
Today during my daily visit to my lottie, I had a senior moment. It's a bit of a worry, but I'll share it with you because I reckon the ol' grey matter occasionally starts to get a bit dodgy for a few people my age and hopefully you'll be able to identify with such a daft act - please nod sympathetically otherwise. I always have loads of things swimming around in my head. Lists of stuff to do, people to see, things to cook,seeds to sow, weeding, the next meal to plan out etc,. So much so, I forgot to switch my slippers for my wellies and trudged happily and comfortably to my veg patch. What am I like? Oh well, at least my feet were kept warm. A real 'Wiltshire Wee Wilamena Winkie' - but without my nightcap and dressing gown! Now that would have worried me.
One thing I haven't forgotten is that the nights are closing in and there are just 102 days until that mad over indulgent date of December 25. I know....you're sitting there stunned at your PC thinking, 'why did she ever bring up that subject NOW, it's only September for goodness sake?' Like all Girl Guides....it's best to be prepared. By prepared I mean, all sorted out for nice little gifts that are homemade to give to your nearest and dearest for pressies that will show just how much you care.
So what to do? Edible presents are my favourite make. If you've got a glut of veg from your allotment or veg garden it's chutney and pickling time folks. Courgette chutney, green bean relish and date and apple chutney, all delicious and just ready in a couple of months for Yuletide. Make a batch of biscuits for cheese to go with them nearer the time and you've a gift and a half! (recipes coming soon)

Now is the time to make fruit cakes too. Make small ones using tin cans as the cooking tin, store and feed with brandy every month. Then decorate a few days before Christmas. Time consuming....not really, compare that to trudging the streets or scanning the internet for gifts that people don't really need or will probably never use. Cake will always be eaten!
So, are you inspired to get cracking on something now, and avoid the worry later of giving a little something for the Season of Goodwill? Presents needn't be expensive electronic items, smellies that smell, well - SMELLY and gadgets the recipient will never lay their hands on. Small is beautiful and homemade is a joy to give and receive.








