tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53393172162656362152024-03-18T09:48:26.400+00:00Frugal in NorfolkLiving a slower, more simple life ...Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.comBlogger2766125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-80350640151971893892023-10-19T13:45:00.003+01:002023-10-19T13:45:23.950+01:00New Blog Available<p>For now, I am reusing my walking blog. All the information from that has been deleted. You can find my new blog here: <a href="https://thisnorfolklife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">This Norfolk Life</a></p><p>I may change the title some time in the future. It will still show what we are up to but also what I am thinking about current affairs as quite frankly, the state of this country and its so called government, is cheesing me off big time.</p><p>Within a few days, Frugal in Norfolk will then disappear, to be made private as a reminder of my last ten or so years.</p><p>Come find me!<br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-29690698262366923032023-10-19T09:37:00.001+01:002023-10-19T09:37:19.341+01:00Hi everyone <p> Planned on a short break but lost my blogging mojo and not happy with current blog. Need to develop a new one, eventually. Bear with bear with etc!</p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-35014935789606600692023-08-25T11:29:00.000+01:002023-08-25T11:29:50.443+01:00Using my new mincer<p>My Kenwood Chef (from the 1970's) has finally given up the ghost. A new one the same size would cost £400 then the mincer attachment another £150. </p><p>I thought long and hard about replacing it (or getting it fixed which we may still do). For now though, I hardly use the rest of it so we shopped around for just a mincer.</p><p>We settled for a Duronic as it had quite good reviews. It is very powerful and noisy, making me jump when I switched it on:<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxdbe87DhDNJjLMC2VORVg3qJdO8aEpVC_WMW39bmP2Flxw6L7cuIlq7b8JAUNp0cbfFsMb31IjmQ_86Msm-uIul9DdE3MPNB3M8UXbp8aMpln-Qtx48dILNNpoAjRx-6OFyCwOpVJoioNV3imVRp7FznZgYc7lTVSnLGcHl56YFesFJhbo4qKFzNTJmjD/s273/Screen%20Shot%202023-08-20%20at%2009.10.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="268" data-original-width="273" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxdbe87DhDNJjLMC2VORVg3qJdO8aEpVC_WMW39bmP2Flxw6L7cuIlq7b8JAUNp0cbfFsMb31IjmQ_86Msm-uIul9DdE3MPNB3M8UXbp8aMpln-Qtx48dILNNpoAjRx-6OFyCwOpVJoioNV3imVRp7FznZgYc7lTVSnLGcHl56YFesFJhbo4qKFzNTJmjD/s1600/Screen%20Shot%202023-08-20%20at%2009.10.22.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>I made enough bolognese sauce with out tomatoes for tea plus two more meals:<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjH2qFvwGMnGOf1efEmnA65woeD0HfLHMN6eiM_lHtMjgMhchDDr3G6gkdSMXbyEHHTqsjw_OFWYTLlC3Imx7isVQ5I-P_sU5Iatz6PYIbOucqGMw3seq4exwjiSIapYSiJLcogqG2Q5cfc3i538rq_fJKphdQiuL-3AduXBu-pmUbjNIQmfkZgcthwr_n/s425/IMG_0043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjH2qFvwGMnGOf1efEmnA65woeD0HfLHMN6eiM_lHtMjgMhchDDr3G6gkdSMXbyEHHTqsjw_OFWYTLlC3Imx7isVQ5I-P_sU5Iatz6PYIbOucqGMw3seq4exwjiSIapYSiJLcogqG2Q5cfc3i538rq_fJKphdQiuL-3AduXBu-pmUbjNIQmfkZgcthwr_n/s320/IMG_0043.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Whilst in the mood, I also made two crumbles using the brambles, dried apples and apricots:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1htPhxl-uq9h9zyWFRYs8hqrav9zxVSNdRjkw5O0XdyPfIpFCvUDgkRXnBD-MBkEML_wcFGqkcLj3Xk_8ht4RCnXC19wzBRgw-ZU73LXJ-Tkxt1my2SiRcv8AyMoKg6eADtd1dZn5hVYO1PsL8TKZujNQdE7cWMX11EhEC9ekRh-48O6iM7ytzP5guFzD/s425/IMG_0044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1htPhxl-uq9h9zyWFRYs8hqrav9zxVSNdRjkw5O0XdyPfIpFCvUDgkRXnBD-MBkEML_wcFGqkcLj3Xk_8ht4RCnXC19wzBRgw-ZU73LXJ-Tkxt1my2SiRcv8AyMoKg6eADtd1dZn5hVYO1PsL8TKZujNQdE7cWMX11EhEC9ekRh-48O6iM7ytzP5guFzD/s320/IMG_0044.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We shared one with custard and put the other plus the two sauces into the freezer for later use.<br /><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-5483494780327133732023-08-22T12:51:00.000+01:002023-08-22T12:51:45.843+01:00Hungarian hot wax chilli poppers<p>I removed 7 reasonably sized peppers from my plant, which are still pale green and therefore not much heat to them. The tops were removed and then they were deseeded carefully without being cut in half.</p><p>Half a pack of Feta cheese was crumbled with a fork and pressed into each one to fill them. Then two streaky rashers of bacon were wrapped around each, making sure the open end was fully covered.</p><p>Just 7 minutes in the air fryer, turning halfway through and they were done:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoY1w___KNBnv9skqIR37ibf5ePMXNJjtAcLF3ekI1Tk2b7AXEPQW01SUjUw3iA-ZII1rFGdHgEtD9pJnGZN25XmjTL5k3uzhVnoTvR4BXcn9G3-vS0HmVh3dZgDRV3Gp-9-CzOMQZ9Jpsa4iKpIDzmqvitOuRlcVp-es4Czo589e1-ZghKeKUEjnFcvlV/s425/IMG_0042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoY1w___KNBnv9skqIR37ibf5ePMXNJjtAcLF3ekI1Tk2b7AXEPQW01SUjUw3iA-ZII1rFGdHgEtD9pJnGZN25XmjTL5k3uzhVnoTvR4BXcn9G3-vS0HmVh3dZgDRV3Gp-9-CzOMQZ9Jpsa4iKpIDzmqvitOuRlcVp-es4Czo589e1-ZghKeKUEjnFcvlV/s320/IMG_0042.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Soft and squidgly inside, crispy outside and gorgeous. The peppers are slowly turning red so will have more heat next time.