Ode to Cloudlake

We have just spent a lovely weekend at Cloudlake, staying in the wonderful "Mother of Ducks" Cottage. It is a very special property lovingly developed by Richard and Rosemary. We love the Mother of Ducks cottage for its quirky retro decor, the fabulously wide verandahs, the many comfy reading spots and the glorious views over the lake.

...a day late!

Dusting off the shimmies

I have just danced at this - it's been a while, but I needed to force myself to get back on a stage as the longer I leave it, fear will set in. It was a lovely evening, despite a last minute venue change.

My Five Daily Essentials

Deb from over at cooking up a storm in a teacup tagged me to play along in My Five Daily Essentials. So here they are....

Gotta start the day with yummy homemade muesli in summer or porridge in winter.

Then catch up with the news over breakfast.

Can't leave the house without a lathering of sunscreen.

I am addicted to this night cream - I know it won't help my wrinkles but it smells so good and I have convinced myself it helps me sleep!

I need to read a few pages of a good book before drifting off to sleep.

Curry leaves!!!!

OMG! I have discovered curry leaves! I can't believe I have been missing out on them for so long. I bought a bunch from the Mt Gravatt markets on the weekend and had to 'google" up on how to use them.

The consensus seems to be that you fry them quickly (as they burn easily) in oil with perhaps some mustard seeds and mix them through your curry/dahl just before serving.

Tonight I mixed them into a cauliflower/chickpea curry and voila! My curry has never tasted better.