tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77038178482382850992024-03-19T08:48:26.145+00:00TARRAGON & THYMEEarly Dawn over St Tinney Otterham CornwallPattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.comBlogger4761125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-67577340235832979582024-03-18T18:47:00.001+00:002024-03-18T18:47:09.926+00:00Monday Rumblings<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> Most days start off with a cooked breakfast of some sort or the other. Today G has had bacon, Hash Browns, eggs and mushrooms to start his day off. Me, well I am quite happy with simpler things like yogurt and fruit, or wholemeal toast with some homemade Victoria Plum jam on to start my day. Indeed G had to pay a visit to the veg shop as we had run out of eggs. He forewarned the owners that I would be on my way later on to have a look around and they laughed and intimated that it might be better for going tomorrow as they will have new stock for tomorrow as they had sent one of the brothers (who does most of the buying) shopping. In any event despite the best of intentions I did not get the opportunity to pop over to see what they had. I have been in the kitchen, cleaning, tidying, re-arranging, re-organising this afternoon all to the gentle background noise of the radio and the occasional whirring of the washing machine</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have carried on with the laundry again today and managed to get some of it out on the line for a change. Also I have been in the kitchen working as G needs to go in but it will be tomorrow before he is allowed in as I have some moving around of stuff to do for him to get in properly. The only thing he has done in there today is to hang up my hanging rack so that it is not off-piste! It is needed for my smaller saucepans. The one over the cooker, I always keep a whistling kettle on. When we first moved here 37 years ago, the electric went and we did not have access to a hot drink. The cooker has since been changed to gas and so I have a whistling kettle easily accessible just in case. There are also sieves, strainers, a grater and a colander there. The equipment used most during my cooking exploits. I had had my saucepans in the cupboard but you have to do a bit of a wrestling act to get them out so it will be easier for the smaller pans at least to be up on the wall. The steamers are still in the cupboard as they are bulkier. I also have some various sized heavy duty cake pans to pop away and I am hoping I will be able to get them in the cupboard where I have taken the saucepans from.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">To tell the truth it has been nice to see the bright spot in the sky after so many days of being absent. Although I have felt it to be a tad chilly today the Sun does brighten things up a bit. These earlier lighter mornings and definitely the lighter evenings are spurring me on to do things a little later into the evening than I would normally do as well. I am planning on taking advantage of the lighter nights to potter in the kitchen on my own in an effort to move things on that little bit further.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">One thing I am hoping to get sorted in the kitchen is to have a socket panel put up near to where my Microwave and my small Electric cooker are located. I cannot use them easily because of the lack of the socket and so I am hoping that G will be able to run one to where they are from an existing socket. It would make my life a lot easier overall. Especially with the Microwave or when I only have a small amount of stuff to cook. The Electric cooker has a Rotisserie in it as well which is ideal for Rotisserie Chicken which is lovely to eat or indeed a small piece of Beef or Pork. Fingers crossed that he can come up with something that is safe and that I will not trip over.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I think in the next few days the old Tumble Drier will be removed from the bathroom as well. That should make things a lot easier.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Once the kitchen is all sorted I will then be able to start on the ironing pile. I normally iron in the kitchen or just inside the dining room where it gives me space to whip through stuff.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tea, well we ate well again last night with the chicken, but neither of us are much fussed today (especially after G had a big cooked breakfast). Chief Cook and Bottle Washer me.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">So tea will sort itself out at some point later on. Me back into the kitchen on my todd to get things moved on a bit more and to do some more washing and drying as well.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely one.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">P.S. Thanks for the comments will get back shortly x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-50247271898765957582024-03-17T21:06:00.003+00:002024-03-17T21:06:39.660+00:00A little more work<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">G has been in the kitchen again today. I in turn have kept out of the way. The wall down the side of the cooker, has now been painted as has the radiator. It is going to have to have a few more coats of paint, but already is looking much better. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">He has also taken down one of the racks by the side of the Dishwasher for hanging pans on. One of them had been up for a while, but what we had not realised was that it was lop-sided. Think he had too much Gin last time. In any event he has taken it down and patched it up; now waiting for it to dry and then he will attempt to put the rack up in the right position probably tomorrow. Will keep the Gin out of the way!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Our bathroom is on the ground floor off of the kitchen. The bathroom door has been a little difficult to open and shut and sticking. G has as a result also taken that off of its pins, and has some work to do on that. Yet again I think that will be happening tomorrow. He previously set about the Pantry door in this manner and also the dining room door into the hallway. It will all come together eventually.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My little trolley that I keep moving around in the kitchen, and which is terribly helpful to me, really needs checking out as it is a bit wobbly. Think it needs a little checking over and a little TLC from a screwdriver to make it easier to move around. I have found this very useful when prepping stuff for cooking and would not be without it now. Indeed, I am looking to try and get hold of another one for the dining room with a view to popping the Coffee machine on it.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have had more laundry to deal with today and to get dried. Still not at the end of it and no doubt it will go on well into tomorrow as well. I also sorted out a pile of more washing from the front bedroom last night as I started pottering in there. As I have mentioned before when I have a few moments I am going into the bedroom and doing little bits in there when time affords. Now the much lighter nights are arriving I see this happening more and more until I get everything sorted and under control in there/indeed the whole house. I am keen on getting what I can get done in the house and garden this year as if we get an opportunity to get down to the caravan I want to be able to take it although that is not looking promising at the moment so may as well get something done in the interim.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Thinking on my re-evaluation plans further after yesterday's post everything washed and dried, will need to be ironed during the week and then put away in the relevant wardrobe, cupboard or drawers. I do have plenty of coat hangers to keep me going, but this is another tidy up exercise in its own right. It will be good to get this all sorted out and organised at long last, but getting the ironing done is going to be very bitty to start with due to other things that are going on alongside everything else.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tea tonight has been a late meal. We ended up with having fried chicken breasts with coleslaw and baked potato (with the obligatory serving of chilli sauce). It went down very nicely served with some bread and butter. We then had some Strawberry Angel Delight for pudding. Terribly simple, but it was just what was needed. Not sure what we are eating tomorrow though. Going to have to go through the fridge. I do need to go to the Greengrocer though as I am now out of eggs. Hopefully they will have some in when I pop by tomorrow. If not will just go back on Tuesday afternoon when they have their delivery.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hope everyone has had a lovely weekend and a lovely evening. Two weeks until Easter.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-85913975396677092092024-03-16T20:00:00.002+00:002024-03-16T20:02:11.734+00:00Re-evaluation<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Today has been a day to look around to see what has been accomplished in the last few days and although not major strides, we are continuing to move forward. We therefore need to see where we need to move forward this week. There are several things I am looking to accomplish this week. Certainly by the end of the week I want the kitchen painted out, completed tidied and put back together again. In the interim I have some other work to do to try and achieve this. The Pantry is still tidy although not fully sorted. I need to expand into the under-stair cupboard and the fireside cupboard to accomplish this, but everything is easily to hand and sorted for the best part.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">After the kitchen has been completed, then the bathroom will be the next thing on the list. The old Tumble Dryer needs to come out of the bathroom but before that happens I have to remove some other stuff from in there. This consists of additional kitchen equipment which does not have a home, but which will be going into the dining room in the first instance. It will have a home by the time I have finished.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The ironing pile will be be removed last a bit at a time. That needs sorting so that all the items that do not belong in there are removed to make working on painting the bathroom easier for G to accomplish. I certainly do not want paint on clothes and linen. So it looks as though I am going to be ironing for a few days. Self-inflicted, but at least with ironing it and getting it all sorted will be able to sort out that which is no longer required and that which needs to go into the wardrobes, drawers and cupboards. Getting that out the way with will tidy things up a bit more.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Whilst G is in the bathroom, I will be in the dining room doing further sorting of items. This room is the walk through room so does tend to get cluttered with putting things down etc. This is likely to be ongoing until I have the front room sorted out as well and probably beyond that. There are lots of books to go back on shelves in there, which will also tidy things up an awful lot. I have never been and I do not think that I ever could be a minimalist. It is not part of who I am. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Whatever happens the house has got to be tidied and sorted. My hope is that once it is fully completed (and yes one day it will), I will then be able to start fine-tuning those items I do or do not require or replace them with something more suitable. However, I am not just trying to sort everything out I am also trying to make things easier to do overall in the house and as a lot of it falls to me, it has to be accessible. The dining room will be decorated though after the bathroom, as I have the wallpaper for it and what is in there is mostly in boxes and can be moved around in any event.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">More washing and drying has been done today. I have managed to get quite a lot of washing done and out of the way with. Still have a stack more to do including the catch up pile from the front bedroom. Hopefully we will get some dryer days so that the washing can go out on the line.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I did manage to do a little more patchwork last night, both cutting out pieces and then starting to tack them. They will build up before long and then hopefully will be able to have a concerted sewing together session. Small steps, but hopefully building up into something more substantial.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We have had sarnies for tea this evening. G not keen on Salmon which I love, so he has had cheese and onion. Gone down very nicely. Some days just do not want to eat usually after a big meal the night before.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hope everyone is keeping well, and has a lovely evening. Me, well I shall keep plodding on doing a little bit here and a little bit there but I am determined to bring this house back to being organised again. Still have loads to do though.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-39859898003601086682024-03-15T19:12:00.001+00:002024-03-15T19:12:12.905+00:00Thursday and Friday - Work Carries On<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Thursday</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Despite not being able to get the kitchen totally cleared G has been able to get on a little bit today. Very slowly coming together although still a lot of work left to do. Getting there in tiny steps though which is the main thing.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tea tonight was a curry with Naan bread and rice for tea tonight. Tomorrow we have fish strips, cauliflower cheese, potato Dauphinoise and mushy peas. Fast becoming a staple here but we enjoy it.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I did not get the laundry done at the beginning of the week well not all of it and have added to it since then and so have been washing in the background and getting stuff dry in the dryer despite the miserable grey and cold weather. Nothing mind blowing but something all the same.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I will continue on with the kitchen again tomorrow hopefully will get sorted in time for the weekend.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We had a rough night with our Jack Russell last night. I am sure she has dementia. Decided she was not going to settle and kept barging into everything, falling down, standing where she shouldn't and generally tap dancing on the floor. We overslept this morning as a result. We eventually nursed her back to sleep again but it took some doing. She slept late as they do when they have had you up and about.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Friday</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">More work accomplished today. G able to get back in and do some more painting. Things are starting to come together in teeny baby steps.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tea tonight was supposed to be fish, mushy peas, cauliflower cheese and potato Dauphinoise. Been abridged to just fish and mushy peas. Went down an absolute treat.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Was going to do some more work but am going to sit and do some cutting this evening for the patchwork instead. Every little helps.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Bit chilly here in any event so do not want to move far. Think it might be an early night here.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hope everyone else is okay.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-74622560241323586902024-03-13T20:00:00.002+00:002024-03-13T20:00:43.222+00:00A busy day<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> Where the Marigolds have gone on and I have started stripping the kitchen out. G needs to finish the painting and although he has done a little bit where it is easily accessible the kitchen needs to be completely clear. I have told him categorically that he is not going in with the paint pot until it is sorted. Hopefully should get that all clear tomorrow for him in order that he may proceed. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The little bit of painting that he has done has made all the difference. He still has quite a way to go, and there are several bits and bobs that need doing including a socket board for my microwave and my small electric cooker and also re-positioning items that I have on the walls. My previous cooker did not have a glass top and I had hung two racks for cooking equipment above it. The current cooker has a glass top which is proving to be a useful bit of working space when I want the breadmaking machines on etc as I can just pop it down. However the lower rack collides with the glass top so I had taken everything off that in any event. As G will also be doing some filling and patching of walls etc. he is going to take the opportunity to fill in the holes in the wall above the cooker and then re-site the second rack with a sister rack to the side of the dishwasher so that I can keep some bits and pieces up and easily accessible which will keep the cupboards clear and also make it easier for me when in full on cooking mode.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I also need to strip the top of the upper cupboards of equipment in order that he can paint the wall and also the ceiling. I need to be able to put them somewhere for at least a couple of days whilst the paint goes on and is allowed to dry and then second or maybe third coat applied. So a lot of work to be done but it will be worth it in the long-term.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The mixing bowl cupboard has also been stripped out and washed. This is a lower cupboard and it's sister cupboard which lives next door and which has most but not all of my saucepans in it has also been done out as well. Tomorrow it will be the general everyday stuff cupboard that will be bottomed out. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We are having a take-away for tea this evening, being as I have been busy he has ordered something in which allowed me to get on for longer which has helped quite a bit. Not had a take-away for absolutely ages. Although it made a change, I do prefer to cook.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Off to put my feet up.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a good one.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-29105537779682538652024-03-13T08:00:00.001+00:002024-03-13T08:00:00.135+00:00More Shopping<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Approximately twice a month we normally go on a small shopping trip to Iceland Big Food Warehouse and Home Bargains. Sometimes it is just once a month depending on how things work out. I also tend to buy my cleaning stuff from here and in particular my washing powder and conditioner as I have found out their prices are better overall for the quantities I am buying. Also loo roll 32 packs for about £8.99.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Now that I am starting to get the Pantry stocked up better than I have had it for sometime, I am now concentrating on stocking up those tinned items that I do not have much of or nothing at all. There are quite a lot of items to add yet. As I have mentioned before I am going to make sure that I have a good selection of ingredients available for cooking with for Christmas this year. A well filled Pantry can keep you going through all sorts. It also gives you more choice on what you actually have to eat.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This is not a comprehensive list of what was bought, just some of the items which will keep us going and add to the Pantry as well. For instance I did not buy beans, soup or tomatoes as I have plenty on the shelf at the moment. Another month however I will concentrate on those items. I suppose what I am trying to say is that you do not need to buy everything at once, a few here and there and things soon build up.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">There are also many offers on at both shops. At the Iceland Big Food Warehouse we are over 60 and have an app which gives you on a Tuesday 10% further discount. You must take some photo identity with you though as they will not give the discount without. This helps a lot.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I shall also next time I go buy some bags of frozen peppers and also frozen sweetcorn in order to make some sweetcorn relish. I like this with a homemade Beef burger. Their prices seem very good on frozen veggies.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Meat shopping, and veg and fruit shopping are different shopping trips as are specific items needed after having run out of supplies in the Pantry.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Iceland Big Food Warehouse shop</span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have come away with some tinned pineapple in rings and pieces 4 tins in total. I shall add the same again next month. I use a lot of pineapple in cooking and I also want to make some sweet and sour sauces for the Pantry shelf as well. I would therefore like a nice little stock of goods before I set too and make those. A little pre-planning as it were.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Two tins of mushy peas - had used two tins since last purchase.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A box of Broken Biscuits</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A box of Chocolate Biscuit/Bars</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A tray of chicken breasts </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A big pack of Coca Cola 8 x 2 litre bottles</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">2 x Philadelphia Cheese for my homemade cheesecake which will be utilising saved broken biscuits turned into biscuit crumb. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">4 bags of sugar - am keen to squirrel quite a bit of sugar away in readiness for use each month and through the year.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">2 packs of Crumpets</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">1 pack of fruited Tea Cakes</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Brown Bread seeded batch - I love this for toast with homemade jam yummy</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">3 Bags of Doritos</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">My Starbucks coffee drink x 6 (collecting the bottles). They did not have the Caramel one today which is what I normally buy, so I bought three of two other options had not tried before.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Doritos mild salsa mix was on offer but did not have any mild only the extra hot so will look for that another day.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Actimel x 2 packs one Strawberry one mixed fruit. I have this first thing of a morning before having anything to eat. It helps settle my stomach and also helps me generally with the auto immune conditions.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">2 Big Bottles of Semi-Skimmed Milk</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Cathedral City Potato Dauphinoise</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Cathedral City Cauliflower Cheese</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">pack of mini chocolate bars</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Big bottle of Ketchup</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Big bottle of Sweet and Sour Sauce</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Cheese</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Mushrooms</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">2 Tins of Peach slices</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">2 Tubs Bisto Gravy powder offer on of 2 for £3. I bought Chicken and Beef to try them out to see if I like them. It is not the Bisto Granules which I normally use.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Box of Cornflour</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I would mention that I also use tinned fruit such as Pineapple or Peaches in cooked dishes such as Hawaiian Chicken or Sweet and Sour sauce. Makes a lovely meal. They are not just used for puddings but other baked goods as well and sometimes I have with my Granola for breakfast.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Just to mention that we bought a big box of Walkers crisps mixed flavours 3 months ago. I still have half a box left. They are there if needed and I do not think we paid over £5 for them. Sometimes just having the option of having something like this makes all the difference, especially when you have not had any in a while. Not something that would buy every month unless you of course have a family with children that need pack-ups for lunch.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Next time we go to Iceland I will have a look at their Nut selection. I also need </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">Dried Apricots, Dried Cranberries, Cashews, Almonds and Walnuts.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Home Bargains shop</span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">4 sachets of Angel Delight, two Strawberry and two Banana</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Two tins of Cadburys Coconut Milk</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">1 small tin of Pink Salmon</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">4 packs of Country Life Butter</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">2 milk shakes</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pink stuff stain remover powder 1kg</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pack of five dishcloths. I use cotton cloths and boil them up and use them until they start to get tatty and then they are used on the floor and then they get replaced.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Bottle of bleach (do not use much but every so often a little is needed).</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pack of four bread buns</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Bottle of Shampoo</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Double pack of Jacobs Cream Crackers</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">There was also some freezer bits and bobs which will be eaten in the next few days from the fridge for meals. We have a curry each (I am going to have a go at making some Naan bread) and also fish strips, cauliflower cheese, potato Dauphinoise and mushy peas.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Next time I go I am going to have a look at what baking supplies they have as there are a few things that I need to stock up on. I need flaked Almonds, whole Almonds, Ground Almonds and some flavourings. I noticed that they had a few more items (including some mini marshmallows) as well so will have a better look when we go again.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I had a general look at the prices here on tinned items and other items that they stock. Also very reasonable. They had Butter Beans and Chick peas in for about 54p a tin. Pink Salmon small tin was £1.99 and Red Salmon about £2.99 (if I remember correctly). I like Salmon G doesn't. I also like Pilchards and Mackerel in tomato sauce on toast. Will look further again next time we go but very reasonable overall especially on cleaning stuff. G is always in too much of a hurry when we go in there and I am not always given the time to have a good look around. The Coconut milk was Cadburys brand and was 74p a tin. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">All in all therefore, not a bad little trip out to top up today at all. I am trying to keep a firm hand on the Pantry contents, using but also building up and being sensible in the process as well.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This along with fresh veggies, eggs, cheese, cream etc. should keep us going nicely. Trying to do the best with what we have available to us as well as stock the Pantry.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">If I had the Freezers like I used to have, I would be buying more meat in and freezing it, together with other items as soon as I got home. In the past we have bought Pig bellies in and turned them into rolled stuffed joints with me making the stuffing, cutting and rolling them. Makes a lovely Sunday roast. Equally have also made our own bacon in the past as well. Also Gravadlax. If have ended up with too much for the fridge, we have frozen any balance to bring it out at a later date. This has worked well. I would also buy in fresh veg and freezing it myself in portioned quantities, as well as freezing roast meals i.e., any leftover meat sliced in gravy for serving up with veggies for meals during the week.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-8610542014645102432024-03-12T18:50:00.002+00:002024-03-12T18:50:47.895+00:00Plotting and Planning and Pantry Items<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> I am looking at a better way of getting myself organised at home in that I want to try out new to me things and particularly on new recipes. At the moment I am particularly drawn to Vegan recipes and sweets. Some of those ingredients I do not hold in as standard. However I thought that if I experimented and tried more newer recipes I would indeed be able to work out what ingredients I personally need to hold in-house in my Pantry to make the recipes I like on a more regular basis. A good way of switching up the diet a bit in any event.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Sometimes you cannot achieve everything in one go and little baby steps are the way forward until everything is ready to come together. I am a big believer in that. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I am also however looking not to buy pre-made items quite so much and I want to where I can make my own accompaniments. I am at this point talking about things like Pitta and Naan breads, Crumpets, Sourdough bread which I am going to have another go at in due course. I shall of course still buy some items until I am ready to get stuck in and experiment. Have to be sensible about this at the end of the day.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I therefore have my scribble pad. It contains notes for posts on the blog, it contains recipes so that I can have them to hand in the kitchen and I am starting to keep a note of recipes I like the look of on there as well. At some point I will turn them into laminated recipe sheets which I intend to keep in a folder. That will be sometime off though as we have other priorities in front of a new printer cartridge(s) at the present time. I am finding this helpful, as today will be a shopping day and I have a recipe for turning my biscuit crumb into a pudding and a cake slice. I will therefore be able to obtain the cream cheese, cream and milk that I need to achieve this. So sorting out some of the recipes in advance will help with the shopping list. Shopping trip carried out, more on that tomorrow. However did manage to get my cream cheese and the milk. Now to get the cream.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have roasted the Pumpkin in readiness for turning it into a soup for storing on the Pantry shelf by heat processing. The soup will be made and then bottled up and processed tomorrow. It will entail using some of my homemade stock. One of the perks of keeping a good quantity of homemade stock on the Pantry shelf. I am also hoping to get the new potatoes bottled as well. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I also intend to buy in some Squash from the Veg shop/Greengrocer to also preserve for "Pumpkin" pie and for adding to vegetable soups etc. I will also have a look to see what else they have to start making a few things for the shelf as I go along as well. For instance I need Lemons to make Lemon sugar which I have found I use an awful lot of both in baking and for Pancakes!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Creating my own Pantry items is a big part of where I want to be this year - or at least as much as I can afford in any event. Real life does not always oblige and sometimes you have to work with what you have a bit at a time. In fairness though that can be very satisfying managing to achieve things in tough times. There is always something that can be done though.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">There are also out there on the Internet many recipes for making your own Pantry replacements such as making your own Brown Sugar or Custard powder, Pancake mix or Pudding mix plus a whole load more items. I intended a while back to set too and make some basics I use, but am now thinking that I will have to set quite a period of time aside to do this, probably a day at a time bearing in mind what I need to get made for ease of use. This all boils down to organisation of items or set things in blocks or tranches when time is of the essence and replenishing items becomes a necessity especially when so much else is going on.