<br /><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-76119411964243152212023-08-20T09:03:00.004+01:002023-08-20T09:03:40.872+01:00Tomatoes and more tomatoes... oh, and some brambles from the garden<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjnmkeTgZ6etgZ53yW3ngbCzG-D_7sH28_mIp2qbeudFf8gEnQm-ctAS_U328ONggp12u6m2SHhj7apphZwkCxW-fuADB8RTlBruZFIF3rBr4tKQf-9GqcMWTW37YEhyM9cPGWp-oKx9OhMrUwfkUWCAnvg31wNGkszvhP0wod24ymxU84RGbj60mTNFQ/s425/IMG_0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjnmkeTgZ6etgZ53yW3ngbCzG-D_7sH28_mIp2qbeudFf8gEnQm-ctAS_U328ONggp12u6m2SHhj7apphZwkCxW-fuADB8RTlBruZFIF3rBr4tKQf-9GqcMWTW37YEhyM9cPGWp-oKx9OhMrUwfkUWCAnvg31wNGkszvhP0wod24ymxU84RGbj60mTNFQ/s320/IMG_0036.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Including some of the above, I have frozen 8lbs so far, simply chopped and bagged. Supposed to work.<p></p><p>First bowl of our own brambles, another one to pick today methinks:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistlFmUSE1SnuGGSlfZXPxYpvuSvOBYCNj13a0C5e3xTTvnLPkU7DCqz3kHnhWhOOihs7T-iknfyEDv4GVuKuhu4gxy8oMq3YSIodS1SYegJpsmBTuZ0c-Tm0VQOkLSbek4SHdXeneMpFGPDIf27SOlFCE0t8Fc49fvJnpPwwCGmXXdF-SoZAJwLD5Mm_E/s425/IMG_0039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistlFmUSE1SnuGGSlfZXPxYpvuSvOBYCNj13a0C5e3xTTvnLPkU7DCqz3kHnhWhOOihs7T-iknfyEDv4GVuKuhu4gxy8oMq3YSIodS1SYegJpsmBTuZ0c-Tm0VQOkLSbek4SHdXeneMpFGPDIf27SOlFCE0t8Fc49fvJnpPwwCGmXXdF-SoZAJwLD5Mm_E/s320/IMG_0039.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Despite some days being quite hot, Autumn is approaching, you can feel and see it in the dewy mornings and in the changing of the garden. Also, it is now completely dark by 9pm.<br /><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-429745612904084882023-08-18T12:58:00.000+01:002023-08-18T12:58:07.115+01:00Cheesed off is an understatement!<p> With blogger that is.</p><p>Got a new iPad. Old one select blogger logo, asked to sign in. Sign in screen arrives and I sign in and enter password. This opens up my dashboard where I can create, read and comment. Once finished I can log out of my blog.</p><p>New one, no blogger logo so have to do online search for blogger. Asked to sign in, no sign in screen arrives but my dashboard opens up. I can create, read but not comment, except anonymously. It asks me to sign in to comment as DC, can’t sign in, as supposedly, I am already signed in. Round and round I go in an endless loop. Also can’t sign out of just blogger, have to sign out of everything:(</p><p>This has ruined my experience to say the least. Supposedly is something to do with Google+ finishing the end of July. Have tried everything suggested but to no avail.</p><p>Anyone else having this problem?</p><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-26393373214259683992023-08-16T14:49:00.000+01:002023-08-16T14:49:23.025+01:00Weed juice<p>We recently changed our kitchen swing rubbish bin but didn't want to waste it nor throw such a huge item into the rubbish. </p><p>I have been reading about weed juice for a while. We usually make stinky comfrey tea (leaves soaked in water, strained then used 20 parts water to 1 part juice). The smell is horrendous and I just couldn't face it. Time to try something new.</p><p>The base of the bin had a large drainage hole drilled into it. The hole was almost covered by large stones, then a piece of plastic netting. Dandelion leaves, comfrey, borage, nettles and mares tail were added along with about a cup of water. This was so I could see where it was draining to fix a large plastic milk bottle underneath to catch the liquid. It too has a large hole cut into its side and catches everything quite well.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZ-O4WkC4dBmhgmzxKbjOzDSbwUq91RUjgAoLK7fizlVK9tuxXQHJCqoJ4gHEj79FOeai2k1OslfpZKTLiTZ7pwR7e_8I5KTUgYmtGQKAsBDTy5QPp4opOTtjZxF6yAh8BXW20nhLRWN8O5ey0MUCk04mM4HNNimu0eQa1F9AfjRxUD8JTnpmToE9pPHE/s425/IMG_0028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="283" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZ-O4WkC4dBmhgmzxKbjOzDSbwUq91RUjgAoLK7fizlVK9tuxXQHJCqoJ4gHEj79FOeai2k1OslfpZKTLiTZ7pwR7e_8I5KTUgYmtGQKAsBDTy5QPp4opOTtjZxF6yAh8BXW20nhLRWN8O5ey0MUCk04mM4HNNimu0eQa1F9AfjRxUD8JTnpmToE9pPHE/s320/IMG_0028.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Inside the leaves are weighed down with a heavy pot on top of more netting:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgRCWMN5gPlPOpnhExYny4U2oLzJluWEj2pA2f4G6cCbysb78JVoJSlhrFccND5Byo3rVXr0YulVOplOW4GLMKid-wkPCH2_uYz-AW0lDDSocck3Rwq3QEBCrFs6WDAHQ0FQt9bLDyJTnNrwCe5xnrJGKaGhBNppWK4uNPb-RVZSTDGVwN1VC4JEvHqCaV/s425/IMG_0029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgRCWMN5gPlPOpnhExYny4U2oLzJluWEj2pA2f4G6cCbysb78JVoJSlhrFccND5Byo3rVXr0YulVOplOW4GLMKid-wkPCH2_uYz-AW0lDDSocck3Rwq3QEBCrFs6WDAHQ0FQt9bLDyJTnNrwCe5xnrJGKaGhBNppWK4uNPb-RVZSTDGVwN1VC4JEvHqCaV/s320/IMG_0029.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Within one week I could see thick almost black liquid draining into the bottle. Checking the liquid, it practically has no smell, so much better!</p><p>So far it has been added to with more weeds on two occasions. Within one month it has produced this much liquid:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaeQBiVNgL8EvK83Q4w8SbrHaN0KrofkoStZY4dRxZe0H2D6lq5evxpkFbi5Mkt4n9Z8G8IWRa_1Q9XMvvah8uHNKo1KXUeBjaS2Rdv9BqHaEq5xuNnoV-JSEvFe3kd5wf05B-C9I5A3GWl6mDkNMuG9DorniD4oXN-g6oG0NezkVqV73d5OWMoI9gf-G/s425/IMG_0030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihaeQBiVNgL8EvK83Q4w8SbrHaN0KrofkoStZY4dRxZe0H2D6lq5evxpkFbi5Mkt4n9Z8G8IWRa_1Q9XMvvah8uHNKo1KXUeBjaS2Rdv9BqHaEq5xuNnoV-JSEvFe3kd5wf05B-C9I5A3GWl6mDkNMuG9DorniD4oXN-g6oG0NezkVqV73d5OWMoI9gf-G/s320/IMG_0030.