The Allure of Wealth

In a culture driven by consumerism, wealth is often equated with success. Reality TV shows, social media influencers, and tabloids perpetuate the idea that living a lavish lifestyle is the ultimate achievement. Celebrities like the Kardashians have built empires by showcasing their opulent lives. Luxurious homes, designer clothing, and extravagant vacations are portrayed as symbols of accomplishment. This fascination with wealth fuels industries and drives consumer behavior. People aspire to emulate these lifestyles, believing that material possessions and outward displays of affluence are indicators of personal worth and happiness.

The desire to witness the rich flaunting their wealth stems from a combination of admiration and envy. For many, it’s a form of escapism, a way to live vicariously through those who have seemingly achieved the pinnacle of success. This admiration is not without consequences, as it often leads to a skewed perception of reality. The pressure to keep up with such lifestyles can result in financial strain and dissatisfaction among those trying to replicate what they see on screens and in magazines.

The Revered Humility of Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves presents a starkly different narrative. Despite his substantial wealth and success, Reeves is known for his humility and generosity. Stories of his modest lifestyle, acts of kindness, and philanthropy have become legendary. Unlike many of his peers, Reeves does not flaunt his wealth or seek the spotlight for his good deeds. He reportedly rides the subway, dresses simply, and avoids the trappings of celebrity culture. His unassuming nature and genuine kindness have endeared him to millions, earning him a reputation as a true gentleman of Hollywood.

Reeves’ philanthropic efforts further distinguish him. He has quietly donated millions to children’s hospitals and cancer research, often without seeking recognition. His approach to wealth and fame is refreshing in a world that often celebrates excess. This dichotomy between his significant success and his humble demeanor challenges the societal norm that wealth must be showcased to be respected.

The Double Standard

The contrasting attitudes toward wealth and humility in Western society reveal a profound double standard. On one hand, we are captivated by displays of wealth and the lifestyles of the rich and famous. On the other hand, we hold immense respect for those who shun ostentation and use their resources to help others. This double standard reflects deeper societal values and contradictions.

Admiring both extravagance and modesty highlights the complexity of human nature. We are drawn to the allure of wealth and the fantasy it represents, yet we also value authenticity, kindness, and humility. This dichotomy suggests that while material success is admired, it is the character and actions of individuals that ultimately define their legacy.

Western society’s relationship with wealth is multifaceted and contradictory. The simultaneous admiration for ostentatious displays of wealth and the reverence for humble, philanthropic individuals like Keanu Reeves exposes a deep-seated paradox. While consumerism drives us to idolize the rich and famous, our respect for genuine kindness and modesty remains unwavering. In navigating these conflicting values, we reveal much about our own aspirations, insecurities, and the true essence of success. The challenge lies in balancing our fascination with wealth with a deeper appreciation for the qualities that truly enrich our lives and society.

The post The Wealth Paradox.  Double Standards in Western Society: appeared first on Join me in the Garden.

As we face the ever-growing impacts of climate change, our gardens are experiencing more frequent and severe weather fluctuations. These changes can be particularly challenging for home gardeners trying to maintain healthy and productive vegetable gardens. Whether you are dealing with periods of excess water or prolonged dry spells, there are effective strategies to ensure your garden thrives despite the changing climate. This article will provide practical tips on water preservation and maintaining your veggie garden through these climate extremes.

Understanding the Climate Crisis and Its Impact on Gardens

The climate crisis is leading to unpredictable weather patterns, including intense rainfall, extended droughts, and fluctuating temperatures. These changes can stress plants, reduce yields, and increase the vulnerability of gardens to pests and diseases. Understanding these challenges is the first step towards developing a resilient garden that can withstand the pressures of a changing climate.

Water Preservation Strategies

Water is a precious resource, and its conservation is crucial in combating the effects of climate change in your garden. Here are some effective water preservation techniques:

1. Rainwater Harvesting

Collecting and storing rainwater is an excellent way to ensure a consistent water supply for your garden. Install rain barrels or tanks to capture runoff from your roof. This stored water can be used during dry spells, reducing your reliance on municipal water supplies.

