tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-338358852012-01-28T19:04:44.006+11:00Come on in. Make yaself comfy. Find out what's on my plate and on my mind :) <br><br> <i>Please note: "Anonymous" and spam comments will not be published</i>Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.comBlogger2431100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-61090121376121801072012-01-16T12:13:00.006+11:002012-01-16T12:20:45.717+11:00

Well, folks, I have something kind of exciting to tell you. It's been so difficult keeping it to myself, so I'm so happy to finally be able to share it.I have a new love in my life.We met a week ago yesterday, and have been inseparable since Wednesday. It was just one of those things, where you simply feel a connection the instant you meet. We've moved in together and things seem to be going just

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-9693201001045967542011-12-18T08:27:00.003+11:002011-12-18T08:42:48.154+11:00

Well, folks, today marks one year since I married someone who I thought was the love of my life. It's been an... interesting 12 months.If you'd told me, on 18 December last year, that THIS is how my life would be now, I wouldn't have believed you. Despite everything that had happened to that point, I still thought somehow things would turn out alright. Well, I guess they are, just in a

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-23866417478030422332011-11-27T21:11:00.004+11:002011-11-27T22:02:27.400+11:00

Excusing my language, but love is a really f**ked up and useless emotion. I have a lot on my chest that has been festering away for a while, so now I figure what the hell, I'll get it off my chest and share it with the big wide impersonal world.Nearly one year ago I married a man because I loved him. There were things that he said that I didn't believe, that didn't add up, but because I loved him

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-30324228171960495442011-09-05T16:02:00.006+10:002011-09-05T16:45:57.640+10:00

This weekend I went up to Canberra to doggy- and house-sit for a friend. It was a chance to help her out, and a chance for me to get the hell outta Dodge... sorry, I mean Melbourne... for a few days. Looking at the cost of flights, I figured I'd just hire a car, and that'd give me a way of getting around while I was up there (for those who aren't familiar with Canberra, it is NOT a place to be

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-4551636391765061192011-08-23T09:06:00.005+10:002011-08-23T14:58:42.354+10:00

I'm very lucky in many ways, one of which is the number of amazing women that I know. I've just finished reading a book, admittedly a rather trashy chick-lit, about women living in the American prison system. Although it's a work of fiction the author did an immense amount of research to make their experiences as real-to-life as entertainment could make. The book also has a list of suggested

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-21646000886985994752011-07-20T16:54:00.004+10:002011-07-20T17:00:47.257+10:00

I know people are well-meaning, but seriously, is this how they want the conversation to go?"How are you doing, Anna?""How do you think I'm doing? I feel like shit. I feel devastated. I have no idea how to even start to feel OK again. Or trust. It was hard enough to do the first time, but this, now, after all of that, is infinitely worse. I can't even begin to find the words to adequately

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-52887086852625899772011-06-05T13:36:00.005+10:002011-06-05T13:53:01.180+10:00

This morning at about 5am my little blue boy was doing what he usually does at 5am on Sunday mornings - snoozing. He was doing this in the same place he's been doing it for the past month or thereabouts: by the side of a road in Portland, with other cars in front and behind him. This morning, though, was going to be different.It was at about this time that a drunk driver hit him, and wrote

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-28949085700499153802011-05-31T18:10:00.001+10:002011-05-31T18:10:00.240+10:00

This year, finally, I managed to book myself into a fungi workshop with Alison Pouliot. Mel and I have tried before, but these things seem to fill up damnably quickly. So you can understand that we were happy there were a couple of free seats on a weekend that suited us both. On an overcast Saturday morning we made our way to Trentham.As we got there we were greeted with a veritable trove of all

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-17648923053453756932011-05-28T17:33:00.004+10:002011-05-28T17:51:27.348+10:00

I love carrot cake, but it's not something I make all that often. In fact, I think I can honestly put my hand on my heart and say it's been YEARS since I last made a carrot cake. It's been so long, in fact, that I can't remember where my preferred recipe is.No matter, I have a new preference. When I was making this I had a moment of doubt, as it makes quite a wet batter, but it all came

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-27739600923138931342011-04-07T12:59:00.005+10:002011-04-07T13:03:57.634+10:00

I wanted to share some of my favourite images from this year's Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. So here they are:

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-33884191713299240842011-02-18T12:34:00.002+11:002011-02-18T12:34:00.236+11:00

I love caramel slice. Especially the caramel bit. I make it the way I like it, but I started wondering how this would stack up against the commercially available stuff. And there are some brilliant caramel slices out there. Unfortunately there are also some really, really awful ones.So I made a slab of slice, then went out and bought specimens from three different places to pit against my

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-30159373979900106592011-02-07T17:15:00.002+11:002011-02-07T17:31:39.961+11:00

I watched The Shiralee on Saturday for the first time since I was about 8 years old. Needless to say, I appreciated it rather more this time around. It got me thinking. You may wish to stop reading now, because the rest of this post is both rambling and perhaps not happy, but it’s something that I want to get out of my head. And sometimes I can't quite find the words that I'm looking for.To a

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-43997546775031348532010-12-14T22:55:00.002+11:002010-12-14T23:06:09.034+11:00

Several months ago now I bought a bunch of fresh rosemary to use in some cooking. Seeing as how I paid for a bunch but only needed a few leaves I put the rest in a glass with a little water, hoping it'd keep for a while so I could use more. After a week I realised those sprigs hadn't died. After a few months I noticed this:Look at those roots! This sprig was doing far and away the best - the

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-11387972681280758442010-12-13T11:31:00.000+11:002010-12-13T11:44:51.234+11:00

