I am getting really ambitious...going out to pick some rhubarb so I can make a strawberry rhubarb pie. The new house has a strawberry bed and today's haul was enough to add to some rhubarb. The only problem is my hubby will probably make the filling as he doesn't like to add any sugar at all...I like tart, but I think it tastes best with a small amount of sugar to bring out the flavor. He really likes to cook and I don't, although I would do more baking but as soon as I get the ingredients out and the rhubarb cut up, he'll be there to take over. Note - I am not going too crazy...the toughest thing about this crust is unrolling it from the package!

Okay, I eat popcorn maybe once or twice a year so when I do, I go all to H--- in a hand basket. Large Dutch oven, olive oil, fresh popping kernels, medium heat, constant shaking. When popped, humongous stainless mixing bowl, half lb. unsalted butter and salt to taste. Yummmmm. Oh, forgot to say, this ritual usually follows a dinner of sliced tomato and cucumbers. One does need one's veggies! :D

G'day Folks, My wife and I, like Jess (Strons) am a very proud owners of Nore Furniture, still used daily, and purchased in the late 70's! The collection includes a dining Table/dining and lounge chairs, coffee/lamp tables, and a Buffet. Interstingly, when we have visitors, the two Nore lounge chairs in the lounge are always taken before the modern lounge suite is used. (which annoys me, as the Nore furniture are the more comfortable by far) The remaining items are used in our Family/Ding area. Due to having constant use over the last 6 years with grand children, several of these magnificent pieces of Art are needing a little lift, re damaged finish. If your father does remember the stain details, I would appreciate his advice! The pride, skill, and love that went into this furniture still shines thru to this day! Cheers Dennis

Hi Mic, Seek out a draftsman or designer who has focus on sustainability and can conduct an Energy rating as part of the design process. A designer who has their Cert Iv in NatHERS is qualified to assess and design for these issues. On a rough calculation - standard WA construction, 25° roof, 500 wide eaves, ceiling at 2.435h then a setback of 1.700 should allow for the sun to strike the floor at equinox, if you have full height windows. Best case scenario place the house between 1.7 to 4m from the fence/retaining. The further it is the more sun strikes the slab during winter. You question about increasing the ceiling height - yes that is a good work around, going to to 3m high may cost more than your think. Another 3c/300mm in height will give you more sun penetration in the winter if your windows are raised and would be a more cost effective solution. But there are many variables such as planning, engineering, buildability and cost. Speak to an qualified designer or architect and they will have the knowledge and experience to deal with all the conflicting factors.