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>We clean it out once the contents go black so as not to create too many flies and a general smell. It has been 1/3 filled up this morning and will probably be the last liquid we harness for this year.</p><p>It is used 100 parts water to 1 part liquid as it is very powerful. For me that represents 6 tablespoons to one full watering can. Free plant food, what's not to like?<br /></p><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-6737856527821996102023-08-13T10:48:00.000+01:002023-08-13T10:48:09.338+01:00Rose hips and rose hip powder<p>Up north during our visit, we found a lovely rose bush forming hips. We managed to pick two lots from it over the week. First lot were deseeded whilst fresh, the second I froze for some unknown reason so it was far more difficult to deseed. Shall not make that mistake again:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8WhJWnDQU7iBuo8qjrZgh_50NVPsDmDQtVQkKnjhOgednJhYJuIM2ZJcOp2zUqHUS773g4TB7TVdkchmNzHWeuylsbCdAM0ZcObihb-5oSdtJ9WN8WitoMrlTh06Ze5I7HC_yq2qfSLllBtBOV95LhSIFWoG5H7a16CcwCnKnDKkHAwaoj1fx_ogkFll/s425/IMG_0021.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8WhJWnDQU7iBuo8qjrZgh_50NVPsDmDQtVQkKnjhOgednJhYJuIM2ZJcOp2zUqHUS773g4TB7TVdkchmNzHWeuylsbCdAM0ZcObihb-5oSdtJ9WN8WitoMrlTh06Ze5I7HC_yq2qfSLllBtBOV95LhSIFWoG5H7a16CcwCnKnDKkHAwaoj1fx_ogkFll/s320/IMG_0021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p>Anyhow, once thawed, I deseeded those that needed doing, tore into smaller pieces, covered and dried in my conservatory:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifW6Wnd0EOGGKkKOv-L02rI4Cwcoauc7dTbiJk7AtAsI5X2782FOOd2UKPwGAz3xqfbvZ-oSWtGkWWDx5eNhv5nwBIWfkEnFTde_9Gc_IsgUxYfch2hLfxkiMdhE9lPTbCtRRUusM8aAPVIygjLBa_RgdGOXtpFU9bhF0jSEaSRP7K4brXADVvMyURs_Jk/s425/IMG_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifW6Wnd0EOGGKkKOv-L02rI4Cwcoauc7dTbiJk7AtAsI5X2782FOOd2UKPwGAz3xqfbvZ-oSWtGkWWDx5eNhv5nwBIWfkEnFTde_9Gc_IsgUxYfch2hLfxkiMdhE9lPTbCtRRUusM8aAPVIygjLBa_RgdGOXtpFU9bhF0jSEaSRP7K4brXADVvMyURs_Jk/s320/IMG_0031.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />These were lightly ground to form small flakes/powder ready for rose hip tea:<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgngiDTh5FjFbV-Oap6JKP8Fl4ehqNLpmWIsPHIyGnVaT-SWAkGnO3KCa6jh3abcqJ50RYFTL0aFLH98bcW909yiFKrc6JfwvRtCxabe8KODjzhpQ5rIt2kvLb0ughFylUxOg31JGoxxU3XZt074GNG2ifJKCCMtPOD2vbgbK9TKjd1dIiWTY2dT380yrSN/s425/IMG_0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="283" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgngiDTh5FjFbV-Oap6JKP8Fl4ehqNLpmWIsPHIyGnVaT-SWAkGnO3KCa6jh3abcqJ50RYFTL0aFLH98bcW909yiFKrc6JfwvRtCxabe8KODjzhpQ5rIt2kvLb0ughFylUxOg31JGoxxU3XZt074GNG2ifJKCCMtPOD2vbgbK9TKjd1dIiWTY2dT380yrSN/s320/IMG_0032.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />The seeds were washed thoroughly in a sieve, then also laid out to dry:<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS55Cgn325ixszDlr0VGfgWXhNMiYG0uVAVWKtCTWKdllQZP9ty5OUXalYvJx562WjAjAo6E-x7i7mXBJYeqTcMtkfkuBYwxbeAo6vVk-wpJs7tcVOeE0euU0vZfUxLY8riVWuOpwblJFy97a5dVX7461AMrdiqsXmHWhxTrBh4BSHAsbhDs3ZX68OFZlP/s425/IMG_0025.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS55Cgn325ixszDlr0VGfgWXhNMiYG0uVAVWKtCTWKdllQZP9ty5OUXalYvJx562WjAjAo6E-x7i7mXBJYeqTcMtkfkuBYwxbeAo6vVk-wpJs7tcVOeE0euU0vZfUxLY8riVWuOpwblJFy97a5dVX7461AMrdiqsXmHWhxTrBh4BSHAsbhDs3ZX68OFZlP/s320/IMG_0025.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Once dried, they were swizzled in a sieve to remove any residual hairs and ground to a powder:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU4TtkgenjxwpK-UOpX_XDLVMyZKaKUpiqCjuylr9JSrp0DgIbr3ou0ogG8dcoxZoJ3xU0e-XbUa9Q5rkFGFZt0gyluZSt13kjsR2LOncyF14_qRqK3js-C0myaeG8Jb45SlWnPsB5OS7ltKUGMAgtISfO0PnruKiNvFtZ4A2NeyrkS2JyTS7Mf6dV3kbg/s425/IMG_0026.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU4TtkgenjxwpK-UOpX_XDLVMyZKaKUpiqCjuylr9JSrp0DgIbr3ou0ogG8dcoxZoJ3xU0e-XbUa9Q5rkFGFZt0gyluZSt13kjsR2LOncyF14_qRqK3js-C0myaeG8Jb45SlWnPsB5OS7ltKUGMAgtISfO0PnruKiNvFtZ4A2NeyrkS2JyTS7Mf6dV3kbg/s320/IMG_0026.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />One small jar of Vitamin C to add to my smoothies or cereals in winter. Won't last long but will be a good immune booster. <br /><p></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-38280676835656513602023-08-11T10:58:00.000+01:002023-08-11T10:58:04.792+01:00A lovely garden tea<p> One of a few courgettes from DDiL after our visit last week, tomatoes, baby aubergine, chilli and beans from our garden. Rice and an onion (not shown) from the shops:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmL-PWNXdBZ7B4IZVLE9TCYY9e_xXhQLVmgWtLTnmDCjw2Hh1zFeYE2RgEyI83sbD-3Nt0wMq6AucSCJbUYV1ggHbUJod8lO2RBNVzNDnJYogMAWPKAhVX_ua1kzuWp-QIsQjhYGGhYqN1tLLf4476aknqgsZjC6He8CrM_X8cX6hdlcoaw1f2YiKWksr/s425/IMG_0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmL-PWNXdBZ7B4IZVLE9TCYY9e_xXhQLVmgWtLTnmDCjw2Hh1zFeYE2RgEyI83sbD-3Nt0wMq6AucSCJbUYV1ggHbUJod8lO2RBNVzNDnJYogMAWPKAhVX_ua1kzuWp-QIsQjhYGGhYqN1tLLf4476aknqgsZjC6He8CrM_X8cX6hdlcoaw1f2YiKWksr/s320/IMG_0023.