Back from a post birthday visit with mum – 94, bless her

There and back, wherever a roundabout was close to an open petrol station the traffic was backed up to a standstill. I found some petrol as I neared the Black Cat Roundabout

It reminded me of the 1974 oil crisis when, as a newly qualified driver I queued for petrol to fill my old banger. Back to the bad old days
There are now four little chickies and mum is still sitting on some warm eggs
This yellow chick is already mimicking mum and pecking at food
We were pleased to spend just a few precious minutes chatting with friend Kate and her delightful dog, Zola. We all have so many autumn garden tasks that sitting for more than 5 minutes makes all of us feel guilty!

The courtyard is clear again

The wind is blowing, the leaves are falling
In come the last of the sweet corn and an orange uchi kura
Cut it, scoop out the flesh and bake to soften
Then fill with rice and vegetables and bake again
Ready to bake
A tomato quiche using a new pastry recipe given to me by a trusted friend
I used some more of the pastry to make strudel but I think I need advice to make it look professional

A silver lining

The wind has blown over some of the cosmos plants

Never mind. I’ve trimmed some and we can enjoy them indoors

There are still plums to cook

Bake and glaze with plum jam 10 minutes before they come out of the oven