Day Zero List now at 21% complete

Yup it sure is. I just marked off Take Pile of clothes to charity store. I did that tonight with Lauren. Plus the house is spotless. Massive weekend of cleaning. We went to the show on Friday night, I got the most awesome snoopy show bag. And a huge bag of sour warheads, just to reminisce about Dreamworld with Sarah. Good fun.
But yeah Lauren helped us to tidy the house and it got done and is lovely. We now have a cleaning roster and it will be stuck to.

I have decided to make a list of 26 movies all with different letters of the alphabet. That way I can keep track for my day zero list.

A: Apocolypto
B: Bride and Prejudice
C: Cassablanca
D: Disturbing Behavior
E: Entrapment
F: Fantastic Mr Fox
G: Gone with the Wind
H: Hairspray
I: Italian Job
J: Julie & Julia
K: King Arthur
L: Logan's Run
M: Marmaduke
N: Night at the Museum
O: Open Season
P: Priscilla Queen of the Desert
Q: Queen Elizabeth
R: Rio
S: Schindler's List
T: Troy
U: Usual Suspects
V: Voyage to the bottom of the sea
W: Wanted
X: X-men
Y: Young Frankenstein
Z: Zack and Miri make a porno


So there you have it. The list of movies I have to watch for my day zero project list.
Amethyst

Productive Day

Yesterday was a pretty good day, up until last night, but yeah damn good. I woke up early to meet with a volunteer accountant guy. He was helping me understand my tax responsibilities with having an ABN. It is surprisingly easy actually. After talking with this guy, I got changed and headed out to town. I bought an optus simcard, which means I managed to score that off my list.

See I really did buy it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While in town I also treated myself to a set of gel nails, they look so awesome. Am very pleased with them. I decided to get an advance from Centrelinkto be able to treat myself and garth to some nice things. I just pay it back a little every fortnight and it's interest free too, so i figured why not. So yeah got some real awesome nails, which is another thing off my list.

They match my ring and my tattoos :)

 













Ugh, that took too long to work. Yesterday also marked one week that I had my hair down, which meant I could tie it up, yay. HA! To all the naysayers who said I wouldn't manage it. So, yes that is now marked off the list. Another thing that I managed to mark off my list yesterday was being able to buy a custom set of ears from Red Vinyl Kitty. I put my order in last night before me and the boys headed out to the Cri.

I was in such a good mood all day, until Roy, Garth's mate came round and started spouting shit about the end of the world. Now, my rational, intelligent part of my brain knows that most of the end of the world predictions, whether from Notradamus, the Mayans, The Chinese, whoever, are mostly just scare mongering and are crap. However the not so sane part of my brain panics about the idea of the world ending. I ain't done with life and things are finally starting to go good. Ugh it pissed me off, which unfortunately meant that my night was ruined.


As it was even if Roy hadn't come in blabbing shite, I think my night would still have been a bit poor. I am really not feeling the Cri anymore. It's shit. The staff don't give a damn about getting people unduly intoxicated, the bouncers just pick fights and the clientele are just plain bitchy. I faced my demon and danced to No Speak Americano at the same spot where I broke my foot, I was quite happy dancing away by myself...only girl in a group of boys that were only interested in getting hammered...and I smiled at two girls as they walked past me, instead of smiling back they drew me the dirtiest look. It made me want to smoke and I am a non smoker. I could just feel the tension all night last night. You know those nights where you just know there is going to be trouble. Yeah it was one of those. Then of course Anthony got trashed, he got escorted out of the club and within an hour of that happening Will got escorted out. He was fucked! There is no nice, non swearing way to describe. Fucked and a right rotten little torag, even though we were only try to help him. We left the club at like midnight, it took us until 1.30am ish, to get him sober enough to be able to handle a ten minute taxi ride. They boys had a good night however. I think I was just in a slump. I am happier now getting a bottle of wine or a carton of beer and staying home and drinking. Either that or I need to go to Brisbane more often, the clubs there are like another world.


Hmm well I guess that is enough of that rant, although i am getting pretty good at typing with long nails lol.


Amethyst.

 

W00t

 Yay, the kitchen is all clean now. I am exhausted though. Had Hydro therapy today which was fine but now really want Garth to come home and give me a foot and leg massage, all stiff now. Will helped me tidy though which was good. He also made a really yummy food combo...chilli easy mac mixed with hot and spicy noodles and extra cheese. Unhealthy? Hell yes! Tasty? Definitely. Filling? Yup. Total stoner food? You bet lol.


