Tag Archives: flowers

Another year draws to a close… I find that the period of “limbo” between Christmas and New Year is a good time to reflect on the past: on the trials and accomplishments of the year that is finishing. This time in 2014, I wrote: “This last year has been a turbulent one: wars, acts of terror and insanity, […]

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The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s major wine-growing regions. Pokolbin, less than 200 km north of Sydney, is the centre of the Hunter Valley Wine Country, and a popular destination for weekend getaways and short breaks. With well over 100 vineyards – most with cellar door sales and tastings, and many hosting weddings, musical performances, or conferences – the area boasts restaurants, boutique shops, […]

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Ever since reading Heidi as a child, and “studying” Switzerland in Grade 3 Social Studies, I have dreamed of walking in the flower-filled meadows of the Swiss Alps. When my husband and I planned to visit some Swiss friends last year, I thought my chance had come. Alas, being geographically challenged as I am, I didn’t realise […]

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“Good morning,” said the little prince. “Good morning,” said the merchant. This was a merchant who sold pills that had been invented to quench thirst. You need only swallow one pill a week, and you would feel no need of anything to drink. “Why are you selling those?” asked the little prince. “Because they save […]

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Can you imagine living in a castle? A castle with roses climbing up the walls? A castle that looks like something out of a old fairy tale? In 1620, governance of the village of Birr in County Offaly, Ireland; old Birr Castle; and 1,277 acres (5.2 km2) of land were given to Sir Laurence Parsons. Sir Laurence, grandson of one of the five Parsons brothers […]

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