tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31417430887586117182024-02-21T15:39:15.195+08:00Where the heart_h isThis blog is for family and friends so they can watch as we settle in a new town with a newly built house and turn it into a home, establish gardens and settle in. Come and join us and follow the progress. I will try and include lots of photo's along the way.kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.comBlogger198125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-76805015897110153772014-01-06T08:54:00.002+08:002014-01-06T09:29:16.548+08:00January, 2014Happy New Year. 2014, How time flies.<br />
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Everything is bubbling along.<br />
We still have a couple of rooms to paint. Perhaps these holidays.<br />
Our office/junkroom is well over due for a clean up and tidy up. I know there are papers I've had stored for the past 5 years that need to be dumped and we have enough "stuff" in the garage for a big tip trip in the next few weeks when G has some holidays. <br />
As usual the garden still needs lots of work. G spends a lot of time whippersnipping to keep the weed grasses down over the leech drains.<br />
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<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/q77/s720x720/1505639_10152100976115664_1035422738_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/q77/s720x720/1505639_10152100976115664_1035422738_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>We've begun some more planting over the leech drains. a bit of a mixture including boronia, somegrevilleas, kangaroo paws as well as canna's ( Including one of the ones we received from my MIL). These all seem to have settled in well. I had a bit of excitement as I dug into the sand to plant some cannas I'd bought at a local market. Managed to dig up a tiny frog who was very startled.<br />
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/q77/s720x720/1509317_10152121527205664_1048598914_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/q77/s720x720/1509317_10152121527205664_1048598914_n.jpg" width="238" /></a><br />
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We've also had our fencing man in to complete the last of our colorbond good neighbour fencing and to install some pool fencing as we decided it was time to finally purchase a spa. It's looking a little bare around the spa A.T.M. hopefully some (currently) small golden cane palms we've bought will green it up a bit.<br />
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As you can see, without the fencing we'd be very exposed. There is a new house going up directly across from our back yard which is the reason we've finally gone ahead with the extra fencing.<br />
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We've also started our next hedging/privacy planting along ground above the leech drains so that eventually we'll have privacy in the alfresco area. A row of leucadendrons which should grow to around 2m. Right now they are very small but leuc's seems to grow well here. I've another 5 in put in yet. Digging in the rocky ground isn't easy so I've enlisted the help of youngest son and he's going to dig the holes for me. He's already dug one hole large enough for me to plant a fairy magnolia and that's gone in already.<br />
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/q77/s720x720/1483369_10152121522260664_1559555666_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/q77/s720x720/1483369_10152121522260664_1559555666_n.jpg" width="238" /></a>This poor dwarf granny smith apple tree is struggling under the weight of the apples. I've already removed over 10 apples and teh dog has removed a few more. The 2nd pic is of the Pink lady apple tree. The bugs and parrots seem to prefer these apples. I don't think we are going to get any from it at all. Will need to considered some nets for next year <br />
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/q82/s720x720/1525073_10152121525020664_236403298_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/q82/s720x720/1525073_10152121525020664_236403298_n.jpg" width="238" /></a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/q71/s720x720/1393222_10152100231070664_1576200646_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">We
have a large frog who seems determined to be part of the family. We
think it's a motorbike frog. He/She comes around most evenings. The
other night he obviously wanted to get closer to the spa. Perhaps he
wanted a dip./ G discovered him hiding in the toe of his shoe when he
went to put them on after being in the spa. ewww.</a></td></tr>
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We've also discovered the spa is very nice early in the morning. If we wake up early enough ( pref before 6) the sun is below the fence line and it makes for a comfy, relaxed start to the day. This was us a little later on Christmas morning enjoying a cuppa.</div>
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We have no intention of covering the spa with permanent shade as lying out, looking at the stars is one of the best bonuses about being out of suburbia. We might invest in an umbrella at some stage however. Investigations still to be completed.</div>
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kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-41517414672601654152013-10-09T18:47:00.000+08:002013-10-09T18:47:23.444+08:00Update, so lateI hadn't realised how long it had been since my last update until I went to update some garden info elsewhere so here goes.<br />
I'm going to steal some updates from Homeone.<br />
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Sun May 26th- Was having a wander after planting a few more things today and discovered our pincushion hakeas are starting to flower.<br />
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<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/p206x206/969781_10151643637945664_1904636963_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/p206x206/969781_10151643637945664_1904636963_n.jpg" /></a> Part of the hakea line. plants range in height from approx 60 cms to 2.5 m with most around the 1.6 m.<br />
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<tr class="row1"><td height="25" width="100%">Little row of dwarf nandina's in front of the new fence.</td><td height="25" width="100%"> </td><td height="25" width="100%"> </td>
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August:</div>
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I went to the Nannup Tulip Festival and had a quick look around after performing with our local Choir in one of the tents.</div>
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There was a lovely display set up in the hall.</div>
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and a wonderful town entry display.</div>
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Wed Oct 9th</div>
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My posts on this thread have been few. I'm still unable to do a
significant amount of work in the garden due to my back surgery in
January. The weeds have/had taken over most of the front yard. I did
manage to shift 4 of the roses and they are now beginning to bloom. I
heard today about using banana skins to deter aphids so I'm going to
give it a go. The roses have a bit of black spot as well so I'll be
looking at treating that if the weather decides to play nice for a few
more days and stay dry. we've had a very wet start to Spring here.