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Beans were steamed in the rice cooker with the rice. Everything else was cooked in the air fryer. Two delicious bowls of food, fresh as can be:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilDvfHzmYqVhwZgJTi5D70ozT2Sbx_Nt3Pss4s0e2Qj1Fmpyt_DdzpUEBp3tlZQzbPFclf71BnPmVOeTHvW-pdqidllQ8t_lCkI_AfFfmSkfCHvlK7yMZXLiTt96w4Dy6ocCbgev-1OPpOL2BoaG4S3xRAUkayIqyZp8953R_dfo9YEIGPEwb_i7dS_E2Z/s425/IMG_0024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilDvfHzmYqVhwZgJTi5D70ozT2Sbx_Nt3Pss4s0e2Qj1Fmpyt_DdzpUEBp3tlZQzbPFclf71BnPmVOeTHvW-pdqidllQ8t_lCkI_AfFfmSkfCHvlK7yMZXLiTt96w4Dy6ocCbgev-1OPpOL2BoaG4S3xRAUkayIqyZp8953R_dfo9YEIGPEwb_i7dS_E2Z/s320/IMG_0024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I have to say, my greatly reduced cooking equipment, air fryer, rice cooker and the pressure/slow cooker, are the only things I use apart from the very rare use of the cooker for potatoes.<br /><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-35295226668917792362023-08-08T00:21:00.000+01:002023-08-08T00:21:25.238+01:00Tigerella and beans<p> The largest of the tigerella tomatoes abandoned ship overnight so I harvested it:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbA1Pw8eqOrnriHAdA0mUFDBQxIxEpgaZN6DWFsgZ9qcycfiUjhaMq5ye5mEMMw1tIZUO3di7d1k6O4Aig3JJOGZgVFUw3NIgIST4_c4ostN6c5AZwfQY0Mr8VPl2itQ9A0I9HlF0jagvMxD4elwq1ignHsdqiXQpJVov4aYpD0mD7uvchurACqYnk86s/s640/IMG_0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbA1Pw8eqOrnriHAdA0mUFDBQxIxEpgaZN6DWFsgZ9qcycfiUjhaMq5ye5mEMMw1tIZUO3di7d1k6O4Aig3JJOGZgVFUw3NIgIST4_c4ostN6c5AZwfQY0Mr8VPl2itQ9A0I9HlF0jagvMxD4elwq1ignHsdqiXQpJVov4aYpD0mD7uvchurACqYnk86s/s320/IMG_0018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>It weighed 1/2lb! I also harvested 2 Gardener's Delight, they were delicious.<br /></p><p>The runner and French beans are cropping now and it is sometimes difficult to keep up with them. Quite a few had to be composted as they were too large and therefore tough. These were what was left before blanching and freezing:</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7jyBNGsKNhqd0yt2m0SN-FlVnS-FroP3jUwKbSqNZqTPgWdhH-UBAqi8q4ZvIiRSz9jBZDn3oSHGW3TXNOFw_HEFAvkNfOmz10hfdQKQx8osHidLNMzg8nbTyiduXgWHJkiKzVoT-ET9d9VmF_-cOLPi_Xbbkdp75Z_YcnaDGSmOHOPJyDLuPirHOtlK/s425/IMG_0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7jyBNGsKNhqd0yt2m0SN-FlVnS-FroP3jUwKbSqNZqTPgWdhH-UBAqi8q4ZvIiRSz9jBZDn3oSHGW3TXNOFw_HEFAvkNfOmz10hfdQKQx8osHidLNMzg8nbTyiduXgWHJkiKzVoT-ET9d9VmF_-cOLPi_Xbbkdp75Z_YcnaDGSmOHOPJyDLuPirHOtlK/s320/IMG_0019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>A few have been kept back for tea.<br /><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-23183170302314412072023-08-03T09:55:00.001+01:002023-08-03T12:05:05.374+01:00Quick cucumber pickle<p>One of the things we like about this pickle is not only its great light taste (half water and half vinegar) but also how quick it is to make. It needs to be eaten as soon as possible and not stored long term. </p><p>1 whole cucumber sliced thinly, 1 unsliced but peeled clove of garlic, if desired. </p><p>2 Bay leaves (fresh or dried), 6 or more whole black peppercorns, pinch chilli flakes - optional.</p><p>Pack the above into a jar about 1pint or slightly larger and press down.</p><p>Measure 150 ml of boiling water into a jug. Add 100ml clear vinegar of your choice but not red or malt. Stir in 35g while sugar and 2 teaspoons salt. </p><p>Pour over the contents in the jar and screw on the lid. Swivel occasionally in the first hour to release bubbles. Leave for one day then it is ready to use. Store in fridge until eaten - preferably within a fortnight:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn_P7Xdrbsrbtx0RW_914bItrqfvBhi7N_ctJwHnbcMvCct3YJ7xjiAmoo9qJsj3rGD6V-X8fXxFYAKut0sOSo7UZXm3drht24uQsx55HRf4UHwq_17jbxujON4gqaYn2wO0qOB8jT2gnVNQOorD8CZcoxlmMIm3j70rqQSm5EUGIQYIiR005tV0AB8W9H/s425/IMG_0020.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="283" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn_P7Xdrbsrbtx0RW_914bItrqfvBhi7N_ctJwHnbcMvCct3YJ7xjiAmoo9qJsj3rGD6V-X8fXxFYAKut0sOSo7UZXm3drht24uQsx55HRf4UHwq_17jbxujON4gqaYn2wO0qOB8jT2gnVNQOorD8CZcoxlmMIm3j70rqQSm5EUGIQYIiR005tV0AB8W9H/s320/IMG_0020.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-72808456346201818352023-07-31T18:59:00.001+01:002023-07-31T19:00:18.942+01:00Lemon Verbena<p> Lemon verbena leaves have the most fantastic lemon smell and make a wonderful tea:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1MIZ8rZ8XofR8GTqSkvx3l-cQEYe8LKGXMxjpEtJTZ898ONR-4ZljbHO-vzv5xPQHK1ELyENiiat2dhEK39XHbUzDlCVQWQtUiJRuHjWCRBfRU0adsDZzcnZQQcwBQo9J4zpR3wecKgqXcwZS79AKlH3MlBna0WdKTKz6pVtF4Bw8XoqX8TmPqUmURM8/s425/IMG_0010.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1MIZ8rZ8XofR8GTqSkvx3l-cQEYe8LKGXMxjpEtJTZ898ONR-4ZljbHO-vzv5xPQHK1ELyENiiat2dhEK39XHbUzDlCVQWQtUiJRuHjWCRBfRU0adsDZzcnZQQcwBQo9J4zpR3wecKgqXcwZS79AKlH3MlBna0WdKTKz6pVtF4Bw8XoqX8TmPqUmURM8/s320/IMG_0010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>My two plants are taking an age to get going and don't think they will grow much past 2’ rather than the 11' predicted!</p><p>However, as and when I can get enough leaves to harvest and dry, I will do so, ready for winter.