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This has all stemmed from cleaning and sorting out the Pantry. I can find things now, and put things back easily but I still have a long way to go with what I would like to achieve overall. There are still items to be sorted and still more items to be added to jars. New to me jars are on the list to obtain so that I can extend the jar collection on the Dresser to both Dressers due to the lack of space in the Pantry. I am particularly after the Douwe Egbert coffee jars. Will have to keep a look out.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">As usual there are lots of other things going on around the periphery of what I am trying to achieve as well. Some things are having to wait for completion though as I cannot locate items which I have to finish certain things off. Still loads of sorting to do however more about that another day.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For the best part I am happier with how things are progressing at the moment when it comes to house things than I have been in a long time. Other things are as they are, and cannot be helped for one reason or another. I also want to get some seeds sown as well so am hoping the weather will fine up a bit more in the coming weeks. I am learning not to have expectations of myself these days because each time I do they are never really achieved and then that gets me down and I feel like a bit of a failure at the end of it despite all the effort that has gone into it. I will keep creeping along though. Giving in is not in my vocabulary!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tea tonight was a couple of Beefburger buns with fried onion and sliced cheese. Did the trick they were very tasty although I could only eat one.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely evening everyone.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-7798016354829290402024-03-11T17:27:00.000+00:002024-03-11T17:27:02.276+00:00Pantry Inventory Part One - What is on the Dresser Shelves<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgDSea09FJ2ezHAMYg2wdI5lSWZTeDl5ivoL9NXFNZvcSZNDmd_hy76jpNjGHWE3pYKCcZWZ6OHKiqJdKVLbIrrhhVCxX6PEYuwzR3-eg_Jc59yshd3k0Fl5XehNKeakxL3P-thNZl62QqmpJ3IvX9dp8Dg2YQ1j5Uo-rR-qubNDt3y9ODReqqxajAX" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgDSea09FJ2ezHAMYg2wdI5lSWZTeDl5ivoL9NXFNZvcSZNDmd_hy76jpNjGHWE3pYKCcZWZ6OHKiqJdKVLbIrrhhVCxX6PEYuwzR3-eg_Jc59yshd3k0Fl5XehNKeakxL3P-thNZl62QqmpJ3IvX9dp8Dg2YQ1j5Uo-rR-qubNDt3y9ODReqqxajAX" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXzKJVTEAcK4Xr58V9Lxd2VqzN88_Gyrud-CbAziS2UBrKgqpb3I03BGCorumIJ458g9w0mw__N3li_BodLCbFD4xFverzG448GUXlmXrjGSPwBTZyObvA9paPORFO5FQph8cHxNSyXIzSC2oGhsndCLUQY7vgFj0jssPUCg6Z6hiaBXLYnJw2fNb2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXzKJVTEAcK4Xr58V9Lxd2VqzN88_Gyrud-CbAziS2UBrKgqpb3I03BGCorumIJ458g9w0mw__N3li_BodLCbFD4xFverzG448GUXlmXrjGSPwBTZyObvA9paPORFO5FQph8cHxNSyXIzSC2oGhsndCLUQY7vgFj0jssPUCg6Z6hiaBXLYnJw2fNb2" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I know that a lot of you are familiar with my Dresser shelves and may not be as familiar as to what I actually keep on them. These are just items that I have happened upon or actually set too and made myself and which I find useful.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is the stuff that already has a jar and which is kept randomly for the time being on the Dresser shelf.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I would just mention that if I tend to see a rare item available to buy like Aniseed seeds then I do buy them in when I see them as you never quite know when you are going to happen on them again.</div></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Aniseed </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: large;">Intended for making some cookies but also for having a go at making some home made Anisette/Pernod type drinks. Not tried either before but looking forward to trialling this. Pernod is an absolute favourite of mine.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Mace: Whole Membrillo Mace (the outer husk of a Nutmeg). </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Lovely when ground up and used instead of Nutmeg. I tend to add it to Rock Buns and Tea breads it is a much milder flavour but more rounded.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Chinese Five Spice powder</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I frequently make home made Stir fry dishes using up what I have in the fridge and sometimes this goes in with chicken and sometimes I will use an alternative but it is handy to have on the shelf. I also use it in homemade plum sauce.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Allspice</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Used in curing together with Black Peppercorns and Juniper Berries. Also in salt mixtures.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Black Peppercorns</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I tend to use in stocks and in general cooking but ground down.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Juniper Berries </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">In pates and with curing. One day would like to have a go at making my own "Gin".</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Home Dried Chilli Pepper - Habanero</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">These were grown and dried by us last summer. These are for G.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Home Dried Chilli Pepper - Cayenne </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">These were grown and dried by us last summer. I use more as a seasoning ground down or in my Pickled onions to give more heat.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Basil</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I bought in some Basil that was on offer and did not use it all so rather than waste some I had a go at drying it. Seems to have come up well. I intend to dry some more when I see it on offer. I also plan to make some Basil vinegar in due course and make another pot of preserved Basil for the fridge.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Sesame Seeds - Natural</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Toasted - in stir fries, as a nutty dressing for salad (incorporated with other seeds and nuts)</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Sesame Seeds (Hulled) </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Toasted. I use these on top of yogurt, usually as a topping for Granola or Muesli. Gives a lovely nutty flavour but is also full of goodness small amounts of trace vitamins that are beneficial to the system.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Pudding Rice</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Always on hand for the proverbial rice pudding either served hot or cold.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Soup Pasta </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I get this from the Polish shop it is very fine strands of pasta in short lengths. Adds a little more texture to a stew or soup without being large lumps of this and that.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I add this a lot to stews, soups, casseroles as it gives another texture element to whatever am cooking.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Sea Salt</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I keep a lot of this in as when I cure meat or fish I use quite a bit of this. However I also use generally in cooking and for preserving. Take for instance Rosemary salt it is bliss on home made chips. I also use on roast potatoes.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Tapioca</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Not my bag. This is for G. I cannot stand the stuff. Generally just for pudding for him though.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Lentils</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have these in to try them. Going to try a Lentil style soup to start with. I think have had before as a child, but cannot really remember so some experimenting in order to see if I like or not.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Chick Peas</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I keep these in for every so often bottling a load in order to make my own Hummus. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Red Kidney Beans</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Keep these in dry and then every so often process a load of jars so that I can literally just use the beans off the Pantry shelf. More of a convenience thing than anything else.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Used in chillies - not a big heap but enough to give more texture.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Puy Lentils</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Yet again there are some French style dishes want to have a go at so this is why they are on the shelf.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Marrowfat Peas </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Mushy peas and also for sowing for fresh Pea Greens.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Mixed Beans </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For stews and casseroles, soups and dips.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Small Pasta </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For salads and use in soups.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Variegated Pasta Bows medium white green and pink.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I just love Pasta in all its shapes and sizes.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Crystallised Ginger</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I love to munch on this but I also bake with and cook with it. I prefer to use Stem Ginger for cooking but if I do not have any to hand I just cut a couple of chunks into smaller pieces and add these to my home made stir fry meal. Also use in baking.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Basmati Rice</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I like this Rice, but depends on what the price is as to whether I buy it. At the moment have been using a cheaper rice and that serves the purpose just as much, but still have some to use. Tend to use more in curries that sort of thing.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Desiccated Coconut</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">In baking and for cookies. Also in Muesli and Granola. Also in yogurt.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Home Dried Chillies </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For pickling - grown and dried by myself specifically for my Pickled Onions.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Sea Salt</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Rock Salt</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Both Sea Salt and Rock salt used for curing more than anything else.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Red Lentils </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For soup, dhal etc.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dehydrated Mixed Veg </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For adding to stews, soups, casseroles and gravies.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Cloves </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Primarily for flavouring Gammon at Christmas, but I also use in stocks and sauces like Bread Sauce.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Blue Poppy Seed</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For bread making.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Wild Rice</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">When I fancy a change up from plain rice or Basmati. This has a little more interest and texture. I quite like this.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Rose Petals</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Used in teas also used for baking and puddings. Also used in homemade toiletries and soap making. Also used in a traditional Harissa paste.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Carnation Buds</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For bath salts and homemade toiletries.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Cranberries</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For baking, chutney, breads, Christmas cakes, cookies etc.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Mixed seeds </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Primarily for topping breads but can also be combined with nuts and other seeds for toppings for salads and also cereal.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Chamomile</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For teas, washing the hair with. If you have fair hair good for lightening your hair up every so often.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Lavender</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For making Lavender bags, use in soap making, bath salts, baking, cordials, syrups and Lattes.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Chocolate Vermicelli</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For decorating cakes with.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Elderflower</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For use in homemade toiletries, salves, creams. Also for making cordials and syrups.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Agen Prunes </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For stuffing roast pork or for using in a winter fruit salad along with apples and dried apricots, cherries etc.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Rosebuds</b> </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For teas. For use in cosmetics and bath salts, vinegars, tea/tisanes.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Thyme </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I buy in Thyme when I can and dry it on its stems. I then keep it whole in a jar and use it whole like this with either roasts or casseroles. Thyme is a very useful plant and I love the flavour of it on roasties and also with a roast chicken. Helps to give a bit more flavour. I also "rub" the stems free of the leaves and store the leaves separately.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Items that still need jars</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Rosehip powder</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This was bought in and I have had for a little while. Cannot remember where I bought it in from but I use it mixed into Granola or Muesli. I mix in about 1 teaspoon of the powder). For a vitamin C hit. I shall probably dry my own again this year.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>"Grannys" Spiced Salt</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">A sea salt mixed with Aromatics like Juniper berries, allspice etc.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Pizza spice with Garlic</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Aromatic herbs mixed with</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Thyme Leaves</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I use these a lot in cooking. This is the stemless version which has been rubbed off of it's stalk/stem. Thyme is also very good in honey when you have a bad cold and can be used to add to the glaze for roasted carrots either plain or Lemon scented.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Star Anise - Whole</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I use these to put into a pot with a chicken and boil it to give tender flavoured chicken to use in a Chinese style meal, to flavour homemade Barbecue sauce and Plum sauce, with pickled peaches and in lots of other ways. Also add to a jar of honey and then use the honey to coat the outside of a roast chicken. Also use in Christmas decorations and ornaments. Also for making Chai, added to pickles and fruit salads.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;"><b>Bay Leaves Powder. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: x-large;">I powdered some older Bay Leaves I had to make a powder to add into stews and casseroles. G not keen on whole Bay Leaves as one always seems to get away and he finds it! I prefer to use the whole leaves but this helps a lot.