tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49391937263482042582024-03-14T07:38:54.730+10:00wannabeahippyThe mission to buy as little and make as much as possible!wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-13463648272220658582010-05-24T22:07:00.000+10:002010-05-24T22:07:04.533+10:00wannabeahippy follower giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S_prlS7an7I/AAAAAAAAASE/9mxlfZZavKA/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S_prlS7an7I/AAAAAAAAASE/9mxlfZZavKA/s400/009.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
To celebrate reaching 200 fans on the wannabeahippy <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/wannabeahippy-wannabeafoody/111207098913265?ref=ts">facebook page</a>, I'll be giving away some <i>more </i>soap. Any excuse for a celebration and to offload some more of <a href="http://wannabeahippy.blogspot.com/2010/04/fryer-oil-soap.html">this soap</a>! I'm not trying to get rid of it because it's not good, I love it. But... being made from recycled oil, I have a constant supply which outstrips demand, and maybe, just <i>maybe</i>, some of you will try it, like it and want to make it yourselves.<br />
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It has lemon essential oil for a fresh fragrance and mild anti-bacterial action, lemongrass tea for fragrance and colour and chopped lemongrass and cane sugar for exfoliation.<br />
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If you think you would like to try some of this soap, just become a follower of or subscribe to this blog (buttons to the right) AND leave a comment on this post. In a few words, tell me what you would like to see on the wannabeahippy blog. Tutorials? Events updates? What's happening around my place? I'll pick a random comment using a random number generator and post the result here. Good luck guys!!wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-73266033475469489552010-05-04T11:05:00.001+10:002010-05-04T11:16:01.326+10:00What to Plant: May<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S99ynPpi5iI/AAAAAAAAAJc/bXlaQ0US1MQ/s1600/EOGsm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S99ynPpi5iI/AAAAAAAAAJc/bXlaQ0US1MQ/s320/EOGsm.jpg" /></a></div>Lyn Bagnall, published writer of the book "Easy Organic Gardening and Moon Planting" has a fantastic post on plants to start growing in May, based on your local climate, seasons and phases of the moon. There are also some general gardening reminders for Autumn. Check out her "<a href="http://aussieorganicgardening.com/?p=799">What to grow in May 2010</a>" post.<br />
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Continue on with the fertilising, pruning, weeding, dividing from April, and start taking some cuttings for brand new free plants! Right now is always the perfect time to start your kitchen garden.wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-81356911279895078572010-05-01T17:58:00.001+10:002010-05-01T18:02:08.651+10:00Rescue Hen Update!The little rescue hens I got a couple of weeks ago (second group) from the <a href="http://homesforhens.net/">Battery Hen Adoption Program</a> were in very poor condition - a good reminder about the conditions we are actively supporting by buying cage eggs. They were pale, almost featherless, struggling to stand and walk, and generally sad little creatures. It breaks my heart to think of <i>animals</i> treated as egg producing machines like this. You can see the oppression in their eyes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vYtx365CI/AAAAAAAAAIs/-KQ_K-4hHns/s1600/015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vYtx365CI/AAAAAAAAAIs/-KQ_K-4hHns/s400/015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vZzSSp_BI/AAAAAAAAAI0/W-vC5YBR2-E/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="377" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vZzSSp_BI/AAAAAAAAAI0/W-vC5YBR2-E/s400/021.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Well, they are still in poor condition a few weeks on, still resembling scrawny, half plucked roasting chickens, but they are <i>much</i> happier little girls. We've seen sunbaking, dustbathing, scratching and scrap eating in excess. A few were so confused about what to do first, they would lie down with their featherless wings up to catch the sun <i>and</i> have their heads in the scrap bowl, eating at the same time. Such extravagance! Grass is still a bit of a mystery, but the kitchen scraps are being gobbled up in no time. Dirt was a totally new and very interesting substance to have on their feet!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vbNwnXdhI/AAAAAAAAAI8/aO61rH-lqRM/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vbNwnXdhI/AAAAAAAAAI8/aO61rH-lqRM/s400/026.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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The first group are being less than hospitable and behaving like spoilt brats (and they are just that). Regardless, they are all beginning to blend together and become friendly. They have a lot of life left to live in chooky retirement on the mountain!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vdVkDUBFI/AAAAAAAAAJE/a-jjmzGA6nM/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vdVkDUBFI/AAAAAAAAAJE/a-jjmzGA6nM/s400/006.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vdvhZ3CYI/AAAAAAAAAJM/7Scf__2V6Q8/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9vdvhZ3CYI/AAAAAAAAAJM/7Scf__2V6Q8/s400/003.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9veFAieQYI/AAAAAAAAAJU/YKZDv-rwQxc/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9veFAieQYI/AAAAAAAAAJU/YKZDv-rwQxc/s400/007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
If you are able to adopt some hens or donate to the cause, please visit the website at <a href="http://homesforhens.net/">Homes For Hens</a>.wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-91309298660213532402010-04-29T08:00:00.001+10:002010-04-29T08:00:01.036+10:00Recycled Newspaper Pots Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9dwt540xBI/AAAAAAAAAIo/aRqOy2i61os/s1600/053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9dwt540xBI/AAAAAAAAAIo/aRqOy2i61os/s320/053.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Here is a free, quick and easy project to use up old newspapers and recycle them into pots that can be used to germinate seeds, strike cuttings, or to pot up seedlings. They'll reduce your garden start up costs and the best part is that they can be planted straight into the garden, meaning no root disturbance for the plant. The plants roots will grow through the paper and they will eventually rot away or be eaten by worms. If you use a thicker paper, just tear away and compost the paper before planting.<br />
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There are special kits being marketed to make pots like these, but they are absolutely unnecessary. Just use materials you already have on hand. Generally newspapers these days are printed with soy-based inks so using them for vege and herb seedlings is fine, but it's better to use the black and white sections just to be sure. <br />
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What you'll need: newspaper, a glass or jar, scissors or ruler to tear paper, <a href="http://wannabeahippy.blogspot.com/2010/04/making-compost.html">compost</a> or seed raising mix.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=043.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="295" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/043.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>How to do it:<br />
Fold or tear paper into an oblong and wrap around bottle.<br />
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Leave a few cms of paper overhanging the end of the bottle.<br />
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Fold in the edges underneath the bottle.<br />
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Fold over the top edge to secure the paper in place.<br />
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Fill with compost, and you're ready to go! It's best to keep them in a container to retain moisture and to stabilise the pots.<br />
