Scent of Spring

Start At The Beginning

2011-01-11T08:39:00.004+13:00

If I could put into words the awesome faithfulness of my God this last year, then I would. But I said I would start at the beginning and so shall. New, that is what he makes everything and it is wonderful. Without renewal life would be so dreary and lacklustre, and so I stand here at the start and marvel at the seeds that are sprouting. Beholding the promises and knowing that only by his love I can completely grasp their meaning. Because it is his kingdom, his and only his that I want to live in. And I say that and I live another thing so often but I am determined to just keep looking up from myself and someday the looking down will fade and I will only stare into heaven. Not just times when the curtains are opened and then slowly draw closed again but an eternity of his glory. So yes he is faithful. And that is what I want to be.

Of Istria

2010-09-01T07:09:00.021+12:00

The lavender scented stone house.

The hammock under the walnut tree, made the best swing replacement for a little girl who loves swinging of any kind.

The skies of Croatia, oh the skies. Such a beautiful blue.

On which the clouds arranged themselves differently everyday.

It was another world, where accordion music played from one of the houses in the tiny village and an old lady sat outside smiling with all her hard earned wrinkles at the children.

And where sweet sticky figs grew in abundance, not like the cursed fig tree of long ago. Thankfully.

Spain

2010-07-29T02:45:00.008+12:00

Island in Spain. With blue sea peeking through the trees below the house, the heat seemed bearable.

Such a different feel to beaches back home, here it felt like Peter might just be spotted fishing in the bay.

I loved the buildings, with their warm clay coloured stone. And the dusty fields, with trees that despite the ground had green leaves. And the shuttered narrow quiet streets that seemed to have no life, but if you walked slowly you could hear the sound of people, escaping the intense heat by shutting themselves up in their courtyards.

And at night..

Sitting on the still warm rock, in the dusk, I drew close to Him.

Second Summer

2010-07-08T06:13:00.005+12:00

Two summers. But such a different summer is this second one I am in the middle of. Of course some things are the same, the beautiful heat that lingers long into the evening, raspberries that hint of velvet, splashes, pools and glasses of water, shades of green you could never count. But the surroundings....

Fountains that have seen more summers than the people that drink from them.

Roses that scent the walls they climb.

Churches that people walk into day after day, churches that speak of centuries and architecture and skill. And I wonder. Do people realise you can meet him anywhere, that he isn't confined to ancient walls. God of the ages though he may be.

And I want to drain the cup that he gives me, but I don't realise it will never empty. Because his water never stops flowing and I sit still in this second summer, and drink.

Munich On A Rainy Day

2010-06-20T22:35:00.003+12:00

Umbrellas everywhere.

Flowers don't mind the rain.

The always changing view from under the umbrella I hold.

Everywhere I walk in Munich turns up something new to make me take a breath. I have so much more to explore but my eyes are already so sated with beauty.

But I don't think you can ever have to much beauty. And Munich is beautiful even in the rain.
.

This little fellow walked some of the way with me. So grateful for the one who always walks with me. His name is wonderful.

By The Lake

2010-06-09T03:34:00.008+12:00

A week spent by a lake, in an ivy twisted, high storeyed house overlooking the white sails which echoed the clouds above. Swinging under the ancient fruit tree, feeding the swans that hissed imperiously when there was no more bread, sitting down to feastlike breakfasts. It was so lovely and then at the end a dashed visit to Switzerland, to see a friend's face. We sat with our toes in the Rhine, drank far to much coffee, and just revelled in the fact that we could catch up so far from home. God is good.

And Life In Germany Begins

2010-06-03T07:31:00.010+12:00

I made it! After travelling for thirty hours I landed in a verdant, sunshine filled Germany, but what made it even better were the welcoming faces that greeted me. I have slowly been adapting to life in another family and culture, and having so much fun getting to know the children. They are such cute little characters, and it is holidays here at the moment so it has been great to get to know them on a relaxed basis. Germany is just beautiful, my notion of it being some sort of second cousin among it's European neighbours has been well and truly squashed. And as for the arch above? That leads to the green door of my little garden room, which even has geraniums on the windowsill. I am blessed.

A List Of Lasts

2010-05-17T20:43:00.005+12:00

Lots of lasts happening here at the moment.

Last weekend for a while with my darling friends, amongst the candles and laughter and sweet sincerity.

Last roadtrip down to Auckland to the church that began to feel like family, with my brother and Mum this time!

Last preschool music group, instruments ringing with the little lisped voices and shy smiles and raucous laughter.

Last gathering for a while of friends and family, fare-welling me with love, so much love and also tears. I feel so blessed.

But oh oh oh, how I am looking forward to all the firsts!

Slipping Days

2010-04-21T22:17:00.003+12:00

The days are slipping away quickly now. There is such a lot to think about and yet I am trying to savor the moments and life as it is now. I have been catching up with my close friends, who are all very busy so I treasure the time I can spend with them. I've deliberated on cupboard handles for the new kitchen with Mum and Dad. Spent another day in Auckland with my brother (and some friends of his this time). Made jelly from quinces and feijoas, baked sourdough bread. Whipped up sourdough pancakes. And of course smelled roses.

Shining

2010-04-12T12:41:00.006+12:00

Ben and I zoomed down to Auckland yesterday to go to church. Loved spending time with my brother as it is only six short weeks till I leave. And I feel so encouraged by the people we met and the words they spoke to us. We stayed for lunch with some of them at a Thai restaurant and then went shopping until the night service. Which was incredible. The sun was shining in more ways than one.

Feijoa Picking

2010-04-05T21:55:00.002+12:00

The studio where I have been teaching lately has a big feijoa tree outside the front door. Briar and I went to pick some today.

The ground was covered with them. So we ended up with three big delicious bagfuls.

This little kitten came along at the end and climbed the tree. I think Briar would have taken it home if I had suggested it!

Thank You

2010-04-04T22:16:00.004+12:00

For two thousand year old mercy. For a savior that bled. I feel such a failure, for me you say? Yes for me, even me. The notes play, waves of love and triumph. He is good this one and only God. He IS love.

