The Hole takes shape

The pool is slowly taking shape. Concreting completed yesterday.

The Consort's flowers

My Valentine's Day flowers. Delivered to the work office early in the morn. The office girls refused to send them to my room. Their rationale - H.R.H. gets flowers every Valentine's Day, this year we want to enjoy them for a little while before we give them to her!

Pool at the Castle

Stage 2, 3, 4, and whatever comes next....

The pool at the Castle is beginning to take shape. BUT... beware...of what the pool companies neglect to tell you.

Check to see if you need to change gas metres, move electric metres, reroute any amenities to your property(storm water, electricity), costs you would not be expecting, but should have been warned about. But the King Consort is plodding on, chasing trades people to do work before the 'pool' construction can go to the next stage.

Maybe it will be ready to use by 2009???

In concert

Our Little 'Princess' belting out a piece at Church a couple of weeks ago. Sam regularly leads her Church Worship team through a range of songs praising and worshipping Jesus. She is supported by an ever improving team of singers and musicians. We love visiting and listening to her play as often as we can. Well done Princess!

My niece is growing

Baby Celestina enjoying a bath. H.R.H. arrived in time to help the proud new mum, Raelene while the ever attentive new dad watched to make sure everyone did a good job. She is a happy little thing, enjoying life as the first born to her doting parents. H.R.H. is a very proud aunty. Even the King Consort held Celstina today, without dropping her!!!

Lady Celestina. Born 17/01/08. The proud parents, Lord and Lady Brewer are pleased to announce the safe arrival of their first daughter, Celestina. H.R.H. is just as pleased to have this new and welcome addition to the royal family. She is tiny, unique and, of course, very special. Well done little sister!

A Seafood sauce

Ingredients needed to make your own Thousand Island Dressing. Necessary when you buy fresh seafood, get home and begin to prepare your meal, only to find out that you have no T. I. Dressing in the cupboard. Most people will have these ingredients, so don't despare. You can leave out the Tabasco if you don't have any. Enjoy!

Dinner at the Castle

Dinner at the Castle! H.R.H. created a magnificent 3 course meal to tempt her family last night. Fresh prawns and oysters were found at the Hastings Pier. Everyone enjoyed this treat. But.... now the royal family want H.R.H. to produce similar meals on a more regular basis. The prawns and oysters were followed by a scotch fillet - grilled with mushrooms, potatoes and a simple sauce of garlic, chilli and tomato. YUM!

Cheesecake with blueberries and cream

A delightful and fitting end to a lovely dinner. H.R.H. gave the chef the evening off to fly to Perth and watch the cricket (a present from the Royals). H.R.H. enjoys the opportunity to 'play' in the kitchen when the staff are not around. All guests complimented her on each course.

Toilets

H.R.H. had the pleasure? of using this molded toilet seat on a visit to the bathroom at her local physiotherapists. There must be something said for the shape and comfort offered to all and sundry when perched upon this magnificent abode. I wonder if this type of seating arrangement may revolutionise future manufacturing.

It's all in the hands

These are the hands that ease the aches of H.R.H.'S back and neck. Darren massages vital trigger points to soothe away those pesky knots and gently kneads until you are sighing with blissful pleasure. Everyone should experience a massage at least once. What a shame H.R.H. needs regular massages!

http://www.psmgroup.com.au

A Bowling King?

Is there any other kind? H.R.H. and family managed a few hours of fun at the local bowling centre. Travelling incognito, we slipped past the local papparazzi to enjoy a family outing. The King Consort won the first game and the second game was won by The Little Drummer Princess.

My favourite chocolates

This is what happens if you leave chocolate anywhere near H.R.H. A WONDER AND MIRACLE would have taken place if H.R.H. considered herself to be a 'chocolate free' zone! But life is too short, so take time to smell the roses and eat the chocolates.

The Woodpecker HAS to go!!

This was sent to me by a friend. Those pesky woodpeckers!

May your troubles be less, may your blessings be more, and may nothing but happiness come through your door!

