Hello!!

We moved into The Lodge a year ago and have had many adventures since then!! I keep friends and family entertained with stories of semi rural life (lots of space, no neighbours and we don't have a Tesco on our doorstep!!) We share our home with 3 crazy cats (George, Henry and Gracie) and our hens (Ethel, Fluffy and Lulu). Our dream is to become as self sufficient as possible, save money and help the environment that little bit!! I hope that this blog entertains and inspires!!

Sunday 11 December 2011

Let the Festivities begin......!!!

Christmas has indeed arrived here at The Lodge! Tree shopping yesterday, it has to be a real one (never mind the needles on the carpet, you just can't beat the smell!!) We buy from a guy who sets up at a local fishing lake. I think I made the young fellas day as I skipped from the car shouting "Trees" and grinning like a lunatic, so much so that he gave us a discount!!! The tree was decorated while we listened to Christmas hits and drank non-alcoholic mulled cider (a clear head is needed whilst decorating!!). The cider recipe was thrown together but very tasty, we used Kopparberg mixed fruit cider with some cloves, cinnamon and orange peel, lovely!!
Christmas making and baking has also taken over!! The Christmas chutney is currently simmering and filling The Lodge with lovely aromas!! Check out my facebook page if you would like to place an order.
The yearly tradition of making salt dough decorations will also be happening later (the hubby cant wait!!!), http://www.channel4.com/4homes/how-to/craft/how-to-make-salt-dough-for-christmas-decorations-for anyone who isn't sure what to do!! I usually add some ground cinnamon to the mix then once cut  I place cloves into the shapes before air drying, again with those festive aromas!!!! I'll post pics later!!