On a different note, I have started a few other things on my list. Since Sunday I have been in bed before 3am and have been up and about before 8am, lets see if I can keep going for the month. I am also now doing my one month of no energy drinks and that includes Powerade. While I am giving up energy drinks I figured it was a good idea to  start list item number 38: Drink at least 5 glasses of water a day for two weeks, I may even extend that to the month. As it is today I have drank 3 600ml bottles of water which is like 6 glasses. Oh and I changed one of my list items. I originally had written that I wanted to buy a ds charger and an SD card reader, well turns out I don't need to buy the card reader as the printer we have has a SD slot which allows me to transfer my photos to the computer. Huzzah! So now that item is back to being get a ds charger.

I am also working on keeping my hair down for a week. I have had it down since Friday. I had to tie it up today because I was at hydro therapy, but as soon as I got out the pool I took my hair back down. Now I know this probably seems like a pointless task to most people, but trust me when I say that I only wear my hair down VERY occasionally and even then it normally only lasts about 3 hours before it has been tied back again.  Incidentally, while I was cleaning today I resisted the urge to tie it back, which is very unusual for me. Normally when I get into a cleaning mode, the first thing i do is scrape my hair out my way and I didn't today. I only have to last until Friday then I can tie my hair back as much as I please. YAY!

This is what my hair is currently looking like. This is after 6 days.

Oh and item number  77: create something with my sticks and cellophane, I am going to make a Kite. I haven't started it yet, mostly because I still have chocolate left in the original gift. But yeah, a kite. Brilliant and the best part, the idea came from a 3 year old. Love it.


Feeling pretty good about my little list, lots of things in progress though. So as a note I am going to jot down the start dates of stuff here:
Hair Down: Started on Friday.
Bed Before 3am: Sunday 15th May
Up By 8am: Monday 16th May
No energy drinks: Tuesday 17th May
Five glasses of water: Wednesday 18th May (lol get me with the consecutive days)


Anyway, that's enough for just now.
Amethyst

More of the List

I marked off a few other things from my list over the week. I have become an organ donor, I haven't eaten Hungry Jacks for two weeks, have worn a pair of earrings for one whole week and I have found the perfect engagement ring, now to wait for Garth to pay it off and to finally propose properly. Yay. I started on one of my other list items and that is Read Great Expectations, Mein Kampf and War and Peace. Garth bought me War and Peace yesterday so that item is being marked as in progress.

Yesterday I wore my hair down all day and so far I have kept it down all day today. Hopefully I will manage to wear it down for a whole week.

I looked into giving blood and unfortunately I will have to change that item on my list, as the Australians do not want my blood. Why not? Because I lived in the UK for more than six months between 1980 and 1996. The Australians don't have the tests to be able to screen for Mad Cow disease so instead they just say they can't take British blood from people who lived there between those years. My problem now is finding something to replace that list item with.

I start with the Herald on Monday and am bricking it to be honest. I am sure I will do great but still nervous as hell, am finally using my degree which lets face it, is a pretty big deal.  I really hope it ends up a permanent thing, that would be awesome. At least if Garth and I decide to road trip, in fact not if, when we decide to road trip, I can take my writing with me, hell I can take my bar tending skills with me. Can't wait until I can drive and can afford to buy my VW Kombi.

I am pretty hungry, perhaps I should stop procrastinating and actually make lunch and keep reading War and Peace, seeing as it is a huge book. Anyway, watch this space, or more to the point cook creative craziness space, for a review of the book :)

Amethyst

One Week

So I have managed to keep this blog updated for a week which means I can mark off another item on my Day Zero Project list. I am up to 7% completed and 991 days left. I also only have day left to wear my earrings. 

Having a look at when I started my list I noticed that on Friday coming up I will  be able to mark off another thing. As of Friday I will have went two weeks without Hungry Jacks. I am still working on the no biting of the nails thing feel like I am doing pretty good, the cuts around the edges of my nails are getting better and for sure my nails are actually growing. Who knows I might kick the habit after all.

My Learn Gaelic book arrived yesterday. It was a nice thing to come home from Brisbane to. Will wants to learn with us and we are thinking, in order to become fluent, we might start speaking it around the house. I have also decided that I will write some blog entries in Gaelic, with translation of course. It keeps things interesting. Gaelic isn't a much used language any more but I love the sound of it and plus I love  a challenge. From having a flick through the book, the language is definitely going to be challenging for myself, Garth and Will. Should be amusing. There is an alterior motive for learning the language but that I will keep to myself for the moment.

Need to go into the Maryborough Fraser Coast Chronicle office first thing tomorrow morning, as I got up late today and have physio soon. Am also waiting on Peter getting back to me to confirm details.

I think I can complete my whole list, at least giving it a damn good try.

