Downpipes ready for rain

What a fabulous and productive day we had at Underhill this month! Greg and Ev came to help Geoff and I attach downpipes to the eastern slope of the new roof (the highest and most difficult side).

There was lots of ladder climbing, pulley systems with rope, wire ties and blue glue.

At each stage there was testing to be done so more ladder climbing with buckets of water.

We even remembered to let the first run bypass the tank inlet.

It works and looks quite elegant!

We did so well we decided to remove the makeshift diagonal pipe and complete the third pop hole downpipe. Removing the makeshift pipe was awkward to say the least.

Ponyo supervised the whole process of course. As we did not have enough new pipe for the final hole we used an old bit so it does not look quite as elegant as the other downpipes. But it works and is feeding the tank used to drip irrigate the new fruit trees.

Now all we need is a bit of rain to start the system working. It is amazing the relief both Geoff and I felt on our way home that now there would be water to drink from the top tank and to irrigate from the bottom tank and middle tank.

Thank you Greg and Ev.

Busy Times

The last few weeks have been very buzy. There have been many music rehearsals and performances that included being in some incredible places with high-rise views and Martin Place just full of people and flowers in the aftermarth of Monday's seige. We finished the last of 8 Westpac choir performances today.

Then there has been the round of pre-Christmas get togethers with friends.

Of course my patchwork groups had get togethers as well. A high tea at a local patchwork shop and a party at the Kogarah Library at which we officially donated our quilts to the chosen charities.

There was an overnight trip to Newcastle with Janice for brother-in-law Jim's ordination.

Of course the garden continues to produce prolifically too. So there is lots of produce to preserve or eat.

I've also had some fun with Alex and Luke - sewing games bags with them (they love sewing with me) and decorating their Christmas tree.

So now there are only five more sleeps till Christmas, one more trip to Underhill and four more opportunities to sing before a month long break. So I wish you all a Happy Christmas and a thank you for all your help and friendship throughout the year.