Winter Flowers, Leftovers and Parsnip Flan

I know I’ve mentioned hellebores before but they really are a wonderful plant for the worst months of the year. There are many beautiful variations in the oriental varieties. The arrangement of the petals, the colours and the centres are very different. Here’s a selection of mine. I love the little surprises in a garden.Continue reading “Winter Flowers, Leftovers and Parsnip Flan”

Petals, Pickles and Stitching

Frost, snow, storms, rain and a few nice days! All to be expected in January. The month is a hard one. The hatches have been truly battened and the fire has been lit for some cosier evenings. There were few opportunities to go out into the garden but whenever I could I was out there.Continue reading “Petals, Pickles and Stitching”

Cosy Comfort, Jam and Dreams of Spring

Halfway through January. Real winter! Time for cosy cushions, blankets, hot drinks and daydreams about Spring. Some cold grey days but dry enough to work outside. I did some tidying in the greenhouse. Far too many plastic pots and plug trays. They tend to pile up whenever I buy plants. Sadly, the black ones can’tContinue reading “Cosy Comfort, Jam and Dreams of Spring”

Wine, Festive Flan, and the Autumn Garden

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”

Pickles, Wood-ash and Knitted 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”

Problems, Pleasures and Pie

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”