That's enough for just now

Amethyst

Mana bar

So I promised I would write an update tonight. So here it is.

Jitta and I got up pretty late this afternoon, sat and watched some trashy tv and ate chocolate. It was good fun we were going to go swimming but decided to save our energy. 

Got ready and headed into Fortitude Valley to go to the Mana Bar. That's another thing crossed off my list, I am amazing lol.

The drinks in mana bar are so tasty, bit more pricey than I am used to, but then I expected to pay high for drinks, afterall I am in Brisbane. I have just spent the weekend in a city but I managed to do it on like 100 dollars. I got an awesome tshirt from mana bar, it looks great on me.

Even wore my earrrings tonight, bloody ears are red raw. I only have another three days to go then I can stop wearing them. Also haven't bitten my nails since I got here.

Brisbane is so great. I tried a New York slice of Pizza tonight, you know those really huge slices that you always see in movies. Was so yummy.

Brisbane has this great thing during the weekend...its like a stall that you can chill out in if you are a bit worse for wear from drink, very smart thing to have available. Also busways. Brilliant. They are like a whole separate route for the buses, the buses don't have to deal with traffic. More places need these things.

Tonight was one of those nights where myself, jitta and atrice were just getting so much attention from total randoms, I hugged the pizza man, gave two dollars to an aborignal woman and even got hugs from a random gay man. We even had people beeping car horns at us and waving. Fantastic.

Home tomorrow, which is a pity as it has been a great weekend. Must do this more often. Anyhoo for just now I have to run as Atrice's mum is wanting to turn the internet off.

Fantastic.

Amethyst

Awesome night

So yes, it was a fast entry previously. I actually wrote it at like 3am friday night, so I technically didn't miss a day. This entry is about Saturday and I will write Sunday's tonight.

Saturday myself, Jitta and Atrice got up early, I did some of my physio exercises then Jitta and I headed out to Brisbane city. Jitta was going to work and I was meeting up with Garth and Will at Ace Comics. I have a new place to hide. Am just starting to get into comics so at least now I have a place to buy any comic that I would like. I went for lunch in this lovely little cafe next to Ace comics, the girl was so friendly and the food was awesome. I bought a top out of this fantastic vintage store, could have spent a fortune in there. I love vintage clothing. I thought the top would fit, I didn't try it on in the shop, but considering one of my goals is to lose 2 stone which is about 12.7 kg so hopefully I can manage and hopefully I get into that top. It was a very satisfying day in Brisbane.

Jitta finished work and when she got home we all got ready to go out. We went to the The Beat, which is a gay bar and it was bloody awesome. And on a side note now I can mark another thing off my Day Zero Project list. That's just how awesome I am.

It's a good feeling, knowing that I am achieving things.

I danced like a loon last night. The Beat has a rave type floor and I still managed to throw some wicked shapes lol. Hell I even done a little bit of hopping about. I had a blast. End of the night though my foot was so sore but this morning it's actually feeling so great. My knee was bending better when I was doing my physio and the stiffness feels a lot better, almost feel as though I could do a couple meters running. Fingers crossed that this physio helps me sooner than the six - twelve month mark. Would be fantastic.

Anyhoo, I shall update more later.

Amethyst

Just A quick

So, this is going to be a very quick entry, I just didn't want to miss a day. It's been a very long day and incidentally the third day of wearing earrings. My ears are a bit sore. I can't wear earrings to sleep but I have been putting them in first thing in the morning.


Headed to Brisbane to help Hugh move into a new house, what a hassle by the way, but we all eventually got to our desired destinations in one piece.


Also I hate the stretch of road just after Tiaro, makes me freak.


Will give further updates tomorrow.


Amethyst

Pretty good day

It really was a damn good day. Got up early to head to Hervey Bay. Will was going to his course and I had my informal chat with the editor of the Fraser Coast Chronicle. I feel fairly confident that I at least made a good impression. I was dressed the part, I was friendly and I was well prepared. He mentioned that he had a read at some of my stuff online which is quite pleasing to be honest and he mentioned that there were a few positions available, but that if I wanted to freelance then I had to apply for an ABN so he could pay me. I have just finished doing that and my new ABN will be active as of tomorrow, so fingers crossed. He also said he might put me on the features team, that would be so amazing if he did. I am feeling pretty good about how today went and have a feeling in my gut that things are on the up and up.

The day was made great by the fact that Garth seemed to impress the staff at Dan Murphy's and has application forms to fill in. Then Will potentially has the opportunity to work in a resort. He originally applied for a job in the coffee shop where I got my morning caffeine fix today, but the lady said she need Baristas but that she would pass Will's details onto her husband who works in one of the many resorts in Hervey Bay as he might have something. Things are definitely looking up.

