Hello, everyone. What a blustery day it was yesterday. Rainy too, at times, although we also had a very little bit of sunshine. After the wind, many trees are now looking decidedly less leafy and much more autumnal.
I had fun strolling around Abercorns and managed to end up with a few bits and bobs including some tree decorations, a couple of cheap and very cheerful door mats, one for the front and one for the back, some Christmas socks (gifts) and a few other things. I was saved from buying a very lovely cardigan because they didn't have my size and I totally forgot about the Christmas hats so that's probably very good. There were some Christmas goodies to nibble (stollen, shortbread, chutney) so I did (ooops) and the free coffee was very nice.
Then I popped over the road to Lathcoats where they had an exciting range of apples. I love that they have a taster table where you can chop off a bit to taste before you decide. I bought three different kinds - some Coxes, some Lathcoats Red and one which name I have forgotten, all for £1.95 a kilo which I thought very good value indeed.
Now I have to eat apples, not that I'm complaining in the least. I love apples!
On the way home I stopped off at Aldi for a few bits and bobs so I'm well stocked for the week now.
When I got home, Beth was there. We sent off some invites to a Kitty Stitches sale she's holding at mine in a fortnight and then set to making cards. Well, Beth did. I made some lunch and my dinner (to heat up again later) while she sorted out her buttons and made some button cards. They're very simple and I really like them.
She very much approved of my fabric choices (phew) and this afternoon we will make more cards as a joint effort.
I woke extremely early this morning (again) but not to worry, there's plenty to do.
I've started today by finally making the damson liqueur. I bought the gin yesterday and got the damsons (the ones I foraged) out of the freezer and half an hour ago I pounded up the fruit, popped it into a large kilner jar, added the sugar and the gin and gave it all a good stir up. It stays out for a week with regular shakings and then it will do into a cupboard to mellow!
Now I need to get going with the spiced clementine liqueur I also want to make. I will use vodka for this one and it also has some star anise. Should be nice!
This morning I need to attack the mess in the kitchen. There's a whole lot of stuff out that really ought to be put away as it is looking extremely cluttered. After I've done that, I might ditto in the living room.
As mentioned, Beth's round for lunch and then we will be card making. It should all be fun.
So that's today. I hope it's good for you too. xx
Edit: I looked the other apple up. It's Falstaff
You might be interested in this link. It's their growing diary and lists all the different varieties they do.
http://www.eapples.co.uk/apples/apple-variety-calendar
Lathcoats do a great job at keeping old varieties going, including some that were first cultivated in Essex. They sell Chelmsford Wonder and Darcy Spice (from Tolleshunt D’Arcy near Maldon) and of course Discovery apples originated in Essex. My favourite is Ashmeads Kernel which at Lathcoats at this time of the year are fresh off the tree.
ReplyDeleteIndeed they do. Yet another reason for supporting them. I've made a note of those you have mentioned for next time, thanks very much.
Delete(I wish it was closer)
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When I used to do the odd bit of shopping in France they used to sell alcohol for making such things in their supermarkets which was handy. I make vanilla at home with vodka and used vanilla pods. once they have been scraped they join the other is a jar of vodka which sits at the back of the cupboard. You can also do vanilla sugar but I dont really bake so a bit pointless for me.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea.
DeleteBeth made vanilla sugar for mum for Christmas one year. Mum never used it but when I started going over regularly and doing their cooking, I used it for all sorts of things and she really loved the flavour it imparted.
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We went to an apple day at Erddig once and I was amazed at the many varieties of apples. They had a botanical painter painting them too. Looking forward to seeing your cards. x
ReplyDeleteI'll try and remember to photo them before we wrap them up.
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There is an apple day every year in the park where, as well as lots of other apple related things, people can bring along their fruit for it to be identified. I had no idea there were so many different varieties.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a lot of fun.
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The Globe is fantastic! Since we taught S we were thrilled. Each trip we saw several plays...there and elsewhere in London! We were instructed in fencing etc at the Globe! It was hot in July and we did not have appropriate clothing... The trip in June was nice. Don't laugh but the first thing we asked on our first trip was where was the air co edition ings in the room. None. I bet they thought we Americans---spoiled -right!!!Exhausting. Loved the area around the Globe, walking across the bridges...museums and churches... TOwer...Buckingham Palace...parks...so much to do there...I supposed I would go back but teaching high school and u I wrists and family has kept me busy. Now retired the health and the cost.
DeleteUniversities ...oops am typing on iPad and phone saving for a laptop...excuse the errors!!!
ReplyDeleteLove love your blog...please explain your family dynamics and career!!!!
ReplyDeleteOne son, one daughter, one grandson and I used to teach! :-)
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