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Variations: Use old phone books, junk mail, flyers or any paper that is unbleached and non-glossy. If you are uncertain of the inks used, or if it has been chemically bleached, use the paper pots to grow non-edibles to be planted in an ornamental garden. Use glasses, tubes, pipes, cans, jars etc to roll the paper around. Different sized pots are useful for different applications.wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-36565149281511027622010-04-26T19:05:00.000+10:002010-04-26T19:05:51.878+10:00Going Green Expo - Melbourne<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9VVClAGEPI/AAAAAAAAAHw/xjh6IMsEdmk/s1600/going-green-expo-300x218.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9VVClAGEPI/AAAAAAAAAHw/xjh6IMsEdmk/s320/going-green-expo-300x218.png" /></a></div><br />
When: 30th April - 2nd May, 10am-6pm Friday and Saturday, and 10am-5pm Sunday<br />
Where: Melbourne Exhibition Centre at Southbank<br />
How much: $15 ($12 online) for adults, $10 ($8 online) for concession, kids under 18 free.<br />
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Focusing on green solutions, ideas and products to help individuals and businesses reduce their environmental footprint, reduce carbon emissions, reduce the threats of climate change and save money in the process. There will also be competitions, prizes, special expo discounts, and giveaways. Visit the <a href="http://www.goinggreenexpo.com.au/">Going Green Expo</a> for a free Australian Native Plant Guide.<br />
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There will be products, information and demonstrations on:<br />
<ul><li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Argricultural & Permaculture Products & Systems</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Sustainable Design & Consulting Services</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Biodynamic Farming & Produce</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Building Products, Sustainable Homes & Commercial Solutions</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Carbon Audits, Trading & Offset Programs</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Chemical Free Products, </strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Commercial Sustainability Management & Consulting Services</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Commercial Environmental Solutions</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Community Services & Programs</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Domestic & Household Replacement Products & Solutions</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Education, Information & Resource Organisations</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Electrical & Lighting Solutions & Technology </strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Energy Management & Renewable Energy Alternatives to Reduce Greenhouse</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Environmental Conservation </strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Environmental Auditing & Accreditation</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Environmental Management Systems</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Environmental Services, Urban Design & Consulting </strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Environmentally Responsible Food & Beverage Products</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Ethical Investment & Financing</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Fair Trade Products</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Green Gardening</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Government Departments & Planning Authorities</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Information & Communications Technology</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Industry Associations & Community Organisations </strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Media, Marketing & Advertising Service</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Natural or Organic Products & Producers</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Non Toxic Products</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Non For Profit Organisations</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Office Products, Print, Paper & Packaging</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Personal Goods, Clothing & Textiles </strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Plants, Flora & Fauna Consulting Services</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Recycling & Waste Technology</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Recycled Products</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Seminars, Book Launches </strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Solar Products & Services</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Transport Alternatives</strong></li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: normal;">Water Conservation Products, Services & Technology</strong></li>
</ul>wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-14432377289298032862010-04-23T20:09:00.001+10:002010-04-23T20:10:31.186+10:00Herb Awareness Weekend - Brisbane<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9FxrjuZiWI/AAAAAAAAAGw/qqVTjjTHpSY/s1600/content_header.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S9FxrjuZiWI/AAAAAAAAAGw/qqVTjjTHpSY/s320/content_header.gif" /></a></div><br />
The <a href="http://www.qldherbsociety.org.au/">Queensland Herb Society</a> will be holding its annual Herb Awareness Weekend at Mt Coot-Tha Botanic Gardens on 8th - 9th May from 9am - 4pm.<br />
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You can expect:<br />
<ul><li>Information on a large range of medicinal and culinary herbs.</li>
<li> Large variety of stalls featuring preserves, coffee, teas, spices, skincare, bush foods, and plants for sale.</li>
<li> Café Sage will be open, serving home baked herb inspired food and beverages.</li>
<li> Colin Campbell will be a guest speaker and signing copies of his book on Saturday morning.</li>
<li> Free demonstrations and talks on herbal medicine, workshops on growing your own herbs, cooking with herbs, demonstrations and gardening tips.</li>
</ul>Tickets are $4 for adults and $3 for concession card holders. Maps and directions are available <a href="http://maps.google.com.au/maps/place?cid=9502175542464267981&q=mt+cootha+botanic+gardens&gl=au&cd=1&cad=src:pplink&ei=sm_RS-vsGJ-IiAP0i7HOBA">here</a>.wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-22474574600282220812010-04-21T09:42:00.002+10:002010-04-25T08:27:47.722+10:00Fryer Oil Soap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S847j7hv7mI/AAAAAAAAAFo/MYN-o8YznYk/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S847j7hv7mI/AAAAAAAAAFo/MYN-o8YznYk/s400/009.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
As if frying food in F A T isn't shameful enough, after a few uses you're left more than a couple of dollars out of pocket and with litres and litres of oil to dispose of. Oil being one of the worst pollutants of land and water - one litre of oil will contaminate over <i>one million</i> litres of water - it's essential to dispose of it properly, or to recycle it into something useful again. So what about soap? That uses oil, but - does anyone really want to 'wash' themselves with fish and chip fragrance? Hmm.<br />
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So I tried it out as an experiment, and reasoned that if it smelled strange, it could become an 'outside' soap to wash off greasy boy hands and muddy child feet. Well knock me down, there is no aroma reminiscent of a dodgy fish & chip shop, and the lemon essential oil held it's scent really well. <br />
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The oil I use for frying is a canola blend, so I added some coconut oil (copha) to harden the soap. I filtered the oil through a couple of layers of paper towel. The 'water' component was made with a lemongrass tea, and the lemongrass added back into the soap at the end as an exfoliant. I used organic lemon essential oil at a 3% concentration.<br />
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So if you're a fellow fat fryer and would like to give it a go - here is the recipe!<br />
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<i>Lemony Lemongrass Soap</i><br />
2900g canola oil<br />
750g copha<br />
500g caustic soda (sodium hydroxide)<br />
1000g water (or tea)<br />
100g lemon essential oil<br />
