Blackbirds, bras and baking
I agree that this is a slightly odd combination though entirely necessary. Let me explain. It’s time to share our talents and it’s time to be kind to ourselves and to others. Perhaps most importantly, it’s time to celebrate the people and things that are important to us. The things which keep us smiling while we are at home and the people who are doing so much to support us – people we don’t even know. Remember to cheer them on each Thursday at 8:00 pm (GMT).
These are challenging times and as hotels, restaurants and pubs are closed, many retailers are getting creative to avoid extinction. The travel sector has taken yet another beating and it’s unlikely that hospitality and leisure will ever be the same again. Some jobs will be lost and the ones which remain will alter dramatically. Here’s hoping that some of our smaller and nimble businesses can somehow reinvent themselves. Let’s get creative about work. It’s time to encourage entrepreneurship, celebrate innovation and redefine success.
Those of you who know me well will know how much I valued my Rigby and Peller sponsorship. For some of us, the High Street chains simply don’t cut it. I’m a great fan of shopping locally and supporting the entrepreneurs who combine a good eye for style and celebrate customer service, although for some essentials only Brook Street in Mayfair could deliver. Then I discovered an alternative right on my doorstep – a fabulous business founded by Victoria and her Mum in Dorking, Surrey. I discovered this little gem when I lived nearby although since moving to Sussex I’ve continued to depend on Victoria. Just recently (along with many other retail businesses) Victoria has closed her little shop temporarily although she continues to offer superb customer service remotely. I’m encouraging you to support Victoria's Little Bra Shop (Tel: 01306 743338) as trust me she supports us ladies with her gorgeous stock and amazing service.
I often write about my interest in horticulture and my enjoyment of the garden. Today is no exception. I sat down to write this piece just as the sun came out illuminating the muted purple wisteria and its neighbour the Cercis (Judas Tree) in all its vibrant pink glory. The fragrant, cascading wisteria flowers are a magnet to the bees this afternoon and a jubilant blackbird (with the brightest orange beak) just landed on the fence to take full advantage of the sunniest spot in the garden. Sadly, he knows not to stay for too long – no worms for tea in our astroturf. His place is quickly taken by a couple of blue tits seeking pole position for a teatime swoop on the tiny bugs who consider the Cercis their home. Once again, the garden is a hive of activity and a great source of calm, although I can almost hear the slugs coming out for their evening stroll.
Writing about teatime and the things which keep us smiling, reminded me of the pleasure that simple baking can bring. Time to check the back of your store cupboard or top shelf of the larder and reach for the baking powder. Even better if you find some cream of tartar and bicarbonate of soda lurking in the shadows. Grab some milk or buttermilk, weigh out some flour and butter, add a pinch of salt, then bake some scones. The best ones don’t include sugar and aren’t overworked. Keep the mixture light, mix briefly and roll out the dough to about 3 cms thickness, then brush with beaten egg yolk and bake for about 10 minutes. Enjoy!