Great for plant establishment but unfortunately also great for the weeds
and blackspot on roses.<br /><br />The lawn is overwhelmed with weeds. It
hasn't had a good weeding for nearly a year. DH has vowed to spray it
as it's so bad but it's been too wet.<br /><br /> Last week noting my
despair he attacked the weeds in the smaller of the 2 side beds in the
front and whippersnippered and weeded it. He then spread mulch over
the bed.<br />It's looking far better at the moment.</div>
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Out the back we've planted a new lemon, "Eureka." Lots of thorns but delicious lemons. <br />
A sublime lime. Both have been planted in the damp area below the leech
drains. Hopefully they can soak up some of the moisture.<br /><br />
We've also planted a variety of wet/damp loving roo paws, and other
plants in and around the leech drains including some damp loving
boronias to try and help manage the bog that was the result of our
extremely damp last couple of months. there are lots of weedy grass
patches and DH has decided to keep them, hopefully tamed but still
growing as the dog loves romping in them and it's better than having to
chop them every week and putting up with a leech drain smelling dog
from boggy bare earth.<br /><br /> The sole roo paw in our back garden has again flowered.<br />The mulberry "tree" ok stick is fruiting.<br />Both apple trees have survived 9 we think) though they are only just getting leaves back.<br />The
native orchard spikes are beginning to appear and we continue to plant
little tube stock natives under the trees. ( another 4 or so recently)
though sometimes, missing my azaleas I'm tempted to drop in a couple of
them. ( haven't succumbed yet)</div>
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Pet's are happy.</div>
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Except when they think they will get to enjoy some sunshine and it starts to rain.</div>
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Fog 2 weeks ago. looking back towards the house.</div>
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kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-33628277272969259982013-04-25T20:02:00.002+08:002013-04-29T13:21:27.394+08:00And it goes onWell the new fencing looks fantastic. G has recently completed ( bar cuts) a small path along the front of the house. We went to the Small Farm Field Day in Balingup last weekend and bought some ground covers to protect the soil as it drops down from the rose garden to the path. Now we just need to move the additional soil elsewhere ( hmm side garden??? and we can plant the ground covers out). There's quite a bit more soil against the bricks than shown in the pic below now that hubby has finished the paving path. We need to get a new wheel for the barrow before the soil can be shifted.<br />
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The bricks will be used for a new wicking bed around the side of the house as I plan to remove what's left of the veggie garden out the front.<br />
Once the soil is moved I can order some blue metal for against the house and for the wicking beds. <br />
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See here for some wicking bed ideas.<br />
This post is from Homeone.com.au<br />
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I've been researching this topic recently as
I'm planning to move my veggie beds from the front garden into a
dedicated area out the back. I have been wanting to do some <span class="posthilit">wicking</span>
beds but was put off by the cost of the water cubes used. I've found a
few more ways to do this. Here are some links in case anyone else is
interested.<br />
<div class="postbody">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/537149_10151588585470664_211358603_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/537149_10151588585470664_211358603_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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Original inspiration from Costa.<br />
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<a class="postlink" href="http://www.sbs.com.au/shows/costa/listings/detail/i/1/article/6172/wicking-garden-beds" rel="nofollow">http://www.sbs.com.au/shows/costa/listings/detail/i/1/article/6172/<span class="posthilit">wicking</span>-garden-beds</a><br />
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Using ag pipe, stormwater pipe and even plastic storage crates.<br />
<span class="posthilit">wicking</span> <span class="posthilit">bed</span> you tube clips<br />
<a class="postlink" href="http://www.youtube.com/user/colinaustin1000/videos?view=0" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/user/colinaustin1000/videos?view=0</a><br />
<a class="postlink" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5fkvcEH_CA" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5fkvcEH_CA</a><br />
<a class="postlink" href="http://www.youtube.com/user/WaterInstallations?feature=watch" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/user/WaterInstallations?feature=watch</a><br />
<a class="postlink" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwh2BQ3BBmI" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwh2BQ3BBmI</a><br />
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<a class="postlink" href="http://milkwood.net/2010/05/11/how_to_make_a_wicking_bed/" rel="nofollow">http://milkwood.net/2010/05/11/how_to_make_a_wicking_bed/</a><br />
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<a class="postlink" href="http://www.creativepumps.com.au/zpumps/pond_liner/epdm-pondliner/epdm-1mm-pondliner.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.creativepumps.com.au/zpumps/pond_liner/epdm-pondliner/epdm-1mm-pondliner.htm</a><br />
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<a class="postlink" href="http://www.merribeeorganicfarm.net.au/" rel="nofollow">http://www.merribeeorganicfarm.net.au/</a><br />
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<a class="postlink" href="http://wickingbed.com/" rel="nofollow">http://wickingbed.com/</a><br />
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<a class="postlink" href="http://www.urbanfoodgarden.org/main/wicking-beds/wicking-beds.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.urbanfoodgarden.org/main/<span class="posthilit">wicking</span>-beds/<span class="posthilit">wicking</span>-beds.htm</a><br />
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<a class="postlink" href="http://shecooksshegardens.com/2012/10/wicking_bed/" rel="nofollow">http://shecooksshegardens.com/2012/10/wicking_bed/</a> This link to a blog is refusing to working this morning but the link usually works.<br />
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Related PDF's<br />
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<a class="postlink" href="http://www.mvcc.vic.gov.au/for-residents/environment-programs/my-smart-garden/%7E/media/Files/ForResidents/Environment/My%20Smart%20Gardens/Wicking_Bed_Fact_Sheet_Feb%202012.ashx" rel="nofollow">http://www.mvcc.vic.gov.au/for-residents/environment-programs/my-smart-garden/~/media/Files/ForResidents/Environment/My%20Smart%20Gardens/Wicking_Bed_Fact_Sheet_Feb%202012.ashx</a><br />
<a class="postlink pdf_link" href="http://earthwisewa.org/pages/wicking.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://earthwisewa.org/pages/<span class="posthilit">wicking</span>.pdf</a><br />
<a class="postlink pdf_link" href="http://permaculturewest.org.au/resources/pw-wicking-beds.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://permaculturewest.org.au/resources/pw-<span class="posthilit">wicking</span>-beds.pdf</a><br />
<a class="postlink pdf_link" href="http://www.waterright.com.au/wicking_bed_technology.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://www.waterright.com.au/wicking_bed_technology.pdf</a></div>
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<br />
<a href="http://forum.homeone.com.au/report.php?f=19&p=978581"><img alt="Report this post" src="http://forum.homeone.com.au/styles/dfp/imageset/en/icon_post_report.gif" title="Report this post" />Some links to previous threads on Homeone.<br />Lonnie:</a><a class="postlink-local" href="http://forum.homeone.com.au/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=38476&hilit=wicking+bed">http://forum.homeone.com.au/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=38476&hilit=<span class="posthilit">wicking</span>+<span class="posthilit">bed</span></a><br />
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Petar:<br />