I did some christmas shopping at Highpoint on the weekend. Thankfully I got in there early so I was mostly done before the crowds REALLY started. But after dealing with people, and spending far too much dollars, I decided I deserved a treat. I've never been to a Chocolateria San Churro cafe before, so figured I could do with some churros and tea.Are they the best churros I've ever had? No. Even

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-55284266608418413432010-12-13T10:53:00.003+11:002010-12-13T11:08:32.908+11:00

I wanted to make some biscuits (huge surprise there, right?). Actually, I wanted to EAT some biscuits. In particular, I had a hankering for some peanut butter and choc chip biscuits. These little babies were delicious, if I do say so myself (and I do), and they were dead-easy to make. I can't for the life of me remember where on the internet I got the recipe from, as all I have to go on now are

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-32347299448469431362010-12-12T20:26:00.002+11:002010-12-13T10:52:43.510+11:00

23 Macedon Road, Templestowe LowerP: 03 9850 8822Just west along Manningham Road from one of my favourite restaurants is this little street, and on this street is this little cafe.I've had coffee here before, but never stopped for some food. We decided on a whim to try it out for breakfast this morning. Sadly, we thought we'd be thwarted at the door, with the place absolutely packed. We were told

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-17943460992122439012010-11-29T14:36:00.002+11:002010-11-29T14:49:26.076+11:00

Did I say that right? Probably not. I'm sorry. But this is what I cooked for mum and her friends for lunch.It's always difficult to cook something that you don't actually eat yourself. Or at least, I find it difficult. Or perhaps that's not quite the right word. I mean, I've never cooked prawns before, and don't eat them either, so I have no idea of the correct way to prepare them so that they

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-78844146404466797222010-11-10T22:19:00.003+11:002010-11-10T22:33:40.852+11:00

Sometimes you just crave a meal kinda like what Grandma might've used to make. Or just something kinda simple, homey, old style.For those who don't know, my mum's been staying with me since the end of September. It's been great having her here, what with an operation, last-minute wedding hassles, the non-wedding, and a bunch of other things rearing their ugly heads. Today we decided to have

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-61009428650479416862010-11-09T12:50:00.006+11:002010-11-09T13:07:00.834+11:00

I love flowers, I really do. Unfortunately I'm terribly allergic to a few of them. There's no rhyme nor reason to which will make me suffer, so I try to avoid most of them, just on principle. I think it's partly due to this that I take pictures of them. I was going through my files on my computer the other day and stumbled across a ton of them, so thought I'd share my favourites. I've reduced the

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-37055831397524325002010-11-06T22:16:00.003+11:002010-11-07T11:55:06.285+11:00

Today I went to a BBQ at my brother's place. While I'd had my suspicions, it was still a surprise (and I hasten to add it was a very happy one) when he announced, after we'd arrived, that he and his partner were being married that morning.It was a beautiful backyard ceremony, moving in its simplicity. A small number of people were there; some knew of the wedding, others didn't. The short

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-50826318683429559072010-10-31T23:52:00.008+11:002010-11-04T15:22:04.048+11:00

It's a strange feeling.I woke up this morning to the first day of my honeymoon. The thing is I was alone, I'm not on my honeymoon, and there was no wedding.I have to wonder what type of person visits their bride-to-be the night before their wedding and says "I don't want to get married tomorrow, it just doesn't feel right. I want to postpone it" like it's just another dinner date that you can

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-73746823430984022112010-09-04T10:00:00.001+10:002010-09-04T10:00:00.476+10:00

You might remember my last post on french toast (holy skulking bad guys, Batman, that was a long time ago!). This is my latest. I hadn't ever had this before, but thinking about the flavours, I really hoped it'd work.Again, I didn't really plan this well, so instead of extra-thick-cut slutty-white-bread I had to use my usual sandwich-cut multigrain. But hey, that means it's healthy, right?

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-31816881993886871592010-09-02T08:00:00.000+10:002010-09-02T08:00:03.589+10:00

What is it about soup that can be so warming and comforting? On a rainy day, or when I'm feeling sick, I seem to crave the stuff. I'm not a big fan of the canned stuff, though, no matter how home-style the ads say some are. That being said, I do keep a can or two in the drawer at work for lunch emergencies. In any case, soup can be SO easy to make, it kinda makes me wonder why some people have

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-17015265947015487862010-08-30T18:37:00.004+10:002010-08-30T18:45:22.797+10:00

I tend to shy away from cooking pieces of red meat - sometimes I get it right, but sometimes it ends up so tough that it does a good impression of a all-day doggy chew-toy. Thankfully, I think through sheer stubbornness/perseverance, it appears I'm slowly starting to get it right more often than not.So, what do you do when you buy a bunch of groceries to make a stir-fry, but then it doesn't

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-70429878497875446912010-08-01T20:10:00.005+10:002010-08-01T20:21:36.584+10:00

Tonight's dinner was truly a new level of half-assery. A kiev from Wishbone, cous cous from the cupboard, a few "red back" potatoes, an orange sweet potato, garlic, salt, oil, and some Vegeta.Wash potatoes, toss with peeled chopped sweet potatoes in some olive oil, Vegeta, garlic and salt. Throw 'em on an oven tray and start baking 'em at 180C.15 minutes later put the kiev in on a different tray.