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Rose Pepper/Pink Peppercorn</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Not truly a pepper. Used in Charcuterie for adding to Salami. Can mix with other peppers to create your own pepper mix for use in general cooking. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Ground Aniseed</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For use in cookies and biscuits</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Rosemary</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I love Rosemary fresh and dry. I suppose I prefer fresh for things like roasts or roast potatoes etc. but each work well. However I absolutely love Rosemary jelly with cold meat platters and roast platters. Gives a whole other taste level. Also used in Christmas decorating and making homemade Bouquet Garni.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Wild Garlic/Ramson Leaves </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">to give a little garlic flavour to soups, stews and gravies. Also can be powdered and added to general cooking for a mild garlic flavour.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Oregano </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Beautiful with tomatoes</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Methi - Fenugreek Seeds</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Not used these yet. Managed to get on a reduction but plan to use.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Brown Mustard Seeds </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For making a dark mustard or mixing with yellow mustard seeds for a mixed version. Also used in pickles.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Onion Powder</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Recently bought - in general cooking or where you need to amplify the flavour.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Garlic Powder</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Recently bought - as above for Onion Powder</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">That is a lot of stuff on the shelf and there are still a lot of items yet to make it to the shelf. I like investigating how to use different ingredients.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Do you keep anything different on your shelves.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-12352017362807783902024-03-10T20:14:00.003+00:002024-03-10T20:14:54.705+00:00A Little Shopping<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br />I had a nice quiet evening last night listening to the TV. I also managed to get to cutting some more patches out for my patchwork quilt. I will probably prepare a load more later on. Then I will have a session or two of tacking and later on of stitching up the initial "Rings". All the work is being carried out sequentially and further patches probably toning ones will be cut as I get an idea of how the rings are panning out or whether I will go for a more neutral colour to set the ring patches off. Will see what happens.</span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We have been shopping for a few things today. I had more or less run out of veggies and so today have topped up with French Beans, Broccoli, Carrots, Kale, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Petit-Pois, Parsnip. I do like to have as many different vegetables in at any one time as you can do so much with vegetables, Flans, quiches, soups, Lasagna, stews, stir fries all sorts. Gives a bit more flexibility if the household has cut back on buying in as much meat because of current prices and selective choices are being made. I do still need to get some sweet potatoes, leeks and garlic and a couple of squash.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">G also nipped to the Butcher and came back with one of the double packs of meat I spoke about last month two small joints of Beef for £20. We are therefore having Beef for tea this evening. I am cooking both joints for the simple reason we will probably get two good meals plus some sarnies out of each joint. I have a Gammon to cook as well so that means any Beef leftover will either go for sarnies or cold cuts maybe with some homemade Fat chips later in the week and some homemade fresh Coleslaw or for a change a salad.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjjL9QvUrDJAc3JvTCpCFxaQ2nKtBF1X3eVLfGNSLkL7xidYtZHouU4jDMkufRvPX3D9ArGH7aGeP15aPy1mxhzpmFQOQlfIZPa3RygNk3YxsFCtEF6Zdex-d2JxhuQUGaCZQMZ2Mlcp-HTZcN8vJMz4UOdI85HgYkC8fo_BNCcJ2g84ELTk-Hh1S4l" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjjL9QvUrDJAc3JvTCpCFxaQ2nKtBF1X3eVLfGNSLkL7xidYtZHouU4jDMkufRvPX3D9ArGH7aGeP15aPy1mxhzpmFQOQlfIZPa3RygNk3YxsFCtEF6Zdex-d2JxhuQUGaCZQMZ2Mlcp-HTZcN8vJMz4UOdI85HgYkC8fo_BNCcJ2g84ELTk-Hh1S4l" width="240" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6qmYRpINbhcsU2CUvB8t5qeEWrZ4MR3YerNBFn_GgyTcDR6m2OZH94Q4Tf3ag-vPNFPsBwLD9gcAi0tAtYYnM7h_tz0d0-mYzlt38Rob37SNhEKFJ2PG4UtsrM5krgnGOi2bP-hRRHIY0f8SosE77jyD3HkzJr99nkxg-EPFOcxrj7jzuArRfN_oD" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6qmYRpINbhcsU2CUvB8t5qeEWrZ4MR3YerNBFn_GgyTcDR6m2OZH94Q4Tf3ag-vPNFPsBwLD9gcAi0tAtYYnM7h_tz0d0-mYzlt38Rob37SNhEKFJ2PG4UtsrM5krgnGOi2bP-hRRHIY0f8SosE77jyD3HkzJr99nkxg-EPFOcxrj7jzuArRfN_oD" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg2ZOc-2LaDA9neKi18RNTk16_sWOVJdzKiYDpVnGTbGw0kMSO2p_KSpvEbeaeBe9eM6AUKp5QdGVD_UNntJd8DagRHzclcx9YxsqNbbsMM2NaFp-8pYJMz9yzVr2l0TdkForR6hFoek5GWpA55oymbBbgES9QdLlWOtigS4Y5O-TOPetBcv8lCcdzi" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg2ZOc-2LaDA9neKi18RNTk16_sWOVJdzKiYDpVnGTbGw0kMSO2p_KSpvEbeaeBe9eM6AUKp5QdGVD_UNntJd8DagRHzclcx9YxsqNbbsMM2NaFp-8pYJMz9yzVr2l0TdkForR6hFoek5GWpA55oymbBbgES9QdLlWOtigS4Y5O-TOPetBcv8lCcdzi" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I shall serve Mashed potato, roast potato, onion and parsnip together with cauliflower, peas and carrots for tea this evening and we will have a duplicate meal again tomorrow.</span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Beef can be very susceptible to shrinking. I therefore tend to cook the meat on a slightly lower temperature on a base of onion with some water and then a sprinkling of mixed herbs. The meat is then covered with foil and cooked until about 40 minutes from the end when the foil blanket is taken off. The "gravy" or shall we say the base of the gravy is then formed in the tray and the veg water can then be added to the gravy base together with some homemade stock to form the bulk of the gravy. I add in Redcurrant jelly, vegetable bouillon, bay leaves and gravy browning and adjust the seasoning flavouring as to what I end up with. I then thicken the gravy just before serving up. Roasties will be done within 40 minutes in the Ninja without having to pre-boil and they do come up very well. I shall use some of the Pork dripping from last week for this.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMMp0Yq_d2p8jogvJyudkn5Tj1q7Ay99I6DLIZyhtP8opr1SJyKljdIcztwVA99yRr88p1H1sAkGEDXLgiwRkqo5BnnJQSyjz8Qcr0J_i6ia4GyKmp8eSeioBcOQgGlWpOIS6Y3ixMB_M52vDRS7U7Bdp-i1ihCiymHOr3UUDeID1goSQqW1G9IIJx" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMMp0Yq_d2p8jogvJyudkn5Tj1q7Ay99I6DLIZyhtP8opr1SJyKljdIcztwVA99yRr88p1H1sAkGEDXLgiwRkqo5BnnJQSyjz8Qcr0J_i6ia4GyKmp8eSeioBcOQgGlWpOIS6Y3ixMB_M52vDRS7U7Bdp-i1ihCiymHOr3UUDeID1goSQqW1G9IIJx" width="240" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_kQCT_RUxKR6WsmTcBGQMzJSvXL2-M98c7mJLYN3YNhwHpepjTrMFEtbV3jYQHNuHAD-k2d3Evl6ucMjTgvqZMBYLizAavzq9YiJZxeG4xaf6WGYjNFC0LSgpU7mpKWgYmQJhGdvF4hy8d5Z52uZWo8VbRqC4Vlr8ZIOgqQHunS4Qo9j3ExwvCOsg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_kQCT_RUxKR6WsmTcBGQMzJSvXL2-M98c7mJLYN3YNhwHpepjTrMFEtbV3jYQHNuHAD-k2d3Evl6ucMjTgvqZMBYLizAavzq9YiJZxeG4xaf6WGYjNFC0LSgpU7mpKWgYmQJhGdvF4hy8d5Z52uZWo8VbRqC4Vlr8ZIOgqQHunS4Qo9j3ExwvCOsg" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Meat came out medium rare which is how I like it. Sliced quite easily as well.</div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKC6IPnYnvj46VwbXYM29XE77kcrsj6IayVvyT6ByFRm83IrzxRthboDZtRCWR5i2g64sU-9j4ogYdxG8NBdcrjzNJK2civjOQa8gmYGdzC9ksefATWauDPCmXxbtYUe-ngZc3HSuKsmsWz155LZ-5GvR1ICPgPrOEkr_aDrxn5Y8qoS0F3F7gcmCt" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKC6IPnYnvj46VwbXYM29XE77kcrsj6IayVvyT6ByFRm83IrzxRthboDZtRCWR5i2g64sU-9j4ogYdxG8NBdcrjzNJK2civjOQa8gmYGdzC9ksefATWauDPCmXxbtYUe-ngZc3HSuKsmsWz155LZ-5GvR1ICPgPrOEkr_aDrxn5Y8qoS0F3F7gcmCt" width="240" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Needless to say that tea went down very nicely indeed. Just what was needed.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhx0wb1AOshhvrcgv6xsgFuXjasnsQzVHNphOBN0xOtXp6RbMrS1dt_RYkYtU97aKbGqjxxqVbCpcHhzwIiwcvqZxUOOYkRiZFwBDs64BspOzI6v_APu2GZMIZ_yacYnIKlhQlxe9iaIoAoTfUHbCL4dW0cpyQPeKAF4R9vG4fjeIUsbBNZT7h7MLhO" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhx0wb1AOshhvrcgv6xsgFuXjasnsQzVHNphOBN0xOtXp6RbMrS1dt_RYkYtU97aKbGqjxxqVbCpcHhzwIiwcvqZxUOOYkRiZFwBDs64BspOzI6v_APu2GZMIZ_yacYnIKlhQlxe9iaIoAoTfUHbCL4dW0cpyQPeKAF4R9vG4fjeIUsbBNZT7h7MLhO" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMAMTzxgOKADcwIJLkz9CIYsLw4lFNSOrsJUsGZX22a_POEhQwIGdfu30TqfCARMh43Bp1ROe_d_OKwSf9Kb8n_YKk11_4c7zYxNmXeL8MO0DLogQPpa4ky4yBCSqLg6J0tNpn5245JIfAzAkvQmo3FgdT8aoow8sVjmMa7uuOAkrmcG8A7M7M_XNo" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMAMTzxgOKADcwIJLkz9CIYsLw4lFNSOrsJUsGZX22a_POEhQwIGdfu30TqfCARMh43Bp1ROe_d_OKwSf9Kb8n_YKk11_4c7zYxNmXeL8MO0DLogQPpa4ky4yBCSqLg6J0tNpn5245JIfAzAkvQmo3FgdT8aoow8sVjmMa7uuOAkrmcG8A7M7M_XNo" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Otherwise it has been a very quiet day, but that what Sundays are for in the greater scheme of things. Now suitably stuffed with the luxury of having another repeat performance for tomorrow with minimum effort.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I do have a lot of other stuff to tackle tomorrow.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Have a lovely evening.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Catch you soon.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pattypan</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">x</div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><br /><br /></span><p></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-14498163430740486412024-03-09T18:40:00.001+00:002024-03-09T18:40:04.680+00:00Having a night off<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> I still have not been a hundred per cent today so another low key day and not really much to report. Yet again I did not get to the Patchwork again so rather than whip myself any further have just decided to have a day/night off just to try and chill a bit. I haven't even been able to muster up the energy to cook. It has been cold again so I am just going to hibernate tonight.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hopefully normal service will be resumed tomorrow.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-72108957802517313352024-03-08T18:46:00.001+00:002024-03-08T18:46:11.094+00:00A bit of a Low Key day today<p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Woke up not firing on all cylinders so have had an easier day. Not what was planned at all. Therefore have took my time today and just pottered, perhaps aimlessly with different things, but it all adds up in the end. Weatherwise, the Sun was out for a bit earlier on, but it disappeared and then for the best part of the afternoon it has been grey and I think a tad chilly or at least that is my take on things as my digits have been going blue!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a very large pumpkin roasting in the oven to do things with for tomorrow. So a little "prepping" done in readiness in preparation and the hopes of being able to do some preserving at long last. If I get my way I will be in the kitchen preserving for the best part of the day. However, we all know that in real life there are often "speed bumps" that get in the way of what we actually would like to get done. I am therefore planning on an early start as I am in need of getting some goodies on the Pantry shelf and have been itching to get things done for a little while.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We are having some chicken strips for tea tonight. After last night's curry which was substantial and very filling, and tasty, we are not as hungry this evening. We are blessed to have the choice. However have also been looking at what is in the fridge at the moment and will probably make some Broccoli and Blue cheese soup for part of tomorrow's eating as I have both Broccoli and some Blue cheese that needs using up. I am also considering a vegetarian style Lasagna (blue cheese and cheddar, leek, onion, and some broccoli and the dried kale on the Pantry shelf which will be soaked before adding to the Lasagna as well as some roasted veggies. I have Courgette, Parsnip, sweet potato, pepper, broccoli, leek onion and some garlic that need using up and as I do not like to waste anything at all. Thought would make up a big pan to use everything up and maybe serve with the minted lamb steaks in the fridge as well as the Lasagna. I also need to cook the Gammon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Did not get to the Patchwork last night as I could not find my board. Have since found and it so am going to have an evening of cutting Patches to get back into the swing of things with my Patchwork. Low key and slow evening as I have a busy day planned in the kitchen tomorrow.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Not sure if anything on the TV tonight or not! Might even get to starting a book this weekend. Wonders will never cease!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hope everyone has a lovely evening.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-12530855967642055212024-03-07T16:30:00.003+00:002024-03-07T23:36:09.814+00:00Today<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> Started off for me with a lush breakfast. Might not appeal to everyone, but as I have mentioned before I do have Luddite and many traditional tendencies. A hot bowl of porridge on a what to me feels like a cold morning is a real rib sticker. I also feel less hungry and tend not to pick at things afterwards as well. This morning I had been eyeing up my Fermented Blackberries jar thinking really that I ought to be doing something with it before long especially with the fermented berries on the top. With that thought in mind I grabbed a tablespoon and scooped some of the Blackberries off the top and on to the hot Porridge. I then added a little of the syrup as well. Now I am only a Novice when it comes to fermentation and I am learning as I go along, but from what I have read and observed, this syrup is technically a "Cheong" a fermented syrup which retains all the flavour and the vitamins because no heat has been used in the process of preservation. Just natural safe yeasts doing their stuff.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I ended up making this syrup last September as a change to a Rosehip one I had made the year before (which is also lush). Such syrups are meant to be better for you generally and overall. However they are quite sweet, but bring the "wild" element into everyday eating. I shall definitely be having a go at this again. I only made one jar as a tester, but I envisage more jars being littered around the house to preserve a batch of this next Blackberry season as well as bottling in syrup, making wine, making jam, making Bramble Jelly (or Bramble delly) as it is known in our house. I am also quite addicted to fermented Lemon and Lemon and Ginger especially if used as the basis of a tea. So soothing and refreshing.