And today is .......

January 8



National English Toffee Day falls on January 8. it's a day to enjoy the delicious, rich, buttery confection, often with chocolate and nuts, known for its hard-crack texture and deep flavour, it's a classic confection, sometimes called "butter crunch,"

This confectionery has a rich history down the ages though now it’s common to either buy it at your convenient retail shop or make your own batch using a classic recipe that includes butter, sugar, and optional toppings like chocolate and crushed nuts.

English Toffee strikes a delicate balance between firmness and chewiness, making it a true pleasure to savor. Who can resist the deeply caramelized, buttery, and nutty flavour? Soft and chewy to very hard; often topped with chocolate and more nuts. What’s not to love?

The ANZAC version, ie Aussies and Kiwis have their own spin on the English toffee where we make a “Hokey Pokey style of toffee, where honeycomb toffee has baking soda and vinegar added so the toffee froths and makes bubbles as it sets, giving a completely different texture. But just as YUMMY!

In 2026, we have such a variety of English toffees that are both traditional in style and others that are “variations of a theme” offering flavours like creamy, treacle, mint, and liquorice, again in traditional chewy formats or chocolate-covered. These varieties are sold via retailers as individually wrapped sweets or in blocks and jars, with options for nationwide delivery.

Dietary options also cater for all types of consumer, including gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, made with traditional methods, and no artificial colours or preservatives. Again the product size is available in various pack sizes, from 100g blocks to larger assorted jars.

Traditional English toffee in the Australian market is typically distinguished by its hard-crack stage (brittle texture) compared to the softer "soft-crack" stage of butterscotch. Authentic British versions usually focus on buttery sweetness with minimal chocolate or nut layers, though some premium Australian-made varieties include almonds and Belgian chocolate for a "buttercrunch" style.

But wait there’s more.

This famous sweet has now become even more popular when we know that it’s a staple ingredient in making a Sticky Date Pudding – YUMM!

Remember the Toffee Apples of our childhood?

And not to forget the popular Aussie ice-cream flavour, Hokey Pokey – a BIG YUMM.

We all deserve our just desserts.



“Sweet dreams are made of these”

“Toffee is happiness you can chew”

“Toffee breaks are nature’s stress pauses”

“Toffee or not toffee, that is the question”



1767814377414.png


1767814393194.png



1767814411867.png



1767814455152.png
 
January 9


National Australian Shepherd Day is celebrated on January 9.

Few dogs match the spark and spirit of the Australian Shepherd. With their sharp minds and tireless drive, they turn everyday moments into something special.

These pups were born to move, think, and stay close to their people.

Whether herding sheep or chasing tennis balls, they throw themselves into the task with full focus and joy. Their expressive eyes and constant curiosity make it hard not to fall for them instantly.

National Australian Shepherd Day reminds us how deeply these dogs touch lives. They support, protect, and entertain with equal passion. Many serve in roles that demand patience, courage, and quick thinking. Others simply fill homes with laughter, loyalty, and warmth. These dogs bring comfort and energy in equal measure.

Aussie Shepherds are more than just beautiful- this breed is exceptionally smart and eager to please, making them fast learners for training and complex tasks. They exhibit high energy levels so require plenty of running, playing, and vigorous activity. Their temperament is loyal, protective, playful, and forms strong bonds with their families, but can be reserved with strangers.

They have a natural strong drive to herd, sometimes attempting to "herd" children or other pets.

For those lucky enough to know them, this breed leaves a lasting impression.

A medium-sized working dog weighs in around 50kgs; Their coat remains medium-length in a weather-resistant double coat, often in blue merle, red merle, black, or red, with white and tan markings. Their eyes are striking, often marbled or in various colours like blue, amber, brown, or combinations.

Like all dog breeds, the Australian Shepherd needs regular daily exercise and mental stimulation (training, dog sports like agility, obedience) to stay happy. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial to manage their intelligence and instincts. Moderate grooming is needed; they shed heavily and require regular brushing. These dogs are generally healthy, but prone to issues like hip dysplasia, eye conditions (CEA, cataracts), and epilepsy.

The Aussie Shepherds suit active families, farmers, or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to training and providing a "job" for their dog, preventing boredom and ensuring they become well-adjusted companions.



Fun Facts about Australian Shepherds:

  • Despite the name, the Australian Shepherd does not originate from Australia! Their ancestors were likely Spanish herding dogs from the Basque region of Spain and France. The breed was further developed in the United States to become today’s Australian Shepherd. One theory on the origin of this name is that the sheep they were herding came from Australia. The other theory was these Basque shepherds came first to Australia before they were imported into the United States.
  • SMILE! According to people who own or who have owned Australian Shepherds, this breed will smile and show all their teeth. Apparently, Aussies are most likely to smile when they’ve been caught doing something mischievous.


“We were told angels have wings: no one told me that some have paws”

“Aussie shepherds are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”

“To err is human — to forgive, canine.”

“Time spent with my Aussie Shepherd is never wasted”



1767903990295.png



1767904005979.png




1767904129476.png



1767904611464.png
 
Back
Top