A Tray of Bliss

Making something of nothing....

2011-11-26T20:44:00.000-08:00

So, all this talk of French Farmhouses made me want to resurrect all my 'stuff'.

You know the 'stuff' I mean...the 'stuff' that husbands look at with narrowed eyes from time to time, remarking that perhaps some of the 'stuff' could be put away for a while. What is it about men that makes them minimalists except in the garden shed?

Well, I decided that the way to display my 'stuff' without The Musician wanting to immediately heave it all into the rubbish bin, was simply to be judicious and selective about my display.

So, during my absence over the last few weeks, I've done some soul searching and decluttering. Personally I think decluttering is the scourge of the sentimentalist, and have many decluttering regrets where I heaved personal mementoes into the bin on the premise that I could carry that memory in my heart and didn't need to have physical reminders. Hmmmm...might work for some.

So there was no bin involved this time, although I did dispose of some of my less noteworthy collections. I then reorganised my 'collections' into displays, united by their commonality.

This melamine dinnerware is a good example. These shell shaped dishes belonged to Mum. A hostess of the 1970's, these were well loved and well used by her. Of course they fell out of favour over ensuing decades, but are enjoying something of a revival. After drooling over the collection pictured below, I decided that Mums melamine was indeed worthy of displaying, and so it now is, as seen above.

Equally, I gathered all of my Depression era glassware together to display. Now, before this I didn't even realise that I had a 'collection' of this stuff. But there it all is now....

The best thing is, having decluttered the cruddy stuff, and put the good stuff out on display has freed up so much of my cupboard space, it's unbelievable! I now have beautifully organised kitchen cupboards, new space in my bathroom, and a place for my table linens that never seemed to exist before.

A good little nesting urge is very constructive from time to time!

If I were a rich girl.....

2011-11-06T16:03:00.000-08:00

The inside of my weekender in the French countryside would look like this....

If I were a rich girl......

2011-11-04T16:55:00.000-07:00

This would be my weekend country home....

If I were a rich girl....

2011-11-03T17:05:00.000-07:00

....I'd have a Limoge teacup and saucer in every delightful, saucy, feminine colour...

*sigh*....

Choosing a pet...I choose the Hound...

2011-10-28T18:34:00.000-07:00

I've had lots of pets in my lifetime.

I've had dogs, cats, birds, fish, mice, guinea pigs and lizards.

Of all my pets, my most favourite have been my little Whippet, and my sons Greyhound.

Our Whippet and Mr A's greyhound are the two most recent additions to our family at large. We had actually decided not to have any more pets after our beloved labrador died. The Musician and I had plans to travel and The Diva is rarely home to enjoy the companionship of a pet. But that was not to be.

The Diva insisted on having another dog, and of course when Mr A moved into his own place, he naturally wanted to have a pet of his own.

So, knowing full well, that I would end up feeding, bathing and exercising aforementioned animals, I went into research overdrive.

I wanted a quiet dog that didn't bark, shed hair or demand exercise. I wanted a dog that would lay quietly at my feet when I read. I wanted a dog with a sweet, placid dispostion that wouldn't frighten children or adults who aren't that fond of animals.

I wanted, and got, a Hound.

The Hound breed encompasses Greyhounds, Whippets, Borzois, Afghans and Italian Greyhounds amongst others.

They demonstrate all of the above traits and are vastly underestimated as pets.

They're also not so fashionable just now as they simple will not fit into your handbag!

Now that we've had a Hound (well, a Whippet in our case, a Greyhound in Mr A's case), we'll never own any other breed.

What's your favourite pet and why?

Friends and sisters...who could do without one or the other?

2011-10-24T15:36:00.000-07:00

http://lalalovelythings.com/

This is one of those pictures that paints a thousand words.

Do you remember the intensity of your friendships at this age...perhaps 10 or 11 years old?

What a beautiful reprensentation of two little friends or perhaps a portrayal of the special relationship between sisters.

The hair entwined into one single braid, the comforting and loving arm around the waist, heads close together sharing a secret or a single dream between two imaginations.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

To caravan or not to caravan.....

2011-10-19T16:51:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is the Australian Dream...well sort of.

Here in Oz, as in many parts of the world, it's the Grand Tradition, at a certain time in life, to hitch the caravan up to the 4WD and head off into the sunset for the Trip. The Trip entails navigating the circumference of Australias extensive coastline, with a detour into the Red Centre, The Kimberleys and The Vineyards. We call those who go on these road trips, Grey Nomads. A term so coined as the Trip is usually taken by couples who, finding themselves footloose and fancy free after many years of child rearing and dedication to long hours at work, decide to up stumps (an Aussie expression meaning to haul tail) and see our vast land at their own pace. One year is the usual time frame.

Now The Musician and I had long ago decided that this idea was not for us. We like our creature comforts, and our homes away from home usually have a Day Spa and a Golf Course attached. So squinky wee beds and teeny stovetops are not really for us.

But looking at these photos, honestly, I could be tempted.....

These are the most mouthwateringly adorable homes on wheels that I have ever seen...

....and dammit....I WANT ONE!

I don't even want to go anywhere in it.

I just want it as a kind of grown up cubby house.

Waddya reckon (another famous Aussie expression loosely translated as What do you think my Dear?)...

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

American Beauty....

2011-10-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is my thrifty bedroom makeover.

It all started when I bought this Memory Quilt on eBay over a year ago. It's sort of a folk art/shabby chic style piece and it's utterly beautiful. I've never seen anything like it. It's kind of worn in spots, but that's part of it's overall charm.

It was actually purchased for The Diva, but was so enormous when received, that I honestly didn't know what I was going to do with it.

Finally, in my frustration at not being able to find a suitable bedcover for my giant King Sized bed, I decided to see if this one would suit. Well, hallelujah...it's absolutely perfect!

It's meant rejigging the colour scheme of my bedroom a little as previously we were all neutrals with a touch of burgundy. But as you can see, we've simply upped the Burgundy and added some blue and we're looking good.

The addition of a couple of new pillowcases, and a cushion gave a bit of extra oomph. This cushion is actually a great secret way of storing Winter blankets and linen. This one is simply a quilt, folded into a suitable rectangular shape, encased in a remnant purchased for $1.80 because the colours complimented my quilt and wrapped 'gift' style, securing with safety pins. A complimenting grosgrain ribbon completes the picture. I store all of my bulky blankets and quilts this way. Larger ones are rolled into a cylinder, secured with rubber bands or kitchen string and wrapped in my Winter flannelette sheets. Again a toning ribbon is a nice touch.

It's a great way to get some free cushions and some blanket storage at the same time!

Just remember where you've hidden them when the cooler weather rolls around. I remember cursing vehemently when I couldn't find all of my Winter blankies...until The Musician reminded me that they were adorning our bed as decorator items!

This American Memory quilt was really a bit of a find.

I scored it for just $24, and when I received it, was amazed at the work that had gone into it. It's squares of denim or chambray with pieces of other remnants stitched into creative shapes on each square. I imagine these are scraps of clothing put to further use. There are gingham hearts, floral bikini shapes, random geometric shapes with musical notes on them, vintage ric-rac braid, ribbon, guipure lace, georgette hat and dress shapes, little scotty dogs in velvet and so on. It's the most beautiful, rustic thing ever. I imagine someone labouring over this for literally years, and shudder to imagine what turn of events forced the sale or abandonment of such a lovingly prepared item.

Total bedroom makeover? Well $24 for the quilt, $6 for the pillowcases, $1.80 for the remnant to wrap around my 'cushion', and $1.60 for the grosgrain ribbon. All up...$33.40 for a complete bedroom makeover.

Just goes to show, you don't need to spend a lot for a new look!

More detail from the quilt....I'm fascinated with the history of it...

Wedding dress or debutante gown perhaps?

This piece in cotton...could it have been a special childhood or Sunday Best outfit? Or perhaps a Valentines Day memento?

I had a dress trimmed in just this sort of Ric Rac when I was a child :)

These two cute figures were perhaps from a much loved apron or popover, donned by Nan to bake each day...

....and who was the musician or music lover in the family?

And finally, a special piece...hand embroidered Satin Stitch forming a sweet little vine.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thoughts on a Tuesday....feeling helpless....

2011-10-17T16:22:00.000-07:00

I have some thoughts on my Tray of Bliss today. Come with me and we'll talk about it.

Do you ever have that feeling of being totally helpless?

Maybe it's when something is happening to you that you feel you can't stop.

Maybe it's when you see someone you love, making decisions that you just know are wrong or inappropriate for some reason.

Maybe it's when you have a child diagnosed with an illness or a disability or a parent ageing and declining into frail health.

I've felt helpless many times in my life. Yet, here I am, whole and breathing, and perhaps a different, stronger person for the experience.

Terminal illnesses, unexpected and life changing disabilities and dire circumstances aside, one of the times I feel most helpless is when my adult children make mistakes.

As a parent, when is it okay to step in and say 'But things would be so much better if....'

My own Mother had seven children. From time to time I would here her say things like 'Darling, have you considered....?' or 'What if you tried.....?', but that would be the extent of her interference. She stood by while each and every one of us made silly choices. Silly partners, silly jobs, silly friends, silly spending.

Did that make her an irresponsible parent?

I think not.

On the contrary. Whilst externally we cursed when things went wrong, internally we knew, on some level, that she was forming us into responsible human beings. We learned by tidying our own 'messes', that poor choices mean poor consequences, but that with effort and by accepting and absorbing the lessons therein, all is not lost and you can, and do recover. We learned this financially, emotionally and socially. Now in our 40's and 50's, we are all in happy, stable relationships, financially secure, with loving partners (some of us on partner no. 2, granted), happy children and rosy futures. What a shame she's not still here to see that.

Now don't get the idea that she simply abandoned us to the dangers of life. She did not. She remained a powerful influence on all of us by always having a policy that home is where you go when things go wrong. So from time to time, we all returned to our childhood home, sometimes with our own children in tow. We'd shed our tears, lick our wounds, Mum would make cups of tea and serve comfort food and bed us down on the living room floor. When we felt ready to face the world again, or rather when she felt we should face the world, the living room bedding would be put away, and she'd say things like 'well, Darling, you really need to get back to it...what can I help you do first?'. You'd know then, that Mum had done as much as she could do, and the rest was up to you.

I have sons who make mistakes. I watch over them, I counsel them, but I do not intervene. I do not lend money and I do not come between them and their life partners, however much I may be tempted to do so.

I am there, as my Mum was, to be Mum.

It's the best possible thing I can do...even if it makes me feel helpless.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Monday Musings....a day at the beach Aussie style...

2011-10-16T17:11:00.000-07:00

A visit to the ocean remains one of the great free restorative practices in the world. The beachside is yet to become an 'admission by fee' affair, at least here in Australia, and ever since I was a wee tot, it's been my favourite weekend away.

What is it about a day at the beach that puts life in perspective? Is it the leveller of realising that the 'body beautiful' comes in many shapes and sizes? Is it that we are all stripped of our designer bags and jewellery (well, mostly anyway...Noosa does boast some fashionable local icons)? Or is it just that Sun, Surf and Sand are a great way to wash away the cares of the week?

We spent a day at Main Beach at Noosa yesterday doing exactly that.

One of the worlds prettiest spots, sporting a great protected beach with a gentle wave, friendly lifeguards and an enviable cafe and shopping strips just steps away. Not that we frequent the cafes and shops, but we do love a wander down Hastings Street, home bottled icy water in hand, window shopping and people watching to our hearts' content.

When we visit Noosa we prefer to rise early and beat the crowds by arriving around 7am. Not only does this afford greater parking opportunities (parking being a nightmare there later in the day), but also allowing a longer window of sunbathing and swimming time before the scorching midday sun sets in.

We usually take an esky (Aussie thermal cooling box) packed with our favourite breakfast and snack items. These would traditionally include rice crackers, sliced cheese from the big block of edam at home, fresh fruit in season, home made goodies like Labna and home marinated olives and fetta, yoghurt and muesli balls, iced tea or juice and big bottles of chilled water. A Latte` on arrival, in the shade of the native conifers is our one 'bought' indulgence.

