July at A Deer Cottage – Winter Warmth, Whānau, and a Touch of May Gibbs Magic

As the crisp July days settle over Kaukapakapa and the fire keeps our toes toasty at A Deer Cottage, we’ve been embracing the quieter, cosier pace of mid-winter with all the heart and creativity it brings.

Earlier this month, we had the joy of having Te Kani’s great niece during the school holidays. What a treat to have a young one about! One of our favourite outings was a trip to Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium — a magical underwater world right here in Tāmaki Makaurau, (Auckland). It was loads of fun, and a perfect escape from the winter drizzle. Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium is less than an hour from A Deer Cottage, just 56.8 km's. If you wish to find out more about Kelly Tarlton's you can do so through here

Back home, I’ve been happily occupied with some lovely slow day projects. I finally finished putting together a crochet baby blanket made from Peggy squares (my youngest daughter had crocheted the Peggy squares, she originally wanted to make a pair of trousers, however, as time went on, her thoughts changed), and I suggested — a heartfelt project for Te Kani's and my latest grandchild and Lily's neice or nephew, due to arrive very soon. I even added a square of my own for a personal touch. Stitching it all together has felt like weaving a warm embrace for the little one on the way. (I just have to sew in those loose ends, and give it a good steam, then it will be jetting off in anticipation for the babies arrival!)

Last month, also brought a very special gift from my sister Rachael for my 60th birthday — a beautifully hand-stitched May Gibbs Snugglepot and Cuddlepie cross-stitch. It’s incredibly meaningful, as it brought back memories of a ceramic piece I once bought for Mum years ago while I lived in Australia. Mum adored it, and now this gift from Rachael feels like a lovely full circle. On a recent op-shop adventure together, Rachael and I stumbled across a May Gibbs jigsaw puzzle too — perfect for rainy day afternoons. I’ve been chipping away at it when the weather keeps me indoors, surrounded by cups of tea and good music. If you wish to discover more about May Gibbs you can do so here

Not all my projects have been inside though! I found an incredible pair of wrought iron gates at the Helensville Recycle Depot — large, sturdy, and full of character. A friend kindly welded the broken bits, threw them on a fire to get rid of the rust, and the next step will be me repainting them with special rust proof paint . They’re destined for the front driveway, and I’m certain they’ll be a real feature once they’re up and gleaming.

Another beautiful addition to A Deer Cottage this month is a handmade oak bookshelf — gifted for our Shiatsu and Massage room. It was lovingly crafted by the father of a dear friend, and it not only looks stunning but holds our wellness books and treasures perfectly.

So although July can sometimes feel a bit grey and damp, here it’s been full of colour, texture, and connection — with whānau, with memories, and with meaningful projects that carry us through the winter season. If you wish to find out more about our bed & breakfast overlooking the Kaipara Harbour you can do so here

Wishing everyone a warm and creative end to winter.

Ngā mihi nui (with regards) from Te Kani and I, at A Deer Cottage 🫎❤️🫎

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