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-65926951232419631412010-07-18T09:46:00.001+10:002010-07-18T09:46:00.686+10:00

This is supposedly a very healthy meal. Hmph. Far too tasty to be good for you.I got this recipe in an email a bit over a year ago and flagged it as something I wouldn't mind trying. So, 13 months later, I have. You can't hurry these things.I've made a few modifications to the recipe and method.Bean puree:400g can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained1 cup low-salt chicken stock1-2 bay

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-85025424495403611222010-07-17T23:38:00.004+10:002010-07-17T23:46:15.990+10:00

Cnr Evans & Stations StreetsSunbury 3429I just wanted to share this with you. This is what I had for lunch today. It's a salmon patty with some green salad leaves. Can you see how big this damn patty is?! It was all nice and crunchy crumbs on the outside, and the inside was all salmon chunks with bits of potato and other vegies. And it was $5! Brilliant!I glanced over the menu while I was there,

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-15400230650591596172010-07-08T20:05:00.001+10:002010-07-08T20:05:00.088+10:00

You know what I've realised? It's nigh-on impossible to take a good picture of something with vegetable chunks in it. It so often turns out looking, well, less than wonderful.As per usual, towards pay day meals start getting less impressive in my house. This offering last night might not be all that picturesque, but it was pretty tasty, and the leftovers are working out REALLY well.Take:olive

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-46832794453170859942010-07-06T19:58:00.004+10:002010-07-06T20:04:46.553+10:00

For those who don't know, the first full week in July is NAIDOC week. At work we had a morning tea.This is the cake:I thought it wasn't a bad effort at all, given the significant lack of equipment! What you see here is a chocolate cake with a vanilla centre, with a vanilla icing centre yellow spot and the rest is chocolate icing.Here's the cake cross-section:Yep, it was black, yellow and red on

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-72268698710660719792010-06-27T17:59:00.001+10:002010-06-27T17:59:00.418+10:00

My mum and I LOVE this quiche. It may not look like much, but any time we make it we end up making pigs of ourselves and finishing the whole thing. I can't for the life of me remember where we first got the recipe from, but we haven't referred to it in years - partly because it's such a simple recipe, and partly because we've made it so many times. I made it for J last weekend and yep, none was

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-33699673892691144272010-06-25T17:16:00.002+10:002010-06-25T17:16:00.807+10:00

I like cakes. A lot. I like to bake them. I like to eat them. And I really like it when I manage to bake one that people enjoy.This one is nice and easy, although it did give me a scare, I have to admit - when I peaked in the oven and saw this:I thought "uh oh". But it all turned out OK.Blueberry Yoghurt Cake125g butter1 cup caster sugar3 eggs1 cup plain flour1 cup self-raising flour3/4 cup

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-13228075953657562172010-06-23T08:44:00.001+10:002010-06-23T08:44:00.533+10:00

Spinach, feta, capsicum, cheddar, sweet chilli sauce... I can't remember why I had all these things laying around, but they did come in handy.I bought one of those nasty par-baked turkish bread rolls from my local Coles, then piled this stuff on top and baked it at 180C for about 20 minutes. Soooooo yummy. I could go another right now, actually.

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-55087000917760072922010-06-21T07:34:00.000+10:002010-06-21T07:34:00.321+10:00

I really do prefer my muffins savoury as opposed to sweet. I don't know the why of it, that's just the way it is.I wanted to try a different recipe, and found this one... I think it needs a little more tweaking. I found these more than a little bland, and they were in serious danger of being over-cooked before they got much colour in them. Next time I might try guyere, bacon and corn, and fry up

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-71656710256198038892010-06-19T17:47:00.003+10:002010-06-19T17:57:48.279+10:00

I've never actually SEEN a quince before. Well, until I went to the Collingwood Childrens' Farmers' market last weekend, that is. I have to admit, I had a ball. I drank some incredibly decent coffee, had an amazingly good breakfast, and bought some damn fine ingredients.One of which was a bag of quinces. These little buggers are funny things to look at, but they smell divine. I've always liked

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-87817200606702358382010-06-09T15:44:00.002+10:002010-06-09T17:50:15.441+10:00

Level 1, Crown Metropol, SouthbankP: 03 9292 8300 We went to Maze by Gordon Ramsay last night for dinner. I am so incredibly upset. I’m so disappointed. I can’t stand the man, or at least the persona he presents to the world, and I was fully prepared to dislike the meal. I was determined to find offence. Hence why I’m so upset. It was frikken brilliant. This will be a long post,

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-58958271435808827562010-05-30T15:21:00.006+10:002010-05-30T16:14:39.704+10:00

A few weeks ago Mel told me about a curry she'd made on the weekend that was a HUGE hit. I was curious to try it. I finally made my way to the Vic Market yesterday and bought a few choice ingredients. Namely, goat. That place is brilliant.I'm sure that, for many people, eating goat is not a big deal. Me, I've never had it, so I had NO idea what to expect. Mum told me to think of lamb, and J said

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-24185875114811121452010-04-14T11:32:00.004+10:002010-04-14T11:40:52.142+10:00

GPO SydneyDownstairs from the foyer, 1 Martin PlaceP: 02 9229 7777A month or so ago we went north for a weekend, staying in Sydney overnight. We asked the concierge where he’d recommend for a great steak, since we were in a carnivorous mood. He suggested Prime Restaurant, also advising that it was difficult to find. And it was, until we worked it out.Prime feels like a cave under the GPO, albeit

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-45126013720404609492010-03-30T07:35:00.004+11:002010-03-30T08:13:41.387+11:00

I'm in a dill of a pickle of a cucumber.VicRoads has launched a new range of ads online aimed at getting young people to behave in a more sensible fashion and have a greater chance of not crashing and dying and killing us all with them. I haven't seen them all, but I just watched one here (hopefully that will take you to the one with the lovely young Asian man speaking). And I really don't think