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The instructions for making the soap are in this <a href="http://wannabeahippy.blogspot.com/2008/08/first-time-making-soap.html">soap tutorial</a>. The water/tea in this recipe takes the place of the milk. For information on caustic soda/sodium hydroxide/lye check out the post on it <a href="http://wannabeahippy.blogspot.com/2008/08/low-down-on-lye.html">here</a>. Happy soaping!wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-89357305198657137122010-04-18T08:54:00.002+10:002010-04-18T08:58:06.173+10:00What to Plant: April<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S8o7x8DD4oI/AAAAAAAAAFY/KmfYQpO7mLE/s1600/autumn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S8o7x8DD4oI/AAAAAAAAAFY/KmfYQpO7mLE/s320/autumn.jpg" /></a></div>Planting reminders for April are now up on <a href="http://www.gardenate.com/">Gardenate</a>. Just choose your climate zone from the drop down list for a table of plants good to be sown now, and what to get prepared for May. You can also sign up for reminders to be emailed to you every month to keep your kitchen garden growing year round.<br />
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Autumn is also the time to grow flowering plants to attract insects that will prey on aphids, grubs, spider mites and scale and assist with pollination. Try using edible plants such as calendula, nasturtium, dill, coriander, basil, parsley, chives, sage, lemon balm and viola for dual purpose growing.<br />
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Prune back dead and diseased wood to promote lush new growth. Be carefuel to never prune back more than about 1/3 of the total plant size.<br />
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Plant growth is starting to slow down now that the weather is cooling off but the roots will still be growing in the warm soil so it's time to feed plants and lawn with an organic fertiliser to build up strength over winter.<br />
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Clumping plants can be divided and replanted, sickly plants can be transplanted or composted (make sure they're aren't diseased) and messy areas tidied up.<br />
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Take advantage of the cooler weather and the long weekends to make this year your best gardening year yet!wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-45939306379878762812010-04-15T17:26:00.008+10:002010-04-15T21:24:35.073+10:00Herb of the Month: Parsley<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S8b3J3uU62I/AAAAAAAAAFI/h6sOdqxChss/s1600/IMG_0449.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S8b3J3uU62I/AAAAAAAAAFI/h6sOdqxChss/s320/IMG_0449.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460323347182447458" border="0" /></a><br />The two main varieties of parsley (continental flat leaf and curly) are widely used in the culinary world. What would a seafood buffet or the butcher shop window be without sprigs of parsley scattered everywhere? The plant will generally live for two years, although the second year is mainly concentrated on flowering and seed production. Leaving a few of the flower heads go to seed will mean a self-perpetuating parsley garden, and no more buying seeds annually! Parsley is perfect to use as a garden border or planting in pots for your organic <a href="http://wannabeahippy.blogspot.com/2010/04/small-spaces-container-herb-gardens.html">container herb garden</a>. Don't bother with dried parsley or the dead and dying bunches from the supermarket - in a few weeks you'll have your own fresh parsley to pick as you need.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Sowing:</span> Sow thickly direct in garden, or several seeds in each cell of a seedling tray. Plant from mid-Spring to early Autumn in rich, freely draining soil in a warm sunny place.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Germination:</span> Can be sporadic and slow (up to 3 or 4 weeks), but watering in gently with boiling water or soaking seeds overnight before sowing ensures faster and more consistent results. Covering with a thin layer (about 1cm) of very fine organic seed raising mix will also help new plants push through to the surface. Keep soil moist but not wet - a seed raising container with a clear lid is great for holding moisture and warmth.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Growing:</span> When seedlings are well established, thin out, leaving only the strongest plants 10-20cm apart. Water well with an organic seaweed solution or compost tea to promote strong root growth and minimise stress on remaining plants. Top dress with organic <a href="http://wannabeahippy.blogspot.com/2010/04/making-compost.html">compost</a> and mulch.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Harvesting:</span> Nip out selected leaves with fingers or sharp scissors, being careful not to disturb the roots. The best part is the more you pick, the denser the plants will become.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Uses:</span> Most commonly seen scattered haphazardly over food as a garnish, parsley is useful for so much more. Use in sauces, salads, stews, egg dishes, tomato dishes, herb crumbs for meat, risottos etc etc. Chewing on a sprig of parsley will freshen breath and remove heavy odours like garlic and curry. It is known to be a diuretic, an anti-cancer agent and for aiding kidney and heart function. It is high in potassium, vitamin c and available calcium.<br /><br />The best time to sow parsley throughout most of Australia is now, so grab some seeds at the store, or order online and get planting!wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-44385939836740306582010-04-07T11:57:00.011+10:002010-04-07T15:27:11.589+10:00Small Spaces: Container Herb Gardens<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S7wVRe1gXpI/AAAAAAAAAEE/FAfXX_LHwiE/s1600/imgzoom-Herb-garden-Royal-VKB-refvt830-dgw.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 282px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S7wVRe1gXpI/AAAAAAAAAEE/FAfXX_LHwiE/s320/imgzoom-Herb-garden-Royal-VKB-refvt830-dgw.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457260238545641106" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Officeoriginair for Royal VKB<br /></span></div><br />Starting a container garden is an ideal way to maximise growing space in a small backyard or balcony. Even if you can only fit in a few herbs, you'll avoid being subjected to buying the prepackaged bunches of lifeless slops at the supermarket. And it's SO easy! You just buy the plants, buy the pot, buy some potting mix, plant the herbs, water them in. Done! Anyone can do it! Instant gratification at it's peak.<br /><br />Buuuut, if you would like your herbs to survive, and you even have the audacity to expect them to thrive, read on. There's a whole lot more to guaranteeing the survival of your newest edible garden members.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/?action=view&current=IMG_0448.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 328px; height: 300px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/IMG_0448.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Your personal situation</span>: If you travel a lot, or are lacking in the memory department (aren't we all?), or any other reason why your plant might be neglected of water and attention, you might be better off choosing either a self watering pot, a really B I G pot, or a herb that will thrive on neglect like Rosemary.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Location</span>: Choose where you would like to have your pot, and choose plants accordingly. If you have a dark, cool spot, then you'll be quickly met with disappointment if you planted something like basil. If you're looking to fill a large container, make sure all the plants you choose share the same interests, lest they get bored with each other and jump ship. You wouldn't want the rosemary drowning while the mint's lusting for more liquids.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Watering</span>: Again, you need to be aware of the individual plants you're growing. On the most part, herbs don't like to be sitting in wet soil. Plants like parsley will rot off at the base in no time at all. You'll see the leaves yellowing, leaves dropping and some erectile dysfunction. And that's sad for everyone. At the same time, as we all know, dry soil is a killer for the non-hardy herbs.