The summer solstice passed this week in a flurry of rain and gale winds. The kitchen garden was battered by the elements and by some small miracle seemed to have survived. We’ve been busy harvesting broad beans and freezing them for later. The peas, beans,... It’s a sure sign of neglect in the garden when things start to go to seed. I can’t help myself though as the seed heads are a work of art which I find brings character to the garden. Well that’s my story and I’m sticking to it! My first... I swear that I saw the pine trees in the forestry block next foor growing inches before my very eyes this week. It’s ideal growing conditions, warm and wet – quite tropical really in a Wellingtonian sort of way.  I was excited to know what was... There is no Shakespearean tragedy when it comes to the Othello Rose. It is instead big, bold and blousey in a romantic sort of way. The flowers are large, a handful in fact. Just the right size to cup and gently hold whilst you give is a good sniff. I... When it comes to antisceptics Germolene was always the coolest cream to have. Heaps better than Savlon. You see it was the pink colour I loved so much as a kid even if it did have a nausiating smell. Imagine my delight to come to New Zealand and find a fruit... 