<a class="postlink-local" href="http://forum.homeone.com.au/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=52776&hilit=wicking+bed">http://forum.homeone.com.au/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=52776&hilit=<span class="posthilit">wicking</span>+<span class="posthilit">bed</span></a><br />
Petars fabulous Wordpress blog link. It has a list of more links at the bottom of his blog page.<br />
<a class="postlink" href="http://pkozul.wordpress.com/gardening/wicking-beds/" rel="nofollow">http://pkozul.wordpress.com/gardening/<span class="posthilit">wicking</span>-beds/</a>kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-29216707740854274692013-03-24T07:48:00.002+08:002013-03-24T08:05:34.682+08:00Almost there. Just a little further.We finally decided to get some fencing quotes for the next fencing project. Price came back and was pretty darn good so we got to, organising the fencing man. Trouble was he wanted to do it a week earlier than we could be ready so there was a lot of frantic clearing of pavers off the wall , weeding and paving done by G. There is still about a 1 metre to go paving wise. But the fence looks fantastic. Riversand framework and primrose( cream) panel and lattice. We like it so much I think we will end up continuing it on in for the rest of the retaining wall but in a 1.2m height.<br />
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Temporary fence has since been removed. I'll replace this picture later today with one without the temp fence.<br />
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We still have to fill in the gap between the house and paving and G has 3 paths to lay but these are minor in comparison to the huge expanses of paving already completed.<br />
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Of my back: I've been officially discharged from the care of the back surgeon. His comment was that when they opened me up they were astonished that I had been able to walk. I need to get on to a physio soon and get more strength building exercises. I'm still not doing much garden or otherwise. Though I did manage to plant 5 things yesterday I wasn't ready to risk using a shovel so the holes were dug with a trowel. I also managed to remove one of the steel temp fencing posts by myself. It was still enough exercise to make me a little achy last night. I'll have to be careful to not lift anything heavy for a few more months and to take each day as it comes. The surgeon said there is still the possibility I might need further surgery later and to come see him if I have back pain later on. All up to me now. He was very surprised at how stable I was and that I was able to walk nearly 5 kms within 3 weeks of surgery, get out of a straight chair just using my legs etc. etc. <br />
<br />kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-22815592647374435072013-01-27T08:38:00.002+08:002013-01-27T08:38:39.615+08:0013 days post op.Well I'm alive, kicking and almost bored silly. I'm gradually watching all my favourite tv shows and movie collection. The operation was a huge success. The entire cyst was removed. It was "well adhered" according to the surgeons notes for the physio. Apart from some terrible pain and discomfort for the first day or so from the surgery and a few minor post op effects I was 100% straight away. None of the pre op pain existed from straight away. It's now 13 days later. I get tired quickly if I walk and can't go far yet. The first week going to the shops with G meant I was shattered after 30 mins from trying to stand and walk nice and straight etc. I can feel the area that was operated on when I lie flat on my back. As in, I'm aware of it. But no pain. On a bad back day it feels like I've over done the gardening and my back is left aching. But that is less and less. The 23 staples were removed last Monday, exactly a week after the surgery. If some people go back to work after 3 weeks which would be in 8 days from now I can't see how I can't start doing more in another week. But I'll have to wait and see. I haven't been in a car for any great distance since returning home from the hospital. That was done on 3 stages of 50 mins or so with back support and stops for a 10 mins stand and walk break. However I intend to get the youngest to take me to work on Thursday so I can talk to the teacher who will have my class and do a bit of a handover. She will also be my Friday job share teacher as we've decided I am going to only work 4 days a week from now on. I guess that means they are now, OUR class. Yippeee. <br />
Lying on my stomach is still far too uncomfortable and I was told not to do it but not for how long not to. It is the same with all the other restrictions. told not to do them but not for how long. I just have to stop myself bending( a no no) or doing anything I'm not meant to. No gardening, cleaning, cooking, washing, hanging washing etc. hmm well I've been making sandwiches for lunch since day 4. Have cooked dinner twice. The first time I was a bit tired by the time prep was over. But I've managed to cook a couple of cakes etc. which is something I always try to do when on holidays. I am looking forward to seeing the physio next week hopefully although I haven't had a notice yet so I'm not sure when I'll be contacted. I hope that the physio might be able to advise when I can start driving. I certainly can't imagine not driving for another 6 weeks. Hopefully I'll get a letter with my post op appointment for mid Feb soon. Whilst it might not be 100% wise to drive yet I am not that limited and could do it easily. I try not to twist or bend as per surgeons instructions but of course sometimes you do. There is no pain. Not to say that it isn't stopping the healing process though. so very frustrating and I do try to limit the times I do it.<br />
Poor dog and cat are waiting to be fed atm as I chose to bake for breakfast instead of feed them. I figure that's my "bend" for the morning. I'll get eldest up soon to give them food.<br />
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The yard:<br />
The lawn was given a serious weeding by me before I left for the operation. It was also given a good dose of a soil wetter and minerals to try and help it out over the very hot patch and a seasol and molasses treatment. I can see the weeds coming back. I know better than to try and weed although I've pulled out a couple of weeds that taunted me too much for me to stand. 1-5 good. 15 not so good. Won't do that again but I guess I could use a weed wand and poison them.<br />
I am hoping to talk one of the boys into doing some gardening for me today. A few bits that are really annoying me. I guess it depends on how warm it gets though.<br />
As the weather has been really warm G has taken the opportunity to have a break from paving but I know he wants to get back into it and get it over with. It will be good to see it all done. It's a mammoth task. Most garden work atm consists of watering to keep everything alive during this very warm period. kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-71661905455328872822012-12-23T12:17:00.000+08:002012-12-23T12:35:05.734+08:00What's HappeningWell after my last post the painter returned and repainted the ceilings and touched up the wall where the plasterer had left fresh plaster. So far the ceiling looks good. When the painter was here he noticed that part of the alfresco ceiling is dropping. So now we've had to let the builders know about that of course we've had no response yet. so another thing to chase up.<br />
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G has had his traineeship extended by another 6 months. Woohoo and I'm dropping to 4 days a week at work starting next year. We are all waiting anxiously for eldest to get his exam results on NYE so we know what he is doing next year.<br />
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Wattle ( dog) has now sired 12 pups all up. 6 in Wagga Wagga and 6 here a few months ago. His semen was set over and was successfully implanted in a chocolate labradoodle in Wagga Wagga. The 6 were born on Dec 13th. 4 black and 2 brown. 4 girls and 2 males.<br />
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The weeds are going great guns here. I've spent a good part of the last few days removing as many as I could from the front lawn. Yesterday G mowed it and today I've given it a dose of Seasol and Powerfeed. Hopefully it will be enough to help the bare patches get some lawn growth soon.<br />