2. Drip Irrigation Systems

Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the plant roots, minimizing evaporation and runoff. This method is highly efficient, using up to 50% less water than traditional overhead sprinklers. By providing a steady and targeted water supply, drip irrigation helps keep plants healthy even during dry periods

3. Mulching

Mulching is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to conserve soil moisture. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw, wood chips, or compost, around your plants. Mulch not only retains moisture but also suppresses weeds, regulates soil temperature, and improves soil structure.

4. Soil Improvement

Healthy soil retains water better and provides a stable environment for plant roots. Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure into your soil to enhance its water-holding capacity. This also improves soil fertility and structure, promoting robust plant growth.

Keeping Your Veggie Garden Alive During Excess Water

Excessive rainfall and waterlogging can damage vegetable gardens by suffocating roots and promoting fungal diseases. Here’s how to manage your garden during periods of heavy rain:

1. Raised Beds

Raised beds improve drainage and prevent water from pooling around plant roots. Construct raised beds using wood, stone, or other materials, and fill them with a well-draining soil mix. This setup helps keep roots healthy and dry during periods of heavy rain.

2. Proper Plant Spacing

Plant your vegetables with adequate spacing to allow for air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Good airflow around plants helps them dry out more quickly after rain, minimizing the likelihood of rot and mildew.

3. Efficient Drainage Systems

Ensure your garden has adequate drainage to prevent water from accumulating. Create slopes or install French drains to direct excess water away from your garden beds. Additionally, avoid planting in low-lying areas prone to waterlogging.

4. Use of Cover Crops

Cover crops like clover or rye can help absorb excess water and improve soil structure. These plants also add organic matter to the soil when tilled under, enhancing its water-holding capacity and fertility.

Maintaining Your Veggie Garden During Dry Spells

Prolonged dry spells can be equally challenging, leading to water stress and reduced yields. Here are some strategies to keep your vegetable garden thriving during drought conditions:

1. Drought-Tolerant Varieties

Choose vegetable varieties that are known for their drought tolerance. Varieties with deep root systems, such as tomatoes and peppers, can access moisture from deeper soil layers. Research and select seeds that are specifically bred to withstand dry conditions.

2. Efficient Watering Techniques

Water your garden early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the root zone. Water deeply but infrequently, encouraging plants to develop deep root systems that can access moisture from deeper soil layers.

3. Shading and Windbreaks

Protect your garden from excessive sun and wind, which can increase evaporation and water stress. Use shade cloths, row covers, or strategically placed taller plants to provide shade and reduce wind exposure. This helps maintain soil moisture and keeps plants cooler.

4. Regular Mulching

Continue to mulch your garden heavily during dry periods. Mulch acts as a barrier, reducing soil evaporation and keeping the root zone cooler. Organic mulches also break down over time, adding nutrients to the soil and improving its water retention capabilities.

Conclusion

Adapting your gardening practices to the changing climate is essential for maintaining a productive and resilient vegetable garden. By implementing water preservation strategies and adjusting your techniques to manage excess water and dry spells, you can ensure your garden thrives despite the challenges posed by climate change. Embrace these methods to create a sustainable and flourishing garden that not only provides fresh produce but also contributes to the overall health of our environment.

The post Combating Climate Change in Your Garden appeared first on Join me in the Garden.

The digital age has ushered in an era where working remotely and traveling the world has become a highly romanticized ideal. Social media is replete with images of people working from exotic locations, seemingly blending work and leisure seamlessly. While this lifestyle is undoubtedly appealing and fulfilling for many, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s crucial to recognize that if the nomadic lifestyle doesn’t resonate with you, it’s perfectly okay to choose a different path.

Choosing not to travel and lead a laptop lifestyle on the road is a valid and respectable decision. It can be motivated by a variety of reasons – love for a stable community, preference for a consistent routine, familial commitments, or simply the joy of being in a familiar environment. The beauty of living life on your own terms means recognizing and honoring these preferences.

