Another cool morning and one where they told us we could see four planets if we look to the east. I missed then – nothing but cloud. Everyone is complaining – a long cold winter is predicted.

Be heartened: “Let us love winter, for it is the spring of genius.” ~ Pietro Aretino (1492-1556)

A time for a little hibernation, reading in a warm bed, knitting by the fire, a brisk walk with a warm scarf, gloves and hat; casseroles cooked in red wine, port, hot coffee and chocolate cake. Sticky date pudding, with warm caramel sauce – just out of the oven – I am hoping there is a little left over.

Local Designers
* Findi Flooshki are 'small treasures' designed in Queanbeyan. Flexible hairclips can be converted to brooches, pendants and scarf ties. The collection draws on modern design as well as elements from antiquities and nature..
* Cheryl Hodges is a well known botanical artist from Queanbeyan. Cheryl has created a beautiful collection of gift cards.

We are thrilled to be able to stock the work of these two Queaneyan mothers and part time artists.

New Product – The Yankee Candle
When I visited friends who lived on the Baltic in Sweden a few years ago they had a lovely tradition of walking in the afternoon (4pm), picking some wild thistles or flowers, then coming inside on dusk and lighting candles throughout the house. The candles drain the oxygen from the air – thus giving us a sense of calm.

‘Yankee Candle’ - a terrible name but I fell in love with the fragrances. There is a depth of quality in this product, everything is right. It looks great, its fragrance is both authentic and extraordinary. Its concept is to bring seasonal and comforting fragrances into our homes, with style, and originality.

New Stock
* NEW Leather Gloves
* My Wallets are back in stock along with the range of beautiful leather gloves that melt into ones hands.
* The woolen scarves from India have also been restocked

New Habit
I do enjoy a wine at night but it is not great for the calories and puts me to sleep- snoring- in the chair by 8pm. I am discovering the low calorie and low alcohol wine – there is even a weight watchers wine. I recommend they are worth a try – and if you find a good one let us know.

Graphic Designer Needed
Karen Heyer, who has been working with us for the past three years, has completed her Bachelor of Arts degree and is taking a well earned back-packing holiday - on her own - to Europe. We wish her well and will miss her work done on our website, advertising and 'the book'. If you know of anyone who would like a bit of part time design work please call Kate on 6284 2868.

New leather gloves from Mywallit

Yankee candles - long burning

Cheryl Hodges gift cards

Findi Flooshki hairpins

Magnetic beads

Woolen scarves from India back in stock

Hairpins and accessories by Findi Flooshki

Brushed silver beads

Sterling silver gemstone rings

Book now for our Christmas in July lunch or dinner

Benedict House Pantry Launch
Saturday 19th June
The front hall will be revamped and will feature new ranges of gourmet pantry staples - oils and vinegars, sea salt blends, sauces and syrups, confits and mustards will inspire everyday cooking and make interesting gifts.

Yuletide – winter warming festive feasts for Christmas in July
Christmas in July Lunch, $35 pp, from 12-2.30pm on 20th July & 27th July.
Christmas in July Dinner, $50 pp, from 6pm-9pm on 21st July & 28th July.
Please email 17218@tpg.com.au for menu. Bookings ph 6284 2868.

Sewing with Sara
A great way for mothers to enjoy a coffee, create and socialize - making things for the home, oneself, or the baby. Bring along patterns and fabrics, swap and share. Children are welcome (but must be supervised).
19th May, 2nd June, 16th June. Cost $10 pp, runs from 10am-12noon. Bookings ph 6284 2868.

Beading Classes
Creative Retreats (Beginners): beginner's necklace, earrings & bracelet on 21st May, 18th June
Creative Retreats (Intermediate): contemporary knotting, twisted wire & pearl knotting on 16th July
Creative Retreats (Advanced): design & colour theory, fibre & fabric on 2nd July
Chainmaille Bracelet Class with Lilian Toms: on 25th June from 2-4.30pm, $30pp
All bookings & enquiries ph 6284 2868