Sunday, December 28th, 2003

Happy Christmas to any readers who've made it this far!

And how better to take stock than by looking at our Christmas and New Year festive tables.   Lots of old favourites - lemon-roasted potatoes, roast parsnip, cabbage and kale with leeks, roast garlic and shallots, mashed swede, and salsify; all from the plot.

And missing guests?   No romanesco, onions, peas, french beans, or brussels sprouts from the plot, thanks to the vandalism.   And no crowning glory, summer pudding for dessert, as my freezer broke down.

Ah well, it could have been worse!   We just hope that next year will be a bit more peaceful - and productive; yes, I'm already planning next year's festive tables.

An odd year for weather, 2003.   A good soaking in the first few months, a long dry summer, and an amazing autumnn - with the trees colouring very early, and looking stunning long into November.   I wonder if that's to be the pattern for the next few years?

And some good things to try next year too - growing lots more broad beans to dry for winter use, and some very interesting-looking french beans from a friend.

So, when it comes, our very best wishes for the New Year - may it be a peaceful, happy, and bountiful year for us all.   Good harvests!