The Rose Garden

I love roses! My Dad grew the most beautiful roses when I was growing up, so we were always surrounded by them. Mum always had some inside in a vase, and I remember they always smelled divine!

I only have a few roses. SIX to be precise. Four of them were here when we bought this house 8 and a half years ago, I've since planted 2 more - Mother's Love and when Dad passed away, I planted Father's Love in his memory.

They are late in blooming this year, maybe because of our cooler weather for this time of year, maybe because I pruned them a bit later than I usually would. I'm not sure. I know they would never win any prizes, but I do love their colours and smell. They are summer to me.

And I have followed in Mums footsteps and often have some in a vase.

My most favourite rose in the World is "Birthday Present" My Nana had one when I was growing up, and later on Mum & Dad grew one. I think it may only be available in NZ.

Birthday Present

It is a deep red climber, with the most beautiful smell!

Botanical Gardens!

Today my friend and I took the girls up to Araluen Botanical Gardens where they had some fun on for the kids for the school holidays. The nature trail was up first, and was very hard. There were 3 to choose from, and having older kids, we went for the hardest, we didn't get it completed, but we still enjoyed it. Next we had lunch, which was slow due to business but tasty! After lunch was craft activities, the girls decided not to participate in the first part, and go for a ride on the train instead, by the time we got off the train, it was time for the clay making, which they all loved.

Out with friends!

My friend messaged me just before midday for a meetup at a park. I had been busy all morning cleaning out Ella's bedroom, so wasn't showered/dressed yet. We had just finished lunch. I quickly made some choc chip muffins, put them in the oven and hopped in the shower. We were out the door at 12:45pm with warm muffins. The park was packed, then heavy rain came and everyone left. We stayed on and the sun came out briefly, then more rain. No one cared. We saw Ella's dancing friend there and her brother, so they joined us. After we went to the ice cream parlour. Everyone is worn out with all the fresh air!

Zig Zag Festival

I had the day to myself yesterday, Kate is away for a couple of days at a friends, and Ella went to the Zigzag Festival up the hill with her friend Hannah. These are some pics that were taken. Looks like they all had a happy time!

Getting There!

We spent the morning painting. I spent the afternoon painting. I called it a day at 5:30pm. The kids had long moved on to better things like having friends over to stay. I'm pleased with my efforts today, but so so tired.

Out the back!

We got home from the show yesterday to find Phil had started the garden extension with this trellising up. The gate still has to be made, painting to be done, and then to get stuck into the "other" side. Can't wait!

Update!!!

Just finished- handmade gate! How awesome is this!!!