rainforest reflections

Posted on October 10, 2015 by kathy

At first glance, our property has a nice, cedar clad house, surrounded by a large garden, surrounded by a few paddocks. What is not immediately obvious, is the other 40 acres of untouched rainforest. A short stroll through the western paddock finds a gateway to nature’s wonderland. The path should be taken slowly, not only because of the steep gradient but also to appreciate the expanse of manferns embracing the hillside.

The mesmeric burble of a gently flowing stream follows down to the bridge where it continues, hidden by the forest, to the Blythe River.

Continuing along the track, variant scenes unfold revealing the beauty that is the rainforest.

Through a clearing, the house is spied on it’s hilltop perch.

The clematis vines that wind their way through the woodland unexpectedly reveal their grace.

A rainforest can never really be owned but we are proud to be temporary custodians.

tulip time

Posted on October 4, 2015 by kathy

October is festival time at Table Cape Tulip Farm and a visit is an absolute must. Perched on top of the extinct volcanic vent that is Table Cape are the largest tulip fields in the southern hemisphere that you are able to wander through. The first bulbs came from Holland in 1984 and now look at them….

As well as the tulips, the views are magnificent and Table Cape lighthouse adds to the stunning landscape

The colours and varieties of tulips seemed endless

sometimes a random interloper appeared in the crowd

There were some that didn’t resemble tulips at all

like this Foxtrot Double

and La Courtine Parrot

My favourite was the Flaming Parrot

The displays in the shop showcased the different varieties along with irises and liliums that are also grown on the farm

I found a close second favourite – the hairy tulip

It’s a shame this wondrous spectacle can only be enjoyed for such a short time each year, but then that’s what makes it so special.

Cooper’s day out

Posted on September 26, 2015 by kathy

A few months ago, Michael realised his long held dream of owning a Mini Cooper S. It was love at first sight – for both of us!

We took her out one gorgeous, sunny August day and found ourselves at Boat Harbour Beach.

A glorious spot to sit and watch the view while sipping a beverage. Unfortunately, the beachfront café, Harvest & Cater, was closed for the winter break. We shall have to return soon https://www.facebook.com/HarvestandCater

We meandered our way through the beautiful countryside of Flowerdale and discovered the quaint tea rooms at the lobster ponds. Cooper stayed outside to admire the view

while we enjoyed hot chocolate (with three marshmallows!) overlooking the valley in cosy comfort.

The unique reclaimed timber table gave us ideas for future projects

With the top down, we continued along the winding country road to Moorleah, taking in more magnificent vistas before making our way home.

We’re looking forward to more outings with Cooper.

lunch with Mary

Posted on September 23, 2015 by kathy

Last Sunday, we had an invitation to lunch at the home of a friend. The location shall remain a well guarded secret other than to say, clinging in seclusion to the cliff face of Table Cape, it is a most spectacular setting. After a heart starter coffee, we wandered down to the private beach, only accessible for a few hours a day at low tide. Across rolling green pasture,

edging a large dam, we were entertained by the “pobblebonk” of the banjo frogs.

The descending track to the beach teased us with glimpses of our destination.

Absolute tranquility surrounded us as we clambered over rocks

discovering the crystal clear pools

and the surprises of red anemones,

the flotsam brought in with the tide to the rim of the perfect sand.

After lunch, we explored the beautifully tended garden

then sat together in the summer house, lost in thought as the mesmerising mist drew in across the sea.

All too soon, it was time to leave and bearing a small posy of English primrose we returned to our own reality.

Thank you, Mary, for a wonderful day.

bulbs, blossom & blooms

Posted on September 17, 2015 by kathy

We have four distinct seasons in Tasmania and each one brings something new to the garden. Our first spring was filled with surprises as the bulbs we hadn’t planted reared their beautiful heads. I always believed bulbs were hard work, having to lift and store them every year. I am pleased to discover, if they are ignored, the reward is greater with the passage of time. The daffodils are a fine example, giving a glorious display this year

The German iris ‘Florentina’ and Hyacinth appear in unexpected places

The delicate scent of Daphne heralds the oncoming spring; the Helleborus and snowbells are early to bloom

One of the most amazing revelations were the huge clumps of Cymbidium orchids thriving without any protection from the elements. I had always thought they needed nurturing in a protected environment to even consider blooming