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiuK5NE7JuC7JNKo4RE-1SfG_W8yBWYAWMEx7T_PvblSmYRrj1hy-DQyFeXlTxnX_8L-ulgxIXyR-pSbwVUmAKq4t9RCfQdb6588NSu8UWiwFkhcQYgZBQswvoAljlomHLso4G_Ju2EdaABsxIgCAKUZ21fK0H2hO7KIVBtIMiuo14Y8rpsTxDUsyv-" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiuK5NE7JuC7JNKo4RE-1SfG_W8yBWYAWMEx7T_PvblSmYRrj1hy-DQyFeXlTxnX_8L-ulgxIXyR-pSbwVUmAKq4t9RCfQdb6588NSu8UWiwFkhcQYgZBQswvoAljlomHLso4G_Ju2EdaABsxIgCAKUZ21fK0H2hO7KIVBtIMiuo14Y8rpsTxDUsyv-" width="240" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiiU9Op2fWMxiPt3fYIJeb7Xe47lCBYLrEIvNsDwH3VnHAsTDn6nN-YqLXYpz2esnv5B8fHj0ChXpDZx2pYhulAZFGWYkb_Q8vGrD9Kqo1-3sX7TRBlatmVRmPDqK-Lcz1tsaPszXq5K00w-57zGc9cxadoJVOdr_Nk4FhhGZprfR34IBErQLbJXizZ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiiU9Op2fWMxiPt3fYIJeb7Xe47lCBYLrEIvNsDwH3VnHAsTDn6nN-YqLXYpz2esnv5B8fHj0ChXpDZx2pYhulAZFGWYkb_Q8vGrD9Kqo1-3sX7TRBlatmVRmPDqK-Lcz1tsaPszXq5K00w-57zGc9cxadoJVOdr_Nk4FhhGZprfR34IBErQLbJXizZ" width="240" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjY0zjTL2o1orUtWYquYtJ8MESb3qQVlz4ljON8uxMsBySBI3rwmGiUfN0zdKcn9q1bPmlDhDoDB7ZK9DSyxvVV2kKTK3fioerWoUTDDlotuHcApnU-d9hl_yahMO3IVKu7MZ6kTw2sWBi1-ghRFHeFHCdPrWkGqUH7NUp__t3Dc5GMwp4W6YJxz1rt" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjY0zjTL2o1orUtWYquYtJ8MESb3qQVlz4ljON8uxMsBySBI3rwmGiUfN0zdKcn9q1bPmlDhDoDB7ZK9DSyxvVV2kKTK3fioerWoUTDDlotuHcApnU-d9hl_yahMO3IVKu7MZ6kTw2sWBi1-ghRFHeFHCdPrWkGqUH7NUp__t3Dc5GMwp4W6YJxz1rt" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I shall use the last of the berries up in the jar on further porridge breakfasts, once that has been removed I will then decant the syrup into bottles for the Pantry shelf to use when the fancy takes me. Think this would be very good with some Gin or indeed with sparkling water or Champagne (or fizzy wine). Also with pancakes, in puddings, as a topping for cake. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Although a lot of Preserve recipes exist and many more are being added to the list, I believe that a lot of practical information as to how our ancestors used to use the preserves has been lost and I think it is down to us as individuals to work out how we like to use the preserves to fit our own lifestyles and palates. I do not therefore believe that there is a wrong or right way of using them, just personal preference. Syrups can also be used as the basis for homemade Sorbets to add interest on the pudding front (that is if you have a freezer). Bought syrups can be used in the same way too.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have read on several blogs and posts that Wild Garlic is starting to show in various parts of the country. Am going to have to go and have a look to see if I can locate any to pop up and preserve around here. Want to take advantage of the Wild Larder again as much as I can.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I am very much looking forward to Elderflower season this year, now that I have found my bottles (and am still collecting them as well) intend to really stock up on this front. Am therefore starting to stock pile sugar in order where I can to take advantage of this. Quite a bit of wine planned for this year as well. I love Elderflower especially Elderflower Fizz (Champagne).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tea for tonight is a pre-prepared curry and rice with some Naan bread to accompany and some yogurt.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: justify;">I shall be putting my feet up again this evening and watching the final part of the Marlow Murder Club. I know it is available to stream online, but this way I get to sit down and chill for a little while, so there is a method to my madness. Sadly last night I did not get to the Patchwork. Will try harder and better!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hope everyone has a lovely evening.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Catch you all soon.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pattypan</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">x</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Update: Loved the programme. It is available to play on UKTV for those of you who would like to watch it. Link is here:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://uktvplay.co.uk/" target="_blank">Marlow Murder Club</a><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do hope there are more to come.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-20951710006343091672024-03-06T17:37:00.003+00:002024-03-06T22:05:31.447+00:00You know you are getting a little long in the tooth<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> .....when you are looking forward to new programmes on the TV and are quite happy to curl up of an evening. This evening at 8pm on Drama The Marlow Murder Club starts. Looks quite promising and has Samantha Bond in the lead. So quite looking forward to putting up my feet and getting into this tonight. G and I do not agree on programmes and I miss a lot of programmes as a result unless I can find them on a catch up service somewhere along the line. Thing is I like stories, in all their formats. I love books and have a whole stack to read which have not been touched yet. Trouble is if I get my head in a book or books I become even more anti-social as I really get into the story lines. Love Agatha Christie books and indeed have a vellum bound collection of those somewhere. Think they are in the storage unit. They really need to be in the front room on the bookshelves with all the other classics I have as well. I was always taught that if you have a book you have a friend and as I have for the best part of my life been a loner, this suits me a lot of the time. I am not a social animal often feeling under the spot light and very uncomfortable in social situations unless I really know people extremely well. I also find that there is a certain type of social bullying in these situations that I just do not need in my life. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">As well as Agatha Christie books and films I also like Father Brown, Sister Boniface Mysteries, The Bletchley Circle, The Darling Buds of May, All Creatures Great and Small, Call the Midwife, The Pillars of the Earth, Anything Kate Mosse, particularly love her earlier books Labyrinth, Sepulchre, Citadel, The City of Tears, the Burning Chamber. Anything by C J Sansom (I still have a few to read and a few more to buy). There are plenty of others too. Really I just like to curl up with a book or a film or video and just lose myself from reality for a few hours. Safe haven and keeps me sane that and music both classical, vintage and everything.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Well that's me up off my hand and knees after sorting the Pet area out. Now to sort out something to eat. Think it is going to be "Iffit Pie" tonight (i.e. "If it goes around you will be getting some").</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely evening everyone. Far lighter tonight than it has been, gives hope for days to come for to find the joy in each and every day and to make the most of what comes to us.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">If I can find my cutting board I might actually try and do a bit of patchwork as well. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">UPDATE:</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">PS I watched the Marlow Murder Club and its pace is quite different to what you would expect from the writer of Death in Paradise. Quite clever, and to start with comes over a little more stilted, but we are dealing with a person of precision in the form of Judith Potts (Played by Samantha Bond) in a previous life who was an Archaeologist and the way the lives of the Vicar's wife and the local Dog Walker weave in together. The more the programme proceeds the more the characters gel together. I enjoyed it and am looking forward to the final part tomorrow evening also at 8:00pm. Reminder has been set on the TV. </span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-70203894875125459342024-03-05T19:34:00.001+00:002024-03-05T19:34:27.562+00:00Trouble with Internet<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Today on both Facebook, Messenger and Instagram. Not good at all especially according to the News it would appear to be a Worldwide Outage.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Is it was it a Cyber attack maybe or just someone pulled a plug somewhere. </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">On reading further reports it would appear to be a blip on the login function across the board.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Real life is suddenly part of what years ago was Sci Fi stories. Whenever did that happen! Or is it down to the marked use of AI in the running of such programmes and facilities. Lets be honest, most of us (not all I appreciate) tend to use some form of technology these days. Some of it I find useful some of it an absolute and complete pain especially when the computer does not react or do what it is suggested it should do. I am not computer illiterate having used it in my work for many years, but I have never had complete faith in just relying on computers. You always need a hard copy in my experience. And then there is the fact that the Banks want to get rid of cash completely and just use cards as a replacement. However in my experience brass in pocket tends to have more bargaining power especially when or if there is a SHTF issue. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We also need the capacity to be able to do things both manually and with the computer. Coming from an age of where you kept paperwork I am finding it very hard to get my head around the "paperless community". I think it is heading for a strong nose-dive somewhere down the line. Once upon a time, did you know that the use of a photocopier was not classed as a true copy and it took many years for the Courts to allow the use of said copies. A timeline away now as copies and computers are now an integral part of the systems in place for handling such judicial matters.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Aw well that's the blip for today then. Me I think I am just a born out Luddite. I like to dot my i's and cross my "T"s and make sure that there is always a paper trail.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Today has been a pottering in the kitchen day. Swift progress has not been made, and the banana bread maybe tomorrow now. A fair amount of tidying has been accomplished overall though. Still not out of the wood pile yet, but it is gently moving forwards. G has been in with his paint brush a little bit more as well. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tea was a duplicate of yesterday. That is now everything used up from the Pork and the veggies.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have some Lamb chops and also a Gammon to cook. I have a fancy for some Italian sausages at the moment with some mixed roasted veggies. I will need to go shopping for both and a selection of veggies as I have now used up most of what I had to hand.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The Sloe and Crab Apple jelly is going to be made again this year if I can get hold of the Sloes that is, well and the Crab apples. Makes a nice change and I have ideas for so many uses in my cooking. As usual had sat on trying this due to my attention being elsewhere occupied. Hopefully when the cupboard under the stairs and the Fireside cupboard are also sorted out, I will be able to locate things a lot more easily.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It has been a cold and miserable day here again. Looks as though might be a little warmer tomorrow. Hope so as washing needs drying.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Right am off to potter.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely evening.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-39763002852329051492024-03-04T20:35:00.001+00:002024-03-04T20:35:09.363+00:00Last Night and Today<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> Last night, I started to have a look at a pile of things, but I need to do more work in relation to this particular pile, and so I left it shortly after starting to deal with it. No point in making extra work just at this moment. Need to address it when a bit more plentiful on the time front not an item that can be segmented.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This morning though the Sun is out - I feel more me (whatever that might be) and have a burst of energy. Look out broomstick here we come.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It will be kitchen and cooking chores today though as I really need to get into the kitchen to let G be able to progress in there when he fancies wafting the paintbrush around. What a difference a little bit of white paint is making. I decided to go simple and uncomplicated just the white paint for the bathroom, little room and the kitchen. I have vintage wallpaper downstairs already for the dining room. Vymura Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady Poppy design. Have had it a while and it should make the room look more cheerful eventually. That will not be started though until quite a few more jobs are out of the way with. We are slowly addressing some of the decorative problems.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I am also desperate to get into the kitchen to really start playing again. I have had a request to make some Banana Bread so will attend to that in the next day or so. As my focus has been on other things, not had the opportunity to. As have said though am trying to strike whilst the iron is hot and get on with things no matter how small. At least we have a proper roast dinner to look forward to again tonight and loads of lovely Pork dripping for roasties or for a slice of bread. Look how thick it is in the bottom of the bowl.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhq6Oog287A2WKhQGq8Zm50XKEYTaHVSBO6oFyaXpvlBkZ9YZKOVu37YQkcX8HaAAHS7UwDZhpDgtxTXwwDUK-z0T-hDAz826AEUMlxTVJbewTbO8CHuXhCqlH3S3qSjqF4b8w3SH_ez6Vxlv2zFAc2o7LqIXOXFFWHkhsgi1-5L3LF1nf0xzGW5V2B" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhq6Oog287A2WKhQGq8Zm50XKEYTaHVSBO6oFyaXpvlBkZ9YZKOVu37YQkcX8HaAAHS7UwDZhpDgtxTXwwDUK-z0T-hDAz826AEUMlxTVJbewTbO8CHuXhCqlH3S3qSjqF4b8w3SH_ez6Vxlv2zFAc2o7LqIXOXFFWHkhsgi1-5L3LF1nf0xzGW5V2B" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The Sun is out to play, it feels warmer think perhaps it is a lot warmer to what it was yesterday and I have a big pile of washing to address again. Think this is going to be the status quo for a while as I gradually attack the Spring Cleaning heap.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tea is cooking as we speak. I was a little later getting it on tonight.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Loads of jelly in the pork dripping which will be used on bread and the fat is being used to cook tonight's roasties. We have potato, sweet potato, onion and parsnip that have been roasted.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBqqX6Se--qjkK56bWKvCu9YdVRP07dnPtymEql5eVcDQy658xnXJoNx9MGNm6gWfm2bZ88s8NHxEng9EANf3a-DbZuebMRnCbOAvUxZkVHYUAfC7x2cmw18f5ljuyhoSfRZwhhMHsTcyab6KB3kNx87KKQbWtXNQ6zEx3PN9gBub0GlGHOo6WM-bW" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBqqX6Se--qjkK56bWKvCu9YdVRP07dnPtymEql5eVcDQy658xnXJoNx9MGNm6gWfm2bZ88s8NHxEng9EANf3a-DbZuebMRnCbOAvUxZkVHYUAfC7x2cmw18f5ljuyhoSfRZwhhMHsTcyab6KB3kNx87KKQbWtXNQ6zEx3PN9gBub0GlGHOo6WM-bW" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Also mashed potato, Purple Sprouting Broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and steamed cabbage with gravy. There should be enough for tomorrow night as well. After all there is no end of meat and there will be pork and apple sarnies too. Pays to buy a larger joint to cook as the meat cooks better and also provides a few meals. If I had a freezer I would be freezing the pork in the gravy ready to drag out for a meal during the week, all you would have to add is the veggies then. A good quick meal within an hour</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyoAQ14lMcwFo1VnooE1WodZMT1NiP3YCUsQuq7cHgXRvr4OkoyEXkjCU8KoJraHnwYah0HW_T02iQrvr4bnjZSMxPH9yf9D019h3nhVSfV2w9loRKLkDtx7C03qLjqZMNefQLvE7QWO891u9Hi1EPOOlsAaWqPMAr9wRjzwwpII8t2Nnn_92OT6AF" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyoAQ14lMcwFo1VnooE1WodZMT1NiP3YCUsQuq7cHgXRvr4OkoyEXkjCU8KoJraHnwYah0HW_T02iQrvr4bnjZSMxPH9yf9D019h3nhVSfV2w9loRKLkDtx7C03qLjqZMNefQLvE7QWO891u9Hi1EPOOlsAaWqPMAr9wRjzwwpII8t2Nnn_92OT6AF" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCJGz0s9f099vNZIiHVRgR-QDSvpYVWRorr9eMOl2Parrd2OwyBAdklbawHQAwWxfQ-fziYQO2b-J5KGsC7tyDtVOVXUSZGSExZ5nRodgWvK28cAquuR8oFlN4S4RL0_b42ONq3EWcsaBn6mohVrMCpVwoBKruzZzxeKdjQWNOcMkko55Nl8j92ssA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiCJGz0s9f099vNZIiHVRgR-QDSvpYVWRorr9eMOl2Parrd2OwyBAdklbawHQAwWxfQ-fziYQO2b-J5KGsC7tyDtVOVXUSZGSExZ5nRodgWvK28cAquuR8oFlN4S4RL0_b42ONq3EWcsaBn6mohVrMCpVwoBKruzZzxeKdjQWNOcMkko55Nl8j92ssA" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijjQTg5jJs3CHKkhpyP81NPgji4EsUfE9Qsl01bu9D3Ns5tpmG90Qn8rQYpS2DeWpOGMugGpmfhjzBVex0NpQjtKNG4jWwRdni-Ll2itioV4xUoi52muJlNgNvfP3ns2i91WZbfEiGj5DsoIPs4_e2sJBigi6pQ0rd3MLlPMZ6JkiJpZhd1h6GLko9" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEijjQTg5jJs3CHKkhpyP81NPgji4EsUfE9Qsl01bu9D3Ns5tpmG90Qn8rQYpS2DeWpOGMugGpmfhjzBVex0NpQjtKNG4jWwRdni-Ll2itioV4xUoi52muJlNgNvfP3ns2i91WZbfEiGj5DsoIPs4_e2sJBigi6pQ0rd3MLlPMZ6JkiJpZhd1h6GLko9" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimrdXBLv8GR8goBgy16JmWj41zTGkphN9VIYv4-nF9dHP_AqxtoAvD1P5XX9Y6bs0hrMNACFMunoNzaY2y2wsNtW11M4KrjyvNbeb6iWyC8yfHHq43LUcRTbr4BJcsxORKbl25d2tJ4coVPpEGsTLbfpm9RT54L2C0un13zpGC0Wg8rHNwjxVD1zqr" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimrdXBLv8GR8goBgy16JmWj41zTGkphN9VIYv4-nF9dHP_AqxtoAvD1P5XX9Y6bs0hrMNACFMunoNzaY2y2wsNtW11M4KrjyvNbeb6iWyC8yfHHq43LUcRTbr4BJcsxORKbl25d2tJ4coVPpEGsTLbfpm9RT54L2C0un13zpGC0Wg8rHNwjxVD1zqr" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOBlWCubxPSuOa4CJzxoZN3PoPONzY8NxnFDycO7kVIqzkWR634PPobaaciHHvMbFmCxcO4OtmUYbvoCT8cdWzeRlr9zNkeuR1VgqjfLdptIhaLndb05nfD5k_3T0mlsRwcxsaARk8Tfm3Q976gS5CNjAwuOJ4p8xJWXe9iHHWShTs_eQPcvyhksGJ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOBlWCubxPSuOa4CJzxoZN3PoPONzY8NxnFDycO7kVIqzkWR634PPobaaciHHvMbFmCxcO4OtmUYbvoCT8cdWzeRlr9zNkeuR1VgqjfLdptIhaLndb05nfD5k_3T0mlsRwcxsaARk8Tfm3Q976gS5CNjAwuOJ4p8xJWXe9iHHWShTs_eQPcvyhksGJ" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">There will be plenty of veggies for tomorrow night as well. Save me having to get everything on again. I like roasting mixed veggies together gives a far more rounded flavour. We had the potato, sweet potato, parsnip and onion wedges (which fall to pieces) all done and dusted within 40 minutes without having to parboil. Having the Purple Sprouting Broccoli and the shredded cabbage also gives a heck of a lot of flavour too. Tea all sorted for a repeat for tomorrow night too. I also had some Sloe and Crab Apple jelly with the Pork. Really goes well. I do have some plain Crab Apple jelly which is delicious but I cannot lay my hands on it at the moment. It will turn up. So do not be afraid to mix in Sloes with Crab apples for jelly come autumn. A lovely mixture and preserve to add to the food plate.