Kogo in the shape of a Store House

These little boxes are used to hold incense for the Tea Ceremony. This one is in the form of a Kura, or Japanese store-house. They are usually made by hand and not much more than 5cm. in any dimension. During the Tea Ceremony two of the three small triangular flakes of incense are put onto the charcoal fire to perfume the room. The last piece of incense is left in the box and at a certain point during the ceremony the guest may ask to view and admire the box and its contents. Tomorrow I will post another of my kogo for you to see.

Pond Flowers

These Marsh Mallow growing in my pond are looking very bright an happy at the moment. Soon the water iris and a little later the water lilies will be flowering so long as the ducks and pukeko don't pull them all up first.

A Very Pretty Maple

This is a very pretty maple but is, unfortunately, very easily damaged by the wind. This one is reasonably sheltered and is looking at its best right now.

Fallen Acacia

The wind last week felled this acacia which I cleaned up yesterday. There are three other trunks to this tree all of which have a tremendous lean. Maybe they will be next Winter's firewood.

The last of the Winter Fires

It was cold enough last night to light my fire. This wonderful fireplace was designed by John Scott when he designed our house. The inner brick arch is reminiscent of a pottery kiln and gives a full view of the flame and is also wonderful for warming all of one's back.

Cream Magnolia

This magnolia was one of Estelle's favourites. The plant is still not very big and has taken years to grow. This year it has a lovely show of flowers that haven't been spoilt by frost and has been sheltered from the sever winds we have had lately.

Kodai of Japanese Tea Bowl

The foot ring or "kodai" of this Japanese Tea Bowl was cut by hand and is, therefore, much softer and beautiful than one turned on a potters wheel. I am not sure where this chard would be from but probably from the Mino area in Japan.