Got the bus back from Hervey Bay, loaded with travel leaflets. I was surprised to find that some of the trips I would like to go on, are actually reasonably affordable...well they aren't completely out of reach. So bus to Maryborough for my Physio appointment. The guy seemed pretty decent, I don't think I will hate him too much. Did some simple exercises today, apparently I have a lot of work to do. The exercises weren't too bad, what did suck however was when the guy was massaging the calf muscle...jesus that hurt, like I actually full on vocalised the pain. The muscle is incredibly tight. He has given me exercises to do 3 times a day...must buy a ball...and has sent a referral to the Hydrotherapy department. He also said that yes swimming will help me. So, that's my new plan for the next little while, lots of stretching and swimming and pain, Yay!

Going to Brisbane tomorrow to hang with Jitta for the weekend, should be good fun. I will still find a way to update though. For just now I am going to sign off, make some food and perhaps have an early chilled out night, as we are all up early tomorrow.

Amethyst

Another day, another list item

Yup, that's right! I marked another item off my list today. Ok so it was something that I would have had to have done in the first place, but hey you gotta have some easy things on there. Today I re-dyed my hair, it's a gorgeous copper-red colour now, not quite as red as before. I will be going back to the red however, but it looks a bit more natural now after all I have a catch up with the editor of the Chronicle tomorrow/today really.

I am pretty damn prepared to impress the guy too. I am treating it like a proper interview, interview folder at the ready :) I also have my first physio session in the afternoon tomorrow. Kinda nervous about both events actually, but I am sure I will do great.

I am also on my way to finding the perfect ring, which is another list item. Hey and I wore earrings tonight, can't sleep with them in but I am going to work on that item of my list too. I am feeling pretty empowered with this list thing. I feel like I am actually getting things done and its like if I don't do it, all I end up doing is disappointing myself. I have completed 4% of the my list so far and I still have 996 days to go. Not a bad start.

So that's that for just now.

Amethyst

Been an odd day

More to the point, it's been a nostalgic day. Been kinda reminiscing about things gone past. Not in a bad way though just thinking. Also thinking I want to add a few more things to my someday list on day zero project. Such as travel around America and learn the Sax. Also spent the day buying new hair dye, my hair is going a darker red, only temporary though, well unless i really like it.

Not much else to say about today, I never bit my nails today and I remembered to write my journal. Not got much more motivation though, mostly cos I was in pain today. Stupid broken foot.


Amethyst

Harvest Research

So I thought I would try and ease some of my boredom today and look up some information on the Harvest trails. I picked places in each state that I had at least heard of. The Information about where each thing is means, well, nothing to me as I am useless at Geography. But Here is the proof that I actually did look up some Harvest information. I will go on at least one of these harvests as soon as I am driving and have my VW Kombi. I started off by looking up information about Queensland, because that is where I am living so it made sense to me.

Childers was first up: Childers is 320 kms north of Brisbane, 50 kms south of Bundaberg and just inland from Hervey Bay. The surrounding area has been a large grower of sugar cane but in recent times a lot of area has given way to the production of tomatoes, vegetables, avocados and some macadamias. The town is a popular tourist destination, especially for the many National Trust historical buildings.

And the best times to go are as follows:

January to March – Mangoes

March to July - Citrus

April to September - Tomatoes

July to April - Avocados

October to January - Zucchinis

December to February – Lychees

Second came Bundaberg: Bundaberg is 360 kms north of Brisbane on the Burnett River and 14 kms from the coast. It is a city in the sub-tropics where the rainfall is considerable and the average daily summer temperatures vary between 20-30 C. Bundaberg is a significant centre for the Queensland sugar industry. The large refineries and sugar mills support the population of the thriving city. There is also a large production of beef and dairy cattle, tropical fruit and vegetables. The area produces nearly one-fifth of Australia’s sugar from its large mills and is transported from the bulk handling port. Bundaberg is recognised for the production of its famous brown rum and it is the country’s largest producer of tomatoes.

And I should go there at these times:

January to December - Sweet potatoes

February to September - Avocados

March to July - Citrus

March to December - Zucchinis

April to May - Beans

April to August - Capsicums

April to June - Cucumbers, custard apples

April to August - Tomatoes

May to July - Pumpkins

August to November - Cherry tomatoes

August to September - Strawberries

October to November - Beans, cucumbers

October to December - Capsicums, tomatoes, melons

November to December - Pumpkins

December to February – Mangoes

Lots of stuff to Harvest in Bundaberg, seems like the place to go if you ask me.