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEie2JtE6QmUqmlwfiQtvB99VUr7smD4Rzhe77FuTp2Cr_mG4qLsfN2aZVazMmaPPjrfGNcu3KZs56fWh2mqUbxDfapja1AigdIhj7gNHWoBS5gh7QcabO2T1G7L17Gk5j2exmcZj7iJ8HzN2IJgKoiYNoA2HVWlGNofONzacEHycBilSYZGlD-mKDRi" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEie2JtE6QmUqmlwfiQtvB99VUr7smD4Rzhe77FuTp2Cr_mG4qLsfN2aZVazMmaPPjrfGNcu3KZs56fWh2mqUbxDfapja1AigdIhj7gNHWoBS5gh7QcabO2T1G7L17Gk5j2exmcZj7iJ8HzN2IJgKoiYNoA2HVWlGNofONzacEHycBilSYZGlD-mKDRi" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnGDHYdwag25hOjUqaERXxcPwCR-7yKFwKbt8Ai5dnKfMUdjzQNF21L_34TEdclk-jFwYuj8gTZPxFzIAVFXw7U-987HZEy0YzP_24cn82gXWIRIi9jycMGzcUeTLW17VZSACuUOE18-HBntKCoPk2O6HuyQEzcphsy2S1WV5I1HMK5HE3VcsOE0H2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnGDHYdwag25hOjUqaERXxcPwCR-7yKFwKbt8Ai5dnKfMUdjzQNF21L_34TEdclk-jFwYuj8gTZPxFzIAVFXw7U-987HZEy0YzP_24cn82gXWIRIi9jycMGzcUeTLW17VZSACuUOE18-HBntKCoPk2O6HuyQEzcphsy2S1WV5I1HMK5HE3VcsOE0H2" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Hope everyone has had a really good day all round.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Roll on these lighter days.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Catch you soon.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pattypan</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">x</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></span><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-65789778600293950462024-03-03T20:17:00.004+00:002024-03-03T20:17:53.662+00:00Today has been by its very nature<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> a relaxed one. I have things to do tomorrow but today I just could not be bothered or settle to do something. I have cooked our tea. We have had a lovely piece of roasted loin pork and I have a lot of Pork dripping out of it too for roasties for the next couple of weeks at least. We have had served with veggies tonight and it has been lovely. We have at least a couple of nights of meals out of this lovely piece of pork. Also sarnies too if wanted.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhg5M0j0t9W4JRb3sQcR8mUqdTAh-8Ri8-ZaPDcynCd2j4KfpO3K_c_rhXNGfgnykYLhn8XlIbDtwpYMqX13DGxxyKhjUzoF8ErzrcyWF-rQdOiaKmRzMqfZDB06GmDTRmb1SqSkJOYumMSNlB2nXk7p-eh5b_bYs08e9oc9qk9IZSWJd_PPiPwxnfO" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhg5M0j0t9W4JRb3sQcR8mUqdTAh-8Ri8-ZaPDcynCd2j4KfpO3K_c_rhXNGfgnykYLhn8XlIbDtwpYMqX13DGxxyKhjUzoF8ErzrcyWF-rQdOiaKmRzMqfZDB06GmDTRmb1SqSkJOYumMSNlB2nXk7p-eh5b_bYs08e9oc9qk9IZSWJd_PPiPwxnfO" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">And the Pork Dripping - a big bowl full.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhRYb_DJeefEPBOHeXMBcvPbP5yuNxsFv6jzSWpgsooY8bKZcNuk6AAIVBwcVR854bRKRyPV3bM0dfOH7lsAKyiHMjnePOALBsxshNuJYuPy3MZATxDhWTsZIzf7jEnAXXjJjp7WP7UbRpkkeiLjzSUXOoznnSyuDi5a4IjF8OBHGuprfvEN1h4XI9B" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhRYb_DJeefEPBOHeXMBcvPbP5yuNxsFv6jzSWpgsooY8bKZcNuk6AAIVBwcVR854bRKRyPV3bM0dfOH7lsAKyiHMjnePOALBsxshNuJYuPy3MZATxDhWTsZIzf7jEnAXXjJjp7WP7UbRpkkeiLjzSUXOoznnSyuDi5a4IjF8OBHGuprfvEN1h4XI9B" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br />It has been another cold day here. It is the cold that seriously causes me more problems than anything else as everything stiffens up. Hence me choosing to have a couple of hot water bottles at the moment in bed, one for my Tootsies and one for my shoulder. Perhaps a little unconventional but I take the view that whilst it is working for me then I will continue to do this.</span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">In reality a lot of my medical conditions are down to genetic predisposition and a long history of issues within both the paternal and maternal families. Arthritis is present on both sides, and I have both Osteo and Rheumatoid Arthritis as well as a host of other auto immune issues; i.e. conditions where the body attacks itself. Managing one condition is bad enough but managing several and you are not sure which one is kicking off as they all have similar symptoms is a proper minefield and sometimes I feel as though I am sinking fast and where is that blinking life jacket. At the end of the day I consider myself lucky. These things are sent to try us. For the best part despite occasional off times, I try and be positive no matter what.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Over the past 15 years of back issues I have found it is best to keep moving wherever possible. I can only tell you how I have dealt with things and the things that I have tried to ease my way along. Doctors will prescribe medications and give you a diagnosis. However the actual finding balance is down to trial and error and something each of us has to do things to try and work out what is best for ourselves. I have issues but that does not mean they have to define who I am. They are like luggage labels, give things a name, but eventually fall off the luggage. I have never been just a label! I do not give in easily and I have no intention of doing so just yet thank you very much.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">So a lazy quiet day for me, but will no doubt be back in the fray again tomorrow. I have a lot of work to do. Fingers crossed I will be able to get on well tomorrow. That is my intention in any event.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Might sort a few more things from the bedroom again tonight. Just to do a little bit of something.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely evening everyone.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-26378739674181837582024-03-02T23:24:00.003+00:002024-03-02T23:24:59.748+00:00Pootling<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Despite the toothache which has dulled a little now to what it was although I am still on the Paracetamol, I have been endeavouring to do a little here and there. Could not settle this evening and so have ventured into the front bedroom. Starting to clear some rubbish and get some of the stuff that should be in drawers back in there. Not a lot done, but each time get to something like this it takes time - an awful lot of time. However it needs doing. Thought putting some items away that could be would help clear a bit more so that I can see what I am actually doing. I have however found my new potato chipper which I have been looking for for sometime. Everything has ended up getting moved or re-arranged for different things and in all honesty I haven't a clue where a lot of stuff is and I know some of the stuff is in the unit. Have also found more cook books. I need to sort those into a pile and decide whether they are ones for my collection overall or whether I will let them go. I did find one of my Farmers Weekly books which is a vintage book and which is not going anywhere. It opens up a window on the past and how things used to be done then and still has some very good recipes in that are still relevant in this day and age.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I also found a little wooden carved box which I keep some of my dress jewellery in. One of the pieces I found tonight took me back to when I was about 11 years of age. My Great Aunty Ivy passed away and what little belongings she had were split between the immediate family. There were a couple of broken necklaces that belonged to her. No chains. One I found a chain for but the other I saw the potential and turned it into a choker for wearing to school discos. I found a piece of blue velvet ribbon and stitched the necklace onto it. Funny that I still have it some 55 years later. I still feel very young inside it is just that the body does not co-operate at times. The little box needs some attention as well and so I will put it on my project list. I have started writing one so that I have some idea of what I have to do.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">At present, the kitchen is the room where focus is at and will be for some time to come. G has started painting in there. He is doing it in very small segments. What a difference a bit of white paint makes. On the side-lines therefore I will continue on like this doing a bit here, getting rid of a bit of rubbish there, sorting out the bags where contents were bundled together in an effort to keep them in one place, but which are not in their right place in an effort to very slowly and very gradually start to tame the contents of the front bedroom. Some of the bags have crafting materials in and so will need marrying up with where they should be in any event. I have my work cut out, but like the Pantry I shall continue onwards. My intention is to get as much as I can get done this year in the house and possibly a bit in the garden as well.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tonight a few scarves, hats, ear warmers were popped into the relevant drawer in the bottom of my wardrobe. It will be shuttle systems and then when everything is sorted everything will be re-sorted drawer by drawer, cupboard by cupboard so that I can find things again.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have also found fabric which has been sorted into a pile and I will revisit that another time. I have projects in mind for some of this.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The airing cupboard for the house was originally off the front bedroom but when the new boiler was put in, that was put in the small bedroom and the hot water tank was taken out completely. I lost my bread proving area as a result. However keen to make the most of the cupboard I turned it into a small hanging wardrobe for a lot of my tops and jackets. I do however need to source a shoe rack for in there as there are too many pairs in the bottom of the wardrobe. Will therefore have to see what I can find that will be suitable for in there. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I shall be pleased if I can reclaim the house little by little and sort things out properly. Even if it is only an hour here or there every little bit will help at the end of the day and move things on slowly but surely in the background. Multi-tasking again.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Today we have had the remnants of the Cottage Pie for tea. It has been another cold evening, and it went down a treat. Tomorrow though we have roast pork and all the trimmings. Looking forward to that as I like roast pork. Also have a jar of Crab Apple jelly to use as sauce tomorrow as well. I love Crab Apple jelly.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hoping I get a good night's sleep this evening. I crashed out last night and did not get up very early. Oh I was tired!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hope everyone has had a lovely evening.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-77031273132208060452024-03-01T20:24:00.002+00:002024-03-01T20:24:26.531+00:00When Life Gives you Lemons<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> try and go with the flow where you can. To add insult to injury I ended up with raging toothache last night and ended up with very little sleep. Tooth hurty calmed down after a couple of pain killers and I promptly fell asleep. So I have been a little under par. Fortunately it has subsided for the time being (and I have not had to repeat any pills) but will probably have some before retiring to bed later on. It has not stopped me from pottering about. I have cooked Cottage Pie for tea this evening which I am looking forward to as I am hungry. Ran out of Lea & Perrins so sent G out for a new bottle. Tea was quite tasty and there is enough for tea tomorrow evening as well.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">G came back with said L & P and some supplies on the snack front. Has topped up with the Salsa dip (3 pots - am increasing my jar stock slowly as well as using some - have one jar left over from last month's purchase of 3 jars) and the Doritos (also 3 packets) so that he has something to snack on of an evening if needed. He has a far bigger appetite than I have. G has equally stocked me up on Mini Cheddar cheese biscuits which I like for snacking on and some Actimel (which I have as part of my breakfast routine). So that is very practical and useful. He forgot about my coffee drinks, hopefully when he goes next time.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It has been colder here today and I can feel the temperature dropping here again tonight, quite considerably compared to last night. Must say that a month after starting to use a second hot water bottle on my shoulder has certainly eased my arm down an awful lot. Some discomfort but I am continuing to exercise, but far more comfortable than I have been. Long may it carry on.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Right short and sweet tonight.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely evening everyone.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-70403623471768446862024-02-29T20:26:00.003+00:002024-02-29T20:26:31.295+00:00Another cold day<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> Think I need bloomers on! And the rain, I am a bit like the "Tin Man" it hurts to move. Do not think that spraying WD40 on my joints will make much of an impression though. The Fatigue is also not having the energy to do what you want, but it also kind of gives you like "brain freeze". You still have your thoughts and your ideas it is just during that time you cannot always put what you want to achieve into place and into effect.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">For the next few days or so though I am not going to plan anything. Just going to take it as it comes. If I get some stuff done all well and good. I am not going to beat myself up about it. It is what it is.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Because of the cold as it is I have a couple of blankets and quilts on the bed and now fluffy pillows since the pillow washing and drying exercise the other day. I like the weight of quilts or blankets always feels as if something is missing if I do not during the winter months. Of course, there are always others to put on if needed (think I am at the maximum for now though).</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">So sad today to read about the passing of Dave Myers one half of the "Hairy Bikers" after his battle with Cancer. My thoughts go out to his family and also his counterpart Sy King. RIP Mr Myers thank you for entertaining us.