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-38701242633842887852010-03-20T21:42:00.003+11:002010-03-20T21:56:39.858+11:00

I luuuurrrrv weekends. Not sure if you know, but for a while there I was working 2 jobs, which meant 7 days a week I had to get up and get moving (and let's not dwell on the time, in my late-teens and early 20s, when I was holding down 3-4). When I quit about a year ago I found that I'd completely forgotten what I used to do on the weekends.Didn't take me long to remember, though.There's one

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-71390996626831323042010-03-02T19:35:00.003+11:002010-03-02T19:53:36.419+11:00

I can't even remember how I found out about these girls now... but I likem.Garfunkel & Oates are actually Riki Lindhome and Kate Micucci. And I like their humour. So much of their stuff gets me giggling.Check 'em out. They've got a few videos here

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-29304542668161571052010-02-22T18:33:00.007+11:002010-02-22T19:09:19.264+11:00

363 Manningham Road, Lower Templestowe VIC P: 03 9852 4086I was reading an article recently that was all about yum cha (I think it might have been in Epicure... or it could have been the extra food guide in the Sun... such a shame I now can't find it online). Anyway, it rated GDP as a top over-all place for yum cha. I figured I'd give it a go for dinner one night. Not yum cha, but a chance to

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-62911944437767434112010-02-17T19:00:00.000+11:002010-02-17T19:00:02.849+11:00

I've wanted one for years. And this christmas, my mum got me one.Oh yeah. A pasta machine. Mega-happiness.So, mum and I got together and decided to make us some fresh pasta! It was a great experience, but I'm still not sure how on earth I'll operate this thing with only two hands... but I'll figure it out :)I'm a bit late with this post, we did it some time either between Christmas and New Year,

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-22558678148670590512010-02-16T18:48:00.004+11:002010-02-16T19:30:41.793+11:00

I bought the Feb 15 issue of Woman's Day on a whim.Good whim.Flipping through to the food section, I spied a couple of interesting recipes, neither of which I've tried before, and one of which was for tiramisu cupcakes.I couldn't get my hands on hazelnut meal at short notice, so substituted almond meal. This probably contributed to the lack of nutty flavour. I also put a decent splonk of

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-89468021823724156762010-02-01T16:55:00.009+11:002010-02-01T18:27:23.384+11:00

Crown Complex, Southbank P: 03 8648 1900When I looked at how many pictures I'd taken at Rockpool, I was a little surprised... But with three people, visiting twice (lucky, lucky, lucky us!), is it any wonder I had quite a few? So I've decided to combine a few pictures into one space... which I think I've done well enough, considering the only program I have to do that is Paint!!!Clockwise from

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-21569243601774679452010-01-15T08:00:00.000+11:002010-01-15T08:00:02.148+11:00

While I'm blogging about non-food thingies, I thought I'd share with you my thoughts on this year's Men of Cricket Calendar.This is a joint venture between Cricket Australia, Three Mobile and the McGrath Foundation. Proceeds go to the McGrath Foundation and their efforts to provide Breast Care Nurses for women suffering breast cancer. A damned fine cause, to my mind, and one I'm happy to support,

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-28642214051757590702010-01-15T07:38:00.003+11:002010-01-15T07:48:06.906+11:00

I heard this story on the radio this morning: Victoria's Deputy Commissioner for Road Policing, Ken Lay, was caught speeding at 10km over the limit.Whoa, get outta here, a member of the police force was speeding?! Holy cow, that's amazing, that's fantastic, that's.... not surprising at all.Do you know the numer of times I've seen police cars travelling well over the speed limit? No lights or

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-66567029076127510722010-01-14T08:56:00.006+11:002010-01-14T09:22:58.244+11:00

I'm a big fan of voting with my feet (or purse, as the case may be). So when Genesis Fitness unleashed a new campaign/ membership promotion, I voted with my purse and cancelled my membership. I also submitted a complaint to The Advertising Standards Bureau.What promotion is it that has prompted all of this? The "Fat Ass Fighters" promotion. It shows a sweating pig wearing running shoes, sitting

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-71094330314986440802009-12-27T19:24:00.002+11:002009-12-28T07:34:02.368+11:00

This Christmas was unlike any other in my life. There is, however, always one constant: lots and LOTS of leftover roast meat. We're always trying to come up with ways of using it up. Mum and I weren't sure about this one, but it ended up working a treat.You usually talk about leftover pizza being the pizza you didn't finish last night. This pizza wasn't pizza to begin with.This morning I made

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-72834627566249438852009-12-25T07:11:00.003+11:002009-12-25T07:15:23.167+11:00

Well everyone, it's Christmas again. A lot has changed in the past 12 months, and there'll be one helluva lot more changes coming in the next 12 months.I hope everyone has a happy and safe Christmas and New Year holiday season. Take care, see you in 2010.anna

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-8265946827155130302009-12-08T11:49:00.002+11:002009-12-08T11:53:50.403+11:00

Oh. Oh oh oh oh oh.It's truly pathetic how excited I am by it, but I have a new vacuum cleaner.It's a Dyson.It's awesome.In fact, it's awesomely awesome. Its awesomeness is almost blinding. It is so awesome, I can't stop saying the word "awesome", and I haven't said it this much in at least a decade. And it's starting to look like I'm spelling it wrong. Anyway. This thing is just... well, yeah,

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-22252140038931620712009-12-02T19:11:00.006+11:002009-12-02T20:17:48.914+11:00