Sourdough by Candlelight

2010-04-04T01:37:00.005+13:00

Sourdough bread. Made with no yeast, just a bubbly starter mixture given to me by a Finnish friend. Because of this it takes a long time to rise, 7 hours to be precise, but all that meant is I had the fun of baking it by candlelight. So very scrumptious.

"Great and Exciting Time"

2010-03-31T21:54:00.005+13:00

I have been spoilt this week. One little student bought and gave me a chocolate bunny (with his own money), then Carlos gave me another one of his famous biscuits and then this. A card, drawn meticulously in vibrant color with such lovely words inside. I'm going to miss my little students.

Sombreuil

2010-03-28T20:29:00.004+13:00

The last two mornings when I have walked out our front door I have just had to go out of my way to smell this beautiful rose. If only I could bottle it's scent up so I could wear it as perfume.

130 Year Old Cake and A Tea Party

2010-03-27T20:29:00.003+13:00

Today Briar came running to give me a note asking me to a tea party. Since it was a beautiful day I suggested we have one outside and then we went to work making a cake. Not just any cake.. I used a recipe out of my 130 year old Mrs Beeton's cookbook just for fun.

I have to confess we didn't wash the fruit and dry it, I think our dried fruit these days doesn't need washing? And we also didn't use the lard! But I did use a teacup for the measurements.

After making sandwiches and getting teacups and plates out of my stash in my top cupboard we were set.

The cake was interesting, a gingerbread coffee tinged flavour. Perfect with tea.

Afterward we read a storybook with exquisitely painted pictures about a little dutch girl. Briar had wanted me to read it to her ever since we started it and then couldn't finish a while ago. It was the perfect finish to a special afternoon.

Scrabble with Solly

2010-03-24T20:27:00.005+13:00

Last night Solly wanted to play a board game. Miracles never cease! We ended up playing scrabble. In the middle of the big empty living room that is being renovated. On a table covered with some old carpet and lots of building things we cleared a space. And we pondered and puzzled until there were no more letters left in the bag. (Or words as Solly kept calling them.) And he won!

Sunset and A Mad Goat

2010-03-23T22:32:00.004+13:00

So on Sunday I had lunch with my gorgeous friends, Emily, Laura and Amy. It had been far too long since we had been all together so we had a lot to catch up on. But the most pressing thing to talk about was Amy's recently announced wedding! A week before I leave. I am so happy I get to be there for it.

Amy was house sitting for friends and later on in the evening when the others had left Amy and I wanted to go for a walk up the hill to see the sunset. But we had to outwit this rather vicious goat in order to be able to watch the sunset as he lives on the hill we had to climb. After having him menacingly come towards us quite a few times we managed to shut him on the other side of the fence and were able to watch the sunset in peace. It was stunning.
Amy remarked as we were walking down: "At least he doesn't run fast, he only plods." No sooner had she said this than he turned around and came tearing down the hill straight for us. We couldn't believe it and were so glad to have the fence between him and us as otherwise we would have been rather sore. I never thought a goat could be so grumpy!

Fig Tart

2010-03-19T21:10:00.004+13:00

Luscious ripe figs, gift from a friend. Ben and Laura came for dinner, and afterwards we squashed into the makeshift living room to eat this and watch old family videos. Much hilarity ensued.

Deck Living

2010-03-18T22:43:00.004+13:00

The renovating continues. And so does the outdoors lifestyle. Dishes dry in the wind. And early in the morning we shiver a bit, scurrying around to get ready for the day.

But in the afternoon, when the sun is out, it is a lovely place to work.

And inside the work goes on.

It is getting there! And soon we will have a lovely new (much bigger) kitchen!

A Sign of Autumn

2010-03-14T16:57:00.002+13:00

The crabapples are ripe. The wind has a chill and freshness it hasn't had for a while. The sunlight has changed, it is golden and gentle. Autumn is beautiful.

A Little Gift

2010-03-10T22:47:00.004+13:00

I got a special gift this morning. A little boy in my preschool music group came in with a wrapped homemade chocolate biscuit! He handed it to me with a smile and then when I thanked him he got all shy and hid behind his Mummy. Thank you Carlos! You made my day!

Saturday

2010-03-08T21:07:00.003+13:00

Friday evening I spent at a country hall till very late, piping and filling cakes. All alone I was remarkably brave until I went outside to my car and a cow decided to bellow in the dark which shattered my strained but under control nerves more than a little. In fact I may have run as fast as I could inside, locked the hall door behind me and not ventured out again till my friends got there. I may have. Anyway the next day I was back at the hall, in the daylight this time and I finished the cakes and then got to go to the wedding! Which was straight out of a fairytale, set amongst pine trees at the top of a hill looking out over misty countryside. Under an arch of two old trees they pledged their love and the fiddles played. Then later the banquet began. Ending with cake as all good banquets should.

Friday

2010-03-07T00:16:00.004+13:00

Mixing. Bubbling. Crushing. Boiling. Washing. Cracking. Measuring. Stressing. Whipping. Juicing. And tasting raspberry sauce. It needed a bit more lemon.

A New Chapter With a German Twist

2010-03-04T20:58:00.005+13:00

These words you see above are the beginning of a new thing God is doing in my life. Yes. I am going to Germany!
It started back in January when I put my profile on a few au pair sites thinking that maybe this is what I should do this year. I wasn't really sure if anything would happen but I started getting contacted by families. And then an incredible thing happened. A family contacted me who come from the very same city that Marie comes from! And not only the same city but the same area of the city.
I couldn't believe it and though I hadn't been considering Germany as an option I replied. And then we talked. And I am going in May. To be an au pair for a family with two darling little children. I still cannot believe it but am so excited! A lovely family, a beautiful city, and the knowledge that yes this is meant to be. I feel blessed.

Evening Dandelion

2010-03-01T14:49:00.010+13:00

Hope.

Sitting there barely noticeable until it is gone.

And all that's left are a few clinging seeds.