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Feeding:</span> If you expect to be feeding from your plants, you'll need to feed them too. Potting mixes are mostly horrible like that. Mixing an organic slow release fertiliser and some well rotted <a href="http://wannabeahippy.blogspot.com/2010/04/making-compost.html">compost</a> in with the potting mix is a good start. Container gardens also lose a lot of nutrients because of watering - all the goodies end up spilling out onto the ground. Regular watering with a liquid fertiliser or <a href="http://wannabeahippy.blogspot.com/2008/08/making-worm-farm.html">worm 'tea'</a> will keep them going.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Design</span>: The fun part! Mess around with textures, colours and height. Groups of three, five, seven etc are more attractive to the eye. Try variegated and coloured varieties or edible flowers like nasturtiums. Think about the herbs you actually use the most, and some new ones to experiment with. If they'll be near a doorway, try ones that will smell yummy when it's brushed against. Chocolate mint comes to mind...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/?action=view&current=IMG_0450.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 365px; height: 271px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/IMG_0450.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/?action=view&current=IMG_0451.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 365px; height: 266px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/IMG_0451.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/?action=view&current=IMG_0449.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 365px; height: 273px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/IMG_0449.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div>wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-49848911293599853512010-04-06T11:07:00.009+10:002010-04-06T20:17:09.403+10:00Making Compost<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S7qcb3kXtgI/AAAAAAAAADw/alaPSj-m41c/s1600/composting.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 208px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S7qcb3kXtgI/AAAAAAAAADw/alaPSj-m41c/s320/composting.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456845901099677186" border="0" /></a><br />What gardener doesn't understand the feeling of satisfaction when topping up the garden beds, or planting new seeds into moist, dark compost. What used to be household or garden waste ordinarily destined for landfill, is now the life force of an organic garden. What was once alive, is now enabling life to continue on.<br /><br />Compost doesn't take up much space, and can look tidy even in a small backyard. There are several methods for making compost including commercially made tumbling compost bins, stand alone bins, open compost heaps directly on the ground or even in the form of a <a href="http://wannabeahippy.blogspot.com/2008/08/making-worm-farm.html">worm farm.</a> Many councils will sell compost bins and worm farms at reduced rates to encourage home recycling, so it is worthwhile checking with them before purchasing a bin.<br /><br />This is a 200L compost bin made by Tumbleweed. It's neat and tidy, compact, and made in Australia from 100% recycled plastic.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/?action=view&current=200L_big.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/WBH/200L_big.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />If your space is too tiny to house any of these methods, it's worth checking with your local council or tip to see if they provide a green waste composting service. Many will take in green waste free of charge, then for a small fee will let you take away as much as you like to use in your garden or pot plants.<br /><br />If you are able to make your own compost, you have the advantage of knowing everything that went into it.<span style="font-style: italic;"> Ideal ingredients</span> include kitchen scraps, paper, cardboard, grass clippings, prunings, shredded garden waste, animal manures, tea bags, coffee grounds, wood ash, even hair and dust from the vacuum cleaner. Basically if it used to be living, it will make great compost.<span style="font-style: italic;"> Ingredients to avoid</span> are meats, cooked foods, glossy paper, dog/cat poo, and any plant material that was diseased or weeds likely to grow and spread again eg couch grass.<br /><br />All you need to do is create layers in the heap, alternating dry/brown materials (carbon) with green/wet (nitrogen), make sure it can be aerated by tumbling or turning with a fork, remains moist but not wet, and allow it some time to work its magic.<br /><br />Wannabeahippy has been amazingly slack in setting up the compost, but is finally in the process of setting it up as we speak! Photos and step by step tutorial coming very soon!wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-85502227176976266882010-04-04T14:33:00.009+10:002010-04-06T13:59:16.509+10:00Relocalisation - Thinking Globally, Acting Locally<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S7hLFjUfjzI/AAAAAAAAADo/hUMUvMuV-YE/s1600/earth-day.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 262px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S7hLFjUfjzI/AAAAAAAAADo/hUMUvMuV-YE/s320/earth-day.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456193507311980338" border="0" /></a><br />What <span style="font-style: italic;">is</span> "relocalisation"? Basically, relocalisation is a strategy being used to build communities that rely predominantly on local food, renewable energy, transport etc and revolves around sustainable, self-sufficient practices. By using local knowledge, expertise and experience, communities are able to strengthen the local economy, build community resilience to issues such as peak oil and oil price spikes, reduce the effects of climate change, and increase security in energy and food supply.<br /><br />As our demand for cheap oil continues to increase and oil production supply peaks and declines, it is obvious that there will be shortages and drastic price spikes at best. Needless to say, prices on all of our oil-based products, which are more widespread than most people realise, will increase substantially. Think fuel, diesel, LPG, polyester, antihistamines, synthetic clothing, dentures, shampoo, aspirin, synthetic fertilisers, lipstick, detergents, paint, refrigerants, your computer, even food additives and preservatives. Can you really see yourself just popping down to the shops for some milk when fuel is at $9/l?<br /><br />Needless to say, we're going to have to get used to living without such a heavy reliance on oil. How smoothly the transition process evolves is completely up to us. By relocalising, we will be killing two birds with one stone, so to speak. All of our basic everyday needs can be secured within the local community, reducing reliance on oil and at the same time, significantly reducing our carbon emissions. Peak oil and climate changed are addressed at the same time.<br /><br />There have been a number of working models implemented across the world to address both climate change and peak oil. The <a href="http://www.transitionnetwork.org/">Transition Network</a> has been developing step by step transition iniatives for groups to implement in their own communities, which include education and training, help with handling opposition, connections with other Transition Towns, and practical projects.<br /><br />There is so much we can all do, and you can be involved as little or as much as you like. Do you want to be a part of the group spearheading this movement? To get involved or to see if there is a Transition Town near you, jump over to their website <a href="http://www.transitionnetwork.org/initiatives">here</a>. We hope to see you there.wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-48547843897402311672010-04-02T22:22:00.003+10:002010-04-02T22:53:43.447+10:00Blog AnnouncementOver the next few weeks there will be some changes in content on wannabeahippy. We'll be focusing more so on frugal, sustainable and practical ideas and information to simplify our lives and reduce our reliance on oil-based energies. I'll include information on the local Transition Town initiative, relocalisation and build a bank of resources and links.