
The Many uses of Cucumbers
With salad season coming up I thought I would give you a little information about the humble cucumber.
1. Contain B1, B2, B6, Folate, Vit C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Zinc.
2. Is a great pick-me-up when afternoon tiredness sets in.
3. Rubbing a slice of cucumber on the bathroom mirror stops it fogging up.
4. Place a few slices of cucumber in an aluminium can or dish to eliminate bugs, slugs and snails from gardens. They don't like the scent given off by the phytochemicals in the cucumber when it reacts with the aluminium.
5. Rub slices on skin to tighten it up. The phytochemicals in the cucumber cause the collagen to firm up the outer layer reducing visibility of cellulite and wrinkles.
6. A slice of cucumber polishes shoes beautifully.
7. A slice of cucumber fixes squeaky hinges.
8. A slice of cucumber held on the roof of the mouth with tongue for 30 seconds will eliminate bad breath.
9. Rub a slice of cucumber on stainless steel benches, taps etc to eliminate tarnish.
10. Use the outside of the cucumber to rub on mistakes and erase ink, crayons and markers.

Hazy weekend for New Zealand.. again
Hazy skies caused by the Australian bush fires are set to linger this weekend.
Northwesterly winds have blown a hazy plume of smoke across the Tasman Sea, and while it has mostly affected the South Island in recent weeks, it has moved up the country.
The "robust plume" is expected to head to the South Island late on Saturday.
The haze has been causing a yellowish-orange, hue at sunset, making for some sweet sunset photos. Share your photos in the comments!
(Our photo is of the sun setting over the Waitākere Ranges, taken by visual journalist Ricky Wilson.)


Help Kiwi schools get their own electric garden!
14 Carrots. 2 Pumpkins. 3 Basil plants. 8 Romain Lettuces. 1 class of problems solvers. The Electric Garden is a revolutionary learning tool mixing the art of growing food with computer programming and digital technologies.
Find out more about teaching digital technology through gardening or donate to help all kiwi schools access this programme here.


Here when you need us
Time spent in respite care can range from a single night to a few weeks. It provides a welcome break and peace of mind knowing that your loved one will receive round-the-clock care from friendly, experienced care teams.
May Kitchen knows how important it is to provide carers with a break. After visiting her husband Stuart in respite care at a Ryman village, she was tempted to move in herself! “If it was me, I think I would enjoy it because it’s just so beautiful and the food is good.”
Ryman villages provide warm and welcoming communities. Where residents can enjoy activities and outings while forming friendships along the way.
