Mathematics and the Cheese Board

Posted November 3, 2020

While we were visiting Timbertown a few weeks ago, Norm and I spent some time looking at items made by a local wood craftsman. I mentioned to Norm that I would love a large cheese board but we found nothing that I liked or big enough. Norm said he could try and make one. This seemed a good idea because now that he’s retired he is often looking for something to do but this was not one of his academic projects. We were given the phone number of the suppler who invited us to his property to view his huge shed full of all his wood. Well, I fell in love with some beautiful pieces but they were much too big. We were able to take one home to see if would work but we returned it because it was too much work for Norm who had never attempted anything like this. As you can see all his measurements and calculations went out the window.

This was the piece we finally settled on. So, why the post title you ask? The cheese board measurements went out the window. (sorry it’s slightly out of focus. I had to almost go through the window to fit it all of it in the camera frame)

His first job was to make sure it fitted from the sink to the end of the bench perfectly, then fill the natural knots and crevices with liquid glass. This took several days. We had considered replacing the whole bench top but the price of a new kitchen wasn’t an option and to remove the original bench would be difficult because it was connected to the steel frame in the wall.

Then it was sanded and lacquered on both sides. This took another four days. In the meantime, Norm cooked meals outside on the BBQ or in the pizza oven.

From the living room side of bench you will see it has the natural edge. While waiting for it to dry completely we went to Coffs Harbour

Not bad for an academic’s first handyman project except I still need a cheese board.

Archived in: Retirement

Three days in Coffs Harbour

Posted October 27, 2020

Filed under 🦋 Retirement

We took a few days away to visit some of our favourite places and new places too. One of our favourites is the Butterfly House.

We have never seen so many chrysalises at one time.

These are just some of the butterflies we encountered.

Another favourite is The Clog Barn and the miniature Dutch village.

Clogs are made and sold on the premises. I couldn’t resist the photo with the eastern water dragon that likes to sunbathe or take a shot cuts over the houses.

Day 2 we drove up to the sky pier that gives a panoramic view of Coffs Harbour.

As you can see, Norm had charge of the camera. We were the only ones on the sky pier. We then headed for the break water.

At the end of the breakwater we decided to continue the 2 kilometer/ approximately 1 1/4 miles UP 40 metres/ approx 130 feet above sea level to the to of Muttonbird Island.

Views from half way point. Zoomed in of course.

Taken at the top. I made it. 3 years ago I would not have thought I could walk that far.

While walking the break wall we booked a table for lunch. I had a fresh tuna steak with an amazing salad and Norm had roast duck. We both decided on this Mango cheese cake for dessert. It’s so good for a gluten free dessert.

We walked several paths and board walks during the hour we were there.

My apologies if the photos are out of a alignment. I haven’t got these new WordPress changes worked out yet.

Archived in: Retirement

Old Timbertown

Posted October 24, 2020

Filed under 🦋 Retirement

A day’s outing took us to Old Timbertown in Wauchope. With the school holidays over it was a quieter day with very few visitors. Just the way we prefer it. It was nice to wander around with no itinerary.

This is Honey, a young Llama with plenty of freedom to roam the town.

A draft horse being hitched on to a wagon. We didn’t hear the name .

The steam engine is powered by timber from the saw mill.

mmm…. it was tempting to leave him there. 🙂

Saddlery, Cobbler and General Store along the main road.

We bought a few bottles of Timbertown’s red wine and a carved fruit bowl from one of the merchants. The blacksmith was just tinkering but was fascinating just the same. Stepping back in time for a day into the late eighteen hundreds and it’s slow life style made for an interesting day.

Archived in: Retirement

It’s that time of year again!

Posted October 21, 2020

Filed under 🦋 Retirement

I’ve never had so much space to work on my favourite craft and not have to pack up so we have room to eat. I can leave it out ready for the next time I have a spare hour or two.

oops. A little blurred but you can see that I’m making Christmas cards. I’m also making January Birthday cards.

Some finished. Others I need more craft material. Our local craft store has closed temporary because their stock is sitting on the wharf in Sydney where the dock workers are having a strike. Ebay may be my only hope to finish them in time for Christmas mail out.

Archived in: Retirement