<br /></p><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-15114965306519843102023-07-27T17:14:00.000+01:002023-07-27T17:14:06.215+01:00Tomatoes and leeks<p> Tomatoes in Bed 1 are coming along nicely although the wet weather is worrying me a tad:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTILlBSzYmMPdafjabviIkRrhuGkLAu8MThdqTOUS7R7pcZo5TJDVdoKKxGTJadwtW_UIhRKKr1Vwz11JHDQUY1EgHOGbxOdoGJqgI4jiiprcrPD_pkWVUtnz3bnOpRFYVW8vm78vwVrlKsEP9cYskvNyFdubU3AXqT0kM_Md_KwDWQVLwu_jCUVhfV1x7/s425/IMG_0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTILlBSzYmMPdafjabviIkRrhuGkLAu8MThdqTOUS7R7pcZo5TJDVdoKKxGTJadwtW_UIhRKKr1Vwz11JHDQUY1EgHOGbxOdoGJqgI4jiiprcrPD_pkWVUtnz3bnOpRFYVW8vm78vwVrlKsEP9cYskvNyFdubU3AXqT0kM_Md_KwDWQVLwu_jCUVhfV1x7/s320/IMG_0016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>There is another bed behind them but they aren't so happy:(</p><p>Bed 4 has leeks, 3 carrots and the one surviving tomatillo:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2H2VulEo_6oaa0k6YF0mS0Vh0EeQ9aQjVsupr3kGM5DirqXkQEeS-Gs0Re5muryCibDtn8aoi6mI-ZaBTyuoTM6wbAlpPkcKuYsio9dz69rJqgqawIZjkb0fZjh-jZ62ckO8ITLbDnvaVF1xZEoWdWW2yflwt4ygvMwwEozz3s0-vAo3lDALHYbEOwwd/s425/IMG_0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2H2VulEo_6oaa0k6YF0mS0Vh0EeQ9aQjVsupr3kGM5DirqXkQEeS-Gs0Re5muryCibDtn8aoi6mI-ZaBTyuoTM6wbAlpPkcKuYsio9dz69rJqgqawIZjkb0fZjh-jZ62ckO8ITLbDnvaVF1xZEoWdWW2yflwt4ygvMwwEozz3s0-vAo3lDALHYbEOwwd/s320/IMG_0015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The leeks are progressing nicely after the 'no growth' disaster last year. Only 3 carrots grew from 2 rows of my Mothers Day seeds, not so good. There were 2 tomatillo plants but one has died. It wasn't happy from day 1.<p></p><p>We have had 3 servings so far from our French beans, the runner beans are just starting to produce. A lot of things in the salads bed are going to seed so will resow some more soon. <br /></p><p>We have also havested the second proper potato container, another 6lbs to add to the tally. Some so big just one would make enough chips for us both. <br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-18375333134742709082023-07-25T06:18:00.000+01:002023-07-25T06:18:58.713+01:00Its a cool cool summer so far<p> Most nights recently, I have had to close the door to my greenhouse to try and keep the chilli plants happy. Night time temperatures are averaging just 10C, not nearly warm enough for them especially as the day time temperatures are hovering around 19C.</p><p>There are quite a few varities growing in there and those in pots are quite happily setting fruit. Top picture Sweet Hungarian Hotwax:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPu4_IyzOknoAs1lQ7eXOejXldjgoJ_yMhvQ-k1UiD-FBNQW4_FIh-6lWfSGOMgb7Xkr75YwB-L9VTy7RjA2f8li6unPw06kyXrQSaADoYcNd9sH66YRYTTyJQUf574RqdQY_iBwhlUuJ4g2uqAFa89J9faT0m84Lq0pDKvs_uakRwv1WoxjF2jUoxQKC0/s425/IMG_0012.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPu4_IyzOknoAs1lQ7eXOejXldjgoJ_yMhvQ-k1UiD-FBNQW4_FIh-6lWfSGOMgb7Xkr75YwB-L9VTy7RjA2f8li6unPw06kyXrQSaADoYcNd9sH66YRYTTyJQUf574RqdQY_iBwhlUuJ4g2uqAFa89J9faT0m84Lq0pDKvs_uakRwv1WoxjF2jUoxQKC0/s320/IMG_0012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Here are some Red Hot Cherry:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwY9nw1LlcXGtSBDn4krqTWDTuKRQqQJR98AfTakSg1rl24XP405q8-80QzU9TuKjmVyp01XEyt1uj57TZkl3cALDhgqBw3xicLzYDEm7TrketC_49D_nXjeRMd5zN02-MJY97u77gWidGlE1abFT4SJP0KoKmiyxlULr0dw6Jr5pFUybWJx2T_97D3ZC/s425/IMG_0013.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwY9nw1LlcXGtSBDn4krqTWDTuKRQqQJR98AfTakSg1rl24XP405q8-80QzU9TuKjmVyp01XEyt1uj57TZkl3cALDhgqBw3xicLzYDEm7TrketC_49D_nXjeRMd5zN02-MJY97u77gWidGlE1abFT4SJP0KoKmiyxlULr0dw6Jr5pFUybWJx2T_97D3ZC/s320/IMG_0013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We are also growing Jalapeno and Anaheim.<br /><p></p><p>The ones in the soil are only just beginning to flower and are a bit leggy, probably due to the greenhouse staging above them?</p><br />Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-59278990892369761832023-07-22T07:50:00.002+01:002023-07-22T07:50:59.123+01:00Borage - a super self seeding friend or foe!<p> We have many, many borage plants not only flowering, but new ones popping up all the time. They really self seed everywhere but the seedings are easy to pull up to limit their numbers.</p><p>Just wish they weren't so uncomforatble to brush past or pick from. Despite using washing up rubber gloves to crumble the dried leaves, they still pricked me.<br /></p><p>I have just discovered on my herbal tea making journey, that the smaller younger leaves and flowers can be used, with some caution as they contain <b><i>pyrrolizidine alkaloids. </i></b><i></i>Read up on them if you are worried.</p><p>However, as I only steep mine for 10 minutes and intend to only use once or twice a week, I think I should be okay. The flowers are gorgeous and useful in salads. Some countries eat them cooked in meals:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOZ9CowaKGgNalMbTb3a55Hvuzs8en3RvNVxaomDnLv6Uyn-4Yun4icQ4Yccpy4QGiRQBDPRPFBz7gcv9csPqvgRN-LEcS7ONwoaZN5KE1Ca1HYd4P7HGas8uT167_gJ48KIJMk5TUFxWL3sjbjNj811X32VfVokhK-cNTG0wFeZWpd9909UCuUgLMm3eK/s425/IMG_0008.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOZ9CowaKGgNalMbTb3a55Hvuzs8en3RvNVxaomDnLv6Uyn-4Yun4icQ4Yccpy4QGiRQBDPRPFBz7gcv9csPqvgRN-LEcS7ONwoaZN5KE1Ca1HYd4P7HGas8uT167_gJ48KIJMk5TUFxWL3sjbjNj811X32VfVokhK-cNTG0wFeZWpd9909UCuUgLMm3eK/s320/IMG_0008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0v5si6GHlqFrreNPueUJVCS27VLd9HF2N4kOzpSSVo3EO2K49be6eGLCOSlsDNFDrcvHlmVVp-0aNrDiQwTkhlkVrqnceWjCTairVvdC22LX47sHKgWRYetJMv4oCslteaZygLLc1cC9kR85xNBuqc8zfAN54NeFprUY0SVjx4Ng2s98dkuRgYu443rG5/s425/IMG_0009.