Merry Christmas Eve Everyone
Hi Neighbourly folk, I really enjoyed this post from Simon Woolf with its beautiful image and lovely words. I hope you all enjoy Christmas.
"Merry Christmas Eve Everyone.
This image is of possibly the Southern most Pohutakawa in the North Island. It is the third year since I noticed it, shortly after we lost our great friend Eva McGauley. It didn't flower last year!
It is located in one of the most exposed places, anywhere in Aotearoa New Zealand! Wellington's South Coast can be one of the most rugged, extreme environments anywhere in the world, and especially when an Antarctic blast hits Cook Strait. Winds exceeding 200kph, eight to 10 metre swells, and a sub zero wind chill factor are regular occurrences in this area.
Evie's Tree, for that's what we have called it, symbolises resilience, hope, strength and beauty, everthing Evie was.
After the past year, where we all have come through some adversity, Evie's Tree, proves that with adversity there is opportunity. If this stunning little pohutakawa can flower in the conditions it faces, we too can overcome most of which is thrown at us, and flourish too."
- Simon Woolf
Brain Burn Alert! Today’s Riddle Will Make You Think Twice!
What is seen in the middle of March and April that can't be seen at the beginning or end of either month?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
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What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.
Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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28.4% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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20.3% Small fireworks displays in each community
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7.7% Keep it as is
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32.7% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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10.6% Anything but fireworks
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0.4% Other - I'll share below