A lovely Spring break!

My husband and I have just returned from a few days up the mid-north coast of NSW. We spent time swimming, walking, eating and just enjoying the time together. We took some great photos and I will post some soon. My sister and her family also holidayed in the same place - Port Macquarie. We had dinner together each night. We ate at two lovely restaurants and it was truly a wonderful time to just relax and enjoy each other's company. I was particularly impressed with my gorgeous little niece, who was so well behaved. She just amazed me with her manners and etiquette - something I think is absent in a lot of adults. It is good to see that our future generation are aware of manners and etiquette. She is only three - no tantrums, no squealing. She was so beautifully behaved.

Mark and I took some lovely photos - we wanted to capture some of the elements we didn't capture, the last time we were there.

Today, before we left, we went to the Farmers' Market which was great! Of course, I can't bear to miss a moment to meet farmers and find out about their produce. I purchased some delicious cold pressed olive oil, mixed berry jam, Queensland Blue pumpkin, potatoes (brushed) , mediterranean chutney and tomato relish. I really believe that food that is not mass produced, or fresh produce that hasn't been sitting in refrigeration for a few weeks, tastes so much better!

Tonight I used the wonderful olive oil in a french inspired meal I prepared for Mark and I.

We also visited one of my favourite wineries in NSW - Cassegrains. I purchased a number of red wines and verjuice. If you have not used verjuice in your cooking - then spend a little bit of time with me and I will show you just how versatile it can be and how much depth it adds to your cooking.

Finally, I have also made some plans to continue to add to my garden. More on that in the coming blogs. Needless to say, I have decided that it is time to create a garden that moves beyond my orchids, succulents and ferns, to really embracing an edible garden.