And someone crying. Because the pain is intense.

Why?

But she knows that out of this good can come.

And that is what she clings to.

Through the wind.

Because though it may bend her almost to the ground it will never break her.

The promise and the comforter who brings it is worthy to be trusted.

Up To The Very Top

2010-02-26T13:09:00.008+13:00

We left early. And drove through farmland, little towns, wild bush with rivers running by the side of the road. Then we left the road. And churned through sand, splashed through pools of water and stopped for fresh air and a swim for some of us.

Then it was back to the road, and up to the very top of New Zealand. A long way.

But worth the drive.

Swirling oceans meeting. The Tasman and Pacific. And a view as far as the eye can see. Beautiful Cape Reinga.

Butterscotch Peach Cake

2010-02-24T22:31:00.003+13:00

Finally I was able to bake! I drove up the road to bake this cake, thanks to a good friend who let me use her oven. And I got to cuddle her little baby as well. Two lots of sweetness in one day.

Awe

2010-02-23T22:17:00.002+13:00

A man of sorrows. My God. He is just incredible and I bow and I marvel. The tears burn and I see a glimpse but it feels like a chasm has opened. I see his inexpressible beauty. And I thank him. That he stoops down, becomes a man of sorrows, carries our burdens and loves us. Loves us with all the love in the world. Us wayward, hurting, afflicted people. I am overwhelmed by his goodness and I fall down in worship before him. The Lord of the star fields.

Whale Bay

2010-02-22T14:22:00.006+13:00

We spent Saturday afternoon at Whale bay with Robyn. It was a stunning afternoon, the water was glassy and there were hardly any people there. Later in the afternoon we all went for a walk to one end of the beach and then turned around and walked to the other end. Robyn was sea shell hunting for most of our walk, stooping down to pick up the ones she liked. When we got to the other end suddenly she exclaimed "Where are my glasses?". And the hunt was on. She had had them tucked into her top so they must have fallen off when she was bending down for the shells we deduced. I quickly looked back on the photos I had taken and could see roughly where she had them on and where she didn't so we all went and searched that stretch of the beach. What a mission, they weren't on the sand so into the water we waded, combing the sand for any trace of her expensive prescription glasses. We couldn't see them anywhere but kept looking and just when we were about to give up a man came running down to us to ask if we had lost something. Explaining what happened he joined in the search and then his wife joined in and no sooner had she walked into the water we heard her yell and looked around to see her waving the glasses in the air! Robyn cried and hugged her, they were beaming at us and then after a little chat we said goodbye with Robyn wishing them a nice life. It was the best ending to a gorgeous afternoon.

Renovating and Ice Cream

2010-02-19T16:57:00.012+13:00

We are in the middle of kitchen renovations at the moment. Watching the substance that made up our old kitchen torn apart and carted away has been strange. For so many years things are there, stationary, and then in a few days they are gone. And suddenly you see what has been hiding behind the walls all this time. Newspaper lined walls redolent of 100 years ago and big pink roses you can almost smell.
Our little kitchen set up on the deck is working quite well, with the only drawback being the lack of an oven. Which for me is rather a tragedy. I can't bake! I keep saying and thinking 'if only I had an oven I could make...'. But I am trying to console myself with the fact that I can still make ice cream. Last night we celebrated the arrival of Dad's cousin from America. With our whole family here (including James our cousin from Aussie) we ate and talked as the rain poured down on the tarpaulin. Robyn is lovely and it has been so interesting getting to know her. We keep noticing all the little similarities to Dad. Of course we ate homemade vanilla ice cream with berry sauce. And for a while I didn't miss the oven at all.

Briar Turns Eleven

2010-02-06T21:59:00.003+13:00

Briar had a party today! I can't believe she is 11, it doesn't seem so long ago she was a chubby cute little toddler with a blond mop of hair. We had three little girls come for the party. So there was lots of giggling and fun. They went swimming, ate watermelon and marshmallows, played lots of games; including one where one of the little girls ran right into a rosebush and scratched herself rather badly. She was very brave though. Then at the end of the evening we sang happy birthday and she blew out her eleven candles. Eleven. Wow. Happy birthday Briar!

Summer Plums

2010-02-05T23:24:00.004+13:00

Dad bought home a box of these luscious plums today. Today he also came home from his business for the last time. The business he built up faithfully and then sold making it even more successful. Ever since I was a little girl Dad has worked hard, long hours for our family. So it's crazy to think he will no longer be doing that. Crazy and great. Time for a holiday I think. With lots of plums.

Sick

2010-01-29T20:06:00.004+13:00

Yes. I hardly ever get sick so the last few days have made me realise again what it must be like for the poor people that never get well. On Wednesday evening when I first started to feel rather bad I struggled to read the beginning of Lilith by George MacDonald. Struggled. Finally I put it down. Too sick to think clearly. The next day I slept, hid from the courier man when he knocked on the door, lay on the couch and didn't eat a thing until a few crackers in the evening.
Then today feeling a lot better I read When Heaven Weeps by Ted Dekker. It was incredible, a truthful painful story. I couldn't stop. I will try Lilith again I think.

Farewell Marie

2010-01-25T20:20:00.006+13:00

I hate saying goodbye. Marie came into my life last year, as a rather reserved German Au pair. I got to know her and found that underneath her quiet exterior was a bubbly, laughing, witty friend. She left yesterday to go to Sydney, another job calling. And after that she will go back to Germany to begin her studies. I went out to say goodbye. Saying goodbye to someone you have gotten to know quite well and not knowing when you will ever see them again is so saddening, especially when they do not share the same faith. When I came back and got in the car to drive home Sara Grove's latest cd was playing and it started in right at the beginning of this song.
Which made me cry harder. I can't imagine what I would do if the friends I have known since childhood moved away. And I am not even going to try.
Farewell Marie. I will see you again.

Wedding By The Lake

2010-01-24T23:22:00.005+13:00

Early morning. The bride all glorious within. Sweet jasmine bouquet, scented with a mothers hope.