Living a life that contradicts the norm or popular trends can require courage and self-assurance. It involves being confident in your understanding of what brings you peace, satisfaction, and happiness. It means standing firm in your choices, even when they go against the grain of popular opinion or societal expectations.

Living life on your own terms encourages diversity in lifestyles and choices. It opens up a spectrum of possibilities on how life can be lived and experienced. Whether it’s a life filled with constant movement and change or one deeply rooted in a community with a steady routine, each choice is unique and holds its own set of joys and challenges.

In essence, the key to a fulfilling life is not in following a prescribed set of rules or mimicking others’ lifestyles but in understanding and embracing your own needs and desires. Whether you choose to travel the world with your laptop or find contentment in the comforts of a stationary life, both paths are equally valid and worthy. What matters most is that the life you lead is the one you choose for yourself, reflecting your truest self and deepest desires.

The post Living life on your own terms appeared first on Join me in the Garden.

The Modern Disconnect

While technology has undoubtedly brought unparalleled conveniences into our lives, it also comes with its shadows. Hours spent in front of computer screens contribute not only to physical ailments such as eye strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and poor posture but also to a sense of disconnection from the tangible world. The immediacy and ephemeral nature of digital tasks can leave us feeling unfulfilled, craving the concrete satisfaction that comes from physical effort and visible, lasting results. Although, as I say this, I’m acutely aware that I make my living online and love my work, but it’s a very different sort of satisfaction achieved to that of a well-turned garden bed or a freshly cleared paddock. We used to joke about painting, the sort you do to your house, not on canvas, is one of the worst jobs yet at the same time one of the most satisfying jobs once done. Why because of that effort-driven reward cycle in our brains. The ultimate dopamine hit is when you stand back from a completed painting task and just let that sense of completion wash over you! You know what I mean don’t you.

Gardening: A Path to Mental Wellness

Gardening reconnects us with the ancient effort-driven reward cycle – the fulfilling process of planning, planting, nurturing, and harvesting. This cycle is deeply ingrained in human history and psyche, resonating with our innate need for direct interaction with nature and the satisfaction of seeing our efforts manifest in physical form.

The act of gardening – feeling the soil between our fingers, witnessing the miracle of growth from seed to plant, and the eventual harvest – offers profound mental health benefits. It reduces stress, enhances mood, and improves overall well-being. The rewards of gardening are both immediate, in the form of sensory pleasure and physical activity, and long-term, as we nurture plants to maturity.

The Effort-Driven Reward Cycle in Gardening

Gardening exemplifies the effort-driven reward cycle – a concept highlighting the mental and emotional benefits of engaging in tasks that require effort and result in tangible rewards. This cycle is crucial for mental health, providing a sense of accomplishment, purpose, and self-efficacy. Each step in the gardening process, from sowing seeds to harvesting crops, serves as a milestone of achievement, reinforcing our capabilities and resilience.

Healing through Earth’s Touch

The therapeutic value of gardening goes beyond the psychological, extending into the realm of physical health. The act of gardening encourages us to move, stretch, and engage muscles that might remain dormant during sedentary computer work. This physical engagement, coupled with the mental focus required, creates a holistic experience that nourishes both body and mind.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, finding balance is key. Integrating hands-on activities like gardening into our routine can offset the intangible nature of digital work, grounding us in the effort-driven reward cycle that nurtures our mental health. The healing touch of the earth, through gardening, offers a potent antidote to the digital age’s disconnection, reminding us of the joy and fulfillment found in nature’s simple, tangible pleasures.

Until next time

Lucy

The post The Healing Touch of Earth: Rediscovering Effort-Driven Rewards through Gardening appeared first on Join me in the Garden.

Glimmers are small moments that spark joy or peace, which can help cue our nervous system to feel safe or calm. Experts say this mindset shift can make a positive impact on our mental health

Cultivating Glimmers: The Simple Joy That Enhances Our Mental Health

In the tapestry of daily life, where moments rush by in a blur, it’s the glimmers – those fleeting instances of pure joy and tranquility – that weave a pattern of serenity and well-being into our existence. Glimmers, as defined by moments that spark an innate sense of peace and happiness, are not just poetic nuances but pivotal experiences that signal safety and calm to our nervous system, fostering profound impacts on our mental health.