A walk to the isthmus commonly known as The Groin is the first order of the day, after setting up beach chairs, towels and boogie boards. We set off at a brisk pace to earn our breakfast, making it to the groin and back (visible in the far distance of this photo) in about 20 minutes.

An invigorating dip is next, before diving into our esky to explore the treasures within. We munch away companionably while the Lifeguards complete their setting up and the rumpled Mums and Dads and young couples start arriving.

Terse words are exchanged by the couple next to us who have 4 children under 5 years old in tow and who are trying to marshall the kids while setting up their sun shelter, umbrellas and towels...clearly they're here for the long haul. The kids squeal excitedly at the incoming tide, racing back and forth to their harried parents. The Diva and her friend take our raised eyebrow cue, and go over to offer assistance by amusing the little ones with some sand art in the shape of a turtle. A grateful 'thanks' is mouthed our way.

The younger pair behind us, recline elegantly in designer swimwear, each absorbed in thier iPhone, before the effects of the night before and the warm sun on their limbs renders them somnambulent.

A large group of folk, perhaps a decade older than us arrive. All clad in black bathers of one form or another, they jolly each other into a vigorous swim across the bay, before, like us, delving into an enormous esky of fresh delights, exchanging stories of caravanning and camping.

I produce my book of the moment, 'Not Without My Daughter', whilst The Musician, The Diva and her friend, head off into the surf.

The beachfront is filling now, as the later arrivals jostle each other for a spot.

Time passes, I doze, the rest of the family frolics and by 11am, we've had enough. Too hot, too busy.

So, we assemble our gear, set off back to the car, repack it all, ready for the next excursion.

We're all refreshed, calm, relaxed and showing a bit of colour for our morning in the sunshine.

Back to the accomodation for a nap and a light lunch before curling up to watch a great sci-fi movie.

A lazy afternoon ensues, with a reluctant move toward home by about 6pm.

We arrive home by 8:30, having enjoyed a meal of fish and chips on the way back, and scurry for the diary to see when we can do it all again.

Bliss....what's your favourite getaway?

Here's my own recipe for Tropical Yoghurt Muesli Balls...the perfect portable breakfast for any day of the week. Start the preparation a few hours before bed and roll the balls before retiring for the night. This gives the muesli a chance to absorb the liquid for nice firm little rounds.

You need:

1 cup any kind of muesli. I use a Gluten Free one.

1 cup any flavour of yoghurt. I prefer my home made Greek yoghurt.

3 tablespoons pulp type fruit salad or crushed pineapple. We have one here in Australia called Golden Circle. Their fruit salad is crushed pineapple and other fruits with passionfruit pulp included. It's my favourite.

1 cup dessicated coconut.

Mix the muesli, fruit salad and yoghurt together in a small bowl and allow to sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the liquid to be absorbed and the muesli to soften.

Roll into balls as large or small as you like, and toss in the dessicated coconut.

Return to the refrigerator for at least an hour to firm.

Enjoy!

If you could live anywhere...Number Two......

2011-10-13T14:54:00.000-07:00

I adore this house. It's seashell shape fascinates me. It's called the Nautilus house, and is found in Mexico.

Note its smooth undulating lines...

This stained glass is to die for...

Not sure about the round bed...I prefer a bit of space to thrash around in, but loving the curved wall of cupboards...

And the living room...well it's kind of Sponge Bob Squarepants meets The Jetsons, isn't it? Adore the organic look of the circular skylights, the greenery and again, the gems of rainbow coloured light formed by that fab bank of technicolour glass.

Life here would be a calm oasis, wouldn't it?

Meals taken in that garden like lounging area...tapas served on large glass or clay platters perhaps. Things that echo the curves of the house. Jalapenos stuffed with oozing cheese, oysters drizzled with lime and ginger, bocconcini cheese wrapped with proscuitto, rounds of zuccini (courgette) filled with lean mince flavoured with earthy spices like cumin, coriander and cinnamon.

Sigh.....

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

http://www.wayfaring.info/2008/02/11/the-best-house-of-the-year-2007/

My Australian Garden in Spring....who needs roses and peonies!

2011-10-12T16:36:00.000-07:00

Pink Oleander...

Vivid Orange Nasturtium...

$32 strawberries...lol!

Gerbera....

Red Geranium...

Orange Clivea...

Hippeastrum....

White Plumbago....

Dandelion....

Pretty-purple-thing-I-don't-remember-the-name-of.....

Whilst I love the traditional French and English gardens, I realise now that my old fashioned Aussie Garden has it's own charms...

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Start with the first step....warning...long!

2011-10-11T19:01:00.000-07:00

http://www.arthermitage.org/Marguerite-Gerard/First-Steps.html

I always have a giggle to myself when I see someone post on a forum I love, with a 'warning...long' note. I've never done it before, but I have today. So if you're in a hurry, come back to me later...lol!

I often have friends who cannot believe that we live so well on so little.

We eat well, we entertain well, we dress well, our daughter The Diva, and our youngest son Mr A (we actually have four sons, but the older three are all grown and married) want for little, and we travel overseas every two years or so.

There are many, many blogs out there these days on saving money, living frugally and reducing your carbon footprint.

But most of the families I know personally don't subscribe to them, and wouldn't dream of planting a vege patch or repurposing a pair of jeans into a tote bag. It's all too much trouble. Even for the reward of a bi-annual overseas trip funded by the bank account rather than the credit card.

The problem is that upon first viewing, all of these things are 'too much trouble'. It's all a bit of hard yakka, as we say here in Oz. So you need to start small, like I did. That said, you also need to choose your battles wisely. Can I tell you about some of mine? You might learn a thing or two.

When I commenced my money savings journey in earnest after many years of frittering my hard earned cash away on stuff that only made the retailers wealthy, I had a few false starts.

One of those was soap making.

I am a sucker for scented bath and body products. I never could go past a Body Shop or Bath and Body or Lush, without buying just a couple of things. These coupla things would undoubtedly run into double or triple digits in dollar terms, but what-the-hey....

So one of my early efforts focused on making my own luxuriously scented soaps.

Well after spending about $100 on ingredients and equipment, I was ready. Or so I thought. Measure this, weigh that...oops need something else. Dash out, get missing thing, go back to start. High anxiety, due to many, many warnings on the dangers of inhaling this or spilling that. Get soap made, leave to cure behind lounge, to great grumbling from The Musician Husband. Test at 3 weeks, notice great chunks of caustic soda...toss, start over. Eventually get something useable and nicely rustic, but family refuses to use it as it 'looks funny'. Dole it out as gifts to unsuspecting friends. Experiment over.

I had greater success with hand and body creams, which was a little more foolproof, but ultimately went back to the pharmaceutical stuff for the face as the face really, really needed it. All good on the body cream though, as well as pillow/linen spray, bubble bath, solid perfume, home made talcum powder, bed powder, and lavender bath bombs.

But it was the overwhelming success of my home made Limoncello which actually caused me to wonder if I'd missed my calling as a Grand Brewer of All Things Alcoholic. Maybe my family and friends are all just hopeless alcoholics and they would have loved it not matter what.

I had similar epiphanies with my vege patch. Plant strawberries, get one strawberry, give up. Try again. Get 4 strawberries this time...caculate how much I spent on wicker planters, potting mix, wet granule thingoes, strawberry runners and fertiliser. Decide $32 per strawberry is false economy, and give up.

Tomatoes...same. I do have some tomatoes on a tomato plant in my front yard right now. But for the life of me, I can't make the tomato plant stand up with the blessed tomatoes on the thing. I've planted them in a posh tomato planter with it's own add-a-ring tower to guide the tomato...the tomato plant ignored it and grew off on it's own tangent, falling over and breaking at regular intervals. I've staked them, they fall over, I've tied them to a palm tree, they broke off. I don't know. Maybe fruitish things are not for me. The Musician just kept asking me why I don't buy the tomatoes for $2.99 a kilo. A fair question. 'They taste better' simply garnered a raised eyebrow.

I've had better success with leafy things. I've got a lovely nasturtium happening and we do eat it in place of Rocket which we love. I also have a Wild Rocket, some asparagus, a finger eggplant and some chilli. All A-Ok. But I am the only one who eats those things and it's not like I'm saving a bomb by not having to buy them.

I've decided that people who make a success of this kind of lifestyle deserve a medal, really. Honestly they must do nothing else. I admire them and all, but it's just not for me. I can't for the life of me, understand how they grow enough strawberries, or use the oversupply of tomatoes and zucchinis. And I'm not being derisive, I am just asking myself the question.

Oh and did I tell you about my sewing adventures? Buy sewing machine at $250, buy numerous patterns at around $17 each....perhaps 10 of 'em, buy fabric. Look at instructions, recoil in distaste. Measure something? Overlock something? Hand stitch something else? Hmmmm. Not to mention The Musician Husband complaining about the dining table being set up as a sewing station. (Do you see a common theme here...) Okay, maybe on another day.

Cutting my own hair was another strategy. Armed with detailed instructions garnered from a reputable money saving website and a sharp pair of scissors, I hacked my way to a visit to my hairdresser. I had to. It looked bleedin' awful. I think my hairdresser is still chuckling to herself over that one.

Have I mentioned the breadmaker and the slow cooker? Both wonderful inventions. Did I also mention that the average temperature where I live is around 27 Celsius almost year round, except when it rises into the high 30's right around Christmas? Yes we have our chilly moments...they last about six weeks. Have you ever tried to have a slow cooker and a breadmaker on the go when the ambient temperature is in the 30's? That's a minimum of around 86 farenheit. No way. We eat cold food when it's hot and hot food when it's cold. It just makes sense. So overall...useability factor...about 3 out of 10. We'll stick with yummy Poached Chicken Breast, thanks very much.

These days, I've accepted my limitations and my money saving strategies are more about cooking from scratch, shopping from my own wardrobe and the thrift shop before even crossing the threshold of a retailer of any kind, making gourmet gifts and preserves, and making sure that my pantry is well stocked for tight times.

I don't spend on gym memberships when I can walk for free, I don't join weight loss programmes when I can Google how to eat sensibly complete with menu plans and recipes, I don't sit in stinky nail salons to get my nails looking nice when I can have a quiet moment in my own back yard painting my nails over a cuppa, I don't buy books or magazines when I can join the library or search the net, and I don't buy my children experiential gifts...I give them the gift of my own experience. I reduce my carbon footprint by walking for exercise rather than driving to the aforementioned gym and buying local where I can. I recycle, repurpose and buy pre-loved wherever possible.

So if you want to, as my blog title suggests, live a parsimoniously plentiful, posh and polished life, look at where your hard earned cash goes. Make savings in those areas where you are humanly able, where your own strengths lie, and don't worry about what the rest of the world is doing. The important thing is to make small changes where you can. There is a Chinese proverb that says 'The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.' Amen to that.

Don't make soap when you can make soup, don't grow tomatoes when you don't eat them, and don't plant strawberries in a $30 wicker basket. The birds and wildlife will still get to them before you do, no matter what they're planted in.

Sorry...long post ;-)

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Stylish Crochet?...Nah....Really??

2011-10-10T15:50:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a new obsession.

I'm hooked on Crochet.

Now I've done the Granny Square Afghans in my time, and some of you may remember my post describing the pretty one my daughter, The Diva has. Full of history, and equally full of colour!

This new obsession is different. I'm crocheting an enormous blanket for my own Super King Sized bed. Frustrated by the total lack of any oversized blanky for The Musician and I to snuggle under, I've decided to make my own.

Now my history with these sorts of projects is not flash. I have the attention span of a gnat, and if it's not finished 'today', it usually doesn't even get up and running...do I hear an "amen" from some of you? But now that I'm older, I feel the need to contribute something hand crafted to the Earth apart from my imminently famous Tomato Relish.

In addition, The Musician refuses to have anything even remotely Granny-like on the bed...except for me of course....Bwah-ha-ha!!! Bed linen and Blankets must be a wee bit manly and stylish to get the vote from him.

We both love earthy, stoney colours and have swathes of Indian Slate throughout the house and gardens, so I'm sticking with Charcoal, Beige, Latte, and Black in either plain yarn or flecked and speckled or marbled effects. I'm also very tempted by some of the yarns that have a bit of bling in them. Black with silver sequins has caught my eye.

