I got my textbooks:
Which seem really good although I'm wondering how different some things are here in NZ when it comes to regulations, supplies and legal matters. There are bound to be differences even in terminology. There's a lot to learn and I'm excited because I've learnt plenty of things over the last few years I've been out of school but I'm rather keen to start learning again about things I can't teach myself. I think it would be good for me!
What else? Well I've been sewing a few things one of which is this much needed bike bag. It isn't waterproof which is a bit of a problem, but it would mainly be for jumpers and a drink bottle so that's not so much of a problem.
It isn't very sturdy, but I'm working with the limited materials that I have. I only have two rather light boxes of fabrics left :( But it is my goal to finish up all my supplies, I might as well while I have the chance. The lining is denim, recycled from an old pair of jeans and the outer used to be a blanket. I quite like the fringe and it double flap keeps everything in nicely. I've tried it out while riding and basically it needs something in it to keep it sturdy otherwise it just catches the wind! Still much better than the thing I had on there before, if you put anything in it it would fall off.
It straps on with dog collars, I'm not joking! They are really strong and adjustable. Also they were cheap at the 2 dollar store ;) No-one will ever know... You can see here how the bag opens up and folds over. I'm thinking of adding a clasp to the front, it doesn't really stay closed that well.
This is how it attaches to the bike, two clips at the top (bit of a problem with the bike lock and the front reflector) and a tie at the bottom to keep it secure. The best thing about this bag is how easy it is to take off and bring with you. I think I'll do a bit of tweaking of the design and see if I can't get it to work a bit better.
Went to a friends place recently and they made sangria with plum slices in it, delicious! They gave us plenty of plums to take home so we decided to make jam :)
Plum and Rhubarb jam. It took several hours to thicken and pass a setting test but I didn't have to stir it all the time, just occasionally. I even got to knit while I kept an eye on it. The finished jam is brilliant, not too sweet. Really good on oatcakes with butter. Or on toast like I had for brekkie.
We also made a rhubarb custard cake (recipe here) for the friend's BBQ. It disappeared so quickly! Must be alright then. I always seem to take photos before things cook and then forget to take them when they're done....
The recipe says to roast the rhubarb first but I find it's fine if you just cook the cake with raw rhubarb in it. It might take a bit longer but it makes for a better cake, it would be too dry otherwise. One of favourite cakes, I highly recommend it.
What else? Oh yes! I finished a jumper :D
Just after I cast off, I couldn't wait to finally try it on. It's a bit hard when you have 320 sts on one rather short circular needle. I wove in the ends yesterday and plan to block it when the weather improves a bit so it will dry better. You can read more of my notes here on Ravelry.
Other projects lately; home brewing and new Irish stout, bottling cider, crocheting socks, bike riding, writing out recipes into a new cookbook, a silk tie dye top, reading and a bit of gardening.
Currently on the needles/hooks
- Purple cashmere slouch hat
- Crochet socks (I'm having gauge issues because my yarn is slightly thicker than the patterns)
- Striping legwarmers
- Long ribbed socks
I'll leave you with some pictures of the most amazing summer sunset in Timaru. I forgot to post these pictures up earlier.
May the next four weeks fly by!
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| Almost looks like a shot of Jupiter don't you think? |
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