The Essence of Glimmers

Glimmers are born from the simple pleasures that surround us. The warmth of sunlight filtering through the window, the melody of birds at dawn, or the comforting aroma of freshly brewed tea – these instances, though brief, hold immense power in shifting our mindset and emotional state. In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, acknowledging and cherishing these moments can be transformative.

Why Glimmers Matter

1. Cue for Safety: In a world that often feels overwhelming, glimmers act as cues for our nervous system, signalling that we are in a safe and nurturing environment. This perception of safety is crucial for our mental and emotional equilibrium.

2. Mindfulness and Presence: Glimmers draw us into the present moment, grounding us in the ‘here and now.’ This mindfulness breaks the cycle of worry and stress that accompanies thoughts of the past or future.

3. Boosts Mental Health: Regularly experiencing glimmers can enhance our overall mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. They remind us of the beauty and positivity that exists even in the face of challenges.

4. Enhances Resilience: By recognizing and valuing glimmers in our daily life, we build emotional resilience. This resilience helps us navigate life’s ups and downs with a more balanced and optimistic outlook.

Cultivating Glimmers in Daily Life

1. Slow Down: The first step to experiencing more glimmers is to slow down and allow yourself to be fully present. Rushing through tasks and moments diminishes our capacity to notice the joy around us.

2. Savor the Senses: Pay attention to your senses; they are gateways to glimmers. Relish the taste of your food, the textures you touch, and the sights and sounds that fill your environment.

3. Connect with Nature: Nature is a prolific source of glimmers. Whether it’s tending to a garden, walking through a park, or simply watching the clouds, nature has a way of evoking peace and wonder.

4. Embrace Gratitude: Cultivate a habit of gratitude. Reflecting on and appreciating the good in your life, no matter how small, can amplify the frequency and impact of glimmers.

5. Create Mindful Rituals: Incorporate simple rituals into your day that encourage mindfulness and relaxation, such as morning meditation, journaling, or gentle stretching.

In embracing the concept of glimmers, we open ourselves to the myriad of small wonders that life offers. These moments are not just breaks in the monotony of our daily routines but essential elements that nourish our mental health and well-being. By actively seeking and appreciating these sparks of joy, we enhance our resilience, enrich our experiences, and foster a deeper sense of peace and contentment in our lives.

Until next time,

Lucy

The post Glimmers in a day appeared first on Join me in the Garden.

Over the years I have learned many ways of composting, from in situ composting which involves both burying organic material directly into the garden or simply placing compost bins in the locations where I want the compost to end up, to buried worm towers and of course the original bays tucked away in the least attractive part of my property.

This last one has become my least favorite of all the ways I now compost. It involves a lot of unnecessary labor and disturbs the compost far more than necessary. I would have to say these days, that in situ composting with a bin is the most efficient for our environment. However, I do have the luxury of large spaces so can allow for an oversized compost bin in a vegetable garden for several months at a time. But I have friends who live in smaller spaces and use a small upturned pail with the base cut out and the lid used where the base used to be. This is really effective and takes far less time to break down.

I know for a lot of folks, composting is simply an ugly necessity; it’s not as pretty as the rose bushes, nor as striking as the ever-turning sunflowers. Yet, this humble compost pile is a treasure trove, a testament to the cycle of life and the magic of turning what many consider waste into garden gold. I have fallen in love with composting, to create soil from food scraps, animal waste and garden cuttings is a miraculous process and one I will never tire of.

I rotate my faithful compost bins around my raised garden beds every few months and the benefits are amazing. Firstly, I need to keep in mind, that over time, the soil collapses and the levels of my garden beds drop so this is a great way to boost not only the quality of soil but the depth as well. I always make sure to not plant anything in my raised beds that are permanent to avoid them eventually getting buried of course.

