Category Archives: Uncategorized

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you’ve had a happy Christmas with good food and pleasant company. Our family Christmas get-together was a little delayed but a happy event in the end. Now it’s over, it’s time to think ahead. Another year begins with all the freshness and good intentions. Much to put behind usContinue reading “A Fresh Start”

Christmas not far off now. Lots going on in my kitchen, home and garden. A busy time but full of little things to bring pleasure and satisfaction. I made a wreath with lovely bits from around the garden for the front of the house. The holly berries were in short supply but I found aContinue reading “Merry Christmas”

Making the Christmas cake is my idea of celebrating my November birthday. My daughter Sam helps me. It’s a tradition we began years ago and we love to do it. The kitchen smells of Christmas as we chop and mix together. If you would like the recipe, you’ll find it by scrolling back to myContinue reading “Wine, Festive Flan, and the Autumn Garden”

November, the month of remembrance, when we give thanks to those who gave their lives for us. We must never forget. The year is winding to a close but there’s work to be done before a new year begins. Christmas preparations are underway so it’s a busy time for many of us and outdoor workContinue reading “Poppies, Puds and Toys”

A few years ago, my daughter Samantha persuaded me to write a blog. Sounded scary and far too technical for me but eventually I gave it a try and this month marks the third anniversary of those first steps. I’m so grateful for the lovely responses from my readers. Without them it would be aContinue reading “Pickles, Wood-ash and Knitted Toys”

October. Time for misty mornings and the sound of rustling leaves as Autumn sweeps in. The garden is winding down and other activities fill my thoughts as Christmas edges nearer. Before the festive season occupies my time though I have jobs to do in the garden. I have kale to plant out and broad beanContinue reading “Problems, Pleasures and Pie”

It feels more like Autumn now that October has begun. A mellow atmosphere in the air and hints of colour in the leaves. Time to think ahead in the garden for winter food and hardy flowers. For us, the last days of September were sunny and warm. The garden was full of bees and butterflies.Continue reading “Autumn Pleasures and Quick Food”

Halfway through September and the mood has changed in the garden. Leaves litter the paths and sunny spells are followed by damp mornings. A sense of winding down pervades the air. The asters are putting on their early autumn show. Their lovely shades of colour, from softest lilac to deep purple, make them some ofContinue reading “Seasonal Changes and Preserving Tips.”

September already. A mellow month full of fruity scents and a feeling of change in the air. The aroma of apples is wonderful when they’re gathered in the shed. The perfume is heady as you open the door and the delicious smell fills your nose. I’ve already used windfalls in my apple and cinnamon squaresContinue reading “Fruity Harvest and Fruit Cake”

Almost the end of August. Making the most of the last Summer days and the benefits of the season. The rudbeckias are glowing, fuchsias are gracefully showing their frilly petals, the asters are beginning to open their lovely daisy flowers and the veronicas have pretty spikes of pink and mauve. It’s good to see theContinue reading “Garden Finds, Sewing Treasures and Lovely Boxes”