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Tonight we have had out fish strips, mushy peas and Potato Dauphinoise for tea tonight. That has gone down very nicely indeed. It has fast become a favourite that at the moment we seem to be having on a weekly basis. We are quite partial to fish fingers (must be Cod as I just do not do Pollack and would rather go without than eat Pollock). Memories from growing up where Mum used to try and hide it but my brother and I always used to suss out what she had used. Fish fingers we either have them Nursery style i.e. with baked beans and chips or in a sarnie served with chunky chips and Tartare sauce. However these fish strips from Iceland (Harry Ramsdens) are far superior and G has them in a sarnie as well. We are choosing to buy these in preference at the moment. We do prefer things fresh where we can, but it is good to be able to source a really good frozen product as well.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Today I have also recycled a load of jars and bottles the contents of which have been used up in the past week. Includes five Starbucks bottles, an empty mint sauce jar, two passata jars, two Salsa jars and two Mason jars. They have all been relocated into a box for future use which hopefully will happen soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Therefore another quiet pottering day although I have spent a little time in the kitchen just dealing with a few bits here and there. Nothing substantial. It will all add up at the end of the day. Hoping tomorrow will be a more rewarding one.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Yesterday evening whilst on the Internet I wandered down another rabbit hole. Looking at potential projects on the patchwork front more suitable for smaller pieces of fabric that I have. Have ear-marked a couple of possible projects for the very distant future using fabric from my reclaimed men's shirts and also some of my stash. We will see what happens with the Hexie quilt first though. That is taking priority although any suitable left over scraps will no doubt be used up in future projects somewhere down the line.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Ideally, I would like a room all to myself for crafting in. The room I use at the moment is multi-function and not really geared up for crafting but it is a space. I have to use the machine when G is not around as he does not cope too well with it going for a while which often results in me having to pack up earlier than I would have done in any event. I would like a room where I can have all my patterns within easy reach and all my fabrics and scraps and myriad of other crafting items and equipment being organised. There is a lot of fabric I cannot access at the moment for one reason or another. One day perhaps. One day.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Right am off to mooch.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely evening everyone, take care, keep safe, keep warm. Keep on doing what you do.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-29294697963719461842024-02-28T21:14:00.003+00:002024-02-28T21:14:45.776+00:00Not much achieved today<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I seem to have been hit by fatigue again. It is what it is so have to go with the flow.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">G has had to go off for an eye appointment today and when he goes out I will end up babysitting a certain Jack Russell who otherwise is a wreck so no progress downstairs at all. In actual fact I may just pass trying to do anything today apart from tea. Might not be having the planned Cottage Pie depends on whether G is happy with that. His appetite is a bit all over the shop at the moment. In most likelihood will try and sort out some other bits and bobs instead that although will not achieve much, will actually need doing in any event at some point. So a way of getting on a little further but out of sequence!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">As suspected G not into anything really for tea. For the past few mornings he has had a proper fry up to start his day off. Given him the option of what he would like to eat - Answer - Cheese on toast. As I have said before we tend to eat relatively well for the best part so an off day here or there will not do much harm. I am having the remainder of the Cannelloni left over from last night as it was delicious. Thoroughly enjoyed it the second time around as well.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hopefully will be back into the swing of things tomorrow on the food front! I am hoping that listening and resting to my body fr a change will see an upturn in energy again tomorrow so that I can get on with things. Not being able to do things when I want to get on with them really infuriates me. Cest la vie. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">So pleased that the lighter evenings are happening at long last. Now to make the most of the daylight hours going forward.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">So much to do still.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely evening everyone.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-21365558978750281962024-02-27T21:22:00.001+00:002024-02-27T21:22:10.667+00:00Another slow day today <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"> where for the best part have not been able to feel my hands especially when I was preparing tea earlier. I could not feel the tops of any of my fingers and they went blue. I have chopped up carrot, onion, leek in butter. Then have cooked the mince separately in some water to remove some of the fat, which I seem to get on better with doing it this way. Then have added back the mince to a dry pan, and added in the Sauteed veggies a little passata not so much that the sauce goes sloppy, as I wanted a stiffer sauce for packing into the Cannelloni tubes (which I subsequently did I think there are 10 tubes which works out at five each) and also a couple of cloves of garlic. I love garlic. Yummy. There was still some mince mixture left and so have added this to the remainder of the tomato sauce and then completely covered the Cannelloni tubes in the dish. Then baked in the oven until cooked. Then on serving sprinkled with grated cheese. Strictly not a true Cannelloni, but just me messing around with the ingredients I have to hand both in the fridge and the Pantry. It was very tasty and just what I needed.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj4aSzWJCfM6cpBpwzbQRJJn0b7xQcWIW30xQcGgd_8MPzGj4DggK9XMxd5rQywOF7adc2UUaYp1XFf95tJrnUpbN4iu1Hntu5JK35C2nGWQG2s77GdoL09FphM_Ik2NXgUeuTU-fgIg-OyReZ_QFkD-hLPSi67lGhALLUkLHkmyIcXA7ZbkIO2lLta" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj4aSzWJCfM6cpBpwzbQRJJn0b7xQcWIW30xQcGgd_8MPzGj4DggK9XMxd5rQywOF7adc2UUaYp1XFf95tJrnUpbN4iu1Hntu5JK35C2nGWQG2s77GdoL09FphM_Ik2NXgUeuTU-fgIg-OyReZ_QFkD-hLPSi67lGhALLUkLHkmyIcXA7ZbkIO2lLta" width="240" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVgsfY-oV9Slq0U8LllGOR-5EGTFakSOPnVXfycAp5T6lK4svFwGUKUxhjr49zMgeqphrCO4_VObG5TRDH2-xu5PQhkNSIi7HfxrLLNZB_pLhwEvuDsgUVbK8vFRTtmX4gGkXX3wUlvCaLytjfwQ9S6IoCTBlRH4uj5o9lvph9pOfqP4CHPGvuIquW" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVgsfY-oV9Slq0U8LllGOR-5EGTFakSOPnVXfycAp5T6lK4svFwGUKUxhjr49zMgeqphrCO4_VObG5TRDH2-xu5PQhkNSIi7HfxrLLNZB_pLhwEvuDsgUVbK8vFRTtmX4gGkXX3wUlvCaLytjfwQ9S6IoCTBlRH4uj5o9lvph9pOfqP4CHPGvuIquW" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7Wedj4zgFJVJduOasWM0CBvqCxVJG8bGex7_NlwCwFyVk7qhcg6vHH_0pUdH9-xhyyyBe9RBXkPWoGMGhqfWYLstHJDmULYrOSlJ-1C7t_p4tjf51B6gzWogJzvwIXIuPJ2pEShLwK7_t6b_cucji0hbxcE7BcsFYyRHzyvptJyTlEa1Sgi-TXtGu" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7Wedj4zgFJVJduOasWM0CBvqCxVJG8bGex7_NlwCwFyVk7qhcg6vHH_0pUdH9-xhyyyBe9RBXkPWoGMGhqfWYLstHJDmULYrOSlJ-1C7t_p4tjf51B6gzWogJzvwIXIuPJ2pEShLwK7_t6b_cucji0hbxcE7BcsFYyRHzyvptJyTlEa1Sgi-TXtGu" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiV2dqg_g-p2jG8WFSBEE8OTCJOFLnzJyW6XCV0J9k2eKm7ye0kV_MMEbJNM4azLnm9LsQcLSbNnoBkTjNdIxWjq-HO5rxpDYACEcLGTg4L6vescXVP23yqn1M6n7gFkaxzQEUpv4R_ickMyut-9YLgbM_WKSuUrL-WDkxt1-T_JDsO1AXJKwd20JUw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiV2dqg_g-p2jG8WFSBEE8OTCJOFLnzJyW6XCV0J9k2eKm7ye0kV_MMEbJNM4azLnm9LsQcLSbNnoBkTjNdIxWjq-HO5rxpDYACEcLGTg4L6vescXVP23yqn1M6n7gFkaxzQEUpv4R_ickMyut-9YLgbM_WKSuUrL-WDkxt1-T_JDsO1AXJKwd20JUw" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></span></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Whilst I was cooking the mince up, I cooked the whole tray I had and then split the contents in half. The cooked mince (now it is cold) is now in the fridge and it will be turned into a Cottage pie tomorrow evening. It is just the mince at the moment so it will be flavoured up with my "Old Faithful" mixture of leek, carrot and onion with mixed herbs and some Lea & Perrins and other flavourings and of course a cheese topping for the mash. If it is as cold tomorrow as it has been today, then we shall be very pleased to eat this. Comfort food easily pleases me. It was certainly needed today.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Downing tools now for the rest of the evening.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a good one folks.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Take care and Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-23933712721608965152024-02-26T20:27:00.003+00:002024-02-26T20:27:45.571+00:00Bitterly Cold Day<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">here today in Peterborough although the Sun has been out to play. I have plenty of layers on today and although not cold in my body my hands are freezing. However as my hands have been in and out of water they have not warmed up that much.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have started in trying to square the kitchen up again. I have made a good impression but still quite a way to go. Still have no end of washing to do and so that is cluttering things up a little bit and these days if I am putting a wash on it is a full wash. Eventually got my pillows dry from yesterday which is a bonus, but as I say still loads more stuff to get done.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Once I have got the kitchen sorted will then start on some other projects. Today I have managed to get another couple of jars sorted in the Pantry. I now have a complete shelf full and the jars on this shelf have been labelled, not expertly however may go back and re-do them again at a later date. Today managed to get the SR Flour in one glass jar and Plain Flour in another.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The car has sprung a poorly tyre and so G has gone off with Missy in tow to get that sorted out. These things are sent to try us, but he is like a bear with a sore head if he does not have his wheels! I always aspired to driving and got as far as my own car and having lessons, but the last couple of epileptic attacks which were quite severe resulted in the Doctors saying no way. So unfortunately I end up having to rely on others either to go places if I am able which also is not always possible.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Because of the washing situation more than anything else it has been a scratch tea tonight for both of us tonight. We had a decent meal last night and I was going to do some mince tonight, but that will happen tomorrow now. G has had cheese on toast and I have eventually managed to get the grill on the cooker working on its own which has been a big relief. It kept cutting off, but it would appear down to method of lighting it rather than something being wrong with the cooker. I did get the Gas Lady look at it when she came for the recent boiler inspection. I on the other hand have had a bowl of a well known brand of tomato soup and a couple of slices of bread and butter. That is enough for me tonight. Followed by a milky coffee each.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It is going to be another busy day tomorrow. Am now going to sit and do a little patchwork. Back is killing me at the moment so will be sitting for the rest of the evening. Hoping to get back into the groove with the Patchwork again. Fingers crossed and toes plaited.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely evening everyone.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-65234135223182753992024-02-25T20:06:00.003+00:002024-02-25T20:06:21.974+00:00Yesterday and Today - A quiet Pottering kind of day<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">The Sun has been out and has been a welcome sight after all the rain we have had. It is cold though. I nipped out earlier but did not stay out for long.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">G has done his back in. It is bad, the worst it has been in a good few years. I am making him move around but he is currently dosed up with pain killers. Long story short many years ago whilst he was working his back went whilst operating a lathe (a Turner by profession). He couldn't move and his Superintendent moved him and straightened him out which he should not have done. He was off work over a year with it and could not get comfortable and dosed up with a heavy pain killer. Turned out that working the lathe had caused a disability in that if his back was in a certain position through wear and tear it left him in pain. He had to retire from being a Turner as a result as the way he had to stand at the lathe knocked his back out. Gradually over the years he got better and it is a long time since he has been like this. So he is going to have to take it easy and rest but he still has to keep moving about. I have been running around a bit as a result but there we are it all makes life interesting!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have been tackling some of the washing today, and it looks as though I am going to be busy for the best part of the week with some of the stuff found. Needs freshening up and then restoring.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have started on washing the pillows. This is a time consuming job as it takes a while to get the pillows dry. I buy when I can my pillows from Dunhelm. They are feather and Goosedown but the whole pillow can be washed to clean it up. The only problem is that it does take a long time to get the feather content all washed and dried. It involves using the tumble drier several times. I have found by trial and error, that drying the pillow for a cycle and then leaving it out to "air" then repeating this cycle helps dry the feathers and "puff" the pillows back up again to what they were. As I have said it does take quite a few goes but it does do a very good job. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Equally, I have also found that with Goose feather and down pillows and also cushion pads to re-fluff them up all you need to do is to put them singly into the tumble dryer, the cycle will then really fluff them up and also get rid of any dust, which if someone has asthma or is sensitive could trigger an attack. This is something I have done for a lot of years.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We are having a curry for tea this evening - a pre-made one. I have my yogurt at the ready as although I love the flavour of the spices I do not cope with even a mild curry very well. I have found that the yogurt helps a lot. Also have Naan bread and rice to go with as well.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Sunday</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Another quiet day. I have pottered with several things. I had one full jar of biscuit crumb ready on the Pantry shelf and as I had a few more biscuit crumbs to process, I dragged out a jug and a wooden rolling pin to process the crumbs. Unfortunately I do not have a Food Processor at the moment. Having had a Magimix 500 processor has really spoilt me. I have been looking at replacing one but my heart is not in it as the Magimix did everything I needed it to. Looks as though it is going to be a while before I manage to buy one. Therefore I set too with a wooden rolling pin and jug and crushed the biscuits until really fine and then decanted them into another jar. There are a couple of things I am going to do with the crumbs but I will share more on that another day. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">G's back is still not good - hence the quiet day. He has been moving around, but is also taking it steady.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I shall be back in the groove tomorrow in the kitchen trying to bring things back up to scratch and get some more things sorted out and made. I have a lot to do, plus loads more washing to get sorted. It therefore looks as though it is going to be a very busy week.