After the ceremony. Long waited for kisses, by the lake.

Joy overflowing onto the faces of our beautiful friends.

Groomsman and bridesmaid. Brother and sister.

Cowboys. Some from Vanuatu. Some from New Zealand. Some from Australia.

Driving away in the evening light, golden fields glowed and murmured. May your love remain.

Assessment Day

2010-01-21T21:23:00.005+13:00

I was phoned Tuesday and informed that I could complete the first and final assessment for my Suzuki teaching the very next Tuesday in Auckland. So ensued an extremely mad week! Preparation, filming lessons, polishing pieces, studying teaching points as well as making a wedding cake for a friend and being involved in her upcoming wedding.
I decided to invite a German friend who I have been getting to know recently. Marie has been Au pairing for a family I know and I knew it would be nice to have someone to keep me from stewing too much on the drive down. We went down early and shopped on Queen St, I found my bridesmaid shoes in Vulcan lane and then showed Marie around Ponsonby.
But the dreaded assessment loomed large on the horizon and by the time I got there I felt like I would burst into tears. The assessors were absolutely lovely and so encouraging. I teared up a little after I played my pieces but the rest of it went so well and I think I passed. Still waiting for the official results though!
The incredible relief afterward was wonderful so we went shopping again to celebrate. Sushi for dinner at a charming little place that had a cat asleep on the floor. Quite funny.
Helga the GPS saved us from many a wrong turn and though she talked a little too much( hence her name) we couldn't have done it without her. Small town girl that I am.

Jet Ski Journey To Oakura

2010-01-13T22:31:00.006+13:00

Catch up time. Almost two weeks ago now when I was in the middle of assessment preparation I took a day off at the beach. We all journeyed over in groups on the back of our trusty jet ski to a little pebbly cove where the only sign of human life (other than us) was the odd passing yacht. Bliss.

We lay eating oranges that Jeanna (a new american friend) had bought and found out more about her life. We explored the little rise behind the bay and burnt our shoulders in the hot sun.

A little walk up from the beach back into the bush it felt even more isolated. Such stillness and calm. Perfect conditions for mossy logs as well.

The jet ski was in use the whole time, taking people wakeboarding and used as a diving platform. And tipping off the odd tired person!

I fell off just at the very end when we had pulled up to the shore after traveling back, fully dressed, so I can't talk.

Where Flowers Should Be Growing

2010-01-09T19:49:00.005+13:00

...these are growing instead. Plant in the wrong place? Maybe. Just as lovely as a flower? Definitely.

Briar Hunts Caterpillars

2010-01-08T21:28:00.009+13:00

I looked out the window the other day to see Briar and her little friend intensely searching among the brassicas for caterpillars. Their hunt was very successful and the poor green creatures were given rides upon the noses of their captors. All rather exciting if you have lived your entire life on a cabbage no doubt.

Cake Making

2010-01-07T22:16:00.005+13:00

Yesterday these cake tins, and another one unseen, were filled to the brim with chocolate mud cake batter and then put into the oven for a long time. Not all at once of course. So in between mixing up yet another batch of cake mixture, my lovely friend Laura and I sat down at the kitchen table. And caught up on life.

Change

2010-01-05T22:32:00.009+13:00

Spring has changed to Summer since I last wrote. I finished work with the vegetables, not sure what I'm going to do next! A dear Uncle and cousins visited for a whirlwind of a week. Mum and I had a birthday. The holidays began. A darling baby girl was born to a friend. Christmas quietly crept up and then left again. And a never before lived year started! And there is more change just around the corner. An assessment of my teaching. The wedding of lovely friends; I'm a bridesmaid and Ben's a groomsman. And a new job, waiting for me somewhere. Another close friend is courting. Briar's birthday. So many good things.
But sometimes I find it hard to see the abundance and joy of life. I look ahead and wrinkle my brow. With God's grace I want to be like the lilies.

Early Strawberries

2009-10-24T16:56:00.005+13:00

Ripe luscious strawberries. Some were a little too ripe so I sorted through them today under the blue sky, with a caramel coffee to sip. Just the sort of undemanding task that freshens a weary soul. Now I have to decide what to make with them!

Once a Year

2009-10-21T21:25:00.008+13:00

Plum purple roses, on the bush that suddenly appeared one day, creeping out from under the fence. Planted many many years ago by the townspeople I imagine, as there are bushes like it in other gardens around here. It's scent is almost wine like in it's intensity and once a year it fleetingly flowers, a few weeks of purple jewels that I treasure.

Pouring Out

2009-10-20T21:41:00.006+13:00

It was almost everywhere I turned today. In a person's eyes, the way they talked to their child, the answers to my "how are you?" People, precious people, carrying loads of heaviness and limping along. Blinded to your love. Lost in a world in which not many people seem to care and if they do it's not enough anyway. Where do you want me God? Where? Because the pain, the need, it's seemingly everywhere...EVERYWHERE. And I want to be where I am supposed to be. Realising afresh that when I serve, that is when I am happiest. When I give I start to lose sight of myself and my grasping wants. The inward stagnation that occurs after focusing to much on myself evaporates. When I pour out the water flows and it brings me alive. And I want that. Glibly said and easy to just want it I know. But with You as my foundation I will press on.

Wives and Daughters Weekend

2009-10-05T20:10:00.002+13:00

Wives and Daughters has to be one of my favorite movies. Based on the book written by Elizabeth Gaskell, it beautifully portrays unselfishness and love through it's heroine and is also filled with exquisite dresses and English houses. I adore it! A gaggle of us girls assembled at a friends house this weekend to watch it, among other things. Things like walking down the country road to the very old church that can be seen across the fields from the windows of her house. And preaching one minute sermons on any subject without saying 'um' from the little pulpit. Or the copious drinking of iced tea, not to mention the tea party that we dressed up for. Yes dressed up for in 1950's bridesmaid dresses, nightgowns and even a wedding dress. Quite the event I must say.