Third on my little Queensland hunt was the Sunshine Coast. How could I resist, it's all beaches: The Coast begins at Caloundra, just one hour’s drive north of Brisbane and extends to Cooloola, the gateway to Fraser Island. It takes in tranquil hinterland including the Glass House Mountains, Blackall Range, Noosa Hinterland and the Mary Valley. There are more than 100 kilometres of beach stretching through the coastal towns of Caloundra, Kawana, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore,Coolum Beach, Noosa and Rainbow Beach. Includes Beerwah, Bli Bli, Caloundra, Chevallum, Eumundi, Glenview, Maroochydore, Nambour, Noosa, Pomona, Yandina.

Best time to go:

February to March - Ginger

May - Ginger

February to May - Pineapples

March to April - Strawberry planting

April to June - Custard apples

July to November - Strawberries

August to October - Ginger

September to October – Pineapples

Pineapples! This means I could complete another item on my list, Capture a Pineapple. Personal Joke.

Next up was Mackay, would give me an excuse to annoy Ashlee and Leith: Mackay, known as the “River City”(so is Glasgow) is situated at the mouth of the Pioneer River, 400 kms north of the Tropic of Capricorn and 803 kms north of Queensland’s capital city, Brisbane. Located on the Bruce Highway, Mackay is accessible by road, rail and air. The area provides great diversity with rainforests, mountains, coal mining, gemfields, sandy beaches, tropical islands, rivers and streams and of course close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Sugarcane employers prefer job seekers with prior experience in the operation of heavy machinery, however most employers are willing to engage workers and train them on the job. The haulage of cane requires a Heavy Combination (HC) licence or an Undefined (UD) licence.

The time to go:

March to April - Cane planting

June to November - Sugar cane

June to Cane - planting

August to September - Cane planting

Not much choice here, so let's plant some sugar!

Then came Caboolture. It's Beachy: Caboolture is located 40 kms north of Brisbane, approximately half way between the State’s capital and the beautiful Sunshine Coast. A short drive to picturesque waterways along the Pumicestone Passage at Bribie Island and unspoilt hinterland scenery through the inland. The Caboolture region takes in the areas of Ningi, Toorbul, Donnybrook, Elimbah, Bellmere and Wamuran and is one of Australia’s largest strawberry producing districts.

More Pineapples! And Strawberries:

February to November - Pineapples

March to April - Strawberry planting

June to November - Strawberry picking

I even looked up NSW and the rest of the states and territories. I figure why not. When I get my Kombi, notice I said when and not if, when I get my Kombi I plan on seeing more than just QLD. And you can't stop me, hahah. I only recognised like three place names in the NSW list, so here they are.

Byron Bay: Byron Bay is located on the north coast of NSW with Cape Byron being Australia’s most easterly point. The region boasts beautiful beaches, unspoilt surroundings and a relaxed lifestyle. Byron Bay offers a range of adventure sports, dining, accommodation and live entertainment.

Time to go, am loving the idea of coffee harvesting:

February to March - Lychees

April to September - Macadamia nuts,avocados

June to September - Custard apples

September to December - Stonefruit

October to December - Coffee

July to January - Blueberries

Hunter Valley: The Hunter Valley in New South Wales is located in the Hunter River Basin some 150 kms to the north of Sydney and 60 kms inland from the Pacific Coast. The Hunter Valley stretches from the Goulburn River and Wollemi National Park to the south right up to Barrington Tops National Park to the north.Not only does the Hunter boast wonderful scenery, it is also home to large wine and coal industries. The Hunter has one of the oldest and most famous wine regions in Australia, boasting many of the large names in wine,including Lindemans Wine, Tyrell’s Vineyards and Wyndham Estate. There are plenty of attractions in the Hunter Valley to suit every taste, from horse riding and golf to hot air ballooning and sky diving, all set amongst wonderful landscapes.

Wine! Time to Go:

January to March - Grapes

March to June - Olives

June to September - Vine pruning

Sydney Basin: The Sydney Basin is a large area which surrounds the city of Sydney, between the Blue Mountains and the sea, expanding south toward Goulburn and north toward Newcastle. The Sydney Basin consists of several large horticultural areas which include Macarthur, Hawkesbury, Bilpin and the Central Coast. Weather conditions in the Sydney Basin can change drastically and rapidly. Always ensure that you wear clothing which gives protection from the weather and the working environment.

Time to Go:

January to December - Vegetables, nursery work, flower and turf production

February to April - Apples

August to November - Citrus

November to January - Stonefruit

December to February - Avocados

Oh...it's time to go further north. To hot country or Northern Territory where the crocs rule and the heat is hot hot hot. Or so I have heard.

