Summer Solstice

You are getting two posts today as I could not let the Summer Solstice pass by without a mention and it is the longest day so I'm hoping for a bright day and a beautiful sunset. I might be disappointed as its overcast and showery at the moment. Many Druids will be making the pilgrimage to Stonehenge in Wiltshire to see the sunrise and celebrate.

Happy St George's Day

St George is the patron saint of England and you can find out a little more here. You can also learn about the dragon slaying legend here.
The rose is our national emblem but I must admit not that many people wear one these days.


As 'Fish and Chips' is traditional English fare and to support Sam who wanted to dispel the myth that the English cannot cook, and to make those who laugh at English cuisine 'eat their words', I decided that this is what I would serve up in celebration of our national day. The fish is fried in breadcrumbs not batter (as is traditional), but I make my own breadcrumbs and there are a few less calories this way. I have not cooked my own fish and chips for many years and I had forgotten just how nice it is to have homemade chips and fresh cod; for Embee mushy peas are a must.

 

I have not officially entered Sam's challenge but I am still keen to promote English cuisine. I have looked at the entry list and see many food bloggers are taking up the challenge, so if you have time when you've finished looking at the Fun Monday posts hop over to Sam and see the round up, you never know you might change your mind about English cooking -not that I'm suggesting any of you would laugh at our cuisine!!

I will be publishing my Fun Monday post later in the day.

Mothering Sunday

Mothering Sunday has been celebrated on the fourth Sunday in Lent since the early church. Centuries ago it was considered important for people to return to their home or 'mother' church once a year, which inevitably became an occasion for family reunions. It was this that led to the tradition of children, particularly those working as domestic servants or apprentices away from home, being given the day off to visit and take gifts to their mothers. Mothering Sunday was also known as Refreshment Sunday, because the fasting rules for Lent were relaxed on that day. A food item especially associated with the day is simnel cake: a rich fruit cake with almond paste on top and in the middle. For strict adherers to the Lenten fast, the cake had to keep until Easter Day, which is when it is now more commonly found on our tea tables.

However like many old festivals Mothering Sunday has become very commercial and its origin is forgotten by many. Sadly families often live too far away these days to visit. Of course I see my mother everyday as she lives with us, I had a long chat with Beccy this morning which was lovely, she sent me a pretty card she'd painted herself and my youngest grandson Ben was so sweet he also sent me a 'mothers day' painting.

I think in America Mother's Day has been celebrated on the second Sunday in May since 1914 (if I'm wrong please let me know) but for all those who celebrate today I hope you had a really happy day.

Happy St Patrick's Day

This is a picture of my grandson who will be 14 in a few days. When he was younger the local neighbourhood where Beccy lives always held a fancy dress party and disco for the children in a local hotel to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. I happened to be visiting one year and decided to make the costume. I rashly said I think he should go as a pint of Guinness and of course I had to put my money where my mouth is as the saying goes and come up with the costume. I have to say I was quite pleased with the end result. As Dillon's body was totally enclosed he must have been so hot but he didn't complain. Before you ask yes he won a prize. The hotel has long since closed and has now been turned into luxury apartments.

So where ever you are in the world if you are celebrating today have a wonderful time but don't drink too much of the black stuff!!