I think it's possibly 'just' a red wreath behind the reindeer but I like to think it's a Pohutakawa flower.
The Pohutakawa tree in flower is a sure sign that Christmas - and summer - is on the way here in New Zealand. They are appearing around the countryside now.
Ours has started flowering. Clay soil probably isn't the best for these trees but finally this tree is looking like it's established. It was planted about 15 years ago!!
Below you can see the big stack of wrapped silage bales we have, in preparation for the El Nino drought we're supposed to be getting this summer. We're hoping we don't have to use them but it's a lot less stressful to be prepared! They'll keep if we don't need them just yet.
'til next time,
Happy stitching,
Raewyn
Lovely to have that ornament and hopefully you will be able to pass it on too. Homemade marmalade is the best! and lovely to have Mum there I am sure. xx
ReplyDeleteWhen I saw the ornament, my first thought was it looked like the trees that are blooming now. Have a pleasant visit with your mother, I'm sure the greats will be pleased to see her also.
ReplyDeleteThese ornaments are real treasures.
ReplyDeleteThe Christmas tree is gorgeous.
Great batch of marmalade.
Enjoy Mums visit.
Maria lifeontheblock
Great that a friend was able to bring your mother up. Love the old ornament.
ReplyDeleteI miss making jams and jelly--yours does look lovely--glad Mom made it up to you for the holidays--hugs, di
ReplyDeleteSeeing the pohutokawa trees in flower certainly means summer has arrived. I love marmalade, I'm sure your Mum will appreciate you making it for her.
ReplyDeleteYour decoration is lovely Raewyn ... I especially love the pohutakawa trees & wish we'd planted one here now when we first came (& talked about it but did nothing) because it would be well established now. Yes I am rather worried we may get the drought as things here are already very dry & I will have to put the hose in the fishpond tonight as its so low. xx
ReplyDeleteHi Raewyn, that tree ornament does look like that amazing pohutakawa flower. Very cool! It's so great to have ornaments from our grandparents. I've been wanting to make marmalade forever but always thought that I'd make it once I retire....maybe this year? we'll see.
ReplyDeleteWhat a cute ornament with lovely memories. It does look like the blossom. That’s a lot of silage. Fingers crossed you don’t need it all. Enjoy your marmalade. We’ve only made it once, with Mum, and it set very well too.
ReplyDeleteWonderful memories with that ornament Raewyn and it does remind me of a pohutukawa flower. Ours are nor flowering like yours, but they are young trees so maybe one day. Lovely to have made the marmalade for your Mum, enjoy her visit - I bet the grandies will be excited to see her.
ReplyDelete