The one place I have always been obsessed with in NT is Darwin, I studied it when I was in high school geography for a natural disasters project. I think I got a pretty good grade for it too.

Darwin: Darwin is a tropical city situated on the North Coast of Australia, and is arguably Australia’s most cosmopolitan city, boasting a population made up of people from more than 60 nationalities and 70 different ethnic backgrounds. The city’s multicultural mix is particularly highlighted by its many exciting ethnic cultural festivals and weekly food and craft markets. The city provides a diverse range of multicultural and traditional activities and rugged outback adventures in the outer Darwin region, from beachside markets to isolated waterfalls and wetlands. Darwin has evolved from its days as an incredibly laid back frontier town and while it still retains its relaxed charm, it has become a highly sophisticated city. The Northern Territory is a must for all travellers, whether it’s ancient Aboriginal Paintings, crocodiles or simply its relaxed lifestyle. Many visitors are surprised to find that it has accommodation, eateries, clubs, pubs, museums and other amenities that are at least equal to, and often better than, what you’ll find in the southern cities. Darwin’s traditional owners, the Larrakia people, are prominent and active members of the community and many still adhere closely to their traditional beliefs and customs. Darwin is the main service centre for a wide range of industries headed by mining, offshore oil and gas production, pastoralism, tourism and tropical horticulture. The Port of Darwin is also the main outlet for Australia’s live cattle export trade into South East Asia. Also includes Berry Springs, Humpty Doo, Noonamah, Marrakai

Time to go, although I would probably die in January:

January to December - Bananas, cut flowers

May to October - Vegetables

June to October - Melons

September to April - Citrus

September to November - Mangoes

November to February - Rambutans

Katherine was next: Katherine is a traditional outback town often called the “Crossroads of the North” because of its location. Katherine is the fourth largest town in the Northern Territory and is located south-east of Darwin on the banks of the spectacular Katherine River. Katherine is a modern thriving regional centre that offers a wide range of services to communities from the Western Australia border to the Gulf of Carpentaria on the Queensland border. Its surround include the amazing Katherine Gorge, Nitimulik National Park and Thermal Springs. Backpackers and scenic lovers are attracted to the natural features of the region. The town is well known for its production of mangoes, melons and citrus.

Time to Go:

January to April - Citrus

May to November - Melons

October to December - Mangoes

Ti Tree? Now come on is that not the best place name: Ti Tree is located 193 km north of Alice Springs on the Stuart highway. It is the largest community between Alice Springs and Tennant Creek and services surrounding Aboriginal communities, as well as travellers. Horticultural activities in this small town provide for the fresh fruit markets and include several orchards, vegetable farms and vineyards. The production of tablegrapes at Ti Tree is the second largest horticultural industry in the Northern Territory.

Time to Go:

May to June - Vine pruning

September to October - Vine shoot thinning,vine planting

November to December - Grapes

So now that NT is covered, we move further along and head to WA. Apparently my mum spent some time in WA when she toured Australia, so it would be kinda cool to experience it.

Albany:Albany is a regional city in the Great Southern of Western Australia, 409 kms south of Perth. Lying on the protected Princess Royal Harbour, which is part of the magnificent King George’s Sound, it is flanked by the Southern Ocean, with spectacular ranges and hinterland. Albany is WA’s oldest settlement and has strong links with the ANZAC legend. A modern, evolving city with pristine coastline, mild climate, natural beauty and rich in cultural experiences make Albany a very special place to live, work or visit. Aquaculture, wineries and viticulture, timber, strawberries, fishing, olive oil and organic produce exist along with traditional agriculture. Includes Kalgan.

Time To Go:

March to April - Grapes

May to June - Olives

June to September - Vine pruning

July to August - Olive tree pruning

October to May – Strawberries

More Grapes, gotta love wine country.

Donnybrook, a cool sounding name: The Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup is situated in the south west of Western Australia, 206 kms south of Perth. Surrounded by stunning forests, winding rivers, rolling hills, vineyards and lush orchards, it is a great place for residents and visitors alike. Donnybrook boasts a highly central location, being only half an hour from the city life and beaches of Bunbury, one hour from Geographe Bay and the famous Margaret River wine region and within easy reach of thetall timbers of Pemberton. It is renowned as a premier fruit growing district, with Donnybrook the largest apple producing area in Western Australia.

Time to Go:

February to April - Pears, tomatoes, grapes

February to June - Apples

June to September - Apple tree pruning, vine pruning

November to December Apple thinning, stonefruit thinning

December to March - Stonefruit

Margaret River, makes some nice wine: Margaret River is located 280 kms south of Perth on the southern coast, facing the Indian Ocean. Originally a timber town, the main industries today are dairying, vineyards and wineries and berry farming. Tourism is of major importance along with a prominent craft industry.