<br /><br />Food related posts will now be posted on a new sister site at <a href="http://wannabeafoody.blogspot.com/">wannabeafoody</a>. All the food posts have been copied and all new recipes and tutorials will be found there from this point on. We'll be looking at ways to reduce the purchase of over-priced, over-packaged, over-processed junk foods, and looking at simple, cheap and healthy ways to feed the family on any budget. The aim of this site will be to build a basic set of skills, gain a repertoire, and basically to get people back in the kitchen.<br /><br />So pop over and have a look, let us know what you think and stay tuned!<br />Ewannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-8656883663973648572010-03-31T15:12:00.005+10:002010-04-07T15:38:23.582+10:00The 10 Little Red Rescue Hens<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S7LaUADTbwI/AAAAAAAAADE/PzhX-PYo_OU/s1600/1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S7LaUADTbwI/AAAAAAAAADE/PzhX-PYo_OU/s320/1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454662135845187330" border="0" /></a><br />They've arrived! On the 20th of March, I drove up to the Northside of Brisbane to pick up the little <a href="http://www.aact.org.au/battery_hens.htm">battery</a> girls. They are in infinitely better condition than most of their fellow inamtes and have adapted to their new life in record time. After the 1 hour drive to their home among the treetops, they were removed from their respective boxes - 10 chickens, 3 eggs total. These little girls couldn't stop laying if they tried - years of intensive breeding programs coupled with super high protein feed, climate controlled sheds and artificial lighting programs guarantee thousands upon thousands of financially cheap eggs.<br /><br />The first glimpse of their surroundings must have been mind boggling. They had never seen dirt, grass, trees, the sky, sunshine, other animals or open spaces. A few were struggling to take their first steps, and quickly tired with the exertion - but continued laying eggs. After a few days their strength and personalities were shining through.<br /><br />11 days on and we have some crazy girls! Sunbathing and scratching were the first instincts to be ignited, and they are mighty proficient at both now. The nomadic bush turkeys that wander through the yard are now escorted out with much cackling, speed and excitement. By around 6am each morning they are lined up at the gate, complaining loudly and donning their most pathetic facial expressions because they haven't been let out to free range in the yard.<br /><br />If you are able to re-home some of these little sweeties, (and it is sooo worth it, even for your own sense of goodwill) please visit the <a href="http://homesforhens.net/index.html">Battery Hen Adoption Program</a> website. If you aren't able to keep some chooks of your own, you can still help their cause by choosing free range eggs and meat. Supporting our free range farmers is essential in keeping hens out of tiny cages. And guess what? Eggs are on the list of things I don't have to buy!wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-26596435149104828862010-03-03T16:46:00.006+10:002010-03-03T20:31:10.479+10:00Returning after an extended hiatus!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S44KKQFtKDI/AAAAAAAAACk/xNNJMzswABs/s1600-h/24706_353364128791_600933791_4835319_6193375_n.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/S44KKQFtKDI/AAAAAAAAACk/xNNJMzswABs/s320/24706_353364128791_600933791_4835319_6193375_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444300170771376178" border="0" /></a><br />Hi everyone (those of you who are still with me!), firstly I'd like to apologise for being so damned slack in the last year (I'd like to pretend it hasn't been that long) and not posting a single thing. Secondly, after having a personal break to get some perspective back in life, I'm ready to get back into this thing and get crackin'!<br /><br />News from the last year: the wannabe hippy has moved on up (literally) in this world is now living amongst the mists and rainforests of Mt Tamborine in the Gold Coast Hinterland. "The green behind the gold" is blessed with rich volcanic soil, high rainfall levels, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4874902&l=0941cc3264&id=600933791">earthworms the size of snakes</a> and an extended growing season due to the mild climate.<br /><br />The community is very tight knit with a strong focus on relocalisation and conservation of the surrounding environment. Mt Tamborine has just become an official Transition Town and you can read more about that on their very own website <a href="http://transitiontowns.org/TamborineMountain-QLD/AboutTamborineMtn">here</a>.<br /><br />The vege gardens are still in the process of being built, although I am lucky enough to have a herb garden (more of a jungle), a "Thai/Indian" garden with ginger, turmeric, curry tree and a few asparagus and comfrey plants thrown in for good measure.<br /><br />The much anticipated 'rescue hens' will be arriving on the 20th of this month. The poor little battery girls are whisked away from death row by a lovely group of people, to be rehomed to live out the rest of their days in luxury. I can't wait to meet them and start a mini photo blog of their progress.<br /><br />That's about all for now, I hope everyone has had a safe and happy year and I look forward to reconnecting with you all again.wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-63958146270750336462008-09-09T07:45:00.012+10:002010-04-06T13:56:58.708+10:00My Favorite Kitchen ToolsThought I would show off some of my favorite kitchen tools. They make cooking so much easier and more enjoyable. None of them are electric so you can use them anywhere, even camping!!<br /><br />First up, <span style="font-weight: bold;">mortar & pestle</span>. Nothing you can't smash up in the mortar. You can make marinades, herb blends, flavoured salts, infused sugars, crush biscuits, crack nuts etc etc. My favorite thing to do is make rubs for meat. Slurp in some good olive oil, sea salt and any herbs or spices you like. I usually use rosemary, garlic and parsley for flavoring. Rub it over a roast, chops, cutlets, steak etc. Mine is made from granite which I prefer, but you can also get wooden, glass, marble and ceramic variations. Definitely an essential tool!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SMWg2dx4-TI/AAAAAAAAABU/52EjklGctVQ/s1600-h/007+%282%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 197px; height: 260px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SMWg2dx4-TI/AAAAAAAAABU/52EjklGctVQ/s320/007+%282%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243774198710073650" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Microplane</span>. Pretty expensive for what it is (a glorified grater) but it's super super sharp and makes grating and zesting really easy. You can get all different types and styles for fine grating, coarse grating, ribbon grating and spice grating. I use mine mostly for zesting and grating parmesan.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Whisk</span>. Arguably the most popular tool in a french kitchen. They use it to do almost everything - not just whipping, but folding, blending and stirring. Mine is a french whisk, but you can also get a balloon whisk, flat whisk or a ball whisk. I use it mostly for beating eggs for scrambled eggs or pancakes - I dont have the patience to use it for whipping egg whites or cream.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SMWkuZa4kfI/AAAAAAAAABc/-IOXKhz4Psc/s1600-h/003+%285%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SMWkuZa4kfI/AAAAAAAAABc/-IOXKhz4Psc/s320/003+%285%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243778458147394034" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mincer. </span>Picked up this old dear from eBay. Its cast iron so it weighs a tonne, and is really old. Its called a Pope Major. Not sure what that means but it's the best for mincing meat (obviously) and I use it to make large batches of pasta sauce. It minces the tomatos, onion and garlic up all together. No chopping or pureeing needed! It also came with a biscuit press attachment which I haven't used yet but looks fun. It forces the biscuit dough through a patterned plate to make different shaped biscuits.