DEFENSIVE DRIVING AND HARVEST TIME

The Defensive Driving class for two 2 hour sessions on Tuesday and Thursday nights was most enjoyable and interesting.  We also had homework to do and then another two classes next week.  This is followed by a one hour driving test.  I was an extra in with Doug so did not expect to do the test which was fine by me but after Thursday's class the tutor told us that he would give me the test as well.  Hoorah, hoorah.  I have done very little driving lately as Doug tends to do the driving so had better get some practice in. 

The weather has finally changed.  We did not get cyclone Oma but have had a reasonable amount of drizzle, hopefully enough to thoroughly wet the soil.  I started harvesting the peaches early and have been processing them.  I stew them and then bag and freeze.  They are mainly used on my morning porridge.  I am still freezing tomatoes just put in bags with the core removed.  If time permits I will also make some chutney. 

Today we went to the Growers' Market as usual and among other things bought 8 corn on the cob.  Doug blanched this and then removed the corn from the cob and froze it in 2 person serving size lots.  We still have a little left from last year but I am using it in fritters and frittatas. 

The house is still full of trays of tomatoes and, in particular, peaches gradually ripening ready for processing. 

On top of this we have finished decorating the spare bedroom and yesterday went out and bought a trundler bed and the bedding to go with it plus a bedside table and chest of drawers and an old fashioned coat rack for visitors to hang their clothes.

On Wednesday we have our first (of three) load of firewood being delivered as well as the furniture we purchased yesterday. 

So it is more peaches and tomatoes to process, do some more homework for the Defensive Driving Course and get the shed ready for the firewood - well, they are the top priority anyway.  What ever made me think that retirement would mean having time to sit and relax.