Time to Harvest:

January to March - Grapes

June to August - Vine pruning

You can't go to WA and not go at least within the vicinity of Perth so...

Perth Hills: Located approximately 45 minutes drive east of the CBD, the Perth Hills offer a mix of natural bush, orchards, wildflowers, waterfalls and creeks, towering trees, art galleries, vineyards, restaurants and cafes. The mild weather experienced in the hills allows for a range of crops to be grown including stonefruit, apples, pears, and strawberries. Major towns include Kalamunda, and Mundaring, smaller towns include Carmel and Pickering Brook.

When to go:

January to April - Apples

October to March - Stonefruit

So, we are nearly all the way around the country. Onto SA. It would be an excuse to spend some time with my uncle William and my uncle George.

Adelaide Hills: The Adelaide hills are located 20 minutes from the heart of Adelaide and boast great food, fine wines and stunning scenery. The region is renowned for its produce including, strawberries, apples, pears, cherries, potatoes and wine grapes. The Hills are comprised of a number of sub regions or areas, namely the Mt Lofty area, the Norton Summit area, the Torrens Valley, the Onkaparinga Valley, Hahndorf and Mt Barker.

Time to go:

February to April - Grape picking

February to May - Apples, pears

June to September - Vine pruning

September to December - Vine training

November to January - Cherries

Coonawarra, interesting place name: Based in a cool climate growing area, Coonawarra is one of South Australia’s most prestigious grape growing and wine producing towns. Along the road from Coonawarra to Penola (a distance of only seven kms) there are a total of 21 wineries. The town’s name derives from an Aboriginal word meaning ‘wild honeysuckle’.

Time to Go:

February to June - Potatoes

February to May - Grape picking

June to August - Vine pruning

December to January - Cherries, beans

McLaren Vale, kinda loving the name. It almost sounds Scottish and it happens to be a decent F1 team: Known as the Southern Vales, a large area is planted to vineyards with more than 30 wineries, including Hardy’s and Seaview, which have been established for more than 150 years. The area was the second wine region established in South Australia and it is also a wonderful historic tourist and craft area. Includes McLaren Flat and Willunga.

More Grapes:

February to April - Grapes

May to August - Vine pruning

Moving on to my name sake, or at least the inspiration for it, Victoria.

First up, Rutherglen. Awesome, there is actually a place in Scotland called Rutherglen: Rutherglen is located just a short trip off the Hume Freeway between Wangaratta and Albury/Wodonga. It is 265 kms north east of Melbourne and 615 kms south west of Sydney. Beautifully positioned along the Murray River, Rutherglen is a region where over 150 years of dedication and commitment, combined with a unique climate, skill, youthful vibrancy and sense of fun, have created a wine region that is truly “Full of Flavour“.

When to go:

February to April - Grapes

March to May - Apples

June to August - Vine pruning

November to December – Cherries

Yarra Vallley: The Yarra Valley covers an area from Lilydale, 40 kms north east of Melbourne, through Healsville and Coldstream. A large variety of cool climate crops have traditionally been grown in the Valley, including apples, lemons, pears, cherries and berries. There are around 85 vineyards and wineries in the Valley and many different selections of wines, several with cellar door tastings, accommodation and restaurants. Includes Montrose, Hoddles Creek, Yarra Junction, Silvan, Gladysdale, Coldstream, Wandin, Seville, Monbulk, Yarra Glen, Lilydale and Healesville.

I should go at these times:

February to March - Pears

February to April - Grapes

February to May - Apples

May to August - Vine pruning

September to November - Vine shoot thinning

October to May - Strawberries

November to January - Cherries, berries

November to May - Lemons

Beechworth: Beechworth is located in Victoria’s north east. It is approximately three hours from Melbourne and approximately seven hours from Sydney. It is part of the Legends, Wine and High Country Region, with its sensational views and a town rich in history that offers a glimpse into centuries past. This is ’Ned Kelly’ country. Nearby Stanley is located in Victoria’s north east between Beechworth and Myrtleford. It is ideally located in the stunning sub-alpine region of North East Victoria, and is surrounded by fruit and nut orchards as well as pine and old eucalypt forests. As there is no public transport to or around Stanley, your own transport is preferrable.

Time to go:

February to April - Grapes

March to May - Apples

June to August - Vine pruning

November to December - Cherries

Next up we have the often forgotten state of Tasmania. Shame really, I have heard such good things about it.