So far, I've crocheted...TA-DA...one square and one long strip. So there's a way to go yet! But I only started yesterday, so that's already a record for 'moi'.

I'm still deciding how I'll assemble it. Whether it be from large squares, strips stitched together, or simply strips in different wools in one enormous piece. I'd like it to be reasonable portable though, so perhaps long strips stitched together is the go. A humongous blanky, whilst lacking the need to be stitched together, is not exactly a portable craft.

But I'm already loving the modern take on the Afghan so much that I am tempted to make one for each member of the family. I love the idea that a crocheted blanket can rise above the Granny Square Afghans we all crocheted as teenagers, and which have largely given home crocheted blankets a bad reputation :-)

The Bobble stitch I'm using is super simple and I'm just randomly throwing one of those in on the plain colours as the mood takes me. The marbled or flecked colours, I'll leave to speak for themselves. I'm using primarily double crochet, and just playing with other stitches as I go along.

I could just Google a pattern, but like recipes, I'm not so good at following someone elses instructions!

Suddenly I feel clever, crafty and accomplished. Jeez..who knew I was so smart!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Poached chicken....once tried, never forgotten....

2011-10-09T23:25:00.000-07:00

Okay folks.

Not long to Christmas now.

Here in Australia, it's dang hot during the Festive Season. So I tend to try to find do ahead type dishes that allow us to chill on the day...literally and figuratively.

This is a firm favourite for any time of year here, but especially at Christmas. It yields a full flavoured, moist and succulent result, that you just don't get with baking or pan frying. Once you've tried chicken breast prepared this way, there's not turning back.

You need:

Approximately 1 skinless chicken breast per person (that is half of a full breast of chicken)

6 cups of stock or flavour infused water

Equipment:

One large saucepan or wok with a firm fitting lid

One large container with lid for storage

How to:

Bring your flavour infused water or stock to a slow boil. Ideas for flavours include commercial stock cubes, peppercorns and bay leaves, half commercial stock with half coconut milk and kaffir lime leaves and coriander (cilantro), white wine and vegetable stock.

Pop the skinless chicken breasts into the simmering stock and return to the boil. Put the lid on and switch OFF. Yes...off. This works best on an electric hotplate where the heat subsides slowly, but can still be achieved with gas by giving the water another heat blast after about ten minutes of resting. Rest the whole thing, lid on-no peeking, for about 25 minutes.

Check the chicken breasts by slicing one in half (you'll be slicing them for serving anyway). They should be moist and juicy and succulent. If they are still pinkish or raw in the thickest part, return to the stock and rest for a further 10 minutes, reheating the stock just a tad first. Dont' boil it or the chicken will become tough!

Store the breasts in the cooking liquid until ready to use. This keeps them juicy. These can be prepared up to 48 hours ahead of use.

To serve, carve across the breast diagonally into thick slices and arrange attractively on your serving platter.

Seve over a finely sliced home made coleslaw, and garnish with anything from salsa, to guacamole, to fresh mango and coriander (cilantro), to dukkah, as pictured. My festive dukkah is a ground combination of nuts, dates and citrus zest and is utterly delicious if I do say so myself!

But that recipe is for another day...

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

If you could live anywhere...

2011-10-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

I've often thought if I could live anywhere, my choice would be countryside France.

The light there is different, the life is slower, the views worthy of an artwork and a song, and the houses weathered and well loved rather than new and shiny with a two car garage.

And then I stumbled on this image.

Well...all my life I dreamed of having a storybook cottage, and this one just takes the cake, doesn't it?

It looks as if it's the doorway to a Narnia style world, and I imagine that walking in, one would find it unfolds to a dozen times it's size. It would have a roaring fireplace, a checkered tablecoth, a fragrant soup on the bubble, and pats of butter and home baked bread waiting to be served.

There'd be lacy curtains, beaded strands of crystals over each doorway, patchwork quilts and feather pillows. Home made jams and preserves would line the shelves, along with ginger beer and rhubarb champagne. Maybe there'd even be a shelf of liqueur, scented with something delicious and mysterious from the forest behind...blackberries perhaps or native honey.

Maybe this is truly the house of my dreams...

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

More Boho Gypsy Bedroom...Peacock chairs and feathers...

2011-10-06T15:34:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a handful of Peacock feathers.

The Diva and I purchased these on a recent trip to Alma Park Zoo. She's decided to have them displayed on her shelves in her new Boho Gypsy bedroom, in a big tall vase.

The funny thing is, I remember doing exactly the same thing at her age. Is it just a perennial obsession with this age group, or is it a case of all fashion, personal or decor, comes around in circles?

They will look rather lush, and I couldn't help but recall that I also had what is called a Peacock chair like these ones....

...so of course the hunt is now on for a similar one for her.

Fortunately they are a thing that isn't terribly in vogue presently, so they make regular appearances at the local thrift shop. That said, I've probably just cursed myself and I won't see one for yonks!

I used to have my Peacock chair in a sunny corner of my bedroom with a comfy cushion and a batik sarong draped over it. Well, it was the 70's!

Hers will be somewhat more lush. Perhaps a velvety shawl or a hand knitted blanket will be more welcoming.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thoughts for Thursday...living a fulfilled life...

2011-10-05T15:45:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is some soul searching.

I have a family history of Ovarian Cancer. My mother and maternal Aunt and Grandmother all succumbed to this insidious disease at around the age of 60 years.

Therefore, at the age of 51, I find myself taking stock of where I am and what I have achieved in my life.

Okay, I'm never going to be a political leader, a Princess, a film star or a celebrity chef.

But a wise person once said to me, 'just do the things that fulfill you, and then if the time comes to face Death, you can do so with peace in your heart'.

That time comes for all of us.

So how do you make sure that that peace is in your heart when it arrives?

I don't believe in a Bucket List as such. This term of course, made famous by the movie of the same name, where two men work their way through a list of 'must do or see' tasks before dying. The term arising as they wanted these things seen or done before they 'kicked the bucket'.

I had one when I was young, although it was a list of goals back then, not a Bucket List. Dying was far from my mind and my Mother was young and healthy. Being the driven young woman that I was, I actually achieved quite a lot of the ambitions on my list before I turned 30. Then I had my third son 11 weeks prematurely, he was subsequently diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and I was told he would never walk or participate fully in life (well, they were wrong there!), and suddenly those things on my list were no longer important.

My list went from 'Become Lord Mayor' and 'Be a famous writer', to 'make sure Mr A has the life to which he is entitled', 'put affairs in order in case something happens to me and Mr A has to survive without me' and so on.

At this stage, I achieved all I set out to for Mr A. He is a fine young man, successfully living independently, playing a sport, doing his own shopping, studying and participating in life to the fullest of his abilities.

My other children are happy and moderately successful, and my daughter is able to follow her theatrical and dance passions.

I have a loving partner who means the world to me. He's not perfect, but then neither am I!

I have my blog, a little paid hobby writing and photographing recipes for another successful cyberbusiness, many friends, a book on the go, and my fond memories of not just one, but four trips to France and Paris.

I'm not saying I'm ready to go yet...so leave me here a little longer Lord!

Thankfully though, I am hard pressed to imagine what else I need to do to find peace.

I am at peace with my life, my experiences, my mistakes and my own personal failings. I don't seek a better life, a better job, a better husband or a better house. I have loved, been loved, been disappointed, heartbroken, sad, and lonely. I have grieved for a parent, a friend, a grandparent, a baby. I have driven an old car and a new car, and they were both just a means of transportation. I have made a difference in the life of disabled people and been blessed with a longed for girl child after having three wonderful sons. I have travelled a little and seen the parts of the world that make my heart sing. I've viewed the Mona Lisa, The Thinker and Monets Garden. I've met movie stars and rock stars. I've escaped tragedy on more occasions than I like to explore.

In my dreams, I can fly (and I do so often), I can converse with my Mother, speak my mind to lost loves, mend friendships, say the thing I meant to say, respond with witty repartee, and sail and ski and run fast. I don't need to do those things in my waking life.

My bucket runneth over.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Windows to the World...

2011-10-04T00:52:00.000-07:00

Sorry...I've been painting. My daughters new room that is.

She's away for a few days at school camp, so we're taking the opportunity to make some progress with her Gypsy Bohemian Bedroom.

The walls will be this colour. It's called Taubmans Daylight and it's the colour of this clear sunny sky. That's what my daughter requested..."a sunny sky colour Mummy'...

Her furniture is white, and we have patchwork covers in happy reds, blues, and pinks.

So her window coverings will be pretty gelato colours in the same shades, done as above. Swathes of voile in muted reds, white, and pastel shades, no two the same.

Pretty.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

A tribute....

2011-09-29T18:36:00.000-07:00

Glitters123.com | Flowers | Forward this Picture

A tribute to a memorable woman with whom I shared friendship on a forum which we both frequented.

Butterflies are reported to carry messages to the afterlife. If they do, I'd like them to tell Sara what an impact she had on me, and how my journey to self sufficiency was largely inspired by her own example.

Sara was also a famous author, although I was not aware of this.

Earlier this week, Sara succumbed to the illness she had fought so stoically for the last 3 years.

She will be greatly missed.

Vale Sara.

Quick and easy glitter nails....

2011-09-27T22:25:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today, a revelation. One of those things where you go "why have I been making this difficult when it can be easy...".

I love french manicures, but I like a bit of bling too now and again. Glitter tips are a favourite.

I've been painstakingly painting glitter nail polish on my french tips and labouring over several coats to get the right amount of glitter happening.

Today I looked at my daughters craft glitter and went...I wonder what would happen if...

...I popped some of the glitter (it's a super fine one) into a wee bowl, painted the nail tips and dipped them into the glitter...

Woo-hoo... success!

A couple of coats of clear polish to seal and we're done!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Love Lavender....

2011-09-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today are fields of lavender...well figuratively speaking...

I adore lavender and dream of travelling to Provence to view fields of lavender in bloom.

But I'm not doing that today...alas. I'm making Lavender scented bath bombs....but first a couple more pictures to get you in the mood...

Who knew that you could harvest it in such enormous bouquets...I imagine holding those enormous bouquets and being surrounded in the scent.

And photographed like this, it looks like a pretty chiffon dress with a mint coloured underskirt.

Maybe someday, I'll visit Provence in just such a pretty dress. I can just see myself drifting, sylph like through the lavender fields in a whisper of chiffon....hee-hee...I wish!

Try these Lavender Bath Bombs...a favourite of ours...

Ingredients you'll need:

300g Bicarbonate of Soda

100g Citric Acid

1 tablespoon olive oil (prefer not to use nut based oils due to nut allergies)

2 teaspoons Lavender fragrance or essential oil

Food colouring if you want them coloured

Equipment required:

2 medium sized metal or glass mixing bowls

Moulds. I suggest tea strainers, plastic lids of small containers, cookie cutters, egg rings, and those push through sushi moulds. You won't be able to use them for sushi afterwards though because the lavender oil will permeate the plastic. They are cute and inexpensive enough to buy though!

Cooking spray...you won't be cooking them but it's useful to grease the cookie cutters and molds.

Kitchen scales

A spray bottle containing clean cold water

Skewer to add food colouring

Parchment paper and a space on your bench or table

Cellophane wrap, organza bags, party favour bags or some other packaging

Method:

Cover your bench or table with a long sheet of parchment (baking) paper. Line up several molds in your desired shape. You need enough shapes to use up your mixture as it can't be left sitting for too long. Spray each one very lightly with Cooking Spray.

Measure out the bicarbonate of soda and the citric acid into the mixing bowl. Combine it well by tipping back and forth between the two mixing bowls and turning it over and over and sifting it through your fingers.

Measure 2 teaspoons of either fragrance or essential oil into mixture. Most essential or fragrance oils might cause the mixture to fizz a little so work quickly to combine it with the dry ingredients. Add the olive oil and do the same.