1 Macquarie Street, East Circular Quay, Sydney 2000P: 02 6252 2555My trip to Sydney finished with a dinner at Aria in Sydney. We had high hopes for the meal, knowing Matt Moran's reputation. Things started REALLY well.J ordered the pork belly for entree. He reported that it was simply divine. The pork was tender and succulent, and the croquette delicious.I ordered the special of the night, ocean

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-19484498336725489082009-11-21T07:47:00.005+11:002009-11-21T08:06:32.334+11:00

433 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst 2010 P: 02 9360 9631Somewhere I've wanted to go for breakfast for, wow, as long as I can remember, is Bills. Any Bills. So long as I get me some famous hotcakes. My trip to Sydney (damn, a month ago now, I really need to blog more regularly) gave me the perfect opportunity. Although I've heard mixed reviews, I wasn't disappointed!I was staying with R & M, and

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-26316809610533046252009-11-13T08:41:00.003+11:002010-01-14T14:40:52.439+11:00

Below is a copy of the complaint I sent to Connex this morning after yesterday afternoon's trip home.I'm interested in hearing people's thoughts.=====This complaint refers to the 4.26pm train to Werribee from Flinders St yesterday.Passengers on the train were rudely informed by the driver that someone was forcing the doors open on a carriage. He continued rudely, saying that he could see the

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-35835067182464769812009-11-10T19:46:00.008+11:002009-11-17T07:37:54.007+11:00

529 Kent Street, Sydney P: 02 9267 2900I'd been looking forward to this since mid-June... yes folks, I "did" Tetsuya's! I'm going to try REALLY hard not to gush during this post, but please excuse me if I do get a little carried away. This was an amazing meal, and a fabulous experience.When R and M came down to Melbourne in June for my birthday we decided to go to Tetsuya's for dinner. When R

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-33237517153117900882009-10-26T18:09:00.008+11:002009-10-27T09:07:10.785+11:00

161 King Street, SydneyP: 02 9223 7000I have long had a yen to try Jacqui Gowan's food. I've seen her quite a few times on Ready Steady Cook and always liked what she's done with the ingredients people present to her. When she left Garfish I hunted around and found out that she'd moved on to Subsolo, so I decided to make a trip up to Sydney, some time, to eat there.The Sydney trip happened last

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-35767318002335866942009-10-25T17:30:00.002+11:002009-10-25T18:07:11.664+11:00

The final stop on our trip was Bangkok. I had one day to see as much as I could see, and I think I made damn fine work of it. I've always been interested in the Thai culture, and I absolutely LOVE Thai food, so for me this was a great way to end the holiday.We were accosted at the airport by a gentleman from the Great Bangkok Travel Co. For a nominal fee he arranged a car to take us to our hotel,

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-14184303839472332872009-10-22T20:47:00.003+11:002009-10-25T17:24:43.362+11:00

I can't really say much about Hong Kong... mainly because I didn't take many pictures!What I can say is this:1. If you're there on the weekend, make your way out to the Stanley Market. It's not as big as I thought it might be, but that doesn't mean that it's not great. It's a fair hike out of the centre of Hong Kong - we took a taxi, but there are also busses. Take a hat, sunglasses, cool loose

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-91351957082873296212009-10-21T20:02:00.006+11:002009-10-21T21:16:12.022+11:00

After Shanghai we flew down to Guǎngzhōu. Once again I had a babysitter to show me around. She booked us on a bus tour of Guǎngzhōu that covered one hell of a lot of kilometres. It was a lot to cram into one day!Being on a tour definitely has its plus sides - one being the ease of getting around (no fears of getting lost), and you get to hear a lot about what you're looking at. One down side is

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-79216888972728805912009-10-06T18:55:00.009+11:002009-10-07T07:45:54.353+11:00

This pic pretty much sums up the weather the whole time I was in Shanghai!! That being said, something about the place just appealed to me. I only really had a day and a bit to explore, and probably would have ended up wasting it somehow, but I was lucky enough to have someone to show me around... and make sure none of the crazy, death-wish traffic got me!We started at the Oriental Pearl Tower,

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-16292555482755705942009-09-20T10:02:00.002+10:002009-09-20T10:03:02.821+10:00

Here's just another reason why I shouldn't breed.... hehe....

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-4045347789679685822009-09-20T08:45:00.006+10:002009-09-20T09:02:28.060+10:00

One of my favourite things to while away time on the net is to catch up with Girls With Slingshots. Recently I decided to go back to the beginning and read from the start.Not sure how many of you know, but when I was not even 1 year old I was given a teddy bear, whom I named Fred. I still have Fred.What do these two pieces of information have in common? The other day I came across this instalment

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-85190387223931787402009-09-12T20:24:00.004+10:002009-09-12T20:51:48.282+10:00

Shp30/ 115 Cathedral St, Fortitude Valley 4006P: 07 3257 0738When Vicki suggested Oyama for dinner we were more than happy to go along with that - especially since I'd never had the teppanyaki experience before! I'm not sure if I was disappointed or relieved when there was a minimum amount of food-flinging... either way it was a tasty experience.First course: salad. Cucumber, tomato, nori,

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-18511497658453482912009-09-12T19:44:00.003+10:002009-09-12T20:07:58.591+10:00

Do y'all remember the banana cake I made a little while ago?Making it again tonight, but substituting honey for the sugar. I wish you could smell my house right now... Anyway it's quite yummy. To make the substitution, leave out the sugar and throw in about 85g of honey instead. Then reduce the amount of milk by a smidge... and if all else fails, before you spoon it into the pan make sure it's

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-92225700824812809602009-09-11T23:26:00.001+10:002009-09-12T19:44:02.335+10:00