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">We were supposed to have had roast pork for tea tonight. However time got away with me leaving me with little time to roast the pork. I therefore set too and we ended up having minted Lamb chops with carrots, boiled potatoes, Purple Sprouting Broccoli and cauliflower with gravy for tea. Hit the spot and thoroughly enjoyed. Was contemplating doing the Pork tomorrow but might prep the Mince up for the week as well if am going to be in the kitchen. I have a few ideas for this in any event and might put one of them into effect for Monday night's tea rather than the pork. More will be revealed!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Right am off and am going to attempt to do a little bit of patchwork cutting. Not touched this for nearly a month. Must get back into the groove.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Have a lovely evening everyone, keep safe, keep happy.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-64306641918404229082024-02-24T08:30:00.001+00:002024-02-24T08:30:00.129+00:00Starting to Fill some Jars in the Pantry Part One<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I use old sweetie jars for a lot of bulk storage in my Pantry. In reality though I do not have as many jars as I really need or indeed the space in the Pantry. I am therefore adding in bits and bobs which I find useful overall. Some of the jars are my own ideas, and they have proved useful in my Pantry for me. However it is slow progress at the moment. Too many things been getting in the way this week. Hopefully I will get a decent tranche of time to get stuck in, in the next few days.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>The Biscuit Crumb Jar</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have a jar dedicated to Biscuit Crumbs in the Pantry. Why pay out to buy biscuits at the price they are when you can collect up the crumbs and then use them to make a no bake cheesecake or mini cheesecakes. I have even seen a Brulee Cheesecake recipe as well which I might have to have a go at. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">As kids it used to be a real treat when Dad bought home sweets or biscuits from his job. In those days the company he worked for provided fork lift trucks to industry either by hire or they sold them. This was in the 1960's when things like this were new and terribly terribly expensive and companies could only perhaps afford one or two trucks which they could not be without. Dad was the engineer and if he used to go out of hours because the company were in a mess without the truck, he used to come home with goodies. Chipmunk Crisps, Fox's biscuits, Fox's sweets Glacier Mints and fruits, frozen goods, soap powders, cleaning stuff. If he went to the Abbatoir he used to bring back loads of meat. Does not happen these days but it did then. So we got quite used to being given a teaspoon each and a little cup of crumbs each from the bottom of the biscuit box.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">These days on the basis that biscuits are one of the things that have gone up a lot in price and as I like to have a few biscuits to hand to dunk in a cup of tea, we buy in a 1 kilo box of mixed broken biscuits. We never know what is going to be in the box it is always a bit of a surprise but there are always bits too small to eat so may as well turn them into something useful for the Pantry/fridge shelf, as well as break down those ones that we are not so keen on. With some soft cheese and some cream and fruit you can turn it all into a cheesecake for pudding for a day or two. An uncooked cheesecake all you need to do is melt some butter put the crumbs in to mix and then press into the bottom of a cake tin. Leave to set, then make your "cheese" filling and decorate with fruit if so doing. So as far as I am concerned a Biscuit Crumb jar is a necessity. Saying that because I like plain biscuits like Rich Tea or Digestives or Hob Nobs. Occasionally I do buy in some of these especially if they are on an offer. They are handy to have to use with cheese as well. This is also another long-standing thing I tend to do - My Nan used to do this too.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Popcorn Kernel Jar</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Today (Wednesday) I have found the Popcorn kernels which I buy from my local Asian shop 1kg at a time. Works out cheaper than buying it in small microwavable packages and I have a good supply for a while. I have the Popcorn machine and every so often set too and make up a batch to nibble on. Once popped, you can add syrups and flavourings to vary the batches up and colourings. Can also add nuts and coconut too as well as chocolate. Alternatively you can go the spices or savoury way. Well worth keeping on the Pantry shelf. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVoulZop8aFl0xr12ExFSz6ifptWzQdpfF-nKlfpdxFb_xEEUOw2uyaNPqgB0LcmJvaI0r20eh4MKvp981_tuBdyxIMJ8Iqi8Nx4wrmbDZuKNuDeNq6LxfqQvwTpq3lxpDlmxnB5lrDX74H2aUitBLGrNxX94XplC9280FPz83i8i8GWKyQ9Q8AKa8" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVoulZop8aFl0xr12ExFSz6ifptWzQdpfF-nKlfpdxFb_xEEUOw2uyaNPqgB0LcmJvaI0r20eh4MKvp981_tuBdyxIMJ8Iqi8Nx4wrmbDZuKNuDeNq6LxfqQvwTpq3lxpDlmxnB5lrDX74H2aUitBLGrNxX94XplC9280FPz83i8i8GWKyQ9Q8AKa8" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Costs are prohibitive on lots of things at the moment and I do not foresee it will change much in the future. Might as well obtain the base ingredients and then prep in some healthy snacking for you and your family as part of that whole experience. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Dried Bread Jar</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Dried Bread for stuffing mixes, packaged into little packages for ease of use but somewhere to keep the bread nicely stored. I need to add some more to the stash. Will look for some reduced bread to do this and dry in the oven. I also need to make some up for bread crumbs for Scotch Eggs and mini Scotch Eggs When I get a bit more time I shall make up some different flavoured stuffing mixes to help save on time overall.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Salted Peanut Jar</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I have a Peanut Jar as well for snacking on. This jar although a smaller one is a perfect match for my Popcorn Kernel jar. My Pop (Granddad) used to keep a jar of peanuts that used to be bought by the bag and then decanted into a recycled Horlicks jar down by the side of the Log Burner. He did not like a lot of sweets but he loved his peanuts. I keep a jar in the Pantry for snacking on. I also keep in a couple of bags of salted roast peanuts to make my own Peanut Butter. Today therefore has been refill day as the rest had gone. When I make Peanut Butter I keep it in the fridge.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWeb3rOSWV7kt1CciEtZex8STN2e6TzhYKVx1DHTSsRy1sNOn4zndUTvs5O6n4e06WN018Wr6smU2L53H9TU80xb3GJaEjMo_8P-Ak3NbPcciGObGB2mjxbKZPRhg2xtnPc_VI7RKTJF2FGsY0HRO5GDnxyfZ4AswmgHAGaWbYvFnShg-QWfuA0OQO" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWeb3rOSWV7kt1CciEtZex8STN2e6TzhYKVx1DHTSsRy1sNOn4zndUTvs5O6n4e06WN018Wr6smU2L53H9TU80xb3GJaEjMo_8P-Ak3NbPcciGObGB2mjxbKZPRhg2xtnPc_VI7RKTJF2FGsY0HRO5GDnxyfZ4AswmgHAGaWbYvFnShg-QWfuA0OQO" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Future Jars</b></span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I also have plans in the future to do a jar of Salted Pistachios and Cashews too. Both as snacks. I am keen to keep some healthy snacks available in the Pantry as well. I also love salted Almonds and Cinnamon Almonds. </span>However will also do jars of different nuts for baking and cooking as well such as plain Cashews which can be used to thicken and or make a sauce. Walnuts, Pecans are a favourite, Almonds, Brazil nuts etc.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Toasted Sesame Seed Jar</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">This is something I have kept for a long time. I regularly make my own yogurt and regularly use this as a topping for a big bowl of Granola or Muesli as well as some fresh fruit. I usually make up small quantities of this and once cooled and toasted I then sprinkle on top of the yogurt. Gives more vitamins and more texture and flavour to breakfast.<br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Sunflower Seed jar</b> </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I use these in baking and in Granola quite a bit. Works out a little cheaper to buy in a larger bag if can.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Pumpkin Seeds</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I love these on bread and on crispbreads. So much flavour and goodness.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><b>Sweetie Jar/Crock</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Although not a jar, but a stone crock, I have a Sweetie jar too for popping in various sweets and also little chocolate bars etc. Not many but just a few little treats every now and then.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Lets just say that there are a lot more jars to go yet! Will update further when a few more are sorted out!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">These are just some of the jars I have made up thus far. I still have loads to fill and I still need many more jars such as the Douwe Egbert coffee jars (all different sizes), or old coffee jars. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">When I was growing up in the 60's the Coffee companies used to sell the coffee in storage jars - I think it was the Maxwell House coffee, a lot of which are now classed as vintage jars. My Mum had a load of them, but over the years many of them have become broken. I think I have about three survivors from my Mum's home overall. This is what the jars look like.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLcRhCwyyzQwoaILMy3jJFq8yZE_EYov8wqKXboVUMAqhU8NE96pJqspHT82YOGeWHF7UwU1A9zGWW6XahOBMkWRYk66XNBZqFhnqdTAB7mxD1G0t4WiwIvclHFhXkwmNTJeGnomKdrAqTeJCGXs_WtzHneXKM7xGdtra8qdPhjHpJCNJf9wcdOAii" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="225" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLcRhCwyyzQwoaILMy3jJFq8yZE_EYov8wqKXboVUMAqhU8NE96pJqspHT82YOGeWHF7UwU1A9zGWW6XahOBMkWRYk66XNBZqFhnqdTAB7mxD1G0t4WiwIvclHFhXkwmNTJeGnomKdrAqTeJCGXs_WtzHneXKM7xGdtra8qdPhjHpJCNJf9wcdOAii" width="180" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">or indeed the Ravenhead ground glass large storage containers. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh--ZZWPpWi60_1DaSPUywBS0lktBrDDO-C3WNtWJVPYEKma798ehtK2NHWidh7z2WDMmJqZpZ4J0ZwKWVqBduHXfbRAzrrBOIXJXJ6UjfoLf1F3nB4_FD5d3qzO64HXKzoRSPO6vOWTUTKL0R6dQyWCUf-I0xzpEzEPXBIcueogOIcB4mMWmBY9ail" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="225" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh--ZZWPpWi60_1DaSPUywBS0lktBrDDO-C3WNtWJVPYEKma798ehtK2NHWidh7z2WDMmJqZpZ4J0ZwKWVqBduHXfbRAzrrBOIXJXJ6UjfoLf1F3nB4_FD5d3qzO64HXKzoRSPO6vOWTUTKL0R6dQyWCUf-I0xzpEzEPXBIcueogOIcB4mMWmBY9ail" width="180" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">When I have the funds available I tend to add to these. However I also recycle a lot of jars too.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">That has made a start on some of the jars. I still have to sort the contents for the larger jars. I am having to be very selective in what I pop into those. It will keep me out of mischief though. Once I get a few more sorted will pop up another post.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Do you recycle jars and use them for storage in your kitchen/Pantry and how do you use them. There are always differences between individual Larder/Pantry rooms as our tastes and likes and dislikes vary quite considerably.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Alternatively, if you would like a Pantry/Larder room and are building towards that. What would you like to store in there. Sometimes your space might just be an upcycled wardrobe with some shelving in, but it is a storage space nonetheless and still valuable food storage space.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">xx</span></p></div></div>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7703817848238285099.post-83966789869082281202024-02-23T17:17:00.003+00:002024-02-23T17:17:31.546+00:00A Surprising Day<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">...... well for me in any event, as I did not end up doing what I had planned on doing. But there we are these things are sent to try us.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">I am a lot better than I was yesterday although still hurt. We have rain again at the moment and I suspect that is the reason why. Thank you for your good wishes from yesterday.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">There has been a lot of moving stuff around today. Not into any particular place just trying to locate certain items and get them into use. As a result of that locate and seize exercise, there is now far more work to do than there was when I started but there we are these things happen and I have another load of washing to do as a result. I am coming to the rapid conclusion though that I am no longer any use at lifting stuff up at all - I really struggle to hold things up these days when lifting, even though my upper arm strength has increased to what it was.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Needless to say though as a result of shifting around and searching for stuff a little more space has been achieved or will be eventually when I have all the ancillary work sorted out as well. Even thought it is a small space that has been freed up it is enabling me to keep having a go here and there clearing items and getting rid of those no longer needed. I have also found items I have been looking for, for absolutely ages. I knew that I had bought a second box of Hex bottles (sauce bottles and lids) but had been unable to locate them. I thought that they had been one of the casualties of the shed. I am pleased to report that I have found the new box of sauce bottles all 60 of them which I am extremely pleased about. Chuffed to little bits about this. That means I can now start on making both savoury and sweet sauces for the Pantry shelf as well. I also use these bottles for cordials such as Elderflower Cordial. They are a nice size and it means that none of the precious preserve goes to waste as a result of being in too big a bottle. Together with my growing collection of Star Bucks coffee drinks in glass bottles should be well set for processing sauces, cordials, ketchups homemade liqueur type drinks. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGJ7oaboBUWL_GQZIXLCWIKA1rBkcGNpuIO67SQ6oe5YynOC7CJbXePxmywNm75tYU04pjY_UgN7hIboInZEAI9TX7bj2u7X_Yv5Xb_cn_qTE-FU0dM2fan_GpaO14iQzd-O7KZ6YkNRAP9n_0UauOm9a9U-mn4byq-6-55GQaJXHNkDUg-8gF__vx" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="315" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgGJ7oaboBUWL_GQZIXLCWIKA1rBkcGNpuIO67SQ6oe5YynOC7CJbXePxmywNm75tYU04pjY_UgN7hIboInZEAI9TX7bj2u7X_Yv5Xb_cn_qTE-FU0dM2fan_GpaO14iQzd-O7KZ6YkNRAP9n_0UauOm9a9U-mn4byq-6-55GQaJXHNkDUg-8gF__vx" width="240" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Universe has been looking after me. It is only something simple but it has meant a lot to me as I love to be able to preserve. I am gearing up for a little session in any event as not been able to do much just recently for one reason or another.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Hopefully the house will be recovered over the next week or so by getting items slowly where needed and getting rid of those items no longer required</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">It will be a pick and mix tea this evening. Probably cheese, crackers, pickled onions, chutney that sort of thing. We have eaten incredibly well in the past ten days or so and every so often you just have to come up for a breather. We are not hungry per se just need a lighter eating night am blessed in this regard.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Right am off to top up the washer and get the next load of drying in. It is a miserable wet evening weather wise here and has gone a little chilly.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Keep safe, keep warm, keep happy. Feel the joy in each day what it brings for you and the potential it offers. Am counting my blessings.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Catch you soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Pattypan</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: large;">x</span></p>Pattypanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533048669555871726noreply@blogger.com4