I'm getting pretty desperate about sorting out the garden a bit more before mid January. Just realised I had mentioned several post back about my back hurting. Well surgery is imminent. I really shouldn't be doing any gardening or anything heavy or involving sudden movements. As G pointed out today I should be on my back with an icepack. I probably will be in the next day or so as I just discovered today I've been taking slightly stronger pain meds ( pinched some of G's old ones thinking they were the same dosage as what I had been taking) and I've run out and am back to my usual ones as of today. My back problem turned out to be a synovial cyst crushing all the nerve fibers in my spinal cavity but below the actual spinal cord. Surgery date is 14th of Jan and from what I can google I wont be driving for 6 weeks or so as the surgeon at this stage is not only planning to drain the cyst but also perform a laminectomy.( cutting into the lamina) I'm getting a little scared about afterwards atm. I don't think I'll be back at work until at least the end of February<br />
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G has been paving again. Right now he is filling in some gaps, doing cut-ins.<br />
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It's almost time to make some decisions about fencing on the retaining wall. Looks like we'll get some quotes and then decide if we'll do the job ourselves or save to get someone else to do it. In the meantime G has decided to continue paving. He'll leave space for fencing posts to be added in at a later stage. then once they are in the paving can be laid in the gaps left.<br />
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As you can see we bought 2 more garden benches for this area. They look terrific. <br />
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<br />kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-79457099513324658732012-10-07T10:23:00.002+08:002012-10-08T09:37:28.900+08:00So it begins.. againThe plasterer came this morning. He's fixed in a heap of screws running in about 800mm from the side wall ( load bearing wall) on each joist(?) where the falling down plaster board is. He's also fixed screws to either side of the long plaster board gaps in the kitchen and family room sections of the room. Red line is where the plaster was falling down. Green lines are where there are large enough cracks in the plaster boards for repairs to once again be done.<br />
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The plasterer is going to return on Wednesday. he says at around 9. Lets hope he's there then and I'm not spending my entire day waiting for him. Of course this return is for him to skim and flatten the boards. Then he has to return to sand which will be messy. Then someone else will have to come and repaint. It's a big area. The ceiling runs through without any cornice or door frames all the way into the kids activiity room. So it might all need to be repainted.<br />
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<br />kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-78141542415511099692012-10-06T07:42:00.002+08:002012-10-06T08:13:00.915+08:00Slight hiccupThursday night, tucked up in bed when Hubby dashes past the bedroom and heads out to the garage.<br />
"Ceiling is falling down!" he exclaims as he rushes past.<br />
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It seems the dramas with our ceilings are not yet over.<br />
We'd been watching as the cracks had gotten worse in several of the ceiling board joints once again but this was /is something else.<br />
It might be the glue or just another example of poor workmanship from the plasterers.<br />
One length of wall in the games room, right above several computers has come away from whatever holds it up. Not just the cornice but the plaster board. It's a length of about 5m. At worst it drops about 10 cm.<br />
So yesterday morning a call was made to the maintenance supervisor, "D" He sounded fairly relaxed about it when Hubby called him on his mobile. But 10 minutes later , I'm guessing after arriving at work, and checking our our build history he called back, a little less complacent. He said he'd be out with someone else as well. True to his word they both arrived within 2 hours.<br />
They also took a good look at the cracked plaster joins. So the plasterer will be expected to return. fix the problem, including redoing all the cracked board joints. Here's hoping this time he and his workers actually don't make as much mess. Fingers crossed they will actually call and organise times to come rather than just turn up and expect to be let in without notice as they did last time. We've sent an email to "D" with the times it suits us for the next week to have someone come out. Eldest has 4 exams next week, I have chiro appointments etc. So they will have to work around us. Last time was a pain in the... <br />
So lots of additional screws into the plaster board, repatching and repainting. Again! I hope it doesn't drag on over 8 months this time. G put up some pipe and used 2 brooms to stop the ceiling from slipping further and hold it in place on Thursday night. Hopefully today the plasterer will call and come and add some screws to hold it in place.<br />
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<br />kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-75414277498350851062012-10-04T07:58:00.002+08:002012-10-04T13:44:50.008+08:00Updated About US<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Just over 5 1/2 years ago we decided to move away from the
city to live in a smaller community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
applied for a transfer and got one to start the following year. So we packed up
and headed several hours south and ended up about 35 kms from the coast in a
small rural township. We bought 3/4 of a acre in town and over the next year built
a new home. Work = 120 kms round trip each day through some beautiful country.</div>
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Life is busy and very full. My husband started a new job
this year with a 12 month<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>traineeship at
the local community centre. It involves some study as well. Trying to update
his C.V with current experience and references was pretty tricky having only
worked pt for a couple of years stacking shelves after 11yrs of FT House-Dading
and keeping us all sane. Hopefully the traineeship will lead to further work. Eldest
is in final year of school. Stress time for all with it being the final months
of school and of hubby's traineeship. Will we all survive it???</div>
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So says the About US section. Of course there is more to it than that. </div>
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The traineeship is purely due to funding from Royalities for Regions. Yippeee. :)</div>
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Because hubby is a mature trainee and the funding stretches only so far. So he is employed 3 days a week. The contact is only for 12 months. Most trainees get an 18 month contract. Full time. The course work usually gets to be done over that 18 months and mostly during work time. He's trying to finish it in 12. We are holding our breath a bit atm as they are trying to get funding to extend his contact which would take the study pressure off a bit and mean he doesn't have to start applying for other work just yet.</div>
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Eldest has struggled a fair bit this year. He wasn't sure until recently what he wanted to do when he left school having changed his mind/career plans earlier in the year. He now has a goal. It's a tough one. There are plans in place if he doesn't make it. But he's feeling the pressure right now. </div>
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My back hurts. It's been 3 1/2 months of pain that was gradually getting worse. We know it's one of 2 things. I've been referred on to a neuro surgeon. There's a strong possibility I'll need some sort of surgery. Perhaps minor, perhaps not. So we wait and see. It just adds to the stress level. Feeling pretty flat today as I had paid to go to a 3 day conference in the city. Australian Conference on Computers in Education. Sigh. Was advised not to go. I doubt I could have handled the journey up anyway. Very frustrating reading all the tweets, FB posting and emails related to the conference.</div>
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On the house front:<br />
