This one's for Pop x

Hey Readers,

Last week was a busy week for me, lots going on at work, socially and home life.

As well as growing older and celebrating a birthday, it was a week of reflection as well.

5 years ago last week, we lost my Pop. He died unexpectedly and suddenly. One minute he was here and the next he wasn’t.

We had just sat down for dinner when Mum received the phone call from Nan. Still to this day, that phone call and what happened after still haunts me. In an instant, our lives had been shaken and turned upside down.

Earlier that afternoon, I had been at Nan & Pop’s cutting their hair and having afternoon tea. I remember Pop being as cheeky as ever and trying to sneak in a glass of wine before dinner, and giving Nan cheek saying “I’m an old man and I deserve a wine or two”.

That was my last memory of him; a few short hours later, he was gone. There were no chances to say goodbye.

When thinking back over the 5 years since Pop’s been gone, there’s been many highs and lows. There’s been struggles, joy, tribulations, celebrations and loss. Life has happened! Time doesn’t stop, it continues and life goes on.

From Pop’s passing, I have learnt to appreciate and look at the smaller moments in life. That last memory I have of Pop, at the time seemed like a small moment. It’s now a precious memory that I often think back on and smile about.

I now realise those small moments are what make up your life. When you are so busy those small, precious moments can often pass you by.

Small moments for me are ones that usually would go unnoticed and you wouldn’t think twice about. They are moments that make me smile.

a hug from my husband

a smile from a stranger

enjoying a great cup of coffee

hearing a favourite song at the right time

stillness that comes with rain

quiet peaceful moments

a beautiful sunrise or sunset

a long conversation with my best friend

lighting candles and the way the light flickers

a gesture of kindness

family dinners

a walk on the beach with my husband and dog

laughing at nothing with my sister

when you stop and realise how perfect a moment is

 I’ve also come to realise that you don’t know how long you will have with someone. You need to make each moment count. Don’t spend your time holding grudges, fighting, being negative and holding onto regrets. Because in the bigger picture of life, what does it matter? If you hold onto those things, that’s all you will be left with and you will miss out on life and the precious small moments that make it up.

 Life is a gift, each day is a gift, family and friends are gifts. Don’t waste them or take them for granted. Appreciate and cherish them.

I hope you all have a great weekend, enjoy the time with family and friends. Remember to stop and appreciate the smaller moments.

Till next time,

Sarah.

Just stopping by to drop a line

Hey readers,

Hoping you are well and having a good week.

Just stopping by to drop a line.

The weather here was pretty dismal over the weekend. Our renovations came to a standstill as we are up to excavating and laying the concrete slab for the foundations. But the weather wasn’t in our favour.

Sunday saw celebrations at my sister in-law’s baby shower, which was lovely. Was nice to catch up with all the family and girlfriends. Can't believe our little niece or nephew will be here in around 4 weeks time. I can't wait to be an Aunty!

 

 I whipped up some slices which seemed to be a hit. I’ve had lots of people ask for the recipe for my rocky road slice, so I thought I would share it.

ROCKY ROAD SLICE

2 tablespoons boiling water

1 teaspoon powdered gelatine

250g packet marshmallows

1 tablespoon milk

2 x 180g blocks milk chocolate, chopped

40g butter, chopped

200g packet dry-roasted almonds ( But I used unsalted peanuts)

1/2 cup shredded coconut

100g packet red glace cherries, halved

Chocolate base

250g packet plain chocolate biscuits, halved

125g butter, melted 

Step 1

Grease a 4.5cm-deep, 20cm (base) square cake pan. Line base and sides with baking paper, allowing a 2cm overhang on all sides.

Step 2

Make base Process biscuits until finely chopped. Add butter. Process until combined. Press mixture over base of prepared pan. Cover. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3

Meanwhile, place boiling water in a heatproof jug. Sprinkle over gelatine. Using a fork, stir to dissolve. Set aside. Place marshmallows and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until marshmallows have melted and mixture combined. Transfer to an electric mixer. Gradually beat gelatine mixture into marshmallow mixture. Working quickly, spread mixture over prepared base. Cover. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until marshmallow has set.

Step 4

Place chocolate and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on medium (50%) for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, or until smooth. Add almonds, coconut and cherries. Mix to combine. Spoon over marshmallow, pressing with the back of spoon to level. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until set.

Step 5

Cut into squares. Serve.

ENJOY!!!

Recipe from Super Food Ideas - December 2010 , Page 77
Recipe by Kim Coverdale

Photography by Sam McAdam

I am loving the fact that winter is here, aside from Autumn is one of my favourite seasons.

I’m a winter baby, born in June. I like the feel of the cold and freshness. I love taking a deep breath of fresh cold air. There is nothing better than snuggling up under a warm blanket with a cuppa and a good book during those cold winter days. I adore the fashion, rugging up in jackets and scalves. And of course the food, it's so wholesome and hearty.

Enjoy the rest of your week readers.

Till next time,

Sarah x