Use the spray bottle to spray a little of the cold water onto the dry mixture. You won't need too much so just spray a little at a time, working the mixture with your hands constantly so it doesn't fizz. Squeeze a ball of the mixture into your hand every now and again to check for done-ness. As soon as your mixture bonds together in your hand when squeezed, it's ready to mold. Quickly add some food colouring by dipping the skewer into the bottle of food colour then dipping it in the mixture. This is the best way to achieve a pretty pastel colour. Rinse between dipping into the mixture and redipping for more food colour. I find 4 dips transfers sufficient food colour for a soft hue. Now is the time too, to add dried lavender, lavender buds or other pretties like a love note, super fine holographic glitter, or tiny pieces of gold or silver edible foil (available at cake decorating suppliers).
Press the mixture very firmly into the molds and/or cookie cutters on your parchment paper, ensuring that it's well packed and there are no holes or air bubbles. Unmold them immediately onto a separate sheet of parchment. Now there's a bit of a trick to unmolding the more complex shapes of cookie cutters or molds without the mixture coming apart. You need to pack it firmly with your fingers, especially into the points of the star or the top inward point of the heart shape. Once it's packed rock hard, start pressing veeeery gently around the edges of the mold. NOT the middle. Press, press, press ever so gently around all the outer edge, loosening the mixture very gradually. It may take up to a minute or two to loosen each shape. Shake the cookie cutter gently from side to side and up and down from time to time to check whether the shape is ready to fall out. Once it falls out, neaten any edges quickly with your fingers and allow it to dry and set. If you're using the sushi molds, it's just a matter of putting the mixture into the mold, popping on the lid to compress, and shaking it out...voila! To make another using the same mold, spray lightly with cooking spray before repeating the process.

Your bath bombs will set hard in about half an hour. Allow them to harden in a cool dry spot for 24 hours. You can then package them into your wrap, gift bags or boxes, tie them up with pretty ribbon and they're ready to go.

To use, simply pop on into your warm bathwater and let it fizz away. Soak and relax. It's not quite Provence, but it'll do for now.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Monday Regrets....

2011-09-25T16:45:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm....this vintage poster kind of sums it up.

No, I haven't resorted to being a wild woman.

But I certainly didn't say 'no' enough on the weekend.

I didn't say no to the dim sum on Saturday. I didn't say no to the White Chocolate and Blueberry dessert either. I didn't say no to 3+ glasses of wine, and I didn't say no to a breakfast on Sunday of eggs and chippolatas cooked on the barbecue. I didn't say no to the full cream cappucino after that, or the fizzy iced tea with cream floating on the top after that...sigh....

So today, I'm on the stationary exercise bike for 10 minutes 3 times, and I've walked half an hour this morning and I'll walk for another half an hour this evening. I'll listen to my iPod or the nature depending upon how I feel.

If I want to get from this....

...no, that's not really me...that dark haired diva is much younger and prettier than I....

...to this...

....then I have to start being good and saying 'no' to overindulging, and saying 'yes!' to eating healthy, drinking in moderation and exercising dilegently.

Gosh...it's tough though! What with the glorious blue skies, balmy weather, leafy back yard and a bottle of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc calling to me, I just can't cope!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Scrumptious Resort Style Breakfast Parfait...

2011-09-22T16:11:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today, is my favourite Springtime breakfast.

I first enjoyed a breakfast parfait at a buffet breakfast on Fathers Day a few years ago.

Until then, I was a savoury breakfast kinda person, and the whole yoghurt/cereal/fruit thing just did not appeal to me.

I'm also not a fan of crunchy cereal...a strange quirk left over from my childhood when I got a Sugar Frostie (sort of like a Corn Flake but crusted in white sugar, long since relegated to the unhealthy pile and outlawed!), caught in my throat. It lodged there and I had to cough it up, tearing the tender lining of my throat in the process. Since that day, I cannot eat crunchy cereal. It must be soggy...sounds vile, I know, but that's the way I like it.

Muesli and other cereals just make my stomach curdle anyway and milk in the morning? Forget it.

This of course leads to limited breakfast selections such as toast, eggs, or leftover casserole. Nothing wrong with that but not the best approach for weight loss!

This little parfait is sweet without being sugary, is light and healthy, and can be enjoyed with any kind of cereal in the layers. These days I prefer a light untoasted natural gluten free muesli. In fact, I believe the other reason I harbour an aversion to cereal, is that I have a gluten sensitivity. Since changing over with my daughter to a gluten free diet, I feel fantastic!

You can also do these in little containers with secure lids or a recycled jar to take as a breakfast on the go when you're in a hurry. Don't forget a spoon!

So you need:

A small glass for serving...I do mine 3 at a time in a small wine glass

Muesli or cereal

Natural yoghurt...I make my own, using the method listed in my Labna recipe

Cinnamon sugar...make your own by combining a cup of caster sugar with a teaspoon of cinnamon

Tinned fruit in it's own juice

Now I just layer muesli, a drizzle of the juice from the fruit tin (only coz I like it soggy..skip this part if you prefer crunchy cereal), then some fruit and a layer of yoghurt. Mine is the thick Greek Style yoghurt...yum! Then a small sprinkle (around half a teaspoon) of the cinnamon sugar. Repeat the layers, finishing with a decorative sprinkle of the cinnamon sugar on top.

Cover with cling wrap and store in the refrigerator.

I like to make these at least the night before, and I actually prefer them when they've had a day or three in the fridge. I garnish them with whatever fresh fruit I have on hand, sometimes even an ultra sweet sun kissed strawberry from my own back yard.

MMM..mmmmmmmmm....yum, yum and YUM!

Enjoy!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

The soothing sounds of water....

2011-09-21T15:19:00.000-07:00

When I'm feeling stressed, I often turn to the sound of water to soothe me.

What is it about water that calms the soul and the heart?

Is it the cool gentle caress around the ankles?

The tinkling sound of droplets cascading into the depths?

The scent of green, blue and fresh?

Or is it just that we are reminded of our insignificance on this Earth, and that our problems are even less significant.

Just looking at these pictures calms me.

I hope they do the same for you.

I walk while listening to nature sounds on my iPod...sounds weird, but alas, no waterfalls where I live. So I improvise with the sound of waterfalls and melodies. You can too for very little. I bought mine for just $2 on eBay. Discount stores often have them as well. A very small indulgence to make that evening walk just a little more enjoyable. I'm always far more refreshed after a walk with my waterfall sounds. Blissful indeed.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Boho Bedroom...twinkly lights and bedheads....

2011-09-20T15:10:00.000-07:00

Source: A Beach Cottage

On my Tray of Bliss today, continuing ideas for my daughters Bohemian Gypsy Bedroom.

I picked up a wrought iron bedhead identical to this one pictured above for just $20 at a thrift shop, and I adore this idea of winding it with fairy lights. So twinkly and pretty....

....and how about this one for a really simple take on the whole Boho Bedroom idea. I'm loving the twig representation of a chandelier. Just goes to show you don't need to spend a lot, you just need imagination!

Here's an utterly luscious interpretation of the canopy. Hung along the bed rather than over it, and using pretty pastel net, muslin or georgette, again, wrapped with fairy lights. I adore the white painted floor too.

What I love about these, is the monochromatic schemes. You don't have to be bold and brash to do boho.

Finally this one. Such an utterly simple idea. Some sheer white curtaining, hung on the wall, with a garland of fairy lights swagged behind.

Beautiful!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Do you believe in Angels?

2011-09-19T15:28:00.000-07:00

I prefer to think of myself as Spiritual rather than Religious.

I have my own set of beliefs that keep me on the right path in life and sustain me through difficult times.

One thing I do believe in, is Angels.

There are many times in my life where I have felt the hand of my Guardian Angel.

There was the time that our gas hot water system leaked and I succumbed to the fumes in our downstairs bathroom, when the rest of my family were upstairs. I would have died if it weren't for one of my brothers deciding he had an urgent toilet mission, and having thumped on the door for entry into the bathroom to complete said mission, and got no response, raised the alarm.

There was another incident were I was so ill I could barely raise my head from my pillow. I believe now that I had a Meningoccal virus. I certainly had all of those symptoms but as a single mother of three sons, all of whom were too young to drive, I had no way of finding my way to the doctors surgery. Some who contract this virus never recover, and simply pass away in their sleep. I arose from my sickbed in the dead of night to visit the bathroom. It was a three level pole home and it took me ages to find my way from my bedroom on the lower level, to the bathroom on the uppermost level. I was washing my hands in the basin, when I simply blacked out and collapsed. I'd like to say I had a storybook near death experience, but I did not. Some time later, I awoke to find myself on the floor, and negotiated my way back to bed. The next morning, I was fit and healthy. How is it, that I survived, having exhibited all of the symtoms of this illness and perhaps even visiting if not deaths door, certainly it's doorstep? I believe my Angel intervened, knowing that I had work to do for my disabled son.

There are many other incidents. Not catching the subway to Waterloo station to connect with the Eurostar on the day of the London bombings, looking to the right (when I wouldn't normally) at an intersection controlled by traffic lights before pulling away, only to narrowly miss being collected by a speeding semi-trailer going through the red light coming from that direction (I would normally just trust 'my' lights and accelerate on the green), and missing the bus into town, on the day that a construction site collapses on a busy main street in the centre of our fair city. Had I caught my scheduled bus, I would have been walking along that section of footpath right at that time.

Then there's cancelling a trip to Christchurch which would have placed us at the epicentre of their earthquake earlier this year, which tragically claimed hundreds of lives, refusing a lift from a very persistent and persuasive man and woman at my school when I was just five years old, and tragically seeing another child disappear that week. She and her kidnappers were never found. There was the decision to not pursue a man who was the object of my dreams for a little while, who soon after, was killed in a car accident. Had I been with him, as I longed to be, I too would have been killed.

Even at the earliest part of my existence, my Angel intervened. I was born 10 weeks prematurely, at a time when humidicribs were not much more that an aquarium with a lid and an oxygen tank. I survived, frail though I was, and have gone on to live a productive life.

Contrast this with my son, born 12 weeks prematurely in an era where all should have been rosy for him, but who is left with Cerebral Palsy and is completely physically dependent. It makes you wonder, doesn't it? Some would say that even there, my Angel intervened and that I am meant to learn something from my journey with my son, and perhaps they are right. Indeed my son survived, when others like him have not, so who can say for sure what my Guardian Angel has in store for me there.

Sometimes, just before I wake, I feel a gentle hand on my brow, arm or leg. I awake with a start, expecting to see my 11 year old daughter there, but there is no-one. I believe it's my Angel stirring me to face a new day.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Monday Musing on Inclusion.....

2011-09-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

Source: 123f images

On my Tray of Bliss today is another question on inclusion...or rather exclusion.

Why does something that comes so easily when we're kids, become so much more fraught with difficulty when we're adults?

If you follow my blog, you'll know that we've had some inclusion issues with our disabled son over recent times.

I've been struggling with this for years. Mostly we cope well, and find ways and means of our son being accepted in the wider community.

Let's face it, mostly friendships are formed around a common interest, be it sport, dance, techno wizardry or sometimes, and most significantly, something that stems from the heart and soul of a person.

When I thought long and hard about our sons recent and quite deliberate and calculated exclusion from a ten pin bowling league, I had to ask myself some difficult questions. It's very easy to fly off the handle and scream discrimination (which I did), and not look at it from the other persons point of view.

The truth is exclusion is a part of life for all of us. Where my daughter dances, she and we are excluded from many events. It doesn't matter, because we are either blissfully unaware or don't want to be included anyway. And perhaps therein lays the key.

Exclusion can only affect us if we firstly are aware that we have been excluded, and secondly, wanted to be included in the first place.

In our sons' case, he has said that the people in the League at bowling probably weren't his kind of people anyway, so that solves the 'wanting to be included'. As for the knowledge of being 'excluded', well that ship has sailed as he is well aware of his exclusion in this instance. Maybe they should call themselves a Bowling Clique, and not a Bowling League. I wonder if they've considered that their behaviour is a form of adult bullying?

I think, in future, we will research more compehensively, and not dive in with both feet quite so quickly. Had I not taken the Bowling Alley Managers word for it that Mr A would be welcomed with open arms (not so), then perhaps we would not have accessed this particular avenue for him. That certainly would have alleviated some hearteache.

In the end, those already in a 'group' of any kind, are somewhat entitled to decide who joins the 'group. I don't like it, but it is a way of life for some, isn't it.