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0v5si6GHlqFrreNPueUJVCS27VLd9HF2N4kOzpSSVo3EO2K49be6eGLCOSlsDNFDrcvHlmVVp-0aNrDiQwTkhlkVrqnceWjCTairVvdC22LX47sHKgWRYetJMv4oCslteaZygLLc1cC9kR85xNBuqc8zfAN54NeFprUY0SVjx4Ng2s98dkuRgYu443rG5/s320/IMG_0009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>I was thoroughly amazed by the taste, very fresh and cucumber like. I have only used them fresh so far so will try some dried to see if the flavour is different.</p><p>UPDATE; Nowhere near so nice dried, more grassy than cucumber so will only use fresh as a treat!<br /></p><p></p><p><b><i> </i></b> </p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-4437568279981870672023-07-17T08:36:00.003+01:002023-07-17T08:36:28.364+01:00Tomato Tigerella<p>I last grew this variety of tomato more than 35 years ago. They are part of the large pack of seeds given to me on Mothers Day this year. I do remember them being slightly larger than a regular tomato such as Shirley, but not this big:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyPnoL61R_hv_jOiVKZvylXjuAVhK4rCZnH6VYfEHWUtjjgFMrrPXvZyjuS-25wRnjhHO9dOxIFQZ8tHSiXHswJctVAc1wLibCi8Izru1KgJjez2s0K75klj4szk8FSjpD6CLNCTXoSR2Dn2fGYSyPlebDQFMzD3E6wIybuc-snDJlmHGeU_34CGxeI72J/s425/IMG_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyPnoL61R_hv_jOiVKZvylXjuAVhK4rCZnH6VYfEHWUtjjgFMrrPXvZyjuS-25wRnjhHO9dOxIFQZ8tHSiXHswJctVAc1wLibCi8Izru1KgJjez2s0K75klj4szk8FSjpD6CLNCTXoSR2Dn2fGYSyPlebDQFMzD3E6wIybuc-snDJlmHGeU_34CGxeI72J/s320/IMG_0005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7f1yzihho74-h6dUboYXa6d9lTKqephr0bSetvLzmshV9YhaTyG1AxzYYS9I1Fp9g2IQtCo3lU4Rgb-Ufwz3Y4SihW-G4rGvAoPu7BiEreDMNuT4UXmEJnN8JxwHlnYlU_GlTRxOSGCXuKFvR3nfSoKn1QAcwL21Bu5iQpEbW6LYjo215ryIYtd7AsNKW/s425/IMG_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7f1yzihho74-h6dUboYXa6d9lTKqephr0bSetvLzmshV9YhaTyG1AxzYYS9I1Fp9g2IQtCo3lU4Rgb-Ufwz3Y4SihW-G4rGvAoPu7BiEreDMNuT4UXmEJnN8JxwHlnYlU_GlTRxOSGCXuKFvR3nfSoKn1QAcwL21Bu5iQpEbW6LYjo215ryIYtd7AsNKW/s320/IMG_0006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>They are all as large as, or larger than, a tennis ball! Another odd thing about them, don't know if this is normal or the weather, is that after 2 trusses have set fruit, the tomato has 'blinded' itself. There is no more growth above the last truss, how weird.<br /><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-50640963775481621562023-07-11T10:37:00.000+01:002023-07-11T10:37:26.627+01:00Hibiscus lemon drizzle cake<p> Didn't have enough of any ingredients to make a full size cake so did the best with what I had.</p><p>Whilst the cake was baking, the lemon juice, sugar and a few hibiscus flowers were cooked to melt the sugar, then left to go cold. It was then strained to remove the flowers:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4WISrJmnuSKAxZOvuRfjXsRUrDq73cuJbslK4TjT0CLkP95wa9QpCchbyOnKq7FutKMX6izYzMWVOIyjZyut5JqYWXE0vpUXTkkZWCLo0BInGyYJoToP1vJJV_YHp0JGiL5WyYFntbTjBvVVtS522CB6xc9ddBKyMBsg3lEACyZI4omHFZ2KDyYdHDwx/s425/IMG_9973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4WISrJmnuSKAxZOvuRfjXsRUrDq73cuJbslK4TjT0CLkP95wa9QpCchbyOnKq7FutKMX6izYzMWVOIyjZyut5JqYWXE0vpUXTkkZWCLo0BInGyYJoToP1vJJV_YHp0JGiL5WyYFntbTjBvVVtS522CB6xc9ddBKyMBsg3lEACyZI4omHFZ2KDyYdHDwx/s320/IMG_9973.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Poured over the cake, it resulted in a nice pink touch on the top of the cake:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibdp0bxxoeExLj5B81gymIOymJR2iipOz1wll61f32o24ZBVPjJMC-tSQ6mC9sxtPDpBIftYTk4ziGZsQXxKoZJtsfYYllFbfP9pPRCWpGZUf8vsmJ1DB-7A_ESr3UZHrceo-vzDYmr0kcwmXiI690z4rncaWq-f59YSvxsJKHDbLPWXoJ4dhCc4geDxwO/s425/IMG_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibdp0bxxoeExLj5B81gymIOymJR2iipOz1wll61f32o24ZBVPjJMC-tSQ6mC9sxtPDpBIftYTk4ziGZsQXxKoZJtsfYYllFbfP9pPRCWpGZUf8vsmJ1DB-7A_ESr3UZHrceo-vzDYmr0kcwmXiI690z4rncaWq-f59YSvxsJKHDbLPWXoJ4dhCc4geDxwO/s320/IMG_0003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Not sure if we could taste it as the nature of the cake is sour anyway but it looked pretty. I think it would make a nice pink icing if used that way.<br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-46038355412842395202023-07-09T09:22:00.000+01:002023-07-09T09:22:20.763+01:00Garlic honey and potatoes<p>I started off a fresh batch of fermented garlic honey:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5s3A-p0D1asv1vvflEMtGeSGeWZ2-YvBw1FKK8pQ3qSDDYvqG9-YhY1lU8W4U6TfXJOGS0BkxVmh3_XHM2LuXLuckfg3AOVBPrfxl_B4n9NjV6QFzyM-4pp22jLO6FfeoiLYFNUoJMSzRdpulumvRt0ORM1a012KosoxfqbxnjbLYChTEUTtvfR43apTN/s425/IMG_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5s3A-p0D1asv1vvflEMtGeSGeWZ2-YvBw1FKK8pQ3qSDDYvqG9-YhY1lU8W4U6TfXJOGS0BkxVmh3_XHM2LuXLuckfg3AOVBPrfxl_B4n9NjV6QFzyM-4pp22jLO6FfeoiLYFNUoJMSzRdpulumvRt0ORM1a012KosoxfqbxnjbLYChTEUTtvfR43apTN/s320/IMG_0004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> Didn't have enough of either so will buy more ingredients in a few days time. The blue top is a burping cap used in fermenting. It allows the gases to escape without letting the air in. <p></p><p>After a few hours, the garlic starts to float. You can use a fermenting glass weight to hold it down but I don't bother, choosing instead to give the jar a good shake whenever I am passing.