Silly Pranks!

Whilst enjoying some time with friends at the beach, H.R.H.'s cousin (young male -19 yrs) played with fire! The prank went bad. Sam now has burns to his arms and legs and is in hospital. A coke can is welded to his hand! It seems painful just writing about it. Get well soon Sam, but please don't play with fire.

They belong separately! Not melted or welded together!

New Lounge suite at the Castle

A new lounge suite is not complete without the 'dog' blanket.

Mac enjoys sleeping on his own part of the lounge. The King Consort makes sure that no one moves Mac's blanket from the couch. This is the 3 seater. We also have a 2 seater facing the television as the King Consort loves to watch the summer sports - cricket, golf, tennis, lawn bowls, surfing and anything else played between January and December!

Gift for friend

A gift of chocolate given to a friend. Enjoyed by Debbie and H.R.H.

Dinner at Verde

Last night a lovely dinner was enjoyed by H.R.H. and the King Consort at Verde.

H.R.H. enjoyed oysters Kilpatrick, Crayfish and Flourless Chocolate cake. The King Consort had oysters natural & Kilpatrick, and a Beef'n'Reef. Accompanied by a new beer brewed on the Mornington Peninsula and a crisp white wine, we enjoyed our night away from Castle duties and the servants. The Princess is still enjoying her 3 days of Planet Shakers in the City.

H.R.H.' s favourite chocolates

the old and the new

H.R.H. has been busy. Before pot and after pot. The King Consort likes the new colour.

An excellent read

An excellent read. A nice way to relax.

a table runner?

A magnificent table runner made from small stones. Quarried from the Realm's smallest quarry near Barham. A lovely gift from the Cryptic Mother and Lord Noalot. Has pride of place in Castle foyer.

Guard Dog Training

Mac has been hard at work 'training' the Queen Mother's guard dog, Whiskey. You can see that Whiskey is a quick learner, able to follow Mac's lead and be alert for all unwelcome visitors!

H.R.H. has been busy immortalising some of her children. The Princes are all grown up now. Adding the stained glass look to your photos is easy, but a steady hand is needed. Scrapbookers! have fun.

Summer OR Winter

Oh NO! News from the Queen Mother - The ceiling fan in the Master bedroom at the Lodge is failing to keep the Queen Mother cool enough. She looks! She finds! Fan not set on Summer blow. Being a resourceful Queen Mother, the servants being on their day off, out comes the Butler's ladder. The said Queen Mother takes a step, does not look down, takes another step, can nearly reach the switch, another step should do it. Ahhh! stretch out the hand, flick the switch to Summer, and bingo. The Queen Mother successfully alters the fan setting. She rings the Consort (her son) to share good news. Succeeds in giving fright and shock to H.R.H. and the Consort. But, nevertheless, this 80+ year old women continues to show her independence and virility. Well done, Queen Mother.

Fleeing on CAMELBACK!

Whilst in exile, the Princesses and H.R.H.'s Consort made several attempts to escape our captors. The second attempt was captured on film. Although an escape failure, these sturdy Royals never gave up. Together they continued to hatch plans and try to outsmart the Powers That Be, ensuring they were kept on their toes at all times. Fleeing on 'camel' back, my Consort and the Princesses made it as far as the Currumbin Sanctuary before being forced to conclude they were unsuccessful. (WE will try again!)

The Little Drummer Princess

She's ours! Not for sale at any price. Although kidnap attempts have been made by some less than savoury families of the realm, the Princess is staying put. No ransom will be paid by H.R.H. or her Consort. Lord Noalot and the Cryptic Mother said during their recent visit to the Castle "We have hardly seen you at all, Princess."

To which the princess replied, "I have to keep moving, so no-one knows where to find me."

Leaving on a Jet Plane.....