Devonport: The north coast town of Devonport is located on the mouth of the Mersey River, 98 kms to the north west of Launceston, following the Bass Highway. A vibrant town, the port is the major daily entry point for vehicular traffic travelling on the “Spirit of Tasmania“ ships, to and from Melbourne. Devonport has a unique history, especially as the home town of the former Tasmanian Premier and only Tasmanian Prime Minister of Australia, Joseph Lyons. The port’s lighthouse, which was completed in 1899, stands on Mersey Bluff and is part of the National Estate Register. The fertile soils of the surrounding area produce fine stonefruit, berries, potatoes and other vegetables. Includes Spreyton and Don.

To Go, or not to go:

January to December - Vegetables

March to May - Apples

December to January - Stonefruit, cherries

December to April - Berries

Launceston: The city of Launceston is the second largest in Tasmania and lies at the head of the Tamar River. Initially set up as a military command post, the town has a large number of historically significant buildings. Port facilities were recognised, developed and used for the early shipments of wool and wheat grown in the area. Whalers and sealers also used the port in the early days. Some mining was carried out, especially for tin and the town even had its own stock exchange. As the town grew, it was built around many beautiful parks and gardens and today is often referred to as the “Garden City“. The region has been noted for the production of apples and in more recent times grapes, with the Tasmanian wine industry flourishing.

Apples, apples everywhere:

February to May - Apples

March to May - Grapes

July to August - Vine pruning

Scottsdale, purely cos it sounds cool: The beautiful rural township of Scottsdale is in the heart of north east Tasmania, this very fertile and productive part of Tasmania is approximately 70 kms from Launceston. It is the service centre of the Dorset municipality, with a population of around 2500. Forestry is a major source of employment in the area plus local timber mills and outlets. Close to Scottsdale is the popular seaside township of Bridport, some 15 minutes from Scottsdale.

Time:

January to December - Vegetables

March to April - Hops

September to November - Hops stringing

Am loving the idea of picking hops, the main ingredient for beer, and I love beer.

And last but not least there is the Australian Capital Territory, ACT. Surprise, surprise there is no harvest there. I wonder why that could be...hmmm.

So there you have it. Proof that I did my research on harvest trails and the blog entry to go along with it. Albeit a long entry but alas it killed some of my boredom and marked another thing off my list.

I rule!

Amethyst

*shrug*

So I am feeling decidedly meh today. My hair looks crap, i feel lethargic and I am now at that stage of, I guess, boredom that I cannot be bothered doing anything. Most certainly cannot be bothered making myself something to eat. I don't want to read or even watch movies. BORED and pmsy. Am hating the fact that my laptop has kicked the bucket, so that means no photo uploading for me. Fed up to the max.

Amethyst

Oh Wow

Wow, indeed. I just scored off another item on my 101 list. I just marked off Research and apply for freelance writing. My wee heart is pounding. I have actually potentially just taken a step towards a freelance career. That's quite a nerve wracking but satisfying feeling. I applied for www.essaywriters.net. I had to do two tests and then answer some optional questions, so fingers crossed that I get approved. I also wrote an email to the Fraser Coast Chronicle and to the Herald. I will still continue to look but wow, another item marked off. I think I am on a roll.

Feeling good people, but still fingers crossed for me.

Amethyst

Minor setback

Not a major setback, but a setback none the less. I bit two of my nails today. How annoyed was I. Ugh I never even realised I was doing it, until I looked down and saw no nail. Twice today. Ah well, I knew from the start that this particular item on my list was going to be the most difficult. On another more positive note however, I finished the first of ten Ranger's Apprentice books and if you have a nosey at my other blog http://cookcreativecraziness.blogspot.com you will see what I thought of the book. Ok I will tell you, I really enjoyed it. You should still have a gander at my other blog though, as it not only has my review on it but some of my other creative writings.

I am currently trying to spark my brain into gear with my writing. I think it is about time I use that degree in Journalism that I spent 4 years trying to obtain. On my list is research freelancing, well by researching I will also be trying to apply to some newspapers even for a weekly spot. However, before I start applying I need to be confident in my writing again, which is going to take a bit of practise on my part.

Also have to write my journal entry for today. I really am so glad that I made up the list of 101 things to do as it has kinda kick started me again. I seem to have found my drive and hell I figure if I have 6-12 months physio ahead of me I might as well prevent my brain from lapsing into atrophy. Also means that if I can feel good about my writing then perhaps I will achieve another of my items. Find a source of income.

Still annoyed that I bit my nails today, but it's not a total disaster. Now to finish my review of Killing Paparazzi which I started like a month ago. Incidentally I am gearing up to post what I have so far of Luvine Lust, even though it's not finished.

Love and stuff

Amethyst