The garden is looking decidedly rough. The weeds are getting tall. Lawn had a rough winter. I'm hoping now the weather is warming up it will recover. Paving is on hold, mostly. Hubby spends non studying time working on removing one of the nastier weeds from the backyard by hand. There are more out in the front garden hidden amongst other weeds. It has spiral seeds that get trapped in the dogs fur. I've snuck in a couple of small tube stock plants and did manage to mostly weed the front lawn ( before we got the news on my back) I <b>will</b> get to a bit more. But its a case of only a little at a time, then ice. :) We have a mound of paving and mulch still to be used taking up a big section of verge. The tube stock planted over the past couple of years is all growing nicely. The roses look very happy with their new growth sine I pruned them . I need to give them a good feed of blood and bone mixture. ( next task) Most of the dwarf abelias are happy. We lost a couple at one end of the hedge. I'll try again when i can get a chance to improve the soil in that spot. I've discovered we have 8 sun orchids growing in the back. The count is rising slowly. Fingers crossed the dog leaves them alone.<br />
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The boys are walking the dog. Though I worry about the huge unfriendly dogs at the end of the street each time they go out. They are behind an electrified fence that is 1.2m high. BUT the owner told me the dogs aren't really bothered by the fence. I'm not really sure what sort of dogs they are but they are big, powerful, and they growl, hackles up when they see anyone walking a dog. Someone told me, "pig hunting" dogs. You get the idea. When the people first moved in we had an encounter with them as the 3 dogs bailed us up on a walk. This was before they had fences. The owners were panicked as they saw us. They dashed across the road to grab their dogs just as things were getting more tense. So I worry when one of the boys tasks the dog for a walk even though they know to walk in the other direction once they get to that street.<br />
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kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-28007241545956534502012-09-20T06:31:00.002+08:002012-09-20T06:33:10.969+08:00Busy , busy, busy,<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/185344_10151223534680664_1913184489_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/185344_10151223534680664_1913184489_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>Just adding a few photos to show what we've been up to and what's happening around the place.<br />
Yesterday they started ripping up some of the fruit trees in the orchard behind us. Hoping they are just removing unproductive trees and it's not a sign that more will go. It looks so bare near our fence now. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/534258_10151223542870664_351986007_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/s720x720/534258_10151223542870664_351986007_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div> We have 6 native orchid spikes in the garden that I've spotted so far. Last year I found 3. They were really hard to get a good photo of as they close as soon as there was any shadowing. Below this shot are photos from last year.<br />
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/578627_10151223532385664_2117154846_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/578627_10151223532385664_2117154846_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/384132_10151223533475664_1918787565_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/384132_10151223533475664_1918787565_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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G has been busy doing more paving.<br />
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Wattle the dog has become a dad. His first stud duties a success. This is him overseeing G doing some paving. Investigating under a grasstree and with his name sake, a wattle bush..<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/552529_10151119444020664_733410612_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/552529_10151119444020664_733410612_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/578513_10151207555600664_1672614973_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/578513_10151207555600664_1672614973_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/417399_10151136322045664_1834543694_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/417399_10151136322045664_1834543694_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div> On the weekend we went down to visit the puppies. There are 6 of them. 3 boys and 3 girls. They were 4 weeks old. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/401079_10151220778200664_973724138_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/401079_10151220778200664_973724138_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/184174_10151220777090664_1627596127_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/184174_10151220777090664_1627596127_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/10494_10151220780035664_801211685_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/10494_10151220780035664_801211685_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>You can get more information about them here: <a href="http://www.offtheedgelabradoodles.com/Present_Litters.html">Wattle's Breeder</a>.<br />
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The weather is becoming quite lovely during the day.<br />
Still coolish at night and some rain but sunny and pleasant during the day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/316878_10151202765605664_1784222726_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/316878_10151202765605664_1784222726_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-81830410662367971592012-03-23T06:20:00.000+08:002012-03-23T06:20:07.039+08:00Sitting pretty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/482741_10150738306170664_987224639_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/482741_10150738306170664_987224639_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-59038402357354631632012-03-10T13:42:00.000+08:002012-03-10T13:42:11.007+08:00Roll on cooler weatherEverything is looking very dry in this shot from Feb 6th.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlVbYtoGlcr2huTAA-mASDnVEQWZNRO40VC29C9zFiPvZCkhMBnsBbMhShjQRhcsn74e86GYwBhwmLAcRlnKvQ-M7SL4Q_MvZ9AHqe2K8XFQLKAyoQ8CTHFciRVtKG7WFD4Llz3wodYg/s1600/feb+6+2012+our+place.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZlVbYtoGlcr2huTAA-mASDnVEQWZNRO40VC29C9zFiPvZCkhMBnsBbMhShjQRhcsn74e86GYwBhwmLAcRlnKvQ-M7SL4Q_MvZ9AHqe2K8XFQLKAyoQ8CTHFciRVtKG7WFD4Llz3wodYg/s320/feb+6+2012+our+place.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-59340140782306032732012-01-30T06:45:00.000+08:002012-01-30T06:45:39.468+08:00New BeginningsJust over 4 1/2 years ago we decided to move away from the city to live in a smaller community. So we packed up and headed several hours south and ended up about 35 kms from the coast in a small rural township. We bought 3/4 of a acre in town and built a new home.<br />
Life being what it is, my new job is a little further travel wise than my old one. 120 kms round trip each day, thankfully through some beautiful country.<br />
Life is busy and very full.<br />
My husband is about to start a new p/t job in the next day or so. The house is full of anticipation/excitement/trepidation as it's his first venture into office work and day time work in 13 1/2 years.So a whole new and exciting world is opening up. <br />
Eldest has just got his driver's learning permit and is about to start his final year of high school and younger son is about to start high school. This will be a big year for us.<br />
Paving will be taking a bit of a back seat as everyone settles into both new and old routines.<br />
kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-24895144870806725972011-12-25T05:24:00.003+08:002011-12-25T05:30:52.734+08:00Merry Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.popularvirals.com/images/holidays/christmas/merry-christmas-0633-glass.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.popularvirals.com/images/holidays/christmas/merry-christmas-0633-glass.gif" width="137" /></a></div><br />
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</a></div>kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-9277881234459166082011-11-30T06:17:00.000+08:002011-11-30T06:17:51.711+08:00edgesPaving edges are almost finished now. It looks so very neat.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/375247_10150489231865664_542460663_10806512_1647790086_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/375247_10150489231865664_542460663_10806512_1647790086_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-82593154532974981312011-11-27T07:52:00.001+08:002011-11-27T10:51:43.280+08:00bushfiresThere have been some bushfires to the south and south east of us here. 6 separate ones in fact. The fire at Margaret River saw the destruction of thirty one houses, four sheds and nine chalets, including the historic Wallcliffe House, while 16 houses and one shop were damaged at Prevelly, Gnarabup and Redgate. <br />