While some dream of constant travel and adventures new, my heart has always been tethered to this piece of land in South East Queensland, dreaming instead of a sustainable, self-sufficient life. At the risk of sounding a little dramatic, to me, the compost pile is a cornerstone of my dream of living on my land and providing for me and my loved ones from this land, composting embodies the principles of recycling, renewing, and respecting the earth.

Creating compost is like crafting a rich, slow-cooked stew. Into it goes kitchen scraps, lawn clippings, leaves, and even paper – a mix of greens and browns, nitrogen and carbon. And animal poop. From cow to pig and chicken poop it is all gold to my compost systems. Did you know pig poo is supposed to be the richest and most effective manure below pigeon poop! Well now you do!!

With time, and a bit of patience, these scraps transform. What was once waste becomes dark, crumbly, and sweet-smelling, packed full of nutrients ready to nourish our garden.

This transformation is an honest to God marvel, a daily reminder of nature’s resilience and resourcefulness. It teaches patience and care, the importance of balance and diversity. As I layer the scraps and keep adding to it, I’m participating in an ancient cycle of growth, decay, and rebirth.

In our subtropical climate, the compost works a bit faster, the warmth accelerating the breakdown. It’s a boon for our garden, allowing us to continually enrich the soil, boosting the vitality of our plants and the abundance of our harvests. Our compost pile is a constant source of life, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

The lessons of the compost pile extend beyond the garden. It teaches us to see potential in the overlooked, to understand the value of what we might otherwise discard. It’s a practice of mindfulness, a commitment to a lifestyle that seeks harmony with the earth rather than dominance over it.

So, as I tend to our compost, I am reminded of the beauty of our chosen path. While the thrill of a nomadic life appeals to many, the joy I find in nurturing this land, in turning waste into wonder, is a journey of its own, rich and fulfilling.

Until next time,

Lucy

The post The Humble Compost Pile: Turning Waste into Garden Gold appeared first on Join me in the Garden.

I have kept chooks in the suburbs and on properties and as long as you comply with your local councils regulations, ie no rooster in the suburbs and it is still one of my favourite things to do. I will never discuss raising chickens for meat, so sorry if that’s what you were hoping to learn here, but I can certainly assist with housing, egg laying, health etc.

I have lost many an hour just sitting and watching my chickens interact with their world. Watching the friendships develop when we add new chooks to the flock, yes this is a thing and if you haven’t noticed it, you aren’t taking enough time to enjoy your chickens.

Learning what different chooks favourite foods are or where they like to lay their eggs, is part of caring for them and enjoying them. I couldn’t imagine having chickens that don’t have names and don’t come running when they see me.

It’s the small things, the stolen 15 minutes spent watching them having a dust bath. Or observing a sweet moment between two new chickens as they meet and decide they like each other. The moments when those two friends get separated and then find each other again. Have you noticed how much they snuggle and share a moment when this happens?

Having chooks isn’t just about the convenience and value of fresh eggs, it’s those precious little moments that bring pure joy to my heart!

Health issues in Chickens

Like all farm animals, chickens require care, and having a good understanding of animal husbandry when it comes to chickens will put you in good standing to have long-lived, happy, healthy, and productive flocks. Whilst they don’t lay eggs anymore our oldest girls have just turned 10 and are thoroughly enjoying their retirement here on Saddleback Farm!

Here’s just a few of the problems that can arise when you keep chickens

The post The Joys and Challenges of Keeping Chickens: Pets, Eggs, and Health Care appeared first on Join me in the Garden.

Just ask anyone who lives in a region with these bizarre birds and they will have a story to share about a whole garden bed being relocated in one afternoon for a nest mound. They are remarkable but very focused and will destroy your veggie gardens before you can blink! If you look at any of the areas we have cultivated up here, there are netting, fencing, and other precautions.

I went to our local gardening on the edge tour with some friends to see several beautiful local gardens to experience what they were doing and was fortunate enough to see a tunnel built by a local to protect some of his veggie gardens near his house, I came home so inspired we got to it and built one of our own.