We will now encourage Mr A to form his own 'group' of friends with common interests, as we've always done before, and worry not about the myriad other 'groups' who may seek to exclude him for their own petty reasons.

We will also seek to ensure that we don't force our own ideas on social activities upon him. Not that that's happened here, but he's actually happy enough to bowl with friends and family. So why force a League upon him?

Parenting...it's never an easy road, is it?

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Fun on a Friday...Captain Hook Cupcakes

2011-09-15T17:37:00.000-07:00

On My Tray of Bliss today is a bit of fun.

I've made these Captain Hook Cupcakes for an event this weekend that features a Peter Pan theme.

Aren't they cute?

Being a cake decorating novice, the decorating proved a challenge, but in the end it was dead easy.

I baked my favourite Chocolate Buttermilk cake in large muffin holes lined with silver muffin cups.

Once cooled I iced them in white glace icing.

The red sleeve of the jacket is a piece of Strawberry Sour Gummy Strap, the cuff is a slice of white marshmallow, and the hook is a strip cut from a licorice strap. The little buttons are silver cahcous fixed with a small blog of icing.

Not bad for a novice, eh?

If I can do it, you can too!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

2011-09-14T18:33:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today, another wish for my disabled son.

Mr A adores sport. Any kind of sport.

Currently we are somewhat thwarted by an unfortunate incident at a local ten pin bowling alley where a league have voted NOT to accept him as a member despite having a vacancy. I've griped about this already and have taken some action in the form of a scathing letter to the aforementioned league and to the head office of the bowling alley. Discrimination was mentioned.

But at the end of the day there is no point in Mr A participating in their cruddy little league if he's unwelcome, so we still go bowling and family members take it in turns to pair up with him.

Mr A's older brothers have also been making an effort to get him out more as a spectator and he's gone to a number of footy matches over the last several weeks. Cricket season is almost upon us too, and he loves his cricket so we're looking at a family membership at our local big cricket ground for this Summer.

Still, he wants to play a sport.

Fortunately there is no shortage of wheelchair sports around, it's just getting to them that's a problem.

Mr A currently does not have a vehicle of his own and would need to rely upon taxis. Not a good option financially.

So our next big goal is to buy him a car. I don't know how, as they are expensive to buy and insure.

But we will get there.

Meanwhile, we'll occasionally take him to the park where his brothers can take turns playing wheelchair soccer with him.

Thank God Mr A has us. The rest of the world doesn't seem to want to know him.

Makes you want to ask what anti-discrimination legislation has really done for the disabled.

It's infuriating and I am sorely tempted to tackle these bowling people head on. But as previously mentioned, it's no way to start a friendship.

Sometimes I just hate people.

Sorry....rant over.

Not very blissful, but needed to be said.

Tomorrow will be better.

Hoping your Tray is more blissful than mine today, dear friends.

Wistful Wednesday...Mum in the stars...

2011-09-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a wistful longing for my Mum.

She would have been 69 in the next few days, but she succumbed to Ovarian Cancer nine years ago.

We decided against a traditional burial and commemorative headstone, urn or object to mark her remains.

Instead we named a constellation after her. We didn't ask permission or pay someone for the privilege. We just decided amongst ourselves and did it.

This is a Hubble Telescope photo of the constellation commonly known as The Jewel Box.

We chose this one as there are seven stars in it and seven siblings. Mum was also something of a bower bird and adored vintage costume jewellery and anything that glittered, glimmered or shone. She had a fascination for astronomy and Carl Sagans 'Chariots of the Gods' was a favourite book.

So this couldn't be more appropriate.

On a clear night, Mums Jewel Box winks at us from the heavens as if she's saying 'I'm here, I'm watching over you, all is well'.

Most days I now remember her fondly and with enormous love and affection and can speak of her without a quiver in my voice. But now and again, grief rises up and bites you on the behind and it's as if it's a raw wound.

Today, and the next few, will be like that. A longing in my heart, a wish for one more conversation, one more chance to tell her all she meant to me and to my children.

As Roy Orbison, her favourite singer says..

"In dreams, I walk with you.

In dreams I talk to you.

In dreams, you're mine all of the time,

Only in dreams"

Here's the song on youtube. We played it at her funeral. It's of course written for a lover, but was extremely appropriate...see if it doesn't make you cry...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqp3ZvL1Y9w

R.I.P. Mum...I hope you and Roy and having a ball up there.

Tuesdays favourite photo....

2011-09-12T22:42:00.000-07:00

Credit to Cole Scott Photo.com

I've just found some gorgeous Spring Flower photos today. Here are a few more....

Oh...blue...pretty....

...piiiinnnnk...

...michelmas daisy...sweet...

.....and red ones....

....I love Spring....

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thank God I found you Friday....

2011-09-08T16:22:00.000-07:00

Love vs. Marriage

One day, Plato asked his teacher, "What is love? How can I find it?"
His teacher answered, "There is a vast wheat field in front. Walk forward without turning back, and pick only one stalk. If you find the most magnificent stalk, then you have found love."
Plato walked forward, and before long, he returned with empty hands, having picked nothing. His teacher asked, "Why did you not pick any stalk?" Plato answered, "Because I could only pick once, and yet I could not turn back. I did find the most magnificent stalk, but did not know if there were any better ones ahead, so I did not pick it. As I walked further, the stalks that I saw were not as good as the earlier one, so I did not pick any in the end.
His teacher then said, "And that is love."
On another day, Plato asked his teacher, "What is marriage? How can find it?"His teacher answered, "There is a thriving forest in front. Walk forward without turning back, and chop down only one tree. If you find the tallest tree, then you have found marriage." Plato walked forward, and before long, he returned with a tree. The tree was not thriving, and it was not tall either. It was an ordinary tree. His teacher asked, "Why did you chop down such an ordinary tree?"
Plato answered, "Because of my previous experience. I walked halfway through the forest, but returned with empty hands. This time, I saw this tree, and I felt that it was not bad, so I chopped it down and brought it back. I did not want to miss the opportunity."
His teacher then said, "And that is marriage."

Thoughts for Thursday....why not now?

2011-09-07T14:52:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is this stunning image.

I found it on http://weheartit.com/entry/14121151/via/MissCathM

I have no way of knowing whether it is real or contrived, but it spoke to me in some deep way, as photographs so often do.

My Music Man and I have been together for a while. Long enough to have seen two sons marry and one search for his soulmate. Long enough to raise a disabled child and see him now living independently as a young man. Long enough to watch a daughter, grow from a bit of fluff into the young spindly foal approaching womanhood, that we now see before us.

From time to time, we speak of what we'll do 'when'. When we retire, when the Diva leaves home, when we sell this or that, when we're 60, when we're free.

What a trap this is. Watching a parent fade away from a terminal illness should have cured me of the 'what ifs', and 'whens'. And yet I still make this fundamental life error.

The Music Man and I should be grasping life with both hands while we still have our health and our wits about us.

I don't know about tents in the sky, but we have a tent and we have a sky. I think we'll camp out tonight. The Diva will sleep not far away.

We'll have a feast of cold meats, cheeses and fruit and read out loud from Peter Pan, or Flitterwig. We'll play a game of cards and see if we can spot Grandmas Stars in the sky, having named a constellation after her in preference to erecting a headstone at her final place of rest.

We'll have a go on the Divas old playgym and pretend we're swinging into the twilights purple and rose coloured mist.

Why not now?

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Wistful Wednesday...magic spells for a magical Gypsy bedroom...

2011-09-06T15:07:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today....further pretties for the Divas pretty bedroom.

Isn't this the most adorable idea?

Recycled or purchased jars, filled with wild, winsome and woolly ingredients and labelled apothecary style with their supposed contents.

For us, it will be raffia 'Mermaids Hair', a 'Magic Spell' of glitter hearts, dried miniature rosebuds, and shredded rainbow holographic cellophane, a tall one containing a piece of stiffened vintage lace labelled 'Unicorns Breath from a Winters Evening', and one turned into a sort of Snow Globe with glitter swirled through it, labelled 'Dragons Tears'.

You can make a super easy version of a Snow Globe by simply filling any jar with Baby Oil, and adding whatever takes your fancy. We particularly love the little white irridescent glitter scattered with a few white and pastel beads in these. Just make sure you keep it out of reach of young ones as the oil can be a hazard in all sorts of ways.

This is a gorgeous idea for a home made girlie gift for tweens, teenagers or Boho girls of all ages, too.

I'll post photos as we complete our project.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Tranquil Tuesday...Peaceful Pastel Bohemian Bedrooms...

2011-09-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today, some more inspiration for Bohemian or Gypsy style bedrooms. I found that much of the inspiration I was viewing was in bold colours and the Diva is leaning more towards the pastel and delicate.

So I went searching. Can one still have a Boho Gypsy bedroom with pastel tones?

Well, as you can see the answer is a big fat YES.

This first one is by a genius who is mosaicing furniture and accessories of all kinds and his or her work is simply divine. Find them here:

http://www.poshliving.com/catalog/Furniture/Beds/Bohemian-Mosaic-Bed/1016/12713/product_detail.asp

A tad out of our price range, but beautiful and and ideas to inspire, nonetheless. Mosaic is a craft I've long wanted to explore, so perhaps we'll shrink that idea into a personalised wall plaque of some sort.

Source: http://dobel-id.com/bedroom-decoration/interior-bedroom-decorating-of-boho-bedroom-style/attachment/boho-bedroom-style4

I chose this one, simply to show that you don't have to spend a lot of money on furniture, accessories or headboards. A few beautiful mirrors, photos glued to the wall in rows, frameless, some DIY shelves, a comfy mattress on the floor and a lamp shrouded in gypsy toned scarves. What a stunning effect for not much money!

And this one...sort of Shabby Chic meets Bohemian. I'm loving the little beaded bag hanging on the chest of drawers. I have quite a collection of vintage beaded bags, and I think the Diva would LOVE a series of them hung on her wall.

She's enjoying designing her room (with help from Mama). Hopefully it will be a room that will grow with her and give her many years of pleasure.

Back to the mundane, it's plasterers we need next. We've installed the wall chandeliers and moved power points around to accomodate her furniture. So now it's filling holes, and then repainting a pretty pale, dreamy blue.

Then it's onto refinishing the polished pine floors, ready for a beautiful rug.

Stay tuned!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Monday Musings...finding inner peace.

2011-09-04T16:55:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today, this gorgeous shot, taken at Etretat, north of Paris, in France.

A picture perfect seaside village, complete with centuries old B&B's and spectacular natural scenery.

Our visit there was memorable for many reasons, not the least of which being the sense of tranquility surrounding us during our stay.

I don't feel so tranquil at the moment.

As we approach the last quarter of the year, I know we will be frantically busy with work, activities for the Diva, socialising for Mr A, and negotiating Christmas celebrations. I also try to hand make most of our gifts, so a good chunk of free time will be spent on that!

This photograph reminds me to slow down, breathe, enjoy the moment, and make small things count. Have my morning coffee in the garden, ring my sons, hug my daughter and make my husband feel special.

Take a moment to contemplate what's important to you today.

Slow down, enjoy the lingering scents of early Spring or Autumn, depending upon which hemisphere you live in. Welcome the new season with open arms and an open heart.

As I grow older I become more aware of the circle of life and the change of the seasons. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to witness these changes for so many years, and hope that the Universe grants me permission to enjoy many more.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Fearless Friday...are you frightened to fail?

2011-09-01T14:22:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today, the thought that without pain, there is no gain.

This applies not just in exercise but in life itself.

We shy away from confrontation, from taking a risk, from simply jumping in with both feet and trusting our instincts.

Why? Fear of failure.

Please take one minute to view this inspiring video from Life Secrets. It's an eye opener.

Make today the day that you take a risk. Offer that elderly shopper a lift home so she or he doesn't have to wait for a taxi. Ring that forgotten friend. Mend that quarrel. Life is too short not to take a risk now and again.

http://www.flickspire.com/m/LifeSecrets/FamousFailures

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thoughts for Thursday....Wordy Walls...

2011-08-31T15:35:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss is a dream.

Well, the word 'dream' at least.

The Diva is determined to write all over her walls.

But this is the kind of writing that no parent would want to erase.

