Pruning the Petone Vineyard
Our Petone home has seven “Helena” vines and two Kyoho vines planted around the garden. Pruning day today so here’s a wee overview on how to prune a grapevine.
To be or not to be the spoon in the sink
Years ago I read in a Bryce Courtney novel some advice given to a youngster by an older and wiser woman: Never leave a spoon in the sink. The imagery was instant as I have left spoons in the sink and worn the results after turning on the tap. I’ve forgotten the name of the book but have never forgotten discussing this line with Claire, my eldest step daughter, both agreeing on the insightfulness of the words.
Both Hands on Deck
My last couple of days have been spent wallpapering and painting our soon to be master bedroom with ensuite. The repetitive nature of the jobs gave my brain an opportunity to wander. Conversations with my hands ensued as I encouraged my right hand to teach my left hand to do her usual tasks. In my yoga practice and with the juggling sessions, my left hand manages to meet all expectations - keeping me balanced and even. Why not share the load? So I load the brush just as I like it with my right hand: not overdipped up to the ferrell, just a wee dip with paint loaded on both sides of the brush, with enough paint to dab onto my wall without dripping and without scraping on the side of the tin. Leftie takes this perfectly loaded brush only to show how clumsy she can make painting look. This is uncharacteristic of the left hand I’ve come to rely on. Rightie is obviously not teaching very well.
Juggling
My introduction to juggling was in 1980. Scott and Patti taught me. On a summer road trip in the Kombi van, I saw on the roadside two tall, long-haired people juggling magnificently. What a way to hitch a ride! This ride lasted about four weeks.
Morning coffee fat bomb
This is a keto fat bomb - you’ll be amazed at the energy and clarity that comes with this morning ritual.
Ginger, Honey and Lemon Zinga
Ginger is an anti inflammatory, anti oxidant power house. It’s relatively inexpensive here in New Zealand. Prepare it as shown and you’ve got the perfect pick-me-up at your fingertips.
Broth for the Soul
I make my own bone broth packed with vege goodness, ashvaganda and collagen, then freeze it into large icecubes.
The Home Spa Session
Taking care of your mind and body means making time for yourself. I combine both ayurvedic practices and my oils resulting in a wonderful array of different, aromatic, soothing preparations with which to treat myself.
Some Dirty Thoughts
My love of gardening has been with me for most of my years on this wonderful earth. Knowledge has been gained by trial and error. A day, an hour, five minutes immersed in communing with the soil is never a waste of time. The result for both mind and body is grounding and rewarding.
Mr Riggins
Mr Riggins is a wonderful character. He’s very loyal and I adore it when he chooses to be near me during my day.
Aerial Yoga
I am a home yogi and have set aside a special place in my home to practice. Inversions and aerial silk yoga are my absolute favourite ways to stretch - both my mind and body.