Shop 2/102 Watton Street, Werribee 3030 P: 03 9742 3977Well, I've been to the places on either side of Santini, so it wouldn't really be fair to not mention the place. Then again, maybe it would be fairer if I didn't...I mean, when the restaurant each side of somewhere is rather full, but that particular place is rather... empty... well, that's a sign, right?Things started out quite well, with a

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-87509879277273473642009-09-05T06:54:00.004+10:002009-09-05T07:12:37.084+10:00

43 Hardware Lane, Melbourne 3000 P: 03 9670 1110On the spur of the moment we had decided to meet up for lunch. I thought, as we'd be in the area, it would be a great opportunity to try +39. Turns out we had a little trouble finding it (or were too hungry to try very hard), so wandered up into Ciao Pizza Napoli instead. It seems that was a pretty good thing. But you know, even though they've been

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-999258293264366212009-09-04T22:57:00.000+10:002009-09-05T06:53:36.861+10:00

So, what do you do when you are going to visit friends, you want to bake some of your mum's chocolate slice to give them, but one is gluten- and dairy- (and possibly egg) intolerant? Why, you modify, of course!I made a trial batch of this and took it into work today to foist on my colleagues. 100% of the feedback I got was positive, with one person also asking for the recipe. Ahh, the power of my

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-29373807462930710612009-08-31T19:30:00.006+10:002009-08-31T20:10:29.826+10:00

60 Hampden Road, Battery Point, TASP: 03 6224 7124Another Tassy trip for work. I can admit that I look forward to the food as much as the chance to get out of the office. We were after somewhere new to try in Hobart, so a colleague in the office there suggested Spanish food at Francisco's. We enjoyed it so much our first night in town, we went back again on the second! Both times we ordered a

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-22425646722077883292009-08-18T18:02:00.002+10:002009-08-18T18:15:10.051+10:00

I'm going to share a secret with you.I know it's not right. I know it's even maybe a little bit disgusting. I hope you won't think too badly of me once you know what it is.It's...... Easy Mac.This stuff might tout that it has no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. It might say that it's a source of calcium. It might claim that you can have it ready in 3-4 minutes. It might even be

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-30076794715346684612009-08-12T12:29:00.008+10:002009-08-12T12:41:44.791+10:00

Think again.Yes, it's Wednesday, and Babbo didn't disappoint.This week showcased "Ciabatta con Salsiccia" or, in Dino's words, "sausage on a roll". Well yes, technically, that is correct. But this isn't some slapped up snag 'n' onions on a somewhat-stale hot dog roll you get from Bunnings. Oh no, when Enis is in charge, things are a little different.Start with a lovely ciabatta roll. Spread on

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-53716907774069977752009-08-10T19:06:00.004+10:002009-08-10T19:24:09.833+10:00

430 Little Collins Street, MelbourneP: 03 9691 3888I am a bad, bad blogger. Yes, it's taken me THIS LONG to blog my birthday cocktails. We had those on June 19 (you can see the July offerings here).You'll have to forgive me... I'd already had several wines by the time the cocktails started coming, and I was finishing off a fair portion of Sarah's cocktails too, so the pictures are of varying

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-16876101438532737552009-08-09T20:35:00.003+10:002009-08-09T20:52:43.573+10:00

I was a little rushed this morning, so didn't get around to taking a picture of this cake. And sadly, I have none left to take one now! I get a real buzz when people enjoy the food I make although, frankly, I thought this offering had a little room for improvement... however people's stomachs don't often lie!With some suitably squidgy bananas sitting on the cupboard I had decided last night to

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-19874086309443330722009-08-09T20:22:00.002+10:002009-08-09T20:33:49.661+10:00

I think I've mentioned previously, last christmas my brother and his partner got me a "Cookie a Day" desk calendar. Sometimes the recipes aren't exactly "cookies".July 30th showcased "Berry Oat Bars", with the next day offering a variation using dried pears and ginger instead of mixed berries. I thought of my mum straight away, but figured I should make it first, to make sure it was worth posting

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-29951267539063635392009-08-04T20:57:00.003+10:002009-08-04T21:05:06.739+10:00

see more Lol CelebsDamn right.

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-36207089612064239872009-07-29T13:07:00.003+10:002009-07-29T13:19:24.308+10:00

Oh my.Wow.For those who may not have heard, Mel and I get our work-time coffees from a place called Espressino (now renamed Babbo - but it's still the same crew). Every Thursday and Friday they serve pasta for lunch. We've christened Wednesdays "Surprise Day", as they've started serving up something special.Today was (it sounds much fancier in Italian) steak sandwich. But this is no ordinary

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-83122825649409466112009-07-17T20:16:00.002+10:002009-07-17T20:16:01.032+10:00

For the last week and a half I've not been well. I don't know about you, but when I'm sick I crave soup.The hard thing about blogging soup, though, is that it's hard to get a picture of it that DOESN'T look kinda yuck. I made a really great lentil, split pea, barley and ham soup the other week, but I won't disgust you with the pictures I took.These are the pics I WILL inflict on you.This is a

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-43923438813157559822009-07-15T19:49:00.004+10:002009-07-15T20:14:33.543+10:00

Shop 1, 102-104 Watton StreetWerribee 3030P: 03 9974 1872I really really wanted to enjoy my meal from Ploy Thai for several reasons:One was that the restaurant was well lit without being garishly bright.Two was the cutlery - it looked fairly authentically Thai.Three was the staff. They were SO incredibly cheerful and pleasant.And four was that I LOVE Thai food. I'm hard-pressed to think of a

