Home Produce

In addition to the 28 eggs which the Hockey Girls produce each week, we have also managed to feast on cauliflowers, courgettes, beetroot, courgettes, red cabbage, and courgettes. Thankfully we have a long list of recipes which include courgette as our three plants are very productive.

I think we may have to accept that there is no point in trying to grow tomatoes outdoors in this climate. We planted 3 tomato plants at the end of May - two in the raised beds and one in an upside down container - and we have harvested a total of three ripe tomatoes and have just taken another two green tomatoes to ripen on the windowsill. It's definitely easier - and cheaper - to buy them in the supermarket.

Our neighbours have provided us with sweetcorn and potatoes and helping Keith with his poultry means that in addition to a couple of ducks we have also had all the duck livers and hearts (60 from the last batch) along with the lambs livers and kidneys from the first pair of lambs. Still 5 more lambs to go so plenty more liver and kidneys to come and we will have at least half a lamb for the freezer.

Have just confirmed the pigs appointment with the slaughterhouse for 4th November - all I have to do now is decide how we want the meat butchered. Have been gathering recipes for a variety of types of sausage (am open to any suggestions!) and am tempted to have a go at airdrying a whole ham - Serrano style of course. Should be busy for the second week of November and have plenty of meat to see us through the winter!