a january day

 

this summer has seen plenty of rain, and the garden responds magnificently. 

Garden visitors just hanging about enjoying the shade of the raspberry canes.

Midday, and the bush habitat corner for the native bees

was abuzz with activity. One bee, aware of my presence, promptly investigated me upon my intrusion. 

However, after realising I was of no importance, he left on his merry way and I continued observing. 

A very small native bee, measuring about 12mm in length, possibly Homalictus species.

Calendula abounds, alongside alyssum, tomatoes, various thymes, chives, borage, and broad beans.

The insects love our patch.

Parsley going to seed.

mint flowering

 

potato flowers are so pretty

and thyme has the most delicate of pale purple flowers.

The abundance of rain this summer has seen a spike in plant growth, and the sweet corn plants are no exception. 

Receptacles left out to catch rain water, are essential in a wildlife garden.

In the shady hidden corners, I created an installation of found objects  - 

an offering to the fae. The objects look rather magical when the sun filters through the tree leaves.

 

While on a hot day, this shady area remains cool. On entering, the temperature feels 5 C lower than the

 rest of the yard. Something that Melbournes urban planners ought to consider but fail to understand.

I guess they must find the sound of air conditioning units music to the ears.

Saturday morning and the sun was streaming through the kitchen windows. 

The resident spiders web above the kitchen sink glittering in the morning light; its complex 

network of silvery silk threads a delight to the eyes.

And let us not forget Kaatje, who is also a delight to the eyes. 

Here, sitting blissfully unaware of her beauty.

Not long after getting up and out of bed, I set to work on the Vegan Lemon Cheesecake. 

Sans the sugar and unhealthy oils, this cake has a crust of pistachios and almonds while the filling 

contains lemon juice, zest and creamed cashews. Topped with whipped coconut cream and berries, this

 family favourite is a delicious, healthy treat.

 This afternoon, after setting in the fridge for several hours, it was ready to eat, 

and Gosh, 

it tastes as good as it looks.