</p><p>After a few days, the garlic sinks and the appearance of bubbles show it is fermenting. It is usually left alone for several weeks apart from a gentle shake every now and then.</p><p>I suffer occasional morning nausea and one teaspoonful of this takes it away almost immediately.</p><p>This morning, we emptied out our final and smallest compost bag of potatoes - 3 1/2lbs, so not too bad at all. We now have the 4 large containers to use over the next few weeks.<br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-25842064834230345442023-07-03T12:05:00.000+01:002023-07-03T12:05:39.652+01:00A beautiful colour<p>My hibiscus flowers finally arrived and I set to, brewing myself some. I was a bit heavy handed but this is such a gorgeous colour:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRD430IzV5tsZm6Fqt0MUx-zCAOH5d6EQ0W21q8afuejBtIPOu-eKhfrVnphDf09Zlfxz96Dipbamwk1mnryF4_EgCFbMPWkollFGlcQniyngqypoL1qBR1tTWNUlIG9kBLcQVe0PshC3JYbFWtX5qZ7qceb3YNhDIzUYBnSMDSjmV_MzWu-wL9GwmOIys/s425/IMG_9970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRD430IzV5tsZm6Fqt0MUx-zCAOH5d6EQ0W21q8afuejBtIPOu-eKhfrVnphDf09Zlfxz96Dipbamwk1mnryF4_EgCFbMPWkollFGlcQniyngqypoL1qBR1tTWNUlIG9kBLcQVe0PshC3JYbFWtX5qZ7qceb3YNhDIzUYBnSMDSjmV_MzWu-wL9GwmOIys/s320/IMG_9970.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> It got far deeper. The taste was supposed to be tart, similar to fresh cranberry. Yeah I thought. Wow! This was the first herbal tea I actually needed a full teaspoon of honey added, instead of just dipping a spoon in, leaving it to run off, then stirring into my chosen tea.<p></p><p>It did indeed taste of fresh cranberry, was very tart but very tasty. After I had disposed of the used flowers, I realised I could probably have stored them in the fridge for a day, then re-used them for a milder flavour and colour. I shall try that soon.<br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-35582222539486324222023-07-02T11:11:00.004+01:002023-07-02T11:11:49.317+01:00Second bag of potatoes<p> The second compost bag of potatoes produced even more than the first. First bag 2lb 12oz, this bag, 4lbs 8oz:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQSb8Oi1hYPnvNIVRg9Hthj68iNDDpr9X5nbIywGgmpOwTJ8U06bZ7SDvmK_Ap6olXqbZUyShkFy5uYPcfmH7OkLr-tAVfXdtg2SbRvI5W0TSYGvDiTm1HEzPSm9SFBCCssxOd-xTjjqnRET0gtbH6C_Mc0ZTMnQJWSPrynReP_3eYMbAQu0f2uxdq1lfb/s425/IMG_9972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQSb8Oi1hYPnvNIVRg9Hthj68iNDDpr9X5nbIywGgmpOwTJ8U06bZ7SDvmK_Ap6olXqbZUyShkFy5uYPcfmH7OkLr-tAVfXdtg2SbRvI5W0TSYGvDiTm1HEzPSm9SFBCCssxOd-xTjjqnRET0gtbH6C_Mc0ZTMnQJWSPrynReP_3eYMbAQu0f2uxdq1lfb/s320/IMG_9972.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>I have no idea why I washed them all, I don't normally do that until just before use, hey ho!</p><p>One more bag to go, then onto the 4 proper tubs. Onwards and upwards.<br /></p><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-62467074704380728152023-07-01T07:54:00.001+01:002023-07-01T07:56:15.408+01:00My herbal tea 'shop'<p> Mostly foraged or grown in my garden before drying, my collection is coming along nicely. Linden and camomile are the only bought ones here, but I have just got some hibiscus. Yes, I know I have missed the H from the latter:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qpfVflkazN6_GZ9MulqDtLJWtZp5pDP7D2EshKhbdcAHMYNrSGwATJ6nIV1ASFNOVYx0X6InGAqA4AFh1aBINtwQ0hkge_q4GV8wpQ4CFgHtpmwF9Xw40BCZnVciKMb-d_bnrR0AFlDd2ZYgJrrvDNPEWwxNCC8BC9LMMUUzo0AqBNTlsnwzs9mrAzl0/s425/IMG_9966.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3qpfVflkazN6_GZ9MulqDtLJWtZp5pDP7D2EshKhbdcAHMYNrSGwATJ6nIV1ASFNOVYx0X6InGAqA4AFh1aBINtwQ0hkge_q4GV8wpQ4CFgHtpmwF9Xw40BCZnVciKMb-d_bnrR0AFlDd2ZYgJrrvDNPEWwxNCC8BC9LMMUUzo0AqBNTlsnwzs9mrAzl0/w400-h266/IMG_9966.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4TxhGUH0xaP_7rpMygxMXuOznOXVEyUurTj4ux-gylsOzX_neoISsPFUW8gEvferNRdh6mC11QD2M0u9tx0pai-Qcy8tw0be0NgQrM1jCaVsS74sRFrk1OtmwYJ4MiDI42YDvlS9lrWQbSMdGXB_S1PO6IJvsNn_j4st8e4Q8vRzhIRwbA4m5yh8-Dvv/s425/IMG_9968.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4TxhGUH0xaP_7rpMygxMXuOznOXVEyUurTj4ux-gylsOzX_neoISsPFUW8gEvferNRdh6mC11QD2M0u9tx0pai-Qcy8tw0be0NgQrM1jCaVsS74sRFrk1OtmwYJ4MiDI42YDvlS9lrWQbSMdGXB_S1PO6IJvsNn_j4st8e4Q8vRzhIRwbA4m5yh8-Dvv/w400-h266/IMG_9968.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>All the above home grown!<br /><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-90431755312950861312023-06-29T07:40:00.000+01:002023-06-29T07:40:16.983+01:00My first potato harvest in years<p> Our first batch of potatoes was sown in compost bags and yesterday, we harvested the first bag. Now, I haven't fed or topped them up as much as I should but even so, we got 2lb 12oz:<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrF0obplnmFuZ3YN5-9-HZnEiqsFZpJ5Z_DGrfFgKnn6NGI1D_ztURgB-z2tlFDhvfzIoNt32tJ_cnH8dQrheVd9K4qzCydTiSp6mIZGTooDdEXyoKmoYBPwHPPKM6B4X_IHTGAhf3q2prjQjUTD0VbizY0lkkOy-SBQyHlYDxBbydM4jzyPB8_8szasZi/s425/IMG_9969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrF0obplnmFuZ3YN5-9-HZnEiqsFZpJ5Z_DGrfFgKnn6NGI1D_ztURgB-z2tlFDhvfzIoNt32tJ_cnH8dQrheVd9K4qzCydTiSp6mIZGTooDdEXyoKmoYBPwHPPKM6B4X_IHTGAhf3q2prjQjUTD0VbizY0lkkOy-SBQyHlYDxBbydM4jzyPB8_8szasZi/s320/IMG_9969.