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Pasta Maker</span>. One of my best mates bought me a pasta maker last month. Not just any pasta maker - the Marcato Mulitpast Wellness. It came with all the attachments for making spaghetti, fettucine, lasagne, reginette, tagliolini, pappardelle and even a specialised ravioli attachment which fill and cuts at the same time. Nothing better than tucking into freshly made pasta. We use eggs from our own chickens too so we know it's made with organic free range eggs. Here is a picture of the beauty:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SMWoitIi9BI/AAAAAAAAABk/XJ09G6OU55U/s1600-h/002+%286%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SMWoitIi9BI/AAAAAAAAABk/XJ09G6OU55U/s320/002+%286%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243782655327269906" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Knives!!!!!</span> Anyone who is reading this and knows me will know I have a "thing" for knives. Nothing better than a good sharp knife. Really sharp. Chop your finger off sharp. If it's sharp it will cut your food prep time in half, is much safer and give way better results. You don't need heaps of knives, a few good quality ones will do. A large chefs knife - 10-12" and paring knife 4-5" will get you through most jobs. A filleting and a serrated edge blade are handy too.<br /><br />There are heaps of good brands out there, which will give you a good result. Mine are Mundial and are close to 10 years old now and I wouldn't swap them for the world. The most important thing to test out is how it feels in your hand. If it feels balanced while you are chopping you wont tire out using it for long periods of time. A stone is essential to hone the edge first - I get our butcher to do this for me. Then before you use the knife, hit it with the steel to straighten the edge. Get a good steel and learn to use it properly. Doing this, the knife should keep the edge for a pretty long time, depending on which type of knife you choose.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SMWv_ym4c7I/AAAAAAAAABs/rPhUvdo3U1M/s1600-h/100_0104.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SMWv_ym4c7I/AAAAAAAAABs/rPhUvdo3U1M/s320/100_0104.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243790851594286002" border="0" /></a><br />With all of these tools, I don't think there would be much you couldn't do. Always buy the best quality you can affort and you'll have them for life. :-)wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-91157912302664690802008-09-03T11:18:00.012+10:002010-04-06T14:01:25.788+10:00Timber BenchtopsUsing timber was about my last choice for the kitchen benchtops. We had a quote for some nice black granite, but the company went bust and we couldn't find another quote even close to the same price. Next in line was a stone composite, almost as expensive as the real thing, then laminate...ew. DH gently suggested timber and of course I objected - until he said he could make it out of recycled timber, and it would cost us nothing. Sounded pretty good then. So this is what we started with - hardwood timber pallets that were used to deliver steel.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=003-3.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 404px; height: 539px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/003-3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />As you could imagine, they were rough as guts and all different lengths and thicknesses. DH cut them roughly to length, and hit them with the electric plane to even them out. He had to hold them all together to make the bench so using a modified drill bit (welded onto some steel rod to make it long enough) he drilled through all of the lengthes and 'screwed' it together with some threaded rod. In between the timber there is wood glue as well.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=002-3.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 415px; height: 311px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/002-3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Then, more hits with the plane, to get it even thickness and then with the sander to get it smooth. We had to fill in some knot holes with wood putty, then sand that again. We started with 60 grit sandpaper, working our way to the finer paper, finishing with 400grit (really fine, almost feels like plain paper). After doing that, the timber felt like velvet.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=001-3.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 432px; height: 324px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/001-3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=004-3.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 434px; height: 325px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/004-3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The sink hole, and another hole for the bin were cut out and then we did a trial fitting session. Looking good!<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=005-4.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 432px; height: 324px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/005-4.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=004-4.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 434px; height: 325px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/004-4.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />To finish the bench we had to find something to seal and protect the timber. Lacquer wasn't an option, it has harsh chemicals and chips, so we weren't about to put that anywhere near a food prep area. We found an organic oil, made in Byron Bay that claims to be food grade and suited for benchtops and chopping boards. It was about $10 for the can and I dont think we even used half of it. It's a mixture of oils including tung and citrus oils.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=001-4.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 432px; height: 576px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/001-4.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />It smells so nice on the timber, and brought the colours out really well. It has cured over the last few days and has sealed the timber really well.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=007-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 433px; height: 310px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/007-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=008-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 434px; height: 325px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/008-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=011-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 434px; height: 325px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/011-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=001-8.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 437px; height: 328px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/001-8.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />So there it is, finally in there and fixed down. The lid for the bin - at the far end - needs to be fitted and then the tiles on the splashback can go in. The kitchen is taking shape now. YAYYY<br /><br />----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />After DH finished work last night, he ripped out the last of the old tiles and glued down the new ones. Tonight they can be grouted and finished off properly.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=002-7.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 434px; height: 325px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/002-7.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=001-10.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 431px; height: 341px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/001-10.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a>wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-81396385793452068352008-08-30T20:19:00.013+10:002010-04-07T15:42:18.001+10:00Making a Worm FarmA little while ago we decided that a worm farm would be a good addition to our garden. We looked at the Can O Worms, the Reln Worm Factory and countless plans for farms made from polystyrene boxes, bath tubs etc etc. So we made our own take on all the plans and built our first worm farm today.<br /><br />We started with 3 black plastic tubs, a plastic tap and some fly screen. DH made a frame out of scrap pieces of stainless RHS so the tubs can sit up off the ground and the liquid can drain into another container. Total cost to us was around $30 plus worms.