<div> </div>I took the dog for a walk yesterday evening. The smoke isn't too thick here as we are about 90mins drive away from most of the fires. But it is thick enough here to make for an eerie sky. Have heard 2 planes go overhead today though Hope that doesn't mean more fires.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/311868_10150481155265664_542460663_10779269_61727843_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/311868_10150481155265664_542460663_10779269_61727843_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Almost home.kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-65350892472121855652011-11-19T07:03:00.015+08:002011-11-19T14:27:21.957+08:00A few snapshotsJust a little progress around the place.<br />
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The front gate went on. We decided to go for a "pool" type gate as they are much lighter than a traditional gate. Attempting to dig a deeper hole for a bulkier and longer support post for a heavier gate would have been a major drama in our rocky ground. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296133_10150368440740664_542460663_10185304_255803602_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/296133_10150368440740664_542460663_10185304_255803602_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/302929_10150370881090664_542460663_10207304_578812015_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/302929_10150370881090664_542460663_10207304_578812015_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/296305_10150370888330664_542460663_10207426_552135414_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/296305_10150370888330664_542460663_10207426_552135414_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Doggy door frame arrived from the UK finally. It was cheaper to buy the same kit from there than to buy it locally from Perth and have it posted down ( by over $70)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">or to buy it even more locally ( by over $100) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/320999_10150403767930664_542460663_10386054_1283485285_n.jpg" width="240" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/295704_10150403768830664_542460663_10386067_76263456_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/295704_10150403768830664_542460663_10386067_76263456_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We've bought some paving. Around 240m2 in fact. They are 2nd's. Given we could easily use another 100m2 with ease and end up spending closer to 20k for fancy paving we've decided to opt for a less fancy paver and keep costs down. With 2nds it means a little more cracking, some bowing, and a bit more variation in size and colour. But overall well worth the savings as we ended up paying around $5.500 including 2 lots of delivery charges. ( we bought a smaller batch to test the waters then decided to get the lot) The plan is to do a small amount every few days. We're no longer spring chickens and G is pretty much doing it on his own. Doing a brilliant job of it too. The last time paving was done we were around 20 years younger so doing a small amount a few times a week is less strain on the back, the knees and the rest of the body. G semi jokingly said he'll be finished in Feb. I'm holding him to that. Oh to win the lottery and be able to afford to pay some one. :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At first we decided we quite fancied the underside of the pavers, but as work progressed we realised it wasn't as good a look as we had hoped for. So up they came. Then when the alfresco area was almost completed G worked out why he was having more difficultly than expected in keeping the paving straight. The first pack opened were slightly more square than the rest. Up came the pavers again and they were all relaid in the same direction. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was amazing just how much dirt had to be dug out to level the ground. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We have little mounds of builders white sand pad sand around everywhere that pavers have been laid. We'll be using it to cover up a bit of rocky ground near the fruit trees once the pavers have been sanded in.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We have baby pink lady apples.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/375296_10150440213770664_542460663_10615306_1564810124_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/375296_10150440213770664_542460663_10615306_1564810124_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> We've left a paver width gap up against the house for all paving areas except where there is a doorway. This will be filled with bluemetal. This is to assist the pest control man. He had told G that they charge almost triple on jobs where they have to drill through paving ( every 1m) to do their sprays as they will not lift pavers. His suggestion was to do the stones. So I guess when our next pestman visit happens we'll see what the bill is.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/317423_10150399180465664_542460663_10362376_1086673920_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/317423_10150399180465664_542460663_10362376_1086673920_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/309633_10150399180840664_542460663_10362383_1082557971_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/309633_10150399180840664_542460663_10362383_1082557971_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/310894_10150399359955664_542460663_10364137_1268652777_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/310894_10150399359955664_542460663_10364137_1268652777_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/313300_10150432326510664_542460663_10554811_440232461_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/313300_10150432326510664_542460663_10554811_440232461_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/298720_10150432327045664_542460663_10554814_173086921_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/298720_10150432327045664_542460663_10554814_173086921_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Ever so nice to sit outside with a cuppa and not be in sand.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After a short break with not so practical paving weather. G started on the front.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lots of angles. Once all the whole piece paving is set out here G will buy a saw blade and do all the cuts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/309726_10150455381500664_542460663_10689049_1466665423_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/309726_10150455381500664_542460663_10689049_1466665423_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wattle loves roses. He likes to admire them for a second then bites them whole off the plants. He only picks those in bloom that look good never any that have finished and are wilted. His "handiwork" can be seen here on the pavers. Usually he runs off to the lawn with the flower to scatter petals everywhere.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/320509_10150465155710664_542460663_10725037_1994075335_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/320509_10150465155710664_542460663_10725037_1994075335_n.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Once the paving is finished I'll build a retaining bed around the rose garden out of the leftover house bricks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wattle wants to be friends. Mia isn't impressed. No matter how much she hisses and growls at him he whimpers for her and wags his tail and wants to play. (pounce on her) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/309787_10150462726415664_542460663_10716282_190880750_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/309787_10150462726415664_542460663_10716282_190880750_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-7302368529225220642011-09-25T10:05:00.003+08:002011-09-25T10:08:46.447+08:00Updates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/299354_10150388363355664_542460663_10298749_73117969_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Wattle</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/299354_10150388363355664_542460663_10298749_73117969_n.jpg" width="240" /></div><br />
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He's 17 weeks tomorrow. Has developed a "I'm being naughty" bark when he's doing something he shouldn't. It's a ," Look at me. I've got something/done something/ gotten somewhere forbidden."<br />
