Morning all,

What a wonderful spring morning it is – the small magnolia is displaying its full glory and everything else is in bud with wet feet. The rosellas are back nesting in the eaves and twittering near the window as I write. The dogs have abandoned their jackets and Daisy can be seen sunbaking on the front steps. New meals on the Spring menu which includes Stefano’s wonderful capsicum sauce - he insisted it is a must for us. A great way to start the new season.

“Spring has returned. The Earth is like a child that knows poems.” ~Rainer Maria Rilke

NEW
* There are lots of pewter beads and dangles
* Ceramic discs
* New design of a great lariat
* Lots of clasps
* Coin pearls
* Glass pearls drops – great for earrings
* Crystals

We are all well here at Benedict House. We had a lovely Christening party and Father’s Day last weekend, with the rain holding off until we got through the day with the crowd.
Marg Flinn – who helps with the cooking – has taken herself off to Morocco for 2 months. We are wondering what inspirations she will bring back with her.
Malcolm – from Bungendore – who has made bread and cakes for us for some time; has a growing family so has had to change his lifestyle. We will miss him.
Talei – from the bead shop – now has a big job at the Archives. She pops in from time to time; we really miss her.

STUDIO
I am in need of a quiet space to rent as a painting studio – my space here gets reduced every year then becomes a storage area. I have been looking at some industrial spaces in Queanbeyan; there are some great places around but a lot are too big and have multiple spaces. A quiet shed in a rural setting would be ideal. Ph 6284 2868

THE ‘COOKBOOK’
Yes it is happening at last – editor, designer and photographer all on the job. Will be launched in the courtyard late March/April. You will hear more as gets closer. The world of publishing has been an education for me.

MIXED MEDIA CLASS
You may have noticed some ribbon and mixed necklaces in the end class room. They are waiting to be finished with the correct findings – that are on the boat. Many people have asked about these, so have put a class on 9th October in the afternoon.

MOVIES
We have not seen one for some time – much to my old husband’s distress – as there seems to be a lull in good movies. Any recommendations would be welcome. I am not much of a footy fan – living here with two blokes makes it hard to ignore completely – but I must admit I was pretty happy to hear that the Raiders won last night.

Am off to a trade show today to try and buy some pretty things that you may like to give as Christmas presents – or you may like to make into your own styles.

Second Hand Sunday
31st October
Designer clothes and collector's items.

NEW – With Sarah McKay
Saturday 18th September, 10:00am until 1:00pm – Scrapbooking
Bookings ph 6284 2868

High Tea in the Refectory
Upcoming High Teas: 19th September, 17th & 24th October
Take time out, meet up with friends for with traditional food, served with traditional style. Four savoury foods, three sweets, glass of sparkling, tablecloths and tiered plates. $30 per person, 3pm-5pm.
High Teas are usually booked out, if you would like to come to High Tea, you may buy tickets with your credit card and we will send them to you. Bookings essential – 6284 2868

Beading Classes
7 Week Beginners Course: commencing 14th October
Creative Retreats: beginner's necklace, earrings & bracelet on 16th October
Mixed Media: chain or ribbon on 9th October, 2.30-4.30pm $28 pp.
Wire Workshop: twisted wire bracelet on 18th September, 23rd October; 2.30-4.30pm $28 pp.
All bookings & enquiries ph 6284 2868

Music Club
Next: 29th August, 26th September
Soloists or small groups of musicians and storytellers - established or young - will gather in ‘The Refectory’ 3-5pm. Enquiries 6284 2868

Fresh Produce
in season fruit and veg from region is available every Saturday & Sunday + bread, olive oils, Lindsay & Edmund’s chocolate, Sue's famous apple pies and our preserves - reducing the ‘food miles’

Take care,
Kate