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=001-6.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 446px; height: 334px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/001-6.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Firstly we had to drill holes in 2 of the tubs. This is for drainage of the 'worm wee' and so the worms can move freely between the levels. The base tub is solid and has the tap installed in the bottom. Because these tubs stack on top of each other fairly closely, DH made up some little brackets so they would sit up higher (about 150mm).<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=006-3.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 439px; height: 329px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/006-3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />In the base tub we put in the tap so we can empty out the liquid that drains down through the farm.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=008-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 434px; height: 325px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/008-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The middle tub has fly screen taped down over the holes so the worms don't fall down into the liquid. The worms will move between the middle and top levels searching for food. This is the middle tub.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=017-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 436px; height: 327px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/017-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The top tub just has the holes in the bottom, so they can move up and down between the top and middle tubs.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=015-3.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 440px; height: 330px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/015-3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />With all of that done, we can start adding the bedding for the worms. We used 2 bricks of coco peat which expand to around 9litres when rehydrated and some damp potting mix. The middle tub was filled up to the bracket where the bottom of the top tray sits. This will be the worms main bedding layer. The top tub has a small amount of coco peat and potting mix and about 6 layers of wet newspaper on top. The worm food will be put under the newspaper, which keeps flies and light out, and the moisture in.<br /><br />So here is the finished product!! The fancy frame that DH made, the solid tub with tap in the bottom, the middle bedding layer filled with coco peat, potting mix and worms, and the top feeding layer with a small amount of coco peat and potting mix, and damp newspaper on top.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=014-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/014-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a>wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-54754798129053500742008-08-25T11:36:00.007+10:002010-04-07T15:50:45.940+10:00Other Homemade Cleaning Products<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SLIVo1iqd_I/AAAAAAAAAA0/blBmu8cd_cc/s1600-h/50531936.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 170px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SLIVo1iqd_I/AAAAAAAAAA0/blBmu8cd_cc/s320/50531936.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238273107896727538" border="0" /></a><br />Here are some more general cleaning products that we use here instead of commercial chemical cleaners. Using a combination of these, we don't ever have to purchase cleaning products from the supermarket. Yay!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Liquid Soap<br /></span>Bar of homemade or pure soap<br />Water<br /><br />Cover the bar of soap in enough water to cover it, and leave overnight to dissolve. When it is soft and slimy, add enough water to make a consistency like pouring cream. This can be used for almost anything. Use a small amount for cleaning benches, floors and as a hand wash.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Creamy Cleanser</span><br />Bi-carb Soda<br />1 cup Liquid soap or sulfate free detergent<br /><br />Mix enough soda into the soap to form a creamy paste. This is the best for scrubbing showers, tiles, benches and sinks.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Window Cleaner<br /></span>1/4 cup vinegar<br />1 Tb liquid soap<br />2 cups water<br /><br />Shake together in a spray bottle and spray all over the glass. Wipe off with a clean rag, or newspaper.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">All Purpose Cleaner<br /></span>1/4 cup liquid soap<br />2 cups water<br />8 drops essential oil<br /><br />Shake up in a spray bottle and use as you would any commercial spray cleaner. The best for in the kitchen, benchtops, stove top etc.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-56011838529556513702008-08-25T11:12:00.009+10:002010-04-07T15:47:28.719+10:00Homemade Dishwashing Detergent<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SLILvuwrcXI/AAAAAAAAAAs/j4NUjIDm_m8/s1600-h/seoc.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SLILvuwrcXI/AAAAAAAAAAs/j4NUjIDm_m8/s320/seoc.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5238262231219270002" border="0" /></a><br />The last thing for us to strike of the chemical list was the powder and rinse aid for the dishwasher. I think this one will have the biggest affect on our health. Now none of our cooking or eating utensils are getting drowned in poisons. Ick!! Here 'tis:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dishwashing Detergent<br /></span>1 cup washing soda<br />1 cup bi-carb soda<br />1/4 cup salt<br />1/4 cup citric acid<br />20 drops lemon essential oil<br /><br />Mix it all up and shake it really well. It tends to clump up but if you shake it each time you use it it's fine. I also use a tiny amount of a natural gel from the Sydney Essential Oil Co. They have a massive range of bases for soaps, detergents, hand creams, body butters etc and are all sulfate-free. Check out their website at <a href="http://www.seoc.com.au/">SEOC</a>.<br /><br />Vinegar can be used as a rinse aid to fill up the dispenser. That will make sure your glasses aren't cloudy looking. Good luck!<br /><br />Image from seoc.com.au<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-43031534803569370272008-08-21T12:45:00.010+10:002010-04-07T15:53:48.752+10:00Homemade Washing Powder & Softener<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SKzW8qgp-wI/AAAAAAAAAAM/KpiWgdYd-L4/s1600-h/50531936.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SKzW8qgp-wI/AAAAAAAAAAM/KpiWgdYd-L4/s320/50531936.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236796804416797442" border="0" /></a><br />Another thing I wanted to change at our place was the use of harsh cleaning chemicals. Most products contain chemicals that cause a heap of problems for the environment and for people with allergies or chemical sensitivity. Even the majority of homemade laundry detergent recipes contained Borax (sodium borate) which is a natural element, but has been banned in the US as a food additive and can be especially harmful to infants respiratory and reproductive systems.<br /><br />So, after a bit of trial and error, this is the final recipe that works the best for our laundry. It is basically equal parts soap and washing soda. You can either grate pure soap, handmade is best, otherwise a pure laundry soap, with no fragrance will be fine. Sunlight soap is the most common brand.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SKzoKLZ4DyI/AAAAAAAAAAU/JNEnf52N2dY/s1600-h/50531936.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SKzoKLZ4DyI/AAAAAAAAAAU/JNEnf52N2dY/s320/50531936.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236815728282701602" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Homemade Laundry Powder<br /></span>6 bars Sunlight Soap<br />1kg Lectric washing soda<br />2 bars Sard wonder soap<br /><br />Grate up or chop in a processor all the soap and mix it up in a large container with the washing soda. That's it! It's easy, quick, cheap and works really well. Use about one quarter of a scoop, or around 2-3 tablespoons depending on how dirty the clothes are.