I'm back after holidays, and a few extra days thrown in just to be a sloth. We all need sloth days. The only hard part is not letting them morph into sloth weeks. I was tempted :)
My holiday impacted me quite a lot. I live in the sub-tropics. Not much seasonal variation going on in the sub tropics- at all. Ah, but drive inland a bit...Sigh! Nature really shows off out there. I am so glad I got to see it during spring. Please allow me to indulge a little as I show you some of my fave pics...
A gorgeous cottage garden at Land of the Beardies History House Museum, Glen Innes.
Spring blossoms in the park.
One of my favourite trees, a weeping willow, gently draping the stone edged park creek.
Tree gazing #1
Tree gazing #2
Tree gazing #3
A rare moment, caught on camera. Seeds take flight as a stiff breeze hits the tree, sending a cascade of white, delicate, snow-like flakes everywhere. So glad I got 'caught' in it :)
A tree change was just so nice. The beach is beautiful, but visiting places of history with 120 year old trees, and buildings with character that were designed to last just can't compare. That was one big thing that impacted me and I can't really stop thinking about. Beachside living is often cheaply made, knock it up quickly for maximum return. And while you're at it, build it all on sand, 'cause despite the proverb, sand is apparently a stable base? Then charge a ludicrous amount of money for it. I will rent here, but never, ever will I buy. It makes no sense. Thankfully, hubby agrees. Give me real dirt. The sort that stains carpet, makes awesome mud pies and grows beautiful gardens kind of dirt. Luckily, we live in the same postcode as areas where real dirt resides. We are looking to move there, as soon as a suitable property comes available.
In the country, people seem to have something on us 'city dwellers'. They stop. I mean, shops actually shut Saturday afternoon and re-open Monday morning. You will always find a pub and scattering of cafe's open. However, most people are rather sensible and realise that humans need to rest; actually allowing themselves a day off. On Sunday, a friend pointed out that in the country, things may take longer, but they allow for real growth, maturity and longevity. How I envy that. I am determined to bring a little of that country culture into my world. Sometimes, you've got to swim against the flow for real change to happen. I choose to allow myself to not get caught up in the business of life. Things will get done better if I'm rested and prepared for them. I myself am exhausted by the current 'pace' we are expected to live life here.
This has inspired me to seek God more. He promises rest for those who do. I like the sound of that. I also want to continue eating, and preparing, healthy meals, garden more, and just re-learn how to sit and enjoy my family, my current home, my church. Always 'doing' can rob you of what is actually important: Relationships. People matter.
Now, let me indulge in a few more photo's, which I'm pleased to say does include healthy food :)
My last post included the recipe for these protein balls. They were such a hit with hubby, I have had to keep up the supply. This is the latest batch- several days worth. They are so good, and as only 2 are needed per person per day, very economical too.
Back home, and I'm rewarded with this stunning view as I walked home from mother's group with bubby last week.
Even bubby is getting into healthy eating :) This is her 'nothing else added' healthy puree's ready to freeze; broccoli and pumpkin pictured. She devoured some broccoli, pumpkin and apple for dinner tonight. I am going to expand the veggie choices after tomorrow's grocery shop.
An odd looking, but very tasty breaky parfait; soaked nuts and oats with cocoa and protein powder, topped with cherries and coconut.
A divine roast pumpkin, feta and quinoa salad I purchased at White Jade cafe, Pottsville while celebrating my beautiful friend, Jess's baby shower. Eating out doesn't have to mean eating bad.
Getting back the beetroot craving, I found this dip recipe online at http://www.anaadiyoga.com/delicious-raw-beetroot-dip. It is seriously good, but beware, I will remake it, with my own tweaking :) It was a popular dip on Sunday at our monthly BBQ, Let's Picnic.
Dinner tonight was easy and filling. Using the last of my homemade chicken stock, I fried some pumpkin and onion until the base charred. Then I added chicken and cooked through before adding chicken stock, seasoning and extra water. When the stock reduced, I blitzed the soup as smooth as possible. It was so filling, but I agree with hubby- it needed some sour cream and not just a garnish of my fresh coriander.
That is your lot for today. I hope it satisfied. I will be back with more very soon. Until then, thanks for reading :)
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