Sweden

Had a really fabulous weekend in Sweden. I'd never been there before but I was convinced it would be cold. Not so! It was gorgeous and so warm I felt sorry for the wedding party all trussed up with lots of layers. They still looked fabulous nonetheless.

Swedish weddings are quite rowdy affairs with lots of traditions we don't have here in the UK. For example, whenever the bride goes to the loo during the meal all the men have to jump up, form a queue, and give her a peck on the cheek! Vice versa for the groom!!! Plus, anyone can give a speech so there were A LOT of speeches.

Mr TigerLily did an execellent speech as Best Man and everyone got the jokes. I was astounded by how well EVERYONE speaks English. I made an effort to use a few Swedish words to show willing but I was shamed by even little kids chattering away in their second language!

Gooseberries

I picked a box or two of homegrown gooseberries and wondered what to do with them. I had hardly tried them before - the odd bit of jam or whatnot, so I was unsure where to start with them.

Then I saw Valentine Warner's programme last week and he had a great idea for them. These little beauties are gooseberries that are cooked and sweetened then simply topped with meringue. Easy peasy and pleased the parents.

The only thing I would change next time is to not be scared to add tonnes of sugar!!!

Friday's lunch

Here is Friday's lunch. I'd become a bit lazy during the week and ate things that I know are not particularly nutritious for lunch, such as jaffa cakes and elderflower cordial. So I pushed the boat out and made this salad. It's made from broad beans, spring onions, a squeeze of lemon, tomatoes, coriander, avocado and a dash of cream, plus seasoning of course.

I was really pleased with the finished result and inhaled it rather too quickly. (I think all the waiting around taking photos had taken its toll)