Sweet Mary

Now, who knew that cats enjoy popcorn garlands? We didn't but have had a good laugh over Maisy's obsession with the puffed up grains. Telltale signs of pulled string and fallen popcorn crumbs and a "who me?" look all add up. Merry Christmas family and friends, enjoy the celebrations and I will see you back here from Thursday 7th January 2016.

Small at home harvest. We knew it was going to be a hot day today but we also knew that the lavender needed its first harvest of the season. So early on we arrived at the mini lavender field to harvest our five (yes, five!) very prolific lavender plants that reside at our friends' property. It didn't take long to cut and shape the plants before we settled down for a good chat and a cup of tea under the shade of the pergola. Home again to bunch the lavender and hang to dry from the repurposed curtain pole wedged in the corner of the garage where it is dry, shady and well ventilated. A few weeks down the line and I will start stripping the dried stalks of their scented rubbings to store for use in my Sweet Mary lavender filled sachets.

First currants of the season, my first black peony poppy to flower, a modest first lavender harvest, first and very fragrant tomatoes and the last of the sweetpeas. Broad beans, mange tout and lettuces all harvested, eaten, bolted or frozen for later. Very satisfying indeed.

Haberdashery heaven. Click on the large C&D Market (5th&12th Dec.)logo to the right or click HERE .