Christmas approaches, and traditional rituals are being observed...
perhaps a little less of this or that, as we grow older....
The pansies are still in bloom. It appears this year I have won my competition with myself to keep them going until Christmas.
Despite a few short burst of intense heat, the weather has remained relatively pleasant lately, with temperatures hovering around 30c.
.JPG)
The pile of presents for our children and grandchildren is growing beside the Pink Christmas Tree...
I put on my ancient Red Cardinal apron, and made a hasty Christmas cake. This recipe is for non-cooks like me who left it until the last minute.
1kg mixed dried fruit
2 1/4 cups apple juice
2 cups self-raising flour
Boil mixed fruit and apple juice for three minutes.
Leave to cool to room temperature.
Add 2 cups flour.
Bake 2 hours at 160 c.
Naturally I decided to add variety, and put in some cherries and flaked nuts, plus cinnamon and nutmeg.
The cake is moist and delicious, and probably will not last very long.
We will sing carols at church, celebrating the First Christmas..
I made this cross-stitch about 20 years ago, when my eyesight was much keener :)
My dear friend V made this little pink paper Christmas house for our pink tree..
Isn't it gorgeous?
On Saturday I will be baking a leg of ham, a family favourite.
The glaze is made with ginger marmalade, brown sugar, mustard, and ginger ale.
It is decadently delicious as part of Christmas lunch with our family...
Looking forward to a visit from the grandies on Saturday..
They are such fun to have around.
I hope your preparations are going well.
Remember the reason for the season...
XXXX
