How are you today? We're still doodling around not doing much, but seeming to be as busy as ever. I'm thinking of sowing some tomato seeds. I've still got some cherry tomato seeds from last year, and I have a couple of small heated trays that go on a window sill, so I'll do that later
It always seems far too early to be sowing seeds, it's even snowing today, just to make it seem even worse!
I have had a succulent in a pot, outside, for the last 3 years and thought it was hardy. But apparently not. We've had SO much rain it got waterlogged, and much of the foliage is now glassy. So I've trimmed all that away, there is still a large rosette and a quite a few little sprigs left. It's now in the dry, and slightly warmer (it isn't heated) greenhouse, and hopefully it will grow away once the temperature goes up. It's a very vigorous plant, so should recover alright
The Snow
We've had some snow here, not masses, but enough to freeze the roads and make them deadly, especially with the hard frost this morning. I don't do slippery, so I shall be marching round and round the house to get my steps in today. How do you exercise during lockdown and if you have snow?
I am pleased to report that I have worn out my running shoes I've used them so much. I had been doing my steps, but my right knee was hurting just behind the knee cap. My nurse daughter suggested I looked at my feet in the mirror to see if they turned in or out - they did, they were falling outwards quite a lot. On inspection of the trainers I was wearing, used for running, but worn indoors as well, I could see that they no longer offered any support at all and the treads were completely flat! So, reluctantly, they had to go. I have several other pairs bought in the sales, stashed in the wardrobe.
I have a bunion, so I like the kind that has a mesh top to accomodate it. So this morning, I am wearing a brand new pair of trainers and they feel SO different!
On doing my steps yesterday, wearing the new trainers, I noticed the difference in the knee, so it was the shoes. Hopefully, it will go now. I feel like a right old biddy having to lever myself up and down from a chair and going up the stairs one by one!
Wild Garlic
I have what I thought was wild garlic in the garden, but have discovered is actually Allium triquetrum or three cornered garlic / white bluebell. It is just starting to show above the ground and I'll be making some pesto once there is more of it. My daughter loves this, but she's going to have to wait before I can get any to her!
Pesto Pasta, very garlicky, very yummy and a great budget recipe.
What does wild garlic look like? Is that what I have in my garden?
Wild garlic pesto - click here to read more
Pea Tart
I made up this recipe recently and was extremely pleased with the result. There are lots of other vegetables that can be used in place of the peas too, plus spices can be added, or herbs, all giving different flavours, and it will freeze too.
Vegetarian tarts and quiches are versatile and very useful recipes to have in your repertoire.
This is a very tasty and easy to make, creamy tart
Pea tart - click here to read more
Apple Bread
I have many jars of apples preserved from our little trees and wondered what a banana bread would be like without the banana, but with apple instead
I was looking at my fruit bowl and wondered if other fruit could be used in place of the bananas.
How about apple bread I thought? Ooh, or spiced apple bread?
It was delicious, but I would add some diced apple as well as the puree next time
Apple bread - click here to read more
Valentines's Day
Is it too early to start thinking about Valentines Day? Me and my husband don't really go overboard for it, but we do like to do little things for each other.
I have also included in this newsletter three Valentine's Day meals, all under £2 a head for all three courses to hopefully give you some ideas
Valentine's Day on a Budget
Please don't think you have to buy an expensive gift, or a lavish meal for it to count. On occasions like this, it really is the thought that counts and I have come up with a few ideas that cost nothing at all
Valentine's Day on a Budget - click here to read more
A Valentine's Dinner - One
A raw carrot and apple soup in pretty bowls or tea cups. Main course is a tapas of patatas bravas, spinach dumplings and lemony butter beans. Followed by a lemon cheesecake
Valentines Day, what will you be doing? - click here to read more
A Valentine's Dinner - Two
Starter of smoked salmon and crispy toast. Main course a warm salad of asparagus, bacon and egg. Pudding a beautiful heart shaped chocolate cherry cake with cream
Valentines Day Dinner - click here to read more
A Valentine's Dinner - Three
A vegan option - A black olive and tomato tapenade tart to start, with a little side salad. Main course is lentil nut loaf with sweet potato chips and mixed veg. Then there is a self saucing chocolate pudding to finish
Vegan Valentine Meal - click here to read more
You never know, I might even come up with another menu before the 14th of February!
Do come and say hello on the fantastically frugal Facebook group, or the sensational slimming sustenance group. I'd love to see you. I'm still on my New Year diet and making progress too.
With all best wishes, until next time
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