Tasmanias old growth forests

Our state is torn over the proposed pulp mill which I hope and pray never gets off the ground. For me it has always been about both the saving of Tasmanias old growth forests and the effluent which will be dumped on our pristine beaches at Low Head.

Hobart weekend

A night in beautiful Hobart. Even a cloudy day is spectacular. This was the view from our hotel.

New deck and toilet reno

This area was a total disaster and we have given it a makeover.  New loo and installed a handbasin.  I think it's come up really well.

Our little beach cottage now has a deck at the front. I was in the area working yesterday and can't tell how good it was to sleep over. Off to Hobart today to see our eldest son and his family.  Have a nice weekend!

Farewell Margaret Olley

Farewell Margaret Olley
Dear Margaret Olley passed away aged 88 this week. An amazing Australian artist. Last year my husband and I flew to Sydney to an exhibition of her early works which depict her travels to Europe. It was wonderful and I have the coffee table book to enjoy. I love Margarets still life paintings and rather hope I end my days painting away at home like her.
This picture with Ben Quilty the winner of the Archibald prize.

Rug

This huge rug hanging in spotlight reminded me of a story my parents told. When they first married they made large rag rugs for their home. I'm not sure if theirs were looped. I love this idea. Does anyone know how to make one?

Tasmanian walnuts in Tasmanian honey

I've had fun making up these jars.  Il make some for Christmas gifts but in smaller jars to be cost effective. Il be interested in your suggestion for serving.  My ideas are, on pancakes, cheese platters, through yoghurt, What do you think?

Artworks by Bella

My little grand daughter Bella has been painting with me since she was first able to hold a brush.
Bella is now 4 and soaks up my art instruction like a sponge. This week she was painting wet on wet watercolor, and immediately understood what I was on about. 
Recently when Bella was sick, all she wanted to do was paint.  I'm always happy to let her use my paints and high quality paper. I'd like nothing better than to spend more time encouraging children to paint. 
In a perfect world, I think children should paint and sing everyday. I feel we suddenly stop most of the fun things in favor of other school subjects.  Learning through play can be a life long pastime if we participate!