A Daughter of the Land

2009-09-30T10:50:00.011+13:00

I discovered this book by one of my favorite authors at a book sale in our town this past winter. It just happens to have the most detailed and extensive frontispiece I have ever seen.

Page after page of black and white drawings. I haven't shown them all here.

And in the middle of those there is a stunning color painting.

You almost begin to think the story will never start...

but of course it does. A story of incredible inspiration. I stayed up till 1.30 reading it, marvelling at the hardship endured and hoping for a happy ending. There was.

Next on the list is 'Lady Ludlow and Other Tales' by Mrs Gaskell.

This one doesn't have a frontispiece like the other one though. But I am not going to hold that against it.

Acknowledging

2009-09-27T22:34:00.012+13:00

When anxiety was great within me, your consolation bought joy to my soul. Psalm 94.19

I went outside this afternoon to read and spend some much needed time with the only One that understands my needy humanness. Lying among the daisies I felt him speak, and let his words penetrate through the anxious confusing thoughts that of late swirl through my mind. He will come if we acknowledge. He will heal if we return to him. He longs, oh how he longs, to redeem his people.

Variations on Purple

2009-09-26T22:01:00.006+12:00

As seen in the garden late this afternoon, just before the sun dipped away.

Cherry Blossom

2009-09-19T17:08:00.006+12:00

I got up early this morning. I love getting up before anyone else is stirring. I cleaned the kitchen and then picked these delicate blossoms and arranged them with some pussy willow for the middle of the table. It started my day off well with it's refreshing beauty.

Swiss Saturday: Sunset on Snow

2009-09-12T23:10:00.001+12:00

A Spring Tea Party

2009-09-04T20:35:00.011+12:00

This week there were so many reasons to throw a tea party I threw busyness to the wind and plunged into planning one. Friends leaving, a friend coming back, a friend who had just had a birthday and the simple fact that Spring was here! So I pulled out glasses and teacups, cake stands and flowery throws and cooked late into Wednesday night.

Arriving at the park everything got set up under a big and rather cantankerous tree, which with the help of a fresh spring wind sent its leaves and twigs flying towards us the entire time. Perhaps it was annoyed we didn't share the Rosewater glazed madeleines with it.

We talked of many things, buying a one way ticket to Europe among them. If only.

A Spring cake was cut and consumed.

Though many things have changed over the years we have all known each other, some things never do. Like our laughter about the craziest things. And our love for chocolate. And the feeling that when we are together problems seem to be less worrying than before.

Pink macarons with chocolate filling. There's the chocolate I mentioned.

It was a lovely morning, leaves and all.

So looking forward to the next one!

The First Day of Spring

2009-09-01T17:43:00.005+12:00

If you had passed by our house today you would have seen this little urchin sitting in a tree, enjoying the sunshine.
This morning on my run I slowed to a walk when just over the fence I saw a tiny newborn calf, standing on it's jittery legs in a dew sparkling paddock, looking around in confused bewilderment at the wide world it had been born into. How nice to have the first day of spring as your birthday.

Late on Sunday Evening

2009-08-30T23:11:00.008+12:00

The last minutes of repose before another week. The rain is pounding the roof, but it's warm inside.

I am so thankful for life.

For people who show me You in yet another facet.

For the grace that lets me live another day, try one more time.

For the hopes that are yet to come to pass but that propel me forward; giving me peace amidst the aching hands and vegetable orders, misunderstandings and shrouded hearts.

For the spring rain.

Swiss Saturday: Green Shutters

2009-08-29T23:19:00.003+12:00

This green shuttered house was where I stayed the first week of my trip. Originally a very old farmhouse it had been transformed into rather modern apartments. I'm glad they left the aged exterior alone; green shutters are not to be trifled with.

A Report

2009-08-24T13:25:00.006+12:00

I passed my exam with merit! Though I didn't do as well in some things as I had hoped, I am so happy and relieved that it wasn't as bad as I thought it might be. God is good.

Swiss Saturday: Tobogganing

2009-08-22T16:25:00.005+12:00

One day we hopped on the train and meandered far far up the valley we were staying in. When we were almost to the end of the valley the train stopped and off we got. Hopping on another little train we sped up the mountain. At the top was snow, lots of it, and a big cosy restaurant where you could drink warm hot chocolate or fizzy cold rivella. Once we had refreshed ourselves from the journey it was outside into the cold and stillness of a Swiss mountain on a grey winters day. We hopped on toboggans and we were off, speeding down through the firs and trying not to hit them! With each ride we got a bit braver until a rather momentous tumble in which I decided that was enough of that. Hot chocolate anyone?

A Quizzical Look

2009-08-18T13:55:00.005+12:00

This little wax-eye was in the plum tree this morning, flitting about in the flowers. I think he wondered why I didn't join him.

Today's Shopping List

2009-08-17T20:18:00.001+12:00

Tumbled Toffee Almond Cupcakes

2009-08-16T22:53:00.008+12:00

Meant to be almond cakes with a tumble of miniature profiteroles and toffee piled on top, these wayward little things didn't quite behave as I wanted them too. Tsk tsk! Or maybe it was the tired person who didn't have the patience or dexterity to pipe out 300 tiny profiteroles. I wonder.

Swiss Saturday: Blumenkasten

2009-08-15T14:43:00.007+12:00

These boxes of flowers were sitting on stone cobbles in the midst of a bustling market. I remember thinking I had never seen anything like them before in New Zealand. I might have to try making one one of these days.

Friday in a Nutshell

2009-08-14T19:31:00.008+12:00

As quoted by our dinner guest tonight:
"I am always relieved to be relieved."
Left me chuckling absurdly.

Reflections

2009-08-13T14:41:00.002+12:00

A few weeks ago I pounced upon this mirror at a little antique shop in a country town I happened to be in. It's just what I had been looking for and almost given up finding. Now to find a colour to paint the walls...

Breathing Again

2009-08-12T20:53:00.015+12:00

Blurred. That's what the last few weeks feel like. Months of exam practice ended on Monday. The relief at finishing is immense.

