A weekend in the country.

Jamie and I have just returned from a lovely weekend away in the country. As many of you know Jamie is an extremely keen cyclist and has recently committed to compete in all the regional road cycling races this winter.

The first race for the winter finally arrived, and very early Saturday morning we packed up our car and drove out to a country town called Bathurst, some three hours west of Sydney. Jamie spent two days racing. Day 1 was a criterium, a 20 lap race which Jamie came second in. Day 2 brought the 110km (68mile) 'Blayney to Bathurst' road race, which Jamie came 1st in! Yep, my man won his group!

~ That's Jamie at the top of the hill leading the criterium! ~

While Jamie raced on Day 2, I spent the time exploring the local countryside. It was beautiful...

~ Evening ~

~ Morning ~

~ Evening ~

~ Morning ~

~ I came across these pumpkins and couldn't help myself... I bought two! ~

~ I just love mailboxes ~

Going away for a cycling weekend did mean I lost two potential sewing days. But it was worth it!

Sam xox

Bicycles and living greener.

I have had a very bicycle themed weekend!

Last night Jamie and I hosted a 'Tour de France' party at our home. We invited two couples over who we know are fans of the Tour. I cooked Julia Child's Beef Bourguignon, had Edith Piaf playing, and laid a table with white linen and candles. It was a fabulous evening with much talking and red wine. I honestly do not know how the French get anything done. The meal was delicious and coupled with a glass of wine, I was ready to fall asleep!

In an effort to live greener I am considering riding a bike to work when I begin my new job. My new office is fantastically close to home, literally a 10 minutes drive from my front door, and I am hoping there will be somewhere I could leave my bike safely during the day (perhaps in the office?).

I am in love with the cruiser step through styles of bike, especially ones with a retro feel to them. They are surprisingly comfortable to ride and not too heavy to handle. These two are my favourites, but I am leaning towards the first one (lucky for Jamie as it is much less $ than the second).

Sam xox