Pick'n Lick'n good

We have had a constant supply of Tomatoes & Zucchini and now the Eggplants are  just starting to make good. 

Geckos galore

While Rod was lifting the last lot of paving in the patio area he
 discovered  these eggs.

We were pretty confident they were lizard eggs and hoping they
 would be geckos. 9 eggs in total were placed on top of the fridge
 to guarantee warmth. 

 First one hatched, then three more, and then another until all but 2 have hatched. Yes they are indeed Geckos.

As much as we would like to keep them as pets we  think
 that it would be best for the creatures to release them outside.
 Some were placed on a rock in the Gecko garden (Xantheria).

Some were placed on the bark of a stringy bark tree near to Rusty (Decor dog).

Perfecting Paving on the Patio

Paving that was laid temporarily 5 and a half years ago when the last house extension
 was completed  has now been reworked for  permanent placement.

The overall area has been extended and a cut off & stepped corner added for  interest.
Again Rod has worked hard in the Summer sun achieving a neat attractive area with
drainage and irrigation for the plants in pots. Yet more sandy loam has been added as a
top dressing to the  lawn  to achieve a flush level with the paving. Extra plugs of
Kikuyu have been planted to achieve cover by the end of the season.

Cordyline featuring striking pink variegation.

2 Terracotta bowl shaped pots have been planted with Acacia cognata - LimeLight.
The growth has been very pleasing - I just love these plants for a lush look all year.
The central pot is a made from terracotta but I have painted it with black metallic
paint which is a great foil for the Crokia cotoneaster (wire plant).

Crokia cotoneaster

To finish the area we are looking to make or purchase a metal wall art and a small outdoor table to go with 2  charchoal coloured chairs that we already have. Watch this space.

Nature's Art

Inspiration started with this photo Rod took of a dead tree in our  woodlot.

On closer inspection we actually had 3 dead saplings which we then cut down and into various lengths so that we could arrange in a staggered formation.

Insects created these beautiful patterns under the bark. Once the bark
peeled the art work was revealed.

Sticky stuff

Rod and I made Plum and Apple jam using Plums that Neighbour Sandy sent our way before leaving on a Cruise.
 Rod softened the fruit in the pressure cooker before adding the sugar to cut down on cooking time.
It is also a way for him to let off some steam.

And Again -before & after

Summer 1983

Spring 2010

Before and After - Can you notice the difference?

Summer 1983

Summer  2010