Spending time with a cousin I haven't seen for seven years. Strange. It doesn't feel like we should be grown up but we are.

The birthday of my other brother. Twenty. A brother who has chipped many edges off me. I love him very much.

Cake. Of course.

The day after my exam. I didn't realise how much I missed the sound of the sea until I heard it again.

Think we might still have some growing up to do though.

Swiss Saturday

2009-08-01T22:32:00.004+12:00

Two and a half years ago I went to Switzerland (along with quick visits to France, Austria and Italy). I have lots of memories of the time I spent there and many photos so I have decided to post one every Saturday. I'll start with this icy tree that was sitting on top of a sunshiny hill we visited. As the Swiss would say 'so schon'.

Diminished B Minor Amid Moments of Panic

2009-07-30T15:12:00.008+12:00

I have been rather ensconced in exam preparation the last little while. Diminished arpeggios, plagual cadences and modulations; such joyous things they are. I am trying to be calm but every now and then panic creeps into my mind and decides to stay for a cup of tea until I kick it out. I cannot wait for it to be over, less than a week and a half to go!

Stir Crazy

2009-07-25T23:05:00.005+12:00

I was feeling quite crazy tonight. After a day of getting things done that I needed to do I was ready to do something different. Suddenly inspiration dawned and then morphed into some caramel and chocolate mud cakes which are right now cooling in the kitchen; their sweet murky scent wafting up to me. Goodnight little cakes. I'll ice you in the morning.

Solly Has a Birthday

2009-07-22T23:16:00.006+12:00

Solly turned 17 today! I remember riding our old yellow trike with him sitting on the back dragging his feet on the ground. I can still hear him calling me 'ears' in a sweet little voice when he was too little to get his tongue around the S. So long ago now.

We had a family dinner for him tonight and for some reason we all got him cards with cats on them, not to mention the activity book! (A crazy gift from a friend.) And I don't even think he has a great liking for cats. But he does have a liking for chocolate and coffee; both of which were liberally used in the cake!

Pancakes at Nectar

2009-07-18T16:17:00.008+12:00

Twas a windy morning after a stormy night. I dropped in to see my sleepy brother and a little while later some of us were off to have brunch at Nectar Cafe. Laughter, blueberry pancakes and conviviality. What would I do without my brothers!

Camera Shy at the Supermarket

2009-07-13T22:23:00.033+12:00

While visiting my brother on Sunday, I tagged along on a little grocery trip.

I was a little timid at first to take photos because:

A. There were people.

B. They might have wondered what on earth I was doing.

C. I didn't want to be apprehended for being a public disturbance.

By the time we got to the checkout I had more courage though and once we were outside I was called upon to do a photoshoot of the matching jeans my brother and his friend had purchased the day before.

Someone happened to walk past during my snapping and this is the result.

Unexpected passers by make my day.

Threads of Gossamer

2009-07-09T22:47:00.006+12:00

First Gleam of Dawn

2009-07-07T21:20:00.004+12:00

The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter until the first light of day. Proverbs 4.18

I sat down in the early light this morning with a vanilla candle to read my Bible. This proverb which has always been a favorite was worth dwelling on.

So grateful I have the Light in my life. May I always be open to sharing Him with others who dwell in darkness.

Lime and Boysenberry Cupcakes

2009-07-06T21:26:00.004+12:00

Yesterday afternoon I just felt like baking something. There were limes sitting on the bench, gorgeous cupcake cases I couldn't resist sitting in my room and I had a new cupcake cookbook that I hadn't used yet. These little darlings were the result. A lime and boysenberry flavoured cake, filled with lime and boysenberry curd and finished off with lime icing. They were pronounced delicious by Solomon. And I would have to agree with him.

Conical Hill, Sushi and More Coffee

2009-06-22T21:45:00.013+12:00

Next stop was Hanmer Springs, a little alpine tourist town where my friend works. We walked up the quaintly named Conical Hill one sunny morning.

And saw a Toadstool!

My first Sushi making attempt. Being complete Sushi amateurs I think we did quite well. It was lots of fun and exceedingly delicious.

Driving back down to Christchurch we encountered this fog all through the valley. Pretty to look at but not so nice to drive through.

A Chai Latte...not mine!

Walking in Christchurch on my last full day there. We were in search of the chandelier cafe as it had left quite a good impression on us.

A Cinnamon Latte...mine!

This movie was so very english. Loved the backdrop and costumes but the storyline wasn't the greatest. We went to see it in a gorgeous old theatre. There were even fires and cosy couches if you wanted to have coffee afterwards.

After the movie we walked past the cathedral which is lit up at night. So gorgeously grand.

It was a wonderful break.

In Which I Drink Coffee And Have My Portrait Painted

2009-06-17T14:08:00.018+12:00

I'm back! And I had a wonderful time. I took this photo of these snowy capped alps in the middle of an encouraging conversation with a fellow passenger. So nice to meet random strangers and go away feeling blessed.

After being picked up from the airport by my darling friend we spent the afternoon catching up over a delicious lunch in this chandelier bedecked cafe and then walking around the city centre, picking up some gorgeous sale items and enjoying ourselves immensely.

We stopped for coffee in Cathedral square; Caramel Macchiato and White Chocolate Mocha to be precise!

The next day after umming and aahing over what we could do we decided to drive to a French colonial harbour town two hours away. On the way we stopped for more coffee and then stopped again to take photos by a lake in the hills. I'm sure the people driving by thought we were rather mad dashing across the road before the camera went off.

There were quite a few out takes before we managed to get this one!

One of the many French street names in the town. It was such a peaceful little town, and you could almost imagine yourself back in time with all the quaint cottages and shops that date back to the 1800s.

We spied this painter and asked for our portraits to be taken. He was most obliging.

It was such a nice place to spend the afternoon, I think I might have to go back one day and explore more.

To be continued.....