Since then I’ve had so many people ask how I built it, that I thought I’d share a  step-by-step guide on how to build one using garden stakes, agi pipe for arches, and netting.

1. Planning and Measurement

Measure the Area: Measure the area where you want to build the tunnel. It should be 10 meters in length to match the netting size.

– Mark the Layout: Mark the ground along the length where the garden stakes will go.

 2. Installing the Garden Stakes

Drive Stakes: Hammer the garden stakes into the ground along the marked lines. Ensure they are evenly spaced and firmly in the ground. The distance between the stakes will depend on the width of your tunnel.

3. Creating the Arches

Cut Agi Pipe: Cut the agi pipe into lengths that will form arches from one garden stake to the opposite stake.

Attach Agi Pipe: Slide one end of the agi pipe over a garden stake, bend it into an arch, and slide the other end over the opposite stake. Repeat this for each set of stakes.

4. Covering with Netting

Drape Netting: Unroll the 10×10 meter netting and drape it over the agi pipe arches. Make sure it covers the entire structure.

Secure Netting: Attach the netting to the garden stakes and agi pipes using cable ties or garden wire. Ensure it’s tight and secure.

 5. Anchoring the Netting

Position Bricks: I just placed bricks or heavy stones around the sides of the netting on the ground. This will anchor the netting and prevent it from lifting in the wind. I like to use bricks instead of tent pegs or other anchors that require piercing the netting. Up here we get strong wind and it wouldn’t take much for the netting to tear. I have also placed cardboard between the brick and the netting if the brick is especially rough.

6. Access door

Create Access door: I have one end closest to the house which is the area I will always access from. I create a door by gathering the netting up and carefully tying it to the agi pipe arch. This forms a tent door which I peg together for quick and easy access. The person I got the tunnel idea from has created a beautiful door out of branches with a door frame. (see image above) I’m just not that handy, so the tent door works just fine for me.

7. Maintenance

Regular Checks: Regularly check the stability of the tunnel and the condition of the netting. Repair or tighten as needed. Just a heads up here, no matter what you do, you will get tears in your netting, I always have a needle and thread handy to stitch it up. Easy to fix and keeps it from turning into a major job once there are lots of holes.

8. Planting

Plant your Garden: Now that your tunnel is ready, you can start planting your vegetables inside. I have 3 raised beds inside my tunnel. I use this location primarily for greens like lettuce, silver beet, kale, etc. It’s a bit harder to grow veggies in a tunnel that relies on bees or other insects for pollination. Mind you, I have managed to hand-pollinate self-seeded cucumbers, zucchini, and pumpkin in my tunnel. But you will need to be prepared to hand pollinate if you need to/want to grow certain plants in there.

Tips

Choose the Right Location: Ensure the tunnel is in a spot that gets adequate sunlight and is protected from strong winds. Not always an easy task, we live on an exposed hill so wind is a given up here, but we allow for it. The beauty of the netting is the wind goes straight through.

Add shade cloth: Our tunnel is in an area where we have full sun until 4 pm in summer so I have a length of shade cloth I can drag over the structure on the hottest days. Luckily up here we rarely see days hot enough to do damage but we get the occasional run of 30-degree days that will burn young lettuces or spinach. I tie the shade cloth in place with tie wire and remove it when the temperatures again.

By following these steps, you’ll have a functional and durable veggie garden tunnel that not only protects your plants but also adds a unique element to your garden. I love this structure because not only is it functional, but it’s easily disassembled if needed.

Until next time

Lucy

The post How to build a walk-in Garden Tunnel appeared first on Join me in the Garden.

In amongst the hills and the often not so gentle sounds of nature, sits our home – a sanctuary we’ve recently decided to share with the world through Airbnb.

This decision, like everything else we’ve done on our land, has a story, this one is of change and opening up what we treasure to the world. Until recently we shared our 40-acre property with Gary’s mum. Although we’d bought his parents a house in town, after his dad passed away, his mum didn’t like living alone so she moved out to a cottage on our property. But in August 2023 she too passed away at the grand age of 90.