She wants words of inspiration, words of hope and words of wisdom.

Here are two ideas that we found.

The 'Dream' decal is a bit overdone these days, but she loves the style of the font. It's certainly a safe bet that no-one will find offensive.

But she particularly loves this phrase attributed to Richard Bach, even if she doesn't quite grasp it's meaning. The fact that she likes it so much, gives me a sense that she is the caterpillar about to escape the cocoon to become the butterfly.

Oh the joys and heartache of having a Tweenager!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Winsome Wednesday...wall chandeliers a twinklin',,,

2011-08-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today, one more element in the Divas Boho Bedroom.

There's nothing more girlie than a chandelier.

We bought two of these for about $60...gotta love those Spring Sales!

Alas the ones I'd purchased on eBay were just too big...I'll find another use for them though.

These look super twinkly despite being just a few little bits of cut glass, and give just the effect we were after.

The next step will be choosing a colour for the walls...she's after a sort of Robins Egg Blue, so we'll see how we fare. That will look gorgeous with her patchwork quilt toppers and afghan crocheted rug.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thrifty Tuesday...the faux mink throw...more bohemian bedroom thoughts...

2011-08-29T18:27:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is the next step in the Divas Bohemian Bedroom.

The Faux Mink Throw.

Luxe fabrics, even in smallish amounts give the whole Gypsy/Bohemian look a new spin. I'm chanelling the new Red Riding Hood movie, vikings, the Clan of the Cave Bear, luxury cave stuff.

What could be more luxurious than a 'genuine' fur throw. This one is extraordinarily expensive, but look at the one I whipped up for just $60 from a few well chosen remnants....

The greatest expense was the faux blonde mink...the pretty jacquard satin lining was next to nix. The velvety plush fur is a joy to snuggle beneath on a chilly night too.

Faux fur cushions, chenille throws, feather boas all add a sensual touch that is irresistible. Go on, add a touch of Bohemian lush to your bedroom.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Monday Musings...the crochet rug...more on the Boho Bedroom..

2011-08-28T18:21:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a new take on the crochet Afghan rug, another element in the Divas Bohemian Bedroom.

These were all the rage back in the 70's and groups of teens could be found everywhere, madly crocheting enough little squares to make a bedspread.

Oddly, most of us only ever accumulated enough squares for a cushion, but the intent was there.

Of course, we used recycled wool, unravelled from old jumpers, and the colour choices were limited according to what your little brother had grown out of that year. So needless to say, some of the finished products were eye popping...and not in a good way!

This one is pretty though isn't it, and just the thing to add to the Divas growing collection of Bohemian treasures.

Trouble is, I'd have to make it...this one is an image from a crafting site...which now that I've tried to find again, has proven impossible. But thankyou to them for their delicious photo.

So maybe we get to use this vintage one, crocheted by Great Grandma. It's more in the form of the aforementioned eye-popping colour range, but I think that might just be okay.

What do you think?

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Fantastical Friday....more Gypsy Bohemian Bedroom Inspiration

2011-08-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today, more Bohemian Bedroom ideas.

I think I'm in love :)

Clearly, this is an anything goes style.

It's a bit busy for todays minimalist decor, but maybe that's why DD and I love it.

Lots of luxe fabric, cosy throws, worn surfaces and cuddly cushions.

Just the antidote for a frantic world. This is not a style for someone who worries about cleaning. Clearly the dusting and airing alone will give someone (me) a days work a month at least.

But it's worth it for the sake of a haven to come home to for a young daughter.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thrifty Thursday....Bohemian Chic Style...

2011-08-24T16:09:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a plan to renovate my daughters bedroom.

Well, truthfully, it's her brothers' old room, and she's about to inherit it.

We've talked a lot about the style she'd like, and we've tossed around Shabby Chic, American Country, and French Provincial. None of them were 'quite' what she was after.

Then we accidentally stumbled upon Bohemian Chic.

Ahhhh...yesss.

More colourful than Shabby Chic, more relaxed than any of the other styles. Formerly called Eclectic or Gypsy, this style allows a freedom of colour and the choice to combine old and new pieces into a pretty, fantasy design.

Now, her room will not be wallpapered like the one heading this post...husband dear would have a coronary!

Possibly more like this pretty one.

We already have much of the furniture and accessories for just this very look....all scooped up at the thrift shop or on eBay.

Wrought iron bedhead $20

Patchwork quilts x 4 purchased as vintage quilts on eBay...$50 Note: These are listed as 'topper' or 'cutter' quilts, and are wonderfully worn and soft and have a true vintage bohemian feel. They are also a glorious bargain and a secret that should be shared!

Chandelier wall lights $10

Hoop and net for over the bed $25

Glass and brass gooseneck lamp with beaded fringe forming black and pink roses $35

Faded Vintage Ballet Print..large $20

Vintage satin peach coloured quilted bed jacket to hang on the wall $15

Lots of other knick knacks that she has collected from travelling and thrift shopping will be on display and we'll add to the theme as we go along.

Now that we've clarified our thinking, I see that this was 'her' all along. And the fabulous thing is that this is a wonderfully frugal style to emulate. No big budget required!

A very special girly room for my theatrical, funny, earthy, loving little Diva.

Can't wait to get started. Stay tuned. Photos to follow in the next few weeks!

We're both soooo excited!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Wicked Wednesday...voting for inclusion...

2011-08-23T16:41:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I just get so tired.

If you've been following my blog, you'll know that I am working hard to set up a social calendar for my disabled son who is 20 years old and gets around in a wheelchair.

We've made some good progress, and his circle of friends is growing all the time.

But out of the blue, we've hit a stumbling block.

He started ten pin bowling, on the understanding that this particular bowling alley had a vacancy in one of their leagues. We had stressed from the very first phone call that Mr A, my son, is a savvy bloke, who should not be judged by his wheelchair, and that he was keen to make some able-bodied friends. We were told that this was fine.

Well, the first visit, half the league was ill with the Winter flus and chills so he bowled alone. The second visit, the league was back but the president wasn't and for some reason, he bowled alone again. He missed the third week as he was ill himself.

This week he was told that the 'committee' had yet to 'vote' on his inclusion in the team which has the vacancy. WTH????

He's been bowling 150+ every week, and should be a welcome addition to any team.

That aside, I wonder if the committee 'votes' on including able-bodied team members?

I am livid. In these situations, I would normally not hesitate to wave the 'anti-discrimination' flag, and use a few well chosen words to make them aware that what they are doing is WRONG!

But that's hardly the way for my son to start a friendship, and that's what we are trying to do after all.

He's coping with this, but I see on his face that it's another rejection.

Jeez I just hate human beings sometimes.

I'm tempted to persuade him to go elsewhere, but I actually think the best solution is for him to just keep getting in their faces.

So that will be our strategy.

He'll keep attending, bowling alone with his support worker or with friends when they can accompany him, he'll keep improving his score, and he'll keep making them feel bad...if they have any feelings that is.

It's so sad.

No Tray of Bliss today....sorry.

Thrifty Tuesday...Where are all the glam clothes for real girlies?

2011-08-22T16:06:00.000-07:00

Tip...curvy women should not try to dress like thin women. See above for reverse inspiration.

That said, it's darned difficult if you're not a text book size 10 and 25 years old, to find anything decent to wear.

In Winter, my capsule wardrobe has shrunk to 3 pairs of leggings with some very nice tunic style tops with a variety of tees underneath, and topped with a few select stylish jackets.

Jeans? Forget it.

A nice dress? Impossible.

Cocktail wear? Not a chance.

Skirts and tops? I wish.

In my 50's, I'm becoming more like my Mother and veering towards that Apple shape. I'm not happy about it and I'm doing my best to change it, but meanwhile, how do I look stylish???

It's not a new whinge, but God Knows...WHERE ARE THE NICE CLOTHES FOR CURVY WOMEN??????????

I've bought some patterns, a sewing machine and some fabric and as soon as I find a spare moment, I'm making my own. I've had enough.

Now and again, a 'designer' lashes out on a Plus Size range, but the one I saw on our morning talk show this morning was full of vintage crepe de chine (nice on a cushion) and shiny satin. Er.....I think not. Recycling the skinny clothes in an ugly fabric and calling it 'vintage' is not the solution.

So there is not Tray of Bliss with a new wardrobe for me today...but there will be soon :)

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Monday Musings....a Mums' Dilemna...

2011-08-21T15:57:00.000-07:00

http://juliesretro.blogspot.com/2011_02_01_archive.html

On My Tray of Bliss today is the dilemna facing many Mums of Tweenies these days.

How to preserve those last fading moments of 'childhood' before our daughters fling themselves headlong into the dreaded adolescent years.

The Diva is still very child-like in so many ways. She loves cuddles, snuggling up to Dad, and prefers our company to that of others...well for the most part.

But we know that these moments now have a expiry date.

For her to curl up on my lap now entails folding herself virtually in half with arms and legs dangling everywhere. For her to sit with Dad to watch TV, now means Dad moving to the big couch to give them both room...no more curling up in a corner of a single recliner chair.

This was brought home to me even further on the weekend.

The Diva had her first Theatre performance. In terms of what she's done to this point, and having danced for 8 years, it was kiddy stuff. A pantomime in a local theatre, aimed at the 3-10 year old demographic.

But The Diva was in a fever.

The hair had to be right, she wanted to do her own makeup including eyeliner and mascara, she wanted to arrive at the Theatre 15 minutes before the scheduled time for performers, she didn't want me to take her photo in front of the theatre for posterity, she didn't want me to escort her in...welll, you get the picture. Miss Independence was rearing her pretty head.

I swallowed my Maternal Pride and having snapped my photo for her scrapbook, left her to it. I watched from the door as she wandered in, suitably theatrically attired (think black striped loose T-dress, opaque tights, black converse and dark denim jacket with home made bag made from an old pair of jeans slung casually over one shoulder), and embraced her new friends enthusiastically.

This theatre stuff is different to the dancing she's been doing for so long. The kids are different too. They're not the Designer Fashionistas that we know and love from dancing. Young girls who love labels, jewellery and never leave the house without a fancy hairstyle. These kids are more low key, a bit arty, don't give a toss for fashion, and have a certain warmth about them that sometimes lacks in the whirlwind of dancing...not because the kids aren't lovely, but because it's all so serious.

If you saw my post a week or two ago about Theatre Industry Snobbery, you'll understand where I'm coming from.

I don't believe for a second that The Diva will abandon dancing, but rather foresee her reducing her commitment to Dance to embrace Theatre.

I'm okay with that...although my heart squeezes at the thought of her not using her graceful limbs to be a ballerina before she gets too tall.

It's hard...the start of this letting go business.

I'll get there. I know she's destined for something in the Arts. My role now is to GUIDE her, rather than making those decisions FOR her.

It's not a bad problem to have, but I want to look back in ten years and have a sense of having done 'the right thing'.

The only one who knows that for sure is the Greater Spirit in whatever form you believe that exists.

And in that sense, I have to leave some of it to The Universe, don't I?

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

PS Post....French Dreaming

2011-08-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

......what's not to love?

Frugal Friday....Repurposing for the garden...

2011-08-18T16:01:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a vow to repurpose as many things around the home as possilbe.

I was recently in the sad position of having to help two families farewell a baby born sleeping.

Out of such a sad situation, grew an outpouring of love and support, such as I 've never witnessed.

On the day of Babys' farewell, families all over Australia paid their own tribute.

Once again, this arose out of a community generated by a common on-line interest, and left me breathless in it's unity.

This was my tribute to the Babies. The Diva is outgrowing her childhood toys (a tale for another day), and I had intended donating this dolly sized high chair to the school fete.

Closer inspection revealed that the opening of the seat was just the right size to house a pretty flowering plant. So the high chair (bereft of baby) now sits in our garden, flowering prettily, as a reminder of Angels too precious to remain in this Earthly realm.

A fitting tribute, and sweet garden addition, and a link to a more meaningful conversation with The Diva in years to come, when I know she will ask the significance of the ornament.

It gives repurposing, real 'purpose'.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thoughts for Thursday...To live well, we must behave well...

2011-08-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a renewed sense of purpose on the idea of dining together.