Yesterday he dashed into the office while I was sorting out the cat's breakfast because I'd forgotten to put the barricade back up. When I went to "inspect" his current mischief he has a cat pompom toy in his mouth and was very pleased with himself. Can't wait for the doggy door to arrive and be installed. Hopefully the post will come this week as we now have to put his inside bed up in the mornings or he drags it through the house or outside.<br />
He is getting much better at knowing our routines on weekdays. he knows I disappear in the mornings and no longer stands waiting and whining at the door for me to reappear. As soon as he hears the front door go in the afternoon he knows it's me and is standing waiting for me as I open the door into the family room. He's much more compliant about morning nap times and at coming in after his middle of the night toilet break. yippee. No more standing outside trying to find him in the dark and get him to come. He and the cat have not yet reached tolerate stage. He tends to want to bounce at the cat which she of course doesn't like at all. But they more frequently lie on the floor about 1 m apart either side of one of us when we are in the kitchen without a carry on. There is hope.<br />
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On the house front.<br />
A small amount of pavers have been ordered and delivered for the alfresco area and the front verandah and path. If these seem to be ok we will be ordering enough to do all the paving areas. The pavers are 2nds and discontinued but I have been informed there are plenty available at the moment so as soon as we know they aren't too much a problem to lay we'll order more. Not sure when w e'll get to lay them but they are a bargain price not to be repeated so it's a case of buy while we can.<br />
There's a lot of time juggling going on at the moment. The weather has finally improved enough to get into the garden and do some work on the massive amount of weeds that have appeared. G spent yesterday whipper snipping the weeds on 1/2 the verge and all the weeds out the front around the driveway area. Remember we are on a corner 3/4 of an acre block so this was no small area.<br />
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I'm not keen for his to do the same in the front garden. Too much risk the plants we want to keep will be damaged. I think it will be a matter of weeding while puppy sleeps as they are so bad I need to use a shovel/large weeding fork on some of the larger ones and I can't do this with puppy around.<br />
Pup does enjoy tearing off with any hand weeded weeds, giving them a few bites then returning for a new weed.<br />
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We had a bobtail visit the garden yesterday. Luckily G spotted it from the kitchen right near the wire fencing that divides the back from the front before the dog did. I was able to go out and push it through the fencing. I gave it some banana that had been left too long for us to eat. We then let the dog out so he could look at it. What a carry on. I ended up taking the bobtail into a neighbouring block along with the banana treat.kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-51498928474535251302011-09-02T18:25:00.001+08:002011-09-02T18:31:24.691+08:00puppyMuch fencing and prep later. Our laundry finally has some wall shelving for additional storage and a small broom cupboard<br />
And puppy is here.<br />
He still has some growing to do. as he is only 12 weeks old. I'm guessing he'll be about double this size when he finishes growing. <br />
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Her's sound asleep under the table at the moment ignoring the dog bed.kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-81958139869913377582011-08-29T06:59:00.000+08:002011-08-29T06:59:49.533+08:00A bit blurry but i'm in a rush as usual<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsvJUMlHsUDcobZAhDdwc9GVBpx8y9cMyaJ7M9rlW538sVz-78J0j29KGdElIYoCzfKH63S5V8rcVkEdGU7JmISAToeTJPKMEkGUwdouGlzSWLRic_RoIvtcMw0-Eox8XpuXnyE__Nnw/s1600/IMG_2080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsvJUMlHsUDcobZAhDdwc9GVBpx8y9cMyaJ7M9rlW538sVz-78J0j29KGdElIYoCzfKH63S5V8rcVkEdGU7JmISAToeTJPKMEkGUwdouGlzSWLRic_RoIvtcMw0-Eox8XpuXnyE__Nnw/s320/IMG_2080.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-8425374069626792542011-08-24T07:22:00.001+08:002011-08-24T07:23:17.354+08:00Garden is changing.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4mg0w1s_deAdLR9K6B3CTgwyndErPUohQld0LVkVw6MuWQ97of4ubDqNtTCGHYT-La6XVwV4e6yObDexyQN-4He-_b4ygsWtHv06eY1B70ldPWa3HHbMNobvFS0CmqEQGe6cFBuYMvSA/s1600/IMG_1933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4mg0w1s_deAdLR9K6B3CTgwyndErPUohQld0LVkVw6MuWQ97of4ubDqNtTCGHYT-La6XVwV4e6yObDexyQN-4He-_b4ygsWtHv06eY1B70ldPWa3HHbMNobvFS0CmqEQGe6cFBuYMvSA/s320/IMG_1933.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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We are still swamped with weeds but there's been a few changes.<br />
Have discovered 4 native kangaroo paws growing in the garden. One has come up in the builders sand pad. No nutrients there at all I would have though. They are still small plants but to get an idea of what they will look like take a look at these ones I purchased and planted last year and earlier this year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-EC_MZWe2yULKI7XhwSOw3yvabqsv6WECgpoJ7neSmjkm97KAfL14zCo_8YSmzKL06tDgxQkrBU5wqtx3Gf3QXuNTlIQqip1jgfEWAu1Yr2lGb494SI4inu4Rql9E-KI7AWNSmzB05I/s1600/wattl1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJe_7d0JHRa0ru9mMcWotwyKZHkqBajPtAfgVV4UCJFdlMSh_YL0ijuDnpw67eJBaVGPxVEXD-8Pme02ZsruJWxTnBcUsGpWSmh2tLCY7Bixiu_Ozyty4BFwVTvyA0EpwSBvfXqslakwo/s1600/IMG_1936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJe_7d0JHRa0ru9mMcWotwyKZHkqBajPtAfgVV4UCJFdlMSh_YL0ijuDnpw67eJBaVGPxVEXD-8Pme02ZsruJWxTnBcUsGpWSmh2tLCY7Bixiu_Ozyty4BFwVTvyA0EpwSBvfXqslakwo/s320/IMG_1936.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The biggest news for us is that our family has grown. We've introduced pets for the first time in a long time. Although we've had guinea pigs and crazy crabs it's been 10 years since we had a cat or a dog.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-q-3HCDTMBR9_712PDxD8ndP8qhcWRCH1llfz3YMqbJE8KUATi_KFdb4o1eQJNiKmFUjGIcubkFXoZmNnGPC4OjK0uOFwrev4MgUtoidmdooW6YMEVRgJzNYbp7K2FXJl_ikDZncu_8/s1600/IMG_1941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5-q-3HCDTMBR9_712PDxD8ndP8qhcWRCH1llfz3YMqbJE8KUATi_KFdb4o1eQJNiKmFUjGIcubkFXoZmNnGPC4OjK0uOFwrev4MgUtoidmdooW6YMEVRgJzNYbp7K2FXJl_ikDZncu_8/s320/IMG_1941.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Starting with a cat last week. Her name is Mia. She is 5 and her owners moved back to the UK and put her in to CARE Perth rescue. After 9 days she is settling in well. But that's not the finish of the pet news.<br />
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After a number of years of research and testing we've found a dog that our eldest can cope with without getting ill. We already knew he didn't seem to have a problem with poodles but we weren't too keen on getting a poodle. So after road testing the parent dog, and checking out 5 different pups from 3 litters we are taking on a Mini labradoodle. His name is Wattle. He will be 12 1/2 weeks old when we get him next Friday. Wattle will potentially be a stud boy for one of the 2 labradoodle breeders here in WA who are part of the labradoodle association in Australia. This means they test for genetic diseases in all their breeding animals, do hip tests at 12 months on future breeding animals and have quite rigid rules about selling dogs and what happens if someone can't keep one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-EC_MZWe2yULKI7XhwSOw3yvabqsv6WECgpoJ7neSmjkm97KAfL14zCo_8YSmzKL06tDgxQkrBU5wqtx3Gf3QXuNTlIQqip1jgfEWAu1Yr2lGb494SI4inu4Rql9E-KI7AWNSmzB05I/s1600/wattl1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-EC_MZWe2yULKI7XhwSOw3yvabqsv6WECgpoJ7neSmjkm97KAfL14zCo_8YSmzKL06tDgxQkrBU5wqtx3Gf3QXuNTlIQqip1jgfEWAu1Yr2lGb494SI4inu4Rql9E-KI7AWNSmzB05I/s320/wattl1.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
So there is action in the garden as we prepare. More fencing going up. Photos to come later today if I get time or otherwise added tomorrow. <br />
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Links below to the association and to Wattles breeder.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KXOe21rqDNyCf5fGPYdb2hF0tBCF7UubLjy6lcX_fy0HD_wFFDT5s-uLjUCDD_Xpy_7GBzFo4zjhxckhGuirXc1a97FSs6JS5E8Th3g2HUIQuLzBEKKCoPhjng2hM2oTq9O5hsRNMkc/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KXOe21rqDNyCf5fGPYdb2hF0tBCF7UubLjy6lcX_fy0HD_wFFDT5s-uLjUCDD_Xpy_7GBzFo4zjhxckhGuirXc1a97FSs6JS5E8Th3g2HUIQuLzBEKKCoPhjng2hM2oTq9O5hsRNMkc/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.laa.org.au/">http://www.laa.org.au/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.offtheedgelabradoodles.com/">http://www.offtheedgelabradoodles.com/</a><br />