 At this point, we found ourselves living alone on 40 acres with 2 houses on it. We knew we never wanted to have a permanent tenant; I know for some that works well, but for us, it felt restrictive, so we decided to give short-term rental a try.

For years, this land has been our retreat, a place where we’ve cultivated not just gardens and cared for our animals, but nurtured our souls and healed our bodies. It’s a place where every sunrise is enjoyed and every sunset is different. Our home, with its rolling hills and hidden gullies, has been a private haven – until now.

The idea to open our home to guests came from a simple realization: Joy and beauty multiply when shared.

Although we are normally private people, we’ve always believed that our little piece of paradise wasn’t just meant for us. It’s a place of beauty, tranquillity, and inspiration that deserves to be experienced by those who appreciate the essence of nature and want to experience a little of the joy we feel living here permanently.

In the early days, we played with the idea of running a cooking school and offering guided tours of the farm and our animals, but most of all, we dreamt of running an animal sanctuary that people could visit and enjoy as they learned about and got to know the animals. But when Gary’s Mum moved in, that all came to a halt.

It created a very different dynamic having an elderly woman living here for 10 years and required a very different focus. It was what it was, with its ups and downs, and I’m not going to go into that stage of our lives, but now it’s time to go back to the original ideas and create the place we imagined.

Airbnb provided the perfect platform to extend our hospitality. It allowed us to connect with like-minded individuals, people who seek a respite from the hustle of the modern world, and who yearn for a taste of quiet, sustainable living.

Welcoming guests onto our property has been a heartwarming journey. Each visitor brings their story, their energy, and their appreciation for the simple, abundant life we’ve built. Whether they’re marveling at the vibrant colors of a lightning storm over the valley, bringing their children down to enjoy the fun and silly antics of our free-roaming chickens, braving a muddy cuddle from a pig fresh out of the wallow, or simply soaking in the tranquillity of the natural surroundings, their delight is a rewarding affirmation of our lifestyle.

I love having the opportunity to let others experience the heartfelt pleasure of gentle hand-raised pet pigs who want nothing more than to feed from their hands and have a belly rub. As far as our pigs are concerned, they are part of our family and demand to be treated accordingly. Sadly, pigs aren’t an animal people get to spend time with in our culture and I think they are missing out. A pig as a friend is an affectionate and gentle one who will be just as loyal and playful as your family dog given the chance.

The experience has been more fulfilling than we ever imagined. The conversations shared over a fence, the exchange of experiences and travels– it all feels so right, so in tune with our values and vision. I love chatting with guests from overseas who are in awe of the Australian countryside. I might be just a little biased, but I believe they are experiencing some of the best views on offer right there from the veranda!

Our guests leave with more than just memories; they leave with a piece of our world, a renewed appreciation for the beauty and simplicity of the natural beauty this place provides. And we, in turn, are enriched by their presence, their perspectives, and their shared joy.

In opening our home, we’ve realized that what we offer is more than just land and living spaces; it’s a storybook of life, a place where every guest adds a chapter, and every stay writes a verse of connection and understanding.

So, as we continue this journey of hospitality, we’re keen to see where this will take us but for now, it feels incredibly right. So we will continue to invite the world to partake in the beauty of our sanctuary, to find peace and joy in this corner of paradise, and to share in the life we’ve lovingly cultivated.

Until next time,

Lucy

The post Embracing Hospitality: Why We Airbnb on Our Property appeared first on Join me in the Garden.

Our journey with elderflower wine began when we moved from Brisbane, bringing with us cuttings of our old elderflower bush, This small shrub had been ornamental in our suburban garden so I bought the cuttings for sentimental reasons, not expecting much. To our delight, (and soon dispair) the cuttings thrived in the cooler, sub-tropical climate of Maleny, on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland.

The Perfect Climate of Maleny for Elderflowers

Maleny, with its mild climate and rich soil, proved to be an ideal environment for our elderflower cuttings. This region, known for its red clay-rich soil, vivid green hills and stunning indigenous flora, nurtured our plants far more than we could have imagined, allowing them to flourish beyond our expectations.