I find it increasingly difficult to get the three of us together for dinner. The Diva has so many commitments, it's usually eat-on-the-go or not at all.

But I miss my pretty china, my placemats, my crystal glasses and beautiful serving dishes and utensils. I miss the conversations, the laughter and nagging my daughter about her table manners. For as the title of todays post suggests, learning to behave well is an important social skill.

This gorgeous photo has inspired me to set the table tonight come hell or high water.

I'll lay out the silk placemats, resurrect the linen serviettes, and use my prettiest platters.

Dinner will, once again, be an occasion.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Wicked Wednesday...make your own luxurious hand cream.

2011-08-16T16:43:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a method for the easiest ever home made hand cream.

Now I hate to rain on your parade, but Christmas is just 18 short weeks away and the clock is ticking!

This is a real favourite as it's inexpensive, simple, and just oozes luxury. Make it top of your list for home made gifts this year.

Now you don't need many ingredients. The main one is Emulsifying Wax, which I ordered through my local pharmacy. It was $13 for a 500gm tub, which will yield up to 20 batches of 500mls of thick scented lotion.

So your list of ingredients is:

1/4 cup Emulsifying Wax

1/4 cup Olive Oil

1 1/4 cups water

One or Two drops Food colouring (optional)

2 teaspoons Scented or few drops Essential Oil

4 drops or one pierced capsuleVitamin E Oil (optional)

Equipment requirements:

2 cup capacity microwave safe glass jug

Spoon

1/4 cup and 1 cup capacity measuring cups

Microwave

Bowls or Jars to hold your finished lotion

Method:

Put the emulsifying wax and olive oil into the microwave safe jug. Microwave for between one minute and one minute, twenty seconds, until the beads have melted.

...add the Vitamin E Oil if using it...

...then the scented oil....this is a $2 rose scented one from a discount store. I prefer essential oils, but frankly for everyday use, it's a little cost-prohibitive. It's up to you....

....then the food colouring, just a drop at a time, if you want it prettily tinted.

Heat the water for one minute to one minute, twenty seconds, and add it to the stuff in the jug. Give it a good stir.

It should be looking like a jug of flavoured milk at this point.

Give it another good stir, and carefully pour it into your waiting decanters of choice. I tend to snap up these pretty cut glass sugar bowls at thrift shops. They're my favourites and usually set me back no more than $1 each. Alternatively, use sterilised and recycled wide mouthed jars. Here in Australia, the commercial Salsa jars are perfect.

SUPER MONEY SAVER TIP: If you can be bothered, whipping this in a bowl with electric beaters as if you were whipping edible cream, almost doubles your yield and gives a fluffy light souffle style cream :D

ALERT: If, once your hand cream has cooled, the oil congeals on the surface, simply stir well with a fork or a tiny whisk, until it is emulsified back into the cream.

And you're done!

Add some pretty ribbon or whatever you fancy to doll them up. Ballet Pink double satin ribbon is my favourite.

For gift giving, I usually wrap them in swathes of clear cellophane or bridal tulle with more ribbon gathering the corners into a topknot. Bridal tulle is particularly pretty, and although a bit of an outlay initially, is totally reuseable! Most recipients simply return it to me on the spot.

That's it. A gorgeous gift, under $5, and under 5 minutes to make.

Enjoy!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thoughts for Tuesday...whatever happened to Mothercraft classes?

2011-08-15T18:35:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a question. An important one. Where are the Mothercraft classes?

When I was at high school and in Year 9, we actually had a class called Mothercraft. We all looked forward to it. Incomprehensibly, it was just for the 'girls', but hey, this was the 70's. The Midwife who taught the classes was just plain scarey, but all medical personnel were in those days. They were revered. None of this first name stuff. It was Doctor This, Nurse That, and 'Sister'. 'Sister' did not even need a name. Even the nurses referred to her simply as 'Sister' and I think the Doctors feared her too.

But all of us adored bathing the baby dolls, putting on their (cloth) nappies, or diapers as some call them, and compiling our piece de resistance`, our Mothercraft Scrapbook.

These scrapbooks were works of art. Elaborate beyond imagining, they consisted of breathtakingly beautiful baby cards, hacked to pieces and wedged between snippets of information on how to be a good parent. Pretty ribbon abounded, as did photos cut from the Womens Weekly magazine (an icon here), showing delicately robed angelic like new mothers, snuggling picture perfect babies to their not-quite-visible breasts.

We were graded on these, as much as we were on Maths and Science. They were a source of great pride and displayed at the school fete and on Open Days.

I'm not saying they instantly turned us into perfect candidates for Motherhood, but at least we had the grounding.

Did these classes slip into oblivion courtesy of Womens Liberation or Political Correctness? Because frankly, it's a darn shame. I'm not saying everyone wanted to be a Mother, but at least you were prepared for that outcome.

I wish I still had my Mothercraft scrapbook, but alas, it's long gone. It honestly was a thing of beauty, quite apart from it's practical aspect. Mine was filled with the aforementioned vintage style baby welcome cards like this one...

..... and was beribboned to within an inch of it's life.

Maybe it's my love of pretty things that finds me nostalgic for Mothercraft Classes...nothing more.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Foraging Friday...The rules of harvesting free food...

2011-08-11T16:39:00.000-07:00

My Tray of Bliss today holds six passionfruit, two green paw-paw, some rosemary, six oranges, some garlic chives and a basil plant.

I haven't been shopping.

I've just been doing my usual morning walk and foraging as I go.

Free food foraging is another good reason for getting to know your neighbourhood. And here's a News Flash. You can't do it from your car.

Over a period of years, I've got to know which of my neighbours on my walking route have produce that simply falls from it's tree or vine and rots. They simply aren't interested or have too much to worry about it. So I've asked for, and received many little bits and pieces that supplement our diet when harvest allows.

But there's a courtesy involved here. I ALWAYS ask first. I don't want to feel like a thief in the night. A note in the letterbox with a phone number will usually suffice. Some people call back, some don't. I usually give them an incentive. Eg. Passionfruit curd made from their own passionfruit, jam in exchange for pawpaws, orange and poppyseed muffins from thier oranges and so on.

If I don't hear anything, I keep careful watch, and harvesting only from what has already fallen on the ground, and in public space, I save many a stray passionfruit or orange from simply becoming compost.

I NEVER take from the tree or vine without prior permission. I NEVER put my hands inside someones fence. I NEVER take anything without asking first.

If I take from what's fallen on the footpath, I still will leave a little something in return. Sometimes it's some hand made greeting cards, or some relish or a little bucket of something from my own garden as a gift with a note saying that I gathered up what would have otherwise rotted and have left this in return.

What I harvest in my foraging would not feed us on an ongoing basis, but gosh, if you're doing it tough, you could do worse than getting to know your neighbours! You'd be surprised what they might share.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Theatrical Thursday....Industry Snobbery...

2011-08-10T14:38:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a ticket to a local theatre production.

Not just any theatre production, but one featuring my daughter.

Now you'll notice the byline of my blog is 'creating a parsomoniously plentiful, posh and polished life'. I believe attending the theatre is one of the great lost 'posh' arts. It can be done in a parsimonious fashion and certainly makes our life feel more abundant, fulfilled and polished. We adore theatre in any form and it's something we put money aside to attend. But I'm about to tell you how to see all the great shows (albeit on a smaller scale) for FREE. That's right. Nil cost. Psst...I think this is where the 'snobbery' comes in. I find that unless the theatre ticket carries an appropriately exorbitant price tag, it's often not considered worth 'seeing'. We have found this to be patently untrue on a grand scale. One particular instance was when we attended a performance of The Wiz (a modern updated version of The Wizard of Oz) AND The Wizard of Oz, two weeks apart. The Wiz was staged by a community based theatre company, and The Wizard of Oz by the big guns. You know, national tour, big names, fancy schmacy sets. Well, that was 8 years ago. Which one do you think stands out in all our memories? Hint...it ain't the big flashy one. To this day, that performance of The Wiz is the benchmark by which we measure all other productions. The only one that's come close is Wicked, but that's a whole other story...well, figuratively speaking!

There is a wealth of talent in any city, large or small, and we love the thrill of seeing budding young actors bring characters that we know and love, to life. We dress up and make a real occasion of it, as befits the hard work put in by the many front and back of house volunteers that pull a theatrical production together.

The Diva has been dancing and singing for nigh on eight years, but this is her first foray into the world of acting.

Now I say that blithely, because in truth, she's been theatrical her entire life...hence her Nom de Plume.

But of course, this is acting in its' purest form. Many times I've read that famous actors return to tread the boards in Broadway or West End to remind themselves of what the craft of acting is all about.

Of course, at this level, we're really just talking about reciting the script expressively...there is very little of the craft of acting involved.

The surprising thing for me is the amount of 'industry snobbery' I've encountered over this little foray. This is a long standing theatre, a grand old Dame of our city. She's 75 years old and the theatre itself is an icon. It's well respected, viewed on a par with the so called Professional theatres, and attracts a loyal fan base.

But Divas' dance school are up in arms (they're very particular), in case the 'production' is not of the standard favoured by them for their students. I can't seem to make them see that this is not a clash with what they offer our Diva, but rather another string to her creative bow. All they can see is that it's not Professional (their capitals, not mine).

We are not being 'tolerated' as long as the Theatre does not interfere with her commitment to Dance. It's a jolly shame as they've taken no joy in her role and have not announced it to the dance school at large. It's very much hush-hush. Poor little Diva still had to audition..the part was not simply handed to her. At the tender age of 11, she had to sing a solo (Reflection from the Disney movie Mulan), learn a dance in 5 minutes and perform it, and do a cold reading from the Script. She actually read for three parts. So no mean feat!

I gotta say....HUH???????

The Diva is having a blast. We are too. She is meeting people and learning things in Theatre that she would never learn at Dance classes. How to take direction, respect older members of the cast, take responsibility, and not forgetting of course the old adage 'the show must go on'. For us, we find ourselves exploring the local restaurants near the theatre, and indulging in some Mum and Dad time. A whole two hours twice a week. It's like dating again.

What is it with 'industry' folk that they look down their noses at local theatre, the true lifeblood and cultural heart and soul of any city?

I say phooey, pip-pip and cheerio to them.

Do you support your local theatre group? Almost every town or city has one in some form, if not several. It's much more fun than the movies and often costs the same or less. It gives your family a whole new entertainment option. What would you rather they remembered when they're older? That you all sat at home watching DVDs, or that you got out and about and supported the Arts.

The other positive is that your family may be inspired enough by attending Theatre to get involved. Most community theatre groups are always on the lookout for talent. And not just front of house. They need ushers, musicians, technical people, IT people, bar staff or coffee shop and kiosk staff, office and admin staff, make-up artists, set designers and construction people, stage managers, PR people, graphic designers, costume designers and seamstresses. I bet they'll welcome you with open arms. Best thing? It's all free! Imagine going to ALL the new productions, supporting the arts, giving your family the opportunity to tread the boards, and learn a wonderful new, self esteem building skill!

Go soon, and support the theatres in your area. You won't be sorry!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Woeful Wednesday...Dear Diary....

2011-08-10T01:50:00.000-07:00

My Tray of Bliss is not so blissful today.

Having nursed the rest of the family through the Winter ills and chills, I myself now find I need to crawl into my bed and feel sorry for myself.

I do wonder how much the events of recent days have impacted on this.

I have found myself having to explain things to lots of people.

"Why doesn't Nanna visit?"

"Why did my brother break up with his girlfriend? I liked her."

"Why don't we see each other all the time like TV families?"

"Why doesn't Daddy know about your blog?"

Well three of these can't be answered...well not here anyway.

As for the Fourth...here is my answer. After many years of caring for my disabled son, going through relationship hassles, caring for a terminally ill parent, looking out for my disabled sister, and keeping an eye on my entire family, sons, daughter, siblings, nieces and nephews, I have finally found something just for me.

This blog is my Dear Diary.

I can say what I want, when I want, and no-one except you, lovely reader, needs to know.

I can close it when I want, choose not to write if I don't want to, or post ten times in one day if the mood takes me.

I love my Dear Diary. It keeps me sane. It keeps me connected with the me I really am underneath Mother, Wife, Friend, Mother-in-Law, Auntie, Great Auntie and Nanna.