<br /><br />The Sard helps to get stains out, and the washing soda is a water softener and helps to break down grease. The washing soda can be bought in crystal or powdered form. You'll need the powdered one. The is the one I have:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SKzry9qIymI/AAAAAAAAAAc/xEPYmgoXKxQ/s1600-h/lectric-washing-soda.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 137px; height: 196px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_I5-r0iVxL2E/SKzry9qIymI/AAAAAAAAAAc/xEPYmgoXKxQ/s320/lectric-washing-soda.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236819727502330466" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Homemade Fabric Softener</span><br />1/8 cup white vinegar<br />2 drops lavender essential oil<br /><br />Add to the softener dispenser in your washing machine, or pour in just before the rinse cycle. The vinegar helps to remove any remaining soap, eliminates odours and makes towels super fluffy. The lavender is obviously for fragrance, and you could try other oils like Eucalyptus, Lemon Myrtle, Tea Tree etc etc.<br /><br />Aside from the environmental benefits, the financial savings are huge. At current prices, using Omo works out at about 38c per wash. Using the homemade powder its down to 6c per wash. The softener is around 6c as well.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-57514160174993240392008-08-20T15:26:00.006+10:002010-04-07T15:45:19.077+10:00The low-down on lyeSoap gets it's name from the latin word 'sapo' meaning soap making or saponification. This is the chemical reaction caused my mixing a fat with a strong alkali, either potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide (caustic soda). This is the one I got:<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=50531936-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/50531936-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The fats used in soap are chosen based on their individual characteristics. ie sweet almond for moisturising and lather, calendula oil for healing and soothing, coconut oil for lather and hardening the soap etc.<br /><br />A list of oils and their properties is <a href="http://www.jsoule-webdesign.com/soapcalc/oils.htm">here.</a><br /><br />The lye is highly alkaline and can cause severe burns if you get it on your skin. You need to wear gloves and work in a well ventilated area to avoid the fumes. The good thing is that there is no lye in the end product. The lye and the fat counteract each other when in the correct proportions, leaving nothing but pure glycerin soap. Most store bought soap has had the glycerin removed, to be sold as a seperate product. Handmade soap still contains all the natural moisturising glycerin.<br /><br />When you mix the fat/lye mixture together, it will come to a stage called 'trace'. This is when the lye has done most of its work with the fat and the mixture thickens up to about the consistency of cake batter. At this point it is possible to add some extra oils that will not be canceled out by the lye (called superfatting), fragrances, exfoliants etc. You can use essential oils, salt, sugar, clay, flowers, herbs, food dye, moisturising oils like jojoba, sweet almond or grapeseed, honey, coffee, oatmeal etc etc.<br /><br />The moulds you use dont need to be anything spectacular - empty containers, biscuit or muffin trays, chocolate moulds etc. The soap will have to stay in the moulds for a day or so to harden up a little bit. If you have trouble getting the soap out of the moulds, chuck it in the freezer for an hour or two to shrink the soap. It should all just fall out when you invert it. If you used a large tray or container you can cut the soap into bars with a sharp knife or you can use some fine wire or fishing line.<br /><br />Then comes the hard part. You have to leave it for weeks and weeks to cure. After the first two weeks the saponification process is completed. After that, it's just a case of letting it dry out. The longer you can leave it, the harder it will get, the longer it will last, the milder it will get and you will get a richer lather. Around 6-9 weeks is normal. You could use it after the 2 weeks but you will have a really soft bar and could end up with a sloppy mess in the shower.wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4939193726348204258.post-10995930362466124792008-08-20T13:07:00.004+10:002010-04-07T15:55:15.090+10:00First Time Making Soap!!<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=50531936.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 243px; height: 365px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/50531936.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></span>So after reading about making soap on a few different sites, finally decided to give it a whirl. All as part of my 'buy as little as possible/make as much as I can' mission. Here we go!<br /><br />I used the the soap calculator found <a href="http://www.soapcalc.com/calc/SoapCalc.asp">here</a> to get the correct amount of fat/water/lye. It's a pretty touchy recipe so you need to use the calculator to get the quantities right. Lye is soap language for caustic soda. You get it at the supermarket near the Draino.<br /><br />I wanted to use Olive Oil and Rice Bran Oil, because these are what I had and I read that they were great for the skin. Honey and milk were also other things I wanted to use. This is the recipe I tweaked around with on the calculator.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ellice's Milk, Honey & Oat Soap</span> (no it's not edible!)<br /><br />800g Olive Oil<br />200g Rice Bran Oil<br />430g Milk<br />128g Caustic Soda<br />4 tbs Honey<br />3 handfuls Quick Cooking Oats<br /><br />First you have to semi-freeze the milk because when you put the lye in, it heats up and can boil if its not already really cold. Once it looks like a milk slushy, you carefully, slowly pour in the lye granules. Stir it up until it dissolves. It will heat up, most likely curdle and look like this:<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=002-4.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 399px; height: 300px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/002-4.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Measure out the oils into a large saucepan and pour in the lye/milk mix. Hit it with a stick blender until it reaches trace. (Trace is when it thickens up and looks like custard).<br /><br />At this point you can add colourings, fragrances and textures. So stir in the honey and oats until its all combined. Now you can pour it into the moulds. I used a plastic tray and some old shallow muffin trays that I don't use anymore. And this is what it looks like now:<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=011-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 401px; height: 299px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/011-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />After 2 days I can unmould it and cut it up into pieces. Then it has to cure for a month at least so it hardens up fully. No idea how I can wait that long!! I'll post pics of the final product I promise!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">-------------------------------------------------------<br /></div><br />OK, here we are after 2 days, and the soap has come out of the mould. It all came out in one go, and I cut it up with a sharp knife. The square ones from the tray look really interesting I think, and the little round ones from the muffin tray are cute as! The round ones have dried out alot quicker so look paler.<br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=001-5.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 389px; height: 291px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/001-5.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/?action=view&current=002-5.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 388px; height: 292px;" src="http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/elliceh/002-5.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />(top image courtesy of dkimages.com)<br /><br />Warning: When mixing the lye it gives off really nasty fumes. Wear gloves and long clothing as a minimum. Treat it as you would oven cleaner. Keep the area well ventilated or mix it outside. If you get it on your skin, wash and wash and wash with cold water. Vinegar is also recommended.<br /><a href="http://www.soapcalc.com/calc/SoapCalc.asp"></a>wannabeafoodyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03440269713124915251noreply@blogger.com7