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>I didn't realise they would be ready but the bag next to it, when watered, showed some potatoes sitting on its surface. The variety is Winston and we were a bit worried as they are supposed to be watery but we found them lovely.</p><p>Two more bags to go plus 4 large tubs - should be interesting!<br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-55995223520588579762023-06-27T10:15:00.001+01:002023-06-27T10:15:21.985+01:00Taking the mickey!<p> Shopping this week, I came across Bird's custard pods - say what I thought.</p><p>The package holds 4 pods and costs £2. Each pod has 22g of mixture which melts into 1/4 pint of milk, which along with sugar, will give you 1/4 pint custard.</p><p>A standard tub of custard powder costs £2 but for that, you would be able to make 16 x 1/4 pints custard. So pods may be more convenient if there is just you or you only require a small amount BUT it will cost you £8 to make the equivalent you would get from a tub.</p><p>Then of course there is all that plastic and packaging:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYu5Lw0rd0kwjLTYEDXy_oHkJHGuApnplDGKhWDN5oG1-n4PL_x6j3pfmPF7NdUgT_Kq8Jru2p58Hpm5Cgbkov3I-I-JwVMIcag1uuMX5FPD_wgmdMEkaL2Iy1wuSd5HvUuuPtCbjdDQD0QTVJftY-j5Mem38dKlZVq11HbIdz5bQ2nUvQlpjZi7VwynGE/s425/20230627_084639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYu5Lw0rd0kwjLTYEDXy_oHkJHGuApnplDGKhWDN5oG1-n4PL_x6j3pfmPF7NdUgT_Kq8Jru2p58Hpm5Cgbkov3I-I-JwVMIcag1uuMX5FPD_wgmdMEkaL2Iy1wuSd5HvUuuPtCbjdDQD0QTVJftY-j5Mem38dKlZVq11HbIdz5bQ2nUvQlpjZi7VwynGE/s320/20230627_084639.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3cUzAm1Gquq9QiFG_Y6ylC3ErQjOhn0oN3GiIhjMUaiFJcC1tO6NDY7WeWoJ3pRLp7tCCJTn7o9feJqFmtwom5XTn3vGB_Sy0hFr4Qx7RQ9NnJk401SenGM3sFxcbdrJ57f0B-W0slbFZdriGQmk4giIhUH_5_aXXZm091KrE3z5SoD-PGXXvDAWKoevv/s425/20230627_084715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3cUzAm1Gquq9QiFG_Y6ylC3ErQjOhn0oN3GiIhjMUaiFJcC1tO6NDY7WeWoJ3pRLp7tCCJTn7o9feJqFmtwom5XTn3vGB_Sy0hFr4Qx7RQ9NnJk401SenGM3sFxcbdrJ57f0B-W0slbFZdriGQmk4giIhUH_5_aXXZm091KrE3z5SoD-PGXXvDAWKoevv/s320/20230627_084715.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <br /><p></p><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-89084034954349142882023-06-24T09:07:00.003+01:002023-06-24T09:07:55.639+01:00Blimey I am hot already!<p> It’s going to be hot and humid this weekend. Having done my watering, I set to weeding. It felt coolish when I started, but three large trugs later, I am steaming:(</p><p>Attended a new specialist clinic being trialled at our surgery. Pleased to say, I am doing reasonably well so far, but my extra tablet has dropped my blood pressure somewhat on the low side. Have had a block put on my medical records to state under no circumstances am I to have any extra pills such as ACE inhibitors otherwise I will pass out!</p><p>Have now been added to the regular clinic so that is good. Supposed to be seen back at the hospital within six months of my last appointment, want to put a bet on that happening. Surgery says I am to phone them up a month beforehand to remind them, yeah, right!!! The surgery itself will see me again in March. Hey ho!</p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5339317216265636215.post-12611587825376966582023-06-17T10:22:00.001+01:002023-06-17T10:22:09.364+01:00Being in the moment<p>One of the things I really enjoy about growing, foraging, harvesting and drying herbs, is being in the moment. Some might say that is practicing mindfulness but I don't really know.</p><p>Take the picture below:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTKACJZRN8FK4yLewcRj2dBFMZWme_-ivx5D0i3asDzfnNXcF1-Rk2d-QvS4Y9YR3wgXoIA34FMJXAlevi3ajpnkRjXkR0V-sDvZUYdINI0fInzbnYmNU4dXo1NOQfyMbO5wYRn53YpDwYLViWOquUlNnbGcT4-lAeY8Zw7NpwAajIr6GTUoIl0IlqPQ/s425/IMG_9964.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTKACJZRN8FK4yLewcRj2dBFMZWme_-ivx5D0i3asDzfnNXcF1-Rk2d-QvS4Y9YR3wgXoIA34FMJXAlevi3ajpnkRjXkR0V-sDvZUYdINI0fInzbnYmNU4dXo1NOQfyMbO5wYRn53YpDwYLViWOquUlNnbGcT4-lAeY8Zw7NpwAajIr6GTUoIl0IlqPQ/s320/IMG_9964.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Such gorgeous colours. Just one shelf in my dehydrater, separated bramble leaves and English marigold (Calendula). Not to be confused with French marigold, a whole different plant.</p><p>This was a trial but the marigolds took too long to dry so they now get dried in the conservatory over several days. Once 3/4 dry, I pull the petals off the heads, even though both can be used. Stored in a jar, they look like saffron! Haven't tried it yet in a tea but most will be used as part of my homemade shampoo. </p><p>I tried but didn't like rose petal tea and certainly will not be trying lavender tea. Although I love their smell, I really don't like the flavour.<br /></p><p>So far, for herbal tea, I have dried bramble (blackberry) leaves, nettles, elderflower, lemon balm, lemon verbena. I am currently drying mint, and have had to buy some camomile and linden (lime tree but not the kind which grows limes). Not much wild yarrow around here but I have bought some of the proper kind of plants, which will be dried when ready.</p><p>Next year, I shall try harvesting goose grass and maybe hawthorn flowers, time will tell.<br /></p><p><br /></p>Dchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02490191919855219024noreply@blogger.com9