Or rather in the Avalon..... The Cryptic Mother and her Lord-in-Waiting, Lord Noalot, have embarked on their homeward journey. The Cryptic Mother holding court as per usual, giving directions (unneeded) to her Lord. The man has the patience of a saint and listened carefully to the Cryptic Mother. They took off in a blaze of glory, waving and singing. Stops along the way are to include Mistress Caza's in Langy to collect the latest in 'not using legs' technology. This rare and expensive form of transport will be tested by the Cryptic Mother in her home town of Barham. Watch out all you sidewalk users in that little town! H.R.H. and the Consort sincerely hope the Cryptic Mother and Lord Noalot enjoyed their short visit at the Castle. It was a rare one indeed, but hopefully will be repeated in the not too distant future.

Do we need a crisper in our fridge?

Apples: According to the Purdue Horticulture Dept., apples are best stored in plastic bags with air holes in a 30-32˚F refrigerator. They recommend putting them on shelves instead of the crisper drawer to permit proper circulation and humidity. Do not freeze.
Bananas: From Chiquita Banana, “To slow the ripening process once bananas reach your preferred ripeness, put them in the refrigerator. Even though our original jingle warned consumers not to refrigerate bananas, it’s really OK. The skin may turn dark, but the fruit will be just right for several days.” (It doesn’t say anything about them having to be stored in the crisper drawer.)
Corn: Being from a family of corn growers, I know this one without having to reference anything. In husk, use it the day you buy it. If you’re not going to use it that same day, remove the husk, vacuum seal it, and store it in the freezer.
Bell peppers: According to the Texas Produce Association, bell peppers can handle short-term storage for seven days or less at 45-50 degrees with 85-95 percent humidity. If you store a pepper below 42 degrees it will suffer from chill injury. (Which means that I need to use peppers the day I buy them. My refrigerator sits below 42 degrees.) Additionally, don’t store next to apples because of a chemical reaction.
Tomatoes: According to the Penn State Agriculture Dept., tomatoes should be stored in an aerated basket on your counter, out of direct sunlight. Putting them in the refrigerator will cause them to lose their aroma and flavor.
Potatoes: According to the Delicious Organic website, “Because their starch turns to sugar in the refrigerator, they should be kept in a dark, dry, cool area like a cellar or a brown bag. However, out of sight, out of mind, and our south Florida temperatures cause them to sprout too quickly and we don’t have cellars so what to do? Store them in the refrigerator but let them come to room temperature for a day (take them out in the morning) so that their sugar can return to starch.”
Herbs and lettuce: According to the Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension, “Lettuce should be rinsed under cold running water, drained, packaged in plastic bags, and refrigerated.” The refrigerator should be at least 40˚F or lower, and you should eat the greens within a week. Do not freeze.
Onions: According to the Foodservice Guide, “Store your onions in a cool, dry ventilated place–not in the refrigerator. Lack of air movement reduces storage life. Chopped or sliced onions can be stored in a sealed container in your refrigerator for up to 7 days.” Do not freeze.
After looking at all of the research, I couldn’t find a single reason to keep my crisper. So, my refrigerator is now crisper-drawer free. I’ve pulled out the drawers and have deep shelves where they used to be. Rotten food is the epitome of clutter, so hopefully I’m starting out the year on the right foot with my refrigerator’s organization.
This information was found on my delicious site. Hope you find it helpful.

Bathing the Cryptic Mother

Allowing her Lord - in - Waiting to shower, bathe, dress and generally pamper her, the Cryptic Mother is finally ready to begin her day out. Lord Noalot began his day many hours earlier, checking their many holdings at the race track, and bank. He is always up and around to prepare for the Cryptic Mother's day. Breakfast and coffee is prepared, then served. The papers are delivered and the Cryptic Mother is wheeled into position at the head of the table. She is waited on hand and foot by her Lord. Lord Noalot remains cool, calm and collected under the duress and sometimes pressing duties. H.R.H. thanks Lord Noalot for his patience in dealing with the Cryptic Mother and her demands. The Crown appreciates the savings to its pockets.

Roy's bad hair day!

