around here, now.

on Tuesday i spent a couple of hours helping at the preschool. Nicholas was so excited. it was sweet to watch how familiar he already is with schooling. going from activity to activity. Audrey just loved being there! while Nicholas was sitting near a girl at the table i listened to them talking:

Nicholas: "my name is Nicholas"

girl: "i know. i like your little sister - she is cute."

Nicholas: "yes, she is. i love her."

of course any mum would beam! :)

David had an exam on Tuesday night. i think i was more anxious than he was! it is exhausting for all of us during assessment time. the dining room table and the loungeroom become a study for a week. i take on responsabilities at home to give David the time he needs, and try to keep the kids to some form of a routine without being disruptive. i am happy when assessment is over! i am sure David will do as well as he has been for the past two years, and that is my satisfaction...

today Nicholas and i have been busy making these biscuits. Audrey was busy licking the beaters - i even gave her more of the mixture - she is such a terrible eater that as long as she is actually eating something, she can have it!

the recipe for the biscuits are from here. i printed it out last year and feel like making something new. biscuits are my downfall though...

and for Melanie, who will be busy in the garden this weekend:

Maggie Beer's Green Tomato Chutney

1 kg green tomatoes

3 granny smith apples

3 onions

3 cloves garlic

600ml white wine vinegar

250g sultanas

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

175 g soft brown sugar

Core the green tomato's and apples, then peel the apples, Roughly chop the tomatoes, apples, onions, then finely chop the garlic.

Put half the vinegar and the remaining ingredients into a non-reactive pot and bring to a boil, Reduce to a simmer and cook gently for 40 minutes.

Add the remaining vinegar and simmer for a further 20 minutes until the chutney thickens. Check for seasoning and ladle into warm, sterilised jars. Seal, then invert the jars to create a vacuum.