The Great Debate

I was very disappointed with the debate between John Howard and Kevin Rudd last night.

While they may have covered tax cuts, climate change and the war in Iraq, where was the rebate for frugalness? Where was the discussion of the arts? Where was the passion for not spending money???

I am heartened by one of John Howard's final act of government before moving to caretaker mode (although only just announced). He has granted $6m to the Bradman Foundation to build a shrine to The Don.

Surely the next logical step is to donate $12m to the Whitey Foundation so that I can build a shrine to The Voice.

Frugal Friday: Vegetable and Barley Soup

I know it is not winter anymore, but there is still money to be saved by limiting your diet.

If you have a few vegetables that are on their way out, then this is a cost effective way to dispose of them and feed the kids at the same time.

Ingredients:
- 5 or 6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed, most diseased bits removed
- 2 leeks cut into round slices
- 3 carrots, roughly chopped
- 5 celery sticks, cut onto chunks, substitute with green carrots if cheaper
- 1 cup of dried pearl barley
- a few leaves of dark green cabbage, or anything vaguely green
- lot of water to stretch it out
- Salt and pepper to taste

Boil it up and dish it out.

Big news on the weekend

Why would you call these antics?

All sounds very sensible to me.

Myer street party

I didn't realise that they would have security at the Myer party in Murray St on the weekend.

I borrowed the Fire Warden helmet from work and thought that it would be enough to provide an entree to free food and entertainment. Not to be. Something about fire service only.

Very disappointing.

Update - Fitzies cafe

I can confirm that Fitzie Cafe is open and has been unaffected by the Myer fire.

After a $5.95 lunch I can report that the food is exactly the same as it was 10 days ago.