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kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-41347011866345739732011-06-29T16:48:00.000+08:002011-06-29T16:48:58.063+08:00from the frontApril 26th 2010<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOYK43sjDu8zBg6cgOgDUO-6BW9rPI7egU4M0NP9N8pTn02oy5DoPaoswChuW0dPuAkrO5YkFEUGE5v2KxbCyPrtATA8LP2HA35NbBffnJ2aVIfLEgDgbh-83D5lLhHkhQAZXbo4sxx8/s320/smoggy+foggy+morning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOYK43sjDu8zBg6cgOgDUO-6BW9rPI7egU4M0NP9N8pTn02oy5DoPaoswChuW0dPuAkrO5YkFEUGE5v2KxbCyPrtATA8LP2HA35NbBffnJ2aVIfLEgDgbh-83D5lLhHkhQAZXbo4sxx8/s320/smoggy+foggy+morning.jpg" /></a></div>June 29th 2011<br />
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Same view, Just waiting for as thick a fog. This is the closest we've had so far since the new house went up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLwsib5yva4bQUb7QqdNrTxI1Xfca9_Zvn6Is8cN37Xd8UI5O0s0yedSj_zuqyMnHz70fn2hlIZmcHgM6DVwW-ROYKIPcSXshthblkn50kkmxGeUlnmQyi4E1wjg7ALdx3F2b5Wzn_lc/s1600/demp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLwsib5yva4bQUb7QqdNrTxI1Xfca9_Zvn6Is8cN37Xd8UI5O0s0yedSj_zuqyMnHz70fn2hlIZmcHgM6DVwW-ROYKIPcSXshthblkn50kkmxGeUlnmQyi4E1wjg7ALdx3F2b5Wzn_lc/s320/demp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwnpy51jxEyeLkK_k0NYf49Bzf1KXrHuSeol8yNVE4D3IMKw40AQHDgT8Bzk7kE96pcc2RpZi6ruVLW6ns8fElrQAuOWe5TIdrYYADhRHA9krv9sasEX3nxscjJP8WJEEJ3YWPsYp-7g/s1600/damp2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCwnpy51jxEyeLkK_k0NYf49Bzf1KXrHuSeol8yNVE4D3IMKw40AQHDgT8Bzk7kE96pcc2RpZi6ruVLW6ns8fElrQAuOWe5TIdrYYADhRHA9krv9sasEX3nxscjJP8WJEEJ3YWPsYp-7g/s320/damp2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-82998467110632988442011-06-18T17:38:00.003+08:002011-06-25T04:45:16.144+08:00Orchard and forest view to the south.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/259807_10150273603870664_542460663_9383479_7550736_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Certainly better than looking at someones over grown suburban backyard.</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="220" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/259807_10150273603870664_542460663_9383479_7550736_n.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
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We bought yet another gargoyle today. This one's a concrete "limestone look" one and we also purchased an Emperor Mandarin. The gargoyle looks very much at home perched on a corner of the limestone retaining wall at the front of the house.<br />
We've ordered both a dwarf granny smith and a dwarf pink lady ( pinkabelle) apple tree from the small, in town nursery. They'll call us when they are in.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/260254_10150274485510664_542460663_9393109_1019773_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/260254_10150274485510664_542460663_9393109_1019773_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/264978_10150274485235664_542460663_9393105_4692029_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/264978_10150274485235664_542460663_9393105_4692029_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div> Trying to decide whether to fertilize or cut the lawn perhaps? <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/249693_10150274484860664_542460663_9393097_2772278_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/249693_10150274484860664_542460663_9393097_2772278_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDRQXFlDeIdYxQpiWWEzwTKRz_4QC7AHrAnsAgguQXWu1iEMEsVXeFH-UTfb_ouzpL6l7SBuBBjdY7RhkA_YN4MRYXbul582_H2QVkXEozx-6ecK82a3bM7tRxw_DCTO2aTukhyphenhyphenufUmuE/s1600/veg2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDRQXFlDeIdYxQpiWWEzwTKRz_4QC7AHrAnsAgguQXWu1iEMEsVXeFH-UTfb_ouzpL6l7SBuBBjdY7RhkA_YN4MRYXbul582_H2QVkXEozx-6ecK82a3bM7tRxw_DCTO2aTukhyphenhyphenufUmuE/s320/veg2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-51834649182384832322011-06-07T06:43:00.002+08:002011-06-07T06:46:28.349+08:00Quick updateWe've added a few plants to some bits of the garden but not a lot.<br />
We've been investigating adding a front gate near the garage and at this stage we have started considering pool gate type fencing as it would be the lightest option. <br />
Had a win last weekend as I discovered one of the pool and spa companies in Bunbury stocked zeolite as a filter medium for some of their pool filters( zeobrite) so was able to get 2 15 kg bags. <img alt=":)" src="http://forum.homeone.com.au/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" title="Smile" /><br />
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Wednesday we went and purchased half a tray of seedlings for a hedge. We now have some people who have bought the property 2 from us and want to get a hedge started. The area is so rocky that the only way to do this is to buy small tube stock and let it find it's own way through the rock. <br />
I've also started on some chicken wire to cover over the post and rail fencing so try and keep the rabbits out. It's hard going. My fingers are soft and they get very sore wiring up the 2 fences with wire. I've gt at least 70 more metres to go. I hope they don't come exploring tonight . My back is sore and I need to stop. Hubby spent almost 3 hours of measuring and digging with a crowbar produced holes big enough to plant small tube stick seedlings. 34 Pincushion Hakea's have now been planted. So now we have a hedge planted. One plant every 1.5 m. The last 3rd became steadily more and more rocky as you can see.<br />
We have one left and 4 other plants to go in later in the week. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sn/255116_10150261888395664_542460663_9268166_6455478_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sn/255116_10150261888395664_542460663_9268166_6455478_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3141743088758611718.post-60806992999628846072011-05-21T11:31:00.001+08:002011-05-23T05:03:26.289+08:00Time to get into itWe've been back a few weeks now and the rains have finally come. The garden bed is swamped by weeds, the roses in desperate need of pruning, veggies need pulling out and new soil put in. New veggies need to go in.<br />
I've pulled up the tomato bushes and as of today, pulled up the carrots. Not a success as the ground was too poor and hard. What we've ended up with has multiple roots and having left them in disgust, today when I finally pulled them up so I can start again, many are split. Still had to get a photo though. If I get lots of improver in I might try again with normal sized carrots but not for a while. (I planted baby ones.)<br />
On Mothers day I planted garlic from a friend. At almost 2 weeks in these are looking pretty good.<br />
Garlic after 13 days. <br />
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Snow Peas<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/250062_10150248040990664_542460663_9128015_6256293_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/250062_10150248040990664_542460663_9128015_6256293_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Capsicum<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/250412_10150248042800664_542460663_9128042_3435484_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/250412_10150248042800664_542460663_9128042_3435484_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Baby Carrots. I didn't enrich the soil enough and make sure it was friable. The seeds germinated and everything looked promising until I started to pull them up. They all had multiple roots. So I left the rest to rot in the ground. Today I decided to pull them up anyway. The results were as I expected, pretty awful. You can see what happens to carrots left in the ground too long. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/250591_10150248044485664_542460663_9128057_2619176_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/250591_10150248044485664_542460663_9128057_2619176_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/249393_10150248045365664_542460663_9128064_3821913_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/249393_10150248045365664_542460663_9128064_3821913_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Time to get organised for the day. I'm off to buy new pruners.kexkezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11022961200784197808noreply@blogger.com0