccan themed New Year's Eve dinner saw everyone don the most amazing apparel. There were some fortunate guests who had genuine items of Moroccan fashion. Then there were others, like myself, who had ventured to the creative side. We dressed in something reflecting the tone of the night. Quite possibly some of us lucky to be escaping the ire of the Fashion Police. Commencing at 9:00 pm we were greeted by our hosts where opportunities abounded to discuss individual attire. One guest had sought the aid of the digital world to ensure that he had arranged his head wear according to authentic practices. What would such occasions do without YouTube? After twelve viewings Gary proudly displayed his newly discovered skills and techniques. Yet another guest had recycled a Nativity costume from his past. Mike had a biblical take on the occasion. Stephen bravely pulled on a caftan purchased on his travels to Africa. All I can say is that we were all fortunate to have once again been invited to a New Year's Eve event of international proportions. Luckier still that none of the guests were pulled over for RBT. The alcohol reading was not the issue but rather how the establishment would have viewed the less than standard party attire of those making their way home.

Ceviche

Ceviche was served at a recent Locals' Dinner at Calais Estate. On the lawn, on a very hot afternoon, the ceviche was refreshing. Wait staff offered platters of ceviche and so impressed were we that we endeavoured to replicate the taste and flavours. We have twice savoured the home-style ceviche and on each occasion it has been a little different from the initial sampling. As we continue to experiment with flavours and textures this Summer should prove to be interesting for there are so many variations of this dish. One home diner requested that her ceviche be heated. A twist, yes. No problem. It worked for her palate. Chef Stephen continues to please and surprise.

Christmas 2013

When all is said and done Christmas is about family and friends; not the gifts beneath the tree. Christmas Eve was shared with family and friends. Kind weather allowed us all to gather under the pergola. Under the pergola people sat or stood to share conversation, wine and the newly discovered Bibina offerings. Several family members had travelled great distances to to be there. This festive season was special for new friends and old came together. Absent friends were remembered. Candles and coloured lights created an ambiance of good cheer. I hope the gathering on Christmas Eve continues and becomes a tradition where family and friends are welcomed.

Lunch at Leogate - Villa Du Pays

If you loved the Member's Dinner then you will also love the lunch menu too. The restaurant's dining area accommodates diners both inside and out. The daytime setting allows the guest to partake of the views to the ranges or the courtyard. The shared platters, individual meals or the gourmet burger provides a fine selection of menu options. I think that the burger is fast becoming a personal favourite. A word of caution. The portions at this restaurant are particularly generous. The restaurant's decor clearly establishes that the diner's experience will be as memorable as the meals. It was therefore, not surprising that at recent lunches we have noted that we are not the only diners who are making return visits.

Dad's Birthday

Dad chose to have his birthday on a day when the heaven's decided to open for one almighty storm. Torrents not puddles ran across roads and pavements. The lake hosted an amazing storm front. Umbrellas no match for the downpour. Despite the weather family gathered to celebrate Dad or Pop's big day. Lunch at the restaurant then candles and cake at Lesley's. Wet but wonderful day.

Dressed Up

How pleasing it is to see family members dressing for special occasions. Different weddings on different days. Each has their own take on fashion etiquette. I recall when ties were frowned on and suits were for old people. Do the ties and suits now mean that my children are old too?

Tarraleah and Whisky or is that Whiskey?

In the lounge, at The Lodge, Will hosted a Whiskey tasting event. I had never attended a whisky tasting so it was not only informative but it also surprised the taste testers that the differences were so pronounced in each of the varieties poured. A line drawing, created by Will, assisted the uninitiated to grasp the process of whisky distillation in one easy lesson. Colours, ageing, barrels, whiskey with and without the e were examined by those present. I discovered those who have ice and those who take water with their whiskey. Water if taken, is measured in fingers and ice in cubes. So much to see and learn.

Stolen dessert recipe, a movie and wine ...

What more could a girl want? On the Saturday night of an election when every media channel realised that no one would be watching anything other than the results. My alternative? Wine was poured. Strawberries, kiwi fruit and banana were sliced. The sliced fruit and was plated in a waffle cone. Blueberries were added for colour and texture. Cointreau and custard gently bathed the fruit. To finish; a serve of Limoncello-yoghurt on the side and a dusting of icing sugar. A recipe borrowed or perhaps stolen, from Lillino's Trattoria.

Tarraleah in September

Green greetings as we pulled into reception. The lawns were cropped and edged with garden beds. Sprays of daffodils splashed their yellow heads between the pristine gardens and rows of trees. Cottages painted in the subtle hues lined the road leading to The Lodge on the hill. We made our way to our room past paintings, ceramics and even kaleidoscopes. Kaleidoscopes of every shape and design were dotted throughout the Lodge. They must be discovered, each for their individuality and cleverly crafted timbers. Smooth, polished and poised on unique mounts. Our room, number nine, was located at the end of a corridor.  Styled and dressed in contemporary decor and fabrics room nine was impressive. Its bathroom featured a roof mounted jet stream of water that filled the bath for a relaxing soak after a day's travel to the high country and Tarraleah.  To celebrate the occasion, High Tea was served in the lounge area. An area with views to the cliff face opposite and its neighbouring valleys. Savoury and sweet delicacies a most welcome fare to spoil the weary traveller.

Sunrise at Home

Waking early has its advantages. Beautiful sunrise. Not to be missed. Just me and the view from the pergola. Windswept clouds overhead and a tree-lined drive stand to attention as the sun rises from the distant, morning cloud. Soon the sun will heat the morning air and drive the clouds to seek shelter elsewhere. It was going to be a hot one today. Vegetation awaits and will feel the full force of the thermometer.

Russell Falls

Russell Falls is a location, not a place. When you park the car you have no glimpse of the walk ahead. It is an easy and relaxed stroll to the falls. Along the way camera shutters and bird sounds greet the tourist. As you wind your way to the approach of the falls the river flowing from the base of the rock-face invites lush undergrowth. Ferns, lichen and mosses of every shape and colour dot the route. Overhead, beside and across the swiftly flowing water, fallen timbers enhance the vegetation's reclamation and ownership of the space. It is likened to entering a secret and ancient wood where one is welcome to visit and quietly enjoy the vista.