2014 Approaches

So we have reached the end of another year. New Years Eve is a time of great celebration. A time of reflection. A time to make new resolutions and commitments. And for others, just another day. Thanks to all of you who drop in every now and then to look and read mikehawkey.com. The year, […]

A visit to Western Springs

Tackling the on and off rain/sun this time of year often brings, we took a visit to Western Springs (once known as Waiorea prior to European settlement). A place I have posted about some time ago. Summer well and truly here, there was a nice mix of water fowl, from small babies, to ‘teenagers’ and adults. […]

Down in the Grass

Shot on iPod touch, edited with PhotoToaster

Pickling Gherkins

Wash the cucumbers, remove stems and fit them into the sterilised jars. Add the onion rings, dill, carrots, cucumber slices and spices to the cucumbers. Bring the vinegar, water, salt and sugar to the boil. Pour the hot brine into the jars of cucumber and spices then seal immediately. Put the jars into a large […]

Mt Vic View

As the year winds to a close, we often experience fairly changeable weather around the Christmas/New Year time. Aside from a few drops of rain, we have been pretty lucky so far. Taking a trip to Devonport,we ventured up Mt Victoria to see the view.

Sundown

Merry Christmas

The Flower Pot Men

We have gone a little overboard growing different types of chilli plants this year. Two such sit in these fun little pots I picked up at the local gardening store. December 24th. Christmas eve. Reflecting back to my childhood, the 24th always stuck in my mind as possibly more exciting than the 25th. I think […]

Santa in the City 2

Back has debilitated me a little today, so another shot from yesterdays crawl. Sony Nex 5N post edited in CS5

Santa in the City

An early Sunday morning wander (actually, a slow limp as I’ve hurt my back) through Aucklands CBD, Queen Street, featured a familiar face. Old Farmers Santa. A bit of old iconic legend in Auckland, this 20metre tall, 4500+kg jolly man is now 53 years old! I recall his pre-facelift years where he had a summoning […]