Thanks Nigel

Ginger cake
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

Just have to do a quick tribute to Nigel Slater post. Tonight's dinner was delicious, due in no small part to Nige.
It started with his slow roast lamb with roast spuds, parsnips, carrots and delicious gravy.
And finished with his ginger cake with lashings of custard.

Wow. I'm stuffed but it was very very good.

Just realised I'm getting near to post 300 - what shall I do to celebrate? How did you celebrate a milestone on your blog?

I must be getting old...

New sideboard
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

... but I am rather happy with my new sideboard.
There's room for my cup collection and my lovely jugs. And Toby looks very smart standing in front of it in the sun.

I have another new thing to blog about - Nina - but that will wait for another day.

Lone frog

Lone frog
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

You have to feel sorry for him - he used to be one of over 200 but now he's the last one left. My frog collection is no more but I'm keeping this one as a little reminder of my childhood.
He's made by Poole pottery and I think he's rather handsome.
I did try kissing him once but nothing happened. But as I'm married that's probably just as well.
What did you collect as a child? What do you collect now?

Pets do the funniest things

Toby and cushion
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

Toby tried to steal the limelight from the beautiful new cushion. I think he succeeded, bless him.

Yummy fabric makes a yummy cushion cover

New cushion what I made
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

Apologies for poor lighting but really wanted to get a photo of the cushion cover I made with beautiful fabric by Cicada Studio.

In other news I'm in the process of deciding on a new sewing machine - I had a little lunchtime outing to Quilter's Haven yesterday to see Karin and the gang and have a play with the Berninas. I swear I bought my car with less thought than this but I reckon my new machine will last much longer than my car (aka Fester) so it's time well invested. I'll keep you posted of any decisions and of course show a photo of the new arrival as and when I get her (her for a sewing machine? my car is a him).

It seems a little frivolous talking about sewing machines and cushions at a time when such a huge tragedy is unfurling in Haiti. If you're donating money, be sure you're using a genuine website. The DEC is the one I usually use.

Being snowed in...

Nigella's Banana bread
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

Has meant pancakes in bed, banana bread and warming soup.

Quick edit to add the link for the banana bread - the best I've ever tried, honestly.

This time last year...

Trees in the field behind our house
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

I was thinking about bridesmaid dresses, the year ahead and the excitement 2009 was going to bring.

I wonder what 2010 will bring (other than snow so far) - I already know there's going to be a baby (no, not me) and a wedding, and a new house. I wonder what else?

What are you hoping for in 2010?

Christmas may be over...

A bowl of baubles
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

and the tree may have been recycled but I haven't put this pretty bowl of baubles away yet. I think I can get away with keeping them out for a while longer yet don't you?

Are you holding on to any of your Christmas decor still?

Cute dog alert

Tobster
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

How cute is my little Toby? Another Christmas photo on the husband's camera.

Love this photo...

Hubster
Originally uploaded by ::Christine::

of my gorgeous husband. I took it on his new camera when he wasn't looking!