Mandevilla red

I wish my newly potted red mandevilla would shape and grow more prolifically. I wonder what it needs? Fertiliser? 

My aunt Jenny has two in pots which are healthy as. What's the secret?

Update: this plant died and I threw it out. Would like a replacement. I think it's a dipladenia, not a mandevilla.

'New'(old) stuff

Bought this fab four poster bed from an Ipswich Facebook sale, from Coominya. The guy delivered it and set it up for me for $100. I don't like having strangers (especially men) in my house (or bedroom), but sometimes it's necessary. Easy to put together, and quite high - good value. It suits my room very well. 

And that's my new kitty, lying on the bed. Little smokey-hint of torti-colour Tina. New addition to our family. She is cute but does not like being picked up!

I also sold Peta's fridge and am using my own, from years ago in Albury. Much better size and options re-shelves.
I had the washing machine fixed - it's delivered this morning, so I can get on and be a bit more independent from Mum's machine. Happier re-that.

Taffy and Tutti - Jan 2017

Something made them look!

New year vignettes

Side garden update

Nothing to report, just a photo-update of the way it looks. It has been so hot that I can't really do anything with it until the weather cools down, in Autumn. Weed, plant a few tall trees, bark over the top.

We have insulation! and a whirly-bird!

I'll let the photos below do the talking... It took 4 and a half hours and seemed very simple for them. It rained at first, then gradually became finer so they could begin the work. I am so glad it has happened - apparently there was nothing between the ceiling and the roof, not even a plastic lining.

I reckon I can feel the effects almost immediately.

From one to the other

Ho Chi Minh City apartment...

and now my Ipswich house...