Rocky

It's been rocky around here lately. Big rocks, little rocks. Different coloured rocks. Expertly selected for us by stonemason Cliff and in the process of being assembled into a series of beautiful rock walls that will retain and define the edges of the new pool deck. Cliff is one of those old fashioned craftsmen who are a disappearing breed. He learned the trade from his Dad and now he is imparting it to his son. There are lots of Cliff's walls in the Hallidays Point area. He has no need to travel to get work, is always busy and doesn't advertise. Word of mouth is enough. He is a bit of a legend around here. We feel fortunate to employ his skills once again.

The process starts with delivery of the specially selected rocks that he chooses to suit the particular job. He knows we like the variety of colours and told me he spent half an hour just finding "them orangey ones you like". He's right, we painted that burnt orange colour found in the local rock as part of the exterior house colours.

This lovely rock composition (above) is opposite the kitchen window.

Today, Cliff was working on the top corner wall.

Yesterday I had a trip to Forster, did a few chores and really enjoyed lunch out with Heather. Gorgeous day and we sat with a view over the water at Paradise Marina cafe.

David was in Sydney yesterday and today, so I sent him this photo of the beach at 7am just to remind him of home. We've been going down for an early morning walk more often lately. This morning I swam as well and it was glorious. Clear, gentle waves. I even caught one.

If you were burning off a huge pile of dry leaves and branches, where would you do it? At the base of a big eucalypt? No, me neither. But Anna and Richard have been getting away with it for years.

Richard has the garden hose at the ready, just in case the fire catches in the leaves of the 30m high tree. The hose reaches about 7 metres...Once the initial flash is over, he dons his trusty fire helmet, approaches the heap and moves it around with a rake until all the debris is gone. Who am I to comment! The system has worked for years! So far....