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-21586800339017349482009-07-14T19:28:00.000+10:002009-07-15T19:48:50.042+10:00

Shop 3, 102-104 Watton StreetWerribee 3030P: 03 9731 0177I've always bemoaned the lack of, well, if not "fine dining", then "good" or even "adequate" dining in the outer western suburbs.There is, in fact, a tiny section of Werribee that at least looks the part. It's not a very big section. In fact, it's not even a handful of establishments. It's at the (snigger) Cultural Centre end of Watton

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-10292886170492286842009-07-02T07:51:00.005+10:002009-07-02T14:17:18.034+10:00

I can't remember (and I'm too lazy to search) if I've mentioned this before, but I try to practice at least one Random Act of Kindness every day. It doesn't have to be a grand gesture. It could be something as simple as holding open a door for someone who has their arms full. Or saying "bless you" to someone who sneezes. Or admiring those FABulous shoes/blouse/skirt the lady in the lift is

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-9463679560688323512009-06-18T09:05:00.003+10:002009-06-18T09:36:22.167+10:00

My post today might not be overly coherent, and I apologise in advance, but it's only a fraction after 9am and I've been awake for... wow... nearly 9 hours already. With a bed-time of 10pm last night, you do the maths on sleep-hours!Today marks 3 decades of this life for me. I was thinking, at about 4am, of the things I've learned in this time. Sadly, the meaning of life hasn't dawned upon me,

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-45334330053328370512009-06-16T20:20:00.000+10:002009-06-17T08:31:36.056+10:00

If ever there was a time when I wished I could blog smells, this would have to be one of them. There's something about the smell of ginger and treacle baking. You might remember my opinion of treacle and ginger from quite a while ago. This is another example of sheer mouthy-delight.I got this recipe from "The Margaret Fulton Cookbook", and had to adapt it slightly to fit with what I had on hand.

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-20790983733883123102009-05-12T18:49:00.008+10:002009-05-12T19:30:53.932+10:00

102 Hopkins Street, FootscrayP: 03 9689 4392Last night's train schemozzle wasn't all bad news. I wouldn't go so far as to say there was all that much GOOD about it, but I managed to salvage one good thing out of the evening. It wasn't having my feet crushed on an over-crowded train from Flinders St to Footscray. It wasn't spending 40 minutes just trying to get off the platform at Footscray. It

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-44195152586823204082009-05-03T20:36:00.005+10:002009-05-03T21:05:58.035+10:00

One of my christmas presents this year was a "Cookie-A-Day" desk calendar. It's been useful, particularly last night when I couldn't sleep and was feeling bored (VERY bored, as you might realise). And I decided I wanted to try an old favourite that had been given a little revamp in there. But first of all, I found passionfruit in my local Coles, so decided to whip up a batch of melting moments

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-75366563764479180032009-04-08T08:28:00.005+10:002009-04-08T08:57:09.364+10:00

I've made no secret of the fact that I think Adam Hills is a funny man. Among other things.When it comes to my comedians, I prefer a show that involves telling stories and funny anecdotes, usually fairly upbeat. I'm not a fan of people who rely almost solely on snappy, and not-so-snappy, puns and one-liners (Mr. Vine, anyone?), or discuss their bodily functions in a dour voice with a sour face (

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-50327554595157187652009-03-31T19:17:00.003+11:002009-03-31T19:33:02.699+11:00

Many thanks to SOME PEOPLE (not mentioning any names, Mr M) for telling me I hadn't blogged anything in a while. Cheers. Much appreciated. I hereby dedicate this post, in all its crumminess, to you :-)For one reason or another, I haven't gotten around to doing anything all that blog-worthy lately. OK, I've been on a few dates with someone, and there's been sad things happen as well, but nothing I

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-62542012576940150672009-03-09T18:56:00.004+11:002009-03-09T19:15:25.590+11:00

This was inspired by something I remember Rosemary telling me about (I'm sure it was Rosemary...). I tried finding the recipe but with no luck, so had to make it up as I went along.I found half a kilo of mince in the freezer so thought I'd make a bolognese and cook some pasta. Then I realised I really, really didn't want that again. I haven't had it in ages, but the mood just wasn't on me. Cue

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-81798823463859182052009-03-08T18:32:00.005+11:002010-01-14T14:39:59.500+11:00

Outside my house is a driveway to the empty block behind my house, and 2 parking spaces. The people who live 2 houses down from me insist on parking right there in front of my house.Outside their house they have a nature strip. I do not. That parking space is the only place outside my house where any people visiting me can park.I've tried to speak to them several times however there's been no

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-91857668706182432082009-03-05T07:48:00.008+11:002009-03-05T10:23:35.657+11:00

Shop 14/50 Lonsdale StreetMelbourneP: 03 9662 9003There's something about beginning your day with a superbly cooked breakfast, fabulous cup of tea, and several smiling good-looking men that really gets things off to a good start.If there's a place right near my work that I haven't spent all that much time at, it's Urban Deli. I've been here quite a few times since the place first opened, but for

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-57341911978539388272009-02-25T08:41:00.003+11:002009-02-25T09:12:25.343+11:00

18.50hrs: Hm, I remember these strange contraptions.... oh yes, that's right, adjust the seat height with this knob, twiddle that one to set the distance back... heave-ho and up onto the seat I go and my GOD why don't they make these things a bit more comfy?18.55hrs: OK, feeling good, loosening up after the workout last night. I can do this. It's only 45 minutes. I can do this.19.02hrs: I have to

