Pottering and Sipping Champagne

Here on the east coast of England we are baking...
hot.
The weather is glorious,
as long as you don't have to do any work.

It's most definitely not the weather to be baking  

except that I have just received a very special gift through the post.

I tried taking my own photo
in a mirror...

This beautiful apron was made by Susan. 

Each month she sews a new apron, in stunning fabric combinations,
 then pulls a name out of a hat for the winner.    

I was lucky enough to win this lovely one.
Her wonderful blog is here.
Bakers will be inspired...

then George came in and I was able to pose
in front of the Rayburn

The thing about these aprons is that they hold a little magic, 

 and, despite the heat,  I felt the need to bake

but what?

"Treats, please..."

I couldn't resist those brown eyes.

Dog treats it is!

Our brilliant dog trainer and friend, Jan, gave me the recipe.     

I enjoy making them, despite the fishy smell,
(I'm not good with smells)
because   

I like knowing what is in the food
I feed to my dog.

They are also much more economical than commercial treats.

The recipe is very simple
and can be found
on the top button
bar.

So far this week the cats have caught five moles.
Four were in the woodland
this one was in the kitchen garden.
I have nothing against moles,
as long as they stay out of the gardens,
unfortunately
the cats don't feel the same.

The first sunflower has unfurled its petals,

the purple sprouting broccoli is looking wonderful

and the cucumbers are looking ... cool.

the latest addition to the garden is this little tub of seaweed...

samphire!

It has been a seasonal favourite of mine since childhood, 

way before these fancy chefs began using it.

Our greengrocer has a man who normally supplies him with it during the season, 

last year I reckon he must have got a better price elsewhere, for we were left without.    

Now that I know it can be grown on the patio,

 providing you use salt water and never let it dry out,
I am giving it a go.    

I'll let you know how it goes.

Francesca has enjoyed a little pottering, too.

Followed by a visit to feed the hens with some spinach leaves.

All that pottering left me worn out and in need of a drink

How fortunate that the elderflower champagne was ready to be sampled...

My thanks to Cro Magnon for the recipe and the inspiration.

It is superb.
  

It is very easy to make and tastes delicious.

A light, refreshing, summery drink.
(Very low alcohol content)

x