Lately

Whatever happened to the sunny weather? I'm sitting here writing in a woolly jumper and thick socks - I can't believe that it's July. For the past few years it seems as though we've had some glorious weather in May and June (ie. 'exam season') which peters out into dismal gloom just in time for the summer holidays. Perhaps it's just me only remembering the bad bits, but it does seem a trifle unfair when the much longed for summer is anything but sunny.
Anyway, moan over. E is now back from Germany having enjoyed her tour and we've spent a couple of days just pottering about at home.

Hamish has played dens with a dressing gown and dining room chair:

 I made a cardamom cake. Recipe to be found here. Annette's looked much better but it is a delicious recipe.

 We went for a walk in the gloom - just look at that sky!

 If I can't have actual sun, I'll settle for sunshine on my table:

 I played with my patchwork stars:

 Rippled a bit more of E's Dorset Blanket - at least it's keeping my knees warm!

 ... and made East African Wilderness Sweet Potato Patties:

Recipe to be found in this book or here:

There's lots of yummy spice grinding to do which makes the kitchen smell divine and the cayenne makes them lovely and warming. I'll be onto winter stews next if things don't buck up!

After my last post, a few people asked for my favourite breakfast smoothie recipe. To be honest, I just tend to throw things in on a whim but I took note of what I was doing this morning and it involved milk (I usually use almond or soya but any will do), a banana, some oats, a tablespoonful of chia seeds, a small handful of spinach or kale (you really don't taste it!), a handful of forest fruit berries from the freezer and a medjool date. You can omit the forest fruits and add a spoonful of cocoa if you want that chocolatey hit. Somehow smoothies seem to really suit us for breakfast - E doesn't really like eating a huge amount first thing but this slips down just fine, L is pretty easy to please as a rule (just don't show her a mushroom!) but likes to eat healthily and I tend to feel a bit sluggish if I have toast or anything similar. R still opts for his toast and cereal but will happily have some smoothie if I make too much. All in all, they're a real winner.

Anyway, I think I'll round up the girls and we can go for another walk in the gloom. It's L's graduation on Friday, so I'm keeping everything crossed for some sunny weather! Enjoy the rest of the week.

Toodle Pip for now. x