Long live the Blog...

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thoughts for Tuesday...The String Bag and Octopus Guide to Parenthood...

2011-08-08T19:16:00.000-07:00

A young couple very close to us is having their first bub. I remembered someone giving me this list when I was younger and looking forward to parenthood. It always puts a smile on my face and is a great gift for a Baby Shower!

The String Bag and Octopus Guide to Parenthood

Preparation for parenthood is not just a matter of reading Sheila Kitzinger and decorating the nursery. Here are eleven simple tests for expectant parents to take to prepare themselves for the real life experience of being a mother or father

Women: Put on a dressing gown and stick a bean bag down the front. Leave it there for nine months. After nine months take out 10% of the beans. Men: go to the chemist, tip the contents of your wallet on the counter and invite the pharmacist to help himself, then go to the supermarket and arrange to have your salary paid directly to their head office. Go home pick up the paper and read it for the last time.
Before you go ahead and have children find a couple who are already parents and berate them about their methods of discipline, lack of patience, appallingly low tolerance levels and how they have allowed their children to run riot. Suggest ways in which they might improve their child's sleeping habits, toilet training, table manners, and overall behaviour. Enjoy it - it will be the last time you have all the answers.
To discover how the nights will feel walk around the living room from 5pm to 10pm carrying a wet bag weighing about 8 - l0 lbs. At 10pm put the bag down, set the alarm clock for midnight and go to sleep. Get up at 12pm and walk around with the bag again until 1am. Set the alarm for 3am. As you can't get back to sleep get up at 2am and make a drink. Go to bed at 2 45am. Get up again at 3am when the alarm goes off. Sing songs in the dark until 4am. Set the alarm for 5am. Get up at 5am and make the breakfast. Keep this up for 5 years. Look cheerful.
Can you stand the mess children make? To find out smear marmite on the sofa and jam on the curtains. Hide a fish finger behind the stereo and leave it there throughout the Summer. Stick your fingers in the flower bed - then wipe them clean on the wall paper. Cover the stairs with crayons. How does that look?
Dressing small children is not as easy as it seems. First buy an octopus and a string bag. Attempt to put the octopus in the bag, so that none of its arms stick out. Time allowed for this - all morning.
Take an egg carton, Using a pair of scissors and a pot of paint turn it into an alligator. Now take a toilet roll tube. Using only Copydex and a piece of foil make a Christmas cracker. Last take a milk container, ping-pong ball and an empty packet of Cocoa Pops then make an exact replica of the Eiffel Tower. Congratulations you have just qualified for a place on the Playgroup Committee.
Forget the Peugeot 205 and buy a Sierra. And don't think you can leave it on the driveway spotless and shining, family cars don't look like that. Take a choc-ice and put it in the glove compartment and leave it there. Get a 20p piece, stick it in the cassette player. Take a family sized pack of chocolate biscuits, mash them down the back seat. Take a garden rake - run it along both sides of the car. There - perfect.
Get ready to go out. Wait outside the loo for half an hour. Go out the front door. Come back in again, go out, come back in again, go out again. Walk down the front path. Walk back up it. Walk down it again. Walk very slowly down the road for five minutes. Stop to inspect every cigarette end, piece of chewing gum, dirty tissue and dead insect on the way. Retrace your steps. Scream that you have had just about as much as you can stand until the neighbours come out to stare at you. Give up and go back home again. Do it all over again. You are now just about ready to take a small child for a walk.
Go to your local supermarket. Take with you the nearest thing you can find to a pre-school child - a fully grown goat is ideal. If you intend to have more than one child then take more than one goat. Buy your groceries without letting the goats out of' your sight. Pay for everything the goats eat or destroy. Until you can easily accomplish this, do not even consider having children.
Hollow out a melon, make a small hole in the side, suspend it from the ceiling and swing it from side to side. Now take a bowl of soggy Weetabix and try to spoon it into the swaying melon whilst pretending to be an aeroplane. Continue until half the Weetabix has gone, tip the rest in your lap making sure that a lot of it ends up on the floor. You are now ready to feed a 12 month old baby.
Learn the names of every character from the Care Bears, Postman Pat, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. When you find yourself singing "I wanna be a Care Bear" at work, you finally qualify as a parent.

...What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Floral Friday...the French Florist.

2011-08-04T15:54:00.000-07:00

When I can't afford to travel, I dream of travel and France is a perennial favourite.

On My Tray of Bliss today is this pretty shot taken in a village in the South West region of France. The name of the village escapes me, but we'd driven there from the Chateau we'd rented in Chillac, to find some internet access.

In driving the distinctly empty main street, we came upon this glorious display. The store served as the local convenience shop and florist. The florist side of things was clearly more important and made more money as two thirds of the floor space was devoted to display of the blooms.

So gloriously quaint was this display that I couldn't resist snapping a few pretty shots. The shop owner was delighted, couldn't believe that we'd come all the way from Australia, and gifted me with a bouquet which included these blue roses.

The language barrier made things difficult, but I gathered this hue is achieved with tinted water into which the cut blooms are introduced, resulting in this glorious shade. Yes it's strangely unreal, but they were quite beautiful.

Love of pretty things transcends all languages.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thrifty Thursday...who knew lentils could be a decorator item?

2011-08-03T15:57:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today...a new use for lentils!

Now I've enlarged this photo, sourced from here:

http://phenix-events.blogspot.com/2011/05/candles-jars-and-few-moreideas.html

and I still can't tell what those green things are.

But, I tell you, my first thought was lentils! Hey, I've got those. I've got red ones, green ones, brown ones, and black Puy ones, as well as dried green peas, black eyed beans, red kidney beans, yellow split peas.

Today, I'm going to line up a some of my stash of recycled jars, complete with dried beans and lentils and pretty little pillar candles.

I can't wait to light them up tonight!

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Wash-a-day Wednesday....the scent of sunshine...

2011-08-02T15:57:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is a bit of sunshine.

Like everyone, I occasionally get the urge to do a makeover of the bedroom, living room or bathroom.

Alas, the budget, already stretched to the limit with utility bills and school fees, won't allow that this week. Upon reflection, it's that feeling of crisp newness, and the scent of freshness that I'm after. I know where I can get that. It's right outside my door and it's endless (well, nearly endless) and it's free. It's called Sunshine.

Rather than spending up big on something I won't even like in a month, I'm bringing a bit of sunshine into my home.

I have a clothes dryer and I'm not afraid to use it...(ha-ha, sounds like a weapon when you say it like that...sorry...my sad sense of humour)...but my preference is to hang my laundered linen and clothing in the sun, whenever possible. Here in Queensland, that can be a hit and miss thing. If it's sunny when you hang the laundry in the morning here in Summer, there's no guarantee that all you'll get is wetter laundry, as afternoon Summer storms are part and parcel of our regular weather patterns.

But at this time of the year, with fresh Westerlies blowing across from the ranges and Spring sunshine almost upon us, hanging the laundry early in the morning is a glorious start to the day.

Even better is the scent of sunshine that this imparts our linen and clothing. I adore it.

So today, I will wash and restore everything to it's former glory, ridding our home of the Winter cobwebs and remnants of colds and flu.

The floors and surfaces will all be freshened with a solution of hot water and Eucalyptus oil. Now there's a glorious Aussie scent if ever there was one. Redolent of the gum leaves at the rear of our home, and singing with sunshine and the outdoors, I love it. I think I'll even arrange a big bunch of eucalypt leaves in a wicker basket, and leave it next to the front door.

We'll shower tonight and dry off with huge towels, crisp and inviting with the soothing balm of the outdoors upon them.

And tonight we'll curl up in sheets fragrant with the afternoon breeze.

There's no need to spend up big on room makeovers.

Bring the sushine in, instead.

It's plentiful and it's free.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Thoughts for Tuesday....Learning by imitation....

2011-08-01T15:40:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today is this question.

What behaviour am I modelling for my children?

My children are all good and decent human beings. The are kind, caring individuals. They are cautious spenders and careful savers. They all enjoy good food and relish preparing it for friends. They know that one argument does not signal the end of a friendship or relationship. They're well aware that sometimes life just throws you a curve ball, and you have to deal with it, and that collapsing in a heap and claiming 'stress' or 'depression' is not the solution. They know that the best cure for 'stress' or 'depression' is action. They know that politicians, doctors, oncologists and lawyers, are not gods. They too are people and accountable for their decisions and answerable to any and all of us. They give to charity, not just in money and words, but in deed. They give back to the community by being involved with youth in sport or schooling. They work hard when required and celebrate hard when warranted. They value family above all else and respect the right of their siblings to choose the life partner they want without interference. They commemorate the good, the bad, and the sad when necessary and offer up their prayers for others doing the same.

My children do these things because they had significant figures in their life who showed them the way. Grandmother, Uncles and Aunts, Cousins and Teachers, Sports Coaches, Dad and Mum. We have all modelled the good, and frankly sometimes the bad as well. But hopefully the good outweighs that by far.

What are your children or the children you love, learning from you by imitation?

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

Monday Musings....from little things....

2011-07-31T23:55:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today, a sense of accomplishment rests.

My son has a new friend.

This friendship has sprung, like a new seed, from a joint love of blogging.

A friend who writes the Serendipity Cafe blog (see right hand side of my page) has helped to introduce her son, to my son.

No big deal you might say.

But she and I have yet to meet. And my son is disabled and her son is able bodied.

From little things, big things grow. And finally, we as a family see that our young man will have friends, now and in the future. There is light at the end of the tunnel, or in this case, through the trees.

And that, as my friend says, is Serendipity.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today.

Feel Life Friday....

2011-07-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

The best and most beautiful things in life cannot be seen, not touched, but are felt in the heart."
Helen Keller (1880-1968)

Instead of watching TV tonight, why not sneak outside and watch the stars.

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?

2011-07-25T22:59:00.000-07:00

On my Tray of Bliss today...a positive thought.

Could Lady Gaga make being disabled desirable???

Lord knows, anything's possible. The woman is a dynamo.

Read these lyrics and watch this little girls' version of Lady Gaga's Born This Way...and you'll be asking yourself the same question.

I think this version lends the lyrics a new innocence.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xG0wi1m-89o

Intro:
It doesn't matter if you love him, or capital H-I-M
Just put your paws up
'Cause you were born this way, baby
Verse:
My mama told me when I was young
We are all born superstars
She rolled my hair and put my lipstick on
In the glass of her boudoir
"There's nothin wrong with lovin who you are"
She said, "'cause he made you perfect, babe"
"So hold your head up girl and you'll go far,
Listen to me when I say"
Chorus:
I'm beautiful in my way
'Cause God makes no mistakes
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way
Don't hide yourself in regret
Just love yourself and you're set
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way
Post-chorus:
Ooo there ain't no other way
Baby I was born this way
Baby I was born this way
(Born this way)
Ooo there ain't no other way
Baby, I was born this way
Right track baby
I was born this way
Don't be a drag - just be a queen
Don't be a drag - just be a queen
Don't be a drag - just be a queen
Don't be!
Verse:
Give yourself prudence
And love your friends
Subway kid, rejoice your truth
In the religion of the insecure
I must be myself, respect my youth
A different lover is not a sin
Believe capital H-I-M (hey hey hey)
I love my life I love this record and
Mi amore vuole fede (love needs faith)
Repeat chorus + post-chorus
Bridge:
Don't be a drag, just be a queen
Whether you're broke or evergreen
You're black, white, beige, chola descent
You're lebanese, you're orient
Whether life's disabilities
Left you outcast, bullied, or teased
Rejoice and love yourself today
'Cause baby you were born this way
No matter gay, straight, or bi,
Lesbian, transgendered life
I'm on the right track baby
I was born to survive
No matter black, white or beige
Chola or orient made
I'm on the right track baby
I was born to be brave
Repeat chorus + post-chorus
Outro/refrain:
I was born this way hey!
I was born this way hey!
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way hey!
I was born this way hey!
I was born this way hey!
I'm on the right track baby
I was born this way hey!

I pray that one day, the disabled will be adored and embraced the way Lady Gaga is. Wouldn't that be a brave new world?

What's on your Tray of Bliss today?