Hello, dear friends
As the year winds down, life at A Deer Cottage has been anything but quiet. It’s been a month filled with cherished traditions, creative projects, and heartfelt preparations—each one bringing its own special joy and meaning.
One of my favourite traditions is baking my Christmas cake, using my late grandmother’s beloved fruit cake and wedding cake recipe. The smell of rich spices and fruits fills the air, wrapping me in fond memories of hers and my Mum's kitchen. Every year on the Anniversary of my late Mum's passing in October, my sister and I soak the fruit in Spiced Rum, or whatever we choose to use. This year, I’ve also continued with creating Ume wine and experimenting with preserving Ume jam—both delightful ways to capture the season’s flavours. It is so lovely to have some home treats to pop into a Christmas gift.
In between these culinary adventures, I’ve been working on some handmade treasures for family. My granddaughter’s jacket and beanie, have been sent to her, so on Christmas Day she can open them up and feel lovely and snug in the snowy conditions where she lives, while my embroidery hoop is busy with Santa stockings—one for my son’s girlfriend, a heartfelt addition to be able to gift.
Of course, life at A Deer Cottage means always staying busy with hosting our wonderful guests. Whether it’s getting the rooms ready for arrivals or tidying up after departures, it’s a joy to share our cosy space with others.
Outside, our property has been brimming with progress and meaning. The chicken coop is officially set up and already buzzing with life as our mumma hen and chicks settle into their new home. Our amazing pond area is coming together beautifully. This space holds such deep significance as we prepare for a memorial service next year to honour my dear friend Shawn. Shawn was instrumental in so many parts of our property, especially this pond, which he dig out, and afforded me many a laugh, when the pond continued to leak....and yes, that in fact is one of the "to do" things on our list to fix over the Christmas break!
To honour his memory, we’ve installed a whimsical hobbit gate at the entrance to the area, this gate, was two very old cast iron bed ends, welded together by a mutual friend, this magnificent hobbit gate, is the gateway to this peaceful retreat. This special nook, named He Wāhi Whakatā (a place of rest), will serve as a serene reading area and a quiet spot for reflection. It’s our heartfelt way to ensure Shawn’s contributions and spirit remain forever a part of us here.
As I write this, I feel so grateful for the balance of creativity, tradition, and connection that fills my days. Whether it’s baking, crafting, or tending to our little haven, each task is a reminder of the love and memories that make A Deer Cottage so special.
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Stay connected and join us on this wonderful adventure, we love staying connected with our guests, as well as sharing the beauty of A Deer Cottage with the World !
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If you wish to find out more about A Deer Cottage, our boutique bed and breakfast, overlooking the Kaipara Harbour in Kaukapakapa, Auckland, New Zealand, you can do so here
Wishing you all a season filled with peace, joy, and meaningful moments. Safe travels
With aroha, Angela & Te Kani 🫎❤️🫎
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