summer is upon us, and the days are hot;
the searing heat of the Australian sun influences how much time we spend outdoors at this time of year and we try to seek shelter wherever possible. We therefore set up a table and chairs beneath our sycamore tree where it is a pleasure to sit and contemplate the peaceful surrounds and watch nature as she goes about her daily business. Various butterflies flit here and there amongst the vegetables and flowers and the local birds pop in for a drink and a splash in the bird bath; maybe nibbling on some scraps tossed out onto the lawn or seeds placed out for them in the bird feeder tray.