If all our 'bad hair' days could look this good. H.R.H. has a team of
people to help her look her best each and every day, but she never looks this good. Roy, who is your hairdresser? It was great watching Roy get excited at the match - no wonder he is one of the favourites of our Aussie test team.

The Baron at the 'G'

Engrossed in the 'goings on' at the MCG. The Baron kept his racial comments to himself to avoid being thrown out by security. But we did have a laugh at Bay 13, watching a few spectators being escorted out of their seats and then out of the ground. India were batting, Hogg bowling, giving the visitors a chance to get a decent run score. Hogg eventually gave them 80 easy runs. Nevertheless, the Baron enjoyed his Big Day Out with H.R.H. and her Consort.

The pool at the Castle

Progress as at Christmas Day, 2007. The recent heavy rains
have resulted in a 'pool' at the back of the Castle.
This is not what H.R.H. had in mind when the pool
construction was authorised. However, underground power not previously discovered by the swimming pool construction company stands (or lies) in our way.
Hopefully early in the new year, an electrician of qualified proportions will be able to reroute the wiring and construction can recommence. We are waiting with baited breath.

My Message

"In my experience, the positive value of a happy family is one of the factors of human existence that has not changed. "The immediate family of grandparents, parents and children, together with their extended family, is still the core of a thriving community."
The modern world could be a distant, hostile place where it was all too easy for people to turn a blind eye.
The birth of Jesus Christ was a tale of a family "which had been shut out".
"The Christmas story also draws attention to all those people who are on the edge of society - people who feel cut off and disadvantaged; people who, for one reason or another, are not able to enjoy the full benefits of living in a civilised and law-abiding community."

The Year at a Glance

H.R.H. turned 48
The King Consort turned 52
The Little Drummer Princess turned 16
H.R.H.'s mother suffered a severe stroke, she has returned home but requires 24 hour care.
Mac escaped from the compound on two separate occasions (My Consort suffering separation anxiety until Mac was found unharmed).
Princess Bee was voted Best on Ground at her school Ball.
Earl of Cornubia became engaged to Lady Jacqui.
H.R.H.'s niece, Lady Cookie, became engaged to her longtime sweetheart, Paul. Nuptuals planned for March, 2008.
Ladies Gillian, Ann and Barbara were able to visit H.R.H. whilst in exile.
H.R.H.'s P.A. became a grandmother again!
Geelong won the AFL grandfinal.
The Queen Mother once again held court at her lodgings in Mt. Waverley for the family traditional Christmas lunch.
The Consort's brother, Lord David has a new role, outside the education portfolio he usually runs. He also turned 50. This was celebrated with family and friends at a lovely Greek restuarant in Richmond.
The Little Drummer Princess has enrolled into VCE for 2008. She will attempt to rise above all presented challenges.
The new swimming pool at the Castle remains a bath size hole. H.R.H. is still struggling to get the required labour to progress this situation. All prayers gratefully received.

Sunset at the Castle

Christmas Day

Christmas Day dawned early at the Castle. The princess sent an sms from her suite to awaken the Consort and myself at the unmentionable hour of 6am. When asked to bring presents and coffee to the royal boudair (letting the servants have a lay in as it is Christmas), the Princess laughed and said 'NO! I am going back to sleep, I just wanted to wake you two and say Merry Christmas.' Aahh, it is nice to have things getting back to some normality after our exile.

Mac (guard dog) is very pleased to have his position restored.

Seasons Greetings

Greetings from the Royal Family at the most festive time.

End of Exile

Her Royal Highness is pleased to announce the safe return of the ENTIRE royal family. It is pleasing to be back at the castle among loyal staff and friends. Whilst our enforced exile (political reasons) had some interesting moments, H.R.H. is looking forward to resuming her important role and duties. As soon as good health and vitality is regained, there will be more news and recounts to share. The Princesses are excited to be back and looking forward to the waiting summer period to spread their wings a little further. My consort has already returned to his royal duties.

Miss Bee in transit!

