21 June 2017







11 June 2017








Recently i discovered a successful recipe for a homemade air freshener. Sans the nasty chemical additives in commercial sprays, I am glad to finally have found one that works.  The formula comprises a combination of water, vanilla essence ( as opposed to vodka, which really doesn't smell that nice ) and essential oils of choice. Once combined , the concoction is transferred to a recycled spray bottle suitable for the purpose. Sprayed into the air, the aroma is a truly satisfying to experience. Of course the choice of essential oils will depend on what rooms of the house the spray is intended for. Lemongrass, eucalyptus and tea tree for example would be se suited for a bathroom or toilet application whereas woodier notes like sandalwood and geranium may be better suited for use in a cosy living space. 

 - The Receipt -

3 quarters of a cup of water
2 tablespoons of vanilla extract ( or vodka)
15 to 20 drops of essential oils of choice


for example -

lemon, tea tree and eucalyptus

peppermint and orange

clove, ginger, cardamom and cassia

lavender, rosemary and lemon



* giving the mixture a bit of a shake before spraying will optimize the dispersion and hence the scent





I'm going to experiment with the essential oils in my collection and see what I come up with.




7 June 2017







2 June 2017








Finding it hard to keep warm today. In comparison to yesterday, though, I could say I feel comfortable at least. 
We walked yet another stretch of the bay trail, departing from Port Melbourne and walking about 5 kms to Saint Kilda. Although it was a crisp 12 degrees, we managed to enjoy the walk. Port Melbourne was quiet, as the Spirit of Tasmania lay there docked without any sign activity. Even the bird life along the shore seemed quiet that day. I spotted a few seagulls and one regal pacific gull perched on a sea weathered post, surveying the shoreline. 
When at last we arrived at Saint Kilda, we felt the cold, lengthy walk had justified our desire to heat up with a bowl of hot sweet potato wedges at one of our favourite Acland Street haunts, and accompanied with a hot cappuccino each, we were soon ready to set off and satisfy a few errands. 
Readings, as always, is a must to drop in and have a browse. Found a lovely pop up book that I wished to buy, but, budget is tight.