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  • 2014 Approaches

    R0019944So 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, in reflection, has just flown by.

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    “Tomorrow, is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Write a good one.”
    ― Brad Paisley

     

     

  • A visit to Western Springs

    River by springsTackling 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. Armed with some bread, we took a stroll around the lake/springs and I took a few snaps on my Sony Nex and old Jupiter 8 lens.

    Breaking my usual posting mold, I thought I share the series I took on todays visit.

    baby firstGeese were out on Mass!

    baby2And very cute!

    Baby3Not to mention keen for more food.

    babiesSome great scenery 

    over the springs

    Trees at the springs trees2 at springsDucks

    duck1 duck2Located right next to the Auckland Zoo and Motat, its a great place to visit for a picnic, walk or run.

    resting in the grassI’ll have to go out and take some more photos for tomorrow now!

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Down in the Grass

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    Shot on iPod touch, edited with PhotoToaster

  • Pickling Gherkins

    photo

    1. 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.
    2. Bring the vinegar, water, salt and sugar to the boil. Pour the hot brine into the jars of cucumber and spices then seal immediately.
    3. Put the jars into a large pan full of water at 80 degrees C and sterilise for about 20 minutes on the stove. The jars should be covered by at least 3 cm of water.

  • Mt Vic View

    20131227-172211.jpg
    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.