Popping In

2009-06-10T22:43:00.003+12:00

Popping in to say I am still here and busy as ever. (I have been enjoying these early daffodils and their fresh scent lately though.) I haven't had much to write about or the inclination to write lately but tomorrow I am going on a five day break to Christchurch which will be just the thing to refresh my weary soul! Soaking in the hot pools, walking around the grand old city, spending time with a dear friend, needless to say I am looking forward to it tremendously!

Tui in a Tree

2009-05-24T14:58:00.003+12:00

As I was hanging the washing out this morning I heard a whoosh of wings, followed by a gorgeous song. A Tui had decided to land in the tree above me. I dashed inside to get the camera as these stunning birds don't grace our garden very often. He was rather camera shy sitting up in the highest branches but he didn't mind singing for me at all.

Autumn Arrangement

2009-05-23T20:53:00.004+12:00

There are still some roses in the garden! They are looking a little battered but gorgeous nonetheless. I picked some early this evening and arranged them in a teacup with some leaves. Perfect for in front of my mirror.

In Search of an Apple Tree

2009-05-17T12:51:00.006+12:00

Briar and I went on a little outing yesterday to buy an Apple tree. On a rainy day last year she randomly remarked that she would like to plant one. I thought it would be quite fun to do one day and yesterday off we went. After wandering around the farmers market we had breakfast in the garden centre's cafe; a gorgeous tea house that serves tea in antique china cups. Briar chose Strawberries and Cream tea which we shared along with a croissant and in Briar's words "a very rich slice". So cute. It was all very delicious and then we went to look for the apple trees. There were none to be found! Apparently they aren't sold until June. I was a bit more concerned than Briar however, she was more interested in exploring the garden centre. So we bought a pretty stock plant in a pot to give to Mum instead.

Then we stopped to take photos in the rose gardens, Briar loved the wishing well. "It's like the well in Snow White".

It was a very fun morning. And we might just have to do it again in June!

An Autumn Jewel

2009-05-12T12:30:00.009+12:00

I took this photo this morning and just love the way the sunlight catches in the droplet and turns it all sparkly like a jewel. Dad planted one of these trees at the front and back of our house when I was about eight. Now they are among the tallest trees in our street and look so beautiful every Autumn. They definitely grew a lot faster than me.

Compositions

2009-05-11T21:41:00.007+12:00

On Saturday I had a trip down to Auckland to attend a seminar at the University music theatre. When I got there they were selling second hand music books and I must confess I bought this one entirely on first impressions. It was just too beautiful to leave sitting there. I hope I can play some of the pieces in it but at the moment it is sitting on my book stand, giving my room a very cultured feeling!

A Restful Day

2009-05-10T22:23:00.009+12:00

What a restful day I had today. I slept in! And had breakfast in my pajamas! Then I spent the afternoon with a friend and her gorgeous children. I played lots of peekaboo with little Hayley. She had her first birthday party last Sunday and I offered to make her cake. I can't help myself. She loved it, especially the petals!

(The above photos are from the party. )

Rainbow Over the Sea

2009-05-06T21:24:00.005+12:00

Lately I feel as if someone pushed the 'on' button in my life and has forgotten to turn it off. There is so much to get done and so many things on my mind that I have to do. The great thing is through all the busyness I am feeling God's presence and I feel like I am right where he wants me at the moment. It's amazing what a difference it makes. This last weekend I escaped with two friends to a friend's beach house an hour and a half drive away. It was such a refreshing time, we left Friday night, spent Saturday down there and came back early Sunday as we all had lots to do! It really was a snatched break and one that was needed. On the Saturday afternoon we dodged the raindrops to go for a long walk to the end of the beach. It was beautiful (and freezing cold) and as we walked back we happened to look back to see one of the most stunning rainbows I have ever seen. The photo doesn't do it justice, it reached all the way from the horizon of the ocean across to the edge of the hills on the other side. Exquisite. And a beautiful reminder of God's compassion towards us.

A Colourful Tote

2009-04-26T11:47:00.004+12:00

Yesterday I finally got around to finishing the tote I started back in Febuary and I am so glad I did. It worked really well and was not at all complicated once I got my head around a few of the trickier instructions. I am a little bit unsure of the material I used though, I'm glad it's only for my music books as I can't quite see myself going shopping with it!

Mocha Cupcakes and a Rather Pungent Drive

2009-04-24T17:18:00.009+12:00

This morning I had the dubious privilege of delivering 160 kilos of pre-diced onion packs 70 kilometres away up north. The order was late and couldn't fit on the trucks so I got to take it in the car. I don't want to smell another chopped onion for a long time! It was great getting to do something different though. When I got back I arranged these little mocha cupcakes on a stand to give to everyone for morning tea. One of the ladies that I deal with a lot in the office has been less friendly this week and I thought that taking in some baking might be a good idea. I took them around to everyone at their desks and when I got to her she said she didn't like coffee. Oh well. I tried to console myself with the fact that I had tried. Sometimes that is all you can do.

Shadow of Time

2009-04-22T21:31:00.002+12:00

It's been too long since I got the camera out of it's bag. I have been pleasantly busy though.
I grabbed the first spare week day I had thanks to school holidays and went on a delivery run with Ben last Wednesday. It was great fun, and I got to drive through a beautiful part of Northland I had never seen before as well as being entertained by Ben's hilarious and nonstop dialogue.
Sunday I drove out to see one of my dearest friends. She has recently moved to her Uncle and Aunt's property to be able to study Midwifery and I got to see her little two roomed cottage for the first time. It is so gorgeously old, with rafters in the ceiling and a bee's nest humming in the walls!
And then amongst the out of the ordinary things there has been work and music, two things that definitely keep me grounded. The shadow of time keeps running on.

Liquidamber Seedpod

2009-04-14T20:56:00.001+12:00

Grey Cord

2009-04-13T16:46:00.006+12:00

I have been loving my new grey cord tunic these last few weeks. It's a change from what I usually wear and so comfy and warm for the cooler weather of Autumn.