The princess, forever on the lookout for a scoop, spotted one truck (of many) belonging to Miss Bee (alias Baroness Von Turtle). Speeding down the motorway, doing 75km! Well, just lucky HRH had her trusty cell phone at the ready to record this historic event!

Kiwis beware!

Arriving from the Land of the Long White Cloud are friends of the Princess and HRH. They will spend a whirlwind 2 days with the royal family before heading back to New Zealand. HRH has aired the best guest room, opened up adjoining accommodation and readied the maid's room. The staff are on standby to provide all the visitors require. The limousine has been readied to transport HRH, The King and guests to Verde for dinner on Friday night. A great night is expected. 'Wait with baited breath', says the King.

Moving House

Miss Bee has moved! HRH is waiting for security to become operation so that she may visit with the Princess. Miss Bee's parents assure the Royals it will be very soon, they know HRH hates to be kept waiting. HRH prays the new 'digs' are comfortable and luxurious.

Rain, rain and more rain!!

Thank God for rain! I am thanking Him for it before it arrives! That's from praying efficaciously and expecting results. Thanks P.A. HRH can not wait until she is able to devote much more time to her important things such as blogging! The new garden is doing very well, if you are attracted to weeds! How come they can still grow during a drought? All available water is used on the garden. Water is collected from the showers (waiting for the hot to arrive), the sink (same thing) and the Princess' and Miss Bee's bathing rooms (after they finish shaving arms and legs!). Please don't let either of them know I told you this!

Computer Technology

HRH is fast becoming a computer wizz. After much ado, her P.A. tutored patiently so that HRH could do some things for herself when her P.A. was unavailable. Thanks so much wonderful P.A. HRH is now able to 'log on', create posts and edit BY HERSELF!!!

Water, water, water

As the Castle has an odd number as opposed to an even number, HRH is restricted to watering the grounds on a Wednesday and Sunday between the hours of 6 - 8 am and pm. The King is great at turning on the hose to sprinkle the newly created drought resistant gardens. However, HRH wishes to water for most of the 2 hours to give the said gardens a very good soak. How do we resolve this issue? HRH waters when it is not too windy (otherwise she is blown over), leaving The King to do his best at other times. The plants in our pots are not doing as well as HRH would like. Not enough water HRH says. The King disagrees. Please help. If you have a green thumb or are an avid gardener, please leave a comment or two. I will show the King and we will discuss the results!

The grounds

The grounds at the Castle have been refurbished to aid in the drought crisis. Watering is seldom needed and HRH is very happy with the results. A highly unusual event took place during the development of the grounds. The King and the Princess learnt how to use a spade, shovel, wheelbarrow and saw. HRH was very amused watching proceedings as the day unfolded. Following this unheard of event, both the Princess and the King discovered they were the not so proud owners of many muscle groups that they thought were reserved for the fit and active! Never mind, they both survived. Waiting on my P.A. to attach photos for your perusal.

Position vacant

Does anyone know of a good P.A? HRH no longer wants to share her demanding P.A. with others. They take up too much of her time and HRH has to wait too long for work to be done. HRH misses having her brilliant P.A. staying at the Castle and being at her beck and call.
Where does one get good help?

Back to the grind!

January ended in a blaze of glory at the Castle. The Queensland holiday was fantastic, but HRH regrets it was not long enough. Work has begun for HRH for 2007. The round of royal engagements is jam packed with variety and hilarity. HRH has met her 23 new subjects, all requiring her fullest attention. These subjects will spend the best part of the year with HRH as she endeavours to impart pearls of wisdom and learning to help them on their path to adult hood. Each subject already has a special place in HRH's heart. The day is long. Beginning at 6 am seeing the King and Consort off to work and then taking the Princess to school. HRH finally gets to her office around 7.30 to oversea the growth of the minds of the next Prime Minister, Governor General and Telstra CEO. A lifetime commitment, but well worth the effort. HRH loves her role in educating these young and enthusiastic minds.