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-42852983059291401602009-02-23T09:22:00.001+11:002009-02-24T13:27:16.005+11:00

I really don't know why, but all my life I've enjoyed tongue twisters.We all know the old "Peter Piper", and "She sells seashells" (whoa, it's even interesting trying to TYPE that one!), but for several days now I've had the pheasant plucker twister stuck in my head. You know the one:I'm not the pheasant pluckerI'm the pheasant plucker's sonI'm only plucking pheasantsTill the pheasant plucker

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-4157210684440308652009-02-17T09:48:00.005+11:002009-02-17T14:08:03.098+11:00

Now that circumstances have changed to allow it (thank you, Mr Reserve Bank), I've started back at the gym. I had my fitness assessment (cough) last night.After about 6 months away I was worried that I'd be right back where I started, and have to make up a whole heap of lost ground before I could start seeing results. Thankfully this is not so! While my general fitness has decreased (and my upper

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-16300570990894385622009-02-14T18:29:00.005+11:002009-02-14T18:39:48.001+11:00

I'm having one of those afternoons: on my feet since about 6.30am, asshats abounding at work at the markets, then an afternoon filled with walking, and I really can't be bothered taking too much effort with my dinner.But lo, what's this... free turkish bread rolls from a stallholder at the markets. Hm... a quick flit to the shops produced some lovely fresh ricotta, and some salad spinach leaves (

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-65495432744338092432009-02-12T20:33:00.001+11:002009-02-14T18:28:39.490+11:00

4 Russell StreetEvandale TAS 7212P: 03 6391 8682I can admit that the Ingleside Bakery is a favourite stop of mine for lunch when I'm in the area. There's just so many things to choose from - something from the menu, or a pie, or a cake, or some slice, or biscuits... They do a pretty decent coffee too. The next pictures are a random sample of things we've eaten there.Ham and salad sandwich - thick

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-52249937487836422982009-02-12T20:24:00.000+11:002009-02-12T20:28:33.552+11:00

Shop 4 Salamanca SquareBattery PointHobart TAS 7004P: 03 6224 8638It's not often that I get to eat lunch at Hobart, so it was interesting finding somewhere everyone agreed on. Rendezvous got nods from all three heads.R ordered nachos. Looked good! Tasted alright too.S got a souva... I think Hobart should leave the souvlakis to Melbourne. This was apparently ok, but you just can't compare it to

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-31093816668313647632009-02-11T22:38:00.000+11:002009-02-12T20:02:52.617+11:00

Every now and then I cruise on over to the All Men Are Liars blog to read the latest on Sam's mind. Quite often I roll my eyes with a resigned laugh at the stuff that comes out of his keyboard. But sometimes he pens a piece (and it'll get comments) that really gets me thinking, like the one I've linked to.It really is true - kids learn from what they see you doing, not what you TELL them to do.A

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-44038844752564728442009-02-05T20:03:00.005+11:002009-02-05T20:23:16.621+11:00

63 Brisbane StreetLaunceston TAS 7250P: 03 6334 7044My second night in Launceston was interesting. I was meeting up with a couple of friends from WoW for dinner and, despite the jokes among my colleagues about Greek threesomes, it was a great (and PG-rated) evening.Theodoti is not what you might expect when you see it from the street. It has a fairly modern interior, good colours, cheerful and

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-4610502286023902412009-02-03T19:11:00.008+11:002009-02-03T19:43:14.386+11:00

32 Wellington StreetLaunceston TAS 7250P: 03 6331 0466WebsiteI really do like Tasmania. Well, to visit, at least. I'm not entirely sold on the idea of living there. I digress. One of the things I like about the trips to Tassy I do are the chances to check out new eating. Helm had suggested the Jail House Grill as a tasty option, so our first night away that's where we went.One of the selling

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-1046583420038700832009-01-30T15:23:00.001+11:002009-01-31T16:19:54.506+11:00

View Larger MapThe penultimate day was also a short travelling one. We had our first bad weather of the trip in Coleraine, with rain and wind and the tent bucking around us. We ended up getting up early and sitting in the caravan park laundry where it was warm and dry. Once we hit the road, though, we more or less followed our noses.Wannon Falls was our first detour. I can imagine these in wetter

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-41764762740567851572009-01-26T09:47:00.004+11:002009-01-26T10:15:55.948+11:00

View Larger MapBefore leaving Naracoorte we decided to check out the local caves. While they were definitely bigger than PMR, I didn't find the formations anywhere near as amazing.There are a number of tours you can do at the Naracoorte Caves site. We chose to do the Alexandra caves guided tour. The pic above was probably the best I have. It was hard to get the angle right, what with idiot kids

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-74073625103045256932009-01-25T12:03:00.003+11:002009-01-25T12:40:11.164+11:00

View Larger MapAs you can see, we took the long way to get to a few places. From Mount Gambier we headed for Naracoorte, but not on the most direct route.As you can see, the overcast weather followed us a way to Beachport. This jetty used to be something like 4,000 feet long. That's a fraction over 1.2km in the new-fangled metric system. It's not that long now - only about 2,200 feet (670m).Once

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33835885.post-88309662809189648212009-01-24T11:34:00.001+11:002009-01-25T12:03:29.513+11:00

View Larger MapDay 4 of the camping trip didn't involve all that much driving, although as you can see we did take the long way from the Princess Margaret Rose Cave to Mount Gambier.Because we knew we weren't going far we took our trip through the cave in the morning, first tour of the day. I've always had a fondness for caves and still have happy memories of visiting Jenolan Caves west of Sydney

Annahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04780117278793200615noreply@blogger.com0