An Easter Tradition

2009-04-12T14:56:00.006+12:00

When my brothers and I were little Mum would make an Easter garden with us. We would all traipse down the road to our friend's house and walk up the back of their land to a beautiful little waterfall. Growing all around the base of the waterfall was moss and we would pick just enough for our garden, slipping and sliding on the wet rocks and muddy ground before walking back home again. It was a special part of Easter and now Mum has started doing it again with my little sister. It is a beautiful reminder, sitting there on the table, of a sacrifice I will never be able to comprehend. Thank you Jesus.

My Favorite Hot Cross Bun Recipe

2009-04-11T17:41:00.010+12:00

I cannot imagine Easter without these. They are one of my favorite Easter traditions. It is so lovely spending the afternoon in a warm kitchen, surrounded by the fragrance of spices and yeast.

Hot Cross Buns:

Measure 1 cup of milk, 1/2 a cup of hot water and 2 tablespoons of sugar into a bowl.

Warm or cool to body temperature and add 1 tablespoon of yeast. Mix well and then add 2 cups of flour, cover and leave to rise in a warm place.

Meanwhile in another bowl cream 100g of butter with 1/2 cup of soft brown sugar.

Then beat in 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of mixed spice, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, 1 tsp of ground cloves, 1 tsp of vanilla and 1 cup of dried fruit. (I used sultanas and currants.)

When the yeast mixture has risen to twice it's original size, tip it into the creamed mixture along with an extra 2 cups of flour. Mix well and if you need too add in enough extra flour to make a dough firm enough to turn out on a bench top and knead.

Knead until the dough feels satiny and does not stick to the bench top. It should spring back when pressed with a finger. Divide the dough into four pieces and cut each of these into six. ( I made mine a bit larger than this.) Shape each one into a ball and place in buttered baking trays, leaving space between each one to allow for rising. Cover with plastic wrap and leave to rise until twice their original size.

Make the crosses by rubbing 60 grams of butter in 1 cup of flour and then adding enough water to make a stiff dough. Roll it out and cut it into strips. Brush these with a little milk so they stick and place them on the buns.

Bake uncovered for 10- 12 minutes at 225 C.

As soon as they come out of the oven brush them with a glaze made from 2 tablespoons golden syrup warmed with 3 tablespoons of water.

These are gorgeous! Serve them warm with butter.

'Deprez a Fleur Jaune' Against a Grey Sky

2009-04-09T23:50:00.003+12:00

This beautiful rose caught my eye defiantly withstanding the bitterly cold wind in our garden today. So pretty. It has a perfume to rival it's beauty as well.

Jury Service and Juice Deliveries

2009-04-08T21:11:00.018+12:00

Change is refreshing. These past few weeks have been quite hectic but fun. I have had two Mondays off from work; one to look after Briar while Mum was away and one to attend a summons for Jury Service! I really did want to get on the jury but with sixty to eighty people and only 12 places it was a slim chance: my name was not pulled out of the box. It was very intriguing seeing how it all works though.

I came out of the court after being dismissed and just as I was walking across the busy intersection in the middle of our city I saw my brother's new truck (he has just bought a juice franchise) parked across the street. I met a friend of ours just as I was getting to the pavement on the other side so off we both went and did a few deliveries with him. From being in a court to juice deliveries, it was definitely not a dull day!

Hope of the Hopeless

2009-03-28T20:19:00.007+13:00

Thinking. I have been doing a lot of it lately. There are so many people in my life that are going through hard things and I am trying to keep up with the questions that come with the problems but I find myself more often than not just turning to Him and crying 'I don't know, help them Jesus'. Because at the end of the day? I just don't know why some people have to go through intense pain and suffering and others seem to glide through life with only a scratch or two. And I don't know how to solve the problems that confront and are confided to me. I may have an inkling of truth to offer or some small bit of encouragement but after that I feel so helpless. There is so much pain it overwhelms me and that is just in my own acquaintances and friends. So I cry to Him, my God and Savior. Redeemer. Healer. Lover of the broken people. And I know He will be answer my cry.

Blue Eyed Hayley

2009-03-25T22:12:00.004+13:00

Last week I took some photos of my darling little God-daughter. She is such a delight, I feel so special when I walk in the room and she starts laughing and smiling at me. There is nothing like a baby to brighten up your day!

Coffee and Sour Cream Cake

2009-03-15T21:17:00.005+13:00

My brother Ben first made this recipe years ago, one of the rare times he baked. I remembered it today as I was given some sour cream last week and needed to use it. So I made one for us and one for Ben and his flatmates. Yesterday they moved to a new house so I went around tonight to see it with the cake. It's such a cute little house, very old and with a lot of the original fittings. I liked it. And they liked the cake.

Clothesline Grapes

2009-03-14T14:57:00.002+13:00

Growing along the fence and into the fir tree up above our clothesline is a big grapevine. In March when they ripen hanging out the washing is a real treat! But it definitely takes longer when there are delicious grapes distracting you from the task, as I found out this morning.

Courgette and Carrot Bread

2009-03-08T20:08:00.005+13:00

I love Linda Collister's bread book, it has so many lovely recipes I want to try. This afternoon I made her courgette and carrot bread for work. It will be a nice change from the bought bread we usually have!

A Delicious Dinner

2009-03-07T19:59:00.007+13:00

Briar decided this afternoon that she was going to cook dinner. She came out with an apron on and got out her little cookbook and after much discussion she decided to make macaroni cheese. So apart from Mum and I helping a little she did it all. We used some artistic license with the recipe of course, I can see a great chef in the making.

Highest Aspirations

2009-03-06T20:50:00.007+13:00

I reread a quote tonight that I absolutely love. It's by one of my favorite authors.

"There in the sunshine are my highest aspirations.

I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty,

believe in them, and try to follow where they lead."

Louisa May Alcott.

I need to remember that aspirations are just that. Aspirations! It's so hard not to sometimes...especially when you don't ever seem to come close. So this was an encouragement tonight.

Raindrops on Windowpanes

2009-03-05T21:50:00.005+13:00

Rain is so refreshing. After a summer of hot weather it's lovely to have cool rain once again. And it looks like it is going to continue for some days yet.