Puzzle Balls

I am always on the look out for something interesting to adorn my sanctuary.  These teak puzzle balls are made of teak and are put together with dowels.  They are durable, unusual and a great talking point.

I think they are great ...... My son calls them Tyrannosaurus Turds

Do you like these?

Morning Tea in the Sun

This week, invite a friend over for morning tea.  Get outside and eat cake.  The cold weather sees us entertain inside more often but the days are beautiful so find a sunny spot and enjoy.

How do you recharge your batteries on these cold days?

Banana Muffins

Have you got some bananas on the counter that are too ripe to eat? Well don't throw them away and feel guilty about the waste.  Try making these.
They are super easy and when you get the text from a friend telling you they are dropping in..... you can whip these up in no time at all.
By the time the doorbell rings your home will smell sweet. I like to serve warm with a dollop of cream or ice cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Your friends will be so impressed.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups self raising flour
• 3 large bananas, mashed
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup butter, melted

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 175 degrees C. Coat muffin pans with non-stick spray, or use paper liners. I love the silicone pans..
2. Combine bananas, sugar, egg, and melted butter in a large bowl. Fold in flour mixture, and mix until smooth. (My kids like me to stir through 1/2 cup chopped walnuts at this point) Scoop into muffin pans.
3. Bake in preheated oven. Bake mini muffins for 10 to 15 minutes, and large muffins for 25 to 30 minutes. Muffins will spring back when lightly tapped.

Do you like to amaze your friends?

Fancy Leftovers

I love my slow cooker. I make two batches a week in winter and they provide may family with healthy quick meals for most of the week.
Depending what I have conjured up, we eat these meals in a variety of ways. A favourite is these meat pies.
When working with puff pastry, it is important to have the oven at 180 degrees C for cooking. Spray pie tins with oil and push a square of puff pastry into each cup.  Scoop in the casserole and top with cheese.
Cook for about 20 minutes until golden.
Serve with a small salad to impress your family and friends. Honestly you can put anything in pastry and everyone will think you are a master chef.

Try these yourself and let me know how you go.

Bird Houses

I like to use sculpture in the garden to take attention away from problem areas.  Bird houses are great.  They make sense and add a little magic.  Children love to walk through the garden with you and talk about what they see and imagine.  Spend time today.

How do you create magic in your garden?