It’s a joy to see plants that we brought from our previous home in Brisbane adapt so well, but I was about to learn a tough lesson. Just a word of advice, when moving to a new area, check the climate, growing conditions, pests etc. Then check what the plant requires and what its growth will potentially be. We are, 15 years later, still pulling up runners from those original cuttings. Talk about ‘Day of the Triffids’, these elderflowers would have completely taken over given the chance! But we were new to the land and new to the region. We certainly ended up on the fast track learning what would thrive in our new climate.

Elderflower Wine: A Delightful Use of Homegrown Produce

Finding a purpose for what we grow was always part of the plan when we moved to our 40 acres of paradise. Elderflower champagne is a perfect example of this, turning the beautiful blooms of our garden into a delightful beverage seemed so romantic at the time. This process of transformation from flower to wine is not just about the end product but about the journey – the care in growing, the anticipation of the blooms, and the satisfaction of creating something truly unique. It was so satisfying seeing the beginning of this journey with our baby cuttings ending as Champagne within 2 years. Needless to say everyone was gifted Elderflower champagne as part of their Christmas gift that year!

The Recipe: Elderflower Wine

Ingredients

• 4 quarts of fresh elderflowers (ensure they are pesticide-free)
• 1 gallon of boiling water
• 8 cups of sugar
• 2 lemons (juice and zest)
• 2 oranges (juice and zest)
• 1 packet of wine yeast
• 1 teaspoon yeast nutrient

Equipment

• Large fermentation bucket
• Muslin cloth or fine strainer
• Demijohn (fermentation vessel)
• Airlock
• Bottles for storage

Method

1. Preparing the Elderflowers: Gently rinse the elderflowers to remove any dirt or bugs. Place the flowers in a large fermentation bucket.
2. Making the Base: Pour boiling water over the elderflowers. Add the sugar, and stir until dissolved. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature.
3. Adding Citrus and Yeast: Once cooled, add the lemon and orange juice and zest. Stir in the yeast and yeast nutrients. Cover the bucket with a clean cloth and let it sit in a warm, dark place for 24 hours. *Side note, depending on your climate and how much rain youve experienced in your area around harvest time, you may not need to add yeast. Elderflowers come with natural yeast, but I’ve added it here for safety. You may need to gauge how much you need based on your weather conditions.
4. Primary Fermentation: After 24 hours, strain the liquid through a muslin cloth or fine strainer into a demijohn. Fit the demijohn with an airlock.
5. Fermentation Process: Allow the wine to ferment for 4-6 weeks in a cool, dark place. The fermentation is complete when the bubbling in the airlock stops.
6. Bottling: Once fermentation is complete, siphon the wine into clean bottles, avoiding the sediment at the bottom of the demijohn. Seal the bottles and store them in a cool, dark place.
7. Maturing: Elderflower wine is best enjoyed after it has matured for a few months, allowing the flavors to develop fully.

The Joy of Home Brewing

The process of making elderflower wine is as rewarding as tasting the final product. It’s a celebration of nature, a testament to the joy of gardening, and a delightful way to use the bounties of your garden. The elderflowers that grew so well in the Maleny climate have not only beautified our garden but have also provided us with the raw material for this exquisite homemade wine.

Conclusion

Elderflower wine, with its delicate floral notes and refreshing taste, is a perfect way to celebrate the fruits of your labor in the garden. The journey from Brisbane to Maleny, with our elderflower cuttings in tow, has been a journey of discovery, growth, and joy. The process of making this wine is a beautiful blend of art and science, a testament to the wonders of nature and the joy of creating something with your own hands.

This wine is not just a beverage; it’s a story – of adaptation, growth, and the pleasures of home brewing. As we sip this delightful wine, we’re not just tasting the elderflowers; we’re experiencing a piece of our journey, our love for gardening, and the magic of Maleny.

The post Elder Champagne Recipe appeared first on Join me in the Garden.